devotional

  • 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
    Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

     

    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
    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

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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
    Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

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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

    Ticket Timer

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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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  • Tough Tattoo

    TOUGH TATTOO

    When my daughter Shelby graduated from High School, I took her to a tattoo parlor for her Grad gift!  Call me a bad parent and say what you like, but this is a tattoo that just had to be inked! 

    During her last year of High School, Shelby’s desire to get a tattoo of the Hebrew word for “endure” kept increasing.  She researched Hebrew words, sketched it, had Todd sketch, researched tattoo artists and kept talking about how ‘one day’ she was going to get this tattoo. It wasn’t an if, in her mind, it was a when.

    Not Just a Rebellious Teen

    This was more than a rebellious teenager’s want for a tattoo to look cool.

     You see, graduating high school and getting this far in life, just being alive hadn’t been a cakewalk for Shelby, and at the time of writing the devotion it didn’t seem like it was going to get much easier as an oral surgeon had put Shelby on a soft-food diet for two months to ward off the need for jaw surgery.

    Eating mushy foods alleviated her from having to go under the knife but unfortunately didn’t take her pain away, and this is just one of the many health issues she’s had to endure.

    Powerful Reminder

    Every time Shelby feels like life is too hard like she can’t make it through, she looks down at her wrist and the word Endure.  It reminds her of how God’s helped her in the past and gives her the faith to believe she can rise above the current circumstance.

    HEBREWS 12:7 encourages us to  Endure hardship

    Jesus’ knew life wouldn’t be a cake-walk so he put encouragement in His Word to help you face trouble head-on, with strength and resiliency. You too can endure.  You can make it through the tough stuff.

    Joshua Had to Endure

    In Joshua chapter 1, God was empowering Joshua with His words by telling him to be strong and courageous, and then he’d emphasize it by saying… Always be strong and courageous.”

    “Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. Be strong and very courageous.” (Joshua 1:6)

    No Cake Walk

    God commissioned Joshua to lead the nation of Israel stuck in the desert for four decades to inherit the land, but it wasn’t going to be a “cake-walk” for them either! 

    The Israelites had to “endure” a lot of battles to fulfill all of God’s plans for their lives and make it to the Promised Land, so He kept reminding them to “Be strong and courageous”. 

    I’m so proud of Shelby!  Like Joshua and all the Israelites, she’s learned to be an overcomer by living out this verse.  She’s strong and courageous, and you can be too!  God will give you what it takes to endure, so you, get to your Promised Land!

    ***Check below to find the link to Shelby’s interview on Soul H2O Radio

    PRAYER

    Father… I thank-you that you give me what it takes to endure! May I be strong and courageous in all that life throws at me, trusting you will be with me all the way to the Promised Land! In Jesus Name…Amen!

    Drawing from the well

    1. Hebrews 12:7
    2. Joshua 1:6-7
    3. Matthew 24:13/Mark 13:13/Luke 21:19
    4. Romans 15:4

    Shelby’s Interview on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show

    Season # 3 // Episode # 54
    TOUGH TATTOO
    Release Date: 2021-02-06 @ 12pm EST / Podcast releases at 3pmEST. 
    Replaying Friday 2021-02-12 @ 2pm
    Streaming on: joyradio.ca & MyJoyRadio App.
    Uploaded as Soul H2O Podcast on iTunes & Spotify Wherever you listen to podcasts.

    Shelby’s Blog:  http://www.faithandlace.weebly.com 
    Shelby’s Blog that tells a bit of what she’s had to “endure”                    https://faithandlace.weebly.com/blog/what-is-your-cross

    ORIGINALLY POSTED: June 23, 2014

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  • Leadership Leads… Good or Bad

    “...from the prophets of Jerusalem 
    ungodliness has spread throughout the land.” 
    Jeremiah 23:15  NIV

    John MaxwellAll my John Maxwell training is going to be put to the test in three and a half weeks when I’ll be moderating a panel on Leadership at the Women’s Connection District Retreat in Grimsby, Ontario. {If you’re going, make sure to stop by my table and say hello!}

    wod retreat 2019I have some amazing ladies on the panel who hold various organizational leadership roles in business, government positions, church leadership, and home management. The goal is to elevate the confidence of women in leadership positions and practically help improve their skills, enabling them to walk further and faster into the destiny God has for their lives.

    As we’ve been preparing for the panel, I can’t help but look back and rate my skillfulness as a leader. Lots of passes, and plenty of fails.  My thoughts went back to my first leadership position as a big sister. 🙂

    Sisters LoriSometimes, my little sister, Lori would follow me around playing ‘Copycat’.  Remember that annoying childhood game where people followed you around; often one-step behind you, repeating every word you said, copying move you made? Lori used to drive me crazy doing this!  Thankfully, we’ve grown up and now have a great relationship! {Don’t we look cute together now 🙂 }  As a “big sister” I hope I’ve given Lori more good examples to follow than bad ones!  No matter how small your leadership role may seem, it will have a huge impact because

    Leadership Leads…Good or Bad!

    RECOGNIZING YOUR REACH

    Sometimes we minimize the effect our leadership has in the home, school, court, field, rink, church or place of employment.  Whenever God has elevated you to a place of leadership, people are going to follow in your footsteps—It’s a scary thing!

    A friend once said to me,

    “I was forced to go to church and I won’t put my kids through that.
    I don’t want them to be forced to live what I believe but to be able to choose for themselves.

    Since she never took her kids to church, they simply followed her lead and have seldom gone to church because they were never given another option to choose from.  Failure to give guidance is, in fact, leading, since it causes people to blindly follow your example and not know why.

    [tweetthis]You’re leading, even when you try not to lead. #leadership [/tweetthis]

    leadership leads pinterest

    Our leadership in life is followed,
    much more than we recognize.

    Today’s verse comes from the book of Jeremiah.  In his time, many of the prophets weren’t leading well. They weren’t proclaiming God’s word to the people, but instead speaking what they knew the people wanted to hear, so they would keep following them… following them down the wrong path.

    These false prophets were sharing a watered-down message with false hopes that led the people to be disappointed in God; causing them to turn away from Him. Jeremiah had to swim against the tide of his time as their poisonous message,

    “spread throughout the land”.

    Leadership was difficult for Jeremiah, but he knew his responsibility was to clear the path for others, so they could follow the right way; because

    [tweetthis]Leadership Leads… Good or Bad #leadership[/tweetthis]

    So, what’s going to spread in the future as people follow you?

    Prayer

    Father… I’m overwhelmed when I recognize that you have given me such influence in my world.  Help me to be wise with my words and actions so that my life impacts others to know and love you more! May others follow your plans for their lives as they see me chasing after the destiny you’ve set before me. In Jesus name…Amen


    wod retreat 2019I WILL RISE
    Women’s Connection Conference

    https://womensconnection.ca/events/conference

    If you’re in the area, I hope you’ll join us
    Don’t forget to sign up for the Leadership Panel}.


    Drawing From The Well

    1. Ephesians 1:5
    2. Hebrews 13:7
    3. James 3:1
    4. 1 Timothy 4:12

    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.

     

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


    Other posts about my journey with John C. Maxwell, the JMTeam, or John’s Books:
    John C. Maxwell And God Want You To Be A Talent-Plus Person
    Mentored to Lead by John C. Maxwell

     


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

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  • Soul H2O Book Launch

    Publishing my second book, Soul H2O is such a different experience than with my first.  With the release of Water In The Desert I didn’t know what I was doing AT ALL!  Now I know A BIT more and realize how difficult it is to get a book out to market successfully.   It’s not that it can’t be done, it’s just harder than I imagined.  Luckily I’m not one to shy away from the hard stuff.  Thankfully, God has been doing some crazy amazing things in my life that are perfectly positioning me for the Soul H2O Book Launch.

    I’m most excited that God is perfectly positioning the right people in my life to help me learn how to do this ‘writing career’ thing.

    BOOK LAUNCH TEAM

    screen-shot-2016-09-21-at-1-14-05-pm I’m completely blessed to have blogger Christine Duncan of Precepts and Life Preservers taking the lead on the Soul H2O Social Media Book Launch Campaign and I hope you join us. It’s gonna be fun!  Christine has planned out posts that all you have to do is share and I’ll be doing my best to make it worth your while with some special perks J  You’ll get a prerelease PDF of my book.  I’m doing a Facebook Live today, Wednesday, September 21st that will tell you more.  Hope you can watch live.  If not check the video out later.  I’ll post it on my author Facebook Page.

    screen-shot-2016-09-21-at-1-13-50-pm[imic_button colour=”btn-primary” type=”enabled” link=” https://sherrystahl.com/book-launch/” target=”_blank” extraclass=”” size=””]Soul H2O Book Launch Info Page & Launch Team Sign-Up Link[/imic_button]

    Here’s the link if you want more info.  You can even see a sample of the book’s interior here too.

    For this book launch I’ve learned, and am still learning SO many new things!

    I just learned how to make videos with iMovie!  Are you in a time where everything is new for you?  Do you know what I’m talking about? Have you ever moved, started a new job, school, gym or church?  Ok, enough with the interrogation questions. You get what I mean!

    It’s an unsettling feeling when you’re in totally new territory.  I’m so thankful that the Bible is full of relatable people.  They’re not perfect, they’re flawed.  They’re not always brave, they struggle with fear and some get this ‘I don’t know exactly what I’m doing or where I’m going” feeling.  God keeps bringing me back to the story of the Israelites crossing over the rushing Jordan river on dry ground into the promised land story in Joshua 3-4.

    My life is mimicking their experience on both a professional and personal level.  In both areas I am facing a sea of raging uncertain circumstances that will either be the blockage to God’s promises or the pathway to His blessings.  In both situations it’s the second time I’m facing a similar circumstance that didn’t exactly get me into the ‘Promised Land.  Both got me on the journey, but not quite there yet.  I believe the Lord is speaking to me that these ‘second battles’ are the breakthrough battles that lead to overriding victory!

    Here’s a verse that was shining off the page as I read through the story in Joshua:

    “However, stay about half a mile behind them. Don’t come any closer to them so that you will know which way to go because you have not gone this way before.”
    Joshua 3:4

    God directed the Israelites to follow the ark.  They were to stay far enough behind it so they could get a clear vision of where it was going to follow on an easy path.

    God has perfectly positioned me to stand behind some great women of the faith and watch what they’re doing. Authors like Karol Ladd, Mary DeMuth, Jennifer Strickland, Sheila Wray-Gregoire, Sue Detweiler.  Speakers like Peggy Kennedy and Tracey Mitchell.  Bloggers like Kelly Balarie, Crystal Storms, Sarah E Ball and most recently Lindsey Hartz.  TV Hosts like Cheryl Weber and Laura-Lynn Tyler Thompson.  Publicists like Ellen Graf-Martin, Jeane Wynn and Katie Nguyen.  I don’t take these new relationships for granted.  I thank God for bringing women into my life that encourage, challenge and inspire me to pull out all the stops and move forward with all that God has for my life.  I hope you do the same!

    I’ve been given some opportunities that not a lot of Canadian authors receive. I’ve been offered the opportunity to promote Soul H2O across North America in three phases.  First with the Social Media book launch team.  Second in Bookstores across Canada during December.  My publisher, Warren Benson of Word Alive Press has coordinated US distribution of my book through Anchor Distributors.  Soul H2O is going to be available for purchase in all the Christian bookstores across the US and Water In The Desert is already available!  Now to get the US stores like Family Christian and LifeWay to stock the book like Canadian bookstores are doing.  This is how I feel that God has perfectly positioned me for the next level in publishing with these distribution channels.

    Since we live in the real world, all this great opportunity costs, and boy does it cost!  Because of this…

    I’m doing an Indiegogo Campaign!

    To help execute these opportunities and make them the best they can be, I’ve set up this campaign to presell and sell my new books.screen-shot-2016-09-21-at-12-37-24-pm

    [imic_button colour=”btn-primary” type=”enabled” link=”https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/soul-h2o-book-launch-books-jewelry#/” target=”_blank” extraclass=”” size=””]Soul H2O Book Launch Indiegogo Campaign[/imic_button]

    screen-shot-2016-09-21-at-1-14-23-pmI’ve partnered together with Word Alive Press, Helena Cho of Goodworks Jewelry  and 100 Huntley Street’s Missions arm, Crossroads Relief and Development Water Projects to offer you some pretty fabulous deals to help bless you as you as you partner with me in bringing His refreshing word to people, at the same time providing clean water to people in need!  Check out the deals on my Indiegogo Campaign where you order the books.  You’ll be personally and beautifully refreshed, some even drenched!  (You’ll have to check out the Perks to know what I’m talking about here!).

    Thanks for your love and support!
    ~Sherry
    xoxo

    soul-h2o-book-mockupThis mock-up of the book represents what the book looks like.  It is the perfect purse sized devotional to carry with you anywhere, so you can read, anytime.  Stuck at a doctor’s office, no problem.  Waiting at the DMV, no problem anymore.  Spend your time waiting while being refreshed to OVERflowing!

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  • Encircle

    “Mountains encircle Jerusalem, and God encircles his people—always has and always will.”
                                                    Psalm 125:2 MSG

    One of the best perks of being a mom is getting and giving hugs! When my kids were little and would get hurt they would always come running to me for a squeeze. A cuddle seemed to help everything from cuts to bullies on the playground. Like a big hug, God desires to ENCIRCLE us in His care.

    So often the enemy wants us to feel like we’re outnumbered…on the losing side…all alone, but feelings aren’t always in line with reality. This verse brings us back to the truth of where we are and where God is. The writer of this Psalm is speaking to a people who have known what it was like to be encircled by their enemies, and attacked from all sides. God wanted his people to be confident that He was encircling them. Just as God opened the eyes of Elisha’s servant to see the host of angels protecting him from his enemies, God desires for your spiritual eyes to be opened so you know that He has you surrounded!

    Let God ENCIRCLE you today. Close your eyes and feel His warm embrace. Know He’s watching over, protecting and loving you—always has and always will!

    Prayer

    Father…I’m overwhelmed to think that the God of the Universe wants to hold little ‘ole me! May I allow you to encircle me, and shield me from all the enemy would try and do to take me down. Let me walk in the confidence of your protection and love as I feel your embrace. In Jesus Name…Amen!

    Book Signing–Tuesday!

    ICRS (International Christian Retail Show)
    take the 40 day challenge  Tuesday, June 30th   4-5pm
    Anchor Distributing Booth #211

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  • Daddy

    The Spirit you have received adopts you and welcomes you into God’s own family. That’s why we call out to Him, “Abba! Father!” as we would address a loving daddy.
                                         Romans 8:15 (The Voice Translation)

    Years ago I read the book The Shack. It told a fictitious story of one man’s journey to be able see God as He truly is: a loving, good father. This man’s view of God the father was marred by the experience he had with his earthly father.   I loved how the main character’s wife called God “Poppa”. Whenever I write out my prayers I call God “Daddy”. It was after reading the verse above one time that I began addressing him this way. There really is no better way to describe the relationship I have with our Heavenly Father. To me He truly is “Daddy”!

    At church our pastor talked about the issue of fatherlessness and how, statistically speaking, not having a father in your life is detrimental to your well-being. It’s a longing deep within each of us to have a good relationship with our fathers. We want them to love us, care about us and be proud of us. We desire to have our dads around. When this need is not met we are at a disadvantage and the enemy knows it. He uses this God-given need for fatherly love to his benefit. If the devil can get a man to not be the father God desires for him to be, it’s like he rolls a strike, taking down all the pins. The husband, wife and children all are left with a deficit.

    The only person who can completely fill this gaping need is God himself! He will often use others to help, but wants more than anything for us to let Him be the one we call Daddy!

    Prayer

    Father… I thank-you for adopting me into your family! It’s a concept I find so hard to fully grasp. Help me to know the depths of Your love so that I can put my complete trust in You. Help me to open up my heart and let you be the Daddy that I desire and need so my heart can be full! In Jesus Name…Amen.

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