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Because the Tomb is Empty, Your Loneliness, Fear and Anxiety Can End

8 Apr

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged 4/8/23

Sometimes in the privacy of our heart and in the silence of our loneliness, we want to pour out what aches inside. Even when no one knows, our soul cries out:

Lord, sometimes my days seem like an endless echo of distant drums

Tormenting my soul and whispering sounds of sorrow.

My hours pass like homeless beggars, aimlessly shuffling to and fro searching for shelter

I thirst for company, for comfort, for words to quench my parched soul.

Minutes drag and mock me with more sounds of loneliness like sips of bitter poison

And the tomorrow’s laugh at what my destiny holds.

Will time creep by until I reach the end?

And though people all around crowd in on me

Still loneliness juts through like weeds in an empty and abandoned field.

But this morning, after a black sleepless night

A stranger visited me—

A glimpse of light from the horizon.

As if the sun rose within me,

Your Words Lord, the same ones that had been lost in the web of confusion

broke free to brush against my soul.

Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I call to you all day long. Bring joy to your servant, for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you. Hear my prayer, O LORD; listen to my cry for mercy. In the day of my trouble, I will call to you, for you will answer me. (Psalm 86:3)

Because…

…the resurrection happened, because the tomb is empty and because Jesus is not only alive, but radiant with life-giving hope, the enemies of desperation, fear, anxiety, and loneliness have no power. None is a match to the power of Jesus who conquered death. And death is what awaits to those negative emotions that we cast to Him because He cares.

He cares enough to know the ache even before it started. He knows the details that feed the secret pain. And He even knows the degree of comfort and the amount of reassurance we desperately need.

And when we lift our head from the pillow of searing loneliness, the Son shines through, and hope dawns once again, peace filters through the window of our soul. And before we realize it, joy dances in the melody of His Word, the one that’s singing to you now.

… those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

In righteousness you will be established: Tyranny will be far from you; you will have nothing to fear. Terror will be far removed; it will not come near you. (Isaiah 54:14)

Let’s Pray

Father, I praise and thank You for the comfort of knowing my life, my days, my steps, my ears and loneliness are firmly placed in the hands of your unending love.

When do you hear God’s comforting words?

Janet

It’s my joy to have you as part of my inspirational family. Please feel free to share today’s post with others.

Let’s Stay in Touch

You and I are only a click away. Hop on over to this CONTACT FORM.  Once there you can leave your prayer request, make a comment, ask a question, or invite me to speak to your group.

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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Your Pet Might be Speaking the Love that No Human Can

1 Apr

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged 4/1/23

The Bible is sprinkled with animals used for unique purpose: a serpent tempted, a donkey warned, bulls and goats were sacrificed, a dove became a messenger, a colt served as transportation, lions compared to the devil, an eagle symbolized power and strength, and sheep were compared to man.

Here’s a modern-day sweet story of a horse that showed human-like compassion.

My friend Patty writes:

Daddy entered my room, smiled, and lifted a shining saddle in the air. “Do you like it?”

He knew a gift for my four-legged friend, Scout, delighted my 10-year-old heart.

I giggled as he bounced the empty saddle on the bed, mimicking a bucking horse.

“Scout will love this,” I said to myself as I carried the treasure the next day.

I entered the barn and found Scout in the back stall, hiding in a shadowed corner. As soon as I drew close, I quickened my steps. The soft dirt pressed under my feet. And the smell of wet hay filled the barn.

But eagerness filled my heart. “Hey boy,” I said, “look what I have for you!” I swung the saddle up and positioned it on his back. I took a step back and observed his reaction. His wiry legs seemed stronger. He held his head higher and turned from side to side with pride. The colors of the saddle accented his shiny, dark brown hide.

No longer a scrawny, skinny, and scared horse; he was now a strong, radiant warrior ready to defend and conquer in any battle.

And soon, Scout became my warrior, defender, and my confidant. Together we rode over and over across familiar paths. He grew to know me better than I knew myself.

And as we bonded, the passing years faded some of the radiance of that new saddle, but our relationship continued to smooth and deepen just like its beautiful leather. Even at seventeen, I shared my fears and joy only with Scout. No one else listened as he did.

He proved that one afternoon.

Scout grazed peacefully, sun rays stroked his hide and a soft breeze lifted his mane, What a profound contrast to my world. It shook violently in a whirlwind of emotions. The ophthalmologist announced, “There is no cure for this retinal disease.”

I sank in the chair, hoping he would offer some words of hope, but he followed his diagnosis with more dark news instead. “I’m afraid it will eventually take her sight. It’s only a matter of time.” He spoke to Daddy while I listened in horror.

We rode home in silence. Daddy offered his loving comments, but this time none of them drew a smile from me.

Instead, each passing day brought painful evidence of my diminishing peripheral vision. The retinal condition dimmed the light around me and darkened my world

As my eyesight diminished, so did my desire to enjoy the activities I had loved before.

“Do you need any help picking out your clothes?” Daddy asked in a soft voice one day.

“No, I can do it myself!” I shouted back, unfairly venting my frustration at him. After he quietly walked out, I threw my clothes down, flung myself on the bed, and sobbed. I could no longer distinguish colors or shapes. Coordinating my clothes, a task I used to perform with ease, was now impossible.

“Anytime you need to go anywhere, just let us know,” friends offered. “You know we’re here for you.”

In spite of their support, no one knew the turmoil that shook inside.

But in the midst of that storm, I shared my fear, anguish, and frustration with Scout. When I cried into his neck, he nickered softly and nuzzled my shoulder with his velvet nose.

I sensed his tenderness when I offered up my deepest pain and desperate longing as my life sank into a dark tunnel. I’ll be here for you. I’ll be your eyes, he seemed to say.

Scout was protective of his sightless rider as he galloped more cautiously.

Unable to direct his path, I couldn’t guide him around dangerous obstacles. But I trusted him. And he proved more than capable, not only at carrying me around physical dangers, but also at easing me through my sadness.

His protective nature emerged against anyone or anything that threatened to harm me. No one else seemed to know how to take away the sting of living a sightless life.

With each ride he gave me joy, helping me forget my heart’s burdens for a while.

When my friends made plans to see a movie, they added, “You can go too if you want.”

“No, that’s okay, I’ll just go home,” I spoke.

Holding back hot tears, I made my way across the grass, following the sounds coming from the barn. With careful steps, I found the stall where my loyal friend waited and hugged his muscular neck, feeling the warmth of his body.

Scout stood still, listening to my sobbing whispers. He understood more than just my words. With a long sigh, I stroked his face with palms wet from my tears. He seemed to cry with me, You’re not alone, I’m hurting too.

Day after day, he listened like no one else. Until the time I left for college. The trunk of the car was packed with my belongings. And my heart was filled with a blend of excitement but also a bit of fear about the unknown.

I turned toward daddy at the driver’s seat. “Can we go by the fence so I can say good-bye to Scout?”

Daddy parked the car alongside the fence. Moments later, Scout put his head through the car window beside me. As I hugged his neck, I felt his tears on my cheek. My own tears mingled with his just like they had done so many times before. We never needed words to express our quiet love.

Similar to the beautiful saddle I had once placed on his scrawny back, he placed a shining glow of compassion and love on my broken world. Our hearts were forever braided together in a rope of unconditional love. He became my eyes, allowing me to see what sighted people could not. Even when I was unable to express my darkest feelings, he read my heart, sensed my pain, and now, he seemed to cry my tears.

A note from Janet

God’s comfort comes in many ways, through His Word, through friends and often He uses His creation to speak to our aching heart, our lonely moments and soothes our sadness with quiet comfort. You can learn more about the healing power of pets in our lives here. https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets

Let’s Pray

Father, thank You for Your love so intense that You would use all forms to dry our tears.

Will you be open to what God might use to turn your sadness into a smile?

Janet

It’s my joy to have you as part of my inspirational family. Please feel free to share today’s post with others.

Let’s Stay in Touch

You and I are only a click away. Hop on over to this CONTACT FORM.  Once there you can leave your prayer request, make a comment, ask a question, or invite me to speak to your group.

I also invite you to visit my WEBSITE. You’ll find more inspirational blogs along with my story, books, and videos. You’ll also learn the passion and mission of JC Empowerment ministries.

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 Ways to Know

25 Mar

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged 3/25/23

3 ways to know if God will find you strong and committed or find you lukewarm instead.

Some years back while writing my first novel, In the middle of the story, I got stuck and ran into a wall of nothing. No ideas, no thoughts. My creative flair had vanished.

Later that day, a friend picked me up for our weekly prayer group, and on the way, I thought maybe this time away from writing God will give me creativity to get the scene written.

Like summer lightening in Orlando, I was struck by my pitifully wrong thinking. I had leaned on the maybe-God-would-help-me notion.

Why would I think that? Is the God of the universe, a God of maybe?

And is the faithful Lord with power, compassion and mercy a God of maybe? Does He maybe hear our smallest requests and also our desperate ones?

There’s no maybe in His answers or instructions. But we in turn, head down the lukewarm road when facing challenges, failures or unwanted barriers that burden our days and disturb our nights.

And as we struggle to find our way out of troubles, trying to find answers and solutions, traces of the lukewarm maybe have to be erased. God knows our faith, if it’s deep or unsteady. Is our level of belief constant or does it waver according to our mood? Are our efforts led by God or by selfish ambitions?

Even if we’re not aware, God is because He says, I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. (Revelation 3:16).

3 Ways

Although this vivid description is sobering and a bit too graphic for some, here are three ways to change the lukewarm to a sound, strong, on-fire commitment to God:

  1. When challenges and hardships become furious enemies raging war against you, there is no maybe about God’s protection because: All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish. Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you. (Isaiah 41:11-13)

A lukewarm mentality doubts that strength is real and still trembles inside. Deep down it is uncertain of God’s help. And in weak moments it doesn’t fully receive God’s promise to uphold and protect.

In contrast, a believer who is deeply convinced of the power inside these promises, laughs at approaching enemies. He declares God’s help, mighty and powerful. He leads his life with the reassurance God is on his side, helping and providing.

  1. Someone with a lukewarm mentality becomes discouraged as he doesn’t see beyond the circumstance, its annoyance and its pain. In contrast, a mind and heart fully committed to be spiritually hot speaks with certainty that God will never leave them. He declares His power at work and believes in God’s protective grace as He carries this same promise God make to Jacob: I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God… (Isaiah 43:1-3).
  2. A lukewarm person begins his days with the news of the world, the discouragement others repeat and with the gloom headlines display. But a committed on-fire-believer shrugs at the world’s bad news. Instead, no matter what shakes his surroundings, or ends his financial security or what negative changes take place, while others tremble with fear, the focus is on the victory God promises. He relishes on the freedom through Jesus. He counts on His help day and night as his soul sings: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. (Psalm 46:1-3)

No matter what mountains of challenges quake, an “on-fire” believer overflows with security and conviction. They are displayed through his behavior, his decisions and choices. In the end, his life radiates and reflects God’s victorious outcome.

Within God’s victorious plans, He calls for a sound mind and a faithful heart. There’s no maybe. There’s no hesitation. There’s no uncertainty or doubt. Consequently, none of us can afford a lukewarm approach, instead, today we can begin a new spiritually hot, on-fire, triumphant life

Let’s Pray

Father, as we see the world getting darker and more corrupt, I will put unwavering trust in Your Word. I will increase my faith in You and fully commit to declare before others that no matter what happens, I lean on your power that’s at work, alive and active.

What do you need to do in order to avoid being lukewarm?

Janet

It’s my joy to have you as part of my inspirational family. Please feel free to share today’s post with others.

Let’s Stay in Touch

You and I are only a click away. Hop on over to this CONTACT FORM.  Once there you can leave your prayer request, make a comment, ask a question, or invite me to speak to your group.

I also invite you to visit my WEBSITE. You’ll find more inspirational blogs along with my story, books, and videos. You’ll also learn the passion and mission of JC Empowerment ministries.

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 Ways to Prepare for the End Times

18 Feb

Walking by Faith,Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Many ask what to do as we reach the end times.

I was so very curious when I visited my hometown of La Paz a few years back. In particular I wanted to visit the home I was born in where I lived part of my childhood before moving to the U.S.

My desire was satisfied when a cousin and I visited the house. It was in the same place. And it was the same house. But oh, so different. The three-tier garden was leveled and, in its place, sat a two-story building with condos. The garage was turned into a small apartment. I hardly recognized it because of the drastic changes.

The same thing has happened to our country, the USA, the greatest country on earth. It too looks way different. Same country, same location. But goodness gracious, the changes in the moral landscape are alarming. Check out just some of the social changes we’ve seen in the 54 years since Woodstock.

But we shouldn’t be surprised. In the book of Timothy, God lists the terrible times which sadly, mirrors today’s culture: “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God– having a form of godliness but denying its power.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5

It’s hard to deny this depravity at its best. And although we’re in the middle of that mess, we should be at the beginning of wisdom to know how to face it, how to react, and how to prepare.

These three steps could be the start of that preparation: Fear not. Clean up. And be bold.

1: Fear Not. Instead, stand firm, confident on the truth of God’s Word that remains solid no matter the terrible times. God has the victory in place. And He has the reassurance we will remain victorious (Romans 8:37).

When the enemy of our soul advances in this world, he’s powerless. “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:3-4).

Through Christ, the divine power that’s at work to demolish, destroy and to dismantle any stronghold is ours. We carry that power and strength. That’s why we don’t sink in fear but rise up in faith.

2: Clean up. It’s true our sins have already been washed, cleaned and forgiven through the blood of Christ Jesus. Of course, they have. But sadly, if today you choose to sit at the table of sin, consequences are disturbing. They disrupt your peace, break you down, and usher in sorrow.

The woman caught in adultery knows this firsthand. With hair a mess, red eyes swollen from crying, and arms limp at her side, she waited. “Jesus straightened up and asked her, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ ‘No one, sir,’ she said. ‘Then neither do I condemn you,’ Jesus declared. ‘Go now and leave your life of sin’” (John 8:10-11).

Although forgiven, Jesus didn’t ignore the sin or condone it. He acknowledged it, giving a clear instruction to leave her life of sin. Why did He give that instruction? Because He knew she, as well as you and I, had free will to make choices.

A prisoner is quoted saying: I followed Jesus and believe He died for all my sins. But I made the choice to commit the crime and these cell bars remind me of my choices. I

God wants us to live in the freedom of good, Godly choices. As we prepare, as we wait and anticipate His return, He’s offering the same freedom to leave behind that sin-filled choice which traps us, brings on sorrow and puts us behind bars of regret.

Jesus’ return is imminent, and whom we allow to control our mind is an urgent decision because “The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace…” (Romans 8:6).

3: Be Bold. The world is sinking. Disasters are increasing, souls are in darkness, and the discouraged are turning to despair. Therefore, being passive is now a thing of the past. Boldness and courage need to be renewed to carry out God’s orders to spread the good news. No need to write books or speak from a platform. Your message is loud enough through the way you conduct your life. How you follow God’s orders. And how you carry God’s Word to dictate what you think, what you do, how you work, how you love and where you go.

God’s pattern is clear: Feeling anxious? Invite God’s peace. Facing troubles? Cast them to the Lord. Seeing financial collapse? Fix your eyes on things above. Others insult and criticize you? Pray for them anyway. Going through trials? Commit to persevere. Government is corrupt? Declare God’s still on the throne. Immorality is growing? Praise God for His mercy. Personal conflicts don’t end? Turn them over to God. Despair threatens? Declare the victory you have in Jesus.

Jesus will return while we’re in the middle of reading blogs, posting on social media, shopping online, heading to the doctor, changing diapers…but we’re prepared, we fear nothing, we make wise choices, and we become bold in sharing the Gospel.

Let’s pray.

Lord, the end times, the tribulation, the persecution and the signs of which we need to be aware are becoming more real. But I will not fear, succumb to the world’s ways, or give in to worry. Instead, I will declare your victory through my thoughts, words, and actions till the day You return. Amen.

Which of these three steps have you taken to prepare for the end times?

Janet

It’s my joy to have you as part of my inspirational family. Please feel free to share today’s post with others.

Let’s Stay in Touch

You and I are only a click away. Hop on over to this CONTACT FORM.  Once there you can leave your prayer request, make a comment, ask a question, or invite me to speak to your group.

I also invite you to visit my WEBSITE.  You’ll find more inspirational blogs along with my story, books, and videos. You’ll also learn the passion and mission of JC Empowerment ministries.

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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Overcoming Loneliness on Valentine’s Day

14 Feb His Way

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged 2/14/23

Better than candy or roses, inspiration for the heart can be sweeter.

Janet

It’s my joy to have you as part of my inspirational family. Please feel free to share today’s post with others.

Let’s Stay in Touch

You and I are only a click away. Hop on over to this CONTACT FORM.  Once there you can leave your prayer request, make a comment, ask a question, or invite me to speak to your group.

I also invite you to visit my WEBSITE.  You’ll find more inspirational blogs along with my story, books, and videos. You’ll also learn the passion and mission of JC Empowerment ministries.

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: , , , ,

God is With Us…Always!

28 Jan

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged God is with us…always!

I had a crazy day last week. Let me tell you what happened to me at Orlando’s airport.

Got there in plenty of time for my 6:40 am flight. Hubby dropped me off at curbside check in. Line was long until finally reaching the counter. Waited some more for passport check for my flight to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico where I had several speaking engagements.

Then came the wait for an escort to the gate. The very LONG wait. Finally, one showed up. Looping my purse over my shoulder, white cane in one hand, I grabbed his arm with the other. We dashed toward security but we entered an incredibly long line. After waiting 45 minutes, the escort leaned toward me, “Your flight is boarding right now.”

Gulp, I was in trouble. We still had to go through security, board the tram to the gates, and head down the long, long corridor to my destination.

The escort took it upon himself to help folks ahead of us to speed up the process Finally through security, we dashed to the tram. Upon arrival I squeezed his arm, “I can run just fine,” I said, “can we run?”.

“Are you sure?”

I lifted my white cane in the air. “Yup. Let’s go.” We took off running, not fast walking, we’re talking high-speed running. (Good thing I had somewhat comfortable shoes).

He was out of breath. So was I. “Are you still okay,” he said.

“Yes, don’t stop.”

Finally, we slid into gate 108. “Oh no,” he said, “the doors are closed.”

We approached the counter. “Sorry, ma’am,” the agent said, “it left two minutes ago.”

She booked me for the next day.

The escort did his job, did his best, even went above his duty to help. But I still missed the flight.

Once I caught my breath, I turned to him, “Thank you so much for all you did.”

I started to give him a well-deserved tip.

“No, ma’am,” he said, “I’ll stay with you and take you wherever you need to be until someone picks you up.”

There’s a lesson for us.

God does the same thing. When we’re rushing through life, trying to make it to the finish line, to find that peace, that answer or that breakthrough, God is with us, removing the obstacles. But when the results aren’t exactly what we hoped for, He’s still there, by our side, helping, guiding and providing.

Our Divine Escort is committed to be with us. He will accompany us through the stress, the painful, and the disappointing. If you’re facing troubles and you’re running for relief, His Word whispers to your soul, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)

Thank you, Lord, that You are our strength, you are our provider as we rush through the airport of life. You are present, loving and available for us to lean on, to trust and reach our destination richly secure with Your loving companionship.

Janet

It’s my joy to have you as part of my inspirational family. Please feel free to share today’s post with others.

Let’s Stay in Touch

You and I are only a click away. Hop on over to this CONTACT FORM.  Once there you can leave your prayer request, make a comment, ask a question, or invite me to speak to your group.

I also invite you to visit my WEBSITE.  You’ll find more inspirational blogs along with my story, books, and videos. You’ll also learn the passion and mission of JC Empowerment ministries.

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 Steps to Keep Depression Out

7 Jan

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblog Janet Perez Eckles

“Oh, I’m so sorry!” my friend said as she tapped my arm. “I can’t believe I asked if you saw that movie. I keep forgetting about your…”

I laughed. “Of course, I saw it,” I said, “even without eyesight, I can still enjoy the dialogue, plot, message and story line.”

I confess though, learning to enjoy movies while blind took time. When I first lost my sight, I feared my life would be so insanely limited, I’d spend my days with wrinkled tissue in hand seated on my sofa of self-pity. But when Jesus opened the eyes of my heart, all changed. I embraced courage to try new things, to explore options, and to plunge into areas that some view as seemingly illogical.

It’s in our praises…

In the middle of today’s mess, God is also asking us to do something a bit illogical. When disturbing thoughts invite depression, He provides the answer. The solution isn’t so much in persevering during trials, or persisting during tough time. Rather, it’s in our praises…at all times.

But how can we manage that? Praise Him when things crumble around us? Praise Him when all seems out of control? Praise Him when pain never stops?

Like the blind going to the movies, the concept of praising God when the chains of despair grip tighter defies logic. But these men in the Bible did that very thing: Joseph, when unfairness shook him. David, when he faced his sin. Nehemiah, when he saw destruction. Elijah, when fear gripped him. Paul, when he was in chains.

None of them demanded explanations. Instead, they had blind obedience to God when He directs to praise Him…in the bad, the ugly and the sad. Each of them came out triumphant before depression pressed in. That’s because they knew that although God doesn’t give explanations, He gives promises.

And as each one prevailed back then, they will prevail today as well. Even as we’re caught in a spiritual, destructive war. We march to the battlefield with confidence by our side because we possess the most powerful weapon to prevent depression—to praise God. Praise His Holy name. Praise Him for what He’s done and praise Him for what He’s about to do.

Five Declarations

What will He do and when? We don’t know. But while we wait, let’s get bold. No matter how upside down this world gets or how deep our personal distress, we’ll not retreat. Instead, we’ll recharge our courage to make these five declarations:

  1. Should my efforts fail, my ways end up wrong, and my plans fall apart, depression or sadness will not come near me because “my sword does not bring me victory; but you give us victory over our enemies, you put our adversaries to shame. In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever” (Psalm 44:6-8).
  2. The world may turn darker and become hopeless, “But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more. My mouth will tell of your righteousness, of your salvation all day long” (Psalm 71:14-15).
  3. No matter what bad news rattle my world, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth (Psalm 34:1).
  4. Even when my life didn’t turn out as I wanted, “I will praise you “Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips will praise You” (Psalm 63:3-4).
  5. I will silence words of negativity, pessimism or gloom. Instead, “My lips will shout for joy when I sing praises to You…” (Psalm 71:23).

Dare I admit that through my blindness I praise Him? Not because I like being blind but because His healing is already mine. Whether it manifests itself today or in heaven, I spend my days singing the melody of praise as it ushers in a colorful portrait of joy.

Maybe blindness isn’t what turned your world dark, but whatever it is, victory is yours when you remember that when your lips praise the King of kings, lamenting or complaining end. When in your mind you Praise Him, negative thoughts vanish. When your habit becomes to praise Him, depression cannot come in. You become a triumphant warrior as you stand under the banner of praise.

Let’s Pray

Father, thank You for showing me the way to guard against depression, anguish and distress. My lips, mind and life will learn to praise You in all things, at all times and in all ways. Thank You for the security we find in Your promises. Amen.

Are you willing to begin the new year with a habit of praise?

Janet

It’s my joy to have you as part of my inspirational family. Please feel free to share today’s post with others.

Let’s Stay in Touch

You and I are only a click away. Hop on over to this CONTACT FORM.  Once there you can leave your prayer request, make a comment, ask a question, or invite me to speak to your group.

I also invite you to visit my WEBSITE.  You’ll find more inspirational blogs along with my story, books, and videos. You’ll also learn the passion and mission of JC Empowerment ministries.

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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This is How Stress Turns to Peace This Christmas

23 Dec

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

My friend went bananas. During the last lock-down, she posted on Facebook: “If you’re looking for ripe bananas anywhere in town, don’t bother. I bought them all.”

And she did! She was in the middle of a banana nut bread baking marathon. Who got a loaf? Anyone who posted their request on Facebook. She kept going and lost count after the 75th loaf. Was she nutty? Yup…and so was her banana bread.

Some she mailed, others she hand-delivered. Comments of gratitude poured in. She asked for no payment, no exchange of anything. Everyone got a loaf just for asking.

God uses the same method.

He has the bread of life prepared in the oven of His love. It’s ready to ease our hunger. Ready to dismantle stress and bring on peace.

But as crazy busy as we are, we don’t stop to ask. We have all kinds of reasons: the Christmas season is way too hectic to pause and receive. We’re way to committed. Way too focused on pleasing others, and driven to bake those cookies and hang the ornaments. Bedtime can’t come soon enough.

How sad, caught up in the frantic and frills, we miss the beautiful, rich, and wholesome bread of life, which by the way, God hand-delivers to the doorstep of our soul.

But that gift of love remains unopened, untouched. Could that be why our peace turns to pieces of stress instead? It does while we’re in the midst of the rush, in the middle of the worry, and in the depth of our busy days.

But if you halt that busyness and pause to inhale the delicious aroma, this allows your soul to delight in the truth spoken by the apostle Paul.

God’s Message for You

Although he wrote to the Ephesians, the message may be for you today, for this very moment. Instead of dwelling in how life used to be, how sad things seem, how wide and long and high and deep your troubles are, Paul says: “I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ…” (Ephesians 3:17-18).

It’s the depth of that love that satisfies the deepest hunger. Love that soothes past wounds. Love that transforms stress to peace.  And, it’s that love that “is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work with in us” (Ephesians 3:19).

Beyond what you can ask or imagine, in spite of what anxiety grips you, gloom that surrounds you, or the loneliness that invades you. He goes beyond your expectations: He not only heals, He restores. He not only provides, He gives you riches. He not only satisfies, He brings a lifetime of delight.

Pure love was born on Christmas day. That’s worth celebrating. How about slicing some of that delicious bread, and delighting our soul in the bread of life prepared with God’s love. Christmas comes alive—nourished by His love, strengthened by His Word, and empowered by His promises.

Let’s Pray

Father, thank You for showing me that fulfillment, satisfaction, peace and meaning aren’t found in the frills of the Christmas season. Thank you for granting me the wisdom to pause and realize my hunger was for you—the bread of life. I praise you for allowing me to savor Your love through Christ—love that permanently delights my soul.

What will satisfy your hunger today?

It’s my joy to have you as part of my inspirational family. Please feel free to share today’s post with others.

Janet

Let’s Stay in Touch

You and I are only a click away. Hop on over to this CONTACT FORM.  Once there you can leave your prayer request, make a comment, ask a question, or invite me to speak to your group.

I also invite you to visit my brand new WEBSITE.  You’ll find more inspirational blogs along with my story, books, and videos. You’ll also learn the passion and mission of JC Empowerment ministries.

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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What To Do While We Wait For The Answer

22 Oct

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged October 22, 2022

October 21, 2022

Have you been there? Waiting on answers from God? Unanswered prayers bring on doubt. Doubt turns to fear. And then opens the door to anxiety. Before we know it, we join the rest of the world in their gloom and complaining.

We’re not alone; the Israelites join us in that grumbling.

As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the LORD. They said to Moses, “Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? Didn’t we say to you in Egypt, ‘Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians?’ It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!”

Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14: 10-14

Have you ever complained like that?

I have. And that’s because we’re deep into our own struggles. We end up terrified like the Israelites. We grumble in the hot desert of frustration. And as we trudge through the dry land of conflict, of uncertainty and nervousness, we desperately look for God’s answer, a clear path, a solution; we look to be rescued now.

But no one is there. And we have our own Egyptians called stress and anxiety that chase us, threatening to ruin our day.

But if Moses were alive today, he might post a message to all of us, “Do not fret, God will fight your battles. His answer is already here. You need only to be still.”

While we wait for the answer, that reassuring peace is what we invite into our sleepless nights. The battle doesn’t belong to us. The outcome is already in His hands. And the promise of a brighter tomorrow is what fill His promises.

That’s because it’s in the still of His presence that His peace can fill our nights. In the still of our heart is when His whisper brushes through. And in the still of the moment is when we see His promises come alive.

Let’s Pray

Father, calm my heart, whisper your peace into my longing. Silence the voices of fear so I can be secure as I wait for your answers. In Jesus name. Amen.

In the midst of your hectic life, what keeps you from being still enough while you wait for God’s answers?

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:

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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This is Something You Cannot Do Without

24 Sep

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged September 24, 2022

September 22, 2022

Hubby walked in with groceries, he put them away and got busy on another mystery task.

“Got something for you,” he said. He took my hand and placed them on a crystal vase filled with flowers. He described each, detailing their beautiful colors.

Sweet, isn’t he? Well, me, on the other hand, not so much. I’ve told him, very gently, I might add, that flowers are great, but since I can’t see them, it’s kind of a waste of money.

I have hinted, suggested, and downright told him, instead, to get me an outfit, gift certificate to a spa, dinner out, etc.

But before you shake your head with disbelief at my rude, cold lack of appreciation, you might have expressed similar reactions.

The Lord insists on handing you the gift of confidence, yet traces of insecurity filter through. He hands you His grace, yet you look to please Him by scurrying through tasks. He repeats He’d be your companion, yet you worry about facing tomorrow alone.

He said He’d calm the seas and quiet the storms, yet you tremble at the thought of impending adversity. He hands you the gift of His Word to guide you, yet you follow your own personal GPS for your life, for your plans and desires.

Something we cannot do without.

In all that mess, there’s something we cannot do without. We all need to work in accepting the bouquet of God’s faithfulness. The one that doesn’t change with circumstances, but emphasizes the certainty of His protection.

Nestled in that protection, even when feeling anxious, stressed, or lonely, He’s handing you a bouquet of fragrant, trustworthy, and sweet promises, ones that last and prevail through dark moments.

He arranges them in the crystal vase of His love and adds the same reassurance He promised to Zion: “Provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of His splendor (Isaiah 61: 3).”

The splendor He displays didn’t end with any pandemic. It didn’t stop when the economy went down. And it doesn’t diminish its glimmer when bad news echo everywhere. The power of His Word still stands, His joy remains, and His promises for a new tomorrow are still secure in His hands

Let’s Pray

Father, when the odor of adversity wafts into my life, I will receive the flowers of your promises. I will inhale their aroma to delight my soul with confidence for today and reassurance for tomorrow. In Jesus’ name.

What have you done with the gifts God offers you?

Janet

______________________________________

I invite you to dance with me—celebrating one of my books, “Contagious Courage: A 30-Day Journey to Overcoming Stress and Anxiety.” Get your copy HERE and tell your friends, too.

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:

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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