God's Love

The 700 Club – July 6, 2021

AM 4:08

“I put my hand on the counter to steady myself,” said Maurice, “And that’s when it felt like something was happening in my head – like a transformer explodes, it felt like something exploded in my head.”

May 3rd 2019, Maurice Hilliard was going back to bed after using the bathroom, but then…

“Felt sparks coming all through my head and I was totally out of control,” Maurice said. “I screamed and I fell to the floor.”

Maurice’s wife Earlene remembers. […]

God's Love

The 700 Club – July 13, 2021

The Christian Broadcasting Network
CBN is a global ministry committed to preparing the nations of the world for the coming of Jesus Christ through mass media. Using television and the Internet, CBN is proclaiming the Good News in 149 countries and territories, with programs and content in 67 languages.
If you have an immediate prayer need, please call our 24-hour prayer line at 800-700-7000. CBN’s ministry is made possible by the support of our CBN Partners. […]

God's Love

The 700 Club – July 12, 2021

“She explained to me that within an hour, I would expire if I didn’t allow myself to be ventilated and I said, ‘No, I’m not,’ because I looked at the statistics, and at the time six out of seven COVID patients going on the ventilator, we’re not ever coming off,” David Johnson says. 

In March 2020, David, a sportswriter who covers Ole Miss football for CBS Sports, attended a conference in Nashville. […]

Anti-Aging

Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors!

Welcome to my Pruvit Keto OS Samples Page
Hi! If you’re looking for the best variety of Pruvit Keto OS samples in all the newest formulas and flavors, you’ve come to the right place! I’ve been at this since 2015!
Scroll down until you see the PayPal Cart to see my available Keto NAT trials!
I’m Rachel Vrabel and you can find me on Instagram @womensblogtalk or on my Facebook page.
I am always fully stocked and ready to ship Pruvit Keto samples within 24 hours and I offer easy PayPal checkout.
I’m very passionate about the ketones conversation, and helping people brings me joy!
On my way to the post office with ketones ~ I mail daily!
I’ve been with Pruvit since 2015 as in independent Pruvit promoter and I’m also a Certified Keto Reboot Coach. I get my product FRESH each month directly from Pruvit.
2021 – Keto NAT daily
If you’ve heard the buzz about ketones and have been wanting to give it a try, I encourage you to start with a 5 or 10 day experience. It’s a great way to sample a variety flavors before buying full boxes.
Benefits of Drinking Ketones

fat loss
energy
focus
suppressed appetite
better mood
better sleep
clearer skin
muscle preservation

Be sure and check out my Pruvit review here to read about my personal experience drinking ketones, see my results, and to understand how they work.
I’ve had some awesome results drinking ketones daily – they improve my life by giving me energy, more focus, improving my mood, suppressing my appetite, cravings, and preserving muscle while helping to burn fat!
Before and Better! (2017)
Keto OS Samples for Sale – How to Purchase 
Using the PayPal Carts below each item, choose which package(s) you’d like from the dropdown menu, and click Add to Cart.  Once you add an item, it will prompt you to login to Paypal to checkout.
Click the “continue shopping” link in PayPal (upper right) if you’d like to add additional items to your cart (it’ll take you back to my blog which you’ll have to open again). It doesn’t always work flawlessly (better on desktop), so if you have any trouble, just shoot me an email with what you’d like to order and I’m happy to email you an invoice.
Shipping: I’m offering FREE shipping to the U.S. right now, it takes about a week. If you’d like it sent priority mail (2 day mail), click on the shipping when you’re checking out and change to PRIORITY ($7.50).
I ship within 24 hours M-F to the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the UK.
*PLEASE double check your shipping address in PayPal! If it’s mailed to an old address, I’m NOT responsible for lost packages. 
Once you order, you’ll receive tracking from Paypal and an email from me with full directions and resources, along with an invite to a private Facebook group.
If you’re using an old email address for PayPal, be sure and shoot me an email and provide me with your preferred email address for correspondence.
SPECIALS!  FREE U.S. SHIPPING IN JUNE! 
LIMIT ONE PLEASE!
10 Day Rainbow Charged – $70  $65

5 Day Rainbow Charged – $40  $35
Description:  A variety rainbow mix of 5 mainstay Keto//NAT charged flavors!

3 Pack Life’s a Peach – $20
LIMIT ONE PLEASE!
My favorite summer tea flavor! Life’s a Peach taste just like a peach Snapple! Grab a 3 pack before they’re gone!

4 Pack NAT Lites  – $15 SOLD OUT (back in stock soon!)
NAT Lites are a fantastic decaf half servings! Perfect for late afternoon/evening, and parent approved. I love these if it’s too late to drink charged and I just need a little boost. Awesome flavors too!

3 Pack Berry Blue Decaf – $20

Keto Pro 4 Pack Variety – $30 $25 – 2 left! 
Keto Pro shakes are awesome! They are also decaf – and have the perfect keto macros for a snack anytime! I love them pre or post workout, they include ketones, MCT, and protein. Dark Chocolate, Blueberry, Banana, Cookie Butter. 

3 Pack Mitoplex – $10
LIMIT ONE PLEASE!
Mitoplex are delicious tasting electrolytes. You can mix right into your Keto NAT, or just mix with water! Essential for ultimate hydration and boost to your whole system.

CLEARANCE – I HAVE TOO MUCH!
These are some clearance items I have too much of, and would hate to waste them! I hope these will find a good home! These are deeply discounted. You’ll have to shop separately for these and check out via PayPal. These are not free shipping ($7.50 for priority due to the weight).
Keto//OS Pro Orange Dream Tub – $99 (regular price $160)
Keto Pro is a shake mix which contains ketones, MCT PLUS protein. Great made as a shake as a pre or post workout snake, or anytime. Keto Pro is naturally decaf.

Keto//OS Pro Chocolate Swirl Tub – $99 (regular price $160)
Keto Pro shake in a yummy chocolate flavor, it reminds me of a tootsie roll. My favorite way to make this is to mix with iced coffee (which also makes it charged). Splash of cream, and blend, mmmm!

If you’re ready for a bigger commitment and want a nice variety, the 10 Day Drink Ketones Challenge box is a great deal! ALL new customers pay only $99 for their first box of 20 – and these are purchased separately from my Pruvit website. 
This is a variety box of 20 sachets of Keto NAT in a mix of charged and decaf. The purpose is to drink a charged in the morning, and a decaf in the afternoon for 10 days straight.
We have a private FB group with coaching, nutrition advice, and a community of support during your challenge and beyond!

New Challenge Kit purchased Feb 2021, it included awesome flavors! Tru Passion, Harvest Sunrise, Strawberry Peach, Blueberry Acai, Maui Punch, and Splash!
Why Buy Keto OS Samples from Me?

It’s important to work with an experienced Pruver so you get fresh product and the proper guidance to succeed! 
I offer helpful tools and SUPPORT to get started so you’ll have your BEST KETO EXPERIENCE!
I’m a Rank 6 Champion and Epik award winner, and I really love what I do!
Read my reviews from customers at the bottom of this page! 5 Stars all the way! 
Word of caution: I don’t advise ordering ketones from Amazon, Ebay, neighborhood apps, or Facebook (they can be shady and there are scams). It’s not worth the risk and it’s against Pruvit’s rules…trust me on this, as I’ve heard some HORROR stories! 
If you’d you like to become my customer and purchase full boxes, visit my Pruvit website here.

What is Ketosis?
Ketosis is a natural metabolic state where your blood ketone levels are elevated. 
What is Ketosis?….watch a quick video here
It can be difficult to get into nutritional ketosis from following a ketogenic (low carb/high fat diet) and for most people this diet is too strict.
By drinking exogenous ketones, you don’t have to follow a strict ketogenic diet to experience benefits. Or, if you’re transitioning to a keto diet, ketones make it easier – you will avoid those “keto flu” type symptoms. 
For fat loss, it’s best to follow a low carb or Keto diet which is much easier to do when drinking ketones, and also do some intermittent fasting.
I’ve been drinking ketones for over 4 years daily and feel AMAZING! Nothing has worked like ketones to give me these results and KEEP THEM!
I’m in my mid 40’s, my skin looks great, I’ve lost fat and kept it off, and I absolutely love the energy and how productive I’ve become. It also lifts my mood tremendously! So many reasons to drink it ASIDE from fat loss.
If you haven’t read my Pruvit Keto OS testimony please be sure and check that out!
Before & Better! Results may vary.
Pruvit Smartship Discount – 22% off each month
What should you do after your 5 or 10 day trial?
Pick a flavor or two and commit to your Keto journey!
Get your ketones 22% off each month by signing up for Smartship.
This is not a requirement, however it’s the best way to get them at a discount and every fourth month you GET AN ADDITIONAL BOX FREE from Pruvit!  
Also, any purchases you make during the month (extra), you will receive 22% off! It’s like a standing coupon!
You’ll also be privy to Smartship guest pass sales and you’ll be FIRST in line for all the new flavors!

This is my personal review. This content is not the opinion of Pruvit Ventures, Inc. Pruvit Ventures, Inc, is not responsible for any of the information, view, or opinions expressed on this page. Please visit their official site for details. You can find links on this page. I am an independent Pruvit Promoter.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Prüvit products are not intended to diagnose prevent treat or cure any disease. If you are under medical supervision for any allergy, disease, taking prescription medications or you are breastfeeding contact your medical provider before adding any new supplements to your daily regimen.
Have you Purchased Keto OS Samples from me?
Leave a Review of your Experience Below!  THANK YOU!

Click here to submit your review. Absolutely love Pruvit & Rachel!! Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Jul 14, 2020 by  Paris Brown First let me say that Rachel has made all the difference. SHE is the reason I think I love th e products, because she’s so knowledgeable, so sweet, and loves the product enough that her sales aren’t just about money. Pruvit has worked wonders in my Keto journey and I love all the flavors. Definitely a must! Love it!!! Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Feb 08, 2020 by  Melinda Taylor Great customer service!!! Quick email response! Very helpful with tips for using the products!!! Can’t wait to see my results after 30 days!! Thank you!!!!! REFRESHING Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Jan 30, 2020 by  Willa I was very skeptical when I first decided to order the product, but Rachel basically held my hand every step of the way…She kept on top of the shipping, informed me where my pkg was…Any question she responded immediately. She made me feel like it was all about…Her services were very unusual to me but REFRESHING…I will definitely deal with her again and recommend her to anyone who asks…Very impressive first time experience.. Guam even!! Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Jan 18, 2020 by  Megann As a military spouse, that lives in a US territory, I am so appreciative of this site and their willingness to serve. Quickest possible service, response and shipping. 100% recommendation of utilizing and have done repeatedly. Love my experience! Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Jan 14, 2020 by  Julie B Deason Rachel was so imformative and ready to help. I had many questions and she answered them all. I loved my experience with ordering from her. Excellent Experience! Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Jan 07, 2020 by  Janet doing business with Rachel has been a pleasure. She is very responsive to emails and sends orders out quickly! When starting this journey she is very accommodating about putting together packages of different flavors and products so you can try different things and learn what you like before placing a larger order. Rachel also has been great about sending written material about different products and relaying creative ways she has used them. I know many people sell the Pruvit line of products, but I really liked Rachel’s professional, thoughtful, kind and supportive style. I felt like her full attention was on me! Here’s to a healthy 2020! Thanks, Rachel! Great service Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Jul 04, 2019 by  Kristen I wanted to try the new flavors before committing to something I didn’t know if I would like. Rachel sent me the 10 day variety and I got exactly what was expected. She is on top of questions and gets right back to you. She is very caring and it’s clear she enjoys helping people. I would recommend getting started with Rachel! Also shipping was fast! I ordered in the morning and she shipped the same day. Recommend Rachel! Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Feb 16, 2019 by  LAURIE HEPNER The sample pack worked very well & will be ordering more!!! Rachel was very nice and helpful & recommend the products — they worked for me! keto drink mixes Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Feb 15, 2019 by  Debrah I received my sample pack very quickly. I tried the orange dream first, half a pack. It really tasted good. I felt good, had more energy, and my Arthritis pain was not as bad. I haven’t tried all of my samples yet, so I can’t comment on them, but I don’t have any complaints with this product. Rachael is very supportive with any questions or concerns. Great Service! Keto OS Samples For Sale – New Pruvit Flavors! 5 out of 5 stars Feb 14, 2019 by  Amy Loved the prompt,friendly,knowledgeable service! Definitely recommend Rachel!

Q: will one box of drinks be enough on a monthly basis? -madelineA: Hi Madeline, a box of 30 would be enough for once per day, but most people either get two boxes (a couple different flavors) or a box of ketones plus the fat supplement – the Keto Kreme which you can mix with coffee or tea. I think you emailed me so hopefully this helps! Thanks, RachelWas this question helpful to you? Yes No4 out of 4 people found this question helpful.Q: I want to know if I can take it now tht im 50. I want to loose 25 pounds adn have tried evrything. is it safe to drink, -mylene A: Hi Mylene, yes ketones are very safe. Our body naturally goes into ketosis and our liver makes ketones. Being in ketosis is our native state.  Pruvit’s Keto OS is safe for pregnant and nursing mothers, even kids (the decaf). It’s a fantastic supplement and so many other health benefits aside from fat loss/weight loss. You’re going to feel energized and have a spring in your step! Give it a try. You can email me directly at [email protected] if you have any more questions or would like to chat. Otherwise, visit my Pruvit website and order some – you won’t regret it! I’ve been drinking them daily for over a year (I’m 45). Best supplement I’ve ever been on and the only one I’ve ever committed to. Good luck! RachelWas this question helpful to you? Yes No4 out of 5 people found this question helpful.Q: I ordered the reboot last Friday and I just want to make sure this is legit site because only receipt I have gotten is from paypal but it doesn’t give me expected ship date or any other information about what I purchased, can you check on this for me -RhondaA: Hi Rhonda! yes I got your order, I actually have it all packaged up and ready to go, my reboots arrive tomorrow and I’m shipping on the 11th! I’ll send you a private email, thanks for reaching out. ~RachelWas this question helpful to you? Yes No2 out of 2 people found this question helpful.Q: I’m seeing good results from one Keto Max per day, but I see two is the optimal dose. If I’m losing weight do I still need two? My appetite is not nearly what it used to be but I feel much better while it’s in my system so I’m wondering if I can drink another half pack in the afternoon and see increased benefit? Thank you. -Kristine A: Hi Kristine, thanks for your question! Some people do very well on one a day, while others can surely benefit from two a day so they remain in ketosis longer. But if you’re happy with the results you’re seeing from one a day, it’s fine to just drink one. You probably would see a faster rate of fat loss and just feel better all around with increased energy and mood from two, but it’s really up to you. Maybe play around with two a day and see how you feel! Thanks, RachelWas this question helpful to you? Yes No2 out of 2 people found this question helpful.Q: If you are in ketosis according to the strips, does it matter how “far into ketosis”? Is it more effective to be in greater scale of ketosis or no ? As in more work to make your strip darker -mean more into ketosis -mean you will lose weight faster ? -Crystal A: Hi Crystal, a blood test is far more accurate than the urine strips, but I think it does matter. The higher level of ketones you have in your blood the more efficient you’ll be at burning fat. If you’re barely tracing on a urine strip, you could increase your fats, lower your carbs and try to get those ketone levels up so you’ll burn more. With the urine strips, a lot depends on how hydrated you are as well. If you’re in ketosis but you’re dehydrated, your ketone concentration will be higher so it’ll be darker. I would go more by how your results are going and adjust. Are you drinking ketones now? you can email me privately if you’d like to chat more [email protected] Thanks! RachelWas this question helpful to you? Yes No1 out of 1 people found this question helpful. […]

God's Love

10 Simple Things to Start Today for Growing a Stronger Faith

When we help others, we often receive the most benefit. Look for places in your church or community where you can help those in need. Practice acts of kindness. When we share the gospel and help those with a weaker or more immature faith, ours grows. Peter, perhaps Jesus’s most well-known disciple, gave this instruction: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10).8. Read an encouraging book or listen to a Christian podcast or message.There are hundreds of great books and messages available. Start by asking for recommendations from Christians you trust or talk to a pastor at your church.Learning about Christian heroes from the past always encourages me. Find a book at the library or online about someone who was strong in faith and persevered to find inspiration.Check out Crosswalk’s top Christian Podcasts here.9.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions.We all have times we when we question what we believe and seek truth. God welcomes our questions and wants to answer. Scripture tells us in James 1:5-6a, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt.” When experiencing doubt, also ask your pastor, counselor, or another mature Christian you’re acquainted with for help.10.  Be willing to obey God when it’s scary or uncomfortable.The more you’re required to depend on God, the more your faith will mature.Take action on something you know God is asking you to do and trust Him to help you. This might be speaking to someone about Him, writing an encouraging letter, serving in a new ministry, giving your testimony, or some other risk. As resistance exercises strengthen physical muscles, so our spiritual muscles increase when challenged. If we remain in our safe haven, we don’t advance in confidence. This also deepens my trust in Christ. In order to know God will catch me when I jump, I have to be willing to take the leap.Each new level of faith eventually becomes a place of comfort we’re called to leave. I don’t believe God will ever tell us to take it easy and get comfortable because we’ve reached our peak. As long as we’re on earth, He will call us to a deeper life with Him and to new opportunities requiring dependence on Him. I’m speaking to myself here. I like being where I feel safe and know what to expect. I pray God will increase my willingness to take the next step, stirring me to fully rely on Him.Father, please help each of us grow stronger in faith. May we be willing to seek You first each day listening for Your guidance and obeying You despite being afraid or facing what seems impossible. We believe in You Lord! We know You reward those who seek You and You love us with an everlasting love! Please be glorified through us every day.Photo Credit: © Getty Images/Silvia JansenDesign Credit: © SWN/Sarah Martin

Susan Aken writes devotions and articles for Wholly Loved Ministries, is an Oklahoma native who’s lived in Nebraska since 1987 and has been in public education for over thirty years. She and her husband have one son and a wonderful daughter-in-law. Besides writing she has a passion for special needs and prayer ministries. She enjoys time with family, reading, photography, movies, walking in nature, and a nice cup of tea. She believes life is a journey and we’re all in different places. Jesus is everything to her and it’s all about grace. Visit her at susanaken53.wordpress.com or on Facebook. […]

God's Love

5 of the Bible’s Most Misunderstood Verses

Out of Context: Though I am not married, if there is one verse that gets me fired up and defensive about, it’s Ephesians 5:22. Perhaps it’s because I’ve seen too many people use and abuse this verse for improper means or simply because I’m a female. Still, this Scripture needs to be adequately defined, especially regarding the concept of submission.”Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:22)As I prepare for pre-engagement, engagement, and marriage, my boyfriend and I have made it a point to discuss the implications of obedience and what I call “give and take” in marriage. While I do not claim to be an expert, I believe that the number of men who use this verse to get women and wives to do whatever they want when they please is humiliating and abhorring.In Context: According to Scripture, Ephesians 5 was written by the Apostle Paul during the same time frame as Philippians. Calling us to walk in love, Paul explains how to love ourselves and our brothers and sisters in Christ and then extends this love to husbands and wives. Calling us to be careful how we walk, I find it highly ironic that so many men tell their wives “you have to do X” because Scripture says, “wives submit to their husbands.” Sadly, this X is often filled with forced sexual pleasures, household duties, or whatever they see fit at the time.While Scripture does make it clear that a husband and wife hand over their conjugal rights to one another once they are united as one, it is said that they do so out of love. It is not suitable for a husband to pressure or even force his wife to have sex with him, for is that love as Christ would love the Church? Absolutely not.In the same manner, is it righteous for spouses to withhold sex from each other out of anger or disdain? Highly unlikely. Instead, both parties must work together to express their concerns and find a happy medium where they submit to one another mutually; that’s the love that Christ calls men and women to obey.Application: The Christian marriage and commitment given to men and women through mutual submission are spiritual. The Christian marriage and responsibility given to men and women through force, coercion, and unequal submission are secular and deathly.This idea of humility and meekness has nothing to do with a one sex reigning precedent over another, but two parties working together to represent Christ to the world. They work together as a robust military force would.A loving wife or woman should be willing to show love to her husband, but a loving husband must treat her with the honor, respect, and love that Christ would give her. Our God is love, and love is not forced, coerced, or placed as a weight over someone’s head to get them to do what you want. We express mutual submission in love not because we have to, but because the Lord commands it, and we fear Him above all else. The motive for proper and Godly submission is not the Law but demonstrating a relationship with Christ to the world because we respect what His Law says.Design Credit: © Getty Images/malik parwaiz akhter […]

God's Love

Aim All You Have at Heaven: How God Inspires Ambitious Generosity

If we do not learn how to lay up treasures in heaven, we will inevitably settle for the treasures of earth — and miss out on something far more lasting and satisfying.

When we hear, “Lay up treasures in heaven,” it might sound like, “Make sure you put some money away in your 401(k).” “Prioritize long-term financial security over short-term gains and purchases.” Jesus, however, is not selling life insurance or dealing retirement plans here. Investing in heaven does not mean forfeiting present happiness. It means relocating and deepening our happiness — now and in eternity.

Whenever we make earthly sacrifices in the process, Jesus says,

Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. (Mark 10:29–30)

Any investment we make in heaven at the expense of some experience on earth will be handsomely rewarded now in this time — and in the age to come. A hundredfold now in this time. Do you believe God will do that when you give what you have away?

Again, Jesus says, “It is more blessed” — now, today, in this moment — “to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). When we lay up treasures in heaven, we are not hedging for the future; we are seizing blessing now and in the future. The happiest people in the world are not those who spend and buy for themselves — we see this over and over again in the headlines of our consumer society — but those who spend and give for the good of others.

Pursuing happiness in this way, however, will make us aliens in a world of buyers, spenders, and savers. Those who have stored their treasures in heaven will confuse, and likely offend, those clinging to what they have here on earth.

What Have You Been Given?

Our treasure, here and elsewhere in Scripture, is whatever we earn or acquire for ourselves with what we’ve been given by God. What do we spend our money, time, and energy to have?

So, first, what has God given you? Well, everything you have. “What do you have that you did not receive?” the apostle Paul asks. “If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?” (1 Corinthians 4:7). We far too easily begin taking the gifts of God for granted until we eventually start taking credit for them. Faithful stewardship begins with a conviction that all we have, we have been given (James 1:17), and that all we have been given, we have been given in order to make much of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).

So, again, what has God given you? He “gives to all mankind life and breath and everything” (Acts 17:25). First, he has given you life, a breathtaking and immeasurable gift with enormous potential. Assuming you survive the day, God will have given you another 20,000 breaths. And, if he wills, he will give you another 20,000 tomorrow. What will you spend those breaths to have?

“Investing in heaven does not mean forfeiting present happiness. It means relocating and deepening our happiness.”

God has given you life and breath and everything. If you have it, God gave it. Every dime in every paycheck. Every square inch of your home. Every piece of cotton in your closet. Every last cent in your savings. And one day, we will each give an account for how we spent and used all we had — and most of us, especially in the West, have been given much. What will our much have purchased? What will our much say about what we really treasured and pursued? Will our much suggest that we lived for heaven on earth, or that we quietly wished heaven would let us have a few more years here first?

Remember the Poor

What does it mean to lay up treasures in heaven? It means to give all we can on earth for the good of others in the name of Jesus. Jesus says,

Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (Luke 12:33–34)

Do you want a treasure that never fails? Do you want financial accounts that never atrophy? Do you want a security, freedom, and pleasure that swells and spreads long after you have died? Then sell what you have to give to those who have not. Jesus says elsewhere to one wealthy young man, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me” (Matthew 19:21). We cannot begin to lay up treasure in heaven if we’re not ready to sacrifice our earthly treasures for those in need.

Obeying Jesus really does begin here: providing for the poor. This will look different from family to family, city to city, century to century, but Jesus assured us, “You always have the poor with you” (Mark 14:7). And so it has been, even in the most affluent nations. And as the apostles charged Paul, so God charges us: “Remember the poor” (Galatians 2:10). So who are the poor where you are, and how might what you have meet them where their needs are?

Ambitious Generosity

Beyond the poor (never overlooking or avoiding the poor), we lay up treasures in a wide variety of generosities.

We give to other kinds of needs around us, especially of believers — opening our homes in hospitality, covering bills in a crisis, providing meals after a surgery, surprising someone with a thoughtful gift. We support the spread of the gospel, first through our own churches, but then far beyond, through world missions. Do any dollars produce more treasure in heaven than those that help welcome the unreached into the kingdom?

We give, and we also do good — spending time with the lonely, carrying boxes during a move, teaching Sunday school, babysitting for weary parents, helping someone with house projects, baking for a neighbor. “Let us not grow weary of doing good,” Paul says, “for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). So, laying up treasures in heaven sometimes means lending our time and hands instead of our money.

The calling here is not just a lifestyle of generosity, but of ambitious generosity. Not, “Make sure you cover your bases, and then see if you have some left over to give away,” but, Lay up treasures in heaven. Chase this treasure. Search for creative ways to obtain more of this treasure. Do whatever you can to have this treasure. Not leftover generosity, but radical generosity — the kind that only makes sense if Jesus really died, really rose, and will really reward those who give and sacrifice in these ways. Don’t simply include heaven in your budget, but aim your budget — your whole budget — at heaven.

Fear Not

Where does this kind of ambitious generosity come from? How do we fight the fears that make us selfish, shortsighted, and stingy? Notice what Jesus says immediately before he calls us to give all we have:

Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. (Luke 12:32–33)

If you struggle to lay up treasures in heaven, remember, first, that you have a Father in heaven. In Christ, the ruler of the heaven awaiting is not merely your compassionate king or merciful judge, but he has made you his own child. The one holding your inheritance for you (1 Peter 1:4), and you for your inheritance (1 Peter 1:5), loves you with the love of a devoted and adoring Father.

“Ambitious generosity grows in the imaginations and pockets of those awed by the generosity of God.”

And your Father is not stingy, but generous. He wants to give you the kingdom. If you are his, “all things are yours, whether . . . the world or life or death or the present or the future — all are yours, and you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s” (1 Corinthians 3:21–23). How insane of us, when we are confronted with a real, pressing need, to cling to a few hundred dollars or a few unexpected hours while God holds out everything to us in Christ? He literally will withhold nothing. Ambitious generosity grows in the imaginations and pockets of those awed by the generosity of God. Meditate on all that God will give you. You will never be able to count or quantify what he has promised.

Not only is your Father generous, but he is glad to give you the kingdom. He gives not reluctantly, but eagerly and cheerfully. With the greatest, most warming smile. Why does God love a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7)? The next verse tells us: because God himself is a cheerful and generous giver (2 Corinthians 9:8). Glad generosity in us burns bright with the joyful generosity of heaven toward us.

In the end, God will not only reward us for laying up treasure in heaven, but he will be the great reward of heaven. Like the persecuted believers in Hebrews, we can joyfully give what we have on earth for those in need, and even accept the plundering of our property, since we know that we have “a better possession and an abiding one” (Hebrews 10:34). And the better and abiding possession is not ultimately something he gives, but Someone he is. […]

God's Love

The Power of Listening – FaithGateway

Our union with Jesus and His love transcends words. Our words are insufficient. Jesus used words and action in everyday life, of course, but in times of prayer He withdrew into solitude. Jesus is the Word. God doesn’t disapprove of our busy and active lives. He never says in Scripture to stop what we’re doing and forget all about work. In fact, the Word of God tells us just the opposite:
For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. — 2 Thessalonians 3:10
It’s our anxiety He addressed:
Let not your heart be troubled… Peace I give you, not as the world gives. — John 14:1, John 14:27, paraphrased
In the familiar account of Jesus and His disciples having dinner at the home of His friend Lazarus and Lazarus’s two sisters, Mary and Martha, a conflict arose. Mary forgot all about dinner and sat mesmerized by what Jesus was talking about. She sat enraptured, listening to His every word while Martha anxiously labored preparing food. Finally she burst into the room where Jesus was teaching and spouted out what amounted to, “Jesus, tell my sister to come help me. Here I am stuck with all the work while she does nothing.”
Jesus, in His sweet way, responded with, “Martha, Martha, you’re worried and upset about many things.” He told her that Mary had made a good decision when she chose to be still and sit at His feet to learn about God. He told Martha that few things in this life are actually necessary, but there was really only one thing that mattered and what Mary learned could never be taken away from her.
The practical side of me can’t help wonder if they ate at all that night. Did Martha take off her apron and sit down to listen too? Did her brother Lazarus get up and stir the soup? Did the bread burn in the oven? Maybe Jesus Himself set the table. Maybe they stayed up all night nibbling on burnt bread and cold soup while Jesus taught.
The words that remain with us like fire are His words to Martha: “Martha, Martha . . .”
It was not her busy activity Jesus addressed, but her anxiety. She was nervous and upset, and Jesus discerned that she was anxious about more than just the dinner. “Many things,” He said.
The early believers learned that sitting in silence and stillness was “the better part” that brought them inner peace and a deeper awareness of the mystery of God. Mary may have been familiar with Psalm 46,
Be still, and know that I am God.
Martha wanted to make sure they had a nice meal. After all, more than likely this was a special event.
Martha anxiously worked to get a meal together to feed the Lord.
Mary was sitting silently, being fed by the Lord. Jesus said that what she gained by sitting silently and listening calmly could not be taken away from her.
If we can sit still in the Lord’s presence like Mary did, then something that can never be taken away from us happens to us too.
Stress is stolen property. Stress doesn’t belong to you.If stress were a gift from God, it would bring you joy.Does stress bring you joy?
Everywhere we turn, people harp about the stress in their lives. Stress crushes what’s lovely in us. We lose who we are and why we’re on earth for such a time as this. Try increasing your daily sessions of Quiet Prayer to give the Lord Jesus the freedom to touch you deeply. He will show by His Spirit the one thing that’s necessary, the thing that can never be taken from you.
Excerpted with permission from Quiet Prayer by Marie Chapian, copyright Marie Chapian.
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Your Turn
Can you sit still in the Lord’s presence? Stress can be crushing. We all know that, right? But, the Lord is ready for us to sit at His feet and touch us in a meaningful way with His Presence. What is it that you want more than that? Be still. ~ Devotionals Daily […]

God's Love

Everything God Made, He Made with Wisdom – FaithGateway

When we look at the world around us, the diversity of Creation is amazing. God didn’t create a world without color or one season. Instead, He made a world awash with color, packed with variety, differing seasons, and various sounds. When we look at the world around us, we realize that God, the Creator, didn’t spare any creativity when He put it all together.
God created the world with the creativity of a grand-master artist, but also with wisdom and understanding.
In Hebrew, the word for “understanding” is Binah. The prophet Jeremiah connects understanding (Binah), wisdom (chochmah), and Creation:
He made the earth by His power, established the world by His wisdom, and stretched out heaven by His understanding. — Jeremiah 10:12
We find a practical and life-changing truth here. The psalmist wrote,
Adonai, how countless are Your works! In wisdom You made them all. — Psalm 104:24
God made us with wisdom. We are one of His creations! This insight is vital for us to understand because most of us are critical of ourselves and others. How many times has someone made you feel worthless, stupid, or ugly? The world, the flesh, and the Enemy will try to speak these lies over you until you believe them. But if you believe these lies, you empower them and the father of lies who are their source.
You are not a mistake or ugly or worthless, for God created you with wisdom. Let the light of God’s wisdom and understanding dispel the dark lies that deceive you and lead you into emotional, relational, and spiritual bondage.
Not only does a song tell how precious we are in His sight, but His Word also gives us that assurance. For example, Isaiah 49:16 tells us,
Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands. Your walls are continually before Me.
We are engraved into His hands. We are part of Him, remembered by Him. Would you engrave your hands with something of little or no value? No.
Of course, the verse that shows us the value we have is John 3:16,
For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
God’s love for you is extravagant. He so loves you that He did something about it. His love for you is also expensive. Loving you cost Him everything. He gave His unique Son, the costliest gift He could give.
Easter and the Passover season celebrate freedom. Passover celebrates the Israelites freedom from the slavery and captivity of Egypt. Easter celebrates Jesus’ death and resurrection and our freedom from sin. God’s creative wisdom includes freedom for you and me. It includes the tremendous value you have because He gave His Son for you.
Written for Faith.Full by Rabbi Jason Sobel, author of Mysteries of the Messiah.
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Your Turn
In Isaiah 49:16, God says that He’s engraved our names on the palms of His hands. The walls of His holy city filled with His people are always on His mind. He gave the One who mattered most to Him for you! That’s how much You matter to Him! You’re not worthless, stupid, or ugly; He made You with perfect wisdom! Amen! ~ Laurie McClure, Faith.Full […]

INSURANCE & MORTGAGE

Women and the Life Insurance Gender Gap – Life Happens

Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on women’s many contributions to American life. It’s also a time to gauge how far women have come in achieving true equality. Many people are aware of the gender pay gap of women earning on average only 82 cents to every dollar earned by men. Another troubling financial reality people are less aware of is the life insurance gender gap.
Initial findings from the 2021 Insurance Barometer Study, by Life Happens and LIMRA, show that just 47% of women have life insurance, versus 58% of men. That’s a big difference. But many women may have an inkling that this disparity isn’t good: 32% of those with no life insurance say they need coverage, and 11% of those with coverage admit they need more. 
Reasons Behind the Life Insurance Gender Gap

Women’s lower earnings lead to less coverage. Life insurance coverage limits are often a multiple of your annual earnings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, men earn an average of $55,744 while women earn an average of $46,488. Using a common multiplier of 10 (with 10 times your salary being a general rule of thumb for how much life insurance you might need) would mean the average woman could end up with $925,600 less coverage than an average man.
Women’s unpaid labor is undervalued. More than one in four mothers stays at home with her children. And many other moms work reduced schedules to accommodate the needs of their families. While these women may not earn large paychecks (or any paycheck at all), the value of their unpaid labor is immense. Salary.com pegs the value of childcare, housekeeping and more that stay at home moms provide to be worth $178,201 a year. This reality is further compounded if a breadwinning spouse or partner gets life insurance through work. While life insurance from your employer is almost never enough, it is an important starting point for many families. Life insurance through a job usually only covers the worker.
Women lack financial literacy. A study by FINRA revealed that women answered only 48% of financial literacy test questions correctly. Meanwhile, men answered 58% correctly. A lack of confidence in their financial know-how may keep many women from getting the life insurance they truly need.

Closing the Life Insurance Gender Gap
There’s a growing awareness about the outsize contributions women make toward the care of their families. This unpaid labor is not cheap to replace, which makes life insurance for women a necessity.
Women can help close the life insurance gender gap by taking stock of their life insurance needs using the Life Insurance Needs Calculator, exploring life insurance basics on this site, and talking to an insurance professional about coverage. Check out our helpful information on how to choose a qualified insurance professional. Then use our Agent Locator to find one in your area. (You may be surprised by how many are women!) […]