April 2022 – Breaking Bread With Natasha

Breaking Bread For 4.29.22

If you’re self-righteous and holier than thou, yet always judging and dictating to others, prepare yourself for today’s message. Because we’re about to dive into Colossians 3:13 and examine what God wants from us compared to how we’re truly living. We’re about to put a mirror up and look closely at ourselves.

Audio Option

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Scripture

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Colossians 3:13

Reflection

If you call yourself a Christian, if you are a student and practitioner of Christ, and if you hope to receive God’s blessings and forgiveness then you need to remember that life is never about you—it’s about our Heavenly Father and our realignment with Him. We’re off course, not the other way around.

Do you think His son Jesus spent his days and nights complaining and stewing over what someone did or didn’t do to and for him? Do you think he went around telling everyone what someone said about him? Was he out there gossiping and spreading rumors about people?

Did he go off on those disciples that rejected him? Did he roll up on folks he disagreed with and destroy their homes and property? Did he curse and attack those around him? No, that’s the nonsense that we would do and brag about it later. Jesus did the exact opposite. He prayed for them and accepted the fact that his experience in life had nothing to do with them or him, but everything to do with our Father.

We have become a society of victims and this has to be displeasing to God since our focus is on our weakness within our flesh and not on our strength in Him. We are supposed to be tunnels, bridge builders, ambassadors and students in Christ; we’re supposed to be spiritual soldiers in God’s army—His army not ours—His Kingdom not ours! We need to stop being concerned with our egos and comparing ourselves to the past and to other people, and start being more concerned with God and how we can be aligned with Him. We need to be reflecting His love outwardly and embracing it from others, instead of wasting time thinking that we have the power and authority to dictate who is worthy of love and how it should be received.

If you find yourself seemingly repeating steps in your life, and having the same experiences it’s because you have not learned the lesson God is trying to teach you. You are closed off to Him and until you release, let go, and live the life He has intended for you then you will stay on the merry-go-round of life.

Stop complaining and whining about what someone did to you. Do you believe that God is your vindicator? Do you believe that He always balances things in the right? Then why are you harboring resentment, carrying around the baggage of junk that God said He’s handled? Do you believe Him or your eyes? Do you believe Him or that voice inside that keeps consuming your time with drama and negativity?

You testify to His glory but then live as though He keeps letting you down. Which is it? We say He has us but we live as though we can’t trust Him to keep His promise. Is He untrustworthy or are we not trusting? And if we don’t trust then we need to look within our hearts. There we will see that it is us who are untrustworthy. We can’t be trusted to be faithful, committed, patient, obedient, and disciplined. We don’t realize how much we project onto others our deficiencies and insecurities. We don’t realize how we project outward and upward to God, as self-entitled, expecting the most for very little. We won’t commit the mustard seed to the ground but we want the acres to Divinely manifest.

Do you truly know Him or are you still living like a bystander who can’t yet comprehend what you witnessed?

We have choices in this life and we can waste away, withering into a bag of sullen bones, consumed by all of the things that didn’t go our way, all of the pain we won’t resolve by letting go. Or we can choose to instead live our life without blame, shame, and contempt in our heart, as Christ led and instructed. We want forgiveness yet we can’t forgive ourselves and others. We want mercy and grace but then feel self-important enough to dictate who’s allowed mercy and grace. We struggle to forgive others because we struggle to forgive ourselves. They’re not worthy because we don’t see ourselves as worthy. How can we have the audacity to ask God to forgive us if we can’t forgive ourselves and others? We want from Him what we aren’t willing to do. So we carry the junk around, rehashing it, stewing in it, letting it dictate our every move, and giving it power to determine how we live and for how long.

We refuse to let go of the harm someone else caused us. They occupy a space in our minds for free because, honestly, misery loves company— that’s why the enemy keeps you occupied with so many evil spirits, what would they do if they couldn’t feed off of your fear, anger, and pain?

It’s taken me 10 years to finally embrace this understanding of forgiveness and why my letting go and not needing anything in return is what freedom and well-being rests upon.

Don’t let the self-appointed title of Christian cause you to be ignorant enough to believe that you have the right to dictate to others about their own lives. You only have the right to choose how to speak and behave, who to associate with or not, and how and where to invest your time. You need to be more focused on your relationship with God and stop trying to be the hall monitor for everyone else.

Life is about your journey, not controlling other people’s experiences.

Knowing the teachings of Jesus and the testimonies of those he helped, ministered, and redirected—be honest with yourself, are you a Sadducee, Pharisee, Disciple, Apostle, or one of the people in the crowd just waiting to see what’s what, so you can jump on a bandwagon later?

The person who is blameless and free from sin please cast the first stone!

Prayer

Father, as I ask You to forgive me for all of my wrongdoings I stop and pray for the freedom and internal peace to forgive myself for choosing me over You. I pray to forgive other people who have hurt and wronged me, whether knowingly or unknowingly. If in case I have not truly forgiven all who have hurt me, please warm my heart so that I can freely forgive them now. I know that I can’t ask and expect Your forgiveness if I can’t forgive others. You are not the author of chaos and confusion. You are not a hypocrite and I shouldn’t live my life as one.
My grudges, my animosity, my anger, my aggressiveness, my bitterness, and my self-victimization only block my blessings from You. Forgive me Father for not letting go of my issues with others. Forgive me for dwelling on the past. Forgive me Father for not reflecting You fully and expressing Your love regardless of how others treat me. Help me to see myself and love myself as You love me. Help me to see and accept others as You do. In Your Name I pray. Amen.

Lovingly,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.28.22

If you’re truly and fully rooted in God then why do you fear what is around you? Let’s talk about it as we look at God through the lens of Isaiah 25:4.

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Scripture

“You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like a storm driving against a wall”

Isaiah 25:4

Reflection

What is your foundation built on? What foundation are your roots growing in? Is God your foundation or is it money, power, your looks, your reputation, your pride, or your ego? Is God your soil, or is your soil social media?

If your life, like your home, is built on unstable ground then the moment a major storm rolls through it will suffer significant damage and make it difficult to repair. But if your foundation is solid and you work to build up the infrastructure with a dedication to excellence, purpose, humility and care, then you will notice that even if things get shaken it continues to stand firm. What are you leaning on during a storm? When you’re alone and afraid who or what can you truly count on for comfort, and to provide you with a solution to your problems?

I faced a storm in 2011 that rattled me. A tornado was heading my way and as I watched the trees and bushes outside shake violently, and the interior lights would flicker when there was a lightning strike, I grew anxious and began to pray. When a lightning strike caused the house alarm and smoke detectors to go off for a few seconds I felt my heart race. I was alone and couldn’t leave the house. Fear began to set in and I soon was scared about the “what if’s”. I prayed harder. Never once during the storm was God not present with me. I simply wasn’t truly present within myself.

“Peace be still” is not just for the stormy weather outside but also for the troubled feelings that stir up inside of us. Pray that you learn to quiet the storm of fear inside of you that slowly paralyzes you; remind yourself that the spirit of fear is just trying to take your mind off of God. Say this prayer for you and for other people, those you know and those you don’t know.

Prayer

Father, I thank You for waking me up today. I thank You for the breaths that I take and the mobility that I need. I thank You for the senses that I possess and I know that some may seem to work better than others—but all are perfect in Your sight. I pray for myself and other people who weather through actual and metaphorical storms. Even when things seem out of our control, they are always in Your control. Today is a new day with new experiences and lessons, and new issues to see opportunities, and just like yesterday I will make it through—believing in and relying upon You. Thank You Father.

I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others. Make today an amazing day!

Love always,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.27.22

Let’s get real with 1 Corinthians 7:17, as too many of us are falling into the comparison trap, impatient, and feeling entitled. We need to release that mess before we become consumed by it!

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Scripture

However, each one must live his life in the situation the Lord assigned when God called him. This is what I command in all the churches.

1 Corinthians 7:17

Reflection

If you don’t know what you have been called to do then you need to seek out the ways and opportunities that God has set for you to serve. Ask God for clarity and discernment. Seek His direction and counsel throughout your life’s journey, each moment of the day. If you do know what your calling is, then you need to use your talents and skills fully, and be sure to give thanks each day for what God has given you. Give Him credit for all that you are and all that you have.

Grow where you are planted versus constantly trying to uproot yourself to find better. Grow as you were designed versus trying to be something and someone you aren’t. Stop comparing yourself to others and thinking God made a mistake or that you made a mistake and are being punished. Stop carrying around and splashing on other people the toxins of shame and guilt, as neither are from God, so they shouldn’t be a part of you. Release that mess before it consumes you!

Do whatever it is that God has called you to do, and do it with passion, gratitude, and dedication.

Prayer

Father, You have called me to serve and to properly use the talents that You have blessed me with. I want an intimate relationship with You built on love, truth, trust, and reciprocity. I don’t want to disappoint You and I don’t want to disappoint myself, so each day I will work to use my talents fully, express my gratefulness, and reflect Your Love and Light—no matter my circumstances. Thank You Father for the opportunity to serve and be of service to You. Glorifying You is what I seek to do with every breath that I take. I love You. Thank You for loving me. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.26.22

Let’s talk about something oftentimes overlooked or quickly turned into an argument, and that is Ephesians 6:18-20.

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Scripture

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.

Ephesians 6:18-20

Reflection

A lot of people overlook an important part of the first sentence in this letter to the Ephesians. The writer (who we have traditionally credited as the apostle Paul) tells the people to “pray in the Spirit” on all occasions “with all kinds of prayers and requests”. For so many of us, the phrase “praying in the Spirit” is lost on us. We may not even pause long enough to attempt to interpret the meaning, and instead gloss right over it.

Some define this act as praying with Divine help from and under the influence of the Spirit of God, “with the heart, soul, and spirit engaged in it” [according to John Gills Commentary]. While some would argue or profess that praying in the Spirit means “speaking in tongues” or speaking in your spiritual language—for those of you who get freaked out when you hear the previous phrase. Counter-arguments would point out that not everyone is tuned in and adept at speaking in their spiritual language, so this couldn’t be the case that Paul was telling folks to do something daily that he knew wasn’t possible for everyone. But we can break down Paul’s letters a number of ways. I speak about both interpretations in my books, SEEK HIM, Volume 2 and SEEK HIM, Volume 3, so I won’t inundate you here in this post. You can simply visit DOMELifepublishing.com and see where you can purchase and read them.

I’m not going to argue for one point or the other. I’m here to share the words of the faithful who obediently wrote words as guided or inspired by God. We can dig, contemplate, and argue until we’re blue in the face. The only Source with answers to our questions is God. Sit down with Him and ask away. Be open and receptive, to hear Him, and not you and your biased ego. Maybe that full embrace is prayer in the Spirit. Maybe it’s not an either-or for some people. Maybe it’s a both.

Honestly, I think and believe that God has gifted each of us with the ability to speak in the Spirit, but most of us fall into one or more categories:

too afraid to try,
don’t know how to let go and let it happen,
don’t believe in it,
think it’s Satanic or some mumbo jumbo,
don’t think you have the gift,
don’t put much thought into it.

This is the case for the majority of things that the Bible has revealed as our Truth. Jesus spoke about abilities that the majority of “religious” folk just don’t embrace fully or at all. Many think it’s reserved for a select few or only after Jesus’ return. So there’s a lot of untapped gifts collecting dust for decades because we simply don’t believe God and Jesus. But let’s reserve that analysis for another day.

For those of you who have embraced your gift to speak in your spiritual language, to tap into the Spirit that rests within you, and to naturally flow in that conversation style, then by all means do so. And I know, I know, some folks fake it and just regurgitate the sounds they hear other church folks yodel out. Look, that’s between them and God. That’s between you and God if you’re the one doing this. People don’t realize how much they’re truly missing out on when they reduce themselves to acting and performing just to fit in. God can penetrate all masks and barriers. Don’t worry about His abilities. Just focus on showing up and supporting His mission and vision through your daily walk!

I will say this—no matter what you believe about praying in the Spirit, the next line in the letter speaks about praying for “all of the Lord’s people” and I know folks can argue that until the moon capsizes, but let’s just settle on this— pray for others as frequently and intensely as you would want someone to pray for you. Have the thoughts, speak the words, and live the life that best express God’s goodness.

And let’s end today’s message embracing the mindset of the writer of this letter. He asked that the Ephesians pray for his faithfulness and fearlessness. So I come to you today to encourage you to fearlessly carry yourself as an ambassador for the Lord. Fearlessly speak to Truth and speak to uncover the Truth, as many people ignorantly believe that they will be prosperous and victorious in lies. The enemy places high wagers on lies. Daily we must cast a light on the darkness, even if we have to do so creatively. Don’t fuel the lies. Don’t compromise yourself for the lies. Stand in the Truth!

Prayer

Father, I pray that I remember to always pray for others and I hope that they pray for me; that we may uplift each other in Your Name. I want to always be alert and fully aware of my surroundings, the people near me and their intentions. I want a heart that is aligned to Your purpose and that, daily, I stride on the path that You set before me.
I pray that Your Light blinds the darkness that foolishly plots against Your plans for me. I want to grow in such a way that whenever I speak I reflect Your love and grace. I want others to see You when they see me, to hear You when they hear me. Less of me and more of You. I love You, Father, and I declare my devotion to You this day and always. Amen.

I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others!

Natasha

Reference: John Gills Commentary. https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/ephesians-6-18.html

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.25.22

Oh let’s talk about Proverbs 13:3-6 and what happens when we don’t guard our mouth, when we slack off, make it a habit to tell lies, and live without integrity.

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Scripture

The one who guards his mouth protects his life; the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin.

The slacker craves, yet has nothing, but the diligent is fully satisfied.

The righteous hate lying, but the wicked act disgustingly and disgracefully.

Righteousness guards people of integrity, but wickedness undermines the sinner.

Proverbs 13:3-6

Reflection

Many of us are mindful to watch what we say around the elderly and small children, which means we can daily watch what we say. If we could visually see Jesus before us while we spoke and did certain things, what would we do and say differently? Why does his physical presence need to be the determining factor in our realignment? You do know that God and Jesus can see and hear us every second of every day, don’t you? Obsessing over whether they are here in the flesh is the very thing that limits and restricts you from being all that you were designed to be, and having all that God has waiting for you. Stop waiting for Jesus to return to get your mouth, mind, and life right. Let’s make those changes starting today, and live by this principle forever.

When someone spends time with you they should feel and see God’s Light in you; they shouldn’t leave you feeling drained and depleted, but rather they should feel a sense of calm, or even re-energized and joyful. It’s not you, it’s God. But when you make it about you that energy is draining, for you and others. Have you noticed how, when you leave people, you can sense their energy shift? You can tell by how quickly they’re trying to either wrap up your conversation or continue it. You know when you have made a positive deposit into them. You also know if you have emotionally poo-poo’d on someone.

Are your dumping your mess onto others? Do you spend your days whining and complaining, seeking attention from others? Are you slacking and not pulling your share of the weight in a work or personal relationship? Do you make it a habit of lying and deceiving people, and try to justify it? Do you live your life with integrity or are you known to be a backstabber, crooked, and untrustworthy?

Look inward and pray— and then turn your junk over to God, don’t stew in it, you have already been doing that, hence why you have been dumping and splashing it on others. Trust me, God doesn’t want you walking around shaming and comparing yourself to others. He does want you to reflect Him, so when you don’t, rather than verbally and mentally beating yourself up, just turn to Him for realignment. Fill up on His peace and joy so that you can pour them into the places you go and the people you spend time with.

One last thing that I want to reflect on— sometimes our desire to help others, to save and rescue others, can be counter-productive, and that’s because we are not equipped or don’t have the autonomy to tackle those issues; and sometimes God hasn’t asked us to do anything other than seek, speak, embrace, and reflect His loving Light. If you always seek His counsel then you won’t find yourself confused or caught up in drama. Remember that!

Prayer

Father, before I open my mouth I ask that You remind me to seek You first and listen to You first; and to speak and act as I would if I could see Jesus sitting before me. Let me only speak words of encouragement, hope, love, and truth.
I’m releasing the energy of slacking, whining, complaining, and mediocrity, leaving them behind me. I am not a victim so I will not speak and act like one. I am choosing to work passionately on all things and in all relationships that I have committed myself to, and I’m stopping the excuses and rationalizations as to why I have not given my all. I will walk in integrity not shame.
I turn every issue and concern over to You, focusing only on what You command of me, and letting go of fear and doubt which make me feel like I need to try and control things and do Your job. I keep trying to fight Your battles and wars—and what I need to do is stick to living, learning, healing, and changing through growth. In Your circle is where I want to be. Amen.

I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are blessing to others!

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.22.22

Let’s dive into Matthew 28:6 and what we can learn and apply from examining Jesus’ journey to fulfill God’s prophecy.

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Scripture

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

Matthew 28:6

Reflection

Jesus was committed to doing his part, completing his assignment, fulfilling the prophecies His Father shared hundreds and thousands of years before Jesus was called to serve as a teacher. Jesus told his disciples everything that would need to happen and what would happen, and just as he said, three days after his lifeless body had been placed in Joseph of Arimathea’s tomb, Jesus had resurrected and wasn’t there. He proved what he and others had said about the mind, body, and spirit. He proved that limits are only acknowledged by man. There are no limits with God. That is not His reality.

Jesus never doubted God’s way, promise, protection, or presence. It’s not that he didn’t doubt himself and didn’t fear the unknowns he was facing, but he never doubted God, and his faith is what overruled his fear. He is our best example of how to live obediently, fully embracing the peace of who and what we are, and to Whom we belong. Yes, just like Jesus we will have moments of fear, stress, and anxiety; but just like Jesus, when we remember to turn inward towards God’s embrace, those things we’re concerned about will become irrelevant.

You may be experiencing a rough time in your personal and/or professional life; breathe and know that just like yesterday and yesteryear God will see you through to the next day. Tomorrow won’t be your today because there is always something different that will happen to make this so. Be grateful for the blessing to rise and experience each day brand new. Be grateful that you can leave your old self and old ways behind and embrace a newness in thinking, living, and being.

Live your life in a way that when people who know you go to see you as your old self, you aren’t there. Allow yourself to be transformed. And never ever forget, there are no limits when God is in it!

Prayer

Father, Your son was tortured and crucified on the cross and he surrendered to this treatment to fulfill prophecy and to demonstrate Your truth— that we are never separate from You in the flesh or in the spirit. He subjected himself to the process to prove to the naysayers that He was not only the wayshower, the Messiah, and Your son— but also that through him all people could find peace from and in Your Kingdom. If his healings did not prove Your power, grace and mercy then rising from the grave should have. He resurrected and later ascended by Your power to prove that there is no such thing as death in Your reality, but instead we move on to another level of existence.
Father, everything I have experienced in my short life has shown me that through thick and thin, through heartaches and heartbreaks, through sickness and health, and through moments where I’ve gone through having more money than month to more month than money—You have been my constant source of Light and provision, seeing me through each day. Thank you Father. In Your Name and Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.

I love you all!

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.21.22

Let’s dive into 1 Thessalonians 4:8, gaining some context about this letter, its intent, and how we can apply its teaching, lessons, and reminders in our lives.

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Scripture

Therefore encourage one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians 4:18

Reflection

Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy wrote to the Thessalonian community and the verse/line above is in reference to the belief that when Jesus returned everyone would be reunited in Christ. This message was to reassure the Thessalonians to remain steadfast in their faith and to not be discouraged by the confusion, conflict, and chaos surrounding them. There was fear that as more people died and Jesus had still not returned, would those who had already died be able to experience Jesus’ second coming. That of course would stir up fear about their own deaths and the possible timing with Jesus’s return. This letter was also focused on calming their hearts and minds about the death of their loved ones, and possibly the thought of their own deaths. The Jewish people referred to the deceased as those who are “asleep”. There was hope that one day they would be awakened by the Messiah’s voice.

Since Thessaloniki (also known as Thessalonica) was in Greece, Paul et al, were also in a constant struggle with countering Greek beliefs and practices, as well as the influences of other cultures. It was and still is Greece’s second-largest city so just like other large and high-traffic cities, there tends to be more opportunities for traps and drama to fall into.

When reading this letter you can’t help but feel as though it inspired, encouraged, and recharged a lot of the Thessalonians. It was written to help them keep focused on God and on living the life that God desired for them. We can learn a lot from this letter.

When friends and family are having a rough day encourage them with the Word of our Heavenly Father. Turn to the parables, proverbs, psalms, and examples written in the Bible by some of His faithful followers. It is a tool that has the power to help in any situation. There’s always a story that a person can relate to. Then remember to grab that same Bible when you experience set backs, fearful moments, stressful times, and ignorant people.

Prayer

Father, You planted the seeds, You gave us the ideas, You provided us with the tools and I thank You. When life gets dark and dreary, when times get so tough they seem too hard to bear, the answer to all of our issues are within You, and outlined within Your Word. Father, I don’t know why we search for answers elsewhere, why it is so difficult for us to rely upon Your guidance and wisdom; but I thank You for Your patience as we take the long route to eventually get where You pointed us initially. I love You and I praise You today and each day. Amen.

Love you all,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.20.22

Let’s talk about 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 and our prayer, praise, and worship of God.

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Scripture

Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Reflection

No matter what you are going through this very moment, leave it to God. Praise Him and rejoice in His love. If you feel unease then that is in your struggle with the “enemy” who is trying desperately to tear you down. If you are lashing out and blaming others, it’s the internal conflict within you manifesting outwards. God doesn’t bring out ugliness from people to inflict on others. God squashes ugliness from within.

God always brings peace to troubled waters and troubled times. He doesn’t focus in the grey space of the unsure, but instead focuses on total declaration of right and wrong, what is and what isn’t. There is only Truth, not half-truth; Love not half-love; full-time commitment not part-time. There’s no partiality with God and His love. He gives because He loves us, and He does so only with completeness and absoluteness.

God never takes a break from us and we should never take a break from Him. We should never put anything or anyone before Him. Every decision we make should come after praying to Him. Let it be His will and not your fear, pride, arrogance, selfishness, anger, pain, envy, jealousy, greed, narcissism, or anything else.

I love you all and I am so very grateful that each day I’m blessed through my walk, and through these Breaking Bread posts. Thank you for walking with me and breaking bread with me since 2009. May God continue to bless you, keep you, and sort out all that needs sorting in your life.

Prayer

Father, I thank You for my life, my journey, my ups and downs, and for the lessons learned, and those that I’m still learning. I realize I don’t learn all of my lessons fast enough and on Your time, so many times I make decisions without Your direction, and I find myself in a place of suffering and pain, and confusion. Never alone I know, for You are always there with me waiting for me to surrender everything to You.
Father, I realize that over the years and especially most recently, I have not been fully focused on You. You have not truly been my alpha, omega, or my center, because I made decisions that were not of Your instruction. Father, I repent for making my own decisions, for following Your children rather than following You, for following flesh rather than Your Spirit.
Today I rejoice. I replace doubt and fear with joy and an understanding that You are my everything, so I am in need of nothing, because You are my source for all that I need. I rejoice because I know that You have already worked out the kinks I created. I rejoice because You have protected me from being dragged to the lowest depths by my ignorant ways or by trappings of the “enemy”. I rejoice because I don’t have to worry about what today or tomorrow brings, because I know that with, in, and through You, all of my needs have been and will be met.
No one and nothing will steal my joy or have me turn away from You and Jesus. Nothing and no one will manipulate me into following anything but Christ. I am more than a believer, I am a follower, I am a servant, and I am an ambassador. I will not just talk the talk but I will walk the walk. I will look past the mountains, valleys, and forests, and only see You and Jesus.
I put my trust in You Father. You have never led me astray. You don’t deal in chaos. So I rest securely in Your Hands. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.19.22

Today we’re looking at Mark 9:24 and reflecting on belief, and the layers and intensity of our belief. What do we believe fully and mostly? And what are the degrees of our unbelief?

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Scripture

Immediately the boy’s father cried out and said, “I do believe; help my unbelief.”

Mark 9:24

Reflection

Kay Arthur wrote that, “Fear and doubt are conquered by a faith that rejoices. And faith can rejoice because the promises of God are as certain as God himself.”

What more can be said after that?

When you believe in God then our fear and doubt should be nonexistent. If you believe that your life and everything in it are a result of God’s will, then why would we ever doubt His ability to do more for us? Why would we doubt His ability to get us out of debt, to have our debtors repay us, to protect our relationships, to heal us from all inflictions, to bring the right people into our lives, and to protect us from harm?

If you believe in Him and what He has already done for you, then you should push yourself away from fear and doubt when times get rough and troubling. Believe in Him to make things right and to restore balance. Balance comes from God, not one ioata of your doing. The only thing it requires from you is to release and let go, so there is no resistance.

Release yourself to God; resist resisting; fight off fear and doubt, and rebuke the lies the enemy tells you!

Prayer

Father, today I don’t come to You with a worried prayer, but with a confident prayer. A confidence in You, Your son, and Your ability to do what no man, god, or spirit can do.
I know that only You can clear my life’s pathway; make me whole; cleanse me of sin, sickness, and disease; and free me from debt. I know that only You can fill my heart with Your warming love and light, and that only You can make my eyes bright for all who look inside. Father, I know that only You can move mountains, fill empty river beds, calm storms, settle rapids, and bring life into this world and beyond.
So I will not call out to You in fear, pain, worry, or doubt. For I know that You are never away from me and always watching over me. You know my circumstances. You know what I’m going through. You know my pain and frustration, and You know my fears. You know what I desire and what I need most. Through my obedience I know You will always bless me.
Each day You give me life and I am most humbly grateful. I say this prayer to You, giving thanks for what You have already set in motion. I know that it is Your will and grace that will remove my obstacles, restore those things that have fallen to the wayside or broken, and make things right in my life. Thank You Lord! In Jesus’ Name I give You all of the glory. Amen.

Love always,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.18.22

Today we’re going to break down Psalm 32:8-11 and examine how we are or aren’t aligning with God’s desired plan for us, and the type of relationship He wants to have with us. What could we have if we just embraced a life walking obediently with Him?

Audio Option

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Scripture

The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.” Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the LORD. So rejoice in the LORD and be glad, all you who obey him! Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!

Psalm 32:8-11 NLT

Reflection

Look at the first two lines in the Psalm. God said He would guide and advise. No where does it say that He would cajole, drag, force, coerce, bribe, or beg us. The third sentence makes it clear the type of person who will struggle in the type of relationship He desires—a person who needs to be controlled, manipulated, and coerced into being led.

God wants volunteers. He wants us to willingly be in a relationship with Him. He wants us actively engaged and filled with joy. If being with us is like being with a bridled horse or mule, how is that peaceful? How does that make God feel knowing that we’re resisting Him and only in agreement when forced? It has to break His heart. God wants us to want to be with Him. He wants us to walk freely with Him, listening and obeying out of desire, not fear of punishment. He wants our relationship with Him to feel effortless because we just let things flow, no pushback, no abrupt turns, no raising up and bucking against Him.

As it states in the fourth sentence of the Psalm, He wants us to trust Him. When we don’t walk freely with Him we’re telling Him we don’t trust Him. How can we be the person described in the final line of the Psalm, if we aren’t willing and excited participants?

When we let go of the things we know we truly have no control over, and let God take care of the details, then we are free to do what we are called to do. It doesn’t take deep analysis, just a decision to surrender all to Him. Those of us who still struggle, believe we can control things, people, and experiences—we think we can fix things, people, and circumstances—and unfortunately, we learn the hard, long, bit and bridle way.

This doesn’t have to be our reality.

All we have to do to be free, to truly experience joy and the weight of the world lifted off of our shoulders, is to let go of our sense of control, entitlement, and rightness—and just let God guide and advise us, and we obediently listen and follow.

Let go and embrace the intimacy that God wants to experience with you!

Prayer

I sing praises to You, Father. I opened my eyes and knew I was blessed yet again. Thank You. Today is a new day, and a new opportunity for me to walk uprightly on the path You have placed before me. Today is a new day to reflect Your goodness and grace. Today I can reaffirm that I will let go of things that You said You would handle, and I will only focus my attention on the things that I’m supposed to be concerned with. My path is looking clearer Father and it’s only because of You. Let’s keep walking together!

Love,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.15.22

Today we’re focusing on Philippians 4:4-7 and how we deal with trauma, fear, anxiety, and stress. How do you handle life’s storms? What do you do during life’s storms? Let’s talk about it. Come break bread with me!

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Scripture

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:4-7

Reflection

As real or metaphoric clouds, rain, thunderstorms, lightning, tornados, earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis rip through your life, you should pray and praise God. You should rejoice because God is with you. Nothing is too great or complex for Him.

It’s easy to see what’s wrong with situation, to identify the pain points, and what you don’t like about your life. It’s easy to freak out. But can you find the peace in the chaos? Where does your confidence lie, within God, or within the destruction that you’re witnessing?

Can you praise God through these episodes, knowing that there are lessons to be learned, embraced, and taught? Through these situations comes growth and an understanding of how close and protected you are by God. Can you truly see how special you are to Him? He is never apart from you. He is always here and there, and always knowing what you’re going to do long before you do it. He has equipped you for the best of times and worst of times.

Be thankful for your life, even if it’s not the picture perfect image you dreamed of and worked hard to achieve. Instead, imagine the life that He has planned for you, and hold on to His love. His peace transcends everything. Let that peace roll over you and consume you. Then watch Him do what only He can do!

Prayer

Father, thank You. I praise Your Holy Name as I reflect on all that You have done for me. You lift me up when I am down, You bring solutions to my problems and answers to my questions. You turn darkness to light, bring sunshine after the rain, kiss us with a rainbow, and wink at us with a falling star. You calm the rough waters, quiet the chaos, steady the rumbling, and make smooth— rocky paths. Father, You bring peace during times of discord and strife. Thank You Lord for being my anchor, guide, and salvation. Thank You for loving and guarding me. I praise You, Father. Amen.

I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing others. Go out there and make today an amazing day. I love you all!

Love,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Just Realized April 11th Message Didn’t Publish 🧐

What in the world? So Monday’s audio message went out but the combined audio and written message never posted here. Goodness gracious!

I think that I had gone back in to edit something and it saved as a draft, that I assumed had been published. Obviously I was wrong. So, I’ve fixed it. If you didn’t hear the message at AudioMack.com/breakingbreadwithnatasha then you missed the message. You can read and listen here as the message is one on CHARACTER, and I ask some questions for you to ponder and get back to me with your perspectives.

Read & Listen to 4/11/22 Message Here

Love,

Natasha

Breaking Bread For 4.14.22

Today we’re focusing on Psalm 25:15 and the traps that we fall into, and the one true Source to all of our dilemmas. Come break bread with me!

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Scripture

My eyes are ever on the lord, for only he will release my feet from the snare.

Psalm 25:15

Reflection

Through the decisions we make, we place ourselves in the situations that we’re in; in the snares that seem to keep us from moving forward. Our fear of failure, success, being alone, not being loved, not being perfect or having perfection, and not living up to standards set by ourselves and others—we don’t realize that all of these fears are traps and they make us feel suffocated, and ironically, more fearful. That’s being God is absent from our minds and hearts while we’re obsessing over all of this mess.

Our eyes, mind, and heart should only be focused on God as He is the only judge who determines right versus wrong, perfection versus imperfection, and love from indifference and hate. God is the only source that can take our fears away and bring peace to our lives. God is the only answer to our questions, “How do I fix this?…How do I get out of this situation?…How do I make things right?”

I find myself in situations in my personal and professional life where I feel stuck, trapped, confused, and frustrated. Sometimes I’m not sure how I will pay a bill, form more long-lasting and rewarding professional relationships, or complete the goals I’ve set for myself. There are days when my heart aches and I wonder about the things I believe I’m missing.

Guess what?

The answer to my questions is right in front of me. It always has been and always will be. My solution to life’s dilemmas comes from turning to, trusting in, and relying upon God. It’s crazy how we can make something so simple so complex. If you truly believe and know then you won’t ever have doubt. Your testimony is the cement that locks you in the “knowing” and declaring God’s goodness, rightness, presence, timing, love, and power. When we waver we’re silencing, or worse, discrediting our testimony.

I guess we all have something to work on!

Prayer

Father, I know that You are my only source for freedom, wisdom, courage, true love, and peace. You are the only answer to the questions I have about the situations I’ve entered, because only You can free me from the snare I have placed myself within. Only You can free me from bondage and show me the way to the promised land. Only You can bring me peace of mind and soothe my spirit.
Every day that I rise I am grateful that You have blessed me with another day. I am so grateful for all of the things that make me uniquely me yet all a reflection of You. Thank You Father for the blessings I comprehend and so many more. I praise You! I testify to Your awesomeness. Giving You all of the glory, in Your Name I humbly pray. Amen.

I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others. Make today an awesome day!

Love,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.13.22

Today’s message focuses on Mark 7:20-23 and what comes from our heart and defines us. Join me as we look at cleansing our hearts, minds, and mouths!

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Scripture

He went on: “What comes out of a person is what defiles them. For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and defile a person.”

Mark 7:20-23

Reflection

What is inside your heart surfaces in your mind, and comes out of you through word, action and even inaction. If you are two-faced, a back stabber, stingy (with your money, time, and resources), arrogant, cruel, or abusive, that is in your heart and these things unfortunately define you as a person. Your character is shaped and defined by what you do and how you do it, what you say and how you say it.

If you have the means to do so, but still choose to pay people and businesses late or not at all—that is the junk that you have been collecting in your heart, that clouds your thinking. If you have to remind people what you have done for them, make them feel as though they couldn’t get what they have without you, that is the unsettled mess and darkness within your heart that is now pouring into your daily life.

Cleanse your heart, mind, and your mouth.

God doesn’t sit back and run down to you a list of things that He’s done for you. He doesn’t send you an itemized statement listing every blessing you have received to remind you of His greatness. Jesus doesn’t pop in and say, “Hey, don’t forget I let them humiliate me, beat and torture me, nail me to the cross, in front of my mother, so I could save you”.

If you choose to hold on to clothes, furniture, and other items that you no longer use, instead of donating or selling them to someone who could get the most use out of them—you are being a hoarder of stuff and a poor steward of the things God has blessed you with. We’re supposed to pay it forward, not be stingy and think we’re supposed to be satisfied continually in excess.

If you get in a disagreement or end a relationship focused solely only on what someone did or said to you and not considering your actions and words, and not considering what the ultimate purpose that brought the two of you together—then how could you ever reach a point of creating harmony, walking in God’s Light, and being Christ-like?

If it’s all about you being the victim, the martyr, the complainant—then you totally miss the point Jesus taught.

You need to look in the mirror and decide which life you want to lead—the one God has planned for you, or the one that you are currently ruining by thinking you are living right. Get aligned and let God determine if you’re righteous. It’s not your call, it’s His!

Prayer

Father, I pray to You that if in me You see greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, arrogance, folly, a slanderous or sexually immoral person—please rid me and my heart of these evil ways. Purge out the filth. I only want to express the righteous qualities that come from You and Your son, and not the hypocrisies of the world in which I live. Please clean my impure thoughts, redirect my footing, and help me to see Your Light and Your desires for me.
Let me to not be so into myself that I fail to see what You have given me and provided to me through Your children. Let me see, respect, honor, and acknowledge all of those people who have helped me each day of my life no matter how big or small the deed—for they obediently did these things through Your loving guidance and commands. Thank You Father. Amen.

I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.

Loving you always,

Natasha

Breaking Bread For 4.12.22

Today’s message focuses on Proverbs 28:22-23 and the spirit that drives stinginess, and how we must rebuke that spirit, the energy that dares to counter God’s way. Come break bread with me!

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Scripture

The stingy are eager to get rich and are unaware that poverty awaits them.
Whoever rebukes a person will in the end gain favor rather than one who has a flattering tongue.

Proverbs 28:22-23

Reflection

Stinginess is ugliness. It’s telling God that His money and possessions are yours to use as you please. The more you hold back and ration out to others what God gave freely to you, yet at the same time casually squandering money on frivolous stuff—the closer your steps will reach the cliff of poverty.

And when you see someone being stingy, being ugly and mean, oppressive, carrying around that spirit of negativity—when you see that the enemy is at work— call them out on it. Call out the enemy, rebuke the enemy in the name of Jesus. Don’t co-sign their behavior. Don’t co-sign for that spirit. It’s not a spirit of God. Tell them to get right or get ready to be left behind, because you don’t have time for the foolishness! And you said what you said! So are you ready to pray on this? Let’s pray.

Prayer

Father, You know my heart, You know my intentions, and You know that I only want what You say that I need. I share from the heart as my heart is warmed and cared for by You. I give not to receive but because my cup runneth over. And I know that it is best to give than to hoard what I can’t use. I don’t want to waste what can freely be given away.
Father, I rebuke anyone who walks on Your ground but does not have the love, grace, and mercy in their hearts to follow Your path and treat Your children as You have commanded. I will not praise them and I will not let them feel comforted in their ugliness, as I would only be honoring the opposite of what You are and what we are to model. In Your Name I pray and in Your son’s steps I choose to follow. Amen.

I pray that you are blessed. That you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are blessing to others. Go out there and make today an amazing day. I love you all. Take care!

Love,

Natasha

Breaking Bread For 4.11.22

Today’s message focuses on 2 Kings 12:15 and we’re talking about honesty, and what society would be like if we were all truly honest— all of the time. Imagine that!

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Scripture

They did not require an accounting from those to whom they gave the money to pay the workers, because they acted with complete honesty.

2 Kings 12:15

Reflection

One word. Character.

This verse is about character. Someone was truthful, honest, and for that reason no one had to say, “Hey I need an accounting of these wages to ensure that everything is on the up and up“. It wasn’t required because the people had already proven time and time before that they were honorable, trustworthy, and never wavering in their honesty. They had never been caught skimming from the pot, overpaying one person while underpaying several others, or being dishonest in any way. They paid accurately and on time, and any deviations were obviously explained with transparency.

Can you imagine a world where we didn’t have to ask for an accounting of wages earned and paid, products distributed and warehoused—because everyone was honest in their dealings? Can you imagine a world where we don’t have to tell someone, “Show me proof” because they always walk in truth?

If people were truly honest and perceived as honest, we would have lower rates of divorce, crime, lawsuits, and incarceration. Maybe some could argue that we wouldn’t have any of those things because everyone would tell the truth and avoid the trappings that come from trying to conceal the truth.Maybe, just maybe.

These are just some interesting things to think about and consider. How would your life change if you chose to start telling the complete truth in all circumstances and to all people? Even if you know the truth will initially hurt but later be healing, would you take that risk or would you still choose to conceal the truth to avoid the initial pain?

Think about it and then let me know. Comment below or send me an email to BreakingBreadWithNatasha@gmail.com

I also want to remind you that if you haven’t purchased your copies from the Seek Him book series, please do. Visit DomeLifePublishing.com and you can search online through Bookshop.org, BN.com, Amazon.com, Walmart.com, and other retailers. Just search using my name “Natasha L Foreman” on their sites.

Enjoy your day, focus intently on doing what God has called you to do, and bless someone you don’t know!

Prayer

Father, I thank You for Your lovingkindness, grace, and mercy. Father, I pray that those who have dealings with me whether personally or professionally are always honest with me; and I pray that there is not a time in which I am dishonest.
Father, forgive me for those moments when I have told half-truths or was completely dishonest with another person—whether intentionally or out of fear of hurting their feelings. Complete honesty is required of Your children and I pray that each day I am honest with You, myself, and with Your children. In Your Name I praise and pray. Amen.

I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others. Make today an amazing day!

Love,

Natasha

Music: Quiescent In Time by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Breaking Bread For 4.8.22

Let’s talk about fools and money. Come break bread with me as we focus on Ecclesiastes 7:12.

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Scripture

Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: Wisdom preserves those who have it.

Ecclesiastes 7:12

Reflection

There’s a lot of rich fools running around, spiritually broke, waiting to be financially broke—yet laughing at and mocking those without the financial means, not knowing that many of those other people are TRULY the wealthy ones—for they have the spiritual wealth that far exceeds anything the dollar could bring!

A fool with money will always be spiritually broke and eventually financially broke. Don’t be a fool. Know where your money comes from (God), your role as the manager of it, and the responsibility you have to Him to seek and follow His counsel and directives as to how, when, and where to invest His money. Don’t blame God or anyone else for the stupid decisions that you made with His money. Had you followed His lead you would be prosperous, inside and out.

Consider that.

Pray to always listen and obey God’s Voice above all others. We struggle because so many thoughts run through our minds that evolve into feelings that are translated into actions. That’s the flesh at work. If we train our mind to connect with Him, we can learn to put those other voices and thoughts into other “rooms”, giving first priority to His voice. We are then less likely to take actions that counter His desires.

Pray for wisdom and the ability to discern paths you should take, and people you should form relationships with—as well as those you should avoid. When in doubt, ask God. Then wait patiently for His answer and when you receive it, get moving.

Prayer

Father, I pray for wisdom and the knowledge to have discipline over my thoughts, feelings, finances, and other resources that You have blessed me with. I do not want to be a fool and think that I have the solutions to my problems when You haven’t been the Source of my counsel. Money is a tool You have given us to steward, and when I don’t ask You how You want me to manage and invest Your money, I am simply a fool.
Through You I will be equipped and supported to help myself, my family, and others—by Your will, for joy only comes when we’re in alignment with You. In Your Name I praise and I pray. Amen.

Love,

Natasha

Breaking Bread For 4.7.22

Today we’re jumping into Ecclesiastes 7:8-9 and 14. Let’s roll up our sleeves and examine our patience, pride, anger, ego, and those unchecked and all-over-the-place emotions. Come break bread with me!

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Scripture

The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride. Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools. When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, no one can discover anything about their future.

Ecclesiastes 7:8-9,14

Reflection

We get consumed by our thoughts and our feelings. Too much of either is chaos. Pride is a toxic overload of the two. As is anger.

I can admit that my pride has gotten in the way too many times to count, and never resulting in a positive end. The same is true with anger and how it plays out in my life. It’s one thing when I’m standing up for what’s right. It’s a complete shambles when I’m just trying to prove that I’m right and someone else is wrong. My ego and pride are tag-teaming and my ignorance blinds me from realizing this until it’s too late.

Can you relate?

Self-control is more than what many of us imagine, and more valuable than we can comprehend. It’s more than what most of us articulate and attempt to practice. If we truly understood the “why” behind controlling self, and didn’t see it as suppression of self, we would be more apt at doing so with great success. Instead we overthink and then our feelings flood in.

Then it’s a wrap. Drama has taken over and both reason and logic take a seat, in the nosebleed section.

We say it, but do we truly understand that we are energy. How that energy is used and expressed can be beautiful or devastating. We also need to understand that thoughts manifest into things. We need to learn how to manage our energy, which better manages us, and helps us to navigate through this big, bold world.

When we control ourselves then no one else can. When we control our energy then no one has the power to use, manipulate, or deplete it. When we control our thoughts then we dictate what comes in and takes shape, as well as what goes out. We then have control over what and how we invest our time, and no other human can claim that power over us.

And guess what? When you truly live this redefined approach you also stop blaming Satan for your actions. You start taking responsibility and you hold yourself accountable to who you know yourself to be. This is where Adam and Eve failed, but we can learn from their mistakes, and do better; do what’s right in God’s eyes.

When we get right on the inside then we are better aligned with God’s vision for how we’re to live and operate. When we are intentional then we are present, and when we are present, we are too focused on the now to be concerned about the future or belaboring the past. To get there we must go beyond our comfort zone.

That is freedom. That is what we should seek. Something to consider. What are your thoughts?

Prayer

Father, I thank You for the gift of patience. The patience to wait and see past perceived limitations. The patience to endure life’s trials and tribulations and appreciate the lessons that come; patience to endure times when I’ve had more month than money, and the bills demanded what my income can’t cover.
I thank You for reconciling my accounts, eliminating that debt, and positioning me to steward more than I ever could imagine, to help more people than I could ever dream of helping. I speak this into existence. I claim that I will be a lender and not a borrower. I patiently wait through this molding process knowing that I’m being prepared for positive abundance. I will not dwell on the past because I’ve got more than enough in my present, and a future that’s waiting ahead.
Father, thank You for holding my tongue when I want to verbally lash out at someone, thank You for the patience to deal with people who are sapsuckers and energy drainers. And if I happen to be one of these people, please realign me.
Lord I praise You for the patience to see Your Light in and through all things and circumstances. I want to go to You first and always, always reassured in You. I thank You for pointing me on the path of success in every aspect of my life—not just professionally or in my personal relationships, but in every way. I want to live fully and in honor of You. In Your Name I humbly pray. Amen.

Love always,

Natasha

Breaking Bread For 4.6.22

Today let’s look at 1 Corinthians 7:7 and dig a little deeper into the conversation about our gifts, how we’re using them, how we’re not, and how some of us are so busy looking at other people’s gifts that we’re neglecting our own. There’s a lot to address, so come break bread with me!

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Scripture

I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.

1 Corinthians 7:7

Reflection

Let’s talk about gifts again, shall we?

While you’re looking to others to be more like them, consider that God has created you and blessed you with gifts that are uniquely yours, and for you to make use of.

Are you wasting your gifts while trying to copy someone else’s?

Just because things may not be falling into place for you as soon as you would want and hope, it does not mean they will not eventually become a reality. You’re being prepped, molded, prepared, and when God triggers things to happen—on His time, not yours, you will agree that the time was right.

Maybe you aren’t using your gifts properly and until that time you must wait. Maybe what’s waiting for you is so big and so bold that you need some refinement and toning up to help you prepare for what’s about to be revealed. But do you see it that way or do you just see what you don’t have? Do you just see lack?

Maybe you’re so busy looking at what others have and what they’re doing with their gifts that your envy and impatience has clouded your thinking and you abandon your gifts in pursuit of theirs. And because of that lack of faith you must wait to be realigned, conditioned, prepared, and then rewarded.

We have fallen for the tricks of the enemy to believe that we need to be satisfied immediately. With the advancements in technology and science we believe that we should have instantaneous gratification like a meal cooked in the microwave. We have steered away from long cooked meals in the oven, popcorn over the stove, catching people by phone after numerous landline calls (before cell phones, pagers, Zoom, FaceTime, and voicemail). We’ve steered away from writing and sending letters by postal mail (not email, text, or fax).

We are of the mindset that we want and need things NOW. We’re impatient and simply can’t wait. We rush dating, courting, marriage, becoming parents, moving in with our boo thang, buying the first car that makes our heart pitter patter. But where’s our discernment? When and how are we following God’s guidance? Then we wonder why our lives are overwhelmed with chaos and confusion.

This may be to our detriment because with this NOW mindset we are overlooking the gifts we have, ignoring the fact that others may not possess the gifts we need to get things done NOW, and we could be ignoring our own inability to properly manage and use our gifts. In our impatience we’re ignorantly saying to God that we simply can’t wait for Him to bless us with what we need—or show us how to use that which has been given to us.

We decide that we’re going to take over and do things our way. Yeah, how is that working out for you?

Let’s assess our gifts—those known, unknown, and untapped—and see how we can grow to become more patient and willing to wait for God. Some things are best received when delayed or earned over time. Be patient for their planting, cultivation, and harvest!

Prayer

Father, thank You for my gifts. It is amazing how You provide each of Your children with our own unique gifts, yet we are all a reflection of You. Everything good that we do, say, and demonstrate is of and because of You. Thank You Father for blessing me with the ability to express Your greatness, to properly use my gifts, and to be a blessing to others.
I apologize for my impatience, stubbornness, ignorance, selfishness, and disobedience. I know that all things work according to Your will, and when my will tries to intervene, oversee, and overtake Yours, I always learn a hard and painful lesson.
I want to be freed from that mindset and live freely and confidently on Your path and timetable. I know that You’re waiting on me to let go and surrender to You, Your will, and Your way. Thank You for knowing me well enough to be patient in and through my transition. I praise You and give You all of the glory. Amen.

P.S. Don’t forget to get your copy of my books “SEEK HIM, VOLUME 1: Testing Your Spiritual Comfort Zone” and SEEK HIM: Workbook 1. “SEEK HIM, VOLUME 2: Going Beyond Your Spiritual Comfort Zone” and SEEK HIM: Workbook 2. All are available at Bookshop.org, Amazon.com, BN.com, and other local and global retailers.

The last set of this SEEK HIM book series is coming this Spring and it will cover the last four months of the 12-month journey. I will keep you posted here and you can also visit DOMELifePublishing.com for updates. I thank you for your loving support!

Love,

Natasha

Another Announcement or Two 📣

I’m excited to share this news with you. Check it out!

Hi Breaking Bread family!

So, I was so caught up in the excitement last week that I forgot to follow up with my second announcement. The first, if you missed it, you can read here and it wasn’t an April Fool’s joke either.

Today’s announcement is a much-awaited one, an update on the third and final set of my Seek Him book series. If you’re new to my blog then you may not know about my books. If you have been reading my posts for awhile then you should already know, and hopefully you have already purchased and began reading the books.

Our first set tested your spiritual comfort zone. The second set encouraged you to go beyond your spiritual comfort zone. The third set lovingly says “don’t turn back” to that comfort zone; don’t turn back to your past and dwell on what once was.

The third set will be released this Spring 2022!

Let me say now, you will want to ensure that you have the entire set. The lead book and workbook.

I also encourage you to purchase the first two sets, for yourself and for loved ones. Right now, Amazon is running a sale, so jump on them while you can. They’re also available through Bookshop.org, BN.com (Barnes & Noble), Walmart, and other major retailers.

I really like Bookshop.org because they support local bookstores; you know, the ones that may or may not still be located in your neighborhood? Yeah, those. In our want-it-next-day culture, let’s not forget to appreciate our local bookstores. If you don’t know of any, no worries, you can search on Bookshop or just opt to allow proceeds of your purchase to be distributed amongst the thousands of bookstores that Bookshop supports.

If you happen to be a member of Goodreads, please follow me there. I’m still navigating that space and looking forward to connecting with other book worms.

Once my third volume set has been signed off and a print date and presale date is confirmed, I will make that announcement. When I’ve been given the green light to share some sneak peeks of it, I will rush this way and do just that! I look forward to sharing this labor of love with all of you. It has blessed me and I know it will continue to bless me. I hope it blesses you too!

Love,

Natasha

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