Your Season Is Coming

About a week and half ago I was in New Jersey and Connecticut with my husband, visiting family, and in other engagements. I was loving it because this time of the year is just perfect to visit, I mean, who doesn’t love the fall season? It had been quite a few years since I had the opportunity to see the foliage and the beautiful scenic view that this season has to offer. I remember being memorized by all this beauty and couldn’t help to think “Well that sucks, we don’t get see this in Florida. Everything is the same. There is no change in season; we experiment pretty much the same season all year around-summer. And did I mention? The leaves are all one color, green.”

I remember being on the plane, ready to come back home when the Lord spoke to me. He began to tell me that many people feel that way; they think that their stuck in the same season where they see no change coming their way. Tell them that even though their eyes physically cannot see changes, a new season is approaching their lives. What has seemed like a hot, desert season, what has seemed like a routine- I get up in the morning, go to work, then church then back home and there is nothing new or refreshing, nothing to look forward to in my life, what seems like the same problem that just continues to linger on and when I think I’ve resolved it, something else comes up and I can never get a break… it's just that, a season, it's temporary, it has a life span of x amount of time. Every season has to come to an end because a new one has to begin.

I want to tell you today that no matter how long you’ve been stuck in your season, maybe you feel like this is it for you, there’s nothing new, nothing better in the horizon for you, I want to remind you once again that a new season is approaching. Take heed and prepare for what’s next in your life. 

 

In doing some research on seasons, especially Autumn, which I’ll be referring to as Fall, I came to realize that Fall approximately lasts about 83 days. This tells me that every season has an end and a beginning. You’re about to step into a new season! If you find yourself in a really bad season, don’t worry, there’s an expiration date, that season, that problem, that circumstance is only temporary, there’s a new season coming. Another interesting fact is in the tropical regions, such as Florida, the change in season is not so notable. Well, duh! For those of us who live here can attest to that because it feels like June in November! It seriously feels like we are in the summer season; however, despite what we may see or feel, the truth of the matter is that we are in the Fall season. On those rare occasions, when we experiment really nice cool breeze weather, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness and the fact that we are in a different season. Even though we may not notice it, a change is occurring. I want to tell you that even if you don’t notice big changes in your circumstances, there are changes happening right now. God is doing something new in your life! The changes may not be so noticeable but you will start to experiment subtle changes that will lead you to your next season.

Another interesting fact is that due to the low temperatures, the color of the leaves change from green to yellow, orange, and red. Because of the strong winds, these leaves tend to fall off the branches, leaving the tree bare. Also, leaving the homeowners raking and picking up lots of leaves from their yards, which I’m sure they love to do! But check this out: according to this research, there are a group of flowers that are able to resist the Fall season, and by resisting they’re able to continue growing and flourishing into a beautiful garden. I want to tell you today that if you are able to resist the strong winds that want to knock you off and make you fall, if you are able to resist you will flourish in the midst of your circumstance. Resist!

Another interesting point is this, animals begin to prepare to hibernate, and that is how they survive the winter season. But it’s fascinating how animals know that a new season is approaching. You don’t see them moping around, depressed, thinking that the current season will never end. No, they are in work mode- not waiting mode! They prepare for the next season because they know this season will soon come to an end and a new one will begin. C’mon, I know we are smarter than animals, right?....Right?? Well, then why is it that we do not begin to prepare for the next season that God has for us? Why is it that we are “stuck” in the waiting room and we are not invested in the work room? Why is it that we complain, get bitter, compare ourselves to others, think and speak negative about the current season as if we were meant to be stuck there forever? We should be preparing for what’s coming next. God will never take you to the next season unless  you’re prepared to enter and conquer that season.

And I’ll finish my findings with this, as far as harvest goes, the Fall season is the best season to harvest and collect, it’s the most fertile and abundant of all. I want to leave you with this:
 

• If you’re able to resist the season in which you find yourself in
• If you’re able to prepare yourself for the coming season

You will flourish, harvest, collect, you will be fertile and there will be great abundance in your life. The leaves of your story will change, they will no longer be of one color, but now your story will have great color and depth that will bring life and hope to others who need a change of season.

Enjoy your season because when you get out of it, you will be qualified to help others who are in that current season and at the same time you will be equipped to enter into your next season.
 
Be Encourged, Be Blessed!
Landy Perez-Feliciano

 

The Pursuit of Purity

Last weekend I had the opportunity to speak at a youth event called Radical Conference. And the topic I was asked to speak on was “purity” which I titled it “The Pursuit of Purity” and I focused on four important points. Today, I want to share the cliff notes, a quick synopsis of what I spoke about. Purity brings presence, power, protection and peace.

“This life was not intended to be the place
of our perfection, but the preparation for it.”
– Richard Baxter

Purity it’s much more than just saving sex for marriage. It's a lifestyle. In 1 Timothy 4:12-16,  the Apostle Paul instructed his apprentice; Timothy on this very subject. He told young preacher, to strive for purity in all areas of his life; including speech, conduct, love, and faith. He did this so that Timothy’s life and ministry would be protected by any naysayers that would later rise up against him. So today, I want to dig a little deeper than your typical sex driven "purity" conference we tend to hear and talk about four points that will help us in our continuous journey of seeking purity in our lives.

We are living in a generation where purity is becoming obsolete; it’s a thing of the past. It’s no big deal if we don’t save ourselves for marriage, our conversations have become contaminated, our eyes and ears are no longer limited to what we see and hear. The Christianity of this generation has slowly blended in to the perceptions of this world.

We are called to be light in the midst of the darkness; we are not called to blend in. And God is looking for a generation that can be radical enough to stand tall in the midst of adversity. He is looking for a generation of young people that will rise and declare God Word, untarnished and uncontaminated. Are we that generation whose faith will not fluster or shake but stand strong despite what popular opinion states? Are you that person? Are you a person of faith in a faithless world?
 

1. Pursuing Purity Brings forth the Presence of God

When we pursue God’s presence, everything else will line up to His Word.
When you pursue His presence, His commandments will no longer feel like rules and regulations that you have to abide by but you will feel delighted in pleasing your Heavenly Father.

• The presence of God empowers us when we are weak and feel fear
• The presence of God allows us to feel safe and secure in the midst of danger, obstacles, uncertainty and pain. The Bible says in Psalm 46:1 that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. It doesn’t matter what circumstances we may be facing, when we have the presence of God in our lives, we become radical for Jesus. Where there is fear, now there is boldness and confidence.
• The presence of God allows us to become intimate with Him; we come to know who God is on a deeper level. We know things we did not know before, our relationship with Him grows, our love for Him becomes more evident and obedience to His Word will be less of a “sacrifice” or an obligation.

We all love these two verses found in Psalm 37:5, 6

Delight yourself also in the Lord,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.

When we delight in the Lord, we are surrendering to His Will and His Ways. And when we do that He will grant us the desires of our hearts……BUT it doesn’t stop there……. Verse 5 continues saying: Commit your way to the Lord. (when we make a commitment, it’s a pact, it’s a promise, you are going to stick to it through thick and thin. The Psalmist is saying: Stick to God’s way….it’s going to get hard, but stick to it! It’s not going to be the popular choice but you have to be radical enough and almost “stubborn” enough to say NO, I’M STICKING TO MY COMMITMENT, MY PROMISE, MY WORD IS VALUABLE AND I WILL NOT BREAK IT! My friends can derail from the truth, but I am not! I will honor God’s Word in my life. I will trust Him with my life AND THEN, AND ONLY THEN will He grant you the desires of your heart.

When the going gets tough, we have to be people of a strong foundation; our faith has to be founded on the solid rock that is Jesus Christ. The winds will blow, the waters will hit your foundation but the house that is founded on the rock will NOT fall. If we are not radical in our faith, when tough times come, when the tough questions are asked, when we are faced in a sticky situation, we will become like the house that was founded on the sand and the waves will take it away.

2. Pursuing Purity Provides: Power

Purity in the life of a believer is extremely powerful. In fact, purity impacts our prayers just as faith impacts our works. Faith without works is dead and prayer without purity is limited.

In Matthew 5:8, Jesus makes a simple yet powerful statement.

“Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God.”

Many believe this is a promise that will be fulfilled when this life ends and we enter eternity. And this is true, but it’s also a declaration that Jesus makes to His followers and to us today.

There is power in a walk of purity that results in the ability to open our eyes to see what is found in Psalm 27:13 ‘…the goodness of God in the land of the living.’ A person who walks in purity has the ability to open his/her eyes and see the goodness of God in their life and in their surroundings. God’s blessings hover over them. BLESSED, Jesus says, Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God. I don’t know if you are yearning to see God, to see God’s greatness manifested in your life, to see His goodness and mercy poured upon their life. If you want to see His favor, if you want to see His promises fulfilled, and if you want to see His blessings poured down, having a pure heart will enable you to do so.

The power of God also gives us authority. You have power and authority to declare and decree the Word of God over your life and over the lives of others. Just because you pursue purity, does not mean you are weak, or you let people walk all over you, or it makes you an easy target and you get taken advantage of. All on the contrary, a person under the power of God; let me tell you, things have to change! The devil trembles when he sees young people on fire for God, unapologetic and radical for Christ. There has to be a shift in the atmosphere, the sick has to be healed and the oppressed has to be free. There is power in the name of Jesus.

Purity brings you before the presence of God and also leads to obtaining His power.

 3. Pursuing Purity Provides: Protection

Pursuing a pure life requires safeguards. These safeguards protect us and reduce the risk of temptations. As young people, we are confronted daily with temptations, your temptations may not be mine and mine may not be yours but they are present in our lives. The best way to pursue purity is to set up rules and safeguards for all areas of your life. Temptations are presented as opportunities to fail. They can be limited if you establish guidelines in your life.

The enemy has a calculated strategy against each and every one of us. Before he throws us a bomb to destroy, he studies us carefully, he knows what our weak areas are and he targets them. Don’t ever think for a second that the devil is dumb; he’s a very smart strategist that is why it’s important to be armed with the armor of God, because it will protect us from the enemy’s attacks.

We live in a society where there is temptations, left and right. Everywhere we go, we are being bombarded with the lust of this world. We have to be radical in our faith and in our purity to say like Daniel 1:8 says: “But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods.”

Daniel was determined, he made a decision, he made a commitment, and he made a promise. He stuck to his word to not contaminate himself with unacceptable food. We as young people, we have to be determined and committed to not be contaminated by the corruption of this world.

“There is no point in praying for victory over temptation if we are not willing to make a commitment to say no to it.”
– Jerry Bridges

As we pursue a life of purity, safeguards are essential because they will protect us. John 10:10 says: The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Let me ask you this? If someone were to accuse you of something negative or make a scandalous comment about you, would others believe it? Pursuing purity protects and defends you and your reputation.
 

“^I is God’s will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you.”
– 1 Peter 2:15

4. Pursuing Purity Provides: Peace

When we keep our eyes focused on God, we can expect peace as a result. When we let our minds wander and do not yield the calling of God to live a life of purity, we find ourselves dissatisfied, disillusioned, and broken. When we walk in purity, God will give us His perfect peace, a peace that surpasses ALL understanding.

You will keep in perfect peace
    all who trust in you,
    all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
– Isaiah 26:3

One of my favorite verses of the entire bible is found in Philippians4:6-7). It's such a beautiful promise that encourages us and strengthens our faith. No matter what circumstances we may find ourselves, these two verses remind us to not worry about anything, all we need to do it pay about everything and give God thanks. He has it all under control.  

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. ⁷ Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7

Imagine living a life of peace, ahh, so peaceful, huh?. The whole world could be tumbling down before you and you’re ok. You have a peace that surpasses ALL understandings. A peace that even if you are walking through the valley of the shadow of death, you will not fear because He is with you! Those who pursue purity, who seek to know God, who follow Him and yearn to be with Him are able to experience this peace.

Conclusion

When we pursue purity, we enter into His presence, we’re given His power, we feel His protection and we find His peace. This is why God calls us to a life of purity, this is why we should strive to pursue purity because it draws us closer to Him, we become empowered, we become bold and fearless and despite what the world may say or do, we are confident in who we believe and where our faith stands, in Jesus Christ.

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

 

 

In The Storm

Where I live, it’s been raining every single day for the past three weeks, like a lot of rain. The local news outlets say that we’ve reached a record high in rainfalls. We’ve heard stories of flooding, evacuation notices, and cars under water, power outages, and a lot of buzz on social media about this horrible weather. And today is no exception, the storm continues to hit us and hit us hard. Everyone in this town is to the point where they’re like…ok, we’re like, “Enough!” When is this storm going to be over? We’ve already endured enough! It’s uncomfortable, you get wet and sticky and you have to take extra precaution when driving. Some may say extra prayers when leaving the house because the storm can be pretty nasty.

Today, during my morning devotional, I was reminded how important and necessary “storms” are in our lives. When we are in the storm, we are in God’s safe haven. It is not in our homes where we feel safe, it is not in our comfort zones, it is not in our jobs and careers, churches or ministries; it’s in the arms of our Heavenly Father where we find refuge in our times of need. It is in those storms, where God’s love and grace is revealed in our lives. He shows His mercy and compassion in the midst of those moments where we feel like we’re drowning in floods of uncertainties.  It’s not when the sun is shining bright where we feel hopelessness and despair, it is in the raging storm where we feel Him the closest.  

 

There are three things I want you never to forget when you find yourself in the storm:

1. Embrace the storm when it hits your life. Embrace it because it will come anyways, so you might as well have a good attitude going into it because there is a lesson to be learned. Many times, we may feel weary and the easiest thing to do is give up, but do not give up. You will not be able to get through the storm with your own strength, that is why it’s important to keep focused and put your faith in Jesus; He will give you the strength to endure and get past the storm.

2. This too shall pass. Storms will come into your life and storms will exit your life. The sun will come out again and brighten your gloomy day. I don’t know about you but it’s exciting to be reminded of this. Although we may face a season of gloom, once we get past it, the warmth of the bright sun will shine upon our faces and radiate joy and happiness.

3. And finally, remember that the storm will come, the storm will go but Jesus always stays. He is faithful and He will remain! The bible says in Psalm 27:4 “Even if my father and mother abandon me, the Lord will hold me close”. What a wonderful promise made to us that no matter who leaves, Jesus will NEVER leave us. It is in times of trouble; in the storm, where we discover who is really there for us and who has left. Today, we are gently and lovingly reminded that no matter who has left, Jesus will never leave.

 As I previously said in the beginning, storms are important and necessary in our lives. We don’t like them but we have to endure them. We must learn from them because they serve as stepping stones for where God wants to take us. Storms promote us to the next level, if we’re able to pass a rainfall, then we’re challenged at a higher level. And the more we’re challenged, the more God can entrust us. So today, thank God if you’ve past the rainfall level and you’re enduring a thunderstorm because if He helped you through the last storm, He will certainly help you with this one. And if your storm is catastrophic, hurricane “I WILL DESTROY YOU” thank God for that storm because it just means that the SUN will shine so, so bright and you have no idea what God has in store for you at the end. No matter how intense your storm may be, don’t give up, keep focused and put your faith in Jesus. Your storm will pass, so just hold on tight; just a little longer! Jesus will give you the strength to get through it and He will be with you every step of the way. And when you get past it, you will look back and say, “it was worth going through the storm because look at me now”.

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

A Moment of Silence (book trailer)

Hey Friends,

I want to share the trailer to my book, A Moment of Silence. I want to thank the talented Herson Martinez and his company, +High Cloud for making this video and capturing the core essence of what I wanted to put out.

I hope this message encourages you to continue to believe in God’s promises. Let’s face it, we all go through ‘moments of silence’ in our lives, there’s no denying that. But one thing we should always remember is that even though we may not see, feel or hear Him, God is still present. He is behind the scenes, working it all in your favor. Just believe!

Never mistake His silence for His absence. He is by your side. God bless you and share this video with your friends.

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano

Faith Is

Happy Friday the 13th!

Hope everyone is having a great day and looking forward to an amazing weekend! Regardless of what your plans are for tomorrow, I want you to remember this.

"Faith is to believe in what you can’t see while having full confidence that one day you will." This comes from my book, "A Moment of Silence. And I hope you are encouraged today with this word.

 Faith is to believe! You must believe first before you can see. Believe that whatever you are asking for, waiting for or longing for, will happen in God's perfect time, not yours. Just believe! Maybe it won't happen how and when you want it, but it will happen. And if it doesn't, then God has bigger and better plans for your life; rest in His faithfulness. It's a win-win situation when you have faith.

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano

 

It’s Natural But It’s Not Okay

Once a month the young married women from my church gather to talk and learn from each other through bible studies, group discussions and fellowship. Last week we got together and my sister-in-law, Elissia brought an amazing word on bravery. And she said this: “Though it’s natural to fear, it’s not okay to stay in fear.” I love that!

 

This reminds me that we do not have to be a superhero; or in our case, Wonder Woman to accomplish life goals and dreams, or even God’s purpose in our lives. It’s good to be an ambitious dreamer and its also natural to fear. It’s totally normal to feel nervous and to be scared because it simply shows that we are (pinch yourself) human beings; but what’s not ok is to stay in that feeling of fear. There has to come a point where you shake it off and say, “Ok, I may fear but I will not stay here. I will be courageous. I will be brave enough to walk out on fear.” Sometimes you just have to say #ByeFelicia and walk confidently in the direction where faith is leading you to.

Many times, we have a misconception that because we are believers, we have to have it all figured out and have this ginormous faith. No, the bible says that if our faith is as small as a mustard seed, we can command that “mountain” (that problem, obstacle, sickness, lack of…) to move over. The point here is to not only speak in faith but actually walk in faith. Fear wants you to stay comfortable; faith requires you to get uncomfortable. You have to be willing to get out of your comfort zone, that zone that only shelters you see what you have seen for a million years. God wants to show you more, He wants you to see new things that your eyes have never seen before and experiences that you have only dreamed of, but that requires a shift- it requires movement.  

As we quickly approach the end of this first month of 2015, let’s not lose focus. This year may have begun fabulous for you and if you’re going strong, good for you- keep going! For others, it may have started off very rough. And if that is you, please don’t lose hope. Do not allow fear of failure or disappointment enter your heart and your mind. The mind is the enemy’s playground and he loves to play tricks on us.

Today, I want to remind you that you are brave. Despite the circumstances you may be enduring, do not allow anything or anybody to tell you differently. You may be fearful in some areas but that does not make you weak; You Are Brave!

Remember this: “Though it’s natural to fear, it’s not okay to stay in fear.” Be brave and walk out on fear because faith is waiting for you on the other side.

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

 

I Am Brave

 I am excited for this weekend coming up because many young ladies will be standing up to their fears, struggle and obstacles to say three powerful words: I Am Brave. It’s a declaration of faith and courage to stand up to your circumstances and say; despite it all, I am brave. It knocked me down but guess what? I was able to rise back up. It hit me pretty hard, but I’m a survivor. I was not supposed to make it, but I am here. Why? Because I Am Brave.

This Friday, the 9^th will be a night of celebration. We will be celebrating the bravery of so many courageous women. We will listen to some pretty powerful ‘Brave Stories’ of women who have endured great pain but have also been overcomers. And today they can share their stories to inspire other women to continue on their individual journeys.  The ‘You Make Me Brave’ event is about inspiring others through your individual story. It’s about encouraging others while they’re going through the challenging moments their story. And it’s about celebrating the victories of those who have overcome their struggles and moved on to the next chapter of their story.

Everyone has a story. Some stories are longer and more complex than others; nonetheless, it’s a beautiful story. How can you say it’s beautiful? You don’t know what I’ve been through, you may ask. And you’re right, I don’t know but one thing I do know is that someone else out there has. And that person has survived what you are going through.  With that, I can confidently say that your story; although incomplete and imperfect, will translate into a beautiful and inspiring story. That is why this event is so important to me because we are able to help each other through our stories. And I know for many this may seem far fetch because the pain is too profound and the darkness in your life abounds but I promise you that you will see the light at the end of the tunnel. I love what Psalm 23:4 says and I blogged about it a couple months ago: ‘Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.’ Whatever dark valley you may be facing, remember this, fear not! Don’t be afraid because you are not alone, God is with you. And I like how the NKJV states this verse, check this out: ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.’ It’s just a shadow. It’s not death, whatever situation you may be facing, it will not lead to destruction, and it will not bring forth your death. Sometimes it’s easy to think, “OMG I’m going to die, I can’t take it any longer”. Relax, take a deep breath and remember,  it’s just a shadow in which one day, I don't know when, but one day, when you least expect it, that shadow will be exposed to light. And you too will be sharing your 'Brave Story'.

And I know many of my readers will not be able to make it to this event this weekend, but I want to remind you today that you are brave. The bible says in Psalm 30:5 that weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. And I want to declare over your life today, this first Monday of 2015 that although you may be weeping and it seems like dawn will never break and darkness is prevailing, I want to tell you that the day is breaking every shadow of darkness in your life and light will be exposed. If you can believe that 2015 will be a year of breakthrough, it will happen. Yes, we go through tests and trials and it is necessary in our lives but it is not God’s intention for you to stay “stuck” in a particular trial for a million years. Where would be the growth and maturity in that? In the midst of your struggle, God is pulling out a ‘brave’ new you. Pay close attention to the lessons He wants to teach you, for they will help you in the next phase of life.

We are simply guest starring in our own book, written by the One who holds the pen; God, the author of our lives. Through it all, God has always been with us, He is the one who makes us brave. He is the one who gives us the strength to endure everything we go through. He is the one who is writing our Brave Stories.

I’ll leave you with a short ‘I Am Brave’ video. Remember, you too are Brave :-)

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

My books have ARRIVED!

I am so happy to officially announce that my English book, A Moment of Silence is finally in the market and available for purchase! I cannot begin to express the joy that I feel to have accomplished this goal of mine. To God be the glory always! Thank you to my family and friends for their continual support.

 

Now that the book is out, I have all of these boxes to get rid of, with your help I know we can sell them all! If you’ve enjoyed my blogs over the last couple years, you will love this book! If you read my Spanish book, Un Momento de Silencio and enjoyed it; bless your children, friends,or co-workers with this one. For the month of October, there will be no shipping costs if you order within the United States!

This could be the perfect gift for yourself or someone you know!

On the left hand side of this page, you will see the book cover, A Moment of Silence. If you click on the image, it will take you straight to my online store. Or if you scroll to the top of this page and click on the icon that says “store” it will also take you to my online store.

Thank you so much for your prayers, encouraging words and support! I appreciate it and I cannot wait to hear your stories as you read A Moment of Silence: God wants to speak to you

I will leave you with this from the book

 

God has designed a perfect plan and a specific purpose for each person who has decided to believe in His word. This book will inspire and allow you to dream and believe in the promises that God has declared. If you've been waiting for an answer from God and still haven't heard anything, lower the volume of the noise surrounding you! He is trying to whisper the answer to your problem. Listen, because the solution might be in the gentle whisper. A Moment of Silence will help you discover your purpose in God and will help you define your position in Him. Its content is light in the midst of darkness and a peace that calms the storm. God speaks in the midst of silence; we simply need to listen. A Moment of Silence will provide you with the direction and clarity you need. Don't miss God's blessing in your life for not distinguishing His voice. His voice will give your life direction and guidance to the destiny He has prepared for you. In the midst of your circumstances, the Lord says, "I have a solution. I have a purpose for your life, and I want to reveal it to you as you stay still. Give Me a moment of silence. Are you willing to be silent and listen to Me"

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano

 

 

Need a favor?

Hi, I’m back! I know it’s been a while but I want to share this with you all and I hope you are blessed and encouraged by these words!

“Can you do me a favor”? Hey, “I need a huge favor, I need your help.. please!!!”? How often do we hear that request? I would say definitely on a daily basis, if not almost every day. Something is always going on where we need help or someone needs our help. We are so accustomed to asking and hearing that plea. Just hearing the request, tells us a lot about favor. Asking someone for a favor is a request based not on merits but on relationship. We ask not because we have “earned” the right but because of a formed relationship that exists between us and the person whom we are making the request. That relationship gives us confidence that most likely our request will be granted.

We see that in the Bible, another word for favor is grace. And if we define grace, it is simply “God’s unmerited favor.” God gives us grace freely to all who ask in faith. It’s not about how hard can I work for it, or did I do enough to earn it. No! It’s given to you because God chooses to do so. This is God’s favor. The apostle Paul wrote this, ”For by grace you have been saved through faith, and not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” And since it is a gift, it didn’t cost you anything.

David; Israel’s greatest king, knew that his success was not attributed to his own merits or goodness but to God’s favor. He says in Psalm 30, “For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Now in my prosperity I said, ‘I shall never be moved.’ Lord, by Your favor You have made my mountain stand strong.”

Favor triumphs over works! One day of favor can be worth more than a lifetime of labor. It’s so refreshing to know that God’s favor is timeless, it lasts forever. For Joseph, the day came when he found favor in the eyes of God and in one moment, his life was transformed from being a prison inmate to becoming Pharaoh’s second-in-command.

As Christians, you don’t have to earn God’s favor- you already have it! You are a beneficiary of His grace-unmerited favor freely given. Our relationship with God should be a strong, unbreakable bond. God wants you to feel comfortable enough to go before His throne and boldly ask Him what your heart desires. Imagine this, going up to a complete stranger and asking him/her for a favor, a big favor –like providing you with a car or giving you giving you x amount of money; would you do it? You would probably feel a bit hesitant, right? On the contrary, someone who you have a relationship with; the process will be much easier. Why? Because that relationship has been built on communication and trust and you feel comfortable enough to talk to them and ask for what you need. Would you feel awkward asking your significant other for a favor, what about your parents or best friend? Probably not.

I know circumstances can get in the way of what God is trying to do in your life but do not give in, understand that God loves you with everlasting love and He is ready to grace you with His favor. You didn’t earn it and you don’t deserve it but in God’s goodness and mercy, makes it readily available and at your disposal.

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

Without Borders

Today, I want to talk to you about breaking free of your limitations, the four walls that create borders and do not allow you to move forward. Dare to expand and be uncomfortable so that you can get out of the commodity of your zone. It's time to get out of THAT box that has defined you for so long. You cannot be complacent and expect greater things to happen. God wants to take you further than where your imagination can take you. Isaiah 55:8-9 says: “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. What a wonderful declaration, just to know that our best is not God’s best, He will ALWAYS have a better idea, a better plan and definitely a better future for us. (Jeremiah 29:11)

You've got to get out of your comfort zone, I don’t know how else to say it. If you’re comfortable, you’ve got a problem, simple as that. You have to want more, you have to want to aspire to do more but MORE will not come, if you are content with LESS.

 

Today, I challenge you to ask God to lead you to that place where there are no borders, may your faith have no borders and may your trust be borderless. It's time to live your life without borders. You will never receive revelation in the shorelines, only in the deep waters. It will seem like you are walking in the "unknown" and fear, doubt, and insecurities will creep up on you but if you are certain that you are being led by God, everything will be okay! He will give you directions and clarity as you walk and move forward. Your every step will be guided by the One who holds your hands and directs your feet. Once you start on the journey of walking in deeper waters, there is no turning back because if you do, you risk everything.

Every heard of the phrase, “You’re in too deep”? Once you take the step to go in deep with the Lord, there is no turning back. It will seem scary and a bit intimidating but if you truly want a limitless life, you will have to get rid of those borders that have been impeding you from reaching your purpose and destination. Your trust, faith and dreams have to be borderless in order for God to complete the good work that He has begun in you. Want to fulfill your purpose? Get rid of the borders and limitations in your life that have been hindering you from moving forward. Enough of the shallow waters, it’s time to put your big boy and big girl pants and go in deep. With God on your side, you will NOT drown.

I love Oceans from Hillsong. And if you listen carefully to the lyrics of this song, you will understand that in order to get into deeper waters, you must walk and in the process, you must trust. In order to fulfill God’s calling; you must have faith and take action.

Allow yourself the opportunity to walk in freedom, knowing that what lies ahead is so much deeper and so much greater than what your eyes will ever see and your mind will ever comprehend if you choose to stay in the shorelines. Only in the deepness of the unknown waters, will you truly receive wisdom, understand and revelation; something that cannot be achieved in shallow waters.


Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!
Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

 

Hillsong - Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)
You call me out upon the waters
The great unknown where feet may fail
And there I find You in the mystery
In oceans deep
My faith will stand

And I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine

Your grace abounds in deepest waters
Your sovereign hand
Will be my guide
Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me
You've never failed and You won't start now

So I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine

[6x]
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior

I will call upon Your name
Keep my eyes above the waves
My soul will rest in Your embrace
I am Yours and You are mine
 

It's so much easier

You know what I’ve noticed? 

It’s so much easier to have faith for others than to have it for yourself. It’s so much easier to tell someone to have faith in their situation but, why is it hard for us to have faith in ours? It’s so much easier to believe in provision, healing and restoration for others but we lack belief in the fact that He can do the same for us.  Why is that? It’s so much easier to declare miracles for other people; quoting scriptures and promises yet, why is it so difficult to hold tight to those same confessions when the tides turn?

 

God, help us to really trust in you and gain understand on what it is to truly have faith in You. It’s not a matter of I’m strong for others and weak for myself, I trust and believe that God is able for others and all of a sudden doubt begins to enter our minds when we’re going through our hardship. If we are going to preach to others, we must practice on ourselves first. This faith for others and doubt for ourselves is not going to cut it. The same God that made a way for “him” is the same that will make a way for you! The Bible says that God is the same yesterday, today and .. guess what? He will be the same tomorrow. So if He did it for “her”, get ready because He is going to do it with you too. The word says that He is no respecter of person; in other words, He does not play favorites. He loves us all the same and His desire is to bless us all; we determine the outcome.

God, help us understand that your plans are perfect and our steps are ordered and ordained by you and only You. Help us to step out in faith knowing that You will guide us safely to where we are supposed to be.  We may not know where we are going but we trust in that You are taking us in the path that You have destined for us to go through. Nothing slips your mind! You do not forget, you do not lose control; You are not too busy for us, everything that happens to you and I is because it is in God’s divine plan. Period, no questions asked.

God, help us TRUST you completely and wholeheartedly! You got this!

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

Speak Life

 

“Sticks and stones may break my bones but names/words can never hurt me” - Nursery Rhyme

 

Now think...think..think....

 

I remember screaming this back to kids who during recess would hurl mean words at me and to be honest, I think I might have been on the receiving end of this infamous statement as well :-).  But the truth is that words do hurt and names do mark us and to think otherwise is a great danger.  I believe wholeheartedly that a truer statement of the power of words came from a Journalism teacher I once had in college.  He said:

 

“We are wordsmiths and as such, are responsible for the words we share”  

 

Words have power.

 

The Bible further confirms this.  Take a look at the infamous “Tongue = Life or Death” scripture:

 

Proverbs 18:21

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]. (AMP)

 

Your words have much more power than you attribute to them:  The power to build and tear down, the power to encourage or discourage, the power to love to hate, etc.  The list goes on and on!

 Can I share a story with you?  Great!  Here goes:

 

A few years ago, I received a call to put a band together for an international Christian artist who would be on tour in the Tri-State area.  I was excited to take on the task not because it was  my first time but because I am so passionate about music.  I immediately called friends who are phenomenal musicians and asked them to come on board on yet another band I had to put together.  

 

Drums?  CHECK!.......Guitars?  CHECK.......Bass?  CHECK!........Keys?  Check?!?!  (Hmmmm)

 

I usually play keys for these bands but recently felt insecure in my gift (yes yes, it happens to the best of us).  However, I took a bold step and shut down all insecurities, I thanked God for my gift and was also encouraged by a circle of phenomenal musicians who believed in my gift and would SPEAK LIFE into my life as a musician.  

 

After months of preparation, I received a call from the artist’s manager.  I still remember that I pulled the car into the church parking lot as I saw his name pop up on my phone’s screen and with excitement I picked up the call:

 

“Hey! God bless!”

“Hey Ruthy...”

“What’s going on?”

“Listen, I know you’ve been putting the band together but when the artist heard you were playing keys, he said ‘If she is playing, I’d rather sing alone with tracks’”

[Silence]

“Thanks Ruthy but if you’re playing, we have to cancel the band”

“.....ok, God bless”

 

I froze......pain in my chest....fingertips cold...speechless......

 

I walked out of the car and into the back door of the church.  As I opened the door, my father stood at the bottom of the steps with his usual “¿Como estas mi linda?” I fell into his arms and sobbed uncontrollably.  The wordsmith who once sat in a Journalism class, the little girl who would yell at recess “words can never hurt me” now stood as a woman, unable to form a thought because words had literally shattered her to pieces; they had spoken death over her life as a musician.  Every insecurity came up, every doubt in my gift screamed louder than any word of encouragement could during that season of brokeness.  A series of events before and after multiplied the hurt and like a night stand, my keyboards became places for books, jewelry and dust....nothing more, nothing less.

 

But God! Yes, But God!!

 

That season of brokeness sparked by the words of a manager came to an end when I surrendered the broken pieces of my heart to my Creator and He spoke words of love, kindness and confirmed that the gift He had given me was entrusted to the right person..Me!  God then placed others that once again spoke life into me.  I decided to push myself as a musician, learn more, do more. Wow!  Words nearly sent me down a path of destruction BUT GOD!!

 

So how does this story end?  It doesn’t. Instead it grows with me as I continue to understand that my words DO have power and that I am responsible to build up those around me.  Even a word of rebuke spoken in love will speak life!  

 

BE ENCOURAGED! Those words that were spoken over you to seemingly destroy are cancelled by the one who Created you!  He knows you best and will surround you with His best.  

 

Speak Life :-)

Ruthy Rodriguez 

{Thank you Ruthy for being my guest blogger today and sharing this heart-felt message. Remember to always Speak Life!}

Photo Credit: With Love Photography