Cradled in Grace: A Mother’s Love Through the Heart of God

newborn baby, holding baby

Photo image by Pixabay Sherwood

Mothers are a reflection of God’s love. Unfortunately, not all mothers have the same heart and intentions for their children. It’s heartbreaking to hear stories of abuse, neglect, rejection, and abandonment.

On the other side of the spectrum, Mother’s Day magnifies the heartache and pain of losing a child. For women who’ve lost their son or daughter through sickness, drug addiction, suicide, gun violence or a tragic accident, you are not forgotten. You may find support for your loved one at The Angel Mom Collective and SayTheirNamesMonuments. May the Lord strengthen and comfort all mothers grieving the loss of a child.

The qualities of a mother embodies genuine love, sacrifice, wisdom, compassion, strength and nurturing characteristics.

In Proverbs 31:26-30, it states, “Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.30 Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.

We are living in a time where mothers are under extreme pressure to raise their children. Their focus to protect them from physical harm and danger as well as implement online safety measures leaves mothers with profound anxieties and fears.

flower,

Photo image by Pixabay MrBassDeluxe

When you can shift your focus to the Lord’s protection and guidance and teach them Biblical values and morals when they’re young, the Lord will continuously chase after that one child all the days of their life. A child void of the absence of God is in extreme danger of the devices, plots and schemes of the enemy. When they are not raised with a spiritual foundation, they are led into the world that will eventually devour their life because they were not given the spiritual tools to overcome sin, temptations of the flesh, understand their identity in Christ, stand in faith, develop resilience in hardship and fight spiritual warfare.

The devil comes to kill, steal and destroy, but I have come to give you life more abundantly.

John 10:10

If you are a young mother or currently pregnant, I encourage you to build a strong foundation on the Word of God. When a child is born, it’s important to baptize and christen a baby for spiritual covering and protection. When they’re older, they will have the opportunity to make a decision to be baptized in the Holy Spirit in a public declaration and receive salvation as a confession of true repentance.

Photo image by Pixabay Biglinker

Spiritual practice and teaching start at the home. Unfortunately, some adults are acting out as bad as children. Making sound decisions, being respectful to others, showing appreciation and living honorably is a commodity. The fruits of the spirit which consists of love, joy peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are in high demand in society.

As parents, you should reflect a spiritual nature as a role model for your children. Children are like sponges and will absorb the same characteristics and qualities that they see in their lives. They are highly influenced by their environment and with the impact of information at their fingertips through the internet and social media, it’s making it harder to regulate what your child is exposed to and if they are living in a toxic and unstable environment, they will also mirror the same values and attributes.

Unfortunately, in today’s world, some children are very disrespectful to their parents, authority figures, and adults, in general. There is a deteriorating of morals, values and Biblical principles. This problem is infecting out social and educational system. It’s like a viral cancer that has spread across the nation.

community service, children

It will take community to repair the damage of the moral decay that we are currently experiencing in this country and around the globe. The famous saying, “It takes a whole village to raise a child,” is just an example of what’s needed at this time.

As we celebrate and honor mothers for their sacrifice, hard work, generosity, selflessness, strength and dedication, let us grow a as a community [in unity] to reflect the love of Christ everywhere we go. As the world continues to rapidly change, we must stand in agreement with God’s plan and purpose for our lives.

Mothers have great purpose and responsibilities to their children’s upbringing and household. Their sphere of influence sometimes goes unnoticed, and they may feel unappreciated. As we celebrate Mother’s Day, let us reflect on all they have done and all that they will do. Also, if you’ve lost your mother and grieving her loss, may you hold and treasure the memories, let go of any unresolved issues of anger, pain, resentment or bitterness and embrace her everlasting love.

Happy Mother’s Day!

May peace be upon you.


Bible Verses and Mediatation

Prov 31: 10-31

Psalm 139:13-14

Psalm 127:3

Exodus 20:12

Deut 5:16

Prov 1:8-9

A Reflection of God’s Love

Isaiah 66:13

Isaiah 49:15

The Leadership Series: Building in the Middle of Opposition | Lessons from Nehemiah and the Third Temple

bricks, stone wall, brick wall

Photo image by Pixabay meineresterampe

Throughout history, great leaders, entrepreneurs, businesses and movements have emerged during times of crisis, demonstrating resilience, faith, and strategic vision. One of the most compelling examples of leadership in the Bible is Nehemiah’s mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Today, as discussions about the Third Temple in Israel draws even closer to being built, leaders can learn significant lessons from Nehemiah’s unwavering dedication and apply them to modern challenges.

About Nehemiah’s Leadership: An Example for Today

Nehemiah was not a priest or prophet—he was a cupbearer to the Persian king, a position of trust and influence. When he learned of Jerusalem’s desolation, he felt a divine call to lead the restoration efforts.

Image by Pixabay Borko Manigoda

artilects blueprints, plans

Images by Pixabay borevina

His leadership teaches several timeless principles:

1. Stay Rooted in Your Purpose and Seek Wisdom

Nehemiah had a clear vision: to restore Jerusalem’s walls. Before he even started building the wall, he spent time in prayer and seeking divine guidance (Nehemiah 1:4-11). Leaders today must also define their purpose and seek wisdom before initiating major projects. Ask yourself, “What’s your why?” This question will keep you grounded when things get tough. A leader without vision is like a builder without blueprints. Learning to navigate through rough terrain will build your character and lead with tenacity.

blueprints, plans, buildings, construction

Image by Pixabay Sponsored Images

Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure: come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way before.

Joshua 3:4

2. Plan, Analyze and Delegate Strategically

Nehemiah did not act impulsively. He assessed the situation, gathered resources, and strategically assigned tasks to different groups (Nehemiah 2:11-18; 3:1-32). Modern leaders should prioritize the importance of planning, analyzing and delegating, ensuring the right people are in place to conduct the mission effectively. Selecting the right partnerships are important to the overall success of a project.

tools, building, hammer, wrench

Image by Pixabay Public Domain Pictures

3. Overcome Opposition and Criticism

Nehemiah’s plan for rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls was met with intense opposition from figures like Sanballat and Tobiah, who sought to discourage and even sabotage the work (Nehemiah 4:1-8). The people lied, mocked, and rejected him. Yet, Nehemiah’s response was unwavering faith and action. He armed the workers with a sword and a hammer while they built, ensuring both protection and progress (Nehemiah 4:9-18). Today’s leaders face political, social, and ideological opposition, but persistence and resilience are key to overcoming challenges.

4. Maintain Integrity and Serve with Excellence

Nehemiah refused to exploit his position for personal gain (Nehemiah 5:14-19). Instead, he led by example, collaborating with the people and focusing on their well-being. In a world where corruption, greed and self-interest often taint leadership, integrity, selflessness, and humble leadership remain crucial.

construction, under construction, caution

Image by Pixabay Quince Creative

Challenges Facing Today’s Leaders and the Third Temple

The Bible prophesy is being fulfilled of the building of the Third Temple in Israel. It remains a sensitive and complex topic, entangled with political, religious, and historical factors. The sacrifice of the unblemished red heifer for purification of the temple is one of the greatest signs of the abomination of desolation with a ceremonial process being prepared for the upcoming Passover season. There are several challenges facing the construction of the temple due to religious conflicts in the region.

Leaders today face several obstacles that reflect Nehemiah’s challenges:

1. Political and Social Opposition

Just as Nehemiah faced external opposition, leaders working on major initiatives today encounter resistance from governments, organizations, and public opinion. Navigating these challenges requires wisdom, diplomacy, and a steadfast commitment to the mission.

2. Resource Allocation and Logistics

Rebuilding requires funding, materials, and skilled labor. Nehemiah secured resources through diplomatic engagement with King Artaxerxes.

Modern leaders must be strategic in securing financial and material support while ensuring ethical and sustainable practices. They should also be resourceful with tools, equipment and supplies.

3. Maintaining Unity Among Partnerships and Associates

Internal disputes threatened Nehemiah’s work (Nehemiah 5:1-13). Similarly, leaders today must address conflicts within their team, organization and local community to maintain unity and momentum toward their goals. (Image by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay)

Image by Pixabay

How to Apply Nehemiah’s Lessons in Today’s World

Leaders in any sphere of influence– whether in business, education, government, the arts, media, family, or ministry —can apply the following principles:

  • Seek wisdom and guidance before acting.
  • Have clarity and communicate effectively. (Using verbal, written, and listening skills).
  • Plan strategically, analyze data and statistics, and delegate responsibilities.
  • Expect opposition, develop a thick skin and prepare to persevere.
  • Lead with integrity and prioritize the well-being of those you serve.

Nehemiah’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership is about relentless resilience, unwavering faith, and undeniable action. Whether building walls, institutions, or movements, today’s leaders must navigate obstacles with the same determination Nehemiah demonstrated. The call to build—whether physical structures or transformative ideas—demands courage and unwavering commitment to a higher purpose.

If you know anyone who would benefit from this post, please share as a source of encouragement and motivation.

Disclosure: This post was generated using AI and modified by publisher.


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The Third Temple and Red Heifer | Bible Verses

1 Corth 3:16-17

2 Corth 6:16-17

Acts 7:48-50

Matt 24:37-39

Luke 21:20

Matt 24:34

Matt 24:20-21

Rev 13

Numbers 19

Additional Bible Verses

Gal 6:9

James 1:2-4

Rom 5:3-5

Heb 10:36

James 1:2-4

Lam 3:22-24

Rom 2:7

In the Christmas Spirit: A Celebration of Love

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” Isaiah 9:6

What does it mean to be in the Christmas spirit? I often think of a child-like wonder and awe of the anticipation and curiosity of unwrapping Christmas gifts. It’s the warm feeling of giving to others and the special moments of sharing love, laughter and joy.

Although we do not know the exact date that Jesus was born, some Christians do not desire to celebrate Christmas anymore. It’s considered a pagan holiday with the rise of commercialism and consumerism with the representation of Christmas trees, snowman, reindeers and Santa Claus instead of honoring the true meaning of the birth of Jesus.

The pagan Santa Claus is even being sexualized as a sex symbol as they re-invent the image of Santa and transform him into the Hot New Target Santa.

Christ is also being taken out of the word “Christmas” or being replaced by Happy Holidays. Unfortunately, there is controversy around the whole celebration of Christmas.

As the world grows darker, I feel it’s important to keep this tradition alive even though we do not know the real date that Jesus was born. If you notice, Halloween extends from late August to October. The new acclaimed featured movie “Wicked” opened during the Thanksgiving holiday season which has introduced witchcraft and sorcery into the masses as they flock to the theatres. It grossed $114 million nationally and fifty million internationally totaling $164 million in revenue.

This attraction will also extend into the Christmas season as little girls dream of the “Wicked” dolls under the Christmas tree. This movie will continue to gross more dollars in revenue as people head to the movies during the holiday season.

Not to mention, Taylor Swift seems to have collaborated in her efforts to dress as Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz and highlight the yellow brick road and Emerald City which will only produce more hype around the movie.

There is an agenda to captivate the minds of the innocent youth and introduce them to witchcraft and sorcery just like Harry Potter, Charm, and the Lord of the Rings, just to name a few.

There seems to be another spirit being introduced to the Christmas season and it’s not the Holy Spirit. Slow and gradual change is happening right before our eyes, yet many are so blinded that they don’t realize it.

When you celebrate wickedness, portals are opened to the demonic realm. Nothing good comes out of evil. Evil is evil. Light cannot stand where evil dwells. Many people may believe that watching a movie is harmless, but minds and hearts are heavily influenced by what we consume on a regular basis. As a Christian, we must protect our eye, ear, and mouth gates. Our lifestyle must match what we confess to be as a Christian. We cannot have one foot in the world and the other quoting scriptures on social media. Our heart, mind and actions should align with God.

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path”. Psalm 119:105

Unfortunately, this is not a typical Christmas message, but we are not living in a typical world. The world is changing quickly, and we must be aware of the changes that have taken place. As we enter this holiday season, let us hold onto the traditions of Christmas. We do not have to participate in overspending or exhaustion but enjoy the simplicity, love, and beauty that Christmas brings.

May the peace of God be with you this Christmas season!

In the Bible, light is a symbol of goodness, holiness, knowledge, wisdom, grace, hope, and God’s revelation. God is the source of all light and life, and created light to dispel the darkness and chaos on earth. excerpt here

Related Bible Verses

Matt 1:23

“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). NIV “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”)

Luke 2:13-14

“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests'”

Psalm 98:4-6

Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth; Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises.Sing to the Lord with the harp, With the harp and the sound of a psalm, With trumpets and the sound of a horn;
Shout joyfully before the Lord, the King.

John 8:12

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life”.

1 John 1:5

“This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all”.