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Powerful Moments From Small Gestures

January 9, 2017

Will You Meet Me For Coffee?

Hello sweet friends! Will you meet me for coffee? Let’s chat! Sometimes we forget or underestimate how much power even the smallest things can have. A hug, a kind word, a coffee, a listening ear, a prayer, a note, even just a smile. When used by the Holy Spirit, the smallest of gestures have the potential to impact people in a very powerful way; ways we may never know or could even imagine. These gestures hold great power and potential to have a profound impact on someone’s day or maybe even their life. I’d like to tell you a story about a friend and one of these gestures.

God has truly blessed me. He has given me the privilege of teaching with a great group of Godly individuals. People that I truly enjoy. Not only do I get to work with these lovely people, I also have the privilege of calling them friends. Throughout my years of teaching at this school there have been so many prayers, smiles, hugs, kind words, and so on. This is what we do for each other. Recently, God reminded me of a single powerful sentence that a sweet friend said to me one time. This was one of those small underestimated things that the Holy Spirit used in a powerful way.

A Look Back

I have been in a war on my Brewing Ground for years now. It has been the longest and hardest war I have ever had to fight; and, it’s still not over. Almost 2 years ago, there was an extra intense battle that begun in this war. On a particularly rough day, one of my sweet teaching friends came into my room at the end of the school day. She knew nothing about my situation or what was going on; however, she could tell that something was off. All she did was walk up to me and say, “I’m praying that whatever is falling apart will start falling back together.”

This was a powerful moment for me. My friend may not have realized it, but God used this gesture. To her it was probably just a small thing to let me know that she cared and was praying. However, God used this brief moment. For one, He used this to remind me that He is always with me. He also reminded me that I have the support of friends and family. I also believe this was God’s way a giving me a prayer warrior for my situation; even though she didn’t really know what she was praying for. Since then, I have been reminded of this friend’s sentence a few times. A sentence that held underestimated power. I doubt, at the time, she thought I would still be thinking about this sentence almost 2 years later. In fact, if I were to ask her about it today she may not even remember this. Little did we know at the time, but God was also planting a “revelation” seed in me.

Powerful Revelation

“I’m praying that whatever is falling apart will start falling back together.”

This was the prayer of a friend almost 2 years ago. More recently, my battle has intensified and it has felt like everything is actually falling apart and God brought this prayer to my mind again. THEN…the other day I stumbled upon a quote. There are times when you read a quote and it is just a quote. Then, there are times when you read something and the Holy Spirit grabs your heart and you know that it is much more than a quote – it’s a message. This was one of those times.

“Sometimes when things are falling apart they may actually be falling into place.”

A powerful moment, a message for me. When I read it, God used it. He immediately brought back to mind that prayer and put the two together with my situation and His word for a powerful revelation. It was almost as if God said, “OK Vanessa, we are now entering ‘Phase 2’ of this battle. It’s time to change your thinking and strategy. You can do this. Everything is actually falling into place. Remember My truths…”

^“7Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me. ⁸The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever.” Psalm 138:7-8a KJV

“Next…”

^“28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 KJV

“And…”

^“9Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Joshua 1:9 KJV

Powerful! I claim it in Jesus name!

The Ending

Well, I have no idea yet when or how this is going to end. I do know that it’s not going to be easy; I am still in the midst of the battle. There is no way to tell what God is going to do in “Phase 2”. I’m sure it will be something that I never even thought of. But, God already knows the ending! I claim that the pieces are actually falling into place! Whatever the ending is, it will be glorious!

God, thank you for my Brewing Ground, and your refining fire. Thank you that I will emerge from the fire victorious!

So, I challenge you this week to not pass up the opportunity to share those small gestures with those around you. You never know when one might be used by the Holy Spirit and turned into a powerful life changing moment.

Let’s Brew!

Has God ever used a small gesture that someone did for you in a powerful way? Comment below!

New Years Challenge – Will You Accept?

January 2, 2017

Happy New Year

Well, 2017 is here! Each new year always brings with it the excitement and anticipation of the great things that will happen that year (or at least we hope). A chance to start new. An opportunity for change. A chance to do things differently. In anticipation of doing things differently we set New Years resolutions. But, Wait! We are so quick to rush into what’s next that we sometimes fail to reflect on what has been. There is value to be found in 2016! Before we move into 2017, let’s stop and reflect. Where did your Brewing Ground take you? Did you have a great year? Was it a challenge? For some of you, challenging may be the understatement of the century. Regardless of how your year went, I challenge you to find the good in all of it – the good, the bad, and the ugly. It is there!

Finding Value

It is easy to find the good in the good things. But, can you find the good in the challenges?

“²⁸And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 KJV

Romans 8:28 reminds us that ALL THINGS (even every trial) will be used for our good. Maybe your good is the fact that you survived! The word surviving will hold different meanings for different people depending on the situation. Regardless of what you survived…Praise God – to Him be the glory! You wouldn’t have made it through without Him.

Surviving the challenges and trials of our Brewing Ground holds great value! Let’s reflect! What did you learn from it? What did you learn about yourself? How did it change you? Did you experience God in a new way? How did it change your relationship with God? Were you able to find the good in your challenges and trials? Reflect UNTIL you find the good in the challenges of 2016. Now, thank God for these blessings. Once you have found the good in the challenging parts of last year, then you are ready to think about 2017.

^“10And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” Colossians 3:10 KJV

Take the renewed you into 2017 armed with the knowledge that God gave you through surviving 2016.

Brewing Ground

It may be a fantastic year for you or it may be full of challenges. In any case, I believe that whatever you face will be what you allow God to make it. You have to choose whether or not to find the good in your circumstances. This is our Brewing Ground; the place where God uses life and the good and bad we face as his refining fire to brew something special in us and refine us into a beautifully unique masterpiece.

^“19Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19 KJV

God used this verse to remind me that there is always hope while we are in the midst of our Brewing Ground. He can clear a path through thick forest or mountains and put rivers in the midst of our desert to help make the way easier and provide for our needs. God is always with us using every part of our life for good.

“46 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. ²Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; ³Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. ⁴There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High. ⁵God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.” Psalm 46:1-5 KJV

New Years Challenge

So, 2017 holds great potential. We all have goals and plans; things we want to do, things we want to change. Some of you may have plans for new adventures. Some may have plans for transition and change. This is the whole point of New Years resolutions. To set goals and make plans for what we want to change. So, after reflecting on last year, I challenge you enter the new year with prayer! Pray about what God would have you plan and change. What does He want your resolutions to include? Pray about the upcoming year and what lies ahead – your Brewing Ground. Next, pray some more!

New Years Resolutions – I challenge you to reflect on last year. Then, consult God on His resolutions for you. Be very intentional and thoughtful in what you plan for yourself so that it is in line with God’s plan for you. Write them down. If you happen to get off track – it’s ok! Just start again. You DO NOT have to wait until next January. Anytime is a great time for meaningful change!

^“17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV

How Will You Weather Unexpected Answers?

December 19, 2016

Queue the Christmas music. I’m dreaming of a brown Christmas. Just like the ones I used to know. Where the tree tops glis…Wait! Brown?! Yes brown. Welcome to a West Texas Christmas.

It was an exciting day at our school. The last day of the semester before we took Christmas break; it was even a half day! All the kids were so excited. Everyone was having their class parties and celebrating the season. The morning actually started off warmer than the high was the previous day. What a great way to start the day! Well, if you live in West Texas or have ever visited then you know what I am talking about when I say “If you DON’T like the weather just wait 5 minutes – It will change! Only in this instance it was “If you LIKE the weather then

get ready in 5 minutes you may not!” Well, the weather did change! And right at the end of the school day before school ended for lunch.

The weather changed from a beautiful day with nice mild temperatures to the wind blowing a million miles an hour. Here is the problem with strong winds in our area. When there has not been any moisture falling, it creates a nice dry ground. Well, since we are surrounded by forever flat nothing but farmland, the wind picks up the dirt and we have dirt storms. The sky turns brown and visibility drastically drops. If you have to actually get out in it, you are sandblasted and covered in dirt in just seconds.

Road Trip

This year in particular we were scheduled to walk out of the school building, straight to our vehicle, and hit the road. We were headed to my sister-in-law’s house to celebrate Christmas with my husband’s family. Of course this is when we would have a dirt storm! Why wouldn’t we have one then!? It makes for great traveling weather. As we were driving down the highway I was watching for tumbleweeds and debris. It was a moving obstacle course with the added challenge of not getting blown off the road. As I was looking into the brown sky I began singing, in my head, “I’m dreaming of a brown Christmas” while thinking it would be nice if it was really white. We don’t get many white Christmases around here.

Through the brown sky I could see that we were passing cotton fields. It was also stripping season. We began passing one field that had already been stripped and the cotton bales were all lined up. As we passed a couple of bales I realized that, for whatever reason, the farmer had not put tarps on any of the bales yet. The wind was strong enough that it was grabbing cotton off the tops of the bales and it was flying through the air. And there it was! I got my white Christmas after all. Was it what I was thinking about when I thought of a white Christmas – well, no! But, God has His own way of doing things.

Weather the Storm

This brought to mind a conversation I had with a dear friend earlier in the week. We were talking about this very thing – how God does not always answer our prayers the way we plan. We all have expectations or envision things a certain way. Sometimes we have a plan for what we want or have an idea of how we think God should answer our prayers or help “fix” a problem, BUT…this does not always work out the way we plan. Sometimes, God surprises us with a plan that totally changes the course of our day, year, or even life. God has His own plans of how He will help us navigate the seasons and weather the storms of our Brewing Ground. This is how he refines us through our Brewing Ground. And, He has a purpose and reason for doing things the way He does.

Humble Beginnings

Let’s think about Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus for a minute. After all it is Christmas.

^“7And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7 KJV

I can imagine it went something like this. Mary and Joseph are traveling. Mary tells Joseph the baby is coming. Thank goodness they are coming into a village. Joseph is frantically trying to find a room for them. There is nothing to be found. Knowing that time is running out, Joseph frantically prays for a place for them. He gets an answer to his prayer alright – a stable! I am sure that as he was walking up to the entrance he had a “human” moment and thought “Really? With the animals and poo – these aren’t very sanitary conditions? This is not quite what I had in mind God. Well, Ok!”

We now know that God had a purpose and plan for those humble beginnings. However, that may not have been what Mary and Joseph saw standing there at the entrance looking at the animals and smelling the air. But, they had faith in God and His plan!

Weathering Unexpected Answers

God is so creative! His plans are very organized, well thought out, and with every detail in place. And, His plans are always exactly what we REALLY need (even if we don’t think so). He is refining us as He is helping us weather the storms of our Brewing Ground. When you encounter a new season, stormy weather, or challenge will you trust God and His answers? Will you be flexible and use the stable or be open to whatever God plans? This requires an incredible amount of faith. Not knowing what the plan is or how it will turn out is challenging. Will you weather your storm in faith and be open to the unexpected answers to your prayers?

Merry Christmas! Let’s Brew in Faith!

Have you ever gotten an unexpected answer from God? Comment Below!

Seize Your Miracle Calling!

December 12, 2016

Christmas is Here

Well, the Christmas season is in full swing. Christmas day will be here before we know it; 14 days and counting. This is such a fun time of year with family, decorations, parties, events, shopping, gifts, travel, and the list goes on. However, it is so easy to plan too much. This can make the holiday season so stressful. In the midst of an overwhelmed schedule, it is so easy to become distracted from the real reason we celebrate Christmas – Jesus’ birthday. AHHH! Jesus’s birth, the world’s first ever Christmas miracle.

Christmas Miracle

Not only was Jesus the first Christmas miracle, I would also say that His birth was also the best Christmas miracle of all time. On a scale of Christmas miracles, I think

Jesus’ birth ranks #1. Now, there is no official Christmas miracles scale to measure this on; however, if you think about it, I bet you will agree.

^“27To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary… ³⁰And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. ³¹And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus.” Luke 1:27, 30-31 KJV

First and for most, He was born of a virgin. Miracle – Absolutely! At no other time in history has this ever happened. Secondly, angels were involved. God sent angels to both Mary and Joseph to prepare them both for what was about to happen. Miracle – Yes! Third, there was a star that led the three wise men to baby Jesus. They were able to find Jesus AND make it there before God told Joseph to leave during the night. Miracle – I Think So! Most importantly, Jesus came to earth to live with us and save all of humanity; this gives us the opportunity for eternal life with God. Miracle – You Better Believe It! Jesus’ birth is timeless. His Christmas miracle spans the ages; past, present, and future. Jesus is everyone’s Christmas miracle. His miracle is a gift that keeps on giving. So, I think it’s safe to say that His birth is the top Christmas miracle of all time. Even though Jesus’ birth is the ultimate Christmas miracle, He did not stop there. The Bible is full of stories about miracles that Jesus completed during His time here on Earth.

Jesus’ Ministry

Once Jesus grew and matured into a man He began His ministry by teaching, spreading the word, and completing miracles. He healed the sick, lame, blind, and diseased. Jesus cast out demons. He calmed a storm, walked on water, and turned water into wine. There were times when Jesus fed thousands with very little and even brought the dead back to life. Jesus did so many more things during His ministry that are not even written.

“²⁵And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.” John 21:25 KJV

As I was studying Jesus’ miracles, God revealed some overarching themes. First, all these miracles were used to demonstrate His authority and power. The miracles were meant to prove to everyone that He is in fact the son of God. Next, Jesus also used them as teaching tools. He seemed to always have a lesson of some sort with each miracle. Last, these miracles demonstrate his compassion, grace, and restoration for us. Can you imagine living in that time and actually being in His presence? WOW – it’s hard to even imagine. We don’t witness miracles in quite the same way today as they did back then. But make no mistake, miracles do still happen.

The Challenge

Miracles today come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. They may or may not involve angels. They may come from an earthly angel – you. What may seem insignificant to you may be a miracle for someone else. Sometimes the smallest thing is the biggest miracle. Case in point, a small helpless baby is the savior of the world and the greatest Christmas miracle of all time. Jesus is no longer “physically” here with us; however, he is here in our hearts. We are now His hands and feet on Earth.

Jesus began whispering a challenge to my heart. “There are 14 days left until Christmas. Will you shine like a star leading people to God? How will you be My hands and feet. What miracles will you carry out for Me? Stay alert and listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit; He will prompt you when it’s time. Then, seize your miracle calling, even if it seems insignificant.”

This Christmas season will you stay focused on Jesus, the greatest Christmas miracle of all time? Will you be His hands and feet? There is still enough time for a Christmas miracle; even more than one. How will you be a miracle to someone else? When the Holy Spirit is at work, something as simple as a hug, smile, cup of coffee, or Christmas wassail can be someone’s miracle. Maybe it’s a prayer or the gift of friendship. Or, maybe it is something big! The possibilities are endless! Your miracle calling may only be a piece in a much bigger miracle. You may never know if what you do is a miracle to that person. The key is to stay alert and open to the promptings of Jesus and the Holy Spirit. What are They guiding you to do? So, will you join me in being the hands and feet of Jesus? Will you seize your miracle calling, even if it seems crazy or silly?

Lets Brew Christmas Miracles!

What if a miracle you have experienced in your life? Comment below!

Get Your Guiding Light! Holy Spirit Series – Part 4

December 5, 2016

The Drive

Do you remember that terrible storm you got caught driving in? Maybe it was rain, snow, or dirt here in West Texas. Whatever it was, all you remember was that you could not see. Maybe you remember taking a road trip. It was a great day for driving, not a cloud in the sky. You could see for miles until you got to the middle of nowhere and it was pitch black. While driving, you realized that the GPS was leading you the wrong way. “Now what?” Well, since society now relies on technology for everything, you, of course, do not have a map! And, remember you are stuck in the middle of nowhere. All you can remember is

being lost and that you could NOT see.

Often times, you find yourself in different situations where you are lost and cannot see. You just need some kind of guiding light to appear and lead the way. Wouldn’t that be GREAT! Have you ever found yourself lost in life; when you can’t see and you just need to know which way to go? Have you ever needed a guiding light to light your path?

Biblical Truths

Let’s be honest, everyone needs direction from a guiding light. I have FANTASTIC news for you! You either already have or can get a guiding light of your very own. This brings us to Part 4 in the series on jobs of the Holy Spirit, Guiding Light. So far, this series has focused on how the Holy Spirit ministers to your heart when you are already saved. We have learned about the Holy Spirit being a Comforter, Teacher, and Intercessor. I feel that I cannot do a series on the Holy Spirit and neglect the jobs that I have grouped together under guiding light. You will not find this specific job title of the Holy Spirit mentioned in the Bible. This is my own creation, which combines several critical jobs of the Holy Spirit in one. So, without further ado…let’s begin.

Invites Us to Salvation

^“17And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17 KJV

Our journey to eternal life with God all begins with the Holy Spirit. Revelation 22:17 talks about the Holy Spirit being our guiding light by inviting and leading us to salvation and an eternal life with God. He gives us an invitation, lights our path, and shows us the way to salvation for all that can hear and are thirsty for life everlasting.

Renews Us

^“4But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, ⁵Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; ⁶Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; ⁷That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Titus 3:4-7 KJV

This verse talks about the next step in the process of salvation. It states that our works are not what save us. Salvation is a result of the kindness and love of God. Since Jesus died for OUR sins it’s His grace that saves us. This allows the Holy Spirit to be able to “wash” and renew us in order to complete the salvation process putting us on a path to life with God.

Dwells in Us

^“11But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” Romans 8:11 KJV

What better way to provide guiding light than for the Holy Spirit to actually live in us? This is what automatically takes place with salvation. This is how the Holy Spirit is able to be our guiding light and minister to our hearts.

Convicts of Sin

^“13For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. ¹⁴For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. ¹⁵For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. ¹⁶The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: ¹⁷And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” Romans 8:13-17 KJV

^“16This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 KJV

Once the Holy Spirit lives in us, He is able to provide His guiding light by convicting us of sin. These verses make it clear that living by the whims of the flesh will lead to death. The Holy Spirit offers life; so, He provides guiding light and convicts of sin in order to guide us down the path to life.

Guiding Light

So, the Holy Spirit invites us to salvation, renews us, dwells in us, and convicts of sin, all while providing a guiding light that leads to a path of life. In addition, all of this is combined with ministering to our hearts by comforting, teaching, interceding on our behalf, and much more. Wow – there is help and hope! The guiding light of the Holy Spirit is a critical component to not only surviving but also thriving on our Brewing Ground. Therefore, if you have not found your guiding light, seize the moment! The Holy Spirit’s guiding light is available to everyone – you need only to accept it. Choose eternal life with God and live with and for Him, saved by Jesus, and guided by the Holy Spirit. There is no better team to be on!

How has the Holy Spirit been a guiding light for you? Comment below!

Let’s Brew!

When There Are No Words! Holy Spirit Series – Part 3

November 28, 2016

Sometimes there are no words. There may be a moment you can remember when something so tragic and heart breaking happened in the life of a dear friend, family member, or even your life. Were you there at that moment? Did you see it happen or were you there when they heard “the news”. In that very moment was there anything you could do or say to “make it better” or go away? Not really. What can you say in those moments? Or, was it you that experienced something so tragic and heart breaking in your life? A moment that took your breath away,

that paralyzed you in an instant, when reality hit you like a ton of bricks. There are no words to even explain the devastation or heartbreak you experienced. A moment when there are just no words.

When There Are No Words

Maybe you’ve had, or will have, times in life when you just have no words to describe what you are feeling and experiencing. You have no clue what to say, pray, or even how to begin; it’s simply unexplainable. We know from Part 1 in this series that if we have asked Jesus into our heart, He sends the Holy Spirit to live within us to help us. Thank You Jesus! This is the only way to survive the moments when there are no words. This brings us to Part 3 in the series on jobs of the Holy Spirit, intercessor.

^“26Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. ²⁷And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27 KJV

Paul, the author of Romans, confirms in Verse 26 that there are times when we just do not know how or what to pray – there are no words. In these situations, the Holy Spirit intercedes with prayer on our behalf. The verse states that His prayers, for our infirmities, are groanings that we can not understand. What exactly falls into the category of infirmities in this verse?

Physical Help

We see that Verse 26 begins by stating the Holy Spirit helps us with our infirmities by interceding for us. The word used for infirmities in this verse was derived from the Greek word meaning weakness, illness, or infirmity. Living in a broken world sometimes leads to broken bodies. Sometimes, with physical issues there are no words. Our pain is too great, or we may not know what is causing the problem. Maybe, we do not even know there is a problem yet. However, the Holy Spirit does know; He lives inside us. He is already working on our behalf and praying for us when there are no words.

Heart Help

Living in a broken world doesn’t just lead to broken bodies, but also those moments that cause a broken heart. As I was researching this topic, I kept coming back to the idea that heartbreak is also a weakness or illness. I wanted to check this idea; so, I kept researching. God led me to these verses.

“³He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds…⁵Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite.” Psalm 147:3, 5 KJV

So, a broken heart IS an infirmity which even has wounds to bind. Those of you that have lived through a moment when there are no words can attest to this. So, the Holy Spirit works as an intercessor for us. He prays for us when we don’t even know where to begin. Verse 5 continues by stating that God hears, understands completely, and has the power to bind and heal our wounds.

So, in Romans 8:26-27 Paul explains that the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf in times of weakness. I love what he says in the very next verse.

^“28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 KJV

If you are a child of God, everything in your life is all working together for your good – even the bad. This is how your Brewing Ground works. God brings you through your battleground of life to refine you, remove your “impurities”, and transform you to create a beautiful masterpiece. Yes, there is hope!

Let’s Put It All Together

Let’s take a look at the jobs of the Holy Spirit we have studied so far. In a moment when there are no words, immediately, the Holy Spirit begins interceding for you. He is praying for you and saying what you can’t. While He is interceding for you, He is also comforting you. Part 1 in this series focused on the Holy Spirit’s job as comforter. You are being wrapped in love and the arms of God. The Holy Spirit uses these two jobs together; comforter and intercessor, they go hand in hand. As this is happening, God hears, understands, and begins to administer first aid by binding and healing your wounds. When the time is right, the Holy Spirit begins to teach you something. Part 2 in the series focused on the Holy Spirit as a teacher. This is how God begins to purify you and use even the bad in life for good.

In those moments when you have no words, meet God for coffee or tea. His coffee shop NEVER closes. Read your Bible. Sit there still and quiet in the presence of God. Let the Holy Spirit intercede for you. Allow God to minister to your heart and heal your wounds. In those moments when there are no words, there is still hope. There is always hope with Jesus.

Let’s Brew in God’s Coffee Shop!

Can you remember a time in your life when there were no words? Comment below!

Teachings Of The Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit Series – Part 2

November 21, 2016

There once was a lady named Vanessa. She was given a job by God to blog. To share with all what God was whispering to her heart. The challenge was, she had to learn as she went. In the process of learning, she was served a big piece of humble pie! The best thing to do – just eat it.

Come laugh with me (and not at me please) as I share my story and my teachings of the Holy Spirit this week.

Once Upon A Time

Last week I began a series on jobs of the Holy Spirit. Part 1 of the series focuses on the Holy Spirit’s job as comforter. As I was led to the idea of the Holy Spirit being a comforter, I was inspired! For better or worse, my creative juices immediately began working and I

started writing about beds. It was a logical connection for my brain to illustrate what is being whispered to my heart.

As I was writing, I found myself wanting more information. “I want to know the Hebrew or Greek words that comforter is derived from.” As I was researching, I was coming to the Hebrew word shroud. This did not make sense to me so I double and triple checked and kept coming up with the same information. So, I thought, “This doesn’t make sense; but, I can totally work with this! After all, I’m talking about beds and God wrapping us in His arms and the Holy Spirit comforting us. This fits perfectly with what I am writing!” So, what do I do? Put all of this in the blog post of course.

Humble Pie

Fast forward a week to Part 2 in the series on the Holy Spirit. I began researching the job of the Holy Spirit that I was going to write about this week. Again, I wanted more information about the Hebrew or Greek words and meanings. I kept being led to the word infirmities. As I was looking up the word infirmities, I also kept being led back to a Hebrew word defined as Arnon. Upon further research I discovered Arnon is a river. Well, now it makes even less sense! What does a river have to do with infirmities or the Holy Spirit!?

So, I went back to the directions on how to use my book. Eventually, I see a small box which includes, in fine print I might add, that Hebrew numbers are normal font and Greek numbers are in italics. At that moment it hit me; teachings of the Holy Spirit! I went back to check my research again and verified what I did this week and last. So, of course I had the right number but I was in the wrong language section! Well, Hello! (Part 1 has been corrected.) Clearly the Holy Spirit was teaching me something and wanted me to change what I was writing about this week. This brings me to this weeks job of the Holy Spirit – Teacher. So, let’s get to it!

Teachings Of The Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit teaches us truth through different means – guiding, revealing, whispering, and inspiring to name a few.

^“13Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” John 16:13 KJV

John 16:13 calls the Holy Spirit the Spirit of Truth. It clearly states that he guides us into all truth – God’s truth.

^“10But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. ¹¹For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. ¹²Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. ¹³Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. ¹⁴But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:10-14 KJV

These verses speak clearly about the Holy Spirit’s focused teaching on spiritual matters. 1 Corinthians 2:13 tells us that the Holy Spirit does not teach man’s wisdom, but only God’s spiritual wisdom. These teachings give believer’s their spiritual discernment and insight to help them through their daily lives.

Spiritual Truths

In that very moment of revelation about my silly mistake, this is what the Holy Spirit was teaching me. More obviously, how to correctly use my book so I can share correct information with all you sweet friends. But more importantly, during that split second there was also spiritual insight and teachings happening from the Holy Spirit.

First, you can’t forget to read the fine print. The details matter. I appreciate this because I am a detail oriented person. I need and use details; they are so important. This is part of what made these spiritual teachings significant for me.
Next, the Holy Spirit reminded me that the details also matter to God. He cares about the details in regards to us and our life. God cares about how we get through our Brewing Ground. He cares about our heart. He cares about how we feel. God even cares about the smallest, even seemingly insignificant, details in our day. And, unlike us, He does not miss a single detail. The Holy Spirit then immediately brought a verse to mind.

^“7But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Luke 12:7

God even cares about how many hairs are on our head! This seems like an insignificant detail to me; however, it is important to God. The details matter! What are some of the Holy Spirit’s teachings in your life right now? Comment below!

Let’s Brew through the Teachings of the Holy Spirit!

Where Do You Find Your Comfort? Holy Spirit Series – Part 1

November 14, 2016

The Trip

^“18I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” John 14:18 KJV

I will never forget a weekend trip my family took. We stayed at a very nice hotel. This particular hotel had a great atmosphere; it was such a neat place. Then, (Dun, Dun, Duuun) it was time for bed. The beds were so hard we might as well have been sleeping on a concrete floor. There was no comfort to be found! Needless to say, we did not sleep; my entire body hurt. We were miserable all night. Furthermore, don’t you know this set the tone for us all to have a great day the next day – exhausted and hurting! Fantastic!! You might think if you are staying at an expensive hotel they could afford comfortable beds – right? Well, not this one!

Then, the following day came our dreaded second night! In fact, we actually

considered switching rooms or hotels or even leaving that night. But (sigh), we stayed. Of course, another terrible night. So, no matter how great the facility is, you better believe we will never stay there again!! As a result, it makes you wonder how this hotel is able to stay in business. I don’t see how they would have any return business! So, you can imagine our relief to return home to our own beds.

Returning Home

There is just nothing like curling up in your own bed! The comfort and relief your own bed provides is unrivaled. When you are exhausted after a long, hard, busy day – this is where you want to be. When you are physically sick or injured – this is where you want to be. This is where you go to find rest, healing, and restoration. Also, when you are emotionally injured – this is where you want to be. You don’t want to be in just any bed; you want to be in YOUR bed! No other bed can compare. For instance, other beds do not provide the same comfort, rest, and healing as your own. They just don’t!

The Bible Says

^“15If ye love me, keep my commandments. ¹⁶And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; ¹⁷Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. ¹⁸I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” John 14:15-18 KJV

God will give us a Comforter that will live with us forever; He will not leave us comfortless. I was intrigued and wanted to know more. When I began researching this verse, I found that two different words are used in the Bible for the word comforter. First, is a Hebrew word which means to actually comfort or console. It is used as a verb, the act of comforting. However, this is not the one used here in this verse. The word for comforter used in this verse is Greek and means counselor, helper, one who encourages and comforts. This word uses comforter as a noun; the Holy Spirit IS a comforter. So, as I continued my research, I found something interesting.

Jesus Teaches

There are only four times in the Bible where comforter, from the Greek word meaning one who encourages and comforts, is used. Every instance was in the book of John. In fact, every instance also happened to be the words of Jesus. Each time, comforter was actually part of a conversation that Jesus was having with His disciples when He was teaching and preparing them for what was to come after His death, resurrection, and ascension. So, lets look at the other 3 verses.

^“26But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, … ²⁷Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:26-27 KJV

^“26But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:” John 15:26 KJV

^“⁷Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” John 16:7 KJV

Wrapped In Comfort

In all four verses Jesus is telling His disciples that the Holy Spirit is the comforter (one who encourages and comforts). John 14:15-18 refers to the fact that only those individuals that know Jesus and have asked Him into their heart will receive the Holy Spirit which will live inside them – comforting them. Now, this is what God whispered to my heart and how I wove all this together.

The moment you ask Jesus into your heart, the Holy Spirit comes to live inside you. This is your comforter; He is your heart’s “bed” with all your favorite blankets and pillows. Once this happens, God and the Holy Spirit immediately wrap you and your heart in love, help, and comfort. This is where your heart gets rest, healing, and restoration. This is one of the many jobs of the Holy Spirit; to comfort and minister to your heart when life is tough, while you are Brewing. So, when your heart needs to curl up in your very own bed, cover yourself with God’s promises! If you know Jesus, the comforter is there with you and will live in you forever. You are wrapped in promises and love; you will not be left comfortless. Thank You Jesus!

Please join me over the next few weeks as we embark on a series which explores more about the different job’s of the Holy Spirit and what it means for you.

Let’s Brew Wrapped in Comfort and Love!

What did God whisper to your heart about the comforter? Comment below!!