grace – Voice of Hope by Marlene

When Someone Drags Your Name Through the Mud

When you refuse to wrestle with every false accusation, you send a powerful message: This lie does not deserve my peace.

What do you do when someone starts dragging your name through the mud?

Nothing.

That answer may surprise you because everything inside you wants to defend yourself, explain yourself, and prove your innocence. You want people to know the truth. You want your name cleared. You want justice.

But here’s the problem: the person attacking you has already created a narrative where they are the victim, and you are the villain. In their story, no matter what you say, your response becomes “proof” against you.

The harder you fight to explain yourself, the harder they work to discredit you. Some people will twist conversations, manipulate facts, and even create false evidence just to keep the story alive. And while you are exhausting yourself trying to put out the fire, they are standing quietly in the shadows, pouring gasoline on it.

Meanwhile, everyone is watching you.

They’re watching your reactions.
Your emotions.
Your explanations.
Your defenses.

And as long as the spotlight stays on you, very few people stop to examine the person creating the chaos.

So instead of giving lies your energy, what if you simply let the lies lie?

Not because the accusations are true.
Not because you are weak.
But because some battles are too small for your destiny.

When you refuse to wrestle with every false accusation, you send a powerful message: This lie does not deserve my peace.

Over time, something interesting happens. The accusations begin to lose momentum. The drama becomes exhausting to those watching. People begin to notice that one person is obsessed with tearing someone down while the other continues living with dignity, grace, and purpose.

And eventually, the one creating the smear campaign begins to expose themselves.

Years ago, I taught my sales agents an important principle about negotiation: the person who talks the most usually loses.

Why?

Because when you are constantly talking, you are not listening. And when you are not listening, you miss discovering the deeper dynamics of what is really happening.

The same principle applies here.

When someone endlessly attacks another person, people eventually stop hearing “truth” and start hearing desperation. Constant mudslinging rarely reveals strength. More often, it reveals insecurity, envy, bitterness, or unresolved pain.

The truth is, many people attack others because they are struggling with their own insecurities. They see someone who is confident, successful, hopeful, respected, or deeply loved, and instead of rising higher themselves, they attempt to pull that person lower.

But tearing someone else down never builds true character.

Eventually, mature people recognize the difference between confidence and chaos.
Between peace and performance.
Between integrity and manipulation.

So if someone throws your name in the mud, let it stay there for a while.

Because in time, mud dries.
Truth rises.
And character speaks louder than accusations ever will.

And sometimes, the greatest victory comes from simply standing still and letting God fight the battle for you.

As Scripture reminds us:

“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
— Exodus 14:14 (NIV)

And again:

“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
— Romans 12:19 (NIV)

Let the Lord do what He does for us. Let him fight our battles. All we need to do is stay out of His way. Let Him take care of the people who harm us; He will either help them change their ways or, if they fail, punish them. Either way, it’s not our problem. It’s His.

My song, “Let the Lord Fight Your Battles,” is one I wrote during a time when I needed to be reminded that I do not need to fight battles. I need to sit quietly in all matters and let the Lord handle things on my behalf.

Listen to the song, “Let the Lord Fight Your Battles.”

There is strength in silence.
There is wisdom in restraint.
And there is peace in knowing that truth does not need constant defense to remain true.

You Were Never Meant to Carry It Alone

I’ll be honest. I’ve never mastered the idea of being “happy” all the time. But I have learned this: when I feel myself slipping into that downward spiral, I reach for what I know can pull me out.

Last week, a quiet heaviness settled over me.

Some days it was just a passing feeling. Other days, it felt like I was standing on the edge of something deeper, something I knew I didn’t want to fall into. I’ve come to recognize those moments. That subtle shift when your spirit feels off. And thankfully, I’ve learned how to pivot before it pulls me under.

Not everyone catches it in time.

For many, that feeling becomes an engulfing abyss, one that’s incredibly hard to climb out of. I don’t take it lightly that I’ve been given the awareness and the tools to fight back when those moments come.

Because they do come.

One of my greatest lifelines? My friends.

I remember a moment from years ago that changed how I handle those days. I skipped a weekly event I always attended. I just didn’t feel like being around anyone. My friend Chris noticed and reached out. She didn’t tiptoe around it; she asked me directly why I didn’t show up.

I told her the truth. I was feeling down.

Her response stayed with me:
“Marlene, on the days you don’t feel like being around people… those are the days you need us the most.”

That hit me.

She reminded me that we’re not meant to carry everything alone. That friendship isn’t just for the good days. It’s a lifeline for the hard ones. It brought to mind Ecclesiastes 4:9-10:

“Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

From that day forward, I made a decision: show up anyway.

No matter how I felt.

And every single time I did, something shifted. The laughter, the connection, the simple presence of people who care. It always lifted me higher than where I started.

But there’s another source of strength I lean on even more deeply.

The Lord.

He is the friend who never misses a moment. The one who steadies me when life feels overwhelming. And let’s be real. Life will test you. Between the noise of the world and the unkindness that can come out of nowhere, it’s easy to feel drained if you’re not anchored in something stronger.

For me, that anchor is Him.

And I’m grateful, not just for His presence, but for the gifts He’s placed inside me. One of those gifts is creativity. The ability to tell stories through music that speak to the soul.

That’s where Grace Notes Media was born.

This ministry is more than music. It’s a message. Each song is a reminder that no matter what you’re facing, you’re not alone. There is hope. There is strength. There is rest.

In fact, during this past week of melancholy, one song in particular carried me through:

“He Will Give You Rest.”

It met me right where I was and gently pulled me back to peace before I could drift any further.

If you’re in a place where your spirit feels heavy, don’t isolate yourself. Reach out. Show up. Lean on those who love you.

And most importantly, lean on Jesus.

Because you were never meant to carry it all alone.

Here is a link to my latest song, written to inspire anyone needing a reminder that no matter what you are going through, He Will Give You Rest. View on YouTube.

This song is based on Matthew 11:28 (NIV), which says, Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Released from the Past: Walking in Grace and Giving It Freely

If we’re truthful, most of us would quietly admit there are things in our past we’re not proud of. There are words we wish we could take back, choices we wish we had never made. Yet somehow, it can feel easier to hold others captive to their past than to extend the same grace we hope to receive.

Were we raised to condemn people for the rest of their lives because of what they once did? It’s a hard question, but an honest one. Before we answer, we should pause and look inward. Are we without fault? Have we lived lives so spotless that there’s nothing we would rather keep between ourselves and God?

The truth is, people do regret. People do grow. People do change.

I’ll speak plainly: I, too, have said and done things I would never want the world to define me by. But I’ve learned. I’ve grown. I’ve turned in a different direction. I am not who I used to be, and I thank God for that. Like many of us, I would be deeply hurt if my past mistakes were used as chains to hold me back from who I’ve become today.

So why do we do that to others?

Why do we place permanent labels on temporary seasons of someone’s life? Why do we act as if a mistake is a life sentence?

As Christians, we know the answer lies in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He suffered, died, and rose again so that we would not be forever bound to our sins. His sacrifice was not partial; it was complete. Through Him, we are forgiven, redeemed, and made new. If God Himself chooses not to hold our past against us, what gives us the right to do so to someone else?

Grace is not just something we receive; it is something we are called to give.

It’s time to release people from the prisons we’ve placed them in. It’s time to stop defining others by their worst moments and start seeing them through the lens of who they are today. Just as we desire mercy, understanding, and a fresh start, we must be willing to offer the same.

Let’s choose compassion over condemnation.
Let’s choose understanding over judgment.
Let’s choose grace, again and again.

Because at the end of the day, every one of us is walking a journey of growth. And every one of us needs the freedom to leave the past behind.

Give people the space to show you who they are now.

Stewardship of Praise

When a believer is working under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, acknowledging their obedience does not rob God of praise; it returns it to Him.

Sometimes, Christians mistake deflection for humility. We see it often: a pastor delivers a powerful, life-giving sermon, and when someone says, “Thank you,” the response is a quick dismissal, with eyes lifted upward and hands raised, as if to say, “It wasn’t me; it was the Lord.” Worship leaders do the same, shrinking back when thanked for a Spirit-led time of praise, believing that accepting a compliment somehow diminishes God’s glory.

But Scripture teaches us something deeper.

When a believer is working under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, acknowledging their obedience does not rob God of praise; it returns it to Him. The Apostle Paul understood this balance well. He wrote:

“I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.”
— 1 Corinthians 15:10 (NIV)

Paul did not deny his effort, nor did he claim the glory. He recognized the work and credited the power behind it. That is true humility.

When someone thanks a spiritual servant for a job well done, they are recognizing evidence of God at work. To reject that acknowledgment outright is not humility. It risks silencing the testimony of what the Holy Spirit has accomplished through willing hands.

The better response is to receive the compliment with gratitude and intentionally pass the praise where it belongs. A simple, sincere acknowledgment honors both the obedience of the servant and the power of the Spirit working through them.

So accept the compliment, and then offer it upward.

That is not pride.
That is stewardship of praise.

Nurturing the Soul – Start Your Journey Toward Spiritual Growth

Life moves fast. Responsibilities pile up. Noise surrounds us. And somewhere along the way, our souls quietly ask for care.

In a world that constantly pulls at our attention, many of us feel spiritually tired, even when our faith is strong. Life moves fast. Responsibilities pile up. Noise surrounds us. And somewhere along the way, our souls quietly ask for care.

That is exactly why Nurturing the Soul: A 30-Day Journey Toward Spiritual Growth was written.

This book was created for people who desire a deeper connection with God but may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure where to begin. It is not about perfection. It is not about checking spiritual boxes. It is about creating intentional moments, small, meaningful pauses, to reconnect with God, reflect on life, and allow the soul to breathe again.

Why Nurturing the Soul Matters

We spend so much time nurturing others, our families, our careers, our communities, that we often neglect our inner life. Yet the soul needs care just as much as the body and mind. When the soul is neglected, it shows up as exhaustion, discouragement, and spiritual dryness.

Nurturing the Soul invites readers to slow down and return to the basics of faith: reflection, prayer, Scripture, and honest conversation with God. Each day of the 30-day journey is designed to gently guide the reader into deeper awareness, healing, and spiritual renewal.

This is not a book you rush through. It’s a book you sit with. A book you open each day as a sacred appointment with God.

What the 30-Day Journey Looks Like

Each day in Nurturing the Soul offers:

A focused spiritual theme
A carefully selected Bible verse
A devotional reflection meant to encourage, challenge, and uplift
Gentle prompts that invite personal reflection and prayer

The journey is structured, but flexible. Whether you are new to daily devotionals or returning after a long break, this book meets you exactly where you are.

Some days will feel comforting. Others may stir deep emotions. All of them are designed to help you grow spiritually, emotionally, and personally.

The Companion Journal: Going Deeper

Alongside the book is the Nurturing the Soul: 30-Day Companion Journal, created for those who want to go deeper in their reflection.

The journal is not an afterthought; it is an intentional extension of the journey. Writing has a powerful way of bringing clarity to thoughts, healing to emotions, and depth to prayer. The Companion Journal provides dedicated space to:

Respond to daily prompts
Record prayers and spiritual insights
Reflect honestly without judgment
Track growth over the 30-day journey

Many readers find that journaling transforms reading into an experience. It turns inspiration into action and reflection into lasting change.

Together, the book and journal create a sacred rhythm: read, reflect, write, pray, and grow.

Who This Journey Is For

Nurturing the Soul is for:

Anyone feeling spiritually weary or disconnected
Believers seeking renewal without pressure or guilt
Those navigating life transitions, grief, or uncertainty
Readers who desire a quieter, more intentional faith practice

You do not need to have all the answers. You simply need a willing heart.

An Invitation and How to Begin

If your soul has been longing for stillness, clarity, or renewed faith, this journey is for you.

Nurturing the Soul: A 30-Day Journey Toward Spiritual Growth and the accompanying 30-Day Companion Journal are both available on Amazon, making it easy to begin whenever you’re ready.

Simply visit Amazon, search for “Nurturing the Soul: A 30-Day Journey Toward Spiritual Growth,” and consider pairing it with the 30-Day Companion Journal for a richer, more transformative experience.

Your soul deserves care.
Your faith deserves time.
And your journey can begin today: one day at a time.

This World is Not Our Final Home

We are not meant to find our peace or fulfillment in this broken world. The hurt we experience here is temporary, no matter how deep it feels.

Everywhere we look today, it feels like the world is unraveling. People lash out in anger, friendships are torn apart, and love seems to grow colder by the day. It’s heartbreaking to witness how easily kindness is forgotten and how often relationships are sacrificed over pride, selfishness, or misunderstanding.

For those who are on the receiving end of pain, betrayal, rejection, or cruelty, it’s natural to feel the urge to fight back, to retaliate, to defend your heart. But God’s Word calls us to something higher. Hebrews 13:14 (NLT) reminds us, “For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come.” This truth gives us the strength to respond differently.

We are not meant to find our peace or fulfillment in this broken world. The hurt we experience here is temporary, no matter how deep it feels. Our citizenship is not of this earth; Philippians 3:20 (NLT) declares, “But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.”

When we remember that heaven is our true home, we gain perspective. The pain others inflict doesn’t define us; it refines us. Every trial becomes an opportunity to draw closer to Christ, to model His grace, and to reflect His light in the darkness.

So, when you feel like the world is falling apart around you, take heart. God sees your tears. He knows your hurt. And He promises that one day, all wrongs will be made right. Until then, walk in peace, love without fear, and keep your eyes fixed on the home that awaits you, where there will be no more sorrow, no more betrayal, and no more pain.

Heaven is our final destination. Let’s live each day with that hope in our hearts.

Related Song: This World Is Falling Apart

For anyone who has been hurt by the players in this world, remember, this world may be harsh, but we have heaven to look forward to. Please click to hear the song and video inspired by Hebrews 13:14 and Philippians 3:20.

Perspective: The Glass, the Case, and the Lesson We Forgot

Perspective. That’s what frames our opinions − whether we lean toward optimism or pessimism, whether we agree or disagree on an issue. Our experiences shape our viewpoints

Scripture Reading
“Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”
— John 7:24 (NKJV)

I attended an event where the speaker projected a simple image onto the screen: a glass of water. Then came the familiar question: “Is the glass half full or half empty?”

Naturally, the audience was divided. Some saw the glass as half full, while others saw it as half empty.

It was a sales motivation conference, and the question was designed to reveal whether we tend to think positively or negatively. I answered, “Half full.” But then I realized something deeper: The question itself is rhetorical. The real answer depends on one key factor: your personal experience with the glass.

Think about it.
If the glass was empty when you first saw it and you poured in water halfway, you’d likely say it’s half full. But if the glass was once full and you poured out half the water, you’d probably say it’s half empty.

Perspective. That’s what frames our opinions − whether we lean toward optimism or pessimism, whether we agree or disagree on an issue. Our experiences shape our viewpoints.

It reminds me of something from debate class. Remember how we learned that every argument has two sides? Later, when I began studying law, my instructor made that lesson come alive. On the very first day, he divided the class into two groups − one to represent the plaintiff and the other, the defendant. We presented our cases and received our grades.

Then came the twist: He switched our roles. The plaintiff’s team now had to argue for the defense, and the defense had to represent the plaintiff. Our success depended on how well we could understand and defend a position we once opposed.

That exercise taught me one of the most valuable lessons of all: truth and understanding often live somewhere between both sides.
(As a side note, I didn’t finish law school − family obligations took precedence − but I still hold deep respect for that noble profession.)

What I want to convey today is this: Before judging others for seeing things differently, pause to consider their perspective. Life shapes each of us uniquely. The person beside you may have walked a path that led them to see the same “glass” in a completely different way.

We learned this lesson back in high school debate class, so how did we grow up and forget it?

Application

Before reacting to someone whose opinion differs from yours, take a moment to ask yourself, What might their experience have been? When we take time to understand the perspective behind a person’s belief, we often find empathy and even wisdom that we might have otherwise missed.

Reflection Question

When was the last time you took a moment to see a situation from someone else’s point of view? How might doing so change the way you respond?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the reminder that perspective shapes how we see the world and one another. Teach me to listen with compassion and to respond with grace when opinions differ. Help me to remember that understanding begins where judgment ends. May I see others through the lens of love, just as You see me.
Amen.

Choosing Love Over Judgment in Daily Interactions

In today’s world, kindness seems to be losing its place. But Scripture reminds us that love is patient and kind, and judgment belongs only to God.

Scripture Reading
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. – Matthew 7:1-2

Reflection
In today’s world, kindness seems to be losing its place. Too often, people choose dismissal over understanding, judgment over compassion, and even celebration over someone else’s downfall. But Scripture reminds us that love is patient and kind, and judgment belongs only to God.

My mother once gave me advice that has stayed with me all my life. She said, “If you truly want to live a righteous life, act as if someone were following you with a camera, ready to post your every action on a billboard.” That simple wisdom made me think carefully about my words and actions, considering how they affect others.

I strive to approach life with authenticity and compassion. Whether in business or personal relationships, I seek a win-win outcome and do my best to see things from the other person’s perspective. This doesn’t mean I tolerate harmful behavior, but it does mean I try to see people as human beings worthy of love, just as God sees us.

I am far from perfect, and I thank God for His mercy. When I repent, He forgives and wipes the slate clean. No one on earth is perfect, and no one has the right to belittle or condemn others for their differences. Only God is the Judge. Our role is to love.

Application
The world will always tempt us to react with judgment, anger, or indifference, but as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. When faced with conflict or differences, pause and consider how your words and actions will reflect God’s love. Choose patience over impatience, compassion over criticism, and understanding over judgment.

When you are tempted to dismiss someone because of their choices, beliefs, or behaviors, remember God sees them, too, and He calls you to love as He loves.

Reflection Question
Am I quicker to judge or to love? How can I show patience, kindness, and understanding in my next interaction with someone who challenges me?

Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reminding me that love is patient, kind, and free of judgment. Forgive me for the times I have judged others instead of showing Your love. Help me to see people as You see them, with compassion, grace, and truth. Teach me to live with authenticity, choosing words and actions that honor You. May my life reflect Your love so that others are drawn closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Choose love over judgment, because only God sees the whole story.”

The Power of Gratitude: Finding Joy in Everyday Blessings

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to focus on what’s missing in life? Gratitude has a way of shifting our eyes away from what we lack and fixing them on what God provides.

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to focus on what’s missing in life? The goals we haven’t yet reached, the resources we wish we had, or the problems that seem too big to solve. Gratitude has a way of shifting our eyes away from what we lack and fixing them on what God provides. When we choose thankfulness, our perspective changes, and so does our heart.

There was a time I lived without gratitude for the wonderful lifestyle I had. During this time, I lived in one of the largest houses in the neighborhood. It was a five-bedroom, three-bathroom, 2500-square-foot house with a large yard and other fine amenities. Still, I would see houses in what I perceived were more prestigious neighborhoods and wish I had one of those houses.

One day, all that I had was lost. My husband and I lost our jobs on the same day due to what companies were calling at the time, “right-sizing.” The result of this situation is that we suddenly had no income. We ended up losing the house and had to move into a small rental house until we could find jobs and buy a home again. This time, the house we purchased was in what I considered a less prestigious neighborhood. But I was happy and proud of my little house. As I look back at what I used to have, I realize I had more than enough. In fact, I had more than most people could ever imagine having.

It took losing everything to begin to appreciate the little things. I love my new life, and I am grateful for everything God gives me, no matter how small.

Gratitude trains our hearts to see God’s daily goodness.
The truth is, God shows up in our lives every single day. Sometimes it’s in the big, undeniable moments, and other times it’s in the small details: a warm smile from a friend, the beauty of a sunrise, or the peace that comes with prayer. Gratitude opens our eyes to these blessings, reminding us that God’s faithfulness isn’t occasional, it’s constant.

Joy grows when we thank God for even the smallest moments.
The Bible says, in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV), Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Joy isn’t found in perfect conditions but in a heart that chooses to give thanks. When we pause to thank God for the little things, we cultivate joy that no trial can steal. Gratitude is like watering a garden. The more we pour into it, the more it blossoms.

Gratitude draws us closer to peace.
When anxiety and worry press in, gratitude is the antidote. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) tells us, Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. The promise is clear: thanksgiving leads to peace. Gratitude is not just a nice thought; it’s a spiritual practice that connects us to the calm assurance that God is in control.

A Closing Nudge
What if you began today with a simple gratitude list? Write down three small things you thank God for right now. It could be the breath in your lungs, the meal you just enjoyed, or the presence of a loved one. As you make gratitude a habit, you’ll begin to see how God is weaving goodness into every part of your life story.

Grace Yourself

Grace yourself with the love of God and he will fight your battles for you.

Recently, I had the opportunity to practice forgiveness.

Friends, typically, forgiveness is not a difficult thing for me to do. Honestly, I see forgiveness as a way to get on with my life and let the other person get on with their life.

Let me share a recent moment when I was able to practice forgiveness by allowing God to work in my life, to fight a battle on my behalf. Also, let me first say that I will share this story in a way that protects the person who is not here to defend herself. Giving to that endeavor, I will only share a small portion of the total event.

In a recent encounter with a new woman in my sphere, this woman characterized me to be someone I am definitely not. We were discussing a business matter, and because she disagreed with the information I supplied, she called me a liar! She said a few other things not worth mentioning, and, as if I were a leper, she requested that I stay as far away from her as possible. I told her I was hurt by what she was saying, but it didn’t matter to her. Of course, after that I complied with her wish to stay far away from her. To protect myself from further abuse, I blocked her number from my phone and blocked her from my social media sites. I did not really care to hear from or be around someone with that kind of demeanor. I am reminded of the time Jesus was persecuted. In Luke 23:34 (NIV), we read,

“Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
Luke 23:34 (NIV)

People can be so heartless. Evil abounds, but the Lord says He will fight our battles. And, I had to remember quickly that the Lord rescues His people from evil attacks. 2 Timothy 4:18 (NIV) reminds me of that.

“The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.”
2 Timothy 4:18 (NIV)

Evidence of the Lord’s word in 2 Timothy 4:28 came in the form of a gentleman who, knowing nothing about what was going on between the woman and me, was circumstantially placed in front of the woman. I see this gentleman as someone who was put in place to allow the woman to know that I was not lying after all. And, without provocation, and in a very organic conversation, the gentleman said to the woman, almost word-for-word, everything I had previously said to her. The gentleman’s words were validation that I was telling the truth. I learned of the gentleman’s involvement because the Lord made sure someone else was on the scene to witness and report back to me what had happened. The witness told me that after the gentleman said all that he said, the woman appeared to be in shock and at a loss for words. We don’t know what was on the woman’s mind, but the witness said it was as if she had received an epiphany of some sort.

Still, I have received no apology from the woman. Still, I must forgive the woman and pray that her life is filled with love and grace. Hanging on to what Jesus said, she knows not what she is doing.

Grace Yourself

By “Grace Yourself,” I mean align yourself with the Lord’s power. Adorn yourself with His Grace. His mighty angels are set aside for your protection. Yes, evil abounds, but we must remember that we do not have to fight our battles. When we let the Lord fight our battles, the battle is won.

Our only obligation is to stay faithful to the Lord. His lessons help us to remain calm in adversity as we rest in His love and care.

In the act of reverence and perseverance, my Lord asked me to forgive and move on beyond this event. As difficult as it was to forgive, as a faithful child of God, I had no other choice but to forgive the woman of her hurtful words. Whether she apologizes or not is immaterial.

We go through trials every day. And, there are times people put us into trials that we had no time to prepare for. I am here to say, let it go!

Friends, when someone does or says something to hurt you, I’m not going to lie. It hurts! I’ll tell you the truth right now. I was devastated when that woman said those hurtful words to me. No one had ever been that cruel to me in my whole life. I had a difficult time letting it go. But I am fortunate to have the most incredible friends in my life. When I found it difficult to let things go, my friends stepped in to remind me of God’s love and God’s ways. I am grateful for the friends I have on earth who know me and love me enough to steer me in the right direction at all times. I look forward to being with you all in God’s Kingdom.

Graced in the love of the Lord, I now feel refreshed and ready to enjoy life the way the Lord intends me to enjoy it.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)

Let God fight your battles!

In His grace!