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Loving on Lima, Peru

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A snapshot of the crowd at the Crusade on July 26, 2014

God did it again! He showed up and showed off. This time it was in Lima, Peru.

This July I had the honor of being one of 136 people who answered the call to go on a short-term missions trip to Lima with Missions.Me.

I had traveled with Missions.Me last year to Honduras, but this year I was the only New Yorker on the team. I didn’t know anyone, but no matter. God once again connected me with a super team and wonderful roommates!

Every day my team of 33 (Go Dream Team 3!) would travel to schools, marketplaces, and parks to perform skits, dramas, preach the Gospel, and pray for young and old. The people were so warm and friendly. And they were hungry to receive Jesus!

A combined total of 1,000 people came to the Lord each day! Every day, all six teams were coming back with testimonies of how God was saving people, setting the captives free, and healing the sick.

I was personally blessed to be able to minister to people in Spanish, which is usually like asking a righty to do everything with her left hand.

I’ll share more about some of the people I met in another post. For now, I’d like to rejoice that some 50,000 people came to the Crusade we held and that 13,001 people made decisions for Christ that day!

I’m so grateful that we got to preach Christ freely and openly! I pray that the seeds we sowed will be watered for years to come!

A special thanks to Agua Viva church for making us feel so welcome! God is doing an amazing thing in their church, which has 80,000 members!

Whenever I see God do miraculous things in foreign countries, I come back hoping and praying that He’ll do the same here in the United States! Jesus is Alive and Active my friends! May you see His Miraculous hand working in your daily life as well! And may you never tire of sharing the Good News about Jesus with others!

“As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20)

To read about the other missions trips I’ve been on, click here.

Did this encourage you? Please hit “like” and be sure to sign up below to have my weekly encouraging blog posts e-mailed straight to you for free. When you subscribe below, you’ll also receive the free “12 Journal Writing Prompts” PDF I created to help inspire you as you write/journal.

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For more encouragement and to learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach or to invite me to speak at your event, visit my website www.aboundingfaith.com. You can also find me on YouTube and Pinterest.

THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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Summer Greetings

It’s been a whirlwind the last couple of weeks so I haven’t had much time to write, but I have shot a few more videos. I pray you will be blessed by these two short videos I shot during my recent vacation with my family. I pray you’re having a wonderful summer!

Did these videos encourage you? Please hit “like” and be sure to sign up below to have my weekly encouraging blog posts e-mailed straight to you for free. When you subscribe below, you’ll also receive the free “12 Journal Writing Prompts” PDF I created to help inspire you as you write/journal.

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For more encouragement and to learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach or to invite me to speak at your event, visit my website www.aboundingfaith.com. You can also find me on YouTube and Pinterest.

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Greetings from Lima

What an AMAZING time we had in Lima, Peru! It’s going to take me a bit of time to process some of my thoughts from this short-term missions trip. In the meantime, I’d like to share two of the short videos I shot from there. Blessings!

Shot on our last morning in Lima:

Shot on the morning of the Crusade:

To read about the other missions trips I’ve been on, click here.

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!'” (Isaiah 6:8)

Did these videos encourage you? Please hit “like” and be sure to sign up below to have my weekly encouraging blog posts e-mailed straight to you for free. When you subscribe below, you’ll also receive the free “12 Journal Writing Prompts” PDF I created to help inspire you as you write/journal.

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For more encouragement and to learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach or to invite me to speak at your event, visit my website www.aboundingfaith.com. You can also find me on YouTube and Pinterest.

THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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Let Freedom in Christ Ring!


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“Jesus replied, ‘Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.'” (John 8:34-36)

This week as you’re celebrating Independence Day, why not take some moments to thank God for the freedom we have in Christ.

As you can see from the verse above, we are free from being slaves to sin. That’s cause for a major celebration by itself!

Here’s a few more freedoms to celebrate:

Freedom from Condemnation – “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” (Romans 8:1-2)

Freedom from Your Old Ways – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Freedom to Let Go of Past Hurts – “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” (Romans 12:17-19)

What an honor and privilege it is to be a child of God! Blessings to you as you walk in those freedoms and more today and every day!

Did this encourage you? Please hit “like” and be sure to sign up below to have my weekly encouraging blog posts e-mailed straight to you for free. When you subscribe below, you’ll also receive the free “12 Journal Writing Prompts” PDF I created to help inspire you as you write/journal.

For more encouragement and to learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach or to invite me to speak at your event, visit my website www.aboundingfaith.com. You can also find me on YouTube and Pinterest.

THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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A Sermon in Shoes


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“You’re just like Jesus.”

I was both surprised and deeply touched as my friend said that to me over lunch earlier this year. We had been chatting and catching up. As she shared how much she appreciates that we can be friends even though we are seemingly from two different worlds, she whispered those words that are perhaps one of the BEST compliments I could ever receive!

“I’m so not, but thank you. I’m trying to be,” is all I could eek out.

I don’t share this moment to boast. I share this to encourage you and remind you that some people will read your life way before they ever read the Bible. Your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors are watching your life to see if you practice what you preach and if you are the real deal.

That could overwhelm you or it could inspire you.

People are hurting and they’re looking for answers. As Christians, we have the awesome privilege of pointing them to Jesus.

If your friends seek you out in times of trouble for prayer or counsel, count it an honor and a joy! Ask God to give you the grace, wisdom, and courage to share a word in season.

Of course we’re not perfect, but we can all be the hands and feet of Jesus. It can be through a kind word, a smile or hug, a listening year, running errands, praying, forgiving (or even asking for forgiveness). The list goes on and on.

When the moment is right, don’t be shy about sharing your testimony and telling others about what your life was like before Christ and what it’s like now as a born-again, blood bought child of God!

Here’s just a friendly reminder that we’re called to be:

Salt – “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.” (Matthew 5:13)

Light – “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16)

Witnesses – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

Ambassadors – “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.” (2 Corinthians 5:20)

We’re not called to hammer people over the head with the Bible. We’re called to love them, live out our faith walk before them, share the Gospel with them, and let the Holy Spirit do the rest.

I hope you’ll take some time to reflect on this: What is your life saying to others about Christ?

If you don’t like the answer, please don’t fall into condemnation. Ask God to help you be that salt, light, witness and ambassador right where you are!

Blessings to you as you let your light shine before others!

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” (1 Peter 3:15-16)

Did this encourage you? Please hit “like” and be sure to sign up below to have my weekly encouraging blog posts e-mailed straight to you for free. When you subscribe below, you’ll also receive the free “12 Journal Writing Prompts” PDF I created to help inspire you as you write/journal.

For more encouragement and to learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach or to invite me to speak at your event, visit my new website www.aboundingfaith.com. You can also find me on YouTube and Pinterest.

THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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5 Ways A Mother’s Love Reflects God’s Love

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In honor of Mother’s Day, I’d like to say that God really blessed me with a wonderful Mom! I’m so grateful for all her support and encouragement throughout the years and so thankful that we’ve remained close! This week I’ve asked my Mom to share a few thoughts with you. Enjoy!

God’s love is so amazing that we can’t understand it. The Bible says, “We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

A mother’s love for her children gives us a glimpse of how God loves us:

  • A Mom’s Love is Unconditional! – A mother gives love without expecting anything in return.
  • A Mom Loves Her Children all the Same – She has no preferences or favorites. She has more than enough love for all of her kids.
  • A Mom’s Love is Pure – She wants the best for her kids.
  • A Mom is there for her Children at all Times – Whenever they need her, Mom is there.
  • A Mom’s Love is Forever – Her love has a beginning, but no end.

I pray that you receive God’s abundant love and His strength not just today but always.

Did this encourage you? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And don’t forget to sign up below to have my weekly encouraging blog posts emailed straight to you for free. When you subscribe below, you’ll also receive the free “12 Journal Writing Prompts” PDF I created to help inspire you as you write/journal.

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For more encouragement, read my books Waiting on God Well: How to Prevent Breaking Down on Your Way to Your Breakthrough and Abounding Faith: 30 Bible Heroes Who Will Inspire You to Believe God for the Impossible! To learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach or to invite me to speak at your event, visit my website www.aboundingfaith.com. Check out Abounding Faith’s online store here. You can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and Pinterest.Did this encourage you? Please click “Like” or leave a comment below.

 

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He is Risen!

I’d like to share this short video I shot yesterday to celebrate Resurrection Sunday! As Believers, we can rejoice over Jesus’ life, sacrificial death, and resurrection every day! Amen! Blessings to you!

Did this video encourage you? Please click “Like” or leave a comment below.  You can view more encouraging videos on my YouTube Channel by clicking here.

To get my blog posts e-mailed straight to your inbox weekly, and to get my free e-booklet MiraculousLovely Abroad: Lessons and Snapshots from the Mission Fields, click here.

To learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach, visit my website www.aboundingfaith.com.

 

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Name Above All Names


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When I look at this picture, I’m reminded that the name of Jesus is higher than any other name! (Philippians 2:9-11)

As we get ready to observe Good Friday and to celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection, I just want to encourage you that Jesus is Greater than anything you may be facing! We can trust Him no matter what!

I pray you will have a deeper revelation of how much Jesus loves you and that you will walk in that confidence knowing that nothing can separate you from the love of Christ! May you be so filled with Christ’s love that you overflow and express His love to others!

Have a blessed Holy Week! Rejoice, He is Risen!

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

Did this encourage you? Please click “Like” or leave a comment below.

To get these posts e-mailed straight to your inbox weekly, and to get my free e-booklet MiraculousLovely Abroad: Lessons and Snapshots from the Mission Fields, click here.

For more encouragement, and to learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach, visit my website www.aboundingfaith.com.

THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

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Tempted to Rebel?


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I went to visit one of my dear sisters in Christ the other day and she was telling me about some of her 14-month-old granddaughter’s latest escapades.

One of the stories that stuck out to me was about the time she caught her granddaughter pulling a piece of fuzz from the couch. The little girl mischievously looked over her shoulder to make sure grandma was watching as she slowly inched the foreign object closer to her mouth.

My friend obviously recognized the danger and flew across the room to grab the object out of her granddaughter’s hand before the curious toddler had the chance to eat it.

As I heard this story, it gave me a picture of what we must look like to our Abba Father when we’re getting ready to do something we know we shouldn’t do.

Ever find yourself tempted to sin and sheepishly glance over your shoulder to see if God was watching? C’mon, be honest!

I’ve had moments when I’ve said, “Lord if you don’t do X, then I’ll do YZ.” I know that sounds terrible, but it’s true.

Thankfully, my loving Heavenly Father just lets me vent and then calls my bluff. He knows I don’t really want to willfully walk outside of His plans for my life.

But even when we are tempted to rebel and sin, many times isn’t it because we think God wants to spoil our fun or because we’re not happy with how He’s answering our prayers? In reality, He’s like my friend who wanted to protect her granddaughter from the awful consequences of eating that piece of junk.

God knows how harmful our actions, thoughts, or attitudes can be. That’s why He’ll send us warning signs to stop us from going down certain paths.

I don’t know what you may be struggling with, but if you feel the Holy Spirit convicting you and warning you not to do something please heed His voice. He knows what’s best for you!

Thankfully, when the enemy starts lying to us and tempting us to sin we can:

Resist Him – “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7)

Fight Back with Scripture – Jesus was tempted three times while in the wilderness and each time He quoted Scripture. “Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” (Matthew 4:10)

Look for God’s Way Out – “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Confess our Sins and Struggles to Mature Believers – “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

Unfortunately, we sin every day though. The Good News is that as Believers we have forgiveness of sin through the blood of Jesus (Ephesians 1:7). When we do sin, we can repent and ask God for forgiveness.  “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

Isn’t it wonderful to know that God forgives us and loves us unconditionally? That doesn’t give us a license to sin. It does give us the security to know that we can turn to God no matter what!

God will give us the strength to overcome whatever temptations we may be facing! What an Awesome God we serve!

Did this encourage you? Please click “Like” or leave a comment below.

To get these posts e-mailed straight to your inbox weekly, and to get my free e-booklet MiraculousLovely Abroad: Lessons and Snapshots from the Mission Fields, click here.

For more encouragement, and to learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach, visit my website www.aboundingfaith.com.

THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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Compelled by Love

Lessons Learned from Missionary Heidi Baker

I first heard about Heidi Baker while on my short-term missions trip to Honduras last July. Some of my fellow missionaries were talking about the tremendous work God is allowing Heidi to do in Africa.

Of course, I was intrigued.

Just a few weeks ago, I got to watch the movie about her life called “Compelled by Love.” It’s the story of her 20+ years as a missionary to Mozambique and other nations. (Please see the film trailer above).

The movie was a wonderful testament to what God can do through a yielded life! What made the evening even better was that Heidi was there and spoke to the audience afterwards. What a blessing to see her spend most of her time on the stage on her knees, before her open Bible. She ended the evening praying for those called into full-time missions, the NYC leaders and pastors that were present, and others.

She’s a humble woman, yet powerful! She walks in the authority God has given her. That’s inspiring to see.

I’d like to share just a few lessons based on the film and what Heidi said to those in attendance:

Live a Life that Continually Says, “YES” to God – Heidi knows she has a BIG God and she’s not afraid to say, “Yes” to Him. She has made a habit out of continually surrendering to God. We’re called to do the same. No, we don’t all have to move to Africa, but we are called to obey and be led by the Holy Spirit.

Be Compelled by Love – Heidi doesn’t serve God because she’s afraid He’ll be angry with her if she doesn’t do everything He says or because she’s trying to earn His love. She does it out of her extreme love for God. Once we understand God’s love for us, we are set free to serve Him out of our genuine passion for Christ.

Spend time with God – Heidi shared that she makes it a priority to spend 5 or 6 hours with the Lord every day. She knows that we need to be filled before we can pour out to others!  We may not be able to clear our busy schedules to spend hours with God, but we can make some adjustments to be with our Maker. We can also talk to Him throughout the day.

Work with God – Heidi said she sometimes pictures herself as a little girl who is standing on her daddy’s shoes and walking with Him. (Guess she’s a Daddy’s Girl too!) She’s thrilled to be a part of what God is doing on earth. Many times it seems we’d rather wrestle with God or try to somehow boss Him around, instead of simply joining Him in His plans.

Heidi’s story reminded me what a privilege it is to be about our Father’s business. God is looking for willing vessels to fill so we can overflow into other’s lives.

Your mission field may be right in your office, on your block, or under your roof. I encourage you to be faithful. Love those around you. Obey God. Shine for Jesus. Trust Him to do the rest.

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” (Matthew 16:24-25)

Did this encourage you? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Please hit “Like” or share a comment below.

To get these posts e-mailed straight to your inbox weekly, and to get my free e-booklet MiraculousLovely Abroad: Lessons and Snapshots from the Mission Fields, click here.

For more encouragement, and to learn how I can come alongside of you as your Life Coach, visit my website www.aboundingfaith.com.

THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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