Empowering Single Moms

In this episode of Empowering Single Moms, host Felicia addresses the painful question many ask themselves: 'What is wrong with me?' She emphasizes that this mindset stems from trauma, rejection, and societal pressures. Felicia encourages listeners to reject these negative thoughts and embrace their true identity as fearfully and wonderfully made by God. Through personal stories and biblical references, she highlights the importance of understanding one's worth and the transformative power of God's love. The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer, affirming self-worth and healing.

In this empowering episode, Felicia addresses the overwhelming stress that single mothers often face. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing stress as a feeling rather than an identity and encourages listeners to replace negative thoughts with God's truth. Through personal testimony, she shares her struggles with stress and anxiety, highlighting the need for rest and reliance on faith. The episode concludes with a powerful prayer and a reminder that peace is attainable, even amidst chaos.

In this episode, Felicia addresses the pervasive fear of tragedy and suffering that many individuals experience. She emphasizes that God calls us to live in faith rather than fear, sharing personal experiences with anxiety and the importance of trusting in God's presence during difficult times. Through scripture and personal testimony, Felicia encourages listeners to reject the mindset of impending doom and to embrace a life of peace and empowerment.

In this episode of Empowering Single Moms, Felicia addresses the deep feelings of loneliness that many single mothers experience. She emphasizes the importance of confronting these feelings with God's truth, reminding listeners that they are never truly alone. Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, Felicia encourages listeners to acknowledge their feelings while replacing negative thoughts with faith and the assurance of God's presence. The episode concludes with a powerful prayer and a reminder of God's unwavering support.

In this episode of Empowering Single Mom, Felicia addresses the common feeling of being stuck in life. She emphasizes that feeling stuck is often a mindset rather than a reality, encouraging listeners to transform their thoughts and recognize that they are in a process of growth and preparation. Through personal stories and biblical references, she reassures listeners that they are not alone and that God is always working behind the scenes, even in challenging times. The episode concludes with a powerful prayer for strength and faith during waiting seasons.

SummaryIn this episode of Empowering Single Moms, Felicia discusses the impact of negative imagination and strongholds on mental health. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and confronting these negative thoughts with God's truth. Through personal anecdotes, she shares her journey of overcoming negativity and encourages listeners to embrace their identity as children of God, filled with hope and healing.

In this episode, Felicia discusses the struggle of self-forgiveness, emphasizing that many individuals carry guilt and shame from their past mistakes. She highlights the importance of recognizing God's grace and forgiveness, encouraging listeners to let go of their burdens and embrace their identity as forgiven and loved by God. Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, Felicia inspires listeners to break free from the mental strongholds that prevent them from accepting forgiveness and moving forward in their lives.

SummaryIn this episode of Empowering Single Mom, Felicia discusses the challenges of feeling overwhelmed and the temptation to give up. She emphasizes the importance of faith, community, and perseverance, sharing her personal journey of overcoming deep pain and finding hope. Through scripture and personal testimony, she encourages listeners to reject the lie of giving up and to embrace their strength and purpose in God.

"Hey sis, if you've been saying, ‘I don't have enough'—let me remind you: God is enough. You're not running out, you're being set up for overflow. Stop speaking lack and start declaring abundance. He's still Jehovah Jireh—your Provider. If this blessed you, share it with another mama who needs to hear it. Follow for more encouragement and remember—you are not lacking, you are fully supplied in Him.

If you're feeling like a failure, remember this: God sees your effort, not just your outcome. You are not defined by what went wrong—you are defined by His love and grace.You're not failing—you're growing. You're not alone—you're covered.

In this episode of the Empowering Single Moms podcast, Felicia discusses the theme of 'Fasting for Wrong Thinking.' She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and overcoming negative thought patterns that keep individuals trapped in cycles of guilt, shame, and toxic behaviors. Through biblical references and personal anecdotes, she encourages listeners to renew their minds with truth, embrace their freedom in Christ, and connect with supportive communities for healing. The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer for strength and transformation.

In this episode of Empowering a Single Mind, Felicia addresses the common lie that our lives are not special. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing our unique stories and the purpose behind our struggles. Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, she encourages listeners to challenge negative thoughts and embrace their identity as chosen individuals with significant value. The conversation highlights the power of mindset in overcoming feelings of insignificance and the beauty found in everyday moments.

In this episode, Felicia addresses the common lie that many single mothers feel: that God is far from them. Through personal testimony and scriptural references, she emphasizes the truth that God is always near, even in our darkest moments. Felicia encourages listeners to confront their feelings of abandonment and to embrace the reality of God's constant presence in their lives. The episode is filled with empowering messages aimed at renewing faith and providing emotional support to mothers navigating challenging times.

In this episode of Empowering Single Mom, Felicia discusses the impact of the mindset 'just the way I am' and how it can keep individuals stuck in their past. She emphasizes the importance of transformation through faith and the understanding that one's past does not define their identity. Felicia shares her personal journey of overcoming labels and encourages listeners to embrace growth and healing. The episode concludes with a reminder that God is continually shaping and healing us, urging listeners to replace limiting beliefs with declarations of faith.TakeawaysThe phrase 'just the way I am' can limit personal growth.Transformation is possible through faith and surrender.Your past experiences do not define your identity.God wants to shape us, not leave us stuck.Embracing change is a part of healing.Personal stories can illustrate the journey of overcoming labels.Speaking life into our situations is crucial for growth.We are all works in progress, not defined by our struggles.Mindset shifts can lead to profound changes in life.Encouragement and community are vital for single moms.

In this episode, Felicia addresses the pervasive mindset of feeling inadequate and the pressure to constantly do more. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the lie that our worth is tied to our performance and encourages listeners to embrace God's grace. Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, she reassures that we are enough because of God's love and grace, not our achievements. The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer, inviting listeners to release guilt and trust in God's plan.

In this empowering episode, Felicia discusses the struggles of overcoming a painful past and breaking free from wrong thinking. She emphasizes that our past does not define us and encourages listeners to embrace their identity as new creations in Christ. Through personal stories and biblical references, she highlights the importance of forgiveness, healing, and renewing the mind to move forward with confidence and purpose.TakeawaysYou are not your past; you are a new creation.Your past should be a reference, not a residence.God can use broken people for His purpose.Healing is possible through faith and forgiveness.Forgiveness is for your own healing, not for others.You are worthy of love and purpose despite your past.Confession helps in renewing your mind and spirit.You are not alone in your journey of healing.Your story is still being written; it is not over.Embrace your identity as chosen and redeemed.

If you're battling depression, just know this: you're not alone, and this is not the end. We're fasting from the lie that says you have to stay stuck. God's joy is your strength, and better days are coming. Keep going—you're stronger than you think.

In this empowering episode, Felicia addresses the pervasive victim mentality that many face, especially single moms. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the roots of this mindset, which often stem from real pain and trauma. Felicia encourages listeners to declare their identity in Christ, reminding them that they are not defined by their past experiences but by who God says they are. Through prayer and a shift in focus, she inspires her audience to embrace healing and empowerment, ultimately choosing victory over victimhood.TakeawaysWe are not victims, we are Christ.Pain does not have the right to define your identity.Fasting from the victim mentality is essential.You can't be victorious and play the victim mentality at the same time.You are not powerless, you are not forgotten.I am who God says I am.I declare that I'm not broken, I'm being healed.You have the power to shift your mindset.Choose victory over victimhood.You are not alone, you are strong.

God is not intimidated by your trauma. He's not distant. He is with you—in every tear, in every flashback, in every step forward. You are not too damaged to be healed.Isaiah 61:3 says He will give you "beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness."

In this episode of Empowering Single Mom, Felicia dives deep into the healing process from trauma and PTSD, emphasizing the importance of fasting from wrong thinking. She shares personal experiences and biblical insights, encouraging listeners to recognize their identity in Christ and the possibility of healing. The conversation highlights the significance of community support and the journey towards emotional wholeness.

In this empowering episode, Felicia addresses the feelings of being cursed and emphasizes the truth of being blessed and redeemed through Christ. She encourages listeners to recognize the lies that lead to feelings of inadequacy and to replace them with the truth of God's word. The conversation focuses on the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ, breaking free from negative thinking, and embracing the blessings that come from faith.

In this episode of the Empower Single Moms podcast, Felicia discusses the pervasive issue of anxiety, particularly among single mothers. She emphasizes the importance of fasting from wrong thinking and replacing anxious thoughts with God's truth. Through her personal journey, she shares insights on how anxiety often begins in the mind and offers practical steps to manage it, including prayer, scripture, and seeking support. Felicia reassures listeners that they are not alone in their struggles and encourages them to trust in God's peace.

In this episode of the Empowering Single Moms podcast, Felicia addresses the powerful lie of feeling unloved. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing that feelings are indicators, not dictators, and that true love is rooted in God's unwavering support. Through personal testimony, she shares her journey of overcoming feelings of invisibility and unworthiness, ultimately finding solace in God's everlasting love. The episode encourages listeners to reject negative thoughts and embrace the truth of their worth in God's eyes.

Prayer:Heavenly Father,Thank You for reminding me today that fear is not my identity. I confess that at times I've let fear speak louder than Your truth. But today, I surrender that fear to You. I give You every anxious thought, every silent worry, and every place where fear has tried to take root in my heart.Lord, I receive the spirit You have given me—a spirit of power, of love, and of a sound mind. I don't have to live paralyzed by what-ifs or afraid of what's ahead. You go before me. You are with me. And in You, I have everything I need.Help me to walk boldly, even when I feel uncertain. Let my faith rise and my fear fall. In Jesus' name, amen.

In this episode of the Empowering Single Mom podcast, Felicia discusses the transformative power of faith and the importance of renewing one's mindset. She emphasizes the need to fast from negative thinking and replace it with God's truth, encouraging listeners to embrace change and recognize their identity in Christ. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates the struggles of overcoming negative thoughts and the journey towards healing and empowerment. Felicia reminds her audience that change is possible with God's help and encourages them to reject the lies that hold them back. TakeawaysTransformation is possible when God is involved.Fasting from wrong thinking is essential for renewal.Our thoughts shape our reality; we must think positively.Recognizing and calling out negative thoughts is the first step.Change starts in the mind and requires daily renewal.We are new creations in Christ; our identity has changed.Give yourself grace; change is a process, not an event.The Holy Spirit is our helper in the journey of change.Personal struggles with anxiety and negativity are common.Embrace the truth that you can change and grow daily.

In this episode of Empowering a Single Mom, Felicia discusses the importance of forgiving one's younger self. She emphasizes that many individuals carry shame and regret from their past decisions, but healing begins when we embrace who we are becoming. Through personal stories and biblical references, Felicia encourages listeners to release guilt and shame, recognize their growth, and understand that their past does not define them. The episode serves as a reminder that self-compassion and forgiveness are essential for personal growth and healing.TAKEAWAYYou do not have to wait for one day; today is the day.Shift your mindset from delayed thinking to faith thinking.Embrace today as a special gift full of opportunity.Start with little steps towards your big dreams.Respect the seed of your efforts; everything grows from small beginnings.Take action to reclaim your power and move forward.You are more than a conqueror; embrace your identity.Stop procrastinating; the time to act is now.Miracles are released when you step in faith.This is the day of healing and purpose.

TAKEAWAYYou do not have to wait for one day; today is the day.Shift your mindset from delayed thinking to faith thinking.Embrace today as a special gift full of opportunity.Start with little steps towards your big dreams.Respect the seed of your efforts; everything grows from small beginnings.Take action to reclaim your power and move forward.You are more than a conqueror; embrace your identity.Stop procrastinating; the time to act is now.Miracles are released when you step in faith.This is the day of healing and purpose.

In this episode of Empowering Single Moms, Felicia delves into the profound effects of childhood trauma on adult life. She emphasizes that healing is possible and that individuals are not defined by their past experiences. Through personal stories and biblical references, Felicia illustrates the journey of facing pain, forgiving, and ultimately finding freedom and hope. She encourages listeners to acknowledge their trauma, seek healing, and embrace their worth as children of God.TakeawaysChildhood trauma can have lasting effects into adulthood.Healing is a journey that requires facing pain with God.Forgiveness is essential for personal freedom.You are not defined by your past experiences.God sees and values you despite your trauma.Acknowledging pain is the first step to healing.Renewing your mind with truth is crucial for recovery.Inviting God into your memories can aid healing.Your story is not over; there is hope for the future.You are stronger than what happened to you.

In this episode of Empowering Single Moms, Felicia emphasizes the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ, especially for single mothers. She encourages listeners to reject societal labels and embrace the truth of being chosen, fearfully made, and deeply loved by God. Through biblical references and personal anecdotes, Felicia inspires single moms to recognize their strength, worth, and purpose, reminding them that they are more than their circumstances and that they have a significant role in their children's lives. The episode concludes with a powerful prayer and affirmation of identity in Christ.

In this episode, Felicia discusses the challenges of trusting God during uncertain times. She shares personal experiences of navigating through life's unexpected trials, emphasizing the importance of faith and surrendering to God's plan. The conversation highlights how to find peace and strength amid chaos, reminding listeners that God is always in control, even when circumstances seem bleak.

In this episode of Empowering Single Mom, Felicia dives into the story of Hagar, a biblical figure who represents the struggles of single mothers. Through Hagar's journey, Felicia emphasizes that God sees and knows each individual, offering hope and encouragement to those feeling unseen or forgotten. The discussion covers Hagar's complicated situation, God's pursuit of her, the promises made to her, and personal reflections on motherhood and faith. The episode concludes with a prayer and affirmation of God's presence in the lives of single mothers.TakeawayHagar's story is a reminder that God sees us.Single moms often feel invisible in their struggles.Your circumstances do not disqualify you from God's love.God pursues us even when we feel lost.Being called by name signifies God's personal attention.God has a plan for every child, regardless of circumstances.You are more than just a single mom; you have identity beyond that.God is with you in your wilderness season.Every effort you make for your children is seen by God.You are not alone; God is always present.

Sis, listen to me—God's silence doesn't mean He's absent.He may not be speaking, but He's still moving.You're not being punished—you're being prepared.And sometimes the waiting is where the breakthrough begins. So don't quit. Don't stop praying. Don't stop believing.God hasn't forgotten you—He's just working behind the scenes.”

A podcast created to uplift, inspire, and support single mothers on this incredible journey we call life. Single moms are some of the strongest, most resilient people out there. We juggle, we sacrifice, we love fiercely, and we make miracles happen every single day. So, if you are a single mom, if you know a single mom, or just want love and real conversation about strength, growth, and empowerment, make sure to subscribe and follow.

So, what do you do when life gets you down?You remember: • Being down isn't the end. • God is near, even in the darkness. • Your pain has purpose. • And you have the strength—through Christ—to get back up.Speak this over yourself:“I may be down, but I will rise again.”“I may be weary, but I'm still walking.”“I may not see it yet, but God is working.”Because when life gets you down, your comeback is in motion.

Have you ever had God tell you to let something go… but your heart just wasn't ready?That's the story of Lot's wife.God was about to destroy the city of Sodom. It was corrupt, toxic, full of sin—and He wasn't going to let Lot's family stay in that mess.So he sends angels to pull them out, like literally drag them out by the hand. And right before they run, they're given one instruction:“Don't look back.”It wasn't just about the direction they were running—it was about what their hearts needed to leave behind.Now, imagine this: she's running with her family. Her home is behind her. Everything familiar. Her friends. Her routines. The life she built, even if it was broken. And in that moment—her heart couldn't help it. She turned around.Just one look.And the Bible says, “Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.” (Genesis 19:26)She didn't just turn her head—she looked back with longing. With grief. With attachment to a past, God was trying to free her from.And that look… cost her everything.Let that sink in: God was delivering her, and she died in between freedom and bondage—all because she looked back.How many times do we do the same thing?God is trying to bring us out—out of toxic cycles, old relationships, painful memories, shame—and yet we keep looking back.We keep replaying the past, holding onto what He told us to release.And here's the truth nobody wants to say out loud:Looking back when God says move forward will keep you stuck in places you were never meant to die in.Lot's wife didn't trust the future more than she missed the past. And I think that's where a lot of us get stuck.We're more comfortable with what hurt us than with the unknown of healing.But God is saying, “Let it go. Don't look back. What's ahead of you is worth it.”So here's the question for you today:What are you still looking back at—when God already said, “It's time to move on”?

In this empowering conversation, Felicia discusses the importance of recognizing and overcoming negative thoughts that single moms often face. She emphasizes the need to replace these lies with God's truth, renew the mind daily, and engage in prayer and affirmation. The conversation serves as a reminder that every individual has the power to overcome negativity and embrace their true worth as loved and valued by God. TakeawaysThe enemy uses lies to instill doubt and fear.Recognizing the source of negative thoughts is crucial.Replacing lies with God's truth is essential for healing.Daily renewal of the mind is necessary for mental health.Encouragement and support from others can help combat negativity.Prayer is a powerful tool for mental and emotional strength.Affirmations can reinforce positive self-image and faith.Social media can distort our perception of reality.You are not alone in your struggles; God is always with you.Freedom from negative thinking is possible through faith.Sound Bites"Renew your mind daily.""God loves me for who I am.""Freedom is calling you."

In this episode of the Empowering Single Moms podcast, host Felicia delivers a powerful message of hope and resilience for single mothers. She emphasizes the importance of faith, overcoming adversity, and the necessity of removing negative influences from one's life. Felicia shares her personal experiences with trauma and depression, encouraging listeners to rise above their challenges and embrace their strengths. The episode serves as a call to action for single moms to reclaim their power and purpose, reminding them that they are never alone in their strugglesTakeawaysEven when you're down, you're not out.There's still purpose in your pain.Remove negative influences from your life.God will not give up on you.You are not too far gone for healing.It's important to protect your peace.Isolation can be a preparation for growth.Your past does not define your future.You are strong and deeply loved.It's time to rise and take action.

I put on the full armor of God:    •    The belt of truth—I stand on Your Word.    •    The breastplate of righteousness—I am covered by the blood of Jesus.    •    The shield of faith—I block every lie, doubt, and fear the enemy sends.    •    The helmet of salvation—My mind is protected and focused on You.    •    The sword of the Spirit—I fight back with the truth of Your Word.    •    And my feet are ready with the gospel of peace—I walk in purpose and boldness.

The enemy's strategy is to distract and discourage us.Self-examination is crucial for spiritual health.Wearing the armor of God is essential for protection.Avoiding traps set by the enemy requires discernment.Resisting the devil is a daily practice.Spiritual warfare is necessary for victory.Personal testimonies can inspire and empower others.The battle against the devil is real but winnable.Faith and prayer are powerful tools against anxiety.We are built to win, not to live in defeat.

Be Honest with GodSurround yourself with faith-filled peopleGo back to what God already said

Scripture Focus: Genesis 12:1-4The question of directionTrusting before knowingWhat does it look like to ask God where to go?Obstacles to hearing God's directionGod will meet you on your wayHow to walk this outProverbs 3:5-6

Scripture Foundation Jeremiah 29:11The Cry of the HeartGod Want You to Become HisGod Want You to Become WholeGod Want You to Become FruitfulGod Wants You To Become a LightAsk Question Daily: God, what do you want me to become?

Point 1: God works in you before he works through you.Point 2: God's Work in you is often invisible before it's obviousPoint 3: God's work in you has a purpose beyond youReflection Moment:Where in my life do I feel confused, delayed or stuck?Could God be doing a deeper work in me that I just can't see yet?Am I willing to trust his process even when I don't feel his presence?

When David sinned by committing adultery with Bathsheba, it seemed like he would get away with it. After he arranged for her husband's death, David married Bathsheba, and they enjoyed their new child together. The Bible has no record of anyone from David's inner crowd chastising him for his sin. Not the servants who sent for Bathsheba. Not the general (Joab) who put Uriah in a place where he would be killed in battle. However, there was a prophet of God who wouldn't let David get away with his sin.Nathan was wise in his approach to David—he didn't come right out and say what David had done. Instead, he told a story about a man who loved his ewe lamb and how a rich man (with many flocks and herds) selfishly slaughtered the poor man's beloved lamb in order to entertain company. David was outraged and called for the rich man's death. In response, Nathan said to David, “You are the man!”While we may not have done the same sins as David, we have fallen short and needed to hear correction from someone close to us. We need a Nathan to remind us that God has blessed us with many blessings so we don't covet. We need a Nathan to encourage us to live righteous and pure lives that are untainted by worldly living. We need a Nathan so our hearts don't become full of pride and selfishness because of our spiritual or financial increase.Being an active part of the body of Christ gives us much exposure. We are exposed of our own shortcomings as well as those of other people. A true Nathan in our lives won't look to judge us too harshly or quickly because they are always aware of their own faults. Yet they love us too much to let us wander in the darkness of sin.

May God show you how loved you are, just as you are. And may his love bring you freedom and life as we rest in his presence right now.The greatest testimony you could possibly give is to have the audacity to live honestly. It takes courage to be yourself. It takes security in the unconditional love of your heavenly Father to acknowledge not just your strengths and successes, but also your weaknesses and failures. But in doing so your life will proclaim the powerful, beautiful work of God. And in doing so you will experience the peace and joy only freedom from building a facade can produce.A facade is “an outward appearance that is maintained to conceal a less pleasant or creditable reality.” So often, to cover up what we know to be imperfect we devote ourselves to creating a false picture for others. We even devote so much energy to building a facade that we try and deceive ourselves. We muster up our pride and look only at what we've done well, all the while ignoring what we need help with. As a result, we spend all our time living a life apart from reality. And to live apart from reality is to live apart from the grace and love of our ever-present, wholly real Father.In Matthew 23:27, Jesus passionately rebukes those who try and build facades: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness.” God solely cares about the heart. He's not worried about perception. He's not worried about status or societal acceptance. He cares about what is real. He knows that any energy spent devoted to building a facade is energy you can't devote to receiving help, healing, and grace for what's real and important. He knows that all your efforts to be accepted aren't of value because the opinions of others are nothing in comparison to his unconditional love for you. And he knows that ultimately all facades will be torn down, and we will be seen and known by him for who we truly are.God longs for you to live fully known and fully loved. He longs for you to live out a revelation of his love and grace rather than striving for affection and acceptance by building up facades. Take time to experience his love and grace today. Assess your heart and tear down your walls. May freedom burst forth in your life today as you proclaim the glory of God's grace by being who you really are.

I'm back, and I'm back with a purpose. Jump on this journey it is about to get real.

In this episode of Empowering a Single Mom, Felicia discusses the importance of forgiving one's younger self. She emphasizes that many individuals carry shame and regret from their past decisions, but healing begins when we embrace who we are becoming. Through personal stories and biblical references, Felicia encourages listeners to release guilt and shame, recognize their growth, and understand that their past does not define them. The episode serves as a reminder that self-compassion and forgiveness are essential for personal growth and healing.TakeawayHealing begins when we stop punishing our past.Forgiving yourself is not weakness, it's worship.Your younger self was doing the best they could.God's grace covers even your younger mistakes.You are a new creation in Christ.Self-compassion is essential for healing.Release the guilt and shame from your past.Honor the woman you are becoming.You are not defined by your past mistakes.Be gentle with yourself and speak love to yourself

Have you ever been in a valley of despair? Our disappointments, regrets, and unmet expectations reside in the valley. Sometimes it takes a while to climb out of it and we can find ourselves getting tired of the journey. The valley experience wasn't what we anticipated when we began our Christian journey. We may have expected hard days, but not difficult years that a valley may bring. Yet, the valley experience will develop us into being more like Jesus Christ. It will help us with persevering under difficulty, overcoming sin, and depending completely on God. We may not immediately recognize our spiritual growth, but it will be evident to those in our homes, schools, or workplace. If we learn to worship God in the valley, our hearts begin to understand the joy in the midst of difficulties. If we learn to pray in the valley, our prayers become more discerning and powerful. If we learn to know God's word in the valley, our minds are well fortified against the attacks of the devil. If we learn to serve others in the valley, we immediately recognize that we aren't the only ones hurting and that there are people much worse off than us. The valley experience isn't for everyone. Many believers choose the easier path of living a surface Christianity that minimally requires church attendance, infrequent Bible readings, and hurried prayers. Yet, for those who are willing to go deeper in Christ to experience His amazing presence, the valley experience will be the toughest, but most rewarding part of their life. Our mountain top triumphs are even more celebrated when we remember where we've come from in the valley. Prayer Dear Lord, my valley experience is only worth it if You are with me. Help me to persevere through this season of my life and I will give You the glory now and forever more. In Jesus' name, amen.

When my son was young, he had a medical issue that was difficult to treat. As a young mother, I struggled with this in prayer and called out to God with all of my heart. In my mind during this prayer, I picked up my son and laid him on an altar for God's will to be done. I was blessed a year later with a correct diagnosis and treatment for him. This experience taught me the value of casting all of my cares on God instead of trying to carry the load myself. Casting everything to God means that we release Him to do His greater work. We let go of what we want and seek Him for what He wants for us. It's a risk to live this way because we aren't guaranteed that everything is going to happen in the way we want. Yet, we can experience the peace of God that calms our hearts and minds. Our faith is stretched leading to a greater capacity for spiritual maturity. On the outside, it can seem that putting everything on the altar comes to us easily. However, learning to completely trust God is a process. As we learn to trust Him for smaller things, we will begin to trust for greater. Putting it all on the altar isn't a type of forced resignation. It's a choice we make based on what we know about God's word. Putting our hopes, dreams, and prayers on the altar means that we accept the doors God opens and closes. We remain steadfast in our joy even we don't get what we want because the Holy Spirit comforts us. He has a plan and purpose if we would only lay it all on the altar—holding nothing back. Prayer Dear Lord, I lay on the altar this concern that I've been carrying. I trust You to do what is best and help me to grow in my faith from this experience. In Jesus' name, amen.

Being free in Christ is great gift to everyone who desires to know the Lord. Let's not forget this gift of freedom and remember to exercise thankfulness to Jesus Christ every day. What does it mean to be FREE?F – Forgiven of our sins. “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.” (Psalm 32:1) Many people miss the beauty of being forgiven our sins. We are ALL sinners—not one of us is born without sin. And there's only way to be washed white as snow from the nastiness, ugliness, and filthiness of our sin—that is to know Jesus Christ as Lord and accept His sacrifice for our sins. R – Release from the heavy hitters of fear, anxiousness, regret, shame, and guilt. “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.” (Romans 8:1-2) Fear, worry, regret, shame and guilt have one thing in common—they are heavy burdens to bear. Without a release from these heavy hitters, we can find ourselves locked in a spiritual, emotional, and mental prison. Through God's love and grace, we are set free from these chains. Freedom is available for all those who call on God to help and rely on His word to change us from the inside out. E – Experience the grace and favor of God. “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!” (Psalm 90:17) God's grace and favor hover everyone of us who puts our trust in Him. We totally don't deserve one once of it—it's given to us out of love and not our works. He blesses us in many ways we never see. And as we keep our eyes on the Lord, He grants us favor in our homes, schools, work, neighborhood, and communities. His grace is enough for us even when times are difficult. E – Excelled peace beyond our own understanding. “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7) The world constantly is seeking peace, but it remains elusive because of the hardness of men and women's hearts. Yet, in Christ—we have an incredible peace that we ourselves can never understand. He gives us peace in the midst of confusion, misunderstandings, disappointments, and chaos. God steadies our feet on the Rock of our salvation, Jesus Christ, who knows all and through the Holy Spirit calms our hearts and floods our minds with peace. Prayer Dear Lord, thank You for the freedom of forgiveness, release, grace, and peace. You alone are worthy of the praise for these wonderful gifts. In Jesus' name, amen.

Have you ever struggled with thoughts that cross your mind? It's not that you want to think bad things; however, your mind keeps trailing to places it shouldn't go. The scriptures teach us that there is always a battle for our minds. In order for us to guard our thoughts, we need to be vigilant and ready instead of passively allowing every thought to capture our attention. Our thoughts are powerful because our sin begins in our mind. (Romans 7:23) Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can control our thoughts so that we don't become captivated by sin. It's not just a one stop intervention; rather, it's a daily discipline of being aware of our thoughts. How do we control our thoughts? Step #1) Stay sober minded towards Satan's attacks on our minds. (1 Peter 5:8)The devil can't read our minds; however, he can plant thoughts in our head. We need to keep aware of this so that we don't embrace his thoughts as our own. Step #2) Cast down any thought that goes against God's word. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5)Once we recognize a unholy or unrighteous thought, we have the opportunity to use our spiritual weapons to drive it away from our minds. Step #3) Rehearse what God's word teaches in contrast to unholy thoughts. (Psalm 119:15)God's word is powerful and it can help us overcome the influence of evil thoughts. We have the choice to submit to the Holy Spirit's leading or submit to our own desires. Step #4) Seek God's peace to guard our minds. (Philippians 4:7)It's the peace of God which guards our hearts and minds from worry and anxiousness. Our role is to lay our petitions before the Lord and trust in Him. Step #5) Keep our minds stayed on Christ. (Isaiah 26:3)We keep our minds on Christ's love and sacrifice for us instead of allowing our minds to wander aimlessly. God sees our thoughts and knows our weakness—He can help us control them. Prayer Dear Lord, I want my thoughts to honor You. Help me to remain diligent to protect my mind from evil influences from within and without. In Jesus' name, amen.