Today’s Theme: Sometimes You Will Be Shekiniah, Ezra, or a Support Player
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Scripture
“Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it.”
Ezra 10:4
Reflection
God never gives us more than we can handle. What is placed before us, we can either stand up and take care of, or we can run and hide in fear. Even if we try to hide from it, it will still be there waiting until we do it, resolve it, fix it, get rid of it, compartmentalize it, or adjust for it. What’s before you, you can handle. It’s in your hands, and you do have support—first and most importantly, starting with God.
Ezra (a priest) was saddened by all of the ways the Israelites had sinned, and one of the things that were blatantly obvious was that some of them had gone against the call to not intermarry with the Canaanites, Egyptians, Hittites, Amorites, and several other groups [read Ezra 9:1]. It was prophetic. They were told that they were to be preserving their bloodline for the birth of their Messiah, the one who would be King of the Israelites. You know who!
Well, as Ezra prayed, Shekaniah (from the people of Elam) recommended that they make a covenant with God, realign and restore themselves, so they would not suffer for their decisions. Long story short, they would send their foreign wives and children from those marriages away, sort of like when Hagar and Ishmael were sent away by Abraham and Sarah because that beef between Hagar and Sarah was getting intense.
Shekaniah ended his proposal by lending support to Ezra to lead the charge and call to action. That’s verse 4 above. Ezra didn’t reject Shekaniah. He was open to the confession and proposal. Then he shared it with the masses, who all agreed to comply. The people kept their word. They dealt with the situation. Yes, I’m sure you also know that the Israelites continued to struggle with this intermarriage issue much later than the Ezra era. That’s not the point of today’s message.
Sometimes things will be chaotic. Sometimes people will do stupid things. Sometimes you are one of those people. But it’s important that we turn to God for direction, discernment, and clarity. Then we must be open and willing to accept counsel from others who may have a different perspective and viable options for solutions. We have to put our fear, pride, and emotions to the side to then pursue the correct paths. Let God deal with the details. You do what you’re supposed to do.
Imagine if Ezra had ignored Shekaniah. What if Ezra was too focused on the issues, the chaos, the sins—and was closed off and unapproachable? While praying to God, sometimes we don’t see the solutions and opportunities He has presented through different people and resources. Sometimes you will be Shekaniah. Sometimes you will be Ezra. Sometimes you’re one of the periphery players lending your support. Whatever the situation calls for, be willing to step up and do your part.
Prayer
Father, I pray for the courage to do what I’m supposed to, push past my fears, and to stand up and take those steps to living the life You intend for me. Father, I thank You for giving me the tools and resources that I need. I give You all of the glory. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Lovingly yours,
Natasha
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. You can fast-forward past the intro and get straight to the message by clicking the play button and then the 30-second fast-forward button on the audio player. Thank you!
Scripture
With such nagging she prodded him day after day until he was sick to death of it.
Judges 16:16
Reflection
I don’t know about you, but I detest nagging. Whether it’s a woman or a man, it doesn’t matter. Something changes in the person’s voice that is so annoying. I’m sure that from their viewpoint, they’re thinking that they wouldn’t have to nag if they weren’t forced to repeat themselves because other people won’t answer them, keep dropping the ball, or not doing their part.
I think it’s more about the energy and tone of the incessant requests and that they’re usually layered with a lot of snarkiness, eye-rolling, and unnecessary body language that screams louder than words—which makes you want to clobber them with dozens of huge water balloons filled with multi-colored slime.
For hours.
Visualize that.
Not Christ-like, huh? But I made you smile and possibly laugh! And consider this, there’s really no room for nagging in a slime balloon fight! Imagine you and them soaking wet and covered in layers of colors from top to bottom. It’s better than most of the alternatives we choose. Well, let’s get back to the nagging and see what else we can do to address this situation.
Oh no, you didn’t, Delilah!
Let’s look at this Bible verse. It’s about Samson and Delilah and little Miss. Delilah wasn’t nagging Samson to fix the roof of their house. No, she was plotting and planning against him to get her hands on his secret so she could tell the Philistine rulers who promised to pay her for the intel. Delilah didn’t think twice. She didn’t protest. She didn’t declare her love for Samson. Nope, she was thinking about what she was going to do with the shekels they promised. They promised to give her 1,100 shekels per man. I don’t know how many men were there, but it had to be more than a few. Delilah sold out Samson, and the only way she achieved her goal was to nag him incessantly day after day. She tried to guilt-trip and shame him. She wore him down until he gave up.
Samson’s discernment wasn’t activated because he was distracted and confused by her constant bombardment. Delilah must have been one hot mama to Samson! There, the flesh outweighed the spirit. There are plenty of people who have had and may currently have a Delilah in their life. Maybe you have too. Maybe you live with one. Maybe, just maybe, you are the Delilah.
Pause for a moment to ponder something with me…
Why didn’t Samson ever ask Delilah, “Why in the world do you keep asking me this question, Delilah? And why do you keep yelling that the Philistines are going to get me immediately after you tie me up?” I mean, wouldn’t you want to know why someone would ask about the source of your strength and how you can be tied and subdued?
Samson wasn’t the smartest dude, was he? Or is it a combination of also not giving Delilah much credit for her cunningness? He should’ve said, “I don’t know,” or “I get my strength from God, and only He can subdue me.” BAM! Either response would have shut Delilah up, about that matter, at least for a few weeks. Even though the easiest response would have been, “Delilah, I’m not telling you, so stop asking me. It has nothing to do with loving you or not. I just don’t want anyone to know, and that includes you. If you can’t accept that, then I don’t know what else to say.”
So how should we deal with nagging people or just people who carry around an energy that we could stand to not be around? A water balloon or slime balloon fight, maybe? If only it were that easy.
The time and energy you invest in negative or nagging people (and resolving nothing) could be better spent focusing on what God has planned for you. Just like positive energy waves, negative energy waves can latch on to you, but instead of lifting you up, it drains and eats away at you like poison. Don’t let Delilah wear you down!
Prayer
Father, I pray for peace and joy in my life; that I might come home to an environment free of drama, nagging, guilt trips, shame, clutter, and toxic energy. Whatever negativity that I face outside I want to leave it there. I pray that anyone in my home does the same. Father, be our buffer. In Your Name I pray. Amen.
Welcome to this new month. See it as a fresh start. It’s Day One…now do something positive in your life and lovingly put those energy-drainers in their rightful place. And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others. I love you all. Go out there and make today an awesome day! Don’t be a Delilah, and don’t fall under the pressure of a Delilah!
Love,
Natasha
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: Remember to Speak the Same Empowering Words to Yourself as You Speak to Others!
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Scripture
Think how you have instructed many, how you have strengthened feeble hands. Your words have supported those who stumbled; you have strengthened faltering knees. But now trouble comes to you, and you are discouraged; it strikes you, and you are dismayed. Should not your piety be your confidence and your blameless ways your hope?
Job 4:3-6
Reflection
When we give advice, encouragement, and support to others, we must remember the words, sentiments, and actions delivered so that during our time of need, we use what God equipped us with to lift ourselves up. When we praise God to everyone else but then doubt Him in moments of despair, aren’t we being hypocritical and engaging in a conditional relationship with Him?
Let God’s Light come in, fully and not filtered, every millisecond of the day. Feel His warmth, love, tenderness, and support. When we live our lives and express love, mercy, and forgiveness the way God intends, then we never feel alone, lost, defeated, or forsaken. There’s no greater way to show you love and support Him than to obey Him.
When you read that last line in the Bible passage above, does it not strike a chord within? Let’s re-read it, “Should not your piety be your confidence and your blameless ways your hope?”
Let’s rephrase it to see it with a declarative position: If you were pious (devoted to God), you would have confidence, and if you were blameless, you would have hope.
So is our lack of confidence and hope because we lack piety (devotion to God) and our ways carry blame? Are we not walking the walk, and it’s showing in our corrupted speech? When our words of confidence are replaced with words of doubt, how are we walking each day?
Think about it. Tell me what your heart and mind conclude. Or tell me if they are in disagreement!
Prayer
Father, I pray for the humility, strength, courage, and confidence to always practice what I preach. I want to be there to uplift and support others through my thoughts, words, and deeds—while remembering those same thoughts and words when I need uplifting and encouragement through rough times.
Father, I want Your Word to resonate through me so that my confidence always lies in You. My devotion to You is my faith. There’s no greater way to show my support than to obey You. Forgive me for those days I waver, get discouraged, feel like giving up and letting life pass me by. I know You know my heart and intentions Lord and I thank You and love You for Your love. Thank You for lifting me up another day. I give You all of the glory. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: How Strongly Do You Believe, Trust, and Support God’s Vision for You?
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Scripture
The eunuch replied to Philip, “I ask you, who is the prophet saying this about — himself or another person? ” So Philip proceeded to tell him the good news about Jesus, beginning from that Scripture. As they were traveling down the road, they came to some water. The eunuch said, “Look, there’s water! What would keep me from being baptized? ” And Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart you may.” And he replied, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”
Then he ordered the chariot to stop, and both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him any longer. But he went on his way rejoicing. Philip appeared in Azotus, and he was traveling and evangelizing all the towns until he came to Caesarea.
Acts 8:34-40 HCSB
Reflection
Here is part of the story about Philip and the eunuch. Both men not only listened and paid attention to God, but they were obedient without question. Today we look at their quick journey together and its purpose. God brought them together for a reason—to share and spread His Word, to further build His Kingdom, and to ensure that Jesus was implanted in the hearts and minds of the people.
Today, most of Ethiopia is made up of Christians (more than 62 percent) in a country of over 80 million people, and I smile because I reflect on stories in the Bible, such as this one and others, of a people who believe so passionately in God and Jesus, in the Word, and in the prophets and messengers that God sent to deliver His Word. Think about it, they weren’t God’s “chosen”; they weren’t the children of Israel, but they believed that through their belief, worship, praise, and servitude that they too would be saved, receive abundant blessings, and have a better life. They believe that God is our Father and that Jesus is our savior and the way to the Father—just like the eunuch proclaimed to Philip.
Are you as committed to serving Christ, sharing God’s love and Word, and being the blessing that you want to receive?
Are you committed to learning and teaching, being open to not only allowing a stranger into your space but to embracing them?
Are you committed to walking each day with faith (not fear) in your heart and mind?
If you’re not, then ask yourself, “Why?” and consider what’s holding you back. Is it fear? Is it a lack of knowledge?
Pray for clarity and a release from the thing(s) holding you back.
If you are already committed, then take the next step to push yourself further so that you are better prepared and more open to what the future will bring your way. We can never be comfortable where we are, for growth is never stagnant. I recommend that you join me in my Seek Him book series, Volumes 1, 2, and 3, where we work at addressing our comfort zones and pushing past them, and never going back to them. You can learn more at DOMELifePublishing.com
Prayer
Father, I want to do right by You. I want to work hard, give 100 percent effort in all things, be proactive, faithful, committed, and obedient at all times. I want to be the servant that You have called me to be. I want to share my testimony with the world about Your love, how You have healed me, saved me, and protected me. I want to be more like Jesus. I want to love and respect all that I encounter. Mold out of me my fears. Help me to not procrastinate or be late. Mold out the stubbornness and hard-headedness within me. Cleanse my heart, mind, and my mouth. Keep redirecting me Lord. I humbly pray these things in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Family, feel free to share these Breaking Bread messages with others and also consider sharing your feedback and reflections with me by posting a comment. I also welcome prayers and reflections that you have written or read from other people. We are coming together to share God’s love through the Bible. We are not here to pass judgment, criticize, involve ourselves in prophesy, or convert. We are to serve and leave the Boss’s job to Him and serve in the roles that we have been assigned.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2013-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: What ONE Promise Can You Keep to God?
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Scripture
Because God wanted to show His unchangeable purpose even more clearly to the heirs of the promise, He guaranteed it with an oath, so that through two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us. We have this [hope] as an anchor for our lives, safe and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.
Hebrews 6:17-19
Reflection
We want so much from God, yet what do we give in return for our prayers, pleas, and promises?
Do we praise Him even when results don’t seem to appear when we had hoped? Or do we only praise Him when they are perceived by us to arrive right on time? Do we praise Him in the roughest of times or only when times are good and bright? Do we praise Him when we face tough challenges in relationships and in our careers, or do we only praise Him when things are going great?
What one promise can you keep to God?
He keeps millions of promises to each of us, but what one promise do you know you can keep to Him and never break it?
Keep it.
Demonstrate that you know the power that is within you is God. Show Him through your daily walk. Show Him by keeping at least one promise made to Him. Your honor is His— a gift to you. Stand tall in it by giving to Him what He gives to you.
Prayer
Father, You never break a promise and I am humbly and eternally thankful for this. I wish that I had the grace, wisdom, strength, and fortitude to make promises and keep them no matter what. I know there have been times when I said I would do something and I failed to follow through. I know there have been times when I didn’t keep a promise made even after You blessed me with what I desired and needed.
Please forgive me Father.
As You mold me I pray that my fears and insecurities are molded out and replaced by faith, conviction, integrity, and honor for all situations and circumstances.
Father as You mold me I pray for the ability to tune out the enemy and only tune in to You. I know that it sends out its influencers to tempt, persuade, and manipulate me. Let me discern those voices from Yours. Let me discern the influence of the enemy from Yours. Show me how to block out the enemy and stamp out its nothingness in my life. I know that the only power it has in my life is the power that I give it, through my thoughts that become words and action. Help me Father to resist the urge and trappings to fuel, empower, and embolden the enemy. Help me to always be alert, aware, and tuned in to You.
Show me how to give all that I hope to receive. These things I sincerely pray to You. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
I love you all. Go make today an amazing day!
~ Natasha
Copyright 2012-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: Let God Be Your Strength and Battery
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Scripture
You wearied yourself by such going about, but you would not say, ‘It is hopeless.’ You found renewal of your strength, and so you did not faint.
Isaiah 57:10
Reflection
There are a lot of stories in the Bible about cruel, selfish, evil people. We’re not going to focus on them today. Let’s instead reflect back on the stories and accounts of the men and women of the Bible that we honor. Think about them. They were not super-human creations; they were regular people who did extraordinary things, as they were touched by God’s Light. It’s not that they didn’t have fears or doubts. There was fear, but it speaks volumes about these great people because of what they did when fear stood in their faces and challenged them. With confidence in God standing with them, they didn’t cower over, give in, run away, or lose hope—instead, they slapped fear down to the ground, stepped on it, and kept marching forward to the beat of God’s drum.
So each day, as we walk, march, and make our way down life’s paths, we will grow tired, but we should work towards mentally never giving up; to never believing we can’t take one more step or push one more obstacle out of our way. Let God be your strength and battery. Our end is not for us to decide; that is God’s job. If we sabotage our lives, then we cut short the blessings that were coming our way, the opportunities for growth and success, and to make a difference in other people’s lives.
So ask yourself, “Is what I’m going through really that unbearable that I no longer have hope and faith in God to see me through?”
Prayer
Father, through ups and downs You never waver, You never fail me, You never fall short of blessing me abundantly. Through trials and tribulations, Your son, Jesus, never walked away, never gave up or gave in, instead he faced head on anything, everything, and everyone that came at him and attacked him. His trust was solely in You.
There are many accounts in the Bible of some of Your children who never gave up, never lost hope, and never stopped believing in You, Your Word, and their role in Your Kingdom, Father. Each day I must claim victory in Your Name, as I begin with the blessing of being alive. I pray for daily renewal Lord. I humbly pray to You, Father, and say in advance “Thank You”. Amen.
This week we commemorate the lives of men and women who lost their lives due to war and conflict. Some of you have family members who entered battle zones and never returned home. Some volunteered, and some had no choice but to serve. No matter which route they took, they still gave their all and surrendered their life in exchange. Memorial Day and the weekend that we set aside to begin celebrating is more than backyard barbecues; it’s about reflecting on the sacrifice of a few for many and realizing that impact on our lives. So don’t be more focused on stuffing your belly. Make the time to honor those countless lives lost in each war, battle, conflict, and occupation that the US has been involved with.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: What do you need to work on, realign, surrender, and let go of?
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Scripture
Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21
Reflection
Woody Allen is quoted as saying, “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans,” and no matter your opinion on the man who spoke these words, this phrase is so accurate that you have to laugh in agreement—because we spend the largest portions of our life planning, strategizing, and outlining our life the way that we think it should go—but never stepping back and acknowledging that through it all, God is the only Seer of the future, of the twists and turns of our journey, and the true Navigator.
Yes, we can be lazy and get nowhere. But we can also be reckless, do too much, and get nowhere. If we’re not consulting and being directed by Him, then we’re on a crash course.
If we let Him steer our chartered course while we follow His lead, then we can fully experience and enjoy the trip—we can wisely invest our time and energy into serving Him and living life to its fullest. God will always open doors, windows, and crawl spaces of opportunity for us. He will always make a way out of no way—but if He’s trying to guide the ship right while you’re grabbing the wheel trying to turn it left, guess where you will go? Nowhere. Guess what you will experience? Nausea and frustration.
Every day we must make the effort to get out of our own way, let go and surrender to God, and allow Him to lead us to where we need to be. Lord knows I battle with myself on this regularly, and I recognize that my life is so much smoother, calmer, and stress-free when I simply let God do His job, and I focus on doing mine. I’m working each day to stop thinking I can control everything and instead find the peace and joy that comes from surrendering my thoughts of control to Him. My control issues stem from not trusting Him. No matter how I want to slice this reality differently, the truth is in my actions. If I truly trusted Him, I wouldn’t feel the need to try to control everything and everyone.
The only thing I can control are my thoughts, words, and actions—and I blunder that almost daily. My best and brightest plan is to consult with Him, realign with Him, trust Him to be in complete control, and work on how my energy impacts my internal and external environments. When He shines His Light on opportunities, then I can be more clear-minded and aware to discern these blessings and embrace them. That is how I can best work in synergy with Him.
What about you? What do you need to work on, realign, surrender, and let go of?
Prayer
Father, thank You for Your patience, Your remarkable sense of humor, Your wisdom and understanding, and for your guidance throughout my days. There are moments in time when I think I have things figured out, and I think that what I’m doing is Your intent for my life—just to find myself puzzled when things don’t go as planned.
Father, I apologize for getting out of line, for assuming to know Your plans and thought process. If I consulted with You more and not just when I need You to fix something, I would be better aligned to You and Your vision for me. I apologize for trying to run my life instead of simply following Your lead. Thank You for knowing me better than I can ever know myself, and in knowing me You patiently wait on me to catch on and catch up to the pace You have set. You are amazing. You are awesome. I love You Father. Thank you for loving me. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: ALL Relationships Require Desire, Work, Effort, and Discipline.
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Scripture
Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless go hungry.
Proverbs 19:15
Reflection
God does not condone laziness. He can’t make sense of a person that is slow to change, slow to work, slow to move, slow to act, slow to do much of anything except lay around, consumed by their phone, TV, video games, computer, or what other folks are doing—which is probably what the lazy person is supposed to be doing.
If your home, which God has loaned you (by the way), is a pigsty and messy, then do something about it—clean it and thank God for the shelter and place to rest and raise your family. If your car is cluttered with a bunch of junk—instead of adding more junk and asking passengers to “excuse the mess,” clean it inside and out and show God that you are grateful for the gift.
You may not have a choice about where you live or what you drive, but you have a choice about how you live.
If your business is going nowhere fast, get from behind the computer, unplug from social media, and move away from the TV; stop leaving the house everyday driving around doing and meeting no one, and start meeting people who can mentor, guide, and help build your company where it needs to be. Remember that your company’s success starts with you and the efforts you put into promoting it.
If your relationship with your significant other is getting dull, predictable, and boring—remember that it took both of you to get it to that point. If you want spice, spontaneity, an injection of life and passion—then you need to take the first step and stop waiting for the other person to do it. Put in the effort you did to get them and continue to look for ways to learn more about them, to share more of yourself with them, and to receive all that they desire to give you. Relationships require desire, work, effort, and discipline. It doesn’t matter if it’s romantic, platonic, or professional in nature—you have to be proactive to get the most from the engagement!
If you’re sick and tired of being sick and tired, then get up and change something, anything—but stop sitting around, laying around, shuffling around—with your head hanging down and doing absolutely nothing. Lazy people are taking up prime real estate. Either you build upon it and make the best out of every situation or be prepared to be moved out of here sooner than you initially expected.
I love you all, and I want you to remember that we’re all works in progress; we all have to work on our faults, weaknesses, and the temptation to be lazy. We’re God’s clay that He is molding every millisecond of the day!
Prayer
Father, I pray to remain active, focused, determined, and constantly moving in the direction that you are guiding me. Let me sleep long enough to be reenergized but not too long that I become lethargic. The hours I waste sleeping or being unproductive are the hours that are taken from me when I need to invest in our shared mission.
Father, I don’t ever want to fail You, myself, or my loved ones. Please keep Your hand on me Lord, so that even if I stray from Your path, I never go too far that I can’t be redirected to the right way. I want to be present and proactive in my life every single day. I don’t want distractions from people, media, and other outside forces to keep me from living my life to its fullest. If I am not living right Father, please lovingly correct my steps. In Your Name I praise and pray. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
I love you. Go out there and make today an amazing day. Take care!
~Natasha
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: Looking at Hebrews 6 Through a Modern Lens
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Scripture
God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.
Hebrews 6:10-12
Reflection
I want to approach this part of the letter from a modern perspective and the struggles we face today with our priorities and being disciplined servants. God first, family second, and everything else third—in that order, there is order. In that order, and only in that order, shall you have the foundation and map for life as God intends. If you’re too lazy to commit to God and family, then you’re too lazy to do the work He intends.
God has a way of showing you how to prioritize when times get bad, and you don’t know what to do—since you have no true control when life’s storms come barreling through. When times get rough, you’re to turn first to God and continue to lean on His love by embracing your family. As you enter unchartered territories, things will become more complicated to navigate through, but when you remember that your compass is God and your crew is your family, you will find greater confidence.
Broken, Toxic, Dysfunctional, Absent Families
Now, let me be clear for those of you with highly dysfunctional and negative families or those without living family members—your family, by extension, in these scenarios, are those who would serve mostly as family members. Who would you turn to as a father, mother, sister, brother, aunt, uncle, grandmother, grandfather, or cousin? Who can you count on during life’s storms to help see you through? Who can you trust with your deepest and most sensitive secrets? Who do you celebrate good news and victories with?
Then that is your family.
Embrace them. Celebrate them. Bond with them through moments of celebration, contemplation, frustration, and despair.
Desires of the Heart
I want to be surrounded by people who are filled with faith, patience, righteousness, love, and joy no matter what the situation, circumstance, day, or season. When I’m down, I want to imitate those who are living the example as honorable stewards. I don’t want to be lazy and resistant. I don’t want to make excuses for not living right, doing right, and working hard each and every day. I don’t want to make excuses for not representing God’s light even when darkness chases me, and it’s easier to stop and be consumed.
I don’t want to make excuses for why I can’t give 100% effort in my personal and professional relationships. Let me clarify, I may have 50% to give, so I’m to give the 50%; that’s 100% effort. I’m not to ration it. I’m not to dangle it like a carrot for people to beg to have access to. God doesn’t treat us that way, so why do we do it to others? During family time, or whatever time I’m to be committed to, 100 percent of me needs to be invested at that moment.
I’m trying to live through my interpretation of where my priorities should be— because after God comes my family and then everything else. If I can’t give myself to those I call family, but yet I have it in me to give to strangers and those around me, who I can trust only so much, or not at all— then my priorities are off, and I need to reset. If I’m off course, I ask that God reset me and point me in the right direction.
I ask God to remind me when I’m investing more outside of my foundation than within, to remind me when I’m investing in people, places, and things that I shouldn’t. I don’t want to be lost. I don’t want to cheapen and disrespect my relationship with Him. I don’t want to take my family for granted. I don’t want to weaken, destroy, and lose valuable relationships chasing the superficial, the past, the flesh, and the temporal. If something or someone does not bring added value to my relationship with God and family—not one or the other, but both—then I ask God to let me see this clearly, so that I can walk away and refocus.
I know that the enemy will try to trick me into believing that something or someone is in my best interest, that it or they serve God’s purpose, placed before me by Him for my and my family’s gain. Or just my gain. I ask God to give me the discernment and clarity to see the truth and know the trick for what it is and the goal it seeks to achieve. I ask to be freed from spiritual, mental, and physical bonds that would and are blocking my blessings.
We fail God and ourselves when we turn outside of our foundation for shelter, love, pleasure, acknowledgment, and kudos. What you feel you’re not getting from God and family is the exact same thing you aren’t giving in return. Think about it!
Prayer
Father, I know that You love me, are always with me, always watching me and watching over me. I know that You hear my thoughts and know my intentions. You know my heart Lord. You know that I want to be the best ambassador and steward that I can be, and that when I don’t live righteously it pains me.
Help me to do my part to properly invest in the two most important things to me, You and my family. In serving You I am blessed and fulfilled. In serving and protecting my family, they praise You, which blesses and fulfills me. My cup will always run over. Always remind me of this. Humbly I say Thank You. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: What We Sacrifice When We Choose Idleness
Audio Option
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Scripture
Through laziness, the rafters sag; because of idle hands, the house leaks.
Ecclesiastes 10:18
Reflection
Here’s some motivation for all of us. Ooh, wee, I need this kick in the rear today. Are you ready? Okay, let’s do this!
Get up. Get out. Get going. If your days aren’t being spent doing the things that help you fulfill your purpose, then ask yourself why? What aren’t you doing to have more focused and productive days? What can you do today to glorify God? What can you do to help someone feel His joy today? What can you do today that will bring you joy?
For those of you who just excused away your goals, be honest with yourself.
Why?
What goals do you have for this month that you haven’t achieved? It’s the 24th of May. The month isn’t over. As long as your goal wasn’t too lofty, like “lose 20 pounds this month,” and as of today, you have only lost 3 pounds, then you can finish strong and possibly with a victory under your belt. Maybe your goal is to start learning a foreign language. Well, I recommend the Duolingo app. There are, of course, other apps and programs out there. This is just one that I enjoy using.
When you think about goals, it’s important that your goals are challenging but attainable. So you may need to reassess what you’re pursuing and how. And in the case of weight loss or weight gain, let’s make sure that our goals are also healthy ones. Having a goal of gaining or losing 20 pounds in a month isn’t a healthy pursuit unless a doctor has prescribed this for health reasons and you are under their care and guidance. Let’s always place safety first and stop looking for microwave results.
If you have a career or financial goal, like changing jobs or career paths, starting a business, launching a new product, or earning “X”-dollars by a certain date, are you investing at least 5 to 8 hours of pure sweat equity towards your goal per day? You may have a 9 to 5 job, but that simply means from 7 to 12, you’re focused on your goal, or you split up the time throughout your day. I have episodes dedicated to career and entrepreneurship that you can find through my company’s Don’t Call It Small….Business podcast. Visit ForemanLLC.com/podcast to explore.
Now some of you may be telling yourself a big fat lie week after week, like “I’m still in the research and development stage.” Saying that you’re “still researching” or “working on the details” months and years after setting the goal are usually the fallback excuses for lack of progress. You’re stagnant and not admitting why. Is it because you’re either confused about the next steps and need help or that you’re simply afraid to take those steps? Admit it so you can move forward. If it’s fear, we’ll cover that shortly. If it’s confusion or needing help, you need to go to God for direction. Also, don’t assume that you have to wait for God to deliver you something. It may already be in front of you. He could’ve delivered it to you months or years ago.
Your answers may come through a friend or family member or a friend of a family member. It could come from a person you met in the waiting room at your dentist’s office. Sources of help can come from the oddest, as well as the most obvious of places, so don’t rule out anything until you have at least inquired first. I keep learning these lessons. If, on the other hand, you’re just being lazy, then you already know you won’t make any progress because you’re making the choice to not do anything.
You have to take responsibility for that. Own your mess. And let’s be clear, those of you roaming around with an entitlement mindset, expecting someone to do for you, to hook you up, and for riches to just pour over you—snap out of it. The only thing that’s going to pour over you is misery. What else can you expect when you’re not making a positive contribution— the same return on that investment. Even if you receive money from a trust fund, what are you doing with the money?
How do you view the relationship you have with this money since you don’t have to earn it? The fund was created to help you focus less on some things so you could focus more on others. The fund was put in place to free you to pursue your dreams, not live recklessly.
So whether you’re lazy or entitled, or both, stop wanting someone to do for you what you won’t do for yourself. Get up, try, fail, or succeed, and try again—or try something new. But do something! If you’re saying, “Natasha, I haven’t set any goals, but it’s not because I’m lazy; it’s that I don’t know where to start…” Think about things this way—what recurring dreams are you dismissing as just being dreams instead of possibly a direction or calling? What ideas have been placed in your heart that you haven’t pursued? Those can be your goals. Just like I mentioned earlier, you may need help from someone who can assist you with planning, execution, and follow-up. But first, you need to identify and make sense of what you’re dreaming about.
Now let’s be honest with each other. Fear is a punk. Laziness leads to failure. Why do we give in to either of them? They both lead to our misery. I know firsthand how suffocating life can be when consumed by fear or disconnected through laziness. You may say, “But I don’t want to be a failure or seen as one,” and that fear is what’s holding you back. If you don’t want to be a failure or be seen as one, then you have to do the opposite of what you’re currently doing. Failing doesn’t make you a failure. Doing nothing does. Instead of sitting around looking at life pass you by, get up and make the most of your day. Take things in smaller, manageable chunks. Even if you fail to achieve your goals, at least it wouldn’t be due to your laziness, or because you didn’t try, or because you sat on your butt making excuses.
Change is difficult. We rarely change because we want to; it’s usually because we have to—circumstances get so intense that we’re left with only two options: be consumed by the misery of our present or change our ways, with a hope for the better. We try to excuse away the choices we’ve made. We excuse our laziness. We try to blame others for the situations we choose to enter and remain. Stop making excuses, stop trying to play the blame game, and start living your dreams. No one can keep you from achieving your goals except you.
If God can’t trust you with the little things, then how do you expect Him to trust you with the big things?
Maybe you won’t become a billionaire, but instead, you will create a life that gives you the freedom of choice that you admire in the billionaire lifestyle. You may not end up with that 20,000-square-foot home, but instead, you buy a 2,000-square-foot home, and you get to travel several times a year to see the places you once only dreamed about. You have to learn to see things from different angles and vantage points. Don’t give up before you get started, and don’t give up just because it gets rough. Get up, get out, and with God as your Counselor, make smart decisions and career moves that will help propel your life where it needs to be—where God intends for it to be.
Prayer
Father, rid me from any laziness that I might possess. Cause me to rise up from my slumber. If necessary, make things so uncomfortable in my life that I must do something positive to change my circumstances for the better. Help me face my fears because they aren’t as big as my fear of losing favor in Your eyes Lord.
I don’t want to lose the gifts and blessings You have given me because I‘n not doing my part to take care of and nurture them. I don’t want to lose the things You have loaned me. I don’t want my mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health negatively impacted because I have disconnected from Your plan and purpose for me Lord. An idle mind is a mind not focused on You Father, and I want my mind and heart to always be focused and connected to You. In Your Name I pray. Amen.
Wow, today’s message really hits home for me, serving as a huge reminder. I’m motivated to make the most of my day. I hope it helps you and someone you know. Maybe you will share it. If so, I thank you now.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. You can fast-forward past the intro and get straight to the message by clicking the play button and then the 30-second fast-forward button on the audio player. Thank you!
Scripture
Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 HCSB
Reflection
No matter what happens in your life, God can help see you it through, heal your wounds, and push you up the mountainside and up out of the valley. God can erase your tears and fears, remove the pain, and restore your joy. You must open up and let Him in. You must walk holding the hand of our Savior, Jesus Christ—following his lead every step of the way. Whenever you get overwhelmed and forget, just stop and pray—and you will remember!
Prayer
Father, I know that there will always be tests, challenges, setbacks and failures in life. I accept these things as necessary steps to make me greater, stronger, wiser, more courageous and even more compassionate. The more I overcome, the more I am molded and aligned with You.
I accept my role on this planet and in Your Kingdom, and through both joy and sorrow I gladly, and humbly, will do my part. I know that I can always turn to You, seek comfort in You, and direction from Your son Jesus. Thank You Father!
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2012-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: We Don’t Have Time to Be Sidetracked
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Scripture
Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.
Proverbs 4:25-27
Reflection
No matter what happens in life, we must not allow ourselves to be sidetracked. The enemy is the master of the sidetrack. The creator of the con. The ultimate of accusers. We must discipline ourselves to rebuke and walk away from the sidetrack, con, and accusations.
When you know your identity, purpose, mission, and goals, then you become conditioned to speak Truth to the lies and declare who and what you are and to Whom you belong. You are not a puppet of Satan. You are not dispensable. You are a child of the Most High, God above all gods, beings, and creations. And you were created to walk boldly as His reflection, His beloved.
God has a plan for each of us, and we must do our part to reach the goals ahead. We don’t have time to look back and ponder. We don’t have time to contemplate if the direction is the right way; we must go where God points us. Trust Him. Follow and obey.
Be trustworthy, and then trusting Him comes without hesitation. Be someone worthy to follow, and then following Him comes without question. Don’t give the enemy the power to sidetrack you into second-guessing God and your relationship with Him. See and identify the traps and then walk around them.
Prayer
Father, please guide my thoughts, words, heart, and feet. I will work each day to follow and obey. In Your Name I praise and pray. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: Don’t Give to the Enemy What He Can’t Take or Make.
Audio Option
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Scripture
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
Romans 5:3-5
Reflection
Through uphill battles and downhill falls, we persevere, grow, and develop our character with a restored sense of hope that tomorrow will be better and that after this storm will come the rainbow and the beautiful rays of God’s Light shining brightly. Never lose faith and hope that God will always see you through life’s issues, failed relationships, economic downturns, personal hangups, and moments of fear and frustration. Praise Him. Thank Him. Sing and dance as though you don’t have a care in the world—because you know that God is taking care of you and your needs, even if you can’t see the solution—know it’s there.
Those who struggle with this concept, understanding, and Truth, probably will or won’t admit that they also struggle with fully embracing their relationship with God, building and strengthening the intimacy that He wants to have with each of His children. When we fail to commit to Him, we tend to think that He is also not committed to us. We think that our dismissive ways are a reflection of how He sees and relates to us. That is a lie the enemy keeps on loop in your mind. Rebuke it. Know the Truth, speak it, live it, and be free in it. For what God wants for you, the enemy can’t and never will be able to provide or even counterfeit.
In this fight for our souls, the friction is intense, but with perseverance, our character is formed, and hope is restored, renewed, and reinforced. Don’t give to the enemy that which he can’t take or make.
Prayer
Father, I praise Your Name through good times and in bad because I know that through life’s trials and tribulations I grow stronger, wiser, and closer to You, Father. I know that every time I fall and get up, every time I face a setback, my perseverance is helping to build my character as Your ambassador; and every day that I rise to see the sun I know that I am truly blessed. So I thank You, Father. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: Peeling Back the Layers of Our Hypocrisy, Ignorance, and Immaturity
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Scripture
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.
But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.
James 1:22-26
Reflection
If our walk with God was intended to be easy, then everyone would be able to do it effortlessly and we wouldn’t have trauma in our lives, and Jesus would never have been placed in the position to atone for our sins and sacrifice his human existence to prove an eternal spiritual existence. If our walk was to be easy, then even Jesus’ demonstration through his life would have been made easy.
The world around us is filled with goodness that oftentimes gets manipulated and coerced into following the darkest of ways—but the foundation and roots are still governed by God, who is merely waiting for the world to make a decision and commitment to walk in His Light, by His ways. As you make your journey through life, you will be tempted to stray from your path. You will be tempted to return to old habits that plagued your life. You must decide which life you want to lead.
I’m not telling you to change your life like a light switch because as quickly as you attempt to turn one way, you will quickly be tempted and give in to resuming your old lifestyle. Every day we must work and strive to be better people. Every day we must work to give up bad habits. Everything in life can’t be dropped cold turkey without a great deal of pain and frustration, and if we could easily handle pain and frustration, then we would never have adopted the negative habits, to begin with!
If you are accustomed to cussing folks out and calling people out of their names in your private life, but in your public life, you act like the sweetest angel ever created—sometimes going so far as to pretend as though you don’t cuss people out and call them out of their names—guess what? You are a liar, and you are first telling the biggest lie to yourself.
We all have flaws, and none of us are perfect. Look at your flaws and decide what you can and will begin to change about yourself beginning today. Then each day, work at turning that negative into a positive, turning pain into strength, and fear and hate to love.
When I was a senior in high school, my father always said to me, “Cussing is what a person does when they can’t intelligently convey what they are trying to say.” Many of us would opt to cuss than take the time to find another way to verbalize what we are thinking and how we feel. It didn’t mean my dad didn’t use profanity. It doesn’t mean that I don’t. But can we find other words to describe our joy, pain, frustration, and anger? Sure, we can. But will we make that conscious effort?
Are you willing to try to find alternative ways to express yourself?
Watch what you invest, ingest, and digest into your life, and decide what you can remove immediately or gradually. Do you enjoy watching a certain type of movie, playing a certain type of video game, indulging in certain “private” acts of pleasure, or listening to certain genres of music, but you know you may or may not admit to it publicly, at church, or to your beloved grandmother? Seems hypocritical, doesn’t it?
Only if you profess to be living some high and mighty way while knowing you’re not. If you love horror and gore movies, don’t act like you only watch the Hallmark channel. If you’re into playing violent video games, don’t pretend to be playing something more appropriate for a small child. It doesn’t make you evil for enjoying violent entertainment. Lying about it simply makes you a liar. God already knows what you do, so telling humans something different means you’re more concerned about their judgment and opinion of you than His.
If you’re concerned with the things you do privately and want to change in some way, then work to do something about it but don’t be a fraud in the process. We’re all works in progress, in a process that takes time.
Just “keep it real” while God is molding you; if not, life only gets harder, more difficult, and more frustrating, and you will find yourself trying to avoid the pain and difficulty—which is only going to lead you down paths of more deception. We have to be comfortable in the pain and discomfort, understanding it’s temporary. Masking it and numbing it with counterfeit alternatives pulls us farther from God.
Let’s be responsible and accountable. Pick a lane, and don’t straddle or swerve across them—if you do, expect to get a ticket for lane violations!
Prayer
Father, every day I pray to you countless times as the hours pass and my blessings shine over my mounting trials and tribulations. The closer I get to You, Lord, the more challenging life seems to become at times because the way of the world is beginning to now seem different to me, and I am seeing my life through a different lens.
As these changes are taking place, the “enemy” keeps trying to convince me to stay as my old self, to hang with those people who aren’t good stewards and ambassadors for Your Kingdom; and there is pressure to behave, think, and speak in a way that is not loving and Christ-like.
As I move to focus my eyes, heart, and life more on You I am being tempted and tested by outside forces to live a double life, one that shines brightly as Your representative on some days, or during certain periods of the day, and the other life that stays hidden away where I can secretly indulge in my old “ways” of living. Father this battle for my soul can only be won when I let go, surrender, and let You have all of me.
When I question why certain things seem to happen to me at the oddest and most inconvenient of times, why bad situations seem to blindside me, and why I’m tempted by outside forces to invest my time and energy into other things and other people instead of You, I know that it is because it is a test of my commitment and devotion to You. I want my relationship with You to be unshakable and unquestionable. I love You, Father. Amen.
Well, family, I hope this message has helped you as it has helped me. I will continue to pray for your peace, joy, and safety each day and hope that you, too, pray for me. I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Love Always,
Natasha
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: The Recklessness of Uncontrolled Anger
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Scripture
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.
James 1:19-20
Reflection
A child of God should be strengthened in His Word and by the example of His son Jesus Christ. We should have the discernment to see, hear, feel, and know when things are wrong and not of God. We should have the discernment to see, hear, feel, and know when we are being moved toward darkness.
We should be disciplined enough to turn away from darkness and not give in to anger and rage. Pray for the strength to be more loving even when others aren’t (being) loving to you. As the old adage goes, “If you have nothing good to say, then say nothing at all.” We should practice this daily so as not to fall into the enemy’s trap.
The enemy wants you to be caught up in chaos and confusion. Don’t give in to that foolishness. Turn the mess over to God. I struggle with this as I’m quick to want to put someone in their place, but that’s not my role or assignment. The moment my words are fueled by anger, I’ve lost, and the enemy has won. I’m now not right in Truth, even if I may be right in fact.
Let that absorb in your mind and heart.
Prayer
Father, help me to listen more intently and purposely. Open my eyes to see the things I overlook, and help me to clearly discern what’s before me. I pray that I stop to think before I speak so that only loving words come from my mouth. I hope that I turn to You so that my emotions don’t bubble out of control, and grow to anger and rage.
Father, I know that anger is not a by-product of Your love and Light. It is in weakness that a person turns to anger and violence to address their concerns and issues. It is a weak person that lashes out verbally or physically. I want to be strong in You. Touch my heart so that I can align in all ways to You. In Your Name I praise and pray. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: How We Treat Sinners and Enemies Is A Reflection of Our Relationship With God.
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Scripture
“If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that.
And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full.
But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”
Luke 6:32-36
Reflection
You must walk the path that God directs, not looking for a short-cut or smoother way. That means showing mercy to others even when it is easier to turn away. Lend or give money even if you don’t expect repayment. Love those who say they hate you. Love those who are determined to destroy you, ruin your reputation, take what you have, or make you feel less than who and what you are as God’s child. You don’t have to be buddy-buddy and affectionate to love someone. We can love in spite of their ignorance and inner ugliness because we know that God loves them. He counters hate with love.
Love is accepting their limitations, not trying to browbeat them for it.
Yes, I love those who hate, fear, loathe, and detest me. I love those who call me ugly while they spend thousands and thousands of dollars to look like me. I love those who say vile words about me because I know the truth is they actually fear and envy me, thinking I have or will have something that they think should only belong to them.
I live rent-free in their minds because they are obsessed with me and what I represent. Why else would they invest so much time, money, and effort trying to disrespect, dehumanize, discredit, devalue, and destroy me? It’s because, in their darkness, they see my Light. In their lack, they see my excess. They see God in me, and it repulses them. They listen to and conform to the lies that the enemy tells them, even when they think they are following and honoring the God of Jesus, Moses, Noah, Abraham, Esther, Mary, Debra, and others from our ancient past.
I see the god and gods they’re blindly or blatantly worshipping, and I forgive them for their stupidity. So, no, I don’t like what they say and do, but I love them despite their ways. I love them because I know they’re sick from the contamination of lies they have spent most, if not all, of their lives, digesting and believing. I know that they are plagued by a generational curse that haunts them. They are exhausted, and it shows on their faces and through their actions. That’s why I show them grace and mercy.
I love them because I know that the energy they pour out is weak and miserable, and the only Source of healing for them is God. The only salvation they have is God. So, I love them because I want them to see and embrace His Light. I want them to see the counterfeit for what it is and run instead to God. I don’t need their acceptance or apology. They need to do right by God. He is their Judge. He determines what happens to their souls.
I desire their realignment in God. I can only want that if I love them. I know who I am and to Whom I belong. I’m not trying to be like them, I’m trying to be like Him. I know my strength, power, and identity comes from Him. They are the confused ones. They are the lost ones. So out of love, I pray for their spirits and souls. It is all about God and about our role and purpose as ambassadors in Christ, building God’s Kingdom. It has nothing to do with your image, ego, pride, self-esteem, self-worth, bottom line, or personal brand. Be the Light you claim to be. Pray for your enemy. Touch a stranger’s life today, even with a simple act of kindness, and watch the ripple effect of God’s love spread.
Prayer
Father, daily I am working to be a better person in every way, in every situation, and to every person regardless of how they look, what they believe, or how they treat me. Father, it’s because of the value and importance of the heart that I strive to be better and do better. It’s not about them it’s about what’s in my heart. It’s about my relationship with You and strengthening our bond. I don’t want to disappoint You. I don’t want to disappoint myself.
I understand the importance of pouring Your goodness into a world plagued by Your opposite. Every day You pour into me and I want to pay it forward to all of Your children. I hope that we may grow in Your love, to love and help others, show grace and mercy, and reflect Your Light. Father, help me to grow closer to You and stand tall in Your confidence. I love You. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: You Keep Judging and Condemning. Whew, Aren’t You Tired Yet?
Audio Option
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Scripture
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”
Luke 6:37
Reflection
We spend so much time butting into other people’s lives and personal business that we fail to realize that we are stepping outside of the boundaries God set for us. We are in no position to say who sins more or less, who is going to heaven or hell, or who is evil or good. We’re supposed to be living our lives focused on being better people, better stewards, and loving everyone despite our differences.
While you’re screaming about someone going to hell, just remember to mentally prepare yourself to join them. Heck, you might be on their welcoming committee. Or you might find yourself sold out, and they aren’t sitting there in misery with you. Either way, a dumb look will be planted on your face!
We spend so much time holding grudges and carrying around the burden of our ego and pride that we never consider how freeing it would be if we only stopped and forgave those who wronged us. Unhinge that dead weight!
Forgive. Let go. Stop judging. Stop condemning people to a fate you would never wish on a loved one. Stop being ugly. Start living and start loving. Start allowing God to be your God, and then you can let go of pain, fear, anger, and shame as your gods.
Prayer
Father, I pray for a warmed heart to forgive those who have intentionally and unintentionally hurt me. I pray that my heart be filled with peace to not judge or condemn other people.
Father, my role in Your Kingdom is to be a good steward and ambassador, not serve as judge, jury, dictator, or ruler over Your children. It is not my place to say who is keeping or breaking Your commandments, or who is fulfilling their duties as Your ambassadors. You are the only Judge and I apologize for all of the times I have crossed the lines and forgot my place and position. Touch my heart Lord. In Your Name I pray. Amen.
I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others. Have an amazing day. I love you all—friends, family, associates—those near, those far, those traveling, and those that I only know through these Breaking Bread messages.
Copyright 2011-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: The Bold and Beautiful Truth About Our Relationship With God, Our Father.
Audio Option
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Scripture
“I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart.”
Jeremiah 1:5 NLT
Reflection
What God has intended for you, He doesn’t have intended for someone else. What is yours is yours, and what is theirs is theirs. What’s meant for you will be yours.
We need to stop hating and start celebrating. Give people their “props” for all that they have and all of their blessings. Stop disrespecting God by making comments that infer or directly state that His child didn’t earn or deserve their blessings.
God’s relationship with them is unique, and you have absolutely no clue what’s going on over there, just like they have no clue what your relationship with God is like or what He has planned for you.
Focus more on Him and less on you. Focus more on Him and less on what others have. Focus on Him.
Recite these words until they are your own:
“I WILL embrace my God-given uniqueness and celebrate the distinctions He has placed in others.”
Prayer
Father, there is no one who knows me like You. There is no source, human, being, spirit—nothing, that knows and understands me like You. You know my heart, no one else does. You made me like no other. I want to strengthen my relationship with You, Father. I want to embrace what I have with You. I love You. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2013-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: Examining the Intentionality Expressed in Acts 2
Audio Option
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Scripture
So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about 3,000 people were added to them. And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to the prayers.
Then fear came over everyone, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles. Now all the believers were together and held all things in common. They sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as anyone had a need.
Every day they devoted themselves ⌊to meeting⌋ together in the temple complex, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with a joyful and humble attitude, praising God and having favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to them those who were being saved.
Acts 2:41-47 HCSB
Reflection
When you truly believe, then you know what God can, will, and is doing for you.
When you hang around those who are negative, you will take on that energy and self-sabotage your blessings. When you hang around positive people, that energy becomes a blessing to you and to others that you encounter.
When you give into fear and forget all that God has already done for you, then you block potential blessings from coming your way sooner or at all. When you walk in confidence and with faith, you can both see and embrace all that God has in store for you.
When you are more concerned with receiving than giving, you will always be left empty. Givers always have a cup that runs over. Takers always see their cups as empty or not good enough.
When you selfishly pray only for yourself, you will find out what loneliness is all about. When you pray for others, your heart remains warm and full.
Stretch out of your comfort zone. Believe. Demonstrate. Be!
Prayer
Father, I ask that I may see what You need me to see, in order to survive, thrive, excel, and succeed— in life, in my Christianly walk, with my family, and in my career. Father, when You open doors and windows of opportunity for me, I pray that I not only see them but that I am strengthened to seize those moments. I pray that I can discern those individuals that You send my way, from those who have bad intentions.
Father, free my family from debt. Release the burden from their shoulders so that they might rebuild on a better foundation. Heal my loved ones of any and all inflictions. Restore the minds of my elders who may be struggling with reality, time, and place. Free them from the cloud that keeps forming in their minds so that they might truly enjoy their remaining days and years here on Earth.
Help me to be more financially capable of not just taking care of my needs, but to help those who go without. Only You are capable of doing these things and that’s why I am humbly asking You for these blessings, in Jesus’ name. I praise Your Holy name. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Copyright 2013-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Today’s Theme: Looking Deeper at Our Distorted View of Marriage — With Titles Come Responsibility and Accountability.
Audio Option
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Scripture
“In the same way, husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it—just as Messiah also does His community, because we are members of His body.” —Ephesians 5:28-30 TLV
Reflection
Let’s pick up where we left off yesterday. Let’s focus on the two things that so many of us resist and try to pass off to other people—responsibility and accountability. We do it often, and let’s stop denying it.
With Titles Come Responsibility and Accountability
Your title as husband or wife means nothing if you aren’t living according to God’s vision. The husband and wife are only honored in their positions if they are walking in God’s Light and deserving of the position. They must both be worthy of support and worthy of being followed. God determines our worth and rightness. If we’re not leading like Christ, then we won’t have true support from our spouse. The two must work together in God’s love, with the purpose and mission of being the example of Christ.
We must be shining examples of God’s bride, not Satan’s whore.
That sounds harsh, doesn’t it? Well, truth be told, it is. Let’s stop sugar-coating things. We have too many people casually getting married, adding children to dysfunctional arrangements, and then blowing up everything through nasty divorces. Then we wonder why people are rejecting the idea of marriage and parenthood. We have more people opting out because there are so many jacked-up examples of what not to do.
We aren’t taking marriage and parenting seriously.
That’s because God’s not the All-in-All of our lives and relationships. He’s the fallback default option for a quick reboot when our signal is buffering. You know, when you quickly unplug and replug or flip the switch off, then on, and you cross your fingers and hope all will be well. We never fix the issues; we just keep trying to find a new service provider or spend our days complaining. We don’t realize we’ve been tapping into a bootlegged or counterfeit source. If we weren’t so self-absorbed, we would see God as our one and only true Source, not just a convenient option we find on the FAQ page or 1-800 hotline.
As I said in my previous posts, I explore this and more in my Seek Him book series, be sure to find out more by visiting DOMELifePublishing.com
Prayer
Father, only You know my heart and what’s in it. You know what I desire and what I need. You are my Source, Provider, and my Protector. I am me because of You. I ask for forgiveness for each time I live my life different than what I profess. I apologize for not taking full responsibility for my actions and for resisting accountability so that I can be aligned fully with You. I’m sorry that I place more power in my fears than my faith in You. While You hold me accountable and tell me to look within, the enemy tells me to doubt You. I apologize for every instant when I doubt You and choose to do things my way. I want my confidence to rest solely in You.
Father, I want to walk with You with a boldness that can’t be shaken and an obedience that can’t be questioned. Help me Father to see the fear and act anyway, to push towards my truth in You, so that I never have to live a lie. I pray for discernment and clarity to see all people and situations as You do, so that I’m not operating from lack or confusion. I humbly pray to You with gratitude in my heart. Amen.
And with that family, I pray that you are blessed, that you see and embrace your blessings, and that you are a blessing to others.
Love,
Natasha
Copyright 2021-2023. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved. All Prayers and Reflections are Copyright Protected by Natasha L. Foreman. BreakingBreadWithNatasha.com
Breaking Bread With Natasha 