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About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water.   When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”    But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” Matthew 14:25-27 (NLT)   Matthew 14:28-31 from the Bible, is the story of the Disciple Peter walking on water. Let me ask this question, “Are you ready and willing, to walk on water”? We all know that without God's help, man cannot walk on water. Scientifically and physically, we would not stay afloat, and we would sink. So, in asking the question, I am not focusing on the science of walking on water but, the focus is on Peter’s willingness  to trust in God, and to step out of the boat by faith.   When Peter stepped out of the boat after Jesus permitted him, he initially kept his eyes focused on Jesus as he walked toward Him. However, when he started looking around at the wind and the waves, then looking down at his feet, he lost his focus, his confidence, his faith; and it was at that moment, he started to sink. Using our imagination, we can suppose that later after this incident, the other disciples would have teased Peter about his sinking and all that had happened. But the point is this, all of the other eleven disciples stayed  in the boat and did not step out on faith as Peter had done. They never even attempted to do what he did. He may have failed in the end but, he was willing to be obedient and to do what was impossible by trusting God.   So, what about us? Are we willing to step out on faith and trust in God when He tells us to move or to come? Are we willing to allow the Holy Spirit to come into our hearts and then look to use our gifts to share God’s gospel to this dark and unrepentant world? Or are we going to be like the eleven disciples, snickering, and cowering in the boat; looking at others who chose to exercise bold faith and stepped out at God’s command?   May we live our lives for Christ and be willing to “ get out of the boat ” when He calls us. May we be willing to have faith and courage to live for God and to live a life pleasing to Him and not this world.   Blessings, Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NLT) Love is a powerful emotion, and one God expects of all of us to have. What a different world we would live in if people tried a minimal amount of love daily towards each other. If every single person on this planet decided to show love, care, and respect for each other, this would totally change the outlook of the world in which we currently live. But, for all of us to have the desire to show brotherly love to everyone we meet, we need to be willing to work on ourselves.   In a devotion I read recently, a person shared how they sought to substitute their name in the place of the word love in the verses from 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7. I loved this idea and decided to try it. The verses below are from the NLT version of the Bible: “Angelique  is patient and kind. Angelique  is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. She  does not demand her  own way. She  is not irritable, and she  keeps no record of being wronged. She  does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Angelique  never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” In the devotional, they went on to say that when they substituted their name, they would stop at each verse to see if it was true to their character at the time. If it were not, they would put this area of improvement before God and continue to work on themselves to grow and become better. Of course, none of us is perfect nor will we ever be however, that does not mean we should not continue to strive to be the person God created us to be.   As we mature in our Christian journey, let us look to allow love, kindness, and humility to reign supreme in our minds and in our hearts. As we become closer to Christ, we must realize we cannot follow God and say we love Him, then turn around and hate His children, our fellow human beings. This world is very self-centered, materialistic, and seems to embody/promote narcissistic tendencies. These characteristics are the very opposite of Godly behaviors. May we all choose to turn away from the worldly way of thinking and behaving and instead embrace God's holy precepts and ideals. May we learn to love as God loves.   Blessings, Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart. 2 Corinthians 4:1 (ESV But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”  Acts 6:4 (ESV) And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” Isaiah 6:8 (ESV)   Has God chosen a replacement for your ministry? That is something to think about. I listened to a sermon recently, where the pastor shared that many people in the Bible were God’s first choice for ministry. Had they followed through, they would have been effective witnesses for His people and His kingdom here on Earth. However, because they allowed the cares of life, other individuals, fear, etc. to paralyze them, they never moved forward. Then as a result, God chose another, a replacement, who did listen, obey, and move to carry out His will.   There are many examples of people in the Bible who were replaced due to their life choices. One example is Jacob and Esau. Esau was the firstborn despite being a twin and was destined to carry on the family name and legacy as the firstborn son. However, he consistently showed no regard for his position and casually sold his birthright for food. Jacob, his brother, took his place and eventually God’s son Jesus, was born through Jacob’s lineage instead. Another example is Saul and David. Saul was king at the time when he and the tribe of Israel faced off with the giant Goliath and the Philistines. Saul was a large man who if he still had the Spirit of God upon him, could have taken on Goliath himself. But he had made poor choices in his past and the Spirit of God had left him. But David in contrast, was a small shepherd boy filled with God’s Spirit, who was willing to step up and do what needed to be done. David went on to defeat Goliath and save Israel in that battle.   How many of us were God’s first choice to move out and do His will? We were chosen first but for whatever reason, we did not move out and as a result, He moved on and chose another. We all should want to live our lives here on Earth to the fullest. We do not want to be guilty of taking to the grave, the ministry that God had for us while we were alive. God has given all of us gifts and talents that are to be used to uplift His kingdom here on Earth. In addition to uplifting His kingdom, God will at times allow us to use our talents to enrich our own lives as well.   As we look to move forward in life, I want to encourage us all not to squander the ministry God has given. When God places on our hearts to go out, may we use our gifts and talents to uplift this sinful world. At times we may have apprehension or fear but, we must realize God will be with us and will bless our efforts. May we be willing to do the ministry God gives us and not have Him turn to our replacement. Let us seek to move out and use our gifts and talents, whether great or small, to spread His message to a dying world. Blessings, Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (ESV) Have you ever felt down, not necessarily depressed, but just down and feeling that things in life are not where you would like them to be? I recently had that feeling come over me. Giving all praises to God, I can safely say those feelings come infrequently and they usually last just a few hours. But when the feelings do come, I know that’s when I need to take extra care of myself by getting rest, eating a balanced diet, exercising, and most importantly turning to God's word. In addition to studying the Bible, I seek to listen to Christian music as well as watch good bible-based preaching videos. Then, after a short amount of time, I started feeling better, more focused, and more centered, and my trust and belief in God strengthened despite the current negativity that surrounds us daily.   One popular set of verses in the Bible that gives me (and many others) encouragement is Psalm 23. Even though David, the author of this psalm defeated Goliath and had many other victories, he had his down  days in life as well. Yet, he trusted God and allowed his relationship with God to become real to him as he went through troubled times. Having head knowledge of Psalm 23 is important but what is of greater importance is to truly experience God, His presence, and His guidance; this is the ultimate goal.   As you read Psalm 23 below, notice that I have emphasized the words my, me, I, you, and your. When I did this, it really brought this psalm to life and reinforced the notion that these are not just mere words on a page. Enjoy anew God’s words of encouragement…   Psalm 23 (from the New Living Translation) The Lord is my  shepherd; I  have all that I  need. He lets me  rest in green meadows; he leads me  beside peaceful streams. He renewed my  strength. He guides me  along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I  walk through the darkest valley, I  will not be afraid, for you  are close beside me . Your  rod and your  staff protect and comfort me . You  prepare a feast for me  in the presence of my  enemies. You  honor me  by anointing my  head with oil. My  cup overflows with blessings. Surely your  goodness and unfailing love will pursue me  all the days of my  life, and I  will live in the house of the Lord forever.   Blessings,   Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

(1st published April 2024...Reposted) Answer my prayers oh Lord for your unfailing love is wonderful. Take care of me, but your mercy is plentiful. Psalm 69:16 (NLT)   Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.   Isaiah 46:4 (ESV)   As we transverse life, many of us may wonder from time to time if God really cares for us. We’ll ask the question, is He really going through life with us? We especially have this question come up when we’re dealing with challenges and difficulties in our lives. I think some people have the belief that once you become a Christian and put your faith in God, from that point on, you won’t have significant problems or burdens.  However, this is far from the truth. Everyone, whether they believe in God or not, will still have ups and downs as they go through life. The difference with our belief in God, His son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, is that we know the down periods in life, are just a moment in time. That God will be with us and will eventually bring us through to the other side.   Now, there will be times when some who go through trials will fall asleep in Jesus.  Even though their life has ended, they, as well as their loved ones, have faith that they will live again on the Earth made new, at the resurrection of the righteous.  So, no matter what course our life will take, we must know and believe that God will be with us every step of the way.  As the verses above have stated, as well as many others, throughout the Bible, God truly cares for His children. The entire Bible is His manuscript to us on how to live our best life and, how much love and sacrifice He has done in order for us to one day be with Him in paradise. An example of God‘s love is like loving parents here on Earth but, even deeper.  God's love for His children cannot truly be comprehended with our limited human minds.  So, when you ask the question, does God care for me? The answer is yes!  He does now and will always! Blessings,   Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

…having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.   14  For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland.   16  But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city. Hebrews 11:13-14 & 16 (ESV)   At times here on earth, we will see beauty, joy, and peace surrounding us but unfortunately however, this is not the reality for everyone. While living on Earth, experiencing both good and challenging times, some may perceive this as the entirety of life. But, as God’s children, we know that this Earth is not our final destination, it is not our forever home. What we all must realize is this: we are merely passing through, and we should not become attached to this world and its failing systems.   We should think of our journey here on Earth as training ground and preparation for Heaven. How we behave and interact here with others, is training for living eternally in Heaven. It would be great practice for us to adopt the mindset that we are pilgrims passing through as opposed to citizens. The definition of a citizen is a person who is a member of a country or place where they live but a pilgrim on the other hand, is a person who is traveling through, usually on a long journey. Of course, while here on Earth we are citizens of a particular country but, as God’s children, we need to remind ourselves this world is not our forever home.   Currently, we face uncertain and challenging news that permeates our daily lives. It is refreshing to know that one day we will live eternally with God and there will be no more hatred, bitterness, depression, physical ailments/diseases, financial problems, breakdown of relationships, etc. Earth and its systems will pass away, and we will be living eternally with God in the Earth made new. What a wonderful time it will be to live in a place where beauty, honesty, purity, and most importantly love prevails.   My encouragement to you is when times get tough, and it is hard to see a light at the end of the tunnel, know that you are just a pilgrim passing through on this life‘s journey. The current challenging situations you may be handling are not permanent, and this sinful Earth is not your permanent destination. While here of course, look to do good and to light up your corner of this world but, realize you are truly a pilgrim seeking to settle in your forever home called Heaven.   Blessings,   Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28 (ESV)   Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11 (ESV)   God, the creator of all humanity embodies equality amongst His children as the Apostle Paul stated in Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus”. As all human beings are God’s children, differences such as race, ethnicity, gender, or social status should not lead to discrimination that is in the world as well as the church.   Innately, many humans harbor a desire to dominate and feel superior to others. This often stems from a sense of inadequacy and a lack of control over certain aspects of their lives. Consequently, individuals may resort to belittling others due to their differences. Throughout the Bible, humans have consistently looked to assert authority and project an image of superiority through various systems and rankings. However, it is crucial to recognize that God is the creator of the diversity we see in our world! Whether it be people, plants, animals, the environment, the Earthly terrain; all the differences and variety we see have their origin from God.   Even though we all equally receive God‘s love and blessing, many will struggle with this notion and living out God‘s ideal for His children and His world. It may be difficult for some, but not impossible. God’s word teaches us that the diversity of people who unite, through faith and belief in Christ, will best reflect His ultimate plan for life here on Earth and eternity. May we all seek to celebrate the diversity that we see all around us. May we not be pulled into the polarization and division that many encourage, which brings about animosity and hatred. May we seek to be a unifying people that has a common goal of love, respect, and desire for the common good of everyone.   Seek to be one with Christ and in so doing, one with your fellow human beings. This is God‘s ultimate purpose and plan.   Blessings, Angélique To contact:  21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (ESV) Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV) Who do you imitate in this world? All of us usually will imitate and emulate someone we have met or admired from afar. The definition of imitate:  to copy someone’s actions, appearance, or manner. To emulate means to strive to equal or excel in imitating someone who is admired. So, the question is this, whom have you strived to imitate? Is it someone in the entertainment industry whether it be television, movies, music, fashion, or sports? How about a politician, a lawyer, or a doctor? It is natural for humans to follow other humans and depending on who they choose to follow, it can have an impact on their behavior, attitude, and life values.   The pull of this world is great, and many are sometimes drawn to imitating other people. The societal norms of pop culture and the lure of pleasure to enjoy life no matter what can draw many to follow others and the life they believe  these people are living from what they see on social media. One may assume a person is good based on what they listen to and see in the media, not really knowing the truth. Unfortunately, there are plenty of hate-filled, evil individuals on Earth, and due to their position, wealth, and/or power, many people imitate and/or emulate these individuals.   However, if one chooses to imitate another, look to choose a person who is honest, good, and has moral integrity. And honestly, instead of looking to imitate fallen, imperfect human beings, one should look to the life of Jesus Christ, and how He lived here on Earth. His life is a testament on how to interact with others and live a wholesome life that pleases God. Jesus’s life showed compassion and kindness and looked to uphold God’s principles and the love of His creation.   They say imitation is a form of flattery. However, people should not strive to flatter each other. Instead, one should look to live a life that is honest, pure, and pleases God. Strive to live life so that He would be proud of the choices made each and every day. So, remember, let us strive to imitate Jesus Christ and the life He lived today and always.   Blessings,   Angélique To contact:  21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. 1 Peter 2:12 (ESV) Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12 (ESV) What is your witness? What message are you projecting to others? So many times, when one thinks of witnessing, they think of Christians spreading God‘s messages throughout the world. Whether we are actively spreading God’s messages of hope, love, and peace to the world or, going about living our daily lives, we are being a witness to everyone we meet. A lot of times people do not realize that when they interact with others, they are being a witness. If you are loving and kind to others, you are witnessing. On the flip side, if you are arguing and fighting with others, yelling and screaming at your kids consistently, you are being a witness. People notice the inconsistency in our behavior when we exhibit kindness and caring towards others but exhibit a different behavior towards close family and friends. We all can say kind words and do acts of service when we know we are being watched but, how do we behave when we think no one sees us? People respond to what they see and how they (and others) are being treated. Whether we realize it or not, even if we do not utter a word from the Bible, others will look at our behavior and our attitude towards others. They can see the Godly characteristics/ behaviors being lived out in you, as well as those behaviors that are not.   Now, there will be times that everyone will have bad days and not be on their best behavior. That is normal human nature. However, the negative witnessing I am addressing here consistently exhibits attitudes and behaviors that are neither kind nor honorable. If a person is usually kind, humble, and loving, they are sharing a witness that pleases God. For those who are cantankerous, malicious, and evil, this witness is indicative of the sinful nature of this world.   As you move forward in life, remember to continually get close to God and His Holy Word. Seek to cultivate a spirit that shares the witness of humility, peace, love, and unity, with the world. We are living in an exceedingly difficult and crazy time in Earth’s history. The darkness of this world requires the light of God emanating from all of us to illuminate our part of the world.   What is your witness? Blessings, Angélique To contact:  21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Do not plan evil against your neighbor, who dwells trustingly beside you. Proverbs 3:29 (ESV) And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them. Luke 6:31 (ESV) But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? 1 John 3:17 (ESV) Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:4 (ESV)   Do you consider yourself a good neighbor? In this polarized and divisive society we live in, do you honestly consider yourself, a good neighbor? Can your neighbor look to you to assist and help in a time of crisis? Or are you a neighbor who comes and goes, sticking to your home, and not interacting at all with anyone? Throughout the entire Bible, God emphasizes being kind to your neighbor. If someone asked who is my neighbor, it could be the person living next to you, a co-worker at the office, another student at the desk next to you, the person who sits on the same pew at church, or the very next person you meet. The point is God does not want us to live a life of isolation or in our own personal vacuum as if others around us do not exist. On the other hand, God does not encourage one to go overboard and constantly be in your neighbor’s life and business; there is a Bible verse that addresses this, Proverbs 25:17. However, He does encourage us to reach out and be caring and attentive to each other.   Given the current global events, particularly in the United States, more people than ever need friendly neighbors who offer support and care. Fear of harm, both personal and collective, has created a climate of uncertainty. In addition, loneliness is a common issue, and many people yearn for meaningful interactions.   So many in this digital age hide behind cell phones, laptops, and various digital devices instead of interacting with each other face to face. As God’s children, we should not lose the human touch and connection. While we should not be intrusive, I do encourage checking in on them from time to time and seeing how they are doing. They, as well as you, need encouragement to continue this journey called life.   May we all seek to go out and make a difference in the world by being friendly, helpful, caring, and kind to everyone we meet.   Blessings, Angélique To contact:  21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27 (ESV) Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”  Joshua 1:9 (ESV) I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”  John 16:33 (ESV) Have you been keeping up with the news, especially if you live in the US? The recent bombing in Iran and the headlines warning Americans to be on high alert have caused a lot of fear and anxiety, both here and around the world. It is natural to feel worried when things are uncertain, but what can we do as God’s children to manage these feelings?   In the verses above, and many other verses throughout the Bible, God says, for us not to worry or fear. However, as we go about our busy lives, how does one not become fearful or anxious, when taking in the current state of the world? To be honest, it is not easy. God understands our concerns and fears. He knows our need for reassurance and comfort when the future is so uncertain. The way one begins to tackle this is to realize you cannot stop feeling fearful or anxious. Those feelings will come and trying to fight them off or ignore them is pointless. When they do show up, acknowledge them, but then say, “I won’t give in, and I won’t let these feelings control me.”   We may not know what will happen however, we do know the one who is Master over the past, the present, and the future. God knows all and has proven He can be trusted. By praying consistently and studying His word, we will gain knowledge of this world’s future and of His soon return.   Some tips on how to manage your fears and anxious thoughts: -Acknowledge these feelings and do not brush them aside or downplay them. Figure out what might be causing them. -Practice, calming techniques. Closing your eyes and taking deep breaths. Focus on a peaceful/happy place or memory. Focus on God‘s love and care for you, despite what is happening all around. -Do not allow negative thoughts and feelings to spiral out of control. You will feel anxious/fearful but, do not allow yourself to go down a negative dark path. -Be kind to yourself when you do feel this way. Tend to your needs. Exercise, take a walk, eat, get proper rest, and pamper yourself. -Most importantly, pray and study God‘s word. Even though you may not “feel” at peace, nor fully understand what is going on. Despite this, decide to trust God and know that He has everything under control. Trust and believe that no matter what happens, He will be there.   Now, if your anxious feelings and thoughts go much deeper and you feel you may need to speak to someone, please do not hesitate to seek the professional attention/care that you need. There are many people in the church and outside of it who have a therapist they see regularly, and that is perfectly okay.   Despite the fearful and anxious feelings, you may experience from time to time, know for certain that God is there and is working out a plan. Trust that God has everything under control and continue to move forward and spread His message of love to others. Seek to give encouragement to everyone as they navigate this journey called life.   Blessings, Angélique To contact:  21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Galatians 6:7-8 (ESV) And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. Daniel 12:3 (ESV)   Our actions and words, particularly those involving others, have both immediate and long-term repercussions in this life and beyond. In the current culture, many prioritize self-gratification and happiness, disregarding potential consequences. This mindset often leads individuals to believe that they can achieve happiness at any cost, disregarding the well-being of others. The Bible provides numerous examples illustrating the outcomes of individuals who prioritize their own desires over future consequences.   Consider King David, a man after God’s own heart. He was crowned King of Israel, possessing wealth, status, power, wives, and children. However, he chose to pursue another man’s wife, impregnate her, and subsequently had her husband murdered, so he could marry her. The repercussions of King David’s actions caused significant damage for the remainder of his life, and the ripple effects of these consequences were evident in his children, his household, and his reign.   Today many of us are aware of broken households where spouses engaged in infidelity due to lustful passions. Subsequently, their choices initiated a chain reaction of sinful consequences that not only impacted them but also their families, friends, colleagues, church members, and others. It is paramount to cultivate virtues such as goodness, honesty, truthfulness, and integrity, and to consistently choose to live following God’s truth rather than falling into the darkness of this world.   The Bible provides numerous instances of individuals making wise  choices, and their descendants reaped the benefits of their decisions. For instance, Joseph rose to prominence in Egypt and saved countless lives through his obedience to God. Similarly, the story of Ruth and Boaz, who are included in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, serves as a testament to the consequences of wise choices.   The decisions we make in life can have positive or negative ripple effects across generations, contingent upon our daily choices and actions. While we may not be perfect and will inevitably make mistakes, the question arises: do we learn and grow from these mistakes, refraining from repeating them, or do we prioritize carnal pleasures, disregarding the potential fallout of our decisions? The path we choose will determine the repercussions brought about because of our actions.   As children of God, let us strive to walk in the light of His love and precepts, making wise choices as we navigate life. Amidst the temptations of fleeting pleasure and enticements, let us resist and choose to follow God, seeking His lasting joy, happiness, and peace, that only He can give.    Blessings, Angélique To contact:  21stcglmediateam@gmail.com