journey – ♥♥𝔾𝕃𝔸𝕄 𝑪𝒉!𝒄♥♥

R.I.P.E. Harvest

November 7, 2025 Kris Joi

2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance ~Matthew 3

1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men ~1 Timothy 2

37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. ~ Matthew 9

Greetings In Grace Beloved Ones

It is the beginning of a new month, time, and season! And I am eternally 🙌🏽grateful & 🙂glad for another opportunity to enter into His gates with praise and to enter into His courts with thanksgiving. I’m thankful unto Him and I bless His name! For the Lord is good and His mercy endures forever. Let’s Pray!

Father God in the name of Jesus. Thank you for your goodness, your loving ❤️ kindness, your tender mercy, and your grace. You have been better to us than life itself. Even when were/are disconnected from you, you are always accessible to us. Your word says if haply we might feel after you, and find you, though you be not far from every one of us (See Acts 17:27). Thank you for being a very present help during this time where things have been brought to crisis. ✝️Our Savior/salvation is only one turn away.

It’s 5am here in the Chicagoland region and it’s pouring down 🌧️rain as we speak. IDK about you, but It’s been a long month since our last post, tiring 😅to say the least. Nevertheless, what shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? (Answer: No One & No Thing.) (See Romans 8:1) God IS Faithful!

Sometimes it takes us being pushed & pressed beyond our own ability to tap 🥊into God’s presence & power. What’s pushing & pressing on you right now? Is it health challenges, loss & grief, pain & anguish, financial hardship, brokenness, comfort & complacency, and the list goes on? WELL I have GOOD 🗣️NEWS for YOU! Jesus already paid for it at the cross. There is nothing hidden from or too hard for Him.

He see’s all, knows all, and is greater than all!

One may ask how do I experience this greatness you speak of? And the answer is simple, Surrender (see Matthew 10:39). God has already given us ALL things as it pertains to Life AND Godliness (see 2 Peter 1:3). It just takes us having a willing heart 💝 and workful 💪🏽hands. We were created to live for God. However, we live in a world where most don’t and won’t. If God was a man, though HE IS NOT (See Numbers 23:19). He would be the perfect gentleman. He never forces himself on us. He simply says this is path A, B, and C. Choose the one that leads to me.

And if we decide to go another route. He will let us. And guess what, we may even experience some success taking our own route. 🚶🏽‍♀️🚶‍♂️But why have partial when we can be full and filled? My friend’s success according to the world and according to God (The Word) are NOT THE SAME! Whereas the world lusts after things & persons. God (The Word) teaches us to love. First to love Him and after to love others, as ourselves. Have you ever heard the saying there’s a thin line between… Well just as the saying goes… it is.

I recall a number times where God showed me I had something/someone else in His place. Want to know how we can tell when this is so? How do we respond when we don’t have that thing or person? Can we stay focused👁️ and follow God with or without them/it? Or have they/it become a distraction from us being focused and following God’s lead? This can be linked to a mentality 🧠we have that leads us to a course of action that inadvertently disconnects us from God’s will/word/way.

I’m learning that 🙇🏽‍♀️Obedience is BETTER than sacrifice. Sometimes what we give & do isn’t always what God wants. How often have we decided I’m going to do this or say that? And God is like I did not ask you to do or say for this or that. As lovingly kind and merciful as HE IS there does come a time where He will give us over to our own desires. And the consequence of this choice is lack. 😣Not necessarily a lack of things, but of Him. Because friend, that’s what God ultimately wants us to have, HIMSELF! This includes His heart/mind, His nature, and least of all the natural things that come with that (money, fame, relationship connections, etc.).

We must begin and/or continue to daily examine ourselves against the Word of God. He is more than able and faithful to meet EVERY need. Where we lack NOTHING, Inside & Out! (See Mark 8). But it starts with a posture of LORD, I need YOU. Show me your will/word/way. And my friend the more we know. The more we grow. And that’s GOOD NEWS😍🙌🏽❤️

Part 2 & P.S. Coming Soon!

~XOXO GC Ink.~

encouragment, glam, Purpose

Not Your Little Friend: Just God!

January 25, 2025January 24, 2025 Kris Joi

Let’s Pray. Father, thank you for your Son Jesus who has given us access to you. I also thank you for every son or daughter who comes across this letter. Bless them continuously beyond measure. Keep them as the apple of your eye. Release your unconditional love into the depths of their heart & soul. Remind them of your faithfulness and all the wonderful things you have in store. Forgive us for our sins and wash us in your saving blood & love! In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

As always I pray all is well with you and yours! And I’m so grateful and glad to have this opportunity for us to share together in this journey called life. I’ve been reflecting on some of the things we talked about in our last post, and the word INFLUENCE stood out to me GREATLY!!

The Oxford Dictionary defines influence as the capacity to have an effect on the outcome/flow, character, development, or behavior of something or someone, or the effect itself. It also goes on to list some synonyms such as: impact, control, power, sway, authority, mastery, guidance, and rank. We talked a little about this before when talking about prayer/intercession, and its ability to make an impact on, in, and through us & others. In fact the bible tells us that life and death are in the power of the tongue (Proverb 18:21).

Never underestimate the power vested in us to speak and create/make. My time in prayer/ worship is the most important, influential, and special part of my day daily. Not only am I able to talk to & with God, but God’s presence impacts my heart to live and love (what He loves & hate what He hates)! Recently I had a moment where I was so overwhelmed that all I could do was speak in my heavenly language. I did not know the words to express what I needed at that moment, but after a few minutes praying I heard Father say “Rest” as I fell asleep. When I awakened I felt refreshed, renewed, and amazed at how something as “simple” as rest was exactly what I needed. And notice I had no idea of what was going on with me as my mind raced, but God (fore-) knew and KNOWS EVERYTHING there is to know about absolutely everything. In this I find both GREAT comfort and reverential fear!

Psalm 94:7-9 Yet they say, The Lord shall not see, neither shall the God of Jacob regard it. Understand, ye brutish among the people: and ye fools, when will ye be wise? He that planted the ear, shall He not hear? He that formed the eye, shall He not see?

1 John 4 warns us beloved to believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Even those with little discernment can see & agree that the times/conditions we are currently living in are quite abnormal. Let’s not forget that a few years ago MILLIONS of people WORLDWIDE lost their lives to an unseen virus transmitted through the airways. And to this day it and others of its kind are still active. In addition to diseases we have natural disasters, terrorist like crimes, unstable leadership, danger, peril, and famine all throughout the land. “These are the times that try men’s souls” -Thomas Paine.

1 John 2:15-17 ESV Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

Jesus before leaving his disciples forewarned them that they would experience hardship and trouble in this world, but also encouraged them to take heart because He overcame the world(John 16:33). The bible also reminds us we don’t have a high priest who is unable to be touched by the feeling of our infirmity, He (Jesus) was tempted in all ways yet without sin(Hebrews 4:15). This passage reminds me of both the deep connection to humanity God has with His creation and the complete divinity and rule that He has OVER ALL HIS CREATION! Which is why although we ought to remain conscious and prayerful about these times, we ought not be unguarded or fearful. For neither of these are influenced by God’s Spirit.

It’s up to us which type of influence we will abide in & under, heavenly or hellish. Because of God’s just righteous sovereignty He has given us the power to choose. TALK ABOUT INFLUENCE! However, we ought not be deceived. God is not mocked; a man shall reap what he sows(Galatians 6:7-8). This is one of those superpowers that cannot & will not ever change because it is a Kingdom (King Dominat-ed/-ing) principle. Regardless of our awareness of it we all are govern-ed/-ing by principles & principalities. (I’d love to talk more about this when space & time permits it.) Nevertheless our right to choose doesn’t relinquish us from the effects of those choices on our lives.

Sometimes we look at our lives circumstances and wonder how did we end up here? This is a good thing. Asking questions and making assessments/evaluations is a wonderful way to monitor growth & development. This type of awareness shows that we are conscious of our whereabouts and curious as to where we stand. The disciples often asked Jesus questions as they journeyed with Him. Even when Jesus exposed the sin sickness of their(&our) generation, their hearts were convicted as they inquired how to increase their Faith. It takes a certain level of “bigness” and boldness to seek God with the intent of becoming better.

“Go Big or go home”
American Authors

Last post we were challenged to take an assessment of who, what, where, how, and why we say and do what we say and do. To determine if the people, places, and things we find ourselves coming into alignment with TRULY align with the word of God. And to pray that God would give us the wisdom to make any necessary adjustments. Remember small adjustments over the course of time makes a big difference in our lives and the lives of those around us. In this journey be encouraged and IN JOY!

Inscribed, XOXO K. Joi …… P.S. Coming Soon!

encouragment, Uncategorized

Holly-Weird🔥 Vs. Holy Wood🪵

December 26, 2024December 26, 2024 Kris Joi

Jeremiah 2:21 Yet I had planted thee a noble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thou turned into the degenerate plant of a strange vine unto me?

Joel 1: 14 Santify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the Lord your God, and cry unto the Lord.

Genesis 4: 3-7 And in the process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. 4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering: 5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. 6 And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

Leviticus 10:1-2 And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the Lord, which he commanded them not. 2 And there went out fire from the Lord, and devoured them, and they died before the Lord

Greetings in Grace Beloved, 🥰

Merry Christmas 🎁 & Happy Holy Days to you & yours! I am really excited about today’s post, as it is so fitting for the time & season we are in. I love when Papa(Father) God impresses upon my heart ♥️ to receive of the hidden manna/word that is only for those who are His. And my friend that(His) is my greatest title in this season, that i’m wearing as a badge of honor. In a time where everyone wants to be somebody of “great recognition” I find myself groaning 😩and beckoning unto God often, God I just want you. Excuse me in my folly. But my dear friend not only for myself do I inward & outwardly groan, but for you also (See 2 Corin 11:1-2).

What I’m saying is if you happen to be one of my nearest & dearest I fail not to make mention of you! And if you would like to be added to that list, I am open and taking requests 😀! On that note let’s pray. Father in the name of Jesus, I thank, praise, and acknowledge you as Lord & Savior. Touch whomever is reading this letter with your tender loving kindness and mercies that fail not. Renew us on this day and everyday to come. Let us not be conformed to this world but let us be transformed by the renewing of the mind. 🧠We know that Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Give them eyes that see & ears that hear in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen. 🙏🏽 🙏🏼

So lately God has been having me to be watchful and prayerful concerning several things and an elect people (His & my Beloveds 🙂). It’s both a privilege and an honor. In addition to those that I watch for, He has been having me to petition for others, in particular those on elevated platforms. This includes leaders (spiritual & natural), “celebrities”, and authority figures (ie, police, administrators, etc.). If you know me you know that there is a call/burden on my life in particular for music ministry/industry. In fact I’d say my top three “sectors” of burden/influence would be Business (Kingdom & Earthly), Education, and Arts & Entertainment. Family is also another but for the sake of time & space we revisit that next time (hopefully).

If you watch the news, social media, and/or listen 👂🏽 to the conversations of the “elite & common” you know that there has been a lot of controversy, confusion, and change all around us. And if you have any discernment you are aware 👀that the things we are experiencing in today’s times are not normal. As the bible warns we are in end times and evil men & seducers are getting worse & worse (see 2 Timothy 3). Not only in the world but even in the church, designed to be the household of faith & prayer. And nobody wants to get to the root of it, but more so just skimming the surface in hopes of stirring up the latest greatest controversy. In the words of comedian Katt Williams “Influenceless Influencers, A time/place where anybody can be anything”. Sadness. 😔

Beloved the world and its systems will always be what it is, but when we can’t count on the church ⛪️(God’s chosen) to be the church according to His design, we are in trouble. I heard someone say they really couldn’t tell the difference between the gospel industry and the worldly/secular industry. And unfortunately I understand. Please don’t take this out of context. 🛑 I am not one who endorses hypocritical religion. I’m a Son/Saint saved by THE Son/Savior, our Lord Jesus✝️ Christ. I watch movies, listen to different music genres, wear pants & of course a cute dress or skirt occasionally, and will/have gone into dark places to be a light. Just like Jesus. Except I’m not 100% devine. Only HE IS!

Nevertheless, as a called out & chosen one it is my responsibility to live & speak THE TRUTH. Even when it’s not popular or well received. 🤷🏽‍♀️Remember, it came to me first. So if I have to make the adjustments, nobody is exempt. In fact I am not really your friend beloved if I can’t be honest with you. Why would I want someone I love to be “caught lackin” in any kind of way? Back to topic. I was 👁️watching some recent & older Youtube videos & magazine articles, and was horrified (not literally) as to what we consider great. The people, places, platforms, purposes, etc. that we celebrate are catastrophic and gross. I cringe as I scroll through the common.

Have you ever experienced something or someone strange, weird, off? Kind of disconnected from reality. Maybe that was you & I at some point in time? ⚠️Warning, one may experience behaviors and words that are outrageously outlandish. Well at least to the uncommon man. In fact the word strange translates, outlandish, adulterous, alien, heathendom, queer, unnatural, deviant, creepy, off-center, etc. But for some reason it’s accepted as greatness to most (See Isaiah 5:20). How? Why? When? Where? Who? Friend, we really need to start asking ourselves some questions. 🤔Examining ourselves, those we are connected to, our surroundings, and the word of God in order to see if we have alignment. If not we ought to Repent (change). Remember, we can’t change ourselves but God can (search posts on repentance).

Let’s not act as if God doesn’t see or know. He is all seeing, all knowing, and all places at all times (See Psalm 139). Not only does He see, know, Be, but He will repay. God is not mocked, a man will reap 🌱what he sows (See Galatians 6:7-9). Let’s take some time to reflect & write.

R&W Exercise 💭📝

What have I been watching, hearing, doing lately good & not so good? How does this align or misalign with the word of God (you can search scriptures by topic or consult a spiritual advisor, including us here at GC INK.)? Where do I want to go in this life & after? Why? Who are my biggest influencers? Consider these things and more as led by God. Ask God for direction & discipline to carry out His desires for your life.

In closing I want to encourage us to continue in this reflection into the new year. Consider fasting from food & distractions for 🕰️24 to 72 hours to reset and ready ourselves for the new season/year. Feel free to reach out and connect with us for an abundance of resources to assist you in this, as consecration 🙇🏽‍♀️and celebration🥳 is who we are and what we do. Grace, Peace, and Love Be Unto You & Yours! And until next time fare-well for now.

Signed, GC K. Joi XOXO 😘

encouragment, glam, peace, Purpose, suffering

F.O.E.

December 1, 2024December 1, 2024 Kris Joi

Family/Friends Over Everything?

(Matthew 12: 48-50) 49 And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.”

(Matthew 10:32-39) 34 “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35 For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; 36 and a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.

Also See 2 Timothy 3 (w/ emphasis on verses 16 & 17), James 4 (w/ emphasis on verses 6 & 7), and John 3:16-18

Let’s Pray!
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You.
During these last days of the thanks + giving challenge.
We honor and acknowledge You! For who You Are.
You Are the Most High and Lofty One.
Seated in Majesty and Supreme Authority.
There is none like You and we bow ourselves before You in Worship.
For YOU Alone are worthy of worship (Prostrated Homage, Reverence, and Adoration). For You alone do we fall to our knees and lay upon our faces.
We know that we Worship You, not just in word,
but in deed through our complete obedience,
and surrender to Your Will and Way. This is our prayer,
In Jesus Matchless Name we pray, Amen.

Blessings Kings Kids
What a privilege and honor it is to be called a Son or Daughter.
In our weekly student teacher sessions we were reminded
that before we are/were anything else
(wives, mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, husbands, fathers,
grandfathers, brothers, uncles, career titles & positions, etcetera)
we are/were FIRST God’s Sons & Daughters!
It is His spirit that gives & bears witness to this
through our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ!
HALLELUJAH!
My Friend, that is worthy of celebration!
As we close out the month of November & soon the Fall season
let’s enter in with Thanksgiving & Praise (See Psalm 100:4).

Quick story: I live across the street from a Lexus car dealership (I’ll give you my testimony on that later) and it’s positioned on the right hand side of the street (take mental note of this). As I was passing by, on my way to work I saw a sign that said December to Remember & 3 shiny new Lexus vehicles topped with BIG red bows.
At that moment God began to remind & speak to me concerning His promises.
This was my regular route to work, but someTHING was different this time. The
scenery had changed, and I realized it was a setup/positioning for what was NEXT!

@HPCD3©

Created By K. Joi

I love moments like these, where God speaks to us out of the smallest & simplest things, people, and/or places. These things, people, and/or places serve as a reminder of what God said, and that His promises are YES & AMEN. God Does NOT change, therefore neither does His Word/Promises. Oh friend we change, sometimes for the good and sometimes for the not so good, but GOD IS FAITHFUL (See 2 Timothy 2:13). And It is only by His Holy Spirit that we also can come into a place where we don’t vacillate between two opinions. The Bible states in the book of James chapter 1 verse 8 that a double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

In this time/season of reflection, growth, and development, let’s take some time to ask God to reveal and help us to fine tune the areas of our lives that are unstable. We all have them. Maybe it’s in the area of putting God First, loving others as ourselves,
time management, caring for the things entrusted to us by God,
stewarding/using the gifts & talents He placed within us, etc..
Whatever it is, God is willing and able to help us to get it right.
With time & practice we will find ourselves excelling
beyond those things that once had us stuck.

On that note, let’s take some time to reflect, write down, be prayerful,
and put in some spirit led practice for improvement.
And Remember, God’s got Us (See 2 Peter 1:3)!!!

encouragment, glam, peace, Purpose

Happy Holidays Challenge!

November 26, 2024November 25, 2024 Kris Joi

We are officially a month away from Christ-mas and 3 days away from Thanks-giving. And y’all i’m finally in my holiday celebration mode (Christmas playlist in full effect as we speak!!). This has been a rough season for many of us and let me just encourage you… God’s not finished with US yet. Keep hope alive and give it ALL to our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ! The REE-SON FOR THIS WONDER-FULL HOLI-DAYS SEE-SON!

Heyyy Ladies & Gents,

So before 2024 ends it was impressed upon my heart ❤️ to take some time to hone in on the things this time of year is all about: Thankfulness, Gratitude, Giving, More Christ (Christ-Mas), Holiness/Sacredness, Love, Peace, Joy, Fruitfulness, Family, Friends, Food, Fun, Celebration, Gathering, Reflection, Evaluation, Growth, Goals, Newness/Freshness, Beauty, Wonder, Praise&Worship, The Word, and (if y’all anything like me) some good music, cute clothes, and pretty decorations (#mood #period 🤩)!

And when I say it all came in like a flood how eternally grateful I am to God for every season i’ve lived thus far, it’s an understatement! We ARE truly BLESSED 🥹! Some of you may say but you don’t know what i’m going through. My friend, I can’t say that I fully know what you’re up against but I just want to 🧠re-mind you. God LOVES US SOOO MUCH, has so many great things in store, and wants to re-store every part of our broke💔 hearts & lives. Life brings with it great pain, but God is still in control! Keep your head up 🆙 and Smile!🙂

On that note, this week i’ll be doing 7 days of Thanks + Giving ( feel free to do the same and share if you’re #GCINSPIRED24 ). Seven 7️⃣ is the number of completion and I want to share & show how completely grateful I am for YOU! YES YOU! If we ever crossed 🚶🚶🏽‍♀️🚶‍♂️paths in real life or 💻virtually, I just want you to know you inspire me! Your strength, your story, your glow 🌟up, your 😍beauty, your 🦄creativity, and MORE! Also stay tuned for a new divinely inspired post on Nov. 30th, after the Thanksgiving holiday.

You may ask, what is 7 day of Thanks + Giving, and how do I do it? Well first I want you to take some time to reflect 🤔on what you have to be grateful for. If you need some help, ask God to bring it to your remembrance. Ask Him to reveal 👁️❤️to you all the times He was with you and for you. Even when we are unfaithful, HE YET REMAINS FAITHFUL! (See bible verse 2 Timothy 2:13).

Caution! ⚠️ This reflection may cause feelings of shame, grief, feelings of unworthiness, even heart ache. Transparent moment, these feelings are warranted. We are imperfect/flawed humans who need a Savior. But we can rejoice in knowing that we have ONE✝️! God’s LOVE ❤️ COVERS US no matter what we do or where we are. His Grace, Love, and Mercy is there/here to restore us to His original plan for our lives (GREATNESS)!

If you want someone to talk to, pray with you, and stand with you on this journey of life, PLEASE reach out to us via message. This can be through the message/contact section ⬆️above, comment section ⬇️below, text message💬 if you currently have my/our number, or 📧email. One of our admins will connect and pray with you in faith that God will meet every need! Email Information= hpcd3glamchic24@gmail.com

Stay posted as we continue to 💗grow. Check the blog or my personal instagram (listed under contact section above) for updates, the latest posts, and how you can stay connected and/or be apart of our team! We are MOVING FOR WORD #BrideTribe!

On that note, the 7 Days Of Thanks + Giving Glam Chichallenge 💋 STARTS TODAY. November 25th through December 1st 2024. And this is how it works: After we reflect on what we’re thankful for, and ask God for forgiveness for all the times we were not, LET’S have a little FUN! 🤩 Here’s the challenge. Each day take some time to show God, Others, and Even Yourself Gratitude. Simple Right? I don’t wanna limit your creativity by telling you how to do that. Pray about it! Let Him Lead You!

But if you need a little help here are some ideas: love/like/share &support a LOVED 🥰 ONES content, business, and/or journey, say thank you and/or apologize, give someONE a special gift 💝 , feed 🍽️and/or cloth 🧤🧣someONE in need, spend some extra ⏰ time in 🙏🏽prayer/praise&worship🙌🏽/word📖, visit or call ☎️ someONE you haven’t talk to in a while, buy yourself 🥞breakfast, 🌮lunch, and/or 🍝dinner, take someONE on a date 📆, book a 🛫🏝️vacay, etc. Bottom ✍️Line LOVE GOD, OTHERS, AND YOURSELF in word & in deed!❣️

XOXO 😘

G.C. INK. 💌~K.joi~

Uncategorized

P.S. Hide and Seek 💕

August 31, 2024August 31, 2024 Kris Joi

Songs🎼 🎶

Steffany Gretzinger – The More I Seek You

XOXO 😘

Uncategorized

Hide & Seek

July 31, 2024July 30, 2024 Kris Joi

Psalm 119:11 NKJV Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.

Jeremiah 29:13 NKJV And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.

Image by kalhh from Pixabay

Greetings in Grace Beloved Ones,

“The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace” (Numbers 24-26). Hope that this post finds you well and inspires your heart. So when I heard the title for today’s post it made me think of how many things we learn as children that are still relevant in adulthood. I remember someone saying everything I needed to know I learned in Kindergarten. And whereas the word everything is a bit of a stretch, I agree that much of what I learned as a child, rather good or not so good, has had some effect on my adulthood.

For instance I have fond memories of my mom keeping our home clean and making breakfast for us before sending us off to school. I also remember my dad going to work to make sure we had the things we needed as children. As an adult I am more able to appreciate their sacrifices than back then. Even how these things ingrained something in me in the form of training/cultivating me for my coming into adulthood. I thank God for them & their sacrifice. Even as our natural parents have sacrificed and ingrained things within us, how much more has our Heavenly Father who made us in His image & likeness.

Let’s “start” here our words & our actions have a residual effect on everyone that encounters them. David understood the power of words, especially God’s word. The book of psalms is filled with reminders of the UTMOST importance of the word of God being our meditation & habitation. In simple terms God wants us to Remember & Live in, by, for, with, and through His word. This is why in the scripture David said he would hide God’s word in his heart (mind, will, emotions). He understood the value of God’s word as it pertained to LIFE! The bible says man shall not live on bread alone but every word that proceeds from the mouth of God (see Matthew 4:4). It also mentions the power of life & death being in our tongues (see Proverbs 18:21). Think & Speak on that!

So let’s take a look at a few words in the scripture Psalm 119:11 written above ^. The first one being, hid. The word hid comes from the Hebrew word tsaphan meaning to hide by covering over, to reserve, protect, esteem, keep, a secret place, lay up. Next, let’s look at heart, in the Hebrew leb, meaning feeling, will, intellect, center of anything, mind. And lastly sin, in the Hebrew chata, meaning miss, lack, lose, loss, lead astray. So as this generation would say David didn’t want to be caught slacking. He understood the word was a treasure that had some benefits to his daily life and if he didn’t keep it, it would be to his loss. The bible also tells us that there is a thief (the enemy) that comes to steal, kill, and destroy, but I AM(Jesus The Living Word) comes that we would have life abundantly (see John 10:10). Now we have to ask ourselves when Jesus comes to see us where will He find us… seeking or slacking??

IDK about you but I want to be found seeking, serving, and safe in Him. Psalm 91:1-2 talks about dwelling in the secret place of God so that we are hidden from the dangers of the thief. Which leads me right into our second and last scripture from above Jeremiah 29:13. In this passage God is speaking to His people who have been led astray into captivity. He reminds them of His plans and thoughts to prosper (not harm) them and bring them out of captivity into freedom. And that this place of freedom will only come when they seek(worship, pray, ask, enquire, desire, strive after) Him with all of their heart.

Beloved I’m so glad that God provides a place of refuge in the seek. There are times where we may find ourselves captive/captivated by sin & wicked ways(inside & out). But Jesus says return/seek/see/speak of me & my way/word, and find Peace(rest, quietness, prosperity, be set at one again). Thank God for freedom! This makes me think of the parable of the lost sheep. That talks about a shepherd’s willingness to go after one lost sheep while leaving the 99. Jesus our good shepherd doesn’t want not one to be lost, but hidden & found in Him!!!

XOXO

Grace, Love, and Mercy

P.S….. Post Prayers, Petitions, Scriptures, And Songs Coming Shortly 🙂 ❤

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P.S. No Other Way (N.O.W.) + A Prayer of Salvation

June 30, 2024 Kris Joi

Waterbucket Press

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Ascend N.O.W.(No Other Way)

June 27, 2024June 25, 2024 Kris Joi

Photographer Credit: Stefan Cosma @ Unsplash

1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: Cast all your care upon Him for He careth for you.

Greetings In Grace,

And blessings be multiplied unto you in the favor of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. I thank God for His continual lovingkindness and faithfulness even toward us. One of my favorite scriptures is 2 Timothy 2:13, it states “if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.” It’s a reminder that God is constant and doesn’t change, in an everchanging world and in our transitions in life. Let’s press in to His faithfulness.

The word humble (G5013) in the passage above means to bring low, lower, depress, assign a lower rank, bring ones soul(mind 🧠, will, emotions) down of its pride, think modestly/less of self. I heard someone say it like this it doesn’t mean to think of yourself as less but to think less of yourself. Then it says under the mighty (powerful) hand of God. This makes my heart ♥️ leap with joy because in the last post we were talking about feeling/touch, and God’s ability to be touched by our infirmity/ weakness, and to touch us back to impart into us His strength. When we allow God to bring us under His power, direction, and guidance He will lead us in THE WAY.

Let’s talk about some practical ways of humbling ourself. The first thing is making up in our mind that we are going to give our lives over to Him. The bible 📖 says we cannot save ourselves, Salvation only comes through Jesus. John 14:16 Jesus said to him, ” I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” If we believe in our ♥️hearts and confess with our mouth that Jesus is Lord we receive His eternal salvation. If you are reading this and are considering giving your life to Jesus I both encourage and admonish you to DO IT! I am going to attach a prayer 🙏🏽 of salvation at the end of this post, feel free(literally & figuratively) to use and/or share it.

Take note we are not saved by works (see!!! Ephesians 2:8-10), yet when we are saved there are works that come with and aid us in walking 🚶🚶🏽‍♀️out our salvation (victory, help, health, safety). These works done in sincerity of heart are ways in which we humble ourselves under God’s hand: prayer, fasting, hearing/reading/meditating/studying God’s word, serving/considering others, sacrificial giving, etc. For these are all things God has instructed us to do in His word (by His leading/strength/power) as a means of turning us away from the worlds wrong 🚫way of doing things, unto his perfect way. As we continuously turn towards God, seeking Him first, we continually grow, advance, and prosper as He changes our heart(see 2 Corinthians 3:18).

Now let’s look at the word exalt. It comes from the Greek word hypsoo (G5312) meaning to lift up, elevate, exalt, to raise to opulence, prosperity, honor, dignity, and happiness. The passage goes on to say in due ⏰time, meaning the proper/set time. One of the most important concepts i’m learning in life is time & place. Have you ever heard the saying being at the wrong place at the wrong time? Well just as that saying goes there is a such thing as being in the right ✅ place at the right time. And when we allow God to lead & guide us He always leads us in the right direction. 🧭

This is why Jesus prayed to the Father during one of His most agonizingly painful moments, if you be willing remove this cup far from me, nevertheless NOT MY WILL , BUT THY WILL BE DONE. At that moment Jesus felt all the feels, 😩 as this Generation would say, and the weight of every ungodly sin pressing on his body & soul that we would ever commit. Yet He knew no sin, He is righteous in every way! But He chose to take our failures, flaws, and mistakes upon Himself so that we would be set free from everything that holds us ⬇️down & back. We overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony (Revelations 12:11).

I find great comfort in the part of the passage that states, casting our cares on Him for He cares for us. The word care there means through the idea of distraction. In a time where there are so many things pressing to cause us to take our 👁️ focus off God’s Way, we must come pray like Jesus for willful determination to yield and keep our eyes on the prize. The prize is everything on the other side of where we are now, that God has promised 🌈 us (more peace, joy, love, blessings, glory, understanding, breakthrough, etc.). My friend God never runs out of goodness and He wants to 💝 gift us with it. When we trust Him with everything He exchanges our current reality for a greater one.

C.I.A. Call in Action: 💭 Ponder what things/cares have been distracting us from spending time under God’s guiding? Let’s pray 🙏🏽 and ask God for strength to surrender and strategy to press in and on to greater.

Grace, Love, And Mercy (G.L.A.M.)

XOXO K. Joi ❤

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Feeling Some Kind….Of Way

April 12, 2024April 12, 2024 Kris Joi

Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
Psalm 63:4-5

Greetings in Grace Kings Kids,

Hope that this letter message finds you well. I speak blessing upon blessings over you, and stand 🙌🏽 touching & agreeing in the power of the Holy Spirit that it (ALL) is well with our souls!! Excuse my tardiness, last we spoke Winter was making its final appearance, but praise be to God Spring 🌺🌿 is here! I thank God for every season, for each has it’s own signifigance, but if in all transparency Winters are usually really hard for me. I live in the Chicagoland region and our cold is cold ❄️, and in addition to that there are shorter periods of daylight. And for someone with a Vitamin D (sunlight) deficiency it at time really affects my mood & momentum! Keep me lifted! 🙏🏽

Nevertheless, as the Apostle Paul stated, forgetting those things which are behind and REACHING 🙋🏽‍♀️ forth unto those things which are before (phil 3:13). Which is the perfect transition into todays post. We have been talking about the senses in our last few posts. In grade school we learned these 5 to be taste 😋, sight👁️, hearing👂🏽, touch✋🏼, and smell👃 . Recently I’ve been pondering on touch/feel/feeling. The scripture says we don’t have a High Priest (Jesus) who is unable to be touched by the feeling of our infirmities/weakness (Hebrew 4:15). Ohh do I thank God for that!

As I was gazing through the scriptures I came across numerous times where Jesus being moved with compassion released healing & strength to those that touched Him. Some touched Him directly and others touched Him indirectly, but either way it was their faith reaching into Him as the cure that caused them to be made whole. The word touch translates in Greek G680 aptomai which means to attach, fasten oneself to, cling to, adhere. When I read this my mind was so comforted in the thought of being able to be attached to God.

I then decided to dig a little deeper and look into the words feel and feeling, which are associated with touch. There were a few different translations & meanings for both, but for the sake of time I will just list 📝 a few that really STOOD OUT. Feel = G5584 pselaphao to handle, mentally to seek after, verify by contact, manipulate. Feel= H995 bi^n to separate mentally, distinguish, to understand. Feeling = G4834 sumpatheo to feel sympathy, have compassion. There are also some translations that have more of negative connotation to them such as to be apathetic and injure, but we will touch on those in a later post.

With these definitions in mind I realize why David (a man of many emotions)😩🤩😭😱would constantly command his soul (mind, will, emotions) to kneel or take a knee before God. He was acknowledging God’s sovereign rank above ☝🏽 all his feels, from depair to terror to cheer. I too can relate to at times my mind, will, and emotions being a rollercoaster 🎢 ride of right & wrong feelings. But thank God for the power of His word & Spirit to bring me/us into sobriety. Even as David cried Lord restore me unto the joy of thy salvation and unhold me with thy free spirit (psalm 51:12).

And my friend there has not been one time that in bowing 🙇🏽‍♀️ before/touching our maker that He did not (in His compassion) wittingly guide me into the Way (Him). As I was typing this I’m reminded of something my Father in the gospel often says, God was fully aware of everything about us, and everything that we would ever do when he called/chose us. Nevertheless, it’s a genuine pursuit/seek in humility that God desires/requires. One of my fav scripture is Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?

If I can be honest with you friend there have been times past where I really was straddling the line of trying to earn God’s grace vs pressing towards the mark. Until I realized that’s simply not 🛑 truth, but an impossible lie. Our righteousness is filthy rags and void/empty. It’s not until we allow the Word/Jesus to permiate our hearts ❤️ that we are changed. I’m always in awe of how when I stand on/in the Word, things are steady. However, on the contrary when my feet are hitting the ground running with life i’m weary. 😮‍💨

So what’s our C.I.A. (call in action) for today forward? Wake up & Word Up! Bow and make contact with the lover and restorer of our soul!

P.S. 🔜 Coming Soon ….

Grace & Peace XOXOXO ~Glam Chic~