What Is Love?

Love is not just something you do; it’s something you are. It is often premeditated, sometimes spontaneous, and always unselfish.

Love does not cry “unfair” when wrongs are flung in its path; it does not gloat with “I told you so’s” when another reaps the consequences of reckless living.

Love hangs on, even in the toughest hour; and when everyone else moans “impossible!” it believes that all things are possible.

Love requires nothing for its gift, but enjoys basking in the satisfaction of a free spirit and a grateful heart. It derives no pleasure in seeking credit for its day.

Love chooses to see the best in everything, and in everyone, but boldly speaks the truth in order to promote healing.

The product of love is love, born in the heart, nurtured with grace and goodness; by the author of love Himself.

-Rebecca Barlow Jordan

Love never fails (1 Corinthians 13:8 NKJV). 

The Bible gives us some wonderful descriptions of this beautiful quality in 1 Corinthians 13:1-8.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THIS QUALITY?

How do you define it? No matter how many times I hear or read of God’s love for me, I understand afresh how little I know of love–and how much I want to know about what love really is. Seeing Jesus’s love and compassion for all people, His complete obedience to His Father, and His brutal death and victorious resurrection still moves me to tears…and yet to joy. (John 3:16).

How Do You Express Your Gratitude?

How do you express your gratitude to the One who died for you and who loves you unconditionally? Impossible to ever show it adequately, but a good starting place? Follow Jesus’ example: live in Him, and let Him love through you.

Love involves more than something you do. It’s who Jesus is…and will be through you.

It’s Your Turn

How would you describe this important quality? What does God’s love mean to you? I enjoy hearing from you anytime. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then the e-mail will come to me. We will not share your name or info with anyone without your permission.

Share This Post with Others

Using only the share buttons here or from my Facebook profile page, feel free to share about my website or this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and newsletter updates, be sure and do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary ebook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual like me, you can join me and follow my boards on Pinterest.

The post LOVE IS SOMETHING YOU ARE appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.

On most Memorial Days I’ve chosen to share this special Memorial Day Tribute with you. Special prayers and blessings go to those of you whose friends, family members, or loved ones have given their lives for freedom.

Remember those who gave their lives for our country, for freedom, and all we hold dear. Take time on Memorial Day to pause and thank God for those who died. The following Memorial Day Tribute is for them and for freedom.

A Tribute for Memorial Day – and Freedom

by

Rebecca Barlow Jordan

The young, the old, The timid, the bold.

They gave and they fought

without thought of themselves, just others.

Some died. Others lived.

Some lost. Others gained

Freedom.

And the tears are for them, but for us as well.

Their stories live on, too many to tell.

But the ones who remain still sing the refrain

while memories dance in their heads,

Of a song deep inside for the ones who have died,

as they live each day with the pain.

And the tune passed down through the ages of time

whispers loud in the hearts of mankind.

“Freedom!”

We remember the cost and all that’s been lost

but we keep on singing their song.

Gratitude wells, and thanks belong

to all those who played a part.

For the badges of valor, both great and small

are not measured by deed, but the size of the heart.

Their courage and faith, pressed on through prayers,

offered by those left behind,

will not be forgotten; their song will live on

in hearts that will never resign.

Sing it loud; sing it often, and never forget

the price that was given for you.

Freedom.

“I thank my God every time I remember you” (Philippians 1:3, NIV).

My Personal Prayer for You

Lord, thank You for the men and women who have given their lives in service for our country and for freedom. Thank You for their courage, selflessness, and passion. Please comfort the ones who have lost loved ones and friends. Surround them with Your grace and mercy as memories flood their hearts. Hold them close with Your arms of love, and bless them daily for the sacrifice they have endured. And may we remember always, the cost of freedom and the price others paid for us.

Day-votedly Yours,

Rebecca

You might also like this post I wrote called, “Thanks for Our Veterans and for America’s Freedom.”

Thinking about your future security? Here are some thoughts to consider: When the Future Seems Uncertain, Where Is Your Security? 

It’s Your Turn

Who Are You Remembering?

Perhaps you know someone who died in the service of our country, fighting for the freedom of others. Who are you remembering this Memorial Day? A relative, spouse, friend? And may we thank you, as well, for the influence you may have had in their lives. Your love, your prayers, your gifts, your faith–no matter how big or small your contribution, we remember you, and thank God for you, too. Thank you, and God bless the families of those left behind.

You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then the email will come to me. Your name or info will never be shared with anyone without your permission. Please do not reproduce any of my blog posts without express and written permission from me.

Share This Post with Others

Using the share buttons here or from my Facebook profile page, please feel free to share about my website or this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and newsletter updates, I hope you’ll do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary ebook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual, like me, you can follow me on Pinterest.

 

The post A Tribute for Memorial Day – and Freedom appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.

Prayer for graduates is so important, especially during challenging times. If you are a graduate, a relative, or a friend of a graduate, here is a prayer for graduates that can bring help, blessing, and encouragement:

You Have Designed Our Lives

Lord, You’ve designed our lives from the beginning to the end. You’ve known every decision we would make and every direction we would take. Because You are omniscient–all-knowing–nothing surprises You.

Prayer for Graduates: Bring Comfort and Restoration of Dreams

You birth the dreams of every graduate, and You hold them close to your heart. No one understands them as You do. You are the only One who can restore, renew, and even redesign dreams that emerge better than the original ones.

That’s what we’re asking you to do for our graduates this year, Lord. Comfort those who have experienced loss; guide them through their dilemmas, and redeem any difficult seasons in their lives. Bring good out of these challenging times.

Prayer for Graduates: Bless Them and Their Future

We all want to feel important, Lord. May Your personal, “Well, done!” satisfy their spirit’s need for accomplishment and recognition. Let every senior know that no circumstance can ever rob them of their value and worth in Your eyes. To. You. Every. Person. Matters!

Bless every graduate, Lord, and assure them that You will direct the paths of all who ask. Help them not to grow weary in this new adventure in life. Give them discretion, integrity, and wisdom as they approach their new unknown future.

We pray for honesty, love, and kindness to always remain the norm in their lives, whatever they choose to do in the coming months and years. May thoughtfulness, patience, and faithfulness thrive as they look for ways to focus on others as well as their own future.

Prayer for Graduates: Courage to Persevere

Lord, give our graduates courage to persevere, especially in these uncertain times. Never let them turn from giving You first place in their lives. You understand their weaknesses, but You offer grace and strength. Assure them that failures can be the stepping stones to success and that the only kind of approval that really matters is the acceptance and unconditional love You offer them.

We pray that these coming days will not bring a daze for them, but a strong sense of dependency on You, Lord. Strengthen their faith in You, and deliver them from temptations to doubt, fear, or second guess. You never have, and You never will abandon or let them down.

Prayer for Graduates: Purpose, Protection, and Peace

May Your Word capture our graduates’ minds and hearts as never before and offer them positive solutions with victorious results. Use their times of adversity to mold their character into men and women after Your own heart. Protect them as never before from the harm of negative thoughts or the onslaught of discouraging advice.

May nothing formed against them be allowed to prosper. Instead, develop the positive qualities of leadership in them that they will need to press on and complete Your purpose for their lives. Fill them with a thirst to know You more, to love others more, and to make a difference in their world for You.

Make Your face shine on these, our graduating seniors. Give them peace, because You are our Peace, and be gracious unto them. Let Your mercy and favor rest on them, and may their lights shine so bright that others will see Your reflection in our graduates daily.

For Parents, Grandparents, Friends, or Relatives

In this prayer for graduates, we also pray for every parent, grandparent, friend, or relative of these young men and women. Lord, whisper Your encouragement to them as well. Thank You for the creative thoughtfulness of so many who are trying to congratulate these seniors in special ways.

Lord, we love our graduating seniors. And no matter what age or stage they are at, we offer this prayer for graduates to encourage and bless them in every way possible. You grieve with us; You weep with us, but You also share our joys as we look forward to the great things You will do in every graduate’s life who will exercise the boldness to believe, and the readiness to receive Your good and perfect gifts. And we ask all these things in the precious name of Jesus.

Day-votedly Yours,

Rebecca

*I like to share this prayer for graduates each year because it’s so important for us to pray for them!

Two Powerful Bible Promises for Graduates

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them (Romans 8:28 NLT).

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take (Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT).

There are so many Bible promises that will encourage graduates. Too many to list! What others would you suggest?

God Cares About Your and Your Graduate’s Needs

Does your graduate need help with disappointment? Discouragement? Self-worth? Do they need assurance? Courage? Strength? Do they need to feel God’s presence, His intervention, and His unfailing love? Are they searching for guidance in the future, answers to hard questions, or peace in the midst of their storms? Are you?

What if your or your graduate’s needs were special invitations from God to experience His faithfulness in a greater way? Would you like to discover more about your faithful Father and how He longs to meet your and your graduate’s needs? Whatever your need, He has the supply and IS the supply!

Day-votions with Your Faithful Father

Through intimate prayer conversations with God, based on His attributes, activity, and His powerful Word, I’d love to help you and your graduate discover our faithful Father’s heart in my newest book, Day-votions® with Your Faithful Father: 90 Days with the One Who Wants to Meet All Your Needs. You can find it in paperback or kindle here or on Amazon. I think you’ll find it is a devotional for all ages–from older teens to seniors. Why? Because we all experience the same needs at different times. And our faithful Father wants to meet them for all of us! Gift your graduate with a copy of this devotional (and let them know you’ll be praying this prayer for them as graduates too)!

• You might also enjoy this post about encouraging children, grandchildren, and graduates:

It’s Your Turn

Are you a graduate? Or is your child, relative, or friend a graduating senior? In what ways are you trying to encourage them? Will you commit to praying for them throughout this challenging season? You can always write me through my contact page and fill out the basic name and address info; then the email will come to me. Your name or info will never be shared with anyone without your permission.

Share This Post with Others

Using the share buttons here or from my Facebook profile page, please feel free to share about my website or this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. Please do not copy this material or any parts of it on blogs or any other places without express and written permission from me. If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and newsletter updates, remember to do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary ebook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual, like me, you can follow me on Pinterest.

The post Prayer for Graduates in These Challenging Times appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.

Here is a prayer especially for mothers and grandmothers because you are so deserving of blessing and honor for who you are and for all you do. No matter what your age, single or married, this prayer for blessing is for every good work, every good word, and every act of love you have ever offered on behalf of the ones you love.

I like to share this prayer each year for mothers and grandmothers not just because it’s almost Mother’s Day. No matter what is going on in our lives or in our world, these women need our blessing and honor every day.

Moms and grandmoms don’t consider themselves heroes. But they, like so many others, juggle multiple responsibilities, packing in even more hours with their husband and children throughout the past year, many trying to maintain balance as a single mom. Some are still dealing with loss, including unemployment.

But if you are a mother or grandmother, this is a prayer to honor you:

A Prayer of Blessing for Mothers and Grandmothers

Dear Lord,

Bless every mother and every grandmother with the finest of your spiritual blessings today. Confirm in her heart and spirit the work of her hands and the love that she has so freely given to those children under Your care. Validate her worth daily so she has no reason to doubt whether she is loved, valued, and cherished in the eyes of her Heavenly Father.

Help Worry and Fear to Disappear

Create in her a deep sense of your protection and trust, so that worry and fear will disappear as she places her loved ones into Your care. Let her know that every prayer she has prayed and every encouraging word she has spoken on behalf of her children/grandchildren has been transformed into sweet, fragrant offerings before Your throne.

Whisper Sweet Words to Her

Whisper deep within her spirit the sweet words she longs to hear from You. Show her that nothing can ever separate her from Your love. Help her to nestle daily into the promises of Your Word, standing with faith in the things You declare are true. Let her know that You reward faithfulness, but that true success doesn’t lie in her accomplishments or accolades.

Let her rest in the knowledge that she has done all she can—and that she and those she loves—truly belong to you. Bless her with a servant spirit so she can teach her own the joy of hearing one day, “Well done!”

Calm Every Doubt

Remove any guilt, false or real, and replace them with Your amazing grace and forgiveness. Help her see her children or grandchildren through Your eyes, knowing that in Your hands is the safest place they can ever be. Calm every doubt, and strengthen her confidence in the Only One who can bring good out of any situation.

Give Her Wisdom and Guidance

Teach her that she cannot meet every need of her child’s life, but that You can. Give her wisdom and guidance to train those precious children in Your path, and then leave the results to You, Lord. Help her to love without limitations, to pray without ceasing, and to live without regrets.

Bless her with such a sweet dependency on You that she will acknowledge her inadequacies, yet recognize and accept Your reward of praise—and Your sense of pleasure in having her as Your own beloved child.

Show Her Your Faithful Character

Where prayers may still seem unanswered, and dreams are not yet realized, open her eyes to see beyond this world to a Hope that never disappoints. Show her Your faithful character: a Father who will never leave or abandon her.

Give her the courage to persevere even in the most difficult moments of her life. Bless her with honesty, integrity, and a playfulness that shows her children she is human, yet unswerving in her desire to know You.

May Her Life Overflow with Blessings

Let her joy be contagious; let her passion be pure, and let her life overflow with all the blessings she deserves—on special days, and on every day of her life.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Do You Struggle As a Mom or Grandmom?

As mothers or grandmothers, we all struggle with inadequacy, doubt, and fear. Are we/did we do enough for our children? Do they know we love them? What could we have done better? How can we get them through these fearful times? Know that Jesus loves and cherishes you, and that your work is never in vain.

While you may never receive all the appreciation you deserve here on earth, God knows. He will applaud you in eternity as you stand before Him and hear His “Well Done!” You bring pleasure to Him, just being His child and doing what you can as a mom or grandmom.

Happy Mother’s Day to every mother and grandmother. I hope this prayer for mothers and grandmothers will encourage your heart on Mother’s Day, and every day as well.

Need a Mother’s Day Gift?

Gift your mom or grandmom (or a friend) on May 10th this year or on any day as a “just because gift” with this devotional/prayer book for Mother’s Day! (It can even be a personal or small group Bible Study and has room for journaling) Or maybe YOU want to discover your faithful Father’s heart in a new way and how He truly feels about you, about how deep and extravagant His love is for you . Day-votions® with Your Faithful Father: 90 Days with the One Who Wants to Meet All Your Needs will help you, your mom, your grandmom, (or anyone) do just that. You can find it here or on Amazon in either paperback or kindle. I was so honored that this book won the 2023 Christian Indie Award for First Place Devotional. You might also enjoy the Day-votions® for Mothers book which won the Serious Writer 2021 Book of the Decade recently, as well as these other women’s Day-votions® books (Women, Grandmothers) available on audio, hardback and eBook. Mother’s Day is almost here!

It’s Your Turn

Is that your prayer for mothers and grandmothers? How has the Lord blessed you as a mom or grandmom? I’d love to hear from you anytime. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then the email will come to me. Your name or info will never be shared with anyone without your permission. Please do not reproduce any of my blog posts without express and written permission from me.

Share This Post with Others

Using the share buttons here or from my Facebook profile page, please feel free to share about my website or this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and occasional newsletter updates, then I hope you’ll do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary ebook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual, like me, you can follow me on Pinterest.

The post A Prayer for Mothers and Grandmothers to Bless and Honor You appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.

Who doesn’t want to be more successful in their work? How can you and God work together to do that? From the breakfast table to the boardroom–at home, at school, in the office, in ministry, wherever and whatever you call “work,” here are five ways to make that work more successful:

1. Change Employers

Sound radical, a bit impossible? Not really. No matter who signs your paycheck, make a conscious decision to make God your employer. “And work with a smile on your face, always keeping in mind that no matter who happens to be giving the orders, you’re really serving God” (Ephesians 6:7, MSG). There’s something about doing our work for Christ that empowers us and frees us to let our best work shine through. Considering Him as your employer may not raise your salary or change your circumstances, but it will change you.

2. Change Your Commitment

In the same vein, commit your work–and the results to God. Trust Him for your success, making excellence your goal, not a higher paycheck or more applause. “Commit your work to the Lord, then it will succeed” (Proverbs 16:3, TLB). When the Lord is in control, He will make your work successful–in the way He wants it to be. Be prepared for a few surprises along the way. His idea of success is usually different from ours. But it’s always good.

3. Change Your Focus

Make others your constant focus rather than yourself. “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3, NASB). Several years ago, I made a mental note of three various groups/people who exemplified this one principle in some simple ways, and it made all the difference.

When we grabbed an “In-and-Out” burger, I noticed something different about the cups the server handed us. Two straws were already stuck in our cups of water, but the top of the straw was intact for us to pull off. A little thing, but I appreciated it. And most “Chick-Fil-A” customers can testify to their “people first” philosophy. Every employee has been trained to answer any and every request with, “My pleasure.”

A third incident occurred at a local Mexican food restaurant. The waitress had the most beautiful smile that made our dining experience just a little more special. She cared enough to give her very best service for two people she didn’t even know. And we’ve experienced so many other incidents where the same thing happened. As someone once said, “It takes so little to be above average.”

People notice when you care about making others more successful than yourself, about using the Golden Rule, and about treating others as special guests rather than bothersome interruptions. Find every opportunity you can to go the second mile.

4. Change Your Priorities

All of these ways overlap, but in all of our work, we face the challenge of balance. It’s easy to get overloaded and out of focus, whether it’s in our work at home or at an outside job. And we’ve all done that. Sometimes that requires making tough choices. But if we’re working for God and if our work is committed to Him, He will help us keep those priorities in the right place. Sometimes it helps me to think of life like an old-fashioned wheel with spokes. Jesus is in the center of that wheel. Everything else revolves around Him.

When Martha’s “work” in preparing the meal for Jesus and her large crowd interfered with a greater priority, Jesus chastised her. Martha saw her sister Mary as indifferent and lazy. Instead of helping her, Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, scooping up every precious bit of wisdom He offered. But Jesus reminded Martha: “Martha, dear Martha, you’re fussing far too much and getting yourself worked up over nothing. One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it—it’s the main course, and won’t be taken from her” (Luke 10:41-42, MSG). Jesus is the main course, the hub of the wheel, the One who makes all our work worthwhile, whether we are “listening” or “serving,” whether we work for minimum wage or prestigious benefits, whether our “work” draws a paycheck or not, He is our true employer, and He will keep work, family–and life–in balance, if we only let Him.

Ask God to Change Your Heart and Your Goal

Having trouble with 1-4? Everyone does at one time or another, me included. I love what Oswald Chambers says: “We have the idea that God is leading us toward a particular end or a desired goal, but He is not. The question of whether or not we arrive at a particular goal is of little importance, and reaching it becomes merely an episode along the way. What we see as only the process of reaching a particular end, God sees as the goal itself….It is the process, not the outcome, that is glorifying to God.”¹

In other words, God is more interested in our character and in our reflection of His. I highly suspect that would qualify as being successful in His eyes. Our work does matter to God. But His business is long-term, with eternal benefits–and He’s in the people business. Ask Him to change your heart, your attitude, and your life so that you can truly reflect Him in every part of your life, including your work.

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him (Colossians 3:17, NIV).

^{1 Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, (c) 1992 by Oswald Chambers Publications Association, Ltd. (Discovery House Publications: Grand Rapids, Michigan), July 28.}

My Personal Prayer for You

Lord, You are a wonderful employer–the best! We commit our work to you, no matter what our work involves, and we ask you to make our work successful. Teach us Your ways, and to love You and others more than ourselves. We desire to bring You glory and to reflect the image of Christ daily. We want Your goal to be our goal, Your purpose, ours. Help us in the hard choices, when life is unfair, to be steadfast, and to keep our eyes on You. Show us the right balance and what Your kind of success really means.

Day-votedly Yours,

Rebecca

You might enjoy these other posts relating to success: How Do You Measure Success?  and 4 Ways to Prepare for Success.

It’s Your Turn

Which one of the above ways are most challenging to you? How is God helping change your focus or your priorities in order to make your work more successful? I’d love to hear from you anytime. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then the email will come to me. Your name or info will never be shared with anyone without your permission.

Share This Post with Others

Using the share buttons here, or from my website or Facebook profile page, please feel free to share about my website or this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. Please do not reproduce any of my blog posts without express and written permission from me.

If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and occasional newsletter updates, then I hope you’ll do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary ebook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual, like me, you can join me and follow my boards on Pinterest.

The post 5 Ways to Make Your Work Successful appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.

For decades, I’ve enjoyed fishing, or rather “catching,” fish with my husband. But years ago, we also learned a fishing technique we’re always working on: one that promotes communication and has deepened our relationship.

Both Communication and Fishing Require Skills

Through the years, I’ve learned some fishing skills from my husband about how to snag ’em and bag ’em, instead of casting my lures on the water and catching nothing but lily pads and moss. (Of course, that still happens a lot).

Communication, too, requires skill. Anytime a relationship experiences a communication breakdown, maybe it’s time to “go fishing.” But not in shallow waters. This is where fishing and communication may differ slightly. While it’s possible to catch fish in shallow water, with communication, you need to go out into the deep water, where the big fish live.

The stuff of life often leads us in different directions, and before long, we neglect the connections with those we love. We limit our communication levels to shallow water, while the big fish move out to deeper hiding places. Simple “How was your day?” works great for small talk and provides a needed check-in for relationships, but it won’t snag the heart of another and keep it on the line for very long.

Communication and Marriage

Our hearts are like that. In a marriage, going fishing in your mate’s heart means using the best God-given equipment you own: Spirit-sensory perception, attentive, listening ears, and continual patience–to draw the “big ones” out.

The big fish have long eluded you both: hidden resentments, buried dreams, and deep longings. Those who are patiently willing to go fishing in “deep waters” will draw out those “big-uns,” and re-establish good communication. Do you know what your mate is thinking? Do you really care about their deepest fears?

Continual Fishing, Continual Communication

Hard, plastic lures will probably not work here. Only live bait such as love, patience, gentleness, kindness, and goodness will catch the really big ones. And we’re not talking about “catch and release” either. Healthy relationships keep those communication discoveries tucked in their hearts.

But they’re not satisfied with once in a while trophy catches. They keep fishing and learning, fishing and growing.

Going Fishing in All Relationships

The secret of “deep water fishing” communication works in all relationships: friendships, siblings, even parent/child relationships. James 1:19 (NIV) says it well: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. 

Will that kind of communication take time? Yes. Will it draw you closer to each other? Yes.  Never tried it? Maybe it’s time to move out to deep water and go fishing!

The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out (Proverbs 20:5, NIV).

When he finished teaching, he said to Simon, “Push out into deep water and let your nets out for a catch” (Luke 5:8, MSG).

My Personal Prayer for You

Lord, we need your help to keep the communication lines open with those we love. Teach us the skills we need to make every relationship the kind you intended. Give us the patience to go fishing in deep waters so we can learn to draw out those things in others that are hidden beneath the surface. Help us to learn better how to understand and draw closer to others.

Day-votedly Yours,

Rebecca

It’s Your Turn

Have you been fishing lately? How has “deep water” fishing helped you in your communications with others?  With your spouse? I’d love to hear from you anytime. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then the email will come to me. Your name or info will never be shared with anyone without your permission.

Share This Post with Others

Using the share buttons here, or from my website or Facebook profile page, please feel free to share about my website or this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. Please do not reproduce any of my blog posts without express and written permission from me.

If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and occasional newsletter updates, then I hope you’ll do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary ebook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual, like me, you can join me and follow my boards on Pinterest.

The post Communication and Fishing: What Do They Have in Common? appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.

Are you searching for something to lift your spirits? Do you need assurance that life still holds promise? Are you wondering if you still matter? May this Easter prayer of hope and encouragement touch you and usher in a new sense of God’s love and presence:

Easter is a Day of Hope

Lord Jesus, Easter is not only Your Resurrection Day; this is a day of hope, joy, and victory. And our hearts are so desperate for encouragement. All around us lie the remains of broken lives, failed relationships, and fading dreams. Yet Easter reminds us that You already provided the hope we need and the answers for which we plead.

Easter is a Day to Celebrate You, Jesus

Easter is a special time to celebrate and worship You. How can we begin to say thank You for the price You paid, the sacrifice You made, and the life You gave to prove Your love to us?

Through Your death and Resurrection, You freed us from our prison walls of emptiness and hopelessness. Heaping all the sins of the world—all the anger, all the hatred, all the rebellion ever committed against Your Kingdom—all that upon Your back—You endured the weight we could not carry. You canceled our own spiritual death sentence, and You gave us life. No suffering compares to Your death on the Cross.

Into our darkness, You breathed light. You birthed joy into our sorrow. Into our loneliness, You gave comfort. And into our confusion, You brought hope. You opened the door of fellowship with God so that we can now come boldly into Your presence and receive the help we so desperately need: grace, pure and undeserved.

You Showed Us We Matter to You

Resurrection freedom, victory, purpose, and life—You brought it all to the doorstep of our hearts. And then You invited us to come, just as we are, and be forgiven and loved for eternity. Through Your death and resurrection, You showed us we all matter to You—no matter who we are.

We Have No Words to Thank You

Jesus, we have no words worthy enough to offer, and our lives are but empty vessels waiting to be filled with You. We could never be enough or do enough to say thank you. But today, on this Easter Resurrection Day, we celebrate You; we celebrate Your victory over death, and we celebrate the hope and life You offer us as a result. We abandon ourselves to You, and we accept Your Lordship in our lives.

Your Invitation Is Open to All

Lord, for those still searching, help them find hope in You today. For the ones still discouraged, lift heavy burdens. For the many still in bondage from sinful habits or lifestyles, help them find deliverance and safety in Your arms. Your invitation is an open one: Come with repentance and faith—with a desire to be whole and complete in You. Come and receive; trust and believe.

You are faithful; You are good, and You are the One and Only Savior of the world. Thank You for coming to show us the Father’s love—and oh, how You did that so perfectly!

May Every Day Be Resurrection Day

Lord, quiet our thoughts and keep our minds focused on You as we remember Your death and Resurrection this Easter—and every day. Then set our hearts to dancing as we embrace the joy of new life You offer to all who will come freely and ask.

So many are struggling this Easter with fear and anxiety. Many have experienced loss. Remind us that death is not the end. Help us remember that with You, real life begins the moment we embrace You as our Lord and Savior, the One Who conquered death and rose again–and that life continues on with You in heaven the moment we breathe our last.

You have told us that in this world we will have trouble–disappointments, trials, and tribulations. But You have overcome the world. Fill us with Your presence today, Lord. Only in You can our needs be met. We find comfort and assurance only in You. We offer this Easter prayer of hope and encouragement to you. Jesus, Son of God, we praise and celebrate You today! May every day be Resurrection Day in our hearts.

Day-votedly Yours,

Rebecca

He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Matthew 28:6 NIV

Do You Understand Your Faithful Father’s Heart?

Would you like to discover more about your faithful Father and how He longs to meet your needs? I’d love to help you discover your faithful Father’s heart in my latest book, Day-votions® with Your Faithful Father: 90 Days with the One Who Wants to Meet All Your Needs. You can find it here or on Amazon. 

You might also enjoy these posts I wrote: Is Jesus Real? An Easter Prayer, Easter Is About Removing Stones, Good or Bad Friday? or the post Palm Sunday – An Easter Meditation.

*Every year I love to share this Easter prayer–both to encourage you and to celebrate with you the joy and hope of Easter, our Resurrection Day!

It’s Your Turn

Do you need encouragement and hope this Easter? What is your Easter prayer? What does Easter mean to you? I’d love to hear from you anytime. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then the email will come to me. Your name or info will never be shared with anyone without your permission.

Share This Post with Others

Using the share buttons here, or from my website or Facebook profile page, please feel free to share about my website or this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. Please do not reproduce any of my blog posts without express and written permission from me.

If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and occasional newsletter updates, then I hope you’ll do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary ebook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual, like me, you can join me and follow my boards on Pinterest. 

The post Easter Prayer of Hope and Encouragement appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.

Palm Sunday and the Easter story, Jesus’ story, never grow old. Jesus is still what Easter is all about. I’ve begun a tradition each year of posting this short Easter meditation about Palm Sunday that I wrote several years ago and wanted to share it with you again. I pray it blesses and encourages you as you begin this Easter season of celebration.

Palm Sunday

by

Rebecca Barlow Jordan

On Palm Sunday…

They did not see Him coming. Not Him. They saw hope re-kindled, an end to their injustice, and an easier path to follow.

They waved their palm offerings and laid down their finest clothes, but they saw only a temporary king, not a Suffering Servant.

On Palm Sunday…

They sang alleluia from the depths of their hearts and would have crowned Him there if they could. But they didn’t understand.

They didn’t see Jesus. Son of God. Messiah. Soon and Coming King. They misunderstood: His kingdom was not of this world.

On Palm Sunday…

Jesus knew. Astride on the back of a donkey, He knew why He had come.

The Son of God humbled Himself, set aside royalty, and exchanged Heaven’s robes for a towel and a basin of water.

He received their praise that day, but He saw their hearts, young and old alike.

And He wept for them.

And then He died for them.

A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest!'” Matthew 21:8-9 NIV

My Personal Prayer for You

Lord Jesus, we acknowledge You as the Suffering Servant, the Son of God, the true Messiah–and the One who died so that we might have life. On Palm Sunday and every day, may the praise that we offer and the lives that we live give appropriate honor to You, Lord. And may the same servant spirit You showed us characterize our lives as well. Thank you for giving Your life for us! We owe everything to You!

Day-votedly Yours,

Rebecca

Do You Understand Your Faithful Father’s Heart?

Would you like to discover more about your faithful Father and how He longs to meet your needs? I’d love to help you discover your faithful Father’s heart in my newest book, Day-votions® with Your Faithful Father: 90 Days with the One Who Wants to Meet All Your Needs. You can find it here or on Amazon. 

It’s Your Turn

How would you have greeted Jesus on Palm Sunday? What does Jesus’ death mean to you? How will you celebrate Easter this year? I’d love to hear from you anytime. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then the email will come to me. Your name or info will never be shared with anyone without your permission.

Share This Post with Others

Using only the share buttons here or from my Facebook profile page, please feel free to share about my website or this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. Please do not reproduce any of my blog posts without express and written permission from me. If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and occasional newsletter updates, then I hope you’ll do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary ebook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual, like me, you can join me and follow my boards on Pinterest.

The post Palm Sunday – An Easter Meditation appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.

The day begins like any other.

Shower. Coffee. Dress for work. Run out the door. Or not.

Your work and life may revolve around a home base.

Wherever you are, whether you face a crowd of employees, shoppers, or students, a blank computer screen, or children begging for attention, the need whispers like a persistent friend.

The day progresses. You look around, distractions pulling you away from obligations. At home or at work, it doesn’t really matter. You feel alone.

It could be lack of sleep. Too much stress. Not enough energy.  Trying to solve things by yourself again. Or just life. Your shoulders sag. Inhale, exhale. Pep talk. Just get through another day. Focus.

But the desire, the longing, the need persists. Weekly. Daily. Hourly. Minute by minute.

When You Need Someone to Talk ToYou

You want–need–someone to talk to. Someone who understands your heart. Someone who wants to spend time with you. Is there anyone like that? When you need someone to talk to, where do you go? Is there anyone dependable who will listen and who understands?

The One Who Invites You to Himself

There is Someone. He is the One who invites you to Himself, that dependable Someone–Your faithful Father, waiting to hear you say, “Yes, Lord,” when He calls. And He is always ready to listen and talk. He is eager to hear your voice, your prayers, your everyday concerns, and conversations. He loves for you to set aside time to be with Him.

Each morning as you arise, He waits for you to quiet your heart and listen. And when you open the pages of His Word, you’ll find His voice speaking softly, personally, through the Holy Spirit. His love, His care, His instructions are clear, never contradicting the Bible and the truths written there. When He calls, are you ready to listen? He’s always listening for you.

My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.” And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming” (Psalm 27:8 NIV).

I’m sure we’ve all experienced those feelings at times when we need someone to talk to. Your closest friend, spouse, or relative may not be available. But your faithful Father is always there. And He wants to listen–and–and talk to us daily.

Here are my thoughts and my grateful prayer response as I accept His invitation daily to “come and talk.” Maybe it expresses your heart too:

Precious Father, the first thing I want to hear when I wake up in the morning is the sweetness of Your Spirit’s voice. And the last thing I love to hear as my eyes close for the night is the whisper of Your love in the depths of my heart. You don’t raise a thundering voice or send a hurricane to force me to listen, though You may use nature to get my attention and speak to my spirit. Forgive me when busyness or neglect crowds out the sound of heaven in my soul. The memories of our time together and the promise of Your welcome invitation are all I need to bring me into Your presence again.

Thank You that You are the One who invites me to Yourself. Even when loneliness surrounds me and it seems there is no one to talk to, You are always there, waiting for sweet communion with me. Your Word is like a hidden treasure to me. I want to go digging into the depths of the Scriptures Your Spirit has inspired. You hear my whispers, my pleas, and my cries. Today, I will command my spirit to be quiet so I can listen for Your voice through Your Word. Speak, Lord. I do want to hear.¹

Words from His Word

For his Holy Spirit speaks to us deep in our hearts and tells us that we really are God’s children (Romans 8:16 TLB).

I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure (Psalm 119:162 NLT).

¹Adapted from Day-votions® with Your Faithful Father, ©2022, Rebecca Barlow Jordan, All Rights Reserved

Do You Understand Your Faithful Father’s Heart?

Discover more about your faithful Father’s heart in Day-votions® with Your Faithful Father: 90 Days with the One Who Wants to Meet All Your Needs. You can find it here or on Amazon. 

*If you missed them, you might also enjoy these posts:  When the Future Seems Uncertain, Where Is Your Security,” and When Disappointment Comes.

It’s Your Turn

Would you like to know more about your faithful Father’s heart and how He wants to spend time with you daily? I enjoy hearing from readers. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then it will come to me. Your name or info is not shared with anyone.

Share This Post with Others

Using the share buttons here, or from my website or Facebook profile page, please feel free to share this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. Please do not reproduce any of my blog posts without express and written permission from me.

If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and occasional newsletter updates, I hope you’ll do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary eBook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual, like me, you can follow my boards on Pinterest.

The post When You Need Someone to Talk To appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.

Texts, e-mail messages, and social media posts have replaced much of the art of letter writing. And that’s sad to me. Because those represent time and sacrifice from the giver unlike any other gift.  Loving words from the heart bleed gold, no matter how or when expressed.

What about Valentine’s Day?

Candy, flowers, perfume—these Valentine’s Day gifts still make up the largest portion of the Valentine commercial industry. And there’s nothing wrong with those. But what if you and your spouse could give each other a special gift this Valentine’s Day–one that would last all year?

Do you pray for your husband/wife? What better time than Valentine’s Day to let your spouse know that you are praying for him/her and what you are praying. It could be one of the best Valentine gifts you could ever offer. (And 50 years later, you may still be enjoying them!) Make your prayer letter personal, but here are some suggestions of how you might pray for your husband or for your wife:

A Valentine Prayer Letter to My Husband

Dear ______,

This year on Valentine’s Day I want you to know not only how much I love you, but how much I’m praying for you. And this year, I’m making my prayers part of my gift to you.

I’m praying for you to be a man who leads your family not just with your heart, but with God’s heart. May God give you inner strength daily to carry out your tasks with confidence and commitment. I’m also praying that your roots will go deep down into the soil of God’s own wonderful love.

God’s Love for You

May God grant you an understanding of how wide, how high, how long, and how deep His love is for you, just as you are. I’m praying, too, that you will know without a doubt what a good, good Father He is. And may you understand how much He wants to bless you and enlarge your influence as you open up your life to Him.

God’s Wisdom and Discernment

I’m asking God to give you discernment in all areas of your life so you will be able to handle every situation with wisdom, resisting temptation and wrong counsel that might come your way. I’m also praying for God’s protection for you as you wear His armor—mind, body, and spirit. In addition, may God keep evil far from you, so that nothing formed against you can prosper. I’m asking God to open your eyes to His truth so you can recognize Satan’s attempts to turn you aside or destroy your faith.

I’m asking God to make you a man who is respected, who honors God and his family, who will be quick to do good, to listen, and to refrain from anger. May God also tear down any harmful strongholds in your life and keep any new ones from forming. I’m praying, too, that He will give you time in His Word and a love for the things He loves. And may your heart beat for others in the same unselfish way that it beats for us as your family.

May God Teach and Guide You

I’m praying that God will teach you and guide you daily in the path He’s chosen for you. I’m asking God to make you a man of ceaseless prayer and great faith. And may you be one who will stand boldly for Jesus, and one will share the good news of Jesus unashamedly.

I’m asking God to make His desire for you, your heart’s desire. May your faithfulness be a source of joy to His heart and to those who know and love you. In all your ways, I pray that you will acknowledge Him, not trying to figure things out on your own. May you constantly trust Him to lead you daily as a steward of all He has given you.

I’m praying that you will not be discouraged if you make mistakes, but that you will always depend on the sufficiency of God’s amazing grace with a spirit of humility and gratitude. I pray that God will give you a willing spirit, quick to forgive others as well as yourself.

May God Enrich You

I’m asking God to show you that He is not finished with you. May you know that He is always at work in you to make you into the kind of man He wants you to be—a man after His own heart. I’m praying that Jesus will enrich you with good things, and that He will help you to enjoy life at its best. May He also fill you daily with the fruits of the Spirit.

I’m praying that at work, at home, and everywhere you are, that you will be a man of integrity. May God make known to you the knowledge of His will. And in doing so, may you understand the hope of your calling in Christ Jesus. In whatever you do, I’m praying you will work at it with your whole heart, as if you are working for the Lord.

I pray that you will always be a godly example for your family, that you will be tender, yet strong in the Lord. I pray that a deep, deep love for Jesus will motivate your every action and attitude. In addition, may God give you a restful spirit, and help you experience the kind of peace that passes all understanding.

You Are Loved More Than You Know

Hear my heart: as a husband and a father you are loved more than you know, and I’m praying that God will impress that on your heart, even as I speak these words to you. May you know not only how much I love you, but how much more you are loved by God. May that kind of love spur you to work with excellence, not perfection, always looking to Jesus as the Author and Completer of your faith.

This is not just my valentine letter to you, but I want it to be my prayer for you all year.

You Are God’s Valentine to Me

You are God’s valentine to me, and it is my highest joy and privilege to pray for you daily. This is my gift and commitment to you. May the Lord bless you and keep you, make His face to shine on you, be gracious to you, turn His face toward you, and give you peace.

With Grateful Love and Admiration,

___________

 A Valentine Prayer Letter to My Wife

Dear ______,

This year on Valentine’s Day I want you to know not only how much I love you, but how much I’m praying for you. And this year, I’m making my prayers part of my gift to you.

I’m praying for God to make you a woman after His own heart. May you be a woman who loves the Lord with all your heart, soul, and mind, and others as yourself. I’m praying that you will understand how deep God’s love is for you.

You Are of Great Value and Worth

In addition, may you feel security as a woman of great value and worth. I’m asking God to guard your mind against thoughts that would tell you otherwise. I’m also praying He will let you know in tender ways what a good and great Heavenly Father He is. And may you know that He is always looking out for your own best interests.

I’m praying that the concerns of your heart will be light.  I’m also asking God to help you share the deep needs of your life with your family and with the Lord. And may you always come boldly to His throne. In addition, I pray you will cast every care on Him, assured that He hears and answers your prayers.

May God Grant Wisdom and Protection

I’m asking God to help you grow in wisdom daily. May God also bless you richly as a wife, a mother, and in all areas of your life. I am praying that Jesus will always feel at home in your heart as you give Him first place.

I’m praying that the things that matter to God will matter to you, and that His desires will become your desires as well. I’m praying that your friendships will be sweet and encouraging. And I’m asking God to give you discernment in every relationship so that it honors Him. May God help you rest in the shadow of the Almighty as you live in the shelter of the most High. I’m asking not only for God’s protection in every area, but that you would feel His protective arms about you everywhere you go.

You Matter to Me and to Others

I’m asking God to bless you as a woman of strength who understands how much your work, your gifts, and your influence make a difference to those around you—including me and our family. May you constantly resist Satan’s attempts to devalue you or to make you doubt your faith or God’s work in your life. May your heart always remain gentle and tender, open to God’s leading and direction.

I’m asking God to show you that His power works best in weakness. May you always remember that His amazing grace is all you need to get you through anything. I’m praying that all your expectations will be met in Jesus. And may you also be gentle with yourself, not expecting more from yourself than God does.

May God Give You Great Faith

I’m asking God to give you great faith to believe the impossible and to do the incredible. I’m praying that He will fill you with a boldness that will push out any fear. May God help you face the future with confidence and assurance in His faithfulness. I’m praying God will make your testimony strong and fill you with the desire to share His love wherever He asks you to do so. Whether as a woman, a mom, or a wife, may you sense the hand of God in every prayer and in every word you speak.

I’m praying you will cling to God’s Word for comfort, teaching, and help for every area of your life. I’m asking God for laughter to decorate your heart and for joy to fill your spirit. May kindness characterize your life, and may God’s purpose for you be clear. I pray that you will always be a godly model for your family. May a deep, deep love for Jesus motivate your every action and attitude.

You Are Loved More Than You Know

As a wife and a mother you are loved more than you know. I’m praying that God will impress that on your heart, even as I speak these words to you. May you know not only how much I love you, but how much more you are loved by God.

This is not just my valentine letter to you; I want it to be my prayer for you all year.

You Are God’s Valentine to Me

You are God’s valentine to me, and it is my highest joy and privilege to pray for you daily. This is my gift and commitment to you. May the Lord bless you and keep you, make His face to shine on you, be gracious to you, turn His face toward you, and give you peace.

With Grateful Love and Tenderness,

___________

These Valentine Prayer Letters first appeared on Crosswalk in 2016 as A Valentine Prayer Letter to My Wife, and A Valentine Prayer Letter to My Husband. 

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance….Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love (1 Corinthians 13:4-7, 13, NLT).

I try to post these prayers each year. These are prayers you can pray for your husband or wife not just for Valentine’s Day, but throughout the year. I could not make it without the prayers of my husband for me. They lift me up, encourage me, and draw me close to God’s heart.

You can slip your prayer letter into a card, a lunch box, a purse, under a dinner plate, or tape it to the mirror in your home or car. Or you can read it to your spouse during a time of prayer together. However you choose to share it, I pray it will bless both your hearts.

*Another post might be helpful, called A Valentine’s Challenge: How Can We Mirror God’s  Heart? You might also enjoy reading this post about marriage that I wrote called, Is the Light on In Your Marriage? 

It’s Your Turn

What will you give your Valentine this year? How often do you pray for your spouse? Will you commit to pray for your husband/wife daily this year? These prayers are only suggestions. What else will you pray for your spouse? Break these down into smaller prayers, or select a Scripture you’d like to pray for your spouse. Then pray that promise/Scripture for him/her often. I’d love to hear from you anytime. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then the e-mail will come to me. Your name or info will never be shared with anyone without your permission.

Share This Post with Others

Using the share buttons here or from my Facebook profile page, please feel free to share about my website or this blog post with others in your social media circles so we can work together in encouraging others toward intimacy with God. Please do not reproduce any of my blog posts without express and written permission from me.

If you haven’t signed up for my weekly posts and occasional newsletter updates, I hope you’ll do so soon. I think you’ll enjoy the complimentary ebook that you’ll receive when you sign up. You can also follow me on Goodreads, and if you are visual, like me, you can join me and follow my boards on Pinterest.

The post A Valentine Prayer Letter to My Spouse – Husband and Wife appeared first on Rebecca Barlow Jordan.