Laurie Hopkins

There is power in the words that come out of our mouth.  

Our tone and volume are just as impactful as the words that actually come forth. 

The old saying, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me”, couldn’t be farther than the truth.  

Words can inflict much damage.  

But words can also bring forth much joy and encouragement. 

We have a choice.  

We can choose to think before we speak.  

We can choose to speak softly rather than harshly.  

We can choose to use words that seek to understand and seek to encourage and uplift, rather than words that judge and tear down.  

We are all guilty of not thinking before we speak.  

We must make a concentrated effort to pause before we put forth words into the atmosphere, words that will impact those around us and even ourselves.  

There is power in your words.  

Use them wisely!

There is abundant life.  

Often we find ourselves “just getting by”, “surviving”, “and managing”.  

But Jesus tells us that although the thief (the devil) comes to steal, kill and destroy, 

He (Jesus) has come that we may have life. 

Not just any life, but abundant life. 

Many people think about Jesus and think about dos and don’ts, rules and regulations.  

But Jesus is not about religion.  

Jesus is about relationship.  

Jesus came to restore the relationship between us and the Father.  

As in any relationship, there are things best done and not done, but as in any relationship, the focus is on getting to know the other person, not how well you play by the rules. 

A relationship with Jesus enriches your life.  

It allows us to get past the “just getting by”, “surviving”, and “managing” and helps us to move into life and life more abundantly. 

It is the sweetest relationship you will ever find. 

I can’t tell you why it will be sweet for you, only that I know it is sweet to me, it’s a personal thing. Try it out for yourself today and take that first step towards abundant living!

Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:38

How many times do we ask God to use us for the good of others and for His glory?  

How many times do we also, when called to be used, turn away because it is too hard, too costly, or too much outside of our comfort zone?  

Mary had a willing heart.  

She hadn’t asked to be used but the Lord knew her heart and presented her with the opportunity to carry the Son of God.  

Although this would mean great sacrifice and cost to Mary, without hesitation she responded, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” 

What does our heart look like today?  

Soft, pliable, tender and willing – or have we become hardened and skeptical about our ability to be used effectively in the world?  

The Father is looking for willing hearts;  willing hearts that are still tender and pliable – full of compassion, and willing to take a step of faith, out of the box and out of the comfort zone. 

Willing hearts are the open door for miracles to occur!