Author: Martha Pereda

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Living by the Book: God’s Way, Not Mine

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There comes a point in every believer’s life when we have to decide—really decide—whose voice we’re going to follow. Not just in the big moments, but in the daily grind. Not just in public, but in the quiet corners of our thought life, our choices, our identity.

Will it be the world?
Or the Word?

“Living by the book is not about rules, it’s about relationship.”
—Grace Revealed

We live in a time where “truth” is fluid, self is supreme, and the loudest opinion tends to win. But God never asked us to live according to the culture. He called us to live according to His Word.

That means knowing who He is.
Knowing who I am in Him.
And trusting that His way is not only better—but the only way that leads to life.

The world has a lot to say about identity. Most of it shifts with trends, feelings, or social circles. But God’s Word speaks a different reality—an unshakable truth:

“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation…” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
“You are fearfully and wonderfully made…” (Psalm 139:14)
“You are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” (Ephesians 2:10)

That’s not motivational fluff—it’s your foundation.
You’re not an accident. You’re not a mistake.
You’re chosen. Designed. Sent.

It’s one thing to know the truth.
It’s another to walk it out.

Paul prays in Colossians 1:9–10 that we would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will—not just so we can nod in agreement, but so we can walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him.

“For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.”
(Colossians 1:9–10, NKJV)

And here’s the thing:
You don’t have to guess God’s will.
You don’t have to wonder what He wants from you.

“God has made known His will… the Bible is the great book a child pulls onto her father’s lap, and He brings the pages to life for her.”
—Honoring Grace

It’s not a mystery. His Word is clear.
He wants you to trust Him.
To live holy.
To walk in love.
To forgive.
To shine.
To bear fruit.

You don’t need another sign. You need to open the Book—and live it.

Maybe it’s fear. Maybe it’s comparison. Maybe it’s still believing those old lies from childhood or broken relationships: “You’re not enough.” “You always mess up.”
“You’ll never change.” But God says something else. And if you want to live by the Book, you have to decide who gets the final word.

“God planned you from your mother’s womb… He knows you deeply and personally.”
—Grace Revealed

When you know that—really know it—you stop chasing the world’s approval. You stop trying to earn what He’s already given. You start living out of love instead of for it.

And that’s when everything starts to change.

Where have you been living by your own script?
Where have you listened to the world instead of the Word?
What would it look like to live this week fully aligned with what God says about you—and what He wants for your life?

Let His voice be the one that leads.
Let His Word be the one you follow.
Let His plan—not yours—define the path you take.

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The Foundation of a Grace-Filled Home

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“Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” Proverbs 24:3–4 (NKJV)

Home. It’s more than walls and windows. It’s the place where we are formed, where we are known, and where we are either strengthened—or slowly worn down. But in a world of shifting values and fast-paced expectations, how do we build homes that truly last? How do we raise children who love God? How do we strengthen marriages in both calm and crisis?

Today begins Family and Home Fridays—a weekly pause to reset, realign, and receive God’s wisdom for the most sacred place on earth: your home. This space is not about perfection. It’s about grace—real, practical, biblical grace. The kind that works when toddlers are crying and dishes are piling up. The kind that holds a marriage together in quiet faithfulness. The kind that can be passed down as a legacy of truth and love.

These weekly posts are rooted in the same heart behind Sharing Grace, my book-in-progress focused on biblical womanhood, marriage, motherhood, and home life from Titus 2 and beyond. Whether you’re a newlywed, a single mom, a grandmother, or simply someone who desires to make your home a place of blessing and peace, this is for you.

Every home is built on something. Some are built on busy routines. Others on high achievement. Some on image, some on survival. But the only homes that truly endure are those built on the wisdom, strength, and grace of God.

Jesus said, “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock.”
Matthew 7:24 (NKJV)

Grace-filled homes aren’t the result of perfect families. They are the result of surrendered hearts—people who daily depend on God, repent quickly, speak life, and choose love even when it’s inconvenient.

Grace starts with surrender. Before grace can fill our homes, it must first be rooted in our own hearts. If we are not receiving from God—through prayer, time in the Word, worship—we’ll end up running on empty. Our personal devotion becomes the foundation of our family direction.
“Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.” Proverbs 16:3 (NKJV)

Grace requires intentionality. You cannot drift into a godly home by accident. It takes deliberate, everyday decisions to speak kindly, discipline wisely, love consistently, and live with eternity in view. A grace-filled home is not just what you believe—it’s what you practice behind closed doors.
“Be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us…” Ephesians 5:1–2 (NKJV)

Grace grows through humility. No matter how well we build, there will be days we fall short. Moments of frustration, failure, or forgetfulness are part of the process. But in those moments, humility becomes our lifeline. When we admit we were wrong, ask for forgiveness, or choose to try again, we lay another stone of grace in our home.
“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6 (NKJV)

Grace multiplies when we speak God’s Word. The most powerful words we can bring into our home are not our own—they’re His. Reading Scripture aloud, praying the promises of God, and reminding one another of truth shifts the atmosphere. It sets our foundation on something eternal, not emotional.
“These words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…” Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (NKJV)

Let’s be women who build on the Rock. Not just in theory—but in the hidden places, in the daily rhythms, in the way we love, speak, forgive, serve, and believe. Because the home is not just where we live—it’s where we shape lives. And grace is the cement that holds it all together.

What is your home currently built upon? Are there areas where surrender, intentionality, humility, or truth have been missing? Ask the Lord to help you realign your foundation today.

Next Week: “Mothering with Grace: A High and Holy Calling”
A special reflection for Mother’s Day weekend, honoring spiritual and natural mothers and encouraging the legacy of godly womanhood.

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When Half-Hearted Isn’t Enough

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Have you ever caught yourself going through the motions spiritually—showing up, checking the boxes, doing all the “right” things—but deep down knowing… your heart isn’t all in?

You’re not alone. I’ve felt it too. It’s subtle at first. You’re still praying, still serving, still loving Jesus. But somehow your passion has faded. You’re giving—but not your all. You’re worshiping—but not with everything. Somewhere along the way, “half” started to feel like it was good enough.

But God doesn’t settle for halfway. He never has.

In Psalm 103:1, David doesn’t just say, “Bless the Lord.” He says: “Bless the Lord, O my soul—and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” (NKJV)

That one word—all—has been echoing in my heart.

Because wholehearted living isn’t loud or flashy.
It’s intentional. It’s vulnerable. It’s honest.
And honestly? It’s costly.

“To bless the Lord, I have to look up and recognize Him for who He is.”
—Grace Revealed

That one line from Grace Revealed reminds me: half-heartedness often starts with distraction. I forget who He is. I stop looking up. I let life’s pace lower my gaze. And before long, I’m doing things for God without being fully present with Him.

But God is not looking for performers.
He’s looking for worshipers—those who love Him with heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Sometimes worship is loud praise and lifted hands.
Sometimes it’s showing up when your heart feels quiet.
But every time—it’s meant to be whole.

So let me ask you:

Where has “half” crept in?

Are you serving Him in action, but not in affection?
Are you giving in routine, but withholding in relationship?
Are you showing up but checked out?

The beauty of grace is that God doesn’t shame us when we drift—He invites us closer.

He’s not asking for performance.
He’s asking for presence.
Not perfection—just all of you.

So today, let’s respond like David. Let’s command our soul—tired, distracted, wounded, grateful, wherever it is—to bless the Lord. Not halfway. But fully.

“David commands his entire being to bless the Lord, illustrating a total commitment to worship and gratitude.”
—Grace Revealed

What about you?
Is there a place in your life where you’ve been holding back?
What would it look like to bring your whole heart to God again?

Don’t settle for half.
He’s worthy of it all.

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How Many Times Will You Strike?

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When Obedience, Passion, and Perseverance Collide

Have you ever felt like you were doing the right things but still coming up short in the outcome? Like you obeyed… but only to a point? There’s a story in 2 Kings 13 that captured my attention recently and hasn’t let go. It’s about arrows, a dying prophet, and a king who stopped too soon.

Elisha was on his deathbed when King Joash of Israel came to him for help. The prophet gave him a strange assignment: take some arrows, shoot one out the window, and then strike the ground with the rest. Joash obeyed—sort of. He shot the arrow, then struck the ground three times… and stopped.

Elisha was furious. “You should have struck five or six times! Then you would have struck Aram until you had completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times.” (2 Kings 13:19)

I can’t stop thinking about that. Because how often do we do the same? We start strong. We step out in faith. We do what God says… but then, when it gets hard or unclear, we stop. We hold back. We lose momentum. And sometimes, without realizing it, we limit what God wanted to do through us.

God opens the door—He sets the stage. But it’s our participation, our persistence, our passion that determines how far the victory goes. It’s not about striving or performing, but about trusting Him enough to keep going until He says stop.

Paul says it so beautifully in Ephesians: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10) God already prepared the path. But we have to walk it—and keep walking it.

And what about those moments when you’re just tired? You’ve prayed, you’ve served, you’ve believed. But the breakthrough hasn’t come. Maybe you’re on strike three and wondering if it even matters anymore.

Don’t stop. Not yet. Maybe strike four is coming. Maybe the victory is right around the corner. Let’s not miss it.

“Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.” (Galatians 6:9)

The king’s half-hearted response exposed a half-hearted desire. That one hits me too. Because passion matters. God is looking for people who pursue Him with everything—who believe His promises enough to go after them like they’re worth everything.

“You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13)

So let me ask you—

Have you stopped short anywhere? Have you been coasting in an area where you once struck with passion? Where might God be inviting you to pick up those arrows again and go all in?

Don’t just ask yourself—go ask God. Invite Him into that space. Let Him show you where to strike again. And then, act on it.

Let’s be the kind of women who keep striking the ground—not in fear or duty, but in faith. Until He says, “That’s enough. Victory is yours.”

What about you? How many times will you strike?

Where’s the beef?

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Some years ago, there was a popular commercial where some bought a burger and found little meat on the bun, “Where’s the beef?” I thought of that this morning as I meditated on life, family and ministry, and the question, “Where’s the fruit?”

When Jesus went to an area surrounded by farmers, he spoke of knowing the seasons, seedtime and harvest, sowing the seed on different kinds of soil, different yields, pruning for greater fruit, and the grain of wheat needing to die completely in the ground to bring forth much fruit. And in this is glorified the Father that we bear much fruit.

I grew up with parents that grew up on farms and loved to plant and harvest. My mother had a garden as big as many have a house, and boy did she work it! It had to be tilled, dirt clods removed, and furrows prepared. She looked for the right seeds for the biggest, juiciest beefsteak tomatoes, lettuce we grew and cut and grew again, cucumbers and squash of every kind imaginable. We took turns weeding long rows, so the seed wouldn’t be choked out, and harvest time meant tomato sandwich and fried zucchini dinners, big kettles of sweet corn, and so much more. So good.

While other kids were out and about, we canned hundreds of quarts of pickles- sweet, bread and butter, and dill… whole, sliced and spears… tomatoes stewed, sauced, spaghetti sauce, vegetable soup… frozen corn on the ear and off and canned. And so much more. Then there was the fruit, from strawberries and raspberries (those were the fast ones) to planting trees- peach, apple, plum, cherry- and waiting a couple of years for the first. There was a year we had to hunt down a squirrel that would go up the peach tree, pick the fruit just before it was ripe, eat it, and throw down the stone. That was too much! Some corn went the same way, shucked and eaten on the spot. Amazing really, but quite frustrating when you are anticipating enjoying that fruit. And peaches are my favorite, until mangoes came into the picture. Anyway, kind of reminds me of those that wanted to discourage Nehemiah from rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, who said even little foxes would tear it down. Sometimes they can.

By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.

Jesus (John 15:8)

There is no doubt that God expects to see fruit in our lives, because He created man and put us in a world primed for growth and said, “Be fruitful and multiply”. In the natural, we are made to reproduce and nurture the fruit of our union to maturity. That’s children in case you didn’t get it. And we are responsible for bringing them up in the way of the Lord for eternal purpose, not just a degree and a name. Even if for some reason you aren’t able to have children, God will use you to nurture others that need what he puts in you, naturally and spiritually.

Have you examined your life lately to see what fruit is there? Jesus said, “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” What kind of fruit is He looking for? Some will say fruit of the Spirit and others go straight to winning souls. I think it is both and so much more. One look at nature makes it clear that God loves variety and abundance. So also God’s word tells us to have fruits of righteousness, fruits consistent with repentance, fruit of our lips that is sacrifice of praise, fruit of the Spirit, fruit of our service, ministry and fruit for eternity.

The fruit of the Spirit such as love, joy, peace, kindness and patience grow in our lives when our spirit is joined to the Spirit of God through salvation, and we present ourselves as a living sacrifice (Galatians 5:16-26). That’s how our heart becomes fertile for the Spirit’s seeding, cultivating and producing of fruit in us that happens from the inside out until visible to all. And you can’t make it happen, believe me. If you’ve ever tried to “help” your spouse produce this fruit, you probably know that will usually backfire. Don’t nag or try to open his eyes. Don’t try to do what only the Holy Spirit can. Love, pray, and speak words of faith. That’s the best water and fertilizer in our own lives and others.

One day we will stand before God, and He will ask us an account for the time lived on earth, and the bottom line is whether we lived it according to His plan and lead or not. Paul worked hard and influenced pretty much the known world in his lifetime, but he knew all fruit came from God. “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor.” (1 Corinthians 3:6-8) God requires of us as stewards to be faithful (1 Co. 4:2), using our time, talent, and treasure where and how He wants, when He wants it, and in the way He wants.

Strawberries or avocados?

I like big, juicy strawberries, and strawberries and cream, yum! Plants are good to plant in all kinds of areas, and you may harvest as soon as 2-3 months. Honestly, I enjoy them but don’t eat strawberries often. But avocados are another story. I could and do sometimes eat them every day, all year around, and with just about anything. My appreciation has grown since learning that an avocado tree may take 13 years to grow from seed, fruit from a sapling 3-4 years, and an avocado I chuck down maybe 12-18 months to grow and mature. That’s a lot of caring and waiting, but then a tree may produce 200-300 in a year for anywhere from 25-80 years. That’s a lot of fruit.

He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. (2 Corinthians 9:10-11)

Maybe you have seen great fruit in a short time in one area and then been discouraged in another. I know women who have prayed for their husband for years before he came to the Lord, and others saw it in days. Maybe you have shared with friends and co-workers left and right, but none have come on your invite. I recently had the great joy of seeing a neighbor’s household transformed by the Lord and discipleship, after 30 years of resisting, the grain of wheat finally sprouted. Go to the master gardener, act on his direction, fertilize the seeds in the Spirit, and trust that God will give growth and fruit in due time. “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9) I pray this be a time in which “the plowmen overtake the reaper” (Amos 9:13) and the “sower and reaper may rejoice together” (John 4:36), all for the glory of the Father.

Day 30: Overcome evil with good

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Thirty days ago, we began looking at God’s plan for you and me according to Romans chapter 12, to not be molded to the flow of the world around us but rather be transformed by the renewing of our mind. The keys to renewing our mind are the word of God and the empowering of the Spirit. I pray that you have been taking the truths of God’s word into your heart and applying them to renew your mind and that you continue to do so. The passage ends with a blanket statement.

“Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.” (Ro.12:21)

The enemy of our souls, the devil, is evil to the core and out to destroy us. He lies, cheats, accuses, condemns, and deceives all he can. While we should be conscious of his strategies, we do not need to fear him, because greater is He that is in all who believe in Christ as their Savior than he that is in the world. As you continue in your transformation process, which is life-long by the way, set your eyes on Jesus, not your past, your ability, or shortcomings. Don’t think of dispelling darkness as much as bringing on the light.  The more you fill your mind and thoughts with the word of God, the more the evil lies of the enemy are revealed, lose their power, and are dispelled.

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness [mercy], and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8)

Overcome evil with good every day of your life by this standard. Justice and fairness are not the same. It’s not fair is a very common complaint but focuses more on me, myself, and I, whereas justice is based wholly on God’s standards. We must uphold justice- God’s standard of what is right- with our words and deeds, no matter what popular opinion, government, friend, or foe may say. But while we do, we are not to be harsh or ugly but always tempered by kindness. When you defend justice on social media, your purpose should be to bring light, love, and life which does not happen if you attack the person instead of the idea. In the same way, be humble if you are attacked, separate it from yourself, don’t take it personal, but defend the truth. Remember it is God’s kindness that leads to repentance, and mercy trumps over judgment.

The more you draw near to God, the more He draws near to you and reveals His heart to you. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but you do have to make the right decisions day after day. Decide to look at God in faith not fear, trust not doubt, forgiveness not guilt, hope not depression, joy not sadness, love not hate, praise not despair. When in doubt, make this your go-to practice, which is God’s good and perfect will for you. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Read 1 Thes. 4:3-5; 5:16-18; 1 Peter 2:15-16; James 2:13.

Pray: Quiet yourself before God and just be still in His presence. Praise Him for His unending grace. Thank Him for all He has done in and for you. Commit all your plans to Him, asking God to help you be sensitive to His leading, obedient, and consistent for His glory.

Día 30: Vence con el bien el mal

Hace treinta días, miramos el plan de Dios para ti y para mí de acuerdo con Romanos capítulo 12, para no ser moldeados al sistema del mundo que nos rodea, sino más bien ser transformados por la renovación de nuestra mente.  Las claves para renovar nuestra mente son la palabra de Dios y el empoderamiento del Espíritu.  Espero que hayas estado guardando las verdades de la palabra de Dios en tu corazón y las apliques para que renueven tu mente y que continúes haciéndolo.  El pasaje termina con una declaración general.

“No seas vencido por el mal sino vence el mal con el bien.“. (Ro.12:21)

El enemigo de nuestras almas, el diablo, es malo hasta la médula y está dispuesto a destruirnos. Miente, engaña, acusa, condena y hace todo lo que puede.  Si bien debemos ser conscientes de sus estrategias, no necesitamos temerle, porque más grande es el que está en todos los que creen en Cristo como su Salvador que el que está en el mundo.  A medida que continúes en tu proceso de transformación, que de por cierto dura toda la vida, pon tus ojos en Jesús, no en tu pasado, tu habilidad o defectos.  No pienses tanto en disipar la oscuridad como en traer la luz.   Cuanto más llenas tu mente y tus pensamientos con la palabra de Dios, más se revelan las mentiras malvadas del enemigo, pierden su poder, y son disipadas.

“Él te ha dicho, oh hombre, lo que es bueno; y ¿qué requiere el Señor de ti sino hacer justicia, y amar la bondad [misericordia], y caminar humildemente con tu Dios? ” (Micah 6:8)

Vence el mal con el bien todos los días de tu vida según este estándar. La justicia y la equidad no son lo mismo. No es justo es una queja muy común, pero si es por mi estándar, se enfoca más en mí, mientras que la justicia se basa completamente en los estándares de Dios.  Debemos defender la justicia, el estándar de Dios de lo que es correcto, con nuestras palabras y hechos, sin importar lo que la opinión popular, el gobierno, el amigo o el enemigo puedan decir.  Pero mientras lo hacemos, no debemos ser ásperos o feos, sino que siempre debemos estar templados por la bondad. Cuando defiendes la justicia en las redes sociales, tu propósito debe ser traer luz, amor y vida, lo cual no sucede si atacas a la persona en lugar de la idea.  De la misma manera, sé humilde si eres atacado, sepáralo de ti, no lo tomes como algo personal, sino que defiendas la verdad.  Recuerde que es la bondad de Dios la que conduce al arrepentimiento, y la misericordia triunfa sobre el juicio.

Cuanto más te acercas a Dios, más se acerca Él a ti y te revela Su corazón.  No tiene que ser complicado, pero sí hay que tomar las decisiones correctas día tras día. Decide mirar a Dios con fe no con miedo, confianza no duda, perdón no culpa, esperanza no depresión, gozo no tristeza, amor no odio, alabanza no desesperación.  Ante cualquier duda, haz de esta tu práctica, que es la buena y perfecta voluntad de Dios para ti.  Gózate siempre, ora sin cesar, en todo da gracias; porque esta es la voluntad de Dios en Cristo Jesús para ti.

Lee 1 Tesalonicenses 4:3-5; 5:16-18; 1 Pedro 2:15-16; Santiago 2:13.

Orar: Apártate en silencio delante Dios y quédate quieto en Su presencia. Alábalo por Su gracia infinita. Dale gracias por todo lo que ha hecho en y por ti.  Compromete todos tus planes con Él, pidiéndole a Dios que te ayude a ser sensible a Su guía, obediente y consistente para Su gloria.

Day 29: Let go and let God

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Human nature is to want to get back at a person when he treats us badly. We want to and feel justified in doing so. But God is clear on the fact that it is not our part, nor our right nor worry, to see to it that someone pays for their acts, however they may have caused us suffering. God and only God has the right to judge people, to justify, or condemn, and we need to settle that in our heart and mind once and for all. A renewed mind will not meditate on the wrongs done us nor on the wrongdoer. Doing that keeps us reliving and recounting and only multiplies our suffering, robs us of our joy, and keeps us from freely going forward.

Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for God’s wrath, because it is written, Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord. But If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. For in so doing you will be heaping fiery coals on his head. (Ro.12:19-20CSB)

Jesus confronted popular opinion and practice such as “an eye for an eye” with a command not only to not avenge oneself, but as in all things, He went to the heart of the matter. Not only don’t DO it, but don’t even THINK it, DESIRE it, or FEEL it. That’s a big order when we are hurt, offended, betrayed, or abused- the things an enemy does. There is only one answer, one all covering remedy and enabler, and that is God’s love. Jesus says to love your enemies and to bless them is to be like your heavenly Father, who loves us all in the midst of our mess and rebellion and has already decided to forgive us even before we repent. It’s His kindness that leads us to repentance not His anger or righteous judgement. Should we be different?

Jesus said if you have something against someone when you come to worship and pray, you have to stop and take care of it. You cannot say you love God and hate man (1 Jn.4:20), and you can’t ask God to forgive you if you are not willing to forgive others, “forgive us our offenses as we forgive our offenders” (Mt.6:12). Wrap your mind around this, that a transformed mind leads you to a practically unoffendable lifestyle in which you quickly give any offense to God, decide to forgive giving up the right to any claim on the offense, and actually bless the person in prayer, in word, and in action.

Read Pr. 20:22; 25:21-22; 24:29; Mt. 5:44-45: 7:1-5; Ro.2:1-4.

Pray: First, repent for judging and condemning those who have offended you. Second, ask God’s grace, forgive all offense, and let it go. Third, pray the blessing of God’s presence on the life of the offender that the kindness of God may also lead him to repentance and right relationship with God.

Día 29: Suelta y deja obrar a Dios

La naturaleza humana es querer devolversela a una persona cuando nos trata mal. Queremos y nos sentimos justificados para hacerlo. Pero Dios es claro en el hecho de que no es de nuestra parte, ni nuestro derecho ni preocupación, velar por que alguien pague por sus actos, sin importar cómo nos hayan causado sufrimiento. Dios y solo Dios tiene el derecho de juzgar a las personas, de justificar o condenar, y necesitamos establecer eso en nuestro corazón y mente de una vez por todas. Una mente renovada no meditará en los males que nos han hecho ni en el malhechor. Hacer eso nos mantiene reviviendo y contando y solo multiplica nuestro sufrimiento, nos roba nuestra gozo, y nos impide avanzar libremente.

Amados, no se venguen ustedes mismos sino dejen lugar a la ira de Dios, porque está escrito: Mía es la venganza; yo pagaré, dice el Señor. Más bien, si tu enemigo tiene hambre, dale de comer; y si tiene sed, dale de beber; pues haciendo esto, carbones encendidos amontonarás sobre su cabeza. (Ro.12:19-20 RVA 2015)

Jesús se enfrentó a la opinión y la práctica populares como “ojo por ojo” con una orden no solo de no vengarse, sino que como en todas las cosas, Él fue al corazón del asunto. No solo no lo HAGAS, sino que ni siquiera lo PIENSES, LO DESEES o lo SIENTAS. Esa es una gran orden cuando somos heridos, ofendidos, traicionados o abusados, las cosas que hace un enemigo. Solo hay una respuesta, un remedio que cubre y nos empodera, y ese es el amor de Dios. Jesús dice que amar a tus enemigos y bendecirlos es ser como tu Padre celestial, que nos ama a todos en medio de nuestro desorden y rebelión y ya ha decidido perdonarnos incluso antes de que nos arrepintamos. Es Su bondad lo que nos lleva al arrepentimiento, no Su ira o juicio justo. ¿Deberíamos ser diferentes?

Jesús dijo que si tienes algo en contra de alguien cuando vienes a adorar y orar, tienes que detenerte y resolverlo. No puedes decir que amas a Dios y odias al hombre (1 Jn.4:20), y no puedes pedirle a Dios que te perdone si no estás dispuesto a perdonar a los demás, “perdónanos nuestras ofensas como nosotros perdonamos a nuestros ofensores” (Mt.6:12). Envuelve tu mente en torno a esto, que una mente transformada te lleva a un estilo de vida prácticamente inofensivo en el que rápidamente le das cualquier ofensa a Dios, decides perdonar renunciando al derecho a cualquier reclamo sobre la ofensa, y realmente bendices a la persona en oración, en palabra y en acción.

Lee Pr. 20:22; 25:21-22; 24:29; Mt. 5:44-45: 7:1-5;  Ro.2:1-4.

Ora: Primero, arrepiéntete por castigar y condenar a aquellos que te han ofendido.  Segundo, pide la gracia de Dios, perdona toda ofensa y déjala ir.  Tercero, ora la bendición de la presencia de Dios en la vida del ofensor para que la bondad de Dios también pueda llevarlo al arrepentimiento y a una relación correcta con Dios.

Day 28: Are you a reactor or responder?

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Do you tend to go through life reacting or responding? Seriously think about it. Maybe you have thought they are the same, but they’re not. If we look at the medical field, one may get a rash in reaction to something you ate or even some medication, whereas hopes are your body will respond well to treatment. A reaction is kind of like a racquetball bouncing back at you, whereas the response of a batter to a ball thrown at him is prepared and focused on the desired outcome. First responders are trained to take specific action in specific cases based on proven outcomes, not to react to what they see. React is defined as to act in a particular way as a direct result of something else, meeting one action with another one. Reacting is usually instinctive and emotional. Responding takes more work.

Respond and responsible come from the same root “re” (again) and “spondee” (promise).  Being responsible means being dependable, keeping promises and honoring our commitments. It is accepting the consequences for what we say and do. It also means developing our potential. People who are responsible don’t make excuses for their actions or blame others when things go wrong. Respond is the verb form, so we could say you can respond when you are responsible. Quite literally it is “again doing as promised”.

“Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” (Ro.12:17-18 NLT)

Jesus is our greatest example of how to live a life pleasing to God. Whether being criticized by the religious leaders, doubted by his people, threatened by the king, betrayed by a close friend, falsely accused and sentenced, or beaten and hung on a cross to die, Jesus did not react as most men would, resenting, counterattacking, defending innocence, slumping in rejection, or desiring retaliation. Rather in the moment of greatest suffering, not only physical but also the total abandonment of God and man, Jesus said, “Father. Forgive them, they know not what they do.”

There is no way we can control everything in life, what happens around us, and many times what happens to us. But none of that determines who you are and what you do. When you build your life on the principles of God’s word- you get to know them, believe them, and practice them- you predetermine your response to anything thrown at you. You recognize that God’s word is truth, His way is law, and you will live your life according to Him come what may.

Read 1 Thes. 5:15; 1 Peter 2:11-17; 3:8-12.

Pray asking God to help you understand his word and stand firm on it in every and all circumstance.

Día 28: ¿Es usted un reactor o un respondedor?

¿Tiendes a ir por la vida reaccionando o respondiendo? Piénsalo seriamente. Tal vez hayas pensado que son lo mismo, pero no lo son. Si nos fijamos en el campo de la medicina, uno puede tener una erupción en reacción a algo que comió o incluso algún medicamento, mientras que las esperanzas son que su cuerpo responda bien al tratamiento. Una reacción es como cuando la pelota de raquetbol rebota hacia ti, mientras que un bateador responde a una pelota lanzada contra él de modo preparado y enfocado en el resultado deseado. Los socorristas (first responders) están capacitados para tomar medidas específicas en casos específicos basados en resultados comprobados, no para reaccionar a lo que ven. Reaccionar se define como actuar de  una  manera particular como resultado directo de otra cosa, devolviendo una acción por otra. Reaccionar suele ser instintivo y emocional. Responder requiere más trabajo.

Responder y responsable provienen de la misma raíz “re” (otra vez) y “spondee” (promesa).  Ser responsable significa ser confiable, cumplir promesas y honrar nuestros compromisos. Es aceptar las consecuencias de lo que decimos y hacemos. También significa desarrollar nuestro potencial. Las personas que son responsables no ponen excusas por sus acciones o culpan a otros cuando las cosas van mal.  Responder es la forma verbal, por lo que podríamos decir que puedes responder cuando eres responsable. Literalmente es “volver a hacer lo prometido”.

“Nunca le paguen a nadie mal con mal. Al contrario, busquen hacerles el bien a todos. Procuren, en lo que les sea posible, estar en paz con todo el mundo.” (Ro. 12:17-18 NBV)

Jesús es nuestro mayor ejemplo de cómo vivir una vida agradable a Dios. Ya sea siendo criticado por los líderes religiosos, puesto en duda por su pueblo, amenazado por el rey, traicionado por un amigo cercano, falsamente acusado y sentenciado, o golpeado y colgado de una cruz para morir, Jesús no reaccionó como la mayoría de los hombres, resentidos, contraatacando, defendiendo la inocencia, cayendo en el rechazo o deseando represalias. Más bien, en el momento de mayor sufrimiento, no sólo físico, sino también el abandono total de Dios y del hombre, Jesús dijo: “Padre. Perdónalos, no saben lo que hacen”.

No hay manera de que podamos controlar todo en la vida, lo que sucede a nuestro alrededor y muchas veces lo que nos sucede. Pero nada de eso determina quién eres y qué haces. Cuando construyes tu vida sobre los principios de la palabra de Dios, los conoces, los crees y los practicas, predeterminas tu respuesta a cualquier cosa que se te lance. Reconoces que la palabra de Dios es verdad, Su camino es ley, y vivirás tu vida de acuerdo a Él pase lo que pase.

Lee 1 Tes. 5:15; 1 Pedro 2:11-17; 3:8-12.

Ora pidiéndole a Dios que te ayude a entender su palabra y a mantenerte firme en ella en todas y cada una de las circunstancias.

Day 27: Let’s make some music!

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Do you like to listen to music? Most people have their favorite genre, but whether you prefer pop, country, Christian, rock, jazz, classical, or another, I think there is one thing they should all have in common- harmony. When I was in elementary school, I played the flute in the band for several years.  I remember we had some pretty discordant practice sessions, usually because someone wasn’t practicing as they should. It didn’t matter if 29 out of 30 played beautifully. If one was not in tune, harmony was not achieved. Harmony is not uniformity; it is not everyone playing the same note. Rather it is the combination of simultaneous notes that form chords and progressions in an agreeable way. Variety combined skillfully enhances the individual sounds more than on their own.

” Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud; instead, associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own estimation.” (Ro. 12:16 CSB)

When we learn to appreciate the differences and strengths of those doing life with us, we are free to complement each other instead of competing, life is enriched, and we can go further. The first key for harmony is that all of us should be focused above all on God and letting Him fine tune us. If you are focused on pleasing Him, you remain humble and loving, and come to the second key. Second, grow in seeing others as He does. That means treat others with love and patience in their process, appreciation for gifts and talents, faith for God’s work through them, and a helping hand in what you can. Third, don’t judge or discriminate against a fellow believer, because what you do to them you do to Christ himself. Fourth, don’t think you have all the answers, it’s your way or the highway, rather always go to God for wisdom. God says, Oh, how good and pleasant it is for brothers to live together in unity and harmony. Let’s just do it!

Read Psalm133; James 2; 3:13

Pray John 17:20-23.

Día 27: ¡Hagamos algo de música!

¿Te gusta escuchar música? La mayoría de la gente tiene su género favorito, pero ya sea que prefieras pop, country, cristiano, rock, jazz, clásico u otro, creo que hay una cosa que todos deberían tener en común: la armonía. Cuando estaba en la escuela primaria, toqué la flauta en la banda durante varios años.  Recuerdo que tuvimos algunas sesiones de práctica bastante discordantes, generalmente porque alguien no estaba practicando como debería. No importaba si 29 de 30 tocaban maravillosamente, si uno no estaba en sintonía, no se lograba la armonía. La armonía no es uniformidad; no todos tocan la misma nota. Más bien es la combinación de notas simultáneas que forman acordes y progresiones de una manera agradable. La variedad combinada mejora hábilmente los sonidos individuales más que por sí solos.

“Vivan en paz y armonía unos con otros. No sean orgullosos, sino amigos de los que la gente desprecia. No se crean mejores ni más sabios que los demás.” (Ro. 12:16 PDT)

Cuando aprendemos a apreciar las diferencias y fortalezas de aquellos que viven la vida con nosotros, somos libres de complementarnos en lugar de competir, la vida se enriquece y podemos ir más lejos. La primera clave para la armonía es que todos nosotros debemos estar enfocados sobre todo en Dios y dejar que Él nos afine. Si estás enfocado en complacerlo a él, permaneces humilde y amoroso, y llegas a la segunda clave. Segundo, crecer en ver a los demás como Él lo hace. Eso significa tratar a los demás con amor y paciencia en su proceso, aprecio por los dones y talentos, fe en la obra de Dios a través de ellos, y una mano de ayuda en lo que puedas. Tercero, no juzgues ni discrimines a un compañero creyente, porque lo que le haces a él se lo haces a Cristo mismo. Cuarto, no pienses que tienes todas las respuestas, que tiene que ser a tu manera o ninguna, más bien siempre ve a Dios en busca de sabiduría. Dios dice: Oh, qué bueno y agradable es para los hermanos vivir juntos en unidad y armonía. ¡Hagámoslo!

Lea Salmo 133; Santiago 2; 3:13

Ora John 17:20-23.

Day 26: Rejoice with those who rejoice

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When you read, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep”, you probably think that it’s a no brainer. I mean, are you happy when a friend invites you to a birthday party? Of course. And when someone close to a friend dies, are you likely to cry with them? Probably. This is basic empathy, the kind that comes naturally and doesn’t cost much.

But what about when your present circumstances are very different then another’s? Can you rejoice with and not resent the coworker that gets the promotion that you really wanted? Can you rejoice with your friend that’s overjoyed with great grades he didn’t expect, when you fail? Can you rejoice with your sister for her 3rd pregnancy when you’re trying but haven’t had one? And how about being happy for everyone at Christmas when you have lost your spouse?

Comparison, envy, and discontent are a few of the things that can keep us from rejoicing with others. Jesus told a parable about a man who hired workers on an agreed wage and sent them to work his vineyard. Later he hired others and yet later a few more, but all went to work gladly at the wage offered. However, when at the end of the day they began to be paid and the last workers received the same wage as the first, the first were not at all happy. They believed their wage to be fully acceptable until they compared themselves with others and decided it wasn’t fair.

“He replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I’m doing you no wrong. Didn’t you agree with me on a denarius? Take what’s yours and go. I want to give this last man the same as I gave you. Don’t I have the right to do what I want with what is mine? Are you jealous] because I’m generous?’’ (Mt.20:13-15 CSB)

God is good all the time when we feel like it or not. His goodness to others does not limit his goodness to us nor the other way around, as His goodness has no bounds. When we rejoice with others amid our heartache or hardship, we are declaring our trust in God and His sovereign will. Yes, it means dying to self, not thinking more highly of yourself then you should, and honoring others before yourself. But then that is what it means be a living sacrifice, growing more like Christ and less like self.  

Read Ro. 12:14; Mt. 20:1-16; Ps. 23; 118:24.

Pray repenting for envy and discontent and ask God to give you His heart of compassion and goodness.  

Día 26: Gózate con los que se gozan

Cuando lees: Gócense con los que se gozan. Lloren con los que lloran“, probablemente pienses que es una obviedad. Quiero decir, ¿te alegras cuando un amigo te invita a una fiesta de cumpleaños? Claro. Y cuando alguien cercano a un amigo muere, ¿es probable que llores con ellos? Probablemente. Esta es la empatía básica, del tipo que viene naturalmente y no cuesta mucho.

Pero, ¿qué pasa cuando tus circunstancias actuales son muy diferentes a las de los demás? ¿Puedes regocijarte y no resentirte con el compañero de trabajo que obtiene la promoción que realmente querías? ¿Puedes gozarte con tu amigo que celebra las excelentes calificaciones que no esperaba, cuando fallas? ¿Puedes regocijarte con tu hermana por su 3er embarazo cuando lo estás intentando pero no has tenido uno? ¿O qué tal alegrarte con todos en la navidad cuando has perdido a tu conyuge?

La comparación, la envidia y el descontento son algunas de las cosas que pueden evitar que nos regocijemos con los demás. Jesús contó una parábola acerca de un hombre que contrató trabajadores con un salario acordado y los envió a trabajar en su viña. Más tarde contrató a otros y, sin embargo, más tarde a algunos más, pero todos se fueron a trabajar con gusto al salario ofrecido. Sin embargo, cuando al final del día comenzaron a pagarse y los últimos trabajadores recibieron el mismo salario que el primero, los primeros no fueron nada felices. Creían que su salario era totalmente aceptable hasta que se compararon con los demás y decidieron que no era justo.

“Pero él respondió y dijo a uno de ellos: “Amigo, no te hago ninguna injusticia. ¿No conviniste conmigo en un salario para el día?  Toma lo que es tuyo y vete. Pero quiero darle a este último como a ti.¿No me es lícito hacer lo que quiero con lo mío? ¿O tienes envidia porque soy bueno?”.” (Mt.20:13-15 RVA2015)

Dios es bueno todo el tiempo cuando nos parece así o no. Su bondad hacia los demás no limita su bondad hacia nosotros ni al revés, ya que Su bondad no tiene límites. Cuando nos regocijamos con los demás en medio de nuestra angustia o dificultades, estamos declarando nuestra confianza en Dios y Su voluntad soberana. Sí, significa morir a uno mismo, no pensar más en ti mismo de lo que deberías, y honrar a los demás antes que a ti mismo. Pero, pues, eso es lo que significa ser un sacrificio vivo, creciendo más como Cristo y menos como uno mismo. 

Lee Ro. 12:14; Mt. 20:1-16; Sal. 23; 118:24.

Ora arrepintiéndote de la envidia y el descontento y pídele a Dios que te dé Su corazón de compasión y bondad.