By Paula Williamson guest writer I don’t feel like I matter–Big fat lie! There are days when my best efforts seem to matter little or make no difference to anyone. Whether it is because of the response or lack of response from others, my own doubts and insecurities, or just the enemy beating me up–I have a choice to make. I can agree with those feelings and thoughts or contradict them. I am not a powerless victim whose negative thoughts and feelings are in control of me. I can go to the word of God and find a better truth to believe. If I do not know the Bible well enough to find one, I can Google scriptures about, “Do I matter?” Instantly–I read, “I am deeply loved, I have inherent purpose, I am more valuable than the birds, I am fearfully and wonderfully made, and the list goes on.   I challenge you to try it!   It is written:   ROMANS 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.   Prayer Lord, Jesus gave His life for me. Help me realize my value and purpose. At the end of my life, there will only be one person whose opinion will matter, and that is Yours. I ask for help and faith to walk in what You say about me, what Jesus did for me, and the destiny You created for me. Help me live for an audience of one.   Devotional Take Away I am loved, valuable, and precious. My past does not define me. The world does not define me. My mistakes do not define me. My feelings do not define me. I am going to let the Word of God define me.

By Paula Williamson guest writer What I do doesn’t matter–Big fat lie! Do you ever get just plain weary, wondering if all your effort makes any difference at all? If you are breathing, you are not alone. Sometimes, we are our worst enemies, and we can let our own thoughts get to us. My mom’s negative words are on instant replay when I allow discouragement to get the best of me. On top of that, we have an invisible enemy that harasses and influences our thought life the moment we awaken. The truth is, you are powerful, and you do make a difference!   It is written: DEUTERONOMY 11:24-25 Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall become yours; your territory shall be from the wilderness to Lebanon, and from the river, the river Euphrates, as far as the western sea (the Mediterranean). 25 No man will be able to stand before you; the Lord your God will lay the fear and the dread of you on all the land on which you set foot, just as He has spoken to you.   It matters what thoughts we listen to and entertain Our personal cheerleader is in the mirror. We can allow our thoughts to run amok, or we can take them captive. It takes the same amount of energy to tell ourselves something positive as it does to tell ourselves something negative. Both trains of thought have the power to alter our mood.   What are we going to agree with and speak to ourselves? People have been trying to prove the Bible wrong for a long time, and yet, they haven’t. It says we are more than conquerors, not victims. It says the same power that raised JESUS from the dead dwells in my mortal body. Those two statements suggest we are and can be difference-makers, and that we matter.   Prayer: Lord, remind me when my thoughts start to spiral that I am the only one who can control them. I do not have to let them control me. I can lift up your word, write it on note cards, or on my mirror to remind myself of the power I have in and through You.   Devotional Take Away: What you do or don’t do matters. You do make a difference. You are a world changer! You can use your mouth and actions to make a difference all around you today!

By Paula Williamson guest writer Some days, it feels like the challenges in front of us are too much. We look in the mirror and think:  “I’m not strong enough. I’m not capable. I can’t handle this.” Sort of True but not The enemy loves to throw our weaknesses in our faces and make us feel like a tiny gnat while holding a magnifying glass over our problems. It is written: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 “But He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough —always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.’ Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me. So I am well pleased with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, and with difficulties, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak [in human strength], then I am strong [truly able, truly powerful, truly drawing from God’s strength].” Did you catch that?   God’s power is perfected in our weakness. Our struggles aren’t signs of failure—they are opportunities for God to show Himself strong. Weakness Is Not a Problem for God We often think strength comes from ourselves—our abilities, wisdom, or experience. But the truth is:  God wants us to learn something about Him by relying on Him. When we accept the fact that His grace is sufficient, He shows up in ways we could never imagine. Our weaknesses become opportunities to display His power. Prayer: “Oh Lord, I thank You that I can look beyond my reflection in the mirror, my abilities or wisdom. Your WORD says that Your grace is more than enough and is perfected in my weakness as I exercise my faith in and cling to You and Your WORD. In You, I am powerful, and in my weakness, Your strength is perfect!” Show off in my life! Devotional Take Away: Weakness is not a flaw—it’s a canvas for God’s glory!

By Paula Williamson guest writer Some days  feel  like am beaten up. The thoughts come fast. The pressure feels heavy. Fear whispers,  “You’re losing.” But let’s call it what it is:  a big fat lie. The Lie We Feel vs. The Truth When the enemy wants to discourage us, he doesn’t always show up loud and obvious. Most of the time, he shows up in what we think, our feelings—weariness, doubt, anxiety, or that nagging sense that we’re falling behind or failing. Feelings are not facts. It is written: 1 John 4:4 “Little children (believers, dear ones), you are of God, and you belong to Him and have [already] overcome them [the agents of the antichrist]; because He who is in you is greater than he (Satan) who is in the world.” Did you catch that? Already overcome.  Not “one day.” Not “if you try harder.” Not “after you get it all together.” Already! The enemy may  talk  loudly, but he is not stronger. The pressure may  feel  real, but it is not final. The battle may be present, but the victory is settled. Who’s Really Living Inside You? The same God who spoke the universe into existence lives inside you. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you. The same Spirit that conquered sin and the grave stands guard over your life. So , when the lie says,  “You’re not enough,” Truth answers,  “God in me is more than enough.” When fear says,  “You won’t make it,” Truth replies,  “Greater is He who is in me.” Devotional take a way: Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is speak truth out loud—especially when the lies are loud. Prayer: Oh Lord, You are enough for anything I will face today. You are my courage and my strength. I lack nothing for what faces me today. Greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world. I am more than a conqueror. I have been given all power over the enemy, and nothing shall by any means harm me. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead dwells in me! The gates of hell cannot prevail against me and no weapon formed against me will prosper. Final Reminder The devil isn’t beating you up. That’s the lie. The truth: Jesus fought the battle and already won—and He lives in you.

By Paula Williamson guest writer “I have no idea what to do or say about this matter.” We’ve all said it. Sometimes out loud. Sometimes quietly in our hearts. It feels honest, even humble—but if we’re being real, it’s often a  big, fat lie . Not because the situation isn’t hard. Not because the confusion isn’t real. But because we forget it is written: James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him.” That verse doesn’t come with fine print. It doesn’t say God will sigh, roll His eyes, or remind us how many times we’ve asked before. It doesn’t say we need to earn wisdom or prove we deserve it. It simply says: ask. From Excuse to Truth Here's the deep, dark internal motivation. When we say,  “I don’t know what to do,”  what we really mean is: I’m overwhelmed. I’m afraid of choosing wrong. I don’t trust myself. I’ve forgotten where wisdom actually comes from. The truth reframes the moment entirely: If I lack wisdom and understanding, all I must do is ask of the Lord. That’s it. Not strive. Not spiral. Not wait until I feel confident. Just ask. And when we ask, we can pray with expectation: Prayer: Thank You Lord for Your wisdom for today—fresh and new. You do not withhold from Your children. You word says you will give wisdom to those who ask. I am asking. This is a lesson from  the children of Israel’s wilderness journey. They had to gather manna each day. Not yesterday’s wisdom. Not borrowed clarity. But wisdom for  this  moment,  this  decision,  this  day. Devotional takeaway: God’s wisdom isn’t stored up like leftovers—we don’t have to stretch yesterday’s answers to fit today’s problems. His wisdom is  daily , intentional, and perfectly timed. So, the next time those words rise up— “I have no idea what to do” —pause. Replace the lie with truth. Replace panic with prayer. Replace uncertainty with trust. Because according to what is written, you are never without access to wisdom. You’re just one honest ask away.

By Paula Williamson guest writer My Once-In-A-Lifetime Vacation My daughter and I planned a trip to French Polynesia to rest and recover from a draining year. It was beautiful beyond belief—nothing but ocean and sky, wind and waves, peace as far as the eye could see. During that time, I was studying Beth Moore’s  Believing God . Each morning, I sat with my Bible, a cup of Lemon Lift tea, open windows, and blowing curtains. God used that study—and the circumstances of my life—to show me how deeply fear and unbelief were woven into my heart. Maybe it was flying ten hours over open ocean when I don’t even know how to swim. Maybe it was traveling with my daughter to a country where we didn’t speak the language or know a single person. Whatever the reason, beneath this peaceful, once-in-a-lifetime trip was an iceberg of fear lurking just below the surface. I realized that what I often call “trusting God” was really more like  hoping  He would watch over us—not fully resting in Him. One morning during my quiet time, I wrote in my journal that I wanted to study fear and rid myself of unbelief. Almost immediately, my daughter said,“Mom, I think we should go scuba diving today.” With my best poker face—and my worst internal panic—I said,“OK.” Silently I prayed,  Lord, help me learn to trust You and not be afraid. My stomach had other ideas. Minutes passed. The fizzing started. Then nausea. Then a full-blown attempt to back out using the classic excuse of “I must have eaten something bad.” “Mom, you’re just nervous,” Rachel said.Three Imodium later, I knew she was right. I began silently repeating 2 Corinthians 12:9: Your strength is perfected in weakness—and I am very weak right now. How I went from that hotel room to being fitted with scuba gear is mostly a blur. I don’t think Rachel dragged me kicking and screaming—at least not outwardly. Soon we were in a boat skimming across the ocean, waves splashing, hair flying, surrounded by people speaking French—some as young as eight. When the boat stopped, we were told to fall backward into the water. I prayed as I fell. I did not feel fearless. We snorkeled while waiting our turn. Instantly I grabbed Rachel’s hand. We floated in awe over crystal-blue water, coral reefs below, and schools of fish moving like slow motion art. Then Rachel pointed. I followed her gaze and saw scuba divers no bigger than my pinkie finger. That’s when everything froze. The depth hit me. My mind shut down. I sucked salt water through my snorkel. I gasped and choked, trying to say  boat . “I…gulp…want to…gulp…go back…” Only my hands worked as I pointed. Rachel had to pull me back. I was paralyzed. Petrified. My heart raced so fast I thought I might die. I thought I might drown—and worse, take my daughter with me. When my hands reached the boat ladder, relief flooded me. I climbed in, smiled, and told her to go on without me. After everyone—even the eight-year-old—was gone, I sat alone on the boat, defeated. And God met me there. He revealed just how deep my fear and unbelief ran. I felt small, floating like a cork in a massive ocean, while God felt bigger than ever. Right there, He did open-heart surgery. It wasn’t gentle. It wasn’t pretty. I threw up in front of the boat driver and instructor as they encouraged me to try again. There was more fear in my heart than I ever imagined it could hold. No , I will never be mistaken for Peter walking on the water. I didn’t step out of the boat and it cost me. Fear stole an opportunity I will never again have—and it continues to steal wherever it has claimed space in our lives. Devotional Takeaway Fear doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it disguises itself as caution or “being realistic.” But fear and unbelief quietly rob us—of peace, of obedience, of moments God intended to use for growth and wonder. That day, God showed me something I didn’t want to see: I believed  in  Him, but I didn’t fully believe  Him . “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”—2 Corinthians 12:9 Faith isn’t the absence of fear. It’s choosing to trust God  in the presence of it. So, here’s the questions I’m learning to ask myself—and maybe you need to ask it too: Where has fear posted an occupancy sign in my life? What might God be inviting me to trust Him with today?

By Paula Williamson Guest Writer Once, I was visiting a garden center when the most delicious scent found its way to me. It stopped me in my tracks. It was so wonderful that I had to find its source. I wandered through the garden center, stopping at flower after flower, breathing deeply, searching for the fragrance that beckoned me. Row after row, I searched until I finally discovered it—an orange tree in full bloom. It was costly at the time, and with reluctance, I walked away, carrying only the memory of its scent. A Fragrance Remembered That fragrance became firmly planted in the recesses of my mind. Years later, I encountered it again. This time, I knew exactly what it was, and without hesitation, I made a beeline toward it—willing to pay the price to bring it home. Once it was mine, I enjoyed the fragrance day after day. At times, I would simply sit nearby, breathing in its sweetness, wishing they made a perfume or bubble bath that carried the same heavenly scent. The Parallel of His Presence My mind often draws parallels between the natural and the spiritual. Have you ever sat in the presence of the Lord and marveled at the peace you felt where the unconditional love, forgiveness, mercy, kindness, and grace so rich that all worries and cares faded into the background? The beauty of God’s presence reminds me of that orange tree. It is so holy and so beautiful that you just want to sit in silence and inhale. A Holy Aroma There have been moments in worship when the praise was so pure and holy that I—and others—noticed the scent of incense. Not smoky, but spicy, weighty, and sweet, filling the room with something beyond the natural. Those fragrances linger. Scripture tells us: “For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.” —2 Corinthians 2:15 What Will You Leave Behind? Whether we realize it or not, we leave a fragrance everywhere we go. Our words, our attitudes, our presence—all carry a scent. The question is simple, yet searching: What kind of fragrance will you leave behind today? Devotional Takeaway Time spent in God’s presence changes us. Just as a fragrance clings to clothing, His presence clings to our lives. When we linger with Him, we begin to carry the aroma of Christ—bringing peace, hope, and grace into every space we enter. Prayer Lord, draw me close to Your presence. Let me linger long enough to be changed by You. May my life carry the fragrance of Christ—sweet, holy, and inviting to those around me. Help me leave behind the scent of Your love wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

By Paula Williamson guest writer It Is Time to Set Sail As soon as I awoke the words, today is the day came to mind. I saw in my spirit, a massive harbor filled with ships—beautiful ships of every kind—so many that it felt as though they were docked in anticipation of a fireworks display. I sensed the ships were God’s people, me included. My mind flooded with words and bursting concepts: flamboyant ideas, pregnant dreams, vision, conviction, and expectant purpose. The excitement was sharp and direct—an urgency I had felt just before I invited Jesus into my heart. I heard: “You are ready. You were made for such a time as this. I am the captain of your ship. I am the Master of the sea, and the winds obey Me. I am your divine supply. You may have two fish and five loaves, but you lack nothing. It is time. It is time. It is time.” “Some of you have been in the harbor so long, planning the journey, that you have dry rot—but not beyond redemption. Some of you have been swabbing the deck so long that you have forgotten the purpose for which you were made. Some of you have loaded your ship with unnecessary weight—these things must be thrown overboard. Some of you were told to go northwest to Nineveh, yet you are sailing south to Joppa. Some of you have been waiting for perfect weather. I am the Master of the sea and the wind. Some of you have become so preoccupied with what you need for the journey that preparation itself has become your career.”   “It is time to hoist the anchor. It is time to undo what secures the ship to the dock. It is time to launch out into the deep for the purpose for which I have called you. You were created to be fishers of men—to gather the lost.” The scene shifted, the sea was scattered with those tossed overboard as unnecessary or useless. I heard: They are treasures to Me. Some are adrift, treading water and waiting to be rescued. Some are barely hanging on, about to give up. Some are going under for the third time, on the verge of sinking. Their voices are crying out for help. “It is time for My people to hoist the anchor, set sail, and gather them. Yes, there will be storms and winds—but the storms and winds obey Me. I am the Captain of your ship. Your ship is loaded with divine supply. Raise the sails. Undo the ropes that bind you to the dock. Launch out into the deep.” You Lack Nothing “It is time to stop asking if these bones can live. Time to hope. Time to dream. Time to let go.Time to set sail.” “Stop wondering if you are ready. Stop wondering how. Stop ruminating over the trip.Stop swabbing the decks, loading supplies, and preparing endlessly for the journey.” “I am your supply. Launch out. Launch out. Launch out into the deep. You are fully equipped and fully prepared. You lack nothing. Faith the size of a mustard seed is all you require. I am your compass. I am your supply. I am your Captain.” Gather the Lost “You were made for such a time as this. Go and gather those lost at sea—those swept away by floods, those thrown overboard, those battered and hungry, those adrift without purpose." “Not one is worthless to Me. Throw them a line. Bring them on board.” “It is time.” Prayer Lord, forgive me for the times I have waited in the harbor when You were calling me into the deep. Help me release fear, excess weight, and false security. I choose to trust You as my Captain, my compass, and my supply. Give me courage to set sail and compassion to rescue those crying out in the sea. I believe You when You say—I lack nothing. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Devotional Takeaway Many of us are not stuck because we are unprepared—but because we are comfortable anchored to the dock. God is not asking for perfect conditions, full understanding, or endless preparation. He is asking for obedience, movement, and trust. The call is clear:  hoist the anchor, release the ropes, and set sail.  The Captain has already gone before us.

By Paula Williamson guest writer Every season is full of surprises. Spring — Fresh Beginnings Spring brings fresh garden squash, okra, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, green beans, asparagus, black-eyed peas, tomatoes, rosemary, cilantro, bell peppers, green onions, lettuce, cabbage, carrots, jalapeños—and the unmistakable smell of the grill after a long, cold winter. Mesquite-grilled steak and baked potatoes feel like celebration food. There is nothing quite as rewarding as food grown with your own hands. Spring reminds me that life begins again, quietly and faithfully. Summer — Abundance and Laughter Summer arrives bursting at the seams—watermelon, grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, fried chicken and potato salad, hoagie sandwiches, chips and dips, barbequed ribs and baked beans, pea salad, fresh avocados and guacamole, taco salads, strawberry shortcake, berries of every kind, peach cobbler, fruit straight from the tree, homemade ice cream. If you don’t have a peach tree, you should. Freeze some for later—you’ll be glad you did. Summer teaches abundance. There is always more than enough when we gather together. Autumn — Comfort and Tradition Autumn ushers in frito pie, chili dogs, apple cider, casseroles, crockpot meals, chicken and dumplings, and waking up to monkey bread made with canned biscuits rolled in cinnamon sugar and drenched in butter. Then comes Thanksgiving—turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, homemade rolls, chocolate pie, pecan pie, pumpkin pie, and cranberry sauce. Fall reminds us that comfort is found in togetherness. Winter — Warmth and Home Winter brings soups and stews, taco soup, potato soup, shepherd’s pie, homemade chili, red beans and cornbread, pot roasts, casseroles that warm the house, fresh breads—sweet, sourdough—and Christmas baking. Ham, sweet potato casserole, stuffing, mashed potatoes, collard greens, holly wreaths, gingerbread, divinity, fudge, toffee, and sugar cookies. Winter teaches us how to slow down, gather close, and stay warm—body and soul. The Table That Forms Us Every family needs food memories. I will never forget summers at my grandma’s house—milking cows, churning butter, the smell of fresh biscuits, afternoon snacks of frozen peaches eaten straight from a Ziploc bag with a spoon, shelling purple hull peas. During cold winter mornings my mom made breakfast rice with sugar, butter, and cinnamon, or butter roll passed down from my father’s Norwegian roots. In my childhood memories of summer I remember sitting on top of the ice cream churn while adults took turns cranking. I remember holiday meals with aunts, uncles, and endless cousins—food lining every inch of the kitchen. I remember awkward meals in new places with new friends, sharing a table for the first time. Something holy happens around a table that doesn’t happen anywhere else. It is where stories are told. Where laughter heals. Where strangers become family. Where anxiety melts and love is passed—one dish at a time. I hope you will make your own memories around the table. Prayer Lord, thank You for the tables You have set before me—past, present, and future. Thank You for the memories that have fed my soul as much as my body. Help me create spaces where others feel welcomed, known, and loved. May my table always reflect Your generosity, warmth, and invitation. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Devotional Takeaway The table is more than a place to eat—it is an invitation to connection, belonging, and grace. God often meets us not in grand moments, but in shared meals, simple food, and faithful presence. When we open our tables, we open our hearts—and God is always willing to sit with us.

By Paula Williamson guest writer Life is Your Boot Camp!   Anyone who has ever been in the military knows that in a battle, you'd better know your enemy. You study him, his moves, his coming and going, his patterns, and his strategies. No wise leader sends soldiers into battle blindly. A good coach does the same—studies the opponent, anticipates their moves, and prepares winning strategies. So why do so many Christians warn others not to pay any attention to the devil?   If I were the devil, my greatest weapon would be  deception —and Scripture confirms that is exactly his strategy.   “He continually deceives the whole world.”  — Revelation 12:9 “The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy.”  — John 10:10   Definition of deceive - deliberately cause (someone) to believe something that is not true, especially for personal gain.   This year has been full of trials, and frankly, I have felt pretty beaten up, but in my Bible reading today, I was sharpened, encouraged, and stirred up.   Luke 4 recounts a time of testing for our Lord Jesus. Luke 1 says the Holy Spirit led him into the wilderness. That alone is a good reason to pause and take notice. The Holy Spirit can lead a person through a wilderness experience for our good.   The children of Israel were 150-200 miles away from the promised land, which should have taken a few days. It took them 40 years of whining, murmuring, and complaining. May it not be so for us!   The wilderness experience was not to destroy them, but to  train them , to reveal what was in their hearts (Deuteronomy 8:2). Wilderness seasons expose weakness, but they also  forge warriors.   Being led through a wilderness experience was not a new idea sprung on the Lord Jesus Christ. It is an act of a loving God, training His people to be overcomers. Jesus set the bar for us!   Luke 4:2 After forty days without food, Jesus was hungry— the enemy’s moment of attack.  The devil targeted His weakness. But Jesus didn’t argue. He didn’t panic. He didn’t reason become defeated or complain.   He answered with one weapon:   “IT IS WRITTEN.”   Jesus was hungry. He hadn't eaten for 40 days. It was then that the enemy came, a weak point, a military strategy.   Luke 4:3 Then the devil said to Him, If You are the Son of God, order this stone to turn into a loaf [of bread]. I don't know about you, but if I were hungry and had the power to turn stones to bread, I'd be making myself a hot fudge sundae with pecans, whipped cream and a cherry on top!   Not Jesus–Again in Luke 4:4 He answers with one weapon!   IT IS WRITTEN! Now that's the winning strategy!   Luke 4:5-7 Then the devil took Him up to a high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the habitable world in a moment of time [in the twinkling of an eye]. 6  And he said to Him, To You I will give all this power and authority and their glory (all their magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, and grace), for it has been turned over to me, and I give it to whomever I will. 7  Therefore if You will do homage to and worship me [just once], it shall all be Yours.   Whoa! Did you catch that? Who has been given the kingdoms of the world? The earth has an invisible evil ruler whose purpose is to steal, kill, destroy, and deceive. Our job is to overcome. Do we do that with blinders on, pretending satan does not exist? That's not what Jesus did! He fought the fight with the word of God. Jesus had an arsenal!   Luke 4:9-11 Then he took Him to Jerusalem and set Him on a gable of the temple, and said to Him, If You are the Son of God, cast Yourself down from here; 10  For it is written, He will give His angels charge over you to guard and watch over you closely and carefully; 11  And on their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.   Whoa! Did you catch that? Satan quoted scripture. He's been studying his opponent. He catches Jesus at a vulnerable moment, hangry, and quotes scripture to support his temptation.   Luke 4:12 And Jesus replied to him, [The Scripture] says, You shall not tempt (try, test exceedingly) the Lord your God.   There it is again! IT IS WRITTEN! Scripture says!   Luke 4:13 And when the devil had ended every [the complete cycle of] temptation, he [temporarily] left Him [that is, stood off from Him] until another more opportune  and favorable time.   Did you catch that? The war did not end there; that test was over, but the testing never ends. Not as long as satan is on the earth and we are alive. He will continually look for a more favorable time to trip us up, gut punch, trick, deceive, steal, kill, destroy, and lie. We were never promised a life without war.   This same day Oswald Chambers began his devotional with this quote:    “ Antagonism is the basis of all spiritual growth.  Opposition is not evidence of defeat—it is proof that what is inside you is alive and dangerous to the enemy.”   Jesus said: “Behold, I have given you authority… over all the power of the enemy.”  — Luke 10:19   You are  not powerless. You are  not unarmed. But you  must be equipped.   When you are tired. When you are tempted. When you are discouraged. When you are hungry—physically or spiritually— what comes out of your mouth?   If the Word is not stored in your heart, it will not come out of your mouth. You hold the silver bullet! The enemy studies you. He knows your timing. He waits for “favorable moments.” You are the temple of the Holy Spirit—and because of that, you are a threat.   So  suit up, warrior. Put your armor on daily. Keep your weapons close. And when the attack comes—as it surely will—stand your ground and declare:   “IT IS WRITTEN.”   That is how Jesus overcame. That is how you will overcome.   Where in the world do we get the idea that every day is supposed to be the Mount of Transfiguration, sunshine, roses, and chocolate? Every day we have an enemy who never goes on vacation, never stops, the battle never ends. He is relentless but we are not powerless victims.   Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active  and  full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing  and  judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.   Isaiah 55:11 So will My word be which goes out of My mouth; It will not return to Me void (useless, without result),Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.   Do you have an arsenal of the world of God that you can pull out when you are hangry, weak, and tired? You must! Satan is counting on a favorable time to come and steal your testimony, hinder you, discourage you, trip you up, and defeat you. You can bet your bottom dollar that he has studied you and knows you. You are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and he hates you. You are on the opposing side. He is looking for a way to pick us off one by one.    Suit up, dear one! Put your armor on. Keep your battle plans in a convenient place. If the world is not stored in your heart, find an arsenal to pull out.   I have written one called Warrior Arise. It is a free resource on CoadWordBooks.com   It was written over ten years of my own struggle against the lies of the enemy, and I still pull it out today when I am under attack and say, "IT IS WRITTEN!"

By Paula Williamson guest writer L I F E I S Y O U R B O O T C A M P ! Know Your Enemy Anyone who has ever been in the military knows that in a battle, you’d better know your enemy. You study him—his moves, his patterns, his strategies. No wise leader sends soldiers into battle blind. A good coach does the same, preparing their team for what’s coming. So why do so many Christians warn others not to pay any attention to the devil? If I were the enemy, my greatest weapon would be deception—and Scripture confirms that is exactly his strategy. “He continually deceives the whole world.” — Revelation 12:9“The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy.” — John 10:10 Deception : deliberately causing someone to believe something that is not true, especially for personal gain. This year has been full of trials, and frankly, I’ve felt pretty beaten up. But in my Bible reading today, I was sharpened, encouraged, and stirred. The Wilderness Is Training Ground Luke 4 recounts a time of testing for our Lord Jesus. Luke 1 tells us the Holy Spirit led Him into the wilderness. That alone should make us pause. The Holy Spirit can lead a person through a wilderness experience—for our good. The children of Israel were only 150–200 miles from the Promised Land. It should have taken days. Instead, it took 40 years of murmuring and complaining. May it not be so for us. The wilderness was not meant to destroy them, but to reveal what was in their hearts (Deuteronomy 8:2). Wilderness seasons expose weakness, but they also forge warriors. This was not a new idea sprung on Jesus. Being led through the wilderness is an act of a loving God, training His people to become overcomers. Jesus set the bar for us. “IT IS WRITTEN” After forty days without food, Jesus was hungry— the enemy’s moment of attack . The devil targeted His weakness. But Jesus didn’t argue.He didn’t panic.He didn’t complain. He answered with  one weapon : “IT IS WRITTEN.” Luke 4:3 records the first temptation. And honestly, if I were hungry and had the power to turn stones into bread, I’d be making myself a hot fudge sundae with pecans, whipped cream, and a cherry on top! Not Jesus. Again, He answered: IT IS WRITTEN. That’s the winning strategy. The Enemy Studies His Opponent In Luke 4:5–7, the devil offers Jesus the kingdoms of the world. Did you catch that? Scripture tells us the earth has an invisible evil ruler whose purpose is to steal, kill, destroy, and deceive. Our job is to  overcome . Do we do that with blinders on, pretending satan does not exist? That’s not what Jesus did. He fought with the  Word of God . Jesus had an arsenal. Then the enemy did something startling—he  quoted Scripture . Yes. Satan studies his opponent. He waits for vulnerable moments. He twists truth. Jesus answered again: “IT IS WRITTEN.” The War Didn’t End There Luke 4:13 tells us the devil left Him— until a more favorable time . Did you catch that?The test ended, but the war did not. We were never promised a life without battle. Oswald Chambers wrote: “Antagonism is the basis of all spiritual growth. Opposition is not evidence of defeat—it is proof that what is inside you is alive and dangerous to the enemy.” Jesus said: “Behold, I have given you authority… over all the power of the enemy.” — Luke 10:19 You are not powerless.You are not unarmed.But you  must be equipped . What Comes Out of Your Mouth? When you are tired…When you are tempted…When you are discouraged…When you are hungry—physically or spiritually… What comes out of your mouth? If the Word is not stored in your heart, it will not come out of your mouth. You hold the  silver bullet . The enemy studies you. He waits for favorable moments. You are the temple of the Holy Spirit—and because of that,  you are a threat . Suit up, warrior. Put your armor on daily.Keep your weapons close. And when the attack comes, stand your ground and declare: “IT IS WRITTEN.” That is how Jesus overcame.That is how you will overcome. Prayer Lord, train my hands for battle and my heart for obedience. Store Your Word deep within me so that when the enemy comes, truth—not fear—comes out of my mouth. Help me recognize the wilderness not as defeat, but as preparation. Teach me to stand firm, fully armored, confident in Your authority and power. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Devotional Takeaway The wilderness is not punishment—it is preparation. Every battle you face is an invitation to discover whether the Word of God is merely familiar to you or fully alive within you. When temptation comes, victory is not found in reasoning or strength, but in declaring truth. What you store in your heart today becomes your weapon tomorrow.

By Paula Williamson guest writer Are You a Cinderella Story? The other day I was driving to work, thinking about how much God loves us and the immense price He paid for us through His Son. As I did, I couldn’t help but think of how many of us are like Cinderella. We spend our lives sitting by the fireplace, cleaning up cinders and ashes, our garments covered in soot—never truly knowing who we are. Yet He has a crown and a robe for us, along with a glass slipper that fits us perfectly. We don’t have to do anything to make it fit. The Slipper Was Never Meant for Another Satan spends his time distracting us—getting us to look at others and covet what we don’t have—when their slipper was never intended for our foot. We search everywhere for our place in life except in Him. I couldn’t help but think of Him waiting on His white horse, holding the robe, the ring, the crown, and the slipper tailor-made just for us. We are the princess bride. We were never meant to live among ashes and cinders. The enemy has fed us lies, but it is time to rise from the ash heap and allow Him, in tenderness, to wash us clean. He Is Pursuing You His plans for us are for good and not for evil—to give us a future and a hope. Though our sins be as scarlet, He will wash them as white as wool. Imagine you see Him approaching–He is here—always here—stepping off His white horse and pursuing us. Is that  your  slipper in His hand—the one you lost, or maybe the one you always dreamed of having? Imagine Him walking toward you. You have nothing to fear. The slipper fits. It is yours. It always has been—along with the crown and the Prince of Peace. Will you take it?Will you accept the role of His chosen bride? Leaving the Ash Heap Have you become so comfortable in the ash heap that it feels like home? Have you chosen to drink from the chalice of the enemy and believed that is where you belong? Will you stand up and dare to step out—stained and filthy—to accept the proposal? The ring. The crown. The robe. The slipper. Will you accept that His heart is full of goodness and make Him your Master, your Lord, your Prince, your Beloved? The Prodigal Bride I see so many of us—some behind real prison bars, others trapped by invisible, self-inflicted ones. Many prayed that prayer long ago, yet never truly believed they were forgiven and worthy of the robe, the ring, or the crown. Along the road of disappointment, their slippers were lost. But He never moved. He is still here. He is still waiting. He has not lost the sparkle in His eye for you. “Come,” He says.Come into relationship with Me.Come into My chamber.Lay your head upon My chest and listen to the beat of My heart. Allow Me to wash the stains of this world from My beloved. Allow Me to touch your scars and wounds. Share with Me the secret places of your heart where no one else dares to go. Listen… for His whisper, precious bride. The Prodigal Bride  (Poem) In humble adoration, I come before Your throne, garments filthy, stained with sin, but Lord, I’m coming home. I walk into Your presence, bearing every scar, accepted by Your outstretched arms—I’ve wandered, Lord, so far. I’ve searched for You in vain things, fooled by an angel of light,I humbly bow before Your throne and come to make things right. You are so much more; I’m beginning to see, Free me from thoughts of never being worthy. You’re pouring out Your mercy and forgiveness—Lord, You are so kind. I don’t want to be left to myself; I have been so blind. I’m thirsty for truth, for living water promised here, I’m coming home with my wedding gown on; I won’t waste another year. Pull out the robe, the ring, the crown—I’m ready to take my place. I’m running, Lord, toward Your outstretched arms to Your amazing grace. —  pjw Revelation 22:17 “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come.’ And let the one who hears say, ‘Come.’ And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost.” Devotional Takeaway You were never meant to live among ashes. Your identity is not found in what you have endured, lost, or believed about yourself—but in the One who pursues you with a crown, a robe, and a perfectly fitting slipper. He is calling you out of the ash heap and into relationship, restoration, and belonging. This blog was taken from my book, Listen for His Whisper , a free download