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Five signs the person you’re dating is not your future spouse

16 Feb

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

Some months ago, three college friends and I sat in a hotel lounge, chatting about our younger days. “What was I thinking? The signs were all there, telling me he was Mr. Wrong,” one of them said as she sipped her latte. “I didn’t see the red flags ‘cause I was too busy being in love with the idea of being loved.”

“Me too,” my other friend said. “Why didn’t someone write the book on how to find the man of your dreams?”

All four of us chuckled.

We graduated from the same college, lived in the same dorm. And, though none of us would admit that ever so secretly, , we shared a slight restlessness about finding the right man. We attended classes but in that college campus, the temptation to  study the male  population was alive. ,

And in the process, , the search was fun. But at times high expectations ended up in deep disappointment. And other times, the “love” we chased ended up with heartache chasing us instead.

But even with a few scars, we made it through. And now after visiting the ugliness of divorce, we possess a wealth of insight. Most of which comes from experiences lived, episodes endured and lessons learned in the classroom of pain.

How different our lives would have been if we, as single women, had the wisdom to seek God first, and heed these signs.

Sign No. 1: He allows his romance to turn into physical roaming.

And with soothing words, he attempts to invade the boundaries you clearly established more than once. Yet time and time again he insists, whispering he’ll love you forever hoping you’ll give in. Caution: that’s his testosterone talking, not a man of integrity who values and respects you. That’s when Satan goes into action repeating, “You’ll lose him if you don’t give in.” False. You’ll only lose your own integrity and gain the heartache that disobedience brings.

Time to assess: Should you fail in this area, God will forgive when you ask. He will grant you renewed clarity and peace. And with confidence, you can declare: “If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; but God has surely listened and heard my voice in prayer.” (Psalm 66:17-18)

Sign No. 2: His sincerity is questionable.

When you speak of your Christian convictions, he agrees with you. When you invite him to visit your church, he goes along. But when you ask him to pray with you, he squirms. Or when discussing deeper issues regarding spirituality, he is ambiguous and distant. Warning: he might be going through the motions to win you over. This red flag needs to fly high reminding you he’s not the spiritual leader, the kind you need should marriage plans appear in the horizon.

Time to assess: Be true to God first and be sincere in your asking for His guidance to identify the strong spiritual leader with sound convictions and good character to be your future husband. Then confidently repeat, “Let me see your kindness to me in the morning, for I am trusting You. Show me where to walk, for my prayer is sincere.” (Psalm 143:8-10, The LB-Paraphrased)

Sign No. 3: Others are warning you.

You think he’s the one because he “makes you feel so good.” But those around you who know you well and whom you respect give you warnings. They point out flaws you overlook because you’re so much “in love” that you’ve become deaf to their wisdom.

Often feelings can be wrong. And emotions can blind one from seeing potential pitfalls.

Time to assess: Your own path to happiness might not be God’s way to bring you lasting joy. Reflect on the advice given, and no matter how well-defined your plans are, welcome wise counsel from those who love you because “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22)

Sign No. 4: Criticism becomes a pattern.

Sometimes you might mistake humility and patience when he is free with harsh criticism toward you and others. But when experiencing this during dating, it might be a sign of potential emotional abuse only to increase after that wedding day.

Time to assess: Because you are the daughter of the King, you mustn’t endure painful words, insensitive treatment or even rudeness. Expect to be treated with upmost respect because you know who you are—the masterpiece in God’s hands as you declare: “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14)

Sign No. 5: He’s in the red.

Although money or finances are not the No. 1 aspect of a relationship, it is the No. 1 reason for divorce. And if marriage is a possibility with the man you’re dating, observe his attitude toward money, his spending habits and his commitment to tithe. Each will give you clues on what to expect should you become his wife. If he’s a creature that flings credit cards at every turn, that’s your clue to dig a little deeper. Otherwise, entering into marriage with debt, money issues and financial troubles will surely have you walking down the aisle toward the altar of disaster.

Time to assess: What does he treasure? What is he storing in his heart? This is the standard by which you must measure him: “… store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:20)

Whether you’re 20 or 60 years old, or whether it’s your first date or you’re about to send out wedding invitations, bring your girlfriend with you. Her name is “wisdom.” God’s wisdom will help you answer these two vital questions: Does this man love God more than he loves me? And do his words, actions, attitude, demeanor, dreams and character reflect this conviction?

The answer to these questions will determine whether decades later you’ll be drinking the latte of regret or sipping the fresh water of true happiness.

(The above writing by Janet Perez Eckles was first published by Crosswalk.com)

Let’s Pray

Father, show me the path you need me to take, grant me wisdom to recognize Your guidance and Your plans. In Jesus name. Amen.

What is God showing you during your  current relationship?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

Source: https://janetperezeckles.com/blog/five-signs-the-person-youre-dating-is-not-your-future-spouse.html

 

 

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

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The Best Valentine’s Gift

9 Feb

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

Reblogged February 9, 2019

I struggled in the kitchen, trying to find the box of cereal for my 3, 5, and 7-year old sons’ breakfast. At age 31, my sudden blindness had darkened my world in all aspects.

Everything in life became more difficult.

My parents observed and with tears, they expressed their concern. But I kept my anguish from them, hoping to avoid intensifying the pain they felt for me.

Then one day, my mom sat beside me on the couch, held my hands in hers and said, “What would you say about your father and I moving in with you? I can help you with the boys.”

I sighed with gratitude. My sons would be thrilled. And my husband pleased to have her help.

The transition for them wouldn’t be easy as they would gaie up their spacious condominium. Once with us, she and my father would be living in tight quarters in our home, but I knew their love could fill a football field. There would be enough to overcome all the inconveniences.

And so, they moved in.

We all began the adjustment period, stressful at times, but my mom’s delicate demeanor and caring nature made it easier for all of us to re-establish our roles.

Mom could have shown her love and support for me in many ways. But looking back, her sacrifice made Jesus’ words come alive for me: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34).

 

 

Her Jesus-kind-of-love renewed my hope and fueled my desire to move forward. And the fact someone loved me enough to sacrifice for me sparked a new perception of my blindness.

My blindness wasn’t a handicap anymore.

It became a hope-filled adventure instead. Years later, through God’s grace and her support, my life has been filled with success, both personal and professional.

But this lesson she taught ever so tacitly, is the best reward:  Seeing our physical surroundings isn’t as important as being willing to see beyond our own comfort and help those who need us most.

She still lives out that conviction.

Today, at 90, she continues strong, providing much more than physical assistance with the household chores. She radiates the power of love that dispels any darkness.

Like a priceless treasure, I have tucked her gift away in my heart. It’s laced with golden strings of gratitude.

Let’s Pray

Father, teach me how to give, how to show and reflect Your love even when it’s difficult, unfamiliar or inconvenient. Show me how to give the love that adds value to those around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Do you know anyone who needs the gift of your love?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

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How to Find Meaning in Life

2 Feb

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

 

Reblogged February 2, 2019

 

“I have nothing to live for,” she wrote. Her husband’s death paralyzed her with sorrow. The profound grief robbed her joy, and erased the meaning for life she once had.

Have you been there?

An event, unexpected and painful shatters your world and suddenly what once brought happiness means nothing now. What once gave you reason to get up every morning is gone.

That’s when God offers a choice: When we look in the mirror, do we see a victim or a victor?

Here’s a story to illustrate the path to a victorious life.

It’s a parable of Sadhu Sing, a Hindu convert to Christianity, who became a missionary to India. (Extracted from Reaching Beyond: How to Jump Over Hurdles and Land on Success by Lou Vickery.)

Late one afternoon, Sadhu and a monk traveled on foot through the Himalayas. It was bitter cold, and night was approaching. The monk warned Sadhu of the danger of freezing to death if they did not reach the monastery before darkness.

Just as they entered a narrow path above a steep precipice, they heard a cry for help. Down the cliff lay a man, who had fallen and hurt himself badly.

The monk looked at Sadhu and said, “Do not stop. God has brought this man to his fate. He must work it out for himself. Let us hurry on before we, too, perish.”

But Sadhu replied: “God has sent me here to help my brother. I cannot abandon him.”

The monk hurried on his way, while Sadhu make his way down the cliff to aid the fallen man.

The man’s leg was broken and he could not walk. Sadhu took his blanket, made a sling of it, and tied the man on his back. Then he began a body-torturing climb. By the time he reached the narrow path again, he was drenched with perspiration.

Doggedly, Sadhu made his way through the deep snow, laboring under the weight of his injured passenger. It was dark now and it was all he could do to follow the path. But he persevered.

Though faint with fatigue, and overheated with exertion, he finally saw ahead the lights of the monastery.

Then, for the first time, Sadhu stumbled and nearly fell. But not from weakness. He had stumbled over something lying on the path. Slowly he bent down to one knee and brushed the snow off the object. It was the body of the monk, frozen to death.

The body heat from Sadhu and his companion had served to keep both alive.

Years later, a disciple of Sadhu asked him, “What is life’s most important task?” To which he replied: “To come to the aid of a fellow human in distress.”

At one time or another we, too, walk on the frozen path of adversity, pain and grief, but the healing of our pain begins when we change our focus. When we look beyond our own pain. When we become aware of other’s needs. And when we dry our tears and look for ways to dry the tears others shed.

That’s why God said to love one another as ourselves. Reaching out to others sparks our own healing. Encouraging others lifts our gloom. Helping those in need makes our own purpose clear. And, finding ways to encourage others renews life’s meaning.

And because the meaning of God’s Word is indeed, His will at work, the path is defined—to live victoriously, rich with fulfillment and vibrant with the need to fill others’ needs first. That’s when it happens—the pain once so deep, turns to peace instead.

And, in the midst of a cruel world, Jesus gave the secret to that peace in the two greatest commandments: Love your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself(Matthew 22:35-38).

Let’s Pray

Father, help me move beyond how I feel and take me to the obedience of Your Word. Thank You for granting me wisdom to know how to restore the meaning for my life. In Jesu’s name, amen.

What path will you take to restore true meaning in your life?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

 

Source: https://janetperezeckles.com/blog/direction/how-to-find-meaning-in-life.html

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

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The secret to overcoming self-pity.

26 Jan

Walking by Faith, Not by SIght

Janet Perez Eckles

The secret to overcoming self-pity.

 

Reblogged January 26, 2019

It’s no good to share secrets. But sometimes, it’s fun to create them like when my 5-year-old granddaughter and I had a secret.

Give me a G

In the midst of playing or eating a meal, and without any prompting, I’d turn to her and say, “Honey, give me a G.”

She knew that secret code. She stopped what she was doing, and thought, trying to find something for which she was grateful (the ‘G’ stands for grateful).

Her young mind swirled around to find something good. Something pleasant. Something fun or even mundane but worth appreciating.

Who knows, but learning this at five years of age, the secret of gratitude to erase gloom will keep her out of the poor me club.

How about you?

Maybe this is a not-so-good day for you today. And that’s why God is trying to get your attention and asking you to give Him a ‘G’. That’s the real secret—in the midst of the garbage of life, look, really look for the gem of gratitude.

When I first lost my sight, I found hope when I dug up that gem in the pile of discouragement. That has been my secret from then on. Always looking for that something for which to say Thank you, God. Always searching for that worthwhile thing that sparks gratitude. Always digging deep for that something to appreciate and value.

And when everything falls apart. When life couldn’t get any darker. When issues become too huge to solve, gratitude shines when our soul repeats: “Where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2).

Let’s Pray

Father, confessing the sadness that clouded my days, finding something to be grateful for had been elusive and futile. But knowing my help comes from you, my hope is in you, and my healing and answers are in your hands, gratitude will always fill my heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Can you list ten things you’re grateful for?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

 

Source: https://janetperezeckles.com/blog/gratitide/the-secret-to-overcoming-self-pity.html

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

Tags: ,

Finding Joy in a Busy Life

19 Jan

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

 

 

 

Reblogged January 19, 2019

“Oh, you poor thing,” my friend’s email read. “I’m worried about you. You’re burning the candle at both ends. You must take lots of vitamins. Are you getting enough sleep?”

I grinned when I read that. Although Sundays I relish in a full day of rest, from Mondays to Saturdays my days are full.

Confession time.

When I was sighted, I was even busier—with finding ways to fill a nagging void in my heart. With coveting others’ accomplishments. With efforts to cover up insecurities. And with futile efforts to catch the wind called success.

But my abilities weren’t enough. My work didn’t measure up and all that work to find happiness and success proved feeble.

All changed when I lost my sight and God replaced it with 20/20 spiritual vision.

Then I saw a sweet revelation: life Is not what we cannot do because of circumstances out of our control. Success comes when we recognize what we can do with God has given us.

He gave all of us the same 24 hours a day. Whether we’re sighted or not, we can accomplish enough because we’re God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (see Ephesians 2:10).

And to my delight He had prepared plenty for me. Sometimes, my problem is choosing which I love the most—writing sassy chapters for my new book, traveling to speaking engagements, writing blogs like this one. Working on my personal success coaching or hosting radio shows. Or is it my work as a Spanish interpreter?

This busyness for a blind person might seem too much.

And it would be for me to if I thought for a minute that it was my abilities that sustained my schedule. But it’s His hand that leads, guides and provides. In proverbs 16:3 he said “Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”

Rather than commit to find success, we commit each task to the Lord. The, when God establishes our plans, joy dances into our success. Gratitude fuels our passion. His power feeds our energy. Our wisdom is at work. and our confidence grows.

With that confidence, no matter how heavy our load becomes, we declare: “You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest” (Psalm 139:3 NLV).

Let’s Pray

Father, I thank you that when I allow You to chart my path, design my plans and define my steps my heart is calm and my days find peace. In Jesus’ name, amen

Who charts your path to success? What path to success have you taken lately?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

Let’s connect:

Source: https://janetperezeckles.com/blog/encouragement/finding-joy-in-a-busy-life.html

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

Tags: ,

How to be Steady in the Storms of Life

12 Jan

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

January 14, 2019

Getting ready for a cruise.

 Is there anything more fun than preparing for a cruise on the Caribbean? Sometimes, God gives me a wink and opens the opportunity for me to do just that.

But although the fun, the sun, gourmet food, the shows and visits to exotic islands describe a cruise, storms can change all that.

It did for me and my friends a few years ago. We had our bags packed with suntan lotion, sunglasses, towels and cold drinks. But before we made it to the exit, the announcement came:

“Ladies and gentlemen, this is the Captain. Regretfully, because of weather conditions, waves that reach 12 feet, and lack of safety, we will not be visiting the island as scheduled.”

Our disappointment was as high as those waves. Plan B: to enjoy the fun inside the ship. But that didn’t happen either.

We tried to make our way from one place to another on that wabbly ship. To avoid falling, we clung to the metal bars that lined the narrow corridors between the state rooms. The fun was gone and our stomachs churned.

How similar to our life’s storms.

Often, they show up unannounced. They’re the intruders that squash our plans. And while walking on the unsteady ground of disappointment, our confidence shakes, our faith is unsteady, and our anxiety causes us to lose our balance. Then, when the loneliness and pain get too much, we secretly wish the ship would sink and end our misery.

But in the sea of life, we’re not alone. We have the Divine Captain who knows of the storm before it hits, He is aware of the high winds, and He knows well our weak and feeble ways.

And because He knows all, He’s capable of leading us through storms, dark skies, high winds, and even through waves of uncertainty.

No matter how hard those waves hit, all we have to do is hold on to the security of His Word. That’s when our soul finds the calmness to receive His instructions, toss out anxious thoughts, remove the clouds of anxiety, and breathe in His reassurance.

His reassurance is enough…

…even when clouds still hover, even when circumstances remain and the sun hasn’t come out yet, the reassurance of His presence is enough. With a calm heart we step out into His promise that we’ll see sunshine again and will embrace a new tomorrow as our spirit sings:

“Lord, you are the Master who has the power to calm the raging seas with the gentleness of Your voice. When I am surrounded by troubles you quiet my heart. As I call out Your name. You guide me through the turmoil that is before me. You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in his distress, a shelter from the storm…” Isaiah 25:4

Isn’t that the greatest news of all?

It’s not the storms that jostle us, or the painful circumstance that bring clouds of gloom. But a trust in Him who’s the anchor, powerful and available that provides the shelter from the turmoil.

Let’s Pray

Father, in the storms that shake my world, show me how to cling to you, to call out Your name, to focus on Your Word, learn from You and keep my thoughts steady till the storm subsides. In Jesus’ name, amen.

What will you hold on to during the storms you face today?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

 

 

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

Tags:

How do I overcome grief?

29 Dec

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

How do I overcome grief?

 

 

Reblogged

December 29, 2018

I held on to my friend’s arm.

With wool scarfs around our neck, we shivered, trying to keep the cold wind that swept through the streets of the city that never sleeps. We weaved around people on crowded sidewalks. A strange symphony of sounds played—cars blowing their horns, music blaring from speakers by clubs and restaurants, and all around, people speaking in varied languages passed us by.

We finally reached her car. I settled in the passenger’s seat while she drove. “And we’re now crossing the bridge to another borough,” she said. “In New York, the five boroughs are divided by bridges.”

They divide wonderfully luxurious neighborhoods and also some sadly riddled by poverty.

How similar to those bridges in life.

They serve as passages transitioning the traveler from one point to another–from employment to unemployment, from health to a troubling diagnosis, from abundance to scarcity, from the security of a solid relationship to loneliness, from calmness to grief.

And the unpleasant journey continues even when Christmas comes around. While others rejoice and wish each other Merry Christmas, our wish is to have enough strength to keep crossing. Carrying the bag of hope, we shuffle forward on that bridge. And as we do, we have these choices: to trust or crumble. To move forward or retreat. To walk with confidence or with shaky steps. And to lament the long journey or enjoy each stage instead.

God invites us to choose the latter, to trust in Him, truly trust without looking around at the circumstance. And while crossing that bridge, for us to remove any trace of fear. He said:

“Fear not; for I am with you: be not dismayed; for I am your God: I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness” (Isaiah 41:10).

And His yes should be a reassuring conformation that He is with us. That He will pave the way. And that He will make the bridge from grief to peace possible.

Let’s Pray

Father, I reach out to You to hold me steady. I lean on Your promise that You will strengthen me when my weakness shows and my despair rises. Help me to stay in course to reach the other side of this bridge. In Jesus’ name I ask, amen.

How do you interpret God’s yes when He promises He will help you?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

 

Source https://janetperezeckles.com/blog/victory/how-do-i-overcome-grief.html

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

Tags: ,

How to prepare for the best

22 Dec

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

How to prepare for the best.

 

Reblogged December 22, 2018

MY recent house guests were my brother and his wife. With their help, my house came alive with red and green decorations.

Time to Eat

Once we placed the angel on the tree top, I announced, “We’ll have a delicious, home-cooked dinner.”

“Sounds great,” they said.

But as dinner time got closer, there was no action in the kitchen. No pots, nor ingredients filled the kitchen countertop.

“Can I help you fix something?” my sister -in-law asked.

“Nope. All is under control.”

Their stomachs probably growled with hunger while there was no sign of any dinner preparation. But I knew something they didn’t—in a nearby kitchen, my friend, a wonderful caterer, wearing her apron, was busy taking casseroled dishes out of the oven, chopping, mixing sauces and artistically arranging desserts on a platter for us.

The doorbell rang.  My friend stood at the doorway with arms full. She got busy and served her delicious creations. The aroma filled the air as we quickly sat around the table, and before long, my guests oohed and ached with every scrumptious bite.

God is doing the same for us.

We wonder when He’s going to show up with the promise of His answers. When He is going to open the doors that were closed for so long.

We wait and wait with hearts hungry for His answer. For that loved one to come back. For a miracle to turn the situation around. For loneliness to leave. And for financial freedom to come.

Anxiety intensifies when we see others enjoying exactly what we hunger for.

Yet it’s in those very moments and during sleepless nights, while our mind plays the unwanted adversity over and over again, we can know that God is not idle, He’s busy. He’s working. He’s molding and preparing. The psalmist knew. And we should too. He said: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” Psalm 23:5

The key word is “prepare.”

His preparation includes changing our thinking. Molding us possibly with the chiseled of hardship. Shaping us to receive what He prepared. Growing us in wisdom and polishing us to be the shining recipient of His goodness.

Knowing He’s at work, the waiting is bearable. The peace is real. The anticipation is sweet. And the waiting period changes…it becomes a period of joyous expectation instead.

Let’s Pray

Father, forgive my impatience. Grant me a heart of peaceful acceptance as I wait for the banquet You’re preparing for me. In Jesus name.

How is God preparing you these days?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

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Five ways to face tragedy

15 Dec

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

Five ways to face tragedy.

 

Reblogged December 15, 2018

Tears flowed.

The eulogy for this young man evoked sobs that echoed throughout the room. When a young man dies unexpectedly, shock brings unspeakable sorrow.

He and my son Joe grew up together and remained close friends. My Joe has been in the glory of heaven since 2002, and now his close friend joins him to share in the unimaginable paradise.

They both played football, they both did mischievous things, they both had a contagious passion for life. And they both guaranteed their life eternal as they each invited Christ to be their Savior.

Although as I write this, they are both in heaven with joy overflowing, the family still on earth wonders what to do with the tragedy that barged in.

And that’s understandable. All crises rattle our senses. All unexpected heartache changes the course of life. But all crises don’t need to be tragedies.

Here are five insights that prevent crises from turning to tragedy.

  1. Triumph comes when we choose to be victors rather than victims.
  2. Blame gives power to pain.
  3. Resentment repeats the aching of the wound.
  4. Unforgiveness is the chain that keeps us bound.
  5. Forgiveness is the choice that sets us free.

I embraced these insights in 2002 when my youngest son was murdered. The act was senseless. The heartache deep. The change unbearable. But the freedom real.

The freedom that filled that first Christmas after losing our son came in a gift box called forgiveness.

My husband I made that decision.

What prompted us was an honest desire to obey God. This passage in Matthew 18 spoke to us personally:

Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him. Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.

The servant fell on his knees before him. “Be patient with me,” he begged, “and I will pay back everything.” The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.

But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarius. He grabbed him and began to choke him. “Pay back what you owe me!” he demanded. His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, “Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.”

But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. When the other servants saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed and went and told their master everything that had happened. “Then the master called the servant in. “You wicked servant,” he said, “I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?” In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.

This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.

Let’s Pray

Father, I need the wisdom to keep forgiving. To keep remembering what you first forgave in me. To keep receiving your grace to forgive the unforgivable. In Jesus’ name, amen

  • What wound or heartache have you suffered?
  • How will you resolve the pride that keeps you from forgiving?
  • Are you living in the freedom of forgiveness?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

Source: https://janetperezeckles.com/blog/peace/five-ways-to-face-tragedy-2.html

En Español: https://janetperezeckles.com/blog-espanol/seis-secretos-para-la-paz-interior.html

 

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

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Three not-so-secret ways to overcome loneliness

8 Dec

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Peres Eckles

 

Three not-so-secret ways to overcome loneliness.

 

Reblogged December 7, 2018

How can it happen? Whether we’re in a crowd or in the darkness of a silent room the battle to overcome loneliness begins.

I was stunned.

CNN reported yesterday that among thousands of entries, my hometown, La Paz, Bolivia, where I was born and spent my childhood was named the No. 1 wonder of the world.

But let me share a native’s point of view. In La Paz, being the highest capital in the world because of its altitude, visitors can become deathly ill due to the decreased amount of oxygen.

On the other hand, on a sunny day, the vibrant shade of sky blue that canopies over the city is breathtaking.

La Paz is built inside a sort of moon crater. Houses of all kinds dot the mountains that surround the city. And at night, a visitor may seem as if he were inside a gigantic Christmas tree. The lights that splash all the way to the mountain tops seem to blend with the stars in the sky, creating a unique splendor.

But how sad. That closeness is a contrast to the distance we feel from God when loneliness attacks. When we feel abandoned, we can’t help but imagine God to be distant and abstract. We believe the lie that repeats we have no one. God has forgotten us. And we have no way to overcome loneliness.

Here are three not-so-secret ways to wipe out these lies:

  1. In the silence, in the still of the moment God is present because His Word says that “…neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38, 39).
  2. If we’re in God’s company, we have already conquered the army—fear, anxiety and depression that equip loneliness. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deut. 31:6).
  3. Embracing God’s promise ushers hope that tomorrow new things will come about. He promised: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland” (Isaiah 43:18-19).

Let’s Pray

Father, while in the wasteland of loneliness or the desert of despair I declare that tomorrow you will bring about new ways, new paths and new open doors. I wait in anticipation for the loneliness that burdens my days to turn to the peace that comes from you.  The reassurance that your promises carry. And I will be filled with the joy that doesn’t flow from others but from you. I count on the power of your love. In Jesus’s name, amen.

  • Have you experienced loneliness lately?
  • What brings about your loneliness?
  • How will you receive God’s comfort to overcome loneliness today?

Janet

______________________________________

Did you know I wrote a book filled with words of encouragement, uplifting thoughts and illustrations of real-life triumph to empower you? Its title, Trials of Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life. You can get it HERE.

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

Looking for a speaker for your upcoming event? A great speaker makes the difference between a so-so event and one that shines with impact. I invite you to view one of my two-minute videos HERE.

Please share: Feel free to share Janet’s posts with your friends.

 

 

 

Janet Eckles Perez

Some say she should be the last person to be dancing. Her life is summarized in this 3-minute video: http://bit.ly/1a8wGJR

Janet Perez Eckles’ story of triumph is marked by her work as an international speaker, #1 best-selling author, radio host, personal success coach and master interpreter. Although blind since 31, her passion is to help you see the best of life.

www.janetperezeckles.com

Tags: ,

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