What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent?

Last December, I ran an Advent Series all over on: the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show, through the Soul H2O Devotions, and on Instagram Lives. I focussed on all the aspect of Advent and learned a lot! I didn’t grow up in a tradition that celebrated Advent so, it was super insightful and gave new depth to some of our Christmas traditions and why we do them.

READ ON to learn about the Advent Candle themes of Hope, Love, Joy, Peace, and Christ to put your heart in the right Christmas spirit!

Sherry

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: HOPE, LOVE, JOY, JESUS

Soul H2O Devotion

I didn’t grow up in a church that celebrated Advent. To be honest, my extent of Advent knowledge didn’t go much beyond the chocolate door calendars I bought my children when they were young, until this year. I finally began my search to find out…

What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent?

In my quest to find out what to do, I’ve discovered the true heart of Advent and I think it will forever change the way I celebrate Christmas. But first, I need to let you know that Advent is not Biblical.

There’s not one verse in the Bible that anyone could share with you to validate observing the tradition of Advent. In fact, celebrating Christmas isn’t even Biblical, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a good thing, or even a great thing.

Advent is not Biblical, but it is beautiful!

It’s interesting to note that the word advent comes from the Latin word ‘coming’ or ‘arrival’. By 380 AD, Advent was a two-week fast to focus your thoughts on the second coming of Christ, matching the encouragement in

Titus 2:13,
“waiting for our blessed hope,
the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” ESV

Advent is to Christmas, what lent is to Easter; a time to prepare your heart and focus on Christ but like most traditions, they change over time. Some good, and some bad changes.

Traditions

Advent isn’t just about wreaths, candles, caroling, calendars or candy but all those things can be beneficial, if the focus remains on the original intent.

Somewhere between the 16^th – 18^th Century, evergreen wreaths with candles became a part of the tradition. Both the circle and evergreens symbolize eternal life. Some wreaths have holly and berries, asserting the red represents Christs suffering and sacrifice, while others only use the greenery. All beautiful symbolism, but no set standard of how to create them.

There isn’t even a standardization of the number of candles, colors or themes for Advent. I searched dozens of websites and found variations in themes, but all chose four out of: Hope, Faith, Love, Joy, and Peace. Some also add a fifth candle in the centre on Christmas day to represent Christ.

The most beautiful part of Advent is the intent to focus on three aspects of Christ coming to be with us, sit with us, and save us.

Purposes of Advent

1. Celebrate Past – Incarnation/Nativity – Christ came to earth
2. Appreciate Present – Salvation – Christ inside of Us
3. Anticipate Future – Jesus 2^nd Coming – Live with Christ forever

So, if you ask me What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent? I’d say it isn’t a hardened set of steps, but a heart that’s filled with gratitude for all Christ has done and is going to do. It’s living in hopeful anticipation of Christ’s return while experiencing the peace and joy He brings through the love we receive at salvation. Celebrating the past, appreciating the present, and anticipating the future!

Prayer

Father… I’m so thankful for Jesus. That He left heaven to come down to earth is inexplainable to me, but I’m so grateful. Jesus, that you died, so I could be set free from the bondage of my sin is overwhelming and I can’t wait to see you one day and forever live in your presence where I’ll get to experience peace and joy for eternity. Thank you. In Jesus Name…Amen

Join Me Weekly For Advent Talks

Through The Themes of Advent
Every Wednesday at 12-12:10pm EST on Instagram Live

December 1(Hope), 8(Love), 15 (Joy), 22(Peace)

Verses to help fill up your well.

1. Titus 2:13
2. 1 Corinthians 1:7
3. 1 Thessalonians 1:10
4. Jude 1:21

Soul H2O Resources

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#musicpic SONG:
Advent Hymn:
O Come, O Come Emmanuel by Kim Walker Smith

Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/VZ-_uku8Ohw
Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

Tuning In God’s Voice | EP #69

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

Splash Online Event

Childlike Faith Series – Christmas Crackers
Expecting Good Gifts From God
Join us in the Soul H₂O Splash Facebook Group December 16, 2021

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.

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ENDNOTES

https://www.infoplease.com/culture-entertainment/holidays/advent-dates-traditions-and-history
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adventhttps://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/the-history-of-advent/
https://www.christianity.com/christian-life/christmas/what-is-advent.htmlhttps://catholic-resources.org/Lectionary/Seasons-Advent-Christmas.htm

https://www.reformedworship.org/article/september-1993/circle-light-four-themes-use-advent-wreath
https://doinghistoryinpublic.org/1-advent-calendars/https://www.german-way.com/german-christmas-facts/christmas-fact-1/

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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/85

Verses 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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#musicpic SONG: Through Your Eyes
by Britt Nicole

Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/WJzaQP1GmEc
Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

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.

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.

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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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#musicpic SONG:
Peace Be Still by Hope Darst
Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsIpGiz3SfQ

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The Peace Project | EP #86

In 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.

DOWNLOAD THESE REFRESHING RESOURCES TO HELP QUENCH YOUR SPIRITUAL THIRST!

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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

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 10:10

In 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 10:10

No 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 3:7

Right 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

Soul H2O Resources

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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 EST

Join 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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5 Ways You Can Listen to The Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show

The Soul H2O Radio and Podcast Show is a Joy Radio.CA Original Program. Because of this, you can listen around the globe with lots of options on where to tune in.

5 WAYS YOU CAN LISTEN TO THE SOUL H2O RADIO & PODCAST SHOW

RADIO: Joy Radio is 1250 on the AM dial in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area)
‘MYJOYRADIO’ PHONE APP: Releases live & then holds episode for one week in the ‘On Demand’ Section. Saturdays at 12pm and Friday at 2:20pm.
COMPUTER: Streaming Live http://www.joyradio.ca
PODCAST: Releases at 3pm EST on podcast platforms. Spotify, Google Apple
SHOW WEBSITE: http://www.soulh2o.com

Powerful Keys of Authority

Hope this devotion about Powerful Keys of Authority empower you to open and close some doors around you!

Soul H2O Devotion

Powerful Keys of Authority

I remember being amazed when I was a little kid in elementary school over all the keys on the school janitor’s key ring. To me, he held such power to have access to go anywhere in that great big building!

Jesus is like a janitor when it comes to keys, except his keyring doesn’t only hold the keys to unlock doors in one building but to every bound place that exists.

Isaiah prophesied about the coming Messiah and how he would hold the keys to the house of David* and said, “what he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.” (Isaiah 22:2)

In Revelations 1:18 and Revelations 3:7, the ONE mentioned who has the key of David is Jesus… and again repeats that “what He opens, no one can close; and what He closes, no one can open.” You probably find it easy to accept these words that Jesus is that powerful, but do you realize the most empowering part regarding the keys of David is how Jesus twice said that He’s given YOU His authority, He’s given YOU the keys to bind and loose things on earth; as it is in heaven?

I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

Matthew 16:19

Right now, Snap’s 1989 song that repeats, “I’ve got the power” is running through my head and I hope it’s swirling through yours too. You’ve got the power. The enemy wants you to think you’re weak but you my friend, have spiritual authority and I hope you’re using it!

*P.S. The “house of David” is referencing the people of God, originally the people of Israel but through faith in Christ, we’ve all been brought into Abraham’s family… so, “the house of David”… that includes you!

Prayer

Father… I thank you for the truths that are in Your Word. Some are super difficult for me to believe and even harder to put into practice. Help me to live each day wielding my authority like Jesus did with boldness and humility. May I use the keys you’ve entrusted me with to walk in the freedom you destined for me to experience, but… don’t ever let me abuse this power either. In Jesus Name…Amen

Verses to help fill up your well.

1. Isaiah 22:22
2. Revelations 3:7
3. Matthew 16:19
4. Mathew 18:18

Soul H2O Resources

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#musicpic SONG:
The Power by Snap

Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/nm6DO_7px1I
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Not your normal #musicpic song, but come on girls… have a little fun and if you check out the words in the middle, it might make you wonder if the songwriter knew the verses in this devotion!?!

Forgiveness, A Key To Unlocking Your Destiny | EP #71

Forgiveness, A Key To Unlocking Your Destiny is Soul H2O Episode # 71. This episode will help you learn to use the key of forgiveness to help unlock your God-given destiny. You can find the journal pages on today’s Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/71

Splash Online Event

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 EST

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Whose Authority

They go on to explain how they were working under the authority of King Cyrus’ decree. They knew who they were and whose authority they were working under!

If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.

DOWNLOAD THESE REFRESHING RESOURCES TO HELP QUENCH YOUR SPIRITUAL THIRST!

ENDNOTES

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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 CSB

A 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

Click to access Sherry’s FREE GOODIES and download the Praying For Your Leaders Sheet.

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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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All Women Welcome!

Where it all began

Want to read the first Soul H2O Devotion?
Repeats (Do Not Worry)

https://www.sherrystahl.com/repeats/

If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.

DOWNLOAD THESE REFRESHING RESOURCES TO HELP QUENCH YOUR SPIRITUAL THIRST!

ENDNOTES

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WHERE YOU CAN OFTEN FIND ME LINKING UP MY BLOG WITH OR PLACES WHERE MY WRITING HAS BEEN FEATURED

God’s Got BIG Plans For You!

Well, I know it’s been forever since I’ve written. Life has been busy with many side jobs I’ve just been letting go of to focus on the ministry that God’s called me to… like writing you to bring refreshing! Today, I woke up with this strong sense that I needed to connect with you and share the hope that’s been helping me.

Much love,
~Sherry
xoxo

Soul H2O Devotion

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

God’s Got BIG Plans for You!

Last week was the second anniversary for the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show. I can’t believe it’s been two years! The message I felt God encouraging me to talk about was based out of Jeremiah 29:11, one of the most quoted promises of God going. These have been difficult times for the past two years and knowing that God has good plans for your life, for your future really does change your perspective.

Trusting in His Promises

Trusting that He loves you enough to plan for your future is an incredible thought. God, the creator of all things has YOU on His mind! He’s not thinking anything negative or harmful towards you… NO, God’s Got BIG Plans For You!

Holding On

Live today holding the promises of God like Jeremiah 29:11 close to your heart and mind. If this isn’t easy for you, I encourage you to download the attached sheet I’ve created called Sherry’s Stash of Promises from God to help provide you with inspiration and collect some promises of your own.

Prayer

Father… Thank you for loving me so much that you spend time thinking about me. Help me to spend time focussing on your promises, not on my problems. In Jesus Name…Amen

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Verses to help fill up your well.

Download Sherry’s Stash of Promises from God to see her list of promises and write down your own.

Soul H2O Resources

#musicpic

#musicpic SONG:
God’s Not Done With You by Tauren Wells

Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/cVHrkYBEgFM
Soul H2O Spotify Playlist:
Online | On App

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.

http://www.soulh2o.com/81

If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.

DOWNLOAD THESE REFRESHING RESOURCES TO HELP QUENCH YOUR SPIRITUAL THIRST!

WHERE YOU CAN OFTEN FIND ME LINKING UP MY BLOG WITH OR PLACES WHERE MY WRITING HAS BEEN FEATURED

Is It Time To Unpack Your Suitcase?

Soul H2O Devotion

Is It Time To Unpack Your Suitcase?

The pandemic is prayerfully coming to a close and the hope of travel is filling my thoughts!

Overstuffed Suitcases

Right before the first lockdowns hit, I was supposed to leave for a mission’s trip to Kenya and had my bags packed in preparation. My two bags of humanitarian supplies were crammed as full as I could get them. Since I was bringing summer clothes and we were in the dead of winter here in Canada my personal suitcase was packed and over-stuffed already.

I cried when I unpacked my personal suitcase.

I’d left it sitting there packed for a while but then had to face the fact that we weren’t going for a long time as the “two-weeks of lockdown” turned into months. It took our team even longer to come to the decision that we should unpack our humanitarian bags and give the items away because some of the items had ‘best-before’ dates on them and as a result of the pandemic, there were needs in Canada we felt called to meet.

The Inner Struggle

Struggling to unpack your suitcase because of a missed opportunity is rough but unpacking the baggage from past hurts will be the most difficult, yet most liberating thing you’ll ever do.

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor [perpetual animosity, resentment, strife, fault-finding] and slander be put away from you, along with every kind of malice [all spitefulness, verbal abuse, malevolence].
Ephesians 4:31 AMP

Put Away

After my divorce, I was determined to ‘put away’ as Paul is describing here, all of the unhealthy, unholy, damaging, emotional baggage I had let into the suitcase of my heart… and trust me, it was jam-packed like my Kenya suitcases, pretty much with every article mentioned in this verse. I cry each time I unpack another ‘item’ from my loaded luggage and those tears help to expel the toxicity in my soul.

This verse in Ephesians makes it really clear what emotional baggage can look like but it’s not a complete list. You can focus on the behaviors and try to change those but that doesn’t seem to produce lasting change. It’s the hard work of pulling out the heart issues that trigger your behaviour that will yield the freedom you desire. The exciting news is that the hard work for you is only in recognizing and admitting these issues in your life, and the easy work happens when you let Christ in to unpack your suitcase. He does the heavy lifting!

Is it time to unpack your suitcase? Invite Christ in today and let Him bring healing to your heart as you partner with Him for freedom’s sake!

Prayer

Father… I’m so thankful that You’re helping me to recognize the sin in my suitcase. I’m going to shift my focus from the things I do, to the things I believe and let stay in my heart. Help me to recognize the article in my suitcase you’re wanting to take out right now. I’m on board to get rid of whatever needs to go and with your grace, I will be free! In Jesus Name…Amen

Want a Refreshing Inbox?

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Verses to help fill up your well.

1. Ephesians 4:31
2. Colossians 3:8
3. Colossians 3:19
4. 1 Peter 2:1

Soul H2O Resources

Online Course

If you’re dry spiritually or going through a difficult circumstance, this course is just what you need! This program has helped thousands walk through the desert road of difficult circumstances.

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Oh Canada | EP #72

Oh Canada is my working out of mixed emotions on this Canada Day week. Find out the good and bad of our nation’s founding on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #72. You can find the Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/72

#musicpic

#musicpic SONG:
Suitcases by Dara McLean

Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/hYMM3FYPv30
Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

If you liked the refreshing in this #SoulH2O devotion, you’ll love my latest Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.

DOWNLOAD THESE REFRESHING RESOURCES TO HELP QUENCH YOUR SPIRITUAL THIRST!

ENDNOTES

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Soul H2O Devotion

What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent?

Advent is not Biblical, but it is beautiful!

Traditions

Purposes of Advent

Prayer

Join Me Weekly For Advent Talks

Verses to help fill up your well.

Soul H2O Resources

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Tuning In God’s Voice | EP #69

Splash Online Event

Advent Inspiration for your Christmas Season

Soul H2O Devotion

New Name, New Identity

New Names

Crisis Is Often The Catalyst

Changing a National Identity

A Name Change For You!

Prayer

Connecting With Your New Name | EP #85

Verses to help fill up your well.

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Soul H2O Resources

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Another Devotion You’ll Find Refreshing

Soul H2O Devotion

The Fight For Peace Of Mind

The first way to peace in your mind is to not worry about anything

Follow the second way to peace in your mind – pray about everything!

The third and last way to peace in your mind is to think on good things

Prayer

Verses to help fill up your well.

Soul H2O Resources

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Splash Online Event

Devotions Related to Peace of Mind

Ever Feel Like The Devil’s Trying To Take You Out?

GETTING RUN DOWN

Hives In The Hospital

THEY’RE BACK!

Hives In The Hotel

The Embarrassing Photos

I Felt Like The Devil Was Trying To Take Me Out

The Miracle Came

Audio Inspiration

Soul H2O Resources

RADIO SHOW EPISODES WITH MIRACULOUS STORIES

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Soul H2O Devotion

Costumes For Candy

Cute Costumes

The First Costumes

Costumes To Conceal

Hiding In The Fear Of Being Rejected

Prayer

Verses to help fill up your well.

Soul H2O Resources

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Splash Online Event​

5 WAYS YOU CAN LISTEN TO THE SOUL H2O RADIO & PODCAST SHOW

Soul H2O Devotion

Powerful Keys of Authority

Prayer

Verses to help fill up your well.

Soul H2O Resources

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Forgiveness, A Key To Unlocking Your Destiny | EP #71

Splash Online Event