Do You Trust Me?

Do you trust me? Then let it go! –God

Allow Me to take over your life completely; every single area, surrender it to me. Do you trust me enough to put your guards down, be vulnerable and just be real for a moment? No front, no masks, no walls; just pure transparency. It's hard, isn't it? 

Trust God with your heart, trust Him with your emotions and let go of everything that has been weighing you down. Let go of the dead weight, it causes fatigue and  unnecessary delays. Let go of the old baggage that is causing frustration because you're not at the level or the place that you know you should be. Do you trust Him enough to let go? Only you know the answer.

With a few days left in 2015, I urge you to refuse to enter into a new year with the old. God cannot give you something new, if you don’t relinquish the old. Make room for the new; it will change your life. Clear out the clutter in your mind and in your heart and accept only the good. The bible says in Philippians 4:8 “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.”

This leaves absolutely no room for the negative, the past, or the hurt. Romans 12:2 says "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." To renew our minds is to subject it to the Word of God. It is a daily decision, not just one day, but every day. Filtering our thoughts through God's Word will help us gain grounds when the enemy tries to bombard us with his filthy lies. 

Take a moment to think about the things, the words, the people, and the actions, the past and present experiences and filter them through the Word of God. Be intentional about every thought that consumes your brain and measure it up to Philippians 4:8. Is it true or is it false? Is it honorable or is it untrustworthy? Is it right or is it wrong? Is it pure or is it immoral? Is it lovely or is it hateful? And is it admirable or is it shameful? If the answer is yes, then you're on the right track, continue to indulge in those thoughts because they are excellent and praiseworthy! But if the answer is no; then the question is, do you trust God enough to let go and allow Him to replace it with the good? Only you can check yourself, only you can admit it, only you can desire the change. God is willing, are you?

Today is a good day to unravel layer after layer of  past hurt, deception, unforgiveness and failures; strip yourself completely bare into the presence of God and allow Him to do a new thing in your life. 2016 is around the corner and He has new things lined up for you. When you surrender it all to God, He will give you His all; because you have gotten rid of the old and made room to receive the new.

 

"Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all." - Proverbs 3:5 (MSG)

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed! 

Landy Perez-Feliciano 

Hope Is

Hope is to trust in, wait for, look for, or desire something or someone; or to expect something beneficial in the future. When you put your hope in God, you are trusting Him in whatever you are waiting for.

But here's the key, if you're going to trust, it has to be in God and Him alone. The hope I am talking about it not a superficial hope, like "I hope it doesn't rain today." The hope I am referring to is profoundly deeper that requires faith, patience and endurance. Hope is having an eager expectation for God to do something. I have two questions for you today, what are you hoping for? And what are you doing to prepare for it? Faith without works is dead, so I encourage you to exercise your faith by 'expectantly' waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled in your life. When you are expecting someone or something, you are getting ready for their arrival. Get ready!

I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits and in His word I put my hope. ~Psalm 130:5

 

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥ 

 

Deletable Moments

Delete

[dih-leet]

verb (used with object), deleted, deleting.

1. to strike out or remove (something written or printed); cancel; erase; expunge.

 

Wouldn’t be awesome to walk around with a portable delete button and just get rid of the things that bothered you in life? Ahh… just think about it? Running late to work and you’re stuck in traffic- delete- the traffic is gone. You come home and you’re house is a mess –delete- the mess is gone. Life would be so much easier if we could just delete the things in life that make us sad, upset, stressed and confused.

Can there be a delete button for pain and suffering, how about the things that hit close to home? The pink slip or layoff notice you received and now you’re worried about your family’s livelihood and the bills that keep piling up. Where’s the delete button for that? How about the doctor’s report and what you most feared is now true, how are you going to tell your family, how are you going to be strong through it all? Can we delete that? How about finding out that your happily-ever-after is not so happily and you find yourself alone and abandoned; having to pick up the broken pieces and move on. Can you please delete that?!  There are probably areas in our lives that we would love to delete because it would simply be easier to live without the pain, stress and drama.

Often times, we think it’s pointless to go through that “deletable” moment but what if I were to tell you that there is purpose in that moment? You see, although it would be great to walk around with a portable delete button to erase those embarrassing moments, or those moments of great pain and despair; but what would we then learn? It is in those moments where we cling closest to God and we cry out to Him for help. If life were perfect, then we would not need Him. There is a great lesson to be learned when we’ve reached the end of our rope and it is humility and dependability from the one true Source- God. When we surrender every area of our lives and say, I no longer live but Jesus lives in me, then we can depend solely on His finished work in our lives. When we allow His will to be done in our lives, we no longer need a delete button. Jesus did the ultimate deletion on the cross, through His blood our sins, sicknesses, fear, pride, attitudes … etc were all deleted! Thank you Jesus for your finished work on the cross!

I have come to the realization that everything that happens in my life will at the end, work out for my good because I love Him. I encourage you today to have that same attitude, trust God in every area of your life. If He’s allowed what you would consider a “deletable” moment in your life then trust His plans, He knows what He’s doing. There is elegance, beauty and strength in the midst of a messy and chaotic moment.  Embrace your moment because it is just that- a moment, and this too shall pass.

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

Doesn't Make Sense

You, by nature, were a branch cut from a wild olive tree. So if God was willing to do something contrary to nature by grafting you into his cultivated tree, he will be far more eager to graft the original branch back into the tree where they belong. ~Romans 11:24

As I was reading the word this morning during my devotional time, this verse not only stood out but it really spoke to me. A little backstory to this is that the Apostle Paul is telling the Romans how we as Gentiles have the blessing to be a part of God’s special tree upon accepting Jesus Christ as our Savior and through Him we find salvation. However, we must not brag about being grafted in to replace the branches that were broken off (the Jews, God’s chosen people who have rejected Jesus as the Messiah) because we are merely branches, not the root.

Ok, so we understand the concept of the tree, right? There are two trees; His cultivated tree (Chosen people) and a wild olive tree (Gentiles). As Gentiles; non-Jews, we have been grafted (inserted) into God’s tree while some of the original branches have been cut off, due to their lack of faith. What a privileged you and I have been granted! However, what is mind blowing- well, not really because God is God and He is Omnipotent and He does as He pleases, but what is so amazing about our God is what this text says..

“…So if God was willing (His choice) to do something contrary to nature (against the norm)…” Wow! This means that there is no telling how He will do things in our lives. We are not to place God inside of a box because He cannot operate in a “fixed” environment. We are not to expect Him to intervene or resolve something our way. Maybe God wants to glorify Himself in your situation differently than before. Expect the unexpected, He will act, respond, put together, take apart, or bless you on His terms, not yours. It may be exactly the way that you’ve envisioned it and AMEN! However, chances are there will be some slight changes, be open to the possibilities of your blessing coming in an unconventional manner. If you are open, you will give Him the freedom to move and operate how He pleases. There are no rules or guidelines that the Lord of Lords and Creator of all things should follow. Who are we to demand or expect God to do things a certain way? Exactly, we are no one to question His doings. Sometimes things will simply not make sense; does it mean God doesn’t know what He’s doing? Of course not, He is all knowing.

Going back to this verse, isn’t it crazy to think that there are two trees and God grabs one branch from one tree and grafts it, or inserts it into another tree? The question is: Will it belong? Will it stick together? Will it grow? Well, you and I are here. By His grace and love we are here and if you’ve confessed Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you are in the family. It didn’t look, seem or feel right, and from an agricultural/landscaping point of view, it still doesn’t make sense yet that’s what God decided to do. And aren’t we happy He did, because of it; we too have been granted the gift of salvation and eternal life.

Sometimes it takes something that doesn’t make sense to fulfill the purpose. Today I encourage you to let God work in your life the way He wants to. Surrender your all (especially your mind and intellect, they always try to reason and make sense out of things) and allow Him total access to do as He pleases, to remove and place as He wishes. You may not get it but don’t hinder His work or your progress. It doesn't have to make sense to you, as long as it makes sense to Him. He’s a craftsman. Let Him create a new thing in you today!

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 ♥

 

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
 

Steps

The first quarter of 2014 is over.

Today we embark a new quarter, a new month, a new day. Looking back on the first three months of the year, how would you evaluate it? Are you proud of your accomplishments? Did you set short term goals and meet them? It’s important to acknowledge small achievements and celebrate your progress, even if it’s one step at a time. Why? Because you’re one step closer to where you envisioned yourself to be. No one can desire it more than you. No one can see the vision as clear as you can. No one can want it more than you. People can help carry out the vision for you, they can assist you in accomplishing your dreams but ultimately it falls on you because the dream is yours not theirs. Everyone has a place they’re trying to get to, everyone has a destination assigned to them, and everyone will be focused on their individual journey.

Image by Designated Disaster

So, as we enter a new phase of the year 2014, I ask you to re-evaluate your life and where it's headed. Ask the core questions that will give you clear and concise answers, because those answers will shed light in areas that are still darkened with doubt and confusion. Have the mindset of a champion that is focused and determined to make it to the end victoriously. Only you know how far you want to go. Only you know where you’re meant to be. We all have a purpose in this life and God is the one who reveals and pin points every detail of our lives. If you’re in sync with Him, you’re on the right path to living a purposeful life.

Beware of the roadblocks and detours that will try to redirect your path. Your path may be under construction and you may have to be redirected into an unfamiliar path but if you’re tuned in and focused to what God has for you, then you will arrive to the right place, at the right time and the right people will be waiting for you. Otherwise, you will end up lost, perhaps in a remote area or even in a place where you do not fit because that's not where you are suppose to be.

When in the correct path, be in expectation of what lies ahead, for God has prepared your grand arrival. You will not have to seek others; they will have already know of you and will be waiting with open arms for you. Everything you need will have already been provided. All of the resources and connections will be at your disposal and granted to you. All you need to do is arrive!

When we are obedient to the voice of the Lord and we walk in His perfect will and not ours, these treasures are made available to us. Psalm 37:23 declares that a man's steps are established by the LORD, and He takes pleasure in his way. Proverbs 16: 9 says that we can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps. And Proverbs 20:24 states that the LORD directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?

I say all of that to say this, our life is not our own, to God we belong. Our steps are ordered by Him, our plans are to be submitted by Him and our lives are to be directed by Him. He is the orchestrator of it all. When we are obedient to His ways, His path, and His future for us, we become victorious and successful in all that we do, and everywhere that we go. The bible says that He takes pleasure in the steps that He establishes for us because He is so excited for us to see His grand plan for us. Can you imagine, following God’s lead and at the end, when we reach the place where He intended us to arrive at, He’s like: “ta-ra… This is what I had planned for you all along!” I can only imagine because our thoughts are not His thoughts and if I think BIG, He thinks B.I.G.G.E. R. !!!

Trust His Ways • Trust His Path • Trust His Promises

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

 

 

 

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 ♥

No Matter What • No Importa Que

As I reflect back on this year; with one day left, I have one word to say: Grateful!

I’m so grateful for 2013. It was a year of a lot of growth and trusting God for greater and bigger things. 2013 taught me to trust God and take His word serious. I was able to take leaps of faith, scared to death but I was able to do it. There were many moments of doubts and insecurities, times where I didn’t want to do or say something because of fear-yet I was able to overcome those fears. There were times were I didn’t think a certain goal, dream or project could become possible but with hard work, perseverance and God on my side, I was able to see the fulfillment of what I was striving for. 2013 was a year of stretching my faith, of walking in faith and of seeing the completed work in faith.

I am grateful for 2013.  I am a better, stronger and wiser person; simply because I dared to believe God and took His word and promises serious in my life.

• I am thankful for my salvation and relationship with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
• I am thankful for my beautiful family and my loving husband
• I am thankful for being chosen to write my first book, Un Momento De Silencio
• I am thankful for traveling South America and visiting Paraguay and Argentina
• I am thankful for the doors of opportunities that were opened for me in 2013
• I am thankful because I did not allow fear to delay God’s purpose in my life for this year
• I am thankful because I have 365 days to do it all over again

2014 is the year of Open Doors and of greater opportunities but it will come to those who are brave enough to accept the challenge and run with it, no matter what!

Are you ready for the “No Matter What’s” in your life? No matter what, keep going. No matter what, keep pushing. No matter what, keep believing. No matter what your surroundings may say, you keep pressing forward! No ifs, ands, or buts about it! –No Matter What!

Take a seat and enjoy the ride! God has a lot of surprises in store for you in 2014. Let go of the fear and trust Him. He knows what He is doing, even when you don't!

I hope everyone has a Blessed and Prosperous New Year!!

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

Mientras reflexiono en todo los acontecimientos de este año, solo tengo una palabra que decir: Agradecida!

Estoy tan agradecida por el año 2013. Fue un año de mucho crecimiento y de confiar en Dios por cosas grandes y mayores. 2013 me enseño a confiar en Dios y tomar su palabra en serio. Pude tomar saltos de fe, aunque a veces con mucho temor pero lo pude hacer. Hubieron momentos de dudas e inseguridades, ocasiones donde quizás no quería hacer o decir algo dado al temor, pero pude vencer esos temores. Tambien, hubieron momentos donde pensé que alguna meta, sueño o proyecto no se iba poder realizar pero con trabajo fuerte, perseverancia y Dios a mi lado, pude ver los frutos de lo que quería alcanzar. 2013 fue un año donde se estrechó mí fe, camine en fe y pude ver el cumplimiento de muchas cosas por los ojos de la fe.

Estoy tan agradecida por el año 2013. Soy una mejor, más fuerte y sabia persona; simplemente porque me atreví a creerle a Dios y tomar su palabra y sus promesas en serio.

·         Estoy tan agradecida por mi salvación y relación con mi Señor y Salvador, Jesucristo

·         Estoy tan agradecida por mi bella familia y mi amado esposo

·         Estoy tan agradecida por haber sido elegida para escribir mi primer libro, Un Momento De Silencio

·         Estoy tan agradecida por viajar a Sudamérica y visitar a Paraguay y Argentina

·          Estoy tan agradecida por las grandes oportunidades que me fueron brindadas en el 2013

·         Estoy tan agradecida porque no permití que el temor detuviera el propósito en mi vida para este año

·         Estoy tan agradecida porque tengo 365 días para hacerlo todo de nuevo

2014 es el año de Puertas Abiertas y grandes oportunidades pero solo vendrán a personas que sean lo suficientemente valientes para aceptar el reto y seguir hacia adelante, ¡no importa que!

¿Estás listo para el “No importa que” en tu vida? No importa que, siga hacia adelante. No importe que, siga empujando. No importa que, siga creyendo. No importa que diga tu alrededor, siga hacia adelante; sin ningún tipo de excusas- “No Importa” cual sea.

Tome un asiento y disfrute el viaje. Dios tiene muchas sorpresas para usted en el 2014. Suelte el temor y confié en El. ¡Él sabe lo que hace aunque usted no lo sepa!

Espero que todos tengan un Año Nuevo de muchas Bendiciones y Prosperidad.

Landy Pérez-Feliciano ♥

 

 

Photo credit: Nostalgique Images  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

'til the end

Job was a just man before the eyes of the Lord, his integrity and loyalty to Him was unbelievable; yet we see Job enduring the toughest trial of his life. He lost his riches, his children, and his health; he lost everything but never cursed God! Wow, if that isn’t something admirable, just imagine his situation for a minute. One moment he had everything and the next, he loses everything! His wife was in utter disbelief and rightfully so, beyond upset. She was grieving the loss of her children, let’s not put all the blame on Job’s “ungodly” wife, she was enduring some serious pain here! Nevertheless, Job is able to maintain his belief and trust in the Lord 'til the end. He came to this world naked and will leave naked, everything He had ever possess came from God anyways, let His name be glorified- yes! Job said this!

Many of us will never have to go through anything similar to what Job went through but in life, we will be faced with situations that will shake up our faith and cause doubts and confusion. It is in those moments of despair where God is paying attention to how we will react and the things we will speak. Do we worship God when everything goes our way? Are we buddy buddy with him when we get our questions answered, when he blesses us with what we want, when He gives us our heart’s desire? What happens when we don’t get what we want? When we lose what we have? When not so good things begin to happen in our lives? Will our trust be strong enough 'til the end?

 

Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him. {Job 13:15} was a clear affirmation that Job was not budging, he was not doubting, he was not lingering in two thoughts (should I trust or should I not trust). Job was convinced that despite anything that could happen to him, his trust will continue to be in the Lord at all times, even 'til the end. That is some deep stuff right there! Though He slay me! In other words, God can kill me right now; I will continue to trust Him. Though He never heals me again, I will continue to trust that He is Jehovah Rapha, my healer! Though He never gives me back what I lost, I trust that He is Jehovah Jireh, my provider. Job was not shaken by his circumstances, His faith was set on solid ground- unshakeable, unmovable, nothing and no one will change his mindset. He trusted God 'til the end.

When we trust in God and we truly believe that our lives are under His almighty hands, controlling every move- then we can trust that no matter what happens, all things will work out for our good. (Rom 8:28) Job worshipped God during the hardest time of his life, his wife and friends didn’t understand why Job would stick by God but Job had a deeper understanding. He knew God, He knew who He was! You cannot trust someone you do not know, right? After getting to know the person, then you can build a trustworthy relationship. Job knew God; therefore trusted Him with His life. And when you trust, you have peace, you know that person has your best interest in mind. Job knew that God loved him and wanted the best for him and in the mist of trusting God in the process, he worshipped Him as well. The bible says that God was pleased and gave Job back everything he had lost (times two) yea, there was some multiplication involved! Double for his trouble!! Job became the richest man in the land, with beautiful children and he lived a healthy, prosperous life.

God multiplied his riches and his blessings! And I truly believe that some people are being tested right now, God is allowing certain things to happen in their lives, but it is a test to see if you can pass with flying colors. Satan wanted God to test Job and He accepted the challenge. Was Job serving God because he had everything, a family, riches and a healthy body or would he curse God the minute everything was taken away from him? My friend, I want to tell you that Job passed the test! Not once did He curse God, in those moments of anguish, he still managed to worship His creator; with or without clothing, family, and health. And at the end of it all, we see a double blessing pour out unto Job’s life. God is faithful to those who are faithful to him. He will bless those who are loyal and stick by His side, trusting Him in every way, 'til the end.

Today, I encourage you to trust! Though you feel like you’ve reached the end of your rope, trust! Though you feel like you will give in, trust! Though you feel like giving up, trust! Trust in God, He will make a way where there is no way and will give you the necessary strength to endure what you are going through and in due time, you will see how He will lift you up and place you on solid ground. Continue to trust because to those who love God, all things work out for good and God is in the mist of working something out for your good. Keep trusting... 'til the end!

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano♥

 

 

 

Photo credit: Grover Sanschagrin

 

 

 

Respond with Faith

Our faith is tested on a daily basis; some on a higher scale than others but nevertheless, we all go through seasons of tests in our lives. In order for Abraham to be called “The Father of Faith” there were a series of tests he had to pass. His faith; ultimately, is what brought him to a place of blessing where God’s promises in him were fulfilled.

We all have and will continue to encounter seasons in which we will have to “step out” with no evidence of an assured outcome other than God’s word. Situations will arise and you will not see a clear picture but will have to take that leap of faith and rely on that word that God gave you. You may not understand the process but you will understand the outcome; that God is Faithful and His promises are yes and Amen!

 

It is in those times that we have an opportunity to allow God to stay true to His word and for our faith to grow. Hebrews 11 says that it is “impossible to please God without faith” and that He’s a “rewarder of those that come to Him in faith”. Faith is vital; it is a key component in our relationship with our Lord and Savior. The more we practice faith, the stronger and easier it becomes, think of it as a muscle in which we exercise.

In times of uncertainties, confusions and pain, God will whisper peace, clarity and strength and you’ll respond with faith. You may not know where life is taking you, but God will clear out the clutter and make a way where there is no way. You will walk on the right path that will lead you to where God wants you to be. You will not know all of the answers; you will not need all of the answers, just knowing that He is by your side, leading your steps is more than enough to feel secure and protected.

Listen carefully for that small still voice of God today that is whispering to you and respond with faith knowing that “He will make a way”.

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

 

 

Photo credit:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/29900177@N02/4130998882/

Fast Forward to your Future

This past Tuesday I was speaking to the young adults about Fast Forwarding to the future, to their future. And we did a fun exercise which was to fast forward ten years into the future and everyone was to inform their fellow classmates what they were doing in their lives. From that point on, we were no longer in 2013 but we were in 2023. It was fun to hear everyone's experiences, many were already married with kids, others were full into their professions. A lot of them were traveling the world, preaching  or singing and just fulfilling their purpose in life.  For those few minutes, it almost seemed like everything that was being said was true! Right before my eyes were successful and fulfilled men and women who were once (10 years ago) in a small group class in which I was teaching. It was so real!! Why did we do this exercise? Because I wanted everyone to realize that what they profess, has power.  What you declare and decree over your life, that is what you will see.  We were declaring that we will see ourselves in those positions. Our declaration has to be aligned with God's declaration. Our words has to be connected to the word of God. God wants Jeremiah 29:11 to be fulfilled in our lives. He has a beautiful future in-store for us, a future where we can find hope in Him. He has a plan and as long as we walk along side with Him, He will lead us straight to that beautiful path He's created for us.

 

I want you to also go on that journey with me as my students did. Once you start to imagine it and declare what you will be doing and where you will be going in ten years... let me tell you, you will get there! If you believe and declare it, don't you be surprised when 2023 comes along and you're right where you said you would be. 

Ok, here it goes...!!!!

Prepare yourself to go on a ride with me tonight, a journey in which you and I will get to experience without any limits or hesitation. This ride will be quick but will mark the beginning of something great that is about to happen in your life. Are you ready? ARE YOU READY?

Close your eyes tight.. Because when you open them up again, you will be 10 years older than what you are now. If you are 23 you will be 33. If you're 33, you will be 43. When you open up your eyes, you may be married with kids already, you may be a professional working in your career, when you open up your eyes, you will be exactly where God intended you to be; FULFILLING YOUR PURPOSE. You will no longer be walking towards your purpose; you will be in your purpose. You no longer have to pray for God to use you, God has already been using you, you no longer have to ask what it is that He wants you to do, you will have already discovered it and you will already be doing it. Take a few moments to picture yourself 10 years from now. What are you doing? Who are you? Many people sitting here today, as in 10 years ago, haven’t seen you in a couple of years, you are about to meet your former classmates, small group, youth group, church group and you will be filling them in as to what has happened in your life over the last 10 years. Are you a failure? Did you not do anything with your life? Are you one of those that just come to church day after day, week after week, year after year and hasn’t fulfilled anything? OR are you one that took very seriously what was said to you 10 years ago in a class called: “Fast Forward: your future” and you’ve achieved great things?

In 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5…. 5 seconds until you are 10 years older and you are about to step into your Young Adults 10 year Class Reunion and you will inform and fill everyone in on your life. You should have your goals, aspirations and dreams all figured out, right? You’ve had 10 years to figure it out and make a big impact on your fellow classmates.  What are you up to today? What is your status?

5, 4, 3, 2, 1….Open your eyes!!

Welcome to YOUR FUTURE, we have Fast Forward time to take a stroll not through memory lane but through future lane.

Hi, my name is Landy and most of you knew me as a pastor’s daughter and youth pastor along with my husband. We’ve been happily married for 13 years. We have 2 kids, they are so adorable!! I’m working fulltime in ministry, traveling a lot speaking to large crowds in Women’s Conference and I will always have a sweet spot for the youth so I do a lot of speaking engagements to the youth as well. I’ve written several books already, both Spanish and English and it’s blessed so many people!! By the grace of God and His favor, I’ve met incredible people that have helped me in my ministry. I also own a few businesses; God has prospered me and blessed me financially so I can bless people who are in need. I’ve appeared on television worldwide bringing a message of hope and restoration. It hasn’t been easy but I have seen each and every promise that God has made to me, ever since I was young.  I remember being single and staying in prayer services and just waiting for my husband to come and he came. I remember God speaking to me about how he was going to bless me and how he was going to open doors for me, and I can see it now. I remember speaking to the youth week after week, Tuesday after Tuesday and sometimes thinking, is it worth it? Are they getting it? And my husband and I would pray for the youth and it’s so rewarding to receive letters and phone calls from those who were in our youth group, testify to us that God fulfilled His promise to them. And they would say, Landy Josh.. it was true, everything you guys said.. God is faithful! I thank God for his love, mercy, favor, grace. And I know the best is yet to come!!

One thing that I can tell the young people of this generation? Before I leave, I want to tell this upcoming generation, yes.. the generation our children, you guys are all teenagers now, 10 years ago, I had a group of young people sitting here, I was sitting where you were and yes we had big dreams but didn’t know how it was going to happen and I remember I would always say, just keep believing, keep being Faithful to God and He will be Faithful to you. Many times it was tough, but I promise you if you stick to the word of God and His promises, just like I told my students 10 years ago, YOU will see God’s blessings over your life. Declare it, it will happen! I chose to believe the word of God over my life, and God honored it, now you have to believe what God had promised over your life so you too can see it come to pass.

(Now it's your turn!)

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I hope this exercise helped you! (I know you couldn't close your eyes because you had to read it but you got the jist of it, right?)  Remember the sky is the limit and only YOU can detour God's purpose in your life. Your dreams are God's dreams deposited inside of you so the bigger you dream, the better for God because He has an opportunity to come through for you in extraordinary ways. I challenge you to dream big, God is up to the challenge. Your wildest dreams are a piece of cake for God. That is why, my friends, dream big because God has a big future ahead of you. Are you ready for 2023?

Would love to read your comments!! Xo

Be Blessed, Be Encouraged!

Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

Expect Favor

As I was reading my daily devotional today, I came across a word that I’ve been declaring all year.  If you are in my inner circle and know me, you know that I’ve declared that this is the year of the Yes, the year of granted requests.  The word “favor” has been in my vocabulary in 2013 and so far, I’ve seen pretty cool things happen- definitely God’s favor.  This word was such a blessing to me and once again a reminder that God’s favor and blessing is upon us, we just have to confess it and believe it. This word comes from one of my favorites: Joyce Meyer!

Enjoy it and receive it in the name of Jesus!

[What, what would have become of me] had I not believed that I would see the Lord’s goodness in the land of the living! Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring.  Yes, wait for and hope for and expect the Lord. -Psalm 27:13-14

 

God wants to give you favor-kindness that you don’t deserve.  We see mention of God’s favor toward many in the Bible, and there’s no reason to think He can’t offer it to you as well.  Learn to believe God for favor.  Confess several times a day that you have favor with God and man.  You will be amazed at the exciting things that happen to you if you speak God’s Word instead of how you feel.

Supernatural favor can be expressed in different ways.  You may get the job you want but are not naturally qualified for.  People seem to like you for no special reason.  You get the best seat in the restaurant with the best waiter.  People give you things for no reason at all.  Favor means that someone will stop and let you into a line of traffic while others are zooming by as if you are not even there.

Living in God’s favor is very exciting.  When Joseph was cruelly mistreated by his brothers and they sold him into slavery, God gave him favor everywhere he went. He had favor with Potiphar and was placed in charge of his household. He had favor with the jailer during his imprisonment for a crime he did not commit.  He had so much favor with Pharaoh that Joseph became second only to Pharaoh in power.  Yes, walking in God’s favor is an exciting way to live.  We see so many men and women whom we admire in the Bible being given favor: Ruth, Esther, Daniel, and Abraham, just to name a few.  Resist and refuse to let doubt convince you that good things won’t happen to you and your family; aggressively expect good things!

Trust in Him:
Ask God to give you divine, supernatural favor, and then trust He’ll do it as you look for in in your life.

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!
Landy Perez-Feliciano ♥

Worrying is Pointless

One of my absolute favorite author, speaker, teacher, preacher (you name it & she's it!) is Joyce Meyer.  She is such an inspiration to so many women.. well ok, men too! lol and it's always a blessing to see, hear or read her stuff!!

This morning, I was prompted to read today's daily devotion by one of her books, "Trusting God day by day." I just have to say THANK YOU to my sister for getting me that book last weekend; thus far it's been such a blessing. And not only was I prompted to read today's message but I was lead to share it with a few of my lady friends and I know it was a blessing to them as well.  But it does not end there; I want to share it with you as well. This is just a small part of what it says:

March 19th

"Relax! God Is Working"

If you know you can't fix the problem you have, then why not relax while God is working on it? If things don't go your way, instead of being upset, you can believe that getting your way was not what you needed. God knew that, so He gave you what was best for you, instead of what you wanted. 
If you are waiting much longer than you had hoped to, you can get frustrated, angry, and upset, or you can say, "God's timing is perfect; He is never late.  And my steps are ordered by the Lord." Now you can relax and simply go with the flow of what is happening in your life.  When it comes to things that are out of our control, we can either ruin the day or relax and enjoy it while God is working on the situation.  As long as we believe, God keeps working! -Joyce Meyer

Isn’t it amazing when we can rely solely on God's plans for our lives?  Want to relieve stress?  Want to let go of the pressure?  Let go and let God.  Yes, I know what you're going to say?  Easier said than done, right?  I'm not saying you're going to be able to accomplish it today, sometimes it may take days, months, and years for you to fully let go and trust God completely.  We want to be in control, I get it, who doesn't?  But the more we let go, the more freedom we gain.  Trust God for those things that are out of your control, He always has your back and your best interest at hand.  The more we trust, the less we stress.  The less we stress, the less we worry and the less we worry, quite frankly, the happier we will be.

 

Studies have shown that there is really absolutely no point in worrying, look at these percentages.

40% of things most people worry about never happen;
30% of what we worry about has already happened and cannot be changed;
22%of what we worry about regards problems which are beyond our control; only
8% of what we worry about are situations over which we have any influence.

Have you ever thought about it?  What is the point of worrying?  It's pointless! You do not resolve anything! Henry Ford said it best: "I believe God is managing affairs and that He doesn't need any advice from me.  With God in charge, I believe everything will work out for the best in the end.  So what is there to worry about."  

Instead of exhausting all of your energy thinking.. thinking.. and more thinking then worrying, stressing and getting aggravated, put your trust in the one who has all of the answers!  News flash: We do not know the future, God does! Trust Him, trust His plan. Trust His purpose for your life. Jeremiah 29:11 says: 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. 

He already knows everything about you, about your life and about your future.  You may not see the big picture today but your vision will be a lot clearer tomorrow.  God will make a way as long as you get out of the way.  Don't worry, Be Happy... God has it ALL under control!

And I want to leave you with this:

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication , with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:6-7 

Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!

LandyPF