Hey Friend and Welcome back to my little corner of the internet,

I'm excited to share some updates about the book today but I am also excited to share the Word of God with you.

This morning, I woke up, got little up and moving, headed for my usual cup of coffee. I made Little breakfast and turned on preschool learning on YouTube. Then I settled down at my dining room table with my bible, notebook, and lukewarm coffee.

This morning, I was still reading from 1 Samuel, Chapter 29-31.

You see David was supposed to fight with the King of Gath and the Philistines against King Saul, but the Philistine Governors went to Achish (the King of Gath) who David had lived with since fleeing Saul. And told him they did not want to fight with David because they feared he would turn against them during the fight. Achish tried to reason with them that he trusted David, but they refused. So, Achish sent David home to Ziklag. Upon returning to Ziklag David found his home burned and the women and children missing. Could you imagine being sent home from war and finding your town burned and plundered? 

The people spoke of stoning David for each and every one of them were embittered, BUT GOD. David even in the midst of them blaming him and not rusting that God would move on David's behalf felt strengthened and encouraged in the Lord.

If you remember when David was to fight against Goliath even his brothers told him to go home. David had no support from his people when he faced his Giant, but what the people couldn't see with their natural eyes, David could see with his spiritual eyes. He knew God would strengthen him. He knew God was bigger than the Giant he was facing. So often we could listen to the discouragement from others but remind yourself, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

We're allowed to have confidence in ourselves with the knowledge that God is the one strengthening us, because if we don't, we are putting limitations on God. Steer clear of fleshly pride and always give glory to God. God can only do through us what we choose to believe. So, if you're believing you're nothing and no good, or you can't do something, you are believing God cannot work through you. That is a hindrance on your faith and your trust in the Father. Pride goes before a fall, Proverbs 16:18. Pride is something we feel when we take all the credit as though it's through our own strength, we are capable of anything. That is what hardens us against the goodness of God. But when we believe fully, even if it's just a mustard seed of faith, we can accomplish so much more with God by our side. He is able to do exceedingly above anything we can ask or think. Ephesians 3:20

So, if you're needing encouragement I will leave you with this. When all else seems lost and you don't know what to do, be strong in faith that the Lord will lead, guide and protect you. He will never leave you, nor forsake you, Deuteronomy 31:6. You are the head and not the tail Deuteronomy 28: 13. You are loved and cherished.

Stay Blessed Friend,

FASP