Fear Pendulum Recap

We talked about fear on here recently, with how it often incites a fight or flight response, & in the case of this recent pandemic, is usually expressed with either buying copious amounts of toilet paper or sharing specific memes that express a complete disregard &/or carelessness for anything virus-related. (See that post, here.)

We also talked about how neither of those options work.

Of those responses to fear, it either leaves us crippled & crushed under an unsurmountable mountain of anxiety or the other response leaves us being disrespectful to those in harm’s way.

But the third option is putting our full trust in God. Letting Him quiet our hearts, by leaning into Him… While also respecting the fear of others & seeking to protect them from potential harm by seeking our confidence in Him over ourselves & our “wisdom.”

Another Type of Fear-Reverence, Respect, & Awe

But there is another type of fear I want to talk about today: Fear of God.

Some of you, in going through this pandemic, have been faced with this fear a little more directly than you may have admitted to yourself in the past.

It is something we should all possess, but not necessarily in the way you might understand it.

Perfectly Just & Perfectly Merciful

You see, God is both our perfect, unprejudiced Judge & our merciful, loving Redeemer.

As the perfect Judge, He has to maintain His law.

His law says that the punishment of sin (or rejecting His way & rebelling against His way) is death. This death leads to eternal separation from His love & every good thing, leaving us with only pain unimaginable & unyielding.

But, He is also our perfect, merciful Redeemer.

In this, knowing we could never perfectly uphold His law without fault, God sent His very Son, Jesus Christ, to die on our behalf, taking our sentencing upon Himself & rising again, victorious over both sin AND death, that anyone who turns from their way to put their hope & trust in Jesus instead of themselves, will be met with REDEMPTION to an eternity with NO pain or hurt or tears or sorrow, but only joy & goodness & love.

But, Fear GOD

So, in the Bible, we are told roughly 500 times (according to a quick Google search) to “FEAR GOD.”

One being, in Matthew 10:28 “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul & body in hell.” (Also in Luke 12:4-7.)

This could also be stated as, “And do not fear [this pandemic, which kills] the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” (edit mine)

Now, this is not a fire & brimstone message, so don’t worry… stick with me for the Good News….

Fear, Reverence, Awe

So, keeping in mind that God is both our Perfect Judge & Perfectly Merciful, what exactly does it mean to “fear God’?

Think of it in the terms offered by the original Greek “phobeisthe”: to fear, to be alarmed by, to revere, or to be in awe of.

God loves you so infinitely & perfectly & unconditionally that NO MATTER your past or present, HE PAID IN FULL your debt to Him, through Jesus taking your sentence by dying for you if you but put your faith in HIM. That is LOVE.

BUT, He also deserves our undying respect & honor & reverence & awe as our Almighty God… Our KING… Our Creator.

A Joy Eternal

In this time of uncertainty, fear, inconvenience, discomfort, worry, sickness, & death, let us remember that while it is true that this pandemic is wreaking havoc, it cannot have our souls.

We can rest in God’s ALMIGHTYness. We can rest in knowing that He has a plan for GOOD to come from this. And for those who have said “YES” to Him in accepting His FREE GIFT of redemption, we can rest in knowing that whether we lose to this virus or not, our eternal home is one of no tears, no pain, no suffering, no hurts, & no sorrow.

There is hope.

HOPE

(Emphasis in all verses in this post are mine.)

“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure….” (Hebrews 6:19)

“Guide me in Your truth & teach me, for You are God my Savior, & my hope is in You all day long.” (Psalm 25:5)

“… put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love & with Him is full redemption.” (Psalm 130:7)

Fearing the LORD Is:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, & knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)

“The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.” (Proverbs 19:23)

Sometimes, when God displays His great power, we are tempted to hide & run, knowing we are unworthy. But, when God displays His power, it is to remind us that He has everything covered. He is the GREAT I AM. He is Creator, KING of kings, Lord of lords, Almighty God!

He deserves our respect & our trusting obedience. And while it is easy to self-protect, self-soothe, or self-solve, we CAN TRUST HIM with our burdens, fears, worries, etc.

Crave the Display of His Power, For in It Lies Our Confidence

I don’t know about you, but having that perspective makes me crave the display of God’s great power rather than avoiding or fearing it. It is a reminder that He is SO MUCH BIGGER than me!

And so, in this terrifying & uncertain time that we live in, look to Him. Fear HIM—revere Him, respect Him, honor Him, be in awe of Him… rather than cowering or running away from Him.

Exodus 20:18-21

Choosing a Response

Will you “remain at a distance” as the Israelites responded?

Or will you approach where God is & trust Him over all else?

Don’t run from His power, but crave it & submit trustingly to it.

God is still God. He is greater than this pandemic. His plan spans eternity. He loves us infinitely & unconditionally. He is Almighty God.

Even if it has to start with an uncertain whisper of the heart (where I began & where this man in the Bible began): “Immediately the father of the child cried out [to Jesus] & said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24)

Shine Hope. Fear God, not the virus.

How will you respond?

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Manilla Bay Earrings

Local capiz shell is dyed a light blue/green hue and hand cut into half moon shapes accented with silver toned metal.

Artisan Information:

In the Philippines, finding employment as a woman in poverty can be extremely difficult. Poor working conditions, lack of job security, & unfair pay are often the realities. Through your purchase, these women are receiving an income, health care, & social development programs. This allows these women to realize their potential & pursue their dreams in a safe environment. You have the opportunity to change lives! 

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!

Can It Stop, Please?

If you’re anything like me, you’re pretty ready for any news of the Corona Virus to end…. Not to just stop talking about it, but for it to not be a thing we have to think about anymore.

As humans, we don’t like the discomfort of the unknown or of feeling a lack of control.

We want a solution.

The Pendulum Swing

Some of us rush to every extreme to protect ourselves, living in constant fear & anxiety over what we can’t solve or can’t control.

Others of us want to exude control over the situation by trying to override it or ignore it completely, mocking the very presence of the fear displayed in others.

While both reactions are completely natural—fight or flight—they both lack some very important information:

While we DON’T know, God knows EVERYTHING.

While we have VERY LITTLE control, God holds ALL control.

A Third Response to Fear

So, while human nature either tells us to stock up on toilet paper with a several month supply & act harshly toward anyone we feel might be a threat to us…

OR, while we mock everyone who seems to even care to protect themselves or feel concern over it…

There is a 3^rd option that we may be quick to overlook.

Both of the first two reactions involve trusting in ourselves & what we can figure out or control, but the 3^rd option invites us to trust something (or rather SomeOne) as our solution in the crisis, instead.

Let’s go over some things God knows & God tells us in His perfect Wisdom that can give us direction & peace & understanding in this pandemic panic culture.

1. God tells us He “hasn’t GIVEN us a spirit of fear, but of love, power, & a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

(Emphasis mine.)

This fact doesn’t mean nothing will ever scare us or that it is a sin to become scared, but rather inviting us to see that because the fear is not from Him, it doesn’t HAVE to be there… as in, if we ask for His help in removing what He has not put there, He WILL help us remove it.

He never makes us to be afraid as part of His will, but rather invites us to lean into Him & trust Him when we are faced with fear.

God is called “a very present help in times of trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) So, call out to Him when fear hits hard.

In fear, it’s easy to panic, but instead, we should ask God for His peace to replace our fear & for help in changing our attitude so we can help create a calmer atmosphere.

2. God calls us to “be wise as serpents but as harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16)

That means we should be diligent in pursuing wise, cautionary measures to prevent the spread of harmful situations.

Don’t go out in large public areas unless necessary, cough into your inner elbow, wear a mask if you cough, wash hands often, don’t shake hands, etc.

Helping to slow down the spread of the virus allows doctors ample resources & time to treat each person as they happen versus all getting sick at once.

Be wise in helping to flatten the curve in this pandemic.

3. God Calls Us to “be Subject to Every Human Authority for His Sake” (1 Peter 2:13-17)

(Note: Unless that authority commands you to directly disobey God’s Word. Remember Daniel with the lion’s den in Daniel 6 or Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego in Daniel 3? There are other examples, so feel free to share in the comments.)

If you hear word from government authority or CDC to avoid or stop doing certain things or to stop going certain places to help protect others, realize that while you may be in the healthy, young percentage of those most likely to recover just fine, others do have pre-existing conditions or are elderly & more susceptible to risk. Follow authority’s instructions willingly for the sake of those at-risk.

Please be thoughtful of how your actions may affect others with whom you may come in contact.

4. God Calls Us to “Love Others As [Ourselves]” (Mark 12:30-31)

Fear is not an excuse to be unkind to others, but it IS a great time to be extra kind & to ask God how to live this kind of love to others.

People are experiencing inconvenience & fear & loss during this time. Some need help with their kids or pets because they have been quarantined somewhere. Others need help with their kids because they still have to work but schools are shut down. Others have spouses they can’t be with because of travel closures. Some are tired & overworked trying to help put an end to this. Some feel panic because they are one of the at-risk. They could all use some help & encouragement.

Consider these & many more. Be gracious. Be kind. Be patient. Ask how you can help & ask God for help in serving others & knowing when to step in.

NOTE: This also probably means to be careful what Corona Virus memes you post, because some have actually lost loved ones or are at risk themselves.

You wouldn’t make a joke about cancer, so please don’t make a joke out of this.

5. God Tells Us to “Lay All Our Cares on Him for He Cares for Us” (1 Peter 5:7)

He is where our help comes from, so cry out to Him.

Ask for His mercy on the world through this pandemic & to stop this virus.

Ask for His wisdom on how to combat it or how to be wise in the midst of it.

Ask for His peace to quiet the fear that may trickle in or flood your heart during this time.

Ask for His help in being patient with others… in being kind & thoughtful & helpful to others.

Ask for His guidance & courage on how & where & when you can offer help.

6. God Tells Us to Share HOPE with Everyone (Mark 16:15)

This (& EVERY DAY) is a perfect time to let people know that despite anything that may happen to them or to loved ones during this pandemic, they can have eternal hope through Jesus Christ.

God created us. He knew we would spit in His face & rebel & think we know better than Him. He knew we would turn away. He knew we would never be able to undo it by being good enough because our hearts are desperately wicked, looking out for ourselves rather than the honor & glory of God, through trust in Him. He knew we would fail & yet He still created us out of LOVE for us. And better yet, foreordained our redemption story, planning all along to send His very Son, Jesus (perfect, sinless, loving Jesus–God & man in One) to willingly die on our behalf, taking upon Himself EVERY single one of our wrongs & then taking our PENALTY upon Himself to death on a cross (mocked, beaten, spit on, & murdered by those He came to rescue), but then He ROSE AGAIN, VICTORIOUS over sin AND death. Allowing us a clean slate, a fresh start, a REDEMPTION to return cleansed to God our Father through the blood of Jesus. That if we repent of our wrongs, recognizing our fault & our inability to be good enough to save ourselves, asking forgiveness & turning from our sin lifestyle, claiming Jesus as our one & only Savior, that we can be forgiven, washed in grace & allowed into the eternal, loving arms of God when we die, free from fear & pain & worry & hurt, safe & secure & LOVED. And that while on this earth, we are given the HOLY SPIRIT of God to reside in us, guiding us, helping us, loving us, teaching us, comforting us, & strengthening us as we call out to Him for help in living for His honor & glory.

That is the Good News. That is the HOPE. That is the Gospel.

God Is Still King… Lord Over ALL-Trust Him Always in Times of Fear

Share HOPE during this time of so much uncertainty, panic, & lack of control, by reassuring others that they can be sure of the hope of being made right with God in His love, through Jesus’ sacrifice. And then will have access to help, guidance, strength, & comfort from the Holy Spirit.

Don’t let fear rule.

Let God Almighty take that role as rightful King over all & TRUST HIM.

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Onyx Necklace

Modern hammered brass necklace features 3 genuine onyx drops.

Artisan Information:

The poverty cycle in India continues primarily because of the lack of education. Most schools are not free or affordable. Therefore, many children never learn to read or write & grow up with limited opportunities. However, every purchase of this product empowers women to provide for their children & send them to school! You have the opportunity to end poverty & create an impact for generations to come!

Purchase this piece & empower a woman in India!

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!

Doing Right Is Not the Same As Being Good

Self-righteousness is a tricky animal, isn’t it? Most of the time, we cannot even TELL when we are feeling it creep into our thoughts on how we view ourselves.

If you grew up in a home with at least one parent or caregiver that spent much effort in teaching you right from wrong, I’m sorry to say it, but you have probably been guilty of self-righteousness at least once in your life (if not every day).

Am I saying it’s wrong to teach children a sense of morality? No way. Keep at it!

BUT, we need to be careful that in teaching right from wrong, we do not equate “always choosing the right thing” with being a “good person.”

“There is none righteous, no, not one….” (Romans 3:10)

Even Our Good Doesn’t Make Us Good

“All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.” (Isaiah 64:6) (Think used pads filthy. Gross, right?)

This is tough because if I were to guess, most of us (including myself!) feel like we’re pretty good people… especially when we hear about awful things like human trafficking & preying on children with pedophilia.

But I have a little bubble burst for us today: NONE of us are good people. Some of us are just better at acting good aka making right choices outwardly.

Outward Good Deeds, But a Deceitful Heart

“Outwardly” is the key word in the above section.

If you have read the Bible, you are likely to have seen some of these verses:

“The heart is deceitful above all things….” (Jeremiah 17:9)

Do you know what that verse is followed with? “And desperately wicked.”

Desperately. Wicked. As in, we all have a sin nature.

All of us.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23) (emphasis mine)

God Knows Our Innermost Thoughts

Whether we spend our time in homeless shelters or soup kitchens, God still hears & knows our inner thoughts, whether it be complaining inwardly, lusting after someone who is not your spouse, envy, hatred, rebellion, or even our rejection of Him, etc. The Bible warns us to:

“… and we take every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)

Why would God even mention the possibility of taking every thought captive if it wasn’t necessary? Thoughts come in our head with little to no warning, so how does that even work?

It’s not a natural thing to stop those thoughts because they seem so natural to us. I mean, you can’t help how you feel, right?

Well, sort of yes & sort of no.

You Rule It. It Doesn’t Rule You.

Thoughts will naturally pop in because you are flesh with fleshly desires, fears, etc., but God can help you put those thoughts in check so that you control them & so that they don’t control YOU.

You can either say, “Oops, well, that’s just what I think or feel, so I am going to go with it.”

Or, you can say, “God, help me to combat that bad thing that I keep thinking about. I want my thoughts to honor You & others… & I know those thoughts don’t. So, help me clean up my thoughts.”

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2) (emphasis mine)

Obedience from Trust

God wants you to choose the right things, but not to prove our goodness.

He wants us to trust HIS WAY of doing things. He wants us to understand that He can be trusted:

1. Because He created all
2. Because He is infinitely wise
3. Because He loves us each with an everlasting love

If we all followed HIS design of how HE tells us to live, we would have perfect harmony, but unfortunately, we often choose our way instead, not to mention that none of us are without sin.

Doing Good Won’t Earn You a Spot in Heaven

BUT, doing good things will NOT get you into heaven.

You cannot earn God’s love because He already loves you infinitely more than you could EVER imagine.

The fact of the matter is that ALL have sinned & fall short of the glory of God. ALL, including me & including you.

None of us are good.

But God is. Knowing the penalty for our wrongs, our sin, is DEATH (Hell), & knowing that no one is good, no, not one, He loved us so much that He sent His only Son to die on our behalf, rising again in GLORY, conquering both sin & death, paying our penalty so that we could be made RIGHT in God’s sight.

Made Righteous in God’s Sight Because of Jesus ALONE

We are not SELF-righteous, we are MADE righteous by the death of Jesus. He paid our debt, in full, despite the fact that NONE of us could ever earn it.

That’s why we seek to live RIGHTEOUSLY, not by our own efforts or our own goodness, but by leaning into God for help to live in a way that honors Him… A life of gratitude & trust & FORGIVENESS.

A life built on grace.

Do Good out of a Grateful Heart to God

Don’t let Satan convince you that because you’re not good, you should try to prove your devotedness to God by being good without asking for God’s help to make you new.

We can’t do it alone & we weren’t meant to because God’s throne room is open to our requests night & day. God allows us to openly come before Him & ask for His help in living a life for Him.

So, ask Him—daily, moment-by-moment. He hears you. He loves you.
You may not be good, but He is & He loves you with an infinite, overflowing love that can never die, no matter what you feel you have done wrong (even purposely to spite Him). He forgives. He is patient & kind.

God IS Love

“God IS Love.” (1 John 4:8) (Emphasis mine)

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails….”

God is Love.

Shine Hope by taking your thoughts of self-righteousness to His feet, apologizing, & thanking Him that His grace covers you in full. Shine Hope by living good deeds, not to earn favor, but to honor God.

Trusting in Jesus to Rescue You Means:

If you want to know more about this, please read my testimony of how I finally submitted my doubts to trust Him with my all & learn how you can find His grace for your own life on the “Hope Is Found” tab.

Don’t wait for a tomorrow that may never come.

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Nairobi Necklace

Small hammered ovals & ethically sourced bone shapes adorn this golden necklace that shimmers in the light. Crafted in Kenya.

Artisan Information:

In Kenya, where many people struggle with starvation & poverty, the women we partner with are defying the odds! Your purchase empowers these women to earn an income, overcome physical disabilities, & become important parts of their communities!

Purchase this piece & empower a woman in Kenya!

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!

How Low Can You Go?

Have you ever gone through something really rough? Like test-your-faith rough?

Have you ever faced a pain that made you want to doubt God’s goodness? Or whether He cared about you or even saw you?

Have you ever felt like your life was defined by the hours you spent crying each day? Like the dark clouds seemed to never relent? Like your dark days could never get darker but always did?

I have.

Pain Is Real & We All Face It

I have been through depression & times of constant, high anxiety. I have had my heart shattered into seemingly millions of pieces. I have fought against the trailing effects of trauma. I have feared a deteriorating marriage. I have felt unworthy of having children because I wasn’t given any. I have faced betrayal by close friends. I have lived through devastating deserts of loneliness where no one seemed to understand or know how to help.

I have cried out to God & felt unheard.

Hindsight Guilt

When I have emerged on the other side of those treacherously painful valleys by God’s hand, I have looked back with shame for doubting God’s power & goodness & love for me.

I remembered the nights of crying, “Where ARE YOU???!”

All my life, I self-condemned for those moments where my faith slipped, letting Satan torment me with how unfaithful I really am in trusting God… with thoughts of how “terrible a Christian” I am for ever having those thoughts & worries & pain barrage my thought life & prayers–as if feeling pain meant I didn’t have enough faith.

A New Perspective

But lately, God has been shining a light on a new perspective.

In reading through the Psalms with a study group, I noticed that a vast majority of the Psalms were just like my prayers during those terribly painful moments of my life.

I noticed, too, how that theme of lamentation even flows through several books in the Bible in times of distress.

And finally, I started to see how human it is to feel these emotions & hurts.

An Important Distinction- Complaint Vs. Lament

You see, there is a very important difference between complaining & lamenting.

Complaining seeks support, but spreads the dissention & worry & heaviness among others who cannot improve the situation. It also implies there is no hope.

Lamenting to God seeks His support, focusing through the storms of life on HIS ability to help.

Complaining focuses on the source of the problem, while lamenting to God focuses on the Source of the Solution TO the problem-GOD.

Our Impossible Is, to Him, Always Possible

When we cry out to Him, no matter how impossible it may seem that He might be able to fix it, we are exercising our “mustard seed faith…” (Matthew 17:20) that even if we doubt how God can or will help us, we know deep down that if anyone CAN help us, it WILL be Him.

That’s the distinction.

When we complain, we spread & grow bitterness, not solving the problem nor seeking the One who can.

When we lament in prayers to Him, we are recognizing that whether or not we see a possible light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak, that God is where our help will come from.

It Is Okay to be Human-That Is What You Are, After All

It is okay to fall apart. It is okay to feel the weight of your world crashing around you when something unimaginably hard crosses our path. We are only human & can only endure so much in our own strength.

It is okay to mourn. It is okay to struggle.

Where Does Your Hope Come From? My Hope Is in the Lord

But the key is where do you turn as your source of Hope & Help & Healing?

“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God & not of us. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed….” (2 Corinthians 4:7-9)

It may seem to crush us under the weight of seeming impossibility, but God is a God of making the impossible possible.

“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
    where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2)

Cling to God in Distress & Tell Satan to Shut It

So, don’t let Satan riddle you with guilt & shame for feeling so beat up & crying out about it to God.

Instead, take your laments to God, pour out your honest heart (I promise He can handle your worst), & call out to Him in your distress, even if all you have to offer is your mustard seed-sized faith.

Not HOW MUCH Faith, But in WHOM You Have Faith

Remember, a mustard-seed-sized faith can move a mountain… In other words, it seems impossible, & you feel you have so little faith in it ever even BEING possible, but it’s the WHO you have faith in versus the HOW MUCH faith you have that makes the impossible POSSIBLE.

So, cry out to Him. Lay it all on Him, even when you feel you have nothing left to offer.

And if Satan tries to guilt you for feeling hopeless when you are crying out to God for hope, tell him to get out & leave you alone. Because God hears you. He doesn’t expect you to clean up the mess that you are first. He doesn’t expect you to understand all His ways. He just asks you to trust HIM in the mess.

Weakness Invites Us to See All God Can Do in Light of Our Inability

Looking back & reading through the Psalms, I am reminded that it is only human to feel overwhelmed by what we cannot control or ease, but that we are invited to come to God, pour it all out to Him, & seek His help.

God can do GREAT things with your very little.

Shine HOPE by trusting the WHO behind your faith, not the HOW MUCH faith.

He’s GOT you. He is able & He is willing.

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Manilla Bay Earrings

Local capiz shell is dyed a light blue/green hue and hand cut into half moon shapes accented with silver toned metal.

Artisan Information:

In the Philippines, finding employment as a woman in poverty can be extremely difficult. Poor working conditions, lack of job security, & unfair pay are often the realities. Through your purchase, these women are receiving an income, health care, & social development programs. This allows these women to realize their potential & pursue their dreams in a safe environment. You have the opportunity to change lives!

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!

Wearing Your Heart on Your Sleeve

It’s interesting running a blog, you know. It’s like opening up my personal journal for all to judge or be encouraged or whatever they decide to do with it.

Sometimes it’s draining to wear my heart on my sleeve, but if I am completely honest with you, I find it to be a great honor to share with you.

I get asked by some women why I would want to share my struggles with others. They ask if it’s embarrassing.

I will say that I used to care a lot more about what others think of me & that while I do still struggle through the battle from time to time, I have actually grown more confident in sharing.

Every Mistake Displays His Grace

I think the biggest reason why it encourages me more than embarrasses me is the fact that while I do make mistakes & mess up & get it wrong, leading to blog posts about how God walked me through it… I have learned that each screw up on my part is an opportunity to share God’s patience, love, & grace.

Sure, I messed up in those situations. Sure, I like people to think I have it all together far more than I do sometimes.

But when it all boils down to it, I realize that my “shame” can either be left as my shame or it can turn into an opportunity to point others to our great, loving, forgiving, powerful, awesome God.

Not Immune to Mistakes

I used to try to save face a lot more often than I do now, but I am human, just like everyone else. I make mistakes just like everyone else. I act in my own self interest at times, just like everyone else. I give up. I quit too soon. I lose hope. I whine. I complain. I fail. I try my own way AGAIN & fail AGAIN. I am stubborn & lazy & can be prone to hard-heartedness.

I have to pray my way through a LOT because, if left up to me, I wouldn’t accomplish much at all of any real worth.

Quite Often I Can’t, But He Still CAN

But through my vast array of examples of my weaknesses, failures, insecurities, lack of faith, etc…. Each one is an opportunity to show you that while I quite often CAN’T… He CAN.

I am not the all-knowing, all-wise guru who is going to help positive-think your way into a better life.

I am a broken, stubborn, prone-to-fail HUMAN who strives to use my own weaknesses as a canvas of His grace painted across my life.

His CAN in light of my many CAN’Ts.

Can You Relate?

I don’t know if you can relate to any of this… or maybe you feel you have your life together far better than I do.

But whatever the case, don’t let Satan beat you into the ground for being what you are—human.

Instead, turn it around & say, “You’re right, Satan, I did fail. But God never does & that’s exactly why I need to remember that I need Him.”

And shine your light of HOPE in Christ by admitting your weaknesses & displaying His overpouring generous grace.

Always. 100%.

In light of our CAN’Ts, He CAN. Always. 100%.

So, I hope you find encouragement in the many failures & weaknesses & insecurities I am sure to face on this blog journey together with you.

And realize that just like you, I need Him, too. And He is always enough. Amen & Amen.

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Sea Glass Necklace

After cleaning up the beaches of broken glass, the artisans now recreate the look & feel of sea glass by upcycling glass bottles from local hotels & restaurants that would otherwise be discarded, & tumble it with water & sand from the Red Sea until it is smooth & resembles the beautiful pieces found in nature. Sizes & colors may vary.

Artisan Information:

Many Jordanian women have their lives controlled by their closest male relative. They balance many customs at home, creating a lack of independence. Some of these women are divorced, widowed, or married to a man who may already have many wives. But amid struggles, these women we work with arrive to a family-like workplace. They can be heard & seen singing, laughing, & drinking tea while creating our unique jewelry made from upcycled glass bottles. Your purchase empowers them with boldness & financial independence for the first time!

Purchase this piece & empower a woman in Jordan!

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!

Resisting the Urge to Avoid

Isn’t this a fun thing to consider (Note the sarcasm)? The idea of finding comfort in being uncomfortable?

I don’t know about you, but for me, I would rather AVOID being uncomfortable.

Whether it be a person who grates me or is constantly bringing up controversial topics, or even the thought of doing something uncomfortable that God has asked of me (like running a blog or loving my enemy, for example)… I would rather say, “No thanks!” & carry on without it. This concept of getting comfortable being uncomfortable may seem like the opposite of a good idea to you, too. Trust me, it’s not such a fun thing for me to consider either.

Growing in Complacency or TRUST?

I like comfort just as much as anyone else, if not more.

But one thing that running my blog has taught me is that I need to lean into my discomfort more than striving for more comfort.

One thing that comfort does for many of us is a growing complacency, built on trusting what we feel like doing or what we feel capable of doing, versus trusting an infinite God to help us overcome & do more than we already feel comfortable doing.

A Constant Need for Surrender is Not Comfortable, But It Is Filled with Many Blessings

This may or may not come as a surprise to you, but running my blog is not a comfort zone for me. I do not feel ready to go each week, jumping at the bit to write. It’s a constant surrender for me.

My desire for comfort coupled with my constant need to surrender that comfort to God in order to run this blog means that I have tried unsuccessfully to talk myself out of continuing my blog countless times.

Even today, I spent most of the day doing everything but work on this post for this week. It will be published in about 5 hours & I am just now starting it.

Why Keep Going if It Takes Continual Surrendered Discomfort?

So why do it? Why keep doing something that I don’t always feel comfortable/confident doing?

Because every time I pray about it, I feel God patiently & gently nudging me to be a light for Him, to point others to Him, & to surrender my unwillingness & ask for His help instead of avoiding it altogether.

And here comes the whole point of today’s post.

Sometimes God Asks Us Out of Our Comfort Zones to Teach Us That He Is Enough EVEN THERE

Sometimes God asks us to do things outside of our comfort zones (Moses is a great example of this because he kept saying, “But, I…”) & obey in faith. Faith in Whom? In HIM.

It is completely human nature to seek comfort… even if your comfort is living as a thrill-seeker (just fyi–NOT my comfort zone, haha), but feeling discomfort being still & quiet.

We cling to where & what & with whom we feel most comfortable.

But God wants us to learn to cling to HIM.

And Yet We Still Fight It. Why?

*Sigh* I know this & yet I still fight it.

I KNOW He has infinite wisdom & can impart it to me to help guide me in decisions, etc.

I KNOW He has limitless resources & can fulfill a need if I but ask, when seeking to live for Him.

I KNOW He created me & all things & is limitless, infinite, Almighty God.

And yet, I still cling to everything else right in front of me for what makes me most comfortable.

Trusting God with the unknown is scary, but living in fear is no real way to live when God offers us His perfect love to cast out that paralyzing fear.

Embrace Your Weaknesses As Reminders to Turn to Him for Help

I am learning (to try) to embrace feeling uncomfortable. Instead of freezing up or avoiding it altogether, I am learning to just stop & ask God for help in accomplishing it.

Here is an example of how I cling to Him in my urge to avoid discomfort:

“God, I don’t feel like doing my blog today. I know I am being lazy & just trying to get out of doing work so I can relax & avoid anything uncomfortable, but I still feel like ditching it for tv binge watching instead. I know that You put this blog on my heart as a way to encourage others toward the hope that can only be found in You, but I want lazy! Please help me adjust my attitude because I can’t seem to do it. Please help give me words of encouragement to point to You. Please motivate & encourage me. Help me get over this hump. I know You are infinitely more powerful than me. I know Your wisdom has no end. So please help me. Help me to honor You through this & help me to trust You when it’s easier to quit. AMEN.

Reaching Our Limits Leads Us to Need & Rely on HIM

It’s okay to reach the end of yourself. Every human is limited. Every human struggles with clinging to comfort.

But God is bigger than us. He can help us with His strength as we lean into Him.

So, lean into Him.

Learn to be comfortable in the discomfort, knowing that it is simply a reminder that He is right there, willing & able to help you live for Him & to live in a way that honors Him & brings Him glory.

Because He is enough. Always. 100%.

And here I am finishing my post for this week. NOT because I am a super self-motivated, self-disciplined person, but because I took my lazy, ready-to-quit attitude to Him & asked for His help.

Shine Hope by not shying away from (AKA avoiding) discomfort, but by facing it in HIS strength, wisdom, & power through asking for HIS HELP.

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Petal Necklace (& Petal Stud Earrings)

This cubic zirconia floral pendant hangs from an antique golden chain and pairs perfectly with the Petal Stud Earrings.

Artisan Information:

The women we partner with in India do so much more than just create beautiful products. With every purchase, another woman is empowered out of poverty to be self-reliant! Women have the opportunity to earn an income, attend financial management classes, & receive education & healthcare. These women are now able to give their family a promising future because of your purchase!

Purchase this piece & empower a woman in India!

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!

When We Feel Like We’re Standing Alone

Have you ever felt frustrated because you are gaining deeper insight into who God is & the depth of His love for us & the vastness of what He is capable of in helping us to live for Him… but no one else seems to care… even Christian friends & family?

Has it ever seemed like you are the only one who wants to learn more about Him & strive to live for Him, while fellow Christians in your circles just seem to be okay with what they already know & don’t really want any more?

Honesty moment here—I have.

But, I Do It, Too

Now, I am NOT saying that I always get it right or that I am always seeking God diligently or that I never struggle with self-centered thinking & rebellious thoughts toward God.

BUT, sometimes it can feel like others just turn their ears off when I want to share how wonderful God is & how much He is willing to HELP them live for Him.

I mean, wouldn’t people WANT to know how God can take some stress off their backs & help give them strength, wisdom, & peace?

But no, I get it… We, as human beings (me included, since I am indeed a human being), want to feel capable & self-assured. We can feel a little offended when someone implies that these are lies Satan satiates us with versus attainable realities that we blindly hope they are.

Having Control Makes Us Lose Control

Why do we do that? Why do we self-sabotage simply even by trying to self-protect or handle it on our own? Why do we cling to control as if we can possibly do a better job than our unconditionally loving & all-powerful Creator God?

As if having control would make our lives better on our limited understanding, knowledge, wisdom, capabilities, etc. etc. etc.?

When Sharing Hope Leads to Disappointment

I had such an instance happen today.

I excitedly shared with a friend some things God has been teaching me, encouraged to brighten her life with a bigger perspective of our great God, thinking I would surely be met with either a, “I know! Isn’t He so magnificent? Oh, I never get tired of remembering how capable & loving & patient & wonderful He is!” or, “Oh wow, God really IS so great & this just shows again how much He really DOES LOVE US!!”

But instead, I was met with almost a backlash of, “I think doing it my way is working okay enough.”

But… what?

Why do we do that to ourselves?

Why Do We Settle for Just “Okay”?

Why would we settle for our way… our “okay enough”… when GOD offers us significantly more at HIS expense, not even ours?

It’s like, “here, let Me give you strength so you’re not so tired, some wisdom so you’re not so stressed, & some love & peace mixed in there to let you know how much you mean to Me. And all you have to do is ask me for help.”

And our response is so often, “Um, I don’t want to ask for help because I am going to figure it out myself & if I just do more self-care then I won’t need the God-given strength & then maybe I will post a selfie & say, “felt cute, might delete later” to get the affirmation I need. So, I don’t need to ask for Your help. I’m fine, really.”

What?

Why?

I know I do it, too, so don’t think I am excluding myself on this. I am certainly NOT letting myself off the hook for this kind of thinking.

But, why???

In the Multitude of My Anxieties

After the very dumbfoundingly discouraging response from my friend, our conversation ended with an weird off-ness. I almost just plopped on the couch & cried from the confusion & sadness that overwhelmed me at their complete lack of interest in God’s help (& they’re a long-time Christian).

So, I remembered Psalm 94:19 “In the multitude of my anxieties, Your comforts delight my soul,” & so I stopped to pray something like this:

“God, why? Why would someone who knows You not even want to ask You for help like they don’t know they can trust You with more than just eternal salvation? Do they not even care? Do they not want to know You more or see You do more in their life than just meeting the status quo? Why don’t they care? Why do so many people seem to NOT CARE? Don’t they know how much You love them & HOW POWERFUL You are & all You can do for them to help them live for You like they always say they want? But then they refuse to even ASK You. WHY???”

God Is Still God

And God’s truthful reminders started coming across my heart, “Just breathe. I am not expecting you to be responsible for fixing everyone’s hearts. They are just human, like you. They make mistakes & get it wrong, just like you. But, I am God. I am not thwarted. I can work through even their disbelief. Remove the pressure that is building in your heart & take your burden for the world & put it on My shoulders. I will not hold you responsible for their bad choices. Just speak the Truth in Love & leave the rest to Me. I will take care of them. Just you be responsible for your choices & trusting Me every step. Leave the rest up to Me & just ask for My help & guidance to stay faithful to what I call you to & let Me handle the rest.”

Take Up HIS Yoke

And so, the beautiful Biblical reminders flooded my heart, from Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to Me, all you who are weary & burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you & learn from Me, for I am gentle & humble in heart, & you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy & My burden is light.”

Taking His yoke is like a little flea sharing a yoke with a giant ox. How much contribution do you think the flea has to offer in that scenario? Not much, I’ll tell you that.

And that is a magnificent portrayal of a life lived in surrender to God.

We fight it so much, clinging to a sense of personal control, but what will really bless us is to give up that control for Him to carry the weight while we walk in His way by trusting Him with every step.

Pray With Me

So, if you’re like me, my friend I mentioned earlier, & every other human in existence & you struggle trying to maintain control over your life to try it your way, in your strength, & in your wisdom… pray with me.

Pray & ask God to help you see the MORE that He offers you.

Pray to have a humble & wakened heart, to know His deep, wide love for you & the vastness of His great power that He offers to help us if we but ask.

Because He DELIGHTS in us taking HIS yoke & us putting our burdens on Him & Him giving US rest, peace, wisdom, strength, hope, grace, mercy, joy, self-control, etc. etc. etc.

1 John 5:14-15, says, “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.”

So, ASK HIM.

He’s Got You, Babe

Let’s all work at being a little better at letting the God of the Universe be in charge, while we strive to trust Him with more & lean into Him more as we seek to live under His lead. He’s got you, babe.

Shine HOPE by refusing to do it yourself & asking for HIS HELP.

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Onyx Necklace

Modern hammered brass necklace features 3 genuine onyx drops.

Artisan Information:

The poverty cycle in India continues primarily because of the lack of education. Most schools are not free or affordable. Therefore, many children never learn to read or write & grow up with limited opportunities. However, every purchase of this product empowers women to provide for their children & send them to school! You have the opportunity to end poverty & create an impact for generations to come!

Purchase this piece & empower a woman in India!

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!

Aren’t Christians Supposedly “Good People”?

Have you ever been asked why Christians mess up so much or why they do wrongs when they’re supposed to be “good”?

First off, no one is good, except God… we ALL mess up… but let’s keep going.

Have you ever wondered this yourself when you see Christians royally mess something up in a way that “makes us look bad”?

Has this ever made you doubt your faith in God? Or made you feel ashamed of their representation of Christ?

We Are All Just Human… Not a Cop Out, Just the Truth

I think the most important thing to remember when faced with this question is the fact that Christian or not, we are all just human.

That may sound like a cop out to you, an excuse to allow us to continue doing whatever we want the way we want it, whether or not it causes any harm.

But my point is just as I said it, we need to remember that we are only human.

Without intentionally bowing temptations or ideals or determinations to God Almighty, we are simply acting in human (fleshly) wisdom & actions.

We Are the “Branches” & He Is the Vine… Without Him, We Are Just Sticks

We are called to plug our daily lives into our “Vine” aka God through prayer & reading His Word, the Bible (John 15:1-8). Without drawing from Him & actively submitting to His will & His way, with His help, we are simply acting as we are on our own—human.

That is why I am so passionate about this topic of constantly pointing us to look to, draw from, & lean into God in every area of our lives. We (including ME!) need this constant reminder to look to Him to lead, equip, guide, instruct, teach, empower, embolden, strengthen etc.

Without making intentional effort to lean into Him for our daily lives, including our thought lives, we are vulnerable to the attacks & tricks of the devil, even the subtle nudges that urge you to take or do what you want without regard for checking in with Almighty God.

Everyone Is Looking for Us to Fail… But WE Are NOT God

My husband wisely pointed out to me that, as Christians, we are also on display as representors of Jesus Christ & because of this fact, media eats up the juicy shock & awe factor of plastering our mistakes for all to see, making it seem much more prevalent than it is, at least in comparison to any other humans doing the same thing.

God Is Greater

And, we must consider the fact that we have an active enemy on this earth who spends all of his time prowling the earth seeking who he may devour or destroy—Satan.

Being a Christian means that Satan can do NOTHING to take away the HOPE we have received in accepting Christ to cover our debt to God by His death & resurrection on our behalf… BUT, Satan will do whatever he can to discourage us, distract us, & keep us from displaying the LOVE & GLORY & GRACE of the GREAT God that we serve… the GREAT God Who offers a rescue for all our souls.

Satan tries to keep us from representing well the wonderful God we love.

Guard Yourself with God’s Truth & His Strength

This is one MAJOR reason why we should be reading & meditating on God’s Word “day & night” as the Bible tells us (Joshua 1:8), to quench the fiery darts of the devil through your faith in Who your help comes from–God (Ephesians 6:16).

Let God’s Word/Truth help you deflect the lies that our enemy tries to tempt or discourage us with.

When we are not leaning into God & when we are living by our own strength & wisdom, we are just as susceptible to sin as ANY other person.

Our spirit may be willing, as Jesus puts it, but our flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41).

We must yield our willing spirit & weak flesh to God to allow for His power & wisdom to lift us up & help us out as we strive to live in a way that shows Him honor & gives Him glory.

Only God Is Perfect. Only God Does No Wrong.

It is extremely easy to put people on pedestals with Christ. We tend to see how they encourage or inspire us to seek Jesus & yet we forget that they need Him just as much as we do & when they take their eyes from Him, they are just as vulnerable to submitting to sinful thoughts as we are.

That’s also a big reason why we should actively pray for spiritual leaders. They have a big target on their backs because Satan wants to use their influence to try to ruin God’s reputation. We can bet that Satan is putting his resources into taking them down publicly to discredit God & the grace He offers to the world.

God Has Already WON. He CANNOT Be Thwarted.

I need to step back from the mention of Satan’s work & determination to remind us of something so powerful. NO MATTER what Satan accomplishes on this earth… no matter who he discredits… GOD HAS ALREADY WON THE WAR. God’s purposes, plan, & will WILL PREVAIL.

God canNOT be thwarted. EVER.

Remember These Things…

So, while it does make us ashamed & embarrassed when representatives of Christ royally mess things up, we need to remember several things when this topic is brought up or when we see it arise in the media:

1. God will have the final say & He is never caught off guard or thwarted. EVER. He has already WON.
2. That person who screwed up did so because they took their eyes off Jesus & either tried to do it on their own or were distracted by temptation, failing to lean into God’s strength to help them overcome.
3. There is no such thing as good versus evil people… only PEOPLE loved by Almighty God who do good or evil things. NONE of us are good & ALL of us are redeemable through God’s grace.
4. Look to GOD as your guide ultimately, through prayer & time in His Word—not to other people. People can encourage, teach, admonish, redirect, uplift, edify, etc. us, but ONLY God is perfect in all things & perfectly able to not sin & perfectly able to help you in ALL situations. So, turn to Him, ALWAYS.
5. We have an active enemy on this earth. Don’t take that lightly. Turn to God as your source of hope, strength, comfort, wisdom, guidance, etc. He is King of kings, Almighty God, but He is also our unconditionally loving GOD who offers freely His GRACE to ALL who trust in Christ, His Son.

Our Common Humanity & Our Common Need for CHRIST

Don’t begin to doubt God when people mess up big time… begin to recognize our common humanity & our common need for Christ in every situation, leaning into Him daily, moment-by-moment.

Only God cannot, does not, & will never sin.

Every person has access to His grace. EVERY person.

Shine HOPE by being gracious to fellow humans in their mistakes that you are just as capable of making if you take your eyes from Jesus & by shining God as our perfect HOPE.

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Worthy Necklace

All the Pink! Beautifully delicate in design, this rose gold plated chain displays a light pink rose quartz stone. Crafted in India.

Artisan Information:

The women we partner with in India do so much more than just create beautiful products. With every purchase, another woman is empowered out of poverty to be self-reliant! Women have the opportunity to earn an income, attend financial management classes, & receive education & healthcare. These women are now able to give their family a promising future because of your purchase!

Purchase this piece & empower a woman in India!

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!

Not a New Question

This question of “where is God when I am suffering?” is not a new question.

In fact, it is asked by David in many of the Psalms as David is crying out, hurting, feeling alone & betrayed & attacked from everywhere all at once.

It is a human question, one that every person is tempted to feel at one point or another. (I can’t tell you HOW MANY TIMES I have cried this same question in my hurts.)

It’s a hard question to answer, I will tell you that. But one thing I am certain of, just like David always came back to this Truth, that when my help comes, it will be of the Lord.

He Never Leaves Us Nor Forsakes Us… Even When We Are Hurt

Does that mean He is ignoring us or forgetting us in the meantime? … Although it may feel like that sometimes, the answer is a strong “no”.

He will never forget or ignore us in our troubles. He loves you too darn much.

Our Blessings Can Also Come in the Form of Difficulties

Have you ever felt so caught up in life that when God jolts you out of your spiral, everything finally makes sense? God can use our difficulties to right our path.

A beautiful song that I like to think of when I consider this question of “WHERE ARE YOU, GOD!?” is “Blessings”, by Laura Story. (Go have a listen!)

Our blessings are not just in the absence of trouble, but in the peace, grace, comfort, strength, & power in the MIDST of that trouble.

And even more than that, as we lean into God through our struggles, God grows our character, faith, courage, peace, strength, & wisdom.

So Many Troubles. But, God.

Our troubles can come from many different places for many different reasons & His actions are always according to His perfect Wisdom in every situation (which we usually can’t see in the midst of our struggle).

He knows our needs. He knows our doubts. He knows our struggles & weaknesses & insecurities & fears & scars. And He knows what we need better than we know them ourselves.

He always answers our calls for help in His perfect Wisdom. ALWAYS. 100%.

Oftentimes we are missing out simply by begging God for the end of the trouble instead of clinging to Him & asking for His strength, love, peace, wisdom, hope, etc. to help us THROUGH it!

No matter the source of our troubles, whether it be in trying to keep our fast-spinning world in control in our own strength & wisdom, whether it be the results of living in a broken, sinful world, or whether it be the result of our own sin… He is good. He loves you. He hears you. He is able to bring you victory. He forgives. HE is able to bring you victory (worth repeating, WITH emphasis)… Not you believing harder or proving it more or being better… But HIS love, HIS grace, HIS wisdom, HIS strength, & HIS Almighty POWER.

Oh Hello… A Wake Up Call

I know that sometimes I need troubles to remind me to stop looking to myself or others as my answer. I need to remember He is there. He hears me. He is able. I need HIM.

Our troubles can sometimes come from our own self-focused (doing-it-my-way) actions… a stress that rears its ugly head when we are trying to keep it all together, weighing us down… & God often allows friction in our lives to remind us that we are NOT in control of our own lives & that He is KING.

We are loved by the King & because of this, His desire is not for us to scramble through all of life always trying to maintain control when He already holds perfect control. He wants us to know we can rest in that & have perfect, unmovable peace.

We usually cannot understand that peace until we are faced with a situation beyond our control & we then turn to & lean into God as our help. When we turn to Him instead of ourselves, we are able to be profoundly introduced to or reminded of the fact that God has it completely under control (even when it seemed impossible to us).

He is waiting for us to fall into His arms so we can know the fullness of His power & sovereignty, & love for us through it all.

It’s a Broken World We Live In… A Temporary Home

Secondly, God doesn’t promise us a life of ease & comfort, (even though we really think we want that).

In fact, God knows we will face pain because that is the direct result of sin in the world. In other words, He tells us what not to do because He knows sovereignly that those things hurt us, whether we get that or not… but we live in a world of those wrong choices. We live in a world broken by sin….

As a result, life is just HARD sometimes. Unbearably so, even, sometimes. Another reminder that we need Jesus… & to look at this earth as our temporary home, longing for the day we enter into eternity with our Savior where there will be no more tears & only LOVE & PEACE & JOY.

We Have an Enemy… But, God.

On top of that, the Bible tells us that Satan spends his time prowling the earth, looking to whom he may kill & destroy. We have a spiritual enemy at odds against us, wanting to watch us crash & burn, or at least to convince us to doubt God & to turn from God’s hope & grace through Christ (resulting in US paying our own penalty to sin—DEATH aka HELL, instead of having Christ cover us with His payment on our behalf!).

Don’t let your doubts & bitterness become so poisonous that Satan convinces you that you’re better off on your own. You’re not.

Our Only Taste of Hell… or Heaven… Your Choice

A pastor once made it clearer this way, (paraphrasing here), “If you have accepted Jesus as your Savior to cover the payment of your sin, your time on earth will be the closest thing you experience to Hell because it is broken by sin. If you reject Jesus, earth will be the closest thing you experience to Heaven, because on earth, God still blesses the righteous & the unrighteous, but in Hell, you will be completely separated from God’s love & goodness.”

What a clear reminder!

And We Can’t Forget Our Own Sin/Fault

And still is the subject of our own sin… our own wrongs.

No one can claim a sinless life except Jesus Christ who paid our debt before God on the cross!

And we should ALWAYS remember that while we are breathing, there is ALWAYS an opportunity for grace, mercy, & HOPE… & VICTORY.

A wonderful quote I read recently said that because we ALL SIN, our DEFAULT destination is Hell… & that we ALL NEED a Savior who will pay our debt on our behalf aka JESUS.

Sin Has Consequences, Now & in Eternity… Trust in Jesus & Ask for Grace

I also heard the wonderful quote that “the question is not, “why would a Good God send anyone to Hell?” but rather, “why would anyone CHOOSE Hell over a Good God?” because God gave a way out for EVERY SINGLE PERSON, through Jesus, to ALL WHO CONFESS their sins & ACCEPT Christ.”

Sin has consequences, & all of them hurt us, others, AND God. But eternal consequences can be covered by Jesus & God forgives & gives mercy now when we turn to Him.

Hurts from our sin is inevitable (that’s why God commands us to avoid them!)

Turn to Him, Cry Out to Him, Ask for His Help THROUGH the Storm

So, if you are hurting right now, maybe even feeling like the world is crumbling around you, confess what you need to confess, ask for God’s forgiveness & mercy & grace. If you know you haven’t sinned, then consider that God is in the midst of the hurt with you & He will help you THROUGH it IF you ask Him for His help in it.

So, ASK HIM!

Don’t let Satan convince you that the way to solve your problems is to turn your back on the only One who has any chance to truly help you overcome, heal, & carry on in victory!

Shine HOPE by taking your pain to the feet of Jesus. Confess &/or Ask for help from our Almighty GOD.

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Northern Lights Bracelet (& Earrings)

Layered in natural labradorite stone, this timeless style will add elegance to any outfit.

Artisan Information:

The poverty cycle in India continues primarily because of the lack of education. Most schools are not free or affordable. Therefore, many children never learn to read or write & grow up with limited opportunities. However, every purchase of this product empowers women to provide for their children & send them to school! You have the opportunity to end poverty & create an impact for generations to come!

Purchase this piece and empower a woman in India!

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!

Although I Try…

One of the hardest parts of life, for me, is being aware of my own humanity.

It’s hard to know that I have limits & that I can’t do whatever I want whenever I want however I want.

It’s hard to know I mess up, make mistakes, & don’t always get it right when I am convinced I can handle it.

It’s hard to feel like quitting when you feel the pressure to be so much more than you are.

It’s just hard being human sometimes.

But, I Thought You Had a Handle on All This Because You Run a Blog? Nope

I know that some of you may have been following my blog for the one & a half years I have been doing it & maybe feel that I am such a “stronger Christian” than you are.

I can tell you right now that that is a big NOPE.

I am no stronger or better than anyone else reading this, but I serve a STRONG God who offers His help when we seek Him for it.

I am human. I drop the ball. I have doubts led by my desire to do things my way instead of God’s way. (I think becoming a “strong Christian” only comes when we realize how weak we really are & how much we actually need Him.)

It is ONLY by leaning into God for help in my MANY weak days/moments that I am able to accomplish ANYTHING of any worth. Otherwise, I would toss it all away for a cream soda & some tv show binge-watching or PS4 gaming on the couch.

My Flesh Is Weak… Can You Relate?

I also have a bent toward rebellion, like is so common for many of us, isn’t it?

Fighting my flesh is one of my least favorite parts about my humanity.

As Jesus put it to His disciples, right before He was taken to die on the cross for our sins, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41)

Isn’t that the truth?

Rebellion Vs. Submission… A Trust Issue

My heart longs to go all in & trust God with every fiber of my being, knowing He loves me more than everyone I know combined (& then a whole lot more!) & yet sometimes, in the quiet moments, I find myself bent toward indignation & obstinance.

Submitting is hard. Trusting is hard. I want my way.

I don’t want to have to trust Anyone else. I don’t want to have to listen to anyone else or do what anyone else tells me to do.

I want to do things MY way, however flawed that way may be… regardless of the fact that it may hurt myself or others (because that is precisely what sin does—it causes harm to self & others).

Taking Every Thought Captive… Not Letting Stray Thoughts Rule Your Heart

I am prone to pride & selfishness… Self-protection.

I have to sometimes constantly do exactly what the Bible tells us when it says, “We demolish arguments & every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, & we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ,”(2 Corinthians 10:5) because I know deep down that He really does know far better than me & that every single time I have gone out in trusting Him, it has proved to be absolutely worth it every single time.

And yet I still resist sometimes.

We Are Freed from the Consequences of Sin, But Not the Temptation of It

Becoming a Christian doesn’t mean we will no longer struggle against our humanity, it means we are saved from being a slave to it. It means we are freed from the consequences of it.

I heard it said best, by author Courtney Doctor, when she said something like, “before we become Christian, we are not able to not sin, but once we let Christ take our sin on Himself by trusting in Him for our salvation, we are now able to not sin.”

In other words, I now have God’s help in not submitting to the temptations that fight for my attention. Will I always turn to Him for that help? Unlikely. I will make mistakes… But God is willing to help me when I ask Him for it.

The Hope in Our Humanity

That is the hope in all of this… in our humanity & the war raging for our attention… when we have submitted ourselves to Him as our Redeemer & when we lean into Him for help, “taking every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ,” He helps us overcome.

Praying for “Backup”

Will we resist in pride sometimes, yes. But this is what I pray in those moments:

“God, I don’t want to listen to You right now. I want to do this my way. I know you are nudging a warning in my mind that this is the wrong path, but it’s MY path & I want to take it. Please help me fight the war in my heart right now. I am too weak to fight back because I feel like I want it so badly. Please help me! Help me want Your way. Help me to see that You are King & Almighty God & my Creator & Redeemer & ONLY You know what is truly best. Help me to trust You. I want Your way because I know it is best but I am feeling so stubborn right now & I don’t want to care about what is best, only what I want. Please help me change my heart to follow You only. Amen.”

God Offers His Help to Overcome

Don’t let Satan convince you that because you feel stubborn or because you mess up that God doesn’t love you… FAR FROM IT!! And don’t let him convince you that it’s all up to you & self-willpower, because it isn’t.

Instead, tell Satan to “talk to the hand” (as once was actually cool to say), & then turn to prayer for God’s grace, forgiveness, & help. God will never neglect to offer you all of those things.

It’s okay to be human… it’s what you were created to be. You were created to need God’s help. You weren’t created to be God… God already has that role covered better than we could ever hope to pull off.

So, submit to Him in your humanity & ask for His help, His wisdom, His courage, His peace, & His strength.

You already have full access to His love, His mercy, His grace, & His care.

1 Peter 5:7 says it right here: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”

Shine HOPE by accepting His help through your own humanity, because He cares for you.

((*And yes, I forgot completely about our Special Feature Post this month the day after Christmas! Oops. Further proof that I am imperfect. I hope you can forgive me as we get back on track after the holidays!))

Coming Next Week

Join me every Monday morning, EST, for more encouragement.

As God grows me, may it encourage you to seek Him & know Him & love Him more every day.

Share with friends & Subscribe by Joining My Tribe, so you never miss a week!

A Note from Michelle:

If you would like to hear more of my story, check out the “About Me” page. And if you would like to hear how I found my lasting source of HOPE, read the “Hope Is Found” page, on this site. I hope they are an encouragement to you! <3

Also, make sure to “Join My Tribe” by adding your email to the top bar & clicking “Join My Tribe”. This gains you access to an extra weekly dose of encouragement from me in your inbox, along with the link to each week’s new post! I can’t wait to do this journey together!!

Weekly Special Spotlight:

Each week, I feature an item that is changing lives for women around the world. These hand-crafted pieces are offering job creation opportunities for women artisans in impoverished nations all around the world! Check out this week’s featured beauty!!

Wisdom Necklace

Intricately handcrafted petals carved from ethically collected bone set in golden frames.

Artisan Information:

In India, poverty is rampant & fair working conditions are hard to find. But with every purchase, women are receiving an income, access to healthcare, adult literacy programs, & self-help groups! Not only does this change their lives, but they are also pouring back into their communities & helping others! You have the opportunity to empower thousands of women in India!

Purchase this piece & empower a woman in India!

SHOP Here, OR, Email me at michelle@michellehydeonline.com with any questions, & I will message you personally with more information!! Thank you for inspiring HOPE around the world, Lovely!