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Just When You Think Life is too Much

28 Aug

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

ReBlogged August 28, 2021

August 27, 2021

In 1962, my brother and I snuggled next to my mom. We rode in the back of a dilapidated truck around the mountains in Bolivia. “When will we get there?” I asked her as my ten-year-old mind anticipated fun moments in the tropical area of Bolivia.

But to get there, we risked our lives. The only way to reach our destination was to travel on the most dangerous road in the world.

The narrow one-lane, dirt road had no barriers. One wrong turn of the wheel would plunge the vehicle down the huge cliff. Hundreds of crosses marked the spots where fatal accidents took place.

One such accident reached the news recently. The injuries included a young man paralyzed. His family, American missionaries, sent prayer requests through cyberspace.

How does that happen? He walked only moments earlier, paralyzed the next.

Tragedy barges in.

Why is it that on the road of life, tragedy barges in unannounced? It catches us unprepared, vulnerable to its cruelty.

I tasted that heartache when COVID struck our home. I recovered with God-given natural protocols.

But my precious 92-year-old Mom had a different kind of victory as the Lord called her home.

I experienced the deep pain of having to say goodnight to my joy-filled Mom who lived with us for nearly 30 years. In our human mind, that sudden painful change has no reason. But through reflection and in moments of silence in His presence, I also learned God’s restoring love has no limit. And this truth will allow me to say “good morning” in heaven someday.

7 Promises

When days drag on, and when we think life’s too much, God offers the freedom from the prison of sorrow and heartache. They’re included in these seven promises.

  1. We count on His help, constant and never changing because “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). He’s present when tears flow unexplained. He’s present when the burden presses down. And He’s by us when the void aches within.
  2. We silence words of self-pity or sorrow as we declare “My lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live…” (Psalm 63:4a). Even in the midst of sobs, we give Him glory for His power at work. For His love that soothes. and for His promises that hold us up.
  3. Rather than gaze at our pain, we repeat the psalmist words,” I lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2). His help is timely. His help is perfect. And it’s the one our heart needs.
  4. Our heart may be broken, but our soul is intact. “My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you” (Psalm 63:5). Although life may seem unfair, we count on the richness of His provision. He will provide the comfort, the peace and the reassurance for every desperate moment.
  5. We thank Him for the sweet sleep that will come because “On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night because you are my help…” (Psalm 63:6). God does not slumber or sleep so that we can. We rest in His presence and sleep on the pillow of His whisper.
  6. We claim His power, knowing where we find protection. “We sing in the shadow of your wings. Our soul clings to you…” (Psalm 63:7). His Wings protect us. His refuge covers us. And His embrace gives us life.
  7. We declare: Lord, we will not faint because “Our soul clings to you; your right hand upholds us” (Psalm 63:8). We may feel weak. We may stumble. But we’ll never fall, His strong arm sustains us.

Let’s pray.

Father, I praise you for already knowing the help we would need, the comfort we would desire, and the reassurance we would call for. Thank you for going before us to prepare the healing and the restoration of our peace. I thank you in Jesus’ name.

To whom will you turn when life becomes too much?

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 pitfalls to avoid when looking for happiness.

14 Aug

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Dear Friends,

The pursuit of happiness can be a trap. While being happy certainly feels good, happiness in itself can be fleeting. Finding Joy-the deep and abiding-is what we should really focus on.

Today I share a post from 2016, a post to remind you (and me) that joy is what we should be seeking. The joy that can only be found in the Lord.

Janet

Five pitfalls to avoid when looking for happiness.

Reblogged August 14, 2021

August 13, 2021

“I know the guy is not the right one for her,” my friend said some years back. “But as long as she’s happy.”

Her daughter married him and shortly after, it ended in a painful and bitter divorce.

Is wishing happiness what we want for our kids?

Happiness is often confused with joy. Happiness can turn to sadness. And looking for it leaves us disappointed.

Here are five pitfalls to avoid when looking for happiness:

  1. Looking for it in relationships. Happiness cannot be found in another person, for they’re looking for their own path to happiness.
  2. Longing to be happy by pleasing others rather than pleasing God first.
  3. Expecting circumstances to make us happy, for they change as quickly as the weather.
  4. Waiting for someone to change before we feel happy.
  5. Expecting that happiness will last and bring fulfillment.

Joy is what we need.

Happiness is fleeting, often elusive and deceptive. Joy is what the soul longs for. Peace is what our heart needs. Wisdom is what brings the greatest rewards. And contentment is what ushers the richness of life.

That richness is found in complete joy, the kind that’s already in us when we believe:

As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love. If you obey My commands, you will remain in My love, just as I have obeyed My Father’s commands and remain in His love. I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. (John 15:9-11)

His joy can’t be taken away by circumstances, stages of life, unexpected turns or even tragic events. When happiness wanes, His joy in us remains vibrant

Let’s Pray

Father, I admit I have spent too much time seeking momentary happiness, instead of seeking You. For when I find You, then my joy will be complete. In Jesus’ name, amen.

What will you do with your newfound joy?

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

Ita Entered the Glory of Heaven

3 Aug

The Old Things R New family are sad to learn of the passing of the mother of fellow blogger, Janet Perez Eckles. Her father passed on a few years ago. Her parents story of saving up to come to America is not only inspirational, it is creative as well. They lived their lives full of the joy of the Lord. Below is Janet’s post on Facebook.

My Mom, Lucy, whom we all called “Ita” just entered the glory of heaven filled with a peace that only the Lord could have provided.

Covid attacked her body, but Christ brought the victory. At 92, she was radiant with health, no meds, no ailments. Yet, she often mentioned the glory of heaven that awaits those of us who know Christ Jesus.

She frequently would express her anticipation of living in that eternal glory. She did so with her unique, contagious joy.

Her heart saddened each time she heard of a friend who suffered with Alzheimer’s, or dementia, or cancer, chronic pain or unable to walk on their own. Deep down she wanted to avoid such a life of disease. God indeed honored her by transitioning her from a healthy, beautiful body to a glorious, even more perfectly healthy body to live for eternity. She left those who knew and love her the legacy of joy which characterized her so beautifully.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, please send donations in her memory to her most beloved church:

Greene way Church

3400 Hunters Creek Blvd.

Orlando, FL 32837

As you may know, Janet is blind and finds reading blog posts challenging. If you would like to leave a comforting message, I will pass it on to her.

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 Truths to Hold on to When Life Stinks

31 Jul

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged July 31, 2021

July 30, 2021

“And you can now get mature manure,” the radio announcer said, “and you’ll have the greenest grass ever.”

Mature manure? Who ever heard of that? But as odd as its name, so was its effect.

It turns out that when you put this product on your grass, it protects it and produces a pretty nice-looking lawn.

Life can be stinky.

But don’t think for a minute that this kind of manure was limited to grass. That same material comes in by way of disappointment, sadness, self-pity, heartache, setbacks and even tragedy.

All are part of the manure of life. It stinks. It’s ugly. It’s unpleasant. And when spread over, the view isn’t pretty.

I know that first hand, trust me. When blindness set in when I was 31, my world stunk. And I sunk in the pit of smelly self-pity and discouragement. Hopelessness tried to cover me up.

Until one day, God poured grace, mercy and compassion upon my world. That’s when I knew that the mature manure of heartache produces a nice lawn of faith and strength.

Three Truths

Rather than sink in, I hung on to the rope that held three truths:

  1. In His ways, He will turn to me.
  2. In His timing, He will hear my cry.
  3. In His power, He will lift me up.

Instead of sorrow or grief, my soul sang: “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth…” (Psalm 40:1-3).

Let’s Pray

Father, I do have the song of joy, the outlook of hope, and the eagerness to grow closer to you. In the lawn of life, I will not reject the pain or setbacks, but will know that you will use them to make my life better and richer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

  • What needs to be renewed in your life?
  • How often do you need to turn to God for help?
  • What do you need to stand on the solid rock of His Word?

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 Long Before the Heartache Stops

17 Jul

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged July 17, 2021

July 16, 2021

If you peek through my window, you’ll find me dancing. I’m celebrating because a few weeks ago, after a year of Zoom presentations, I delivered my first in-person message.

After I finished, I put the mic down on the podium and stepped off. As I made my way to the book table, a sweet woman hugged me tight. “Thirty years,” she whispered in my ear “it’s been that long that I drew away from God. After my son was killed, I wanted nothing to do with God or the Bible. I was away for 30 years. I decided to come back.”

For most, 30 years seems way too long to carry sorrow. But heartache has no expiration date. Sometimes, it weighs heavy for a lifetime. Unless we take a bold step and do what this champion in discus throwing did.

An excerpt from The Sacred Romance.

…I read the story of a Scottish discus thrower from the nineteenth century. He lived in the days before professional trainers and developed his skills alone, in the highlands of his native village. He even made his own iron discus from the description he read in a book. What he did not know was that the discus used in competition was made of wood with an outer rim of iron. His was solid metal and weighed three or four times as much as those being used by his would-be challengers. This committed Scotsman marked out in his field the distance of the current record throw and trained day and night to be able to match it. For nearly a year, he labored under the self-imposed burden of the extra weight. But he became very, very good. He reached the point at which he could throw his iron discus the record distance, maybe farther. He was ready.

My Scotsman (I had begun to closely identify with him) traveled south to England for his first competition. When he arrived at the games, he was handed the official wooden discus—which he promptly threw like a tea saucer. He set a new record, a distance so far beyond those of his competitors that no one could touch him. He thus remained the uncontested champion for many years.

Hanging onto heartache and wondering if joy will ever come back.

As you read this, someone also has in their life’s a discus called heartache. And what do they do? Goodness gracious, they hold on to it. Days are dark and hard as their feet drag. Exhaustion tells them the weight is too heavy. Perhaps it’s because deep, really deep inside, like me, they doubt God could ease such intense pain. We wonder if He will indeed lift our sorrow. And in our limited, human mind we can’t imagine how, in the gloom of pain, could joy ever come back.

And to make it more complicated, some folks grip their heartache tight because they find a strange sense of comfort by re-living the details of the loss.

Good news, the reason doesn’t matter. Instead, what makes the difference and brings one to the champion stage is obedience. Obedience to God’s instruction: “Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall” (Psalm 55:22).

He will never, never let us fall.

That promise is fulfilled when we let it go. And when we do, God will strengthen us. He will hold us up through the journey. And He will equip us enough for us to make it to the finish line of victory.

That triumphant moment arrives when we transform our thinking, our words and prayers. We replace, “Lord, the pain is too much. I don’t know how long I can endure it” with something like “I trust You, Lord, when I release this deep pain, you will give me the freedom I need.”

The next step is to wait. Wait to see how He begins the mending. Wait to see how He comforts. Wait and see how He opens the door to a new chapter and a new heartache-free future.

He did that very thing for me. When my youngest son was murdered, doubt had to end, faith had to increase, and trust take over.

That’s the reason, with thankfulness overflowing in me, I can write this from my chair of victory, typing on the keyboard of faith and gratitude.

Thank you, Lord! Thank you for receiving our cares. For turning that pain to a divine purpose. For transforming each burden to a blessing and grief to peace.

Let’s pray:

Father, I’ve had this burden for way too long. I vow to let it go, and in faith, I step into the freedom that comes through the reassurance of your promise to sustain me. In Jesus’ name.

What is the burden you need to let go 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

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What does God say about immigration?

3 Jul

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged July 3, 2021

July 2, 2021

I step away from the “normal” devotional I send you on a regular basis. And I humbly warn you as I’m about to share something personal, controversial and sensitive.

I appreciate, value and respect your opinion on whatever topic is rattling this country right now including illegal immigration. And because I do, let me tell you my story.

When I was 31-years old, a retinal disease robbed my sight completely. A friend visited me and said, “What are you waiting for? Get your application in for social security disability. After all, you have three little kids and you’re a naturalized citizen. You deserve it.”

It didn’t set well with me.

Deserve it? That didn’t set well with me. This is why.

In 1960, I was eight and my brother seven. Life was pitiful in Bolivia, and desperation was served at every meager meal in our tiny, dark kitchen.

So, my parents rolled up their sleeves and worked, sweated and struggled to meet all U.S. Immigration requirements to enter the country.

Four long years later, and with documents in hand, we arrived in Miami. Even before suitcases were unpacked, Father set his own laws. “This is the United States and the language is English. We will learn to speak it and learn it well.”

He also added there would be no excuses when opportunity came to work hard and live to our commitment to give, contribute rather than receive.

Years later, I still carried that mentality in my heart. And that’s precisely what erased any reason for my blindness to be an excuse. So, I studied, worked hard and what followed was an award-winning career as a Spanish interpreter. At the same time, I became a writer and inspirational speaker.

As a writer, I often tuck my opinions about illegal immigration in the privacy of my heart. But in a moment of boldness, I chose to impart this insight: If we enter the U.S. carrying deception, how can we expect to receive blessings for the journey?

The fear of God was considered.

Risking sounding boastful, I confess our family chose to enter legally because of fear. Fear of God’s warning about deception and fear of living void of God’s blessings because, “Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours” (Psalm 128:1-2).

And although prosperity followed hard work, our goal was to leave a legacy for our grandkids.

I cupped my grandson’s face in my hands and looked into his blue eyes. “You have to remember your great grandfather came to the U.S. riding in the airplane of integrity. You need to live up to that and carry that legacy.”

Speaking of legacy, I ask your forgiveness for the political incorrectness you’re about to read. But illegal immigration has nothing to do with legality. Rather, it has everything to do with the distorted legacy we’re leaving for generations to come.

Beginning a life under deception molds a mindset where welfare is a goal and hard work becomes an inconvenience.

Important Truths

We can’t allow these truths to vanish in the fog of confusion:

  • A sense of entitlement fosters laziness.
  • Excuse is the door to defeat.
  • Forced indoctrination of our children brings on social collapse.
  • Immorality paves the path to destruction.
  • Mocking God invites disaster.
  • Trust in government for provision keep deception alive.
  • Investing in courage and integrity pays dividends of success.
  • Trusting in God’s provision brings lasting rewards.

We deserve it. Yes, sadly we do. We deserve the consequences of a generation where laziness is accepted. Where wrong is rewarded, right is criticized, Godly views are silenced, and mediocrity applauded.

This writer believes immigration becomes illegal when those crossing the borders believe America is the land of entitlement. Wrong. America is still the land of the free.

That freedom was established by God through the founding fathers. And that liberty became the banner for early immigrants who learned English, worked hard, upheld god’s values, contributed and saluted the American flag.

They didn’t demand or complain. But rather, they sang gratitude to God for allowing them to live and prosper in the greatest nation on earth.

My family still celebrates the 4th of July with a banquet of gratitude served on the table of God’s Word. How about 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.

If you enjoyed these moments of inspiration, consider supporting JC Empowerment Ministries. We keep going, keep inspiring and keep bringing Jesus light into the darkness only through your cheerful tax-deductible giving. It’s simple. Just hop over to this LINK. https://janetperezeckles.com/about/non-profit-tax-exempt-authorization-letter

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: , ,

Becoming a Real Father

19 Jun

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged June 19, 2021

June 18, 2021

“I am on a mission,” my 42-year-old son Jason wrote in a recent blog post.

A mission? I asked myself. I tried, really tried to raise him with his focus on God, with his commitment to integrity, and with the wisdom to embrace God-honoring goals.

Those were my silent prayers for him and his younger brothers. And, blushing a bit, I admit, those desires of mine were repeated perhaps way too many times.

Did all that do any good? Well…tears fill my eyes as I share this with you:

Jason wrote:

“In case you missed it, I joined a group of warriors. We’re 100% committed to becoming something better, something great.

We are accountable to each other. And we’re ALL-IN on the journey to overcome hardships. We’re committed to become hard(er) to be defeated regarding our Mind, Body, Business and Relationships.

And although I’m not surprised, my 13- year- old daughter has taken to doing my workouts with me every day. She is a black belt in karate (her passion). She hates missing a workout as she’s very competitive.

Today is our finisher. And as we start our run, she looks in my direction. “Daddy, I think I’d like to talk with you while we run.”

Done!

Air pods go in the pocket. “What would you like to talk about baby?”

“Well, me and my friend were talking and we were saying it’s no wonder why people don’t want to be Christian. It’s hard to not do certain things when everyone else is doing them. It’s hard when people make fun of you, or say you’re stupid for believing those things. Like, sometimes I pray, and I don’t feel like it does anything at all. Nothing changes. Why would anyone want to do that?”

“Wow. She’s exactly right. Those are great questions. I feel like that sometimes, too.

“Hey” I asked, “Was it super easy and painless to become a black belt in karate?”

“No.”

“Then why would anyone want to do it?”

I do it for you!

This is only one of many conversations and experiences through the years. There have been tears, mistakes and apologies. All on both ends. There have been times of hard work in our relationship. Our personalities were tested and often conformed.

And in that process, I’ve run through the gamut of frustration, feeling overwhelmed, even bits of depression. But I resolved to never go any further.

As a father, this has been a precarious 13-year investment. But no matter how challenging, failing or quitting have never been nor will ever be an option.

I turn to her. “Look at what I’m doing right now. My legs hurt. It’s hard to breathe. This sucks. Why would I do this?”

She ponders my question as she rollerblades next to me. She smiles as she expresses perhaps the most meaningful words ever spoken by a daughter to her father in the history of time.

“Because it’s worth it in the end,” she says, “Daddy, I’m so glad you’re my dad. I feel bad for kids who don’t have someone like you to teach them. Thank you for talking to me and teaching me in a way that I can understand and really makes me feel good. I love you.”

Tears hidden by my sweat.” Exactly right baby. And you know why I do it? For you.”

She wants to pose for a picture…

It’s always worth it.

Similar to my mission as her dad, our group works out. We record. It’s not always pretty, but it’s always worth it.

And it is because we uphold the uncompromising ideals to which my teammates and I have committed during our lifelong journey to become our best selves.

And in my journey as a team member and as her dad, I am not only willing, I am excited and eager to suffer with and for those who are worth it.

And maybe for the first time ever, I understand I am not only the pinnacle, I am the foundation.

Today God is asking all fathers to be the warriors. To go to battle for their kids. To be willing to suffer because it’s worth it. To persevere because it’s required. And to fight because it’s right.

But the warrior in every father isn’t found in physical strength, financial abundance, or even in brain power.

It’s found in a place where he chooses to reside, where he rests and where he stays. That place is in Christ. He Himself said:

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you” (John 15:5-7).

When Jesus remains in a father’s heart, he becomes the ultimate warrior. No stress will defeat him. No fear can bring him down. No worry can weaken him. And no harm can reach his children.

Let’s pray.

Father thank you for your invitation to remain in You and become the strong fighter. I vow to use the weapons of courage faith and perseverance. In Jesus name.

In the challenges of fatherhood, what kind of warrior will you become?

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.

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: , ,

Here’s the After-Covid Joy

5 Jun

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged June 4, 2021

June 4, 2021

Goodness, spring is over and, admittedly, the spring cleaning became nothing more than a good intention.

Then guilt nudged. I rolled up my sleeves and began with closets. Then drawers. I tossed out jars of who-knows-what in my bathroom drawer—old tubes of lipstick, creams that probably ended up there since I was a teenager.

What happened to the beautiful fragrance?

But among the junk, to my delight, I found the little bottle of perfume I’ve been searching for months. It was my favorite for its delicate, yet delicious scent.

Without hesitation, I popped the glass lid off, brought it to my nose, and the scent was, well, blah. How could that fancy bottle of perfume lose its fragrance?

The same way lots of things in life lose their zest—a new outfit, a new car, a new house, a new career and even new relationships.

Have you been there? At first, they shine with promises and fill that part of us that hungers for a little delight. But before you know it, the luster fades, the excitement wanes and the scent of enjoyment evaporates.

Are we there today? A nasty virus caused the fragrance of peace to fade. Our days turned sadly insipid. And what was once filled with the scent of freedom and joy, now has the odor of gloom.

But while most sink into a life of blah, we have another option: the aroma of God’s Word. The scent of His promise. And the sweet smell of His joy. That joy becomes our strength (Nehemiah 8:10 paraphrased).

That’s why, no matter what you face, in your weakest moments, He will renew your strength. When you run toward the finish line, you’ll not be weary. And when you walk through difficult days, you’ll never faint. (Isaiah 40:31 paraphrased).

But…instead of exhaustion, you will be strong until victory is yours because “He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 1:8).

Until that day, you gotta be bold, be committed and driven enough to hold on to that bottle of His promise. Inhale His reassurance. Delight in His faithfulness. And, night and day, relish in His commitment to keep you strong.

Let’s pray.

Father, when my life loses its zest and my strength wanes, I shall enjoy the scent of Your grace to keep me strong till the end. In Jesus’ name I pray.

What will bring back the sweet smell of victory to 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.

If you enjoyed these moments of inspiration, consider supporting JC Empowerment Ministries. We keep going, keep inspiring and keep bringing Jesus light into the darkness only through your cheerful tax-deductible giving. It’s simple. Just hop over to this LINK. https://janetperezeckles.com/about/non-profit-tax-exempt-authorization-letter

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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7 Ways to Conquer Rejection

22 May

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged May 22, 2021

May 21, 2021

“I wanted to die,” my friend said as she dabbed tears. “I never expected he’d cheat on me. I never, ever saw it coming. I asked him if he still loved me,” she said in the midst of sobs, “and he said he stopped loving me a long time ago.”

You or someone you know might have tasted that bitterness of rejection. It crumbles our world, leaves us stunned, and shakes our security.

And when we try to make sense of it all, rather than peace, self-blame adds to the heartache.

But in the cold winter of rejection, a spring day appears. Here are seven ways to make the transition:

  1. Take your turn in rejecting. Reject the enemy’s attacks. He’s a master in bringing on guilt, self-pity, and bitterness. Close your mind and heart to those intruders.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10)

  1. Embrace new habits. No more nights with pillows wet with tears. Lonely moments are filled with the confidence in the truth God is actively preparing the best.

…and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:19)

  1. Redefine your identity You’re not a failure, a loser, worthless or unlovable. Instead, you’re God’s child. Strong enough to keep going, open enough to receive His love, and able to embrace His promise for your future.

I am convinced 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)

  1. Change the view. Look beyond the circumstance. When your eyes are on the Lord, a new kind of hope and an expectation of new beginnings replace worry.

My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare. (Psalm 25:15)

  1. Exchange guilt for hope. The path to healing is paved with confidence, not in our own ways, but in God’s guidance.

…teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior,

and my hope is in you all day long. (Psalm 25:4)

  1. Increase prayer and praise even when there’s no visible sign of the solution, boldly thank God for the outcome.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 4)

  1. Expect the best. And while waiting in expectation, embrace joy as you trust in God’s ways, count on receiving His best and watch as His answers appear.

… blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes;

its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit. (Jeremiah 17:7)

As spring flowers bloom, a new beginning blossoms when embracing these seven steps. And in the midst of the thorns of rejection, a new rose bud. That’s when the garden of life has the scent of a new beginning

Let’s Pray

I pray your steps are firm, your convictions are sound and your dreams are sparked by God’s 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.

If you enjoyed these moments of inspiration, consider supporting JC Empowerment Ministries. We keep going, keep inspiring and keep bringing Jesus light into the darkness only through your cheerful tax-deductible giving. It’s simple. Just hop over to this LINK. https://janetperezeckles.com/about/non-profit-tax-exempt-authorization-letter

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: ,

This is the greatest need for a Mom

8 May

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

May 7, 2021

Reblogged May 8, 2021

While I folded laundry, Joe, my four-year-old son, and his friend played with Lego’s on the family room floor.

“My mom has eyes at the ends of her fingertips,” Joe said to his friend.

I chuckled at first, but then marveled at his insight. He was absolutely right. After losing my sight, I used my hands to feel my surroundings, find items in the kitchen, sort the family’s clothing and pick up toys from the floor.

Seeing the world through my fingertips.

In reality, my whole world became “seen” by my fingertips. When I touched something, the image was immediately transmitted to my brain, allowing me to see with my mind. Eventually, I learned to use my other senses so I could still be a mommy to my little ones.

Although I managed the chores, the idea of living the rest of my life without sight kept me awake at night. And during the day, my muscles tensed each time I tested and noticed my diminishing side vision. At first, it narrowed to the size of a keyhole. I pleaded and begged God to allow that vision, though small, to remain so I could still see their smiles.

Some afternoons, while my youngest son napped, I’d stare at his features, attempting to memorize every detail—his long eyelashes against his chubby olive cheeks. His curly hair that framed his round face.

With tears blurring my diminishing vision, I engraved those images in my aching heart. Uncertain of the length of time I’d have that tiny amount of sight, the rope of anxiety and worry choked me.

There was no hope.

And ophthalmologists dug more anxiety as they offered no hope. One told us to wait for the inevitable. And he was right. A few months later, my retina stopped working and my vision closed in completely.

I was horrified.

The gray nothing before my eyes shoved me into a dark prison. “Why me, Lord!” I cried out.

After weeks and weeks of sobbing and asking and begging, God wasn’t silent like I imagined. His answers came gently tucked in verses of the Bible.

I listened to them with my heart. After I put my three sons to bed, I put on my headphones. My heart delighted in God’s promises. My soul drank His comfort. And my mind embraced His teachings.

He taught me the correct order of priorities. I realized my sons needed me more than I needed my sight.

What I really needed…

That’s when I recognized what I desperately needed was to trust not in my own abilities, but in God’s ability to provide the guidance and help I needed.

And one by one He did just that. Armed with a new attitude, a greater trust in Him, and a deeper faith, I rolled up my sleeves and took on the task to care for my 4-, 6- and 8-year-old sons.

And that care took energy as they were healthy and active. With each of their moves, my ears became tuned to their every sound, alerting me to their constant antics or whimpers of pain.

Within that busy schedule, learning Braille dropped to the bottom of my list of priorities. Unable to see, the daily tasks of running the house took twice as long to finish and left me drained.

Although exhausted, I still found creative ways to get things done. I swept and mopped the kitchen floor barefoot. This way, my feet picked up any crumbs or sticky spots I’d missed.

My memory also developed. I memorized lists of phone numbers. I needed them so I could call other moms for rides, for updates in school activities.

That sharper memory also helped me to find the location of items in the pantry. When hubby brought groceries home, I wrapped rubber bands around certain cans. I placed boxes of cereal, cake mix, etc. in specific places on the shelves.

My taste buds and sense of smell also became more acute as I invented my own recipes.

One day, as I stirred spaghetti sauce on the stove, I sensed a chocolate aroma near me. “Come here young man,” I ordered my six-year-old. “What are you eating?”

“Nothing,” he said, his voice muffled, no doubt trying to hide something.

I drew closer as the smell of chocolate wafted even stronger. I held out my hand. “Give me those M&Ms. It’s dinner time.”

They soon learned Mom was still in control. Often, I wondered if they truly knew I saw nothing. But I knew what my heart saw—a lesson my sons would learn from their mom who couldn’t see. I’d teach them with my attitude, a sense of humor and most of all, trust, complete trust in God to show me what to do.

With your permission, I will now switch from my story to you. 

You may not be encountering physical blindness, but you may possibly be blinded by the world’s standards. Or by the culture’s message that repeat we need to be great moms, cool in every way, strive for perfection and do anything so our kids lack nothing. Lies, all lies from the enemy. He wants to steal your peace and pour anxiety into your days.

On the other hand, God longs to pour reassurance and confidence. They arrive when, in the midst of the turmoil, we invite God to be our divine partner.

We don’t need more pressure or more posts on social media. A Mom’s greatest need is to partner with God. Through the eyes of His love, He watches our every move, He knows our deepest secrets. He’s familiar with our ways. He sees the guilt that nags, the flaws we try to hide, the mistakes that steal our joy. He even knows the insecurities that echo in the silence of night.

He knows it all, Yet, when morning comes, we pour a cup of stress and head on our way. That’s when fear visits. We fear we don’t measure up. We fear we’re not doing enough. And sometimes, we fear we’re inadequate moms.

But God, our Divine Partner says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

We don’t have to fear. He’s with us when we doubt. He lifts us when we fall. And He holds us when we fail.

Let’s Pray

Father, Thank You for granting me the confidence I need to be a Mom, secure because You are with me. In Jesus’ name I thank you.

What is your greatest need as a Mom?

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.

If you enjoyed these moments of inspiration, consider supporting JC Empowerment Ministries. We keep going, keep inspiring and keep bringing Jesus light into the darkness only through your cheerful tax-deductible giving. It’s simple. Just hop over to this LINK. https://janetperezeckles.com/about/non-profit-tax-exempt-authorization-letter

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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