Tag: christianity

My 2023: A Year of Twists, Turns, and Tiny Triumphs

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational Thoughts, Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

Hello dear readers,

As I reflect upon the past year, it is evident that 2023 was a mosaic of moments, each holding its own lesson. Come, journey with me through the highs and lows, the laughter, and tears, of this transformative year.

A New Tradition and Its Lessons

The beginning of the year saw us embracing the Three Kings celebration with gusto. Gathering around the table at a local Puerto Rican restaurant, I had hoped to share a slice of my culture with my family. But, as the night unfolded, it was not just the delicious food that caught our attention. The unexpected overcharges and the lackluster service turned into a comedic backdrop, reminding us that sometimes, it is the unexpected moments that create the most lasting memories.

For those not familiar with this holiday, its celebrated-on January 6th, and it commemorates the visit from the wisemen visiting Jesus in the manger bringing gifts (Matthew 2:1-11).

Toddlerhood: The Adventure Continues

Oh, the joys of toddlerhood! My once quiet baby has blossomed into a whirlwind of energy, imagination, and independence. Every day has been a new adventure – from discovering the joy of splashing in puddles to the simple pleasure of chasing after butterflies. As they say, “Wait till the threes!” – but for now, we are navigating the world of toddler tantrums with love and patience.

South Carolina and Toddler Tunes

March whisked us away to South Carolina for family gatherings and shared laughter. Upon return I hoped to introduce my little one to the world of music with a toddler’s music class. However, the little maestro had other plans, turning the classroom into his personal racetrack! A switch to Storytime at our local library and a delightful encounter with Farmer Betsy’s farm-themed sessions became our go-to activities. And guess what? This fall, soccer entered our lives, and trust me, my little champ can kick!

Sailing the Seas with Dr. Seuss

Summer brought with it waves of excitement as we embarked on a Bahamas cruise. Navigating the azure waters with my tiny explorer was both exhilarating and enlightening. Every sunset, every laugh echoed the joy of togetherness. Traveling with a toddler might seem daunting, but our energies synchronized perfectly. The highlight? The Dr. Seuss breakfast! Witnessing my little one’s face light up with joy was pure magic.

Life’s Unexpected Twists

August took an unexpected turn when I was laid off from my 9-5. But every cloud has a silver lining. This phase allowed me to reconnect with my first loves: God and writing. As the ink flowed, I reconnected with words, rediscovered passions, and rekindled dreams. This hiatus has been a journey of introspection and growth.

Rebirth and Reflection

My recent baptism was not just a ritual; it was a soulful rebirth; a decision long overdue. My spiritual journey has been profound, reminding me of life’s true essence.

And speaking of new beginnings, my latest book, “15 Day Challenge to a stronger YOU!” hit the shelves. The inspiration for this book was the tried and failed yearly attempt for resolutions that are never started or rarely fulfilled. The book includes nine different challenges to adjust to everyone’s needs. Not everyone’s resolution is to hit the gym or eat healthier. I think the important thing about this book is that regardless of how successful you are in the practical parts of the challenge will never compare to the spiritual connection that the process will grant you.

For my fiction aficionados, stay tuned. There is something brewing!

Looking Ahead

As 2023 draws to a close, a tapestry of memories unfurls. Amidst the uncertainties of tomorrow, I anchor myself in faith and wisdom. Here is to 2024, with its promises, challenges, and infinite possibilities.

I would love to hear your 2023 tales and hopes for 2024. Until our next chat, stay blessed, and a Happy New Year to all!

Finding Comfort in Connection, Self-Care, and Faith During the Holidays

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, for many individuals, it can be a challenging period marked by loneliness, grief, and sadness. Whether due to the loss of a loved one, being far from family and friends, or struggling to form connections, the holidays can magnify feelings of isolation. Today, we’ll explore the various challenges people may face during this time and offer suggestions on how to cope, with a special emphasis on incorporating faith as a source of solace and strength.

1. Acknowledge and Validate Feelings:

The first step in addressing holiday loneliness and grief is to acknowledge and validate your feelings. It’s okay to feel sad, and it’s important to recognize that others may be experiencing similar emotions. Understanding that these feelings are a natural part of the holiday season can be a crucial first step toward healing.

2. Connect with Supportive Communities:

If you find yourself far from loved ones or lacking a strong social support system, consider reaching out to local communities, religious groups, or online forums. Attend community events, volunteer at local charities, or participate in virtual gatherings. Building connections, even if they are temporary, can provide a sense of belonging and alleviate loneliness.

3. Create Meaningful Traditions:

Crafting new traditions that align with your current circumstances can help reframe the holiday season. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, starting a personal ritual, or joining community events, creating meaningful experiences can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

This may sound silly as you’re by yourself, but it can be quite meaningful. One of my silly traditions is for New Year’s Eve. I don’t like to be out of my house, but I stay up late. After the new year has started, I locate a comedy channel and watch stand up comedy until I fall asleep. I look forward to that little tradition every year.

4. Embrace Self-Care Practices:

Self-care is crucial during times of loneliness and grief. Focus on activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and comfort. This could include spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness, indulging in hobbies, or simply taking a break to rest and recharge. Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being as an essential part of your holiday routine.

5. Seek Professional Support:

If feelings of loneliness and grief become overwhelming, seeking professional support can be incredibly beneficial. Therapists, counselors, and support groups can offer guidance, understanding, and coping strategies tailored to your specific situation.

6. Include God in Your Journey:

For those who find strength in their faith, including God in the process of navigating difficult times can provide solace and comfort. Engage in prayer, meditation, or attend religious services to connect with a higher power. Allow your faith to be a source of hope and guidance as you navigate the challenges of the holiday season.

If you want to start a habit of prayer or meditation, consider checking out my new book, The 15 day Challenge to a Stronger You! One of the challenges in the book is creating the habit of daily meditation.

The holiday season may bring forth a mix of emotions, but it’s essential to approach this time with compassion and self-care. By acknowledging your feelings, fostering connections, creating meaningful traditions, and including God in your journey, you can find strength and resilience during difficult times. Remember that you are not alone, and there are resources and communities available to support you on your path to healing and peace.

Embarking on a 15-Day Challenge: A Sneak Peek into My Upcoming Book!”

On By Naty MatosIn Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

Hey there, amazing souls!

I hope this post finds you in high spirits as we step into the festive month of December. I had planned a grand announcement for today—the launch of my new book. However, as life often unfolds, technology threw a curveball my way. Despite the setbacks, I’m thrilled to share a sneak peek with you and shed some light on the journey that led to the creation of this transformative piece of work.

This book, born out of a deep realization, is a fusion of the practical and the spiritual. I observed how, as humans, we grapple with our daily struggles individually. As Christians, prayer becomes our beacon, but what if there was more, we could do? What if uniting the practical aspects of our lives with the spiritual could propel us forward?

Without further ado, let me introduce you to “15-Day Challenge to a Stronger You!” The title might make you wonder—will all your struggles vanish in just 15 days? Of course not! But what it will provide is a golden opportunity to embark on a journey of self-improvement. Consider this book not as a main course, but as a delectable appetizer, designed to kickstart your personal development alongside your spiritual journey with Christ.

The rationale behind the challenge aspect is simple, we humans are inherently competitive beings. When we frame personal growth as a challenge, it ignites our inner fire, propelling us towards positive change. And why 15 days? Well, we’re following a timeframe to start forming a habit that sticks.

As we approach the dawn of a new year, many of us will be contemplating resolutions. My proposition is simple: consider the “15-Day Challenge to a Stronger You” as your primary resolution. Regardless of how much or how little you accomplish, the growth you experience will be enduring and profound.

I genuinely hope this snippet piques your interest. I encourage you to share this exciting endeavor with those around you and, most importantly, to revel in the process of working on yourself. Your journey will unfold alongside Jesus, guiding you through the realms of prayer and purpose.

Without further delay, here’s a glimpse of the cover. I’m tirelessly working to iron out the technical kinks, and with a bit of luck, the book will be in your hands next week. Let’s embrace this challenge together, and may it be the catalyst for a remarkable transformation in your life.

Stay inspired, stay motivated, and let the journey begin!

Looking forward to sharing more with you soon!

As always, be blessed!

Bonus Post: Gratitude, Black Friday and Hope for Landon

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Hey Risers,

I couldn’t wait until Monday to share this bonus post with you, especially given the financial rollercoaster many of us are on this holiday season. It’s Black Friday today, and I couldn’t help but reflect on the fascinating origins of this day. Legend has it that Black Friday emerged as a lifeline for businesses in the red, struggling throughout the year, aiming to turn a profit by year-end – hence the name, Black Friday. Now, don’t quote me on this, as today’s post is a bit of a memory dive. Feel free to fact-check if you’re feeling scholarly.

After a delightful family feast, my little one and I embarked on a joyous drive through neighborhoods adorned with festive lights. The excitement of the day had my little companion dozing off as soon as we got home. Seizing the quiet moment, I indulged in some post-feast “window shopping.” Now, I’m not one to make impulsive purchases, especially when the purse strings are tight. They call me Ms. Google in the family – always researching something. So, I did plenty of browsing and zero buying.

Let me share a little backstory on my Black Friday sentiments. Back in college, I worked in the food court of a bustling mall. Finals were looming in the first week of December, and I’d take time off around Thanksgiving to focus on studying. The catch? I had to work Black Friday, from sunrise to sunset, amidst a sea of shoppers. The traffic was so overwhelming that, despite the counter between us, I felt claustrophobic. I promised myself then to avoid adding to the chaos as a shopper.

Fast forward to last night, as I scoured the web for the perfect gifts for my little one. It dawned on me that these so-called “sales” might not be the bargains they claim to be. Some items seemed to have inflated original prices, making the discounts less impressive. It was a game of price sleuthing, and I was determined not to fall for it. The meme I stumbled upon resonated: “The US is the only place where after giving thanks for what you have, you go buy more stuff that you can’t afford for people you don’t like.” It’s a quirky reality check, reminding us of the gratitude we should hold close.

Amidst my online adventures, a mother’s plea for prayers for her 7-year-old battling respiratory issues kept appearing on my timeline. It hit me – while my little one snored peacefully beside me, her reality was a hospital room. Gratitude washed over me. This morning, my toddler’s breakfast demands were my wake-up call. Meanwhile, a mother was anxiously waiting to transfer her child to another facility for a machine named “last chance.” Perspective.

Reflecting on a formula crisis from two years ago, which we had just transitioned to whole milk before it started, and the minimal health hiccups my little one has had in his short life, I am filled with gratitude. Even if this year means I can’t fulfill all my little one’s wishes, he’ll still receive more love than he needs. As for me, material gifts don’t define my holiday joy. In times of hardship, my roof stands firm, bills are paid, and yes, we occasionally choose ramen for lunch rather than out of necessity.

So, as you navigate the tempting sales today, consider what’s truly essential. Could some of those resources be better spent blessing someone else? Are you embodying the spirit of the holidays or succumbing to the spirit of consumerism?

And a little request, if you can spare a moment, send a prayer for Landon, the 7-year-old fighting in the hospital.

As always, be blessed. 🌟

Gratitude for My Faith: A Personal Testimony

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts, WorshipLeave a comment

Hello, dear readers! I am excited to share with you a significant milestone in my faith journey that happened just this weekend. It’s a story filled with faith, transformation, and the grace of Jesus’ salvation. Through this personal narrative, I’ll take you on a journey through my varied experiences with different churches, all of which have played a unique role in shaping my faith.

In the Beginning

I was born into a Catholic household, and from a very young age, I was immersed in the traditions of the Catholic Church. I was baptized as a baby and took part in my first communion during my third-grade years. Middle school led me to a Catholic school, and as part of my graduation requirement, I went through the sacrament of confirmation. My days were filled with mandatory retreats, Sunday masses, and active participation in the youth group.

During this time, I had a superficial understanding of salvation, believing that merely attending church and professing faith in Jesus was enough to secure a place in heaven. Little did I know that a deeper spiritual awakening awaited me.

My perspective on faith took a significant turn when I turned 18 and attended a retreat. It was there that a leader guided me to the altar, and I was asked if I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I said yes, more out of fear of saying no to God than true understanding. I later spoke with a priest, admitting that I didn’t quite grasp the significance of my declaration. He assured me that it would take time to fully process.

A New Start

In a neighboring town, there was a Catholic church that had a unique flavor. While still connected to the Vatican, they called themselves Catholic Charismatics. Their mass was like what I was used to, but their sermons went deeper into the scriptures. This church introduced me to a new desire for reading the Bible and a more frequent attendance at services. I also began to learn about the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the baptism of the Holy Ghost.

The pivotal moment in my faith journey occurred during a revival event under a tent. On the final day, there was an altar call, and I found myself running to the front, shouting, and crying, “I surrender!” On that day, I consciously gave my life to Jesus, accepting Him as my Lord and Savior.

I don’t remember how long after, at this church, there was a renewal of our baptism ceremony. It was a ceremony where we were asked if we rejected all the works of the enemy and accepted Jesus, and they pour water over our heads. I was happy about that ceremony because I was not a child. This had been my decision to be rebaptized.

My then husband and I started an outreach ministry within that church. We did all kinds of activities that are not worth mentioning. But life is never a straightforward path, and my marriage took an unexpected turn, we got divorced.  Although I was not excommunicated or officially ousted from the church, I knew that divorce was regarded as a sin, and I chose to step away from the church.  For some time, I was away from the church, but I knew that seed was planted, and I needed to get back home.

New Location and Finding Home

In 2006, after moving thousands of miles, I joined a new church, and it was during a presentation of a play named “Final Destination” in 2008 that I rededicated my life to Christ. I felt truly “born again” but questions of my baptism started lingering in my mind.

 I grew tremendously at this new home. I learned a lot about myself. I was able to heal a lot of past wounds and find a new community. But most journeys are not linear and this one hasn’t been one either.

As one does, something happened in the church that I didn’t agree with and I didn’t leave, I would say I paused attending. I researched other churches, but nothing felt right. I knew in my heart where my home was, but I can be hardheaded.  Then the pandemic hit, and it gave me an excuse to stay away.  But then the little man showed up. Him being the fulfillment of my biggest prayer and God’s perfect gift. I knew my home church was precisely that, HOME. It was time to come home. First, because I was grateful for God keeping me through all that time, second for giving me what I had desired the most and finally because I wanted to give this child the best spiritual upbringing I could.  

As I returned, I witnessed others getting baptized, and the question of the validity of my previous baptisms came back and it kept weighing on me. I always wondered if my baptism “counted”. First, I was baptized as a baby, and then yes kind of later as an adult, but there’s the whole dogmatic conversation between sprinkling vs submersions. I was never submerged which is what my church practice. Now, nobody ever asked me if I was baptized and if they had I would have said yes. That choice of baptism that I did as an adult counted for me. But that was at a Catholic church. And yes, Catholics are Christians, but protestant churches make a distinction. Yes, I knew Jesus is not Catholic or Lutheran or Baptist, but it was tormenting me the question, did my baptism count?

A Fresh Start Through Baptism

I must admit that I gave these thoughts more power than they needed to. For years, yes years, I kept looking at those participating in baptism feeling like I was missing out and did nothing about it.

During yesterday’s service, the pastor announced an impromptu opportunity for baptism. I hesitated. He then said that service was ending early, so having another commitment was not an excuse. I didn’t have a commitment, but I was still in my seat. Then he said, if you have not registered, no problem we register you now. I didn’t move. Then he said, if you didn’t bring a change of clothes, we have a change of clothes for you as well. Don’t worry about the size, we have it.  I hesitated no more. I left my seat and joined the others. I was baptized, and as I stood in the water, I knew that I had cast away all doubts. This act of faith was a declaration that I was “all in.”

Gratitude for the Journey

Today, I am filled with gratitude for my journey of faith. Each chapter, from my Catholic roots to charismatic experiences and recommitting to my faith, has been instrumental in shaping my relationship with God. My baptism is no longer a question mark but a symbol of my unwavering faith.

I share this story not to criticize any church but to inspire you to reflect on your own faith journey. May you find peace in knowing that God is not a God of confusion, and through faith, you can overcome any doubt. My journey is a testament to His grace, love, and mercy, and I hope it encourages you to embrace your own faith with renewed enthusiasm and conviction.

Finding Life Balance

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

After looking into the things that deplete us in our post yesterday, I wanted to talk about finding balance in life. From a Christian perspective, the pursuit of balance is not merely a secular concept but also a spiritual imperative. The Bible offers valuable guidance on how to find equilibrium in our lives while remaining true to our faith.

Prioritizing Faith and Relationship with God

Photo by nappy on Pexels.com

At the core of Christian living is the relationship between individuals and God. Finding balance begins by prioritizing your faith and nurturing your connection with the Creator. Regular prayer, reading of Scripture, and participation in spiritual practices such as attending church services, fellowship with other believers, and worship can help you establish a strong foundation.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This verse emphasizes the importance of relying on God for guidance in every aspect of our lives, which is crucial in achieving balance.

Balancing Work and Rest

In our modern world, work often consumes a significant portion of our time and energy. While it’s essential to work diligently, Christians are also encouraged to find a balance by observing the Sabbath, a day of rest, reflection, and worship. The Sabbath is a reminder of God’s command to rest, as He rested on the seventh day of creation.

Exodus 20:8-10 (NIV) states: “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.” By setting aside a day for rest, we honor God’s design for our well-being and remind ourselves that life is not solely about work and achievement.

Cultivating Healthy Relationships

Photo by fauxels on Pexels.com

Balancing our relationships with family, friends, and the broader community is another crucial aspect of Christian life. The Bible emphasizes the importance of love, forgiveness, and compassion in our interactions with others. In doing so, we maintain harmony in our relationships and reduce the stress that can arise from conflicts and misunderstandings.

Colossians 3:13-14 (NIV) instructs us: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” These verses emphasize the need for forgiveness and love as foundational principles for maintaining healthy relationships.

Pursuing Physical and Mental Well-being

Taking care of our physical and mental health is essential in achieving balance. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and we are called to steward them well. This means maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and seeking mental and emotional well-being through prayer, meditation, and seeking professional help when needed.

Finding balance in life from a Christian perspective involves prioritizing faith, work, rest, relationships, and self-care. By following the guidance of the Bible and drawing strength from our relationship with God, we can navigate life’s challenges while maintaining a sense of equilibrium. Remember that balance is not about achieving perfection but about seeking God’s guidance and living in alignment with His will as we journey through this earthly life.

I found this program, that could help you find balance in your life. If this is something that you’re struggling with, I invite you to check it out, by clicking on the banner below.

As always, be blessed.

Labor of love

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Have you ever thought, how no matter what job you have you’re doing a service onto others?

On a day like this we honor those that are contributing to society. The reality is that there are many ways to provide that contribution. We only think of work or labor as a typical job, but there are many unsung heroes who give time, energy, and effort to our society.

Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com

No matter what cog in the machine you play. If you work taking phone calls, lifting boxes in a warehouse, raising children at home, or volunteering your time for others you are providing labor to our society; and with your labor and sacrifice you are bringing value.

As a person of faith, I think every act of labor is an act of worship. If you believe in a higher power, you should consider even the most mundane task to be an offering. It’s hard to see sometimes, but it should feel our hearts with gratitude when we get the opportunity to serve. In one way or another we’re all serving.

The bible tells us on Colossians 3:23 (“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men”)

When we look at our labor as a sacrifice of love for those who we serve and those whom we love, the burden gets lighter. We understand that our actions have a higher purpose than the report we’re writing, the food we’re cooking or the floor we’re cleaning.

Today we celebrate the fruits of our labor. The hard work we have been entrusted and the reward beyond finances that a well-done job does to our soul.

Happy Labor Day!

A moment at a time

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Are you having a rough day today? I know we’re all going through something. Don’t allow anyone to minimize how you feel. Yes, sometimes looking around and realizing that there’s people around us whose misfortune looks a lot more severe helps us put our problems in perspective. That doesn’t make your problems any less real or important.

Phrases like:

Photo by Wallace Chuck on Pexels.com

Those words, even if you believe them, do not bring immediate comfort to your anxiety. You think, how can I see that it will be ok, when I can’t get past right now. The great thing about faith and history is that they can reframe our anxiety.

Stop to think, when have you been in a similar situation and how it was resolved. Did God come through for you? I’m sure he did. Because even when the answer to your prayer may have been “No”, with time you have come to realize that it was best for you. Faith is the ability to trust what we don’t see. Are you able?

Amid storms, it’s hard some time to step out of the boat and walk on water. It’s sometimes even hard to breathe.

Let me tell you a story of something that happened to me some years ago. I honestly can’t remember why I was anxious that day. I had a lot going on, but I do know how I got through that day and made it.

There’s a portion of the extended serenity prayer that says: “Living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time”. That day I focused on that verse. I remember I was on my way to work when I became overwhelmed with anxiety due to whatever circumstances I was dealing with. I told myself that there was nothing I could do while sitting in my car. I decided to focus on driving.

Photo by Aayush Srivastava on Pexels.com

It was the morning rush, so you can imagine the amount of traffic I was facing. Sometimes when my anxiety levels are very high, I can’t even listen to music; any noise annoys me. In other occasions, is the opposite, I start playing music and sing very loud. I don’t care if I’m ridiculously dancing. It gets the anxiety kicked out.  This particular morning was one of those where noises were not part of the plan. Focusing on traffic was not going to help, but there was nowhere to go. So, I focused on my surroundings.

How many times have you driven down a road without noticing things? We’re going so far and focused on our destination that we miss a lot of what’s around us. That day I saw businesses that I didn’t know where on my commute. I noticed trees and trash on the highway. I wondered, how and when that trash would be picked up? By the time I made it to work, I hadn’t resolved a thing, but I could think more clearly. I have also gained insight into things I hadn’t noticed before.

So, if you’re having the kind of day where you can’t get past the next five minutes, DONT.  Don’t think about what is going to happen five minutes from now. Focus on what’s immediately in front of you. After that, focus on what’s immediately in front of you at that time. Do tasks one at a time. You may think that you’re slowing down, but the reality is that you’re accomplishing something that you were not doing at all, while paralyzed with anxiety. 

Take a breath, what haven’t you noticed around you. It may or may not have the answer to your problem, but it could give you a new perspective.

Photo by Jean van der Meulen on Pexels.com

Want to share with us your moment of stress or ways in which you have battled your own moments of anxiety. Feel free to comment below.

If you want to do so privately, feel free to email me at @therisingmuse

Blessings!

Sponsor

Confessions of a control freak

On By Naty MatosIn Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

By Brian Peart

I have had heartbreak in my life, early death of a father, a failed business after the
recession of 2008, issues with my kids. But nothing could compare to the pain I
felt when I lost my wife. She was the great love of my life, a fairy tale story if
there ever was one. And now it was gone. She was off at the lake forming another
life and I was at home crying to Ed Sheeran. She said I was a “control freak” and
that I was verbally abusive. To be clear, I never hit her…there was no physical
violence, but you can tear down a person with words and apparently, that is what I
was doing. At first, I said she was crazy but at one of my lowest points it dawned
on me…maybe there was something to what she said.
As I began to look into what makes a control freak it became increasingly clear, the
heart of the control freak is fear. For me, this fear was based on insecurity. She
was beautiful and amazing and deep down, I did not think I deserved someone like
her. That led to a fear of losing her which led to my subtle and not so subtle
attempts to control the situation. The heart of a control freak is fear-fear of losing
control causes you to try harder to keep control…and in the end, the thing you fear
often happens anyway. So now I knew the cause of why I acted that way, but what
was the cure? I went to the ultimate source of wisdom, the Bible, to find out how
to stop this pattern and came across this verse, “Perfect love casts out fear”. Ah
Ha! That’s it. Perfect love casts out fear…I knew then I had to dive into the Bible
and get to the heart of love to conquer this fear once and for all. That journey led
to the writing of my book, “Perfect Love”. I feel the Lord led me through some
carefully orchestrated steps to walk me from my bitterest defeat-the loss of my
wife-to my greatest victory. Within 4 months my book was written and within 6
months it was published. Writing that book healed me, but more importantly God
showed me a simple strategy to help ANYONE who has experienced heartbreak
and defeat to rise above and get back to the victorious life Jesus promised when He
said, “I come to give you life to the full. “ And if that was the end of the story, it
would be a great victory. But God was not done.
Unbeknownst to me, my ex wife found a copy of the book and read it. At first she
was put off but the Lord guided her to read it a second time and it changed her life.
Divorce is never one sided, there are always two people in every marriage. She
had habits and issues herself and amazingly, the book spoke to her as well. She
reached out to me, we started dating again and now are re-married! Reconciled!
Praise the Lord what an Amazing Grace! God’s Grace is the key my friends, His
love is overflowing. When you are in doubt, when you are down, when you are
struggling, you need only to look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, and
you will find peace. His Grace is sufficient for you!

19095577_1521594441247778_4644025883748247842_o (1)Brian Peart is a man sold out to God.  He lives in Monroe, Georgia and owns a mortgage company.  Brian is happily married and father to seven children with a granddaughter on the way.  Brian has laid out a battle plan in his book that takes you from the feeling of an epic fail, to the greatest point in your life.  He calls this a “God Help Book” and if you let the Lord lead you, with the simple steps in this book, you will be amazed at the results.

Brian Peart is author of a book entitled “Perfect Love”. In it he powerfully
reminds us of who we are, and steps out a simple plan to gain and keep a
victorious life all year long.

perfect love book cover

 

Simplicity

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts2 Comments

images (1)

Last summer I had to move. My 9-5 was relocating, my lease was becoming not affordable and I just needed a change. Before I moved into that apartment, I use to live in a town house. I had to get rid of a lot of things coming from a town house to a 2-bedroom apartment. This time I decided to move into a 1-bedroom apartment. I made that decision purposely. Again, I had to get rid of a lot of stuff. Guess what? I still have a lot of stuff.

The reason for the downsize was that I wanted live a simple life. I still look at houses in real estate websites that are gorgeous. At the end I always asked myself, who’s going to clean all that?

images

As time goes by, I’ve been trying to prioritize my life. What’s the point of having my closets filled with things that I never use? What’s the point of having all these things around to have more to clean? In return I can have more time for more important things. I can have more time to write, to read, to exercise, to pray and most important to rest.

Luke 16:13 “No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”

When our focus is in getting more stuff and not in our live purpose, we are practicing a way of idolatry.

I haven’t just worked on simplifying my surroundings. I’m working on simplifying every aspect of my life. My schedule, the things I eat, the company I keep. Life is complicated enough without us trying to do more than what we’re called to do.

Simplifying our life will help us have more time for more important thing, and probably more resources to accomplish our goals.

Thbd8f307411d23d6481031f5d786380c0e Lord has not asked us to hoard treasures on earth, but to store them in heaven. Now I’m sure that none of the treasures that he was talking about can be found at your preferred department store or at the mall. That scripture in Matthew also says that where our treasures are, so is our heart. It’s our heart in the things that the world craves or in the simple things the Lord has created for us.

Is out lifestyle living by: Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

 

Have a great week!