thoughts by Mary Pinckney Archives - Page 2 of 8 - Daily Devotionals by Thoughts about God

Published November 21, 2021

Take Rest Oh My Weary Soul

“When my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. “ Psalm 61:2 NKJV

It gets so hard at times balancing every aspect of life; marriage, family, ministry, and career. Where do I find the time for me? Where do I find the time to commune with my Heavenly Daddy? So much comes into play on any given day. Sometimes I feel as though I am sinking, I am drowning in it all. Then I hear Your still small voice saying, “rest in me.”

I hear you calling me back to a place of stillness, a place of much needed peace. I hear you calling me to breathe and allow You to replenish me. I long for that time in Your presence, Lord. I long to be near You. You calm the raging emotions inside of me. Just as Jesus spoke peace to the wind and the waves in the Gospels, You still my overwhelmed heart. It is in Your presence I find fullness of joy and at Your right hand, pleasures forever more.

It is in the stillness that I find peace; I find continual hope. It is in the stillness that I find rest for my weary soul. Take delight oh my weary soul. Take delight in the presence of Abba Father. Take delight in His loving arms. If you find yourself in a similar place today, I challenge you to find rest in the Presence of Almighty God. It is in His Presence that we find renewed strength, peace, and hope.

Father, we long for Your unfailing love in our everyday lives. When we are running on empty, emotions are high, and life is overwhelming, lead us to the Rock that is higher than us. Lead us to that place of refuge and peace that we so long for. It is in You that we find rest. It is in You that we find hope. It is in You that we find peace.

When life seems to overwhelm you, take out a pen and pad and journal your thoughts.

Write a love letter to God telling Him how much you need His presence in Your life.

Grace and peace,

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Your Harvest Is On the Way

I know things are not going the way you planned. I know that you thought you would be farther along by now.

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Galatians 6:9

I know things are not going the way you planned.

I know that you thought you would be farther along by now.

I know that you are anxious to see the finished work.

In spite of what it looks like, keep your head up! Regardless to what you may be facing today, God is not slack concerning His promises. Instead of focusing on what you see, begin to change your focus to what God has said. His Word will not come back to Him void, but it will accomplish everything He sent it out to accomplish.

Hold on; change is on the way. That change may not be in your outward circumstances immediately, but it will take place on the inside of you if you keep fighting, keep praying, and keep pursuing His will for your life. Your time of harvest is on the way. Don’t you dare give up!

Lord, it gets harder by the minute to keep a positive outlook when it seems everything is going haywire. Help us I pray to keep our focus tuned in to You and Your Word rather than our circumstances. It is in Your Word that we find hope and renewed strength. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

By: Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

You Can Hope Again

“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise Him again — my Savior and my God!” Psalm 42:11 (NLT)

When your heart has been shattered, it’s hard to make sense of all the broken pieces.

You cry out, wondering when the pain will end, when the heartaches will disappear. You have done all you can do, but relief seems so far away.

Today, take your eyes off the pain and look above. Hope lies in the beauty of every new day that is given. Take comfort in knowing that God allows new beginnings. Each day is a day for His grace to overshadow your painful past. It’s a day that leads to a better tomorrow.

You have been given a second chance at life, a second chance at love. It is in these moments when God’s hand is evident. He is able to mend the broken pieces and give you beauty for ashes. He is able to wipe away every tear that you shed and give you new life.

Will you choose to see His love through the pain of your yesterday? Or will you allow Him to open your eyes to the joys that surround you? It may seem as though your world is falling apart, but to God, it may just be falling into place. Nothing we encounter takes Him by surprise. In exchange for the broken pieces, He gives us renewed hope, a greater strength, and an abundance of His peace.

Lord, I pray for my brothers and sisters who have been struggling with broken relationships, broken dreams, or a broken heart. You see them and You are very aware of what they’re going through. I ask that You will minister healing and wholeness to them right now and allow them to see a glimpse of hope. You are the lover of their souls and You have their best interest at heart. I thank You for restoration. I thank You for renewed hope. In Jesus’ name, amen.

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Don’t Always Believe What You See

“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.” 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NLT

Focusing on what’s right before us can trip us up.

As believers, we have been instructed to walk by faith and not by sight but the trouble comes in when what God said is not lining up with what is going on in our present circumstances.

When challenges arise we must incline our hearts to focus more on God’s commands. Remember, His word provides us hope, encouragement, and the strength to keep moving. The more we attend to what is going on around us, on social media, or the news for that matter, we fill our hearts with fear and uncertainties.

Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to guard our hearts with all diligence because out of it flows the issues of our lives. What we focus on will grow. I don’t know about you, but if I have a choice in what grows or becomes dominant in my life I would prefer it be the Word of God.

Fear torments. Fear paralyzed. If we are to reap the rewards God has promised we must gain control of our focus. The word lets us know that trouble does not last always. When it presents itself we must be quick to remember God is a very present help in the time of trouble instead of falling prey to fear. He may not deliver us quickly but He is at work behind the scenes, working out all things that concern us. The challenges we are facing right now are working for us to produce a great and a glorious reward. Can you hold on until it’s revealed? God is indeed at work on our behalf.

Lord, You see what we don’t see. You understand what we don’t understand. Help us to focus more on Your voice, Your Word rather than what we see. Help us to know Your ways. Help us to recognize Your voice. Remind us of Your plans to do us good and not evil. Strengthen our hearts as only a You can. In Jesus name Amen.

Grace and peace,

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

God’s Got You

Published July 25, 2021

God’s Got You

“You can trust the Lord to protect you. He will not let you fall into harm. “ Proverbs 3:26 (ERV)

Trusting God has become a new buzz word.

It is thrown around so loosely that we forget it’s connotation. Anytime we are going through challenging times the first words off the lips of others is normally “Just trust God, it will work out.”

What does it really mean to trust God? I have found in my very own life that trusting God required me to put forth some type of action to show that I believed what God was saying to me. Trusting God required me to stand still at times and knowing with sheer confidence I did not have to be in control. I did not have to come to my own rescue. It assured me that I had help, a reliable source and strength backing me. Proverbs 3:26 here in the Amplified version paints this picture clearly; For the Lord shall be your confidence, firm and strong, and shall keep your foot from being caught [in a trap or some hidden danger].

I implore you today not to take trusting God lightly. He will always be by your side. He is a source of strength in our times of weakness. He is a shield and a buckler whenever we find ourselves in danger. He is a provider when we are in need. And most of all He loves us with an everlasting love. We can rely on His faithfulness. We can trust His heart towards us.

Father even when my trust in You begins to wane. Remind me of Your faithfulness in my life. In Jesus name Amen

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest

• The Trust Factor
• Pray and then Decide
• Salvation Explained

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

I Can’t Say it Enough

Published May 29, 2021

I Can’t Say it Enough

Jesus loves you with an everlasting love.

“I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself.” Jeremiah 31:3 (NLT)

So often we take for granted the love of God. We often feel like there is no hope for us but I say to you today that regardless to where you have been, regardless to what you have done; God loves YOU.

Let the weight of your burdens rest upon His shoulders today. His sacrifice on the cross was the answer to your pain. No longer carry the weight of the world on your shoulders; walk in His grace, walk in His love.

Lord, thank you for always reminding me how You feel about me. I often struggle when it comes to recognizing and receiving Your love. Teach me to rest in the fact that You will never cast me aside. Your love for me will never fail. In Jesus name Amen

Reflections:

John 15:13 (NLT) “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

John 3:16 (NLT) “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”

Romans 5:8 (NLT) “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.”

Psalm 8:4 (NIV) “….what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?”

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

Take One Step at a Time

Published May 12, 2021

Take One Step at a Time

Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life.

Tip toe if you must, but take the step!

You will get there! Don’t rush your process, there are plenty of lessons to learn along the way.

Trust that the Lord will guide you as you go.

“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.

Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.” Psalm 37:23-24 (NLT)

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

His Timing

Published April 30, 2021

His Timing

‘This is what the Lord says: ‘There will be a special time when I show my kindness. Then I will answer your prayers. There will be a special day when I will save you. Then I will help you and protect you.’”
Isaiah 49:8 (ERV)

Many of us are experiencing challenging times right now.

Frustration rises as we pray and anxiously await answers from the Lord. Tempers are flaring and many are probably contemplating giving up and letting go of their promises from the Lord. I beseech you today my brothers and sisters to hold on, just a little while longer.

The Lord is at work in the midst of your situations. He is moving on your behalf. Often times we try to tempt the hand of God by our temper tantrums, pity parties, and by issuing ultimatums; none of these will move God. He is only moved by our faith. Whenever challenges arise, we must make it a point to remain in agreement with the Lord.

Today’s scripture reference stood out to me as I sought the Lord concerning some pressing issues. It immediately spoke hope and peace to my heart. I want to do the same for you today. The Lord says there is a special time, a special day when answers will be made known to us. He does everything according to His plan and His purpose for us. It is up to us to trust His heart of compassion towards us.

I pray today that we will no longer look at what is not happening, but that we will focus on what You are doing in this season in our lives. Father, remind us that frustration sets in when we do things out of season. Teach us to recognize what You are blessing right now and to work in that. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Thought: Find other scriptures in reference to God’s timing and write them out on index cards. When anxiety arises, pull them out and meditate upon them.

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

No More Baggage

Published March 30, 2021

No More Baggage

Take control of your life today!

Refuse to allow bad decisions to dictate your actions any longer. Every day you are awarded new mercies, new opportunities, and a clean slate. Go ahead, pick yourself up and keep moving forward.

No more living by feelings and emotions, they are not reliable. Live by what you know is true, the Word of God. His promises are real. Make an exchange with God and be empowered through your union with Him. If you don’t know Him as Lord and Savior, today is a great day to begin. https://thoughts-about-god.com/four-laws

Father, as we come to you today to lay down the baggage of fear, doubt, insecurity, shame, etc. we make an exchange with you for the oil of gladness, confidence, boldness, and peace. We thank you for sending your Son Jesus to die on the cross that we may walk in freedom. Today, we say no to every attempt to sway us from your best for our lives. We say no to fear and anxiety playing on our emotions. Today, we choose to walk in stability and forgiveness.

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

Keep on Fighting

Published March 2, 2021

Keep on Fighting

“The one who loves us gives us an overwhelming victory in all these difficulties.” Romans 8:37 (GW)

I want to encourage the hearts of those that are burdened and overwhelmed today. I know things may have been tough lately, but keep on fighting. Financial pressures are hitting you on every side, but, keep on fighting. Sickness, family issues may have heightened, but keep on fighting. It is written that you shall overcome.

In times like these, I run to the Word of God to see what He has to say concerning my situation. Here are a few of my favorite go to scriptures:

“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] John 16:33 (AMP)

“Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.] John 14:27 (AMP)

” Cast your burden on the Lord [releasing the weight of it] and He will sustain you; He will never allow the [consistently] righteous to be moved (made to slip, fall, or fail). Psalm 55:22 (AMP)

“He brought me forth also into a large place; He was delivering me because He was pleased with me and delighted in me.” Psalm 18:19 (AMP)

Every one of these scriptures spoke hope and refreshment to me in my times of trouble. The Lord used His Word to not only guide me through rough times, but to give me an assurance of His continual presence in my life. Once I regained the assurance that He was not only with me, but for me; it was then that I was ready to run through troops and leap over walls!

Be encouraged in the Lord today, my brothers and my sisters. Keep on fighting, victory already belongs to you. Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. He will reveal His plan in time.

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

What Are You Feeding

Published February 17, 2021

What Are You Feeding

“Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living.” Romans 6:16 NLT

In the past I have shared openly about my struggles with food addiction. As I pen these thoughts today, I realize that my journey has evolved. Over the course of the last few years I began to become more intentional about what was going on internally. I’ve learned that a huge part of my struggle was not with food but with something bigger. The chaotic cycle of unhealthy eating stemmed not only from stress and heightened emotions, but my own need for affirmation and validation. I realized that deep within me there was a desire to be accepted.

This was an area stemming from childhood. I was always considered the smart, responsible one not the fun and adventurous one. This image I sought to live up to controlled my actions more than I care to admit. Coming to this conclusion has helped me to discover the truth about myself and where to focus my efforts for healing. I have grown to realize that my worth and value are not based on how others view me. I have come to discover that I am accepted most of all by my Heavenly Father.

I am certain many of you, like me, have battled against this or other addictions that have gained control over your lives. Today, I ask, “What are you feeding?” What is it within you that is crying out to be medicated by something other than God? Once you are able to identify the root of the destructive cycles you face, it will place you on a path towards healing.

Father, today I ask that you minister to the root issues that have been controlling the lives of your people, the driving force behind cycles of addiction and destructive behaviours. I pray that you will help us to see ourselves through your eyes and recognize that our worth and value lie in you and you alone. I pray that we will face the truth about ourselves and embrace the healing process that you long to begin in so many of our lives. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

Whenever you are tempted to turn towards one of your sources of dependency, invite the Spirit to show you why that temptation has arisen and how you can seek to see the underlying need met by God, rather than that thing.

Grace and Peace,

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

Living in Harmony

Published January 26, 2021

Living in Harmony

“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.” Romans 12:16 (ESV)

In relationships, we should always aim to live in harmony with each other. In order to do that, we each must readily adjust ourselves to other people. This is not always easy to do, but the grace of God is available to help us. Often, we don’t take the time to process why challenges come up in relationships. We are too quick to judge.

Selfishness has no place in healthy relationships, but the harmony we long for will come when we begin to put others above ourselves. This is one of the characteristics of Jesus. The Bible is filled with many examples teaching us how to handle our relationships. It is important for us to learn from the best Teacher — the Holy Spirit. It is impossible for us to love the Lord, whom we cannot see, if we do not love those who are with us daily.

By coming to dwell in us by his Holy Spirit, God has made it possible for us to do what seems impossible, even when we are in a difficult place. One important lesson the Holy Spirit taught me years ago was to seek peace and pursue it. Our Scripture reference today is one I had to keep close to my heart in order to live out that purpose.

Father, there are people in my life that I struggle to relate to. I pray that you would teach me to rely on the grace you have already provided to help me in my times of need. I invite you into every relationship I have. Minister to our hearts today and allow us to see truth in every situation. Teach us how to love like you love, Father. Amen.

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

Be At Peace

Published January 11, 2021

Be At Peace

“Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” Mark 4:39 (ERV )

After ministering to the multitudes, Jesus told his disciples to get into the boat in order to get to the other side. Immediately upon entering the boat, Jesus goes to sleep and a storm arises. The wind and the waves begin to beat upon the ship. Of course this does not startle Jesus, but the disciples begin to panic.

As I look back over these verses, I can’t help but think that the Lord will often allow us to go through challenging situations just to show us what is on the inside of us. Sure, we may be walking with Him daily, reading our Bibles, fasting, and praying, but what is our response in the midst of the storm? Are we calm and confident of the Lord’s protection or are we frightened and unsettled like the disciples? When Jesus arose He spoke peace to the storm. He also rebuked his followers for being fearful and having no faith.

How is it that we have no faith when the Lord is present in our situation? That is a question that we must answer for ourselves. Through experience I have learned that the Lord will never leave us or forsake us. The problem arises because we cannot see Him working. Think about it. Jesus was present but they did not see Him actively working in their situation. We must come to know that wherever Jesus is at rest, there will be peace. If He is not bothered by what is going on then we need to follow His lead. If He truly lives on the inside of you, you possess the same power; you too can speak peace to your storm.

I speak peace to the storms that are raging in your life today. Be at peace and trust His promises to you. God is not slack concerning His promises. Make it a point to rest in His love for you.

Father thank you for the covenant of peace you have given us. I pray that you will continue to surround us with your loving-kindness; may we drink in your goodness as you keep us in your arms of protection. In Jesus name Amen

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission
Excerpt from Be Attitudes: Devotional Journey to a Healthier and Happier You:
August 2013

Follow Us On:

SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL: FOLLOW THIS LINK

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

God’s Got You

God will not let you fall into Harm. Proverbs 3:26

Published November 27, 2020

God’s Got You

“You can trust the Lord to protect you. He will not let you fall into harm.” Proverbs 3:26 (ERV)

Trusting God has become a new buzz word. It is thrown around so loosely that we forget it’s connotation. Anytime we are going through challenging times the first words off the lips of others is normally “Just trust God, it will work out.”

What does it really mean to trust God? I have found in my very own life that trusting God required me to put forth some type of action to show that I believed what God was saying to me. Trusting God required me to stand still at times and knowing with sheer confidence I did not have to be in control. I did not have to come to my own rescue. It assured me that I had help, a reliable source and strength backing me. Proverbs 3:26 here in the Amplified version paints this picture clearly;

For the Lord shall be your confidence, firm and strong, and shall keep your foot from being caught [in a trap or some hidden danger].

I implore you today not to take trusting God lightly. He will always be by your side. He is a source of strength in our times of weakness. He is a shield and a buckler whenever we find ourselves in danger. He is a provider when we are in need. And most of all He loves us with an everlasting love. We can rely on His faithfulness. We can trust His heart towards us.

Father even when my trust in You begins to wane. Remind me of Your faithfulness in my life. In Jesus name Amen

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL: FOLLOW THIS LINK

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

Stand Out and Be Different

Published October 28, 2020

Stand Out and Be Different

“Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, ‘I gave birth to him in pain.’ Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.’ And God granted his request.” 1 Chronicles 4:9-10

Comparisons are a deadly trap. They invite us into the world of false expectations. A world painted by other people’s perceptions of what life, love, and happiness are all about. Only the life that God has designed for us will bring us to a place of peace and accomplishment.

Let us take a look at the story of Jabez. Though very briefly mentioned in 1 Chronicles, he was important enough to talk about. The story points to the fact that Jabez became more distinguished than all of his brothers because he did not allow the label his mother put on him to ruin his life. He did not allow it to dictate what he could accomplish. He looked to God to change his story.

This is the very same God that is still alive and well today and able to do the same for you and me. God has created each of us with a unique story; a special set of skills and a purpose that only you and I can fulfill. Every success story is different but equally purposeful.

I encourage you today to be different. No longer stand in the shadow of others and allow your accomplishments to be diminished. This world needs what God has developed in you. The story you are meant to share. You are destined for greatness because God is great in you. The impact you will make will inspire someone else to reach their potential.

Lord, forgive us for comparing our lives to others. We get so caught up with the lives of others that we miss what you are doing in us. Teach us to recognize that being different is not at all bad but necessary for us to receive all that you have for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

Follow Us On:

SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL: FOLLOW THIS LINK

Share this on:

thoughts by Mary Pinckney Thoughts by Women

Category: <span>thoughts by Mary Pinckney</span>

“When my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. “ Psalm 61:2 NKJV

When life seems to overwhelm you, take out a pen and pad and journal your thoughts.

Write a love letter to God telling Him how much you need His presence in Your life.

Further Reading

I know things are not going the way you planned. I know that you thought you would be farther along by now.

Further Reading

When your heart has been shattered, it’s hard to make sense of all the broken pieces.

Further Reading

Focusing on what’s right before us can trip us up.

Further Reading

Follow Us On:

Trusting God has become a new buzz word.

Follow Us On:

Related Articles

Further Reading

Follow Us On:

Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life.

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

Many of us are experiencing challenging times right now.

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

Take control of your life today!

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

“The one who loves us gives us an overwhelming victory in all these difficulties.” Romans 8:37 (GW)

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.” Romans 12:16 (ESV)

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On: