Influencers

https://youtu.be/8Mm9cex0auU

Winter Snow ~ Audrey Assad 

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. ~ John 3:17 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.3.17.ESV

My favorite time of the day is my morning quiet time with God. I typically get up while the house is still quite to have my alone time. But one morning, my girls wanted to spend time with God, in my space. At first, I was annoyed, because they were encroaching on my time and space. But later, God showed me that it was a blessing and an honor – my girls were learning about God through me, because of me. They wanted to spend time with God, just like they saw Mommy doing.

Today, you may be working in a field, serving at your church or in your community, or even raising your kids because of what you saw your parents or grandparents doing. Today’s scripture reminds us that Jesus came to save the world – a mission He learned and received from His Father. Whether we realize it or not, we are world changers, influencing others. Some of them already know God, and you’re just encouraging them to draw closer. But to others, you are a light in their darkness. They haven’t been able to find their way, but God is drawing them out through the light He’s placed within you.

As you read the words today, ask God to use you to lead those you influence closer to Him. After all, as God’s kids, we’re on the same mission as our Father.

©Heather Potts 2018

Shine

https://youtu.be/d17hi1s6Tgg

Light Shine Bright ~ Toby Mac

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. ~ Matthew 5:16 NIV

In Wisconsin, especially in the winter, people take notice when the sun shines. Even the girls have noticed how dark it is and think it’s still time for bed, instead of for school. And for the next week, the darkness may feel like it's growing, as we draw closer to the shortest "day" of the year.

I remember growing up, hearing people talk about "seasonal depression," which was attributed to the lack of sunlight in the winter months. But until coming back from Florida, the "sunshine state," I didn't realize how much not seeing the sun could affect you. The same is true about the light you carry inside of you: 

“...You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now…shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven," (Matthew 5:14-16 MSG).

As dark as winter is, I couldn't imagine living even the brightest season without Christ. Last winter, I noticed how much darker, colder, and longer winter felt about mid-January, because everyone had put away their Christmas lights. People who don't know Jesus, or who've lost sight of Him, walk around every day in darkness. They feel the cold of winter, but never the warmth of Christmas – the season of welcoming and experiencing Jesus. This year, don't let the generosity and love of Jesus stop shining in you, just because you put away the tree. Let God's light always shine brightly through you, for all to see. 

©Heather Potts 2018

Yes, You Can!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qzw6A2WC5Qo&feature=youtu.be

Invincible ~ Skillet

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us ~ Hebrews 12:1 NIV

In recent months, my brother has been sharing his workouts on Facebook. On one hand, you might be annoyed by someone who posts every time they workout, while you do it without the glory. But on the other hand, you might find some inspiration. When you look closely at his pictures, you see that he’s surrounded by others who are just as sweaty--be it basketball or spin class. 

A few years ago, when I started running, Brad went with me, but he couldn't continue, and I had to decide if I was going to do it on my own. What I discovered was that I wasn’t alone. Hebrews 12 says, "We are SURROUNDED by a great cloud of witnesses." The witnesses are those who have gone before us, who've walked where we're walking, and who are cheering us on, from the very first trial all the way through to triumph! 

During my runs, there were many times I didn't think I could make one more step, certainly not another block. But it was in those times Holy Spirit said, "Yes, you can! Don't quit! Don't quit! Don't quit!" Each time I pushed through, I was so proud of myself for not quitting, because each time I went further than I thought I could. 

Today, I am not prepping for a run. Two months of migraines and vertigo really takes a toll. But even in the simplistic work out, even with a pinched nerve in my neck, I don't want to quit. I refuse to back down. And this is what we've been training for, a won't-back-down attitude. 

Since moving to Wisconsin 16 months ago, we've faced more disappointment, heartache, and trials than I care to recount. But God has also surrounded us. Every day, I am truly amazed and in awe of all God has done for us, brought us through, blessed us with, and the "won't-quit-won't-back-down" attitude He's built up within us.

I think it was John Bevere who said this season is the training ground for the next. Whatever hardship you may be walking through, today, remember, you're not alone. Listen as Holy Spirit encourages you, especially on the hard days, "Yes you can! Now, don't quit!" 

©Heather Potts 2018

Good

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pomqj7acJc4

King of My Heart ~ Steffany Gretzinger & Jeremy Riddle

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. ~ Romans 8:28 KJV

The enemy will use anything to crush us physically, mentally, and emotionally. For the past 2 ½ months, it’s been with severe migraines, vertigo, and huge drops in my blood pressure. Several tests and doctor appointments haven’t explained it. Two weeks ago, I decided it wasn’t going to beat me. Despite the pain, I began exercising. The first day, I paid with even worse migraines. But I persevered. When the enemy saw I wasn’t going to back down, he moved on to something else. This time, it was old lies that shake me to the core.

I’ve been hiding my fears, afraid someone will tell me they’re not lies, but truth. But I’m not hiding any longer! The enemy likes to tell me I’m a bad mom and I’m going to screw up my kids. Due to traumatic events from both childhood and in my late teen years, I was in counseling a long time. Unfortunately, a counselor once told me history would repeat itself and the ugliness that I experienced would be felt by my kids. That’s a major factor in why we put off having kids for so long. Even though I’ve battled the fear – the lie – of being a bad mom, and often thought I’d put it to rest, it seems to rear its ugly head when I’ve been weakened by something else (migraines and vertigo, in this case). But God is good! This morning, as I listened to King of My Heart, I heard Steffany Gertzinger say, “The only thing in my entire life greater than my fears was my conviction…I knew He was who He said He was… Sometimes we sing something because we believe it, because we’re sure. And sometimes we sing it until we’re sure, until we know.”

Good: excelling in any aspect; distinguished.

The truth is, I’m a good mom because I have a good Heavenly Father, who is teaching me, by example, how to be the best mom to my girls. And I have a wonderful husband, who battles on my behalf, against these lies and for me to walk in the truth. I also have wonderful friends who pray for and remind me of God’s truth.

My prayer for you, is that whatever lies have been plaguing your life will be squashed, today! That you’d battle on, reminding yourself that God is good, and He called you on purpose, for His specific purposes. I pray you’d remember that your future in Him far outshines anything in your past, and that even though the past may have been traumatic, He’ll use all things for your good and His glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©Heather Potts 2018

Not Alone

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3tmfTQ1Zz0&start_radio=1&list=RDz3tmfTQ1Zz0

You’re Not Alone ~ Meredith Andrews

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid… for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you ~ Deuteronomy 31:6 NKJV

For the past 5 years, one of our Christmas traditions is to make a DVD of our girls for our relatives who don’t live nearby. I remember my Grandpa Hayes telling me, every year, that he had to take it to my Uncle Ron’s house, because Ron had a DVD player. After Brad’s dad passed away, Brad and his sister were cleaning out his apartment. They found many things, including all the DVDs we made for him. It’s Christmas time, again, and I’m getting the DVD’s ready this year… But there are two I won’t be sending. And the realization made me cry, as if those two men had died just yesterday.

Maybe, like our family, you’ll be celebrating with one less loved one this year. Or maybe your family has all grown and moved away. Or perhaps you’re surrounded by others, but you just feel alone. God promised to never leave you – never let you fall, never fail you, never release you from His protecting hands – and to never forsake you – never leave, desert, or abandon you. Pain is such a strong emotion. It can cloud your thinking, causing you to feel things that aren’t real. Pain says, “You’re all alone. No one understands. You’ll never get through this.” God says, “I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand,” (Isaiah 41: 9-10 NIV).

Whether you’re surrounded by many or no one this Christmas, remember that the God who created the world, as well as your innermost being, will always be with you. You’re never alone.

©Heather Potts 2018     

Change

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqa8O1ktxk8&list=RDcqa8O1ktxk8&start_radio=1

Hidden ~ United Pursuit ft. Will Reagan

Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. ~ Psalm 37:4 NKJV

Have you ever tried to make a change in your life, but couldn’t, though you tried again and again? Whether it’s overeating, overspending, yelling at your kids, overwhelming schedules, substance abuse, addiction to pornography, or something else, Paul said it best: I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do, (Romans 7:15). Have you ever considered that the issue isn’t your issue?

In Soaking in Expectation, Graham Cooke encourages us to shift our focus from discipline to delight, saying that we can’t force change, but when we delight ourselves in the Lord, His desires become our desires. The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you … (Zephaniah 3:17 NIV). God delights in you, even with all your faults. But He wants the best for you, so He’s changing you from your old self into His masterpiece.

In the medical field, change is written as a triangle. The triangle represents your life: God is the top point, while you and the issue are the bottom points. The more you focus on the issue, the closer you will get to it and the further away you’ll be from God. But the more you focus on God, delighting yourself in worship, reading His Word, and spending time with Him, the closer you will draw to Him, growing further from the issues, until eventually, they aren’t issues any longer.

God doesn’t want us stressing over issues or wearing ourselves out trying to get rid of them. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still, (Exodus 14:14 NIV). He’s asking us to trust that as we draw closer to Him, His love will overshadow everything else. After all, true and lasting change comes as Father God changes us from the inside out.

©Heather Potts 2018

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKj_sVetnXI

From the Inside Out and With Everything ~ Hillsong United

I Know

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVVlMQved8k&list=RDcVVlMQved8k&start_radio=1&t=3

You Know Me ~ Steffany Frizzell

You have searched me, LORD, and you know me. ~ Psalm 139:1 NIV

This morning, Brad told me that his grandma had 6 months left, and when she passes, his mom wants to fly us to Florida for the funeral. Immediately, I began to plan: Will we bring the kids, who will watch them, etc. I even reached out to one of our closest friends and asked if they’d consider watching the girls, if we decided to bring them. And then I went to work.

The day progressed, as normal. Toward the end of the day, I received a text from my friend about watching our girls. She said they’d do whatever they could because, “you guys will always be family.” Her text totally wrecked me. I thought I was OK…but I wasn’t. I managed to hold it together till I got off work. But when I got in my car, God whispered, I know, and I just cried!

I know.

I’ve been told that I’m quick to show compassion to others, but slow to give it to the family.

I know.

I realized it’s because I can’t control others. I can’t do much to help them fix the situation. But at home, I can do something. I can plan and make it work, because I know how. I, Heather Potts, I know. I know!

I know. I know you. I know you’ve tried to control things, too many things. But I also know you need to let go and trust that I KNOW. I know the plans that I have for you.

God said it was time for me to trust Him and that He knows how to make things work out for my good. If you’ve felt like me, like you had to know how it would all work out or needed something to control because your life has felt out of control, maybe it’s time for you, too, to let go, and trust that He knows. Not just the situation and outcome, but He knows you: the one He knit together in your mother’s womb; the one whose thoughts He’s tested and heart He’s searched; the one He’s inscribed in the palms of His hands.

He’s asking us to let go and trust that He knows.

©Heather Potts 2018

Are You Buckled?

https://youtu.be/clztZEE0kKU

What If His People Prayed ~ Casting Crowns

if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV
https://bible.com/bible/111/2ch.7.14.NIV

Confession: Parking in the garage makes me nervous. I love having my car in the garage, but not having to park it in there. It’s because of the angle from which I have to approach our garage in a full parking lot. Each time, I make sure my seatbelt is buckled. You may laugh, but it's true! I feel safer and more confident with my seatbelt on, than without it. And as I laughed at myself, I heard Holy Spirit whisper, "Just like prayer."

As I thought about today’s song, the verse from 2 Chronicles, and even my quirky need to buckle up when parking my car, I am surprised at myself for the days I’m scrambling to get us "ready" and out the door on time, but don't make time to pray, listen, and learn. Have you ever done that? Have you been rushing to get everything done or out of the house on time, and didn't carve out time to put on the armor of God, ask Him to order your steps, or pray for His protection over your family? 

I keep coming back to 2 Kings 6:10, when Elisha warned the king of Israel “time and again” about where the enemy was, and because the king listened, he was able to avoid destruction. What if God has an important message for us, but if we don't humble ourselves and pray and seek His face time and again, we might miss it. 

Father forgive me for the times I forget to buckle Your Truth around my waist, when I’m overly task-driven, like Martha, and for letting busyness rule my day. Lord, help me to slow down and make time to get away with You, so You'll have an opportunity to share things with me, time and again. In Jesus Name I pray, amen. 

©Heather Potts 2018

He Goes with Us

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26Mqmc5rWM8

First ~ Lauren Daigle

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. ~ Psalms 118:24 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/psa.118.24.ESV

How’s your Wednesday going?

If you made it to Wednesday, shouldn’t it be all “downhill” and “smooth sailing” from here? That’s what we’re led to believe, but that’s not always the case.

This morning Holy Spirit whispered Psalm 118:24 to me. It was a simple reminder that I can face and tackle whatever may lie ahead, because the Lord's grace & mercy will go with me, (Psalm 23:6). But also, because the Lord made the day. Nothing is unexpected, and nothing is too hard for Him to help me overcome or maneuver. 

So far, I've been hit with some interesting challenges at work, but each time, I remember what He said, "This is the day the Lord had made...His grace and mercy go with me."

Praying this simple promise helps you find peace, as you maneuver through the rest of your week.

©Heather Potts 2018

14-Year Prayer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyqbvaQc7BQ

When You Say Nothing at All ~ Noting Hill Soundtrack

Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. ~ Hebrews 10:23 NLT

Lord, today we’re celebrating 14 years of marriage. That’s 14 years of facing storms, of trials and victories, of missteps and mistakes, of getting back up and trying again, of walking together, of needing You more than before, of learning together, of tears and loss, of fun and lots of laughter, of discovering new favorites and sharing old ones, of making new friends and cherishing long-time friends, of combating fears and overcoming odds, of dreaming, praying, and celebrating, of new adventures and making the journey together.

While we don’t know where the next year or 100 years will take us, I pray that we would keep on walking, dancing, laughing, loving, and going on this journey stronger and closer today than yesterday, and even more so tomorrow. Keep our hearts soft toward each other and humble before You.

Lord, watch over my husband. Bless him beyond his imagining and open his eyes to Your dreams for him. Bless our marriage and move in us, Lord. Embolden and strengthen us to move in Your power and victory. Cover over our family, Lord. Help us to be like You, that we would lead our girls in love, truth, peace, life, and laughter through our words and by our example.

Lord, this is my 14-year prayer for our family. Be ever-present in our lives, Lord. Help us to spread everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of You. Thank you for 14 years of marriage. I pray for 100 more—more blessings, more love, and more of You. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dy9nwe9_xzw&start_radio=1&list=RDdy9nwe9_xzw&t=0

Oceans ~ Hillsong

©Heather Potts 2018

Quiet Confidence

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx3qvN_j63Q&list=RDfx3qvN_j63Q

I Will Exalt You ~ Hillsong United

If my life is surrendered to God, all is well.  Let me not grab it back as though it were in peril in His hand but would be safer in mine. ~ Elisabeth Elliot

He got up, got dressed for work, kissed his girlfriend good-bye and headed out the door.  Today was the day it would all change for him.  He was starting a new job, a new way of life.  After orientation, his boss showed him to an office and asked him to file while she was in a meeting.  A while later, he began to hear a commotion.  People were yelling and running.  He stuck his head out of the office and saw the burning twin towers on TV and the reporter talking about the concerns for the President.  Then someone in the office said, “Air Force One is across the street!  Should we evacuate the building?” No one gave an answer, for they were all staring at the TV in horror. He moved back into the office and closed the door, his mind whirling.

Most people remember where they were on September 11, 2001.  In John 14:27, Jesus said that He came to give us peace, but He wasn’t talking about a world without war.  Jesus was talking about an inner-peace, a feeling of quiet confidence and complete trust.  That’s easier to say when your world seems at peace, but what about when your world is not at peace.  Or what about those who don’t know Him?  What then?

Standing in that office, leaning up against the door, he was afraid.  “What if I die today?  What if they take out the President’s plane and this office with it?  What if my girlfriend was right and I miss it?”  He began to remember what his friends had said one night after work, so many years ago.  They had talked about a Savior. Not a mean God, but One who wanted to love him and who would accept him.  Sliding down to the floor, he said, “God I give you my heart.  From this day forward, I’m Yours.”

The TV stations all reported the number of lives lost that day.  I’m sad for the families who all lost someone.  But I’m glad for at least the one soul who became a saved soul on that Tuesday.

Father God, thank you that on Tuesday, September 11, 2001 my husband became forever Yours.  Lord, thank you for his friends who told him about You long before I ever knew him.  Lord, I pray that for those who don’t know Peace—who don’t know You—that they would turn to You, that someone would come into their lives and tell them about You.  Father, thank you that You are our God and we are Your people.  In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

And I will give them a heart to know (recognize, understand, and be acquainted with) Me, that I am the Lord; and they will be My people, and I will be their God, for they will return to Me with their whole heart. ~ Jeremiah 24:7 AMP

©Heather Potts 2014, reprint 2018

I am His Sheep

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUT4trsrBCw&index=15&list=RDN8WK9HmF53w

Different ~ Micah Tyler

The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me], I shall not want. He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still and quiet waters. He refreshes and restores my soul (life); He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. ~ PSALM 23:1-3 AMP

Having been in the valley for over a year, I can attest to how much I have felt like a sheep. There were many times I wanted to go my own way, to stay a “stay-at-home” mom. But my Shepherd helped to steer me on His path. During these last four weeks of watching my grandpa slip away, having more job-doors close on us, and suddenly losing my father-in-law, my Shepherd saw that I was becoming worn down and weary. That’s when He led me along paths that were filled with time to rest and plenty of nourishment. He’s also been bringing refreshment to my soul by bringing family and friends, whom I don’t often see, to town. He does it not only because He can, but because He wants to do it.

For my God—my Shepherd—it wasn’t enough to heal and hold me. His desire is to open my eyes to the beauty He’s making of our lives, encouraging us to keep following Him. It was for His purposes that He brought us 1500 miles away to Wisconsin, where we’d get to meet and reconnect with friends and family who used to be 1500 miles away. Yes, 81 job-doors have been closed on us (on Brad), but we only needed to find the right ONE to open. That one wasn’t at all what we expected, but part of following our Shepherd is experiencing unexpected blessings and changes He uncovers in us along the way.

If you are walking through a valley of your own, I know how overwhelming it can feel. Now’s the time to run to your Shepherd so that He can heal and hold you, but also so that He can open your eyes to the experiences—the blessings and changes—of following Him.

©Heather Potts 2018

Everlasting

https://youtu.be/LqBpifDpNKc

Oh Praise the Name ~ Hillsong 

The Lord appeared from of old to me [Israel], saying, Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you. [Deut. 7:8.] ~ Jeremiah 31:3 AMPC

What a great image for today. It perfectly wraps up the journey we’ve been on, the decisions being made, and our focus on God’s promises for the future. This scripture is another promise from God, much needed today, that He WILL CONTINUE His faithfulness. It doesn't stop just because there is loss and pain. And the loss isn't a sign of anything other than we live in a fallen world.

I hope that whatever you might be going through or facing today, that God's promises fill you with hope, peace, confidence, and joy.

Thank you, Father, for Your promises. Thank you for being for me, in this moment, exactly what I need! In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.

~Heather Potts~

Not Knowing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxTc98K9OeU&list=RDuxTc98K9OeU&t=4

Here as in Heaven ~ Elevation Worship

And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. ~ Acts 20:22 NIV

One Sunday morning, in January 2006, I was compelled to find my friend Nichole. She went to some church called Bayside. I didn’t know what I would encounter when I arrived at her church, but I went. I found my friend, but also healing, fulfillment, and many friendships that would shape our family.

In 2010, God called us to join a team preparing to launch Bayside’s first satellite campus. At first, I didn’t want to go. I had found my niche and didn’t think I needed anything else. But then God’s Spirit touched our hearts, and we went.

Then in 2015, as Bayside was preparing to launch its fifth satellite campus, Brad asked us to pray about going. I didn’t want to pray, because I didn’t want God to move me. We’d established deep relationships, our girls had the perfect pastor, and I felt like this was where we belonged. But Holy Spirit touched me, and we went.

And in 2017, God told us to pack and prepare. We did, not knowing where we were going, until God spoke to Brad and said we were Wisconsin-bound. I didn’t want to go. This was our home, the one God had established for us. But Holy Spirit touched us, and we went, not knowing what would happen to us there. We rolled into town extremely late on July 24, 2017. The year has been filled with many hardships. But also love. God established and re-established many relationships, people with whom we’d walk through each other’s joyous and hard times. Then exactly one year after we arrived in town, my Grandpa Hayes passed away. But he left behind him a legacy of love, prayer, and faithfulness to God and his family.

I don’t know what the next year or years will hold for us. But compelled by the Spirit, we will go and do as God directs in love, prayer, and faithfulness to God and our family.

©Heather Potts 2018

H.E.L.P.

https://youtu.be/cueulBxn1Fw

Help ~ The Beatles 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiK9S8iq4ek

Open Heaven ~ Hillsong

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. ~ 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV

Life really hurts sometimes. My grandpa Hayes is dying. Brad’s grandma is very sick and weak. Brad’s mom just had several blood clots removed from her lungs and legs, and now must live on tank oxygen and blood thinners, and simple things, like washing dishes, are too much of a struggle for her.

Hard times and pain are just as much a part of life as are joy and celebration. But often, we don’t know how to respond when we see others hurting and either walk away—afraid the pain is contagious—or fill in the space with plastic wrap answers and responses that don't really help the people who are hurting.

But there is HELP:

H - Hands. Compelled by compassion, we want to reach out and ease the pain. Try a hug, a phone call, or text just to say hello and remind them you’re here for them. 

E - Everyone. You can't do everything, but everyone can do something. What comes naturally to me may be a struggle for you. Try cooking/buying a meal, running errands, doing a chore (like laundry), bringing coffee, or sitting quietly with them.

L - Love. Love is what compels us to act. It's WHY we're moved with compassion. In the middle of the pain, those who are hurting just want to know they're still loved and not alone.

P - People. At the end of the day, we're all people. We need prayer, real encouragement, and people who will stand side-by-side with us, until the end.

If you're going through something, don't be afraid to reach out and let others surround you. And if you know someone going through a hard time, they don't need you to answer "why" it’s happening. Just be there in whatever way God leads you. Comfort them the way you've been comforted.

They're looking for help and God sent you.

©Heather Potts 2018

Fear Not

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9YqVeBsWv8&list=RDr9YqVeBsWv8&start_radio=1

Fullness ~ Elevation Worship

So don’t worry, because I am with you. Don’t be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you. I will support you with my right hand that saves you. ~ Isaiah 41:10 ICB

In the middle of the night, there was incredibly loud thunder. Which, of course, woke the girls. And before it got quieter, it got MUCH LOUDER! Elizabeth scurried herself further under our covers. We were all awake for an hour in the middle of the night because of noise, LOUD NOISE. 

That's what the enemy is, too: loud noise. The Bible refers to him as a "roaring lion," (1 Peter 5:8). Little children are often afraid of loud noises: fireworks, parades, thunder, etc. They're afraid, typically, because they don't know what the noise means. As adults, we often seek shelter from the "roaring," because we're afraid of what it means, what it will do to us. Instead of cowering in fear, the Bible says, “Refuse to give in to the devil. Stand strong in your faith,” (1 Peter 5:9 ICB).

Whatever fear you’re facing today, whatever loud noise the enemy is making in your direction, remember that you don’t have to be afraid, because God is with you and He promises to make you strong and to help you. Fear not!

©Heather Potts 2018

Washed in Love

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1srs1YoTVzs&list=RD1srs1YoTVzs

Fear is a Liar ~ Zach Williams

So no weapon that is used against you will defeat you. You will show that those who speak against you are wrong. These are the good things my servants receive. Their victory comes from me,” says the Lord. ~ Isaiah 54:17 ICB

We've all experienced the hurtful sting of someone speaking ill against or to us. But sometimes we let those hurts define us. When Savannah was one month old, they called her "failure to thrive" because she never regained her birth weight. At All Children's Hospital, they wanted Savannah to eat formula. We offered it to her, but after she threw up the first one, she refused the others. The next morning, the student doctor told me I was a bad mom. The words hit me harder because someone had already commented that "failure to thrive" refers to babies who aren't held enough. Those two comments crippled me, right there. I wanted so desperately to be a good mom, but right out of the gate, I was told that I was a bad one.

Has that ever happened to you? Did you recover? Or are those words, is that lie, still spinning in your brain? 

Savannah's story ends well. The "real" doctor came and gave her Similac Alimentum, which we later discovered is the only gluten free formula. After that, Savannah went from failure to thrive to the 90th percentile, where she still registers. 

Why do we allow hurtful words and lies to define and weigh on us? It's time to cast off those hurtful words and lies! God says you are a beautiful masterpiece that He created, (Ephesians 2:10). Sometimes when we've believed a lie for so long, it's hard to believe something else, even though we want to believe the Truth. That's why Jesus said He's washing His Bride in the water of the Word, (Ephesians 5:26). He's going to continue to speak, sing, minister, and as gentle as water, pour it over you until His Truth replaces old lies.

If there's a lie you've believed, it's time to give it to Jesus and let Him wash you in His love until you believe it's true. 

©Heather Potts 2018

He's Moving

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9VomNXhKj4&list=RDw9VomNXhKj4

O Praise Him ~ David Crowder

Then he continued, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.” ~ Daniel 10:12 NIV

When Savannah as 9 months old, one of our cars died. But we were OK living with one car, until a few months later when that one died, too. But instead of panicking, we had peace. We fasted and prayed for a week, asking God to fix our cars, believing that He would move.

At the end of the week, the cars were still dead, but that doesn’t mean God wasn’t moving. A friend, who lived nearby, worked just a few blocks from my office and offered to take me to and from work every day. And on the weekends, they leant us one of their cars, so we could buy groceries or go to church. This lasted a month or so, but God wasn’t done moving.

At that time, we were a one-income family of three, with no extra money to take on a car payment. Some of our friends and family chipped in and gave us $300 to put towards a new car. In the world’s economy, $300 won’t get you anything. But in God’s economy, it was all we needed.

At the same time that our cars died, some other friends were trying to sell a car on Craigslist for $2,000. When they heard our story, they called us and offered to sell us their car for, guess how much. $300! For $300 we got a working, new-to-us car.

When Daniel needed an answer, he fasted and prayed for 21 days. On the 24^th day, an angel of the Lord appeared to him and said that as soon as Daniel humbled himself and prayed, heaven heard and began to move. What do you need from God? What answers have you been seeking from Him? Even if you haven’t seen or heard the answers yet, don’t give up; don’t lose heart. Because as soon as you humbled yourself and began to pray, God heard you and He began to move.

©Heather Potts 2018

More

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfVd5x9W1Xc

So Will I ~ Hillsong

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. ~ Isaiah 55:7-8 NKJV 

What is it You want to be for me in this situation that You couldn't be at any other time? ~ Graham Cooke

Things have been crazy since moving here. Although we didn't get any of the things we were hoping for and have had to put on hold some of our dreams and desires, God filled in the gaps with friends and family to walk with us.

Still, these last two + months have been particularly hard. The temp job Brad had ended early for reasons outside of our control. As this stretch of unemployment gets longer, the weight feels heavier and hope seems farther away. Additionally, Savannah’s heart popping, though not serious, has increased in intensity, scaring her. And our only car has been acting up, worrying us that it might die or cost more than we have to fix it. Originally we planned on taking care of it with our tax return, but have since had to use our tax return to supplement our income.

But things change when God speaks. On April 24, I was listening to Graham Cooke, while driving to work. He said to ask God that question. Sitting in the parking lot at work, I prayed and asked God the question. I was prepared to wait days or weeks for an answer. I got out of my car, entered the building, turned down the hallway, and God said, "I AM the Lord Who Provides."

That day I had peace. The next day, my boss/team gave me a $50 gift card for Administrative Assistant's day. That evening, after our life group, one of the guys in our group was able to fix our car for FREE! That Friday, Savannah got adjusted at the chiropractor. She went more than a week without complaining of heart popping. And God has moved in many other ways, too.

Even though Brad still hasn’t found a job, what I realized is that God did answer my prayer, just not how I expected. We've been praying for Brad to get a job because it fills our need for provision. But instead of asking God for His desired way to meet my need, I only asked Him for mine. I love how God not only knows more, but can both humble and quiet me in a breath. And though we are still asking God to provide the work that will fulfill Brad and cover our needs, there’s a peace in the waiting when He whispers, “I AM the Lord Who provides.”

Whatever you are going through and facing today, don't forget that God sees and knows more. I both encourage and challenge you to ask God, "What is it You want to be for me in this situation that You couldn't be at any other time".
©Heather Potts 2018

MOM

...a woman who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord, she shall be praised!
Proverbs 31:30 AMPC

What is a mother? It's the woman who carried you. What does it mean to be carried? It's nurturing, loving, praying, speaking life, feeding, encouraging, clothing, teaching life skills, imparting wisdom, coaching, hugging, holding, cuddling, playing with, tickling, providing, celebrating you. 

MOM is someone who Moves On behalf of Me.

Is there a woman in your life who has done that for you? Maybe your mom, step-mom, grandma, godmother, spiritual mother, honorary mother, aunt, etc. If so, say thank you & Happy Mother's Day!

Gravity

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xx0d3R2LoU

Reckless Love ~ Cory Asbury

Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock ~ Matthew 7:24 NKJV

Gravity is the force that keeps you on earth. When a rocket is trying to launch into space, gravity is the force that works against it, making lift-off difficult. The rocket succeeds when the force propelling it up is stronger than the force pulling it down.

We all experience this: God gives us a vision or calls us to “go,” and the enemy immediately pounces, heaping on distracting and discouraging circumstances, trying to thwart God’s plans for our lives. In the face of such adversity—forces that tear away jobs, friends, homes, family, and health—how can we be propelled forward? We must be like the wise man who built his house upon the rock, the powerful and unchanging Word of God.

·         When we root ourselves in God, we will never fail to bear fruit (Jeremiah 17:7-8)

·         When we have need, God provides in ways we can’t imagine (Deuteronomy 29:5; Matthew 14:17-21)

·         When we need wisdom, God is always there (Matthew 6:33; Matthew 7:8)

·         When we suffer from dis-ease, God is our Healer (Psalm 23:3; Psalm 103:3-4; Matthew 9:21-22)

Standing upon the Rock, though the storms come and beat upon the house, it stands, (Matthew 7:25).

It’s been crazy-hard transitioning here, away from our church family, friends, the warmth, and the life we built together for 17 years. But just as the rocket must persevere, depending upon the ignited fuel to propel it past gravity, we must believe in and speak God’s truths over ourselves until they manifest in our lives, propelling us past the lies of the enemy that are meant to tear and hold us down.

What is the enemy trying desperately to keep God from launching in your life? Ask Holy Spirit to give you promises, remembering that when you build your life upon the Rock of His Word, you will stand!

©Heather Potts 2018

Prayer for Marriages

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOEviTLJOqo&list=RDyOEviTLJOqo#t=1

Old Church Choir ~ Zach Williams

But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you. ~ Psalm 5:11 ESV

Father, as even Brad and I have been under attack, ourselves, I do not take, nor speak Your Words lightly. Father, my wholehearted prayer for my married friends who are under attack, and sadly have been attacking each other, is for a fresh filling of Your Joy.

Joy is its own Spiritual fruit and does its own Spiritual work within us. It starts in the core, bubbling up from the inside, flushing out of our hearts, minds, and bodies, all the worldly toxins (unmet expectations, resentment, fear, doubt, comparisons, etc.). But unlike a chemical cleanse, which leaves us feeling empty and weak, Joy refreshes, recharges, and reignites us. What had dimmed down to an ember, has been fanned into a blazing, raging fire because of Joy. 

Joy is what emboldens us to stand and fight against every enemy that dares come against what You have tenderly placed in our loving care. Joy is what breaks the heaviest chains from around our arms and legs and lifts the most oppressive burdens from our shoulders, leaving us feeling lighter than air, bubbling out of us songs, dances, and words of Praise and thanksgiving, to Father God, who, through Jesus, has set us free!

Father, I pray that all who read this prayer will be blessed. I ask that You fill each of us with a fresh anointing of Your Joy. I ask also that You would continue to spread Your protection over us, our marriages, and our families. I pray that 2018 would be markedly different, that our marriages and our relationship with You would not only grow in strength and increase in depth, but would also be a beacon of hope for those who need You. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

©Heather Potts 2018