To Treasure an Heiress (The Secrets of the Isles #2)
Hop into a sloop and set sail back to the Isles of Scilly, where the hunt for hidden treasure continues in To Treasure an Heiress!
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT
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ADVENTURES IN ISRAEL
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Do you feel like you have to prove yourself worthy of the gift of salvation?
The other morning, I was reading God is My Hiding Place — an excellent devotional inspired by the writings of Corrie ten Boom — and was convicted that I’d been treating the work God has given me as a way to gain His acceptance and approval. However, as I meditated on Ephesians 2:8-9, I was reminded that while it is great to strive to fulfill the calling God has placed on our hearts, we shouldn’t be doing it to prove ourselves worthy because God has already chosen us and the credit belongs only to Him!
Do you know that the Lord called you by name and paved the way for you before you were conceived?! While many people claim that we are unworthy of Yeshua’s sacrifice, I’d like to take a different approach. Yes, it is true that we are sinners and do not deserve all that the Father does for us; but, do you really believe that if God didn’t think we were worth saving that He would’ve sent Yeshua to die for us OR leave the multitude to bring us back when we go astray? While we might see ourselves as unworthy of being rescued, loved, forgiven, and redeemed, I can assure you that God has not thought these things for a single moment!
“When we resign ourselves to the truth that we are His children, it becomes easier to enjoy the freedom of our salvation. We no longer fearfully strive to please the Lord, and living for Him becomes effortless, as long as we remember who we are. Peace will rule our hearts when we believe that His Word is true.” ~ Corrie ten Boom (God is My Hiding Place)
The Bible says that faith without works is dead — and this is true — but notice that faith must come FIRST before we can work to bring glory to God! We have not done anything (nor is there anything we can do) to gain the gift of salvation; it is a free gift that God gives us to bring honor to Himself. However, this gift is not meant to be left unwrapped on a shelf like an ornament; it’s to be opened, utilized, and actively worn!
So, as we walk into this new week, let’s look at how we can bring honor and praise to the One who brought us out of slavery and into a life of freedom rather than working ourselves ragged trying to gain what has already been given. The glory belongs solely to the Father! There is nothing we can do to be less or greater than; all we can do is strive to live for the Messiah, using our precious time on this earth to tell others about this incredible gift, and be set free from the burden of trying to measure up!
“Our sins, our bad choices, perhaps they coat us like mud. But the mud cannot take away the value He instilled in us. Mud does not make a pearl any less valuable. If it did, then why would Jesus have deemed us worthy of the sacrifice of His life? But He loves us, as does the Father. Because we are valuable.” ~ Roseanne M. White (To Treasure an Heiress)
Do you feel like you have to prove yourself worthy of the gift of salvation?
The other morning, I was reading God is My Hiding Place — an excellent devotional inspired by the writings of Corrie ten Boom — and was convicted that I’d been treating the work God has given me as a way to gain His acceptance and approval. However, as I meditated on Ephesians 2:8-9, I was reminded that while it is great to strive to fulfill the calling God has placed on our hearts, we shouldn’t be doing it to prove ourselves worthy because God has already chosen us and the credit belongs only to Him!
Do you know that the Lord called you by name and paved the way for you before you were conceived?! While many people claim that we are unworthy of Yeshua’s sacrifice, I’d like to take a different approach. Yes, it is true that we are sinners and do not deserve all that the Father does for us; but, do you really believe that if God didn’t think we were worth saving that He would’ve sent Yeshua to die for us OR leave the multitude to bring us back when we go astray? While we might see ourselves as unworthy of being rescued, loved, forgiven, and redeemed, I can assure you that God has not thought these things for a single moment!
“When we resign ourselves to the truth that we are His children, it becomes easier to enjoy the freedom of our salvation. We no longer fearfully strive to please the Lord, and living for Him becomes effortless, as long as we remember who we are. Peace will rule our hearts when we believe that His Word is true.” ~ Corrie ten Boom (God is My Hiding Place)
The Bible says that faith without works is dead — and this is true — but notice that faith must come FIRST before we can work to bring glory to God! We have not done anything (nor is there anything we can do) to gain the gift of salvation; it is a free gift that God gives us to bring honor to Himself. However, this gift is not meant to be left unwrapped on a shelf like an ornament; it’s to be opened, utilized, and actively worn!
So, as we walk into this new week, let’s look at how we can bring honor and praise to the One who brought us out of slavery and into a life of freedom rather than working ourselves ragged trying to gain what has already been given. The glory belongs solely to the Father! There is nothing we can do to be less or greater than; all we can do is strive to live for the Messiah, using our precious time on this earth to tell others about this incredible gift, and be set free from the burden of trying to measure up!
“Our sins, our bad choices, perhaps they coat us like mud. But the mud cannot take away the value He instilled in us. Mud does not make a pearl any less valuable. If it did, then why would Jesus have deemed us worthy of the sacrifice of His life? But He loves us, as does the Father. Because we are valuable.” ~ Roseanne M. White (To Treasure an Heiress)
Are you patient? It’s one thing to wait for an event or activity that already has a date and has been planned, but it’s entirely different to practice self-control and patience when it comes to waiting on God’s guidance and walking in His timing rather than your own.
I am not the most patient person. I much prefer being surprised so I don’t have time to think because I’m an over-thinker and will analyze something until it becomes all-consuming. Rather than waiting or letting things reveal themselves, I want to know it right then and there. It’s a little funny to describe myself like this when my life is full of unknowns and waiting. I’m regularly asking God to show me what’s next, but despite needing to patiently wait on Him, I am content to live each day in the dark of what tomorrow might bring. However, that said, when it comes to something being so close but just out of reach, I can be like a lion pacing in a cage.
There is a level of surrender and trust we all must reach in our relationships with God. He holds all the answers and knows exactly what we need, but it’s only in His timing that these things will happen. Our job is to trust in Him and continue to obey His commands as we walk forward, leaving the timing up to Him. By praying about specific things and seeking wisdom, we operate less in our flesh and more in the spiritual. That’s easier said than done, though, isn’t it? That’s where self-control and patient endurance come in.
What are you praying and seeking God for right now? Are you growing impatient by the lack of answer or action?
Hold steady; there are things going on behind the scenes that you don’t know about. Take action too soon, and you might be in the wrong timing; too late, and you might miss what God has in store altogether. Be prepared, wait on God’s call, seek Him, and leave the timing to Him! God is all-knowing and will give you the green light when the moment is right!
Are you patient? It’s one thing to wait for an event or activity that already has a date and has been planned, but it’s entirely different to practice self-control and patience when it comes to waiting on God’s guidance and walking in His timing rather than your own.
I am not the most patient person. I much prefer being surprised so I don’t have time to think because I’m an over-thinker and will analyze something until it becomes all-consuming. Rather than waiting or letting things reveal themselves, I want to know it right then and there. It’s a little funny to describe myself like this when my life is full of unknowns and waiting. I’m regularly asking God to show me what’s next, but despite needing to patiently wait on Him, I am content to live each day in the dark of what tomorrow might bring. However, that said, when it comes to something being so close but just out of reach, I can be like a lion pacing in a cage.
There is a level of surrender and trust we all must reach in our relationships with God. He holds all the answers and knows exactly what we need, but it’s only in His timing that these things will happen. Our job is to trust in Him and continue to obey His commands as we walk forward, leaving the timing up to Him. By praying about specific things and seeking wisdom, we operate less in our flesh and more in the spiritual. That’s easier said than done, though, isn’t it? That’s where self-control and patient endurance come in.
What are you praying and seeking God for right now? Are you growing impatient by the lack of answer or action?
Hold steady; there are things going on behind the scenes that you don’t know about. Take action too soon, and you might be in the wrong timing; too late, and you might miss what God has in store altogether. Be prepared, wait on God’s call, seek Him, and leave the timing to Him! God is all-knowing and will give you the green light when the moment is right!
“Run from anything that stimulates youthful lust. Follow anything that makes you want to do right. Pursue faith and love and peace, and enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” ~ 2 Timothy 2:22
“What can be harmful about an innocent kiss?” She thought to herself as she sat beside her guy friend, watching a movie. “Surely there’s nothing wrong in just seeing what it would feel like?” She tried to convince herself when he turned to her, leaning in for the moment that had been building since they’d met.
We all have different boundaries when it comes to intimate relationships; however, I think we can all agree that the Bible is clear that these relationships should always be with like-minded believers. So, what happens when you meet a really great person, but they tell you that they don’t believe in God?
While there is nothing wrong with being friends with nonbelievers — in fact, I highly recommend it — we need to be clear on what our limits and boundaries are BEFORE these friendships begin to spark with sexual electricity. Satan is sneaky, and the most innocent temptations can be danger in disguise. We’ve all been in a situation where we’ve crushed on someone we knew we couldn’t be with — sometimes, we’ve even tried to make it work — but, ultimately, the divide becomes too great to ever really draw close to them.
So, is there really nothing to an innocent kiss? Are there no dangers in hanging out alone with a guy or girl friend after one of your confesses feelings and boundaries are set in place? If you have to ask yourself these questions, the answer is probably yes. Now, I’m not opposed to guys and girls being friends and spending alone time together; however, when feelings have been expressed, and the other party continues to toe-the-line of the boundaries, it is very important that we lead with wisdom and understand what the Word says, so we don’t fall trap to the temptations and lusts of our hearts.
If you’re going through something like this right now, I want to encourage you to take it to God and seek wisdom. As good as having attention feels, when it’s coming from someone who is not seeking God first or respecting your boundaries, that person is nothing but a distraction to pull you further from God. There will be a day when you will meet someone worthy of your affection, so don’t settle or compromise your beliefs for others. Flee from lustful desires and pursue purity through love, peace, faith, and godliness.
“All the Enemy can do is make suggestions.” ~ Michael Todd (Crazy Faith)
Two weeks ago, I celebrated my 24th birthday. A day full of new beginnings, it was a blessing to look back on the last year and see how the Father has confirmed my calling and strengthened my resolve to live my life wholly for Him. However, there was one particular Scripture my mom shared with me that has continued to play in my mind and encouraged me to press on.
Isaiah 50:5-7 is a prophesy/foreshadow of Yeshua’s mindset at the time of His arrest and crucifixion. During one of the most painful days of His life, Yeshua endured torture and ridicule; yet, He refused to take His eyes off the Father and chose to remember the reason for His suffering rather than listen to the taunts being spat at Him by the people.
I don’t know what you’re going through right now. Maybe you’re being bullied at school or work, or perhaps you feel as though your reputation couldn’t be worse. Whatever it is, I want to encourage you to remember that the devil is a liar, and God will not disgrace those who serve Him and set their faces like flint on the race marked out for them! (Hebrews 12:1-2) No matter how many curses, insults, or punches are thrown your way, they do NOT represent what the Father thinks of you nor how Yeshua looks at you when He sees what you’re going through. There is hope. And, while the Lord never wished for us to face these trials and tribulations, the Bible says that He can use everything for good! (Romans 8:28)
So, today, I pray in Yeshua’s name that the bullying will cease and that the Father will raise you up and show you that you are stronger than the lies and whispers Satan has been planting in your ears. I also pray that as you read the Word and dedicate your life to Yeshua, that you would set your face like flint on that which is good, true, pure, and noble, and keep running the race toward a prize far greater than anything we could obtain on this earth! (Philippians 4:8-9; 2 Timothy 4:5-8)
“The Enemy messes with our minds to influence our real-world actions against God’s will. It’s up to us to believe his lies and act on them or believe God’s truth and act in faith.” ~ Michael Todd (Crazy Faith)
I choose to keep my sights forward and act in faith, do you?
“All the Enemy can do is make suggestions.” ~ Michael Todd (Crazy Faith)
Two weeks ago, I celebrated my 24th birthday. A day full of new beginnings, it was a blessing to look back on the last year and see how the Father has confirmed my calling and strengthened my resolve to live my life wholly for Him. However, there was one particular Scripture my mom shared with me that has continued to play in my mind and encouraged me to press on.
Isaiah 50:5-7 is a prophesy/foreshadow of Yeshua’s mindset at the time of His arrest and crucifixion. During one of the most painful days of His life, Yeshua endured torture and ridicule; yet, He refused to take His eyes off the Father and chose to remember the reason for His suffering rather than listen to the taunts being spat at Him by the people.
I don’t know what you’re going through right now. Maybe you’re being bullied at school or work, or perhaps you feel as though your reputation couldn’t be worse. Whatever it is, I want to encourage you to remember that the devil is a liar, and God will not disgrace those who serve Him and set their faces like flint on the race marked out for them! (Hebrews 12:1-2) No matter how many curses, insults, or punches are thrown your way, they do NOT represent what the Father thinks of you nor how Yeshua looks at you when He sees what you’re going through. There is hope. And, while the Lord never wished for us to face these trials and tribulations, the Bible says that He can use everything for good! (Romans 8:28)
So, today, I pray in Yeshua’s name that the bullying will cease and that the Father will raise you up and show you that you are stronger than the lies and whispers Satan has been planting in your ears. I also pray that as you read the Word and dedicate your life to Yeshua, that you would set your face like flint on that which is good, true, pure, and noble, and keep running the race toward a prize far greater than anything we could obtain on this earth! (Philippians 4:8-9; 2 Timothy 4:5-8)
“The Enemy messes with our minds to influence our real-world actions against God’s will. It’s up to us to believe his lies and act on them or believe God’s truth and act in faith.” ~ Michael Todd (Crazy Faith)
I choose to keep my sights forward and act in faith, do you?
Lord, when will it be my turn? Am I going to be alone forever?
After attending a wedding this past week, rather than coming home happy for the bride and groom (though I was), my hope dwindled as I listened to Satan's little whispers telling me that I would never have that kind of love and am not worthy of the things I desire.
Are you in a season of waiting? Maybe you’re waiting for God to finally open the door for you to have a relationship. Maybe you’re waiting to move house. Maybe you’re waiting for a new job opportunity. Maybe you’re waiting for God to speak to you during this time of hardship. Whatever you're waiting for, I want to encourage you that it's not through our ways or understanding that God will answer your prayers, but HIS!
You may have an idea in your mind of how things will happen, but are you prepared for God to direct you in another direction?
I'll admit, I've imagined how I'll one day meet a guy, and we'll wind up talking for hours until, over time, the relationship blossoms beyond anything I've experienced before. Nevertheless, as my hopes for this meet-cute came crashing down the night I returned home from the wedding, I felt the Lord speak to me over the enemy's whispers. He said, "Hannah, you have all of these ideas, but you doubt that I don't know what you need. Leave it to Me. Trust in Me. I will open each door when the time is right. Stop trying to do MY job. All you need to do is focus on Me, and as I continue to shine a light on the paths you should take, then MY Will will be done! Do you trust Me to bring you what you NEED rather than what you think you want? Do you trust that My understanding and knowledge is greater than your own?"
Leave it all to God! Pray, seek, and walking in obedience. I promise, your prayers are being heard; but, until we submit our ways to God and lay our lives at His feet, we will continue to walk in our human understanding, which is incomparable to the will and purposes God has in store! Don't lose hope! God's timing is perfect, and He will make your paths straight when you trust in Him and lean on Him rather than yourself!
Get Out of Your Head
I have never read a self-help book that teaches you to let go of yourself and hold onto God until I picked up Get Out of Your Head!
Lost in Darkness
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After She Falls
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Crazy Faith
Are you tired of living a mediocre life? In his latest release, Michael Todd challenges Christians to stop playing it safe & pursue the CrAzY!
Aftermath
A girl at a concert. An explosion. A man caught in the crossfire. An attorney ready to fight. Aftermath opens with a bang (literally)
Redeeming Your Time - Includes Exclusive Interview with the Author
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Three Sisters (Includes Exclusive Interview with the Author)
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The Vanishing at Loxby Manor
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Set Your Face Like Flint - Feeling '22
Whenever we come to the end of another year, I find it so exciting to revisit all of the ups & downs that have gotten me to where I am today.
The Significance of the Feasts: Shavuot (Pentecost)
Each Spring feast has a profound meaning to the Messiah's life, death, and resurrection; it's an exciting time to read through the Scriptures!
The Significance of the Feasts: Firstfruits
One of the least spoken about or underrated Feasts of the Lord, is the Feast of Firstfruits; but, why is this feast so important?
The Significance of the Feasts: Passover & Unleavened Bread
What is Passover about? How does Yeshua play a role in this feast? And, is Unleavened Bread a separate holiday? Let's dive in!
The Significance of the Feasts: Shabbat
In the Bible, there are seven commanded feasts, separated by two seasons; however, there is one feast that takes place every week — Shabbat!
The Significance of the Feasts: Introduction
Recently, I’ve been struggling to understand why my family observes the Feasts of the Lord while the rest of the Christian world ignores them.
Stumbling Blocks into Stepping Stones: Doubt
One of the most dangerous stumbling blocks of our faith is doubt. No one is exempt from its attack, we will all question God's existence.
The Story I’ll Tell - Bring on 2021!
We made it!!! Who would've thought that 2020 would actually come to an end? This has been one of the most challenging years I have ever known!
Stumbling Blocks into Stepping Stones: Wisdom
Throughout the Bible, we are told to ask for wisdom and understanding, and we shall receive it; but, what happens when our prayers are answered?
Finding Joy in a Sea of Pain
Being in pain sucks. Finding joy in tribulation might feel like a feat, but it's easier than you think. When we put our hope in God, we will find comfort!
Adventures in Israel: Hannah's Declassified Israeli Wedding Survival Guide
Israeli weddings are very different from the ceremonies we’re used to witnessing in movies or typical Western settings.
Adventures in Israel: Yemenite Henna Ceremony
We were invited to attend a traditional Yemenite henna ceremony — a pre-wedding gathering that celebrates the bride leaving her family..
Adventures in Israel: The Facial Shocker
Getting a facial should be a revitalizing experience, right? At least, that’s what it seems like when influencers post about facials.
Adventures in Israel: Driver’s License Edition
I recently discovered that to renew your license after driving for five years, I was required by Israeli law to take a “refreshers” course.
Adventures in Israel: Picnic in the Snow
Most people go to the beach or forest for a joyful picnic, not the Russells; we go to the snow, where our butts freeze, and we're layered up!
Adventures In Israel: X-Ray Edition
When someone breaks a bone, it's important to get follow up x-rays to determine the healing process. These visits to the clinic tend to be straightforward; you walk in, give the front desk your doctor's note, get the x-ray, and leave. However, at my six-week check-up, it was anything but a walk in the park…
Adventures in Israel: Let's Go Ice Skating!
Since the beginning of this year, I’ve been craving the true essence of winter; but what can you do to get the feeling of winter in a country that can’t seem to make up its mind? Well, the expensive solution would be to fly to a place where there is snow, and the temperature is …
Adventures in Israel: Massage Edition
The event you’re about to read, in the coming paragraphs, is just a sneak peek into what life can be like in Israel. It’s not always like this, but it sure does make my day better when it is!
The Significance of the Feasts: Shavuot (Pentecost)
Each Spring feast has a profound meaning to the Messiah's life, death, and resurrection; it's an exciting time to read through the Scriptures!
The Significance of the Feasts: Firstfruits
One of the least spoken about or underrated Feasts of the Lord, is the Feast of Firstfruits; but, why is this feast so important?
The Significance of the Feasts: Passover & Unleavened Bread
What is Passover about? How does Yeshua play a role in this feast? And, is Unleavened Bread a separate holiday? Let's dive in!
The Significance of the Feasts: Shabbat
In the Bible, there are seven commanded feasts, separated by two seasons; however, there is one feast that takes place every week — Shabbat!
The Significance of the Feasts: Introduction
Recently, I’ve been struggling to understand why my family observes the Feasts of the Lord while the rest of the Christian world ignores them.
Poem: Into Space (I Am Found Series)
Then everything stops... Floating in the space of her thoughts, Joy Lucia Hunneyball compares the May 30th launch to her own achievements. With skills in a multitude of things, but mastery of none, she wonders how she can make a difference and what landmark she will leave behind.
Poem: For Your Glory (I Am Found Series)
Joy Lucia Hunneyball stands in awe of God, breathing in His goodness and declaring, "To Him be the glory!" This inspiring poem will encourage readers to look at the gifts God has given them and offer up a shout of praise, even when the fight seems hopeless!
Poem: Overcomer (I Am Found Series)
In a moment of reverence, Joy Lucia Hunneyball goes into her room to intercede, cry, and worship before the Father. With a heavy heart, she shares a special prayer to encourage those feeling lost. We are all overcomers through Him, and we are not alone!
Poem: From the Inside Out (I Am Found Series)
Joy Lucia Hunneyball shares an intimate conversation with God about growth, guidance, spiritual battles, and admiration, in this original poem!
Poem: A Speck Within the Cosmos (I Am Found Series)
An original poem by Joy Lucia Hunneyball. In a moment of awe and wonder, Joy expresses her admiration of God's care and faithfulness. We are warriors and vessels to by Him!