Here’s something to reflect upon and to let “marinate” in your mind and heart…
Month: March 2018
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.30.18
Scripture
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
Prayer
Father thank You for this beautiful day. No matter the weather, it is beautiful because You made it possible for me to experience another moment here on Earth, another moment with my loved ones, and another moment to demonstrate through servant hood Your love. Thank You Father.
Your son Jesus told his disciples that in him they would have peace even when the world brought trouble, but also reassured them by letting them know not to be worried with the world because he had taken care of it. Father bring me peace to trust without hesitation that in all times and circumstances, You have already taken care of things. When I call to You, You always answer; when I can’t find my way, You show me through…these things and more I know, but at times I get weak and blinded by fear, and sometimes forget.
I thank You now for comforting, guiding and protecting me from what I have been through, am going through, and what is yet to come. Amen.
Reflection
Jesus has the calm assertiveness that does not require anger, yelling, threats, or cussing. His disciples followed not through pressure, coercion, guilt, or fear.
They followed out of love and a belief that Jesus was the son of God.
They followed because through his works not just words, he proved through healing and demonstration, his ability to heal, raise the dead, cast out demons, and rid people of sickness and disease.
They followed because Jesus showed them how to do exactly what he was doing.
He showed them that they too had the power as granted by our Heavenly Father-Mother God. The disciples followed Jesus because he served them more than they served him. Jesus was grace and is grace, and through him the disciples (those who were faithful and committed) expressed grace.
Once we overcome fear and reconnect with who we are as God’s child, and Jesus’ sheep, then we will open ourselves up to the unimaginable, and be able to do the inconceivable. So focus on your responsibilities in God’s Kingdom, and not what role or title you can play in the world. Live with grace and you will receive abundance.
Lovingly,
Natasha
Please note: This written message was originally published on March 30, 2012. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting; it has also been modified to include the new audio feature announced March 30, 2018.
COPYRIGHT 2013-2018. NATASHA FOREMAN BRYANT. SOME RIGHTS RESERVED. ALL PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS ARE COPYRIGHT PROTECTED BY NATASHA FOREMAN BRYANT, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. PRIOR POSTS FROM 2009-2013 ARE COPYRIGHTED UNDER THE NAME NATASHA L. FOREMAN. BREAKINGBREADWITHNATASHA.COM
SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS TAKEN FROM THE AMPLIFIED® BIBLE, COPYRIGHT © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 BY THE LOCKMAN FOUNDATION USED BY PERMISSION.(WWW.LOCKMAN.ORG)
SCRIPTURE TAKEN FROM THE COMMON ENGLISH BIBLE®, CEB® COPYRIGHT © 2010, 2011 BY COMMON ENGLISH BIBLE.™ USED BY PERMISSION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED WORLDWIDE. THE “CEB” AND “COMMON ENGLISH BIBLE” TRADEMARKS ARE REGISTERED IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE BY COMMON. ENGLISH BIBLE. USE OF EITHER TRADEMARK REQUIRES THE PERMISSION OF COMMON ENGLISH BIBLE.
SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS MARKED HCSB ARE TAKEN FROM THE HOLMAN CHRISTIAN STANDARD BIBLE®, COPYRIGHT © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 BY HOLMAN BIBLE PUBLISHERS. USED BY PERMISSION. HOLMAN CHRISTIAN STANDARD BIBLE®, HOLMAN CSB®, AND HCSB® ARE FEDERALLY REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF HOLMAN BIBLE PUBLISHERS.
Breaking Bread Now Has Audio Feature
Yes family, you read this correctly. Breaking Bread With Natasha (BBWN) is taking the next step with technology to include an audio feature. As you can see in this message.
Please click on the audio file below to listen.
Starting today, I will include audio files in my messages to allow you to listen to the message either while you read along, or during moments when you can’t read the message but would still like to hear it.
This will also hopefully benefit those individuals who may have strengths in other areas but maybe the sense of sight or the ability to read (at any level) may be limited.
I understand the task at hand. I understand the responsibility that comes with accepting and using this technology.
Currently, my resources are limited so I don’t have a fancy microphone, audio system, or sound-proof room. I’m not recording in a studio. I will oftentimes be recording in my home office, and it has windows. I say all of this now so that I can address the comments that I know will soon come about the sound quality. I believe that God will bless me with the resources to provide quality audio recordings. Just as I know that one day He will bless me to provide quality video recordings. Yes, I’m claiming both in the name of Jesus.
I have been resisting God’s loving urges that have been guiding me to and down this path for years. My resistance has only prevented me from receiving the blessings that He still has waiting for me. As a student of His word and a servant to Him and all that He calls on me to embrace and care for, I cannot continue to do the bare minimum—to serve only within my comfort zone.
If I want more out of life then I must do more. The action of giving is not good enough, it is your intention through giving that God examines. What does your heart reveal in and through your giving? God knows my heart as He knows your heart.
I’m giving to be closer and more intertwined with Him. I’m giving through gratitude for all that He gives me, even when we both know that I don’t deserve much of what I have received. So when I give freely and lovingly, He knows exactly why.
Please pray for me family. Pray that I don’t shut down out of fear, pull away, and settle for mediocrity. Pray that I continue to walk forward towards each benchmark that God has set before me. Pray that I continue being receptive and obedient to His commands and to my calling. Pray that I fully embrace my purpose and that I never stop giving all that God has poured into me. I thank you now for your prayers. I pray that God comforts you and keeps you, and that my message today inspires you to give freely to others.
I love you all!
~Natasha
Copyright 2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant/Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.29.18
Scripture
When the eight days were completed for His circumcision, He was named Jesus — the name given by the angel before He was conceived. And when the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were finished, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord….
There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple complex….
…When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about Him. Then Simeon blessed them and told His mother Mary: “Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed — and a sword will pierce your own soul — that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
…When they had completed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The boy grew up and became strong, filled with wisdom, and God’s grace was on Him.
Luke 2:21, 22, 25-27, 33-35, 39, 40 HCSB
Pray
Father may I see and always embrace what Jesus is to You and me. May I embrace and take full responsibility for my walk. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Reflection
Just as God had a plan for Jesus before his human birth, He had and has a plan for each of us—it is up to us to follow and obey. Consider this, what if Jesus refused to walk as God instructed? What if John had disobeyed and didn’t preach and teach of Jesus’ coming as the Messiah? What if Jesus fearfully pulled away at times to prevent fulfilling prophecy? How would life be for all of us right now? Would we even be around?
Consider this. Then give thanks.
Happy Thursday family. Sending love from the Bahamas Atlanta!
Clothing myself WITH Love,
Natasha
Please Note: This message was originally published on May 29, 2013. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting. Also, when I wrote this I was relaxing in the Bahamas; today I’m just hanging out in good ole’ Atlanta, Georgia!
Copyright 2013-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. Prior posts from 2009-2013 are copyrighted under the name Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible, Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation Used by permission.(www.Lockman.org)
Scripture taken from the Common English Bible®, CEB® Copyright © 2010, 2011 by Common English Bible.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. The “CEB” and “Common English Bible” trademarks are registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Common. English Bible. Use of either trademark requires the permission of Common English Bible.
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.28.18
Scripture
Now if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, then He who raised Christ from the dead will also bring your mortal bodies to life through His Spirit who lives in you.
Romans 8:10, 11 HCSB
Pray
Father I know that as long as I believe, walk boldly in and of faith, and embrace all that I have and all that I am as Your child then I can never be or ever feel separate from You. Whatever obstacles that erect in my path will seem like ant hills each step that I take. Illness will never consume me because I know that You make me whole and healthy—as my body is merely a shell that my spiritual presence is housed in. I am working each day to overcome fear and doubt, to see past mountains and forests, to see around valleys, and see through clutter and clouds. Lift me Father. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Reflection
Either we believe we are who we say we are, that we are the children of God, the sheep of our shepherd Jesus Christ, or we don’t. Either we believe that God gives life, is health, heals, nurtures, restores, comforts, and uplifts—or not! You can’t be half-pregnant. Either you are all-in or not. Let’s work at getting ourselves all-in.
Enjoy your day family. Sending love!
Clothing myself WITH Love,
Natasha
Please Note: This message was originally published on May 28, 2013. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting. Also, when I wrote this I was relaxing in the Bahamas; today I’m just hanging out in good ole’ Atlanta, Georgia!
Copyright 2013-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. Prior posts from 2009-2013 are copyrighted under the name Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible, Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation Used by permission.(www.Lockman.org)
Scripture taken from the Common English Bible®, CEB® Copyright © 2010, 2011 by Common English Bible.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. The “CEB” and “Common English Bible” trademarks are registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Common. English Bible. Use of either trademark requires the permission of Common English Bible.
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.27.18
Note: Today’s message was originally published on May 21, 2013. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting. There are also some edits to the “Reflection” to include a current viewpoint.
Scripture
When they observed the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed and recognized that they had been with Jesus. And since they saw the man who had been healed standing with them, they had nothing to say in response.
After they had ordered them to leave the Sanhedrin, they conferred among themselves, saying, “What should we do with these men? For an obvious sign, evident to all who live in Jerusalem, has been done through them, and we cannot deny it! However, so this does not spread any further among the people, let’s threaten them against speaking to anyone in this name again.”
So they called for them and ordered them not to preach or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it’s right in the sight of God ⌊for us⌋ to listen to you rather than to God, you decide; for we are unable to stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
After threatening them further, they released them. They found no way to punish them, because the people were all giving glory to God over what had been done; for this sign of healing had been performed on a man over 40 years old.
Acts 4:13-22 HCSB
Pray
Father may I never fear punishment or any mistreatment for believing, following, worshipping, speaking, praising, honoring, acknowledging, and praying to You and Your son Jesus Christ.
May I never be ashamed of who I am as Your servant and child. May I always proudly and confidently perform my duties while spreading Your Word and testifying about Your love everywhere I go.
Keep Your name and Jesus’s name from ever coming out of my mouth in vain, for I only want to glorify and reflect You. I humbly pray these things today and forever. Amen.
Reflection
Speaking to those who recognize themselves as Christians—-a closet Christian is not a “true” (fully or adequately invested) believer or follower.
There should be no question in the minds of those who encounter you if you believe, love, and worship God. They may not know your denomination, but through interacting with you they should at least know that you see yourself as a servant of and for God. They should feel the energy of spirituality flow through you. They should be able to feel and see the Light.
If you are a believer AND follower of Christ then you should have no problem letting others know in both your personal and professional lives.
Let me pause where your mind was about to take you.
I’m not saying to be loud, boisterous, pushy and obnoxious.
I’m not saying to line your office or cubicle with crucifixes, Bible verses, and the like.
I’m not saying to force God onto anyone.
Where do you ever read about Jesus, Moses, or any servant called by God assuming their role and then being “extra” with it?
When was it ever a case where Jesus or Moses forced anyone to do anything?
Jesus stayed as low-key as He could so that those who were healed would praise God. He tried to make it less about Him and more about His Father. But it was never a doubt that He loved, worshipped, and served God. He was never “too good” to break bread with commoners or sinners. That’s God love demonstrated.
It’s not about the outward “show” it’s about the giving of what you carry inward that matters. And giving through the gratitude of what God has given you.
You should never worry or question if you should mention God during your interactions with others. If He is in you then you should be sharing Him with others. If you are His perfect creation and reflection, then the world should see Him through you.
In my signature line of my email I have included some passages from the Bible that hit home with me:
Luke 1:37; Luke 17:21; Matthew 4:10; Matthew 6:34; Isaiah 1:17; Proverbs 21:5; Proverbs 21:30; Proverbs 31:10-31
I share them with others who may need some inspiration or reassurance that day. It’s not forced on them. They don’t have to read the passages. It’s a small gesture that can have a big impact on someone.
On my social media sites I proclaim myself as a change agent through God, and a servant leader. It is my affirmation, my daily challenge. Respectfully, I don’t care if someone is offended or uncomfortable. That is between them and God. I’m a servant and I’m here to share what God calls on me to share.
I used to be nervous about being open about my beliefs. I didn’t like having conversations about religion and spirituality, just like I still don’t like having political conversations (but I will engage when important issues need to be addressed).
The reasons for my apprehensions have always been because people are so passionate about religion and politics to the point that they can become belligerent and even violent about two topics that they have absolutely no control over.
I didn’t want to get into a debate over which way is the right way to pray, worship, praise, be saved, be baptized, etc. I didn’t want to debate with people about my choice to pray first before ever considering medical interventions. Just like I shouldn’t have to debate and defend my beliefs about:
– The politicians I vote for
-Women’s rights (and that no one should have the right to tell me what to do with my body)
– Gay marriage (and the hate being focused at people who love each other and are being loving)
– The marginalization of Blacks and other minorities
– The targeted racism and discrimination of Latinos and Muslims, and other groups.
– Numerous other issues
I’ve matured over the past year to realize something, I don’t have to debate or defend.
I don’t have to explain myself to anyone. I don’t have to defend myself. God knows. God guides. God corrects. I don’t have to defend Him. I have my own relationship with God and with Jesus, and no one can change that. So I have nothing to fear, be ashamed of, nervous about, or uncomfortable with—I am here to live my purpose, with purpose, and on purpose, as God intends.
I’m here to be loved, share God’s love, and be loving. I don’t need to drill down or wear someone out about Christ. I just need to touch a life, even for a moment—knowing that God always handles the rest.
So don’t be afraid, ashamed, embarrassed, or nervous about who you are and to Whom you know you belong. You don’t need to be a deep student of the Word to know and share God’s love.
Acts of kindness, having dignity and restoring dignity in others, and being considerate of all people, are ways in which we share His love and follow Jesus’ teachings.
Stand proudly and confidently as a believer. Be bold but never pushy, obnoxious, or judgmental!
Loving you always,
Natasha
Copyright 2013-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. Prior posts from 2009-2013 are copyrighted under the name Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible, Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation Used by permission.(www.Lockman.org)
Scripture taken from the Common English Bible®, CEB® Copyright © 2010, 2011 by Common English Bible.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. The “CEB” and “Common English Bible” trademarks are registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Common. English Bible. Use of either trademark requires the permission of Common English Bible.
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.26.18
Scripture
And we exhort you, brothers: warn those who are irresponsible, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
1 Thessalonians 5:14 HCSB
Pray
Father I pray that each day I do my part to share Your Word with someone, share my testimony of Your goodness, reflect Your Light, and make the world a better place. I know that I’m only one person, but I know that You can give me the strength, wisdom, and foresight to do the work of many.
Father I pray that You touch my heart to reach out to those who are straying or have strayed, comfort those who discouraged and those lacking hope, and help the weak. Father You know that I need patience and understanding—please fill me with both, so that I am receptive to all that I encounter. In Jesus’ name I humbly pray. Amen.
Reflection
When you read that passage do you see anywhere a focus on self? Each directive is to do something for someone else, and to do something to help someone else. By giving you receive. By blessing others you are blessed. By helping others you in return are helped.
We should consider this in all things we do. When the focus is always on me, myself, and I, how can God truly be represented?
Something to think about.
Clothing myself WITH Love,
Natasha
Note: This message was originally published on March 26, 2013. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting.
Copyright 2013-2018. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.blogspot.com
breakingbreadwithnatasha.wordpress.com
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers
A Great Message on HOW to Wait on God
Happy Sunday Breaking Bread Family!
I just read this message on waiting for God, and how we should go about doing it. We say to wait, but HOW do you wait?
Rather than share my insights on how well the message made clear the “how”, I will instead encourage you to read this brilliant message written by Isaiah Roebuck, and then ask that you please share it with others. Thank you.
~Natasha
Source: http://isaiahroebuck.com/2018/03/23/how-to-wait-on-god/
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.23.18
Note: This message was originally published on May 6, 2016. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting.
Scripture
Proverbs 16:9
Pray
Father thank You for this day, a day I did not earn by winning a race or passing a test, but simply because of Your love and grace. You have plans for me and I don’t want to disrupt what You have envisioned for my present and future.
You have instilled magnificent qualities in me, one of which is a desire to excel and achieve greatness in Your name—but even with the plans I have for myself, I understand that You and only You order my steps.
So I will work on being more patient, relying on the gift of discernment blessed by You, and open my eyes to see and experience all that You have planned for me. In Jesus’ name I humbly pray and give thanks to You Father. Amen.
Reflection
My husband ex-husband always laughs laughed when he says said to me and others (and even himself), “If you wanna make God laugh, tell Him your plans,” translation…God’s plans for us supersede our own. He orders our steps. It doesn’t matter what you want to accomplish by a set date, God determines the who, when, where, and how.
Things happen on His schedule not ours. Blessings come when He determines, not just because we want them. This means that we must be patient in our walk. The length of our journey is unknown to all but Him, but we shouldn’t try to rush through it or we will most definitely miss out on great lessons and experiences, and face many failures that could’ve been avoided through patience and discernment.
Take each step, making sure to look down and around at your surroundings. My maternal grandfather (“Poppa”) taught me the lesson of always looking where I walk. He used to say to me as a child, “don’t walk around like city folks with your head up in the air, you won’t be able to see what you’re stepping on or what’s about to attack you below“.
You don’t know how these words of wisdom have saved me from snakes, fire ants, potholes, open man holes, construction nails, broken steps, toxic substances, broken glass and other sharp objects, slippery surfaces, and even that dreaded bubble gum some careless person left on the ground. It sounds funny, but some of those things could have led to serious injury or possibly death.
But those words from my grandfather have also saved me in my personal and professional dealings. They have reminded me to look around at all times, at the people I associate with, at my business colleagues, and complete strangers on the street.
When you walk making sure to also look down, and not just up, you can’t help but to see the people that are working to get to your level in life. You then are faced with the options to reach out your hand to lift someone up, hold the elevator for them so they can walk in, or send it back down if it closed too soon; or you have the option of turning away your eyes and looking up to where you’re trying to go.
I personally refuse to do the latter.
By looking around me and down, I’m more inclined to show others the stepping stones I chose, and direct them around the ones that I fell through. There’s a sense of selflessness, humility and humbleness that comes with being centered this way.
When I walk around each day I hear my Poppa’s voice, like a guardian angel. I can’t help but to smile brightly.
So my brothers and sisters, please remember for each step that you take to look around you and below. Also remember with each step, to be mindful of your past while fully embracing the present, and remaining hopeful for the future. Be obedient with each step. If God says, “take one” don’t attempt to take more because in your mind you think, “I can do more than one”.
Do as God says.
Oh that is the most difficult and frustrating thing to do.
Our disobedience causes us so many delays in life, I can attest to that, as I’m so hard-headed that I know God has to have a sense of humor. If He didn’t, I know I would’ve been snatched off of this planet a long time ago. But God has more patience, love—and yes, even humor, than all of us combined (where do you think we got our sense of humor?), and I’m so grateful for this. I’m so grateful for my life and the people that God has blessed me to know and love.
I pray that today’s message has put a smile on your face. Enjoy today’s steps on your amazing journey!
Questions of the Day
1. What would you like to add to today’s prayer and/or reflection?
2. What are your thoughts about today’s message?
Feel free to share your answers, prayers, comments, and reflections in the comment section below. You can also send me an email at: breakingbreadwithnatasha@gmail.com
Please also feel free to share this post with others. We’re never quite sure who needs to hear and see what, and when! It would be awesome if whenever you run across a prayer, message, or scripture that moves you, you would kindly share it with the rest of us. You can post it on this blog or send me an email.
Love always,
Natasha
Copyright 2013-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. Prior posts from 2009-2013 are copyrighted under the name Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible, Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation Used by permission.(www.Lockman.org)
Scripture taken from the Common English Bible®, CEB® Copyright © 2010, 2011 by Common English Bible.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. The “CEB” and “Common English Bible” trademarks are registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Common. English Bible. Use of either trademark requires the permission of Common English Bible.
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.
Jessica’s Affirmations
After reading today’s Breaking Bread message and watching the video that I shared from Pastor Craig Groeschel of Life Church, I’m sure most of you are intrigued to see and hear Jessica’s affirmation video, so I saved you the extra steps of finding it. Watch Jessica’s video below:
Now this video of Jessica was when she was age 4. When she turned 11 or 12, her dad created a YouYube account to upload family videos, and Jessica’s affirmation video went viral.
So where’s Jessica now and what is she doing? Well I can’t answer that question but here’s an interview of her in or around 2013 when she was age 12 (that means she would be age 17 going on 18 this October):
I hope that these videos put a smile on your face and encourage you to express your gratitude with the passion and energy of young Jessica. Shouldn’t we be excited for all that God has blessed us with? When people ask “how are you doing?” Shouldn’t be our response be “great“, “awesome“, “I’m blessed” or “life is amazing“?
Try it today and let me know how you feel.
Love,
Natasha
Copyright 2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant/Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.22.18
Scripture
“GOD made my life complete when I placed all the pieces before him. When I cleaned up my act, he gave me a fresh start. Indeed, I’ve kept alert to GOD ’s ways; I haven’t taken God for granted. Every day I review the ways he works, I try not to miss a trick. I feel put back together, and I’m watching my step. GOD rewrote the text of my life when I opened the book of my heart to his eyes.
You stick by people who stick with you, you’re straight with people who’re straight with you, You’re good to good people, you shrewdly work around the bad ones. You take the side of the down-and-out, but the stuck-up you take down a peg.
Suddenly, GOD, your light floods my path, GOD drives out the darkness. I smash the bands of marauders, I vault the high fences. What a God! His road stretches straight and smooth. Every GOD -direction is road-tested. Everyone who runs toward him Makes it.”
2 Samuel 22:21-31 MSG
Pray
I am grateful for my life Lord, for the good and bad, for the successes and failures, for those in my life who are committed and even for my betrayers. I’m grateful for the humble and the arrogant, for the honest and even for the habitual liars, and for those who are genuinely remorseful as well as those who feel entitled to continue their destructive ways.
I’m grateful because I’m here to see, hear, feel and experience these things and these people. I get the opportunity to interact and learn.
I’m grateful for another day to experience all that is needed to make me stronger, braver, and wiser. I am grateful for my life Father. I’m trying to get out of Your way. Thank You for Your patience. Thank You. Amen.
Reflection
Isn’t it amazing the second chances we have been given. What about the countless ones thereafter? I can’t help but to smile, even through my guilt, because I know how awesome God truly is to see in me something worthy of multiple chances to make things right.
Life may feel like a vacuum at times, seemingly sucking you down a narrow tube, but instead of showing and expressing dread let’s work at showing and expressing our gratitude. God is allowing us to experience life to the fullest, not cut short, and definitely not a dull or boring moment. Be grateful.
Here’s part two of a video message on “Gratitude” from Pastor Craig Groeschel, the founder and senior pastor of Life Church. If yesterday’s message and video moved you, then this one definitely should. Enjoy.
How will you show your gratitude today?
Questions of the Day
1. What do you have to be grateful for today?
2. How do you feel after reading and reciting today’s message?
3. How do you see God after reading today’s message?
4. How do you see your rival(s)/enemy(ies) after reading today’s message?
Feel free to share your answers, prayers, comments, and reflections in the comment section below. You can also send me an email at: breakingbreadwithnatasha@gmail.com
Please also feel free to share this post with others. We’re never quite sure who needs to hear and see what, and when! It would be awesome if whenever you run across a prayer, message, or scripture that moves you, you would kindly share it with the rest of us. You can post it on this blog or send me an email.
Love always,
Natasha
Note: This message was originally published on May 28, 2014. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting, and the video of Pastor Craig Groeschel was recently added to reinforce the message of gratitude.
Copyright 2013-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. Prior posts from 2009-2013 are copyrighted under the name Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
The video of Pastor Craig Groeschel are copyright protected by Pastor Craig Groeschel and Life Church
Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible,
Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation Used by permission.(www.Lockman.org)
Scripture taken from the Common English Bible®, CEB® Copyright © 2010, 2011 by Common English Bible.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. The “CEB” and “Common English Bible” trademarks are registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Common English Bible. Use of either trademark requires the permission of Common English Bible.
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.21.18
Scripture
Job 1:20-22 HCSB
Prayer
Father I am so humbly grateful for every blessing that You have chosen to share with me. Thank You for breathing life into me. Thank you for every part of my body that moves as it should, for every organ that functions properly, for every sense that works as it should, for my health, and for my life. Father I thank You for the parts of me that don’t work at 100% because You have blessed me with the ability to adapt and overcome what many would consider a limitation.
I thank You for the ability to feel the sun, wind, rain, and snow. I thank You for every bite of food that I eat and every drop of liquid that I drink. I thank You for the strength to persevere each day. I thank You for the smile that rises on my face even when I didn’t plan to feel it. It feels amazing Father and I thank You. I thank You for the ability to feel emotions, mine and others. Thank You for blessing me with the ability to connect, even with strangers, when in pain, that we might share a moment of connectedness.
Thank You for keeping me rooted in my childlikeness so that I never forget the pureness and innocence that You poured in me from even before I took my first breath outside of my mother’s womb. This blessing that I have clung to has allowed me to connect with children in a way that only another child could—because of You Father, I am never too grown to remember the simplicities of childhood. Thank You Father.
Thank You for my family, for those still living here surrounding me on Earth, and for those who have transitioned yet still maintain a connection with me. Thank You Father. Thank You for that bond, for second to You, nothing else takes priority.
Thank You for my friends, the truest ones and even the ones who have let me down because they simply don’t know what else to do. I appreciate their love and friendship. I appreciate the associates and colleagues that You have placed in my life and allowed me to play a part in theirs. Thank You for this village Father.
I am and will forever be eternally grateful for these priceless gifts that You have blessed me with. In Jesus’ name I praise You as the only Source capable of creating and providing these blessings and more. I love You!
Love Your servant-in-training.
Reflection
Yesterday we looked at our material possessions and the blessings that we could see around our home. Let’s go deeper and wider shall we?
Today I share an excerpt from the book of Job.
With God’s permission, satan was able to test Job. God knew that Job was a man of integrity, free of sin, and loved Him unconditionally. God made clear that satan could do whatever to Job but Job’s life had to be spared. Well, satan took that allowance and as they say nowadays, “he went in on” Job.
Job lost so much in his life but continued to pray and praise God. He was still grateful for God’s love and for his life.
Job lost his 10 children, wife, cattle, home, land, servants, all of his money, his body was covered with boils and he was made sick and weak. Satan kept pushing Job until eventually Job cursed aloud in agony and dreaded the day he was born. It was the day that his friends came to check on him. Job was a shell of a man and his friends could barely recognize him.
One friend, Eliphaz, pleaded to Job to speak to God and ask God to consider his “case” as Job had proven that even through adversity he had been faithful and free of sin. Job’s response was clear, he had lost hope, strength, and a will to live. He believed that God was punishing him, yes, the man who had never sinned, the man who was the epitome of integrity and honor. If God could do that to him, then Job figured that God might as well finish the job and end his life.
Then Job’s friend Bildad spoke up and put Job in his place, enough for Job to admit that Bildad was correct in his assertions, but even still Job thought the idea of pleading to God was not realistic because in his mind he was merely being punished just for the sake of it and how could he possibly speak up to a power and presence greater than anything conceivable or not. Then his friend Zophar basically told Job to shut up, stop babbling, and go pray to God; because as Zophar made clear, if all four men were in agreement as to God’s power and presence, and that God sees and hears all, then God has made possible the opportunity for Job to surrender all of his grievances and turn them over to God in prayer. Job once again resists. The four men go round and round, argument and counter-argument.
Job’s pride and self-righteousness was drowning out all hope for progress. Job already knew-it-all so there was no changing his mind. He was right and they were all wrong. He knew more about God and God’s intentions than anyone else, because Job believed that he was faultless and flawless.
Finally, Elihu, became angry. He had enough of this round-and-round. The Bible says that Elihu was angry at Job for “justifying himself rather than God” (that he had sinned and that God was right in punishing him) and he was mad at Job’s three friends because their inability to answer Job’s arguments made God appear to be wrong and somehow made Job appear to be right. Elihu was the youngest of the five men, so he let his elders speak before he had his say. Elihu “went off” on the three friends and then gave Job a “piece of his mind”, flat out calling Job arrogant. He then reminds Job of God’s justice and he continued defending God and reinforcing the beauty and gift of God’s power, and all of the blessings that we take for granted.
Before Job or anyone else could respond to Elihu, God spoke out and challenged Job for questioning Him and His wisdom and love. God called Job out and demanded that he answer His questions, since Job believed that he was so wise–much wiser than his three friends and others in the town. God asked Job so many questions that Job admitted that he couldn’t answer them and that he had already made a fool of himself, so he felt it best to remain silent. But God didn’t stop there. He continued to challenge Job. He asked Job more questions. Job’s response was bold because I can’t say that I would have spoken up as he did, but even after admitting that he spoke about things he clearly knew nothing about, Job then decided to ask God some questions. WHAT?!? Yes. Job asked God questions and basically demanded that God answer them. Who does this? Job, obviously.
Job had only heard about God but never actually had a relationship with Him, and until that day had never seen Him. Job took back everything he had said that day and before that was against God in any way. That day Job repented for his sins. God forgave and blessed Job, restoring what Job had but blessing him even beyond what he once had. The Bible says that God blessed Job with even more than he had before. Job had thousands of sheep, camels, donkeys, oxen, and other cattle. He had 10 children, lived well past age 140, living to see four generations of his children and grandchildren.
Watch this quick 1:32 minute snippet of “Stay Positive” Week 2- Pretend Like You Just Lost It” message from Life Church’s senior pastor, Craig Groeschel, and see if it moves you as it moved me. Get the tissue ready. I cried. And cried.
What did Pastor Craig just teach you in 1:32 minutes about gratitude? It inspired and motivated me to type today’s message.
Join me in furthering this discussion.
Questions of the Day
- What blessings do you take for granted?
- What things in your life do you take for granted?
- What people in your life do you take for granted?
- Do you make taking care of your mental and physical health a priority, or do they take back seat to a list of other things?
- How much of a priority are your family members in your life? How often do you speak to them and spend time with them, and let them know how much you love and cherish them?
- How often do you thank God for blessing you with your health, life, family, and friends?
- How often do you thank God for the small things in your life? For even whispering the answer to a question that you have, or reminding you where it was you were going—do you stop for a moment and thank Him?
- Do you thank God and show gratitude for your pets?
- What would you do if you lost everything today?
These are some things to think about. I apologize that today’s message is so long. But I was moved to share these words and to share the message from Pastor Craig, because today even I had to stop and take inventory of the things and people that I just may be taking for granted–expecting to be around a lot longer. I had to stop and hug my dog Bishop because the reality is, he won’t be running around here wagging his tail and trying to get me to play with him and rub his belly forever. At least not here in this present life. I am so grateful that God blessed me with such an amazing dog. I love you Bishop Milo Bryant!
I love all of you and I’m so grateful for those of you who subscribe to this blog, and for those of you who pop your head in every now and then. Thank you for your support, thank you for sharing scriptures, prayers, and reflections. Thank you for inspiring and motivating me. I am grateful for each and every one of you!
Love your sister in Christ,
Natasha
Copyright 2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant/Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved. The video of Pastor Craig Groeschel is protected by copyright by Life Church and Craig Groeschel.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.20.18
Scripture
Matthew 25:21
Prayer
Father thank You for breathing life into me. Thank You for another day made possible not by my efforts but only through Your goodness and mercy.
Father You have planted a seed of abundance in my mind and heart, with the understanding that I first must show my ability to handle what I have before more is gifted to me. I must show that I’m content and grateful for what is before me and not merely setting my eyes on more ahead of me.
So I sit in this moment of “good enough” both content and grateful for all that I have around me and in me, and knowing that it is only because of You.
I sit in peace knowing that what You still have for me, what You have nestled in my heart as possibility, the vision that You have created in my mind, will come when You see that I’m ready—not before that time. So until that time I will proudly care for, cherish, and praise the abundance that You have already blessed me with—because it’s more than many have and more than many would hope for, and many would feel too big and too important to be lowered to settle for what You have given me. But I embrace these gifts even more because of these realities.
You have blessed me with more than I had this time last year and I will do my best to care for and protect these blessings as though they are all that I will ever have. Thank You Father for Your everlasting love. In Jesus’ name I praise You and pray to You. Amen.
Reflection
I look around my home and I have multiple bedrooms and large bathrooms, an open kitchen that I enjoy cooking in with a refrigerator and pantry filled with food; a furnished office with amazing natural light and built-in shelving so that I can display pictures of family and friends; a laundry room by my kitchen for convenience; my master bedroom has a beautiful bed that is comfortable, and furnishings that accommodate my abundance of clothing and accessories; my living room is comfy and inviting, and my dining area is spacious and allows for entertaining; my dog Bishop has multiple sleep and play areas within our home; my deck looks out towards trees and neighbors, while allowing me a level of privacy to read or reflect. I have a garage to park my SUV and store seasonal and other items that I don’t need daily access to.
It’s not as much as what I used to have two years ago, but guess what? It’s good enough. It’s mine.
These are some of the material possessions that God has blessed me with that I’m to be the steward of.
Has he planted a vision of more and greater in my mind?
Yes. But I must show Him how well I care for and appreciate what I have before me. I could be obsessed with what I used to have or with what I would like to have, but I don’t. I look around me and I smile. I’m grateful for all that I have.
So I make up my bed daily, with my layers of pillows and all. I keep my home clean and tidy. I don’t let dishes pile up. I don’t let food waste in bulk (I may forget about the occasional item in one of those drawers).
I keep my car cleaned, fueled and maintained. Shoes are removed upon entering my home so not to track dirt in. I pay my rent and utilities on time. I keep my home smelling fresh and fragrant.
I treat my home and possessions as though they are the most prized—-respectful and humbly grateful for all that God has given me because I know that He didn’t have to—He did it because He wanted to, He trusted me with these things, and I will do everything that I can to care for and show appreciation for these things. Also knowing that tomorrow they could be gone.
How dare I pursue greater if I am a poor steward of what I have now.
I work hard in my career and am focused on working even harder so that I can better care for those things that I have, so that I have the money to pay for maintenance and insurance on my home and SUV, so that one day that vision God has given me becomes my reality—and these same gifts that I have been a steward of can come with me to the next level. You can do that when great care goes into conserving and preserving what you have been given as a gift.
This is merely a reflection on the material gifts God gives, think of the spiritual gifts that you possess in abundance. Think of all of the ways and times He has saved you from physical and spiritual threats. It’s impossible because there have been more times than you can possibly count. But are you grateful? How do you show and express your gratitude? Think about it.
~Natasha
Questions of The Day
1) Are you content and grateful or simply settling, anxiously waiting for more?
2) Look around you and take notice of the things that God has blessed you with. How would you feel and what would you do if you were to lose all of it today?
3) What do you do each day to show your gratitude for the things that God has given you?
4) If when you look around your home and you see clutter, what do you think that tells God? What kind of steward are you?
5) If your vehicle is dirty and cluttered with trash, clothes, and junk—what message are you sending to God? How appreciative are you, really, for this vehicle?
6) If you’re sitting around sulking and depressed about what you don’t have, yet you aren’t caring greatly for what you do have, how can God trust that you can handle and care for more?
7) If you can’t manage $1,000 how can God trust you to manage $100,000 or $1,000,000 or $1,000,000,000?
Feel free to share your answers, prayers, comments, and reflections in the comment section below. You can also send me an email at: breakingbreadwithnatasha@gmail.comPlease also feel free to share this post with others. We’re never quite sure who needs to hear and see what, and when! It would be awesome if whenever you run across a prayer, message, or scripture that moves you, you would kindly share it with the rest of us. You can post it on this blog or send me an email.~Natasha
Copyright 2013-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. Prior posts from 2009-2013 are copyrighted under the name Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.19.18
Scripture
Commit your activities to the Lord, and your plans will be achieved.
Proverbs 16:3 HCSB
Pray
Father whatever I have placed above You, please rearrange to its rightful place. Father help me to remain focused on those activities that You see fit for me. Help me to be committed to seeing things through to the finish line—finishing what I start. Help me to never feel deflated for not achieving goals by my deadline, instead realizing that all things will be achieved by the date and moment determined by You. Help me to be more patient, calm, and relaxed even during the most turbulent of storms. I pray to You in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Reflection
Our desire to reach a goal quickly oftentimes blinds our vision and thinking, and our perception of Who makes the attainment possible. There is nothing in the world that we achieve alone. God is our Provider. God provides the tools, resources, means, and way for us to have everything that we have, and everything that we still desire.
If we place what we desire above God, if we place access to resources above God, if we place others above God, if we narcissistically place ourselves above God, then our progress will be slow and painful.
The desire to win must never come before our desire to please and serve God.
Questions of the Day
1. Are you struggling with a goal, task, project, etc and you are frustrated with the delays, setbacks, and failures?
2. In what ways can you get out of the way and allow God to handle your situation(s)?
Feel free to share your answers, prayers, comments, and reflections in the comment section below. You can also send me an email at: breakingbreadwithnatasha@gmail.com
Please also feel free to share this post with others. We’re never quite sure who needs to hear and see what, and when! It would be awesome if whenever you run across a prayer, message, or scripture that moves you, you would kindly share it with the rest of us. You can post it on this blog or send me an email.
Today is Monday, let’s enjoy it like it’s Friday, but work like it’s Tuesday—remember, God doesn’t reward slackers!
~Natasha
Note: Today’s message was originally published on March 24, 2014. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting.
Copyright 2014-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. Prior posts from 2009-2013 are copyrighted under the name Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.16.18
Note: Today’s message was originally published on September 20, 2012. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting.
Scripture
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2 NIV
Pray
Lord I want to thank You for waking me today. I know that it is only because of You that I’m here today and saying this prayer. Father as Your servant I want to do my best to please You.
I want to do my part to help build Your Kingdom, and to make this world a better place one person at a time. While I work to help others I’m working on myself, and with the loving molding that You are providing, I am seeing positive changes. Thank You Father.
I want to transform my mind and heart to align with You, and I want my transgressions blotted out, and the enemy so far behind me that it can’t catch up no matter what. I want to evolve beyond this fog-covered level where my emotional roller coaster takes me. I want to push through my fears, doubts, and insecurities. I want to see past the obstacles in the road. I want to focus on and be centered in You. Mold me Father.
Reflection
As long as we are focused on things of the world and not on God, we limit our experience and role here on Earth. There’s nothing wrong with dreaming about financial wealth, buying a house or car, or even traveling around the world. Those dreams are made possible because of God, and there is nothing wrong with turning dreams into reality. He doesn’t want His children to be poor on any level.
However, our fixation on material possessions can leave us spiritually bankrupt. Our fear of sharing our testimony of God’s healing and other blessings in our lives, will leave us in a topsy turvy state as ‘conditional believers’.
Throughout the Bible we are told to not only acknowledge and worship God, but to declare to others how good He’s been to us. Our silence doesn’t help to build His Kingdom. Our silence doesn’t help heal ourselves and others. Our silence doesn’t help get us where we need to be. We don’t need to stand on crates slapping a Bible and yelling on the street corner. We don’t even need to go door-to-door.
We can share our testimony easily in casual conversation, or when someone is in need of gentle reassurance that nothing is impossible for God. Many of you have co-workers, workout buddies, carpool pals, a brunch crew, book club, or you’re a member of some organization. There are hundreds of places and thousands of opportunities to share what God’s done for you.
Even saying, “God is good” creates a ripple effect that can lead to a further discussion on how He’s been good to you.
Try it.
Just like you would be surprised as to how many people don’t vote, or who vote for a certain political party, you may be pleasantly surprised as to how many believers and followers surround you, and you will see how many people were helped by your testimony. See what happens and then share your experience here on this blog. Just come back to this message (or go to the first one you see) and click on the option to leave a ‘comment’. Then share. I look forward to reading about your experiences.
Love your sister in Christ,
Natasha
Copyright 2012-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. Prior posts from 2009-2013 are copyrighted under the name Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible,
Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation Used by permission.(www.Lockman.org)
Scripture taken from the Common English Bible®, CEB® Copyright © 2010, 2011 by Common English Bible.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. The “CEB” and “Common English Bible” trademarks are registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Common English Bible. Use of either trademark requires the permission of Common English Bible.
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.15.18
Note: Today’s message was originally shared by me on June 24, 2014. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting.
Message from Natasha
Oh my goodness today’s message by Joel and Victoria Osteen moved me out of my seat. I think the room rumbled. After reading it, tell me what you think.
Move Forward
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”
(Isaiah 43:18–19, ESV)
TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria
Oftentimes, people get stuck in life because they’ve been hurt or betrayed, and they end up settling where they are. They allow the disappointment to keep them from the divine appointment. Don’t let that be you! Don’t let what somebody did or didn’t do for you be an excuse to live sour. Don’t let a bad break, a divorce, a betrayal or a bad childhood cause you to settle where you are. Move forward and God will pay you back. Move forward and God will vindicate you. Move forward and you’ll come into a new beginning.
Nothing that has happened to you is a surprise to God. The loss of that loved one didn’t catch God off guard. The business that didn’t make it, the relationship that didn’t work out did not stop God’s plan for your life. Now, the real question is: are you going to get stuck, fall into self-pity, become bitter, let the past poison your future? Or, are you going to shake it off and move forward knowing that your best days are still up ahead?
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father, thank You for being my vindicator. Thank You for making the wrong things right in my life. I know that You are working behind the scenes on my behalf, and I will move forward in the blessing You have for me in Jesus’ name. Amen.
— Joel & Victoria Osteen
Natasha’s Questions of the Day
1. Are you currently stuck in a rut?
2. Have you recently been hurt by someone or by circumstances and you feel beaten and defeated?
3. After reading today’s message, are you feeling more inclined to continue pouting and feeling sorry for yourself, or do you feel an energy flowing through you that makes you want to get up, move, and do something?
4. What do you want to release to God that you keep holding on to as though you’re the only one who can deal with it?
5. What things are you settling for that you want to hand over to God?
Feel free to share your answers, prayers, comments, and reflections in the comment section below. You can also send me an email at: breakingbreadwithnatasha@gmail.com
Please also feel free to share this post with others. We’re never quite sure who needs to hear and see what, and when! It would be awesome if whenever you run across a prayer, message, or scripture that moves you, you would kindly share it with the rest of us. You can post it on this blog or send me an email.
Sending love from our nation’s capital, Washington DC!
(June 24, 2014)
Natasha
Copyright 2013-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. Prior posts from 2009-2013 are copyrighted under the name Natasha L. Foreman. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible,
Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation Used by permission.(www.Lockman.org)
Scripture taken from the Common English Bible®, CEB® Copyright © 2010, 2011 by Common English Bible.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. The “CEB” and “Common English Bible” trademarks are registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Common English Bible. Use of either trademark requires the permission of Common English Bible.
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.14.18
Scripture
Galatians 5:22-23
Prayer
Father thank You for today, another day that You have blessed me to see more, feel more, hear more, experience more, do more, be more, help more, and love more.
I am humbly grateful for these gifts and opportunities. I am grateful for the gifts of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
They are precious gifts that can be manipulated, abused, or withheld, but never ever destroyed by law, by man, or by the enemy. They are gifts that come from You, they are of You, they are You.
Each day Father, I strive to embrace and express these gifts in a way that can best reflect You. Father forgive me when I fall short; for You know that I am a work in progress, being molded by Your hands, and my human weaknesses sometimes rise and lean so far that I fall. But as the Master, You always catch that bit of clay before it hits the floor, and with cleansing water You mold me back into place. Thank You Father. I love You. In Jesus’ name I raise my hands up singing Your praise. Amen.
Reflection
God gives us the gifts of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. We can either positively embrace them or we can abuse them.
Look closely at each gift.
They come from within and once properly applied they have an outward, external, impact. They come from within and can reach out and touch others, causing a domino effect.
The same is true when we reflect the opposite of the gift we are utilizing. When we express hate, not love, it touches others and spreads like dominoes rapidly falling one by one along a long winding path that seems as though it will never end. The only way to restore each piece to their upright position is through embracing and applying patience, self-control, and once again–love.
When hate is present, none of these other gifts are in alignment. Hate stands alone. It pushes the other gifts out.
The gifts wait nearby, for the moment we are either positively triggered by someone else sharing one or more of their gifts with us, or when the hate chokes us so intensely that our desire for better, for comfort, for peace, causes us to reach our hands and hearts out to grab the gift of self-control. We lean on it and little by little our hope for better is displayed through our actions, words, and thoughts. Then in time we begin seeing the other gifts round the corner and approach us. We take and embrace each gift, filling ourselves until eventually they are all nestled within us, where they are supposed to be.
But never were the gifts destroyed, for they come from God, and there is no force greater, more powerful, or with greater reach than He.
Don’t ever forget that.
God gives us options and each day we have a choice about how we will best use our gifts. How will you embrace and apply yours today?
Love,
Natasha
Copyright 2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant/Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved.
All prayers and reflections are written by Natasha Foreman Bryant/Natasha L. Foreman, unless otherwise noted.
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.13.18
Scripture
Know therefore this day, and consider it in thine heart, that the Lord he is God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: there is none else.
Deuteronomy 4:39 (KJV)
Pray
Father I pray that I turn to You for all of my needs. I pray that my worry is replaced with confidence, that my weakness is replaced by strength, and that my fear is replaced by courage. May You always be my source. Strengthen me Lord. Help me to fight the temptations of the enemy. Amen.
Reflection
I rebuke the enemy who only has relevance when I give it energy. I rebuke the enemy who is only as great as I make it. When I give into fear it is not God that I give the glory, it is the enemy that is fueled. When I invest my money in people, places, movies, television shows, music, objects, and clothing that promotes the message of the enemy, then it is as though I support the enemy. I pray for discernment and clarification to see the darkness that attempts to enter my life. I pray that I see and bypass the trappings in the world. I pray that you keep your armor and shield close to you, protecting you at all times.
Today I honor those who served and serve in the armed forces, those who passed away in combat, those plagued by ailments and disorders, and those who struggle financially and spiritually due to a lack of support by society. I honor my relatives who served (and to those who still serve) in the Air Force, Marines, Army, and Navy. Thank you for protecting us by land, air, and sea.
Love always your sister in Christ,
Natasha
Note: This message was originally published on May 27, 2013. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting.
Copyright 2013-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant/Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant/ Natasha L. Foreman, unless otherwise noted. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com
Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers
Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 3.12.18
Scripture
I know the plans I have in mind for you, declares the Lord; they are plans for peace, not disaster, to give you a future filled with hope. When you call me and come and pray to me, I will listen to you. When you search for me, yes, search for me with all your heart, you will find me. I will be present for you, declares the Lord, and I will end your captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have scattered you, and I will bring you home after your long exile, declares the Lord.
Jeremiah 29:11-14 CEB
Pray
God I call out to You. I seek You in every area of my life. I seek You in every instance. I need You Father. I ask for restoration. I ask to be realigned. Father show me how far I’ve strayed from Your path so that I can walk where You want me. I want to come back to You. I want to be committed to knowing Your touch, Your voice, and Your correction immediately. I humbly pray to You this day as a believer in Jesus, as a person who wants to earn the right to call myself a Christian. Amen.
Reflection
Whatever you’re going through seek God. Ask Him to be there even when you aren’t confident of the outcome. Ask Him to comfort you. Ask Him to show you the plumb line so that you can see how far you have strayed, and then seek Him for restoration.
Build the relationship that you need so that any time you stray, even slightly, there is an immediate recognition, and correction.
Questions of the Day
1. In what ways has the world departed from God?
2. In what ways have some churches departed from God?
Feel free to share your answers, prayers, comments, and reflections in the comment section below. You can also send me an email at: breakingbreadwithnatasha@gmail.com Please also feel free to share this post with others. We’re never quite sure who needs to hear and see what, and when! May God continue to bless and keep all of us.
Love always,
Natasha
Note: This message was originally published on March 12, 2014. It has been modified to align with current standards and formatting.
Copyright 2014-2018. Natasha Foreman Bryant. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha Foreman Bryant, unless otherwise noted. breakingbreadwithnatasha.com Copyright 2009-2013 under Natasha L. Foreman, unless otherwise noted.
Spiritual Quote of the Day
I found this quote on page 73 in the book 100 Days of Grace for Women.
This is my third time reading this book. Each time it feels like the first. I purchased it March 22, 2012 (which is amazing since it was published in January of that same year) and even after I read the last page, I always keep this book near so that I always know where it is when I need it.
It’s amazing how some of the best books that I’ve read I’ve purchased at the grocery store. You can find this book through online retailers and online thrift stores. I’ve provided some direct links to the book (from the retailers) below:
Amazon (book around $5.00)
Barnes & Noble (book $1.99)
Thrift Books ($3.99)
Discover Books ($3.98)
Please let me know if you do eventually purchase it, and what you think about the book. Thank you.
Love,
Natasha
Breaking Bread With Natasha 