Tag: christianity

Barefoot Devotions

What’s Brewing In Your Heart? Lesson Seven | Envy

Hannah B.

What is envy and how does it affect your life?

Definition of Envy:
1: painful or resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by another joined with a desire to possess the same advantage
2: an object of envious notice or feeling

Similar Words: envious, grudge, begrudge, jealous

Examples of Envy:
• Having a want for a job, house, car, or other processions that someone else has
• Being envious of someone else’s life in general
• Be envious of someone else’s spouse or significant other
• Feeling discontent with what you have and desiring a different life, job, or materials
• Wanting something that you do not have access to or resources for

What The Bible Says About The Sin of Envy:

Proverbs 14:30

A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.

James 3:14-15
But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.

James 3:16
For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.

James 4:2-3
You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.

1 Corinthians 3:3
For you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way?

Hebrews 13:5
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

1 John 2:16
For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.

James 1:14
But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.

Proverbs 4:23
Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.

Take Away

1 John 2:15:17 tells us to not love anything in the world and that if anyone loves the world then the love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life comes not from the Father but from the world. Just like Eve lusted after the fruit on the tree God told her not to touch, this problem continues for us today. It’s so easy of us to lust after the next meal that we will temporarily enjoy, the new shiny car, iPhone, and materials that twinkle to our eyes. Envy begins with a desire for something we do not have, and it is so important that we be aware of our surroundings so that when our eyes notice these things, we can quickly squash these desires. If we let these desires take root, the consequences can be catastrophic! Each day we must be aware of what is happening around us and be on guard so that we can be vigilant about the things of this world we are seeing. Seek God daily and walk in the Spirit as you overcome these lustful desires. God is faithful to provide for us daily. When we start thanking Him for the things we have in life – our health, family, a place over our head, a bed, and all the things that we take for granted something in our heart begins to change and we see things in light of who God is and what He has done for us.

Heavenly Father,
I confess the sins of envy in my heart and I pray that you will cleanse me from my sinful desires, wants, and pride. I invite you into my heart to invade my life and free me from these desires. It’s my heart to serve you wholly and fully. Thank you for what the life you have given me and teach me to serve you with what you trusted me with. Teach me to walk in the spirit and not by the flesh.
Jesus’ mighty name I pray, Amen!

Questions to Ponder and Life Application Thoughts:

  1. In what areas of your life are you currently envious after? Confess these to God, repent, and surrender this to Him.
  2. Acknowledge any area in your life that you may abhor any discontentment and diligently make a mindful decision to turn from this daily.
  3. Ask God if there is any area in your life that you need to fully surrender to Him.
  4. Ask God to teach you to walk in the Spirit so that you can overcome the flesh by His strength.
Barefoot Devotions

Wandering In The Darkness

Hannah B.

I was driving home last night from Bible study and I was spending time talking to God about this current season I am in. The night time in Eastern Kentucky is a different kind of dark compared to the the city night I am used to. As this thought came to my mind, I realized that this season I am isn’t any different.

God showed me that even though this season isn’t ideal to me, it’s necessary. He is still here and when He answers me, it’s like a huge bright light shining on my path.

Often times in our journey, we find ourselves wandering in the dark. Seeking and searching for any kind of sign from God that will bring comfort, peace, or an answer as we continue to walk out the call God has for our life.

During this season of trials and tribulations, we can take comfort in knowing that God’s eye is on us. If we stay focused on Him, He won’t let us aimlessly walk in the dark without a purpose. He is there and we can trust that He is purposefully guiding us. He is allowing us to get to know Him intimately and is building our trust in Him. Though He may seem far away, the next time He speaks to you, answers a prayer, or gives you what your spirit is needing – it will be the brightest and purest light bulb moment that can’t be missed.

Though I have been in the dark and have felt like I have been aimlessly kicking up dirt down here on Earth, it’s the clearest I have ever heard from God in any season. For me, these moments have been pivotal and defining.

I pray you are having them too as we need to always be growing, stretching, and planting seeds. Too many people given up the fight in the darkness. Suit up and even if you feel like your just kicking up dirt, fight.

I leave you with God’s truth that is sure to get you ready for battle!

Ephesians 6:10-18

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

With all of my love and encouragement,

Hannah B.

Barefoot Devotions

It’s always His best

Hannah B.

Today was one of the most frustrating days I have had in a while. I like to think that I can hold my frustrations together fairly well but today my flesh got the best of me.

When I received news about last minute change of plans that required me to adjust my Christmas Eve plans, I was really upset. My family is coming to visit for Christmas and I wanted to spend as much time with them as possible.

After being upset long enough, I finally prayed and talked to God about my entire day. Almost instantly, I began to feel better because God reminded me of the beginning of the story of His son Jesus’ birth. How did Joseph feel having to pack up his very pregnant wife and return to his hometown for a census that was ordered by the king? We are talking about last minute travel right before the birth of The Savior, God’s son, and our King.

They accepted the change of plans and made the journey doing the very best they could. I couldn’t imagine they grumbled too long since they had to be quick about their journey since Mary was so close to giving birth. They knew God had each of their best interests at heart and trusted in Him.

Just like when our circumstances and plans do not go as planned, we have to trust that our Heavenly Father has our best interests at heart that match His grand master plan for our lives. I know there has been or even will be disappointments that come up. It’s important to be able to continue to walk forward and make the best out of the situation we have been given. Who knows, it could be a blessing is disguise. Don’t forget to open your heart and eyes to look for it.

Be sure to rest this season!

With all my love and encouragement,

Hannah Boyd

Barefoot Devotions

Willing Vessel

Hannah B.

Several weeks ago our town had an event called, “Hope For The Mountains” and during our service, our pastor challenged us to share the flyer in our bulletin with someone to invite them to the crusade.  That day I took my kids to the park and when we were leaving,  we encountered a man and his sweet dog.  It is my assumption that he doesn’t have much as he was stopped to water his dog.  I pulled my bulletin out of my purse and invited him. 

Honestly, I didn’t think I would see him again.  However, I was standing on the corner of the street downtown directing people to the venue and sure enough this man and his dog come walking by.  I excitedly greeted him and he was on his way to the crusade.   He explained that they said his dog could come in and I was so relieved.   I prayed that God would get that man and his dog into the expo center without a problem.   I stood on that corner, ready to just cry, although I was excited, I was overwhelmed that God used me for whatever reason. 

Today, my son cleaned his room, my kitchen, and put away his laundry.  This is very unusual for him.  Getting him to do chores is like pulling teeth.  You can only imagine my surprise when I hear the vacuum cleaner running.  I told him I would reward him for his behavior and actions for being a hard worker.  As I was getting ready to go to Walmart by mysel,  my kids were begging to go but I was not about to take my kids to Walmart at Christmas time.  After some time delay,  the boys and I were in the car headed to Family Dollar.  Why?  Other than my son wanting to look for his reward, I have no clue because I don’t go there. 

As we approach the check out line,  I see the same man with his dog.  I don’t even know who this man is but I have prayed for him since the first encounter in the park.

I knew this was not a coincidence.  This was a divine appointment.  

In that moment,  God spoke.  He was leading me into an answered prayer that I prayed just yesterday,  “God, I’m here.  What can I do for you? I want to know your voice as plain as day and that it can’t be denied or questioned.” 

It was like an automatic download of known facts that I just knew.   I knew the man was thinking about what he was going to sacrifice and put back and I couldn’t let him do that because God told me to buy everything.  I quietly spoke to the cashier and asked him how much the man’s bill was and explained that I would like to purchase everything for him discreatly.  Of course, in the midst of me telling the cashier this,  I have 100 million excuses running through my head. 

 I have to be transparent with you.  

This was an internal struggle.  In my carnal mind,  I was starting to judge why in the world would someone be buying this?  Does he really need this? I started to think maybe I should just buy half of it.  Maybe I should just buy my stuff and go about my day.  God really started to do a heart check with me and made known to me that the bill needed to be paid in full.  Honestly,  I didn’t have a choice.  It was going to be done.  

It wasn’t my job to judge, make excuses, or even question the man and especially God.  It was my job to listen to The Holy Spirit and the truth God placed as clear as day in front of me.  It wasn’t about the items in the bags, it was about the actions that demonstrated sacrifice, love, and obedience.  It was about meeting a need that was there and needed to be fulfilled.  I tell you this part because when God gives us the opportunity to do something for His glory, there will be evil forces at play.   It’s like a game of Tug of War.  My flesh gave me so many excuses to bail on this assignment from God but because I was intuned with the Spirit and allowing Him to guide me,  I was able to make the right decision and had a strong desire to help this man. 

When I left the store, I sat in my car to make sure he left with all of his bags.  Praising God that he did because he was going home with those bags.  I couldn’t see his face but the Holy Spirit let me know that the man is just trying to have the best Christmas that he can.   

I want to encourage each of you to rest in God this season, don’t let the hustle and bustle take over, be a willing vessel, and allow God to use you.

I dare you to ask Him what you can do for Him.

I’ve been saving this photo for this moment.  I took this right after my second encounter with this man.  Now, I know why. 

Stop and rest in God this season, don’t let the hustle and bustle take over, be a willing vessel, and allow God to use you.

Wishing you the absolute best Christmas this year,

Hannah B. 

Barefoot Devotions

Back To The Heart Of Worship

Hannah B.

An Advent to Remember:  Back To The Heart of Jesus

A new meaning of Worship has been bestowed upon me after learning to rest in Jesus for everyday life.  When you have practiced entering God’s rest and are seeing life through God’s perspective, you will be able to wholeheartedly worship our Heavenly Father the way He deserves.  Your heart, mind, and soul will be full of peace, gratitude, love, and your life will be full of praise that we will want to lay at the feet of Jesus to honor and bring Him glory.

When you have taken quality time to spend with Jesus, your desires, motives, and perspective begin to change.   Stepping into this new mindset will elevate you to another level of genuine worship that is not rushed or out of haste.  You will begin to experience intimacy with Jesus that will be fueled by a strong desire to learn from Him, talk to Him, walk with Him, and get closer to Him wholeheartedly.

savonne

The heart of worship begins with the acknowledgment of God’s love, sacrifice, and blessings.  By giving Him thanksgiving and praise in all things, your life will have a new meaning of living for the King.   In a world that is busy and constantly moving, especially during Christmas, take time to slow down this season. Begin practicing resting in Jesus and worshipping the Savior of the world.  You will begin to see the true meaning of Christmas that will leave a lasting impression on your mind, heart, and soul.

1 Chronicles 16:23-31 NIV
23 Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. 
24 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. 
25 For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. 
26 For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. 
27 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy are in his dwelling place. 
28 Ascribe to the LORD, all you families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 
29 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him.
Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. 
30 Tremble before him, all the earth! The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved. 
31 Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let them say among the nations, “The
LORD reigns!”

Personal Reflection

How is God speaking to you today?

How will you commit the time in building and cultivating your relationship with Jesus?

How can you apply today’s devotion to this Christmas season?

In what ways can you incorporate worship into your daily life?

Entering the heart of worship verse
With all of my love and encouragement,
Hannah Boyd