https://www.injoyslife.com/blog daily 0.75 2024-02-20 https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/injoying-the-word-girls-gone-gospel monthly 0.5 2024-02-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/956aa9a5-6190-4e7c-bcec-5e64bec68c2d/tempImageNf2lz8.jpg Blog - InJoying the Word: Girls Gone Gospel - My Gospel Gear as We Journey ————Helpful Links———— Note taking Bible Ball point pens Bible highlighters Tony Evans Commentary The Bible in 52 Weeks Devotional https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/girlsgonegospel monthly 0.5 2024-02-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/a23fe505-8990-4682-8b89-1d8bf624de1e/tempImagek69dZa.jpg Blog - Girls Gone Gospel: The Bible in 52 Weeks - So why are we here right now, ya ask? Well, I’ve seen women all over my socials reading Dr. Kimberly D. Moore’s, “The Bible In 52 Weeks: A Yearlong Bible Study for Women,” and kept feeling a pull to just buy the book. But, also, taking it a step further, the first few weeks of this year have been full of other “aha moments”. In this season, I’ve been praying that Jesus help me and my loved ones to be more self-aware and for us to all come to know Him intimately…and what better way than taking out several moments of our days to just be immersed in His presence through the word. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/67246ec5-f968-449b-aacd-453179a54e4c/tempImagef4Ev45.jpg Blog - Girls Gone Gospel: The Bible in 52 Weeks - My Toolbox as We Journey (Helpful Links) Note taking Bible Ball point pens Bible highlighters Tony Evans Commentary The Bible in 52 Weeks Devotional https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/22fe9f6b-8791-43af-b9df-9656104f30b6/tempImagew0VIMc.jpg Blog - Girls Gone Gospel: The Bible in 52 Weeks - Hello, hello, hey, hello, hello! So happy you’re here. If you know me, you know I’m an avid reader: always reading something from Bookstagram, Booktok, something the Fantasy girls are raving about. But in the recent past, I kept hearing God tap me on the shoulder in the snarkiest way possible saying, “But can you get in your Bible like that, though?” Every time I would hear His voice, I’d think to myself the ways that I would wake up and immediately read the verse of the day, or I would make sure to pick up a small devotional like Jesus Calling. And honestly, that’s fine - there’s no true rule book on how any believer should walk their walk, but I know a personal fact for me is, I’m not giving Him all I’ve got. I’m doing the whole, praying while I move around and that’s also fine, but why not take some dedicated time in my day truly seeking God through His living word. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/7240fdce-d116-4b24-9633-8efe87142cf5/tempImageMJDcRR.jpg Blog - Girls Gone Gospel: The Bible in 52 Weeks - He wants the Ninety-Nine, Too The other part of this is that although Jesus went back for the one, He also wants to ninty-nine. My thought there is that Jesus called us all, but He also called community. I think that it’s so easy for us as women: wives, mothers, sisters, friends, entrepreneurs, colleagues, and the list keeps going; to forget the community that we need as we go through the day to day. It truly takes a village but also, “as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). And with that, we truly need each other to be our best selves. So, if you’ve talked to me in the recent day or so or someone sent this link your way, join us in reading through His word this year. I am believing for bigger, better, greater, all of the things, more than any of us can ask, think or even imagine. My personal goal is waking up every morning at 4:00a (which is my true sacrifice to God, because me and sleep go together real, real, real bad), but I implore you to join in on your own rhythm. https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/rise-ashes monthly 0.5 2023-12-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/e129f6a1-a649-43d9-acdb-84fd5443b3a0/IMG_9732.jpeg Blog - Rising from the Ashes: Scriptures for Beating Burnout - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/jingelbellshenanigans monthly 0.5 2023-11-29 https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/sleep monthly 0.5 2022-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/6257b9e7-2910-4c66-8aee-306598b31be3/sleep.jpeg Blog - Somewhere In Btwn Sleep Training and Not Sleeping - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/jamisen-clover monthly 0.5 2022-01-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/444610db-17ad-4677-8efb-7d505417dfda/IMG_1028.jpg Blog - Jamisen Clover - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1642369647093-F4MK4TEJLRCX9ADCQVWN/IMG_0992.JPG Blog - Jamisen Clover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1642369647869-VWPQQ99PPP77LYRH082I/IMG_1006.JPG Blog - Jamisen Clover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1642369661654-B5JCUGGXTRH8ZUR2OZSQ/IMG_0948.JPG Blog - Jamisen Clover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1642369662464-J5364PA8BF4C9D6WXGM3/IMG_0999.JPG Blog - Jamisen Clover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1642369672829-HQHIOHRY3ZO700VXWN3U/IMG_0945.JPG Blog - Jamisen Clover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1642369672583-6VEAUVZ7VDSJ2L8NX7IW/IMG_0938.JPG Blog - Jamisen Clover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1642369684167-J5Z61CP1FE0RQ764I4KZ/IMG_0960.JPG Blog - 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Jamisen Clover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1642369728865-N9OY8V7N7GMO1K6S0CCG/IMG_0957.JPG Blog - Jamisen Clover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1642369731642-MWGTMK3H1TPIVO1RXOMT/IMG_0939.JPG Blog - Jamisen Clover https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/hello-twenty-twenty-two monthly 0.5 2022-01-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/ed510924-3cb5-48ba-a6db-572d1ac06a1c/tempImage8T0VZn.jpg Blog - Hello Twenty-Twenty-Two - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/pumpkin monthly 0.5 2021-01-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1610487179899-GDK9XOZW4AO5LO3C7IJI/IMG_0013.JPG Blog - Our Little Pumpkin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1610487179893-MK0WNN05JLU6NS0WSSCE/IMG_0029.JPG Blog - Our Little Pumpkin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1610487181429-6AM1GFD767V3Q7FJLYFW/IMG_0011.JPG Blog - Our Little Pumpkin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1610487181293-IYZALTYNJHM1KUUX5HUR/IMG_0027+2.JPG Blog - Our Little Pumpkin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1610487182234-OC1675V2IKC8QIOSZ429/IMG_0025.JPG Blog - Our Little Pumpkin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1610486942696-C3Z0ARZKP7EWCRTVRKTN/IMG_0627.jpg Blog - Our Little Pumpkin - Well, of course, I had none of those details etched out in my mind, so, Brittany sent me over several different mood-boards of options for themes and we decided to go with a BoHo Pumpkin Patch. Brittany then gave three different package plans on decor, vendors, etc. that fit the theme that we were going for and after we chose a plan. 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Eight Months In https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598393770254-73NS7965OA8Q1TOOY81T/DH5A6728.JPG Blog - Eight Months In https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/8ih83f7vpqdryis3r9sdpfw1jtvzwc monthly 0.5 2020-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598393993476-AM9OO6UXRNMO73NTJZLT/IMG_4518.JPG Blog - How We Wonder What You Are https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/thecircleoflife monthly 0.5 2020-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598394167504-TWPWVPYPGAGHYAOIF7I4/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Circle of Life https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/jm4r8nku1vsozyz68t3sjswjcq22l9 monthly 0.5 2020-08-26 https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/category/Travel monthly 0.5 https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/category/Relationships monthly 0.5 https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/category/Mommy+and+Me monthly 0.5 https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/category/Wife+Life monthly 0.5 https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/category/Health monthly 0.5 https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/category/Culture monthly 0.5 https://www.injoyslife.com/blog/category/Sports monthly 0.5 https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word daily 0.75 2025-02-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/c9573a41-025a-4959-817e-08d3efc27b26/injoying+the+word+Main+Logo+2400x1800.jpg https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfiftytwo monthly 0.5 2025-02-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fifty-Two: Access Granted - Reflections Have you ever bemoaned a door that seemed closed to you? Could you see God in it in any way? If you had a choice to obtain the keys to walk through any door you desired, which door would you want access to (e.g., healing, financial freedom, career)? If you could permanently close a door, which would you choose (eg, job, relationship, the past), and why? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fifty-Two: Access Granted - GraceNotes - My Reflections Revelation 3:8 I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. God sees you—your faithfulness, your struggles, your obedience. Even when you feel unseen or unappreciated, He knows your deeds. And the doors He opens? No one can close them. If you’ve been waiting for clarity or breakthrough, trust that God’s plan is unfolding in His perfect timing. Stay faithful, because what He has for you is already secured. Revelation 12:11 They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Victory isn’t about our strength—it’s about Jesus. His blood has already won the battle, and our testimonies are proof of His power in our lives. The enemy wants us to stay silent, to shrink back in fear, but we overcome by standing firm in our faith and sharing how God has moved in our lives. Don’t be afraid to speak on what He’s done—your testimony might be exactly what someone else needs to hear. Revelation 21:4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. This is the promise we hold onto. No matter what we go through, this world isn’t our final destination. Every hardship, every heartbreak, every moment of suffering—it’s all temporary. God Himself will wipe away our tears, and the pain we’ve endured will be no more. This verse reminds us to live with eternity in mind, knowing that ultimate restoration is coming. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1738419184866-G1LUDFWHR3TXEWWE4MBP/unsplash-image-88ILyifLwBw.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fifty-Two: Access Granted - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Revelation 1-3 Day 2: Revelation 4-7 Day 3: Revelation 8-11 Day 4: Revelation 12-15 Day 5: Revelation 16-19 Day 6: Revelation 20-22 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfiftyone monthly 0.5 2025-02-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fifty-One: If You Love Him, Prove It - GraceNotes - My Reflections James 1:2-3 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Joy in trials? Sounds counterintuitive, right? But God isn’t saying to enjoy the struggle—He’s telling us that even in the hard moments, there’s purpose. Every challenge refines us, strengthens us, and deepens our dependence on Him. So, when life feels like a never-ending obstacle course, remember: you’re not just going through it; you’re growing through it. Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. We don’t have to tiptoe into God’s presence like we’re asking for a favor. He invites us in boldly, knowing that His grace is abundant and His mercy is never-ending. No matter how messy, anxious, or doubtful we feel, He’s ready to meet us where we are. 1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. Fear is a heavy burden, and it tries to keep us from fully trusting God. But His love is stronger. When we truly grasp how deeply He loves us, fear loses its grip. We don’t have to live afraid—of failure, of the future, or even of not being “enough” for God. His love is already enough. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1738418775723-6W50GTPPI7NPQWN4UH61/unsplash-image-c-nwPHy2W0E.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fifty-One: If You Love Him, Prove It - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Hebrews 1-7 Day 2: Hebrews 8-13 Day 3: James 1-5 Day 4: 1 John 1-5 Day 5: 2 John 1, 3 John 1 Day 6: Jude 1 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fifty-One: If You Love Him, Prove It - Reflections What's your love language? How difficult or easy is it for you to show love to others who don't show love to you? How have you proven your love to God lately? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfifty monthly 0.5 2025-02-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fifty: Use Your Gift - Reflections Have you discovered what you are gifted to do? What are your gifts? Do you know what your purpose in life is? What is it? What events can you recall that may have contributed to the manifestation of your purpose? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fifty: Use Your Gift - GraceNotes - My Reflections 1 Timothy 6:6-7 But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. In a world that constantly pushes us to chase more—more money, more status, more stuff—Paul gives us a sobering reminder: contentment is the real treasure. We entered this world empty-handed, and we’ll leave the same way. The only thing that truly matters is our relationship with God and how we live out His calling. This doesn’t mean ambition is wrong, but if our drive for “more” replaces our trust in God, we’ll always feel like we’re lacking. True contentment comes when we trust that God is enough—when we recognize that His provision, His presence, and His promises outweigh anything we could accumulate. So instead of striving for what’s temporary, let’s chase after what lasts: godliness, gratitude, and a life that honors Him. 2 Timothy 1:7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline. Fear has a sneaky way of creeping into our lives, whether it’s fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown. But Paul reminds Timothy—and us—that fear isn’t from God. The Holy Spirit equips us with power, love, and self-discipline, meaning we don’t have to shrink back when challenges arise. God has given us the power to stand firm in our faith, the love to serve and forgive others, and the discipline to stay the course even when it’s tough. So the next time fear tries to paralyze you, remind yourself: you are Spirit-filled, God-equipped, and called to walk in boldness. Fear has no say in your story—God does. 1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. God isn’t just aware of our worries—He actually invites us to throw them onto Him. He doesn’t want us carrying the weight of our stress, uncertainty, or pain alone. He cares deeply about what concerns us, and He’s strong enough to handle it all. But here’s the thing: casting our anxieties on God isn’t a one-time act. It’s a daily practice. Every time worry creeps in, we have to make the intentional choice to hand it over to Him, trusting that He’s in control. So instead of holding onto what’s weighing you down, release it into His hands. He’s got you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1738418647490-I0TBUVH20HB3Q6WMOCDF/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Fifty: Use Your Gift - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 1 Timothy 1-6 Day 2: 2 Timothy 1-4 Day 3: Titus 1-3 Day 4: Philemon 1 Day 5: 1 Peter 1-5 Day 6: 2 Peter 1-3 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfortynine monthly 0.5 2025-02-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1737823874714-5J06RENO02JL298IOFHD/unsplash-image-tepm2Q8OdKQ.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Nine: Go For It! - This Week’s Readings Day 1:Galatians 1-6 Day 2: Ephesians 1-6 Day 3: Philippians 1-4 Day 4: Colossians 1-4 Day 5: 1 Thessalonians 1-5 Day 6: 2 Thessalonians 1-3 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Nine: Go For It! - GraceNotes - My Reflections Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. This verse is for me - for anyone who feels weighed down by perfectionism, guilt, or the constant need to prove themselves. Paul reminds us that Christ didn’t die for us to live chained to legalism or the expectations of others. Freedom in Christ means we are no longer slaves to sin or shame—we are free to live boldly and joyfully in His grace. But let’s be real: freedom requires a fight. The world will always try to pull us back into old patterns, whether it’s people-pleasing, self-doubt, or chasing things that don’t satisfy. Paul’s charge to “stand firm” is a call to plant ourselves in God’s truth, remembering that our worth is in Him alone. Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us. Have you ever prayed for something and then God answered in a way that completely blew your mind? That’s the essence of Ephesians 3:20. God’s power isn’t just sufficient—it’s abundant. He doesn’t just meet our needs; He exceeds them in ways we could never predict. But here’s the catch: this verse isn’t about getting everything we want. It’s about trusting God’s ability to work in and through us, even when we can’t see the full picture. His “immeasurably more” often looks like unexpected growth, deeper peace, or new opportunities we didn’t know we needed. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. This is one of the most quoted verses in the Bible, but let’s not mistake it for a hype-up line before a big moment. Paul wrote this while sitting in a prison cell, not on a victory stage. His “all things” wasn’t about personal glory—it was about enduring hardships and staying faithful in every circumstance. Christ’s strength doesn’t always look like a dramatic rescue or an instant win. Sometimes, it’s the quiet perseverance to keep going, the courage to trust Him in uncertainty, or the grace to love others when it’s hard. Whatever you’re facing, this verse reminds us that we’re not doing it alone—Christ is our strength. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Nine: Go For It! - Reflections What is a goal or dream that you have talked yourself out of, and why? What group of people is assigned to your life? In what way do you impact their lives the most? How has your past influenced or affected your potential future? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfortyeight monthly 0.5 2025-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Eight: Getting Back to Where I Was - GraceNotes - My Reflections Ezra 3:11 With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord: ‘He is good; His love toward Israel endures forever.’ And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid. This verse captures a moment of pure joy and gratitude as the Israelites rebuild the temple after years of exile. They aren’t celebrating a finished product—they’re praising God for the foundation. Let that sink in. How often do we wait for the “big win” to give God glory? This verse reminds us to celebrate the small beginnings, the steps forward, and the foundations God is laying in our lives. It’s not about having it all together; it’s about trusting that He’s good and His love endures forever, even in the early stages. So, take a moment today to thank God for the foundations in your life—the relationships, the opportunities, the lessons. It may not look like the finished product yet, but if God is in it, it’s worth celebrating. Nehemiah 4:14 Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes. When Nehemiah and the Israelites faced opposition while rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, this verse became their rallying cry. Nehemiah didn’t sugarcoat the challenge—they were up against real threats—but he reminded them that God is greater than any obstacle. And here’s the kicker: their fight wasn’t just for themselves; it was for their families, their community, and their legacy. In our own lives, this verse calls us to stand firm in faith when challenges arise. Whether it’s spiritual battles, personal struggles, or protecting our loved ones, we’re reminded to keep our eyes on the One who is “great and awesome.” God equips us to fight, not in our strength, but in His. So, when the enemy tries to shake you, remember who you’re fighting for and who’s fighting for you. Nehemiah 8:10 Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. This verse comes after the people of Israel hear the Word of God and are overwhelmed with conviction. They’re grieving their past mistakes, but Nehemiah steps in with a message of hope: don’t get stuck in sorrow. The joy of the Lord—His presence, His promises, His love—is what will sustain and strengthen you. This is a reminder for us, too. Life has its moments of regret and reflection, but we don’t live in those moments. God’s joy lifts us out of despair and reminds us that His grace is greater than our failures. So, as you face whatever lies ahead, lean into the joy that comes from knowing you’re loved, forgiven, and empowered by the Creator of the universe. That joy isn’t just a feeling—it’s your strength. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1737223459328-8TXUDVJFAWSXAXR5Z3VB/unsplash-image-q10VITrVYUM.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Eight: Getting Back to Where I Was - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Ezra 1-5 Day 2: Ezra 6-10 Day 3: Nehemiah 1-3 Day 4: Nehemiah 4-7 Day 5: Nehemiah 8-10 Day 6: Nehemiah 11-13 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Eight: Getting Back to Where I Was - Reflections Life happens to all of us, but what is one personal thing that fell through the cracks for you while you were focused on doing something for others? When you feel you're under spiritual attack, how do you handle it? Who do you talk to about it? If there were one thing you could ask God to restore for you personally, what would that be? Why? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfortyseven monthly 0.5 2025-01-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Seven: Expect It, See It, Achieve It - GraceNotes - My Reflections Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love, He will no longer rebuke you but will rejoice over you with singing. This verse feels like a warm hug from heaven. Picture God, the Mighty Warrior, fighting for you and then pausing to sing over you. It’s the perfect mix of power and tenderness. God doesn’t just tolerate you; He delights in you. He’s not sitting up in heaven with a checklist of your mistakes—He’s rejoicing over you like a proud parent at a recital. As you step into this week, remember: you are loved, cherished, and celebrated by the Creator of the universe. Haggai 2:9 The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house, says the Lord Almighty. And in this place, I will grant peace. Let’s talk about comeback seasons. This verse reminds us that God isn’t just in the business of restoration—He’s in the business of exceeding expectations. What’s ahead is better than what’s behind, even if it doesn’t feel like it yet. Whether you’re rebuilding dreams, relationships, or faith, trust that God’s glory will shine even brighter in your future. And the best part? He’s throwing in His peace as a bonus. Malachi 3:10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. Now, let me tell you, growing up, my parents made sure that if I got $1, Jesus got $0.10. And baby, let me tell you, I wanted some lemonheads, not to share that money. But here’s the thing: that discipline has been a game-changer in my life. I won’t lie—I’ve got some serious loose spending habits (I want it, and I want it now), but I’ve learned the hard way that when I keep Jesus at the center of my finances, He opens doors I didn’t even know existed. There have been plenty of times when I’ve looked at my bank account and thought, “I really don’t feel like tithing today.” But you know what? I do it anyway. I give with love, gratitude, and a little bit of faith, and I’ve watched God show up in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Surprise checks, unexpected blessings, and riches that aren’t even just financial—He’s always faithful to open the floodgates of heaven when we trust Him with our resources. Tithing isn’t just about money—it’s about aligning our hearts with God’s will. It’s a reminder that everything we have is a gift from Him, and when we give back, we’re participating in something bigger than ourselves. God promises that when we honor Him with our finances, He’ll bless us in ways that go far beyond the dollar signs. So, if you’re holding back today, take that step of faith. Test Him in this, and watch how He pours out more than you could ever store. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1736623717188-FXDAN3VUA3CJ27UDET4D/unsplash-image-RECZjSWMPVI.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Seven: Expect It, See It, Achieve It - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Zephaniah 1-3 Day 2: Haggai 1-2 Day 3: Zechariah 1-5 Day 4: Zechariah 6-10 Day 5: Zechariah 11-14 Day 6: Malachi 1-4 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Seven: Expect It, See It, Achieve It - Reflections How do you see yourself: average, great, or neither? Why? Do you have high expectations for yourself, your family, and/or your career? If so, what are those expectations? If not, why? Have you ever found yourself comparing your abilities to those of others? How did that help or hinder you? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfortysix monthly 0.5 2025-01-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Six: Thank God for Grace - Reflections What is your personal definition of grace? Do you have a thorn in your flesh? What is your thorn? What do you do when you've prayed and God doesn't respond the way you want Him to? How do you handle it? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1735955895488-7UM00Q98KKYCHWF17JER/unsplash-image-9Gg_D6eLnC0.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Six: Thank God for Grace - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 1 Corinthians 1-4 Day 2: 1 Corinthians 5-8 Day 3: 1 Corinthians 9-12 Day 4: 1 Corinthians 13-16 Day 5: 2 Corinthians 1-6 Day 6: 2 Corinthians 7-13 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Six: Thank God for Grace - GraceNotes - My Reflections 1 Corinthians 1:27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. If you’ve ever felt unqualified, overlooked, or like you don’t quite measure up, this verse is for you. God has a way of flipping the script, using the unlikely to do the unimaginable. The world may look for power, credentials, and clout, but God looks at the heart. He takes the broken, the weak, and the underestimated and turns them into vessels for His glory. So, if you’re feeling less-than, take heart—God’s strength is made perfect in your weakness. Your “not enough” is exactly where His “more than enough” shines. 1 Corinthians 13:2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. Let’s be real: this verse is a gut check. You can have all the spiritual gifts, all the accomplishments, and all the faith in the world, but without love? It’s meaningless. Love isn’t just a nice add-on; it’s the whole point. And not the easy, surface-level kind of love, but the kind that’s patient, kind, and selfless—the kind that looks like Jesus. This verse challenges us to check our motives and make sure love is at the center of everything we do. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how much you know or achieve; it’s about how well you loved. 2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. If there’s one thing we all hate, it’s feeling weak. But Paul flips the script here, reminding us that our weaknesses aren’t liabilities—they’re opportunities for God’s power to shine. When we stop pretending we have it all together, we make room for His grace to do what we can’t. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember: it’s not about your strength; it’s about His. And His grace? It’s more than enough. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfortyfive monthly 0.5 2025-01-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1735389647211-XUEG7AITF9UVBP8Y9V8A/unsplash-image-LdciZKOLBlY.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Five: Waiting on God - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Obadiah 1 Day 2: Jonah 1-4 Day 3: Micah 1-4 Day 4: Micah 5-7 Day 5: Nahum 1-3 Day 6: Habakkuk 1-3 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Five: Waiting on God - GraceNotes - My Reflections Jonah 4:2 I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Let’s set the scene: Jonah just preached the shortest sermon in history (a whole five words in Hebrew), and Nineveh—the most savage, wicked city—actually repents. But instead of celebrating this miracle, Jonah throws a tantrum. Why? Because God didn’t smite them on the spot. Jonah’s salty because he knows God’s heart too well—gracious, compassionate, slow to anger, and overflowing with love. And honestly, aren’t we all a little Jonah sometimes? Think about it: we love God’s grace when it’s directed at us, but when it’s extended to someone who wronged us? Suddenly, we’re ready for fire and brimstone. Jonah reminds us that God’s mercy doesn’t operate on our terms. His love isn’t limited, conditional, or petty like ours can be. Instead, it’s boundless and relentless, even for the people we’d rather see canceled. Let this verse challenge you to reflect God’s heart in your relationships. Love big, forgive freely, and remember that if His grace can cover you, it can cover anyone. Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 is one of those verses that hits like a mic drop. God doesn’t need your rituals, your perfect attendance at church, or your ten-point Bible study notes. What He’s asking for is simple (but not easy): justice, mercy, and humility. Let’s break that down. Acting justly? That means standing up for what’s right, even when it’s inconvenient. Loving mercy? That’s showing compassion, even to people who don’t deserve it. And walking humbly? That’s recognizing that it’s not about you—it’s about Him. This verse calls us back to the basics, but don’t mistake “basic” for easy. It’s easy to say you’re about justice, but will you speak up when it costs you? Mercy sounds great until it’s your turn to forgive someone who hurt you. And humility? Whew, that one’s a lifelong journey. But here’s the good news: God doesn’t just require these things—He empowers us to live them out through His Spirit. So, let’s commit to living lives that reflect His heart, one small step at a time. Habakkuk 3:17-18 Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines… yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. Habakkuk is out here giving us a masterclass in faith. He’s looking around at a world that’s falling apart—no crops, no livestock, no hope in sight—and yet, he chooses to rejoice. Let’s be real: this kind of joy is not the “happy-clappy, everything’s fine” kind. It’s a raw, defiant joy that says, “Even when nothing makes sense, I’m trusting God anyway.” This verse challenges us to stop basing our joy on circumstances. Life will have its seasons of scarcity—financial struggles, broken relationships, unanswered prayers—but God’s goodness doesn’t waver. Habakkuk shows us that joy rooted in God isn’t about ignoring reality; it’s about anchoring yourself in a deeper reality. So, the next time life feels like it’s on fire, take a page from Habakkuk’s book: lift your hands, praise through the pain, and declare that God is still good, even in the waiting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Five: Waiting on God - Reflections Think of a time you prayed for God to answer, but He didn't answer the way you wanted Him to. How did you respond? Is there currently something you've been praying about that God has not answered? How long have you been waiting for an answer? What will you do about it now? When God doesn't answer, how do you normally handle His silence? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfortyfour monthly 0.5 2024-12-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Four: God Is Making It Up to You - Reflections Think of one of the most major losses you've had to endure. How did you handle it? Can you say that you have learned any valuable lessons from your season of loss? What were they? After your loss, can you see the hand of God moving in any way? If so, in what way? What was your gain? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1734869610099-8ACFMZDOQHQX3PEHSQW8/unsplash-image-HiwzkvG5c0c.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Four: God Is Making It Up to You - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Hosea 1-5 Day 2: Hosea 6-10 Day 3: Hosea 11-14 Day 4: Joel 1-3 Day 5: Amos 1-5 Day 6: Amos 6-9 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Four: God Is Making It Up to You - GraceNotes - My Reflections Hosea 6:6 For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings. God is essentially saying, “Keep your rituals if your heart isn’t in it.” This verse hits hard because it reminds us that God isn’t impressed by the outward appearance of faith. You can serve on every committee, show up to every Bible study, and even tithe faithfully, but if your heart isn’t tender toward others and anchored in Him, it’s just noise. Mercy is relational—it’s about how we treat others. Acknowledging God isn’t just a nod in His direction; it’s about living like He’s the center of our lives. Let’s stop striving to perform for God and start being present with Him, letting His mercy shape how we move through the world. Joel 2:25 I will restore to you the years that the locusts have eaten. This verse is one of God’s greatest promises to those of us who’ve felt the sting of loss. The locusts—whether they’re bad decisions, missed opportunities, or circumstances beyond our control—seem to devour everything good in sight. But God doesn’t leave us in despair. He’s a God of restoration, and His promise is that nothing is wasted. Those lost years? He’s redeeming them in ways you can’t even imagine. This isn’t just about getting back what you lost; it’s about gaining something even better—peace, purpose, and joy rooted in Him. So, if you’re feeling like you’ve lost too much or it’s too late, remember: God’s not done writing your story. Amos 5:24 But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream! This verse is a mic drop moment. Amos is calling out people who love to appear righteous but fail to live justly. God isn’t interested in our polished facades or empty gestures; He’s looking for action. Justice isn’t a one-time event; it’s a river—constant, powerful, and life-giving. Righteousness is the steady stream that nourishes everything around it. It’s about living with integrity and making sure others experience fairness and dignity. This verse challenges us to ask, “Am I about the kingdom or just the aesthetic of it?” Let’s not just talk about justice and righteousness—let’s let them flow through our lives like a force that can’t be stopped. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfortythree monthly 0.5 2024-12-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Three: His Mercy Endures - Reflections What is your personal definition of mercy? If you had to name three things you're thankful for that didn't have to do with money, what would those things be? Have you ever found yourself in a space where you can admit that you were ungrateful or failed to be thankful? Explain. Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Three: His Mercy Endures - GraceNotes - My Reflections Psalm 136:1 Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever. Psalm 136:1 is one of those verses that just sticks, right? It’s a verse I keep tucked in my heart because it reminds me of a truth that keeps my faith grounded: God is good. Not “sometimes good,” not “good when life is easy,” but always good. To have that crazy, unshakable, blind faith, you have to fully believe that even when things don’t feel good, even when life is messy and hard, God still is. Here’s the thing about Christianity: there’s no promise that everything will be smooth sailing. No guarantee that you’ll always feel good, or even be good. What we do have is a promise that God is good. And His goodness shows up in His love, His grace, His mercy—in the way He loves us in spite of us. So, here’s my challenge: hide this truth in your heart. Anchor yourself in it. Let it resonate deep. Write it on a sticky note. Scribble it on your mirror. Get it tattooed (okay, maybe not literally…unless?). Do whatever you have to do to remember it. Because when the storms come—and they will—this is the kind of truth that will hold you steady. Don’t forget it. I won’t. Romans 8:1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. “There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” This verse is the mic drop of grace, the ultimate reminder that our identity in Christ is secure. The Bible is full of imagery and truth about our unity with God: He’s the vine, we’re the branches; the Holy Spirit dwells in us; the church is the bride, and Jesus is the bridegroom; we’re joint heirs in His kingdom. These aren’t just poetic metaphors—they’re declarations of how deeply connected we are to Him. Here’s what I know: because He chose us, died for us, lives in us, and loves us, we are not condemned. Yes, Jesus is grieved when we fall, and yes, the Holy Spirit will convict us to steer us back on track. But conviction is not condemnation. Jesus doesn’t turn His back on us. He doesn’t shame us, and He certainly doesn’t cast us out. When the enemy—that sneaky snake—whispers lies that drape us in guilt and shame, we need to remember: that’s not Jesus. When judgmental voices rise, when isolation creeps in, when we feel unworthy, we need to anchor ourselves in this truth: Love corrects, but love doesn’t cast out. Jesus doesn’t shame; He redeems. He doesn’t discard; He restores. So, when guilt tries to weigh you down, when shame knocks at your door, remember who you belong to. In Christ, there is no condemnation—only love that covers, heals, and sets you free. Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Sister, if I had a dollar for every time my mama hit me with, “You are in the world, not of it,” I’d be out here living in the UAE in a paid-off house. She said it so much, it’s practically tattooed on my soul. And honestly? She was right. Like Kendrick said, “They not like us.” And truthfully? We not like them. And I’m more than okay with that. It’s so easy to get caught up in the patterns of this world—the hustle, the scrolling, the endless pressure to Keep up with the Kardashians. But here’s the truth: we’re not called to blend in; we’re called to stand out. God didn’t create you to be a carbon copy of the culture. He created you to be you, rooted in His word, reflecting His image. So, don’t forget whose you are and who you are. Your individuality? That’s God-designed. Your transformation? That’s His work in you. Stand firm in that truth, even when it feels easier to go with the flow. Let God renew your mind daily and remind you that being set apart isn’t a burden—it’s a blessing.d in what we achieve; it’s found in whose arms we rest. Sometimes the most profound act of faith is learning to hush the chaos of our hearts and embrace the stillness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1734141501221-7C8IL179DRHE33Z1TRMA/unsplash-image-uIDmFABRKyw.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Three: His Mercy Endures - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Psalms 136-142 Day 2: Psalms 143-150 Day 3: Romans 1-4 Day 4: Romans 5-8 Day 5: Romans 9-12 Day 6: Romans 13-16 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfortytwo monthly 0.5 2024-12-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Two: I Know Who I Am - Reflections Can you remember as a child being pressured to do something that was not in your heart to do? What was it, and how did you handle it? What advice would you give to young people today who are being faced with peer pressure to go along with the crowd? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1733585472976-WCAV43MY6Y2LRRVVD3N6/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Two: I Know Who I Am - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Ezekiel 43-45 Day 2: Ezekiel 46-48 Day 3: Daniel 1-4 Day 4: Daniel 5-8 Day 5: Daniel 9-12 Day 6: Psalms 129-135 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-Two: I Know Who I Am - GraceNotes - My Reflections Ezekiel 43:7 Son of man, this is the place of my throne and the place for the soles of my feet. This is where I will live among the Israelites forever. God doesn’t just visit; He moves in. This verse describes His throne and His feet planted firmly in His house among His people—forever. Think about it: the King of kings doesn’t Airbnb His presence. He’s not popping in for a weekend to make a guest appearance in your life. He wants to dwell with you permanently. For us, this is a call to prepare our hearts as His temple. Are there rooms we’re keeping locked? Areas we think are “off-limits”? Sis, God doesn’t require perfection, but He does ask for access. Let Him walk through the hallways of your heart, even the ones that could use a little dusting. Daniel 3:17-18 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it… But even if He does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego didn’t have an “if/then” relationship with God. Their faith wasn’t conditional on the outcome. They basically said, “We know God can save us, but even if He doesn’t, He’s still worthy of our loyalty.” Whew. That’s faith on fire—literally. For us, the challenge is to maintain this “even if” mindset. Can we still trust God when the prayers aren’t answered on our timeline or in our way? This kind of faith says, “Even if I don’t get the job, even if the relationship doesn’t work out, even if the healing doesn’t come—God is still good.” That’s not blind faith; that’s bold faith. Psalm 131:2 But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content. This is peace redefined. David likens his soul to a weaned child—not a needy, crying infant demanding milk but a child who finds joy simply in the presence of their mother. It’s not about what he can get but who he gets to be with. In a world screaming for more—more productivity, more followers, more of everything—this verse invites us to sit quietly in God’s presence and just be. Contentment isn’t found in what we achieve; it’s found in whose arms we rest. Sometimes the most profound act of faith is learning to hush the chaos of our hearts and embrace the stillness. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfortyone monthly 0.5 2024-12-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-One: Lesson Learned - GraceNotes - My Reflections Ezekiel 36:26-27 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. This is God making a promise to do what only He can: take a heart that’s cold, indifferent, and unresponsive and make it alive again. Sometimes we’re so weighed down by life—or maybe just stuck in the “going through the motions” phase—that it feels impossible to turn things around. But God doesn’t ask us to fix ourselves; He steps in to do the transforming. A “heart of flesh” isn’t just about feelings; it’s about being alive to His leading, open to His voice, and ready to walk in obedience because His Spirit is empowering us to do so. God is in the business of renewal, and He’s not just giving us tools to figure it out on our own—He’s putting His Spirit in us to move us forward. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this is your reminder: God isn’t finished with you. The heavy lifting? That’s His work. You just have to let Him in. Ezekiel 37:3-5 He asked me, ‘Son of man, can these bones live?’ I said, ‘Sovereign Lord, you alone know.’ Then He said to me, ‘Prophesy to these bones and say to them, “Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! This is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.” God steps into Ezekiel’s vision of a valley of dry bones—lifeless, hopeless, and way beyond repair. But instead of declaring it over, God asks Ezekiel to speak life into the bones. Sometimes, we’re staring at situations that feel just as dead: relationships, dreams, or even our faith. But here’s the truth: God specializes in bringing life where it looks impossible. He’s asking us, “Do you believe I can make this live again?” What’s incredible is that the bones don’t just come alive on their own—God involves Ezekiel in the process. This isn’t about us being powerful; it’s about us being willing to speak God’s truth into the hard places. If you’ve got a “dry bones” situation, don’t just stare at it in despair. Prophesy life over it and trust God to breathe His Spirit into what feels lost. Ezekiel 43:2 I saw the glory of the God of Israel coming from the east. His voice was like the roar of rushing waters, and the land was radiant with His glory. Ezekiel describes the overwhelming glory of God—His voice like rushing waters and His presence so powerful that it transforms the land itself. This verse is a reminder that God’s glory isn’t just a “nice idea” or something we vaguely feel in a worship moment. It’s real, tangible, and life-changing. When God shows up, things cannot stay the same. If you’ve been longing for a deeper connection with Him, let this be your encouragement: God’s glory isn’t distant; it’s moving toward you. His voice may be powerful, but it’s not to scare you—it’s to awaken your spirit. Let Him in, and watch His presence transform every part of your life, making it radiant with His goodness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1732974740203-XTLPJCNR5YRFCH3OWB2P/unsplash-image-pfBedQNpDTQ.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-One: Lesson Learned - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Ezekiel 22-24 Day 2: Ezekiel 25-28 Day 3: Ezekiel 29-32 Day 4: Ezekiel 33-36 Day 5: Ezekiel 37-39 Day 6: Ezekiel 40-42 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty-One: Lesson Learned - Reflections What was one of the most valuable life lessons you had to learn, and why was it so important? Whenever you find yourself in a dry place, how do you respond to it? If your peace of mind were contingent upon one scripture, what would that scripture be, and why? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekforty monthly 0.5 2024-11-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1732383083558-7U83DSJ63L264DS0GCIP/unsplash-image-K_DV89F2r_k.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty: Just Speak It - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Ezekiel 1-3 Day 2: Ezekiel 4-7 Day 3: Ezekiel 8-11 Day 4: Ezekiel 12-15 Day 5: Ezekiel 16-18 Day 6: Ezekiel 19-21 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty: Just Speak It - GraceNotes - My Reflections Ezekiel 11:19-20 I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. God isn’t interested in quick fixes or surface-level adjustments—He’s about total transformation. A heart of stone might keep us from feeling hurt, but it also keeps us from fully living. And let’s be honest: numbness is not the victory we think it is. When God promises to give us a heart of flesh, He’s offering more than emotional softness—He’s inviting us into a vibrant, fully surrendered life. He wants us to trade out a brittle, dried-out plant (the garden within) for one thriving in rich soil. God’s renewal is the real deal, and all He asks is that we trust Him to do the work. Ezekiel 18:23 Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live? God’s heart isn’t rooted in punishment; it’s rooted in redemption. He doesn’t look at the brokenness in the world and think, “Serves them right.” Instead, He aches for people to choose life. And here’s the part that hits home: this isn’t just about “those people” who get it wrong. It’s about us, too, when we’re holding onto the parts of our lives that need a course correction. God isn’t shaking His head in disappointment—He’s leaning in, saying, “Turn back to Me. Let Me show you what real life looks like.” Ezekiel 20:32-33 You say, ‘We want to be like the nations…’ But what you have in mind will never happen. As surely as I live, I will reign over you with a mighty hand. Sometimes, it’s tempting to blend in—to follow the trends, fit the mold, and avoid standing out. Israel wanted to be like everyone else, worshiping idols and living like the nations around them. But God says, “No, you’re set apart, and I won’t let you settle.” This isn’t about control; it’s about love. God sees what we don’t: that chasing what everyone else has only leaves us emptier. When He declares, “I will reign over you,” it’s not a power trip—it’s a promise. He’s reminding us that His ways lead to life and that being different for His sake is worth it, even when the world doesn’t get it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Forty: Just Speak It - Reflections Do you know to whom and what you have been assigned? Has there ever been a time when you felt that what you were offering was being met with rejection? How did you handle this rejection? Has there ever been a time when you allowed your fear to be greater than the assignment? How did you overcome the fear? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirtynine monthly 0.5 2024-11-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Nine: Purpose and Process - Reflections If you've ever found yourself in a dark place, how did you handle it? While you were going through your process, did you always see it as process? How did that time of your life equip or prepare you? Can you identify the purpose that was attached to your process? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1731778113069-T31MSX8TU2KYACKQ6YBU/unsplash-image-qbNcIFPC3qc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Nine: Purpose and Process - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Jeremiah 38-41 Day 2: Jeremiah 42-45 Day 3: Jeremiah 46-49 Day 4: Jeremiah 50-52 Day 5: Lamentations 1-2 Day 6: Lamentations 3-5 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Nine: Purpose and Process - GraceNotes - My Reflections Jeremiah 38:20 Obey the Lord by doing what I tell you. Then it will go well with you, and your life will be spared. Sis, this is Jeremiah giving some tough love to Zedekiah. Flip this to us in Zedekiah’s shoes — he’s essentially saying, “Girl, just listen! Trust God, and He’s got you!” But isn’t that us sometimes? We overthink, double-check, and then go rogue, only to wonder why life feels messy. This verse is a little nudge to stay on God’s path—it’s not just the right thing to do; it’s the safe and blessed route. So next time you feel like ignoring the GPS (God’s Perfect Strategy), don’t. Trust the directions, and watch Him spare you from unnecessary detours. Jeremiah 50:34 Yet their Redeemer is strong; the Lord Almighty is His name. He will vigorously defend their cause so that He may bring rest to their land but unrest to those who live in Babylon. God isn’t passive about His people—He’s a strong Redeemer who gets involved. When life feels like it’s piling on, this is your assurance that God not only sees the struggle but is actively working to defend and restore you. Babylon might represent chaos, distractions, or even personal battles, but God’s strength isn’t just about toppling the enemy—it’s about bringing you peace. Reflect on this: what areas of your life feel like “Babylon,” and how can you trust God to bring His strength and rest into those places? Lamentations 3:22-23 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. This verse shows us that even in the darkest times, God’s love sustains us. His compassion doesn’t run out, no matter how much we may feel overwhelmed. Each day brings a new opportunity to experience His mercy and faithfulness. God doesn’t hold yesterday’s failures against us, and His consistency gives us hope to keep moving forward. Let this remind you that no matter what you’re facing, God’s love and faithfulness are steady and unchanging. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirtyeight monthly 0.5 2024-11-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1731115948054-3DQ7G0WTJ5F1Q0G7RU2P/unsplash-image-b9zbVD--6I0.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Eight: God Kept Me - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Jeremiah 16-19 Day 2: Jeremiah 20-22 Day 3: Jeremiah 23-26 Day 4: Jeremiah 27-30 Day 5: Jeremiah 31-34 Day 6: Jeremiah 35-37 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Eight: God Kept Me - Reflections Have you ever experienced a time in your life when you knew you were spinning out of control? Explain. In hindsight, can you see how God's grace was covering you during that time? Explain. If you had to testify about who you are versus who you were at that time, what would that testimony sound like? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Eight: God Kept Me - GraceNotes - My Reflections Jeremiah 17:7 But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. True blessing comes from putting our full, unfiltered confidence in Him—not in people, circumstances, or even our own plans. In a world where we’re encouraged to have a backup plan for our backup plan, this feels radical. It’s like God’s saying, “Forget plan B—I’m your only plan!” Trusting God this way isn’t about living on blind hope or pretending we have it all together; it’s about finding solid ground in who He is. God’s the kind of steady presence that doesn’t shake when things get uncertain. When our confidence is in Him, we’re tapped into a source that won’t run dry, no matter what storms come our way. But let’s be real—trusting God fully can be hard! Life throws curveballs, and sometimes it feels like we’re waiting on answers that just won’t come. Still, God promises that this kind of trust isn’t in vain; it’s actually the path to blessing. And not just the “everything’s-great-now” kind of blessing, but the deeper, peace-filled assurance that God’s got us in every season. So when Jeremiah says we’re blessed when we put our trust in God, he’s talking about a quiet strength that doesn’t waver—a confidence that, no matter what, we’re in good hands. Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This verse is one of God’s boldest promises—He’s saying, “I know exactly what I’m doing with your life.” It’s a reminder that we don’t need to see every step of the journey to trust that there’s a destination. God’s got the full map, even if we’re staring at one small, confusing piece. It’s less about us knowing what’s next and more about knowing that we’ll get where we’re meant to be because His plans for us are set. Here’s what’s really interesting: God spoke these words to people who were struggling, feeling lost, and far from where they wanted to be. They were wondering if God had forgotten them, but He reassured them that this was part of a bigger plan. This wasn’t about just cheering them up—it was about grounding them in the truth that, no matter where they were, God’s purpose was still unfolding. Sometimes, we feel stuck in situations we didn’t ask for or seasons that seem endless, but this verse speaks right into that. God’s plans don’t shift based on our location or circumstances. Whether we’re in a place we love or a place we’d rather fast-forward through, He promises that the end result is one of hope, prosperity, and a future designed for our good. It’s a call to release our grip on needing to know everything and lean into the trust that God’s got it covered. So when we’re in a season of not knowing, Jeremiah 29:11 invites us to rest in what we do know: God’s got the final word on our lives. Every detour, every pause—it’s all part of a purpose that He’s carefully planned, one that ultimately brings us where we need to be. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirtyseven monthly 0.5 2024-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Seven: You Will Make It - Reflections Have you experienced a time in your life when it felt like you were in the midst of a storm? How did you handle it? Today, when we're notified of an impending storm, we know how to prepare for it. If you knew you were on the verge of a spiritual storm, how would you prepare for it? When you experience storms in your life, are you encouraged or discouraged by them? Why? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Seven: You Will Make It - GraceNotes - My Reflections Acts 22:15 For you will be his witness to everyone of what you have seen and heard. In this moment, Paul’s being given a mission with serious weight. God isn’t asking him to just know Jesus personally—He’s calling him to share it. And think about it: Paul’s story isn’t pretty or perfect. He was once the guy who chased down Christians, trying to shut down everything he’s now standing up for. Yet God doesn’t care about his past failures; He cares about how Paul can use his story, messy and real as it is, to reveal His grace and power. This call to be a witness is a reminder that our lives, every high and low, are part of the message. We’re not called to be spiritual gatekeepers with our faith, choosing when to share or only giving out the polished, Insta-ready details. Instead, we’re supposed to be living, breathing examples of what God can do in imperfect people. And yes, this can be intimidating—witnessing isn’t just about standing on a stage or preaching sermons; it’s letting God’s love and transformation shine through in the real-life stuff. When you think of it, it’s kind of like God is saying, “I know your past, I know your journey, and that’s exactly why I want you sharing this story.” Paul’s mission to witness is actually a gift to himself too—a reminder that he’s forgiven, redeemed, and chosen. For us, this means that even our rough edges, our regrets, and our hardest moments can be part of something beautiful if we let God take the lead. It’s as if God is calling each of us to own our stories and say, “This is who I was, and this is who God’s making me.” And that’s the kind of witnessing the world needs—honest, humble, and full of grace. Jeremiah 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations. This verse is one of those “pause and let it sink in” moments. God tells Jeremiah that before he was even a thought in his parents’ minds, He already knew every detail, every strength, and every flaw Jeremiah would carry. There was purpose and calling woven into his being from day one. And Jeremiah, who’s young and feels unqualified, might not even fully believe it yet—but God is saying, “You’re exactly who I need, just as you are.” It’s wild when you think about it: God’s telling us the same thing. In a world where we’re constantly trying to prove ourselves, reinvent ourselves, or “glow up” into someone new, God’s saying He knew us and loved us long before any of that. The gifts we’re hesitant to use, the qualities we might even wish were different, are exactly what God saw when He envisioned His plan for us. There’s no need to be anyone else; God doesn’t make us “just to blend in”—He sets us apart with purpose. Reflecting on this, it’s humbling but also empowering. It’s as if God’s whispering, “I’ve placed something in you that’s only yours to bring to this world.” And yes, it may feel heavy, even a little intimidating. But just like Jeremiah, we’re not alone. God’s the one who appoints, equips, and walks with us, flaws and all. So maybe we don’t need to wait for the perfect moment or the perfect version of ourselves to step out in faith—God’s already done the work of setting us apart. It’s our job to show up, embrace it, and let Him guide the rest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1730586252562-7NT71A789SFN5JOHV1M8/unsplash-image-vwvmatN3Vww.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Seven: You Will Make It - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Acts 22-25 Day 2: Acts 26-28 Day 3: Jeremiah 1-3 Day 4: Jeremiah 4-6 Day 5: Jeremiah 7-11 Day 6: Jeremiah 12-15 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirtysix monthly 0.5 2024-11-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992224201-XSMGTNI73JOMNC92LR72/unsplash-image-FHCVK6Vyvwc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Six: Prayer Still Works - Reflections What is that thing you've been praying about that seems impossible? Why is it so difficult to believe that God is able to do those hard things? What does your prayer regimen look like? Do you have a routine, or is your prayer time sporadic? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Six: Prayer Still Works - GraceNotes - My Reflections Acts 3:6 NIV 6 Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Picture this: Peter and John walk up to the temple, and they’re approached by a man who’s been begging for coins every day because he can’t walk. Now, most of us have been there—not necessarily sitting at the temple gates, but waiting on God for a miracle. We might even expect that miracle to show up as something familiar or expected, like silver and gold. But in Acts 3:6, Peter flips the script. He says, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” Not only does Peter skip the spare change, but he offers something infinitely better: healing in the name of Jesus. This moment isn’t about what Peter and John don’t have—it’s all about what they do have, which is the powerful name of Jesus. Here’s the twist: sometimes we think we need what the world offers—money, status, validation. But Peter’s response is a reality check, reminding us that the most priceless thing we carry isn’t what we can buy or earn, but Jesus Himself. And when we offer that—when we speak, pray, or act in His name—we have the power to lift people from hopelessness and help them “rise up and walk.” So the next time you feel like you don’t have enough to offer, remember this verse. God’s power isn’t about the abundance of silver or gold; it’s about our faith in His name. Let’s take this to heart and use what we do have—our relationship with Jesus—to bless others in ways that silver and gold never could. Acts 10:34-35 NIV 34 Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism 35 but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. Open scene: Peter, a devout Jewish disciple, is visiting a Roman centurion named Cornelius. Now, if this sounds like an awkward “strangers at a dinner party” setup, you’re spot on! Cornelius is the last guy Peter expected to be on God’s guest list. But just as Peter begins his speech, something incredible happens—he has a lightbulb moment. He realizes, “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him.” Hold up! For Peter, this is a revelation. He’s been raised with strict rules about who’s “in” and who’s “out.” But God, in His infinite wisdom, wasn’t about to let Peter put up walls where He’d torn down barriers. Peter’s like, “God doesn’t play favorites!” This means that, unlike the world’s system, where you might need connections, fancy credentials, or a perfect record, God opens His heart to anyone who seeks Him with a sincere heart. All backgrounds, every personality type, all kinds of pasts—God welcomes them in. He doesn’t judge by our resumes, social circles, or how polished we look on the outside. So, what does this mean for us? It’s a reminder that we don’t have to be perfect or fit into a mold to be used by God. We might come from different cultures, communities, or life experiences, but God’s love cuts across it all. He sees straight to the heart. So, whether we’re at work, at the PTA, or with friends, let’s remember that God’s acceptance isn’t about status—it’s about our heart posture toward Him. And that’s where the real beauty is. Acts 20:35 NIV 35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus Himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Now, I know what you’re thinking—more blessed to give than receive? Sometimes it feels like we’re giving everything we’ve got, right? Whether it’s to family, friends, or community, we’re pouring out! But here’s the thing: giving isn’t just about giving things; it’s about giving yourself. And that’s what makes it blessed. When we give, we’re creating space for God to show up. It’s like God set up this heavenly equation: when we give, He blesses, replenishes, and pours back into us in ways that go way beyond material stuff. So, think of “giving” as more than just handing over resources. It’s a way of being—an opportunity to share kindness, joy, encouragement, or a listening ear. Whether it’s a quiet prayer for a friend, helping someone through a tough season, or just being present, giving like this creates little “blessed moments” where God does His work. And guess what? When we live with that open-handed approach, God uses our small acts of kindness to make a big impact. So let’s embrace giving as a way of tapping into God’s joy. Because, just as Jesus said, it’s about blessing others—and trust me, He’ll make sure the blessings come back around! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729992189697-C1GYVI1OJ9JUW2HGQAPC/unsplash-image-jLsdb5UpVAk.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Six: Prayer Still Works - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Acts 1-3 Day 2: IActs 4-7 Day 3: Acts 8-10 Day 4: Acts 11-14 Day 5: Acts 15-17 Day 6: Acts 18-21 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirtyfive monthly 0.5 2024-10-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Five: Think Big - GraceNotes - My Reflections Isaiah 53:4-5 Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. What a powerful reminder that Jesus took on all of our pain and suffering so that we could experience healing and peace. This is truly the ultimate “He did it all so we wouldn’t have to” moment. We’ve all carried burdens that weren’t even our own — but Jesus took on the heaviest load imaginable: our sins, our guilt, our shame. And He didn’t just carry it; He got pierced and crushed for it. Imagine trying to pay a debt you don’t even have the funds for, and Jesus steps in and says, “I got this, sis.” He took the punishment that brought us peace—that deep, internal peace that can’t be shaken by drama, disappointment, or the “it’s always something’s” in our lives. And by His wounds, we’re healed. Not just a temporary “I feel better” type of healing, but a full-on transformation. He gave it all, healing us and aligning everything back in place, so we can walk freely and boldly in our purpose. When you really think about it, Isaiah 53:4-5 is Jesus saying, “I’m going to take care of this once and for all. You just focus on living in the freedom I’m giving you.” It’s freeing to know that His suffering wasn’t for nothing—it was for us. So let’s embrace the healing, the peace, and the wholeness He already paid for. His sacrifice wasn’t a “maybe”—it was a “done deal. Isaiah 55:8-9 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” His ways are higher, His thoughts are deeper, and sometimes it’s hard for us to wrap our minds around that. We live with this human, earthly understanding, always trying to figure out the hows and whys of our lives, but we’ll never fully grasp things the way God does. This really hit home for me when we went to my son’s parent-teacher conference this week. His teacher mentioned that, although he’s incredibly gifted, sometimes he feels like he should know everything. She had to give him a little reality check and explain that if we knew it all, we’d be God—and that’s not the quest. And that’s exactly what the Lord is telling us in Isaiah 55: we aren’t supposed to know it all. God’s plan and understanding are on a completely different level. Think of it this way: while we’re over here trying to solve life’s mysteries, asking “Why didn’t that job work out?” or “How could this situation happen?”—God’s looking at the full picture. He sees the entire timeline, the layers of purpose, the outcomes we can’t even imagine. And honestly, that’s a relief! It takes the pressure off. We don’t need to know everything; we just need to trust the One who does. So, let’s remind ourselves: we’re not in the business of being all-knowing. That job is taken, and thank goodness for that. Our task is to trust, even when things don’t make sense, knowing that God’s plan is so much bigger and better than what we can see or understand. And that? That’s where the real peace comes from. Isaiah 64:8 Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Think about it: God doesn’t haphazardly toss us on the wheel. Every twist, every turn, every bit of pressure is intentional. We may be thinking, “What’s going on in this season?” but God’s like, “Trust me, I’ve got this.” He’s shaping us into something beautiful, even when we don’t see the final form yet. The best part? We don’t have to have all the answers. We just need to trust the Potter. He knows what He’s doing, and no matter what stage we’re in—whether we feel unfinished, cracked, or a little off-center—God’s hands are steady, and His purpose for us is perfect. So let’s relax, let Him work, and remember we’re in good hands, because God doesn’t make mistakes! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1729337899979-463UVID23TDKJHPFMRE3/unsplash-image-FiTLQeRhXic.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Five: Think Big - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Isaiah 47-49 Day 2: Isaiah 50-53 Day 3: Isaiah 54-57 Day 4: Isaiah 58-60 Day 5: Isaiah 61-63 Day 6: Isaiah 64-66 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Five: Think Big - Reflections Have you ever experienced a barren season in your life? In what way? In what ways have you been underestimating or limiting yourself? What is that big thing that God is placing into your hands? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirtythree-sax35 monthly 0.5 2024-10-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1728133575086-UIF0MI131I3AUXFK2G4Q/unsplash-image-_Z58JuDOISg.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Three: I’m Not Worthy, but I’ll Go - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Isaiah 1-4 Day 2: Isaiah 5-8 Day 3: Isaiah 9-12 Day 4: Isaiah 13-16 Day 5: Isaiah 17-20 Day 6: Isaiah 21-24 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Three: I’m Not Worthy, but I’ll Go - Reflections Has there ever been a time in your life when you didn't feel worthy to render service unto the Lord or His people? Why? Have you ever had an Isaiah encounter? What were the circumstances surrounding that encounter? Everybody is called to somebody. To whom do you think you're called? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Three: I’m Not Worthy, but I’ll Go - GraceNotes - My Reflections Isaiah 5:20-21 NIV 20 Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. 21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight. Ever felt like the world’s trying to convince you that up is down and left is right? It’s like the Bible says in Isaiah 5:20-21—“Woe to those who have eyes but cannot see, and ears but cannot hear.” It’s easy to get caught up in the noise and confusion, but I’m asking the Lord daily: “Help me see what You see. Help me love what You love and hate what You hate.” In a world where sugar sometimes gets swapped for salt, where villains can be praised as heroes, I don’t want to live in a twisted reality. I want my spiritual vision on 20/20, so I don’t miss out on the goodness of the table He’s prepared for me. Jesus walked with clarity—He knew the Father’s heart, and that’s my prayer too. I want to live in discernment, hearing His voice, walking His path, not missing a single blessing He’s laid out. Because when God opens your eyes, you don’t just see—you see. Isaiah 8:12-13 NIV 12 “Do not call conspiracy everything this people calls a conspiracy; do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it. 13 The Lord Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy, he is the one you are to fear, he is the one you are to dread. You ever catch yourself in a deep scroll, like one minute you’re looking at a nail tutorial and the next you’re 47 videos deep in a pop culture rabbit hole, trying to crack the case of… who knows what? I mean, I’ve gone from “Are mermaids real?” to “What’s a freak off and what’s in the baby oil?” in a matter of hours. It’s like Isaiah 8:12-13 called me out, telling me not to get caught up in every conspiracy or fear what the world fears. The way I’ve been trying to understand why people are acting so strange—because seriously, what is going on out there?! But this scripture was a quick reality check. I don’t need to know all the mysteries of the universe. I need to be anchored in Jesus. Christ alone, corner stone, periodt. When I focus on Him, all the noise, drama, and TikTok theories lose their grip on me. It’s freeing to remember that fearing God and trusting in His plan is all that really matters. The rest? It’s just background noise. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirtyfour monthly 0.5 2024-10-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Four: Your Next Is Now - GraceNotes - My Reflections Isaiah 26:3-4 NIV 3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. 4 Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal. My favorite place to be is in God’s hand where He promises peace—perfect peace, no less!—but what’s really striking is how we get that peace: by trusting God and staying steady in our minds. Here’s the thing: life is full of things trying to shake us up—stress, deadlines, family drama, and let’s not forget the mental gymnastics we all do when we’re overthinking. But God’s saying, “Sis, I’ve got this.” Think of it like having the ultimate life-long subscription to “Peace That Passes Understanding.” But here’s the catch: the subscription isn’t renewed by you doing all the right things, it’s renewed by keeping your mind anchored in trust. God’s peace isn’t flaky or inconsistent—it’s rock solid. So, while life might feel like it’s throwing curveballs (or a whole pitcher’s worth), God’s telling you, “Stay focused on Me, and I’ll steady you.” And let’s be real—who wouldn’t want to rest in that kind of peace, rather than our usual worry marathons? It’s like swapping out a pair of uncomfortable heels for some heavenly sneakers: you’ll walk lighter, straighter, and much more confidently. So, girl, trust God, lace up those shoes of peace, and watch how He keeps you in perfect step with Him! Isaiah 40:29-31 NIV 29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31 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. You know those moments when you’re running on empty—mentally, emotionally, spiritually—and you feel like you can’t take another step? Well, this is God’s assurance that He doesn’t just give you a pep talk and leave you hanging. He’s handing out strength like it’s Black Friday, no strings attached! “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” That’s not just a cute phrase, that’s God showing up when you’re weak and overwhelmed, whether it’s dealing with work, family, or just the constant grind of trying to hold it all together. But then comes the real kicker—even when those who seem to have it all together (young and energetic people) get tired, those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. We try to do it all on our own and end up crawling, but God says, “Put your hope in Me, and I’ll have you flying.” Not literally (unless you’re booked for a skydive), but in that supernatural sense where you suddenly find yourself soaring through what you thought was going to break you. You won’t just make it—you’ll soar like an eagle, run without getting tired, and walk without giving up. And for all of us who’ve faced those “I just need a nap” moments, this is the recharge we need. So next time you’re feeling drained, remember God isn’t offering just a cup of coffee—He’s offering wings. Trust Him to renew you, and you’ll find yourself running through what you thought you’d never survive! Isaiah 41:10 NIV 10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Y’all this verse gives… God is saying “Don’t panic, I’ve got you” - and I need that reminder. When life gets overwhelming, and the fear starts creeping in, He’s not asking us to muster up some superhero courage. Instead, He’s saying, “Do not fear, for I am with you.” It’s like having the ultimate bodyguard, but instead of just protecting you physically, He’s guarding your heart, mind, and soul. When God says, “I will strengthen you and help you,” He’s reminding us that He’s not watching from the sidelines—He’s in the game with us. Think of it like when your phone is on 1%, and you’re scrambling to find a charger, but God’s like, “Don’t worry, I’m your power bank, always fully charged.” Whatever situation has you feeling powerless or unsure, God promises not only to give you strength but also to uphold you. And we’re not talking about a weak, shaky hand here. It’s His righteous right hand—meaning, there’s no way you’re slipping out of His grasp! So, when fear starts doing the most, remember that God is saying, “Nope, not today.” You’re not alone, and He’s got everything you need to make it through, holding you steady and strong. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1728682950207-E4UIABPYRYB4PE5WCECA/unsplash-image-5vbtkvYYxoo.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Four: Your Next Is Now - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Isaiah 25-27 Day 2: Isaiah 28-31 Day 3: Isaiah 32-35 Day 4: Isaiah 36-39 Day 5: Isaiah 40-42 Day 6: Isaiah 43-46 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Four: Your Next Is Now - Reflections What do you believe the next phase of your journey looks like? What is something that has kept you stagnant and complacent? What strategy will you put in place to help move you to your next phase? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirtytwo monthly 0.5 2024-10-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Two: Oh, What Love! - GraceNotes - My Reflections Song of Songs 6:3 NIV 3 I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine; he browses among the lilies. Songs of Songs is the ultimate love letter, both a poetic celebration of romantic love and a mirror of God’s divine affection for us. It’s like a beautiful duet where the ebb and flow of love between a husband and wife reflects the selfless, giving nature of God’s love. At its core, this book is all about vulnerability and submission within a relationship. But don’t let that make you think it’s one-sided. It’s not just about giving, it’s about giving freely and fully. It’s about building each other up, cherishing one another, and pouring into your spouse—each moment and each word meant to uplift and strengthen. Love in this book isn’t selfish or self-serving; it’s about mutual honor, respect, and devotion. It’s an invitation to practice selfless love, showing how a relationship, grounded in reverence and care, mirrors the relationship God desires with His people. So, let’s embrace the art of deep, selfless love, pouring into those closest to us, and walking in the same vulnerability and grace that God shows us. Psalms 107:1 NIV Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. A psalm to anchor yourself in. Psalm 112 NIV Psalm 112 is basically the ultimate recipe for a life that’s truly blessed. It’s all about fearing God, living righteously, and being generous—and if you do that, blessings follow like clockwork. This person is steady, their family thrives, and even in tough times, they remain unshaken. They’re not just living for themselves either; they’re actively lifting others up, being generous, and building a legacy of goodness. It’s a call to live a life that’s both solid and giving, where integrity and kindness overflow in every direction. That’s why I pray this psalm daily with my children—to inspire them to live like the psalmist, showing them how to walk in that same kind of steady, faithful way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1727521314464-MZEWG5SJQECR76XDDTSX/unsplash-image-BrfCiLC7Grc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Two: Oh, What Love! - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Song of Songs 1-4 Day 2: Song of Songs 5-8 Day 3: Psalms 107-110 Day 4: Psalms 111-116 Day 5: Psalms 117-119 Day 6: Psalms 120-128 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-Two: Oh, What Love! - Reflections If you had to describe your love for God, how would you describe it? If you had to convince someone else of God's love for them, how would you share His love? How has God shown His love toward you in the past week? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirtyone monthly 0.5 2024-09-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-One: Due Season - Reflections Understanding that there are various seasons of life, what is the most difficult to accept about the hard seasons? How have you handled your hard seasons in the past? Going forward, what will you do differently when your seasons begin to change? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-One: Due Season - GraceNotes - My Reflections Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 NIV 13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. 14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil. After all the philosophizing and endless questions about life, Ecclesiastes hits us with the ultimate ‘final word.’ No need for overthinking—here’s the conclusion: Fear God, keep His commandments, and you’re on track. Why? Because God’s got the receipts on everything—even the stuff you thought was hidden in the fine print. Whether it’s good or bad, He’s bringing it into the light. So let’s cut to the chase, live with reverence, and walk in obedience, knowing that God sees all, and yes, it all counts! Psalms 104:33 NIV 33 I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. A psalm to anchor yourself in. Psalms 106:20 NIV 20 They exchanged their glorious God for an image of a bull, which eats grass. Imagine trading the Creator of the universe, the One who spoke galaxies into existence, for…a cow that munches on grass. It sounds absurd, right? But how often do we do the same thing—swapping the glory of God for temporary fixes and distractions that can’t even moo their way into solving our problems? God offers us His unshakable presence, yet we often settle for things that can’t even digest without His design. Let’s not be like those who exchanged glory for grass. Keep your eyes on the One who never fades, never fails, and definitely doesn’t need a snack break! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1726338722352-A9KJZNP9WOD66GMVLVLJ/unsplash-image-c-nwPHy2W0E.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty-One: Due Season - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Ecclesiastes 1-4 Day 2: Ecclesiastes 5-8 Day 3: Ecclesiastes 9-12 Day 4: Psalms 97-100 Day 5: Psalms 101-103 Day 6: Psalms 104-106 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekthirty monthly 0.5 2024-09-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1726337241055-4E6OGJHVICBN0FWFZFJN/unsplash-image-INvLInqJ-Ms.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty: His Destiny, Her Purpose - This Week’s Readings Day 1: John 1-4 Day 2: John 5-8 Day 3: John 9-11 Day 4: John 12-15 Day 5: John 16-18 Day 6: John 19-21 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty: His Destiny, Her Purpose - Reflections Do you know what you have been purposed to do? Is there anything that has hindered you from fulfilling that purpose? If so, what? Does your purpose work in conjunction with someone else's purpose? Who and what? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirty: His Destiny, Her Purpose - GraceNotes - My Reflections “Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!” (John 8:58 NIV) And just like that, I’m standing with Moses at the burning bush when Jesus drops this truth bomb. It’s a moment that stops me in my tracks, the gravity of this revelation hitting me like a ton of holy bricks. The realization that Jesus is Lord—it’s grounding in the truest sense. To know that He is the great I AM, no qualifiers, no add-ons, just that—it's enough for me. It’s as if He’s saying, “I am who I am, and that’s the whole story.” And honestly? That’s more than enough. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27 NIV) There is truly nothing like being wrapped up in God's perfect peace. It's the kind that makes no sense, the kind that shows up when life feels like it's doing its best impression of a roller coaster—loop-de-loops and all. It doesn’t matter what’s spinning out of control: our lives, the world, our uncertain futures. What matters is that we have the victory because Jesus already overcame it all. So why stress? Why let anything trouble us when we have His peace? It’s like Jesus is handing us a gift, saying, “Here, take this peace—I’ve got the rest covered.” All we need to do is accept it. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. (John 15:16 NIV) I’m constantly amazed that Jesus chose *me*, that He loves *me*, that He actually wants *me.* As we journey through the Bible, I’m starting to see it: it doesn’t matter who you used to be. What matters is who God says you **ARE**! Look at Matthew: he was a tax collector nobody liked, but he was chosen. Peter? Basically a thug, yet he became a leader of the faith. Jacob was a liar, but God turned him into the father of Israel. Jonah was stubborn and prideful but still ended up saving a whole city. Solomon? Let’s just say he had a thing for the ladies, yet he was the wisest and richest man ever. Moses? A murderer who led God's people out of slavery. Mary was a young, unmarried virgin, but she became the mother of the King of Kings. Paul literally hunted Christians, but then God flipped the script, and he became one of Jesus’ greatest missionaries. And me? I might have been a little “loose as a goose, don’t get me started,” but God is teaching me how to be the seasoning salt in this world. Many of us have a past that makes us cringe, but God’s grace overrides all of that. We were made in His image. So, let’s look in the mirror and start seeing ourselves the way He does. Stop defining yourself by who you *were.* Instead, tap into the reality that you are a joint heir to God’s kingdom and part of a royal priesthood. Believe you are exactly who He says you are, and believe that He chose you - because He did. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwentynine monthly 0.5 2024-09-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1725722912925-BXD65ZWBVVDBEXLX22B9/unsplash-image-7Kz6WfD0O84.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Nine: You Have to Know - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Job 22-24 Day 2: Job 25-28 Day 3: Job 29-31 Day 4: Job 32-35 Day 5: Job 36-39 Day 6: Job 40-42 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Nine: You Have to Know - Reflections After Job’s testing, he went through a season of silence. Have you ever experienced the silence of God? How did you handle it? Struggles can cloud our thoughts. Has there ever been a time when you’ve trusted what others had to say rather than what God has already said? What do you know about God that no one could ever change your mind about? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Nine: You Have to Know - GraceNotes - My Reflections Job 22-42 As I’ve been diving into the second half of Job, I’ve been reflecting on long-suffering. For a long time, I viewed my faith through a childlike, fairytale lens—thinking that being a Christian meant everything would always be smooth sailing. But as I read through Job, and walk through my own character-building season, I’m learning what true “long-suffering” looks like and why it’s so necessary. Being a Christian doesn’t mean we’re immune to tough seasons, but because we trust in the King of Kings, we’re equipped to handle the hard stuff. We can walk through challenges knowing we already have the victory through Jesus. Personally, I know it’s easy to trust God when life’s good. But what about when things aren’t so pretty? When you’re questioning where God is and if He’ll actually come through—and maybe even feeling a little upset with Him? It reminds me of Job, of Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, Joseph, and even Jesus—all tried by fire. I asked my husband today, “What’s the biblical definition of faith?” And, of course, he hit me with Hebrews 11:1: “Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” That’s the battle, isn’t it? We hope for God’s goodness, but don’t always see it right away. Job wrestled with this, and we all do—or will—at some point. I want to be the kind of woman who can face those struggles with a smile because I trust God’s plan. I want to be still and know that He is God. I want to feel all the things and sin not—because even if today’s painful, I know tomorrow, with Him, I win. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwentyeight monthly 0.5 2024-09-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Eight: Maintain - Reflections Attacks come in many ways. Can you think of anything that would cause you to even think about turning your back on God? Has there ever been a time in your life when you sincerely wanted to give up? How did you handle it? If you were Job’s wife, how would you have encouraged your husband? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1725148196406-D65EYKP94DOAK1YGHDCD/unsplash-image-6QQiu0LMd00.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Eight: Maintain - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Job 1-3 Day 2: Job 4-7 Day 3: Job 8-11 Day 4: Job 12-14 Day 5: Job 15-17 Day 6: Job 18-21 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Eight: Maintain - GraceNotes - My Reflections Job 1-21 It’s powerful to consider how Satan targets those who are closest to God, just like in the case of Job. Job was blameless, upright, and deeply devoted to God, yet Satan sought to destroy him in every way possible. This mirrors what Jesus said to Peter in Luke 22:31, where He warns, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat.” Satan is relentless in his desire to tear down those who are strong in their faith, using any tactic to make them fall. In both Job’s story and Jesus’ warning to Peter, there’s a clear message: being close to God doesn’t exempt us from trials; in fact, it might even make us more of a target. But what’s comforting is that God doesn’t leave us alone in those moments. Just as He allowed Satan to test Job, He also set boundaries and remained with Job through it all. Similarly, when Satan asked to sift Peter, Jesus told him, “But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail” (Luke 22:32). God is always present, even in the most intense spiritual battles. It’s crucial to understand that God is not a magician who waves a wand to make everything perfect. He is Almighty God, who sometimes allows us to walk through the fire to refine us and reveal His true nature. These trials aren’t meant to destroy us but to draw us closer to Him, to make us realize that our relationship with Him is the most important thing—whether life is good, bad, or ugly. In suffering, we often discover a deeper level of intimacy with God, recognizing that He desires to be with us through it all, shaping us into the people He has called us to be. Ultimately, the story of Job and Jesus’ words to Peter remind us that suffering has a purpose. It’s through these experiences that we come to understand the fullness of God’s character and His unwavering presence in our lives. Our trials may be painful, but they are also opportunities to lean on God and realize that, in every circumstance, He is there with us, working all things for our good. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwentyseven monthly 0.5 2024-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1724547524307-O5Q1IK19RX9D8VJO4762/unsplash-image-BSw_8AatkNU.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Seven: Called for Such a Time As This - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Esther 1-3 Day 2: Esther 4-6 Day 3: Esther 7-10 Day 4: Pslams 79-84 Day 5: Psalms 85-89 Day 6: Psalms 90-96 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Seven: Called for Such a Time As This - GraceNotes - My Reflections Esther 4:14b NIV “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther—she’s not just a story, she’s that gworl thanks to King Jesus. We all know her, we all love her, and we get it: that crown she wore wasn’t just a fashion statement; it was heavy with purpose. God set the table before her in the presence of her enemies, calling her to rise up in a time when her people needed her most. She wasn’t just another face in the crowd; God made her stand out. Here’s the thing: we’re all called for a specific time, a purpose, a plan. I’ll say it over and over again: God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called. Esther was just like all the other women vying for the king’s attention, but God set her apart, and she rose above the rest. There are seasons when we feel like we’re not enough, when it seems like the odds are stacked against us. But remember, God has called us for this time, this moment. So, how are you going to wear your crown in this season that God has called you to? Because, trust me, you were made for this. Psalms 91:2 NIV 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” A psalm I’m keeping in my heart. Scripture to speak over yourself when you need an anchor. Psalms 94:19 NIV 19 When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. A psalm I’m keeping in my heart. Scripture to speak over yourself when you need an anchor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Seven: Called for Such a Time As This - Reflections What do you feel you’ve been called to do on the earth? Have you ever felt reluctant to do something you knew you were called to do? Why? If you were assigned to pray for your neighborhood, what would be at the top of your prayer list? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwentysix monthly 0.5 2024-08-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Six: We’re Better Together - GraceNotes - My Reflections 2 Chronicles 32:7-8 and 2 Chronicles 32:22-23 NIV 7 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. 8 With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said. 22 So the Lord saved Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib king of Assyria and from the hand of all others. He took care of them on every side. 23 Many brought offerings to Jerusalem for the Lord and valuable gifts for Hezekiah king of Judah. From then on he was highly regarded by all the nations. 2 Chronicles reminds me of Yolanda Adams singing “The Battle is not Yours, it’s the Lords.” Because let’s be real, life is truly just a series of battles - and we have the victory in Jesus. I’m just amazed the more that I sit comfortably in seeing God and His character - but also the realization that, spiritual warfare exists all around us….It’s deep, deep when you consider it. But much like King Hezekiah, if we give our concerns, our troubles, our battles, the situations to Jesus, we can trust that He will defend us and gain us the victory in Him. Our confidence is in Him - we have to be strong and courageous, unafraid EVEN THOUGH it seems that the enemy is greater than us…the enemy will be scattered. Psalms 73:23-26 NIV 23 Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. 24 You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. A psalm I’m keeping in my heart. Scripture to speak over yourself when you need an anchor. Psalms 78:32 NIV “In spite of all this, they kept on sinning; in spite of his wonders, they did not believe.” I definitely don’t want to be that person with eyes that can’t see and ears that can’t hear! Picture this: going through tough seasons in the wilderness, dealing with discomfort and oppression, and riding the sin-and-redemption rollercoaster—only to be rescued by God and then somehow end up in the same pit again. I just can’t wrap my head around it. Whenever I read about the Israelites, I’m over here shouting, “What are y’all even doing!?” You just can’t make this stuff up! Yet, despite it all, God still loves them. It’s incredible! And then God sent His only Son to save us from sin and death—mind-blowing! We serve such a good, gracious, merciful, powerful God. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1723813378613-XWOOSZQND3JGDCGG5EYY/unsplash-image-ff0HoIx3PzU.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Six: We’re Better Together - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 2 Chronicles 20-24 Day 2: 2 Chronicles 25-28 Day 3: 2 Chronicles 29-32 Day 4: 2 Chronicles 33-26 Day 5: Psalms 68-72 Day 6: Psalms 73-78 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1723813412064-J05I4JMOUY3CE1M00381/unsplash-image-y7GlIdTUOvo.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Six: We’re Better Together - Reflections What battles are you fighting right now that probably belong to the Lord? Looking back, can you say that you possibly lost some battles because you refused to join forces with someone else? Going forward, can you think of other team players you can connect with in order to achieve a common goal? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwentyfive monthly 0.5 2024-08-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Five: You Have The Power - GraceNotes - My Reflections Proverbs 31:30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Proverbs 18:22 He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord. In a world full of trends and hashtags, there's something truly timeless about being a woman of God. Proverbs 18:22 says, "He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord." It's like the ultimate reminder that true beauty isn't just in how we look, but in who we are. And then Proverbs 31:30 drops the mic with, "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." It’s like God’s way of saying, “Girl, your heart is what really shines!” Being a woman of God is like wearing the perfect little black dress—effortlessly elegant, always in style, and made to last. It's about having a heart full of grace, kindness, and a love for God that sparkles brighter than any diamond. So, while the world chases after filters and fleeting trends, I’m choosing to be the kind of woman who radiates God’s love—because that’s the kind of beauty that never goes out of style. Proverbs 18:24 One who has unreliable friends soon come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpers iron, so one person sharpens another. Friendship isn’t just about finding someone to sip lattes with or share your latest outfit haul—it’s about having a sisterhood that sharpens you like iron sharpens iron. Proverbs 18:24 reminds us that "there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother," and when you find that kind of friend, you’ve got a real gem. These are the girls who will pray with you, keep you grounded, and call you out (with love!) when you need it most. Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." It’s like having a glam squad for your soul—these are the friendships that keep you polished and shining bright. In a world where it’s easy to get lost in the scroll, having a community of faith-filled friends who hold you accountable is everything. They’re the ones who remind you to stay true to your values, help you grow in your walk with God, and make sure you never forget that you’re worth more than gold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Five: You Have The Power - Reflections What are some negative words or phrases that we use daily? What are some helpful words or phrases that we need to incorporate into our daily conversations? In what area of life will you intentionally shift your words in an attempt to shift the course of the situation? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1723234891918-PDOVN3XJSE8CO7BONFUU/unsplash-image-FAsrFrWSIqA.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Five: You Have The Power - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Proverbs 18-21 Day 2: Proverbs 22-24 Day 3: Proverbs 25-27 Day 4: Proverbs 28-31 Day 5: 2 Chronicles 14-16 Day 6: 2 Chronicles 17-19 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwentyfour monthly 0.5 2024-08-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Four: It’s Praying Time - GraceNotes - My Reflections (2 Chronicles 1:7-10 NIV) 7 That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” 8 Solomon answered God, “You have shown great kindness to David my father and have made me king in his place. 9 Now, Lord God, let your promise to my father David be confirmed, for you have made me king over a people who are as numerous as the dust of the earth. 10 Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” Alright, let's talk about getting bold, shall we? I'm talking David-level boldness, like standing up to your own personal Goliath because you *know* God's got your back. Or Jabez-style boldness, where you confidently call out to God for exactly what you want, like it's your personal Amazon wish list, trusting He's going to deliver. And then there's Solomon, who could've had all the bling and glory but chose wisdom and discernment instead. Now *that's* a boss move! I want to be that kind of bold, where my heart's desires align with God’s will and He’s all like, “Yup, that’s my girl!” Bold enough to chase after Him with everything I've got, knowing He's smiling down, well pleased. So, spill the tea: what do you want to be bold about this season? Whether it’s stepping into a new adventure, asking for what you need, or just being unapologetically yourself, let’s go all in! (2 Chronicles 7:13-16 NIV) 13 “When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, 14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 15 Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. 16 I have chosen and consecrated this temple so that my Name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there. Let’s talk about IF. You know what I’m talking about—the, "If you do this, then you'll get that." In the above text, verses 14 and 15 give us a major cause-and-effect moment: for the Lord to turn His eyes toward us, we need to humble ourselves. But how often do we miss that "if" part? ‍♀️ It's easy to get tangled up in our own pride, whether we're aware of it or not. We struggle to let go and be vulnerable enough to come to God in praise, prayer, and expectation. The funny thing is, God wants to give us everything, but we're too busy hustling to notice. It's like trying to climb Stone Mountain while dragging 76lb weights, insisting we don't need any help. (Gym goals, anyone? ️‍♀️) But here's the reality check: we don't have to do it all alone. As a wife, mom, or colleague, we sometimes refuse to ask for help. We wear our independence like a badge of honor, even when it feels like we're moving mountains solo. But it doesn't have to be that way. God is always ready to step in, and sometimes His help looks like our partner holding our hand, our family pitching in with the kids, or our coworkers helping out on a project. So, let's take a deep breath and humble ourselves a bit. This season, let's remember that it's okay to ask for help and lean on the Almighty. After all, life's too short to struggle uphill with extra weights. Let's open ourselves to the blessings and support that are right in front of us! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1722708420036-E3D5AOOG8EA7ZPADJQMQ/unsplash-image-Nj9RBjnGZ64.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Four: It’s Praying Time - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 1 Chronicles 23-26 Day 2: 1 Chronicles 27-29 Day 3: 2 Chronicles 1-3 Day 4: 2 Chronicles 4-7 Day 5: 2 Chronicles 8-10 Day 6: 2 Chronicles 11-13 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Four: It’s Praying Time - Reflections Knowing that we play a part in our answered prayers, what part do you find most difficult? We’re told to pray, humble ourselves, and turn from our wicked ways. Is there any one of these that you have knowingly failed to do? Going forward, which area within these mandates will you intentionally make the effort to grow in? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwentythree monthly 0.5 2024-07-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Three: His Way is the Right Way - GraceNotes - My Reflections 1 Chronicles 4:10 NIV 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request. The beginning of 1 Chronicles is like diving into an old family album, filled with lists of who’s who throughout history. But then, we meet Jabez, and suddenly, there's this beautiful, heartfelt prayer that just jumps out. Jabez’s name might mean "pain," but he was special, more honored than his brothers. When he prayed, he poured out his heart to God, asking for blessings and protection. It's a powerful reminder that we aren’t defined by what the world thinks of us or even what we are called, but by who God knows we are. Jabez's sincere prayer touched God’s heart, and God granted his request. So, what are you ready to ask God for, with all your heart, knowing that He’s the one who can make anything possible? 1 Chronicles 15:11-14, 25-26 NIV 11 Then David summoned Zadok and Abiathar the priests, and Uriel, Asaiah, Joel, Shemaiah, Eliel and Amminadab the Levites. 12 He said to them, “You are the heads of the Levitical families; you and your fellow Levites are to consecrate yourselves and bring up the ark of the Lord, the God of Israel, to the place I have prepared for it. 13 It was because you, the Levites, did not bring it up the first time that the Lord our God broke out in anger against us. We did not inquire of him about how to do it in the prescribed way.” 14 So the priests and Levites consecrated themselves in order to bring up the ark of the Lord, the God of Israel. 25 So David and the elders of Israel and the commanders of units of a thousand went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord from the house of Obed-Edom, with rejoicing. 26 Because God had helped the Levites who were carrying the ark of the covenant of the Lord, seven bulls and seven rams were sacrificed. One thing’s for certain and for sure: David was totally chasing after God’s heart. He adored the Lord with every part of him, and even when he messed up, he tried his absolute best to learn and do better next time. God is the ultimate giver of second chances, and it’s no wonder David got the chance to bring the Ark of the Lord to Jerusalem a second time. This time, though, he knew he needed God’s permission and guidance. It’s so important for us to pray about everything! I’ve failed so many times by making decisions based on my feelings instead of asking Jesus to guide me. The story goes on to say that after David sought God, God helped them move the Ark. Now, I don’t know about you, but I need God’s help! Just imagine how amazing things could be if Jesus sprinkled His supernatural power over everything ahead of us! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Three: His Way is the Right Way - Reflections What decisions or actions have you had to adjust to doing God’s doing? Even when you knew God’s way was the right way, how difficult was it to make the adjustment? In the very near future, what changes will you make to line up with the ways of God? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1722103909059-UJFVO42VVX0RUDF05X6X/unsplash-image-ls4OK8rINvc.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Three: His Way is the Right Way - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 1 Chronicles 1:4 Day 2: 1 Chronicles 5-8 Day 3: 1 Chronicles 9-12 Day 4: 1 Chronicles 13-16 Day 5: 1 Chronicles 17-19 Day 6: 1 Chronicles 20-22 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwentytwo monthly 0.5 2024-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Two: Be Still - Reflections How many times this week have you made moves when you should have been still? For example, did you argue with your husband when you should have held your peace? Speak up for your daughter instead of allowing her to learn to speak up for herself? In what areas of your life do you find it most difficult to be still? Going forward, how will you challenge yourself to be still and trust God? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Two: Be Still - GraceNotes - My Reflections As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. 2 He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 3 “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. 4 All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” (Luke 21:1-4 NIV) When I read the story of the widow in Luke 21:1-4, it hits me that God deserves more than just flashy gestures and empty words. He deserves our everything, not just the stuff that looks good on the surface. It's about giving God every last bit of who we are because that's one of the highest forms of worship. So, what’s left to give? Our whole, authentic selves. 1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging...10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” 11 The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. (Psalms 46:1-3, 10-11 NIV) Let’s be real: the world can be a scary place, and I think we can all agree on that. Every day, there's something new to worry about, and it's made worse because we have the news at our fingertips 24/7. Just knowing there's trouble here, there, and everywhere can shake even the strongest of us. But here’s the silver lining: God is our refuge and strength. No matter how much the world seems to be falling apart, Jesus is still king. When my mind starts to spiral and anxiety tries to take over, I remind myself to just “be still.” God’s got this. We always joke about being passenger princesses, but there’s something comforting about knowing that God is in the driver’s seat. We just need to be still and trust that everything’s okay because He says so. 3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. 4 In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? (Psalms 56:3-4 NIV) Much of my relationship with God as an adult has been rooted in learning to trust. Deep down, I'm naturally skeptical of everything and, let's be real, kinda scared too. Scared of bugs, scared of not being enough, scared that the worst-case scenario is lurking around every corner. But guess what? That's not the life God wants for us. Living in fear just keeps us from truly living. Fear is like hitting the pause button on life. So, why not hand over the keys to God and cruise with the confidence that there’s nothing to fear? Because with God, we’re already winning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1721475223868-WNJIF34D3SZCAWM3MOZL/unsplash-image-qNhe2QXzLuo.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-Two: Be Still - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Luke 19-21 Day 2: Luke 22-24 Day 3: Psalms 42-47 Day 4: Psalms 48-54 Day 5: Psalms 55-61 Day 6: Psalms 62-67 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwenty-one monthly 0.5 2024-07-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-One: Can You Pass the Test? - GraceNotes - My Reflections Luke 11:9-13 NIV 9 “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. 11 “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Growing up, my mom always used to say, "You have not if you ask not," and it was just something she said when I wanted a donut or some fruit snacks - but as an adult, it hits on a spiritual level. Even though our Heavenly Father knows all our needs, wants, and dreams, it's so important to build a relationship with Him where we feel open enough to share our hearts. It's all about our heart posture because God truly wants to bless us with the desires of our hearts. Being able to come to Him and say, "Lord, I need this," or "God, I want that," shows our boldness and trust in Him. Plus, I believe that asking, seeking, and knocking in Jesus' name brings things to life as if they already were. Luke 11:2-4 NIV 2 He said to them, “When you pray, say: “ ‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily bread. 4 Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation. ’ ” I was scrolling through Instagram University the other day and saw this woman talking about "give us this day our daily bread." Even though Jesus is teaching us how to pray, He's really showing us what our life's subscription should look like. The Lord wants us to have a relationship with Him, to stay connected with Him in our everyday lives. But the lady took it a step further and mentioned the Israelites and the manna—how God provided manna daily, and it only lasted for the day because He wanted His children to depend on Him daily. The symbolism of bread in the Bible, especially Jesus breaking bread and saying, "this is my body," makes me realize the importance of needing Jesus every single day. Each day, the bread fills us in different ways because no day is the same. My prayer is that He will supply all our needs each day, and I'm trusting Him for it. Luke 17:3-4 NIV 3 “If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. 4 Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” Forgiveness is something so many of us struggle with. It’s tough to just let go and forgive, especially when it feels like the other person doesn’t deserve it. But if the Lord can forgive us for all our mistakes, how can we not do the same for others? Honestly, I’ve lost count of the times I’ve had to remind myself to let go because if I want God’s grace, I have to extend it too. I’m not going to sugarcoat it—it's all about repetition. Just saying, “I forgive this person for this,” over and over is the start of healing because forgiveness is for YOU. It’s what makes us women after God’s own heart. So, who do you need to forgive today? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-One: Can You Pass the Test? - Reflections What tests have you encountered lately? Did you pass or fail your test? How did you do it? What advice would you give someone going through a test? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1720919553303-2ZXJK1FP73KWQS9Z7HPX/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty-One: Can You Pass the Test? - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 2 Kings 23-25 Day 2: Luke 1-4 Day 3: Luke 5-7 Day 4: Luke 8-11 Day 5: Luke 12-14 Day 6: Luke 15-18 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwenty monthly 0.5 2024-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1720281784594-9YZ6NR890IITIRR5KZL5/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty: Bouncing Back - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 2 Kings 1-3 Day 2: 2 Kings 4-7 Day 3: 2 Kings 8-11 Day 4: 2 Kings 12-15 Day 5: 2 Kings 16-18 Day 6: 2 Kings 19-22 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty: Bouncing Back - Reflections Can you identify in any way with the story of the woman from 2 Kings? Why? Has there ever been a time when you’ve wondered where God was? How did you handle it? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twenty: Bouncing Back - GraceNotes - My Reflections 2 Kings 4:1-7 NIV “The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” Elisha said, “Go around and ask all your neighbors for empty jars. Don’t ask for just a few. Then go inside and shut the door behind you and your sons. Pour oil into all the jars, and as each is filled, put it to one side.” She left him and shut the door behind her and her sons. They brought the jars to her and she kept pouring. When all the jars were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another one.” But he replied, “There is not a jar left.” Then the oil stopped flowing. She went and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what is left.”” Ever feel like you’re running on empty but still need to give so much? That's when our faith truly shines! The type of faith that is truly the substance of all things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Think about the story of the widow and her little jar of oil. She had almost nothing, yet her faith was everything. For us mama bears protecting our cubs from the world's craziness, it takes prayer and that mustard seed-sized, wildly audacious faith to believe God will add His super to our natural. Imagine having nothing but trusting that God will provide more than you can contain! It’s mind-blowing and brings so much peace. So, even when you feel like you’re down to your last drop, remember: God’s got you, and He’ll always make a way. 2 Kings 5:10-19 NIV “Elisha sent a messenger to say to him, “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed.” But Naaman went away angry and said, “I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy. Are not Abana and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Couldn’t I wash in them and be cleansed?” So he turned and went off in a rage. Naaman’s servants went to him and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, ‘Wash and be cleansed’!” So he went down and dipped himself in the Jordan seven times, as the man of God had told him, and his flesh was restored and became clean like that of a young boy. Then Naaman and all his attendants went back to the man of God. He stood before him and said, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel. So please accept a gift from your servant.” The prophet answered, “As surely as the Lord lives, whom I serve, I will not accept a thing.” And even though Naaman urged him, he refused. “If you will not,” said Naaman, “please let me, your servant, be given as much earth as a pair of mules can carry, for your servant will never again make burnt offerings and sacrifices to any other god but the Lord. But may the Lord forgive your servant for this one thing: When my master enters the temple of Rimmon to bow down and he is leaning on my arm and I have to bow there also—when I bow down in the temple of Rimmon, may the Lord forgive your servant for this.” “Go in peace,” Elisha said. Have you ever taken the time to read about Naaman’s healing from leprosy? It’s such a powerful reminder that faith takes action. "Go, wash yourself." We believe God for big miracles, and He shows up, but sometimes we need to cleanse ourselves internally, too. This year, I started praying for God to reveal my heart to me—the good, the bad, and what needs fixing. I want to see my heart in the mirror because everything flows from there. And I’ve extended that prayer to my loved ones, my sisters, everyone I meet, because sometimes it’s what’s inside that needs adjusting. Naaman had a visible issue, but God also addressed his internal issue: pride. God humbled him by charging him to WASH YOURSELF. It’s like going to the car wash—what’s the point if we don’t clean the inside too? We can look pretty on the outside, but the real adjustments start within. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/week-nineteen monthly 0.5 2024-06-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Nineteen: The Drought is Almost Over - GraceNotes - My Reflections “Although he had forbidden Solomon to follow other gods, Solomon did not keep the Lord’s command.” 1 Kings 11:10 NIV Disobedience will get you caught up, called out, and cast apart from the will of God. Every. Clap. Single. Clap. Time. Clap. When I read through 1 Kings, I can't help but notice how God would appoint a king and give them super clear instructions. But at the heart of it all, the main message was, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and strength, and don't stray from that.” My mama always said, “When you know better, you do better,” but she’d add, “When you don’t do better, even when you know what’s right, the consequences are based on what you know in your heart.” Think of the Bible as the ultimate blueprint. When you get to know it, you get to know God and what He expects of you. So, it shouldn't be a shocker when, if you turn away from His word and disobey, He’ll put you on pause until you get your heart right. “For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah.” 1 Kings 17:16 NIV “Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again. The angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.” 1 Kings 19:5-8 NIV You know there's nothing like a good meal to either give you a solid nap or strengthen you for the road ahead. The Bible totally gets this, harping on the importance of bread and rest. In 1 Kings alone, we see two amazing stories of God providing bread. First, there's the widow who gave her last bit of flour to Elijah, and God blessed her with endless provisions. Then there's Elijah on the run, where an angel of the Lord urged him to eat to gain strength. These stories are so powerful! Now, let’s get into the symbolism. The oil represents the Holy Spirit, and the flour represents Jesus. Together, they make bread that is eternal. Jesus is the bread of life we need to keep going in both hard times and good times. He is our sustenance, our cup that overflows, providing us not only with the food we need through His word but also the rest we need by taking on our burdens and cares. Imagine, in those moments of divine provision, the bread was really Jesus in the flesh, strengthening Elijah and fortifying him for the journey ahead. It’s a beautiful reminder that Jesus nourishes our souls and gives us the strength to face anything. So, let's remember to turn to the bread of life, Jesus, who sustains us and gives us rest. He’s our ultimate source of strength and peace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1719745412177-B64E8FMM7CP0Z9Z8F4OD/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Nineteen: The Drought is Almost Over - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 1 Kings 1-4 Day 2: 1 Kings 5-7 Day 3: 1 Kings 8-10 Day 4: 1 Kings 11-14 Day 5: 1 Kings 15-18 Day 6: 1 Kings 19-22 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Nineteen: The Drought is Almost Over - Reflections What areas of your life are seemingly in a season of drought? What impossible thing have you been sensing in your spirit? Why is it so impossible? Do you really believe that God can and will perform the work? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekeighteen monthly 0.5 2024-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Eighteen: God Has Not Forgotten - Reflections Has there ever been a time in your life when you couldn’t see your own value? What were the circumstances surrounding that season of your life? How did you get released from that kind of thinking? Do you struggle with it still? How would you encourage someone else who may find it hard to realize their value? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Eighteen: God Has Not Forgotten - GraceNotes - My Reflections 2 Samuel 12 This story of David truly gives, “I’m just a man.” And I think that there is so much to gather from that — we see God’s favor over David’s life time and time again but we are also seeing that David, like us all, falls short. So, David got caught up with Bathsheba, and it caused quite a stir. Sadly, their actions led to heartbreaking consequences—the loss of their child and turmoil in David's kingdom. Yet, through it all, David learned profound lessons about repentance and the importance of staying grounded in integrity. It’s a reminder that even in our mistakes, there’s a path to redemption and growth. David’s journey shows us that no matter how glamorous or powerful we may seem, we’re all human and need to face the consequences of our actions with humility and a commitment to do better. 2 Samuel 13-18 Okay, so imagine David and his son Absalom—total father-son drama! Absalom’s got this amazing hair and charm, but underneath, there’s serious family tension brewing. He plots against David, even stages a rebellion to steal the throne! It’s like a royal soap opera, right? But here’s the heart of it: despite their conflict, David’s love for Absalom never wavers. He wrestles with grief and forgiveness, showing us that even in the messiest family dynamics, love and compassion can heal. David’s story with Absalom reminds us that relationships take work, forgiveness is key, and sometimes even the closest bonds face the toughest tests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1719091514062-TRYZFI25L3FPK652AYVX/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Eighteen: God Has Not Forgotten - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 2 Samuel 9-12 Day 2: 2 Samuel 13-15 Day 3: 2 Samuel 16-18 Day 4: 2 Samuel 19-21 Day 5: 2 Samuel 22-24 Day 6: Psalms 38-41 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekseventeen monthly 0.5 2024-06-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496927252-8GGA2JELTD1BC8M1J8HR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Seventeen: Moving the Ark - Reflections Have you ever made a move that you probably should have prayed about first? Were there repercussions? Why do we sometimes find it easier to go our own way than to seek direction from God? Going forward, how will you handle your decisions, great and small? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1718496868029-D1552V749FPZXWJ1VSSG/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Seventeen: Moving the Ark - This Week’s Readings Day 1: 1 Samuel 18-21 Day 2: 1 Samuel 22-25 Day 3: 1 Samuel 26-29 Day 4: 1 Samuel 30-31 Day 5: 2 Samuel 1-4 Day 6: 2 Samuel 5-8 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Seventeen: Moving the Ark - GraceNotes - My Reflections Picture yourself slipping into David's shoes. He's young, successful, and everyone absolutely adores him—except for Saul, the king, who’s terrified of him. Why the drama? Because God's favor has shifted from Saul to David. Saul’s jealousy grows as he watches David succeed. But guess what? David doesn’t let this success go to his head. He stays grounded, leading with that fabulous combo of courage and integrity. Then, things get even more interesting—Saul finds out his own daughter Michal has fallen for David. Uh-oh, Saul's fear morphs into full-on paranoia. Instead of seeing David as his loyal star, he starts viewing him as the ultimate threat. This shows how fear and jealousy can blur our vision and turn potential friends into enemies. Fast forward to the thrilling episode of 1 Samuel 24. David gets the perfect chance to settle the score with Saul but chooses the high road instead. He says, "May the Lord judge between you and me." Wow, talk about faith goals! David trusts God completely to handle the situation. Revenge? So not his thing—he leaves that to God. David’s decision to spare Saul, even when he could've easily taken him down, speaks volumes about his character. He’s a living example of integrity. He respects Saul as the Lord’s anointed king, despite all the harm Saul has done. This act of mercy is a testament to David’s inner strength and his unshakeable commitment to doing what’s right. David drops this wisdom bomb: "From evildoers come evil deeds." Translation? Our actions reflect our true selves. By refusing to harm Saul, David’s saying, “I’m not letting Saul’s negativity define me. I choose goodness, no matter what.” So, what can we take away from David’s story? First, let God handle the justice part. When we’re wronged, it’s super tempting to seek revenge, but David shows us the better way. Second, live with integrity. No matter how others treat us, let’s choose to do the right thing. Next time you're in a tough spot, channel your inner David. Trust that God sees your struggles and will bring about justice in His time. Let go of the need to get even and hold on to your integrity. By doing this, you honor God and create a sense of peace in your heart. David’s story isn’t just some old tale; it’s a guide for our lives today. Let's aim to be like David—trusting God, living with integrity, and spreading mercy. Remember, God's justice will always prevail, and our job is to stay true to who He’s called us to be. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/week-sixteen monthly 0.5 2024-06-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713712332090-26S5JSCTIIMNZX14OUBI/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Sixteen: Stop Stressing and Start Praying - Reflections What is at the top of your stress list? Why is it such a stressor? How do you normally handle those things that you have no control over? Be honest. After reading Hannah’s story, what have you learned about yourself? Going forward, how will you handle your stress? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Sixteen: Stop Stressing and Start Praying - GraceNotes - My Reflections Ruth 1:16 NIV “But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” Ruth was so immersed in her relationship with Naomi that she said the above — but deeper than that, Naomi’s witness of our great God was so profound that Ruth didn’t want to return to her past. Reading this speaks to me in the highest volumes because this is the type of woman I yearn to be — like Naomi. A woman who truly loves Jesus with all her heart, mind, soul, and strength so that any person who comes around me wants to know Him and abide in Him. 1 Samuel 1:15 NIV ““Not so, my Lord,” Hannah replied, “I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the Lord.” To be very truthful, honest, candid, all of the above — I have, at times, struggled with the spirit of “complaint.” I’m calling my husband, mom, friends, whoever, and complaining about the rain, my job, the impossible schedule, instead of just asking Jesus to lead the way and make it straight. In the very recent past, I’ve been praying that God release me from that. It’s so important that we just go to God, because He has the answers; nothing is impossible for Him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1717896755523-D9A711F1G8O50E3E67J3/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Sixteen: Stop Stressing and Start Praying - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Ruth 1-4 Day 2: Samuel 1-3 Day 3: Samuel 4-7 Day 4: Samuel 8-11 Day 5: Samuel 12-14 Day 6: Samuel 15-17 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/week-fifteen monthly 0.5 2024-06-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fifteen: Trust His Track Record - GraceNotes - My Reflections Judges 16:17-22 NIV 17 So he told her everything. “No razor has ever been used on my head,” he said, “because I have been a Nazirite dedicated to God from my mother’s womb. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as any other man.” 18 When Delilah saw that he had told her everything, she sent word to the rulers of the Philistines, “Come back once more; he has told me everything.” So the rulers of the Philistines returned with the silver in their hands. 19 After putting him to sleep on her lap, she called for someone to shave off the seven braids of his hair, and so began to subdue him. And his strength left him. 20 Then she called, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” He awoke from his sleep and thought, “I’ll go out as before and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. 21 Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes and took him down to Gaza. Binding him with bronze shackles, they set him to grinding grain in the prison. 22 But the hair on his head began to grow again after it had been shaved We are all extremely familiar with the story of Samson and Delilah, but after the reading this — it came with fresh eyes. Not because of “women being the fall of man,” or “Delilah being the worst woman to exist,” or whatever we want to call it, but because, “the hair on his hand head began to grow again after it had been shaved.” Verse 22 truly screamed out at me because God is a God of second chances; and our God, MY GOD, will restore the righteous and never forsake them. I thought about the times that I allowed the world to draw me from myself, similarly to Samson breaking down and telling Delilah how to take his strength from him — and consequently, how the Lord restored me to fullness every time I fell by the wayside. God is good, God is great. Psalms 27:1 NIV 1 The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? Psalms 34:19 NIV “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all;” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1717289776229-GHOPF8L3WI5CC6KO87JA/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Fifteen: Trust His Track Record - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Judges 11-14 Day 2: Judges 15-17 Day 3: Judges 18-21 Day 4: Psalms 26-29 Day 5: Psalms 30-33 Day 6: Psalms 34-37 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713712332090-26S5JSCTIIMNZX14OUBI/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Fifteen: Trust His Track Record - Reflections Can you remember a time when God was gracious although you felt you didn’t deserve His kindness? How has God’s compassion toward you taught you to be compassionate toward others? Sometimes trust can be a hard thing. What hard thing in your life will you trust God to do? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfourteen monthly 0.5 2024-05-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1716588354347-HEEQGVD3BYV3CCKMFEGP/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Fourteen: I Am A Winner! - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Joshua 17-20 Day 2: Joshua 21-24 Day 3: Proverbs 15-17 Day 4: Judges 1-3 Day 5: Judges 4-6 Day 6: Judges 7-10 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Fourteen: I Am A Winner! - GraceNotes - My Reflections Joshua 22:5 NIV But be very careful to keep the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you: to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to keep his commands, to hold fast to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. I am not keeping a tally of the amount of times this charge is spoken in the Bible, but it’s clear that these commandments are of the greatest importance. We have seen time and time again — from Abraham, to Isaac, to Jacob, to Moses to now Joshua the importance of loving the Lord your God, being obedient to him, keeping his commands, holding fast and serving him. I will say time and time again, I have known God my entire life but was unchanged until about seven or so years ago, and changing was the key! It’s so much easier to just follow God and His word, because even when life is difficult, I’m holding fast to the fact that He loves me, has chosen me and vice versa. This is the key. Proverbs 16:3 NIV Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. A daily reminder that His will, not mine, be done. I am a planner and I am Type A — the true symptom of being a first born, okay!? But submitting my plans to God, and allowing His favor to flow out over my plans has been a game changer. I don’t know about you all, but doing things just because I want to do them but not consulting with our Father God has hurt me in more ways than one — talk about seasons of wilderness and going the long way — but I can truly say when I give it to God, my plans, the desires of my heart and all of the above, it all shakes out! Judges 6 Gideon. Why? I was reading through this story wondering what happened to the faith that is the true definition of “things not seen?” It took too many times for Gideon to just trust that God’s word is true. HOWEVER, I won’t lie and say that there have not been seasons in my life where I did the same thing — and that’s where we build character. By discerning God’s voice and trusting that He is Who He says He is and we are who He says we are. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713712332090-26S5JSCTIIMNZX14OUBI/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Fourteen: I Am A Winner! - Reflections Would you have trusted God’s instructions to send most of your men home? Why or why not? Has there been a time in your life when you trusted God and succeeded against the odds? In Judges 7:9-11, God instructs Gideon to go to his enemy’s camp. Why, and what were the results? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/week-thirteen monthly 0.5 2024-05-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1716080521644-0WS9T7WXQPCWOUX1P8IA/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Thirteen: Your Own Jordan River - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Deuteronomy 29-31 Day 2: Deuteronomy 32-34 Day 3: Joshua 1-4 Day 4: Joshua 5-8 Day 5: Joshua 9-12 Day 6: Joshua 13-16 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713712332090-26S5JSCTIIMNZX14OUBI/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Thirteen: Your Own Jordan River - Reflections In what areas of your life have you ever felt stuck? How did you handle things? Did you seek guidance or wise counsel? How did you begin to make moves again? What did you do to get out of the rut you were in? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Thirteen: Your Own Jordan River - GraceNotes - My Reflections Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. I was recently reminded that when you fear the Lord, no other fear matters. And I’m not saying fear God in a “boogyman” type of way - I’m saying this in the regard of respecting him with all honor — the type of respect that stops you from straying from His will. On a personal note, I have found myself at such peace as we have been reading through the Bible these past three months because I’m consciously meditating on the Word day in and out, constantly in His presence. And when you’re there — there’s nothing to fear, nothing else matters. Joshua 3:15-16 Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing. In Joshua 3, the Jordan River symbolized a “setback” for the Israelites. Y’all know how as adults we’re realizing, IT’S ALWAYS SOMETHING?? Yeah, well, the Jordan was the always something for them. The Israelites could literally see the promises of the Lord waiting just beyond this obstacle — but they had to trust that God is a good God who does not lie, does not fail and never lets the righteous be forsaken. Whatever your “Jordan” is, trust that God will make a way to get you to the promise. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwelve monthly 0.5 2024-05-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Twelve: Blessed or Cursed - GraceNotes - My Reflections Deuteronomy 28:3 NIV, Deuteronomy 28:13 NIV “You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country.” “The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.” Growing up, my parents confessed these words of blessings over me and my siblings, and now, as I watch my little ones grow, I find myself praying the same over them. But here's the catch: blessings come hand in hand with obedience. Just like a choose-your-own-adventure story, God offered the Israelites a choice: follow His path and be showered with blessings, or stray and face the consequences. It dawned on me recently, as I read through those verses, that the blessings are like a sweet melody, spanning 14 verses, while the curses stretch from verse 15 to 68... That's a lot of verses! It got me thinking about how much easier life could be if we just followed His lead. Everything He guides us to do is for our own good, after all. Sure, obedience might sometimes feel like a tug-of-war with our own desires, but trust me, it's worth it. The weight of those curses, spanning 53 whole verses, is a vivid reminder of the real struggles we face when we go our own way. Psalms 22:1 NIV “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?” Have you heard these words before; the same words Jesus spoke as He was on the cross. Reading through this chapter was Dejavu in more ways than one. But it made me consider how often we as Christians feel abandoned by God — even Jesus felt* a sense of abandonment. But the glory in this, is that our feelings, while valid, are not always the full picture of our current state in life. Even in the midst of David and Jesus feeling abandonment, they were able to look to back on God’s goodness and know that He is trustworthy. Let’s continue to recall His faithfulness even in the seasons of wilderness. It may not always feel easy to follow God, but it’s always worth it, because He always comes through. Psalms 23:2-6 NIV “ He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713712332090-26S5JSCTIIMNZX14OUBI/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twelve: Blessed or Cursed - Reflections Have you positioned yourself to be blessed? Are you listening and doing? Has the been difficult to do? Why? Have you ever felt like you were more cursed than blessed? How did you reverse the curse? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1715471618418-VCQJ6IVJC9IGJZX09DZT/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Twelve: Blessed or Cursed - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Deuteronomy 16-18 Day 2: Deuteronomy 19-21 Day 3: Psalms 18-21 Day 4: Deuteronomy 22-25 Day 5: Deuteronomy 26-28 Day 6: Psalms 22-25 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekeleven monthly 0.5 2024-05-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713712332090-26S5JSCTIIMNZX14OUBI/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Eleven: Bearing Burdens - Reflections Would you consider yourself an enabler or one who empowers? Why? As moms, leaders, or sisters, we have a tendency to run to the rescue. Can you think of a time when you intervened when you should have allowed someone to figure something out for themselves? What were the results? Can you see yourself transitioning from one level to the next right now? How has your process been? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1714872631112-8TW69QMBQY889OMXI1W8/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Eleven: Bearing Burdens - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Deuteronomy 1-4 Day 2: Deuteronomy 5-8 Day 3: Psalms 11-14 Day 4: Deuteronomy 9-11 Day 5: Deuteronomy 12-15 Day 6: Psalms 15-17 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Eleven: Bearing Burdens - GraceNotes - My Reflections Deuteronomy 1:6 The Lord our God said to us at Horeb, “You have stayed long enough at this mountain.” This. The wilderness does not last always. The trials, the struggle, the mountain — God is the potter, we are the clay. And there will be seasons that are difficult, that are heart wrenching, that we are asking God why… but the seasons do not last always. God is a God who does not lie and He will bring you out of the suck at the appointed time. There have been so many seasons where I have done nothing but leap for joy when the Lord told me “You’ve been here long enough.” — and though I’m glad for the molding, I’m even more happy for the season to wrap. Deuteronomy 6:5 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. I grew up reciting this with my family every day — I’m pretty sure this is my dad’s favorite verse. With four kids running around the house, he always hit us with this verse followed by the second greatest commandment of loving your neighbor as yourself. The more seasoned I become, I am realizing that when you love God with all of you, you are so much freer. I wake up ready to honor God, to give Him my days, to meditate on His words, pray without ceasing, commune with Him and just spend time loving Him. Doing this easily makes me love me and others all the more. Psalms 13:6 I will sing the Lord’s praise, for He has been good to me. This is one of those scriptures that we should hide in our hearts. As Christians, we’re not promised a life with no suffering, but we are promised that the Lord is always victorious — he is always good. When we keep that in mind, we can remember that sooner or later, it will turn in our favor no matter what our present circumstance. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekten monthly 0.5 2024-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Ten: I’m Just a Vessel - GraceNotes - My Reflections Mark 5:34 “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” The story of the woman with the issue of blood is top two not two for me. This woman was isolated, was sick, was broken in more than one way due to her ailment. She heard of Jesus and knew in her heart that if she could just reach out and touch the hem of His garment, she would be healed. Imagine having this level of faith - to just know but a touch would remove all of the pain, the illness, the burdens from your life — and that faith made her well. Mark 9:50 Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other. One thing about it, if there’s no salt/flavor, I am not eating it. I’m screaming “what is this?” in my best Chef Ramsey voice…but what Jesus is really saying here is that we as Christians are as unique as salt. Salt was used for many different things before modern inventions - it was used to preserve, to cleanse, to season and the list goes on…but when salt loses its taste, it loses its purpose. We are called to be in the world and not of it; if we take on worldliness, our uniqueness diminishes and we become like everyone else. Mark 11:24-25 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins. And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. I cannot even begin to tell you that it has taken work to forgive myself and to forgive others for a multitude of things - even as little as getting cut off on the highway or as big as betrayal in a friendship. But how can I go to God asking for blessings in prayer or even for Him to forgive me, when I am holding grudges? God gives us grace so willingly and so freely that we can only strive to make it to that level of love, but what I have learned is that forgiveness is for you. Forgiveness if for you — because it makes you free of the bitterness that leads to hatred which is the complete opposite of the love and light that we as Christians are called to spread. We have the authority to pray, and to pray boldly knowing that God can do exceedingly above all that we can ask, think or imagine; but we also cannot tap in to this boldness without first following divine orders — repenting of the sin of unforgiveness and being free. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1714308774638-4R027J1F2K5FC8MC6E2G/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Ten: I’m Just a Vessel - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Numbers 27-30 Day 2: Numbers 31-33 Day 3: Numbers 34-36 Day 4: Mark 1-5 Day 5: Mark 6-10 Day 6: Mark 11-16 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1714308818928-4XVMA9JCNINT9P8QTUBT/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Ten: I’m Just a Vessel - Reflections In what ways have you underestimated yourself? In what ways do you believe others have underestimated you, perhaps because you’re a woman? If you could change a rule to benefit others, what would it be? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/week-nine monthly 0.5 2024-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713712332090-26S5JSCTIIMNZX14OUBI/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Nine: Delay Does Not Mean Denial - Reflections What area of your life do you feel is being delayed, and why do you feel that way? How have you handled the delay? After reading Numbers 14, do you identify with Joshua and Caleb, or do you think you would have been in agreement with the 10 who came back? Why? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713712301387-HGTLTGV02SNBMUDR86AF/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Nine: Delay Does Not Mean Denial - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Numbers 14-16 Day 2: Numbers 17-19 Day 3: Numbers 20-22 Day 4: Proverbs 8-11 Day 5: Numbers 23-26 Day 6: Proverbs 12-14 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1dc57362-a831-45cf-b285-d9c2e1797d32/tempImage4SI548.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Nine: Delay Does Not Mean Denial - GraceNotes - My Reflections Numbers 20:1-13 God is saying to speak not to strike. The Israelites finally made it out of the wilderness and continued to moan, complain and failed to trust the Lord. They bemoaned to Moses that there was no water to drink or other foods for them and their livestock to survive….and Moses was irritated. How many times would it take for them to understand that God would provide. Of course, Moses went to intercede for the people and the Lord gave clear instruction for His glory to be revealed: take the staff, gather the assembly, speak to the rock and it will pour out its water. But out of anger, Moses went to the people, raised his arm and struck the rock and then the water gushed out. This resulted in Moses losing his right to enter the promised land. The word says, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” How many of us are fed up at situations, people, places, things and we are striking them to do what only God can do. Let’s be real, people gone people (coworkers gone cowork, spouses gone spouse, kids gone kid, family gone family) SITUATIONS GONE SITUATION. But we can choose to not lean into our own understanding and listen to the Lord calling us to speak. We have to speak life and the blessings will flow. Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult. Proverbs 12:16 One thing I’ve prayed fervently for, is that the Lord would help me to be slow to offense. People could do little and I would want to square up like Peter and cut their ear off. But honestly, how is that showing love, grace, patience, prudence? This verse is a gentle reminder to quell your emotions and think past the moment. The moment doesn’t last always and the quicker we master letting things roll off our shoulders, the better. Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them. Proverbs 13:24 Let’s be clear. It’s 2024 and the rod looks different. It’s not necessarily the switch from the backyard, the belt, the shoe, the wooden spatula or all of the above. But what the rod is…is loving discipline and guidance. This world is crazy and it’s so important for us parents to guide our children in the path that they should go so that when they grow old they will not depart. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekeight monthly 0.5 2024-04-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/dc1fb5b1-90b1-4083-9887-a24a0765183b/tempImageAKVW6r.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Eight: The Blessing - GraceNotes - My Reflections Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. The Blessing Numbers 6:24-26 The Lord Bless you and keep you, make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. The Lord will Help You Carry Your Burdens; “I Won’t Complain” Numbers 11:10-35 This entire passage is loaded. The first thing that stood out to me is that the Lord will hear you in your time of need. Again, we are seeing throughout the word that God will give us direction and tell us His requirements of us, but sometimes our burden can be too heavy - and when we bring those things to God, He will apply His “super” to our natural and meet us where we are so that we can make His glory realized. Moses was truly in over his head trying to lead the people alone, and once he told God of this, The Lord provided help by way of ordaining other leaders in the camp to assist Moses with the burdens and complaints of the people. The second thing that popped out here is the fact that we shouldn’t complain by rebuking God/rejecting the Lord. The people were desperate for meat even though God providing all they needed by way of manna from heaven. Not going to lie, I giggled a little bit because I was reminded of my youth and nagging my parents for something and them telling me “Ima give you what you’re asking for.” God literally answered the people’s desperation for meat by saying, “I’m going to provide so much meat that it will be coming out of your nostrils.” All of this to say, God gives us what we need - we have to get to a place where God’s enough is enough and be we have to be okay with that. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713116885550-BYB2ZTDKJGTWUEFR3RS5/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Eight: The Blessing - Reflections Did you know the meaning of the word “benediction”? What was/is your personal definition of the word? Have you made a habit of audibly praying over your children, family or friends? Why or why not? What instances can you pronounce the Lord’s blessing? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1713116657683-4NADPZEDGFD7MUXI3NQG/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Eight: The Blessing - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Numbers 1-4 Day 2: Numbers 5-6 Day 3: Proverbs 1-3 Day 4: Numbers 7-9 Day 5: Numbers 10-13 Day 6: Proverbs 4-7 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekseven monthly 0.5 2024-04-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/dc1fb5b1-90b1-4083-9887-a24a0765183b/tempImageAKVW6r.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Seven: Prosper and Be Happy - GraceNotes - My Reflections Psalm 1 The Psalmist jumps right in letting believers know what will make us “blessed.” There are dos and don’ts that give us clarity on how to be blessed/happy as it pertains to our lives; firstly noting that we as believers should not 1. walk with the wicked 2. stand in the way that sinners take and 3. sit in the company of mockers. All of these three directives are important for us to follow, but I felt the most conviction in “sitting in the company of mockers.” I think in the “media” age we live in, it’s so easy for us to look at everyone’s lives with judgement because it appears that everyone is so open with the things that they are going through, have or have not and so on. Judgement seems to lead to comparison, or even stem from comparison at its core, and it’s so necessary to avoid mocking/judging/comparison because it leads to a path of unhappiness and separation from our Lord and Savior. Psalm 3:5; Psalm 4:8 One thing yall know is I take my sleep serious… but there are seasons that I struggle with peace. The day to day can get crazy. Wearing the hats of being a wife, a mom, a colleague, a friend, a sister, a daughter, a this and a that will truly weigh any of us down. BUT I’m learning (really even through this Bible study) to just give it all to God and relax. I mentioned a few weeks ago how resting is a form of worship and it rings true again here where the Psalmist says, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Knowing that God has the victory over WHATEVER you are facing in your life - gives true peace that will surpass all understanding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1712454942341-6LO55IR2620SYYDVYXZN/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Seven: Prosper and Be Happy - Reflections How do you define prosperity? Do you consider your prosperous? Why or why not? What would be your advice to someone seeking to be prosperous? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1712454916770-YD2G9WYTL5IL9TD8829N/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Seven: Prosper and Be Happy - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Psalms 1-3 Day 2: Leviticus 16-19 Day 3: Leviticus 20-23 Day 4: Psalms 4-6 Day 5: Leviticus 24-27 Day 6: Psalms 7-10 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weeksix monthly 0.5 2024-03-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/dc1fb5b1-90b1-4083-9887-a24a0765183b/tempImageAKVW6r.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Six: Tear Down Your Barriers - GraceNotes - My Reflections I find it fitting that we journeyed through Week 5 and transitioned into Week 6 as we celebrated all that transpired throughout Easter week. I didn’t know where the workbook would take us - but ending here is one of those “not by accident, coincidence, nor chance” moments that only God can ordain. Reading through Matthew 23-28 in Week 6 which covers Jesus’ sacrifice that gives us all the chance to be redeemed of sin in our human nature and be saved through His death and resurrection - to then be juxtaposed with the law that we read in Leviticus 1-15 in the same week, is truly eye opening. We go from Jesus saving us from “routine religion” so that we can know Him through relationship in Matthew, to then reading through the very detailed sacrifice that religion called for in the Old Testament in Leviticus. Frankly speaking, I read through Leviticus in awe, because it shocked me how many things were required to be cleansed from sin per the law. And to know that God realized that we would all fall short and needed a savior, to then give us His own son to become the law and also be the grace and love we need, amazed me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1711850853053-2GFNQFWWVCJDU4ZW600O/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Six: Tear Down Your Barriers - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Matthew 23-25 Day 2: Matthew 26-28 Day 3: Leviticus 1-4 Day 4: Leviticus 5-8 Day 5: Leviticus 9-12 Day 6: Leviticus 13-15 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1711850889836-EJH2FBKJJQ17LAP8DPUQ/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Six: Tear Down Your Barriers - Reflections What are some of your rules for relationships with other people? What are your dos and don’ts? Do you have any deal breakers? Is there anything that will utterly destroy a friendship or relationship for you? What grace have you given to others that you wish others would give to you? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfive monthly 0.5 2024-03-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1711231769040-WNF4NAKS5TBKH63N1J74/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Five: I Need What You Have - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Matthew 1-3 Day 2: Matthew 4-7 Day 3: Matthew 8-11 Day 4: Matthew 12-15 Day 5: Matthew 16-19 Day 6: Matthew 20-22 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1711231843130-5Z4ON7GXGR217UJHG787/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Five: I Need What You Have - Reflections What gifts do you bring to the table? What are your strengths? What do you do well? What has hindered you from using your gift? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/dc1fb5b1-90b1-4083-9887-a24a0765183b/tempImageAKVW6r.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Five: I Need What You Have - GraceNotes - My Reflections Who Can I Run To? Matthew 6:25-34 I’m convinced that to some degree, worrying is a common action for everyone at the core. I have trouble believing that a common statement in the Bible is “do not worry,” if we didn’t all suffer with worrying in any way shape or form. I, myself, have struggled with worrying all my life even to the point of needing medical help (which is fine and I’m not ashamed of having to use the wisdom of doctors in the season that I needed it). But after reading through Matthew 6:25-34 for probably the 1763rd time in my life, I realized that Jesus gives us thr true antidote to worrying. The antidote is not the knowledge that if birds know that God will feed them and flowers know that He will make them beautiful so as His child, He will do much more than you could imagine. The real antidote is seeking first His kingdom and His righteousness. It’s so easy to lean into the human way… “how am I going to make this happen? How am I going to accomplish this goal? How will I provide for myself and my family? The list is endless… but what I’m learning truly cures worry, is seeking God first and also leaning into praise and praising the worry away. A Good Old Sunday Nap Matthew 11:28 Rest is a weapon and will build you up and bring you peace. Jesus says “come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” How important is it to really just have a good nights’ sleep to recharge and be able to address the day to day with a fully rested mind, body, and spirit? Personally, I’m no good if I don’t get a true 7-8 hours of sleep - I’m cranky, I’m slow to being proactive with anything I have to do, and I honestly feel sick to my soul. Rest is so important, which is likely why honoring the Sabbath was law - God wanted us to trust Him to know that we could truly cast everything on Him because He knew we needed a recharge. Resting in the Lord is true worship. To be able to stop all of the ripping and running and give your burdens to Him shows true faith. After the Hurricane Matthew 8:24-27 I was on the Peloton doing a Gospel Ride with Cliff - do any of y’all know him or do the workouts? Very fulfilling even though I don’t know but 13 words in German. However, as I was riding, Kirk Franklin’s There’s a Blessing in the Storm came on. At one point in the song, Kirk said something along the lines of “some of us wouldn’t pray if we didn’t go through something.” And I was literally like… wait, this is so right. I was also thinking about something a pastor said, “everyone is either going into, going through, or coming out of a storm.” And it made me think about Matthew 8:23-27, when Jesus calmed the storm and the disciples were stunned that the winds and waves obeyed him! Two fold here - sometimes God will allow the storms to come and us to be helpless and seek Him because He wants us to remember that He is the calmer of storms. Being a Christian doesn’t exempt us from storms, however, it gives us confidence that we serve “I Am,” who can and will call the storm. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekfour monthly 0.5 2024-03-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/dc1fb5b1-90b1-4083-9887-a24a0765183b/tempImageAKVW6r.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Four: Thank God for Crushing - GraceNotes - My Reflections God Qualifies the Called…Again Exodus 31:3 I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills. Here we are again with another man who God called and then qualified. We are just reading through all of God’s instructions on building His tabernacle (very precise, very specific, very lengthy instructions). But as soon as God finished describing what He wanted and how He wanted it done, He told Moses “I have chosen Bezalel and I have filled him with the Spirit of God.” Y’all - we (I’m really talking to myself here) have got to start leaning into the direction that God is giving us. Whatever that looks like, no matter how scary, or big, or far fetch the instructions seem…. He HAS EQUIPPED US FOR THE CALLING. He will provide the means for us to do what He said He wants us to do. He is always a million steps ahead of us, we just have to follow the call. He wants us in spite of us. Exodus 32-34 There are times that we all struggle with imposter syndrome. Am I good enough? Why me? Has God forgiven my past and chosen me? Can I complete the task and live up to expectations? The list goes on… but I’m realizing, reading through these stories, that even though we are not worthy… He still wants us. God had literally just told Israel that they should not worship any gods besides Him and as soon as they thought He wasn’t looking (and Moses was away) it was okay for them to make an idol in the shape of a calf and worship it. They had all types of crazy parties, worshiping in probably the most unholy of ways and God saw them. Of course He was angry, but He still chose them at the end of all of this. There is nowhere any of us can go that the Lord will not find us, forgive us and give us His grace. He wants us more than we can even fathom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1710615591802-PV3H24JBS8LVYNCYIEY3/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Four: Thank God for Crushing - Reflections How have you been crushed or stretched in the last year? How did you handle it? Did you pray more or less? Did you go into hiding, or did you push to a better place? Looking back now, how has God used that time of crushing for your good? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1710615529845-O40UYJ7CX3WW6T4N3LC2/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Four: Thank God for Crushing - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Exodus 19-21 Day 2: Exodus 22-25 Day 3: Exodus 26-29 Day 4: Exodus 30-032 Day 5: Exodus 33-26 Day 6: Exodus 37-40 Day 7: Catch up https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/week-three monthly 0.5 2024-03-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1710039491794-PDNMUWF2RYYSZPU0Z4UR/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Three: Everything is Purposeful - Reflections Do you now what your purpose in life is? Can you name a time when you knew your purpose was to help someone else complete their purpose? How did you help them? Sometimes fear can hider us from stepping forward to help others. Can you remember a time when you didn’t step forward to help someone with their purpose? What was the hindrance? What should you have done? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1710039405371-D1T1H47NWWFHT80XEW51/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Three: Everything is Purposeful - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Genesis 47-50 Day 2: Exodus 1-3 Day 3: Exodus 4-7 Day 4: Exodus 8-11 Day 5: Exodus 12-15 Day 6: Exodus 16-18 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/dc1fb5b1-90b1-4083-9887-a24a0765183b/tempImageAKVW6r.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Three: Everything is Purposeful - GraceNotes - My Reflections Blessings on Blessings Exodus 1 There are times that we are too busy counting the bad in our lives, not realizing that God is still doing all the good. The Israelites had been in Egypt for 400 years and had become and oppressed people. But even in the midst of them living through oppression the Lord was blessing them. He continued to multiply them as a people although they were living “in hard times.” I think that God allowed the Israelites to go through these difficulties because He wanted them to see His hand in their lives and feel the freedom that was to come (as He had promised). God will put you through hard times to force you to turn your focus on Him. God is My All and All Exodus 3-4 Moses was delivered from death, raised in royalty and lost it all by trying to do what was right in the wrong way. Moses was an imperfect man - and honestly God will reveal Himself in imperfect situations. Again, God does not call the qualified but qualifies the called. Moses was raised at the table (unlike Joseph) and was able to get the ear of Pharaoh because he was raised in that home. This is what the community means by “it’s not what you know but who you know.” Moses, however, was not confident in the “God who was in Him.” (Greater is he who is in me than is he who is in the world 1 John 4:4). Moses didn’t realize that his confidence was misplaced, he didn’t realize that there was beauty in the ashes - his brokenness, his imperfection, his past; but God saw it…Moses needed a little confidence in God being “He has been and will always be.” When the Lord calls you into His divine purpose, answer the call. It will be hard, but do it scared. There is nothing to fear because Yahweh is with you. There’s Something in the Water Exodus 14, 15, 17 The Israelites also lacked confidence in the Lord. I think that the Lord will put us through tests in life to show us what how much (or little) we trust Him. The Lord literally put the Israelites in between a rock and a hard place when they faced the Red Sea in front of them and the Egyptians chasing them to bring them back into bondage behind them. But the Lord who was in their midst was able to do the impossible and separate the water so that they could pass through. The Lord will use the most impossible situations to prove His might BUT I’m realizing as I grow in my faith, that the same tests will present themselves until they are passed (just in more colorful ways). Did anyone else notice that the Israelites struggled with a water problem two more times in our readings this week?? The people doubted what God could do because they had already forgotten what He had done. They found water that was in a bitter condition and the Lord cleansed it in chapter 15 and then in chapter 17, He allowed Moses to draw water from a rock so that the people would not perish in the wilderness. Do not forget what the Lord has done for you when in you are in a difficult season. Same God right now, same God back then. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weektwo monthly 0.5 2024-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1709403960793-HY7L0EJ9N5R8V9KQHK4M/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Two: Giving Up Is Not An Option - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Genesis 22-25 Day 2: Genesis 26-29 Day 3: Genesis 30-33 Day 4: Genesis 34-36 Day 5: Genesis 37-41 Day 6: Genesis 42-46 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1709404052792-2WQ7GBQ1TK7GYRMALJ68/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week Two: Giving Up Is Not An Option - Reflections What goals did yo give up on that just seemed too far-fetched? What visions or dreams due you have that you need to pick up and dust off? In this story, Rachel had a midwife who tried to encourage her to hold on to her promise. Who do you know who needs encouragement to hold on? How will you help them? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/dc1fb5b1-90b1-4083-9887-a24a0765183b/tempImageAKVW6r.jpg InJoying the Word - Week Two: Giving Up Is Not An Option - GraceNotes - My Reflections Nobody wins when the family feuds Genesis 45:24 : After joseph and his brothers reunite, he sends them back to Canaan to retrieve their father, Jacob, and bring him back to Egypt for them to live and be prosperous as a family. Joseph tells his brothers as they leave, “Don’t quarrel on the way!” I think the basic human instinct is to point the finger, screaming I told you so when the ball drops… but God wants us to stop bringing up old news; stop arguing through life and love on each other. What happened, happened and it’s over. Genesis 31 Sometimes God will separate us from relationships (to people, places, things) to pull us toward Him. God made Jacob completely uncomfortable in his circumstance through the conflict between himself and Laban. When the situations become uncomfortable, wherever they are… seek God first and He will deliver you. Watch God work while you wait: Joseph’s Story God doesn’t call the qualified. He qualifies the called. I’ve been reflecting a lot on the “waiting season,” and am realizing that sometimes the waiting season is the season in which God wants to make and mold us, He wants to refine us and teach us how to use our calling. If you don’t have time to grow in your calling, how are you going to get to the table God has prepared for you? Reading through the story of Joseph has been a huge eye opener for me, because I realized it took over a decade for Joseph to fully operate in his calling. The Lord showed glimpses of Joseph being a dreamer when Joseph was a teenager and what’s even more apparent is that YOUR CALLING WILL SET YOU APART. It will make others uncomfortable when they lack understanding - even your own family. Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery not realizing that it would set off a chain reaction that would push and pull Joseph to become the man that God called him to be. Joseph faced a slew of adversities before getting to the table; but even through the adversities, he praised God and he found favor in the eyes of the Lord. Praise while you prepare. The table is being set for you even now. https://www.injoyslife.com/injoying-the-word/weekone monthly 0.5 2024-02-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/c9e00ffd-2e02-406c-b5b8-22938245bc0b/image-asset.jpg InJoying the Word - Week One: There’s Nothing Too Hard for God - This Week’s Readings Day 1: Genesis 1-4 Day 2: Genesis 5-8 Day 3: Genesis 9-12 Day 4: Genesis 13-15 Day 5: Genesis 16-18 Day 6: Genesis 19-21 Day 7: Catch up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1708890075287-4F925VLE10ZGAQWBZ5EK/image-asset.jpeg InJoying the Word - Week One: There’s Nothing Too Hard for God - Reflections When you were faced with an impossibility, how did you handle it? After this lesson, how will you handle those impossibilities gong forward? What has this lesson taught you about your faith? What areas have you discovered where you are strong in faith? What areas have you discovered where your faith needs to be strengthened? After this lesson, what are some impossibilities that you will commit to prayer? Reflections from The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/dc1fb5b1-90b1-4083-9887-a24a0765183b/tempImageAKVW6r.jpg InJoying the Word - Week One: There’s Nothing Too Hard for God - GraceNotes - My Reflections Genesis 1:3 - And God Said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw that the light was good and He separated the light from the darkness. Skipping to Genesis 1:14, “God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night.” Was it only me who didn’t realize that God did not create the sun, moon and stars until day four? I was shook and had to read “The Beginning” a few times before realizing that the initial separation was separating God/goodness from Satan/evil. Genesis 3 - The Fall Reading through this pulled my edges out because I realized that Lucy (Satan) actually went to Eve to eat from the forbidden tree because she did not hear the commandment from God Himself. I realized that a lot of times we as believers are giving in to “partial obedience” because we may hear the word of God from a messenger instead of directly from Him. Keep in mind that God uses others to speak for Him, too. Genesis 21:1-2 Is the reason that the waiting season is so difficult because we as believers aren’t trusting God to be God and do it in His timing? The word says here, “and the Lord did for Sarah as He promised. Sarah became pregnant and bore a son for Abraham in his old age at the time very time He had promised him. This scripture actually screamed at me because I realized that sometimes the season of waiting is truly so hard because we keep trying to make the thing happen sooner than God appoints it to happen. How can we wait on the Lord while we wait? https://www.injoyslife.com/about daily 0.75 2020-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598803706665-FNFU0BT9YJOO3UVKGANW/Amaging.jpg About https://www.injoyslife.com/home daily 1.0 2024-02-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598387117643-5APQBBZ8H1R1160IF1FR/DH5A8949.jpg Home - Joy Jackson is an Atlanta-based family and lifestyle blogger who writes for the millennial mommy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598389922158-5O020XNHZG92GB8F01MU/DH5A8586.JPG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598390602660-KTM79PWBXZOQUDLN2PYJ/IMG_1212.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598389325068-NO0587KDHS3AAQN2MY3X/IMG_0368.JPG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598389316171-XB29DD7MJEVOB46MNAO5/IMG_0531.JPG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598390248500-AV723QHG5MD3TUN09F0F/DH5A6668.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598390703004-DR4OGR9QCOFL4XGH4V8K/Facetune_17-01-2020-20-37-08.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f1b574d74385817cdcd31e9/1598390661884-EZMR4NBTEINIVYY7SUZZ/DH5A9049.jpg Home