devotion

  • What Could Happen If You Didn’t Give Up?

    Have you ever stopped to ask yourself the question, What Could Happen If You Didn’t Give Up? I’m hoping this devo will be all the encouragement you need to keep on, keeping on!

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

    Soul H2O Devotion

    What Could Happen If You Didn’t Give Up?

    Flat tire  changing tire on highway

    Yup! That’s a picture of a flat tire and the picture beside is the amazing Heather Ireland; two truck driver, former Biker TV Host and owner of Silverbird Towing, graciously changing my tire as transports are whizzing by. 

    These pictures were taken on the side of Highway 401 where I had to quickly pull over when I clearly drove over something, causing my tire to blow… after a long day when a relational situation broke my heart just hours before.

    Some days are just like that. I find they happen a lot when you’re pushing through, going to a new level, walking toward what God’s called you to do, or making progress to becoming the person God wants you to be.

    It’s Not Always Easy

    324 Devotion Title Graphic saying What Could Happen If You Didn't Give Up

    That’s exactly what was happening in my life when these pictures were taken. I was getting ready all day to go away, so I could attend an important ministerial event for our denomination way up in Mississauga. It’s my first one since the 1990’s as I just renewed my credentials in 2022 (OOPS I don’t think I posted about that… for another day). Earlier that day, things just kept going wrong and taking longer than they should have, then the relational upheaval that left me hurt,  doubting my identity and questioning if I should be going at all.

    The enemy was trying to wear me down and stop me from going but I was wise to his tactics this time.

    After only getting 4 hours of sleep I headed out for the meetings. Staying awake when anyone prayed for an extended time was difficult, but pushing through and not letting the enemy steal away from me was worth pushing through every struggle I had to. I left on a high, affirmed in my calling, having received a prophetic encouragement from God, reconnecting with old Bible College friends, and being used by God to share a message of encouragement with a fellow minister.

    Aligned PAOC AGM

    Powerful Alignment

    I was aligning myself with the mission of Paul as he said in Philippians 3:14.

    I PRESS ON
    toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
    Philippians 3:14 ESV

    Pinterest Size Pin of Philippians 3:14

    The enemy tried to wear me out and get me to give up on doing the right thing but in the end, it was the enemy who was tired out and frustrated because not one of his tactics worked. 

    I kept moving forward and God was able to do some amazing things. If I’d given up, none of that would have happened.

    What Could Happen If You Didn’t Give Up?

    Has the enemy been trying to wear you down, so you don’t go there or do that? Don’t let him get you down for the count, remind yourself of what God promises in Galatians 6:9, Don’t get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time you will reap a harvest of blessingif you don’t give up.

    Prayer

    Father…I thank you that you’ve put more strength in me than I realize. Help me to grow in faith to believe that I can do all things… In Jesus Name…Amen

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help 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.

    1. 1. Philippians 3:14
    2. 2. Galatians 6:9
    3. 3. Philippians 1:6
    4. 4. Hebrews 11:35-36,39
    5. 5. Philippians 4:13

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    #musicpic

    #musicpic SONG: 
    Don’t Lose Heart by Steven Curtis Chapman

    Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/VAMwqBynjCs
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    MUSICPIC SONGS SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS
    Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Joy Radio Original Sherry Stahl
    Will I Get Through This? | EP #128

    on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show. You can find the  Show Notes at https://soulh2o.com/128/

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    #musicpic Post: Press On https://www.sherrystahl.com/press/

    #192 Ever Feel Like Someone’s Trying To Wear You Down? https://www.sherrystahl.com/wear-you-down/

    Soul H2OIf 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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  • Catching A Vision For The Future

    It’s in taking the time to look back at last year that’s helping me catch a vision for the future and I can’t wait to start living it!

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

    Soul H2O Devotion

    323_Catching A Vision For The Future

    Catching A Vision For The Future

    It’s hard to believe that Christmas and New Year’s are behind us.

    This is the time when we tend to reflect on the past year, while envisioning our hopes for the new… and that’s the headspace I’m in right now. Reviewing the past, to catch a vision for the future.

    God Knows You Need A Vision of The Future

    You might have heard Proverbs 29:18 quoted from the King James Version, Where there is no vision, the people perish” but I think the ESV is closer to the original language as it translates this verse to read: Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint,” or how the NLT says, When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild.” And I think my favourite translation of the verse is from the CSB,

    Pr 29_18 CSB Devo 323

    Wait For The Vision

    When we’re making plans for the next year or trying to set a 5-year plan, it’s imperative that we spend time waiting on God to hear His direction; and then follow it. When I don’t, I feel like I’m running wild, taking shots in the air… and mostly missing. I don’t want to do that this year, and I’m guessing you don’t either. I want to live on purpose, on mission.

    There’s a sense that this year is critical, a pivotal time in the history of the world. I want to make sure you and I are following God’s lead to make the greatest impact.

    Review & Envision

    I challenge you to take some time, like I did, to write out key life events from 2022 and prayerfully envision this year. If you need an example, you can see mine HERE. Then, get moving to make those dreams reality!

    Prayer

    Father, I thank You for giving me dreams and visions for the future. Your Word assures me that you speak to Your people, so I can be confident that you will guide me. Help me to wait for Your Word, hear it, and follow through to completion. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    Sherry’s 2022 Year In Review & Vision for 2023

    Check out the plans for Soul H2O Ministries that you can be a part of this year HERE.

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

    1. 1. Proverbs 29:18
      2. Psalm 19:11
      3. Exodus 32:25 (in NIV if you can)
      3. Psalm 85:8

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    #musicpic song

    New Day by Danny Gokey
    Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TrKXehB0pg
    Soul H2O Spotify
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    MUSICPIC SONGS SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS
    Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Joy Radio Original Sherry Stahl
    Tuning In God’s Voice | EP #69

    Tuning In God’s Voice is Part 4 in the Hearing God’s Voice Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #69. You can find the  Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/69

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    REPEATS

    Where it all began

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

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

    Soul H2OIf 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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  • A Real Chip Off The Old Block

    Have you ever heard the saying…
    She or he’s a real chip off the old block?

    Soul H2O Devotion

    A Real Chip off The Old BlockA Real Chip Off The Old Block

    I can look at my kids and see their gifts and misgivings. Most often I recognize how the way they are, seems to be a lot like me. Brandon has always cared about the underdog and never been good at sleeping because he hates to miss out on things. Shelby’s a geek with excel like me, she’s fun-loving like her momma and inherited the clutzy gene too. 

    Their chips, are often chunks off the old block.

    sherry, brandon, shelby
    sherry, brandon, shelby 2
    sherry, brandon, shelby 3

    “Chip Off The Old Block”

    That phrase a chip off the old block makes me think of Isaiah 51:1 that challenges us to inquire about things, to ask the deeper questions when it says:

    “Listen to me, all who hope for deliverance— all who seek the LORD! Consider the rock from which you were cut, the quarry from which you were mined.                       
    Isaiah 51:1 NLT

    Do you realize what this verse is getting you to ask? 

    Who’s the block you’ve been chopped off?

    The Block & Chip Maker

    Psalm 139:13-14 confirms that God created and formed you in your mother’s womb and Genesis 1:27 makes clear that God made you in His image, are you starting to see that Isaiah 51:1 is hinting that you’re a chip off the old block from the one who made you in HIS image?

    Graphic from Soul H2O Show Episode 120

    No matter if you’re short, tall, skinny, curvy, shy, bold, dark skinned, freckled or fair… how you’ve been made is wonderful. You’re a real chip off the old block and your creator is so happy with his work! Don’t let the enemy of your soul cause you to feel less than.

    Live in the confidence that God made you and He loves you! You are A Real Chip Off The Old Block, made in the image of God, how can you be anything, but good?

    Prayer

    Father… Thank You God for recording truth in Your Word that tells me what You think about me. Help me combat the lies I’ve believed about myself and help this new revelation sink deep into my soul. I am a chip off Your block, created in Your image. I am good! In Jesus Name…Amen

    Wanna go a little deeper?

    In Episode 120 on the Soul H2O Show I go a little deeper with this devotion and share some more insights to help build confidence in WHO GOD SAYS YOU ARE!

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

    1. 1. Isaiah 51:1-2
    2. 2. Psalm 139:13-14
    3. 3. Genesis 1:27
    4. 4. Romans 8:1

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    Listen on Your Fave Podcast App

    Soul H2O Show A Real Chip Off The Old Block with Kathi Lipp
    A Real Chip Off The Old Block EP #120

    Kathi Lipp vulnerably shares about her struggles with host Sherry Stahl, as they talk about how your most difficult issues can actually be a tool for connection with others.   http://www.soulh2o.com/120

    #musicpic

    #musicpic SONG: 
    Overcome by Elevation Worship

    Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/mvF9Hc5XZOo
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    REPEATS

    Where it all began

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

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

    Soul H2OIf 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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  • Gather The Girls Together!

    Right from the heart of God… a call to Gather The Girls Together!

    Soul H2O Devotion

    The Lord said, Gather The People Together
    and I will give them water.
    Numbers 21:16

    REFRESH CONFERENCE GET THE GIRLS TOGETHERGather The Girls Together

    I read this verse and was blown away that I’d never noticed it before. It was a timely word the Lord brought to my attention earlier this week. I feel it was just another confirmation that we’re doing the right thing by putting the Refresh Conference on next Saturday. Answering an ancient call to gather God’s people together, so they can be refreshed by Him!

    Where The People Were At

    In the portion of Scripture where this verse comes from, the people of God were tired and worn out. They’d been fighting battle after battle. One of their favourite leaders; Aaron, the brother of Moses had just died. They wandered around the desert, thirsty for water to feed their bodies and souls.

    The struggle was so intense it says in verses 4-5 of this chapter that they began to grumble and complain about how difficult their circumstances were and God got fed up with their bad attitude.

    I know you’d never be like that, but me… 
    I might be a little #guilty of it!

    I Don’t Have It All Figured Out

    I don’t write this to you as someone who’s gotten this right all the time, but someone who keeps picking herself off the floor whenever she falls. God sees your human frailty and loves you in spite of it. 

    This verse is so amazing to me because right after the people failed their test of faith, God still gives them a promise and brings them to the water. 

    I believe God has something great for you at the Refresh Conference. It’s no mistake you bought a ticket, or someone bought it for you. 

    Get Yourself Ready

    I encourage you to start spending time in prayer today, asking God to prepare your heart for what He’s about to do in you! I know He wants to build you UP!

    We’ve been gathering HIS girls online for the past couple of years and now *live* an in-person! If you’re one of the girls who’s answered the call and is coming the Refresh  💧 Conference next Saturday… I can’t wait to see you! 

    Refresh Conference Gather The Girls TogetherIf you know of anyone sitting on the fence about coming or God has brought them to your mind as you’re reading, why not contact them and see if they might join you… but don’t delay, today is the last day to buy tickets (details below).

    Hope to cya soon!

    In His Grip,
    Sherry
    xoxo

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    TICKETS AVAILABLE UNTIL FRIDAY, OCT. 14 @ MIDNIGHT

    Get Your Tickets Today

    Because tomorrow you can’t!

    Refresh Conference
    GRAB A GIRLFRIEND & JOIN US! Saturday, October 22, 2022 | 10am – 4pm EST LakePoint Family Church – Leamington, ON
    CLICK ON REFRESH PAGE

    💧 Sherry Stahl is the keynote speaker 

    💧 Brianne Danter is the worship leader 

    💧 6 Breakout Session Options 

    💧 Lunch & Snacks served 

    ⏰ Tickets on sale *ONLY* until Fri. Oct. 14, 2022 ⏰

    Check the webpage for full details: https://www.sherrystahl.com/refresh/

    Conference put on by Soul H2O Ministries in partnership with Lakepoint Family Church.

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    #musicpic

    #musicpic SONG: 
    Overcome by Elevation Worship

    Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/mvF9Hc5XZOo
    Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

    MUSICPIC SONGS SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS
    Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Joy Radio Original Sherry Stahl
    Tuning In God’s Voice | EP #69

    Tuning In God’s Voice is Part 4 in the Hearing God’s Voice Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #69. You can find the  Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/69

    REPEATS

    Where it all began

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

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

    Soul H2OIf 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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  • 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

    children in costumes

    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

    sherry in costumeThis 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

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

    1. 1.Genesis 2:25
    2. 2. Genesis 3:7
    3. 3. Genesis 3:8
    4. 4. Romans 8:38-39

    Soul H2O Resources

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    Get a FREE Soul H2O Book Sampler {and a coupon} when you Sign Up to Get the Soul H2O Devotions, Show Notifications, and updates from me!

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    dress up

    Splash Online Event​

    It’s the season for wearing costumes. Have you ever felt like the character or person you dressed up as?
    Dress UPTo 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.

    Soul H2OIf 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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  • Nehemiah–Wash Behind Your Hears

    todd stahl nehemiahGood Morning!  In the past few months my computer has been in the shop a few times and it decided to crash again.  I know from many of your emails that these Monday morning devotions are a boost to your week so even though I can’t access my devotions I’m still posting one.  It’s the first devotion from my hubby’s book (Details below) and it’s really good!  Be encouraged today as you read and no matter what happens…DON’T GIVE UP!!!

    Nehemiah--Wash Behind Your Hears...

    God holds me head and shoulders above all who try to pull me down…Already I’m singing God-songs; I’m making music to God.
    —PSALM 27:6

    Many times in my life, I have given too much thought to background noise. Those voices attempt to make you think aspects of your life are falling apart. You anticipate that the future will be a scary place, or the walls feel as if they’re pressing in on you like a vice. Do not allow those sounds to be played. God has provided courage and faith to confront your fear and anxiety.

    Nehemiah, a mighty man in the Bible, encountered an excellent example of this dilemma. At a time when he could have been comfortable with his highly honored position of cupbearer for the king, God spoke to him, confirming that he would be the lead man to reconstruct the walls around the city of Jerusalem.

    During the physical work, Nehemiah heard sounds of criticism, verbal attacks, and false accusations day in and day out. Nehemiah refused to listen. He kept his focus. Not only did he refuse to crumble to the background noise, he and his construction crew completed the job in record time!

    Don’t be surprised if the devil starts heating up the adversity when you pursue a goal that God has confirmed in your heart. In your own life, scrub away those  words or thoughts that have held you back from spiritual growth. Listen for the  voice of encouragement.  Open your spiritual ears to hear what God is saying to you today.

    The enemy desires nothing better than to play the sounds of negativity, doubt, and confusion in our minds, hoping we’ll lose focus. These words are attempts to smother the dreams God placed in us to fulfill. Turn off the old playlist of doubt and fear. Download the new sounds God has given to you—lyrics of hope, anticipation, and excitement towards a future that is music to your hears!

    Prayer

    Father…Help me today to focus on You and Your plan for my life.  Please help me to “tune in” to your station so I hear Your voice of encouragement and not the negative voice of the enemy as I move forward towards Your great purposes for my life!  In Jesus Name…Amen.

    Man CaveTodd’s book, 40 Days In The Man Cave  is available everywhere books are sold! 

    Check Out Todd’s Website  http://www.toddstahl.ca

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  • Does Forgiveness Equal Restored Relationship?

    forgiveness restored relationship“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Follow God’s example…”
                                                                                 Ephesians 4:32-5:1 NIV

    Life is so generous to give us lots of opportunities to extend forgiveness to people who hurt us. What’s the proper response to offence? Do we always have to forgive?

    Does forgiveness =equal= restored relationship?

    If we are to follow God’s example, as this verse instructs us, then forgiveness is a must and restored relationships need to be our intent.

    Sadly, I don’t think forgiveness can always lead to restored relationships, and we see that in Jesus’ relationship with the Pharisees.

    Isaiah 59:2 explains that our sin is an offence to God, separating us in our relationship with Him. The more we sin and the longer we continue offending Him, the more distant our relationship with Him becomes. Forgiveness can take place in an instant when a prayer is whispered, but it takes time to rebuild a relationship with God.

    Restoration happens when we take ownership of our offense and change our ways. We have to go through a process to rebuild our closeness with the Father.

    The same principle needs to be applied to our earthly relationships.
    We must forgive others for their offenses towards us. If we don’t, it keeps us bound in bitterness. It’s healthy to learn that a restored relationship is separate from forgiveness and requires a healing process.
    When approaching relationship restoration, we need to consider the whole counsel of scripture.
    Proverbs 4:23 warns,

    “Guard your heart above all else,
    for it determines the course of your life” (NLT).

    Proverbs 22:24 cautions,

    “Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person,
    do not associate with one easily angered...”
    Forgiveness + Ownership + Repentence = Restored Relationship

    Sometimes you’ll need to forgive and protect yourself from unhealthy or even toxic relationships. In the best of times, forgiveness leads to a better, stronger restored relationship.

    Prayer:

    Father, I thank You for Your forgiveness. I ask for the grace to forgive others in my life who have hurt and offended me. I take myself out of the judge’s seat and release them to Your judgement and justice. Please help me to guard my heart, without closing it in the area of relationship restoration. May I walk in Your wholeness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
    Drawing from the well
    1. Ephesians 4:32
    2. Isaiah 59:2
    3. Proverbs 22:24–25
    4. Proverbs 4:23

    Soul H2OThis post was first published on January 19, 2014 and then included in my first Soul H2O Devotional book: 40 Thirst Quenching Devotions for Women.
    Devotion #17 – Forgiveness and Restored Relationship.  The original devotion also inspired a #musicpic post called, The Forgiveness Song

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  • Truth God Whispered To Me On A Flight To Dallas

    Even youths grow tired and weary,
    and young men stumble and fall;
    but those who hope in the LORD
    will renew their strength.
    They will soar on wings like eagles;
    they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint.
    Isaiah 40:30-31 NIV


    Are you a confident flyer?

    I started off pretty nervous flying… might have had something to do with the fact that my first trip involved a stint through the Rockies in a small plane. Pockets of air bounced us up and down for the whole flight.

    Then came the 911 Tragedy.

    My friend Staci and I were scheduled to attend Joyce Meyer’s Women’s Conference taking place just a couple weeks later.  We weren’t sure planes would be flying since airports had been closed but days before our trip, it was announced they were open again.

    The conference sent out emails letting girls off the hook for registration if they were concerned about flying.  As I read, something rose up inside of me. I wasn’t going to allow the terrorists to terrorize me.  This indignation helped defeat my flying fear!

    Now, I’m a fairly confident flyer, but still pray during take-off and my flight last week to the Global Media Summit was no exception.  As I prayed in my head {so people don’t think I’m crazy} a life-changing event happened. God whispered to me on a flight to Dallas!

    WHAT TRUTH GOD WHISPERED TO ME ON A FLIGHT TO DALLAS

    As the plane was rising into the clouds and the motors leveled off, I began thinking about how amazing it was that such a heavy piece of metal could soar above the clouds with such ease. It was at this point where I felt the Lord remind me of this week’s verse.  God kept whispering, “you will soar on wings like eagles”.   What an encouraging word!

    Isaiah 40:30-31

    EAGLE FACTS

    This caused me to study a little more on eagles, so I could understand how they soar in the sky1.  Unlike other birds who furiously flap their wings and can fly for shorter distances, eagles can soar for 4-6 hours, traveling up to 125 miles2 by simply opening up their wings and gliding on the wind.  This is the difference between flying and soaring.3

    All too often I’m like a bird flapping around getting tired, only going short distances.  From now on, I want to be like an eagle and soar on the Jetstream of where the Holy Spirit is moving!  This reminds me of the Word of the Lord to Zerubbabel in Zechariah 4:6, “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty.”

    So, let’s follow the eagle example.  Don’t waste your energy flapping around.  Learn from the message God whispered to me on a flight to Dallas, and simply open up your wings and soar!

    Prayer

    Father… I thank You for taking the heavy load.  You don’t want me to carry it.  Help me not waste energy trying to do Your will in my own strength but soar on the wind of Your Spirit. In Jesus Name…Amen

    [tweetthis]Don’t flap like a bird, soar like an eagle![/tweetthis]


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


     Eagle videoVideo on how Eagles Fly

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

     

    Drawing From The Well - Brown and Blue

    1. Isaiah 40:30-31
    2. Zechariah 4:6
    3. 2 Chronicles 32:7-8
    4. 1 Corinthians 2:4-5

    EndNotes:

    1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tM2bC6qNksM Website Accessed:  2018-05-06
    2. https://www.quora.com/How-long-can-an-eagle-fly-without-landing-perching Website Accessed: 2018-05-06
    3. https://www.differencebetween.info/difference-between-flying-and-soaring Website Accessed: 2018-05-06

    BLOGGER PRAYERS-GREYYOU 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 GerthWord Nerd Wednesdays — Liz Giertz
    THURSDAY Heart Encouragement Thursday – Crystal Storms, Chasing Community  Barbara Bradford Ottinger
    FRIDAY Dance With Jesus Linkup – Susan B. MeadGrace and Truth Linkup – Arabah JoyCounting My Blessings – Deb Wolf, Fresh Market Friday – Crystal Twaddell ELLEN’S PICKS– Ellen Graf-Martin 

     

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  • {New Series} New Beginnings

    This New Beginnings devotion is #2 of the 4 Part  “NEW Series”. The series is a group of devotions I felt the Lord putting on my heart for the NEW YEAR.  Here’s last week’s INTRO/NEW STRENGTH, I sensed Holy Spirit inspiring me to share hope and refreshing words with you. 

    The devos will follow along the same format as my normal #SoulH2O devotions except the last one will have a bonus post later in the week for the first week in February.           

    I hope these posts build up your expectation for the great things God desires to do in and through you in 2017!  Praying you take hold of all He has for you this year!

    Be Blessed & Refreshed,
            <3 Sherry Stahl

     NEW BEGINNINGS 

    “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin.”
    Zechariah 4:10  NLT
    “Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be.”
    Job 8:7   NLT

    New Beginnings can be a scary thing.  Have you ever lost a job and been forced into a new career, possibly with less pay?  Ever had a relationship breakdown that left you starting over?

    The culture of the business world and society we live in makes these scenarios a common occurrence.  In 2012 I was remarried and wrote my first book.  Talk about new beginnings with huge life changes both personally and professionally.

    It seemed like my life was finally turning around.  Marriage to Todd was an easy adjustment, I never knew love could be like this.  I had high hopes of WATER IN THE DESERT hitting the stores and flying off the bookshelves.  It didn’t happen.

    The mindset of our times teach that, “If you build it, they will come” and are filled with “Get Rich Quick” schemes.  So when you stick your neck out, follow God’s call and you’re not an “Overnight Success”, it makes you question if you did the right thing.

    Did God really call you to start that business, marry that guy or say yes to that ministry opportunity?

      Zechariah and the Israelites experienced a lot of new beginnings.  They understood these questions.  They felt your fear.  The Israelites had started rebuilding the temple after a previous group gave up about 16 years earlier.  The generation before gave up when they were harassed by the Samaritans.

    God spoke to His people through Zechariah and encouraged them to keep going.  They were afraid they didn’t have what it took to finish the task God called them to.  God let them know that it wouldn’t get done in their strength, but it would in His.1

    Today you may be facing a new beginning or have started into a new adventure and fear is screaming that you won’t make it.  Learn to silence the lying enemy and those negative thoughts by quoting these two scriptures to your fear.

    Prayer

    Father…I thank You for being with me in every stage of my life.  Help me not to fear when I’m given the opportunity for a new beginning.  May I focus my attention on Your words that make clear you’re happy when we start something new.  Help us to be diligent in what you’ve called us to and not give up until You prosper us in the dram you’ve given.  In Jesus Name…Amen

    [tweetthis]Small Beginnings lead to BIG Things when God’s involved![/tweetthis]

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

    1        Zechariah 4:6

    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,
    FRIDAY Dance With Jesus Linkup – Susan B. Mead, Grace and Truth Linkup – Arabah Joy, Counting My Blessings – Deb Wolf, Fresh Market Friday – Crystal Twaddell

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  • Pruning

    He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.”
                                                       John 15:8 NIV

    Last fall Todd prune the tree in our front yard and it has grown like crazy this year!  The leaves are double the size that they were last year and there’s so many more of them.  The branches are actually starting to droop because they’re so heavy with leaves.  It’s getting overgrown and looking a little out of control.  It’s time for another pruning!

    In John 15 Jesus explains that God the Father is the gardener of our spiritual lives.  When I read verse 8 of this chapter I get why God cuts off branches that aren’t bearing fruit.  Those branches are a relief when they’re cut off, but allowing Him to prune branches that are bearing fruit is difficult, even painful.  It’s hard to let things go when there’s still good fruit growing.   Last year I felt God ask me to let go of a fruitful Bible Study leadership position to allow more time to travel speaking.  I struggled with this decision; especially since I had a very light schedule booked, but I know my Father’s voice, so I gave my notice.  Five months later I had spoken in Dallas twice, Montreal, Alberta, Burlington, Leamington, Windsor, Sarnia, Simcoe, London, Hamilton and Toronto a couple times. By July I was completely spent from all the incredible opportunities God brought my way.

    Trust God’s leading in the pruning season.  Understanding;

    [tweetthis]”Our Father prunes not to take away, but to multiply!” ~John 15:8[/tweetthis]

    Prayer

    Father…As difficult as it is, I give you permission to prune anything in my life so it will bear MORE fruit!  I trust your wisdom.  You determine the seasons for the earth, and for my my life.  Help me to follow your schedule and not fight it, so I can experience Your divine multiplication this year. In Jesus Name…Amen

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