Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Proverbs 4:23 (ESV) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 (ESV) When we look at the pain and anguish many are feeling today, the root cause can be traced to sinful hearts. Many writers have referenced the following as the seven deadly sins of the heart: pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, anger, and being lazy. Of course, God’s word lists more as referenced in Proverbs 6:16-19. All sins (those referenced and others) are the foundations of the current ills that plague all human beings, as well as our entire planet. Many times, people find themselves in situations trying to deal with the fallout of sinful behavior, by their own doing or what has been done to them. However, the real culprit goes much deeper, and it is the root cause that brought on the behavior and/or situation. Many failed relationships, failed businesses, various crimes, environmental concerns, etc., all stem from the root cause–the sinful heart. And let’s not fool ourselves into thinking many of us are exempt from committing these sins. Every human being has transgressed at least one or a combination of the sins referenced. For example, an adulterer will lie to their spouse to cover up their behavior. The lie didn’t cause the adultery but, the lusting (usually the initial behavior) after another person that is not their spouse, was the root cause. As human beings, we all need to work on the source of sin within our hearts, on a continual basis. Many people will work on the surface of their various problems but fail to delve deeper into the root cause. In Mark 7:15, 21-22, Jesus diagnosed the spiritual condition of every human… “It is what comes out of a person that defiles them,” (v.15) and, in verses 21-22, He listed the sins that are at times contained within our hearts. Throughout the Bible, many of God’s children cried out to Him for help with their sinful conditions, asking Him to clean their hearts, their ideas, and their thoughts. For example, in Psalm 51:9-10, David cried out to God to blot out his sins and to renew a right spirit within him. May we seek to not just treat the symptoms of our lives but look to work on the root cause. God wishes for all His children to not be led astray into temptation and then to sin. I pray we all continue to die to our sins daily and, that we allow God’s word, His teaching, to guide us throughout our lives. If we fall into sin, may we repent (meaning to turn away from sin) and ask for cleansing through the blood of Jesus. May we not just treat the symptoms but, allow Jesus to purify the source of our sinful hearts. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11 (ESV) All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work. 2 timothy 3:16-17 (ESV) King David in the Old Testament was known as a man after God’s own heart. But while he was at the height of his power, he allowed his passions to get the better of him. He used his position as king to commit adultery with another man’s wife and have that man murdered in order to take the wife for himself (2 Samuel 12:1-15). There are many different lessons we can unpacked from this story however, I want to focus on how David reacted when receiving correction from Nathan the prophet. When Nathan confronted David about his sin of adultery and murder involving Bathsheba and her late husband Uriah, David could have had Nathan killed due to his position and power as king. In times past, many of those in authority in the Bible did just that, kill or seek to kill anyone who confronted them with the truth. Fortunately, in this story, David listened to Nathan the prophet and repented of his sins. Listening to Bible stories we sometimes try to compare ourselves to those in Bible times. We like to think we wouldn’t fall into the same traps they did back then and we’d tell ourselves, we would be so much better in making decisions. In addition we’d also would think we’re much better at receiving correction from others than those during Bible times. However, when comparing, we tend to forget we’re living hundreds of years in the future, looking back on the decisions they were making in real time, as they lived out their lives. So, the question today is, how do we receive correction? How do we receive correction coming from individuals who are sharing God’s truth, based on His Holy Word, and not based on worldly ideals? Will we choose to listen wisely or, will we push back stating, we have the answers and, we’ve got this! In this 21st century, it can definitely be challenging to listen to, as well as follow Godly counsel. There are many who will scoff at God’s wisdom and, they will encourage others to do the same. On the flip side of this question, we should also ask ourselves, how are we in giving Godly counsel to others? Will we appear arrogant, feeling others should listen to what we have to say? Or, would we be caring and genuinely concerned to see a positive change take place in the other person? As stated earlier, King David, chose to listen to Nathan the Prophet and repent of his sins. May we too seek to listen to wise Godly counsel and apply those truths as we live out our lives. And may we be ready and able to give Godly counsel to others, whenever needed. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all. Psalm 34:19 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 Have you ever met people who feel Christians have an idyllic life with no problems? There are even those who say one of the reasons they became a Christian was because they thought they would have less stress and problems. However, those who have studied God’s word and have walked with Him for many years, know this is far from the truth. Living this life as a Christian or not, you will face troubles. The difference is how you maintain as you go through life’s struggles. As the verse above states, the righteous will have many troubles in this life but, God will be there with His children. Everyone at some point in time will experience various types of loss. It could be the loss of loved ones, job/financial security, the break-up of relationships, loss of our health, our youth, and the list can go on and on. Even though God states we will have trouble, He lets us know He will never leave us and, He will give us the strength to endure the various trials. Many times, throughout the Bible it is stated we will have trouble as we live in this fallen, sin-filled world. God’s intent is not to scare us or cause constant worry. His desire is, to be honest, and make us aware, that we live in a fallen/troubled world, and that we will encounter difficulties. He wants His children to prepare physically, emotionally, mentally as well as spiritually, to face whatever challenges this life will bring. He always wants us to know, He will be with us every step of the way on our journey through life. In John 16:33, God shares how we can have peace through trials through Him. Meaning, while going through challenging situations, we can mentally, emotionally, and spiritually lean on and trust God to work everything out. We may not “feel” He is there, but we must intellectually choose to believe that He is with us always. Jesus, God’s Son came to Earth and faced many trials and dangers. He gave us an example of constant prayer and connection to God the Father, in order to have the strength to endure life’s pains and heartaches. May we all develop and maintain a constant connection with God and seek His peace, as we navigate our life’s journey. Blessings, Angélique To contact:  Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 (ESV) Thermometer – An instrument for measuring and indicating temperature. Thermostat – A device that automatically regulates temperature. How many of us from time to time can identify with going along with the crowd, even when we really didn’t agree with what was being said or the activity? I believe we all have been guilty of this at least once in our lifetime. But during those times, have you ever tried to actually “change” the atmosphere of that crowd? Change the temperature, just like a thermostat? As children of God, He calls us to change the “temperature” of our environment for the better. We are called to shift worldly thinking and seek to change the thermostat of our surroundings. To do this, we need to follow the many examples illustrated throughout the Bible. Jesus, using Godly wisdom, never forced any person or any situation to change. By showing love, compassion, and understanding, He was able to reach out to the individual or group, and be a “thermostat” of positive, effective change. Now there are those who do seek to change the atmosphere by going along with worldly/popular standards, that are far removed from God’s principles. And in doing so, many find themselves being just thermometers, allowing society/pop culture to dictate the “norms” of their life. And of course, most of these “norms” are always opposite Godly ideals. Despite what’s happening in the world around you, seek to fill yourself up with God’s word and reflect His character in your daily interactions with everyone you meet. Allow Him to permeate your life and in turn, go forth into the world by shining His light of love. When you do this, you are taking on the ” thermostat ” role that seeks to positively change and impact this world for the better. Seek not to be the thermometer, a person that just reflects and accepts what the world dictates. But be the thermostat, the Godly change maker in this world. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 (ESV) All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. John 1:3 (ESV) Take a moment to breathe in and breathe out. If you’re able, go outside and feel the warmth or the coolness of the air. Look around and/or listen to the sounds of the day. As you do this exercise, look at every living being–people and animals, as well as every flower, plant, tree, etc. And when you take it all in then think of the Creator of our earth, Jesus Christ. Additionally, when looking at the man-made objects around us, we still can give thanks to God who created man, who in turn created the objects. As you step momentarily away from the craziness of this world and take in God’s creation all around, may you view yourself as His most important and beautiful creation; His Masterpiece. In everything we say or do, may we seek to be Christ-centered. He wants to live in us and be an integral part of our daily lives. However, He has given us the power of choice, the free will to choose to allow Him into our lives or not. As we seek to allow our lives to be Christ-centered, understand and realize your choices will be countercultural in many societies in this world. The current state of what is “normal and acceptable” in this world constantly goes against what God has stated in His word. There are many who will “go along” with the world’s norms because they don’t want to stand apart or be deemed different. They will go along with various ideas/choices, even though they know they are not right, and they go against God’s principles. And little do these same people realize, they are filling themselves up with potential pain and anguish in the future, over the decisions they’re making today. Choices that God wish they would have avoided, by following Him. Seek to live a life where Christ is the center and is in everything you do. At times it will be difficult, we all tend to want what we want, and make decisions based on these wants and desires. But hopefully, we will choose to stop, turn away from sinful desires, and turn back to God. Seek to have Christ in your life always and look for evidence of Him all around you every day. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. Ephesians 5:1 (ESV) How would you describe your identity? If someone were to ask you to describe who you are, what would you say? Many would describe their physical characteristics, their vocations, or even their political party. However, we are not just our race, our sex, our ethnicity, or our vocation. People often identify themselves with the various labels that society places on them. But that is not who they truly are. All of us need to peel back and discover who we really are as God’s children. We need to realize we were all born male or female and God placed us here for a reason. Every human being that ever lived, that is living currently, and who will live in the future, was placed on Earth by God for a divine purpose and calling. For some, the reason they are here will be known by many and the impact they will have will be great. Whereas there are those, whose impact on others may seem small and only targeted to those around them. However, no one should discount the seemingly “smaller” group of people being impacted. One may never know how the influence on that small group or an individual, can turn into a significant impact for many in the future. In addition, oftentimes we are also guilty of placing identities or profiling others based on their looks, their vocation, where they live, what friend groups they are associated with, etc. But, when we look to the Bible and Jesus as our example, did He judge, identify, or profile people based on their looks or occupation? No, He did not, and nor should we as His children. Of course, our looks and vocation can be a description of us and a description of what we do but, those descriptions are not our actual identity. Our identity is our true purpose for God placing us here on Earth. It is our gift to His people and to His world. To discover our true identity, we need to spend time with God through prayer, Bible study, and attending a Bible-teaching/believing church. We need to not fall into the false identities others or even we ourselves place on us, based on looks, vocations, possessions, etc. May we not just follow a model of others and act or behave as they do, even if they are a good role model. May we allow God to help us forge our own true identities in Him. And then, may we use those gifts, talents, and spheres of influence, to help those around us as they go about living their lives. May we ultimately use our true God-given identities to encourage others into a wonderful life-long relationship with our Father in Heaven. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh, that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! Psalm 119:1-5 (ESV) Ethics: moral principles that govern a person’s behavior or the conducting of an activity. Morals: a lesson, especially one concerning what is right or prudent. Most people have a set of governing ethics and morals in their life. They abide by a certain moral and ethical code and make all their decisions based on that code. So, the question is not a matter of having ethics and morals, the question is what, are the guiding principles they are based upon? Are they based on worldly viewpoints? A mixture of worldly viewpoints, our culture, our own spin on life? Or are they based on God’s word, found in the Bible? Many times throughout the Bible, people turned from God and His teachings and turned instead to what they felt was right in their own eyes. It was true in Bible times, and it still seems true today. Many will seek to follow their ideal of morality based on how it fits with their life plans. If God says not to engage in a certain behavior, people will do it anyway and sometimes will push the limits even further. Today many throughout the world are constantly rationalizing evil or wrong deeds. In addition, there are those who say they follow God however, they are just going through the motions, while continuously ignoring His moral code. As God’s children, this should not be. The Bible was given as a guidebook for us to make good choices, not only for ourselves but, for those around us as well. So, as for the ethics and morals that you live by, are they based on what you say is right? Or what God says? Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6 (ESV) Is there such a thing as absolute truth in our world? A person or a group of people in one area may feel their truth or moral code is the absolute truth. Then another group with different beliefs, thoughts, and opinions, really believes they have the absolute truth. However, in this world that is full of sin and corruption, the only absolute truth everyone should look to is God, His word, and the life example of His Son, Jesus Christ. In this very confusing world in which we live, there are so many influences that are pulling our attention in all directions. Unfortunately, some influences can lead to terrible situations and outcomes. Still, others which may appear harmless, are in fact contrary to God’s word and go against His guidance in our lives. In today’s verse, Jesus states He is the way, the truth, and the life. If we align our lives according to the principles and the life that Jesus lived, we will find the truth that we seek. The only absolute truth and honesty to rely on can be found in God’s Holy Word. Through daily Bible study, prayers, and seeking God, we will find the peace and the truth that God wants us all to have. By choosing to follow His ways and His truth, we will live a life pleasing to God, ourselves, and to those around us. When seeking truth, always look to God’s word. Test any “truth” the world gives against what God states in the Bible. Allow your life to be a conduit for spreading God’s truth, His message of faith, hope, and love, throughout our world. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever. Psalm 86:12 (ESV) “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. John 3:16-17 (ESV) For the past few days, many people around the world have paid their respects and mourned the death of Elizabeth II, Queen of England. It was remarkable reviewing the in-depth and elaborate plans that went into the funeral arrangements; arrangements that had been in place for many decades. Global business chains were closed on the day of her funeral, and it was declared a national holiday. Around the world, many countries were flying their flags at half-staff in her honor. As I viewed a few minutes of some of the ceremonies myself, it occurred to me, do we give that much care and attention to God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit? I am not seeking to interrupt or take away from anyone’s mourning period for the Queen. I simply was fascinated by the love, commitment, and duty, individuals have for this Sovereign, who despite her position, cannot save herself. She, along with us all, needs a Savior in order to enter the Kingdom of God. Yes, she wielded a lot of power and influence while she was here but, she was not able to prolong her life, save herself for eternity, or in addition, save any of her loyal subjects. The time and effort we who are still alive give to other individuals, can be wonderful however, are we giving the same amount of time and attention to God? Are we pouring our hearts into developing a close relationship with Him? Are we witnessing and encouraging others also to give their lives to God? Teaching them how to develop a close relationship with Him? Because, when it’s all said and done in life, our belief, our faith, and our relationship with God, will be needed in order to spend eternity with Him. Our belief in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, along with His death on the crucifix, allows our sins to be forgiven and gives us direct access to God the Father. No human being, despite their important titles, position and money, will be able to guarantee any of us eternal life once we die. As those around the world say goodbye to famous individuals as well as loved ones closer to home, may we focus on the fact that our time on Earth is finite. We do not have control of our lifespan; we do not know how much longer we will be on this earth. But what we do know is this, while we are here, we must seek daily to align our lives with God and His principles. We are not to keep the knowledge of His love and His saving grace to ourselves but, to go out and share it with others. May we put as much effort, excitement, and determination into spreading God’s gospel throughout the world, as we do celebrate famous individuals and their life achievements. Of course, there is nothing wrong as we look to memorialize another person’s life and achievements. But when it’s time to turn to Godly matters, may we be just as excited and enthusiastic. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8 (ESV) Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 (ESV) How is your attitude today? What attitude do you normally have every day? Are you mostly positive/optimistic? Or are you mostly negative/pessimistic? When we look at the negativity and pain that surrounds us in our world today, it is easy for many of us to be negative and pessimistic. With the global Covid-19 Pandemic, other diseases/viruses, economic crises, wars in various parts of the world, racial tensions that seem to be escalating, and many other problems plaguing our planet, it is understandable if one develops a negative and pessimistic outlook on life. However, we must remember, that even though there are negative situations that occur daily, there are positive ones as well. As we live our lives, we all will experience ups and downs. As the saying goes, “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters”. This saying can be true for our everyday attitudes as well. We can choose to be grateful and look at each new day we are given, as a beautiful gift from God. We can view it as another chance to do good and to be a blessing to others. In order to do this, it begins with us trusting God despite the craziness of the world around us. It begins when we have talks with God (our prayers) and make the choice to be positive. To make a daily decision to take the “high road” in life and to focus on the positives, not the negatives. Of course, we’re human and we will have some down periods in life but let us choose not to stay with a negative mindset, a negative outlook on life. May we seek to surround ourselves with God’s word and focus on the daily gifts He gives us each day. As the verses today suggest we cannot allow ourselves to be transformed by this world, but we must seek to renew our minds and our outlook on life. We are encouraged to think about things that are noble and praiseworthy, in other words, to think positively and not negatively. Seek to have an optimistic/positive attitude always. May we have faith and trust that God will always be with us, no matter what. May we keep shining His light of love, peace, and hope to this world, by having a positive attitude, having a positive outlook on life. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV) Have you ever stopped to think that life is made up of seasons of letting go? When you’re a toddler, you look to being a school-age child that rides the bus and hangs out with friends. But to move from the season of being a toddler to starting school, you must let go of that part of your life and move forward. Then from school days, which can be up to high school and even college, you cannot wait to be an adult out in the world and fully on your own. Then, to move from school days, one must let go and turn to fully embrace the adult world, which usually includes working, starting a family, etc. Every season becomes more challenging and harder as you grow. And again, in order to move to the next season of life, a person is required to let go of the current season and look to the season of life ahead. In this new period of life, to fully engage and live life to the fullest, we need to be present and embrace our current stage of life, with the ultimate goal of obtaining peace for where we are at that moment in time. Now we all can plan for our future, our next chapter/season of life however until we arrive at that future destination, you will not have it all together nor know precisely how you’re going to feel emotionally and physically. For example, an individual work most of their adult life looking forward to retirement. They will make plans on what they would like to do but until they enter that phase of life, they really have no idea what will happen, until they begin that season. They will have let go of the past adult-work life season and begin to learn/embrace the retirement phase. And once they get to the retirement season of life, even with all the prior planning, they still have to trust God as they look to navigate and embrace this new life chapter. So, may we seek to understand, enjoy, and embrace, whatever season we are currently in. May we not rush through the process of learning and growing trying to get to the arrival or endpoint of that season, eager to start the next. I’m not suggesting we don’t plan for the future but, I am suggesting we don’t look to hurry our current season for the next. That we don’t begin thinking once we get to that next phase of life, that time period will be the pinnacle or the ultimate destination. Because if we do this, we will soon find out we are not at the pinnacle of that new chapter, we are just beginning. And at the beginning of each new season, we are adjusting and learning how to navigate this new phase of our life’s journey. I pray we continue our life seasons by beginning, flourishing within them, letting go, and moving on to the next with joyful and eager anticipation. May we always seek to have God ever present throughout all our seasons of life. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. Acts 14:3 (ESV) How many of us want miracles to be a part of our daily lives? I believe we all would absolutely love it!! All of us want God to create miraculous signs and wonders throughout our lives and the lives of our loved ones. But have you ever stopped to consider, how often God wants to bring forth miracles in people’s lives, by partnering with us? For us to be part of a miracle, we must be willing to partner with God to help our fellow human beings. Many of us have opportunities, either great or small, where we can help others who are struggling in some capacity. Examples could include cooking or buying a meal and taking it to an older person or couple. Cutting the grass or doing house repairs for a single parent or an elderly person. Being with someone while they are going through health challenges or, being there for others as they process unbearable pain and grief. At times, it does not have to necessarily be a situation that entails struggles. It could just be willing to go out of our way to extend small acts of kindness to others. For example, purchasing a stranger’s meal or beverage, in order to bring a smile and give a pleasant surprise to their day. When we align our thoughts and desires to God’s will, our eyes and hearts will be opened to see who may need us to be the miracle, for their situation. Now as human beings, we will not be able to do large supernatural miracles on our own, only God. But there are many acts of kindness we can accomplish when partnering with God, for the benefit of those around us. As we daily seek to connect with God in our prayer time, may we ask Him to reveal to us those to whom we can show kindness. May we seek to always be willing to be the miracle to God’s people, to God’s world. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com