We Are His Masterpiece

Good Morning Beauties!

Regal - that’s the word I heard from the Lord today. I guess he wants us to stay on the topic of our royalty for one more day. When looking up the definition, I was excited to see a truth right from God. “suitable for a King.” Beauties - do you see it?

We won’t approach our King Jesus because lies of shame and guilt make us believe we are unsuitable - unworthy - to be loved by God. Nothing could be farther from the truth. He sees us as perfectly acceptable and showers his love on us. Please Beauties, approach his throne with confidence and boldness in knowing that the creator is in love with his creation.

I love Psalm 139. It has special meaning for me and my growth with Jesus. I’ve included the entire Psalm for you. There are numerous truths in this one Psalm. I’m going to write them down and pray about the ones that stand out. Will you please join me? What verse is the Holy Spirit shining his light on for you? Selah.

1 “O Lord, you have examined my heart
    and know everything about me.
2 You know when I sit down or stand up.
    You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.
3 You see me when I travel
    and when I rest at home.
    You know everything I do.
4 You know what I am going to say
    even before I say it, Lord.
5 You go before me and follow me.
    You place your hand of blessing on my head.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
    too great for me to understand!

7 I can never escape from your Spirit!
    I can never get away from your presence!
8 If I go up to heaven, you are there;
    if I go down to the grave, you are there.
9 If I ride the wings of the morning,
    if I dwell by the farthest oceans,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
    and your strength will support me.
11 I could ask the darkness to hide me
    and the light around me to become night—
12     but even in darkness I cannot hide from you.
To you the night shines as bright as day.
    Darkness and light are the same to you.

13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
    and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
    Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
15 You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion,
    as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.
16 You saw me before I was born.
    Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out
    before a single day had passed.

17 How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.
    They cannot be numbered!
18 I can’t even count them;
    they outnumber the grains of sand!
And when I wake up,
    you are still with me!

19 O God, if only you would destroy the wicked!
    Get out of my life, you murderers!
20 They blaspheme you;
    your enemies misuse your name.
21 O Lord, shouldn’t I hate those who hate you?
    Shouldn’t I despise those who oppose you?
22 Yes, I hate them with total hatred,
    for your enemies are my enemies.

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
    test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 Point out anything in me that offends you,
    and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”

Royalty - Tasha Cobbs Leonard

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“I thank you, High God—you’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation!”

— Psalm 139:14 The Message Bible

Received Royalty

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

“You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God.” Isaiah 62:3 (NIV)

Can you picture it? You are a crown, adored by God, and placed in his hand. What does that placement mean to you? Selah.

For me, it means I’m safe and secure, protected, and blessed with God’s provision. It also means I share his attributes as I receive and wear the crown he has for me.

Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He rightly is the embodiment of Royalty. When we repent of our sins and accept Jesus as our Savior, he comes to dwell within us. His attributes become our attributes.

With Easter drawing near, I’m thinking more about Jesus as a human here on Earth and all he endured as the Son of Man. I’ve pulled some descriptions from the song “ROYALTY” and it brought to light how Jesus truly knows our sufferings. He is not without understanding of our pain and temptations. (Hebrews 4:15)

Take a look at these attributes and see how they can be said of Jesus, but also of ourselves. Which particular words is the Holy Spirit illuminating for you. What are the similarities you have with the life and sufferings of Jesus? Are you willing to accept the descriptions of royalty as your own? Journal about what he’s showing you. Selah.

Who we are:
From rejected to accepted
From forgotten to remembered
From victim to victor
From abandoned to exalted
From broken to beloved
From darkness to light
From death to life

Royalty:
Worthy
Wanted
Chosen
Redeemed
Crowned in dignity
Heirs to majesty
Made for victory
Given authority

He’s holding your crown in his hands. Will you receive and wear it? Is something preventing you from taking this life-changing step? Don’t let lies of unworthiness and shame hinder you from accepting all Jesus has for you. Selah.

Royalty - Francesca Battistelli

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”

— James 1:12 New Living Translation

Good Morning Beauties!

“When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the covenant law in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord.” Exodus 34:29 NIV

When we ignite our spirit with the spirit of God, we are changed and we radiant His light and love, and isn’t that just like God. He blesses us and fills us with His love so we may go and bless others. This continuous blessing occurs as long as we connect with our source of light; otherwise, we will walk around in the dark inspiring no one.

Light also extinguishes darkness…Truth uncovers lies. What lie does God want to illuminate for you today?

Radiant God - Hannah Ford

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’”

— John 8:2 New Living Translation

Victorious Surrender

Good Morning Beauties!

“But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57 (NLT)

We have the victory! Jesus has already won! The enemy is at his feet! Do you believe it? Are you walking in victory? Why not? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what’s hindering your victorious walk with Christ Selah.

I have days when uncertainty and anxiety fill my mind, and it frustrates me. When I look back the next day and assess what happened, it’s usually because I’ve not brought Jesus into my battle. I’ve gone it alone.

“If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.” Matthew 10:39 (NLT) When we live this surrendered life, we can enter any battle with courage, strength, and bravery, knowing Jesus has already won the war. He is our conquering hero!

Victor’s Crown - Darlene Zschech

In view of the precious gift of life from Jesus, let’s bow before him in complete surrender.
I Surrender All - Carrie Underwood

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”

— Revelation 2:10 New International Bible

Royal Servanthood

Hello Beauties!

“‘And to Him (the Messiah) was given dominion (supreme authority), Glory and a kingdom, that all the peoples, nations, and speakers of every language should serve and worship Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion which will not pass away. And His kingdom is one which will not be destroyed.’”
Daniel 7:14 (AMP)

Today we begin discovering truths about our next attribute - Royalty. What is your definition of this word? What do you immediately picture in your mind? Journal your response. Perhaps, draw a picture. Selah.

On previous journeys, I’ve thought about my ancestors who were pig farmers in East Germany and settled mostly in the farmland and small towns of Southeast Kansas. Do you think about your family of origin too? (where they came from and what was their contribution to society) Do you compare your family to that of the British Royal Family perhaps? What do make of this attribute, Royalty? Selah.

In my quiet time with God this morning, he showed me about Jesus’ authority in his leadership. What a beautiful picture he gave me. Jesus has been given Authority over all things, (Ephesians 1:20-21) He is definitely in charge! Despite his Supremacy, Jesus is the epitome of a servant leader. His care and concern for the lives of others above his own is incomparable. His love for those he served created devoted and loyal followers. His close disciples followed him, served others in his name, and died tragic deaths for the name of Jesus. WOW! Now that’s a picture of leadership!

How will his example cause you to lead like Jesus? No longer do you need to believe the lies of the enemy. You can break free from feeling inadequate, overwhelmed, or anxious. From the truth of your royal status, you have the ability to lead with confidence, boldness, humility, and compassion…just like Jesus. Selah.

Here I Am Send Me - Darlene Zschech

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”

— Isaiah 6:8 Amplified Bible

Intimacy

Good Morning Beauties!

“God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:9 (NIV)

I have so much peace about my beauty today…and that’s not always the case. The Lord showed me as my intimacy with him grows, so does my beauty. Fill up and overflow. Simple.

If a stranger on the street were to say to me, “you’re beautiful,” I’d receive it and respond, “thank you so much.” Again, that’s my countenance today, and I’m grateful to God for it.

I was reminded of a powerful video I’ve shared a couple of times on this blog, and I want to share with you today. Please pray before viewing it that your heart would be open to all the Holy Spirit wants to reveal. How has the enemy been lying to you? What truth does God want you to know? Selah.

I must insert a disclaimer - you will hear a couple of people use fowl language, (two words). I apologize for this offense, but believe it’s a manifestation of their pain and still worth watching the video.

25,639,365 views • May 27, 2015
“I created this project for an art class at my high school in Chicago. I wanted to capture the beauty I saw in my peers, but it turned into an experiment about our perception of self halfway through when I realized my classmates were having a variety of reactions; reactions that made me smile and made me sad. I hope you enjoy. And I hope you can see the beauty in yourself as well as others.” - Shea

I think you are beautiful - social experiment

Please journal your response and what you believe about your beauty today. Selah.

I’m highly recommending you spend an extended time with Jesus today and listen to all he wants to share with you. I’ve included a beautiful “soundtrack” for your time together.
Golden Winter Dawn - Tim Janis

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’”

— Matthew 22:36-37 New International Version

Shout For Joy

Good Morning Beauties!

“Oh, come, let us sing to the Lord! Give a joyous shout in honor of the Rock of our salvation!”
Psalm 95:1 (TLB)

The Lord gave me a beautiful picture this morning of the momentous sound joy makes when freedom, grace, and peace collide. What a glorious shout of joy! Can you see it?

I then turned to the concordance in my NIV Bible and looked for scripture with “shout for joy.” Would you believe I found 37 times this phrase was used? There’s something to the action we are called to do in praise of our brilliant King, Jesus!

What if you don’t feel joy and certainly don’t feel like shouting for joy? Is this you right now? The truth about joy is that it goes way beyond your feelings. It’s foundational. Think of it as living underneath your feelings as a support to strengthen you. Selah.

In light of our salvation and all Jesus has done for us, there is plenty to sing and shout about. Please join me in doing a little “shouting” today. “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” Psalm 100:1-2 (NIV)

Shout For Joy - North Central University Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord.”

— Psalm 27:6 New International Version

Prayer + Grace = Peace

Good Morning Beauties!

Grace, grace, God’s grace…..can’t you hear the melody in your mind? Many sweet songs have been written on the subject of God’s grace. I think the simplicity yet complexity of it compels our hearts to know and understand this beautiful gift even more.

“Through God’s marvelous grace sinners are delivered from their sins and brought into a saving relationship with a holy God by the work of God on their behalf completely free of charge. This grace does not cease with salvation from sin’s penalty, but continues on as the foundation of the believer’s life with God throughout all eternity.” Bible.org

During my time with Jesus this morning, he brought an equation to mind. Prayer + Grace = Peace. Though we have been given our salvation through grace, this gift continues. It’s not a one and done, right? So, we all can agree our entire lives are covered with God’s gift of grace. Here’s the question - is there a need to “activate” grace? Can we simply rest on the fact we’ve been given God’s favor and take no action? Through prayer, I believe, we ask for a portion of God’s grace to meet our daily needs.

I picture God’s grace as the gift he’s given us. We must receive it and then open it to ignite his power. Have you received this precious gift of salvation and favor? Are you in the habit of opening your gift of grace through prayer? Are you willing to ask for what you need in prayer instead of trying to handle things on your own? Selah.

“Do not 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.”
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

“Grace always brings benefits and one of these benefits is reflected in the word “peace” which the Apostle Paul always associates with God’s grace. In fact, the order is significant. First grace and then peace. Until we know and appropriate grace, we can’t experience peace.” Bible.org

Are you experiencing any stress or anxiety right now? Are you willing to ask God to reveal how the enemy is destroying your peace? Are you ready to ask Him to cover the issue with his amazing grace and silence the enemy? Selah.

Jesus has given each of his followers the gift of amazing grace. Let’s worship our Lord and King for this life-changing blessing and the peace it provides.
Amazing Grace - Reawaken Hymns
Peace - Bethel Music

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”

— Ephesians 2:8-9 New International Version

Joy of Freedom

Happy Lord’s Day Beauties!

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 (ESV)

The subject of our freedom found in Christ is deep and wide, just like his love. Today I have some questions to begin your thought process on what you currently believe about your freedom. Please take time to dig into the Holy Scriptures and pray with God, then journal your responses and allow the Spirit to bring new information to ponder.

What is freedom? Just how does Jesus provide your freedom? What exactly has he set you free from and set you free to? Can you loose your freedom? In light of your answers, what lies have you uncovered about your freedom? Selah.

Here’s a powerful song to spend time in worship with a grateful heart. Let’s thank Jesus for the freedom He’s given us.
Found My Freedom - I Am They

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”

— Galatians 5:1 English Standard Version

The Father’s Imparted Joy

Good Morning Beauties!

“May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, Selah. That your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon earth. Selah. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! The earth has yielded its increase; God, our God, shall bless us. God shall bless us; let all the ends of the earth fear him!” Psalm 67 (ESV)

I absolutely love this verse, especially as we begin our third attribute, Joyful. I’ll admit, it’s one of my favorites because it’s foundational to our life in Christ. More than a feeling, it’s our underlying support system given as a gift from God.

We know the enemy comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. Where has he stolen your joy? Will you allow the Holy Spirit to reveal some of those places so you can bring them to the Lord? Selah.

Those lies of the enemy can be replaced by the truth of God’s word today. Let’s look at a few verses to bring you encouragement on your journey.

“Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away the judgments against you; he has cleared away your enemies. The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall never again fear evil. On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: ‘Fear not, O Zion; let not your hands grow weak. The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.’” Zephaniah 3:14-17 (ESV)

Do you believe God looks upon you with great joy? It’s true. This is the good news, found in God’s Word. You have been forgiven, your enemies have been defeated, the Lord is with you, his perfect love has taken away all fear, he has given you strength, and he rejoices over you with singing. Now that, my Beauties, is a reason to sing and shout!!

Let’s get on our feet and give all our praise and adoration with a joyful spirit to the One and Only, Jesus!
Every Praise - Hezekiah Walker

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“ I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!”

— John 15:11 New Living Translation

Beautiful Loving Arms

Good Morning Beauties!

“He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.” Psalm 91:4 (NLT)

Today as we return to our main theme, You Are Beautiful, let’s check in and assess how our journey is progressing.

I like to go back to my notes from the Day of Preparation to see how I’m doing. You may want to try this practice as well.

Are your expectations being met? Is there something more you want or need? More from you, more from God? What adjustments will you make? How are your action plans working to destroy any obstacles keeping you from a successful journey experience? Do you need to make any tweaks to them, or perhaps create a new one? Are you staying motivated? We’re 10 days into the journey. Are you feeling excited to meet with Jesus each day or has it become another item you check off your “to do list”? Please take time to ponder these questions to ensure you make any needed adjustments as you move forward on your journey.

This morning I felt a great need to just stop and be held by Jesus. An intentional time of resting in his arms and being loved. His love is an outpouring of his beauty and I needed time to rest in that beauty.

What are you needing from Jesus today? Selah.

Arms of Love - Vineyard Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“You are beautiful, my darling, beautiful beyond words. ”

— Song of Solomon 4:1 New Living Translation

Strength + Humility = Loveliness

Good Morning Beauties!

How are you processing the truth of your loveliness today? What has the Spirit revealed, perhaps as a something you weren’t expecting. What lies have been uncovered? Selah.

I’m still reflecting on the dichotomy of Jesus’ character - he’s all powerful - like a lion, and at the same time he’s a humble servant - tender as a lamb who laid down his very life for us. He provides all the strength we need for any situation and shows us the way to lay down our lives to serve others in all humility.

I’ve included two passages of scripture describing the beauty of Jesus. Please take time to read through them a few times to get to know Jesus on a more intimate level. What is the Spirit illuminating for you? Pay careful attention to all he wants to reveal to you. Selah.

The Majesty of Jesus

“1 Lord, our Lord,
    how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory
    in the heavens.
2 Through the praise of children and infants
    you have established a stronghold against your enemies,
    to silence the foe and the avenger.
3 When I consider your heavens,
    the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
    which you have set in place,
4 what is mankind that you are mindful of them,
    human beings that you care for them?
5 You have made them a little lower than the angels
    and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You made them rulers over the works of your hands;
    you put everything under their feet:
7 all flocks and herds,
    and the animals of the wild,
8 the birds in the sky,
    and the fish in the sea,
    all that swim the paths of the seas.
9 Lord, our Lord,
    how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
Psalm 8 (NIV)

Imitating Christ’s Humility

“1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature God,
    did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature of a servant,
    being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross!
9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
    and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
    in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father.”
Philippians 2:1-11 (NIV)

We are a reflection of Christ who lives in us. How do you see yourself in relation to strength and humility? Are there any lies you can immediately identify? Are you uncomfortable with surrendering your strength for his? Is serving others too humiliating to consider? Where is the enemy keeping you from the freedom Christ has for you? Selah.

Let’s celebrate this awesome and beautiful Jesus!
Isn’t He (This Jesus) - Natalie Grant

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.”

— 1 Chronicles 29:11 New International Version

Posture of Humility

Good Morning Beauties!

“And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’” Luke 23:34 (ESV)

There will never be a more perfect example of humility. After humiliation, rejection, and torture, with a pending undeserved death on a cross, Jesus had his persecutors (us) on his mind. His selfless love asks God the Father to forgive those who had sinned against him…once again that means us.

Could we ever be so humble? It’s surely something we can strive for with the help of the Holy Spirit. Scripture shows us the way in Jesus’ two commandments. “‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:36-39 (NIV)

A simple definition of pride is, “Continual thought on self” When we focus our lives on our love for Jesus and our love for others, we relinquish the focus on ourselves and grow in humility.

How are you doing in this area of your life? Take a moment to assess the amount of time you spend each day thinking of Jesus, others, and yourself. What are those percentages? How will you intentionally move more of your time thinking of yourself to the other two categories? Selah.

I was once moved by a song with the lyrics, “I want to leave a legacy, how will they remember me? Did I choose to love, did I point to you (Jesus) enough?” The words motivated me to make my whole life about Jesus, so once I was gone, people would say, “Kendra really loved Jesus and lived her life for him.”

A new song has replaced this way of thinking for me. “Only Jesus” by Casting Crowns contains a deeper message of humility. “And I, I don’t want to leave a legacy. I don’t care if they remember me, only Jesus.” See the difference? Let’s go deeper in our desire to lay down our lives, so we vanish and people will see only Jesus. Are you in? Selah.

Only Jesus - Casting Crowns

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“ I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

— Galatians 2:20 New International Version

Majesty, Worship His Majesty

Good Morning Beauties!

“On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.” Psalm 145:5 (ESV)

Majesty, what a beautiful description of our one and only God. It’s a little hard to define, much like the word “glory”. Write down your definition of Majesty. You may even want to draw a picture or write a poem.

Let’s take a look at a Biblical definition. “Greatness of appearance; dignity; grandeur; dignity of aspect or manner; the quality or state of a person or thing which inspires awe or reverence in the beholder; applied with peculiar propriety to God and his works. It’s root word comes from major - greater.”

When I hear the word “majesty”, I think of God’s strength and power. It’s a word I use for God alone because no one else can possibly compare to the absolute greatness of Almighty God. Being clothed in his power and strength makes me feel safe and protected. What about you? Has there been a time when you needed God’s protection and he was right there for you? Though it may not have seemed like it at the time, can you look back and know that he was there for you? Selah.

As I pondered this very question today, God brought me back to times in my life when I needed his protection, and he was there - always there. Even though there have been times when I’ve cried out, “where are you, God?” I held firm to the truth “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5 (NIV) Can you relate at all?

We have a loving God, who in his awesome splendor and majesty is with us in every moment of our lives. Let’s praise him today as we meditate on this truth… “Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.” 1 Chronicles 29:11-13 (NIV)

Remember - Lauren Daigle

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty and splendor; The Lord has clothed and encircled Himself with strength; the world is firmly established, it cannot be moved.”

— Psalm 93:1 Amplified Bible

Sweet Surrender

Good Morning Beauties!

“How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” Psalm 84:1-2 (NIV)

Today we begin our next attribute, “Lovely.” What do you believe about this truth, that you are lovely? What thoughts and emotions does this word stir in you? Do you think of physical features or do you consider your internal nature and self? What stories from the past does this word, lovely, cause your mind to recall? Selah.

For me, Jesus continues to reveal more and more about this truth each time I take another journey. He has shown me I don’t always have to be strong and fierce; I can trust his strength and be the tender and sweet woman he’s created. I’ve used my strength as a protection mechanism in the past, and he’s shown me it’s not necessary any longer. He’s my strength and protector.

Today, the Holy Spirit revealed even more truth; I equate strength with control. With this revelation, I asked myself, “have I completely surrendered my control to God?” The honest answer is no. There are still parts of my life that I’m controlling and not surrendering to God. The next question, “why?” The quest for the answer led me to the Bible. Psalm 136 reminded me how God’s love is never failing, and I can fully trust him with every single nook and cranny of my life. He is the very center of the word lovely. Sometimes it’s so obvious, right?

I pray this Psalm brings truth to you today as well. Reflect in your journal all the Holy Spirit reveals to you.
Psalm 136:1-26 (CEV)
1 Praise the Lord! He is good.
    God's love never fails.
2 Praise the God of all gods.
    God's love never fails.
3 Praise the Lord of lords.
    God's love never fails.
4 Only God works great miracles.
    God's love never fails.
5 With wisdom he made the sky.
    God's love never fails.
6 The Lord stretched the earth
over the ocean.
    God's love never fails.
7 He made the bright lights
in the sky.
    God's love never fails.
8 He lets the sun rule each day.
    God's love never fails.
9 He lets the moon and the stars
rule each night.
    God's love never fails.
10 God struck down the first-born
in every Egyptian family.
    God's love never fails.
11 He rescued Israel from Egypt.
    God's love never fails.
12 God used his great strength
and his powerful arm.
    God's love never fails.
13 He split the Red Sea[b] apart.
    God's love never fails.
14 The Lord brought Israel safely
through the sea.
    God's love never fails.
15 He destroyed the Egyptian king
and his army there.
    God's love never fails.
16 The Lord led his people
through the desert.
    God's love never fails.
17 Our God defeated mighty kings.
    God's love never fails.
18 And he killed famous kings.
    God's love never fails.
19 One of them was Sihon,
king of the Amorites.
    God's love never fails.
20 Another was King Og of Bashan.
    God's love never fails.
21 God took away their land.
    God's love never fails.
22 He gave their land to Israel,
the people who serve him.
    God's love never fails.
23 God saw the trouble we were in.
    God's love never fails.
24 He rescued us from our enemies.
    God's love never fails.
25 He gives food to all who live.
    God's love never fails.
26 Praise God in heaven!
    God's love never fails.

Let’s praise him today for being all the strength we need.
Strength of My Life - Vertical Worship

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.”

— Isaiah 12:2 New International Version

Grateful Praise

Good Morning Beauties!

“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” Colossians 3:16 (NIV)

This morning I woke up with a song in my heart in gratitude to the Lord for all he’s done in just these first 5 days of my journey. He is faithful to join us each day as we meet with him and open our minds to his truth. Here are a few truths I believe with confidence:
I believe God allows me to forget the former things so I can live a new life as his daughter.
I believe God loves me despite my sin.
I believe my generosity is an expression of God’s beauty.
I believe God’s beauty lives in me and overflows to others.

How about you? What truths do you now believe from the first 5 days of your journey? What has God revealed as a new truth, and what truth has he confirmed? Selah.

Let’s take a humble posture as we sing this song in gratitude to our beautiful Jesus.
Gratitude - Brandon Lake

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands.”

— Psalm 63:4 New International Version

Overflow

Good Morning Beauties!

At this time of year, I can’t help but remember back to when I was a child growing up in the Catholic church and surrendering my desire for sweets as a way of participating in Lent. This sacrifice was explained simply, Christ gave up his life for me, so I must give up something for him. Even as a child, I could understand that concept.

So now, as an adult, born-again Christian, I look differently at this childhood tradition. My thoughts ponder all Christ has given me - his very life, and his sacrifice compels me to give, not give up.

In light of all Christ has given you, what are you willing to give to him and others? Here’s a few things on my list: my obedience, my time, my rights, my talents, my comfort. What are the items on your list? Selah.

Generosity is BEAUTIFUL! Paul’s encouragement to the Corinthians to be generous is found in 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 (NIV) Please read through these verses and discover some ways we can reflect the beauty, light, and love of Jesus through our generosity.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NIV)

The harvest is here. Millions and millions of people are desperate for the hope of Jesus, and we have the amazing privilege of bringing it to them. But here’s the thing - are we living in the spirit of overflow, or are we worn out and dry with nothing to give? Are you trying to give from your own strength or that of the Holy Spirit? Are you being filled with the Holy Spirit, or is there just no time for that? Ouch! Selah.

Beauties, I want to give you a tremendous blessing today in the form of a prayer - a musical prayer. Please take just 10 minutes to open your hearts and “fill up” with the Spirit so you can truly overflow with the light of Jesus to those around you.
Fill Me Up / Overflow - Tasha Cobbs

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else...”

— 1 Thessalonians 3:12 New International Version

Loved Through The Mess

Good Morning Beauties!

“Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.” Psalm 90:14 (NIV)

Ahhhh, God’s UNFAILING LOVE! How beautiful and marvelous it is. His love is greater than any sin, and it covers all our mistakes. God truly loves us above all things, (sin).

Just take a look at this precious little girl. She’s quite a mess! Even so, what’s the first thing you see? I see her bright eyes and confident smile - she knows she’s loved and accepted. She is eager to show her masterpiece to the world - despite a bit of misplaced paint.

God sees you the same way! Despite your “mess,” his love will never fail or give up on you…NEVER. We still want to encourage this child in her creative endeavors, hug and kiss her, and then go clean her up, right?

Why is this truth so hard to believe? Do you struggle with thinking God’s love ebbs and flows right along with your behavior? Do you believe his love is greater when your behavior is good and then diminishes when you sin? Selah.

Don’t believe the enemy!! Remember our John 10:10 verse, “The enemy comes only to steal, kill, and destroy…” He is the Father of Lies and uses his tactics to destroy our confidence, purpose, and relationship with God.

He is a master deceiver, and I recently fell for one of his deceptions. He actually had me believing I was a sluggard. The spiritual meaning of this word is, “a habitually lazy person.” In most of my career, I’ve worked every day of the week and very long hours, equating to roughly 65 -70 hours per week. Right now, I’m in job transition and working part time. It’s certainly not the pace I’m used to working; however, I am volunteering as a board member of a nonprofit, continuing to grow this women’s ministry, building my husband’s home styling business, and am active in my job search. Hardly a sluggard!

Though I fell for the lie, this time, I do fail at times and make a mess of things. My sin causes harm to others and to my relationship with God. Instead of feeling like I’ve ruined everything for ever, I ask for forgiveness and restore what was broken. Let’s look at a great example from the Bible. Here is King David’s plea after he had committed adultery with Bathsheba “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.” Psalm 51:1-2 (NIV) The entire Psalm is beautiful, and I highly recommend you read it in its entirety.

The enemy is our accuser, and Jesus is our restorer. What is the enemy accusing you of right now? Write down your thoughts and allow Jesus to bring truth to those lies. If you have knowledge of sin in your life, confess it to Jesus, ask for his forgiveness, and be restored.

One Thing Remains - Jesus Culture

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“In your unfailing love, silence my enemies; destroy all my foes, for I am your servant.”

— Psalm 143:12 New International Version

The Wedding Day

Good Morning Beauties!

“All glorious is the princess within her chamber; her gown is interwoven with gold. In embroidered garments she is led to the King…” Psalm 45:13-14 (NIV)

You are a daughter of the King, not just any king, but The Most High King, the King of Kings! Take time to grasp that reality. This is truly who you are. Selah.

I love Psalm 45. The Lord brought me to verses 10 -11 years ago to heal some deep wounds. “Listen, daughter, and pay careful attention: Forget your people and your father’s house. The King is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord.” This is such a tender truth spoken from our dear Abba Father. He implores us to listen, to make sure we hear him and believe what he’s about to say. Then he instructs us to forget the past and move into the future in our new life with Christ. Beautiful.

What’s going through your mind right now? Does all this seem a little too unreal? What’s causing any difficulty in fully believing your rightful title of Daughter of The King? Is there anything holding you back from moving forward in your new life with Jesus? Please journal your responses. Selah.

Psalm 45 is a moving wedding song that beautifully describes the King and Bride on their special day. Please make time to read and reflect on the majesty of The King and the honor and favor that belong to the Princess. I promise it will bless your soul.

One day, you will be that princess being led to The King. What a glorious day that will be!
I Can’t Wait - Merchant Band

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“Daughters of kings are among your honored women; at your right hand is the royal bride in gold of Ophir.”

— Psalm 45:9 New International Version

His Beauty Abounds on Our Journey

Good Morning Beauties!

Thank you so much for joining me on this Easter 40 Day Journey. If you’re looking for spiritual renewal, hope, and life transformation, you’re in the right place. Our journey is based on the promise found in John 10:10, “The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I (Jesus) came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows].” (NIV)

A little instruction is necessary before we dive in to today’s truth. Please know that everyone’s journey is personal, so there’s no right or wrong way to travel on this path. It’s uniquely yours. I will provide a process and thoughts that have helped me along the way, and you can choose to follow them or not. The ultimate goal is to grow in your intimacy with Jesus and know who he created you to be - your true identity in Christ.

The process is simple. Whether you are using the You Are Beautiful Selah journal or another one, it’s important to write thoughts, revelations, and prayers down on paper. Writing things down was important to God, so it is wise to follow his lead. You’ll begin by designating your “sacred space.” Find that special place where you can be alone with God. It may be at a desk, or walking outside on your favorite path.

You’ll want to start your journey each day with prayer and follow these steps: Invite Jesus to join you and provide revelation about that day’s lyric and truth. Next, listen to the song, “You Are Beautiful,” found on the website. Open your mind and spirit to the truths found in the song. Next, grab your journal and answer the question, “What do I believe about this TRUTH?” You may not believe it at all - be honest and write down your thoughts.

The next part is to spend time with God in the way he best speaks to you. Perhaps you hear him reading your Bible, singing praise and worship songs, or being surrounded by his glorious nature. Whatever it is, meet with him and discuss your beliefs about that day’s truth. Allow yourself time to really hear what he wants you to know. Journal your response to the revelation of HIS TRUTH.

You’ll end your time once again in prayer. Write down your prayer as a way of thanking Jesus for meeting with you and showing you the lies of the enemy so you can replace them with his truth. In the many many journey experiences I’ve ventured on, (I think it’s up to about 14 by now) this is the process I’ve found to be most helpful.

This blog is used at anytime during your process. I use it as a guide and encouragement for you as I share revelation the Lord has shared with me. Again, please use it as you want. You may want to join me here everyday, once in awhile, or not at all. Each is completely fine - this is YOUR journey. If at anytime you want to reach out with a question, comment, or prayer request, please contact me through the “Let’s Connect” part of my website. I’d love to chat and pray with you!

Okay, let’s move on to today’s first truth, “You Are Beautiful.” What is your first reaction to this truth? Before we can determine if we believe it, we must define it. When you think of beauty, do you immediately think of physical beauty? If so, when did you first hear a message about your physical beauty? What is your earliest memory? Though we are bombarded with standards of beauty, especially in Western culture, I believe it’s key to go back and understand where we first developed our ideas and beliefs about our own beauty.

Do your thoughts go beyond physical beauty and your first reaction is to inner beauty? I’ve found that focusing on inner beauty sometimes leads to judging behavior. Which behaviors are considered beautiful? Which ones are considered not beautiful? Will this continual judgement help you find your true beauty?

Do you think it’s both physical and inner beautiful - the entire package? Will this assessment always be able to meet your standard of beauty?

Or is true beauty something we already possess because, as Christians, we have Jesus living inside of us, and he personifies beauty? Think of the most beautiful person you know….is it the their physical appearance, their behavior, or the spirit of Jesus shining through that person making them truly beautiful? Selah. (Stop and ponder these things.)

Jesus, our Savior and King is absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Let’s take time to worship him today. Here’s a song to help us get started….
You’re Beautiful - Phil Wickham

Love and Blessings,
Kendra

“The King is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord.”

— Psalm 45:11 New International Version