devotions

  • Advent Inspiration For Your Christmas Season

    Advent Inspiration For Your Christmas Season

    To me, Christmas is the second most important holiday season on the calendar, next only to Easter… and Easter couldn’t have happened without Christmas. This post was created to be some Advent inspiration for your Christmas season.

    Birthdays during the Christmas Season

    In my family, we have three birthdays that take place during the month of December. Over the years, we’ve not always been able to get together to celebrate them on the exact day of their births but we honour their lives just the same. 

    The reality of this makes me totally fine with using December 25th, or January 7th if you’re an Orthodox Christian, to celebrate the birth of Jesus, even though He really was a Fall baby 🍁 👶🏼.

    Taking a whole season to reflect on why Jesus left heaven to come to earth and become our Emmanuel, “God with us” should make you feel so loved. Pondering on the fact that Jesus gave up the comforts of heaven for you should be the inspiration you need to celebrate.

    You’re that important to God! 

    Celebrating Jesus Birthday

    To provide you with some Advent inspiration for your Christmas season, I’ve compiled a post full of Christmas-themed, 🎄Advent-inspired 🕯resources to help you celebrate Jesus’ birthday. Each year, this post will be updated with more festive finds and Quick Links to help you maneuver through them. There are:

    • ~🎄Christmas themed Blog Posts
    • ~🎄Christmas themed Soul H2O Devotions,
    • ~🎄Christmas themed Messages,
    • ~🎄Christmas themed Recipes
    • ~🎄Christmas themed Soul H2O Podcast Episodes
    • ~🎄Christmas themed Scripture Graphics (Downloadable)
    • ~🎄Christmas themed Spotify Playlist #musicpic Songs 
    • ~🎄Christmas themed Books
    • ~🎄Christmas themed Holiday Sales (little gifts 🎁 from me to you)

    I hope the resources listed refresh your soul, put your heart ❤️ in the right Christmas spirit, and fill you to OVERflowing!

    Merry 🎄 Christmas,
    ❤️
    Sherry
      xoxo

    PS:

    Follow along on the blog, the show, on social media, and through your emails, to get more Christmas inspiration.

    Soul H2O Radio 📻 & Podcast 🎙Show 
    Releases Saturdays:
    *Live* @ 12pm EST | Podcast @ 3pm
    Find out the 5 Ways You Can Listen

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

    ADVENT INSPIRATION FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS SEASON

    QUICK LINKS

    Christmas Sales

    Here’s a link to our online shop with tons of Christmas Sales on!

    Christmas Themed Posts

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

    Christmas Soul H2O Devotions

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

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

    Soul H2O Devotions/Posts: What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent, Hope, Love, Joy, Peace, Advent Inspiration For Your Christmas Season

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    What Are You Asking For This Christmas?
    What Are You Asking For This Christmas?
    309 Right Way To Celebrate Advent
    What's The Right Way To Celebrate Advent?
    what's love got to do with it
    What's love got to do with it?
    Why The Gospel Is Good News That Brings Joy
    Why The Gospel Is Good News That Brings Joy
    Peace… Lost in Translation image
    Peace… Lost in Translation
    your best christmas gift
    You Best Christmas Gift
    IMPERFECT CHANGE-CHARGED CHRISTMAS BLOG IMAGE
    How To Face An Imperfect, Change-Charged Christmas
    Immanuel-Astounding Christmas
    Immanuel--Astounding Christmas
    How They Missed The Christ in CHRISTmas!
    How They Missed The Christ in CHRISTmas!
    Christmas-Wonderful and Woeful
    Christmas-Wonderful and Woeful
    christmas kevin pauls
    Celebrating Christmas with Kevin Pauls and Seeing Dreams Fulfilled
    Go Tell It...In Your Living Room
    joy to the world
    Joy to The World
    christmas giving
    Christmas Giving
    god of the living
    God of The Living
    how will this be
    How Will This Be?
    looking for the wrong messiah
    Looking For The Wrong Messiah
    Christmas Women - Middle-Aged
    Celebrating The Christmas Women | A Middle-Aged Woman
    Christmas Women - The Teenager
    Celebrating The Women Of The Christmas Story - The Teenager
    The Senior Citizen
    Celebrating The Women of The Christmas Story - The Senior Citizen

    Christmas Messages

    Hungry in Turkana
    Hungry in Turkana
    Twas The Night Before Christmas
    Twas The Night Before Christmas… {Sherry’s Sermon Notes Series}
    Merry Christmas 2015!
    christmas message 2016
    Christmas Message 2016
    My Christmas Message For You
    My Christmas Message For You

    Christmas Recipes

    Christmas Veggie Recipe
    Christmas Veggie Recipe
    Grandma's Christmas Cookies

    Christmas Themed Soul H2O Podcast Episodes

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

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

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

    hope for the holidays
    Episode #88. Advent Series: Hope For The Holidays
    Advent Series: love for the holidays
    Episode #89. Advent Series: Love For The Holidays
    joy for the holidays
    Episode #90. Advent Series: Joy For The Holidays
    Episode #91. Advent Series: Peace For The Holidays
    Soul H2O podcast Ep 92 Christmas Brooke Nichols
    Episode #92 Chirst Is Saviour of The World -Brooke Nicholls
    14. Life Is a Journey to your destiny
    Episode #14. Life Is A Journey To Your Destiny
    15. The Spirit of Christmas
    Episode #15. The Spirit of Christmas
    16. People of the Plan
    Episode #16. People of the Plan
    48. Brave Christmas & Christian Women -Part 1 The Brave Middle-Aged Woman & Brave Cheryl
    Episode #48. Brave Christmas & Christian Women -Part 1 Cheryl Nembhard
    49. The Brave Teen Mom & Brave Single Moms With Peggy Sue Wells
    Episode #49. The Brave Teen Mom & Brave Single Moms With Peggy Sue Wells
    Episode #50. The Brave Senior Citizen & Brave Cyndi Desjardins Wilkens

    Christmas 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

    peace

    Christmas Videos

    Instagram Videos

    Last December, I ran an Advent Series all over on Instagram LivesLearn about the Advent Candle themes of Hope, Love, Joy, Peace, and Christ to put your heart in the right Christmas spirit!

    Instagram Lives: HOPE, LOVE, JOY, JESUS

    YouTube Videos

    Christmas #musicpic Songs

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

    Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online

    Christmas #paperbackpic Books

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

    max lucado christmas book because of bethlehem

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  • Inspiration For Your Season of Thanksgiving

    ISPIRATION FOR YOUR SEASON OF THANKSGIVINGThanksgiving 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.

    Ruth Thorogood Radio Expanding Your Borders
    Episode #6 Letting God Expand Your Borders
    Episode #41 Thanksgiving Prompts
    Jennifer Clark radio Thanksgiving
    Episode #82 Thanksgiving For Breakthrough

    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.

    Count Your Blessings Anxiety
    #206 Defeating Anxiety By Counting Your Blessingss
    amazing people
    #159 Amazing People
    thank you card in the mail
    #217 I Got a Thank You Card In The Mail!
    every time i think of ypou
    #7 Everytime I Think of You...
    thankful for trees
    #165 Thankful For The Trees
    COLOURING SHEET THANKFUL FOR THE TREES
    Free Colouring Page - Thankful For The Trees

    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

    Pink Thanksgiving Scripture-Philippians 4_6
    Thanksgiving Scripture-Luke 17_15-16
    Thanksgiving Scripture-Genesis 1_11-12 _2_9
    Philippians 4: 6-8
    Thanksgiving Scripture-Philippians 4_6
    psalm 23
    Blue Thanksgiving Scripture-Philippians 4_6
    Thanksgiving Scripture-Genesis 1_11-12 _2_9
    Thanksgiving Scripture-Philippians 4_6

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  • Looking For The New

    It’s January… time to let yourself reminisce about the past year while looking for the new God has for you! He’s up to something good!

    Soul H2O Devotion

    313 Looking For The New

    Looking For The New

    My mom in her semi-retirement has become somewhat of a social media influencer! She’s normally pretty quiet but expressing herself a lot more through posts and people love the encouragement she’s bringing. 

    At the start of this week, she posted a gorgeous picture of a sunset on their farm, and who doesn’t love a good sunset pic? The very next day, things abruptly changed and since some of us in the family hadn’t listened to the news, we were shocked by the quick change in weather.

    Change Was In The Air

    313 Looking For Something New sunset sunrise

    The Winds of Change

    In life, you can be taken by storm, like we were, if you’re not listening to God for his subtle cues that the winds of change are blowing. Thankfully, they don’t always blow in a storm but often the breeze of comfort, hope, help, or a new beginning… if you’ve got your eyes peeled.

    313 Looking For Something NewI love Isaiah 43:18-19 from the Good News Translation:

    Isaiah 43:18-19

    The Lord says:
    “Do not cling to events of the past
        or dwell on what happened long ago.
    Watch for the new thing I am going to do. It is happening already—you can see it now! I will make a road through the wilderness and give you streams of water there.

    On The Lookout

    Discerning when a feeling is God’s prompting for a new beginning and then learning how to navigate that change can be a tricky process, but God promises to never leave you and never forsake you. He’ll be with you through every twist and turn as you pivot where He leads, always looking for the new God has on the horizon.

    Prayer

    Father… I thank you for your continual guidance, grateful that you are always with me. Help me to not live in fear, but faith, so I don’t close my eyes to your plans and purposes. I pray you’ll find me to always be looking for the new that You’re doing. May by spiritual eyes be even more wide-open than my natural ones to see the new You’re working on today.  In Jesus Name…Amen

    Feel free to share the Scripture graphic on Pinterest or download to your device. Tag this post if you’re sharing to social media.

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

    1. 1. Isaiah 43:18-19
      2. 2 Corinthians 5:17
    2. 3. Isaiah 42:9
    3. 4. Isaiah 65:17-18 / Revelations 21:1 / 2 Pt 3:3

    Soul H2O Resources

    Perfecting The Pivot Mini-Course

    Sensing a new beginning on the horizon? 
    Be guided through practical examples & quick quizzes to help you discern if it’s TIME to make a change and HOW to implement a pivot in your life.

    Check it out HERE

    Want a Refreshing Inbox?

    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!

    Share With a Friend

    #musicpic

    #musicpic SONG: 
    An oldie but a goodie – All Things New by BevAqua 
    I just love Daphne’s heart!

    Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/iWIGPGv7gCU
    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 will help you to open your spiritual eyes and ears! You can find the  Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/69

    Where it all began

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

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

    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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  • Peace… Lost in Translation

    I didn’t grow up in a church that celebrated Advent. I’ve searched out What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent? and then did a post each week following the themes of Advent: HOPE, LOVE, JOY, PEACE, and then a special CHRISTMAS message from me.

    Listen to the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Advent Series or the watch my Instagram Live Advent Series videos.

    Soul H2O Radio & Podcast ShowHOPELOVE, JOY, PEACE

    Soul H2O Devotions/Posts: What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent?
    Advent Themes Posts: HOPE, LOVE, JOY, PEACE, and a special CHRISTMAS message from me.

    Instagram Lives: Wednesdays at 12-12:10pm EST in December

    Soul H2O Devotion

    Peace… Lost in Translation image

    Peace… Lost in Translation

    My friend Claudia Raymundo only moved to Canada when she was about eight. Claudia is a certified translator and has worked on government projects to put English documents into Spanish or vice-versa. Even with all her training, when we’re talking, it seems there will always come a time when she’ll say, “Oh, how do you say this in English?” and sometimes she says there’s really no way to translate this word or phrase in English, so she paints me a picture with her words as to what it means. 

    Sometimes it’s just difficult to translate words from one language to another. And the word for peace in Isaiah 9:6 is one of those words.

    peace

    Translating Peace

    The English word translated peace here is Shalom in the original Hebrew. It truly is one of those “lost in translation” words. All of our Bibles translate this word to say peace but there really isn’t just one word that aptly defines it. The original word includes all of these definitions: well, happy, friendly; welfare, health, prosperity, peace, (good) health, peace(peaceable, peaceably), prosper(prosperity, prosperous), quiet, tranquillity, contentment, rest, safe(safety), salute, welfare, well, wholly. ¹

    Do you see how translating shalom as “just” peace falls short of the original intent of what Isaiah was trying to convey? Jesus is the Prince of Peace but He came to bring much more than peace… much, much more. In our modern language I think holistically healthy and peaceful would be a better way to describe this little word Shalom

    Real Peace

    In Luke 2:8-14 the angels proclaim to the shepherds how the Messiah would bring Peace on earth for all men, when they said: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” it wasn’t just some airy-fairy beauty pageant wish for “World Peace”, but a boots-to-the-ground, reality-ready, peace. That doesn’t mean you won’t have difficult circumstances, but that God’s presence, Emmanuel, God with us would bring peace in the midst of chaos, loneliness, and hurt. 

    Jesus knew what it was like to go through times where he faced complete distress. In the garden of Eden, before His crucifixion, Jesus was under so much anguish that he sweated drops of blood, which we know now is medically possible when someone is that stressed out. The issue isn’t that Jesus stressed this much but that He didn’t stay there. 

    Through prayer, Jesus released this toxic stress and put His faith in the Father, amidst the most difficult of circumstances. As you read the account of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion, you don’t see a man in worry, fear, or distress… He seems unrealistically calm and peaceful, not allowing the difficulties of life to steal the peace in His heart and mind.

    Jesus got to the place of peace through struggle, so he could fully become your Prince of Peace. Now, it’s time for you to apply that peace to your life.

    Prayer

    Father… Thank You for understanding my need for peace and sending your son .Jesus, I thank You for being willing to come down to this earth and suffer, to be my peace. I ask for your holistically healthy and peaceful presence to invade my mind, emotions, and physical body. Let your true shalom bring peace to every area of my life. In Jesus Name…Amen

    Join Me Weekly For Advent Talks

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

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

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

    1. 1. Isaiah 9:6
    2. 2. Luke 2:8-14
    3. 3. Ephesians 2:14
    4. 4. Colossians 1:20

    Soul H2O Resources

    *Are you a Christian woman struggling through a difficult situation, feeling alone, questioning God and yourself? Let me travel through the desert of your difficulty with you!

    This course will help you grow to trust God with your heart and future, increase your freedom as you break unhealthy patterns, letting go of past or present hurts to trust your decision-making and believe in your value.

    Want a Refreshing Inbox?

    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!

    Share With a Friend

    #musicpic

    #musicpic SONG: Light of the World by Lauren Daigle
    Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/_cLhaZIBSpo

    Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online
    Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

    Peace For The Holidays is a part of the Advent Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #91.

    You can find the  Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/91

    Splash Online Event

    Childlike Faith Series – Christmas Crackers
    Expecting Good Gifts From God

    Watch the recorded Facebook LIVE!

    Join us in the Soul H2O Splash Facebook Group to watch the recorded live and be updated for the next live event.

    Advent Inspiration for your Christmas Season

     

    Devotions, Podcast Episodes, Recipes, Christmas Messages and more!
    https://www.sherrystahl.com/advent-inspiration-for-your-christmas-season/

    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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  • Why The Gospel Is Good News That Brings Joy

    The third week of Advent is a special week and most everyone celebrates with a focus on JOY, along with a pinky-rose coloured candle. 

    An article in The Daily Press explained how, “The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, called Gaudete Sunday” which means “rejoice.” And what colour is as happy and joyful as the colour pink?

    It’s not just a different candle that is lit during the third week of Advent, but there are different carols sung too, songs of joy fill churches. 

    Soul H2O Devotion

    Why The Gospel Is   Good News  That Brings Joy

    Why The Gospel Is Good News That Brings Joy

    Pre-pandemic, you just never knew who would be at the Christmas dinner table. My family would often invite people in who didn’t have others to celebrate with and the Lord knows, we always have WAY MORE food than needed. It might be someone who was down and out on their luck or just people who didn’t have family nearby.

    I think there’s great joy in knowing that Jesus came to set a seat at the table for anyone, not just a select few. 

    Take a look at your nativity set and actually think about the people surrounding the manger, along with all the others in the Christmas narratives recorded in Scripture.

    But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!

    Luke 2:10-11 NIV

    First of all, there’s a baby. God could have chosen to come down as an adult but he didn’t. He chose to come down as baby. The gospel is for the youngest of the young. Next, there is Mary and Joseph, she’s a teen mom and he was just a young step dad.

    The gospel is for the young. 

    The first people to hear about the good news of the savior coming to earth was actually Mary’s older cousin Elizabeth. When she found out, she was so excited. Elizabeth and her hubby Zechariah housed Mary for the first part of her pregnancy. They were probably in their 40s or 50s as Zechariah was still working… so the gospel is for middle-aged people too.

    The gospel is for middle-aged people. 

    Anna and Simeon in the synagogue were seniors in their later years, waiting for the promised Messiah and they were filled with joy as they recognized Jesus as the Christ.

    The gospel is for seniors. 

    The wealthy, wise, and educated magi came from the east. Men with different skin tones, backgrounds, and beliefs from the others in this story.

    The gospel is for the wealthy, wise, and educated.
    For people of every nationality or ethnicity. 

    And then, there were the shepherds; just regular, every day, working class people.

    The gospel is for the the average Joe or Joanne. 

    The gospel is good news because it’s for everyone!

    No matter your race, creed, colour or family background, the gospel is good news that brings joy for you!

    Prayer

    Father… I want to thank You for including me into your family. Your gospel is good news for me. Help me to live in a joy-filled way that entices everyone to long for the good news your love can bring into their lives. In Jesus Name…Amen

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

    1. 1. Luke 2:10-11
    2. 2. Acts 2:28
    3. 3. Psalm 16:11
    4. 4. Luke 24:46-48

    Soul H2O Resources

    Are you a Christian woman struggling through a difficult situation, feeling alone, questioning God and yourself? Let me travel through the desert of your difficulty with you!

    This course will help you grow to trust God with your heart and future, increase your freedom as you break unhealthy patterns, letting go of past or present hurts to trust your decision-making and believe in your value.

    Want a Refreshing Inbox?

    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!

    Share With a Friend

    #musicpic

    #musicpic SONG: Joy Unto the World – The Afters @ 3:56

    Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nu018_9wF7k

    Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

    advent Spotify Playlist christmas

    Joy For The Holidays is a part of the Advent Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #90.

    You can find the  Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/90

    Splash Online Event

    Childlike Faith Series – Christmas Crackers
    Expecting Good Gifts From God

    Join us in the Soul H2O Splash Facebook Group December 16, 2021

    Advent Inspiration for your Christmas Season

    Devotions, Podcast Episodes, Recipes, Christmas Messages and more!
    https://www.sherrystahl.com/advent-inspiration-for-your-christmas-season/

    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!

    Read More

  • What’s Love Got To Do With It?

    In the month of December, I’m running Advent Series all over on, the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show, through the devotions, and on Instagram Lives. This week, the focus is on Christmas Love. 

    Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show: Hope, Love, Joy, Peace, Jesus

    Soul H2O Devotions/Posts: What’s The Right Way To Celebrate Advent, Hope, Love, Joy, Peace, Advent Inspiration For Your Christmas Season

    Instagram Lives: Wednesdays at 12-12:10pm EST in December

    Soul H2O Devotion

    what's love got to do with it

    What’s Love Got To Do With It?

    Well, I think Christmas and love are pretty much synonymous. Christmas is celebrating the moment in history when Christ, because of His love, left heaven and came down to earth. Jesus fully God, took on humanity; what theologians call, the incarnation. That Jesus forfeited the comforts of heaven to reach the hearts of people in this world still baffles me. That God the Father allowed His son to come overwhelms me. John 3:16 expresses the motive of love best when John says:

    God’s love compelled Him to send Jesus, and in case you’re worried that God was a cruel Father to send His son, I hope you’ll see that love was also Jesus’ motivation for coming as you listen to what he said in John 10:17-18.

    The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again.
    John 10:17-18 NIV

    Jesus also says,

    I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.
    John 10:11

    And then in John 15:12-14 He says:

    My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.
    John 15:12-13 NIV

     

    The nativity is a beautiful picture of how Jesus’ love compelled Him to come.

    nativity image

    Jesus wasn’t forced to leave heaven and give up His life for you as a baby in the manger, or as a man on the cross. He had the authority to do whatever He wanted and, because of His love for you, He came as a baby, grew up and lived as a man, died, rose from the dead, so you could have eternal life and is coming back to live with you for all eternity!

    This hope of Christ’s second return is the root focus of Advent. It’s great for you to celebrate His birth and the love that compelled Him to come, but never lose focus that because of His love, He’s not going to leave you in this mess we call the world. Jesus will come back and right now, He’s preparing a place, just for you!

    So, what’s love ❤️ got to do with Christmas? Everything.

    Prayer

    Father…I thank You for being willing to let Jesus come. Jesus, I thank You for your love and being willing to leave heaven, so You could become my Emmanuel. Knowing that You are willingly with me and are coming again, gives me the strength to face each new day, each new challenge with hope. In Jesus Name…Amen

    Join Me Weekly For Advent Talks

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

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

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

    1. 1. John 3:16
    2. 2. John 10:17-18
    3. 3. John 10:11
    4. 4. John 15:12-13

    Soul H2O Resources

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    #musicpic

    #musicpic SONG:

    Bring on the Holidays by Toby Mac  

    Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/HIhZ5O3eRJI
    Christmas Spotify Playlist: Online 

    Advent Series: Hope For The Holidays | EP #88

    Hope For The Holidays is a part of the Advent Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #88.

    You can find the  Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/88

    Advent Series: Love For The Holidays | EP #89

     Love For The Holidays is a part of the Advent Series on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Episode #89.

    You can find the  Show Notes at http://www.soulh2o.com/89

    Splash Online Event​

    Childlike Faith Series – Christmas Crackers
    Expecting Good Gifts From God

    Join us in the Soul H2O Splash Facebook Group December 16, 2021

    Advent Inspiration for your Christmas Season

     

    Devotions, Podcast Episodes, Recipes, Christmas Messages and more!
    https://www.sherrystahl.com/advent-inspiration-for-your-christmas-season/

    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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  • New Name, New Identity

    New Name, New Identity is talking about the different name changes in the Bible and how difficult times can reveal your true identity.

    Soul H2O Devotion

    new name, new identityNew Name, New Identity

    When I went through divorce, I changed my name back to my maiden name which is Fletcher. It’s pretty cool as far as names go but it was a lot of paperwork changing it back, with every government, business, and banking agency needing to be contacted. Then, when I got re-married to Todd, I had to go through all that legal paperwork again to take on his last name Stahl, an equally cool name that actually means “steel”, so ya, I married a man of steel, with a very soft heart!

    Names are a big deal.

    New Names

    Choosing a baby name is a difficult job these days. When you meet people from older generations, they seemed to have settled on a select number of names and used them repeatedly, but since I was having kids and until the present day, it’s become much more complicated. With access to the internet, the options seem to be endless.

    Names are a big deal.

    Back in Biblical days, your name held great significance but it’s pretty clear that sometimes, God didn’t think the parents chose the right name because I’ve found about 9 instances in the Bible where people’s names were changed by God. I think Abram, Sarai, Jacob, and Simon are the most well-known name changes.

    Crisis Is Often The Catalyst

    In each of their lives, there was a crisis that curated the changed name.

    For Abraham and Sarah, it was infertility and names that spoke of their destiny to have children; for Jacob, it was fear of an attack from his brother that caused him to wrestle with God and be declared Israel which means God strives and has roots in meaning ‘united people’. God knew exactly what Jacob needed to hear and who he would become. 

    Simon was a big talker, always sticking his foot in his mouth but Jesus saw more in him, Jesus spoke steadiness into his life by renaming him Peter, the rock who would be one of God’s clearest voices in his generation.

    There’s only one account of God naming someone and a person changing that name. It happened when Adam renamed the other h’adam, Eve and changed how the world viewed the role of women from that day forward, but that’s the topic for another show.

    Changing a National Identity 

    In Isaiah 62:2-4, a national crisis culminated in God speaking words of comfort to his people when they were taken captive by other nations and told how he was going to change what people called them and said,

    “you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow… No longer will they call you Deserted, or name your land Desolate. But you will be called Hephzibah, for the LORD will take delight in you…

    I’m sure it’s not on the top of your baby list, but Hephzibah means “my delight is in her”. Israel’s new name would bring them hope for their future and bolster their identity in time of crisis.

    You’ll soon hear how our interview guest’s name change came as the result of a job loss and resulted in a major identity shift.

    A Name Change For You!

    What’s interesting to you today is how God says in Revelations 2:17 says… To the one who overcomes, I will give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it. 

    God has a special name for you, and it’s not a put-down, but an identity booster that speaks to your destiny. Spend time listening to him and begin connecting with your new name.

    Prayer

    Father… I’m so thankful that you see the real me and you like the real me. Help me to listen to you Holy Spirit for my identity and not to the insults of others. You created me, you know me and I want to fulfil the destiny you’ve placed within me, so help me see me, the way You see me. In Jesus Name…Amen

    Connecting With Your New Name | EP #85

    Karen Fox is on the Soul H2O Radio & Podcast show, Episode 85, Connecting With Your New Name. Talks about how difficult times can reveal your true identity.
    Listen on your favourite Podcast App or: http://www.soulh2o.com/85

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

    1. 1.Revelation 2:17
    2. 2. Name Changes (Genesis 17:3,15; 32:28; John 1:42)
    3. 3. Isaiah 62:2-4
    4. 4. Isaiah 56:5

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    Soul H2O Resources

    #musicpic

    #musicpic SONG: Through Your Eyes
    by Britt Nicole

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

    MUSICPIC SONGS SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS

    Splash Online Event

    Snakes & Ladders  – Sometimes You’re Up, Sometimes You’re Down from the ‘Child-Like Faith’ Series is our November Online Splash event hosted by Sherry Stahl and the #SoulH2O Team. 

    Join us in the Soul H2O  Splash Facebook Group or sign up for Splash emails in the group and see us on Zoom.

    Another Devotion You’ll Find Refreshing

    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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  • 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 The Fight For Peace Of MindFor 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.

    Philippians 4:7Don’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

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

    1. 1. Philippians 4:6-8
    2. 2. Isaiah 26:3
    3. 3. John 16:33
    4. 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

    MUSICPIC SONGS SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS

    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 H2 Splash Facebook Group or sign up for Splash emails in the group and see us on Zoom.

    SOUL H2O SPLASH

    Devotions Related to Peace of Mind

    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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  • 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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    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.


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  • Powerful Keys of Authority

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

    Soul H2O Devotion

    keys of authority

    Powerful Keys of Authority

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

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

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

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

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

    Matthew 16:19

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

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

    Prayer

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

    Drawing from the well

    Verses to help fill up your well.

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

    Soul H2O Resources

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    #musicpic

    #musicpic SONG: 
    The Power by Snap

    Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/nm6DO_7px1I
    Soul H2O Spotify Playlist: Online | On App

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

    MUSICPIC SONGS SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS
    Soul H2O Radio & Podcast Show Joy Radio Original Sherry Stahl

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

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

    Splash Online Event

    Dress 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 Splash https://www.facebook.com/groups/soulh2osplash or sign up for Splash emails in the group and see us on Zoom.

    Soul H2O Splash Dress UP – To Find Out Who You Are

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    Related Blog

    Whose Authority

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

    whose authority

    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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