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“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 (ESV) “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.” Proverbs 10:9 (ESV) A boomerang is a thrown tool or weapon. Typically constructed as a flat airfoil, that is designed to spin about an axis perpendicular to the direction of its flight. After it is thrown, a returning boomerang is designed to return to the thrower. It is well known and used by some Australian Aboriginal people. I read an article the other day that mentioned briefly how we treat others and the “boomerang” effect on what comes back onto you. I began to apply this thought to our lives as God’s children. As God’s word states at the end of Luke 6:38, “with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” We should all strive to live our lives in such a way, that we live with integrity and goodness in our treatment of others. We should live lives free from lying, cheating, stealing, or manipulating others. If we live in such a way that we put out goodness toward others, then the “boomerang” effect of goodness will be measured back to us. In saying this I want to stress it does not mean one will never have problems or challenges in this life. Because we all will, from time to time. But ultimately, whether in this life or in Heaven, you will be rewarded for living with Godly integrity. However, for those who chose to live their lives by lying, cheating, stealing, and manipulating others, will be “found out” as stated in Proverbs 10:9. For the ones who choose to live their lives by consistently making poor choices, they too will experience the “boomerang” effect of consequences, for their actions. Our actions and what we do to others can and will “boomerang” back on us. So do not look to create discord and engage in evil choices against other people. Do not think you will get away with it, and it will never come back on you. One way or another, it will come back on you and when it does, it may be worse than what you did to others. I pray and encourage all to put out goodness and light into this world. Live life with Godly principles and decisions. Treat others as you want to be treated but more importantly, treat them as God expects. Blessings, Angélique~ #Integrity

To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ… Ephesians 4:12ESV Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:4 ESV In the book Vanishing Grace, author Philip Yancy shared the story of a witness named Joanna Flander-Thomas. Ms. Flander-Thomas visited incarcerated men in South Africa’s most violent prison. Her goal was to bring Christ and His message to these men. As she visited the prisoners daily, she shared with them the simple gospel message of forgiveness and reconciliation. As she earned their trust and got them to talk about their abusive childhoods, she helped to show them a better way of resolving conflicts. The year before her visits began, the prison recorded 279 acts of violence against inmates and guards. The following year, there were just two. She allowed God to use her to witness to those, that most would not even dare to visit. By sharing God’s love, caring, and a way to interact with each other, the Holy Spirit was able to transform lives. When I read that story, I thought of how we all can extend our empathy and compassion, to this world and to others who are hurting. How we can adopt the servant mindset and go beyond our comfort zones, to help those who for whatever reason, cannot help themselves. To reach out and help those who really do not know the Bible and a better way to live. In this Covid-19 world in which we all live, it might be difficult to witness as we once did in the past. However, by taking safety precautions, we can still find ways to have a servant mindset, to go and witness for Christ. To look to be with someone (whether in person, over the phone or internet) while they are struggling to find answers to their challenges. To be there for them as they look to move forward in their life’s journey. Perhaps you feel compelled to help feed and clothe the homeless. There are also ministries that help the homeless with bathing and grooming needs. Both of these ministries, and countless others, need your help. I encourage all to have a servant mindset and look to serve in whatever ministry that touches your heart. Continue your constant connection to God and in turn, look to spread His messages of hope, love, and peace to others. Blessings, Angélique~ #faith #Witnessing

Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV) In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16 (ESV) On an email I received I read this phrase at the bottom, “Be the reason someone smiles today.” It occurred to me at that moment, this is what God expects of us all. In the Bible verses above, He encourages us to be imitators of God. To let our light shine before others. These verses are not only talking about our works but about how we conduct ourselves with others, on a consistent basis. If we follow God’s instructions in our daily walk and interactions with others, we will “cause a smile” or brighten another person’s day. Our daily activities do not have to be large or extravagant. It can be in the little interactions as we go about our day. If we are out running errands, opening/holding a door for another, and saying hello, have a nice day/be safe, is just one example. In the midst of Covid-19, a lot of people may be working out of their homes and not venturing out as much. However, most still call and send emails to others. In so doing, try and find opportunities to “cause a smile” on someone’s face by what you say or write. Smile into the phone on your end, the person on the other end will sense it in your tone. I encourage you to keep a daily connection with God through prayer and Bible study. Then look to live your life, so that when others come in contact with you, they will feel as if they came in contact with God. And at that time, they will definitely have a smile on their face. Blessings, Angélique~

“So, whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 7:12ESV No one wants to suffer heartbreak or pain. Suffering can come in the form of physical, emotional, mental, financial, and spiritual pain. When we’re down, we look to God, family, and friends to “pick us up” again. At those times, we are needing them to understand and, in a way, share our feelings during those trying moments. This is the definition of empathy: the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. Most of us identify with empathy and for the most part, have shown the ability to care for others when they are in need. However, there are those in this world who do not have empathy for others, or if they do, it is either for a select few or for none at all. For some, they have a life where everything is going well for them and their loved ones. This “perfect” life may lead them to have less caring and compassion for others, who are not as fortunate. They carelessly think, and sometimes say to those struggling, “Oh, just get over it! You are always complaining or whining about your situation!!” As stated before, all of us will go through some form of heartbreak or pain. When we have gone through our trials, God expects us to “reach back” to help others. To show compassion and empathy for a Brother or Sister. Even if you never had their problems, we all have the ability to have empathy for one another. To let them know you care and will do what you can to help in some way. Even if you cannot do much, just offering to be there can make all the difference to the person who is suffering. In this chaotic time of Earth’s history (i.e. pandemic, economic collapse, racial strife, climate changes, etc.), it can be taxing on everyone to continue to have empathy for others. Everyone seems to be going through additional stresses and trying moments right now. However, through prayer and staying connected to God, we can bring compassion and empathy to others, even while we perhaps are still hurting. At those times we can look to focus not only on ourselves, but on helping someone else. In so doing, we will be fulfilling God’s commandment to love one another. As God’s words so eloquently state: “Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.“ 1 Peter 3:8ESV Blessings, Angélique~

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance”. James 1:2-3 Happiness. Everyone is in search of happiness. People will quit school, jobs, serious long-term relationships, all in an elusive attempt at “finding” happiness. A friend once shared with me how her spouse decided to leave their marriage in search of happiness. In comforting her, we talked about the happiness of this world, which can encompass people, places, or things. As opposed to joy, which comes from God. What some do not realize, is that happiness is based on external things and situations that must happen to you, or around you. Happiness tends to fluctuate. It is usually not constant nor sustainable. Happiness is usually circumstantial. If the circumstances are right at that moment, then you are going to be happy. Joy on the other hand, is a fruit of the Spirit of God that is deeper. When you have God’s joy, despite what’s happening around you, you will look to “count it all joy”, in all circumstances. God’s joy tends to be a deeper emotional response, as one chooses to be joyful despite their situation. In all honesty, true joy may not be what you are feeling at the moment. Also, you will not obtain it if you are focusing on what others have, and you do not. It comes when we are looking up to God, and obediently following the plans He has for you. Strive to be at peace and count it all joy now, not tomorrow or sometime in the distant future. You may be walking through a tough time right now. All of us have been there at some point. However, after we have cried it all out, we need to wipe our eyes, get up, square our shoulders back, and look up to God. We need to know and believe that He’s got you and the situation under control. He will pull you through. Be at peace and choose to be joyful. Look around your life and see the many blessings all around you. Whether big or small, the blessings are there every day, for us all. Strive to make a difference. Strive to bring joy and happiness to God’s people and His world. Blessings, Angélique~

Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature. Genesis 2:7 ESV So, God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27 ESV God is Awesome! He is incredible! He is multi-dimensional and extremely creative! His creativity is seen in all aspects of earth and the solar system known to us. But one of His greatest creations is God’s awesome humans! He created us all shapes, sizes, colors, ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, religious beliefs, personalities, gifts/talents, and the list can go on and on. We are made in the beautiful image of our God. As His children, we have taken different paths and different walks in life, whether of our own doing or the life story we were born into. Even though God’s human creation is extraordinary, what is even more significant is the free will He has given to all. The will to choose right and wrong which we all have been granted. And how we decide to use this gift, impacts each other, and the world our Father has created. If we choose to follow His holy word, (which is the blueprint to life and relationships with one another) there would be less sin and devastation in our current world. When we chose to ignore His instructions for life; sin, destruction, and death (both spiritually & physically) will always be the result. As His children navigating this life and His human creation, we need to always have healthy boundaries in place (see a past post on Boundaries). When entering into relationships (whether it’s professional or personal) with other people, we need to always keep in mind there are complexities that make up this individual. Everyone has different backstories or histories with their family as well as their friends and acquaintances. I would encourage all to get close to God and His holy word. Continuously maintain a relationship with Christ and learn the way to become one of His awesome humans. When you learn this and have your healthy boundaries in place, you will be able to properly navigate the constant interactions with others. You will see the “red flags” in those individuals who are not walking, at all, in the way God outlines. You will see clearly their behaviors and interactions with others despite what they say, their consistent behavior will tell you the truth of their nature. We are not all perfect. Only God, and Jesus His son, is perfect. Even though there are wicked people in this world, there are also loving and kind people as well. Keep your Godly connection by studying His word and prayer. Keep your spiritual guard and boundaries up, then look to enjoy interacting with God’s awesome humans! Blessings, Angélique~

*This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24 (ESV) “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1Corinthians 10:31 (ESV) During one of my worship times, I read a story that a mother shared about her young daughter, who could not wait for an upcoming family vacation. She was wishing for the days and months to go by quickly and counting down for the family reunion/beach vacation to begin. Due to her anxious behavior, the mom offered to take her to the beach earlier, since she could not wait. However, the mother’s intention was to teach her a lesson. She said if we go now, you will miss the planned times to hang with your friends, going to various parties, and the list went on and on. The mother then asked again, do you still want to go? The daughter thought about it then said no, she’d would miss too much. The mother in love ended by saying, be happy for what you can do and what you have, right now. How many of us can relate? How many times do we wish the present away? If we are in school or at work, we can’t wait until the day is over. We long for our weeks to end and look forward to the weekend. If there is a special trip or occasion that starts on Monday, we then wish the weekend away and can’t wait for that Monday to start!! Just like in the story, when we wish the present away, we are wishing away the beautiful gift of time our God has given each of us. When we wish time away or for it to speed up, we could be missing out on little blessings each day that God had planned for us. But with the cares and worries this life brings, it is easy to understand how we all keep wishing away our present time. We are living in the present, but are we in-tuned and connected? Truly being present in the moment will take practice for most of us. Below are just a few tips and suggestions. I encourage you to do your own research and find many other tips and strategies as well. Celebrate the tiny joys. And big ones too!! Sunrise and sunset. God’s beautiful skies; whether it is clear or raining A roof over your head. Transportation. Food Financial means to take care of yourself & family Being free to worship God as you please. There are those around the world who do not have this luxury Get away from the digital world. Take some time to shut off your phone, your pads & computers. Even turn off the TV. Go outside and take a walk if possible. Enjoy God’s world. Breathe At various times throughout the day, take deep breaths in and out. Think about God and His goodness in your life. Focus on the positives of life, despite any negatives that may be surrounding you at the moment. Be present in your listening without intending to respond. So many times, we do not listen fully to what another person is saying. We listen with the intent on looking for a break in the conversation, in order to jump in to share our thought. Try to listen with curiosity instead of anticipation. Be okay with not knowing all the answers. We become stressed and so worried about the future, that we cannot be fully present. Learn to relax and know you don’t have to have all the answers. But God does. Exercise your faith and look to Him to guide you day by day. As the opening verses have stated, let us rejoice and be glad in the day that God has allowed us to see. Also, whatever we do, let it be done in honor and giving glory to Him. Practice being fully present in your life and not wishing it away. In speaking with elderly people through the years, most wished they had taken more time to be present and content, at various times in their lives. So, I encourage all to learn to be truly present in your life; not someday, but right now. Blessings, Angélique~

“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” Matthew 10:16 ESV Relationship Tips: Setting Boundaries What are healthy boundaries? Healthy boundaries can be viewed as an imaginary force-field, there to protect our physical as well as our mental/emotional well-being. Setting healthy boundaries is crucial if we are to have any healthy relationships. Physical boundaries include your body, personal space, and privacy. Violations can include standing too close, inappropriate touching, even going through someone’s personal items without permission. Emotional boundaries can involve separating your feelings from another’s feelings. Violations include taking responsibility for another’s feelings, letting another’s feelings dictate your own, sacrificing your own needs to please another, etc. Boundaries are there to protect, by setting a clear line between what belongs to you, and what does not belong to you. A lack of boundaries can allow others to invade and take over your personhood. It can allow others to control you to a great extent, both physically and emotionally. Taking care of yourself means you must set healthy boundaries. God, Himself has boundaries set up throughout the Bible. He also outlines consequences when one does not abide by the boundaries His word outlines. To have a healthy relationship, boundaries are essential. If you do not have healthy boundaries in all your relationships (professional & personal), you will inevitably become what is called, an enabler. An enabler allows other individuals’ bad behavior to continue in various situations; and for that behavior to go so far as to “cross the line”. And for most enablers, they tend to make excuses for these individuals and their behaviors. Now, that we have some understanding of what boundaries are, we must take the time to develop our own healthy boundaries to protect our values. We do this so that as we go forward in life, we won’t allow ourselves, our values, or our boundaries, to be compromised. We will be prepared in case we do meet someone who crosses our path, and who wants to shatter or destroy who we are. Some tips to setting good boundaries: Tune into your feelings Be honest with yourself Practice self-awareness Consider your past, present and possible future Make self-care a priority If you need to, do not hesitate to seek support As God’s children, He does not want us going through life without proper and healthy boundaries. As you develop your healthy boundaries, you will see the health and strength of relationships you form, with all those around you. Blessings, Angélique~ #Boundaries #Protectself

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (ESV) Recently I had a bout of loneliness hit me. In times past when I was dealing with the ending of a relationship, it took some time to understand this feeling, and to overcome. This time the “down feeling”, did not stay as long, and I was able to regain my normal composure. From time to time I daresay everyone has felt this feeling in their lives. Whether you are young or old, single or even married; the feeling of loneliness at times has crept into all of our lives. When it happens to you or a loved one, here are a few things to consider. If you are helping someone facing loneliness, seek to ask compassionate questions like, “how are you, really?”. Seek to be a compassionate listener as well. A listener who is truly caring and empathetic as this person pours out their troubles and cares to you. I like this quote by Monk Thich Nhat Hanh: “Compassionate listening is giving the other person permission, to empty their heart”. For the one who is dealing with loneliness, here are some tips to help you when that feeling seems to overtake you… Have on hand a Wellness/Happy Kit. This is a name gave to my kit. I have a digital one but for those who still like paper versions, that will be fine too. In my kit, I have bible verses, quotes on encouragement, favorite sermons, favorite Gospel/Christian music, photos of scenery, photos of family on past vacations, family pet photos, motivational videos that speak to what I am feeling, etc. Place in your kit what works for you. What you know brings a smile to your face, and joy to your heart. I would encourage, however, that your kit is Christ-centered. So, when those times come to you, you can go to your kit and begin to have God’s love through song, photos, spoken or written word, poured all over you. When this happens, the feelings of loneliness and abandonment will dissipate. You will begin to find your joy and companionship, even in the midst, of a difficult life storm. When you are feeling stronger and back to your normal, begin the journey to look inward and what triggered the loneliness. Sometimes it could be a memory of times past, and that loved one is no longer with you. Look to cherish the fond memory and time that God allowed you to have. And know you can reach for your kit, whenever you need to. There are others who feel loneliness after a partner or spouse walked away from the relationship. Some feel when they are alone and single again, they are half a person and not totally complete. What you have to remember, is that another human being can never complete you. We are all fallen and flawed human beings. Do not think when you meet someone, this person will be the one to fill all your needs and fill in the empty spaces in your life. When you feel you have to be in a relationship because of societal pressures, family pressures, etc., you must realize there is work for you to do on yourself. Before you can even hope to be successful in a committed relationship, you have to be a whole complete person by yourself; comfortable being with just you. Get to know who you really are as a person. Your likes, dislikes, passions, your God-given gifts, and talents. Fall in love, in a healthy respect, with yourself. Also, learn to have in place the proper healthy boundaries, as you navigate life. Because as you look to forge a permanent relationship with another person, you don’t want to lose yourself or morph into whoever this other person wants you to be. You want to stand your ground and be who God created you to be. Once it is settled in your mind and heart who you are, there may be lonely times here and there. But I daresay those times will be short, and not go to the depths of despair. Because you will know that you might be single, but you are never alone. For those whose loneliness falls deeper into despair and depression, I encourage you to not stay there but to seek to get the help you need. There is no shame in reaching out to family, friends, church family, therapy groups, and even professional help. I pray that in your quest to find completeness, you look to build a serious relationship with God through prayer and Bible study. Know in your heart and mind (even if you don’t feel it) that He will never leave you or forsake you. Please remember, He is always there right by your side, as you navigate this life. Blessings, Angélique~ #Loneliness

You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Matthew 7:16 (ESV) Relationships: Red flags I will be sharing from time to time different relationship tips, and what to be aware of as it relates to certain personalities. As God’s children, we need to have discernment when dealing with His people. As today’s verse states, you will recognize them by their fruits. A disclaimer here. I am not a licensed therapist and I am not encouraging anyone to diagnose another person. I am simply sharing common signs (there are many others) that people who have narcissistic tendencies exhibit. There may be times when you come across very strong personalities and perhaps you’re like me, questioning the behavior and trying to understand this person. This list is something to keep in mind for those who are looking to date and perhaps, wanting to form a romantic relationship. Usually, those with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), will have most, if not all the signs highlighted below. Again, as I mentioned, there are several other signs, not listed here. If an individual has only one or two signs, do not look to assume they have NPD. However, if you see on a consistent basis, a majority of the signs mentioned below, more than likely, the person has narcissistic tendencies. If additional information is needed, I would encourage you to look to do your own research. To speak with a licensed professional, in this area of expertise, about your concerns. I have based the signs outlined below from a video of Dr. Les Carter. I will place a link to the video below. Warning Signs: Super hyper about life, or the emotion of the moment. They are usually very larger than life in a party or group, and always seeking to be. Very intense in “love bombing”. Meaning they are all over you constantly. Totally encompassing and showing excessive amounts of feelings in the relationship, usually in the early stages. For example, you may have recently met and gone on a couple of dates. And from this, they profess that they are madly in love. For the receiver, you may get caught up in the euphoria of this attention. They barely know you but are wanting to speed up the relationship. Be extremely cautious. They will at times be excessively happy or just the opposite, excessively angry; and will explode over little slights. When questioned about their anger, they will say, “that’s just my personality”. As if that statement excuses the behavior. Truly self-absorbed. Everything is about them. They will listen to your concerns because they feel they must. But they will always, always bring it back to themselves and their needs. To their core, they are impressed by the external. They give excessive attention to hair, clothes, appearance, etc. Not just for themselves but also for whom they are with. They like to have “arm candy” for their significant other. They will also be on that partner constantly, regarding their appearance. Obsessed with materialism & elitism. Always looking to be around people who are wealthy and/or have a lot of power/influence. Hoping to have some of that wealth and/or power, given to them. They will hijack the topic of conversation. If there was a certain topic everyone was discussing, they will interject and eventually bring that topic back to themselves. They always must be in charge. Things must always be done their way. There might be a couple of ways to perform a task, but to them, all the other ways are inferior to theirs. Extremely defensive. If you are discussing a point of view, they will want to convince all, that their point is the only right way. They have a long record of broken relationships. And of course, with all past relationships, it was the other person’s fault, never theirs. They like to play a constant victim. When you come across someone with most/all the above signs, be extremely cautious. It will be up to you on moving forward with any serious involvement. Take your time to really get to know this person. Sometimes these signs are not revealed early on (except #2). To note, this does not only apply to romantic potential partners. It could apply to people you work or go to school with. It could also apply to friends and/or family members. I am not saying to avoid these people altogether. Sometimes that is not possible. But for those in the dating arena, be aware. Do not feel you can change them, or they will change. You cannot change them and for the most part, their personalities are set. In dealing with any strong personality, I encourage you to be the Christian son and daughter God has called you to be. To pray for these people and to always look to treat all you meet, with Christian love and kindness. Blessings, Angélique~ #difficultpeople #narcissists #Strongpersonalities

“For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” Romans 15:4 (ESV) “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.“ Philippians 4:13 (ESV) Have you ever reflected on your past? Reflected especially on the times when you may have made mistakes? Where your actions or words may have been hurtful? Or perhaps there were unfortunate times when others have caused you hurt/ pain. Sometimes we really do not like to look at our past. At times we may feel to just “bury the past”, try to suppress what has happened, try to forget, and just move on. We may look to just barge into the present and the future, and not really take a hard look at our past. Look to rush into new situations and/or relationships, without fully acknowledging and healing from past mistakes, failures, etc. I am not suggesting we look to dwell on our past, especially the mistakes or the hurts. But every one of us needs to acknowledge and understand our backstory. To acknowledge the past and how everything that occurred (good and bad) has formed who we are today. The decisions we make in the present looking to the future is impacted a great deal by our history. We need to understand and realize, our past has an impact not just on us, but on our loved ones, friends, family, co-workers, etc. Some reading this post had tremendous difficulties in their past. Pain from physical, emotional, mental, and financial abuse caused by others. The abuse could have started in childhood or even perhaps, began in adulthood. There are also times when we were the ones who caused pain to others with our words and actions. Whatever the case may be, we all need to look to understand our backstory. To understand where we have come from and what we have come through. To look to make peace with our history and then in a healthy manner, seek to move on. If the past is extremely painful, do not hesitate to seek out the counsel of a pastor, a Christian group, or a licensed therapist if needed. In sharing this post, I too have had an emotional and painful backstory regarding relationships in my adult years. In having gone through those difficulties, I am sure there has been some sort of impact on my present and perhaps future decisions. But at this point in my life, I can say I have looked at my backstory, accepted and made peace with it, and now look to move on. No one likes looking at and dealing with a painful past. However, I encourage you to look to heal and grow in a positive direction from your past; and then allow God to use your backstory, to be a beacon of light and hope for others. Blessings, Angélique~ To contact: angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com #Backstory #Peace #Testimony

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV) “Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (ESV) There is so much going on in our world right now, it is hard not to be anxious and fearful of what will happen tomorrow or thereafter. With what we are seeing going on in the world at large, in our country, in our communities, and even within our own families. However, God does not want us to have a spirit of fear. So, how does one live in the present and enjoy today, despite all that is going on around us? How are we to live in this world, and to have some sense of sanity, safety, and confidence about the future; when it seems everything around appears to be crumbling? I, by no means, have all the answers, but what I have learned I will share. In order to effectively combat feelings of fear and anxiousness, a person really needs to lock their life in Jesus Christ. To read God’s word, and to actually follow His precepts. That may sound simple, but in this world, which is very contrary to His precepts, it can be challenging. There will be various people you come in contact with, (even within families) that will give you worldly advice, that is contrary to what God says. However, in listening and choosing to go against God’s word, most people in life never find true happiness and peace; especially when the “storms of life” come. In a prior post, I shared about a painter’s idea of what peace looks like. He painted a little bird sleeping, tucked away in the crevice of a rock when all around was a dark fierce storm. We like that little bird need to be sure and confident in God. That despite all the craziness that is going on, we can rest and be at peace that God will handle and calm the “storms” of our lives. I encourage you to continuously seek God through the study of the bible and prayer. To allow the bible, to be your guide to life. Will you always know the answers to life’s questions after reading/studying the bible? No. Not always. But when you allow your faith and trust in God to flourish, you will be just like the little bird asleep, in the midst of the violent storm. Blessings, Angélique ~ To contact: angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com #faith #Fear #Future