Breaking Bread For 3.23.23

March 23, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.

Jude 1:2

Reflection

We go through ups and downs. We try desperately to swim through troubled waters. We must face people who can sometimes be selfish, bitter, cold, mean, unfair, and unkind. We must endure situations that seem to tear away at us.

God never intends for us to be in situations that don’t make us stronger, wiser, braver, and more confident; He hopes we will turn to Him for guidance. It is when we try to make up contradicting rules, re-arrange and re-write His way, and participate in His plan only when we see fit, do we feel the friction that is caused by us going against His grain.

If you truly want mercy, peace, and love, then you must freely give it to others. You must pray that people receive them even when they aren’t showing you mercy, dealing with you peacefully, or embracing you and reflecting God’s love. We must show mercy, work to bring peace while reflecting it, and love people wholly for who they are as God’s children— and not for who we want them to be.

We have difficulties controlling ourselves and our own behavior, so who are we to try to control and dictate to others? Once we learn to let go and let God handle things, situations, and people— we will stop trying to do His job and just focus on doing ours. There is no human below or above us; we reign over no one except ourselves. We are to worship no one other than God. We are His servants, His children, His creations. Jesus is our Savior and the example we are to follow, and God is our Heavenly Father-Mother who reigns supremely over all.

When you have a genuine relationship with Jesus and our Father, then you know this, and you live your life accordingly.

Prayer

Father, I thank You for Your continued mercy, and for the ability to show and give mercy to others. I thank You for Your peace and love that fills me, so when I am faced with situations that are troubling I can be filled with a calm that quiets my restlessness, and allows me to be more receptive to You—and less bothered by what someone else does, says, or fails to do or say.

Father, when I am faced with difficult people or I’m being the difficult person, help me to find the peace within to walk away from conflict, and without disappointing You. Humans don’t always see ourselves as You do and because of that we are less willing to change our ways to be more like Your son, Jesus Christ.

I want to be more like Jesus and I know that the only way this is possible is to obey You at all times, doing what You ask of me, and not making my own decisions because I feel uncomfortable. That discomfort is the molding process I must undergo to be transformed into Your desired design. So I humbly accept what I must in order to become what I am destined to be. In Your Name I 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. Have an incredible day. Seek and show mercy, peace, and love.

Love,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.22.23

March 22, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.

In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.

A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.

1 Timothy 3:1-3, 8-13

Reflection

My dad used to always tell me, “Be mindful of the titles you give yourself and the ones you accept, as you will be held accountable to them and at a higher standard.” I think that some of us forget the weight, magnitude, and implications we assume and carry when we make the choice to accept a title or a role. Yes, family, with that title comes great responsibility.

When you have chosen to lead others through teaching, ministry, a family, or an organization—you are responsible and accountable for how your actions (or lack thereof) impact those people. You are serving as a role model; even if you’re not sure of all of the details, you know that folks are looking to you. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about doing what’s right, noble, honorable, respectful, and dignified.

Are you walking with God or trying to be Him? Are you properly managing the power that He’s gifted you, or are you careless and reckless with it? Are you taking care of those people and things that He’s entrusted to you, or are you being neglectful and abusive?

We know that historically the reference to leadership was oftentimes slanted towards men, and we tend to default to that even now, but God calls on us to lead and manage, regardless of gender, as He has individual and collective plans for all of us. So let’s not get caught up in the semantics and clouded by the lack of context, and instead focus on the matters of the heart, God’s heart, and how He wants us to engage with Him and with each other.

You must live a respectful life, treating others with dignity, being careful not to harm feelings, and being remorseful when you do; refrain from harboring ill will, grudges, and a laundry list of wrongs committed against you; love fully and intentionally, without backup plans and side deals; and never place your wants before the needs of those you love.

When you hurt someone, keep a vow to never do harm again. Try your best to right the wrong. Someone’s tears of pain and sorrow should never be something that you are okay with creating and witnessing.

If you control yourself, you will never feel as though someone else is succeeding at controlling you. When you respect others, you never have to fear losing respect. Put God first in all of your decision-making, and watch how He makes things fall into their rightful place.

Prayer

Father, I ask that those of us who wish to serve, who have been called to serve, who feel the presence over us to serve, do so with a full understanding of Your expectations. I pray that You touch the hearts and minds of those individuals who attempt to serve yet fail to take care of their moral responsibilities. I pray that You touch the hearts of those who fail to be faithful to their spouses and their families, and those who are struggling with being good managers of that which You have asked them to steward.

Curb my appetite for unhealthy things. Strengthen me that I might always seek comfort in You and not in this world. Turn me away from those things, places, and people that will distract me from You and our joint mission.

Let me not be self-absorbed, self-centered, selfish, superficial, and shallow. I desire respect so that is what I strive to give others. I humbly pray these words to You Father, in the Name of Jesus, 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

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

Breaking Bread For 3.21.23

March 21, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

Let your character [your moral essence, your inner nature] be free from the love of money [shun greed—be financially ethical], being content with what you have; for He has said, “I will never [under any circumstances] desert you [nor give you up nor leave you without support, nor will I in any degree leave you helpless], nor will I forsake or let you down or relax My hold on you [assuredly not]!”

So we take comfort and are encouraged and confidently say, “The Lord is my Helper [in time of need], I will not be afraid. What will man do to me ?”

Hebrews 13:5‭-‬6 AMP

Reflection

Things may come your way, especially during the times when you feel like you can’t handle one more issue. But trust and know that God is there for you, guiding and protecting you and showing you the way through paths of fear, lies, despair, heartache, turmoil, and inconvenience. The power of God is within you, and He wants you to realize this, embracing who and what you are.

He wants an intimate and authentic relationship with you. No substitutes for Him will ever measure up; no amount of money, things, or people can give you and do for you what He can. He makes possible the impossible. Do you believe it? Do you live each day with that belief in your heart? Don’t be a slave to fear. Don’t be a slave to the lies of the enemy. Be free in God’s Truth.

I read something that I want to share with you. It was written by Pastor Craig Groeschel for his Soul Detox Bible study plan. It said, “What you fear reveals what you value the most. What you fear reveals where you trust God the least. What things are you not trusting God with that you need to?”

When we believe, trust, and obediently follow God, fear dissipates; it loses power because we’re no longer investing our power in it. Ask yourself, what things are you not trusting God with that you need to?

If the words in today’s prayer, shared below, don’t resemble your current state of mind or spiritual alignment with God, say them anyway. Speak power to where you want to be. Speak God’s Truth. Say these words slowly and repeatedly until they resonate in you until you feel a shift in your energy until there is a “spark” within you until you can visualize yourself, as I’ve described in the prayer. Speak your truth!

Are you ready? Then let’s begin…

Prayer

Father-God, thank You for bringing me back to that place of peace and clarity. Thank You for never failing, and never letting me down. I will not be discouraged by what I see or don’t see. I will go where you say and follow as You lead.

I know You’re my Helper and You will make my crooked places straight. I know that the strength of the wicked is being cut off and the strength of the righteous will endure. I know that the enemy is always plotting, scheming, and attacking but I know that those efforts have no value, weight, or power against You.

I thank You for the courage, strength, and resolve to remain aligned and obedient to You. Even if I don’t know the where, when, why, and how, I will still walk as You say. In Jesus’ Name I pray to You and I praise 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.

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

Breaking Bread For 3.20.23

March 20, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Special Note

Today’s message is an excerpt from Day 240 in my book, Seek Him, Volume 2: Going Beyond Your Spiritual Comfort Zone. The theme of the message is “Supplement Faith.” You can acquire this book, the companion workbook, and the other books that make up the Seek Him series by searching for their titles and my name online and at local retailers. You can also visit DOMELifePublishing.com.

Scripture

For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with goodness, goodness with knowledge, knowledge with self-control, self-control with endurance, endurance with godliness, godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being useless or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. The person who lacks these things is blind and shortsighted and has forgotten the cleansing from his past sins.

— 2 Peter 1:5-9 CSB

Reflection

Humble yourself. Never forget who you are and to Whom you belong. We’re to stand tall in Him. We’re also supposed to actively demonstrate our commitment to the relationship that we have with God and our duties to be performed in the world. We’re told to create inside of us a lasagna of sorts. The base layer is faith, and then we’re to layer in goodness, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, brotherly affection, and top it all off with love. These are the fruits that we would possess and share. The fruits of God’s tree. Possessing these qualities puts us in perfect alignment with Him. I don’t know about you, but there’s no other place where I would rather be than nestled in close to God.

Prayer

Father, I pray for the balance needed to be loving and loved to forgive others and myself, and to have control over my emotions and actions. I pray for the endurance to see through this marathon of ups and downs, and the knowledge to discern the pattern of the enemy. I thank You now for these blessings. 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.

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

Breaking Bread For 3.18.23

March 18, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

“pray continually”

1 Thessalonians 5:17

Reflection

Throughout each day, pray. It doesn’t have to be extensive or even about you. Just regular conversation, like you would a parent, friend, or mentor.

When you see someone doing something wrong or harmful, say, “Father forgive them”. When you see someone being kind, courteous, or doing right, say, “Father continue to bless them,” and when you are faced with crippling fear, say, “Father strengthen me.” These are just some examples.

Sometimes long, drawn out prayers are the workings of a person who carries a burden they aren’t sure even God can conquer by their perceived deadline.

Or it’s from repeating what they’ve seen their elders do, so they do it too. They grew up in church hearing long prayers, sometimes very dramatic and theatrical prayers, and so they pray the same way. They heard repetitive phrases so they repeat the same phrases. But it’s not even their personality, their character, their energy. It’s not authentic and unique to them. They aren’t distinguished. They are merely parroting. How can God be intimate with you when you’re being and sounding like someone else?

Other times a person feels obligated to address every issue or concern, rolling out a long laundry list, as though God is unaware of what that person has gone through or is going through. These exhaustive prayers are oftentimes more for the person’s reassurance and re-commitment than anything. It’s more like self-talk than having a one-on-one with God.

And then there are some people who are mesmerized by their own voice, so they talk until they get tired, can’t think of anything else to say—or someone lovingly gets them to cease. We have experienced this at the blessing of meals. Leave it to them, our hot food would become cold, our cold food would grow warm, and all of it would be stale. 😄

I say this not to discourage you from prayer, or even saying lengthy ones— but rather to let you know that God does not shun you for the length of your prayers—He’s only concerned with the authenticity and sincerity of the prayer. He wants us to come to Him for all things, and be grateful for all that we have. He wants to see us grow and change, and be better servants in His Kingdom. He wants to have an intimate relationship with you, a relationship that is incomparable, immeasurable, and unimaginable. He’s not concerned with who can poetically pray the ‘best’ and for the longest, or who can say Father-God the most.

And don’t get me started on the repeated prayers for forgiveness and restoration. I’ve had to learn this the hard way. You begging for forgiveness over and over, every day or two, tells God that you don’t think He has forgiven you, and that’s because you haven’t forgiven yourself. That’s the issue you should be bringing to Him, helping you to forgive yourself.

And on those restoration prayers, you don’t need to keep reminding God about your bills and debt, or illness. He’s already resolved them. He’s just waiting for you to get into agreement, declare this truth, and catch up to Him.

Your repeated pleas once again carry doubt not conviction. So rather than beg why don’t you praise Him for reconciling your accounts, healing you, restoring you—because although you don’t see it and feel it, if you truly believe and trust, and know Him and His track record, then you would be celebrating now while you wait to witness your deliverance.

So you may not be ‘seasoned’ at praying, but you have experienced a great deal of ups and downs that you can be grateful for, and that you can ask for guidance to see you through. Speak with Him as you would a trusted loved one, mentor, coach, or friend. You don’t need the formalities. You just need to share your heart with Him. Open up and surrender. There’s nothing that you’re telling Him that He doesn’t already know. He just wants the connection and time with you.

And always remember to believe before you ask, know in your heart before you declare it with your mouth, and never stop sharing these intimate moments throughout the day with your Creator.

Prayer

Father, I am grateful for another day; grateful for Your love and care; grateful for Your Word; and for Your mercy. Fill me Lord with Your presence so that I am always present and receptive to the bounty of gifts that You share with me each moment of the day.

Thank You for this wonderful relationship that we have, where I can come to You and speak with You about any and all things, no matter how big or small. I don’t need a translator or interpreter, mediator or other third person to explain to me Your unwavering love. I don’t need a go-between to talk to You. All I have to do is pray and I know that You hear me. Thank You Father. In Your Name I pray, in Jesus’s steps I follow. Praising You always. 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,

Your sister in Christ

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

Breaking Bread For 3.17.23

March 17, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

A hot-tempered person must pay the penalty; rescue them, and you will have to do it again.

Proverbs 19:19

Reflection

Once you have positioned yourself to be the person with an uncontrollable temper, you find yourself in situations that lead to negative consequences. We must learn to control our reactions to our emotions, how we act, and what we say in anger, frustration, fear, and pain. We are spiritual beings who carry within us the power of God. We daily tap into that Source that we call energy, and that energy is powerful. We have a responsibility to responsibly use that energy. If you explode on someone, you release and give energy to that person. You can’t reclaim it, recycle it, or repurpose it. It’s gone. Wasted.

And I can speak from my own experiences when I’ve ‘gone off’ on someone after I just feel so drained, and then I’m wondering, “What in the world… how is it possible that I allowed myself to get to that point?” I gave up my power.

Self-control requires strength, awareness, and love; it doesn’t even have to be love for the other person; let it be rooted in your love for God, your self-love, and a desire to protect and preserve your inner peace. Self-control requires a desire and commitment to be aligned and in agreement with God through our speech and actions. It declares, “I am greater than my emotions.”

In turn, when hurt or disappointed, we have to choose whether to explode emotionally and release that energy verbally or physically or choose instead to take control of ourselves and look for more productive and positive ways to express what we are feeling and thinking. You have to choose if it’s worth giving up that energy to that person or situation. If you give it to them, then they control you.

Are you a puppet, easily manipulated and controlled? Someone pulls your strings, and you react. Is that you?

Now let’s be clear, yes, there are times when your spouse, significant other, children, pets, neighbors, family, friends, co-workers, employees, or the random person on the street will work your absolute last ‘nerve,’ but our reaction to them shows more about our inner self, and our heart, than anything else. What you do and say will create a domino effect that could impact a great number of people, possibly hundreds, in one single day.

At the same time, we also can’t be responsible for a hot-headed person who is quick to anger. If we always make excuses for their behavior, run behind them fixing their messes, and let them get away with being mean and disrespectful—never holding them accountable, we enable them, and they will see their behavior as acceptable, continuing to repeat it—and you will grow more and more miserable. You will then create an endless and vicious cycle of ugliness.

That’s toxic! Is that how you want to invest your time and energy? Neither of which you can reclaim once spent.

We must work towards ridding ourselves of darkness and staying away from people who are not mature enough to keep their emotions in check. No one should live in fear or under stress caused by others. I get it; some folks we can’t disassociate from, either because we live with them or work beside them, but we can limit how much time we spend around them and how much energy we give them. Peace comes from within. Protect it at all costs.

Before ‘going off,’ let’s work at walking away and calming down and then reassessing the situation after we have calmed down. You are responsible for yourself, your behavior, and the words you speak. Stop giving your power away!

Prayer

Father, I thank You for this day, for this moment to come to You with my concerns. You already know my circumstances. You know what’s happening in this world. I ask that You calm me when my emotions begin to bubble and surface. Comfort me in times of pain and anger so that I may control my emotions and actions, and get in agreement with You.

Touch my heart Lord, so that I find the peace within to choose patience to endure, overlook, or walk away from unbearable situations and people. I believe that better is possible, that better is before me, and that You will always make a way out of the impossible.

Show me how to control my tongue. Show me how to simmer my temper, so as not to be an eyesore in Your Kingdom. Teach me how to walk upright, with composure and dignity. In Jesus Name I 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.

Love,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.16.23

March 16, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

“Why do you call Me good? ” Jesus asked him. “No one is good but One — God.

Mark 10:18 HCSB

Reflection

We tend to focus all of our attention and accolades on God’s creations rather than give Him the glory 100 percent of the time. Jesus put people in check about this constantly, and as the man who ran up to him calling him “Good Teacher” found out, Jesus once again put things into perspective that he was not to be regarded as good, but that God, as the Source and Creator is all that is good, and is the only being to be identified in that light.

That is beyond deep.

But let’s gain some perspective. In English, we have a limited view of the word “good,” and in many ways, we minimize the magnitude of what it means. How many of us would say, “It was good, but it wasn’t great,” not even realizing that great is actually less than “good.”

What???? Oh yeah. Let’s get in it.

For English speakers, when referring to the Bible and the cultural and linguistic context, we oftentimes butcher the meanings and intent. It’s not surprising, then, to find that different passages of scripture have different translations for the word “good.” The Hebrew word is “tov,” as in “Mazel tov,” which means good fortune/luck. But we also find that in Hebrew, the word can be transliterated as “tobh,” which has many meanings depending on the context in which it’s said or written. I learned this through reading a 2015 post from the Plymothian blog.

In Genesis 1, we see that the word “good” is used many times. This is not a mistake or just a lazy placeholder. Everything that is written in the Bible is intentional. Always pay close attention to repetition. The repetitive use of the word “good” is placing an emphasis on the works that God was performing and how He viewed His work. There is what one could call a powerful fullness, richness, and awareness of things being as they should, working and functioning as intended, flourishing, and being as envisioned. Complete and whole.

God is behind the design. It is His vision manifested. His goodness, His essence is infused in the work, in the creation. It is good because He is good. It is the rawness and His refinement that make it so. This was the original plan. Through sin, man fell and distorted our sense of self and identity as we became entangled in the design of the flesh and the influences of this world.

Jesus is seen as the savior for mankind, the son of God, the wayshower, but even as God’s perfect creation, Jesus never walked around touting and parading his role. Heck, he wouldn’t even consider answering to being called “Good.” He knew that in the flesh, there was the blotch of sin, and being born in that sin, Jesus wouldn’t dare to claim the fullness and all-ness of what “good” represented then and should represent now.

Look at us today. Some people would go beyond calling themselves good; they would say they’re superior, the best, the greatest. And they would answer to these descriptors. But ironically, none of those words stand tall next to God, saying that it is “good,” that you are “good.”

Wow, let that sink in.

Jesus knew his place and humbly served in his role. He never took his title and position the way many people would today if given the opportunity. Even when he healed people, he told them to tell no one (even though he knew they would be blabbermouths), but he just wanted to help, save, heal, and bless others through God’s power—and he knew he had limited time to do these things. He knew the fanfare could bring unwanted attention at a time when hearts and minds wouldn’t quickly credit God but would default to assuming the work was done by the authority of Satan.

Jesus worked strategically to remain aligned with prophecy and God’s direction.

That is a humble servant. Jesus understood that the source of all is the Father and that he was to show people the way to Him, not try to get attention or accolades. He knew he had to be last to be first—the principle he taught his disciples when they argued over who was the best [read Mark 9:33-35].

Consider the source of all that you have. Look at everything you have achieved in life, inventory all of your possessions, and then honestly answer this question—who really gets the credit for all that you have and all that you are? And is that which you are pursuing “good”?

Prayer

All that I need comes from You. You are all that I need Lord. No human, animal, spirit, thing, or object can be a true substitute for You. No matter how much time and energy I give to someone or something else, I am never whole and complete, or truly satisfied. I am who I am through You. It is only in and with You that these realities are possible. I am what You say I am. I will do what You call me to do. Keep my eyes on You Father. In Jesus’ Name I humbly 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.

Love always,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.15.23

March 15, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.

Proverbs 21:30

Reflection

No matter what someone does, God will always prevail. No president, king, queen, prime minister, imperial leader, dictator, or anyone else. The enemy can’t overpower our God. The creations are limited to the designs and parameters given by their Creator.

So stand tall in victory, for God can and will make a way out of no way. Don’t be discouraged by what you see. Don’t doubt simply because you can’t see something. If God says it’s there, it’s there. If God says it’s coming, then you can guarantee it’s coming. Be patient, obedient, and positively proactive in the wait.

He can lead you out of valleys and over the steepest of mountains. Do you trust and believe? You must believe before you act, believe before you speak. If you believe and trust Him, then walk tall in His confidence.

Prayer

Father, I will follow Your plan for my life. There is nothing and no one greater than You. So there are no better options and sources, and that means there is nothing and no one I should fear derailing Your plan. My efforts and disobedience can never overpower Your plan. I just painfully delay, through my foolishness, what was coming to me. But even my interference comes at no surprise to You. You already knew what I would do and planned for it.

All that I have ever earned was through Your will and loving grace. I thank You Father. Thank You for loving me as only You can. I praise You and give you all of the glory, in Jesus’s 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.

Lovingly your sister in Christ,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.14.23

March 14, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

Then they came to Capernaum. When He was in the house, He asked them, “What were you arguing about on the way? ” But they were silent, because on the way they had been arguing with one another about who was the greatest. Sitting down, He called the Twelve and said to them, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”

Mark 9:33-35 HCSB

Reflection

The only title and role you should be concerned with are that of servant. I truly believe that people get caught up in titles, roles, pecking order, seniority, the rungs of ladders they are on, and so on and so forth. We end up with big-head syndrome, feeling all too important.

Instead of life being about you and your feelings and a sense of entitlement—let it be about how you can be of service to God and a help to others.

How can you be a team player, not an obstacle?
How can you bring value rather than drama?
How can you contribute rather than hinder?
Instead of shutting down, how can you work to do your part to make things work?

In everything that we do and with all job descriptions, there’s a responsibility that we seem to overlook or forget, the part that says, “…and duties as assigned…” What I mean by that is our job in life, or even with a company, is never confined to just a set amount of tasks.

As new things pop up, we must adjust and accept more responsibilities or simply different ones. People struggle with change, we claim we want it, but when it comes, we say, “That’s not what I signed up for…” Or “That’s not in my job description!” Are you serious? If you are not open to change and all that comes with it, don’t place yourself in situations and roles where acceptance of change is necessary.

If you want a promotion, raise, to be married, have kids, a new car or house, to own a business—whatever it is—you either must accept that things will eventually come as “duties as assigned,” and you must take the reigns and march forward—or don’t accept the position at all. That means don’t strive forward for things that require ownership, struggle, more work, persistence, pain, longer hours, more patience, accountability, and having to do way more than you ever expected.

People truly think life is about them. That is why we struggle so much. This existence and our experiences are all about God and our journey realigning back to Him. Ponder that, and then share your thoughts.

God bless you all!

Prayer

Father, let me always be humbled to remember my place as a servant. Let me always lift others up without concern with how I’m placed in the “mix” of things. Let me serve with love even in frustration. Let me serve with kindness and patience even with the most difficult of people.

Let me never react to life but respond as You direct me. Open my ears to listen and hear. Open my eyes to see and have vision. Open my mouth to share wisdom but close it before I utter anything unloving or ignorant. Warm my heart to be receptive.

Bless me with discernment Lord. In Jesus’ 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.

Love,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.13.23

March 13, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Special Note

Today’s message is an excerpt from Day 187 in my book, Seek Him, Volume 2: Going Beyond Your Spiritual Comfort Zone. The theme of the message is “Absolution.” You can acquire this book, the companion workbook, and the other books that make up the Seek Him series by searching for their titles online and at local retailers.

Scripture

“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”

Isaiah 1:18

Reflection

We may obsess over our sins and worry whether or not God has or will ever forgive us. God has always said that if we repent, ask for forgiveness, and not repeat the sin, then we are not only forgiven, but He moves on as though we never disappointed Him. There are things that we struggle to forgive ourselves for. Let go. God did. You keep holding on to something that has been reconciled by Him. Let go. If you still haven’t forgiven someone for hurting you, pray for the strength and courage to forgive, and then let it go so that your healing can begin. The peace that will ultimately enshroud you will be your reassurance that all is well. Let go!

Prayer

Father, heal me, protect me, and forgive me for my wrongdoings. Help me to let go, forgive, and accept forgiveness. In Jesus’ Name, I humbly 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!

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.12.23

March 12, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Special Note

Today’s message is an excerpt from Day 168 in my book, Seek Him, Volume 2: Going Beyond Your Spiritual Comfort Zone. The theme of the message is “No Limits.” You can acquire this book, the companion workbook, and the other books that make up the Seek Him series by searching for their titles online and at local retailers.

Scripture

Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding: He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.

Daniel 2:20-22 KJV

Reflection

We have to be connected and present to notice that times and seasons are changing; we have to be willing to change and grow with them. We can’t be concerned with the how, when, what, or why —just let God do what He does. The only limits to what you can receive in life are the ones that you place upon yourself by thinking you can overrule or rush His will. When we walk courageously, fearlessly, respectfully, and selflessly with God — there are no limits — because He always provides the Gate.

Prayer

Father, today I open my heart and mind to receive all that You have for me. I will be present and willing to accept today’s lessons and blessings, not concerned about yesterday or tomorrow. I trust that You are with me directing my steps. Thank You for helping me grow in every area of my life. 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 your sister in Christ,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.11.23

March 11, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.

Romans 2:1

Reflection

The things you don’t like in others are oftentimes the characteristics that you also possess, the behaviors you also exhibit (or used to), and the same energy that you put into the world—maybe packaged differently, but it’s there. It’s like staring in the mirror and being repulsed by what you see, and then you strike out at the mirror.

We’re all hypocrites. We all lie. We judge but don’t want to be judged or condemned but cry out about injustice when we are condemned. We take use and abuse that which isn’t ours. Don’t believe so? How well have you been stewarding this land, the planet, water, animals, and the ecosystem? Yeah, like I said…

We’re selfish and can be self-centered and absorbed in all things self. Don’t think so? Listen to someone share their experiences, heartache, and struggles, and then listen to your voice form the words that shift the attention off of them and place it solely onto you, where you now dominate the conversation one-upping their adversity with your own experiences, all while thinking you’re helping them.

You’re not pointing them toward God. You aren’t centering the conversation and issues on God as the solution. You aren’t speaking the truth to the lies the enemy has convinced this person to believe. No, you have made it about you and why the person shouldn’t boo-hoo so much because you’ve experienced the same or worse, and so their story and experiences are not unique, and blah blah blah. We all do it. We’ve all done it.

We’re all flawed. There’s not one of us who doesn’t fall short of Jesus’s example, and heck, if we’re honest with ourselves, we fall short of living up to the examples of many of the great servants of our Heavenly Father.

Passing judgment leaves you wide open to being judged. So think twice before opening your mouth, spreading lies, and false prophesies, trying to fix someone else, and claiming to have the answers and know it all, and claiming to be blameless. Untwist that self-righteous knot that rests between your cheeks (and I will leave it to you to decide which cheeks I’m referring to). Stop trying to control the narrative, people, things, and circumstances.

You can’t even control yourself.

But if you want to focus your energies somewhere, focus on that. Control your mouth, the thoughts that you allow to form as words— understanding the power that lies in each word. Control your behavior. If you wouldn’t do it or say it in front of Jesus, then don’t do it or say it. Start there! That should keep you busy and less focused on meddling with other people.

Prayer

Father, keep me focused on doing right, speaking with love, and thinking of how best to serve You and Your Kingdom.

Hold my tongue before I speak ill of someone, pass judgment; and respond out of anger, fear, or envy. Place the mirror of Truth before me so that I always see my faults before I attempt to point out someone else’s. In Your Name I humbly 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.

Love,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.10.23

March 10, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD.

Proverbs 21:30

Reflection

We see the darkness within the world, and we feel terrified that it will only get worse with no relief, no resolution. But we forget the God that we serve when we allow that doubt to creep in. Do things sometimes not get worse before they get better? We see this throughout history, throughout the Bible.

Looking at our personal experiences, don’t we see that with healing— where we’ve been diagnosed with something or injured, and it has grown and worsened over time, and then one day, we start to see the healing take over. The issue begins to shrink and be less noticeable. God had already healed it; we just took longer to see it because we were too consumed with what our eyes saw and ears heard and what we felt with our flesh. We were caught up in fear when He wanted us celebrating with faith.

God has the solution before the problem surfaces. If we believed in that without doubt, we would see the immediacy of His actions in real-time, not delayed. Things take longer because we’re so caught up in our flesh and feelings that our issues take precedence over Him.

He’s always showing us that He’s here, working hard for us. He always shows us signs, but we’re oftentimes looking for theatrics and something entertaining to share as testimony. God isn’t here to entertain us. He wants a relationship with us. If you want entertainment, there’s plenty of performers you can watch. If you want a genuine, authentic, nothing-like-it-anywhere relationship, then God is your Partner.

Let me address something to the cynics and skeptics who tend to want to play devil’s advocate for some reason [why would you want to advocate for the devil? I don’t know].

Yes, there are times when we don’t heal, when we succumb to our injuries or diseases. Yes, babies and children leave this existence before we’re ready. It doesn’t seem fair when they transition.

No, I don’t see it as God’s punishment, nor do I see it as His oversight. I simply see it as part of our realignment and transition to our next assignment. I see it as part of the alignment that may spark our loved ones and future generations to answer their calling to do more and be more— maybe heading foundations, clinics, and projects as advocates in our memory. Maybe it inspires someone to answer their call to be a healthcare professional, researcher, etc.

For those of us who have experienced miscarriages and/or stillbirths, I say to lean more into Him and less into your own understanding. Read Proverbs 3:5. Read it. Let it become all of you. Let it marinate in there. Because there is a reason for all things, and God’s love and care are never absent. Don’t carry that guilt or shame. Neither was assigned to you.

I believe that God’s original plan was for humankind to live forever, just like His other heavenly creations. We know that man fell, and with that, we’re supposed to be doing our part to be reconciled back to God so that His original plan may be fulfilled. It’s taking us longer because we keep sinning and keep worshipping creations instead of the Creator, but that doesn’t mean God tosses away His plan.

I don’t know if our loved ones who have transitioned from this life are in a holding pattern somewhere or were reassigned to a life somewhere else; all I know is what I’ve read time after time through studying my Bible—God wants all of us to one day be together, and I won’t stop believing that my loved ones look forward to reconnecting with me in the future, just as I will always expect to do the same.

If you don’t see things the same way (or similar to) what I’ve shared, you are entitled to your opinion. Just don’t poo-poo on other people’s views and opinions simply because they don’t align with yours.

No matter what we think or do, no matter who we pray to, nothing will stand in God’s way.

This proverb of Solomon makes clear that no matter what someone does, God will always prevail. No matter what forces stand against you, nothing can overpower your Heavenly Father. Nothing and no one will derail His plans. So stand tall in victory, for God can and will make a way out of no way. He can lead you out of valleys and over the steepest of mountains, through waters you thought you could never swim, and along paths, you could never independently navigate.

It requires your participation. You’re going to have to walk with Him to be led into and out of situations. This isn’t a passive relationship. This is the most engaging and passionate relationship that you will ever have—if you invest in it.

You have to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Heck, He already knows everything there is to know about you—past, present, and future—so surrender yourself to His will so that you can get the most out of it and be positioned to invest the most of yourself in it.

There are forked roads and splintered paths, with so many options that you can get dizzy from the confusion. But God is never puzzled, never stumped, never without a solution.

Do you trust and believe in Him? Do you believe He has your best interests at heart? Do you put your faith (support) in Him? If so, then seek Him in all ways and all circumstances, and walk with Him.

Prayer

Father, I follow Your plan for my life. There is nothing and no one greater than You. I worship only You. My efforts and disobedience can never overpower Your plan. All that I have ever earned was through Your will and loving grace. All that I will ever be is through Your love and favor.

I want to be more engaged in our relationship. I want to invest more of myself into what we have together. I don’t want to be passive, entitled, expecting You to do all of the work. I want to do my part. I want to commit to You in all of the ways that I commit to me.

Nothing compares to what we have and I love You more and more each day that this fact is crystallized. I thank You Father for everything, past, present, and future. 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 your sister in Christ,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.9.23

March 9, 2023Natasha 1 Comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?”

Mark 8:36 TLV

Reflection

Do the things we desire and dream about actually align with God’s plans for us? Are the things that bring you joy today also the things that could sustain you for a lifetime?

If you didn’t receive another tangible blessing, would it be enough?

Are you content with the life you have, or do you want more because you’re never satisfied?

Are you content with the life you have, or are you just settling because you don’t think that God has greater in store for you?

Many of us walk around attempting to acquire and aggressively collect as much “stuff” as we can in fear that our time is more limited than we think, so we can’t afford to wait on God to take care of what we believe we need. Oftentimes we miss out on the greatest of blessings and experiences because we are too focused on lack and how to turn that lack into gross abundance.

Yes, in our current physical state, we have a limit of time before this flesh we wear as a tent/shell expires. But there’s no limit to what God can do. God has been trying so many different ways to make us see and embrace His Truth and Reality. He provides examples and speaks to us through different people.

He’s trying to remind us of who we are, what we are, and to Whom we belong. He’s trying to remind us to stop thinking through the lens of our will and begin desiring the movements and manifestations of His Will. He’s also trying to remind us that as long as we do things for our glory, the thrill, and celebration are always short-lived. But when we do things for His glory, we have a lifetime of joy.

God wants us to take in the richness of relationships and experiences, not just the stuff He helped us to create.

Think about the consumer mindset many of us struggle with. Now ask yourself these questions:

With this mindset, what are you willing to sacrifice to gain that abundance?
What and who are you willing to neglect or use to make sure that every free moment you have is locked on reaching that ultimate goal of excess?
What are you willing to sacrifice to get what you want?
At what cost?
If you get what you desire, will it truly be enough, or will you still want more… more… more?

We keep supersizing things, and we’re still not happy; we’ve become hoarders of things, and we still feel a void. That’s because we’re still seeking joy in all of the wrong places. We’re operating out of a state of lack because God isn’t the Chairman and CEO of these plans you’re executing.

We’re still not satisfied with God being more than enough, so we begin to worship things like money, cars, jewelry, and stuff we wouldn’t have, whether heaven is on Earth or in another dimension.

Consider your actions versus your prayers for God’s reassurance of the action already taken. Are you a sell-out to the world, or are you sold on God’s promise?

Prayer

Father, I am appreciative and grateful for all that I have, and thank You for blessing me with every idea, thought, skill and item. I thank You for each person that has been made a part of my life. It has been rewarding sharing and learning with them.

Let me always think of the impact of my decisions before I make them. Let me always weigh how what I might say or do could affect others. Let me always pray to You first for guidance and protection, and trust in You to guide me throughout circumstances.

I only want what You say that I am worthy of, and I desire no more than what You believe I should have. If this very moment I took my last breath, I declare that You have given me more than enough. I praise You and Thank You.

I love You!

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

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

Breaking Bread For 3.8.23

March 8, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults.

Psalms 19:12

Reflection

Sometimes even when we look in the mirror, we don’t truly see ourselves. It is not until we admit that we are blinded by fear and self, and fear of self, can we take the next step in making things right in our lives as God intends. It’s not about shame. It’s about authenticity and being aligned with God.

What are you really seeing when you look in the mirror? Do you really hear the words that are coming from your mouth?

Do you think we can spend our lives analyzing, counseling, and judging others yet never truly turning inward on ourselves to address our own issues? We can’t tell others to get spiritual, psychological, or medical treatment by trained and licensed professionals if we fail to do so ourselves.

We must practice what we preach. That also means that we must turn to God to reveal our truths so that we can do, speak, and think right by Him. There are no excuses. Let’s stop short-changing ourselves.

Prayer

Father, whatever I don’t see please show me. Whatever ways I am not aligned with Your plan, please forgive me and then redirect me. I expect Your discipline when I’m not self-disciplined. I want to improve. I want to do better and be better in all ways, to all people.

I don’t want to walk around judging, critiquing, and criticizing other people through my self-righteous lens. I am no better or no worse, and only through humility can I correct this imbalance that I carry within.

Forgive me for my phoniness. Forgive me for the shame I carry and the shame I cast upon others. It is not of You and I want to be free from it. I ask for deliverance. I thank You now for my realignment. To You I give all the credit and 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,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.7.23

March 7, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:30-31

Reflection

We all get tired, but God will reenergize us. He carries us when we stumble, fall, or are too weak to walk. Isaiah 40:28 says that He never grows tired or weary, and we can’t possibly fathom His understanding.

Line 29 says that for those of us who are weary, He gives us strength, and He increases the power of those who are weak. This isn’t something that just happens to the older folks; nope, line 30 shows that even youngsters can grow tired and weary. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. You can only grow tired because you’re exerting energy. You’re putting in the work, and you need a re-boost and reboot.

What God wants us to do when we get tired and weary, when we stumble and fall, is to believe in Him and hope for Him to renew our strength. There is not a need He cannot meet, a wound He cannot heal, an issue He cannot resolve. But do we truly believe this?

Do we have the utmost faith (support) in Him that He can do all things? Do we trust and believe what is written in line 28, that He is the everlasting God, Elohei Olam, the Creator of the ends of the earth, Boreh Ketzot HaAretz?

Oh, imagine life with total faith, trust, dependability, and worship of God and only God. Now that’s living! That’s soaring, never growing weary, never fainting, no matter how long and far we walk. There’s no worries because we put all of our trust in our Heavenly Father!

Prayer

Father, thank You for my renewed strength. Thank You for always revealing Yourself to me in different ways and scenarios, and showing me that You are always here. The things that many would see as coincidences I know to be You, the loving Parent, standing nearby looking after me.

Thank You for the angels and messengers that You send to guard, guide, instruct, and enlighten me. There is no greater than You. There is no other place that I would rather be than with You. Thank You for loving me. I love 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.

Have an amazing day!

Love,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.6.23

March 6, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Note

Today’s message comes from Day 228 in my book, Seek Him, Volume 2: Going Beyond Your Spiritual Comfort Zone. The theme is “Without Hesitation.”

Scripture

There he found a man named Aeneas, who was paralyzed and had been bedridden for eight years. Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and make your bed,” and immediately he got up.

Acts 9:33-34 HCSB

With the same conviction that Peter commanded Aeneas to get up, without doubt, or hesitation, Aeneas stood up. Aeneas believed without question. He believed in God’s healing and in God’s servants’ ability to heal through His power. He believed in the name of Jesus (Yeshua). He could have said, “Man, are you crazy? I’m paralyzed, and I’ve been stuck in this bed for eight long miserable years; there’s no way that I can get up and make my bed; how could I possibly be healed just because you say I am?” But Aeneas didn’t say a word. He didn’t sit there pondering what Peter said for several hours or even several minutes. Nope, he immediately got up. How awesome would life be to have that level of belief? Think about it.

Prayer

Father, heal me of all inflictions, fears, doubts, and pain. I believe that there are no limits to You and Your healing power. I believe that You sent Your son to give us hope, to show us the way to You, and to show us how to live our lives and love others as You intend. You sent Jesus to show us who and what we are, and just as we are in You, You are in us. Your power and Light live within us. Father, I want to respond like Aeneas without hesitation. In Jesus’ Name, I 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. Check out Day 228 in my book to complete the Speak Your Truth section that follows the prayer. And you can go deeper by completing the corresponding activity in the companion workbook, Seek Him Workbook 2. If you haven’t purchased either book, you can find them, and the other books that make up my Seek Him series, online and through many local retailers. I hope that they bless and enrich you!

With love,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.5.23

March 5, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

“I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust!”

(Psalm 91:2, AMP)

Reflection

Our words have power. We speak our existence. We also speak of our confidence in God’s ability to make right the wrong. When we speak fearfully, negatively, arrogantly, and cynically, we then declare through our words our perception of the limited ability of our Father. When we speak with faith and humility, we declare His limitless abilities in our lives and the lives of others, and our commitment to His plan. We can speak words that heal, uplift, and empower, or we can speak words that poison, harm, emasculate, or suppress others.

Whatever we say after the words “I,” “Me,” and “My,” we fuel, empower, and deploy into action. If you say, “I am depressed,” then it becomes your reality, albeit a pseudo-one. Have you ever struggled with your body weight and wondered why none of the diets, fads, and workout programs seem to work long-term? It’s because your lifestyle is dictated by the thoughts you convert into words that you empower to rule over you. You speak your defeat and then self-sabotage. You may not even notice the self-deprecating statements you make, like “I’m fat,” “Uugh look at my flabby _____”(fill-in-the-blank), “Oh nobody’s interested in me and my big ole’ _____” (fill-in-the-blank), or “Let me sit down with my big _____ (fill-in-the-blank) as though I’m skinny or something.” You thought it, so you spoke it, and unbeknownst to you, you have used your power to declare those words as your reality. So year after year, the weight stays and possibly packs on even more for added insecurity and companionship for the misery.

We do the same thing in our relationships, whether platonic, romantic, work-based or within our family units. What we say about ourselves and the people in those relationships and our predictions of the success or failure of engaging with them will help to dictate the actions thereafter.

Many of us struggle academically, professionally, or personally because we can’t let go of the disappointment from a past failure. One failure does not make you and all that makes up your world a failure, not unless you give it the power to enslave you to the past. Even if you failed 100 times, that doesn’t make you a failure. But giving up does. Imagine if David had given in to the idea that his past failings meant he was a failure. He learned to turn to God and pour out his heart so that he could discern truth from lies, fact from fiction, and God’s ways versus satan’s. It wasn’t fast or easy, but it was necessary. He used music and writing to express what was going on in his mind and heart. He began to learn how God’s grace and mercy helped, healed, molded, and realigned him. He went from feeling lack to being overwhelmed with abundance, from feeling alone to always feeling God’s presence. He began to nurture and appreciate his relationship with God and his relationship with himself. David freed himself from his self-bondage, and so can you and I.

Free yourself by freeing your mind, your heart, and your mouth. We do this by not dwelling on our thoughts. Let that energy process, store, and discard information without you obsessing over the details. It’s not about you trying to control your mind, but rather, it’s about learning to control your reactions to the ideas and images your mind provides as snapshots. Your heart can be freed by not allowing the energy of thoughts to marinate into destructive feelings that you allow to trigger reckless action. Acknowledge the thought and the feeling, and when there is concern or question, turn it over to God, or at least learn to set it aside in the “To Be Determined” folder. By doing so, we can learn to be more responsible and mature with our mouths and the words that flow from them. We can also work on our mouths by quickly correcting false or harmful words that we speak and acknowledging our wrongs rather than trying to hide behind a lie. When you say something mean to or about someone, it’s quickly intervening and saying, “I shouldn’t have said that. It was mean. I’m wrong for that.”

It takes humility, wisdom, and practice to master anything; it is never easy, but it’s always worthwhile.

Questions to Consider

1. What examples can you share of how when you declared God’s Word, you were blessed?

2. Share a time when you spoke negatively and were then impacted negatively, and you immediately felt a connection between the two experiences?

3. After reading (or listening to) today’s message, do you take note of how powerful your words are in and to your life?

Feel free to share your answers, prayers, comments, and reflections in the comment section below. You can also send me an email at: breakingbreadwithnatasha@gmail.com

Please also feel free to share this message with others. We’re never quite sure who needs to hear and see what and when! It would be awesome if whenever you run across a prayer, message, or scripture that moves you, you would kindly share it with the rest of us. You can post it on this blog or send me an email.

Prayer

Father, I thank You for this day, for Your loving care, the words You speak over Your children, and our daily provisions. I am grateful for the relationship I have with You. I’m learning more and more about our connection, my identity, and what it truly means to be of You. What You speak manifests. And what I’m learning is that the same is true for me when I speak the words that come to my mind. There is great power in my words. I can heal or harm with my words and often, quicker than I could physically.

When I speak of You, I don’t want to be nonchalant or casual. Words have meaning and application, and I want to ensure that I thoughtfully apply those words when I speak of You. I need to do the same when I speak of myself and others. Father, I come to You to ask that You help me responsibly master the selection and application of words with the intent of always glorifying You. I want to represent You and our relationship well. I love 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.

I love you!

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.4.23

March 4, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

Sing to the lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp.

Psalms 147:7

Reflection

I don’t know about you, but I love love love music. I love all types of music. I love classic rock, 80s and 90s pop, R&B, funk, soul, classical, EDM, country, jazz, blues, Neo soul, gospel, gospel rap, alternative, and Hip Hop (but not today’s mush mouth rap).

If you didn’t know, I teach college business courses. Yes indeed. I’m a college professor. Before I get my classes started, I take on the role of DJ for my students, and I crank out some music to get their spirits lifted, their minds engaged, and their bodies energized. It doesn’t matter if my class is online or on campus; we’re about to get pumped up for two to three minutes at the beginning of my class. It’s amazing how many of my students could have entered the classroom tired and drained, but within two minutes, they are pumped up and feeling great. I usually select classic rock, 80s pop, EDM, or instrumental Hip Hop (because I can’t risk the lyrical content in most hip-hop songs). We can like a funky beat, but we have to always be mindful of our environment and the content of the songs. What we let in will remain and grow or fester.

I make sure to end our class the same way, with music playing—and my students absolutely love it. I enjoy doing the same thing in my master classes, webinars, and trainings that I facilitate in my role as a consultant through Foreman & Associates, LLC.

Music is unifying; it crosses all barriers and can reach all people. It can alter our mindsets and depending on the music you play, that can be a positive uplifting thing or a negative. I mean, I don’t feel like hugging folks and skipping down the street when I’m listening to music that was designed to trigger my anger, outrage, or hostility. To keep it real with you, 99 percent of the time, gangsta rap makes me want to slap someone, not hug them. I want to DDT someone with extreme force. If you’ve watched wrestling, then you know what I’m talking about.

Songs about the cheating spouse or the person willing to destroy a marriage by pursuing the married man or woman—those types of songs don’t bring me peace; they make me roll my eyes in disgust. I start thinking about DDT moves. And ratchet music, well, it’s just ratchet, which puts me in judgmental mode. So I’m mindful of the music that I play and the intention behind my music selection. What am I trying to do by listening to the music? Am I interested in singing or rapping the lyrics to the song? Do I just love the beat? Is my spirit uplifted, or does it feel dragged to the depths of darkness? What energy am I letting in? Does the booty popping, I’ll-take-your-man song leave me open and exposed to temptation and the traps of the enemy? I’ve got to think about it before I agree to be entertained by it.

Don’t make the mistake of playing gloomy or rage music just because you’re down in the dumps. You’re supposed to play the opposite. You’re supposed to be declaring your belief and faith in God, not succumbing to your circumstances. When life gets you down, holler out and praise the Lord that you are here to experience one more moment. Crank up the music and sing songs that honor Him and make you want to rejoice the life He’s given you. If you can, clap your hands. If you can, get up and dance. Let your body sway to the sweet harmonies inspired by our Heavenly Father.

I feel uplifted, like I’m flying. That’s the kind of high that we should be aiming for, not that artificial nonsense. Feel the love. Feel the vibe. Feel the life. Feel the light. Feel the Spirit running through you with glee, and smile!

Prayer

Father, I praise Your Holy Name. I praise You for the blessings You grant me that I know that I don’t deserve. I praise You for the lessons You teach me and the people You bring into my life. I praise You for each moment that I’m given to learn and experience new things, meet new people. I praise You for the gifts of song, music, lyrics, melody, and instruments. Let me never take these gifts and blessings for granted.

I love You Father. I sing and dance in Your Name, giving You all of the glory. No matter what comes my way I know that You are always here for me. No matter who steps in my path trying to block my progress, You always deal with them as only You can. I worship only You, Father. I trust You, Father. You are Jehovah Jireh. You are El Shaddai. You are the great I Am. In Your Name I pray and praise. 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, Your Sister in Christ,

Natasha

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

Breaking Bread For 3.3.23

March 3, 2023Natasha Leave a comment

Audio Option

Please click on the audio player below to listen to today’s message. Thank you!

Scripture

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Romans 8:2-4 KJV

Reflection

God sent Jesus to prove in the “flesh” that man’s laws and thinking would always be dwarfed by God and that man’s mind was limited in capability and power compared to God’s Mind.

Jesus had to come in the flesh and demonstrate the daily walk that we are called to follow. Had he arrived solely in the Spirit, humans would have immediately felt it impossible to be like him, for they would always be limited by the mortal mind. It would have been accepted to see a Spirit, an Angel walk across water, heal the sick, raise the dead, cast out demons, cleanse lepers, and be perfect in all ways. People knew them to be Heaven-sent. But when you see another human doing these things, through the power of God and not sorcery, that was mind-blowing for the people. Just as it would be for us today.

But Jesus’ arriving in the flesh was also for his benefit, for God wanted him to relate and understand the temptations and traps of the flesh, to feel the highs and lows of human emotion, the illogic and impulsiveness, the inconsistency of commitment and discipline, and to top it all off—the trickery of the father of lies—who constantly bombards the human mind with lies. Had Jesus just appeared in the Spirit, he wouldn’t have been able to fully comprehend the ways of humankind. His frustration with our ignorance would have been a distraction, and he would have probably blundered the steps toward fulfilling prophecy. Jesus had to come and be born a human baby, raised as a human child, nurtured into manhood, and experience life through that perspective. He developed relationships with people. He learned how to teach because he had 30-plus years to study, be taught, and be immersed in human behavior and experiences.

Everything was done intentionally, with purpose, and by God’s design.

Jesus did the will of our Father and proved that man’s devices and self-imposed authority were (and still are) limited, flawed, and false. He healed sickness and disease through God’s law of Mind and Truth. The power of the mind and the declaration of words to heal is the same power that we use to become and remain sick. We channel that power and speak truth to heal or speak lies to remain sick.

Jesus even showed his disciples how to heal. Yes indeed. Regular Joe Blow, the farmer, was healing people by applying Jesus’ teachings and guidance and believing that he could. Most importantly, the people being healed believed that healing would come. This proves the power of Mind over matter. It proves the power of our words. What we believe most in we give power to, but nothing is more powerful and expansive than God. So when we believe in God’s healing touch, blessings, and redemption, nothing can block their manifestation.

God wants us to be free of sin. He wants sin to die so we can stop being spiritually dead.

Death comes from sin. There is separation from God in sin. Jesus came to help us see this, to help us see the importance of realigning, atoning, repenting, and living as we should. He showed us how to deal with the temptations of Satan and how to be successful with the tests of God. Satan’s temptations are to destroy, while God’s tests are to correct and strengthen us.

God sent Jesus to demonstrate that we are spiritual beings having a human experience and not the other way around. It is implied, teased, subtle, and lightly woven throughout parts of the Old Testament. But it is not boldly stated and embraced, for the people were being conditioned to see, think, and worship differently. They were being transitioned and transformed from their old self with their old ways to become new believers and practitioners.

Everything was done when it needed to be done. Too soon, and it would have been too much. Even today, I don’t think that most of us can truly grasp, fathom, and accept what it means to be a spiritual being. We are still very much caught up by the flesh and this shell we carry around, this tent we haul from place to place.

When you read the New Testament accounts of Jesus post-resurrection, they did not actually recognize him. He had to make clear that he was their rabbi (teacher). When he transformed at his resurrection, there was something clearly different about him. That first level of transformation altered their perception. He wasn’t just glowing; he was changing. His looks and his voice were changed. Then right as he was ascending, he was no longer limited and bound in and of the flesh. He reached the level many of us wish to achieve one day.

If you believe the Book of Revelation, and if you believe some of the statements that Jesus made (as recorded in the books of Matthew, Luke, and John), some of us will not be blessed to transform and see our true selves. Our failure to stop sinning, our failure to believe, trust, and have faith (support) in God, may keep us cut off from a beautiful reality that God has wanted for each of us. Ponder that.

Prayer

Father, You have sent countless messengers to show us the way and Your Truth. You sent Jesus to make us see, to show us how, to prove what we can do, and to show that we give power to darkness when we give in to the flesh. You have proven to us the limited reality of our human flesh and the lie that we keep buying about who we are.

Father, forgive us for choosing man’s laws and limited thinking over Yours. Forgive us for buying into a man-made story for our lives. There is no greater than You, no truth but Yours, and no better place to be than with You.

Forgive me for my weakness, fear, and lack of total faith. Forgive me for not always wanting to see what awaits me in the forest, for complaining throughout my walk, for being fearful when You told me to be strong, and for thinking I’m too tired to do what You ask but then finding the energy to do something that satisfies the flesh. I pray to be made whole in and through Your Love. In Jesus’ 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.

Love,

Natasha

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

Audio Option

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Special Note

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Special Note

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this:

Audio Option

Special Note

Scripture

Reflection

Prayer

Rate this:

Share this:

Like this: