Inspiration For Your Season of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a special time of year. It’s a great reminder of the blessings surrounding us all. Choosing to take time and focus our attention to the goodness of God in our lives helps us to put the problems in perspective. This practise helps your brain chemistry to bring about a state of peace and solace but also hope for the future. As you recognize the blessings and express gratitude towards God for them, your life is enhanced in wonderful ways.

I’ve compiled a post full of Thanksgiving inspiration for you. There are:

~Soul H2O Devotions
~Soul H2O Podcast Episodes
~Downloadable Scripture Graphics
~#musicpic Song Suggestions
~#paperbackpic Book Suggestions
~Links to Post-Thanksgiving sales

Everything listed below is related to Thanksgving or Thankfulness. I hope it fills your heart to OVERflowing!

Happy Thanksgiving!

In His Grip,
Sherry
xoxo

*THIS POST WILL BE UPDATED EACH YEAR WITH NEW INSPIRATION*

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR

SEASON OF THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episodes

Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Episodes will be added each year as I record more Thanksgiving Themed Shows.

Thanksgiving Themed Soul H2O Devotions & Blog Posts

Soul H2O Devotions and blog posts will be added each year as I write more Thanksgiving Themed posts.

Thanksgiving #musicpic Songs

Songs Will Be Added Here. If you have any suggestions, put them in the comments.

Thanksgiving #paperbackpic Books

Book Suggestions Will Be Added Here. If you have any suggestions, put them in the comments.

Thanksgiving Scripture Graphics

You can download these graphics easily.
To your phone: Touch the graphic with one finger and hold, save to photos.
To your computer: Right-Click on graphic and select save as picture

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

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

Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

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!

ENDNOTES

1. None This Week

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Mover of Mountains—Breaker of Chains

Get ready to find out how you’re called to be a mover of mountains–breaker of chains…

Now I say to you that
you are Peter (which means ‘rock’),
and upon this rock
I will build my church,
and all the powers of hell
will not conquer it.
~Matthew 16:18 NLT

Last night I woke up to yet another allergic reaction to a medication I was put on last week to combat a reaction to a dental procedure. My tongue felt swollen and I feared the constricting sensation in my throat. I know what it’s like to have severe allergic reactions that have landed me in the hospital, twice.

Staying up to see if it would pass, I took a shower, googled and prayed. At one point I felt the sensations decreasing and ok to lay down. I fell back asleep.

So, let’s just say… I didn’t go to bed thinking of gum drops and lullabies 🙂 BUT… God woke me up in the morning with the words of a song playing in my head that gave me hope to all the situations in my life that had probably helped to trigger allergic reactions in my body (stress has a way of doing that).

“Mover of Mountains, Breaker of Chains”
was sounding off like a record player skipping on repeat.

Mover of Mountains

I don’t know if you’re like me, but I have a few mountains that need moving. Mountains in the realm of the Rockies… looming large over the valley below. Struggles that can overwhelm, steal my sleep and rob my joy… without God’s voice in my life.

With God’s voice in my life, problems are dwarfed in the magnitude of His greatness, His goodness, His presence. Through reading Laura Harris Smith’s book, Seeing The Voice of God, I know that waking dreams, songs or thoughts in your mind are very important and you shouldn’t discount them.

Breaker of Chains

Thankfully, Google helped me find the right song that I was hearing. The lyrics of You Cannot be Stopped were like a healing balm to my heart and emotions. As the song kept repeating “There’s nothing that can stop our God”. I was reminded of today’s verse. NOTHING can stop God, not His plans, purposes or His church.

Nothing Can Stop Our God

I’m comforted to know that the church isn’t a building as our brains like to think. The church in the original Greek used in this verse is “ekklesia” or in literal terms, “to call out from or to.”^{1 “}The church” refers to the people God has called out, to live for Him… that’s YOU! God is building His church on the rock of your life… well, He wants to!

Mover of Mountains—Breaker of Chains

It should comfort you to know that God doesn’t just tell you that you can do something, He promises to show you the way. In the next verse, right after today’s verse, Jesus assures you of the authority you hold over your life; when He says, “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) In Mark 11:23, Jesus also emphasized a believer’s authority when He said, “I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart.”

Because God’s given you the keys to unlock the doors that keep you bound and the authority to move mountains, you can be like Zerubbabel who helped lead the re-building of the temple after the Israelites came out of captivity. If you press on, your legacy will be talked about like his.

“Nothing, not even a mighty mountain, will stand in Zerubbabel’s way; it will become a level plain before him! And when Zerubbabel sets the final stone of the Temple in place, the people will shout: ‘May God bless it! May God bless it!’” (Zechariah 4:7)

You have what it takes. Now, use your key and open the door that is holding you bound because God wants to show Himself as the, “Mover of Mountains—Breaker of Chains” in and through you!

Prayer

Father… Help me to believe in the truth of Your Word and the authority you’ve given me to govern my life. Help me not to fall into self-pity and low-level-living when you’ve promised a mountain-moving, chain-breaking ability for me to access. May I discern… and use the keys You’ve placed in Your Word for me to live an overcoming life. In Jesus Name…Amen

DRAWING FROM THE WELL

Matthew 16:18
Matthew 16:19 connected to: Isaiah 22:22 and Revelations 3:7
Mark 11:23 (similar in Matthew 21:21)
Zechariah 4:7

#musicpic SONG: You Cannot Be Stopped by Phil Wickham, Chris Quilala
Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/T2a0QW4V0aM
Soul H2O 2020 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 from our Legacy Works Online Store.

ENDNOTES

https://biblehub.com/greek/1577.htm Biblehub Website Accessed: 2020-09-22

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Why God Doesn’t Give You A 5 Year Plan -God Knows How To Get You Where You Need To Be Series {Part 3}

This week’s #soulh2o devo answers a question I think you’ve asked God already, or something similar. The answer to: Why God Doesn’t Give You A 5 Year Plan is Part 3 in the God Knows How to Get You Where You Need To Be Series, Here’s links to read: {PART 1} , You’ve Got To Get Moving {PART 2}

Print Out a Soul H2O Journal Page to get the most of this devotion. Download HERE.

I can hardly believe it, but this post was released 3 ½ weeks before the, Soul H2O Radio Show debut back in 2019!

Why God Doesn’t Give You A 5 Year Plan

God Knows How To Get You Where You Need To Be {Part 3}

But hope that is seen 
is no hope at all.
Who hopes for
what they already have?
But if we hope for what we
do not yet have,
we wait for it patiently.
~Romans 8:24-25

With two interviews under my belt, Saturday morning was time to record my first ever Soul H₂O devotional teaching for the upcoming Soul H₂O Radio show and I didn’t have the script fully completed because I took too long composing the show Intro Segment and as a result didn’t get the most important part finished.

Although I’d been asked to host a radio show, I wasn’t given much instruction, no set plan on what to include or not include and found myself floundering because I’ve never hosted a radio show before! It was now 9 am and I had to leave for the station. I wasn’t ready and didn’t know what I was going to do. My stomach started performing somersaults, then thoughts of failure began flooding my brain and I considered canceling, but that wasn’t really an option.

I knew better than to let my negative train of thought stay on the tracks or I would soon derail my calling, so I turned on a podcast by Joel Osteen and felt like I was hearing straight from God!

DERAIL THE NEGATIVE TRAIN

Joel’s podcast was titled, Be Comfortable Not Knowing. Right away my attention was piqued since I didn’t know what I was fully going to do for the recording and I’ve been blogging the series God Knows How to Get You Where You Need To Be. I needed to be listening to these words right before recording, so I didn’t give in to fear of failure but pressed on into my purpose.

NO 5 YEAR PLAN

There wasn’t a 5 Year Plan that appeared before my eyes, but I began to sense peace as Joel’s message reminded me of this week’s verses in Romans. Joel said things that resonated with me and I believe will encourage you too. Here are some of the goodies:

“You have to live comfortable in the not knowing… God had the solution before you had the problem… Just because you don’t know, doesn’t mean God doesn’t have a plan… Obey without the details… Get off the throne of your life and put God back on… When they didn’t have the answers, they still believed God was in control… You have to live comfortable in the not knowing…”
~Joel Osteen

His message made me think of Stormie Omartian’s book I’d read years ago called Just Enough Light For The Step I’m On. The book is inspired by Psalm 119:105 which in The Living Bible translation reads,

“Your words are a flashlight to light the path ahead of me and keep me from stumbling.”

A flashlight? Really that’s it?

Don’t you want a police searchlight from a helicopter shining bright the whole pathway, or am I the only one?

HOPING FOR WHAT YOU CANNOT SEE

But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
~Romans 8:24-25

The short answer to Why God Doesn’t Give You A 5 Year Plan is because God wants you to trust Him… with everything, but I promise, He is trustworthy. You can put your hope in Him and not have to have a detailed plan on how to get there, because God Knows How to Get You Where You Need To Be and He is making all things work together for your good.

What can you do today that will put your thinking on the faith track and align you with God’s thoughts for your life while showing God you’re trusting in Him? Finish the sentence and then follow through…

“I knew better than to let this negative train of thought stay on the tracks or I would soon derail my calling, so I…

_______________________ (you fill in the blanks)”

“I knew better than to let this negative train of thought stay on the tracks or I would soon derail my calling, so I _______________________ you fill in the blanks or comment below... Click To Tweet

Prayer

Father…I want to thank You for giving me a free will but I also feel the need to apologize for the disobedience that fear of making the wrong move has caused me to commit. At times I’ve been stubborn to move forward and lagged behind when other times I just got bored of waiting and ran ahead of You, messing everything up. Please forgive me and help me to get comfortable in the not knowing. I promise to follow where you lead, one step at a time. In Jesus Name…Amen

Why God Doesn’t Give You A 5 Year Plan -God Knows How To Get You Where You Need To Be Series {Part 3} Click To Tweet

Watch this impromptu Facebook Live I recorded last week on my walk while I was in the middle of writing today’s devotion and next week’s as an example of how God knows how to get you where you need to be!

Scripture to fill up your well!

Print Out a Soul H2O Journal Page to get the most of this devotion by writing out the Scriptures or what God reveals to you as you read them. Download HERE.

Romans 8:24-26
Romans 8:28
Psalm 119:105
Proverbs 3:5-6

#paperbackpic JUST ENOUGH LIGHT FOR THE STEP I’M ON

Author: Stormie Omartian
Original © 1999 / New Cover ©2019
https://www.stormieomartian.com/product/just-enough-light-for-the-step-im-on-paperback/
https://www.stormieomartian.com/

ENDNOTES

APPLE PODCAST Accessed: August 10, 2019 https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/joel-osteen-podcast/id137254859?i=1000446094832

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Finding God’s Story In The Stars by My Friend Joe

FINDING GOD’S STORY IN THE STARS

Last November I did a Facebook Live Author Interview with my friend Joe Amaral when he released his newest book, Story In The Stars. Joe became a person of interest for me when I found out he was the band ‘pastor’ for Stryper. Yes, I love Christian Heavy Metal music, Screamo bands, and Hillsong United.

I know… my music likes are eclectic but back to the interview, it’s my most watched video to date with over 3.8 thousand views! And there’s a reason why… It’s an awesome book and if you don’t believe me, you can take Amazon’s word for it. Yesterday, Joe’s book was the #1 book on Amazon in four categories!!!! Say what? I didn’t even know that was possible!

YOU’LL NEVER LOOK AT THE CONSTELLATIONS THE SAME AGAIN!

AMAZON BEST SELLER RANKINGS

I’m so proud to have friends who truly do reach for the stars and grab hold of them. Ranking #1 Best Seller in one category is impressive but in four categories… that’s stupendous!

#1 BEST SELLER IN:
Astronomy, Theology, Science & Religion, Christian Prophecy

WATCH THE FACEBOOK LIVE AND SEE WHAT ALL THE HYPE IS ABOUT
Watch by clicking the image below and don’t forget to grab your copy! It’s one of my favorite reads of all-time! See below the Facebook Live image for details on the book.

Story In The Stars:
Discovering God’s Design and Plan for Our Universe

An in-depth look at the powerful story and symbolism behind God’s unique design of our universe.

Thousands of words have been written about the first 10 words in the Bible: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth,” a simple and profound statement that has ignited a firestorm of debate and controversy. People often only focus on the “how” and “when” of creation, but Story in the Stars explores the “why”.

Why did God…
Create such a vast universe?
Choose the sun and moon to light our paths?
Design images with stars in the night sky?

The Bible is very clear when it states that God created, named, and positioned all of the stars of the universe in their place in a very specific way – a way that tells us the greatest story ever to be told.

In Luke 21:25 Jesus says, “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars.” Signs are meant to point us toward something: Jesus. Story in the Stars takes an in-depth look at the Bible and all the signs God mapped out through constellations, planets, and even the way the Earth is tilted. We are uniquely designed by God, and he loves us so much that he ensured a way for all inhabitants of the Earth, through all of time, to see the messages of salvation and redemption that he painted in the stars.

If you want to learn more about my friend Joe, you can check him out here: CHRISTIAN RESEARCH GROUP

[tweetthis]Finding God’s Story In The Stars ✨🌟💫 by my friend @joeamaraltweet [/tweetthis]

Happy Reading!

Hey Google… I Need An Answer

This week’s #soulh2o devotion, Hey Google… I Need An Answer lets you in on where I’m at with God and what I’ve been going through lately. After the devotion, I share the #paperbackpic I mention and some #musicpics you’re gonna love! There are affiliate links on the book but you won’t pay extra. This just helps the ministry keep going! For my full affiliate information, click here.

I’m also inviting you to join me for a Zoom Call tomorrow night (Thursday, June 20th at 8:30pm EST) I’ve wanted to do this for a long time but the technology of it all has scared me but I’m just bursting to tell y’all something, so I hope you’ll join me! See the deets below.

Hey Google… I Need An Answer

“Isaac prayed to the LORD
on behalf of his wife,
because she was childless. 
The LORD answered his prayer,
and his wife Rebekah became pregnant.
The babies jostled each other within her,
and she said, "Why is this happening to me?"
So she went to inquire of the LORD.
The LORD said to her…”
~Genesis 25:21-23 NIV

Hey Google

This Christmas was so great. We had all the kids home and even though they didn’t all grow up together, they sure do think alike! Brandon and Morgan both gave us Google Home Minis and after six months of using them, we’re pretty addicted. There’s no need to argue over anymore ‘cause when you disagree you can just say, “Hey Google: who is… what’s the… where is… when do… why do… how far is… Answers are just an ask away. But sometimes, questions are too important to ask Google, Siri, Alexa, Cortana or Jeeves.

[tweetthis]Answers are just an ask away. [/tweetthis]

I Need An Answer

In the last few months, I’ve shared a little bit on social media about how I’ve been in the decision-making process for some BIG things and lots of posts like, God Isn’t Mad With Our Big Faith and Oversized Dreams and a Facebook Live have come out of my search for answers. I just want to make sure I’m following God’s lead. During this time, my good friend with divine timing—Ellen gave me a book to review for her #ellenspicks reads called the Next Right Thing by Emily P. Freeman. God is using Emily’s wise words to help me discern and bring clarity to my next right thing, through her soul minimalist ways to create space for God to bring an answer.

“What I’m finding to be most helpful more than any list, question, or sage advice is simply to get quiet in a room with Jesus on the regular, not for the sake of an answer but for the sake of love.”¹

Who Do You Ask For Answers?

The other day when I was reading through the story of Isaac’s life while doing my devotions on the regular, I noticed how Isaac and Rebekah followed the same principle Emily was teaching.

When you read the words of Genesis 25:21-23 it seems like going to God for answers to life’s questions was a reflex action, not just something they did sometimes. Isaac’s wife couldn’t have a baby… ask God to fix it. Rebekah’s babies were battling in utero and I’m sure really hurting her so what does she do? Does she call a friend, run to the doctor or complain to her hubby for praying to have kids? All of those may seem like logical reactions but the answer is no.

The Bible tells us Rebekah inquired of God. On the regular, Isaac and Rebekah went to God for answers.

So, this week when you first thought is to run to the phone… stop, run to the throne and ask Jesus!
Prayer

Father… I thank you for Your voice. I thank You that You still use Your voice to speak today. Help me put into practice the In Jesus Name…Amen

Join Me TOMORROW for a LIVE Zoom Video Call…
for my big reveal of The Next Right Thing in my life!

I’ve been dying to tell you, but I just had to get things a little more set in place before I could. My close friends and family know but I want to share it with you, my tribe who on the regular track with me in life. You’ll be able to ask me questions at the end and I’m hoping, join with me in prayer for the exciting days ahead!

Genesis 25:21-23
Matthew 7:7-8
Psalm 34:4
James 1:5

#musicpics

Normally I list one song for the #musicpic but this week I asked a few friends and the hubbs for song suggestions because I was stumped and got sooooo many good ones so I’m going to share a bunch but my fave is definitely Dan Macaulay’s “Listening”. Whenever I get to be at a concert, camp or event where Dan is leading worship, I find it so easy to get my spirit in tune with God and hear from Him when I need an answer. After you listen to this song, you’ll get why! As you’re listening and allow the Holy Spirit to wash over you and speak to you. Next is Remedy Drive’s song “Speak To Me”. Todd introduced me to this song when we were dating and God used it powerfully, confirming I should marry Todd… so, it kind of has a special spot in my heart <3

Dan Macaulay “Listening” On Spotify “Listening” on Itunes Lyrics – Worship

Your Words inspire my heart
You illuminate my dark
You spoke and shaped the heavens
And You choose to speak to me

Speak to me
I’m listening

Remedy Drive “Speak To Me” On You Tube, Lyrics, On Spotify – Easy Listening Contemporary Christian

Speak to me, please, speak to me
I’m in-between and I can’t hear you
Whisper, shout it, give me somethin’
I need it now, need your voice, need the sound

Jeremy Camp “The Answer” – Easy Listening Contemporary Christian

I know the answer, to every question
The one solution, to every fear
I know my helper, where it comes from
Jesus, He is the answer

#paperbackpic

Title: the Next Right Thing
Author: Emily P. Freeman
Published By: Revell; a division of Baker Publishing Group: Grand Rapids, MI
© 2019 by Emily P. Freeman

ENDNOTES
1 Freeman, Emily P. The Next Right Thing–A Simple, Soulful Practice For Making Life Decisions. Revell: Grand Rapids, MI. pg. 24

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

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

#Dare2
SharePost in the Comment Section below and bolster the faith of someone else!

Training Your Mind to Conquer {Battle Ready Book}

Are you missing me, like I’m missing you?

I’ve heard from a bunch of you that you are missing me and the weekly #Soul H2O devotions, but you’re praying I have a great July blogging vaca and get rested to refuel. God has answered your prayers… and mine 🙂 For the past three weeks, I’ve been getting filled up during my summer holidays at where else, but Braeside Camp in Paris, ON… below you can watch a video of me in my element at camp; kind of like seeing a bear in the woods :). After a busy season of speaking, this fill-up time is invaluable to ensure I have lots of fresh, living-water to flow out! I’m breaking from the rest to fulfill a few writing commitments, and this one has the potential to change your life… and mine!

Do you want a life-changing, inspiring book with lots of freebies to read this summer holiday?
Have I got the book for you!

I’m reading Kelly Balarie’s book, BATTLE READY; Train Your Mind To Conquer Challenges, Defeat Doubt, and Live Victoriously for this #PaperbackPic post.

I have to let you know that the book was provided to me by Baker Books when I joined Kelly’s book launch team, but I can assure you the comments are what I really think…and you’re gonna love this one! 🙂

I love it so much…
I bought an extra copy to give away!

Your name goes in a draw to WIN when you: Comment on this blog post, Share the Facebook Live, Comment under the Facebook Live Post or Pin the Quote Image on Pinterest.
***Read at the end of the post for the DRAW DETAILS AND WINNER REVEAL.

LIVE – FROM BRAESIDE CAMP

CLICK HERE TO WATCH the FACEBOOK LIVE recording and get to know speaker and author, Kelly Balarie.

BATTLE READY

Too often we fail to prepare for our battles. So when challenges, troubles, or opportunities arise, we rapidly become burdened with limiting thoughts of self-doubt, fear, impossibility, and lack. But it doesn’t have to be this way. We can train our minds to conquer uncertainty, beat insecurity, and step past the tragedies of yesterday.

Are you sick of living crippled by doubt, discouragement or defeat? Then you need Battle Ready because it’s a hands-on Scriptural plan that teaches you 12 easy-to-implement, confidence-building mind-sets, designed to transform your thoughts… and therefore, your life! My copy of the book is already getting marked up to the point of unrecognition inside.

As a Bible Study teacher, I would love to take a group through Battle Ready to help prepare women for anything the enemy tries to throw their way.

TRAINING YOUR MIND TO CONQUER

Kelly Balarie is an amazing girl who wants to help others in areas where she’s seen God help her. In Battle Ready she shares practical wisdom… like how to:

• Make new habits stick in just five steps
• Disarm the seven most common attacks that plague women
• Exchange self-limiting thoughts for purpose-driven, love-releasing thoughts
• Implement thirty-second mind-lifters that deliver peace
• Create boundaries so you live life full of what matters

[tweetthis]YOU CAN LIVE VICTORIOUSLY, and Kelly’s book #BattleReady helps you get there! @kellybalarie [/tweetthis]

HOW I GOT CONNECTED WITH KELLY

When I began blogging I didn’t know anything, and I mean anything about blogging. To be honest, I’d never even read a blog until I decided to set one up… how crazy is that! After two years of simply posting my blogs, Kelly messaged me on twitter and invited me to join her #RaRaLinkup for bloggers. To this day I don’t know how she heard about me? I was so green I didn’t even know what a linkup was, Kelly had to explain it to me. This was a game changer for me. I’ve ever-thankful for her reaching out to a newbie (even though I had been blogging for almost two years) like me!

Kelly has this giving heart.

It’s evident in her book. There’s tons of FREE STUFF you can get. The thought-provoking Downloads at the end of each section in the book to help you be fully Battle Ready! You can also take the “Find your Battle-Style Quiz” and create a personalized daily battle plan at http://www.iambattleready.com

Kelly’s also running a CONTEST FOR BLOGGERS to win a meeting where they get to pitch their book idea to Baker Books or meet an agent. I would LOVE to have this opportunity because I’m full of MORE book ideas that are pent up inside of me 🙂 If you’d like to help my chances...

COULD YOU VOTE FOR ME?

Simply Comment… I VOTE #9 in the comments (not my name) at THIS LINK, at the bottom of the page. THANKS FOR ALL WHO DO 🙂

I’m praying you enjoy your summer… reading Kelly’s book! Hope you watch me on See, Hear, Love this coming Monday, July 23rd on YES TV talking about What To Do When You’re Spiritually Dry. If you miss watching on TV, the episode, and my blog post about it will be released on their website http://www.seehearlove.com.

I’ll be back for reals in August, when I return from my blogging vaca and send out my weekly #SoulH2O Devotions again.

Much love,
~Sherry
xoxo

Draw for Kelly’s Battle Ready Book to take place on my Author Facebook Page:
Friday, July 27, 2018 at 12:15pm

Comment on this blog post, Share the Facebook Live Post, Comment under the Facebook Live Post or Pin the Quote Image on Pinterest. for your chance to win!

Kelly Balarie is the author of Fear Fighting and is a featured blogger at Crosswalk.com and iBelieve.com A passionate national speaker, she has spent a decade leading groups of women in spiritual growth, marriage building, and Bible studies across the nation. Balarie lives with her husband and two small children near the sun-soaked shores of the East Coast.
Website and Blog: https://purposefulfaith.com/
Book Website with FREE Downloads: http://www.iambattleready.com
YouVersion Bible App Devotion Series: https://www.bible.com/r…/12129-battle-ready-by-kelly-balarie

#PaperbackPic BATTLE READY
Train Your Mind To Conquer Challenges, Defeat Doubt, and Live Victoriously
AUTHOR: Kelly Balarie
© 2018 by Kelly Balarie
PUBLISHER: Baker Books; a division of Baker Publishing Group Grand Rapids, MI USA

CLICK TO PURCHASE FROM AMAZON (will link to .CA or .COM based on where you live)
Nothing will be added to your purchase price but I will receive an affiliate fee if you purchase.

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

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

Living a fierceHEARTED life!

***fierce*HEARTED**
LIVE FULLY, LOVE BRAVELY

(c) Holley Gerth

Ellen Graf-Martin introduced me to Holley Gerth’s writing. It was for my first #EllensPicks book review and Holley’s previously released, You’re Already Amazing; Life Growth Guide. I really enjoyed that book and have loved fierceHEARTED so much that I ended up doing two facebook live videos that mentioned it…and now this post.

[tweetthis]fierceHEARTED gets two thumbs up from me! @sherry_stahl #paperbackpic @EllensPicks[/tweetthis]

LIVE FULLY, LOVE BRAVELY

Holley gave this book the sub-title of LIVE FULLY, LOVE BRAVELY. Holley shares so much about her life with us in the book. There are stories from all stages of her life and a few written from events as she wrote the book. By her writing, Holley lets us into the journey of her learning to live fully and love bravely, that lead to becoming a fierceHEARTED woman of God.

When you get to the end of the book you realize that this journey of becoming is really never over, but don’t worry, that’s not a bad thing! We’re all just in the middle of what God is preparing us to do next, preparing for who He wants us to become. The second Facebook Live video I did mentioning fierceHEARTED was based on my devotion called ARE YOU IN THE MIDDLE?. It resonates with this quote from page 184.

“LET’S REMEMBER
we are all still in
the middle of the
MESSY, BEAUTIFUL WORK
of becoming.”

I love the way Holley so playfully recounts the stories of her life. The chapter titles will let you in on the fun she must have had writing this book. Here’s a few to pique your interest:

Bone in the Chicken
Shake the Jar
Flops and Rafters
Praying Wronger
Room for Knobs
Emotional Duct Tape

Ok, I’m sure you get the picture. The chapters are lighthearted stories that make a point and leave you thinking, “How’d she do that?” Holley weaves the challenges, triumphs and middle ground of her life into this book and invites us to share our lives with others as she so openly has. No more trying to act like we’ve got this thing called life all figured out, but instead being open and honest, sharing the journey to becoming fierceHEARTED together.

“Let’s make this
our declaration:
instead of trying to
have it ALL TOGETHER,
we will dare to do
real, messy, imperfect
life all together.”
Pg.126

I hope you enjoyed my #EllensPicks #paperbackpic review. I received a copy of this unpublished manuscript from Revell Books in hopes that I would post a review. The opinions expressed are my own and true from my heart.

Be Blessed and Refreshed,
~Sherry
xoxo

In case you’re wondering, here’s a link to the first Facebook Live Post where I mention fierceHEARTED

Holley Gerth is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, certified life coach, and speaker. She loves connecting with the hearts of women thorugh her popular blog and books. If you’re a blogger, join me as I share my blog posts on Holley’s site every Wednesday morning for her #coffeeforyourheart linkup. Holley’s also the cofounder of (in)courage and a partner with DaySpring. Holley lives with her husband, Mark, in the South.

Connect with Holley at:
Website: www.holleygerth.com https://holleygerth.com/
Insta & Twitter: @holleygerth
Facebook: Holley Gerth https://www.facebook.com/HolleyGerth/?fref=ts

#PaperbackPic
fierceHEARTED
LIVE FULLY, LOVE BRAVELY
AUTHOR: Holley Gerth
© 2017 by Holley Gerth
PUBLISHER: Revell; a division of Baker Publishing Group Grand Rapids, MI USA

You can Pre-order the book Here: https://www.amazon.com/Fiercehearted-Live-Fully-Love-Bravely/dp/B075RF1M16/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1506477857&sr=8-1&keywords=holley+gerth

Gerth, Holley. fierceHEARTED: LIVE FULLY, LOVE BRAVELY. (Grand Rapids, MI: Revell; a division of Baker Publishing Group, 2017), 184.
Ibid, 126.

YOU CAN OFTEN FIND ME LINKING UP WITH:
MONDAY Monday Meditations – Laura J. Davis , #SoulSurvival – Donna Riedland
TUESDAY Cheerleaders of Faith #RARaLinkup – Kelly Balarie ,
WEDNESDAY Coffee For Your Heart – Holley Gerth , Word Nerd Wednesdays — Liz Giertz
THURSDAY Heart Encouragement Thursday – Crystal Storms , Chasing Community – Barbara Bradford Ottinger
FRIDAY Dance With Jesus Linkup – Susan B. Mead , Grace and Truth Linkup – Arabah Joy , Counting My Blessings – Deb Wolf, Fresh Market Friday – Crystal Twaddell ELLEN’S PICKS – Ellen Graf-Martin

Follow The Leader

Yesterday I released a post called The World’s Biggest Game of Simon Says but I know some people call it, Follow The Leader. If you didn’t read the devotion you can just click on the Title and it will take you there. It might make this post just a little more powerful 🙂

In the devotion, it talks about how the Israelites followed God’s cloud wherever and whenever He moved it. This really caused me to question my level of trust in God’s leading and I asked you the same questions I was asking myself. As I wrote the post the song Oceans by Hillsong United was playing in my mind, but so was a quote from Tozer, I’m kinda ADD like that.

[tweetthis]“Christians don’t tell lies – they just go to church and sing them.” – A. W. Tozer[/tweetthis]

Ouch! I sometimes feel this way when we’re singing Oceans at church. My heart wants to mean every word, but I fear that sometimes I’m not willing to follow through on the statements I sing.

Oceans by Hillsong United

The line in Oceans that gets me is:

“Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders”

I want to live with that kind of faith. I want to be bold, courageous and brave. I want to follow God without borders. I want to answer the call like the song says:

“Wherever You would call me”

This makes me think of the movie We Bought A Zoo…again…it’s the ADD thing! I love inspiring true stories made into film and this is one of my faves. One statement by the father in the movie; played by Matt Damon is a quote I can’t forget:

[imic_button colour=”btn-info” type=”enabled” link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmMFIganRQY” target=”_blank” extraclass=”” size=”btn-lg”]VIDEO CLIP OF THE QUOTE AS MATT DAMON TELLS IT TO HIS SON IN THE MOVIE[/imic_button]

[imic_button colour=”btn-info” type=”enabled” link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqE-yAfYAhw” target=”_blank” extraclass=”” size=”btn-lg”]VIDEO CLIP OF MATT DAMON’S CHARACTER LIVING OUT HIS 20 SECONDS OF BRAVERY IN THE MOVIE[/imic_button]

So, in sharing today’s #musicpic
with you,
I’ve also shared a #paperbackpic
and a #moviepic

I hope they all leave you inspired to follow the leader, giving God your 20 seconds of insane, embarrassingly brave courage …And, in the words of Benjamin Mee;

I promise you, something great will come of it!

Here’s my prayer from the devo with an addition to the end,
inspired by the song Oceans.

LOOK BELOW
To see where to find: the song, the book & the movie

Prayer

Father…Thank You for revealing your directions so I can know how to follow You. I read instructions in Your Word, I hear them when I’m quiet enough to listen to your voice, and sometimes I there’s a pounding in my chest when you want me to move. Please help me to be more sensitive to Your leading. Give me courage and a gift of faith to follow wherever and whenever you lead. Let my trust be without borders. In Jesus Name…Amen

[tweetthis]Read #followtheleader and learn about a great #musicpic #paperbackpic & #moviepic [/tweetthis]

#musicpic Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)
Makes Me Feel: Empowered, like I want to do something GREAT for God! Confident to Follow Wherever He Leads.
Sung By: Hillsong United
Website: https://hillsong.com/united/
CD: Zion
Written By: Matt Crocker; Joel Houston; Salomon Ligthelm
© 2013
Worship Together Info: https://www.worshiptogether.com/songs/oceans-where-feet-may-fail/
Official Youtube Video With Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dy9nwe9_xzw
Lyrics: https://hillsong.com/lyrics/oceans-where-feet-may-fail/

#paperbackpic We Bought a Zoo
By Benjamin Mee © 2011 Originally published in 2008 and 2009
https://www.amazon.com/We-Bought-Zoo-Amazing-Animals/dp/B004ZXNLZO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1505836394&sr=8-1&keywords=we+bought+a+zoo+book

#moviepic We Bought a Zoo
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1389137/

FOOTNOTES

1 https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1389137/ Website Accessed: 2017-09-19
2 https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/483398-you-know-sometimes-all-you-need-is-twenty-seconds-of Website Accessed: 2017-09-19

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TRUE STORY OF BENJAMIN MEE READ HERE: https://www.dartmoorzoo.org.uk/ourstory/ Website Accessed: 2017-09-19

YOU CAN OFTEN FIND ME LINKING UP WITH:
MONDAY Monday Meditations – Laura J. Davis, Soul Survival – Donna Reidland ,
TUESDAY Cheerleaders of Faith #RARaLinkup – Kelly Balarie ,
WEDNESDAY Coffee For Your Heart – Holley Gerth , Word Nerd Wednesdays — Liz Giertz
THURSDAY Heart Encouragement Thursday – Crystal Storms , Chasing Community – Barbara Bradford Ottinger
FRIDAY Dance With Jesus Linkup – Susan B. Mead , Grace and Truth Linkup – Arabah Joy , Counting My Blessings – Deb Wolf, Fresh Market Friday – Crystal Twaddell ELLEN’S PICKS– Ellen Graf-Martin

Do You Need to Take Down a Goliath?

I’m writing this post because this girl is goin’ through a tough time. So, I need to remind myself of God’s truths and usually when I write about my struggles, it helps others too. Situations have escalated and I need to take down a Goliath in my life I’ve allowed to rule for way too long.

Do You Need to Take Down a Goliath in your life?

Don’t get me wrong, I’m NOT asking “Do you need to take down a person?” My good friend Wendy once said, “if they have skin on, they’re not the enemy.”

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,
but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:12

My ‘Goliath’ has been screaming threats in my ear; attacking who I am, lying, mocking my relationship with God and criticizing the call on my life. The intimidation has often left me cowering in shame.

The longevity of this battle has taken its toll and affected me so profoundly in the past year that I was ready to give up on everything. It affected me physically, spiritually and emotionally. I felt so defeated and discouraged that I didn’t even send out my weekly Soul H2O devotions for three weeks in July because, it’s impossible to refresh others when your well is dry. Since I started sending out Soul H2O four years ago I had only missed posting once, when I was on a missions’ trip in Guatemala. I can’t express to you how defeated the enemy made me feel, even after a season of powerful ministry this spring. I can relate to Elijah’s breakdown in a new way after this experience.

Can you relate to what I’m going through?
Have you ever asked God, why is this happening to me?

Even up to this morning I was feeling this way until I listened to a sermon by Matt Tapley from Lakemount Worship Centre in Grimsby, Ontario. It wasn’t a warm and fuzzy sermon to ease my pain. This was a ‘toughen up, you can do it’ kind of message, and that’s exactly what I needed.

In his podcast, Spiritual Best Practices, Matt talks about a faulty theology Christians often have that leads you to believe

“if I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing, I can avoid trouble.”
But, as Matt points out,
“This isn’t true.”

Falling prey to this mindset easily opens the door to believe the enemies lies. He intimidates by whispering in your ear that you MUST be doing something wrong, or worse, that God must not love you.

I wish my faith was stronger than this. You’d think I wouldn’t struggle with this faulty theology since I wrote a post about it titled, We Need To Change Our Christian Expectations. This was back in 2013 when God first started confronting my mixed-up belief. It’s sad how thick-headed we can be. God often needs to apply a few knocks on our noggin to help us ‘get it’!

“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyedwhen his glory is revealed.”
1 Peter 4:12-13

GETTING INSPIRED

Matt’s message, rereading my old blog post and beginning to read Holley Gerth’s book, Fiercehearted were the kick in the pants I needed to get out of my funk and back to a firm foundation of faith. When I heard Matt say, “ If God’s helped you with a ‘level 2 bully’ then He can help you defeat a ‘level 12 Goliath’” I wanted to shout; but the people walking on the trail near me might have called the authorities. The very title of Holley’s book is inspiring me. I want to live #fiercehearted in the face of my Goliath, and I know you do too! I can’t wait to be OVERjoyed when His glory is revealed and the battle is gone.

**Click here to watch the Facebook Live I recorded after I got all fired up. I’m sure it will be a shot in the arm of courage for you!**

Since the video people have asked me for the verses I mentioned. Here’s a listing of Scriptures that will help you stand firm in your faith so you can take down any Goliath you face!

Hebrews 10:39
2 Corinthians 4:16-19
Isaiah 10:27
1 John 2:20-27
Another couple verses that will help you are Isaiah 54:17, 52:2, Ephesians 6:12

Praying this post leaves you Blessed & Refreshed!

Much love,
~Sherry Stahl
xoxo

We Need To Change Our Christian Expectations My #SoulH2O Blog Post
https://holleygerth.com/
https://www.lakemount.ca/
https://www.lakemount.ca/grow/messages/spiritual-best-practices

#Dare2Share
Post in the Comment Section below and bolster the faith of someone else!

YOU CAN OFTEN FIND ME LINKING UP WITH:
MONDAY Monday Meditations – Laura J. Davis ,
TUESDAY Cheerleaders of Faith #RARaLinkup – Kelly Balarie ,
WEDNESDAY Coffee For Your Heart – Holley Gerth , Word Nerd Wednesdays — Liz Giertz
THURSDAY Heart Encouragement Thursday – Crystal Storms , Chasing Community – Barbara Bradford Ottinger
FRIDAY Dance With Jesus Linkup – Susan B. Mead , Grace and Truth Linkup – Arabah Joy , Counting My Blessings – Deb Wolf, Fresh Market Friday – Crystal Twaddell ELLEN’S PICKS – Ellen Graf-Martin

Get a Soul H2O Devotional Book Sampler when signing up!

#PaperbackPic

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR

SEASON OF THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episodes

Thanksgiving Themed Soul H2O Devotions & Blog Posts

Thanksgiving #musicpic Songs

Thanksgiving #paperbackpic Books

Thanksgiving Scripture Graphics

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

Want a Refreshing Inbox?

Share With a Friend

#musicpic

Splash Online Event

Devotions Related to Peace of Mind

Mover of Mountains

Breaker of Chains

Nothing Can Stop Our God

Mover of Mountains—Breaker of Chains

Prayer

Why God Doesn’t Give You A 5 Year Plan

God Knows How To Get You Where You Need To Be {Part 3}

DERAIL THE NEGATIVE TRAIN

NO 5 YEAR PLAN

HOPING FOR WHAT YOU CANNOT SEE

“I knew better than to let this negative train of thought stay on the tracks or I would soon derail my calling, so I…

_______________________ (you fill in the blanks)”

Prayer

#paperbackpic JUST ENOUGH LIGHT FOR THE STEP I’M ON

FINDING GOD’S STORY IN THE STARS

AMAZON BEST SELLER RANKINGS

Story In The Stars: Discovering God’s Design and Plan for Our Universe

Hey Google… I Need An Answer

Hey Google

I Need An Answer

Who Do You Ask For Answers?

Join Me TOMORROW for a LIVE Zoom Video Call… for my big reveal of The Next Right Thing in my life!

#musicpics

Dan Macaulay “Listening” On Spotify “Listening” on Itunes Lyrics – Worship

Remedy Drive “Speak To Me” On You Tube, Lyrics, On Spotify – Easy Listening Contemporary Christian

Jeremy Camp “The Answer” – Easy Listening Contemporary Christian

#paperbackpic

Do you want a life-changing, inspiring book with lots of freebies to read this summer holiday?Have I got the book for you!

I love it so much…I bought an extra copy to give away!

LIVE – FROM BRAESIDE CAMP

BATTLE READY

TRAINING YOUR MIND TO CONQUER

HOW I GOT CONNECTED WITH KELLY

Kelly has this giving heart.

COULD YOU VOTE FOR ME?

Draw for Kelly’s Battle Ready Book to take place on my Author Facebook Page:Friday, July 27, 2018 at 12:15pm

fierceHEARTED LIVE FULLY, LOVE BRAVELY

LIVE FULLY, LOVE BRAVELY

Oceans by Hillsong United

I promise you, something great will come of it!

LOOK BELOW To see where to find: the song, the book & the movie

Prayer

Do You Need to Take Down a Goliath in your life?

Can you relate to what I’m going through? Have you ever asked God, why is this happening to me?

GETTING INSPIRED

Click here to watch the Facebook Live I recorded after I got all fired up. I’m sure it will be a shot in the arm of courage for you!

SHOP

Story In The Stars:
Discovering God’s Design and Plan for Our Universe

Join Me TOMORROW for a LIVE Zoom Video Call…
for my big reveal of The Next Right Thing in my life!

Do you want a life-changing, inspiring book with lots of freebies to read this summer holiday?
Have I got the book for you!

I love it so much…
I bought an extra copy to give away!

Draw for Kelly’s Battle Ready Book to take place on my Author Facebook Page:
Friday, July 27, 2018 at 12:15pm

***fierce*HEARTED**
LIVE FULLY, LOVE BRAVELY

LOOK BELOW
To see where to find: the song, the book & the movie

Can you relate to what I’m going through?
Have you ever asked God, why is this happening to me?

**Click here to watch the Facebook Live I recorded after I got all fired up. I’m sure it will be a shot in the arm of courage for you!**