Tag Archives: Blind Inspirational author and speaker

The 15-Second Rule That Changed My Life: How to Let Go of Guilt and Live Free in God’s Grace.

31 Aug

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged from Janet Perez Eckels

Let me tell you what happened the other evening.

People are often surprised when I mention that I cook. Yes, I’m blind—and yes, blind people do cook. In fact, we do it quite economically. When no one else is home, there’s no need to turn on the lights. Imagine the electricity we save!

Last night, while my sweet husband was telling me about his day, I was peeling some carrots. In my hurry, I placed one too close to the edge of the counter, and sure enough, it rolled onto the floor.

Without hesitation, he jumped up and said, “I’ll get it.”

As he handed it to me, he added, “Here. Got it before 15 seconds.”

“Fifteen seconds?” I asked.

“Yep. If you pick something up within 15 seconds, no harm done. Learned that as a kid.”

I smiled. But then I paused. The more I thought about that quirky little rule, the more profound it became.

A Deeper Application

Sure, the floor is still the floor—whether something’s there for one second or fifteen, it still needs cleaning. But there was a lesson buried in that moment.

I started wondering… What if I applied that 15-second rule to my inner life?

How often do we let something negative fall into our spirit and just leave it there? How long does it sit before we even realize the damage it’s doing?

I’m talking about guilt.

Anybody know what I mean?

When Guilt Lingers Too Long

That sneaky emotion creeps in when you’re most vulnerable. Guilt slithers through your thoughts like a snake—slow and quiet—but poisonous all the same.

It shows up in moments of discouragement. And then it speaks:

“If you hadn’t done that, this wouldn’t be happening.”

“What were you thinking?”

“You’re not doing enough.”

For me, it’s thoughts like: “You should spend more time reading God’s Word, encouraging others, creating more leads, writing more…”

That guilt starts stacking up like clutter in a room, and before you know it, it’s stealing your peace and silencing your confidence.

But not anymore.

I’m Applying the 15-Second Rule

I made a decision: guilt doesn’t get to linger.

If something falls into my heart that doesn’t belong there—regret, shame, self-doubt—I have fifteen seconds to pick it up and toss it out before it spreads discouragement and sadness.

Why? Because guilt trips cost. 

And the currency is joy, peace, and a clear mind to serve God.

Here’s the Truth: God Already Forgave You

If you’re like me and you’ve got a list of past failures, here’s what you do:

  • Ask for forgiveness.
  • Believe—truly believe—that God forgives a repentant heart.
  • And then… move on.

If you’re dealing with something right now that’s making you feel guilty, address it. Correct it. Then move forward. Not because you’re perfect, but because He is.

Dr. Charles Stanley once wrote in his devotional: “Remember we are forgiven. If we confess our sins, He forgives. First John 1:9 promises us the process is that simple… The Enemy stimulates false guilt… Make a declaration: ‘In the name of Jesus Christ, I reject these feelings of guilt. They have absolutely no scriptural basis. They are false, and I refuse to acknowledge them.’”

The moment you do, the weight lifts. The lies lose their power. And your heart begins to breathe again.

Jesus Came to Give Us Freedom

He said it Himself: “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture… I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:9-10)

Life to the full. Not half-empty with guilt. Not dimmed by shame. Not heavy with regret.

That’s the promise—and the freedom—we get when we walk through His gate. A fresh start. A clean heart. Like a morning breeze, reassurance fills the soul.

Let’s Pray

Father, thank you for the freedom we find in You—liberated from destructive emotions and replaced by the peace and reassurance You give me—a beautiful gift wrapped in Your love.

What guilt are you still holding onto that God has already forgiven—and what would your life look like if you let it go… in the next fifteen seconds?

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 You Overcome Stress, Sadness and, Worry

30 Sep

Reblogged 9/30/23

A few weeks back, hubby and I got busy preparing our trip from Orlando to Lexington. “Honey,” he said, “I’m concerned we won’t make it to our connecting flight. We only have 30 minutes and the gates are in opposite sides of Charlotte’s airport.”

I gave him a silly grin. “No worries, God’s got this.”

We boarded the plane, but the flight was late in departing. That meant we only had 20 minutes to meet our next flight.

The minute we landed, we jumped to our feet, squeezed among the passengers, and once the path was clear, we took off. Yes, we began to run, oh no, not a light jog, but a sprint. Hubby held one suitcase in the air with one hand, pulled the other suitcase with the other and I gripped his arm as we took off. We dashed, zig zagging between people in the crowded airport.

After 15 minutes of non-stop running, our hearts were beating furiously. But no time to worry about that. We could not miss the flight!

Finally, huffing and puffing, we arrived at the gate. But the gate was empty. The plane left us.

That meant only one thing—I also had something to leave behind and that was any and all traces of stress, sadness, or worry. These three invaders would have drained my joy. That wasn’t happening!

You’ve been disappointed like that, haven’t you?

Maybe not because you missed a flight, but because after you worked and worked, no results appear. You tried and tried to overcome, but the pain was still there. You ran and ran to meet your goal, but never reached it.

Your passion has vanished. You have been tempted to give up, and stress, sadness and worry are about to join you at the dinner table. But before you let them, consider this:

Wash away doubt because victory will arrive.

Sometimes disappointment is the driver of the vehicle of discouragement. We ride in it asking question after question: where was God while I tried so hard? Do I have what it takes? Do I even want to keep trying?

This psalmist might have ridden in that same vehicle and prompted him to ask similar questions.

Will the Lord reject forever?

Will he never show his favor again?

Has his unfailing love vanished forever?

Has his promise failed for all time?

Has God forgotten to be merciful?

Has he in anger withheld his compassion? (Psalm 77:7-9)

The answer wasn’t so much in what he thought or how he felt. But the answer was in what he remembered:

I will remember the deeds of the LORD;

yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.

I will meditate on all your works

and consider all your mighty deeds. (Psalm 77:11-12)

Passion comes back when we consider this:

God sent Jesus to set us free (John 3:16), gave us power not fear (2 Timothy 1:7), God fights our battles (Exodus 14:14), and Gpd promises His protection (Psalm 91:1-2).

No stress, sadness or worry can ever overtake us when we remember God is cheering us on as we run under the banner of His grace. He holds up the flag of victory every time.

Without stress, sadness or worry, we can think clearer, we can walk in confidence and call upon the Lord’s power at work.

Happy to report that for hubby and me, His power was indeed at work. After we missed our flight, we dragged our feet to the customer service counter. Though exhausted, we still smiled. To our joy, the friendly agent put us in first class on the next flight. She even added dinner vouchers to use as we waited.

Let’s Pray

Father, I praise You for the way You clear the way, removing sadness, stress or worry. No matter what goal I’m after, I vow that negative emotions will be replaced by the reassurance You have the outcome prepared. In Jesus’ name.

What fills your heart as you run to meet your goals these days?

Bonus article on today’s topic.

Janet

Celebrate with me! My new release, Now I See: How God’s Amazing Grace Transforms the Deepest Pain to Shining Joy won the 2023 Memoir of the Year Golden Scroll Award.

Your copy waits for you HERE.

Let’s Stay in Touch

You and I are only a click away. You can use this CONTACT FORM to leave your prayer request, make a comment, ask a question, or invite me to speak to your group. Or simply reply to this email.

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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What Kind of Prayers Does God Really Answer?

2 Sep

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

How much we labor in our prayer time has nothing to do with Labor Day. Recently while a pastor taught this topic, some of us squirmed in our seats.

“When we ask God for blessings,” he said, “we often repeat mousy petitions.”

Mousy petitions? He explained the prayers we blurt out often carry doubt. We lack the reassurance that God will grant what we ask. They repeat the circumstance, not the victory we can count on. They mention the dark side, and fail to declare God’s triumphant possibilities.

And when we ask, we forget to give thanks. We forget to anticipate He will answer. We overlook the mighty way He can exercise His power.

So, what’s the best way to pray?

With boldness, with conviction, with authority, with firmness and with holy audacity.

The number of words we use don’t matter. Nor the flowery expressions. But, the complete faith, the firm authority because of Jesus is what makes the difference.

They did for John and Peter. They saw the beggar at the entrance of the temple. “Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’ Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God” (Acts 3:6-8)

Why did Peter take the man by the hand? Because he was sure he could get up. Because he declared it in the name of Jesus. Because he counted in Jesus’ power at work. Because he was confident Jesus was working through him. And because he knew the man’s crippled legs were no match to Jesus’ healing power.

How about making that change?

When on your knees, lift the power of God at work, the authority you have in Jesus, the answers that align with Scripture, the promises that echo through His Word.

When you pray the power instead of the problem, you activate the confidence you need, the boldness you must express, and the answer in which you must believe.

On a personal note, I don’t dwell or labor in asking God over and over again for healing of my blindness. I declare I am healed. I will see whether here on earth or in heaven. It’s a guarantee.

In the meantime, when I focus on the power at work not the problem, my blindness isn’t a sorry circumstance, but a reminder that God’s power is still at work.

Let’s Pray

Father, thank You for transforming the way I bring petitions before you. I praise You for the freedom that comes when I focus on Your power, Your promises, and our divine position to give me the answer in Your perfect timing. In Jesus name.

Who counsels you when life gets sticky?

Bonus article on today’s subject. 

Janet

Celebrate with me! My new release, Now I See: How God’s Amazing Grace Transforms the Deepest Pain to Shining Joy won the 2023 Memoir of the Year Golden Scroll Award.

Your copy waits for you HERE.

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 Weapons for Mothers to Overcome Stress

13 May

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged 5/13/23

I went down on one knee. “Look at me, honey.” I turned my four-year-old Joe’s face toward me. “What’s in your mouth?”

“Nothin’.”

As the youngest of three, he never knew a mom with sight. A retinal disease robbed my sight when he was much younger. And my adjustment and theirs was inevitable.

I took him by the hand. “Is that chocolate I smell? It’s before dinner. C’mon young man, let’s spit it out.”

Outwardly I seemed in control. But I still questioned my ability as a blind mom. I stressed about their possible lack of confidence or even shame because of my blindness.

I carried all that with in me. And often the obstacles before me seemed like facing a huge giant. I questioned my strength, my wisdom and abilities. Did I do too much? Not enough? Was I too strict, too lenient?

Stress followed me during the day and it lay beside me on the pillow at night.

But along came David…

…to save the day. Remember him as a boy? He was scrawny, a bit of a shy kid, the youngest of his brothers. And probably voted the least likely to succeed in the senior class of the local Shepherd high school.

And when Goliath showed up, David seemed inadequate, unprepared, and way too weak to defeat the giant. But God knew different because He chose him. Skinny David held not a trace of insecurity, doubt, or worry. He put on the backpack of courage and gathered five stones. But those stones weren’t what would defeat the big guy. Rather, David’s secret weapon called bold faith became the weapon to bring him victory.

David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty…” (1 Samuel 17:44).

Today, the giant moms face has grown bigger and more vicious. In addition to dealing with our own personal stress and insecurities, we face evil that barges into our schools with not only violence but with immoral and horrifying doctrines.

Your Five Weapons

But rather than shrink back, like David, we lift our head high and come against all this in the name of the Lord. We put on our bold faith and gather our five stones. Even in these turbulent times, we take out these five weapons to triumph over the struggle and stress of motherhood.

  1. The stone of courage to stand firm and secure enough to know we have Christ’s power at work in us to dismantle stress.
  2. The stone of reassurance God is with us every moment of every day to defeat fear, worry and anxiety.
  3. The stone of wisdom, God-given wisdom to choose our words, direct our steps and guide our path.
  4. The stone of trust to know God has His eyes on our kids. He will keep them safe, guard their lives and trace their steps.
  5. The stone of joy to erase gloom, sadness or disappointment.

This Mother’s Day, let’s celebrate not so much the perfect moms, but those who are perfectly devoted to Christ. Not the moms who have all the answers, but those who never back down or retreat at the face of evil, who instead, believe, truly believe, God has them. Not the moms who have it all together, but the moms who admit their weakness so God can make them strong. Not the moms who are raising stars, but those who rise above a culture that’s in turmoil. Not moms who cover her kids with the latest fashion, but those who cover them with prayer.

God chose David. And He chose you too. He hand-picked you to be the mom to those kiddoes. He didn’t leave David to bring down the giant on his own. He’s not leaving you alone either, As He hands you the stones, He’s already given you the victory—in His power, In His might and in His name.4

Let’s pray

Father, may Your Word remind me You are watching over my kids, guiding them when I fail, teaching them when I don’t know how, and protecting them when I’m not near them. In Jesus’ name I pray.

Which stones will you gather this Mother’s Day?

Janet

Further Reading: How do today’s mothers overcome sadness, struggles, and stress? Click Here

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

Special Announcement

I invite you to dance with me in celebration of my book, Now I See: How God’s Amazing Grace Transforms Betrayal, Blindness and Heartache to Shining Joy. I wrote it for you—to uplift you with fresh inspiration. Your copy waits for you here.

Let’s Stay in Touch

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 Steps to Contentment During Chaos

6 May

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged 5/6/2023

“How do you plead, guilty or not guilty?”

In the decades as a court Spanish interpreter, I’ve interpreted that question countless times. But no matter how convincing the evidence, or how stern the judge’s reading of the charges, you never know what the response or plea will be. During sentencing, anxious thoughts must fill the minds of defendants as they walk into new life behind bars.

In the courtroom of life, we may feel sentenced to live in a world behind the bars of anxiety. But in the chaos that swirls with fury, we can still find security, we can still know peace and even live with profound contentment. Here are three patterns to follow:

Contentment comes in our praises. While in prison, did Paul choose grumbling or gratitude? “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody’s chains came loose.” (Acts 16:25-26)

With heavy chains around his ankles, Paul looked up and his lips spoke praises to the Lord. The surroundings didn’t matter. The discomfort didn’t face him. Nor did the injustice rattle him. He didn’t complain or grumble, he found contentment and gratitude. That’s when chains broke loose and freedom came. That same freedom you and I will know when we praise God and even thank Him in the pain.

Contentment comes with intimate closeness. David knew despair, his laments in Psalm 22 range from physical torment to spiritual torture. Yet when he called upon God, he remembered His goodness and faithfulness, that’s when contentment arrived as David sensed God’s closeness: “O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.” (Psalm 139:1-3)

Just like God is familiar with David’s innermost details, He knows ours too. He knows when we’re reading those headlines and He sees the stress that surges, the worry that walks in and the fear that makes us frantic. But God also knows how to place peace in our hearts and bring contentment in spite of the chaos.

Contentment comes in spite of losses. When day by day we seem to lose what we once knew to be sacred and good? Inflation doesn’t end. Immorality becomes more intrusive. What God called wrong is now right. And what we once held holy is now ridiculed. But no matter what changes, how much we lose, contentment dawns as it did with Habakkuk. “Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. (Habakkuk 3:17-18)

No matter what we lack, we will also rejoice, trusting in the Lord, our Savior. This mindset and resolve keep us free from the prison of anxiety. We’re not sentenced to a life of gloom, but to a forever in God’s grace. That’s the contentment that defies any chaos, any battle or any storm.

Let’s pray:

Lord, thank you for my renewed contentment as I recognize that the darkness that surrounds us is no match to Your power at work. I will rejoice in You, my Savior. Amen.

What difficult moments need your praises to the Lord?

Further reading: Why anxiety doesn’t have to defeat you.

Janet

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

Special Announcement

I invite you to dance with me in celebration of my book which is coming soon, Now I See: How God’s Amazing Grace Transforms Betrayal, Blindness and Heartache to Shining Joy. I wrote it for you—to uplift you with fresh inspiration. Your copy waits for you here.

Let’s Stay in Touch

I 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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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 Questions to Determine How Prepared You Are to Face Life’s Troubles

7 Mar

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

Reblogged 3/7/23

Are we living in dangerous times as troubles intensify? Facing them requires courage, conquering them requires faith.

Photo Credit:Canva

A couple of decades ago, it was a fall, breezy afternoon. The traffic was heavy in downtown St. Louis. My hands shook a little when I held my white cane and stood at the edge of the sidewalk. My very first attempt to cross the street on my own.

“Remember what I told you,” my mobility instructor said.

I gave a shy smile.

He placed his hand on my shoulder. “Listen carefully to the sound of engines, focus on each step forward, concentrate on the direction you’re going, do not hesitate or be intimidated, take firm steps swinging your cane from left to right.”

The loud and constant noise from car and truck engines before me was deafening. I froze, then looked in his direction and gave him a you’re out of your mind look. “I think we’ll go with plan B,” I said. “I’ll have a sighted person with me when I need to cross a street.”

That was the end of my mobility training. Go ahead, I give you permission to judge me as a coward and a wimpy blind gal. Without sight, crossing streets on my own was not happening.

You might also be intimidated by the traffic of troubles before you. You’re not alone. Some are paralyzed with fear. Some are confused. And others shrink back with helplessness. But perhaps you belong to the group who looks beyond the traffic, holds on to the white cane of faith and trusts in God’s understanding of your limited vision, of your uneasiness and the fear that attacks when crossing through the junk of life.

That’s why the answer to these three questions determines how equipped you are to face what’s before you and measures the level of your courage.

Three Questions to Ask Yourself

“Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it’” (Isaiah 30:21).

When your Divine Teacher speaks, His voice drowns out the noise from the traffic of troubles, of persistent evil and approaching threats. And rather than follow the trending lines on social media, we follow Jesus as we hear His voice of comfort: “My sheep hear My voice. I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27).

And the closer we follow Him, the clearer His promise: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you” (Psalm32:8). As you cross, He will watch, guide, and shield you.

When you’re trying to navigate through days of desperation, looking at the financial struggles, broken relationships, situations you can’t change, God’s fingertips of love lift your chin for you to declare: “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).

If He made all in the universe, He will make the way for you to receive His strength. He will make the path clear for you to follow His lead to keep you safe during the journey.

Is it the uncertainty of tomorrow, is it the stress you cannot handle? Is it the marriage that’s crumbling? Is it conflict with the kids?

No matter which one threatens your security or peace, “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).

No number of threats can bring you down, remove your courage or keep you defeated when you declare: “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped” (Psalm 28:7).

You trust Him with each struggle, with each heartache and with each anxious moment, because He will be by your side as your steps take you to the other side where peace is found, safety awaits, and confidence is yours.

Let’s Pray

Lord, I confess I’m often paralyzed at the edge of the sidewalk of life, afraid of what could happen, but from now on, I will trust in You, listen to Your voice and with each step, hold on to Your hand for strength.

What keeps you from moving forth with courage? (For you: Bible Verses for difficult 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.

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How to Find Meaning in Life

2 Feb

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

 

Reblogged February 2, 2019

 

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

Have you been there?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s Pray

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

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

Janet

______________________________________

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

CLICK HERE for a one-minute inspirational video.

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

 

Janet Eckles Perez

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

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

www.janetperezeckles.com

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What to do when facing impossibilities.

26 May

Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Janet Perez Eckles

 

 

 

Reblogged May 27, 2018

 

What to do when facing impossibilities.

Memorial Day brings back memories of heroes as with gratitude, we recall their brave commitment to bring us victory.  But why do we forget the victory Christ has already won for us?

Do you remember this story?

One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. The LORD said to Satan, “Where have you come from?”

Satan answered the LORD, “From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it.” (Job 1:6-7)

Did he say the earth? Gulp. Friend, you and I are on that same earth on which he roams. And we need to watch out because:

 

“the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

 

He’s probably licking his lips, staring at us.

And when we’re alone, seated on our bed of self-pity, surrounded by walls of gloom, lamenting our impossible situations, we become more appetizing. We’re more appealing because we’re weighed down by negativity. And we’re weakened by moments of hopelessness.

I’ve been there.

And unaware of what an inviting prey I was, I was soon to be his spiritual lunch.

The giant I faced towered over me, reminding me of my frailty, whispering I was defenseless.

That’s the place the enemy wants us, walking into defeat and deceived in thinking that victory will only come when the impossible problem would be removed.

But often that doesn’t happen. Not to us and not to David. Instead, like our struggles, the giant stood firm, relentless and threatening.

Poor David?

No! Although a boy, he was scrawny, a bit of a shy kid, the youngest of his brothers and probably voted the “least likely to succeed” in the senior class of the local shepherd high school, yet God was with him.

Success was at work. David stepped forward and the size of his opponent didn’t infuse fear, but injected boldness instead.

Unprepared to face giants, he probably smelled of sheep wool and with mud caked on his sandals, he stirred God’s power within him.

We’re like that, too; we’re walking with shoes caked with discouragement, and possibly smelling of hopelessness.

And like you and I, David probably had to shoo off the enemy’s lies: that problem is too big, destruction is inevitable, the pain will be fierce, or you are doomed to lose.

And as he does today, the enemy presented opposition from all sides. People doubted David’s abilities, King Saul scratched his head with bewilderment, and when Goliath saw David’s size, he laughed.

But God smiled …

…because he prompted David to shed the armor King Saul had given him. The metals and chains were way too cumbersome for his thin body. Instead, he tapped into the power of the Lord.

It was the same power he had used to bring down those ferocious bears and lions. He had the weapon—not a rifle, a shotgun, a knife or sword. And he didn’t trust in the smooth rocks in his sling either. He trusted in a greater and mightier weapon—the power of God.

Have you faced those giants that loom over you?

They mock your courage and laugh at your faith? The lies from the enemy that fuel your fear.

The lies that say your 2-inch faith is no match for the 9-foot giant of impossibilities. The deception that repeats you’ll never see relief, healing or triumph.

We’ve all faced that at one time or another. And in desperation we slip on that armor—our own abilities, wisdom, and solutions. But dragging ourselves toward the battlefield, we find that human armor hinders us. It’s too heavy with pride.

That’s when you and I do what David did.

We shed that wrong armor and pull out our best weapon instead. David was bold as we should be, he’s defiant like we have to be, and he’s truthful to declare to whom belongs the victory.

It’s not the giant that threatens, but it’s the gigantic love God has for us that must fuel our courage.

That’s why David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty” (1 Samuel 17: 45).

Did you read that? The God David spoke about is not just any god, He’s the Lord almighty, creator of the universe, and immensely powerful.

Troubles can come from all sides bearing the sword of anguish, the spear of anxiety and the javelin of fear. But you and I come in the name of the Lord–with confidence, with resolve and trust that through Christ, the victory is already won.

And holding the smooth stones of faith, bearing the spiritual weapon of God’s faithfulness, we can face any giant of impossibility in the name of the Lord.

I had to make that choice.

In his devious craftiness, he lied to me when he said it would be impossible to find peace after my son was killed. But his lies are no match for God’s truth, to God’s power of restoring what was broken, to heal that which seared, and to defeat the giant who threatens our peace.

To the world, our problems seem gigantic, to God they are miniscule. They’re big when we see them with human eyes. They shrink when we see them through Christ’s eyes.

And as we gaze at our problem we have a choice: either to live hoping for blessings, or to bless the hope we already have in Christ.

 

Source: https://janetperezeckles.com/blog/victory/what-to-do-when-facing-impossibilities.html

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