He is Faithful

BY JESSICA LANDMON

I just turned 50. The big Five-O. As you can imagine, it has been a season of reflection and a slow walk down memory lane. I didn't expect to feel quite so nostalgic, but milestone birthdays have a way of making you pause and look back. And as I reflect on the last fifty years, one thing has become abundantly clear – God is faithful.

I thought about the moments that brought so much joy and even the seasons that were harder than I expected. Through it all, God has never stopped being faithful. When we talk about God’s faithfulness, we often only remember the difficult seasons where He carried us through what seemed impossible. But we can’t forget to recognize His faithfulness in the beautiful seasons too.

The answered prayers.

The unexpected blessings.

The family gathered around the table.

The laughter filling our home.

The doors I could have never opened on my own.

The dreams fulfilled.

The countless moments of His kindness that I almost overlooked.

Every one of these moments demonstrates that God is always present. I’ve seen His faithfulness in countless ways. His goodness has met me time and time again.

But if I am being honest, there were also seasons when I thought I might break. Moments when I wondered when God would show up. Times when I couldn't imagine how He could possibly use the storms in life for anything good.  

There were seasons when fear had a grip on me. Days when the doctor’s call marked the beginning of a new journey. Seasons of hurt, disappointment, and times of uncertainty. Yet, through every single one of them, He was there.

The Lord never left my side. He never walked away. He kept His promise to see me through. Looking back now, I can see His fingerprints all over my life. I can see how He was weaving my story for His glory – working even when I couldn't see the whole picture.

So, sweet friend, if you're walking through uncertainty, fear, or a trying season and you can't see a way out, hold on. The same God who has carried me will carry you. He will make a way that only He can. Lean into Jesus like never before. Trust Him even when you don't understand. Let Him hold you in the unknown.

I promise you that one day you'll look back, just as I am today, and you'll see that the Lord has never left your side. In the highs and the lows, He has been with you. Because that's who He is. Faithful.

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. – Lamentations 3:22-23

The Unseen Battle

BY JESSICA LANDMON

Have you ever prayed, trusted God completely, and still found yourself waiting—waiting for an answer, waiting for a breakthrough, or waiting for something to change? The silence can feel confusing. You begin to question whether God has heard your prayers. You wonder why His answer seems delayed and struggle to understand why nothing appears to be changing.

It's important to understand that not every delay is a denial. Sometimes what we cannot see is just as real as what we can. Beyond the natural world is a spiritual realm where battles are fought and God's purposes are accomplished. The enemy will do absolutely anything to stop God’s plans for our lives and delay us from walking into the promises God has for us. Many believers are unaware of the unseen spiritual battle taking place behind the scenes.

One of the clearest examples is found in Daniel 10, where an angel tells Daniel that his prayer was heard from the very first day he sought God. The answer was delayed for 21 days because of spiritual opposition until help arrived. This scripture pulls back the curtain and gives us a rare glimpse into the spiritual battle taking place in the heavenlies.

 Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. – Daniel 10:12-13 

Waiting can feel like silence, but it is not the same thing as absence. Even when we cannot see movement, God is always working on our behalf. The enemy’s goal is to stop God’s plans. And because he doesn’t have the authority to stop what God has put into motion, he causes delay, creating confusion and discouragement, weakening our faith and persuading us to stop praying.

The enemy is incredibly clever, which is why we must not give up simply because we don't yet see the answer. Consider this your invitation to be an active participant in fighting for your destiny. Spiritual battles require spiritual weapons. Daniel fasted for 21 days, and the breakthrough happened. If you are waiting on God, go deeper in your prayer life. Fast. Get into the Word, and declare Scripture over your life and situation. Take authority over the strategy of the enemy and render it powerless over your life in the name of Jesus.

Now, not every season of waiting is the result of spiritual warfare. Sometimes God is cultivating something deeper in us while we wait. Other times, we're waiting for His perfect timing because the appointed time has not yet come. But Daniel's story reminds us that there are moments when God is actively working behind the scenes, even when everything around us appears still.

Sweet friend, don't stop praying because you haven’t seen the breakthrough. Don't lose heart because the answer hasn't arrived. Keep seeking Him. Keep trusting Him. Keep believing that the same God who heard Daniel on the very first day hears your prayers too.

The battle may be unseen, but so is the hand of God. And if the hand of God is in it, then you should be confident that breakthrough is coming. While the enemy may cause interference and resistance, he can never overturn God’s purposes.

Meet Me At the Cross

BY JESSICA LANDMON

Murder. Selfishness. Adultery. Lying. Pride. Stealing. Gossip. Fornication. Idolatry. Blasphemy. Coveting. Strife. Envy. Greed. Unforgiveness. Drunkenness. Rebellion. Selfish Ambition. Perversion. Sexual Impurity. Disobedience. Witchcraft. Profanity. Jealousy. The list goes on. If you have ever committed any of the above, then you are a sinner, just like me. Sin isn’t measured by size. There is no distinction between a tiny white lie and a big one. It’s all sin. The consequences may differ, but it all separates us from God. We stand guilty.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” – Romans 3:23

But, because of God’s tremendous love for us, He sent His Son to stand in our place to pay the penalty for all our wrongdoings. An innocent man, God incarnate, hung on the cross – beaten, tortured, and mocked – for you and me. His death was beyond excruciating. It was a physical and emotional hell that He endured for us, so that we would never have to. Eternal condemnation is what we deserved, but eternal life is what He graciously gave.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23

The best part of this extraordinary offering is that it is free to us. We can’t earn it, we can’t buy it, and we certainly don’t deserve it. But, it’s ours. And, yet, so many don’t receive it.

Disbelief is one reason, but unworthiness is another. People continue to deny the power of this ultimate sacrifice. “I’ve gone too far,” “My sin is too big,” “You don’t know what I’ve done,” or “I keep messing up” are just a few of the lies that the devil tries to use to lessen the power of the cross. But, what Jesus did that day is powerful enough to cover any sin. Right before He took His last breath, Jesus declared:

“It is finished.” – John 19:30

And it is finished. The power of sin and death was defeated. Don’t allow the enemy to rob you of this beautiful love offering. You may not be worthy. Actually, I know you aren’t. None of us are, but Jesus is.

So this Easter, I invite you to meet me at the cross, where we are all washed clean.

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for dying on the cross for me. I accept this beautiful gesture of love. I believe you died and rose again so that the penalty of sin would be paid in full for me – for all of us. Please forgive me for all my sins, known and unknown. I pray for power to defeat this sin in my life. I know it has all been paid for at the cross. I lay down all my efforts and control, and I make you Lord of my life. Amen.

(From the WGR archives, originally published March 23, 2016)

Your Circle Matters

BY JESSICA LANDMON

Many of you are familiar with the old saying, “You are the company you keep.” And I think we can all agree that this is far truer than we often want to acknowledge. The people we grow up with, work with, and choose to do life with all have a significant impact on the way we think and behave.

Don’t believe me? Hang around with a negative, cynical person, and watch how quickly you begin to notice the faults and flaws in other people and situations. On the opposite end of the spectrum, spend your time with an optimistic, joy-filled person, and you’ll notice that you too will become a glass half-full kind of woman. If being around people can have this much influence over your actions and thinking, it is imperative that you choose your circle carefully.

In Mark chapter 2, we see a powerful illustration of this truth in scripture. A paralyzed man is brought to Jesus because of the persistence of his friends. The crowds were large, and access to Jesus seemed improbable. Yet this man’s friends refused to give up and walk away from a miracle in the making. They stopped at nothing to bring him to the One who has the power to forgive his sins and heal his disease.

A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. They gathered in such large numbers that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. Some men came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” – Mark 2:1-5

This powerful moment reminds us that our faith and victory is often shaped by the people we do life with. The right people will help draw us closer to Jesus. This is especially important during a season of waiting, when discouragement and weariness start to settle in. We need to be around people who will build up our faith, not add to the discouragement.

Our circle will either war Heaven with us or quietly distract us from it. Our circle will either build up our faith or feed our doubt and fear. Our circle will either draw us closer to Jesus or unintentionally pull us away.

Without the right friends, the paralyzed man would have been stuck outside the door to Jesus, unable to reach Him on His own. Thankfully, he had friends that were not content with him staying in his current condition but physically pulled him close to Jesus so that he could experience the victory.

Ladies, your circle matters. Choose wisely.

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. – Proverbs 13:20

God's Not Done Yet

BY JESSICA LANDMON

I blinked, and suddenly the year is nearly over. Anyone else feel like 2025 has raced by? Don’t get me wrong, it has been an amazing year filled with spiritual growth, moments of breakthrough, and great joy. But, if I am being completely honest, there are still things that I am waiting on the Lord for.

And as the year comes to a close, I am mindful that many women are standing in the same place – holding onto faith, choosing to trust, and believing God is still working even when the breakthrough hasn’t arrived yet.

So how do we respond when a promise feels delayed?

First, keep showing up. Stay faithful in your prayer time. Dig deeper into the Word. Meditate on scripture. Consider fasting and devoting more intentional time seeking the heart of Jesus. Don’t let delay discourage you from the promise that the Lord has given you. You do your part, and trust Him to do His.

Second, let the Lord do a work in you. Don’t discount what God wants to teach you. And although it sometimes may feel like it, waiting is not wasted time. This season may be about growing trust, building endurance, and creating intimacy with Him. God isn’t denying what He has promised, but rather He is developing spiritual grit in you.

Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. – James 1:4

Third, release your timetable. I know this is hard to hear, but surrender your timeline to the Lord. God doesn’t stop working simply because the calendar year ends. We need to not grow weary and trust that His timing is perfect.

But those who wait on 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 40:31 

So, to the woman waiting in faith, don’t lose heart. Your prayers have power. Keep pressing in. Keep believing. Keep standing in faith. The Lord is faithful! If He promised it, He will bring it to pass. God’s not done yet. Your breakthrough is closer than you think.

Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her! – Luke 1:45

How Many Times?

BY JESSICA LANDMON

I was recently reading one of my favorite passages of scriptures, but this time it hit a little differently. The famous account of Jesus walking on water is something I am quite familiar with. Actually, I have preached on it many times. This time, however, I read it in the Passion Translation, and Jesus’s words cut right to my spirit. 

At about four o’clock in the morning, Jesus came to them, walking on the waves! When the disciples saw him walking on top of the water, they were terrified and screamed, “A ghost!”

Then Jesus said, “Be brave and don’t be afraid. I am here!”

Peter shouted out, “Lord, if it’s really you, then have me join you on the water!”

“Come and join me,” Jesus replied.

So Peter stepped out onto the water and began to walk toward Jesus. But when he realized how high the waves were, he became frightened and started to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he cried out.

Jesus immediately stretched out his hand and lifted him up and said, “What little faith you have! Why would you let doubt win?”

– Matthew 14:25-31 

“Why would you let doubt win?” Wow! I hadn’t thought about it that way. Jesus asks Peter such a personal and heartfelt question, basically asking him why he stopped the miracle in progress.

I began to reflect on moments in my life when, just like Peter, I too let doubt win. I can almost hear Jesus speaking to me. “Jessica, why did you let doubt win? We were doing it. We were walking on water. But you doubted me and began to sink. Of course, I rescued you. I will always be there. But my intention wasn’t a rescue mission. I wanted to walk on water with you!” 

How many times did I abort the mission that Jesus intended for me and settle for safety and certainty when Jesus wanted to do something awesome with my life? How many times did I ask to be rescued from a victorious moment because the waves around me were so big that I got scared? How many times did I retreat to safety when I just needed to trust Jesus a little longer?

How many times did I let doubt win? How many times have you?

Be Gentle

BY JESSICA LANDMON

Anyone who has sat through a Sunday School class or attended Vacation Bible School has probably, at one point or another, learned about the fruit of the Spirit. Personally, I can rattle them off in rapid form – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These are the qualities that the Holy Spirit develops in a believer’s life. They are an outward sign of an inner transformation at work in us.

Over the years, I’ve spent time reflecting on many of these like love, patience (ugh!), and self-control. They often take the spotlight as I reflect on the fruit of the Spirit. But one of the fruits that seems to sit quietly in the background is gentleness. It’s rarely the focus, but it’s deeply needed in our world, in our homes, and in our own hearts.

Let’s make one thing clear, gentleness, as perceived by many, isn’t weakness. It’s strength wrapped in humility and compassion. It’s a decision to pause before reacting, speak life, and show love when the world would react differently.

Here are five ways that we can exhibit Holy Spirit gentleness in our everyday lives:

1.   Be gentle with a stranger.

That woman at the cash register, the flight attendant on your plane, the elderly woman in front of you in line at the grocery store that is slowing everyone down – you don’t know what she’s walking through. Maybe she’s holding back tears. Maybe she’s dealing with sickness or financial troubles. Maybe today is heavier than most. A smile, a kind word of encouragement, or even just a little patience can change the whole dynamics of her day. Be gentle.

2.   Be gentle with your children.

Your voice becomes your children’s inner narrative as they grow up. The way you speak to them, especially in moments of frustration or disappointment, shapes how they’ll speak to themselves for years to come. Choose words that build them up and encourage them. Correct, but do it with love. Be gentle.

3.   Be gentle with your spouse.

You made a vow, not to just love your spouse, but to protect and honor him. I realize that when you spend that much time with anyone, it is easy to get frustrated at the littlest things, but you have a choice on how you respond. Choose uplifting words when you communicate, and let your actions reflect Jesus. Instead of looking to be right, look to create an environment of peace. Be gentle.

4.   Be gentle with people you disagree with.

In a world overflowing with disunity and division, it’s important to be a bridge, not a wall. Look for areas you agree on, and focus on those things. Gentleness doesn’t mean compromising truth, but rather being sensitive to the tone and words you use to communicate. You don’t always know where people are coming from or why they believe what they believe. Speak truth with humility, not superiority. Be gentle.

5.   Be gentle with yourself.

When you look in the mirror and don’t like what you see, or when you fail to meet a goal you set, pause. Before you speak viciously to yourself, remember that God’s grace is not just for others, but it’s for you too. We are all a work in progress, and progress doesn’t always look like perfection. Be gentle.

Sweet friend, the fruit of the Spirit is not just a list of suggested character traits. It is evidence of a life fully submitted to the Holy Spirit. And gentleness is certainly no exception. So today, if you do nothing else, be gentle!

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. – Philippians 4:5

Stop Sitting on a God Dream

BY JESSICA LANDMON

I talk to a lot of women who are sitting on a God dream. They are excited about what God is going to do in and through their lives. But many are just sitting there, waiting for Jesus to knock on their front door, grab their hands, and drag them into the next step. Pursuing a God dream doesn’t look like that. The Lord is looking for women of faith to rise up and assume their rightful position. He is looking for women to say “Yes, I am going to move forward in faith — even though I can’t see the finish line.”
 
I am often reminded of Abraham’s faith when the Lord told him to move into the Promised Land. God didn’t give him a specific destination — just a command to go. So, what does Abraham do? He packs up his things and moves out, one step at a time. He doesn’t wait for the entire plan to be revealed, but instead makes a bold statement by his actions. He tells God, I don’t know where You are sending me, but if this is the direction You want me to go, then I will go.
 

Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” So Abram went, as the Lord had told him. – Genesis 12:1-4

 
I know this seems terrifying to some, especially those of you who are like me and want to schedule everything. But laying out the full plan is not how our Heavenly Father operates. Sometimes, He wants us to step out in faith and trust. He wants us to be so dependent on Him that we could never take credit for what He accomplishes in our life. You see, if it is truly a God dream, we could never achieve it without the enabling power of the Holy Spirit.
 
That said, it’s important to be discerning and check your dreams. There is a huge difference between a God dream and fleshly desires. We need to spend time in prayer, syncing our hearts with the Lord, and allowing Him to remove anything that isn’t from Him. Our focus should be to chase all the goodness and opportunities that He has in store for us, not the things that the world tells us we need. But don’t assume that God is going to ask you to pursue something you don’t want. When we live a life sold out to Him, the things we desire are in alignment with Him. And it is ok to chase them — all for His glory.
 
So sweet friend, if you have a dream inside your heart that you are longing to realize, ask the Holy Spirit if it is from above. If the answer is yes, then it’s time to stop dreaming about it. It’s time to go.
 

Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. – Hebrews 11:6

Don't Miss Jesus This Christmas

BY JESSICA LANDMON

If you are anything like me this year, you’ve been racing against the clock to get everything ready for Christmas. Thanksgiving was late this year, so there was too much to do in such a little time – decorating the house, buying gifts, wrapping presents, baking cookies – the list goes on and on. And if I’m being completely honest, running at this hurried pace has left me flat-out exhausted and overwhelmed. I’m sure I am not alone.

But as I sit and finally pause on this Christmas Eve morning, I remind myself of why this season is so meaningful. It’s more than the gifts, the food, and the festivities. It’s a time to celebrate the birth of my Savior and to reflect on the magnitude of His great love for me.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. – John 3:16

As we enter into the home stretch of the season, I want to encourage you to not miss Jesus this Christmas. In all the busyness, don’t miss what our Heavenly Father gave to us. Christmas is about the gift of God’s love through His Son, Jesus. Won’t you join me in this simple Christmas prayer?

Dear Jesus,

Please prepare my heart to experience the fullness of your love and joy this Christmas. Help me to slow down so that I don’t miss the fact that I have already received the greatest gift of all – your birth and the gift of eternal life. Thank you for your unconditional love and for the joy that only you can provide. Amen.

Sweet friends, as we move through the next couple of days, don’t forget the reason we celebrate! Please don’t miss Jesus this Christmas!

Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones, and may your hearts be filled with His peace.

Help Tie Her Laces

BY JESSICA LANDMON

Women have been competing with other women since the beginning of time. Sarah competed with Hagar. Rachel competed with Leah. And Esther competed with an entire harem of women! Even though this is not new behavior, it is not God’s plan for women.

I believe that you and I can break this cycle. Instead of seeing another woman as a threat or competition, let’s look at her as a sister. She has a Divine purpose to fulfill! Helping her achieve that purpose through prayer, encouragement, or actions will not affect you from achieving God’s Divine plan for your life. Please read that again!

It is disheartening to me when I hear a woman or group of women tear one another down. It’s equally upsetting when women refuse to promote one another. This negative behavior is rooted in bitterness and jealousy because they aren’t seeing the perceived victory in their own lives. Let me make something clear — her success doesn’t affect yours. But allowing envy to take root in your heart does!

The truth is women need other women. Stepping out in obedience is scary no matter how put together she appears. So, let’s make a conscious decision to start cheering her on and encouraging her. Share her post on social media. Promote her business. Invite her to speak at your event. Tell her that you are proud of her. Be the reason she keeps chasing all that God has for her.

Ladies, this life is a long race as you strive to fulfill your purpose. Instead of just focusing on how you perform, stop and help lace another woman’s sneakers so that she can win too!

The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself. — Proverbs 11:25

A Look in the Mirror Through God's Eyes

BY JESSICA LANDMON

What do you see when you look in the mirror? In my conversations with different women, I have heard deeply troubling responses. The criticisms aren’t just about physical features like hair, complexion, or even weight – they reflect a deeper sense of dissatisfaction. And it breaks God’s heart.

When some women look in the mirror, all they see are damaged goods. Maybe they’ve been the victim of abuse, and the shame of their past muddies their image. Other women are plagued with the sin in their lives. These women only see an unredeemable soul. And yet many women see nothing at all. They feel invisible – like a nobody in the world. They feel lost, without purpose, and unloved, doubting that they could ever be used by God.

These are all lies from the devil! He wants you to believe this about yourself. If he can keep you focusing on these lies, and prevent you from walking in the truth of how the Lord sees you, then he wins and you never fulfill your purpose.

To end this cycle, let me share with you the truth of how God wants you to see yourself:

1 – You are loved!

It doesn’t matter what you have done or what’s been done to you, God loves you unconditionally. He loves you so much that He sent His son to die for you so that someday He can be reconciled with you and spend eternity with you.

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. – 1 John 4:9-10

2 – You are fearfully and wonderfully made!

The devil would love for you to believe you are a mistake, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. No matter what the circumstances of your birth were, you were made on purpose with a purpose. Everything about you was formed with intentionality. The Lord has specific assignments that only you can fulfill. It’s time to claim your inheritance and boldly walk in it.

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. – Psalm 139:13-16

3 – You are forgiven!

There is no sin too great that the blood of Jesus can’t cover. Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty for all our sins – big or small. All we need to do is repent and receive His free gift of grace.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9 

4 – You are a warrior!

One of the things we can be certain of is that the enemy is after us. But, sweet friend, do not fear. You are stronger than you realize. You are not warring against people, but rather spiritual forces, and you don’t fight spiritual battles without spiritual tools. The Lord has equipped you with the full armor of God to withstand any of the devil’s tactics. So, get dressed and pick up your sword. There is a battle over your destiny that needs to be fought. And God promises that you will be victorious!

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. – Ephesians 6:10-12 

When the Fog Rolls In

BY JESSICA LANDMON

On a recent trip to Florida, I experienced unexpected flight delays during my layover. After several hours of waiting… and waiting… we finally took off. Unfortunately, a dense fog settled in on the airport I was flying into, forcing us to abort the landing and return to our departure airport.

Twelve hours later, I was back at the airport trying to give it another go. Once again, fog had settled in. It was gray and dismal out, and visibility was extremely poor. As I sat on the runway looking at the current conditions, I began to doubt that we would ever take off.

After sitting on the plane for nearly an hour, I was surprised when the pilot said we were all clear for takeoff. How could that be? The fog was so dense that I literally couldn’t see 20 feet outside of my airplane window. How would the pilot be even able to pull away from the gate safely? But off we went!

As we made our bumpy ascent, I began questioning why we even attempted to try this flight again. Darkness surrounded our plane, and the wings were swinging from side to side. After one final push and a couple more bouts of turbulence, we finally broke through the fog. And to my utter surprise, the most beautiful blue skies and clear visibility were at hand. And that’s when the Lord began to speak to my heart.

So often we have our eyes set on a destination – one that we truly feel God has directed us to – and we encounter one obstacle after another. The path that once seemed clear and defined now seems dark and impossible. We begin to question if this is the direction we are supposed to head. We wonder, did we hear God wrong? Did we misunderstand? That, my friend, is the enemy’s plan.

The devil wants to challenge you every step of the way when you step out in obedience to a new Divine assignment. He wants you to rely on what you see in the natural, rather than trust that God has something amazing in store for you if you are bold enough to just push through the fog – or in our case, the obstacles and uncertainty.

We should model our faith life after that of a pilot. Pilots make decisions not on what they see in the natural, but on what their equipment and instrumentation tell them. As was the case with my flight, what we saw in the natural said don’t take off. But, my pilot’s instrumentation told him that, once we were in the air, the flight would be a smooth one. And it was.

We need to remember this as we navigate the steps in front of us. What we see in the natural is often different from what God sees. Your current situation may appear hopeless, desperate, and filled with obstacles, but ask the Lord what He sees. 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

God sees the bigger picture – one filled with hope and purpose. How disheartening would it be if you stayed at your current position, never moving on and embracing God’s blessings and plans for your life? It’s important to remind yourself that, even in the darkest moments, God has a greater plan at work. We simply need to trust Him!

Sweet friend, stop limiting God. Stop making decisions based on what you see. Stop assuming things won’t change. I encourage you to take your eyes off whatever situation is clouding your judgment right now. If the Lord says all clear for takeoff, then trust Him in faith – trust that even though you can’t see it, the sun is shining bright above those clouds.

A Very "Mary" Christmas

BY JESSICA LANDMON

The Christmas rush is nearing its end. Hopefully, your presents are bought and wrapped, the grocery shopping is done, and the cooking preparation is underway. I know it’s been a lot of work, but you are almost at the finish line.

But before you rush away the next few days, I encourage you to stop and remember why you are doing all this in the first place—to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior with those who are most precious to you. And as much as all the pressing details have taken priority, this year I encourage you to try something different and have a “Mary” Christmas.

I’m not talking about Jesus’s mother—although that could be a blog for another time. I’m referring to Mary, Martha’s sister. Many of us are familiar with the story of these two sisters. Jesus and His disciples were coming to their home for dinner, and Martha was running around frantically trying to pull the event together. Martha was so focused on the details that come along with entertaining that she missed Jesus altogether. Sound familiar?

The only time she broke away from her preparation to see Jesus was to complain to Him that Mary wasn’t helping her out in the kitchen. To be completely honest, I would be annoyed too. But Mary wasn’t just being lazy and refusing to help. Unlike Martha, Mary realized that this time with Jesus was too valuable to pass up. She sat at Jesus’s feet, intently listening to His stories and His teachings. Mary chose what was better.

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” –Luke 10:41-42 

Now Christmas dinner isn’t going to cook itself, and those presents won’t wrap themselves either. But, before you dive into the final Christmas rush, stop for a moment, take a deep breath, and sit at the feet of Jesus just like Mary did. Pray this with me now.

Dear Jesus,

I lay down all my plans and efforts and put them at your feet. Help me to remember why I’m celebrating in the first place. Let me enjoy time in your presence, rest in your care, and hear your heart. Forgive me for not putting you at the center of my Christmas plans, and let me bring honor to you in all that I do. In Jesus’s name. Amen

Sweet friend, you’ve got this. I assure you that if you spend time with Jesus first, the rest of your to-do list will be much easier to tackle. Let’s not forget that it’s been about Him the whole time. And may I be the first of many to wish you a very “Mary” Christmas!

You Have a Choice in How the Rest of Your Story Goes

BY JESSICA LANDMON

So many of you have walked through seasons of trial and tribulation. In fact, many of you might be in one of those seasons right now. Perhaps you have been the victim of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. Maybe you’ve been betrayed in your marriage due to infidelity and secrets from the past. Or you have battled cancer or other illnesses where the odds were not in your favor, but you made it through to the other side. Your resilience is remarkable.

Now that you have overcome these trials, you are at a crossroads. How you respond to the circumstances that life has presented is up to you. Simply put, you have a choice in how the rest of your story goes.

I am by no means trying to downplay the horrible season that you may have just walked through, but sweet friend, this is just one chapter of your life. Our Heavenly Father isn’t finished with you yet. He is writing a beautiful story of all your days on this earth, and this hardship is just a small piece of a bigger picture. The choices you make from here will determine how the remainder of your days play out.

I understand that it is very easy to get a jaded view of life after you have been through a storm. You can choose bitterness and unforgiveness to manifest in your heart, preventing you from trusting people and having meaningful relationships. Living in fear, waiting for the next shoe to fall, is another response to trial, which only holds you back from experiencing the joy of each new day. Negativity is also a choice. Rather than seeing the good all around you, you choose to focus on all the bad and ugly things in this world.

Alternatively, you can choose to concentrate on the goodness of God and how He held you during your worst days. The Lord doesn’t waste anything. He will use each hardship and trial for His good. Your stories of strength, hope, and determination are exactly what other women walking through what you’ve just walked through need to hear. Let Jesus use your testimony of victory for His glory. 

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. – Romans 8:28

Ladies, I encourage you to invite the Lord into your wounds, and let Him heal you. Only He can! Surrender all that hurt. When you choose to be set free from your past, you allow Jesus to write the rest of your story.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Fear is a Weapon

BY JESSICA LANDMON

The greatest weapon that the devil uses to stop you from walking into your destiny is fear – fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear or people’s opinions, fear of being harmed, or simply the fear of the unknown. The enemy is so cunning. He knows that he can’t directly tell you not to follow God’s direction for your life. You are too smart for that. Instead, he uses fear and deception as a tool to manipulate you. When you allow fear to manifest into your thought life, you can easily justify and rationalize the decision to not step out in faith.

Although staying complacent and refusing to take a risk seem safe, it is quite the contrary. The Lord has made us on purpose with a purpose. And when we allow fear to hold us back, it’s disobedience, plain and simple. The Lord is looking for women who will say yes to Him – who have completely surrendered their lives to Him. God wants women who aren’t scared of the unknown because they are known by Him, and that is enough. They trust their future in His hands.

Further, I would argue that the safest pace to be is right in the center of God’s plan for your life. When you step out in faith, you are not alone. The Holy Spirit will lead you and guide you each step of the way. He will give you wisdom and discernment, all while covering you with His protection.

If the Lord says make the move, then make the move. If He says walk away from that relationship, then walk away. If He says to share your testimony, then do it. If He says go pray for that co-worker, then go pray for that co-worker.

Speaking from experience, I can assure you that if the Lord asks you to take a leap of faith then He will always provide you with a place to land. It may seem scary, but I encourage you to do it anyway. He will always meet you on the other side of your obedience.

Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in obedience to all I command you, that it may go well with you. – Jeremiah 7:23

I encourage you to search your heart. What is holding you back? Really do some personal inventory. Take authority of all fear present in your life, and ask the Holy Spirit to allow you to walk boldly into your future. The devil wins each time you allow fear to take over. Stop his tactics by taking a faith step today.

“Satan has no legitimate weapons to use against us. His only trick is deception.” – Tony Evans

Lies Satan Wants You to Believe

BY JESSICA LANDMON

As a woman who has been a Christian most of her life and in ministry for nearly half of it, one thing I can be sure of is that Satan is a liar. Scripture clearly says that “there is no truth in him” and that he is “the father of lies.” With that said, we can often fall prey to his lies if we aren’t careful. It is not enough to simply know Satan’s agenda, we must fight him with the truth found only in scripture.

It’s also important to recognize that although he is timely and crafty, Satan is not at all original. The same lies that he is spewing at you, he is also speaking into other women’s lives. So, let’s fight those lies together by disputing his most favorite falsehoods.

1. God can’t use you because of your past!

The enemy would love for you to believe that you are damaged goods – that your past precludes you from being anything of influence in God’s Kingdom. This is such a lie. All your past mistakes and trauma, no matter how shameful, when surrendered into the hands of our Heavenly Father, can be used for His glory! God doesn’t waste anything. He has a purpose and a plan for your life, and it is never too late to return to His perfect path and pursue it. 

Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story – those he redeemed from the hand of the foe. – Psalm 107:2

2. You are not enough!

Ladies, none of us are enough. Apart from Jesus, we all fall short. We’re too ordinary, insecure, anxious, emotional, selfish – the list goes on. None of us measure up to the awesomeness of our Heavenly Father. But He equips us for the life He wants us to live. We must rely on Holy Spirit power, wisdom, and faith to become all that He desires. Remember, if God has called you to it, He will equip you!

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – Ephesians 2:10

3. The Christian life is paved with comfort.

This is one of the biggest misconceptions that Christians believe. We think that as soon as we become Christians, life is going to become easy. Life gets simpler, but certainly not easier. In fact, we are to expect trials and persecutions. But, by placing our hope and confidence in Jesus Christ, He will get us through any hardship life sends our way.

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. – 1 Peter 4:12-13

4. We will no longer struggle with sin once we commit our lives to the Lord.

It takes a moment to become a Christian, but a lifetime to become like Christ. None of us are without sin, but His grace is enough to cover it all. That is why Jesus’s death on the cross is so powerful. It sets us free and gives us the power to overcome the temptation of sin. Being tempted in and of itself is not a sin, but allowing it to manifest in action is. God always gives you a way out. Take it!

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. – 1 Corinthians 10:13

5. Your sin is too big for God to forgive!

This is the biggest lie of the enemy spoken to both Christians and non-Christians alike. The last thing that Satan wants us to do is submit our lives to the Lord. So, the enemy tells us that we are not worthy or good enough to draw near to God. He spews lies that we’ve passed the threshold of forgiveness, that our deeds are just too despicable, or that God is too angry with us to have a relationship with Him.

If this sounds like something you are struggling with, silence these lies now in the name of Jesus! Jesus longs for a relationship with all of us – no matter what our sin is. His death on the cross covers it all. Come to the Father today and receive His free gift of salvation.

 Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. – Romans 10:13

Such a Time As This

BY JESSICA LANDMON

In honor of International Women’s Day, I felt it would be a great time to highlight an amazing woman in the Bible who has demonstrated strength, courage, and faith. Today, I would like to talk about Queen Esther who was placed in her position of royalty for “such a time as this.”

It all sounds so glamorous – crowns, jewels, attendants, title – but Esther was placed into a very trying set of circumstances. Her life and the life of her people were on the line as a royal decree was made to annihilate all the Jews. Her cousin Mordecai, being a great man of faith and wisdom, sent word to Esther and asked her to “go into the king’s presence to beg for mercy and plead with him for her people.”

Esther is initially overcome with fear and knows that in the law of the land she could be put to death for approaching the king unsolicited. When she refuses, Mordecai responds back with a startling warning.  

“Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this? –Esther 4:12-14 

I really want you to get a hold of this. Esther was placed here in this moment in time for this very thing. For her entire life, God had been preparing her for this. If she refused to fulfill her assignment because of fear or any other reason for that matter, God would send another. We are all replaceable in that sense. Her safety, however, would not be guaranteed. When you are outside of God’s will and plan for your life, you are extremely vulnerable because you are outside of His protection. The safest place to be is right in the path God puts you on – even if it is the most frightening place to be in the natural!

So, what does Esther choose to do?  She chooses to FIGHT for her destiny. She resists all fear and makes a bold decree, “and if I perish, I perish.” Fear of death didn’t stop this woman of faith from fulfilling her calling.

Ladies, I know that God has positioned each of you for specific assignments. Will you follow Esther’s example and lay aside fear to accomplish the very thing God created you for, or will you let fear win? My prayer for each of you today is that you choose to take hold of all that God has in store for you and fight for your destiny.

Obedience May Be the Key To Your Breakthrough

BY JESSICA LANDMON

Jesus certainly doesn’t need our help when it comes to answering our prayers, but He does, however, expect our obedience to do our part in the process. Every single prayer that proceeds from our mouth, every tear shed in desperation for a miracle, and every heart’s desire are all heard by our Heavenly Father. In fact, He knows all our needs before a word is uttered from our mouth.   

But, ladies, there are some of you who are sitting around wondering why God hasn’t answered your prayers, and interestingly, it may be your lack of obedience that is holding back the breakthrough. We cannot ask God to do what we want him to do but then refuse to move when he asks us to move. Let me explain.

When Jesus healed the ten lepers, He easily could have touched them right there and then and healed them all. He often operates that way. But instead, Jesus told them to go show themselves to the priest. As they headed there in obedience, they were all cleansed and healed. What would have happened if they refused to go? I imagine that the healing would not have occurred. Faith and obedience are often tied together.

When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. – Luke 17:14 

What instructions has the Lord given to you? Have you been obedient? Personally, I have experienced breakthrough in various areas in my life because I have acted in faith and simply obeyed His instructions. Sometimes it has been for me to sow into a ministry, other times it has been for me to fast and pray, and often it has been for me to offer a simple gesture of kindness to an individual who needs it. For years I had prayed for a healing touch in my body, but it wasn’t until I changed my diet completely that I received the healing touch that I desired. All glory still goes back to Jesus!

We cannot for one minute dismiss our active participation in the Lord’s plans. Jesus is looking for our trust. He may ask us to do things outside of our comfort zone. That’s ok, do it anyways. Maybe He is asking you to take a step of faith financially. He will provide. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what He is asking of you. It is your obedience that He is after.

To obey is better than sacrifice. – 1 Samuel 15:22

I’m not sure what you are believing God for in this season, but I encourage you to examine your own actions to see if it is your lack of obedience that is causing the delay. Jesus wants to bless you richly, but you are going to have to move when He says move.

Learn to Live Untethered

BY JESSICA LANDMON

The Holy Spirit has given me a specific word for 2023 – one that I believe is for many of you. I hear the Holy Spirit say that this is the year to become “untethered” – a year to be released from the things that hold you captive and prevent you from walking into your destiny. To become untethered, however, you must be willing to let go of the past. God wants to free you, but you must lay some things down.

Those things might look different for each of us. For some, it might be letting go of an unhealthy relationship, one that you know in your spirit doesn’t honor God or isn’t God’s perfect will for your life. For others, you might need to let go of failures that cripple you from moving forward and trying again. Some of you may need to untether yourselves from negative thought patterns – patterns of thinking that lie, deceive, and manipulate you into believing all the untruths that the enemy whispers in your ear. Even further, some of you may simply have to let go of old ways of doing things or postures of thinking. 

Untethering oneself is a healthy and necessary step to move forward. A boat can’t get to its destination if it is still tied to the dock. Why would we expect to have a different result?

For those of you who don’t know, I have an 11-pound Goldendoodle, and one of her favorite things to do, like many dogs, is play fetch. She gets so excited when I throw her ball out in the yard. Those little legs of hers just move so fast as she can’t wait to retrieve the ball. She’s fantastic at getting it and bringing it back. But, letting go of it is always a huge ordeal. She clenches it in her teeth so tightly, yet at the same time, she looks at me like why am I not throwing it again. I try to pull it out of her mouth, and we end up in a tug-of-war. After a few minutes of this charade, she finally drops it only to quickly pick it back up. At this point, she is getting angry at me because I haven’t thrown the ball again.

Do you see where I am going with this? Ladies, I’m sorry to tell you, but some of you behave just like my dog. God is trying His hardest to propel you into your future, but you refuse to let go of some things currently in your life.

God has big plans for His people this year, but we can’t allow the things of the past to hold us back. We must untether ourselves and launch forward into 2023, full of faith and with great expectancy. Ladies, 2022 and all its failures are behind us. It’s time to let go. It’s time to learn to live untethered. 

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 3:12-14

No Weapon Shall Prosper

BY JESSICA LANDMON

I am a firm believer in learning scripture, memorizing it, and declaring it over my life. One of my favorites is found in Isaiah, and I have spoken it over myself and my family for many years.

No weapon formed against you shall prosper. – Isaiah 54:17

This scripture has power. I sleep well knowing that Satan’s plans to harm me will not succeed. My God is bigger and stronger, and He will defend me against the strategies of the enemy. However, it is so important to note that although these strategies will not prosper, we can with certainty expect that weapons will indeed be formed against us. In fact, this scripture clearly says so.

I think many of us focus on this scripture providing a shield around us – that nothing harmful will ever come our way. Some would go further to suggest that the Christian life should be smooth sailing. That, my friend, is dangerous thinking. Assuming the enemy won’t try his hardest to discourage, devour, and destroy you can rock your faith if you aren’t anticipating these kinds of attacks. With that said, we need to be alert, knowing that the enemy is coming after us.

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. – 1 Peter 5:8 

Even though the devil is prowling around, we have assurance that his plans will not succeed. When we make Jesus Lord of our lives, and proclaim His promises over us, we should have peace. There is no reason to be fearful. Our Lord will fight for us.

·  An attack on your health may be formed against you, but no sickness will prosper!

·  An assault on your reputation may be formed against you, but no false testimony will prosper!

·  Poverty and financial insecurity may be formed against you, but lack in your life will not prosper!

·  Relational heartbreak may be formed against you, but disunity and loneliness will not prosper!

·  Anxious and depressing thoughts may be formed against you, but fear will not prosper!

·  Shame may be formed against you, but unworthiness will not prosper!

·  Temptation and sinful desires may be formed against you, but compromise will not prosper!

The Word of God has power! Most of us are just familiar with the first part of the scripture, but it is important to read it in its entirety. This assurance is our heritage as children of God. But we must navigate with wisdom completely aware of the enemy’s schemes in our lives. Start declaring God’s word over your life, claiming His promises, walking in step with the Lord’s will and way, and see the vindication only He can provide. And remember sweet friend, the enemy is coming for you, but He will not prosper!

 “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their righteousness is from Me,” Says the Lord. – Isaiah 54:17