Breaking Bread for 9.30.19

September 30, 2019Natasha 1 Comment

Scripture

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

Galatians 5:13

Reflection

You ask God for freedom but once He blesses you with it, use it wisely and humbly as a servant, and not selfishly for personal gains. Allow your freedom from toxic relationships and situations to give you the strength and determination to invest fully in healthy relationships and situations. Don’t take your freedom and selfishly invest into new toxic relationships–-for this would be disrespectful to God, and send a message to Him that you don’t honor, love, trust, and respect Him…and in turn will not obey Him.

So be careful of what you ask for if you aren’t willing to accept responsibility for your blessings. God does not bless you to mock Him.

Prayer

Father, thank You for my freedom. Thank You for sending Christ to set me free. Thank You for freeing me from physical, emotional, financial, psychological, and spiritual bondage. Thank You for freeing me from toxic relationships and toxic situations. Thank You for pushing back my enemies so that I may be free to serve You and the least of Your children. Thank You for freeing me so that I may love fully, freely and humbly. In Your name I pray. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Breaking Bread for 9.26.19

September 26, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

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

Reflection

There is so much temptation in the world that can lead us astray, handicap us both spiritually and emotionally; and that can physically destroy us, and leave us as mere shells of who we are.

Whether it be temptation to pursue or be pursued by another person for emotional or sexual pleasure; temptation by food that leads to an unhealthy lifestyle; temptation towards financial riches and wealth at all cost with no regard towards others; temptation to break God’s commandments; temptation to lie, cheat, or steal; temptation to physically or emotionally cause harm to others; or temptation to possess things of the world just because you can.

We can overcome these forms of temptation and all others. God can redirect our steps. God brings us love, joy, peace, wealth, bliss, comfort, happiness, and a high that no drug can match.

God knows your heart. He knows if you truly want to contact and meet up with that other person (knowing that you shouldn’t) knowing that by taking those steps you risk losing your relationship with the one who truly loves you…and you risk losing a huge part of yourself.

God knows if you truly want to ‘fudge’ those numbers on your time sheet, expense report, tax return, application, estimate, or invoice. God knows if the kind or harsh words that you say about someone else is genuine. God knows your fears and insecurities, your strengths and weaknesses. You can’t hide from God. He knows all and sees all. So even if you smile inside about deceiving another person, You haven’t deceived God or Jesus.

The actions you take will have consequences eventually. Maybe sooner than later, or maybe they appear when you least expect it so that the results have a lasting impression. How far are you willing to go and how much are you willing to risk losing?

So if you truly want to resist temptation then remove yourself from situations where you know you can, will, and are being tempted. The warning signs always appear, it is what you do afterwards that matters most. Why chase after or give in to the 20% of temporary bliss that may come from temptation, when you can get 100% joy from God?

I am frequently in a position where men are attracted to me and have no problem expressing this. I find myself being presented with business cards, in receipt of emails or other electronic messages from men who want to meet for coffee, breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, or dessert to “get to know each other better”, “to connect” or “reconnect”, or any other number of lines and excuses they throw my way. Some even slant their approach as though they’re interest is in doing business with me and my company, Foreman & Associates. Yet, with continued dialogue their true intent is revealed.

Coming at me in the guise of business is a major turnoff for me. You’re telling me that you’re willing to waste my time to get what you want. You’re telling me that you will deceive me to get what you want. Your unwillingness to be upfront and honest, tells me volumes about you and your character. You have already started off wrong.

It could be very easy to give in, especially to the men that I find highly attractive; but I don’t. I’m not saying that I haven’t given in before, been intrigued, because that would be a lie. I’m saying that my mindset as of typing these words, as a single woman, not married, is focused more on the excitement of achieving goals than on carnal pleasure. The former can take me to greater heights, the latter is temporary and fleeting.

When I was married, there was absolutely no way that I would ever risk disappointing God over some heated moments of desire and lust. I honored my vows from the beginning to the end, in all ways, every single word.

So when tempted, I lovingly decline the advances and invitations, and pray that the men lovingly accept this rejection— not as a personal one but one based on principles, ethics, and morals that guide me. I’m trying to align with God, to please Him, not to please and be pleased by man.

I don’t want any visual, emotional, or other distractions taking my mind and presence away from the person that I love, and most importantly from what God has in store for me and my life. Love and salvation have no price tags, so I refuse to gamble with them. I refuse to risk one moment of temporary bliss for a lifetime of joy—whether I’m in a romantic relationship or not—my eyes will remain on the prize.

There will always be eye candy, and attractive people surrounding us-–it is what we do and say that matters most. Do you give in to temptation and risk ruining your life, or do you walk away, cloaked in God’s light and love?

So before you make that call, send that text, email or instant message; before you consume that tempting food or drink; make a financial decision or any decision …think about what Jesus would say and do, and what God expects and commands of you. Either be hot or cold but never lukewarm with Him for there is no room for fence straddlers. Choose to follow or not, obey or not, commit or not, try or not, believe or not-–just make a decision.

Prayer

Father, thank You for keeping a close eye on me, and Your hand near, to redirect my steps. Father, thank You for leading me out of temptation. When the feelings to do or say something that I know goes against Jesus’ teachings, Your commands, and Your expectations for me, rise up inside of me I pray that I can overcome this test of my willpower, strength, devotion, and commitment to You.

Instead of pretending that I am free from the lure of temptation, I admit that there are seeds of weakness within that can sprout if I’m not committed and focused on You and pleasing You. Father, keep my eyes on You and the path You have laid before me. Strengthen me Lord. In Your name and Jesus’ name I humbly pray. Amen.

Love your sister in Christ,

Natasha

Breaking Bread for 9.25.19

September 25, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.

2 Timothy 4:2

Reflection

With just about everything in life delivered in rapid speed, we have grown to expect things to simply happen when we want them. We have dishwashers, washing machines and dryers, microwaves, remote controls, hi-speed Internet, 24/7 customer support, electric fireplaces, ATM machines, vending machines, on-demand cable and satellite TV, express lanes in the grocery store, speed pass devices to get in and out of gas stations faster, single-cup quick brew coffee makers, microwave dinners, steamable microwave bags of veggies, and so much more.

So the patience we once had to wait for things has quickly dissipated, and impatience has kicked in to full warp speed as we “want it now”.

Have you noticed that the more impatient we are the longer it seems that we wait to get what we want?

It’s like watching a pot and waiting for it to boil, once we walk away moments later the water is boiling, but when we’re standing in front of it waiting, it seems to take an extra 10-15 minutes for the signs of those first few bubbles.

We must be patient and while we are waiting for other things to take shape and manifest, we are to be focused and busy working on other things. While waiting for that check to come in so you can pay your bills, why not work on cleaning out unnecessary things in your attic, garage, or basement––maybe you can sell something this week or next, and earn some extra money. Why not work on a project you have put off? Or help someone else reach a goal.

While you’re busy focused on taking care of other things, that check is making it’s way to your home or bank account. Before you know it you have your money and you are paying your bills—even if it’s late by your standards or your creditors standards, it’s always on time based on God’s standards.

We can’t rush God. We can’t make Him do or not do something. We can’t put Him on our time table, because according to Him there is only one time table, one master calendar and schedule—His!

So let’s patiently wait on what’s to come; wait on our blessings; and know that it always comes on time.

Prayer

Father, work on me. Mold me. I thank You now for the person You are shaping me to be. Each day I praise You. Each day I praise Jesus for his exemplary walk in Your light. I feel the presence of the two of you each day and I am comforted in knowing that through struggles and strife, through victory and celebration, You and Your son are always here with me.

Father, I share Your Word in recitation and through helping others, as Your children (as documented by the Bible) helped those less fortunate, in harm, in need, or in distress.

No matter the time of year You expect for Your ambassadors to be prepared, be full, and focused on spreading Your Word, praying for those who are in need, healing through a declaration of Your power, and having faith that You will never leave, and never lead us astray.

With this, comes a requirement for patience and understanding. Each day I wait to be paid so that I can pay my bills, my patience is tested. Each day I wait for things to turn around in my life, my patience is tested. Each day I wonder about my health, my patience is tested. Each month I wonder if I will have enough to keep the roof over my head, my patience is tested.

Sitting and staring at the situation does not change it for the better. Burying my head under the covers and crying changes nothing. Ignoring it and expecting the situation to disappear is useless, and frantically running around aimlessly attempting to fix things, fixes absolutely nothing.

Father, You have never let me down. You have never left me alone. You have never forsaken me. With this understanding I shall wait, patiently, and in my wait, I will obediently do what You call on me to do, so that I don’t grow lazy or entitled.

Like prepping the food for the water in the pot waiting to boil, I will focus my attention where You desire, so that when You need me to refocus back on the “pot” I will be prepared for the next steps.

In Your name I pray. Through Jesus’ demonstration I will emulate. For Your glory, always. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Breaking Bread for 9.24.19

September 24, 2019Natasha 2 Comments

Scripture

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you….”

Luke 6:27

Reflection

An injured animal will lash out in pain. Humans do the same. When we are hurt, mad, sad, disappointed, fed up, frustrated, and in pain we lash out at others so they can feel our pain. Sometimes some people want others to feel worse than they do, so they go to the extremes to hurt others. The crazy thing is even after releasing all of that negative energy on someone else, we still don’t truly feel any better…sometimes we feel worse.

So instead of mistreating others because we don’t feel good about ourselves or what’s going on in our lives, why don’t we instead turn to God and seek His loving guidance, and then seek out positive, loving, uplifting, and enlightening people who speak peace not vengeance.

Instead of hating your enemy, love them. Love them for their ignorance and fear, because you know that it is because they have closed God out of their lives that they barely survive in darkness. Pray for them that they may be whole in God’s light. Let your cup runneth over.

Prayer

Father, thank You. Thank you for Your grace today and each day. Thank You for comforting me when I am down, weak, distraught, frustrated, tired, dismayed, confused, disappointed, and angered. Thank You for protecting me from people and things that could harm me. Thank You for turning away my enemies. Thank You for showing me how to protect myself rather than seek revenge.

Father I pray today for those who hate me, curse me, and mistreat me. Today I pray that You touch their hearts and minds Father, and that You hold their tongues so that they might think before they speak; think before they tell lies, cast doubt, or curse aloud. Let their held tongues cause them to recognize and repent their ways and wrongdoings that they might immediately change in Your goodness. I pray to You this day humble, grateful and faith-filled. Amen.

Loving you always,

Natasha

Breaking Bread for 9.23.19

September 23, 2019Natasha 2 Comments

Scripture

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Proverbs 31:30

Reflection

God wants us to treat our bodies like temples, remembering that they are on loan to us from Him. He does not want us overly fixated or obsessed with our looks and the look of others—for our looks may fade but what’s inside of us has the potential to get better with time. We have the tendency to be more concerned with what others think and say about us, and how they view us, rather than being concerned with living our life to the fullest as God intends—and being comforted in the reality that in His eyes we are perfect.

Do not waste your life attempting to get by with your good looks and witty charm, for that road will turn to a dead end—then what will you rely upon?

Do not be consumed with desire for a highly attractive mate and less concerned with their spirit, soul, and commitment to our Heavenly Father. A shiny apple on the outside could be rotten to the core on the inside. Until you take a bite you never know what you have, and then you’re stuck with it-– unless you buy enough time until you can toss it away for something “better”.

Why do that? What does that tell God about you?

So live well, eat healthy, exercise regularly, fuel your mind with great books-–beginning with the good Book, treat others with respect and dignity, take care of yourself, appreciate every experience life brings, and devote yourself to God.

Prayer

Father, You are my strength, comfort, and protector. I want to see myself as You see me. I want to focus on pleasing You and no one else. I want to live for You and no one else. My looks and intelligence are gifts from You. My wisdom I increase through knowledge and experience that You provide and I thank You. I love You Father and praise You for blessing me with my life. In Your name I pray. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Breaking Bread for 9.20.19

September 20, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

1 Peter 2:23

Reflection

No matter what someone does or says to you to make you feel bad or less than, know that you are God’s spiritual image and likeness and through His protection there is nothing that anyone can do or say that will turn God away from you. God said that He will handle your grievances. He will take care of those who attack and ridicule you. You just have to remain focused on doing your job as His ambassador and servant.

Ignore the gossip and rumors. Ignore the name calling. Ignore the underhanded things being done towards you. Keep your eyes, ears, mind, and heart focused on God, for He is and always will be the biggest picture in life. There is nothing in life that someone can do to you that God can’t resolve.

If you buy into the hype and believe that you are defeated, then you will be defeated-–for God expects your hope, faith, trust, and belief to be in Him and His ability to do anything and everything. Believe in Him. Filter that negative energy into the machine of positivity and fly high on God’s abundant supply of love.

The darkness within those people who spend their days attacking you will eventually silence them. Believe!

Prayer

Father, keep me strong. Keep me on Your path. Turn my eyes and ears away from those who would insult and bring pain to me Lord. Let me instead keep focused on You and Your son Jesus, and Your purpose and plan for me. I put my trust in You that You will always watch over and protect me. With that trust I do not have to participate in the negativity of others; I do not have to retaliate when attacked; nor do I have to defend accusations made against me-–for those are the actions of people walking in darkness—and I am centered in Your light. In You I put my faith. Thank You Father. Amen.

With that trust I do not have to participate in the negativity of others; I do not have to retaliate when attacked; nor do I have to defend accusations made against me-–for those are the actions of people walking in darkness—and I am centered in Your light. In You I put my faith. Thank You Father. Amen.

Lovingly,

Natasha

Updates and Improvements to Breaking Bread With Natasha

September 20, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Happy Friday Family!

I know that you’re busy so I will keep this as brief as possible, and to the point.

Over the next few weeks and months you will begin to see some changes to #BreakingBreadWithNatasha both here and on social media. Maybe you already noticed that you can access this blog an additional way:

BBWN.BLOG

Yes, now you can also get here quickly (or share with others) using this shortened url.

I’m also going to experiment with changing the title of my daily posts. You will still receive a scripture, reflection and prayer. It’s just time for change. My posts have had the same title since 2010.

If you have any suggestions, please share in the comments section below. You can also email them to me: breakingbreadwithnatasha@gmail.com

Uh oh yeah, I’m in the process of securing a new, shorter email as well. Sometimes less is more.

My Books

Here’s the latest with my books I’m writing:

I’m waiting for copyright approval for using verses from various Bible publishers.

If you didn’t know, most translations that are published, are not public domain and free to use however we see fit. There’s only a handful that are, like the King James Version. However, if you want to freely use NIV, AMP, NKJV, HCSB, and many others—you better check the copyright restrictions before you run amock. Since my books will be for sale, I’m not going to risk any legal and financial hiccups on my part. So I’m making sure to cover my bases as fully as possible.

I had wanted to start the promo this month, but until I gain all clearances, I don’t want to put the cart before the horse.

I want everyone to have the first book in their hands, to use January 1st. There’s optional bonus content that comes with it, and I’m excited to receive your feedback.

I’m on my next round of edits.
After this round it will be handed over to a group of pre-selected readers to provide feedback on flow, ease of use, formatting, and readability.
Since Book 2 picks up where this first book leaves off, I get the opportunity to make moves for the second book sooner, because now I know the process and what to expect.

I can even submit my copyright requests for Book 2 out sooner because I have a rough idea of how many Bible verses I’m using from each translation.

I still don’t have an official title for the book.

I’m using a working title, just for quick reference, but it’s a no-go title to place on the cover of a book. I will be turning to my designated readers for assistance, and then turning to all of you to vote on the titles.

So stay tuned for more updates and improvements!

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.19.19

September 19, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

If you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength!

Proverbs 24:10

Reflection

We all have dreams, goals, and aspirations in life. Do you believe that one day you will get what you need and desire most? Do you believe that God will always provide for you?

Then, when times get tough as they most likely will, why do we throw our hands up and declare defeat? What is faith, but believing strongly in the possibility of God doing the impossible….

Let’s believe!

Prayer

Father, thank You for another day. Thank You for protecting me through the night as I slept. Thank You for Your favor. Lord, today I ask that You continue to strengthen me. Cover me with Your peace and loving warmth. Steady my footing when times get rough. Keep my vision sharp and clear, that I might always see my goals and remain focused on reaching them. As my faith increases each day, let Your words of encouragement penetrate and destroy any encroaching fear. In Your name and Jesus’ name I humbly pray. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.18.19

September 18, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.

“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts…”

Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV

Reflection

Although our minds and hearts are connected to God, we will never truly know, understand, and feel what He does. We could however find more peace and tranquility in our lives if we stopped acting like two-legged donkeys with blinders on—stepping, kicking, and falling on our blessings.

We could stop, breathe, and think before we speak, so that we make sure that only our best thoughts are being conveyed.

We could think before keeping harmful secrets, reminding ourselves that we don’t like secrets kept from us. We could think of how devastated we would be if the person we love betrayed us, and maybe that would be motivation enough to not betray them. We could stop and think before negatively calling someone out of their name, thinking of how it would make us feel if someone did it to us.

We could think of what we could do with $1 and give it freely to the person asking for it, rather than contemplate how they will spend it. It is not our place to judge, it is God’s place. Leave that task to Him. Bless and be blessed.

There was a time when I gave a woman $5 although I had $2 or $3 I could have given her. I thought for less than 5 seconds whether to give her one of the smaller amounts, and then shook it off and handed her the $5 bill. She said, “God bless you” and I said the same to her.

As I drove away the enemy tried to make me think of how she was going to use that money and how much she had probably already collected. I told the enemy to shut up and get back. It did. Every time I bless someone and the enemy starts yapping negative speech, I tell it to be silent. It goes silent.

The enemy always has something negative to say when I’m trying to help someone else.

Over the past three weeks I blessed three people that I know with money, and literally the next day or two after blessing them, something happened where I had to pay for something important, and the enemy quickly said, “see if you hadn’t given that money to so-and-so…” and I find myself fighting back that temptation to listen to that voice. The enemy’s voice goes silent when I say, “God made it possible for me to bless others as He blesses me, so God will bless me with more to allow my cup to run over…” and then I say, “God will make a way….”

We have to align our minds and heart with God. When securely linked, there is no room for interference—the connection is too strong to be broken. It’s like having the best and strongest Internet connection possible. Communication would be seamless. The clarity would be crystal clear.

What if we really started walking like Jesus? How would our lives be? How would our world be?

Prayer

Father, I thank You for my blessings, and for those physical senses that allow me to take in Your land beyond comprehension and measurement—as You see fit. Thank You for my brain and mind, and for my heart. I know that when my mind and heart and perfectly aligned, my experiences are rewarding.

I know that I have failed to purge myself from sinful ways and free my mind so that I can be better connected to Yours. I know there are times when I can be more loving, giving, considerate, tolerable, patient–- and less cynical and flippant. I know better Father. I want to do better and be better. Help me Lord. In Your name and Your son Jesus’ name, I humbly pray. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.17.19

September 17, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

Do not be overrighteous,

neither be overwise—
why destroy yourself?

Ecclesiastes 7:16 NIV

Reflection

If we don’t see our true place in life, and understand that God is the beginning, center, and the end of our lives—then we are doing all of this for nothing.

Prayer

Father, I pray for humility and grace. I pray for the presence of mind to always place You first, think of You first, seek You first, and defer to You. I know this is not about me and always about You.

Free me from my pride, clutter, and from those things and thoughts that would have me to think that I’m better or smarter than someone. Help me to get out of my way and to stop trying to tell You what, how, and when to do something. Help me to fully be what You made me to be, and show me how to possess, reflect, share, and pay forward all that is within me and produced by You.

You are love, joy, kindness, balance, happiness, grace, forgiveness, honesty, patience, inclusive, tolerant, accepting, and understanding. You are me. That means I am You. Since I am You, I pray to reflect and demonstrate that which You are, which means rebuking, refraining from, and walking away from all that You are not—and doing so in grace and peace, not judgment or wrath.

Judgment is not my job or responsibility. I don’t like to be on the receiving end so I should be mindful of the other end, and how it displeases You. Father, You are the only Judge. I apologize for constantly crossing that line.

Help me Father. I pray for order and peace, to thrive not merely survive, and to see and treat Your children as You do. In Your name and Jesus’ name I humbly and faithfully pray. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.16.19

September 16, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

Do not say, “I’ll do to them as they have done to me; I’ll pay them back for what they did.”

Proverbs 24:29

Reflection

Any person trying their best to tear you down, make you beg, cry, give in and give up, feel desperate and hopeless, and feel as they do-–will only fail if you instead turn over your cares, worries, fears, and anger to God.

There is nothing He doesn’t see, hear, understand, or comprehend. He is all-knowing. He is the problem-solver. You just have to trust and believe that no matter how hard it gets, how rough it becomes, how brutal the psychological, verbal, physical, and financial beatings are-– God has your back and His plan has been in full force long before you became aware you had a problem.

You just have to release everything to Him and have faith that those individuals who have and are causing harm to you and loved ones—will be placed in a position to make a decision about how their lives will proceed either through repentance or in total darkness.

We all have choices, and even they had a choice not to take on the role of judge, jury, and executioner; and they will have a choice to give up and turn away from evil, or not. But you will play no role in that, because you will lovingly leave those matters to our Heavenly Father. So free yourself and vow to not cross into and be consumed by that negativity that breeds and grows inside of them.

Prayer

Father, thank You for righting the wrongs, for making bad things turn out good, for re-directing the wicked, and making sure that I have always been taken care of even in the valley of the shadow of death. Father, You have made crooked straight so many times that I know there is nothing You can’t do. Because of that and who You are, I never have to seek revenge for what someone has done or said against me or a loved one. I know that in Your time which is always the right time, You will make things right in my favor. I thank You Father. Amen.

Lovingly your sister in Christ,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.13.19

September 13, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

Grace be with you all.

Hebrews 13:25

Reflection

We all have the ability to handle situations in life gracefully. This is not merely a characteristic assigned to women, but to all people, and it is obvious that even women need to work diligently and with great focus on living, being, and reflecting God’s grace.

We need to stop seeking revenge, plotting to “get even”, and focusing all or most of our energy on negativity and drama.

There are so many shows, movies, songs, and books about the evil plots of man and woman. Our culture has bought into an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, but have forgotten that it will leave all of us blind and in need of full dentures. I have lived my life believing that the best so-called “revenge” is living well.

I don’t have to pursue someone in an attempt at paying them back for wronging me, because I am too busy and focused on living my life, celebrating my blessings, being thankful to rise each day and have new experiences to value and treasure. I am too focused on what God has planned for my life and what new adventure awaits, than to be caught up in what someone has or hasn’t done to me or a loved one.

I let go— and let God handle those battles, and guess what? He always has and always will win those battles.

There has not been one person who has wronged me or a loved one, who hasn’t somehow reaped what they sowed, or later recognized and repented for what they had done—and regretted taking that negative walk; and it didn’t have to come from any effort on my part or the part of one of my loved ones.

It was the prayer of freedom from the drama and negativity that kept us out of the battle, and allowed God to take charge fully without interference.

Every ex-boyfriend, business partner, colleague, friend, associate, and anyone else who spent their time hurting me on some level, eventually had a “shoulda, woulda, coulda” moment. I had already forgiven them, but had also moved on and forward in my life. It was now for them to forgive themselves for their sins.

I never had to badmouth, spread rumors, “attack”, gain allegiance from others, or attempt to destroy anyone’s reputation or character, and I never would–-because that is not what I’m made of—-that darkness does not hang out festering inside of me.

I try to walk each day, proudly as God’s child, in a light that knows who I am and to whom I belong. I walk cloaked and filled with grace, letting go of childish ways—on my best days, and walking upright and with dignity as a woman and child of God. The pettiness and drama I used to involve myself with in my teens and twenties, I evolved and grew away from into my thirties.

As I approached my forties I smiled gladly at the deeper level of growth that would come as I faced more challenges, opportunities, experiences, and realities. My forties has been filled with lessons and I’m learning to appreciate each and every one of them, because they are helping me to stretch, grow, strengthen, and become wiser and more resilient.

When in pain turn to God, turn to love, turn to His light, and seek forgiveness and healing; and get the help you need from studying, learning, knowing, and living through His Word. Allow His messengers and angels to point you in the right direction. Remember it is not what people did or didn’t do to you that God will concern Himself with, but rather how you reacted, responded, and handled the situation. God deals with each person individually. Let Him deal with those people without your interference, and you just stick with doing right and demonstrating His goodness and mercy in your life.

I pray that each of you take some time out to pray, reflect, seek out God and come to a place in your mind, heart, and life to forgive yourself for taking part in your drama and for seeking revenge for being harmed, and then forgive those you believed wronged you.

True freedom is letting go. True healing comes from freedom. Darkness and light cannot be one, for light always pushes out the darkness. God gave us night and day (not just one or the other) for a reason. Embrace your light. I love you all.

Prayer

Father, the dictionary defines grace in a multitude of ways, but the one I pray to address today is defined as the “disposition to or an act or instance of kindness, courtesy, or clemency”.

Father I pray for grace in all circumstances in my life. Grace under attack, pressure, pain, frustration, embarrassment and loss. I pray to be kind, courteous, and offer clemency to those who wrong me now and in the future, and for those who have done so in the past.

I forgive them for their ignorance, for the darkness that fills their hearts and minds, and the dis-ease that eats away at them. I pray that Your loving light touches them, fills them, overwhelms them, and flows through them–-that their cup runneth over with goodness, mercy, love, patience, and the kindness, courtesy, and clemency of Your grace.

Father there are people who are in so much pain that they spend their waking moments plotting and planning how to make other people hurt the same way that they do; they spend their sleeping moments living out their pain— waking with vengeful venom spewing out of their mouths.

Father touch them with peace. Let them see the err of their ways. Let them see the path to forgiveness of others and themselves, so that they may continue forward in healing. Prepare them to be more like Your son Jesus, and in Your name and his I pray humbly today. Amen.

Lovingly your sister in Christ,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.12.19

September 12, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

To him belong strength and insight; both deceived and deceiver are his.

Job 12:16

Reflection

God is working on you and those who would (and are) deceiving you. So pray for the strength to walk away and not give in to their lure of darkness. Instead seek Him for comfort and guidance. God will never mislead you or forsake you.

Prayer

Father, I pray for strength, protection, vision, and discernment. Help me to overcome obstacles and to push through my mental block of fear so that I might stand in victory. Guide me away from those who would mislead and deceive me Father. Take my hand and lead me away from those who would cause me harm. I know that You are working on them so that they may see and do right. Show me best how to handle my situation Lord, so that I may act in honor of You. In Your name, the great I Am, all-in-all, I humbly pray and give You all of the glory. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.11.19

September 11, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Hello Breaking Bread Family!

Let me start by wishing my maternal grandfather, Elisberry, a very happy birthday. He transitioned from this life in 1995 but there’s not a day that goes by when his presence and love is not felt and cherished. I love and miss you Poppa!

Today is also the 18th anniversary of the gruesome attack on the United States, by forces not fully known to the public. My prayers go out to everyone directly and indirectly impacted by this painful experience. May wrongs be righted and in that may justice bring closure to those whose loved ones passed away on that day or days after. I send loving prayers to them and to all of you.

Below is today’s Breaking Bread message. If you like it, if it speaks to you, please comment below and feel free to share with others. Thanking you in advance!

~Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.11.19

Scripture

I look but there is no one—

no one among the gods to give counsel, no one to give answer when I ask them. See, they are all false!

Their deeds amount to nothing;
their images are but wind and confusion.

Isaiah 41:28-29 NIV

Reflection

God has proven Himself. Each day He allows us to rise from our sleep. Each day He makes it possible for our minds to process information. Because of Him we exist.

We are not a creation of self manipulation, or the environment. We are not a product of some cosmic explosion, or an evolution from a lower being. Why is it hard to believe that God created us and His other animals and creatures to share a common thread found first in Him?

Some scientists say we evolved from the sea as microorganisms, then into fish, and eventually we made our way on land to become humans. Some say we evolved from chimpanzees. All of these theories are researched extensively, all because there are similarities between humans and fish, and humans and chimps. That’s crazy!

Then why not say we evolved from dogs? I’ve met more dogs that have mental, emotional, and other characteristics that remind me of humans, even with limited contact with humans.

Many scientists would be out of a job if they admittedly said, “God made us human and as no other being or creature. And He purposely gave each of His creations similar characteristics so that we would all relate on some level with each other.”

Instead Science spends millions and billions of dollars to try and disprove there is a God, that He is all-powerful, that there is a reason for everything He has done and will do, and that we will never know the how and why because He does not intend for us to know. If we knew fully, would our obsession not into an even greater God complex?

If only all scientists spent their time really trying to find ways to help the least of God’s children. If they stopped trying to be God (in the most toxic ways), and instead focused on serving Him. Where would our world be? Can you imagine the possibilities?

Prayer

I believe in and pray to only one God, and that is You Father. The idols, images, and stories of others, are merely false testimony of unreal forces. Because I know that You are the Power, the Truth, and the Source. I am not moveable in my beliefs and conviction. You are God. You are but One. You are my God. I am Your creation. You made no mistakes. I love You Father. Thank You for loving me always. You are the great I Am, and to You I give all of the glory. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.10.19

September 10, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.

Lamentations 3:21-26

Reflection

In our desperate need for instant gratification we oftentimes forget that we control nothing in this world. For whatever we do to cause something to happen, God already knew the decision we were going to make beforehand, and therefore already put things into play long ago.

So sometimes when we desire something so much that we go after it without waiting patiently for God, we get more than what we bargained for—but don’t blame Him for it, it was your decision to rush things on your time and pace, and not allow things to unfold as He wanted. So now we must live with those consequences, learn from them and grow.

It doesn’t matter if it’s the desire for a relationship, home, job, child, car, wardrobe, shoes, money, or whatever-–if we snatch the wheel from God and take shortcuts to get what we want without waiting for Him, we are in no place to complain and cry to Him about your messed up love life, home life, work life, or when more money brings you more problems.

Now you want God to step in and fix things, but why? You didn’t wait on Him to show you the house or car you could afford, or see the opportunities that would make sure you could pay your bills on time each month. You didn’t wait on Him to reveal to you the type of person you were dealing with so you wouldn’t be blindsided later.

You were too impatient to wait for the right person so now you’re miserable with the wrong person. You didn’t wait on Him to reveal the right job for you or to show you how to handle the high demands of the job you desired. You didn’t wait on Him to show you how to manage the clothes, shoes, and money you felt you desperately needed…but now you have time for Him!

Isn’t it amazing how we work and the conditional relationship we have formed with God?

We must learn to patiently wait on Him to show us the way, to make things happen, and to provide what we need versus what we want (sometimes the two aren’t the same). So pray for patience, clarity, vision, hope, faith, peace, presence, and to be present. Then wait.

Prayer

Father, thank You for blessing me yet another day. Thank You for Your constant love and affection, and for bringing me joy after pain. You know that I pray for things that I deeply desire, but I know that it is only on Your time when You feel it is time that I will receive these blessings—or not. I wait for You Lord. I know that You will always provide what’s best for me and I thank You. In Your son Jesus’ name I pray, as a follower and believer in Christ. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.9.19

September 9, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

Never mind about your belongings, because the best of all Egypt will be yours.’”

Genesis 45:20

Reflection

Some of us are hoarders of the past; hoarders of junk, clothes, furniture, trinkets, trophies, and do-dads that are of no real use to us, especially not in the future. They are merely taking up space. We can’t receive the blessings God has in store for us because our hands and rooms are filled to capacity with ‘stuff’.

Some of us are hoarders of past and present failures, hurt, and pain. The more that we hold onto the less hope and faith that we can embrace. We are consumed by what happened to us. This prevents us from learning the lessons from each experience, and moving forward.

Some of us are hoarders of past successes that keep us in the nostalgic state of what once-was, but prevents us from living fully in the present. Our past successes block us from creating new ones, as we are always comparing what is to what was. Maybe you’re hung up on your teenage years, your twenties, the before-I-became-a-parent era, a previous career, or some other time long ago that you think was the best time of your life. Whenever you get a chance to relive your heyday years, you do. For you, the small period of time is the highlight of your life so you hoard every memory and keepsake so that you always have it near to rehash and fantasize about the good ole days.

Some of us hold on to past relationships or to relationships that have long expired, but we desperately want to keep them around. We don’t see that all things have a life cycle, and that by holding on to someone you prevent them from having experiences, learning lessons, and receiving blessings—and you do the same in your life. You’re selfishly trying to keep them to yourself, which imprisons you both, and creates an even bigger void that can’t be filled.

In all of the scenarios that I’ve provided here, we are so consumed by what coulda, shoulda, and woulda been that our vision is blurred and our mental space is congested.

The only way to receive our blessings is to make space for them by de-cluttering our lives, getting rid of the excess, walking away from the baggage, and cleaning our mental and physical houses so that nothing is blocking the way.

Let go! Your best and brightest days are still ahead of you.

Prayer

Father, I want to let go of the excess, let go of the past, and move forward in my present so that I can have a rewarding future. I want to move forward on the path that You have placed before me, so I understand that I must be willing to leave behind or let go of belongings and experiences that I have acquired over the years, because You have planned to provide only the best in abundance for me elsewhere. I am ready Lord to let go; to sell, donate, and give away that which I don’t need, to lovingly end what needs to be ended, to walk away that which doesn’t bring You glory, and to leave behind what belongs in the past, so that I am free to receive the new blessings that are in store for me. In Your name, the great I Am, I pray. Amen.

Love always,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.6.19

September 6, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

Stop trusting in mere humans, who have but a breath in their nostrils. Why hold them in esteem?

Isaiah 2:22

Reflection

We put our trust and faith in things that we can see, touch, smell, hear, and taste; yet we are easily disappointed by these things because they are not dependable and reliable, and they can and do fail. We need to put our trust in God, who blesses us each day.

Our impatience and need for instant gratification cripples us, and in weakness we would rather rely on man with all of his flaws, faults, incompetencies, and hang ups, than to rely on God who is perfect in every way. We are truly works in progress. Clay that has to keep being molded during a long, drawn out process.

I hope to be where I need to be spiritually, early enough in my life where I can truly value it and the process it took to get there. Why have a spiritual awakening a few breaths before your last, at the age of 100 (or older) when out of commitment, trust, and faith you could experience it at or before the age of 40 or 60, and live out the last 40-60+ years in absolute bliss?

Or do some of us straddle the fence because we think that once we get to that point, our human lives will end—because we demonstrated the lesson, and then we are no longer expected to continue on this path, and are then taken over to a spiritual level of existence?

Is it fear of human death that causes us to not commit and surrender fully to God?

Is it the examples in the Bible of all those ambassadors who committed fully to God’s mission— losing their lives soon after the mission was accomplished—that scares us from giving ourselves completely over to Him?

If not those things, then what? Something to think about.

Prayer

Father, I am speaking into my reality now— that I put my trust in You to always provide for me when I need it, and that You will place the right people and right situations before me to help me fulfill my purpose in life. I don’t need an intermediary in man to reach You, for You are always with me listening, watching, waiting, and protecting. I thank You for blessing me with Your presence and dependable action. In Jesus’ name I pray to You, giving You all of the glory. Amen.

Lovingly,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.5.19

September 5, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

“‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules.’”

Matthew 15:8

Reflection

I don’t merely want to say “I want to be more like Jesus” I want to commit to living my life more like Jesus; being loving and respectful to all, regardless of how they treat me; praying for people even when they refuse to pray for themselves or me; and thinking first of our heavenly Father before speaking or acting upon my thoughts. I believe that if we think of God before we act upon our fears we can learn to overcome them.

I want to commit to my personal relationship, not just merely have an intent towards commitment and faithfulness. Commitment is defined as an agreement or pledge to do something; it is the state or instance of being obligated or emotionally compelled. So I do not want to have a casualness of intent, but no passion and drive of commitment that binds me to another person, thing, or idea long-term. Casual flings are the non committals in life; they are of the world and something that I used to commit to without question, although I knew I always wanted more.

We cannot thrive in life living just by intent and no true commitment. We cannot thrive in life without the priorities of God first, family second, and career third. This is not Burger King, we can’t have it our way—so we can’t substitute something for first, second, or third place and believe that life will bring endless spiritual and financial wealth.

Even if life seems to be going great with your career in first place, God in second place, and your family in third place (or some other incorrect configuration), understand that the reality is you are running on fumes like a race car that isn’t being properly serviced—eventually you will crash and someone else will win the trophy, cash, and other incentives.

I want to be in the winner’s spot, and the only way I will be is by living my life with purpose on purpose, with God laying down the track for my car to have a path, and Jesus riding as the co-pilot. Think about it, then do something to make things right. I am!

Enjoy your day and after thanking God and Jesus for all that they have done in and for your life, thank those people around you who have helped support and encourage you along the way. Not the groupies, but your true supporters— the ones who have given to and invested in you to help you reach your goals.

Prayer

Father, I don’t want to be a hypocrite. I don’t want to speak from my lips something I am not committed to in my heart and mind. I want to be fully committed to You and Jesus, walking in Your light and following Jesus’s teachings not the world’s.

Father, I want my heart so committed that my first thoughts are to please and obey You, and then my actions follow through accordingly. I want to live out my purpose. I want to do and be all the things You have created me to be. I want to live my life peacefully in Your love, following Jesus to You, and not the world.

Strengthen me Lord. Comfort me Father. Heal my inflictions that cause me to waver in times of stress and conflict.

I pray to You this day with the commitment to doing better and living better by Your light and Jesus’ example, and not by the example of wayward people. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.4.19

September 4, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

The arrogance of man will be brought low and human pride humbled; the Lord alone will be exalted in that day, and the idols will totally disappear.

Isaiah 2:17-18

Reflection

We can’t do a thing without God. He must make a way for every thought, decision or indecision we make. If that’s not humbling I don’t know what more to say….Think about it.

Prayer

Father, today as You continue to mold me please know that I am working on overcoming my fears, and that I want to be freed from the bondage of pride and any arrogance, no matter how minor they appear to me– for they are incredibly large to You.

I want a clean heart Lord. I want to walk with my head up high humble in righteousness and not in arrogance and vanity. I know that the more crooked I walk the more times I will fall, and the harder each fall will be, which will also make it harder to rise to my feet. Help me Father. I humbly pray to You this day. Amen.

Lovingly your sister in Christ,

Natasha

Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.3.19

September 3, 2019Natasha Leave a comment

Scripture

When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow.

Ecclesiastes 5:4

Reflection

We cannot move slowly on our vows and promises to God, yet have expectations of His blessings arriving on time—our time. Move on His time. Be intentional. Don’t procrastinate. Do you think He gets distracted or selfishly delays doing something for you? So why do we do it to Him?

Prayer

Father, I pray to rid myself of the affliction called procrastination. Putting off for tomorrow what I can do today is ignorant, foolish and costly. I also pray for the right thinking to keep my vows to You and not procrastinate on fulfilling them. I don’t want to disappoint You Father.

Procrastination is connected with laziness and I know You don’t like the former and detest the latter. So I will make every effort to focus on fulfilling my vows to You with a sense of urgency, as I would hope and pray that You would in blessing me. I thank You now Lord. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

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Natasha’s Daily Scripture, Prayer, and Reflection for 9.11.19

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