We are all called to do a remarkable and productive work for the Lord! So many times I’ve shied away from my calling simply because I was concerned about what others would think or too fearful to share painful memories from my past. Does that sound familiar? Have you ever heard that little voice telling you that you are not worthy or you’re not good enough? I can’t begin to tell you how many times I’ve heard those same phrases.

Truth is, we all have done things that we are not proud of. The good thing is that God doesn’t hold it against us. How awesome is it to know that God took the liberty to blot out our transgressions for His sake (Isaiah 43:24) and reminds us that He will forgive our iniquities and will remember our sins no more (Hebrews 8:12).

I just want to encourage and remind you that God loves you. He has a plan and purpose for your life. You’re not here by accident. You are forgiven. Take a step forward to invite Christ into your life then allow him to use you for his glory. He can turn all those mistakes, failures and tests into testimonies to help someone else.

Last month while visiting the Adult Correction Facility for women in Plymouth  I had an opportunity to witness and encourage  women of all ages, races and backgrounds. Continue reading →

 The pain is more than I can bear

I drop to my knees

Lifting my hands in the air

I cry Jesus

Hear my heartfelt cry

Purify me inside and out

Cleanse me of everything

That’s not like you

Give me strength oh Lord

To make it through

I’ve tried to fix it

On my own

But made things worse

So here I am calling on your name

Lord I need you

To take away the pain

The pain of loneliness

Burdens and stress

The everyday struggles

Won’t let me rest

Lord I realize

You truly care of me

So I’m standing on your word

That you’ll supply all my needs

I need you to draw me close

Never let me go

I hear you knocking at the door

Lord, I invite you in to sup with me

To hold me ever so tightly

Taking away all my grief

Finally there’s no more pain

No more focusing on past mistakes, guilt and shame

A renewed mind and brand new me

Jesus took the load

Now I’m free

Free to live

A life full of love, joy, happiness and peace

Blessings and prosperity

Yes, it all belongs to me

Hallelujah, Thank you Jesus

I’m pain free

Thanks to you I’m loving the new me

© Copyright June 12, 2016 by Sheila Stamper

Webster’s Dictionary defines Perseverance as a continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure or opposition; the action or condition or an instance of persevering: steadfastness.

I decided to see what Webster had to say about steadfastness. Steadfast is defined as very devoted or loyal to a person, belief, or cause; not changing.

I’ve been in isolation for a few months. During this time it was anything but quiet. So far it’s been filled with trials and triumphs spiritually, personally, financially and professionally. I became agitated, angry and distracted by the things taking place. I ultimately realized that I needed to not only talk to God but more importantly hear from Him. I needed answers, directions and an explanation regarding the plan and purpose He has for my life, insight on what He wanted and needed from me and instructions on what and how to do what He has called me to do in spite of the chaos around me.

In order to hear from God I needed to be in His presence, studying His word and listening for that still small voice. Distractions were and still are all around so it was hard for me to not only seek God but to hear from Him as well. Sometimes our biggest distractions come from family and work. Please be aware that the enemy uses whoever and whatever he can to distract God’s people from studying, seeking and obeying the Lord. It’s our responsibility to persevere and be steadfast in our walk with God.

As I began to listen, God took me to various bible figures that stood on His word. They were steadfast in what He called them to do in spite of the circumstances. Think about Job – how many today can truly say they would have been as calm as Job? What about Queen Esther? Her people needed her to approach the king. She knew that if she approached the King without being summoned she could be killed. Then we have Daniel who was thrown in the lion’s den because he prayed to the one and only true God whom he believed in and served faithfully. I can go on and on about the many people who have persevered, remained steadfast, unshakable and unmovable in their faith, their walk and obedience to God. But I want to encourage you to look past your current circumstance….yes it might be hard but you can do it. God wants to use you as a testimony of his faithfulness, his grace, his mercy and his plan for your life. We all have a story to tell, whether it’s to thousands or just one. Don’t let your past hinder your future, better yet let it cause you to spring into action, using it to encourage someone else. Your story could be the one thing a person or group needs to hear to start the healing process in their life. Too many times in life we are often ashamed, embarrassed or feel guilty about some of the choices we’ve made. Keep pressing on, continue to trust God and most of all allow Him to guide you. It’s all for His glory!

Have you ever given much thought about your life and the reason you’re here? Honestly I didn’t. But one day I attended bible study and head a few scriptures that got my wheels turning. Jeremiah 29:11-13 is one of my favorite scriptures. After hearing those verses I cried. My life and outlook on life changed. We’re not here by accident and we’re not a mistake. God definitely has a plan and purpose for everyone.

Life with Purpose

Have you ever found yourself visiting the same situation over and over again? You wanted to break the cycle but wasn’t sure how or where to start! You keep going around in circles only to end up back where you started.

You’re not alone! In the past, I made bad choices that lead me down a wrong path which was further from God. We all take detours sometimes but you have to ask yourself where does the detour take me? If it takes you away from God then exit immediately!

One day I realized I needed to surrender all of me to God. I asked God to keep me and hide me in that secret place. I no longer wanted to make the same choices and mistakes that I previously made. I’m a living testimony that God will keep you (if you want to be kept)! Below is a poem that I wrote and hope it encourages you to surrender to God and to trust Him so the cycle can be broken in your life.

I Surrender

2016 is here!! What are your plans, goals, dreams and aspirations for 2016? Praying that you have a very blessed, healthy, happy and prosperous New Year!!

On my home from bible study tonight I carefully listened to the words of I’m Gonna Be Ready by Yolanda Adams. This song really touched me. The song reminded me of what it really means to be ready. Sometimes in life we become too consumed with our day-to-day situations and circumstances to really seek God let alone wait patiently for His answer.

At some point or another we have or will face situations that tests us. You may be surrounded by people who claim they are for you but steady plot against you. You might be surrounded by co-workers who never speak, never include you or invite to join them – unless they want something. You might be overlooked for a position because you don’t have a college degree or because in their eyes you don’t measure up. Whatever the situation you’re facing today, lay it at the throne of God. In spite of what it looks like or feels like I believe that God is working things out on your behalf.

Whether you’re In the midst of the storm, the lion’s den, the fiery furnace, deep in the valley or surrounded by trouble on every side you MUST keep your eyes on Jesus, walk in love, have forgiveness in your heart and pray for those who hurt you.

The enemy will use whoever he can to sidetrack you and me. We’re living in times where we can’t afford to take our eyes off Jesus because if/when we do we will sink, lose focus and become consumed with how and what WE are going to do to fix the situation. It’s not for us to fix. Give it to Jesus!