a kingdom of love

For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son...

To us, a Son is given.

For God so LOVED the world...

Perfect LOVE.

Love that casts out all fear.

Love that is patient.

Love that is kind.

Love that does not envy.

Love that is not rude, or boastful, or proud, or self seeking.

Love that does not destroy.

Love that is not easily angered.

Love that keeps no record of wrongs.

Love that hates injustice.

Love that rejoices when truth prevails.

Love that is always hopeful, always faithful.

Love that is zealous to serve.

Love that feeds and quenches.

Love that honors all persons.

Love that is sincere.

Love that is true, noble, right, pure.

Love that is admirable, excellent, praiseworthy.

Love that is self-controlled and disciplined.

Love that is upright.

Love that is romantic, intimate, holy.

Love that endures.

Love that is good.

Love that is devoted with all heart, soul, mind, strength.

Joy to the world! For God so loved the world!

For God so loved the world that He gave to us His only Son. Light has come into the world! For God did not send his Son to condemn us, but to save the world through Him... through His LOVE!

May His kingdom come!

May His will be done here on earth as it is in heaven!

Dear friends, let us love one another. For love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. (1 John 4:7-12, 16)

The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. (Galatians 5:6b)

May your days be merry and bright... May your days be filled with LOVE!

For God... let us LOVE!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

what child is this?

At this very moment, an expectant mother has just gone into labor. After long months of waiting for her pregnancy to come to fruition, a woman is about to introduce a new child into the world. Perhaps this child's birth will come easily and without complication. Perhaps it won't. Perhaps this baby will be physically healthy and raised in a comfortable, safe environment filled with love and family. Perhaps it won't. Perhaps it will be raised in poverty and faced with malnutrition, a lack of education, sickness and danger. The speculated debut of every infant causes me to rejoice at God's creation and purpose yet still consider all that is most worrisome about the condition of our sinful race. Lord, will this baby make it?

In only a few years, as you and I continue to grow old, this once tiny infant will grow up and become wise to the saddened state of mankind. They will learn of how wealth and resources are divided unjustly on virtually every continent. They will be faced with real issues such as unstable economies, corrupted leaders, and war between nations. They will involuntarily be joined in responsibility for the choices of mankind. Choices that will impact the freedoms, opportunities, dignity and welfare of every son and daughter... every brother or sister... every man and woman.

This new life, added to the billions of other lives sharing our dying planet, will earn their place in history merely because they are human. They may be famous. They may be renowned. They may be wealthy. They may hold authority. Or they may never show up on the radar. A nobody to the masses. Irrespective of who they become or how easy/difficult their life may prove, this person will one day find himself face-to-face with Jesus, Emmanuel (meaning "God with us"), the Prince of Peace, the Son of God, the Light... the Hope of the world.

Jesus... a person who also was once a random baby born unpretentiously into our tainted world. Jesus... who would later be known as a Teacher, a Prophet, a Healer, a Messiah. What child is this who's birth was both lowly and glorious? A child who's arrival would ultimately be celebrated annually and worldwide. A child who's life would motivate carols of rejoicing and hymns of joy and peace. A child who was, and is, and is to come - the King of all kings. A special baby in whom all others will measure time. A person who could not be ignored. A person who would share a quality of spirit, a depth of insight, a manner of love while inviting others to live as He lives with great compassion, faith, purpose, and ethical integrity. Jesus would show us the highest possibility of godliness and the lowest form of humility. He would petition every heart to follow His Way, His Truth, His Life. A life that focuses on things ahead... things eternal... things holy... things good.

This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing! A child who slept in straw and lay in a manger - a trough where cattle would eat. A God who would bring promise, redemption, healing, salvation. Here he would come to live, to die, and to live again to give hope to all babies... to all men born of this hopeless world. What unique child is this that we should celebrate his birth and sing his arrival - an arrival closer in circumstance to the poor than to the more fortunate. An arrival that warranted the choirs of heaven to sing glory and praise to God in the Highest the moment the umbilical cord was cut from His virgin mother. An arrival that invited both the simple and the sage... the worker and the wise... the elegant and the ordinary. All who knew would come and give their blessing to the One who was, and is, and will forever be truly blessed.

Friends, as the hustle and bustle of the holiday season consumes our time and focus, let us not forget to honor this holy, holy, holy child... this Savior, who came to earth for one goal, one purpose. As Christ followers, let us be grateful that our eyes have been opened to His grace. Let us be thankful that our lives hold great worth because He first loved us. Let us share what we know to be true. What we believe, accept, and follow. Yes, let us tell all people about Jesus' one way, one goal, one purpose and how He loves all mankind and wishes to redeem their lives. Let us sing whole-heartedly alongside the angels and eternally rejoice - for peace has come to earth! All praise and glory to our Omnipotent, Almighty God who loved us enough to come. Forever let us worship Jesus Christ... our Savior, who lowered Himself to our level so that we could ultimately be lifted back up to His.

What child is this? This child is my Master and King. This child is my Redeemer and Ruler. This child is my Shepherd and Comforter. This child is my Wonderful Counselor. My Mighty God. My Everlasting Father. My Prince of Peace. The Holy of Holies!!! Let us pause and celebrate His glorious nativity. Let us live with His message, His purpose spilling from our lips. Let us rest in His promise to return again, and anticipate with hope His kingdom come!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. (Isaiah 9:6-7)

This, this is Christ MY King... my precious, holy, beautiful, magnificent JESUS!

O Come, let us pause. O Come, let us adore HIM!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

 ~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

repeat the sounding joy

YOU are important.
YOU have purpose.
YOU are loved beyond all human measure.
YOU are beautiful to God Almighty!

So...

Trust Him.
Put all your faith in Him.
Repent every sin to Him and ask His forgiveness.

LOVE HIM with all your heart, soul, mind, strength.

Believe that He is able to save you from the evil of this world.
Believe that He is in full control.
Believe that He is Creator... King... Redeemer.
Believe that He has a better plan than your own and be disciplined to follow His plan with prayer and obedience.
Believe that His Word is wise and unchanging.
Believe His biblical promises will be fulfilled.
Believe He will restore His devoted into eternal holiness.
Accept and receive His family Name through Jesus Christ.
Surrender to His loving, perfect Law and live in freedom.

For our Savior, Christ the Lord...
He is the Wonderful Counselor.
He is the Mighty God.
He is the Everlasting Father.
He is the Prince of Peace.

Believe today and know His wonderful, mighty, everlasting peace!!!
Then, repeat the sounding joy!

Joy to the World, the Lord is come!

Let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare Him room,

And Heaven and nature sing,

And Heaven and nature sing,

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the World, the Savior reigns!

Let men their songs employ;

While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains

Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,

Nor thorns infest the ground;

He comes to make His blessings flow

Far as the curse is found,

Far as the curse is found,

Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,

And makes the nations prove

The glories of His righteousness,

And wonders of His love,

And wonders of His love,

And wonders, wonders, of His love.

Happy Holidays everyone!  Jesus is LORD!
LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!

~ Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

let the celebration begin! (part 5)

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this. (Isaiah 9:6-7)

Prince of Peace! There can be no peace on earth unless this Prince, this Messiah, is at reign. For His government is not one that will be dictated by the belligerence of men. Man-made government is troubled, corrupt, unsettled, and broken. Why? Because without God, man is broken. However, with God, man can enjoy true love within a government that is complete, holy, full. This is what our Prince of Peace has promised to achieve through His almighty zeal.

To us... He comes with a new kingdom of which we are each invited to enjoy. His courts are secured in justice and righteousness. His kingdom is a holy life of hope! Blessed Messiah! For with You on David's throne, we may know everlasting peace!

Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble. (Psalm 119:165)

But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity. (Psalm 37:11)

The only peace that can ever be found is with Jesus. He is our peace. His Way is the only path that is proven to free the restless sinner from bondage. With this Wonderful Counselor guiding us, with this Mighty God protecting and overseeing all things in our lives, with this Everlasting Father loving us as His own... this royal Prince comes to us - promising His truth. Promising an abundant life of freedom, contentment, and tranquility. Yes, only when we are close to the Savior, can we relax and enjoy balance and breath. In Christ, we are able to become holy and blameless in the eyes of God. In Christ, we are able to LIVE and be completely fulfilled. This Son of God who is also Son of Man has come and is indeed our peace! Will you follow His kingdom? Will you bow down to His glorious rule? Without Him, there can be no good will toward men. But with Jesus, we can live in the loving presence, interest, intrigue, wonder, splendor, and holiness of the Creator of all we know and do not know. His Way is THE WAY to know real, everlasting, perfect PEACE!

So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him. (2 Peter 3:14)

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:9)

For he himself is our peace. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (Ephesians 2:14a, 17-18)

To those who have been called, who are loved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ: Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance. To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy - to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. (Jude 1:1-2, 24-25)

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love. (2 John 1:3)

As the Lord zealously gives Himself to us, let us unreservedly give ourselves today (and every day)... TO JESUS!

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come! (Revelation 4:8)

Merry, Merry Christmas and Blessings in Jesus' Holy Name!

~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

let the celebration begin! (part 4)

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this. (Isaiah 9:6-7)

Everlasting Father! The guidance of this Wonderful Counselor, the power of this Mighty God... this comes from a loving Father Who knows no limits. He is eternal. He is forever. He is the Ancient of Days who has taken responsibility of His household and will provide and care for His children.

Do you not know?

Have you not heard? 
The LORD is the everlasting God,

The Creator of the ends of the earth. 
He will not grow tired or weary,

And his understanding no one can fathom.

He gives strength to the weary

And increases the power of the weak.

Even youths grow tired and weary,

And young men stumble and fall;

But those who hope in the LORD

Will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;

They will run and not grow weary,

They will walk and not be faint.
(Isaiah 40:28-31)

To us... His greatness knows no end. For as we live on earth, surrounded by death in these faulty human shells, He still endures. His love still remains. His commitment holds true to us - even when we stray... even when we fail. For He never fails. Yes, this Everlasting Father is the ultimate leader - the ultimate hero! To us, He comes and offers restoration by the power of His own blood. He gives us Jesus so that we may find our way back home! To us a Son - a Solution - is given! Amen!!!

The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. (John 3:35)

Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me." (John 8:42)

Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. (John 14:23)

What great comfort to live safely in the care of Christ Jesus - under the reign of the Father who is Most High and Most Worthy! Our Everlasting Father is the One who will always be King! Praise Him for He is indeed generous and good! In Him, we can learn true leadership, integrity, respect, affection, obedience, love. For not only is He our greatest friend, but also our perfect example. As Head of His Household, He will always have His children's best interest at heart and in mind. He will always parent His people to follow His good Way and do what is holy.

Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy. (Leviticus 19:2b; 1 Peter 1:16b)

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (John 10:27)

He lives righteously, so that we may know how to live right. And through the challenges of this life, He remains patient and willing to spend all His time with us. He enjoys sharing relation, emotion, affection. He is a Father whose ear is inclined to hear and direct us. A Father who is trustworthy and mindful of us. A Father who is the most positive of role models. He is the One who honors, and He is the One who is to be honored above all.

Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live. (Psalm 116:2, KJV)

What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? (Psalm 8:4, KJV)

Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. (Isaiah 12:2)

If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:11)

To us, we are given endless encouragement from a parent who will never leave or forsake. From a household that stands strong. From a kingdom that will stand the test of time. For the battle against sin and death is won. Jesus has come to save and restore. Our Everlasting Father has made it possible to overcome death so that we may succeed and live with Him in His glory! Through His sacrifice we are given freedom! In His Name we can accomplish anything. With His good counsel, we can know fullness and completion.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)

I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. (Hebrews 13:5b, KJV)

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” (Mark 10:27)

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)

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. (Hebrews 13:15)

Yes, this child born to us comes to adopt us as His own. We are His family and He favors us. So, we must always fear and love this Lord, this Messiah, this Savior. We must learn to obey His Words. For He instructs His whole household to sow good seeds in order to reap great reward. This Father will discipline so that we may advance. He will allow us to make mistakes so we can we grow. He will not tolerate defiance against His kingdom, but He will challenge His people by offering tests and trials in order to teach us the most important lesson of faith and trust while we glorify His Eternal Name.

Sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers his righteousness on you. (Hosea 10:12)

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. (James 1:2-5 & 12)

Now if we are children, then we are heirs - heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. (Romans 8:17)

Come take His hand and allow Him to teach and dazzle you as His beloved princess. In His eternal kingdom, we are special and appreciated beyond imagination. So today, let us celebrate as we showcase His unique gifts and all the blessings that mirror His perfection and grace. He promises us His love and loyalty. He has vowed to lift us up and care for us always. So, let us be encouraged to worship His Throne both individually and communally as brothers and sisters. Let us enjoy His goodness both now and forevermore. Abba, Father, Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven!

Let us abide with the Most High God. Let us place all our trust on the Rock of Ages, the Everlasting Father... for He is indeed LORD and His household will endure forever and ever and ever!

Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal. (Isaiah 26:4)

The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. (Matthew 7:25)

If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Galatians 3:29)

The sovereignty, power and greatness of all the kingdoms under heaven will be handed over to the holy people of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will worship and obey him. (Daniel 7:27)

Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” (Galatians 4:6)

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13, KJV)

As the Lord zealously gives Himself to us, let us unreservedly give ourselves today (and every day)... TO JESUS!

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come! (Revelation 4:8)

Merry, Merry Christmas and Blessings in Jesus' Holy Name!

~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

let the celebration begin! (part 3)

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this. (Isaiah 9:6-7)

Mighty God! A Wonderful Counselor that is also Mighty? YES! This is the King of kings! He is not a man-made "guessing-game" type of god who oversees varying parts of our world and culture. No, He is intimate and real, and His headship rules over our entire universe - all time, space, matter - everything we know and do not know. He has all power over all things at all times and in all ways. He is omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient... the Almighty... the great I AM.

I AM the Bread of Life (John 6:35, 1, 48, 51)

I AM the Light of the World (John 8:12)

I AM the Door of the Sheep (John 10:7,9)

I AM the Good Shepherd (John 10:11, 14)

I AM the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)

I AM the Way, the Truth and the Life (John 14:6)

I AM the True Vine (John 15: 1,5)... His might goes on and on!

This Mighty God, Who was, and is, and is to come, humbly gives himself TO US... offering Himself as Savior. To us... He declares Himself Messiah and bids every man, woman and child to receive Him (and ONLY Him) in order to escape the clutches of death. For without Jesus, all life would perish. And He proves His love daily by providing us everything we need for food, clothing and shelter - all from renewable resources sustained by His power as the preserver of man and beast! In fact, scripture tells us in Job 38 that the seas which cover most of the earth, and over which we are powerless, would overwhelm us if God did not proscribe their limits. Read God's Words spoken to Job... read what He rules and oversees each day - FOR US!

“Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone - while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy? Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb, when I made the clouds its garment and wrapped it in thick darkness, when I fixed limits for it and set its doors and bars in place, when I said, ‘This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt’? Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, that it might take the earth by the edges and shake the wicked out of it? The earth takes shape like clay under a seal; its features stand out like those of a garment. The wicked are denied their light, and their upraised arm is broken. Have you journeyed to the springs of the sea or walked in the recesses of the deep? Have the gates of death been shown to you? Have you seen the gates of the deepest darkness? Have you comprehended the vast expanses of the earth? Tell me, if you know all this. What is the way to the abode of light? And where does darkness reside? Can you take them to their places? Do you know the paths to their dwellings? Surely you know, for you were already born! You have lived so many years! Have you entered the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of the hail, which I reserve for times of trouble, for days of war and battle? What is the way to the place where the lightning is dispersed, or the place where the east winds are scattered over the earth? Who cuts a channel for the torrents of rain, and a path for the thunderstorm, to water a land where no one lives, an uninhabited desert, to satisfy a desolate wasteland and make it sprout with grass? Does the rain have a father? Who fathers the drops of dew? From whose womb comes the ice? Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens when the waters become hard as stone, when the surface of the deep is frozen? Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades? Can you loosen Orion’s belt? Can you bring forth the constellations in their seasons or lead out the Bear with its cubs? Do you know the laws of the heavens? Can you set up God’s dominion over the earth? Can you raise your voice to the clouds and cover yourself with a flood of water? Do you send the lightning bolts on their way? Do they report to you, ‘Here we are’? Who gives the ibis wisdom or gives the rooster understanding? Who has the wisdom to count the clouds? Who can tip over the water jars of the heavens when the dust becomes hard and the clods of earth stick together? Do you hunt the prey for the lioness and satisfy the hunger of the lions when they crouch in their dens or lie in wait in a thicket? Who provides food for the raven when its young cry out to God and wander about for lack of food? Do you know when the mountain goats give birth? Do you watch when the doe bears her fawn? Do you count the months till they bear? Do you know the time they give birth? They crouch down and bring forth their young; their labor pains are ended. Their young thrive and grow strong in the wilds; they leave and do not return. Who let the wild donkey go free? Who untied its ropes? I gave it the wasteland as its home, the salt flats as its habitat. It laughs at the commotion in the town; it does not hear a driver’s shout. It ranges the hills for its pasture and searches for any green thing. Will the wild ox consent to serve you? Will it stay by your manger at night? Can you hold it to the furrow with a harness? Will it till the valleys behind you? Will you rely on it for its great strength? Will you leave your heavy work to it? Can you trust it to haul in your grain and bring it to your threshing floor? The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully, though they cannot compare with the wings and feathers of the stork. She lays her eggs on the ground and lets them warm in the sand, unmindful that a foot may crush them, that some wild animal may trample them. She treats her young harshly, as if they were not hers; she cares not that her labor was in vain, for God did not endow her with wisdom or give her a share of good sense. Yet when she spreads her feathers to run, she laughs at horse and rider. Do you give the horse its strength or clothe its neck with a flowing mane? Do you make it leap like a locust, striking terror with its proud snorting? It paws fiercely, rejoicing in its strength, and charges into the fray. It laughs at fear, afraid of nothing; it does not shy away from the sword. The quiver rattles against its side, along with the flashing spear and lance. In frenzied excitement it eats up the ground; it cannot stand still when the trumpet sounds. At the blast of the trumpet it snorts, ‘Aha!’ It catches the scent of battle from afar, the shout of commanders and the battle cry. Does the hawk take flight by your wisdom and spread its wings toward the south? Does the eagle soar at your command and build its nest on high? It dwells on a cliff and stays there at night; a rocky crag is its stronghold. From there it looks for food; its eyes detect it from afar. Its young ones feast on blood, and where the slain are, there it is.” The LORD said to Job: “Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses God answer him!” Then Job answered the LORD: “I am unworthy - how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth. I spoke once, but I have no answer - twice, but I will say no more.” (Job 38, 39, 40:1-5)

Clearly, nothing is too hard for the Lord, ladies! Clearly nobody is as mighty or holds the power of THIS GOD. Everyday, let us remember to celebrate His authority. Let us rejoice always, acknowledging His sovereign reign! Let us be grateful for His undeserved mercy and grace. We are blessed because He loves us!!! As His people, let us lay aside all distraction of false gods, of all idols, of all Antichrist. Let us live our lives looking upward to His leadership, living as His devoted. Living for the One who brings us LIFE - the true Savior and King, Jesus Christ the Lord! Hallelujah to the King of kings for He is mighty to save and redeem us from our sin! He is very real! He is Yahweh, Jehovah, the living God!

The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands as if He needed anything, because He Himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. Therefore, since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the Divine Being is like gold or silver or stone – an image made by man’s design and skill. (Acts 17:24-25, 29)

To us... to us, this King has come to earth as a lowly man in order to sacrifice and save... in order to give His people everlasting LIFE! This is JESUS THE MIGHTY CHRIST...

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death - even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:6-11)

Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. (Psalm 40:4)

As the Lord zealously gives Himself to us, let us unreservedly give ourselves today (and every day)... TO JESUS!

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come! (Revelation 4:8)

Merry, Merry Christmas and Blessings in Jesus' Holy Name!

~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

let the celebration begin! (Part 2)

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this. (Isaiah 9:6-7)

Wonderful Counselor. Mighty God. Everlasting Father. Prince of Peace. Upon further study of these traits, scripture shows us that these names belong to the Judean understanding of kingship. Hallelujah! Isaiah's text is indeed announcing a coming King! But not just any King. This King is to be messianic! For He will reign FOREVER on David's throne! And He will do so with justice and righteousness!

Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest heaven! (Mark 11:10)

This is the Savior, Jesus the Christ! He is the amazing God with whom we may place all our trust and ask for guidance. This is the child born to us. The Son given to mankind so that we may know righteousness! This is the Messiah who comes to illuminate His Light to all the world so that we may once again enter His kingdom gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise.

Really, let the celebration begin TODAY! Rejoice! For our Messiah comes!

This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24, KJV)

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 100)

Wonderful Counselor! There are many words that describe "Wonderful". The interesting thing about this description is that the word is not only used as an adjective for the coming King... it is actually His Name: WONDERFUL! Wonderful: meaning great, extraordinary, fine, excellent, marvelous, amazing, terrific, fantastic (to name a few). Another Name he holds is COUNSELOR! Counselor... meaning advisor, advocate, guide, instructor, model, mentor, teacher, helper, confidant, friend, tutor, leader. This King does not need to seek after the counsel of others or the advisement of men. On the contrary. This King is infinitely wise and all knowing. He generously offers His correct and perfect counsel to anyone who seeks Him. This is a King Who GIVES to His people... to us!

Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them? For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen. (Romans 11:33-36)

It should come as no surprise to learn that if we obediently bow down and love this Wonderful Counselor, and if we chose to consistently follow His Way with all our heart... we will be exposed to His everlasting wisdom and grace. As such, we can faithfully share with others WHO is really WONDERFUL! Be mindful - our counsel should not work opposite of His. Life should not be mandated by our own personal feelings or opinions. For no person can measure up in wisdom and knowledge to the living Word. Think about it. Jesus never asked for the opinion of His disciples, or anyone else for that matter. He did not come seeking approval to follow the ways of the world in order to build up His own self esteem or find His path. Rather, this Savior comes to fulfill His Father's will. Jesus comes to redeem and save those who will receive Him exclusively and unapologetically as Lord!

Not everyone who says to me, "Lord, Lord," will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 7:21)

All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. (Matthew 11:27)

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known. (John 1:14&18)So, let us celebrate and praise Him as we follow the Wonderful Counselor... the Messiah who always knows and never questions His Father's will! This is the Shepherd who orders our every step by way of His comforting rod and staff. What wonderful authority and peace He brings to His flock! What wonderful teaching and advise He offers to those who seek and follow and trust Him through the darkness of this sinful world! So, fear no evil! For in His care, we lack nothing. In His arms we can be still and know that HE IS GOD!

The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. (Psalm 23:1-4)
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. (Psalm 46:10)

May we each learn to seek and trust the wonderful counsel of this coming King at every moment and every stage of our lives. Through every trial, test, path, and circumstance, may we always and only seek after Jesus, The Way, and let our light shine the illuminating hope of God's anointed, perfect Son! To us a Son is given for this very purpose!

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)

Teach me, LORD, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end. Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. Fulfill your promise to your servant, so that you may be feared. Take away the disgrace I dread, for your laws are good. How I long for your precepts! In your righteousness preserve my life. May your unfailing love come to me, LORD, your salvation, according to your promise; then I can answer anyone who taunts me, for I trust in your word. Never take your word of truth from my mouth, for I have put my hope in your laws. I will always obey your law, for ever and ever. I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts. I will speak of your statutes before kings and will not be put to shame, for I delight in your commands because I love them. I reach out for your commands, which I love, that I may meditate on your decrees. Your statutes are wonderful; therefore I obey them. The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. I open my mouth and pant, longing for your commands. Turn to me and have mercy on me, as you always do to those who love your name. Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. (Psalm 119:33-48; 129-133)

As the Lord zealously gives Himself to us, let us unreservedly give ourselves today (and every day)... TO JESUS!

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come! (Revelation 4:8)

Merry, Merry Christmas and Blessings in Jesus' Holy Name!

~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

let the celebration begin! (part 1)

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this. (Isaiah 9:6-7)

To us... addressed to you, me, and everyone who ever was, is, and is to come in all earth's history.

To us... a child is born. But not just any child. This is THE child who fulfills ancient prophecy. He is a descendant from the great king David. A child of father Abraham. A son, direct from the lineage of the first man, Adam.

To us... here we read the royal birth announcement of the SAVIOR! The One arriving with all Heaven's approval to be Messiah - our Jewish Mashiach, our Anointed King of kings, our Greek Christos - THE CHRIST given to all mankind! Here we are introduced to the One who will be born of this earth. A human capable of changing all the brokenness and sinfulness that exists within our corrupt race. He alone will restore. He alone will revive.

To us... to us we are given the Word made flesh. He is God among us. He is Israel's promised hope for peace! This all comes from One humble babe, whose mere arrival assures us freedom, justice, peace... LIFE! But what person born of this earth could accomplish such a miracle? What Son of Man is holy enough to lovingly oversee every world power, every leader, every person, every detail, while solving all earthly crises? Who holds such wisdom, power, wealth, strength, and global authority to successfully carry all government upon His shoulders?

To us... my mind fast forwards to times ahead in His glorious, risen presence. Times of eternal laughter and joy as the faithful are seated around the jubilant wedding supper of the Lamb - around the blessed Son of man... around the anointed Son of God. Upon His throne, this King of kings will raise His wine glass and toast His eternal love... TO US! To His people. To His believers. To His beloved bride!

Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.” (Revelation 19:9)

To us... oh, how precious a LOVE is this! Joy to the world indeed. For the Lord has come to save! So, let the celebration begin this holiday season as we commemorate the birth of our Savior and proclaim our allegiance to the One and only, JESUS! Glory to God in the Highest!

Friends, let us praise and worship the Wonderful Counselor! Let us rejoice and extend our thankfulness to the Mighty God! Let us sacrifice our whole hearts, souls, minds, and strength to the Everlasting Father! For no One is more worthy than our Prince of Peace! For to us a child is born! To us a son is given!

As the Lord zealously gives Himself to us, let us unreservedly give ourselves today (and every day)... TO JESUS!

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come! (Revelation 4:8)

Merry, Merry Christmas and Blessings in Jesus' Holy Name!

Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

the reason for Christmas

Few people today take notice to others in need. Basically, people in general keep their noticing to themselves.

You would think (especially around the holidays) that we would willingly be more giving to others who are less fortunate. But alas, many Christians today limit their resources to merely reproduce childhood memories and warm enjoyments for their own families in hopes of sharing a "magical" feeling together... a "Christmas experience", if you will.

For self-serving reasons, the focus of Christmas has shifted to a secular, exclusive, and pretentious style of holiday - where celebrating the Lord's birth has become more a time of putting on airs and catering to the pursuit of saving face amongst gift-giving friends, co-workers, and relatives. But what gifts are we really meant to give?

Sure, we each want to be thought of as generous and God-loving folk, especially with those whom we hold familiar company. But as we sip warm cider around our fake and dying trees, and as we check off the "want list" of items that we have overextended ourselves to purchase for one another, where is Jesus actually glorified? Where is God noticed in our lives? Has our reason for Christmas become as fake and superficial as the ornaments with which we celebrate around? Has the holiday become more about "feeding" ourselves rather than worshipping Him?

Remember the encounter the Savior had in Mark 10 when the rich man asked Christ, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus responded to him, “You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’” Many people live in alignment with God's law. Just like this rich man, they too have faced the Savior and truly consider themselves to be upright citizens and "good" people ready for His kingdom. But when it actually comes down to choosing Christ's way over their own, they find themselves at a difficult crossroad. Read with me the conversations that takes place with our Lord in this scriptural account:

Then the rich man said to Jesus, “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”

Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!” The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”

Then Peter spoke up, “We have left everything to follow you!”

“Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields - along with persecutions - and in the age to come eternal life.

But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” (Mark 10:20-31)

Whether you believe it or not, the mere fact that you have access to the Internet confirms that you are wealthier than most of the world's population. Furthermore, no matter how difficult the economy may be, I am confident to report that the normal demographic of this blog's readership are living rich, blessed lives equipped with shelter, means of transportation, and food for nourishment. Sure, budgets may be tight, but the majority of us are not thirsting for clean, drinkable water. We are not lacking for basic supplies. We are not suffering from epidemic diseases that threaten the existence of entire communities. Most importantly, we are not living without the presence of the Holy Spirit who is ready and waiting to guide us... waiting for us to intimately know His Word with an obedient heart to follow His healthy call.

Unlike this rich man, many of my readers have stepped up to claim the redeeming grace of Christ. We have publicly proclaimed to leave "self" behind and follow The Good Shepherd wherever He leads. We know that He is indeed the omnipotent God of the universe. Yet, many Christians who proclaim to glorify the Messiah's authority.... well, in our own personal, private lives (both today and maybe more days than we'd like to admit), our hearts may still resemble the heart of this rich man's. For in truth, we are very selfish and cling to worldly wealth and security more than we should.

Tight fisted and unrelenting to share God's love with strangers, we ignore Jesus' way and unwillingly forgo giving to others who we know live in great need. Then on Christmas morn, we joyfully sing to our own, "Merry Christmas! Peace on Earth! Good will toward men!" On New Years day we applaud and toast, "Happy New Year!" All the while, the majority of us know perfectly well that we have made no effort to really love like Jesus by giving to those starving, to those widowed, to those orphaned, to those crippled, and to those who remain lost and/or who will face another year without.

But that is too depressing a subject for this happy season, isn't it? Those are matters only God can really fix anyway... so why go there, right? Rather let's continue to mail out our Christmas newsletters and customized photo cards. Let's focus on a fictional Santa and his elves; on Rudolph and his sleigh; on Frosty and his snow. Rather couple the candy canes and gum drop cookies with stories of the sweet baby Jesus and His miraculous birth while still attempting to "teach" our children (and our children's children) the true reason that surrounds this season.

By January 2nd, our bank accounts will be depleted - not due to sacrifice or following a selfless call to love God with our tithes and offerings, but rather to feed our hungry egos, our ravenous appetites, our need for acceptance, our greediness, and our desire to control. May I ask, is this really the reason for Christmas? Is this the kind of legacy you first wish to represent in your family's holiday traditions? Didn't Christ come to save? To love? To GIVE? And aren't we to follow His example?

What is the reason for Christmas? The reason is to celebrate the arrival of our loving, selfless, holy God. And whom did our wonderful God come to seek out and save? "The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." (Luke 19:10) Furthermore,"religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." (James 1:27)

As we move forward into this holiday season, I encourage you to consider if your life is being polluted by the world's way of celebrating? Ask yourself, what is your reason for Christmas? Is it to humbly give to those who really, really need grace? Or like the rich man, will your face fall as you read this blog and hear Jesus' call? Will you celebrate His birth by humbly praying for opportunities to advance His kingdom? OR instead, will you choose yourself and overlook the giving of much needed funds in order to acquire more computers, more electronics, more new clothes, more gift cards, more jewelry, more fruit baskets, more toys, more stuff to pile on top of other stuff. Is the status of having Christmas "stuff" circulating amongst your family replacing the more important matter of sharing Christ's eternal love to all the world? Oh, I hope not. I pray not.

Friends, let us live every day pure and faultless in God's eyes while humbly glorifying His Name FIRST with all our heart, soul, mind, strength. All things are indeed possible with God - especially His ability to change our selfish struggle to tithe and give. Think about it. What if we lived the hymn, "Take my life and let it be consecrated Lord to thee?" What if each of us gave all our talents and resources to glorify the Master? What possibilities couldn't be accomplished? Nothing is impossible with Jesus! His love demands to be noticed!

Always remember, we are His hands. We are His feet. We are His ambassadors... His people! If we choose not to share and give His heart to others, then I ask you... who will represent the Savior's love? Who will share Christ this Christmas?

Few people today take notice to others in need. But this year, let's obediently start seeking after those whom Jesus Himself came to save. Let's give... and give like Jesus gives. Let's love... and love like Jesus loves. Let's share the joy of His glory this holiday season and make it our first priority to bring the good news of hope to the heavy hearted, the empty-handed, the broken, the sick, the beaten, the widowed, the orphaned, the decrepit, the searching, the scared, the homeless, the helpless, the desperate, the neglected. To all who are in need and to all who have fallen astray - these are whom Jesus seeks to love and give of Himself. So should we.... So should we.

Sure, Christmas is a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate Christ's birth. But let us never become so selfish to overlook the eternal love His birth represents. Let us never forget to share the resources and blessings He has given each of us - gifts that represent His unending, sacrificial love. Everything we have is His and must be used for His glory. Everything.

Jesus alone is the real reason for Christmas.

Questions to Consider:
Have we, God's people, forgotten to take notice of others in need of Christ's love?
Have we made every effort to celebrate our Redeemer's life by sacrificially giving and ministering His way?
Or have we kept our noticing exclusively to ourselves?
WHO is the reason for your Christmas?

When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the King will say to those on his right, "Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me." Then the righteous will answer him, "Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?" The King will reply, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." Then he will say to those on his left, "Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me." They also will answer, "Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?" He will reply, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me." Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life. (Matthew 25:31-46)

Happy Holidays!

~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

we love because he first loved us

We love because he first loved us.  (1 John 4:19)

My shelter is secure, dry, spacious, furnished.

My bed is warm, plush, and elevated off the ground.

I have clean water, indoor plumbing, electricity, fuel, refrigeration, and a means to safely prepare and cook food.

My pantry is stocked.
My tummy is full.
I am hydrated.

I have clothes for every occasion and shoes in many styles.
I am bathed and clean.
I am groomed and adorned.

I can walk.
I can travel.
I have a personal means of transportation.
I can easily frequent medical facilities, food and grocery sources, community services, supply stores, and entertainment locations.

I can read, write, speak, think, see, hear, comprehend.
I have a telephone, computer, and Internet access, and can use them just about everywhere I go.

I live in a country that allows me to vote, protest, campaign, and defend.

I can worship freely.
I can pray publicly.
I own a complete, printed and bound copy of the Holy Bible.

By all accounts, I am rich.
I have been given.
I am blessed.
I am loved.
(Thank you, Jesus!)

So, in thankfulness, in humility, in kindness, in hope, in faith...

I will give, and bless, and love in turn.
I will love because my great God first loved us.
(Amen!)

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  (John 3:16-17)

So, how about you?

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.  In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
(1 Timothy 6:17-19)

:)

Happy Holidays!

~Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

bringing our best to better one another... bringing our best for God's glory and honor

Yesterday was another day at the doctor for Momba and me.  We waited over two hours and past normal closing hours to meet with our orthopedic specialist, Dr. Chimenti.  Yes, I typed over two (2) hours.  Now some of y’all would complain about that long of a wait at any doctor, and I do understand your concern.  But before you judge or scoff, let me tell you a little something about Dr. Chimenti...

Sweet Dr. Chimenti (and his loyal staff) give as much time necessary to thoughtfully address every single one of his patient’s concerns.  He is the best at what he does.  He never rushes or assumes anything.  Rather, with a humble and kind demeanor he listens, assesses, and prescribes accordingly and exclusively - working thoughtfully within his scope to individually help every person that visits his practice.  He gives his all and the satisfaction of his clientele definitely shows.  In fact, Momba and I regularly kid with him that instead of leaving a straight-lined surgical scar after someone has undergone one of his full knee replacement surgeries, he should instead make the scar read “Chimenti” on their leg... like a fashion designer who would sign a beautiful piece of wearable art.  ROFL.

Anyway, whenever we go to see Dr. C., we don’t mind the wait because we know that he is hearing and helping others as we also would want to be treated. Seriously, what a testimony, right!???  What a royal honor to truly love others through the blessed work found in each and every occupation!  To use the talents and gifts that God has personally granted each of us, and to do so without selfishness or hurry.  How refreshing to see someone bring their best to better and encourage the health of others.  Wonderful!

While waiting, Momba and I used our time to catch up and encourage one another.  We walked down memory lane and counted so many blessings that the Lord has bestowed upon us both individually and as a family, especially since moving to Texas.

And as we waited for Dr. C., our time together actually felt like healing medicine.  Salve to our souls, if you will.  Love in the simplest of everyday moments while we reminisced and looked ahead to a hope-filled future.  And this got me thinking...  How much time do each of us actually invest in recognizing God in His full praiseworthy glory?  And, how often do we speak about Him to one another?

Sure we are all busy with agendas and schedules.  We work.  We shop for groceries.  We study.  We socialize.  We watch tv.  We surf the Internet.  We rush rush rush in our rushing hours and zone out in our time off zones. But are we deliberate with each gift and talent, using them in gracious humility to worship our Creator and help one another?  Do we consider our lives as a valuable means to spread His healing medicine throughout all Creation?  For who on Earth doesn’t crave His love and encouragement?  Who wouldn’t benefit from His important command:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8)

Do we strengthen and share our very best?  Do we honor the Lord and encourage the betterment and well being of others?  Do we prioritize our days toward His good?  Do we regularly take as much time needed with one another to pause and proclaim with gifted breath, “Holy Holy Holy is the Lord God Almighty.”  Isn’t that most important?  Seriously... the angels are saying it non-stop right now.  They have proclaimed it throughout the duration of our lifetime.  They will continue to announce it forevermore.  So, let’s view the value of our time and talents in the light of God’s accomplished, eternal hope, folks.  For this is the day to rejoice and be glad in Him!

I encourage y’all, please make it your goal to humbly and selflessly think on these things.  It is definitely worth our time and effort to love one another and to give God all honor and glory as we fulfill our purpose in every new day.  What you do is important.  How you use your time matters.  Who you are is evidenced by how you live.  So, live for Jesus!  Live for His holiness and love love love!

God bless us, everyone!


:)

Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

feeling balanced... or knowing God's peace?

I didn’t write in October.  I didn’t paint either.  I didn’t garden.  I didn’t bake.  Frankly, I didn’t do much of much in the whole entire month.  What I did do was attend to my chronic pain issues and highlight in my Bible.  I healed and highlighted hard, folks.  I paused and purposefully allowed my wounded frame a time to rest alone with the Great Physician and Helpful Healer.  My focus solely directed onto His Holiness.  My attention strictly centered around His Truth.

Sometimes it is best to pause.  Sometimes it is favorable to not only remove the distracting noise and hustle-bustle of the day, but to also free ourselves of the personal goals, talents, and hobbies that we usually aspire toward.  You see, sometimes “throwing off every weight” includes our forte’s.  For when human enjoyments overshadow Christian purpose - Christ’s call for us to love and disciple others to His Kingdom - well, then we must obediently take care to reset our affections in reverent humility toward the Lord.

This was my October.

In the month, the Lord kept asking me to trust and give up.  To let go of “me” in order to gain more of Him.  Not easy.  Not something I excel at.  For yes, I trust the Lord.  I believe His truth and promises.  I know He is God.  I am confident that He is able, eternal.  Yes, He is King.  And yet, even with this knowledge and belief, I still cling onto “me” by chaining myself to the anxiety that surrounds what is still unknown.  Yes, I know God will supply all my needs... but I stress in the details as to “how” He will supply.  “How” will He prove faithful.  “How” will He care for me me ME!

Ugh.

In this silent, selfish panic as I attempt to control knowing His “how’s”... I foolishly trade peace for plenty:  Plenty of play.  Plenty of comfort...  Plenty of what makes me think I feel more balanced...

But here’s the thing y’all...

Is my whole purpose in life about feeling balanced?  Or is my whole created existence about being centered around loving and sharing the glory and salvation of Jesus Christ?  (BTW, I'm not sure I've heard of anyone who felt like they kept their balance doing the latter.)

Furthermore, will every hobby or personal pursuit in writing, painting, gardening, baking, exercising, socializing, working, decorating, etc., etc., etc.... will these activities stable me into completeness, wholeness, fullness.... balance?

Nope.

In fact, balance is not the real answer.

Peace is.

And, despite what this world will have you believe, real peace does not generate from within but rather from above.

Peace is being in God's presence. Period.

And in His perfect peace, all our attentions/intentions become untangled as we faithfully enjoy holding the guiding hand of the Almighty... NO MATTER WHAT.

Peace is living in His holy presence as we receive His Kingdom that cannot be shaken.

Last week I was standing in line at the Post Office.  In front of me was a well-dressed-business-casual styled man standing quietly with his son.  His child (also dressed nicely) was no taller than the height of this man’s thigh.  The boy’s sneakers were the kind that lit up when he walked, and his hair was fashionably gelled and pushed into a more conservative version of a semi-Mohawk haircut. Neither spoke a word to each other the whole time they waited, but both were having fun.  They giggled and smiled whenever they looked at each another.  As they waited, the boy held onto his dad’s leg and made silly playful faces.  His proud father always kept a hand on his son in some endearing way... rubbing his shoulder, tussling his hair, high-fiving at the best funny face-makings, holding him steady and near.  Clearly, these two enjoyed and loved one another.  They were thrilled to be together.  And their wonderful infectious relationship could not be ignored by anyone standing nearby.  However, while watching them interact, The Holy Spirit reminded me to recognize that this father was indeed the leader of the two... the overseer, the one in control of their day together.  And his son, who was really a "mini-me" version of his dad, was obviously loved, clothed, and cared for tremendously... even when his father was standing silently nearby... even when they were just waiting.

How wonderful to live as well-loved, clothed, and cared for children of the Most High God who richly styles us in His Glory and lights our path with His Living Word.  Yes, when we obediently hold onto the Almighty Father and King, His peace surpasses all earthly understanding and we are made whole.  His holy majesty blesses and attends to us, for He is a good Father.  He loves us most.  Tightly and obediently beside Him, He will always keep His hand on us - holding us close and upright as we walk together.  He handles every detail of every day and rejoices when we resemble His image.  His approval is our greatest joy.  We would be foolish to get lost or distracted away from Him.  For we benefit in His company the most.

Friends, when God is close, we are free to be His best!  But we must choose His Holiness first - before our “me’s”.  We must wisely throw off everything that hinders and lay aside everything that weighs us down from being with Him.  Consider: what is keeping you from being with Him?

With perseverance, we are invited to fix our eyes on His eyes.  To enjoy His company and walk His path.  To joyfully take on His style and stature while trusting Him through all storm and silence.

Yes, sometimes it is best to pause and reset our affections in reverent humility toward the Lord.  For true peace lives only in God's holy presence.

I pray that we each may know and love Him intimately.

God bless us, everyone!

:)

Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson

just breathe

Wednesday, September 27, 2017...

My Problem:
I realized this week that the word chronic has all but consumed my life.

Chronic pain.
Chronic fatigue.
Chronic headaches.
Chronic insomnia.
Chronic debt.
Chronic clutter.
Chronic congestion.
Chronic heartbreak.
Chronic weight.
Chronic depression.
Chronic disappointment.
Chronic brokenness.
Chronic helplessness.

Chronic occurs persistently, recurrently, habitually for me. It attaches itself to my health, my heart, my home. It lengthens itself across my horizon so that all I see are it's chains of hopelessness tightly bound around me.

My Prayer:
Lord, please free me from this stronghold. Please set my ways to know your wisdom and understanding. Please create in me a clean heart. And mostly, dear Lord, please use my life to bless and glorify your Name.

My God's Answer:
Dear One... just breathe. Just stop and take one deliberate breath, then another.

Breathe in.
Breathe out.
Inhale.
Exhale.

And as you do this, realize that these breaths are my gift of life in you. For I am who oversees your every heart beat. I am who rises and sets the sun every day. I am the one who controls all storm surges and life changes... not only on this planet, but throughout the universe. I am your Creator. I am your Redeemer. I am the one you can cling to and count on always. Yes, I am here. I am with you. Even through the worst, I will never, ever leave. I will not forsake or fail you. I am faithful and completely in love with you.

Yes... YOU, my love!

So, just as you are... just stand still right here, right now.... and breathe.

I will fight for you. I will uphold you. Inhale my Word. Exhale your prayers. I hear you. I am listening. And I promise, I will give you rest. I will bring you delight. I will escort you into more. Breath, and allow me to lead you to my good. Breathe and be still. Breathe and know me. Breathe and meditate on my promises. Breathe, so that I may restore your soul... so that I may renew your strength.

Psalm 41:1-3... Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. The Lord protects and preserves them - they are counted among the blessed in the land - he does not give them over to the desire of their foes. The Lord sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness.

Psalm 25:4-5... Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.

❤️
Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson