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Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Psalm 37:3 (ESV) As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (ESV) Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:14 (ESV) In various church communities and elsewhere, you will find some faithful people always seeking to do good. When you come across their paths, you expect their good works and deeds to always shine through, each and every time. But have you ever stopped to realize, that we all should have those traits and characteristics? That all of us should be good and have a desire to do good at all times? If every person on this planet sought to always do good to those around them, to the environment, and to society at large, the sin and evil of this world would not be as prevalent as it is today. To be a good person and to do good works should be second nature to everyone. However, in reality, as we continue to live in this sin-laden world, it can sometimes become increasingly difficult to always be good and kind, on a continuous basis. Most of us can be good and do good works from time to time and perhaps even frequently but, to exhibit this type of behavior on a continuous basis? That can be challenging and difficult for many. Despite the challenges of living a Godly life and seeking to do good always, it is not impossible to practice on a daily basis with all those we meet. Of course, there will be times when you’re upset and angry, and trying to instill the characteristic of being good will prove to be difficult and at times impossible. But we can take courage with this verse in the Bible from Luke 1:37, “For nothing is impossible with God”. So, as we go throughout our lives, may we at all times seek to do and be good. We can sum it all up with this quote by theologian John Wesley: ‘Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.’ Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof leads others astray. Proverbs 10:17 (ESV) Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence. Proverbs 15:32 (ESV) Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. Proverbs 8:33 (ESV) When you make a mistake or you’re about to make one, do you want someone to correct you? Are you teachable? The verses listed above, as well as many more in the Bible, let us know we all need to allow correction in our lives and be teachable. We should all strive to be people who are open to gaining knowledge and insight that leads to wisdom. No one can, or should, live their life feeling they know it all and that they’ve got everything figured out. No human (except Jesus) has life figured out and has all the answers. Every person can be teachable and should always be open to learning, even in areas they feel they have great understanding and knowledge. Being teachable also shows a sign of humility, which is something we all should exhibit at all times. No one likes a person who is arrogant and full of themselves. A person who thinks they have it all together and know everything. This person is considered annoying, and most people do not like to be around them at all. So, as we proceed forward in living our lives, may we always have the attitude that we are open to learning new ideas and new ways of understanding. May we seek to always be teachable, no matter where we are on life’s journey. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 3:2 (ESV) I listened to a sermon recently where the pastor made comments in reference to the Bible characters of Ruth and Boaz. I liked when he highlighted the part of the story where Ruth was not seeking a man or a relationship at the time, she met Boaz. When he met her, she was serving/working for the survival needs of both Naomi (her mother-in-law) and herself. And in the course of working, Boaz presented himself to her, speaking kindly and offering her his protection. Before he approached her, he saw her working and was told who she was, how hard she worked, and that she was the widow/daughter-in-law caring for her mother-in-law, Naomi. Her actions caused him to pay attention to her and realize this woman was busying herself with what was important in life. This leads me to ask the question, are you seeking or serving? Of course, the story above is about an eventual love story but, in asking the question, it’s not just about love relationships. Are we mostly in the state of seeking: love, fame/glory, a lot of money, etc.? Or are we busy serving God by using our gifts/talents and spreading His messages with the world? As stated above, instead of focusing on seeking, we should instead focus on working and serving God and others. As God stated in His word in Matthew 6:33, “But seek you first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Now, there is nothing wrong with us seeking a relationship, a better job, financial security, etc. The problem can come when we find ourselves constantly seeking as opposed to serving and building up God’s kingdom. God knows our hearts as well as our desires. Whether we seek a mate, financial success, recognition, etc. Instead of putting most of our energies and efforts into seeking, may we get busy doing the Masters work by serving in various capacities, according to our gifts and talents. As we serve, let us allow God to order our steps and, allow Him to create divine interventions within our lives. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.” Isaiah 43:18 How many of us, whether it be good thoughts or bad, dwell on our past? There are many who seem stuck in yesteryear which means the past. If in our minds we feel everything was great in prior years, then we want it to continue and never let changes occur in society at large, in ourselves and in others. We want everything to be the same as years past and everyone to fall into the same roles that they played in the years prior. For example, if we’re talking about racial inequity, those who were part of the minority races acted and behaved in a subjugated manner to those who were in the majority, who held positions of authority and power. In this example, those who were once in power, “long” for times past and want everything to be as it was before. Then, there are those who suffered pain and heartbreak, especially over a past love relationship that ended or have lost loved ones. Many may find themselves stuck in the past, reliving it in some ways and wanting everything to be as it once was before. For them, they have a hard time accepting their present life and moving forward. I know a lot of the times due to losses we have experienced, it is not easy to move on and one may need to seek professional counseling and/or group therapy. Please know there is no shame in this and actually it can be very beneficial as one seeks to heal, to grow, to move forward in life. Of course, we all will reflect and remember what has happened in our past, whether it be good or bad. But as God’s word states, we need to not dwell in the past. To not dwell is to not live there but, to move forward in Him and to share His messages of hope, faith, and love to others. No one can control past events but we all can reflect, remember, and at times learn from our past, then look to move forward making choices/decisions rooted in God’s precepts. As God says in Isaiah 43:19…“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” May we seek healing, restoration, and strength in God, and allow Him to lead us as we accept the present and look forward to our future. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.  Colossians 3:17 (ESV) Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Ephesians 5:20 (ESV) I read a recent article about a woman who began a gratitude journal. She promised that every day she would find three things to be grateful for. She would write down a range of things that happened that were extraordinary to things that were small and seemingly insignificant. Her main focus was just to show gratitude every single day. In a recent podcast, I heard a person share the findings of a scientific study that showed our brains cannot have anxiety/stress and practice gratitude at the same time. The two just cannot coexist. We all at times will become anxious due to a number of factors in our lives. However, if we choose to practice mindful gratitude always, and especially during those times we have anxious thoughts, we will see our mood lighten and those anxious/stressful thoughts leave. Of course, the anxious or stressful situation may not fully resolve but, our attitude and our outlook in dealing with our challenges will be different. We will feel more at peace, calmer, and more centered. The more we seek God and His principles and express our gratitude despite our situations, we will have the fortitude to go through many challenging and difficult moments in life. Let’s remember that being thankful and expressing our gratitude will also help strengthen our spiritual and emotional well-being and, help us as we grow in our faith and belief in God, and His plan for our lives. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV) Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them… 1st part of Romans 12:6 (ESV) I know I have shared before how we all are given various gifts and talents from God. Our Father in Heaven desires for each of us to seek to use our gifts, for the uplifting of His people, His world. However, there are countless people (I too was once in that number) who will not use the gifts/talents that they were given. Many will come up with various excuses as to why they cannot. Let’s look at a few reasons they give below. Some feel they do not know what their gifts/talents are. One way to find out is to go to Google and type in the spiritual gifts test. From there you will find a link where you can answer questions and get your results, which will be in line with your personality and your character. Then there are some who know their gifts/talents but, they are scared of the future, of the unknown. Wanting to know the future is something we all desire. Everyone has a little fear of the unknown. But despite this, God calls for us to trust Him and to move forward in life knowing He will be there. While we are still alive and functioning, we should seek to use our time wisely and share God’s message of love, hope, and peace, by using our various gifts and talents. Then there are others, who know their gifts and talents and who are not afraid to use them. They choose however to use them for glory and worldly pursuits/pleasures and not seek to focus on or uphold Godly precepts. Of course, living in this world, we will at times use our gifts/talents to provide for ourselves and/or our families. But the difference (if we stay connected to God) will be that we’ll seek opportunities to uplift God and His kingdom, as much as possible, as we live out our lives. Whatever the reason one may have for not using their gifts and talents, I would like to encourage everyone to not hold back and to share their positive contributions to God’s world. It is not God’s desire that we hide our light, and our talents, and not use them to be a blessing to His people. We do not want to take to the grave, the gifts and talents that were never used for the uplifting of His kingdom. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 (ESV) Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.   Philippians 4:8 (ESV) I listened to a sermon by Joyce Meyer (Christian author and speaker) who said this about thoughts: “Some people try to control their mouths but do nothing about their thoughts. That’s like pulling off the top of a weed. Unless the root is dug up, the weed always comes back. You’ll never control your mouth unless you first learn to control your mind.” How powerful are those words!! I know many times I seek to “hold my tongue” and not say words I want to, depending on the situation. But, if I’m being honest, there are also times I do not hold back, especially if I’m upset and want to get my point across. How many times do we consistently stop and contemplate our thoughts prior to taking action? How many times do we ask ourselves, am I looking at the individuals and/or various situations in the right frame of mind/thought? I believe all of us need to take the time to work on ourselves and our thoughts, on a consistent basis, prior to moving forward and taking any action. Have you ever stopped to think how many negative encounters could’ve been avoided, if we took the time to assess our agitated thoughts toward a person or a situation? There are many times we can make incorrect assumptions and believe what we think about a person or situation (without really knowing) and then seek to move forward based on our erroneous conclusions. As we move forward in life, may we take the time to really be honest with who we are, what we are thinking, and how we choose to respond to various individuals and situations. May we truly study God’s word and apply it to our everyday lives, as this is key to changing the way we think about others and the world around us. Let’s not follow others just because that’s what everyone else does. Instead, let’s decide for ourselves, based on Godly council, what our thoughts should be in any given situation. God, be with us as we seek to be closer to you and seek to have our thoughts and actions, be in alignment with Your precepts. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV) Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 (ESV) Giving to a person when they are having difficulties is always a wonderful blessing to bestow on another. However, many times when we do good or give to others, we feel we’re doing God’s will and being highly spiritual at that moment. Depending on our actions, however, it could be considered civil as opposed to a spiritual encounter. I listened to a sermon recently where the pastor noted some points regarding being civil as opposed to being spiritual that I would like to share. For example, when we see a person begging, we might stop and give them food or money but, will we be willing to stop and give them our time as well? Would we talk or pray with them? Most of us usually would not. So, giving money, food, etc. is wonderful and we should continue to do so. But, in order to move towards a spiritual connection, it will take us going further by having a conversation. Another example, we become very angry with someone to the point where we want to lash out at them however, we make the decision not to do so, despite the pain/damage they caused. This act of holding back from harming another is of course the civil way to behave but, is it spiritual? In this instance, if we want to be spiritual, we would be seeking to pray for this person and whenever possible, look to have a conversation with them regarding what transpired. We would seek to talk to them and try and understand, in an attempt to ultimately be reunited in fellowship as stated in Mathew 18:15. Having a spiritual response instead of doing what our flesh (or surface feelings) tells us to do, comes about when one has an ongoing connection with God. As I share this I’m thinking of my actions as well. Do I take the extra step when I look to give to others? To be honest, a lot of times I do not. Yet during those times, I felt as if I was being spiritual by helping those in need. Again, I’m not saying it’s something we shouldn’t do. By all means, we should do everything we can to help others, even if we don’t have the time to stop and chat. But, if we at times can take a few moments to ask their name, let them know God loves them, and that we will say a prayer for them, this civil encounter can definitely lean towards a spiritual moment. As we go forward in life, may we continue to pray, read God’s word, and continue connecting with Him on a daily basis. In so doing, we will hopefully continue responding in a civil manner but take it a step further and make our encounters spiritual as well. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Philippians 3:12 (ESV). May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 2 Peter 1:2 (ESV) Have you ever come across individuals, whether family or friends who make snide remarks and comments about your Christianity? They’ll comment on how holy you should behave at all times and in all circumstances. For instance, if you’re having a rough day or answer someone sharply, they will make a snide remark about being a Christian and how perfect you are supposed to act at all times. What many people fail to realize is that being a Christian is a journey. When one becomes a Christian and makes a decision to follow Christ, they are still sinners saved by grace and the blood of Jesus. They still live in a sinful world and, more than likely will sin in the future from time to time. I like to always share with people who are non-Christians (and sometimes even Christians) that the church is not a magical place where everyone comes away perfect. Instead, the church should be viewed as a spiritual hospital for sinners. When Christians go to church, their goal should be to connect with God in His holy temple, to listen to sermons, and to fellowship with one another. A place where they leave the cares/troubles of the outside world for a while, as they seek a closer connection to God. By coming to church, they gain the spiritual, mental, and emotional encouragement they will need, in order to take on the world. As Christians even though we are not perfect people that lead perfect lives, we still should seek to be like Jesus, the one who left us an example of how to live in this world. However, we must remember not to overburden ourselves or others, in feeling there’s a certain perfection to attain, in order to be saved or to be considered a “good” Christian. We must keep in mind no one “graduates” in their Christian journey. Of course, some may have studied and gained greater knowledge and understanding of God but, all must continue to study and seek a closer connection to God, as there is always greater knowledge and wisdom to obtain. As God’s word states in 2 Peter 3:18, we are to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May we always show humility and love to those we meet and be true witnesses of Christ. May we let everyone know that Christians are not perfect but, we are seeking daily to have a Christ-like character. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:28-31 (ESV) Have you ever reached a spiritual plateau? Meaning you’re not overly excited about your spiritual walk, nor are you depressed or upset but, you are bored somewhat and have plateaued. It feels as if nothing’s as exciting as it once was and you feel as if you’re going through the motions of worshiping/going to church, reading your Bible, praying, and trying to connect with God. I believe from time to time I, as well as many others, have been there. And if we’re honest, it’s not just our Christian walk, sometimes that’s the way it is with our daily life as well. Things become mundane and you go through the motions but, you don’t have the excitement or spark that you once had in the past. When you come to a point where you’ve reached your spiritual plateau, that is the time to dive deeper and not give up. One of the ways to get out of this mood is to change things up a bit. When it comes to engaging in the same activities that you normally do day in and day out, look to make a change. Listen or watch a different church’s program or pastor’s sermon. Go to a church concert that’s not your home church. Be a volunteer at a local soup kitchen/homeless shelter. Seek out and attend a street church, one where they actually hold services outside for those who are homeless. These are just a few suggestions. I for one have done some of these that I’ve mentioned and, have come away with a different outlook on my life and my spiritual journey. I’m not saying everything was perfect afterward, just that it seemed clearer and the enthusiasm I once held, was definitely coming back. For some, they receive clarity immediately and become filled with God’s Spirit. Whatever the case may be for you, maintain your worship and your connection with God, seeking to use your gifts/talents in other ways or areas, that are not within your concentric circle. As you allow God and His Holy Spirit to lead you, eventually your plateau will cease, and you’ll be renewed as you move forward. We all have had and will have plateaus in our lives. During this time, may we continue to push forward doing what God would have us do, and continue to stay faithful, no matter what. Despite how we may feel, may we make a conscious choice to keep moving forward with God knowing that this time will pass. Allow your plateau to be the springboard for something new and exciting in your spiritual journey. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder in every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. James 3:16-17 (ESV) Godly vs. worldly wisdom. One may ask, what’s the difference? The short answer…plenty! Worldly wisdom will always seek to put oneself first, no matter the outcome or consequences to others. Godly wisdom will consider others as well as oneself and will weigh the impact of various choices/decisions. Worldly wisdom will teach the principles of grabbing all one can, regardless of decency, principles, and moral values. The worldly attitude lives by the adage of get more, more, and more and, to live and let live, meaning do whatever you want and whatever feels good, as long as it’s legal. Through God’s word in the Bible, He gives us the information we need to distinguish between worldly wisdom which leads to death versus Godly wisdom which leads to God’s peace and life. I recently read a story of a hiker who was with a group of friends, and he became injured while the group was halfway through their trek through the forest. The friends called for help and using cell phone technology were able to send his exact coordinates to the authorities. However, instead of one or all of them staying with him to make sure nothing happened until help arrived, they all decided to leave him alone to be rescued. Because for them, they felt it was more important that they continue and finish the course so, they took off. He was eventually rescued however, even the rescuers could not believe the selfishness of his companions. What would cause someone to choose between leaving an injured person in the woods by themselves just so they could continue their adventure? This is a prime example of selfishness and self-centeredness that the world teaches. These “friends” probably felt nothing was wrong with their actions. They felt they did their part to signal for help and they did not want to ruin the rest of their vacation. Now, perhaps the hiker told them to go on however, any person who possessed Godly wisdom would not have made such a self-centered decision. A person with Godly wisdom would have stayed and made sure he was protected through the night and eventually rescued. There are many stories that we know personally and what we have read or heard in the media of callous and egregious human behavior with one another. May we seek to be individuals who will make Godly choices for ourselves, as well as for the sake of those we come in contact with. May we study God’s word and learn His ways so that we can always choose God’s wisdom vs. the world’s. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. 1 Corinthians 13:4-6 (ESV) I read a devotion where a lady decided to substitute her name at the beginning of each section in what is considered the love chapter, 1 Corinthians 13, specifically verses 4-6. So, using the first verse, it would go like this: instead of saying love is patient and kind, she would substitute her name and then say the verse. For example, Angélique is patient and kind, Angélique does not envy or boast, and so on. As she did this, she would stop and contemplate if this was an area she needed to work on. She would work on those issues by asking God to help her, then she would continue to the next verse. In reading this I felt inspired to share this exercise. How impactful this could be if we seek to place our names before each section. By placing your name at the beginning of these verses, it personalizes it like never before. It should cause us to ask ourselves, am I walking and moving throughout life with these core guiding principles? In addition, if we make this a habit to continually say these verses with our names inserted, this can change how we view ourselves and others, basically all of God’s creation. Below I have completed verses 4-6 using my name: Angélique is patient and kind, Angélique does not envy or boast; Angélique is not arrogant or rude. Angélique does not insist on her own way; Angélique is not irritable or resentful; Angélique does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Now I challenge you to place your name before these verses and seek to daily internalize these core characteristics in your own life. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com