I’ve always heard this passage in Romans 14 interpreted according to clothing, music, alcohol, smoking, and more—all in terms of “not being a stumbling block for others.” I was tender to my power to be a stumbling block of every sort, both to the believing and the unbelieving, checking over my shoulder to see the carnage I’d left in my wake. The truth was, I left hardly any, but it didn’t stop me from metaphorically cutting off arms and legs, gouging out eyes and the like, in pursuit of protecting my brothers and sisters.
The Christian life, I thought, was more about what I couldn’t do than what I could.
How glorious, then, when the true gospel began to take root in my heart. I began to understand that freedom in Christ meant I was truly free to live. As it turns out, Christ had declared me more than clean. He’d declared me redeemed.
Of all the ways I’d formerly applied this passage, though, the one I’d not considered was food. I knew all food had been declared clean, that we were no longer under the law of Moses in our dietary restrictions. But what I didn’t understand was the law of our current world with regard to food: the diet and exercise industry.
Today, in modern culture, the opposing god—though a no less despicable one—is the one who demands less food, more restrictions, better supplements, flatter stomachs, tighter abs, and the list goes on. In an attempt to care for the temples of the Holy Spirit with eating and exercising, we can destroy our bodies (which are wasting away, whether we like it or not) and cause harm to the impressionable hearts and minds of others who jump on every new regime or diet we offer.
We want to be well, to eat healthy, whole, and good foods. We love the rhythms of feasting and fasting we see in Scripture. We want to move our bodies, staying active. But we don’t want to destroy our hearts by lusting after what we don’t have. We don’t want to destroy our bodies by rebounding from one quick-fix supplement to another. We don’t want to destroy our minds by believing our approval comes from certain lifestyles or appearances.
There are countless difficulties in life, opportunities to be divided over race, gender, theology, and history. And food, instead of becoming a means to crush those divides—to draw near to one another, armed with soups, fruits, breads, vegetables, and meats—has become one more line of division.
Christ died for all; this is what the Bible says. I don’t want to be known by what I eat or don’t eat. I want to be known by how I love and who I’m loved by.
So then, let us pursue what promotes peace and what builds up one another. Do not tear down God’s work because of food.
—Romans 14:19–20
Whatever struggle you’re caught in the throes of today, know that you are loved by Christ. He spread His own body, bleeding and broken, to fit a cross you could never bear on your own. Don’t destroy your body by what you do or don’t eat. Christ died for all—every curve, every bulge, and every stretch mark—all of it.
For “the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17). God gives us food as a means of provision, not division. Instead of fostering false divisions today, let’s share it with someone in the pursuit of peace.
Leave a Reply
72 thoughts on "The Law of Love"
Yes! I so appreciated this post! Makes me think about the constant barrage of social media posts with before and after pictures from diet and exercise programs.
I so needed this devotional today. I am postpartum with an 11 week old, and my changed body had clouded my peace. Today’s devotional was the perfect reminder of Christ’s Love and a moment to re-center my focus on Who truly matters. Not the new bulges and new stretch marks. We are more than what we eat and our appearances. We are free and redeemed children of a mighty God.
Wow this was so good!! Using food as a means of provision and life not division and death ❤️
The context of the reading is for the church in Rome but I think we have to walk this out in front of a watching world as well. We forego a freedom so as not to offend a weaker believer but I think also so as not to confuse an unbeliever sometimes.
What a beautiful and encouraging message! Thank you so much for speaking the truth in love to such a sensitive topic. ❤️
One to ponder
This was good today, I am loving this Devotional and this group.
Love this devotional today. I really needed to hear that. I find comfort in understanding that whatever my struggles are I am still loved by the Lord. I’ve struggled with a lot of anxiety lately and don’t have an answer for it which makes things frustrating. Praying for your requests today.
Re: comment to SEARCHING this morning: *shudder! I need to pay more attention to my mistakes – in more ways than one!
Totally agree with your description. In my Spirit I am free from Sugar addiction, but still have ongoing struggle with this body of sin. The Lord have me victory for ten years in recent years and helped me establish better habits, but I’m sure I will continue to struggle till He takes me home. It’s like Paul’s thorn in the flesh. I try to always
Wow. What a discussion. I don’t pretend to know the answer. But I do know that Jesus tells us to love Him with all our heart, mind and soul, and to love our neighbor as ourself. Of course there are people who live differently from me and my beliefs. It’s not my job to tell them they’re wrong. It is my job to show them God’s love. I pray that I can love all my neighbors, those who believe and live as I do, and those who live and believe something else. Living my life as a Christian is the best testimony I can give.
I’m praying for all requests, dear She’s, as I come to them.
I praise God that heaven is about joy in righteousness, and not about whether we eat or drink.
Good AFTERNOON and Happy Tuesday sweet She’s! I read the scriptures and devotion this morning, but did not have time to comment.
@SEARCHING, thank you and ALL who prayed for my first day. It went GREAT! I was exhausted, but went great. And just a few minutes ago, one of the front office staff called me over, and said how proud she is of me for taking on a new position. She knows I’ve been in the same department for many years, and she wanted to let me know she was proud for me to taking a step of faith.
17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
What a freeing statement. I can sympathize with the devotion today: always worrying about what I eat, drink, wear, where I go, and the list goes on. That was my experience growing up. But once I discovered that God truly loves me, just as I am, I felt so much freer. Diet and exercise, however, are still huge stumbling blocks for me. Over the past several years, I have gained a huge amount of weight and started living mostly in my house, and in my chair. I’m embarrassed for people to see me. And I’m becoming frightened to go places. Just before I read today’s Scripture and devotion, I was online looking at Silver Sneakers exercises I can do at home. And I have a book sitting next to me called, “The 40-Day Sugar Fast.” I’m diabetic, so that title really grabbed my attention. I tell myself I want to do these things to get healthier and live longer. But I question if it’s so I won’t be embarrassed to be seen. I love what Paul tells us:
17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Amen!
This is a really great, modern perspective of this passage! I know I have used food as a divisive tool.
Oh my Lord Jesus, typing & tears what a mix. My first thing today was a message my hubs took from the hospital about a referral to an obesity clinic, then this. I’ve struggled with this for 40 years. That’s a biblical number right. I know Jesus doesn’t care, but my joints & health do. So I’m in the middle trying to love myself and God and stay healthy but it’s not happening. This morning my Pastor’s email was about “gluttony” too! Talk about it’s time as God says! Face it…
@SEARCHING: praying for your legal situation. May God send reinforcement through capable people.
@CEE GEE ❤️
@HEIDI: for Kin’s first day of school, for amazing growth, lovely new experiences and meaningful friendships with classmates and teachers for her. How sweet.
@ALLIE M: for your eating disorder, and other dear she’s that might be suffering silently b/c of this. Never knew it’s a thing until I read Lisa Bevere’s book that she described this horrible bondage. May it be cast down in Jesus’ Name.
@ALEIDA: praying for fibromyalgia healing for you, and for the situation. You made me tear up. What a beautiful heart you have, your love for your son is incredibly touching. Sometimes brokenness has to come before building new. For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up (Ecclesiastes 3:1-3). Sometimes we can’t skip the stages, and the may the Lord be ever so merciful.
@VICTORIA E: rest and peace for work.
@HEATHER LANDERS: continual prayers for your family, your husband’s rehab.
@DOROTHY: thinking of you, praying for your well-being and return to SRT.
Hugs and blessings to all you sweet she’s.
@changed life- I’m right there with you!! Recently the church voted about this and I see both sides. It’s so hard!!
4 Who are you to judge another’s household servant? Before his own Lord he stands or falls. And he will stand, because the Lord is able to make him stand. – Romans 14:4. This is a word right here!!! We all have to go before the Lord and “give an account” therefore DONT JUDGE JUST LOVE!!!! Roman’s 14 might be my favorite chapter and most convicting!!!! Lifting up all the prayer requests today!!
Happy Wednesday she’s, a few take away points for me from today’s scriptures:
1- Do not quarrel with those weak in faith (Romans 14:1). I do see this happening a lot under social media posts of many great men and women of God, when they share a revelation and then get attacked immediately by those with lesser understanding. It is so easy to get sucked into debates and quarrels. It is such a snare that we are warned to be mindful of.
2- Don’t judge another servant of God by their God-observing routines/ rituals/ choices (Romans 14:5-6) as long as it’s honoring to God based on their faith. It’s between God and them. Same as our faith is between God and us.
3- Whatever is not from faith is sin (Romans 14:23). When we eat or drink or do anything else, let that come from faith and with the purpose of honoring God.
4- Discern those who are weak in conscience, in their mind, and watch carefully what we do around them. For if someone sees you, the one who has knowledge, dining in an idol’s temple, won’t his weak conscience be encouraged to eat food offered to idols? So the weak person, the brother or sister for whom Christ died, is ruined by your knowledge.( 1 Corinthians 8:10-11)
5- Kingdom of God is of Righteousness, Peace, Joy IN THE HOLY SPIRIT (Romans 14:17). Be Spirit-led, and not flesh-led (carnal joy leads to death). For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Romans 8:6).
Lifting up prayers on behalf of our sweet and faithful she’s. May the Lord lead you into new revelation and personal encounter with Him daily, and build up your faith in His Word.
Be blessed dear sisters.
Help me not to miss what You are saying here, Yahweh. There’s so much beauty and truth here, but I don’t have the time at the moment to express and comment on it all. I will have to go back to read it again later.
As I read, I keep thinking of my sweet Jehovah’s Witness friend, M. She’s my friend first and foremost. What she believes the secondary. Her sect has different regulations — they do not celebrate holidays — but they still believe in salvation through Christ. I do not judge her or those who think like her for these things. I pray for their knowledge of the truth that Jesus is Lord and one with God the Father and the Holy Spirit.
Father, open their eyes to the truth. Open my eyes and heart for how I can serve them better under the law of love. Show me how I can better represent the truth of who You are to my dear friend, M. I do not want her to miss out on all that You are and can be to her. Help me to be a vessel overflowing with Your love to her.
Hi Changed Life,
I do not think you can be a Christian (Christ follower) and choose to remain in lifestyle that God is against. I cannot be a Christ follower, and choose to lie and cheat every day. I know a lawyer who works for a client, that requires lying to win cases, and the conviction from the Holy Spirit and through reading scriptures slowly changes that person’s mind… and he quits. A lifestyle change (that reflects the inner heart change). And yes it does take time and patience and the powerful work of the Holy Spirit. The Lord says, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). And I am sorry to say that your niece’s lifestyle bears false witness to the Lord as well. It is a stumbling block for others. It does boil down to serving God or serving ourselves (as Taylor put it the other day). I will be praying for your niece and her partner. In the meantime, we can speak truth IN LOVE, with gentleness and kindness. Speaking truth is NOT passing judgment- it is simply speaking truth, as faith comes by hearing and hearing Truth/ Word of God. We leave the rest to the Lord. It is not always easy because we can break the relationship when speaking truth, even in love. It happened to me before. But we’d rather obey God than please man (Acts 5:29), to call evil evil, that takes courage to be honest. I’d rather have people that will NOT cheer me on in my errors for fear of how I will react, I’d rather hear the truth that sets me on the right path (paths of righteousness that is). There is protection in correction. Besides, I’d like to encourage you to pray and have hope in the Lord, there have been many powerful testimonies of people delivered and turned around from this lifestyle, but takes years and years, even decades, with tremendous amount of hurt and pain (harsh bondage and such steep cost)- but with God, it is POSSIBBLE. Thank you for asking the question. God bless you!
Dear Changed Life,
I too tend to be inclusive. It is dangerous to judge, no matter. Sounds like your niece and her partner are lovely ladies. Quite sure there will be much divide here as I have brought this issue here before. Just want you to know you are not alone.
Furthermore, I believe the church will pay dearly for singling out the LGBTQ community as sinners. We should not point fingers at anyone. It’s love and only love. To quote my pastor, if we get the love part wrong, we are wrong.
I am a registered dietitian who is very passionate about food freedom and making peace with our bodies. I absolutely love this message from today- it is so important. I cannot begin to tell you how many family members, friends, and clients I have seen and still see struggling with the demands of our fit-obsessed culture. Thank you so much for this message! Praying for all of those who are struggling with accepting themselves or hurting in their relationship with food.
I love the gentle correction our Father gives us. Tears were a streamin through the devo today. “Don’t let anyone judge you,,the substance is Christ.” Love that!
We women are so prone to body issues. I’ve never had a flat tummy. Always looked at myself and could only see that big gut. There is hope shes! I’m now in my 60s and pretty happy with my body. Cuz it’s really not about that, is it? It’s about comfort with self.
Offering grace to ourselves is tough. After hating my belly for so long. I began to ponder how well it has served me. I’ve never had stomach problems and can eat most anything. I’ve never been a size 0 and getting skinny is no longer a goal. I can now look at my flapping angel wing arms, puffed out belly and crepey skin and think, maybe I’ll do some arm exercises,maybe put on some lotion. Maybe not. Been buried in self judgement and shame far too long. Now I try to be gentle with myself so I can pass that to others. The Lord has disciplined me about many things over the years. But His voice has never body shamed me. In fact, He never shames. Shame keeps us stuck and that is not what He wants.
Dear Aleida, what a great start to healing. I am a professional counselor specialized in addiction. It’s insidious. Please consider a 12 step group to get some support for yourself. It will help you understand and manage. I cannot encourage this enough. Addiction is a disease that takes a toll on the whole family. The 12 steps offer incredible healing, support and understanding. Sending prayers.
@Allie M … find L Maddox’s comment today!
I was going to jump on here and tell you about my daughter @L Maddox who is all about faith and food freedom… but I see she got here before me! This is her passion and I’m so glad to see more and more Christian women (me included!) being truthful about this issue, like in today’s devotion. Please find more encouragement from a faith based perspective on @dietitian.liesel (Instagram or Facebook).
As I read through Romans 14, I wonder if this passage applies to areas much more significant than food. I have a niece that is gay, married to another woman. Both are lovely Christian ladies, with gentle spirits and kind hearts. Do you think Paul’s words reflect how we are to embrace all, leaving the judgement to God to decide if they make the wrong choices? I guess my belief tends to be inclusive, to love them and accept the lives they have chosen. But my Southern Christian upbringing is at odds with that. What do you ladies think? This has been so difficult to me over the years…
Good morning SRT sisters! I have a quick update on Jack. The surgeon feels that Jack’s ostomy can be reversed. Praise God for that! Surgery is not a great thing for him and anesthesia affects him mentally but this would improve our quality of life tremendously. Please pray that God will continue to strength and heal all that needs to be healed for Jack to have a successful surgery. It will probably be at the end of the month. Thank you for praying!
JEN B—Praise God for your new job! How are things with you and your fiancé?
HEIDI—Prayers for Kin!
ALLIE M—Praying for peace for you!
ALEIDA—Continued prayers for Victor and for you! May there be continued healing for him and for your relationship.
SEARCHING—So sorry to hear of your legal troubles! Praying for strength and a quick resolution!
VICTORIA E—Praying for strength and wisdom for you with your work situation!
TIA WATKINS—Praying for deliverance!
CLAIRE B—So sorry for the hurt you have experienced with the division in the UMC! I have friends who have experienced this too. Praying for healing for all involved!
TRAIA LANDRUM—Praying for that sweet baby!
I’m praying for all other needs too! Have a great day!
Really needed to hear this message today. Convicted that my body issues are an idol. Causing damage to me – physically, mentally & emotionally. Not honoring & giving thanks to God (like I thought).
So needed to hear this message today. Convicted that my body issues
@Jen B- Congrats! That’s a good praise!!
@Aleida, Take it from someone that has beaten themselves up a lot, please forgive yourself and rest. I’m praying for you, Victor, and your family. Praying for favor with the courts too.
@Heidi, praying Vin has a great first day and year! Asking God to send her friends or a friend that she can keep for life and that they both follow God and grow in their faith and understanding of Him. May His Name be glorified in their friendship and by them!
@Victoria E praying for wisdom, peace, rest, and joy
@Jen B, Allie M and others that have struggled or are struggling with any type of disordered eating, ED, or body image I’m praying. I too understand this. My daughters also struggle. They do watch us and our actions and words are important. I should have gotten help long ago. If anyone is struggling, please don’t wait or hesitate to reach out and find help. Healing, freedom, and recovery are possible.
@Allie M, this is wonderful news! I’m praying for your body to heal, your anxiety to be calmed, and for you to feel God’s love and presence!
@Seaching praying for you and your situation.
Prayers for all of you that comment and that don’t comment.
LAURA thank you for your comment and insight. I agree that our relationship with food (or anything else that we run to or from for comfort rather than Christ) is an important topic…just not the one Paul intended in this passage :) CEE GEE – I appreciated and was convicted by your “big question” which so helpfully sums up what Paul is getting at.
Cont prayers Aleida ❤️
We are heading to the mountains this morning and I’m in a rush. First great comments yesterday! Our politics seem to be all over the place lately.
I’m guilty! I have a hard time watching someone over indulge in food. I have several food addicts in my family. They’ve kicked alcohol to run to food. I need to not judge. I do not have an addictive personality. I do not know how hard it is to fight that. I’m just worried about one in particular that he is killing himself with food. Please Lord give me understanding and not judgement.
“The Law of Love.” Something we continuously have to be reminded of as believers. Putting others first, putting self last. Thinking of others instead of myself. Do I eat or not eat? Why are they eating or drinking? Judging. A constant battle for me. And the whole body-issue thing…How come she can eat all that and not gain an ounce??? I just smell it and it puts on pounds! Always trying new diets or as I like to call them – “new ways of eating”. Thank God my daughter does not have “body issues”, because if she did and had my example to follow – she would be doomed! Even though friends tell me how great I look, I never believe them. All I see is the extra 10-15 lbs that came from who knows where and that I can’t for the life of me seem to shed…I so want this to be done with. I want to be happy with how God made me. I want to stop comparing myself with others. I am a child of God – Yes I am!! I am chosen, not forsaken – He has set me free and I am free indeed! Please pray that I remember this, today and every day and that I will constantly be reminded of the Law of Love.
@Aleida – I am happy to hear that you are safely home. I’m sorry the meeting with Victor didn’t go as you had hoped. But as someone else mentioned, sometimes all the hurt has to be poured out before the healing can begin. He shared, you listened, you both cried together – but in the end, you hugged. That is so much progress! Praying God will give you peace, and that Victor will find the help he needs to get his life back on track – and most of all, that he will surrender his heart to Jesus. God bless your Mama’s heart!
@Allie M. – praying that God will calm your anxiety, starting today!
@Heidi – prayers for your daughter to have a wonderful first day at her new school. May God calm any anxiety or fear that she may be having, and may He give her a new best friend!
@Jen B. – I share in your struggles with body image, prayers that God will help you to accept who He has created you to be – in every way…praise God for your new job! It’s such a blessing to be a part of your journey through prayer, thank you God for answering and giving Jen a new job after 9 months of waiting!
Because of LAURA’S comment, I just read He Reads Truth devo. I love this by BARNABAS PIPER:
“The self-sacrifice of setting aside liberties is an indication of spiritual maturity. It shows that love for brothers and sisters is of greater value than one’s own freedom or pleasure.”
THANKS, LAURA, for mentioning that today!
This was great Scripture to study in reference to some of the comments yesterday about Covid, yesterday. I hear both sides and believe we should continue to have authentic conversations about it led by the Holy Spirit. It is easy to be heated because of our personal experiences. I can feel myself get that way, but have to remember to keep silent at times and let the Holy Spirit do the work. He alone brings transformation, though in love, we are able to help Him plant seeds of change. I am preaching to myself, lol! It can be so hard to bite my tongue when it comes to family.
@Aleida!! I am so thankful for your update. We have been waiting to hear how things went. It is amazing to know Victor was so vulnerable with you and even hugged you. Like, that is a miracle. When I was angry young teenager, I don’t think I would even think to hug my mom if we were dealing with something. The love for your son is real, as others have said. God is definitely at work, despite things still being painful. I believe He will bless your family through this experience and continue to reveal Himself overtime. May Victor see God’s goodness to him, and may you have grace for yourself in this process, @Aleida. Proud of you for being so vulnerable before the Lord and us about this process. We love you!!
@Allie – my heart goes to you. I also come from a background of disordered eating. I struggle from time to time, but consider myself in a healthy place. May the Lord bring healing and freedom to your mind. May He bring light to the lies you have received about how you should live or look, and trust He loves you and fully accepts you despite what the world teaches. There is so much grace for you. I pray you receive it and heal from it. May this issue be less and less a focus in your mind, and may God be more and more your focus.
MERCY – Thank you! ❤
RHONDA J – Love what you shared!
SEARCHING – Drat!!! I shutter just thinking about that. I am praying for you and with you as you seek counsel. May God grant you favor in this situation and may He shine through you in every way.❤
LINDA IN NC – How wonderful and encouraging that must have been! Praying you both have a restful day today as I imagine that took a lot out of both of you.
ALEIDA – Bless your heart! You have done what you can to repair the relationship and now can start with a clean slate. Praying for favor with the traffic tickets/insurance, etc., and that Victor will fight to get better. I pray that he will come to recognize your love and encouragement and be appreciative. Give yourself a chance to rest and recover from the emotional trauma. Seek out an activity that fills your heart with joy and dive in. ❤
HEIDI – Praying for Kin today and as she makes connections; may God grant her wisdom in choosing friends.
PRAYING for each of you sisters! I was so joyful this morning as I realized I could enjoy my first cup of coffee on the deck. The air had the slightest hint of Fall! I admit I delayed Bible study for a few minutes just to soak it in! The relationship issues that prompted my prayer request recently are better for now, but history reveals a pattern so I don’t let my guard down. Thank you for your empathy!!!
Re the reading – BIG QUESTION – How do I honor God and promote harmony in a divisive situation? Leaning into His wisdom and guidance!
LAURA exactly what my heart was picking up on and feeling!! So good!!
Praise the Lord @Jen B! So happy for you!
Know you are beautiful and loved just the way you are :)
Happy Wednesday, Shes!
I’m praying for Alexa and Victor, Allie for healing, and all of children going back to school.
I feel this was so good to remind us to not be judgmental of others about what they eat or drink and to remember our main purpose is to love others and disciple.
I have a lot of food allergies that I absolutely cannot eat. Two are onion and garlic. If I do, I have stomach pain and other not pleasant issues. I get judged as being on a weird food diet but I have learned to lovingly explain to people what it really is. I just want to treat people like I want to be treated
Wow, thank you Lore for your gracious words on the subject of our relationship with food and our bodies! I am a Registered Dietitian specialized in treating eating disorders, disordered eating, and helping women heal their relationships with food and their bodies. The Lord gave me this passion after recovering from a severe eating disorder as a teenager and then learning about how to have food freedom through intuitive eating. I so often see ways that diet culture (our society’s obsession with thinness in the name of “health”) shows up in the church. It breaks my hurt and fires me up when Christians take and twist God’s truth about our bodies and food to support diets and the pursuit of shrinking our bodies without consideration to how this affects our mental, emotional, and spiritual health. If anyone is looking for support for their relationship with food & body or recovering from an eating disorder/disordered eating, you can find me on Instagram and Facebook @dietitian.liesel or http://www.lieselmaddoxnutrition.com
Praying for all of the requests shared here. I appreciated Lore’s words today as I struggle with my body image and trying to stay healthy and fit. I workout daily and try to eat 80% healthy. I often hear my ex husband’s words to me which shamed my body even when I was a size 2. I have debated switching to a vegan diet and if I could ever get back to being that thin. I know God loves me as I am. I know my fiancé doesn’t care what size I am. It’s just a war in my mind so I found comfort in the devotional.
Ladies – thank you for also praying a few times over my request to find a job. I’ve been out of work almost 9 months and am accepting an offer today to start work on 8/30!!
It will get better. These are normal emotions for addiction. As his mind heal he will become a better version of the man intended. Remember Jesus used the broken. David after Bathsheba, the woman at the well,
Good morning she’s!
Good devotional. Sometimes I wish we could still have manna dropped down with the perfect nutrition! Food is such a trigger word for me after 30+ years in the fitness field of dealing with the weight struggles of clients,and every diet of the day. And even today because I am under weight (due to the years of pain that limits what I can do these days), and yet I get the offhand remarks all the time that I am skinny and need to eat a cheeseburger…erggg. I find it very hard to love people and actually couldn’t wait to leave that career a few years ago. But God is changing my heart slowly, to give grace and love to everyone. I no longer see the bad, I see the good. I see that everyone has their cross to bear, their struggles, their hurts and pains. I look past their outer angst and unguarded words, and give understanding and love. It is certainly not easy, even in my own family. Even our big C church and local church is full of fallen people that are trying to get it right!But sanctification happens when your heart has Jesus in it!!
I am so grateful God gave me grace and love, wrapped his arms around me when I finally deflated and couldn’t do it anymore on my own. Salvation. Thank you Jesus. For the forgiveness of my sins. Now we are new, and can disciple all those we have contact with.
@Aida- So glad you got to see Victor and hash out the issues and hurt, that is a good thing…you will be able to move forward I am sure, it just will take time! Just love on him with all your heart.
Thank you all for sharing your comments! It adds so much depth to the studies and devotionals, and I count you all as my virtual friends and a continual wonderful small group!
@Victoria E- prayers for your career choices.
@Searching- Prayers
@Laura-good
Heather-continual prayers
@Heidi-prayers for your little
Sorry for all I can’t remember…but pray as I read!
Joining other She’s Aleida, in prayers for you and Victor.
Praying for you Aleida and your son. Give yourself lots of grace today. Also praying for Kin’s first day. I’ve never posted before but read these comments and prayers regularly and pray.
Praying for Allie, Kin, and Alieda!
Praying for you and your son, Aleida. Give yourself lots of grace. Also, for Kin on her first day.
I’ve never posted before but read your prayers and comments regularly and pray.
Yes my relationship with food is complicated for sure. Everything in moderation. It can become such an idol and such a division nowadays. May God give us courage to walk in His spirit today in all things.
I was drawn to Matthew 15:21-28 and wanted to share. May your faithful prayers bring blessings to you and your son!
Matthew 15:21-28 praying your faithful prayers will be your sons reward and
Loved today’s comment that: “I want to be known by how I love and who I’m loved by.” May it be so Lord! I love the reminder that Christ died for ALL – even the ones who hate Him, who don’t live according to His word, who search for truth in worldly things. He wants EVERYONE to find rest in Him. Such grace.
Lifting up all the prayer requests <3
Although this was a good devotional, I believe the point of what Paul was saying was not really about food. I kept thinking as I was reading, what is our modern day “food” issue today? In Rome, in the early church, following the laws concerning eating certain foods was still very much a rub with the new believers who were following Christ, and not under the law anymore. I hopped over to He Reads Truth and felt the commentary was more to the point (not to say that Lore’s point isn’t a good one, it is, but not really the heart of what Paul was saying). From He Reads Truth: The issue is love. People, on one side, prioritized their freedom above the hearts of fellow believers, causing them to struggle. He points out that, clean or not, if food or drink is seen as questionable by someone, it would be sinful for that person to consume it. The liberated person should temporarily set aside their freedom to show love.
Our freedom in Christ is the point. Which brought me back to the question: what is the food issue today in the church? Is it drinking? Watching certain shows or movies?
I have a lot to think about on this.
Another thing I have been pondering and praying about is just how I love each of my family members. It struck me yesterday that each one seems to need my love in a different way, and so I am asking the Lord to show me how to love each one of them with a love like He has for them.
If only I were as cautious and concerned about my words and actions as I am about other behaviors that might make someone stumble …. Lord, please guide me through my days, interactions with others and the beliefs that I model by my words and actions.
Praying for:
ALEIDA – rest and recovery for you, protection and success for your son in this program, that he is able to see this hard work from a long term perspective, and mercy/grace from traffic court. Thankful the two of you were able to meet and talk.
VICTORIA E – rest, wisdom and guidance
TIA WATKINS – for your needs
HL – wisdom & guidance in job search
CEE GEE – things going on in your life, thankful you’ve seen some positives
MARI V – how was your 1st day?
LINDA IN NC – thank you for the update, so glad it went well
Sisters, I can’t get into any details but was blindsided last evening by a legal threat. Praying for wisdom and guidance as I seek the right legal counsel today for the situation.
HEIDI – praying for Kin, peace of mind, a friendly face, to consider the nervousness as excitement ❤️
ALLIE M – praying for relief from anxiety, that you would feel the Lord’s comfort and strength as you heal
Praying for you, ALLIE M. That’s hard work, and I’m glad you are here and finding encouragement and support. Praying for peace and comfort — and also for joy.
Aleida, continued prayers for Victor and for your family. And please— rest. Your momma’s heart is spent, and your soul is hurting. BUT GOD. I think going over what hurts you both, is a necessary step to begin the healing. Now moving forward, you will need all your strength even more. So definitely get some rest. I continue to pray for you. And sending hugs for comfort.
CEE GEE ❤️
KELLY (NEO) still praying!!
Blessings and prayers for all you dear sisters!! Seek Him FIRST!!! The rest will fall into place.
Colossians 2:17 These are a shadow of what was to come; the substance is Christ.
**the SUBSTANCE is Christ. That right there says it ALL!!!
Romans 14:7-8 For none of us lives for himself, and no one dies for himself. 8 If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.
Romans 14:17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
**Amen!! Let us live & die for You alone Lord!!! Let us dwell in Your presence, Your Kingdom, displaying and living out righteousness, peace, love and joy!! Amen.
AH! I wanted to have time to get on here an hour ago but.. life.. and so tired today. Not sleeping great lately… BUT-
I wanted to share/ask for PRAYER PLEASE for Kin (my 11 y/o) who starts her first day of middle school at her new school TODAY!! She’ll be there 8-3 eastern time so ANY time during your busy day that you can think to just pop -up a prayer for her anxiety, peace, acclimation, even ENJOYMENT of her day would be so, unbelievably appreciated. I know God hears us, I know He loves her, we really believe the school she is at is where He wants her to be. I can share more later, need to be leaving to take the 3rd grader to his school in a few… Thank you all – I know ya’ll have prayed for her before and I have experienced (SHE HAS EXPERIENCED!!) the difference it has made. I am anticipating initial drop off to be tough but praying God’s peace and comfort will extend in her heart and mind beyond the fear and anxiety that will no doubt try to rule her…
I’ll report back ;) Love you all!!!!!!! ❤️
It’s been a while since I commented, but I had to after today’s devotional. I’ve struggled with disordered eating (secondary to OCD) for 6 years and this absolutely spoke to me. I am in the process of recovery right now and eating more so that my body can heal and it is so hard. I would appreciate prayers that my anxiety might be calmed and that I feel God’s love if you would be so kind. ♡
Allie, do you have an update? How can I pray for you today?
Aleida, May God overwhelm you and Victor with His love and presence. Amen.
Thank you for the update Aleida. I have been thinking about you and praying for you and Victor.
Praying for you and Victor, Aleida ♥️ Grateful that he was willing to be open and honest with you, despite the hurt. God IS moving! May you get some restorative rest and time to heal over the next few weeks.
I appreciated Lore’s devotional today. I’m very aware the power my words and actions have on my two daughters. We try to model healthy living, yet every time I turn around, social media and society seems intent on muddying the message. I’ve held myself to these false standards, made especially difficult recently as I watch my husband in peak physical condition (he runs marathons, y’all) and me barely able to walk these days. I pray for anyone who has had a complex relationship with food or body image and who might find today’s reading difficult or triggering- we are made in HIS image, exactly how God desires us to be. Be gentle with yourself.
ALEIDA – thank you for the update. The love you have for your son is so clear. I’m sorry for the pain you have to walk through. Cling to what you know is true: God’s heart breaks with yours. He is with you through this trial. He will see you through.
“I don’t want to be known by what I eat or don’t eat. I want to be known by how I love and who I’m loved by.” Amen!
TINA – praying for you as you come to the one-year mark for the loss of your step-dad.
ALEIDA – rest in the Lord. Let Him work in your son’s heart. Praying Victor will stay in the program and will trust the Lord to meet his needs. Praying you have favor with the traffic court.
HL – praying the Lord directs you to your next job quickly.
Good morning dear hearts!
Prayerful over you all as I send love wrapped in hugs across the pond..❤️
LORE,thank you for today’s devo..❤️
ALEIDA, glad you are home safe.
Thankful for your visit and the deep talks you had with Victor.
I believe past hurts have to vocalised before healing can begin. It’s a slow process..
BUT GOD..
The first steps have been taken, you, to visit Victor, and he, to tell you his thoughts and hurts.. God is near.. God is working.. God is listening.. He hears your cries.. trust Him. God’s timing is the perfect time.. He will work all things for good, this He promises..
Continued prayers dear sister.. for you and yours..
It is well..
Amen.
Aleida, I am praying right now for rest and peace for your heart above all else so you may have the strength to stand. He is with you and He is with your son. Continue to lean in. Peace be with you.
Dear She’s, Thank you for continuing to pray. I just got home from my trip to CA and it was an incredibly hard and emotional stay for me.
My talk with my son Victor was brutal. He’s still very angry and hurt with us, esp with me. He feels we’ve betrayed him. He cried a lot and so did I. It was impossible to keep the conversation light, which is what several people had advised. I believe that it was God’s will for me to listen to him to pour his heart out to me and for us to go through this painful process. A few days before, as I was praying and fasting, I felt the Lord telling me that although what I did was with all the right intentions to try to help him by keeping him in the program, I should’ve never told the family not to pick him up or not to take him in. I opened the door for a lot of misperceptions of him, which has given him a lot of shame. Instead I should have left it alone and waited on the Lord to see how it would’ve all worked out. Instead he now feels like even more of an outcast. He believes the family looks down on him and treats him differently. He gave me some valid examples.
Thankfully we ended hugging and crying some more. He really misses us and feels so absolutely alone. He’s currently in an intensive outpatient treatment place in Los Angeles, and living in a sober living house. He bought a car but has no money to register it or insure it. Plus he has several speeding tickets from when he was up here in Portland so he may either lose his license or not be able to get insured. In fact, one of those camera tickets came in while he was in the residential treatment place in San Diego in May. He missed the court date and hasn’t paid for it. I’m calling the court tomorrow and pray that they’ll have mercy on him because he’s been in treatment in a different state. I feel that he’s a time bomb waiting to explode. Please pray for his protection, provision and that he’ll stick to this program this time and finish it successfully.
Also please pray for me. I’m so torn up inside and completely drained. It’s going to take me some time to catch up on my sleep and rest. Having fibromyalgia doesn’t help either. I feel that I have completely no energy. I am so depressed and anxious myself over this situation since it started and has kept escalating since Dec 2022. Only our Lord Jesus can save our son❤️