BlenCouragesU

Single on Valentine’s Day? Stop here!

Hey there BCU Family!

As usual, you have the option of listening to our podcast (click the BCU avatar below to listen), reading the notes or BOTH. In any case, we pray the podcast blesses you. If so, please thumbs up or leave a comment! Thank you and enjoy your study!

So singles, it’s that time of year again where everything is hearts, flowers, candy and couples. Depending on where you are in your single comfort zone, this “holiday” can either be depressing (who wants that?) or a blessing (I’m thinking yes on this)!

Let’s start off by listing (in random order) some things you CAN do as a single on Valentine’s Day:

Treat yourself to a pedicure, manicure, facial or massage!
Order really good take out from your favorite restaurant or a place you’ve wanted to try. Short on cash? Make it lunch, a fancy coffee drink, or a yummy dessert.
Try a making a new recipe. Share it with a single friend.
*After checking your budget, buy yourself something nice. Maybe a scarf, hat, smell-good or bath salt or a notebook, scrapbook, a new Bible, or a good book to read.
Invest the money you’d spend on a gift for yourself and buy a few shares of stock (this is a long term investment–expects ups and downs).
Do that research on something you’ve been meaning/wanting to do, learn or try. YouTube has thousands of videos for the dormant do-it-yourselfer in all of us.
Start a blog.
Start following a blog. (Bloggers LOVE followers–especially those who comment (hint, hint).
I love podcasts because I can listen while cleaning, shopping or commuting. Search out a podcaster that will challenge you, support cranium expansion or encourage your heart.
Babysit for a single/couple who may want to go out, or just need a break.
Take the day off and do a whole lot of NOTHING!
Binge watch your favorite YouTubers, classic TV shows or catch-up on blog subscriptions.
Travel/take a day trip. Yes, alone.
Visit the hospital/or provide eldercare relieve a care-giver.
Spend the time in prayer, intercession for other couples/singles and reflection.
Make a list of all the things that God has done for you.
Have kiddos? Make it a family game/movie evening at home. Or invite other singles with kids to go to a Dave and Buster’s or a Monkey Joe’s. (you’re likely to have the place to yourselves).
Have a dinner-party with some of your single friends.
Catch-up with a childhood friend/family member via telephone, Skype/Facetime or in person.
Be a blessing to someone else. Buy someone else a coffee, dinner, groceries or flowers. Seek God on how to be a blessing to someone else.

*As a disclaimer, I know that material things don’t bring you happiness or help with the loneliness, heartache, and occasional pain of not having a loved one–I get that. Only Christ’s perfect love can ease the pain of a lonely heart. In order for that to happen, we need to ask Him to help us as we yield to contentment in this season of our lives. In fact, Paul told the Philippians “…for I have learned, in whatever state I am in to be content” (Philippians 4:11). Now being content can be a process and that process sometimes takes more time than it should, in part, because we don’t want to do things God’s way–which means we may need to wait. A long time. A long, long time. Waiting doesn’t mean being idle or waiting to start to do something until “the one” comes by.

The single season is a good time to get with the Lord to get clarity on our gifts, talents, assignments and tasks—and get more/productive with what God has called us to do. Working on what God has for you keeps you satiated and kills that loneliness, heartache and pain, thereby getting you to that place of contentment Paul speaks of. Ask me how I know. 🙂

Single BCU Family, even as you are walking in your purpose, there will be days/times where a pang of loneliness comes up–that’s normal and a sign to go into prayer for more grace, and if need be, talk to a trusted friend, your pastor or you can always leave a comment or email me at Blen@BlenCouragesU.com and with God’s help, we’ll get through the tough time together! Before you know it, the spouse God promised you (if He has done so), will appear and you’ll be settled into who you are in Christ, along with being whole and complete and content. This makes for attracting a whole, complete and content individual, whom you can walk out the rest of your lives in doing God’s will AND be ready for Jesus when He comes back for us! This single season is not in vain, BCU Fam! God has a perfect purpose and it’s being worked out!

Until then and even after the spouse comes, Jesus should always and forever be our first, true and best love. Period. Amen? Amen!

What are some ways YOU work through Love Day? Please drop a line in the comments section below so we can continue our conversation!

In the meantime, if you have not subscribed to BlenCouragesU.com, please do so! It’s free and a good place to get the encouragement, inspiration and information based the Word of God! Additionally, you can also see what we are up to on Facebook, Twitter , Instagram, and YouTube! You can also listen in and subscribe to the podcast on Stitcher Radio , Google Play, and Apple podcasts!

Thank you SO much for stopping by. God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU

5 Feb 2018

BlenCouragesU9 Comments

Think it not strange…

Hey there BCU Family!

You know, as a child, young adult, saved older young adult :-), you have a certain “expectation” of how things will go in your life. While our awesome God does bless us to have our heart’s desires according to His will, He also brings us trials that can throw you for a LOOP. Sickness, job changes, loss of loved ones, relational changes, financial challenges, taking care of loved ones—the list goes on. At some point, we may experience one or more of these areas and cry out to God wondering why He has “forsaken us”.

I Peter 4:12-13 reminds us not to think it strange when the fiery trial comes to prove/test or try you, rather to rejoice in that we are partakers of Christ’s sufferings and when His glory is revealed, we will be glad and with EXCEEDING joy.

Now, I will be FIRST to admit that when these “fires” come (and I have had many over the last few months), I do not exactly embrace them! In one instance, I distinctly recall crying, snotting, calling on the Lord, and telling anyone who would listen what I was going through—hopeful someone would have a way to “remove the bitter cup” from me. At one point, Jesus FINALLY got my attention and let me know I had to rely on HIM and that He anointed me for the task. My job was to pour out my heart before Him and trust that He knew what He was doing. Additionally, The Lord let me know that trusting means not stressing internally either.

We sometimes hide our stress behind big smiles and a hearty “Praise The Lord”, when inwardly our minds are going over the situation constantly and to a point where you can be consumed and in extreme cases, stress symptoms can manifest themselves physically. Rather than thinking about the trial and how difficult it is, the Word of God has an answer for us. “Whatever is true, just, honest, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous, and praiseworthy–those are the things we think [or meditate] on (Philippians 4:8). Not one Scripture commands us to worry or stress, so obviously, that comes from the enemy and needs immediate rebuking. It is not easy, yet, bringing your thoughts under subjection is a huge part of the trial process–it really helps you with getting and maintaining your praise and the victory during your test.

My life lesson here? God knows and sees all. Yes, I know you know that, but think of it this way– because God knew us before we were born and has our lives in His control, He is very aware of what is happening to us. He does care and if the fire was not needful, He would not allow us to go through it. The proving or tests are a reminder to continue praising, praying, fasting and trusting God from day one of the trial until you pass the test. Just like any test or challenge we take in our natural lives (for school, work, etc.), we know it may be difficult, but we endure to the end for the reward/satisfaction of accomplishment. It’s the same thing spiritually as well–we endure for to the end for the reward that God has for us–whatever that my be. You don’t have to take my word for it–take The Word of God! Ruth and Naomi are EXCELLENT examples of holding on in the difficult times and receiving a blessing in the end.

Listen, trials are HARD!!!! NO one likes to suffer, myself included– it is part of life and especially for those who walk with Christ. So while there is no way to avoid challenges, with the help and grace of our God, continue praying, standing on God’s word and wait it out till the end.

They that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength;

They shall mount up with wings as eagles

They shall run and not be weary

They shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31).

Hold on, BCU Family…whatever God is teaching or blessing you with… is worth the wait.

How are you hanging in through what you’re going through? What are your go-to scriptures? Please head down to the comments section to share your thoughts so we can continue our conversation!

In the meantime, if you have not subscribed to BlenCouragesU.com, please do so! It’s free and a good place to get the encouragement, inspiration and information based the Word of God! Additionally, you can also see what we are up to on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube! You can also listen in and subscribe to the podcast on Stitcher Radio , Google Play, and Apple podcasts!

Thank you SO much for stopping by. God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU

28 Jan 2018

BlenCouragesU2 Comments

And just WHY do we need to forgive?!

[Hey 👋🏾 there BCU Family!

Typically, you have the option of listening to our podcast, reading the notes or both. For this post, because of the conversational story, please tune into the podcast recording and refer to the written post for the highlights and corresponding Scriptures. We pray the post blesses and encourages you. If so, please thumbs up AND leave a comment! Thank you and enjoy the post!

My pastor often says that the number one sin among believers is not forgiving someone. And I have to admit, BCU Fam is one of the HARDEST things to do, especially with repeat offenders and those who have really hurt us badly, as we talked about last time we were together. Despite the forgiveness struggle, we need to forgive with the help of the Lord. Let’s jump into our second and final part of the series.

Podcast highlights:

Offenses will come..and ANYONE we come in contact with is subject to offending us.
In many things we offend all. This means while we may get offended, we offend others.
When we forgive, we MUST do it from the heart—once and for all.
Sources vary a bit, but on average, ten thousand talents equates to several million dollars in American money (USD). One hundred pence is about $17.00 USD.
Forgiveness is a part of the Christian walk. And required in order to get forgiveness from God.

Scripture references

Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! (Matthew 18:7).

Matthew 18:21-35

21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, until seventy times seven.

23 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.

24 And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents.

25 But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.

26 The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.

27 Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.

28 But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest.

29 And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.

30 And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.

31 So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.

32 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me:

33 Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?

34 And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.

35 So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

Forgiveness is a tough subject, BCU Fam, yet something that all of us (especially believers) need to apply with God’s help. The Scriptures are clear that if we don’t forgive, we don’t GET forgiven! Who wants to miss Heaven over that? No one does! Let’s take the people, situations and pain to Jesus and allow Him to heal us. I am a witness He will make you as good as new—even better!

So, what is your forgiveness story? How long did you hold on to the offense? What prompted you to let go? Or are you still holding it? Please has down to the comment section here on the BCU site, where we can continue our conversation!

In the meantime, if you have not subscribed to BlenCouragesU.com, please do so! It’s free and a good place to get the encouragement, inspiration and information based the Word of God! Additionally, you can also see what we are up to on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube! You can also listen in and subscribe to the podcast on Stitcher Radio , Google Play, and Apple podcasts!

Thank you SO much for stopping by. God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU

22 Jan 20181 May 2018

BlenCouragesU5 Comments

Forgiveness: Do you trust God with your pain?

Hey 👋🏾 there BCU Family!

Last time we were together, we talked through a situation where I was betrayed and hurt by people whom I loved and trusted—and more importantly the lessons that the Lord taught me through what happened. A central theme of the podcast, is forgiveness from the heart. This, BCU Fam is one of the HARDEST things to do, especially with repeat offenders and those who have really hurt us badly. Yet, we need to forgive with the help of the Lord. Listen in to part 1 of this 2 part series and and find out why.

Podcast highlights:

Offenses will come..and ANYONE we come in contact with is subject to offending us.
In many things we offend all. This means while we may get offended, we offend others.
Forgiveness is a part of the Christian walk. And required in order to get forgiveness from God.

Scripture references

Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! (Matthew 18:7).

Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, until seventy times seven (Matthew 18:21-22).

For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body (James 3:2).

And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? (I Peter 4:18).

Forgiveness is a tough subject, BCU Fam, yet something that all of us (especially believers) need to apply with God’s help. Many years ago, the Lord even impressed on me to forgive someone who, through inaction, hurt many family members, years after the person has passed away. Without the prompting of the Lord, I would never have realized I was holding the individual in a non-forgiving state. Who wants to miss Heaven over that? No one does! Let’s take the people, situations and pain to Jesus and allow Him to heal us. I am a witness He will make you as good as new—even better!

Lord will, next time we’re together we’ll finish up the podcast by going over the remainder of Matthew 18 and applying it to our lives. In the meantime, tell us your forgiveness story. How difficult was it? How long did you hold on to the offense? What prompted you to let go? Or are you still holding it? There’s a comment section here on the BCU site, where we can continue our conversation!

Thank you SO much for stopping by. God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU

15 Jan 20184 Dec 2018

BlenCouragesU1 Comment

2017 lesson: Dealing with betrayal (part 2)

Hey 👋🏾 there BCU Family!

Podcast highlights:

Offenses will come..and ANYONE we come in contact with is subject to offending us.
Hurt and anger are natural, normal emotions to being offended, yet we are responsible for how we react toward the persons. (Matthew 18 is an awesome Scripture reference and shows the blueprint of how do deal with an offense).
Forgiveness is REQUIRED.
Accept the apology you may never receive.

Scripture references

Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! (Matthew 18:7).

Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven (Matthew 18:21-22).

“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses (Matthew 6:14-15).

Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord (Romans 12:19).

For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body (James 3:2).

The discretion of a man defers his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression (Proverbs 19:11).

Love suffers long…(I Corinthians 13:4).

So, BCU Fam, as HURTFUL as this situation was, I thank God for Jesus taking away the pain, so much so, that I can (through Him only), continue to see and work with the offenders as if nothing ever happened. That’s how you KNOW God is working in your life! Glory to God!

And He can and will do the same for you–as we humble ourselves to Jesus in prayer and ask Him to forgive us for holding on to the grudge and to forgive the offender. We also can ask for the grace to ask someone for forgiveness as well. I am a witness, once you do, you’ll feel so much better in you spirit, mind and body–AND you’ll know you are more Christ-like in the process. That’s the goal we’re striving for, amen?! Amen!

Have you ever been betrayed or hurt by a co-worker, spouse, friend or family member? How did you handle it? There’s a comment section here on the BCU site, just ripe for us to continue our conversation!

Thank you SO much for stopping by. God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU