Devotions With Deanna

Did you grow in grace this year? As a leader, I personally strive to live a balanced life mentally, spiritually, and physically. When I put all my past experiences, spiritual gifts, and core values together, it is a beautiful representation of God's vision for my life. Here in my counseling office, my goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental place where my clients can be vulnerable and honest about the issues they are facing. My desire is to help others live out God's vision for their lives and inspire them to become a person after God's own heart. And that is what the goal of this year's broadcast has been about – Biblically based devotions designed to inspire you to embrace God's vision for your life. Today's Scripture Reference 2 Peter 3:11-18 – The Message Goals I had put into place for 2022: To Live in Peace Make a diligent effort to live for peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Are you angry with God? Are you holding Him at a distance? 1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not the author of [a]confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.” Live for peace in your own life by allowing the Spirit of grace to witness within your spirit that you are a child of God. Some of us are masters at rehearsing all the negative thoughts about ourselves. What does God say about you? What has He said about you that you refuse to believe because the lie seems more like the truth to you? Live for peace with men determined to have a calm and peaceable disposition within yourself that resembles Jesus Christ. Romans 14:19 – “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” To Live on Guard Word of caution to be on the lookout and be aware of being pulled away from the truth of God's Word. I believe the Bible is the inerrant, inspired Word of the Living God. The Bible is the final authority on all matters of life, faith, and practice. Why is it, that is the last place we look when faced with serious matters? 1 Peter 5:8 – “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” Ephesians 6:10-18 – The Whole Armor of God To Live like Jesus Grow in grace. Grow in knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Spurgeon - One of the best tests of growth in grace "Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 3:18 "Grow in grace"—not in one grace only, but in all the Christian graces. Faith - Grow in the starting place of grace, faith. Believe the promises more firmly than you have before. Let faith increase in fullness, constancy and simplicity. Love - Grow also in love. Ask that your love may become extended, more intense, more practical, influencing every thought, word and deed. Humility - Grow likewise in humility. Seek to lie very low, and know more of your own nothingness. Those who know God the best are the richest and most powerful in prayer. Little acquaintance with God, and strangeness and coldness to Him, make prayer a rare and feeble thing. (E. M. Bounds) Life Application Questions 1. Did you live in peace this year? 2. Did you live on guard this year? 3. Did you live like Jesus this year? 4. If you answered yes, don't stop just because the year is coming to an end…keep going! If you answered no, don't ever stop pursuing growing in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Any effort towards growth in grace is growth. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Avoiding Deception Replay Steps to Avoid Deception 1. Know your Bible. 2. Regular Bible study on your own is the only way to really know the word of God. It is your responsibility to lay a strong foundation against deception. You Version Bible App; Daily Audio Bible; International Bible Study groups such as Bible Study Fellowship or Community Bible Study. 3. Apply your knowledge of the scriptures to that which is unusual or “extraordinary”. 4. Ask questions. There is nothing wrong with having a healthy skepticism. Always confirm what you hear, see, or read by going to the scriptures for the answers. 5. Learn to go to God on your own. Deception can happen when you look to someone else for the answers and not God. No one can study the Bible for you. Studying the Bible for yourself is how your faith will grow. Our Ultimate Goal: To possess, to take hold of and have a firm foundation that is strong, true, and able to withstand the attacks of the enemy and to discern that which is false. How? By self-examination, prayer, watchfulness, and diligent study of God's Word. The great news is that God designed things so that you don't have to live in deception and sin forever. He provided His Truth, His Word to lead and guide us through life here on earth. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Debilitating Suicidal Thoughts to Redemptive God's Grace - Replay --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today's Scripture References 1 John 2:1 “My little children, these things I write to you, that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have and Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” The main theme of 1 John is fellowship with God. John writes to reassure his readers that God will indwell in them through their abiding relationship with Him. When you believe in Jesus Christ, have fellowship with Jesus, you start to take on the characteristics of Christ. Characteristics such as righteousness, love for others, joy, and confidence start to become a part of you. There are conditions for fellowship with the Father and with His Son, Jesus and those conditions are to walk in the light and confess our sins. And when we do sin, we have an advocate, Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is our advocate. Advocate comes from the Greek word, parakletos (a name given to the Holy Spirit, our Helper); Advocate means one who pleads another's cause, who helps another by defending or comforting him. There are four guarantees from Jesus Christ as our Defender: His Prayer, His Protection, His Provision, and His Perseverance. 1. His Prayer – Luke 22:31-34 “And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.” 2. His Protection – Hebrews 13:6 “So we may boldly say: The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” 3. His Provision – Psalm 23:1 “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” John 10:28-29 “And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father's hand.” 4. His Perseverance – 2 Timothy 4:17-18 “But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!” These are the four guarantees from Jesus Christ as our Defender: His Prayer, His Protection, His Provision, and His Perseverance. Life Application Questions 1. Are you looking to Jesus Christ as your advocate, your defender? 2. Are there times in your life where you can look back and see He prayed for you, He protected you, He provided for you, and He never stopped persevering on your behalf? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today's Scripture References Psalm 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my redeemer.” What Words Are You Using? Are the words coming from your mouth consistent with the Word of God and God's will for your life? More specifically, are the words coming from your mouth consistent with what God says about you? As a believer of Jesus Christ and consistently growing in grace, consistently growing to be Christlike, we are to speak in ways that please the Lord. When you are being self-critical, self-sabotaging yourself with your own words, that is not pleasing to the Lord. What is pleasing to the Lord is speaking truth about Him and truth about His love for you. What is pleasing to the Lord is consistently speaking God's truth over your life and then coming into alignment with what God's Word says about you. 1. I am not stupid; I have been given the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:16, “For “Who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ.” 2. I am not going to worry about this situation; I can cast all my anxiety on Christ Who cares for me. 1 Peter 5:7 “Casting all your care upon Him, for He care for you.” In my bible I wrote over the word care, anxiety – attached to the need for control. 1. I am not alone; I have Jesus with me always and He will never leave me or forsake me. Matthew 28:20 “teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Hebrew 13:5 “Let your conduct be without covetousness and be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” What is Really in Your Heart? Psalm 37:4 “Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” According to the Strong's Concordance, heart is defined as: heart, intellect, awareness, mind, inner person, inner feelings, deepest thoughts, inner self. The Hebrew concept of “heart” is both the physical organ and a person's inner desires. Israel's Commandment: Deuteronomy 6:5 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might.” Jesus Emphasis on this great Commandment: Mark 12:29-30, “Jesus answered him, “The first of all the commandments is: “Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” This is the first commandment.” Take time this week to really think about what your inner man is feeling and thinking. Are you so negative on the inside towards yourself due to past mistakes, failures, or traumatic experiences? If you are caught in that trap and lie, I want to encourage you that you can change those negative thoughts about yourself to more positive thoughts. It takes a step of faith, courage, and determination to make the necessary adjustments in your life toward healthy changes. What is Acceptable to God? If you would commit to doing something like the above to change your negative belief about yourself, you will begin to see your speech and your heart towards yourself change. Speaking and thinking in ways that you know please the Lord, is what is acceptable to God. Romans 12:1-2 “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

4 Things That Hinder Your Growth 1. Lack of Knowledge – Acts 18:24-28 2.Carnality – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 3. Instability – Ephesians 4:7-15 4. Dullness – Hebrews 5:9-14 Life Application Questions 1. Can you identify any areas of your life that are hindering you in your spiritual growth? 2. Are you at the same level when you first became a Christian or do you see yourself growing spiritually mature? 3. Are you being deceived in any area of your life? 4. Has your hearing become dull? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today's Scripture References 2 Peter 17-18 “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.” 4 Points to Remember 1. God loves you: you are His beloved. 2. God has expectations from you: to be faithful and obedient to Him. 3. God warns you: there are wicked people in this world, and they desire to lead you astray to disobey Him. 4. God has a goal for your life: to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. As you ponder on today's scripture, really think about how God loves you and expects you to respond to His lovingkindness towards you. Think about the warning He gives you and how you can respond to those who may cross your path to mislead you. Think about your spiritual growth so far this year. How much spiritual growth have you experienced? Has God seen you grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Savior Jesus Christ? Measure Your Spiritual Growth It is important to measure your spiritual growth against a standard or plumb line. How do you measure your spiritual growth? By studying and applying the Word of God to your life. This is the standard, the plumb line that will help you stay in alignment. The more aligned you are with the Word of God, the less effort it takes to respond to God's love with faith and obedience. The less effort it will take to spot the wicked ones who intend to mislead you. The less effort it will take to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Savior Jesus Christ. Here are 5 verses to start using today as a standard to measure your spiritual growth. Fruitfulness – John 15:2 “ Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.”; John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” Increase – 2 Corinthians 9:10 “Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness,” Addition – 2 Peter 1:5-10 Fruitful Growth in the Faith – “But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble;” Growth – 1 Peter 2:1-2 Our Inheritance Through Christ's Blood – “Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.” Building up – Jude 20 Maintain Your Life with God – “But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

The month of September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Month. Mental Health is so important, regardless of what you do for a living. Today, for the second time in this format, I want to share my personal story of how I have come from battling suicidal thoughts to experiencing God's redemptive grace and the Abundant Life that Jesus Christ offers to all of us. John 10:10, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Satan is a thief. His main purpose is to rob, kill and destroy you. He will rob you of your purity, standards, strength, and the blessings of knowing and serving God. He will destroy your defenses by drawing you away from the Word, Fellowship and from prayer. He seeks to destroy your freedom and place you under bondage. But Jesus came that you may have life! Every life that is dramatically and wonderfully changed by believing in Christ is a testimony. Here is my testimony - Full testimony can be found on my website: www.eaglesrestcounseling.com If you are suffering with suicidal thoughts, please dial 988. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

3 Ways to Respond to God's Grace Romans 12:1-2 “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” What is my responsibility as a Christian for the love and grace that God gives to me? He has done his part, now what is my part? You may be thinking, how is it possible to know what my responsibility entails if I don't even really grasp what God's grace is all about. One way to remember what God's grace is that it is God's riches at Christ's Expense. Grace in simple terms is God's unmerited favor, His supernatural enablement, and His empowerment for salvation and for daily sanctification. Grace is everything for nothing to those who don't deserve anything. Grace is what every man needs, what none can earn and what God Alone can and does freely give. The gift of grace makes men fit for salvation, miraculously making separated strangers into God's beloved sons. 2 Corinthians 8:9 The Story of Redemption in Christ Ephesians 1:4-6 We have the responsibility to respond to God's grace freely given to us. The simplicity of our responsibility includes these 3 things: 1. Present your bodies as a living sacrifice – how do we do this? First, agree to make the decision to surrender yourself to God, this is a simple choice and challenge to every believer. Second, realize presenting yourself will always require a sacrifice. God wants a living sacrifice, all that we are, so we can be a continuous light to the world as we serve Him. He wants to use us for His glory. 2. Do not be conformed to this world – how do we do this? “Conformed refers to conforming oneself to the outer fashion or outward appearance, accommodating oneself to a model or pattern. Even apparent or superficial conformity to the present world system or any accommodation to its ways would be fatal to the Christian life.” Don't be conformed to our current world system, its values, or its goals in regard to the moral issues. 3. Be transformed by the renewing of your mind – how do we do this? By reading the Word of God on a consistent basis. As you read, allow the Holy Spirit to radically transform your way of thinking. This requires sacrificing your time, learning new ways to think. We want to renew our mind so that we know what God's will is for our lives and then actually doing His will. 1. Are you presenting your whole body as a living sacrifice to the Lord to be used for His glory? 2. Are you conforming to the world's ways, or do you need to adjust things in your life where you are reflecting more of Jesus' to the world around you? 3. Are you actively renewing your mind by reading the Word of God on a more consistent basis? Romans 12:1-2 (MSG) Place Your Life Before God --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Just because you are leader doesn't mean you are immune to discouragement. One major indication that you have succumbed to discouragement is that you become unconcerned with your personal relationships. And if you are discouraged, do not be embarrassed or ashamed. Today, I want to encourage you that you do not have to surrender to discouragement. You have the choice and power to flip your discouragement into encouragement.Hebrews 12:14-17 “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled; lest there be any fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of food sold his birthright. For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears.” 1. Pursue Peace: Pursue is an action word and it means to run after or pursue in order to catch. We are to pursue (go after) peace with all people. Make things right in your relationships with people within your circle. If you need to apologize and ask for forgiveness, go, and apologize and ask for forgiveness. If you need to forgive, go, and forgive. 2. Pursue Holiness: Make things right in your relationship with God. Leviticus 19:2, “Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” As David Guzik's commentary states, “Regarding holiness, we are told without which no will see the Lord. A lack of holiness is a critical obstacle to a close relationship with God.” 3. Pursue the Grace of God: Going after God's grace will keep bitterness from coming up in your heart. Going after God's grace will keep bitterness from spreading. Bitterness can come from holding on to pain and hurt of your past. When you focus on the grace of God, you can move past the pain and hurt and extend that grace God gives to you to others. 4. Pursue Pure Moral Behavior: Matthew 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” I love how The Message Bible reads, “Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God's lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. You well know how Esau later regretted that impulsive act and wanted God's blessing—but by then it was too late, tears or no tears.” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Fear of the Lord – Is this a thing of the past? What does it really mean to fear the Lord? How can I incorporate this into my daily life? Does fearing the Lord still exist? It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out we are living in an ungodly morally corrupt society. Lawlessness, corrupt behavior, etc. So, how do we stay steady and on course living a morally just life? How do we live a life that claims we fear the Lord? Our answers can be found in the Book of Proverbs. J Vernon McGee Commentary: Proverbs written by Solomon is not just a collection of sayings without any regard for orderly arrangement. The book of Proverbs tells a story of a young man starting out in life. Two schools bid for him – One is the school of Wisdom, which is seen as the Lord Jesus Christ and the other is the school for fools. We see this young man's first lesson in: Proverbs 1:7 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Fear of the Lord – To recognize His might and His holiness; To have the proper reverence and awe towards our Creator, the One who created us and to our Redeemer, the One who redeemed us from an eternal life in Hell. To have the proper respect and honor of God. This is the key repeated throughout the book of Proverbs. It is the means and the secret to obtaining genuine wisdom. The fear of the Lord is not to be afraid of the terror of a tyrant, but rather the awe and respect that leads to obedience to Him. Dr. A. W. Tozer (1897-1963) comments, “The fear of God is... astonished reverence. I believe that the reverential fear of God mixed with love and fascination and astonishment and admiration and devotion is the most enjoyable state and the most satisfying emotion the human soul can know.” The beginning of knowledge – is to regard God with respect, reverence, and awe. Once this starting point of having the right relationship with God is established, then growth in knowledge and true wisdom can happen. Fools despise wisdom and instruction – there is no dread of God's wrath, nor is there a desire of God's favor. Fools do not want to even hear how they can escape God's wrath and obtain His favor. As you continue to read in Proverbs, there are 19 other references to fearing the Lord that is perfect description of a God-fearing person. They avoid evil; they cultivate humility; they live righteously; they live securely; they are content in life; they are praised by others. The Book of Proverbs is designed to create a need and desire for wisdom, a prevention and remedy for ungodly behaviors and lifestyles, a how-to manual for practical righteousness in every area of your life. I believe we are living in a time when the question is not, do you want to be a wise person, but when are you going to begin asking the Lord for wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in all areas of your life? The body of Christ needs this. The world needs to see God-fearing Christians. This is our legacy, and all people deserve to be handed down this awesome legacy. In my opinion, it's the only the way to live. Proverbs 14:2 “He walks in his uprightness fears the Lord, but he who is perverse in his ways despises Him.” Do others see in you that you fear God? Life Application Questions 1. Do you have a healthy fear the Lord? 2. Is there someone you lead that desperately needs God's wisdom in their lives? Are you willing to share with them the foundation, fearing God? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Scripture Reference Psalms 7:1 – “O Lord my God, in You I put my trust; Save me from all those who persecute me; And deliver me,” “God deserves your trust.” I read this line in the commentary of my Experiencing God Bible this week. And that is where I want to take us today. God does deserve our trust. Here are 3 of my personal reasons: 1. He alone is trustworthy and will never ever break your trust. 2. He will save you. 3. He will deliver you. TRUST – for such a small word, this word is powerful and can either make or break relationships. Merriam-Webster defines trust as assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something; one in which confidence is placed. Self-Discovery Through Temperament Trust in God Doesn't Have to Be Hard – It Just Requires Time I. Laying the Foundation – 4 Essentials Needed 1. It is essential to know without a shadow of doubt that God loves you with an everlasting love. 2. It is essential to seek to do His will. 3. It is essential to not trust in yourself alone. 4. It is essential to not trust in just people alone. II. You Have a Foundation - Build Your Trust in God God is your refuge in difficult times. God is your guide in difficult times. God is faithful in difficult times. III. You Have a Foundation and Testimony's of Trust - The Finished Product of Trust 1. Your life will be blessed. Psalms 84:12 “O Lord of hosts, Blessed is the man who trusts in You!” 2. Your life will be filled with perfect peace. Isaiah 26:8 “Yes, in the way of Your judgments, O Lord, we have waited for You; The desire of our soul is for Your name And for the remembrance of You.” Isaiah 26:12 “Lord, You will establish peace for us, For You have also done all our works in us.” Life Application Questions 1. Do you believe God deserves your trust? Why or why not? If not, what can you start doing to get to that place of trusting Him? Do you need to explore God's love for you? Do you need to study His character, His abilities, His strength? Do you need to seek His will for your life? 2. If you are in a difficult season, have you let go of how you think things should be and just trust God with the path you are and the outcome? 3. Is there anyone in your life that needs encouragement to completely trust the Lord? “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” - Corrie Ten Boom --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today I want to give you tips on how to handle emotional triggers and triggering events not only for yourself but for those you lead. We are living in a time where just turning on the TV or scrolling through social media can be an emotional trigger for many people, yes even leaders. Maybe it would be a great idea to have a “trigger alert” warning come up on your TV, phone, or laptop before you even open it up. And I don't see it getting better. A trigger is defined as an action or situation contributing to an unwanted emotional or behavioral response. Triggers can be anything from various emotional states, people, places, things, thoughts, certain activities, or situations. The unwanted emotional or behavioral responses varies depending on each individual and what traumatic events they have experienced in their lifetime. I can tell you from personal experience the unwanted emotional and behavioral response after being triggered is truly without a shadow of doubt both uncomfortable and unwelcomed. It can be quite debilitating at times. I have learned from my own therapy and now teach my clients different techniques to deal with triggers. There is a sense of freedom in realizing we have the power within ourselves to effectively deal with triggers. Once you come to the realization that you have been triggered, here are three keys in effectively dealing with triggers: Key #1 - Avoid Your Triggers Key #2 - Reduce Exposure to Your Triggers Key #3 - Deal with Your Triggers Head On These keys are great in effectively dealing with your triggers; however, you will need to come up with your own strategy to avoid, reduce exposure or deal with them head on. Some of the strategies may include changes in your lifestyle, relationships, or daily routines. You may need to learn new coping skills and have a list of trusted people you can talk to or even seek therapy. What works for some people will not work for others. That is why it is important that you find what works for you, develop your own strategy, and practice. The Most Vital Key in Effectively Dealing with Triggers There is a vital key in effectively dealing with triggers that is often missed. As Christians, we have been given a legacy passed on down through the generations, beginning with the disciples to us and for future generations. This legacy no one can dispute – the price was paid once and for all - Jesus Christ's death on the cross for our sins. That is just one part of the legacy. The other part of this legacy is our receiving the Peace of God. Jesus Christ - His legacy to all of Humanity– His Peace John 14:27 (AMP) Colossians 3:15 (AMP) Life Application Questions 1. Are you aware of your triggers and do you have a strategy in place to effectively deal with your triggers? 2. Who is the umpire ruling in your heart? 3. Are you utilizing your gift, your legacy – the Peace of God – the most valuable and effective key in dealing with your triggers and the emotional and behavioral responses? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

How do you feel about returning a gift? Do you return it and get something else? Do you regift it? Or do you stick it in a closet and forget about it? I personally do not like returning gifts. I feel like I am doing something wrong especially to the person who gave me the gift. Today, I want to share with you 8 undeniable reasons returning a gift is welcomed. This is a different perspective on a scripture that I have read many times in my Christian walk. It is starred and underlined in my bible. As I started doing the research on this particular scripture, my perspective changed, and I hope that I can convey that to you this morning. Today's Scripture References – Psalm 55 Psalm 55:22 – “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” Cast – To throw, cast, hurl, fling; release the weight of it. Burden – Literally, “gift,” what is assigned to you; lot (that which is given – the care, anxiety, etc. which are thy portion). Sustain – Literally, “supply food,” which we all need. God promises to meet all our needs. Philippians 4:19, “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” To be moved – the righteous are in a secure position to receive His favor; they will never be made to slip, fall, or fail. Cross Ref: Psalm 37:5; Psalm 37:23-24; 1 Peter 5:6-7 Our Invitation to Return the Burden -Cast your burden on the Lord. God invites you to burden Him with what burdens you. -Commit your way to the Lord. -Trust in the Lord. -Be a good person. -Humble yourself. God's Promises Upon Receipt of the Burden The bible is full of promises. When it comes to casting our cares, our anxieties, our burdens onto the Lords shoulders without hesitation, His word gives us promises we can cling to. Here are the 8 undeniable reasons giving our burdens back to the Lord is not only a welcomed idea but is necessary to grow in grace. 1. God will sustain you. 2. God will never permit the righteous to be moved. 3. God will bring it to pass. 4. God will order your steps. 5. God will delight in your way. 6. God will uphold you with His hand. 7. God will exalt you at the right time. 8. God will care for you. Life Application Questions 1. What burden are you carrying that you need to cast upon the Lord? 2. Are you committing your way to the Lord and trusting Him to handle all your cares? 3. Do you desire to know God on a deeper level? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today's Scripture References – Peace with the Lord Philippians 4:4-9 “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.” Parasailing Adventure One week ago, on our lady's beach trip, I was invited by a friend to go parasailing. She had done it before and said it would be fun. Not really realizing what I was getting myself into, I agreed to go. Sitting on the beach watching other people soar above the beach has always looked fun. It just never occurred to me that I could or would do that. So here we go, 2 of us parasailing while the other 4 were observing. Then the anxiety and sheer panic hit to the point I was crying. Tried to get my other friends to take my place. No one else wanted to be “shark bait”. They kept encouraging me to do this thing. Next thing I know, I am being hooked up and whisked away. I screamed the first few seconds of leaving the boat. Next to me is my dear friend coaching me, letting me know everything is going to be okay. Almost immediately, I noticed that the further away we got from the boat, all the noises - my very loud thoughts telling me how awful this experience will be, the boat engine, the waves of the ocean, my beautiful friends cheering me on – just slowly faded away. Peace enveloped me. It was a surreal moment. I finally eased the death grip on the harness and relaxed and enjoyed the view. Enjoyed the peacefulness. Enjoyed the beauty. Realizing that what I was experiencing was exactly what I needed. All the anxiety I had a few moments before was now gone. That peace of God, that surpasses all understanding was guarding my heart and my mind through Christ Jesus. I was not thinking of the million things that could go wrong and how we literally could be “shark bait.” After the captain dipped us in the ocean and we had a soft landing, I literally felt sheer excitement and it was evident. The next morning, I woke up with an epiphany. Since I am a visual learner, sometimes God must physically show me to get His point across. This was one of those moments. My experience parasailing is how I am to approach all issues, problems, situations for the rest of my life – with a bird's eye view and to get above the problem, to rise above my concerns. This is where there is peace, this is where you can hear the voice of the Lord more clearly. This is where you can see the whole picture, not just the problem at hand. I also realized how vitally important to surround yourself with friends that are going to cheer you on, help you move past your fears and anxiety. Regardless of who you are, fear and anxiety can be two powerful emotions that literally paralyzes you. God knows this. He created us and does have patience with us. If we trust Him and allow Him, He will develop in us faith that overcomes all our fears. If we have trustworthy friends and allow them to speak into our life, we move through our anxieties and face our fears head on. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

The month of May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental Health is so important, regardless of what you do for a living. Today, for the first time in this format, I want to share my personal story of how I have come from battling suicidal thoughts to experiencing the Abundant Life that Jesus Christ offers to all of us. “Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among youth aged 10 to 14 and adults aged 24 to 35. While suicide was responsible for nearly 46,000 deaths in 2020, many more people attempt or have serious thoughts of suicide – critical risk factors for future suicide.” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)). Today's Scripture References John 10:10, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Testimony can be found on my website: www.eaglesrestcounseling.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today's Scripture References – Matthew 18:21-35 The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant Matthew 18:21-22 “Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” Jesus continues by telling a parable about the man received great forgiveness for a large debt he owed yet refused to forgive a person who owed him a much smaller debt. The lesson from this parable is that we all have been graciously forgiven by God and are forgiven daily, repeatedly. And we need to be just a gracious in forgiving others. The Forgiveness Letter is a journaling activity for you to reach closure and healing in your life. Forgiveness can be a difficult and uncomfortable process. The process of forgiving is to recall your hurt, empathize with the person, receive the gift of forgiveness, outwardly express forgiveness, and hold onto to forgiveness. Story in Joshua 4, Stones of Remembrance. When you decide to forgive, God provides the grace and strength to forgive and to maintain a heart of forgiveness. Forgiveness is not weakness. It is the most powerful thing you can do. Life Application Questions 1. Are you ready to begin or continue the process of forgiveness? 2. Are you willing to go the extra step in forgiving? 3. What are your Stones of Remembrance when doubt wants to creep in? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Ephesians 4:31-32 “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” The best way to understand forgiveness is that it is an act and a process. When you realize you have been forgiven by God, you can forgive. When you forgive, your heart will begin to heal. When your heart begins to heal, your personal, emotional, or spiritual life will begin to heal. Physical ailments, depression, and/or anxiety will diminish. Now, you are free to go forward in your life. Quote from Kerney Franston, “When you don't forgive someone, in some way that person is in jail, and you are the warden. You're incarcerated, too, because you have to make sure the prisoner stays there.” Today I want to share 3 more points I would like you to remember about forgiveness. 1. Identify and Acknowledge Your Emotions Are you hurt from the offense? Are you angry from the offense? Are you grieving the losses as a result from the offense? These are normal responses. Hurt, anger, grief is not sinful. It is when you stay stuck in those emotions, you will be robbed of God's forgiveness, bitterness and other sins will take root, you will walk in darkness, and your heart becomes hardened. Give yourself permission to identify and acknowledge all emotions you experienced during and after the time of the offense. If you feel like you need to do that in the safe place, reach out to a trusted friend, mentor, pastor, or professional counselor to walk you through it. The last thing you need to feel is shame or embarrassment for desiring to bring healing in your life. 2. Set Healthy Boundaries If you are currently in a relationship with the person that has offended you, it is in your best interest to set healthy boundaries so that you are not hurt again. It is also in your best interest to figure out what unsafe and safe relationships look like. If you are with an unsafe person, try your best to minimize your time with that person. I realize there are some people that are in situations they cannot escape from, or they feel they cannot get out of. Once again, please reach out to a trusted friend, mentor, pastor, or professional counselor to help you in this area of setting healthy boundaries, defining safe and unsafe relationships. You deserve to live a life that has healthy boundaries. You deserve to live a life that has safe relationships. You can trust God to take care of you. 3. Recognize God's Involvement During and after the offense, the unforgiveness, no apology, the bitterness taking root, you can't see the forest through the trees. Not only I have experienced this, but I see it too often in my office. Sometimes, it is hard to understand God's hand in being offended and the act and process of forgiveness. Sometimes, it is hard to understand that God can use the offense to spur on personal and spiritual growth. He desires for all of us to depend on Him for His plan and glory. And with his help, forgiveness is attainable. There are two things to ask God if you are having a hard time recognizing His hand in your life: 1. Ask God to heal your emotional wounds. 2. Ask God to help you love your offender. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, I want to lay a foundation on the topic of forgiveness. This will be a multi-part series on forgiveness. I know this is a hard topic, a topic that a lot of people avoid, especially if you have been hurt by others. Speaking from my own experience, as painful as it can be, it can be done. And it is very healing and freeing. When you forgive, you grow in grace! Today's Scripture References 1. As Christians, we are commanded and expected to forgive others. Sermon on the Mount – Teachings from Jesus Matthew 5:43-48 Matthew 6:12-15 Mark 11:20-26 1. Satan can and will take advantage of us if we do not forgive. 2 Corinthians 2:10-11 “Now whom you forgive anything, I also forgive. For if indeed I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven that one for your sakes in the presence of Christ, lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.” Know your enemy – Satan's main goal is to kill, steal, and destroy. He is subtle in his attempts and uses strategies to deceive us. He knows our strengths and our weaknesses. He is a watchful enemy, ready and willing to destroy us at any moment. Do not be fearful but be watchful. 1. We are revealing to the world around us our identity as God's children, displaying God's love and forgiveness. We are an extension of God's love and forgiveness. Ephesians 4:31-32 “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Colossians 3:13 “ bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.” - As Christians, we are commanded and expected to forgive others. - Satan can and will take advantage of us if we do not forgive. - We are revealing to the world around us our identity as God's children, displaying God's love and forgiveness. We are an extension of God's love and forgiveness. Life Application Questions 1. Who do you need to forgive? 2. Are you willing to forgive, let it go, and move forward in your life? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Philippians 2:1-8 Walk in Humility and Have the Mind of Christ Today is Good Friday, a day to remember our Lord Jesus Christ and His death on the cross. It is a day to think deeply and carefully about the mind of Jesus Christ and the events leading up to His death and His resurrection. As you reflect on what Jesus did and what it means to you, I encourage you to also reflect on your personal journey with the Lord. The opposite of humility is pride. Pride is defined as a high or inordinate opinion of one's own dignity, importance, merit, or superiority, whether as cherished in the mind or as displayed in bearing, conduct, etc. King Nebuchadnezzar is an example of how damaging pride can be to a person's spirit and mind. To get a good visual of the suffering of the King, read Daniel 5:18-21 in The Message Bible. Hopefully, this is an adequate description of the consequences of pride that makes us not want to travel down that path. Pride is to be avoided, at all costs. Pride breeds disunity. Humility, on the other hand, is to be sought after, at all costs. Humility creates unity. It is the path that Jesus Christ took and that He has for each one of us. According to Easton's Bible Dictionary, humility is defined as a prominent Christian grace (Rom 12:3; 15:17,18; 1 Cor 3:5-7, 2 Cor 3:5; Phil 4:11-13). It is a state of mind well pleasing to God (1 Pet 3:4); it preserves the soul in tranquility (Psa 69:32,33), and makes us patient under trials (Job 1:22). Paul encourages the Philippians to practice humility. To walk in that humility, you have to have the mind of Jesus Christ as stated in Philippians 2:5 (NKJV), “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Just because you are leader doesn't mean you are immune to discouragement. One major indication that you have succumbed to discouragement is that you become unconcerned with your personal relationships. And if you are discouraged, do not be embarrassed or ashamed. Today, I want to encourage you that you do not have to surrender to discouragement. You have the choice and power to flip your discouragement into encouragement. Relationships are one of the main themes intertwined all throughout the bible beginning in Genesis through Revelation. We were made to be in relationship. God created us to be in relationship with Him and with each other. In this short time, I just want focus on a small part in the Book of Hebrews. I would consider Hebrews to be a very encouraging book. The author of Hebrews does a great job of presenting an amazing picture of the supremacy of Jesus Christ, His Majesty, and His Ministry. However, he also gives five warnings about the danger of turning away from Christ: Danger of Neglect; Danger of Unbelief; Danger of Not Maturing; Danger of Drawing Back; and Danger of Refusing God. Under the warning of the danger of drawing back, we read all about the heroes of the faith, the example of Christ's endurance and an exhortation to endure God's chastening. Growing in grace is when you can look beyond the process of God's discipline and see the peaceable fruit of righteousness that comes later. “Many believers are deeply grieved, because they do not at once feel that they have been profited by their afflictions. Well, you do not expect to see apples or plums on a tree which you have planted but a week. Only little children put their seeds into their flower-garden, and then expect to see them grow into plants in an hour.” (Spurgeon) Are you discouraged? Have you become unconcerned with relationships? In Hebrews 12:14-17, we see 4 things that are needed to make things right again. 1. Pursue Peace: Pursue is an action word and it means to run after or pursue in order to catch. We are to pursue (go after) peace with all people. Make things right in your relationships with people within your circle. If you need to apologize and ask for forgiveness, go, and apologize and ask for forgiveness. If you need to forgive, go, and forgive. 2. Pursue Holiness: Make things right in your relationship with God. Leviticus 19:2, “Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” As David Guzik's commentary states, “Regarding holiness, we are told without which no will see the Lord. A lack of holiness is a critical obstacle to a close relationship with God.” 3. Pursue the Grace of God: Going after God's grace will keep bitterness from coming up in your heart. Going after God's grace will keep bitterness from spreading. Bitterness can come from holding on to pain and hurt of your past. When you focus on the grace of God, you can move past the pain and hurt and extend that grace God gives to you to others. 4. Pursue Pure Moral Behavior: Matthew 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” I love how The Message Bible reads, “Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God's lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. You well know how Esau later regretted that impulsive act and wanted God's blessing—but by then it was too late, tears or no tears.” Life Application Questions Are you discouraged? Are your relationships suffering? Are you willing to pursue peace, holiness, grace, and pure moral behavior? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

I want to share with you 3 things I believe we need to be aware of – Being Present with God, Being Present with Others and Being Present with Yourself. Aware of Being Present with God Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” How is your relationship with the Lord? Do you forget to spend as much time listening as you do speaking to God? Just BE STILL and KNOW. Jeremiah 33:3 “Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Just being aware of who God is, what God has done, what God can and will do is amazing. Be present, be aware of the One you commune with when you pray. James 4:8 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” God desires a relationship with you. When we approach Him in humility, confessing all our pride, selfishness, self-centered ambition, He is faithful to have a pure undefiled relationship with you. He is all ears when we approach Him with our needs, wants, and desires. If we are truly wanting a deeper relationship with the Lord, doesn't He deserve the same from us – to sit at His feet, being still and listening to Him. Aware of Being Present with Others Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” Matthew Henry - Christians ought to have a tender consideration and concern for one another; they should affectionately consider what their several wants, weaknesses, and temptations are; and they should do this, not to reproach one another, to provoke one another not to anger, but to love and good works, calling upon themselves and one another to love God and Christ more, to love duty and holiness more, to love their brethren in Christ more, and to do all the good offices of Christian affection both to the bodies and the souls of each other. A good example given to others is the best and most effectual provocation to love and good works. Aware of Being Present with Ourselves Same principles apply here. Are you aware of your own needs? Are you aware of your thought life? Are your thoughts towards yourself uplifting or self-destructive? Are you aware of what is going on in your body? Taking time to be self-aware is very important and highly effective when practiced on a regular basis. God gave you your body. We only get one chance to take care of our bodies. Take time to be fully present with your body, mind, and emotions. You deserve it. And the people around you deserve it! 1. Are you being present with God? 2. Are you being present with others? 3. Are you being present with yourself? When you are present with God, present with others, and present with yourself – you are growing in Grace! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

As a leader, do you find it difficult to ask for help? Do you fear being seen as weak or incapable if you ask for help? Do you fear being vulnerable? More specifically, do you especially find it difficult to ask God for help? According to various articles on Google, I discovered the strongest leaders don't have an issue with asking for help, they know how to ask for help, and they are not afraid to ask for help. However, when approaching God for help, the strongest leader may find it very difficult. Fear and vulnerability can be stifling. Here is the key, God created you, He already knows your strengths AND your weaknesses. He also already knows what you need before you even ask. Often, when our requests don't get answered the way we think it should or not in a timely fashion (ha, by the way, God is always on time), we tend to draw false conclusions about God. “God does not love me. God is rejecting me. There is no joy in God's will, so why ask. I must not have any faith.” Regardless of your view of God, He is approachable, and He is waiting for you to come to Him and ask for help. Today, I want to share with you 3 ways to approach God and ask Him for help. Let us look at Today's Scripture References Matthew 7:7-11 1 John 5:14-15 1. Approach and Ask Him Appropriately A great example can be found in: Luke 11:1-4 a. Recognize God's authority. God is sovereign and reigns and rules over all of creation. He created you with a plan and purpose. God's power and authority is to be respected and He deserves our reverence. b. Approach God in humility. Humility is the opposite of pride. As a leader, you may request and sometimes demand others to meet needs in the business world. When approaching God, it's best to remember the one who “needs” cannot demand of the One who “gives.” You can humbly go to Him and ask. c. Ask according to His will. How do you know His will? By reading and studying His Word. Make it a priority to get to know Him, His character and His plan and purpose for your life, your family, and your business. 2. Approach and Ask Him Specifically God is in the details. There are many things you can go to God and ask for help on. Such as physical, emotional, spiritual needs, times of suffering. Today, I just want to touch on: Guidance in decisions - Your day most likely consists of a great deal of quick decision making with no time to waste. To pause and ask God for help can seem impossible. I challenge you to take the necessary time to get to know God on a whole new level. Read and study His Word. When you have that intimate connection with God, the fear and intimidation of approaching Him and asking for guidance in important daily decisions has diminished. Ultimately, it is all about the relationship. 3. Approach and Ask Him Fervently Luke 18:1-8 The Parable of the Persistent Widow There are 3 requirements to remember when fervently asking God for help: --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, I want to share with you 4 ways to be a “Barnabas” in the lives of those around you. Before I talk about Barnabas, I want to touch on what was happening in the early church before Barnabas enters the scene. Beginning in Acts 4, Peter and John were arrested by the Sadducees. There was some controversy over a miracle – the lame man's healing accomplished in the name and power of Jesus. From Acts 4, we learn the early church's response to persecution was prayer and the results were great grace and boldness, great power and unity. What a great lesson to learn from the early church – to prove the reality of our faith, instead of debating and arguing, go to prayer. Following the prayer for boldness – we see 6 things that took place. 1. All present experienced a supernatural fullness of the Holy Spirit. 2. All present experienced a supernatural boldness, a fearlessness to proclaim the Word of God. 3. All present experienced a supernatural unity, one heart and one soul. 4. All present experienced a supernatural submission. 5. All present experienced a supernatural fruitfulness; fruit was produced for God's glory as they went out sharing and preaching about Jesus Christ. 6. All present experienced a supernatural generosity expressing a spirit of sacrifice and generosity to one another.Barnabas was a Levite, of the country of Cyprus and an early church leader with whom Paul could identify. Paul received prayers, counsel, guidance, and encouragement from Barnabas. From scripture and commentaries, we can see that Barnabas had exceptional spiritual qualities and an unshakable confidence in God. 1. Be a Giver – Barnabas was a generous giver. Church at Jerusalem – growing rapidly; new believers; early church voluntarily shares their belongings. Acts 4:36-37 2. Be a Faithful Friend – It wasn't until Barnabas took Saul and explained the change that had taken place in his life, that Saul was able to move freely in Jerusalem. It was too long ago that Saul hated and persecuted Christians. Barnabas takes a risk in associating with Saul. Acts 9:26-27 3. Be an Encourager Acts 11:22-26 Encouraged – verb imperfect tense – Barnabas repeatedly encouraged the Gentiles to persevere in their loyalty to God. He encouraged them to stay close to the Lord, whatever the cost. Good Man – generous, tenderhearted, proven character, high moral standards, honorable, respectable, morally sound. Full of the Holy Spirit – experienced the power of the Holy Spirit for witnessing and serving. Not driven by personal ambition or selfish desires. Overflowed with Faith – strong convictions, settled confidence in God's word. 4. Be Forgiving Acts 15:36-41 Difference of opinion – the cause of the split between Barnabas and Paul. Paul leaned more towards being firm, while Barnabas leaned towards being tender. They go their separate ways. Barnabas chose to encourage Mark, his nephew, his sister's son. Because of this man Barnabas – Paul may have never been accepted in the Jerusalem church and Mark may have not continued serving the Lord. In addition, we now have 13 epistles written by Paul and one Gospel written by Mark. Life Application Questions Are you willing to be a “Barnabas” to someone? Are you willing to give generously, be a faithful friend, a committed encourager, and a forgiving person? 1. Do you want to experience the supernatural fullness of the Holy Spirit? 2. A supernatural boldness, a fearlessness to proclaim the Word of God? 3. A supernatural unity, one heart and one soul? 4. A supernatural submission? 5. A supernatural fruitfulness; fruit was produced for God's glory as they went out sharing and preaching about Jesus Christ? 6. A supernatural generosity expressing a spirit of sacrifice and generosity to one another? Closing Prayer – Acts 4:24-30 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today's Scripture References Accountable to God – Romans 14:10-12 “So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. 11 For it is written: “As I live, says the Lord, Every knee shall bow to Me, And every tongue shall confess to God.” So, then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” Accountable to Each Other – James 5:16 “Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” Accountability Gives You Strength – Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Accountability Gives You Protection – Hebrews 13:17 “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.” Biblical Examples of Accountability 1 Timothy 1:1-2 “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Saviour and the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope, to Timothy, my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.” 2 Timothy 1:1-2 “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, my beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.” Titus 1:4-5, “To Titus, my true son in our common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior.” Not only grace, but mercy and peace were obviously important to Paul as we see in his greetings to Timothy and Titus, his sons in the faith. Timothy and Titus were young pastors and Paul had the responsibility of leading them. My bible suggested that Paul wrote 1 Timothy as a reference manual for leadership so that Timothy will have effective guidance for his work during Paul's absence in Macedonia. Paul wrote 2 Timothy as an encouragement to faithfully endure and carry on the work that Paul must relinquish. Paul wrote Titus to give him strength and exhort him to firmly exercise his authority over the church at Crete. Basically, Titus is the conduct manual for church living. What a great example Paul has set for us. His letters to Timothy and Titus are letters of encouragement to grow in their own faith as they are examples to others. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

As I continue with the theme of growing in grace, today I want to share the 4th reason growing in grace is important for your soul (your mind, will, and emotions). “Growth in grace” pleases God. I love the analogy of the gardener that has been faithful in attending to their garden including watering, feeding, and yes weeding. Just like any gardener would know, it is a joyful occasion when the plants are growing, flourishing, and bearing fruit. On the flip side, it is disappointing to see the plants not growing, malnourished, and overcome with weeds. The same goes for our Christian walk with the Lord, He takes pleasure in all His children, especially when they are growing in grace and bearing fruit for the Kingdom. Growing in grace requires us to tend to our spiritual growth, nourishment, and pulling the weeds out, removing the sin. Let's look at two suggested ways to begin pleasing the Lord – prayer and encouragement. Today's Scripture Reference John 15:1 – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.” John 15:8 – “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, so you will be My disciples.” 1st Suggested Way to Please God – Prayer Colossians 1:9-14 Paul's Prayer for the Colossians – Here Paul is expressing his concern that the Colossians come to a deeper understanding of the person and power of Christ. Paul prays that the Colossians would know the will of God, be able to apply the will of God to their lives, and then walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him. If want to grow in Grace and please the Lord, let's join Paul and pray this prayer over ourselves and those we lead. We also see from Paul's Prayer for the Colossians, four characteristics of a worthy walk: 1. Living a life marked by the fruit of good works. 2. Growing in knowledge of God by studying His word. 3. Strengthened by God for Endurance. 4. Having gratitude for God's work of salvation. 2nd Suggested Way to Please God – Receive and Give Encouragement to Continue Growing In 1 Thessalonians, we see how Paul is writing to this young church to encourage them in their newfound faith, to increase in their love for one another, and to rejoice, pray, and give thanks always. In Chapter 4:1:12, Paul gives them directions for growth to continue progressing and walking in a manner that pleases God. He wanted to remind them of his previous teaching on sexual and social matters. These young Thessalonian believers lacked the moral upbringing from the Mosaic Law provided in the Jewish community. 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 TPT: The Passion Translation - “Directions for Growth” Life Application Questions 1. In Paul's Prayer for the Colossians, which four characteristics of a worthy walk would you like to work on: - To live a life marked by the fruit of good works. - To grow in knowledge of God by studying His word. - To operate out of God's strength for increased endurance. - To have a gratitude for God's work of salvation in your life. 2. Who do you know that could benefit from prayer just like Paul prayed for the Colossians? 3. Who do you know that needs some encouragement to keep going, to keep increasing in areas that Paul encouraged the Thessalonians? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today's Scripture Reference 3 John1:1-2 – “The Elder, To the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth: Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” Quality of Life – How is your quality of life? In therapy, the top 3 questions that are asked are, “Are you exercising?” “Are you eating healthy?” and “How is your sleeping habits?” Only you would know the answer to these questions. The focus is to have a balanced quality of life. And only you would know what is out of balance. Commitment in line with God's Word – How is your commitment to God? I just finished a fantastic bible study on Revelation through Community Bible Study. And I am reminded of Jesus' message to the church in Laodicia in Revelation 3:14-22. Read scripture. How committed are you? Only you would know your commitment level and whether or not you are lukewarm. Dedication in line with God's Word – How much time do you dedicate to reading and meditating on God's word? Have you dedicated your life, both home life and work life to the Lord? God wants all of us, not just our home and church life. His desire is for you to dedicate your work, your business to Him. Only you would know what you have dedicated to the Lord and what you have not. Action in line with God's Word – Are you ready to be used by God in ALL areas of your life, not just at home and church. Are you ready to be used by God to those you lead in your work life? There are people in your life that God has placed under your leadership that only you can speak to. People are hurting. People need people. And are you ready to be used by God to meet these people where they are and lead them to have a healthy and prosperous soul? Only you would know that answer. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Leaders are on a tight schedule and must be creative when it comes time to reading and meditating on God's Word. Devotions with Deanna was created as one of the solutions to support busy leaders. My prayer is that you will be inspired to become a person after God's own heart and your strength will be renewed. As I continue with the theme of growing in grace, today I will be going over one of the five reasons growing in grace is important for your soul (your mind, will, and emotions). Not only will you personally benefit from your growth in grace, but you will ultimately influence those around you to grow and mature in grace. Influence is defined as the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself. The question to ask yourself is, do you want to have a good or bad influence on those you lead? Your influence on others for good will depend greatly on what they see in you. I want to share with you 3 tips on how to achieve a godly influence. Today's Scripture Reference Know the Way - 1 Peter 1:13-16 - Imitate Christ Show the Way - 1 Corinthians 4:16, 11:1 - Imitate Me Go the Way – Ephesians 5:1-2 - Take Action --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today's Scripture Reference Psalm 51:10-15 “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and uphold me with Your generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners shall be converted to You. Deliver me from blood guiltiness, O God, The God of my salvation, and my tongue shall sing aloud of Your righteousness, O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall show forth Your praise.” 1. Be Receptive 2. Be Persistent 3. Be Content Closing Prayer Father God, I desire to be ambitious in my faith, to aim high, to go after all that You have for me. Help me to be receptive to You as I come to you in faith asking for forgiveness of my sins and show me the steps in changing my ways. Help me to be persistent in going to you about all things. Help me be content in all things. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Growing in grace is the increasing degree, size, strength, energy, and power of repentance, faith, love, humility, zeal, and courage which the Holy Spirit plants in a believer's heart. As we go through different seasons of our lives, the growth of grace can and will change by becoming stronger, weaker, or staying dormant. As Christians, we are called to grow in grace as we see here in these scriptures that encourage growth: 1 Thessalonians 3:12 – “And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you,” 1 Thessalonians 4:1 – “Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;” 1 Thessalonians 4:10 – “and indeed you do so toward all the brethren who are in all Macedonia. But we urge you, brethren, that you increase more and more;” 1 Thessalonians 1:3 – “We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other,” Colossians 1:10 – “that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;” 2 Corinthians 10:15 – “not boasting of things beyond measure, that is, in other men's labors, but having hope, that as your faith is increased, we shall be greatly enlarged by you in our sphere,” Ephesians 4:15 – “but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—" Philippians 1:9 – “And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment,” 1 Peter 2:2 – “as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby,” 5 Reasons Growing in Grace is Important for Your Soul 1. “Growth in grace” is the best evidence of spiritual health and prosperity. In a child, or a flower, or a tree, we are all aware that when there is no growth there is something wrong. 2. “Growth in grace “is one way to be content and joyful in our faith. God has linked together our comfort and our increase in holiness. He has graciously made it our interest to press on and aim high in our Christianity. 3. “Growth in grace” is one secret of usefulness to others. Our influence on others for good depends greatly on what they see in us. 4. “Growth in grace” pleases God. A gardener loves to see the plants on which he has labored over flourishing and bearing fruit. It cannot but disappoint and grieve him to see them stunted and standing still. The Lord takes pleasure in all His people, but especially in those that are growing in grace. John 15:1 – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.” John 15:8 – “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, so you will be My disciples.” 5. “Growth in grace” is not only a thing possible, but a thing for which believers are accountable. II. How is your growth in grace measured? 1. By increased humility. 2. By increased faith and love towards our Lord Jesus Christ. 3. By increased holiness of life and conversation. 4. By increased spirituality of taste and mind. 5. By increase of charity. 6. By increased zeal and diligence in trying to do good to souls. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

6 Ways to Maintain Your Peace of Mind 1. Change your thought life. 2. Focus on God, the character of God. 3. Learn what your triggers are and how to effectively deal with your triggers. 4. Time to Move Forward 5. Time to Develop Relationships 6. Be patient with yourself. Scriptures to Help Anxiety Psalm 43:5 – “Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God.” Psalm 86:7 – “In the day of my trouble I will call upon You, for You will answer me.” Proverbs 12:25 – “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.” Matthew 6:31-34 – “Therefore do not worry, saying, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “What shall we wear?” “For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For you heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Philippians 4:6-8 AMP – “Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours]. Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God's word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]. Philippians 4:19 – “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” 1 Peter 5:6-7 – “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

God's Path – Your Relationship The last four weeks we have briefly discussed different aspects of our path we are all own. Even though we are uniquely created by the Creator of the universe, and He has a particular plan for your life, we all share similarities. And we share things in our Christian walk that are similar. One of Satan's goals is to get you to think you are all alone and to isolate you from your Brothers and Sisters in Christ. My prayer is that you were able to get a glimpse of how similar our Christian paths really are. Each one of us will have times of passion or suffering. Each one of us will have to adjust our attitude. Each one of us will have to learn to trust God. Each one of us will have to humble ourselves. You are not alone. Praise God! "All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 (MSG) Scripture Reading– Psalm 25 Matthew Henry Commentary. “He (David) begs direction from God in the way of his duty, v. 4, 5. Once and again he here prays to God to teach him. He was a knowing man himself, but the most intelligent, the most observant, both need and desire to be taught of God; from him we must be ever learning.” Following the example of David, our prayer needs to be “Teach me Your ways God! Jesus Christ is the way and the truth – help me learn Jesus Christ.” When we are in doubt we need to pray earnestly that God will make it plain to us what He wants us to do. As you continue to walk along this path designed by God specifically for you, it is good to remember that His path is spot on. You cannot go wrong by following His path. Psalms 25:10 in the Amplified Bible says it so beautifully, “All the paths of the Lord are mercy and steadfast love, even truth and faithfulness are they for those who keep His covenant and His testimonies.” Do you want to travel on a smooth path? Yes, there will be bumps along the way, but I encourage you to remain teachable. Make your daily prayer to be like David's in Psalm 27:11 (NKJV), “Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies.” Then get ready for God to lead. When He leads, your path is filled with light. When He leads, your path is guarded. When He leads, your path drips with abundant riches, joy, and peace. In closing, it would be wise to apply Proverbs 4:23-27 (MSG) to our daily lives – “Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that's where life starts. Don't talk out of both sides of your mouth; avoid careless banter, white lies, and gossip. Keep your eyes straight ahead; ignore all sideshow distractions. Watch your step, and the road will stretch out smooth before you. Look neither right nor left; leave evil in the dust.” The PATH of God is not a roadmap, it is a relationship! Life Application Questions 1. If you have ever felt like you were alone in a situation, was there a scripture that helped you realize you were not alone? Was there something someone said to you that helped you realize you were not alone? 2. Are you on God's path for your life? If so, how did you get there? If you are struggling, ask someone you trust to pray for you in this area. Remember – you are not alone! 3. What one thing could you do differently this week that will help you travel on a smooth path? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Your Humility Scripture Reading – Philippians 2 "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG) Pride is defined as a high or inordinate opinion of one's own dignity, importance, merit, or superiority, whether as cherished in the mind or as displayed in bearing, conduct, etc. King Nebuchadnezzar is an example of how damaging pride can be to a person's spirit and mind. To get a good visual of the suffering of the King, read Daniel 5:18-21 in The Message Bible. Hopefully, this is an adequate description of pride that makes us not want to travel down that path. Pride is to be avoided, at all costs. Pride breeds disunity. Humility, on the other hand, is to be sought after, at all costs. Humility creates unity. It is the path that Jesus Christ has for each one of us. According to Easton's Bible Dictionary, humility is defined as a prominent Christian grace (Rom 12:3; 15:17,18; 1 Cor 3:5-7, 2 Cor 3:5; Phil 4:11-13). It is a state of mind well pleasing to God (1 Pet 3:4); it preserves the soul in tranquility (Psa 69:32,33), and makes us patient under trials (Job 1:22). Paul encourages the Philippians to practice humility. To walk in that humility, you have to have the mind of Jesus Christ as stated in Philippians 2:5 (NKJV), “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” If you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and you have confessed Him as Lord of your life, you have the mind of Jesus Christ in you. Let that sink in, the mind of Jesus Christ, the son of God, is in you. It is no wonder the enemy of our soul has targeted our minds. 1 Corinthians 2:16 (AMP) says, “ For who has known or understood the mind (the counsels and purposes) of the Lord so as to guide and instruct Him and give Him knowledge? But we have the mind of Christ (the Messiah) and do hold the thoughts (feelings and purposes) of His heart.” Jesus Christ is our perfect example of humility. I encourage you to continue to study his life and his teachings on humility. The Book of John has several scriptures referring to Jesus' ministry here on earth, which include John 5:19, 30, 41; 6:38; 7:16, 28; 8:28, 50. “Humility is the only soil in which the graces take root; the lack of humility is the sufficient explanation of every defect and failure. Humility is not so much a grace or virtue along with others; it is the root of all, because it alone assumes the right attitude before God and allows Him as God to do it all.” ~ Andrew Murray Life Application Questions 1. Having the mind of Christ is obviously necessary if we are to walk in humility. Are there certain scriptures that you meditate on to help you? Do you struggle in this area? 2. Another aspect of humility that Jesus Christ demonstrated very well is serving others. Who is serving you? Who are you currently serving? Is there someone or a place that you would like to start serving? 3. Commit to praying this next week for any of these areas you are struggling with and for your strengths as well. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

What trust should be: 1. Trust should be with your whole heart. Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” 2. Trust should be from your youth up. Psalms 71:5 “For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You are my trust from my youth.” Trust leads you to being compassed with mercy, enjoyment of perfect peace, enjoyment of temporal and spiritual blessings, enjoyment of happiness, rejoicing in God, fulfilment of all holy desires, deliverance from enemies, safety in times of danger, stability, and prosperity. Trust in God will also keep you from fear. Psalms 56:3-4 “Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?” Psalms 56:11 “In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Isaiah 12:2 “Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; ‘For Yah, the Lord, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.' ” Hebrew 13:6 “So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” Trusting in God leads to: Total Confidence Total Dependency Total Transparency Life Application Questions 1. Who or what are you putting your confidence or trust in? Does trusting God come easy to you? Why or why not? 2. Do you depend and rely on God for every aspect of your life? What areas do you struggle with? Commit to praying for each other in these areas. 3. Who is looking up to you and possibly watching you and how you handle life's circumstances? Is there something you can do differently? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

"This is the day which the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24 (NKJV) Check Your Attitude – at the Door! Scenario 1 ~ You wake up with every intention on reading your bible but as soon as your feet hit the floor, you realize you overslept. You frantically call a random mechanic for your washing machine that is spewing water everywhere. You missed an important phone call. Your family pet died. Your lawn needs to be mowed. And yes, it all happened in one day! There is a chance that you may have found yourself in the above scenario (or one similar) and there is a chance that your attitude was just plain negative. Scenario 2 ~ You wake up, but before you place your feet on the ground, you thank God you are alive, you praise Him for His gifts and you ask Him to go before you this day, because it is the day that He has made. You realized you overslept, but instead of getting upset, you thank God for the extra minutes of sleep and wonder if the few minutes late will be for your protection from an accident. Your washing machine is leaking water everywhere. No problem you think. You silently pray, Lord, is there someone local that I can trust and really needs the money right now or who would you like me to call for a repair job? Are you getting the picture? The word “attitude” is not found in the King James Version or the New King James Version of the bible. Attitude is defined as the state of mind toward something. It is a choice and you can choose to have a positive or negative attitude on any given day. As we examine our particular path that God has laid out for us, we have a choice to either have a positive or negative attitude along this path. We can always go to the Word of God to help us with our attitude or our state of mind. An Attitude of Worship and Service Luke 10:38-42 (NKJV) Mary and Martha Worship and Serve An Attitude of Humility As a Christian, our attitude should mirror the attitude of Jesus Christ. In Philippians 2, we see Paul exhorts the Philippians to embrace the attitude of humility. Paul then gives a perfect and greatest example of Christ's humility by His incarnation and crucifixion. Paul continues in Chapter 2 giving his own example of humility as well as Timothy's, and Epaphroditus's example of humility and sacrifice. We will talk more on humility in a few weeks. An Attitude of Peace “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things.” - Philippians 4:8 (NKJV) Life Application Questions 1. What is your attitude today toward the path that the Lord has you on? Share your favorite scripture or scriptures that help you maintain a positive attitude. If you find yourself struggling with a negative attitude, please ask you Survival Sister to agree with you in prayer that God will help you make some positive changes. 2. Who do you relate better to, Martha or Mary? Why? 3. Do you have a good system in place to help set priorities or do you struggle in this area of your life? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

If I were to ask you what your passion is, your answer may include whatever drives you, excites you and or motivates you to get up in the morning. According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of passion is to have a strong feeling of enthusiasm or excitement for something or about doing something. Acts 1:3. "To whom also he shewed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.” Acts 1:3 (KJV) Passion (NKJV) = suffering In Acts 1:3, we see Jesus Christ showed Himself alive after His passion. The word takes on a different meaning. According to Strong's Greek Lexicon, passion comes from the Greek word pascho, which means to experience a sensation or impression (usually painful): feel, passion, and suffer. Jesus was seen alive after He suffered and died on the cross. The path God had laid out for Jesus was a path of suffering. But Praise God Jesus came out alive! Let's look at three things that we can learn from scripture that apply to Jesus Christ's suffering and the path He was on. Isaiah 53:1-12 Mark 14:3-8 Acts 3 “When you suffer and lose, that does not mean you are being disobedient to God. In fact, it might mean you're right in the centre of His will. The path of obedience is often marked by times of suffering and loss.” ~ Chuck Swindoll Life Application Questions 1. Looking back on a recent time of suffering in your life, can you see how God was in the midst of your situation or has used your time of suffering for His glory? Feel free to share your experience with someone this week to offer encouragement and hope. If you are struggling to see God in your situation, ask someone in your inner circle for prayer in this area of your life. 2. In what ways are you honoring Jesus Christ for what He has done for you? In what ways are you not honoring and need prayer for? 3. Who are you sharing your faith with? How are you sharing your faith? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Now that I have shared some details of my journey, I want to talk today about how God shall direct your P.A.T.H.'s along this journey. The definition of journey is “an act of traveling from one place to another.” As Christ followers, our destination at the end of our life will be heaven. The word path is defined as “the course or direction in which a person or thing is moving.” We are free to choose whichever path we want. Even if we choose the wrong path, God will pursue you and lead you home.For the next several weeks, we will be studying different scriptures all over the bible as we examine our P.A.T.H.s, our Passion, our Attitude, our Trust and our Humility. Your P.A.T.H Scripture Reading – Proverbs 3 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) Scriptures to Meditate: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NKJV) “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” Psalm 32:8 (NKJV) “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11 (NKJV) “Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.”Proverbs 16:3 (NKJV) “[Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while [b]effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and [c]delight.” Philippians 2:13 (AMP) Life Application Questions: 1. Has God shown you His plan for your life? Were you aware of that plan prior to this devotion or did you learn something new this week from meditating on scripture? Feel free to share what God has revealed to you about His plan for your life. Commit to pray for each other's purpose. 2. Discuss some of the actions and consequences you discover in Proverbs 3. Which ones do you struggle with or would like prayer for this next week? 3. In what ways are you acknowledging the Lord? In what ways are you struggling in acknowledging the Lord? Commit to pray about these areas. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

God's Restorative and Rescuing Nature - A Personal Testimony The month of September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month. Today, I want to share a very personal testimony that I have shared previously on just my podcast Devotions with Deanna and on rare occasion, I will share with a client that is struggling with suicidal thoughts to give them hope for their future. Today I am taking a risk and being very vulnerable with my audience, as I share part of my testimony in overcoming suicidal thoughts. I am reminded of one of Brene' Brown quotes, “Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they're never weakness.” So here goes! Suicidal Thoughts No Longer Have a Hold on Me God Reveals and Rescues God Restores God Reminds God Can and Will Rescue and Restore You Is the darkness enveloping you? Do you feel like you are suffocating or drowning? Do you feel all alone in this dark place? Is your mental anguish intense and painful? Are you having suicidal thoughts? Or do you know someone that is in this place? I want to encourage you to reach out to someone for help. Get on your phone and call the suicide hotline number listed here and below (1-800-273-8255), your local pastor/chaplain or a local Christian counselor. There are sincere people in this world that do care and desire to help you along the way. Yes, I know it is hard to trust people, but when your life is at stake, you will be very surprised at how compassionate people can be. Don't trust God? I get it. I have been on a lifelong journey learning how to trust Him. I don't always understand His ways, but I have learned He is trustworthy. It is okay for you to trust Him to get you to the right person that you feel safe enough to ask for help. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, I want to talk about Deception and How to Avoid It. Webster defines Deception as “the state of being deceived or misled or the act of deceiving or misleading. And Deceive as “to lead into error; to cause to believe what is false or disbelieve what is true; to impose upon; to mislead; to cheat; to disappoint; to delude; to insnare.” Here are five questions to ask to penetrate the disguises of a false teacher or someone you suspect is being deceitful. 1. Have their predictions come true? Or do they revise them to fit what is already happened? 2. Does any teaching utilize a small section of the bible to the neglect of the whole? 3. Does the teaching go against what is said in the bible about God? 4. Are the practices or teachings meant to glorify the teacher or Jesus? 5. Do the teachings promote hostility toward other Christians? Steps to Avoid Deception 1. Know your Bible. 2. Regular Bible study on your own is the only way to really know the word of God. It is your responsibility to lay a strong foundation against deception. You Version Bible App; Daily Audio Bible; International Bible Study groups such as Bible Study Fellowship or Community Bible Study. 3. Apply your knowledge of the scriptures to that which is unusual or “extraordinary”. 4. Ask questions. There is nothing wrong with having a healthy skepticism. Always confirm what you hear, see, or read by going to the scriptures for the answers. 5. Learn to go to God on your own. Deception can happen when you look to someone else for the answers and not God. No one can study the Bible for you. Studying the Bible for yourself is how your faith will grow. Our Ultimate Goal: To possess, to take hold of and have a firm foundation that is strong, true, and able to withstand the attacks of the enemy and to discern that which is false. How? By self-examination, prayer, watchfulness, and diligent study of God's Word. The great news is that God designed things so that you don't have to live in deception and sin forever. He provided His Truth, His Word to lead and guide us through life here on earth. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Charles Spurgeon defines discernment as “not knowing the difference between right and wrong. It is knowing the difference between right and almost right.” Discernment was requested by Solomon in 1 Kings 3:9-14; prayed for by the psalmist in Psalms 119:18; sought by Daniel to have is vision interpreted in Daniel 7:15-16; denied to the unregenerate or one who is unrepentant in 1 Corinthians 2:14. 1 John 4:1-6 - John gives us the reason for discernment, the basis for discernment, and the evidence of discernment. Life Application The late A. W. Tozer had some wise counsel on “How to Try the Spirits” (adapted from, Moody Monthly [12/79], pp. 51-55 - He posed seven tests to apply to any teaching: (1) How does the teaching affect my relationship with God? Is He magnified and glorified, or diminished? (2) How does the teaching affect my attitude toward the Lord Jesus Christ? Does it magnify Him and give Him first place? Or, does it subtly shift my focus onto myself or some experience? (3) How does the teaching affect my attitude toward Scripture? Did the teaching come from and agree with the Word? Does it increase my love for the Word? (4) How does the teaching affect my self-life? Does it feed self or crucify it? Does it feed pride or humility? (5) How does the teaching affect my relationships to other Christians? Does it cause me to withdraw, find fault, and exalt myself in superiority? Or, does it lead me to genuine love for all that truly know Christ? (6) How does the teaching affect my relationship to the world system? Does it lead me to pursue the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the boastful pride of life? Does it lead me to pursue worldly riches, reputation, and pleasures? Or, does it crucify the world to me? (7) How does the teaching affect my attitude toward sin? Does it cause me to tolerate sin in my life or to turn from it and grow in holiness? Any teaching that makes holiness more acceptable and sin more intolerable is genuine. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Listening to the Voice of God John 14:26 “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” John 16:13 “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” What are the criteria for knowing for sure you are hearing God's voice? Here are four things I want you to remember to ask yourself. 1. Does it go according to God's Word? 2. Does it glorify Jesus and bring you closer to Him? 3. Does it ‘witness' to your spirit? 4. Does it ‘witness' to others who are in right relationship with God? John 10:3-4, “To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.” What ways does God speaks to you? What hindrances do you face in hearing God's voice? What are some conditions for listening to God? Questions to ask and begin to journal what you hear the Holy Spirit speaking to you: 1. Lord Jesus, what do You think or feel about me? 2. What are Your plans and purposes for my life? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Welcome to Part 2 of a three-week teaching on our promise, the Person and the purpose of Paraclete, the Holy Spirit. Part 3 will be on Listening to the voice of God, our Paraclete, our Comforter, the one who comes alongside us, the Holy Spirit. Who is and What Can We Expect from Paraclete, Our Comforter? Paraclete is a name that refers to the Helper or Holy Spirit. Paraclete comes from the Greek word “Parakleton” – Para = alongside of or beside; Kleton = Greek, verb, to call. Paraclete is “One who comes alongside of to help” or as Jesus explained: “For He dwells with you and will be in you.” Father God gave us the Paraclete (Holy Spirit) as our Helper, Advocate, Counselor, Comforter, Encourager, and Friend who will come alongside us to help us in our daily Christian walk. Promise of a Helper Person of this Helper Purpose of this Helper Jesus Christ is present in our lives through the Holy Spirit. Have you ever thought about what the Holy Spirit, our Paraclete accomplishes for you and through you each day? This next week, take time to journal your thoughts and the things the Holy Spirit is doing in your life. 1. Read the Word of God — the Bible. 2. Allow the Spirit of truth to use the Word of God and reveal truth to you. 3. Adjust your life to the truth of God. 4. Obey Him. 5. Allow God to work in and through you to accomplish His purposes. Closing Prayer Augustine prayed this prayer: "Breathe in me O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy; Act in me O Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy; Draw my heart O Holy Spirit, that I love but what is holy; Strengthen me O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy; Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy. Amen." --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Part 1 - Introduction and Personal Testimony and Prayer Paraclete (Par-a-klete) – Comforter. A name that refers to the Helper or Holy Spirit. Paraclete comes from the Greek word “Parakleton” – Para = alongside of; Kleton = Greek, verb, to call. Paraclete is “One who comes alongside of to help” or as Jesus explained: “For He dwells with you and will be in you.” Father God gave us the Paraclete (Holy Spirit) as our Helper, Advocate, Encourager, and Friend who will come alongside us to help us. He helps us when we are worried, or in pain either physically or emotionally. He helps us when we are grieving. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, we are going to study Jehovah-M'Kaddesh – The Lord Who Sanctifies or “The Lord who sets you apart or makes Holy”. M'Kaddesh is a Hebrew word meaning sanctify, holy, or dedicate. Sanctification is to make holy or to purify or free from sin. Jehovah-M'Kaddesh occurs two times in the Old Testament, first in Exodus 31:13 and again in Leviticus 20:8. 1. God's Call to Holiness 2. God's Provision for Holiness - Restore - Redemption - By His Word and By His Loving Discipline 3. Our Practice of Holiness - Represent and Remove God will not command you to be holy without first enabling you to obey that command. Quote by Leonard Ravenhill: “The greatest miracle that God can do today is to take an unholy man out of an unholy world and make that man holy and put him back into that unholy world and keep him holy in it.” Need to see a miracle in your life? Allow and trust Jehovah M'Kaddesh to enable you to become holy, sanctified and set apart from this world. We as Christians are called to be in this world sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and not of this world. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, we are going to study Sur or Petra – Rock. Easton's Bible Dictionary – The Hebrew word for rock is “tsur”, meaning employed as a symbol of God in the Old and New Testament. In Daniel 2:45, the Chaldaic form of the Hebrew word is translated “mountain.” The “rock” from which the stone is cut there signifies the divine origin of Christ. Psalm 61 Life Application Play Selah's beautiful version of You Are My Hiding Place (2004), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUx2WcC9JKo Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you, Psalm 119:18 “Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from your law.” Mediate on the variegated picture of Christ that you glean from the metaphors in: 2 Samuel 22:1-3 “Then David spoke to the Lord the words of this song, on the day when the Lord had delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul. And he said: “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; The God of my strength, in Him I will trust, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; My Savior, You save me from violence.” End your time of faith strengthening worship by using these great Names of God in a prayer of praise to the Rock of your Salvation. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

God as Father The name of God – “Father” is used in the Old Testament only 15 times and 245 times in the New Testament. The name Father signifies one that exhibits loving care, provision, and discipline. Jesus Christ taught his disciples and followers a way to address God in prayer in Matthew 6:5-15. God as Abba Father Abba is an Aramaic word which was used in the everyday language of families as a term addressing one's father. Children, as well as adult sons and daughters, used Abba when speaking to their fathers. And so Abba conveys a warm, intimate sense just as with our expression "Dear father." Abba emphasizes the warm, intimate and very personal relationship which exists between the believer and God. In this very personal relationship, a Christian can find intimacy, tenderness, dependence, security and confidence in the Father's loving care. The name of God – “Abba Father” is found referenced in the Bible three separate times, all in the New Testament spoken only by Jesus and the apostle Paul. Each scripture is in the form of a prayer, each time as a cry, each cry is enabled by the indwelling Holy Spirit, and each is followed by the Greek word for Father (pater). Let's look at these three scriptures: Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane: Mark 14:36 “And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” Author: Jesus 1. Just as Jesus called God, “Abba” like a loving child, can you and will you? 2. Jesus is teaching us here that prayer centers on finding God's will, to seek it and then do it. My challenge to you this week is, can you carve out a time this week to pray to your Abba Father to seek His will? Romans 8:15 “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” Author: Paul 1. Does the Holy Spirit help you share intimate feelings and concerns with the Father? V.14-16 2. Does the Holy Spirit take away your fears? 3. Does the Holy Spirit give you confidence to call God “Abba, Father?” Galatians 4:6 “And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” Author: Paul When we address God as our Abba Father, this is an indication of our spiritual health and the mark of the authenticity of our faith. “That God is our Abba-Father is a truth we must cultivate for the sake of our soul's health”.-R Kent Hughes 1. Have you allowed the Spirit to pray for you? 2. The Spirit will give you intimacy with Abba Father. Are you willing to receive and experience that intimacy? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, we are going to study Jehovah-Rohi – The Lord my Shepherd. We have learned that Jehovah is translated as “The Exsiting One” or “Lord,” also representing a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Rohi means shepherd. We define shepherd as one feeds or leads his flock to pasture. When the two words are combined, Jehovah-Rohi, The Lord, my Shepherd or sometimes referred to as my friend or companion, we see the intimacy that God desires between Himself and His people. Jehovah-Rohi, The Lord my Shepherd is used in Psalm 23. Psalm 23 is one of the most well known and most often quoted passages in all of scripture. David's analogy of the “shepherd” was easily understood by Kings and leaders of his day. Perhaps these Kings and leaders saw themselves as shepherds, leading the people. David's description of God as a shepherd continues to speak directly and powerfully to those who read and hear this great passage. Why is that? It brings comfort to those who are suffering and peace to lives in turmoil. Life Application God wants a love relationship with you forever. Do you know Jesus Christ as your Shepherd, and do you know His voice? 1. Has God been a shepherd to you and how? 2. Do you experience God's leadership day by day and how? 3. What has God protected you from? if you have specific prayer requests you would like me to pray for, you can send me an email at devotionswithdeanna@gmail.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, we are going to study Jehovah-Jireh (yeh-ho-vaw' yir-eh') – The Lord Will Provide. Jehovah-Jireh is found only once in the Old Testament, Genesis 22:14. Jehovah-Jireh is a symbolic name given to Mount Moriah by Abraham to memorialize the intercession of God in the sacrifice of Isaac by providing a substitute (a ram in the thicket) for the imminent sacrifice of his son. It means “the LORD will foresee and provide.” Genesis 22:1-14 Life Application 1. Do you obey without reservation when God tests you or allows you to be tested? OR Do you hesitate, negotiate, argue or resist and in so doing avoid obeying immediately? 2. What is your “Isaac” that you dearly love and you would rather God not ask you to release to Him? 3. What in your life are you clinging to for your own sense of security? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, I want to focus on God’s Name Jehovah-Shalom which is found only once in the Old Testament. Judges 6:23-24 “Then the Lord said to him, Peace be with you; do not fear, you shall not die.” So Gideon built an altar there to the LORD, and called it The-Lord-Shalom. To this day it is still in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.” Are you anxious, worried, troubled, distressed, afraid? This next week, set aside a time to cry out to Jehovah Shalom, the God who is Peace. Pursue the peace that comes only from God. Get away from all distractions. Put down the phone, pray, meditate on God’s Word, run after God’s peace, the peace that surpasses all human understanding. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, I am going to do something a little different. I want to focus in on one person in the bible that had an encounter with Jehovah-Shalom – The Lord is Peace. This man is listed in Hebrews 11 as one of the Heroes of the Faith and I believe the Lord wants us to show us something through the life of Gideon. Next week, I will focus more on just the Name of God, Jehovah-Shalom – The Lord is Peace. Gideon's Circumstances Gideon's Commission Gideon's Confusion Gideon's Confirmation Today's Challenge: Stop making excuses about why you can’t do what the Lord wants you to do, and just get about doing it. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message

Today, we are going to study Jehovah-Rophe – The Lord that Heals. As we learned last week, Jehovah is from the Hebrew word Havah and is translated as “The Existing One” or “Lord”, which denotes a God who consistently reveals Himself. Rophe, in Hebrew, means to mend (by stitching), to restore, to heal or to make healthful or whole. Jehovah Rophe is translated as Jehovah or Lord who heals. He is the great physician that heals physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Jehovah-Rophe is first found in Exodus 15:26. Life Applications from Today's Study 1. Are you in need of spiritual, physical, or emotional healing? Have you asked Jehovah-Rophe for healing? Are you listening to Him for His answer? 2. Do you have a hard time with believing that Jehovah-Rophe can actually heal you? Mark 9:17-25. Demon-Possessed Son is Delivered. The father of this demon-possessed son cried out to Jesus, Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” 3. When is the last time you confessed and prayed as James 5:13-16 suggests? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/deanna-fullerton/message