Day: May 16, 2023

Posted in joyful-echoes, Storytelling

A Girl named Emme

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

there was a young woman named Emme who found herself sitting underneath the beautiful cherry blossom tree in Washington DC. Emme was a disabled young woman due to her joint pain, and she often felt lost and unsure of what to do with her life.

As she sat there, she prayed and searched her heart for guidance. Suddenly, she felt a strong sense of purpose. She realized that she wanted to be an advocate for others with disabilities, to help them overcome their challenges and live a fulfilling life.

Emme began to research and learn as much as she could about advocacy, connecting with like-minded individuals and organizations. However, she still felt unsure at times if she was on the right path.

One day, as she was sitting under the cherry blossom tree, she heard a quiet voice in her heart. It was the Lord speaking to her, reminding her of her purpose and encouraging her to continue on her journey.

With renewed determination, Emily worked hard to make a difference in the lives of those with disabilities. She became a powerful voice for change, fighting for equal rights and opportunities for all.

And as she continued to work tirelessly, Emily found that her own pain and struggles had given her a unique perspective and strength that she could use to help others. Her advocacy work brought fulfillment and joy to her life, and she knew that she was making a meaningful impact in the world.

Years later, when Emily returned to the cherry blossom tree, she felt a deep sense of gratitude for the guidance she had received, and the opportunities she had been given. She knew that she was exactly where she was meant to be, thanks to the power of faith and listening to her heart.

Posted in Blessed

Forgiveness and Blessing: Keys to Overcoming Our Enemies

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hello Friends!!

Forgiveness and Blessing: Keys to Overcoming Our Enemies

In a world where betrayal, hurt, and harm are all too common, it is natural for us to seek revenge against those who have wronged us. The desire for justice is a basic human instinct – one that often leads us to take matters into our own hands instead of waiting for God to act on our behalf. However, the scriptures teach us a different way to deal with our enemies – one that is grounded in forgiveness, blessing, and prayer.

In today’s message we see God speaking about David’s enemies and promising to “clothe them with shame.” While this may seem like an appeal to our desire for revenge, the real lesson here is about trusting God to deal with our enemies in His own way and time. As Psalm 37:1-2 says, “Do not fret because of those who are evil…for like the grass they will soon wither.”

So what does it mean to forgive our enemies? It means letting go of the bitterness, anger, and resentment that comes with being hurt or betrayed. It means choosing to extend grace and mercy instead of seeking revenge. And it means recognizing that our true enemy is not the person who has wronged us, but the spiritual forces of darkness that seek to destroy us.

But forgiveness alone is not enough. We are also called to bless our enemies – to do good to them, pray for them, and seek their well-being. This may seem counterintuitive, but Jesus Himself commanded us to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). By doing so, we not only overcome evil with good, but we also open the door for God to work in our enemy’s life and bring about transformation and healing.