Peace In The Night - Special Tea Recipe

 

🍵 Recipe for Rest: Heavenly Bedtime Tea & Scripture Comfort

Heavenly Bedtime Tea

A calming tea to help you wind down and prepare for restful sleep.

**Ingredients:**

1 teaspoon dried chamomile (relaxes nerves and calms the mind)

1/2 teaspoon lavender buds (eases anxiety and promotes sleep)

1 slice of fresh ginger (soothes digestion and relaxes the body)

1 teaspoon honey (natural sweetener and throat soother)

1 cup boiling water

Optional: 1 slice of lemon or a dash of cinnamon

**Instructions:**

1. In a teapot or mug, add chamomile, lavender, and ginger.

2. Pour over boiling water.

3. Cover and steep for 5–7 minutes.

4. Strain (if using loose herbs), then stir in honey.

5. Sip slowly and breathe deeply before bed.

🫖 Tip: Prepare your tea as part of your nightly wind-down—dim the lights, play soft worship music, and end the day gently in God’s presence.

📖 Scripture Comfort for Sleep

“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.”

— Psalm 4:8 (NLT)

🙏 Bedtime Prayer

Lord, thank You for this day. Quiet my mind, soothe my body, and let Your peace settle over me like a warm blanket. In Your safety, I rest. Amen.

Morning Glory Oatmeal Bowl

 

Morning Glory Oatmeal Bowl

Nourishment for the Body and Soul

Ingredients:

·    1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

·    2 cups water or milk of choice

·    1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

·    1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

·     1/4 cup chopped apples or berries

·     2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or almonds

·     1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

·      A sprinkle of love and a pinch of prayers!

Instructions:

1. Bring water or milk to a boil in a small saucepan.

2. Stir in oats and reduce heat to a simmer.

3. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

4. Stir in cinnamon and honey.

5. Top with apples, berries, nuts, and chia seeds.

6. Serve warm and enjoy with a grateful heart!

Morning Devotion:

"Give us today our daily bread." - Matthew 6:11 (NIV)

As you nourish your body with this warm, hearty meal, take a moment to nourish your soul too. Just as God provides for your physical needs, He longs to feed your heart with His Word, His promises, and His presence.

Before you take the first bite, whisper a simple prayer:

Lord, thank You for today's blessings, both seen and unseen. Nourish my body with this meal, and nourish my spirit with Your love. Guide my steps and fill my heart with Your peace.

Starting your day with God strengthens you for whatever lies ahead.

Sunday I Took the Step of Faith

April 27, 2025 — My Baptism Day

---

Today, I Took the Step of Faith

On this beautiful day, I made the life-changing decision to follow Christ fully and publicly through baptism. This was not just a ceremony; it was a declaration of my heart, my love, and my surrender to the One who has always loved me. After a long season of preparation, prayer, and trust, I stepped into the water and arose renewed — a new creation in Christ Jesus. 💖💜💙

---

Reflection

Yesterday was the best experience ever. As I stood there, I felt an overwhelming peace and joy flood my soul. I knew, without any doubt, that I was exactly where God wanted me to be. All the fears, doubts, and waiting melted away, and I stepped boldly into God's promises. I am reminded that His salvation is simple, His love is pure, and His arms are always open wide like a loving Father welcoming His child home.

I thank God for the simplicity of this moment — for reminding me that faith is not about perfection but about trust. I lay down the complicated parts of my life at His feet and rise with the heart of a child: meek, humble, and ready to follow.

---

Scripture Blessing

2 Corinthians 5:17 (VOICE):
"If anyone is united with the Anointed One, that person is a new creation. The old life is gone — and see — a new life has begun!"

Romans 6:4 (VOICE):
"Therefore, we were buried with Him by baptism into death so that, just as the Anointed One was raised from the dead through the Father's glorious power, we too might walk habitually in newness of life."

---

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of baptism — the outward sign of an inward transformation. Thank You for Your patience, Your kindness, and Your unwavering call to my heart. I dedicate this day to You. Help me to take up my cross daily, to trust You with childlike simplicity, and to shine the light of Your love in every step I take.

May this new beginning be marked by obedience, joy, and unwavering faith. Use me for Your glory. I am Yours, now and forever.

In Jesus' precious name, Amen.

---

✨ Today, I am made new. Today, I walk forward — carrying the Cross with the heart of a child. ✨

Matters of the Heart - God's Resilient Love

 I  am 4 days away from one of the greatest days of my life. 

On Sunday, April 27th,2025, I will be baptized.

As I draw closer, God is revealing amazing things in His Word.

God’s Resilient Love

Luke 15:19-24 (VOICE)

19 I am not worthy to be called your son. Let me be like one of your servants.
20 So he got up and returned to his father. The father looked off in the distance and saw the young man returning. He felt compassion for his son and ran out to him, enfolded him in an embrace, and kissed him.
21 The son said, “Father, I have done wrong against God and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.”
22 But the father said to his servants, “Hurry! Bring the best clothes and put them on him. Put a ring on his finger and shoes on his feet.
23 Bring the best calf and prepare it so we can eat and celebrate.
24 for this son of mine was dead and is alive again! He was lost and has been found!” So, they had this huge party.

🌿 Reflection: God’s Resilient Love

1. His Love Sees You from a Distance

The father saw the son from a distance. That’s not by chance—it’s because he never stopped looking. God never stops watching for me. He sees me on the road back, even when I feel far away.

2. His Love Runs Toward You

This is one of the few instances in Scripture where God is depicted as running. That’s how eager He is to wrap His arms around me, not with shame or punishment but with an embrace.

3. His Love Restores, Not Rejects

The son had a speech ready: “I’m not worthy.” But the father didn’t even let him finish. Instead, he restored him—robe, ring, sandals… and celebration. That’s how God sees me this week. Not as broken or unworthy, but as beloved and fully restored.

4. His Love Rejoices Over You

The celebration wasn’t out of obligation—it was from joy. When I step into the water this Sunday, Heaven will dance. I will not just be rededicating my life,  I will be walking in the full embrace of the One who never stopped loving me.

💖 Journal Note

Even when I feel unworthy, Your love rushes to meet me. You don’t wait for me to have the right words. You meet me with a robe of grace, a ring of identity, and the shoes of peace. I’m not coming back to condemnation—I’m coming back to celebration. That is *God’s Resilient Love.*

 

Roasted Root Veggies

Click the link above for the recipe.

Served with Zucchini Garlic Cashew Soup

Worship and Praise - Who Is Like You, O'God

 🕊️ A Morning Prayer of Praise

“Lord, You alone are worthy. There is none like You. I will declare Your righteousness all day long. You have been my teacher, my shelter, and the lifter of my head. I worship You not for what You’ve done, but for who You are — my faithful God, my unshakable hope. Let my life be a song of praise that never ends. I want to praise you for all you have done for me. When I think of your goodness, Jesus, I will praise you. Thank You!

🌿 "Who Is Like You, God?" — A Morning of Worship and Praise

Scripture Focus: Psalm 71:14-24 (VOICE & NKJV blend)

“But I will keep on hoping for You to help me; I will praise You more and more. I cannot count the times when you have faithfully rescued me from danger. I will declare Your goodness all day long.”
(Psalm 71:14-15)

My praise today is a living testimony to the Psalm. I am declaring:

• I’ve been rescued.
• I’ve been restored.
• I’ve been reminded of His daily goodness.

“Who is like You, God?”

💎 There Is No One Like Our God

• He is our constant hope (v. 14)
• He is our faithful rescuer (v. 15)
• He has taught us from our youth and still teaches us now (v. 17)
• He revives us again and again (v. 20)
• He surrounds us with comfort and honor (v. 21)
• He fills our hearts and lips with praise (v. 23–24)

I am not just reading this Psalm—I feel like I am living it out loud this morning. My heart is a harp, and every word is a note of gratitude 🎶.

✨ What I am Saying to the Most High God:

• “You saved me from myself.”
• “You’ve been with me since my youth, and You’re not done with me yet.”                    (Psalm 71:17)
• “Now I declare Your marvelous deeds with every breath I take.” (v. 24)

My Final Note:

"Worship and Praise will keep hope alive". - This is truth wrapped in grace, and I am living proof that God does rescue us, not just from the world, but often from our own brokenness.

Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

Click the link above for the recipe.

True Worship - My Journal

True Worship: An Expression of Obedience, Praise, Honor, and Adoration

Matters of the Heart —Sharing my Journey with God, and my faith with others.

Written by Carol

Dear Worshiper,

Welcome to True Worship: True Worship is any expression of obedience, praise, honor, adoration, and gratitude offered to the true God by a regenerate soul who knows the truth about God and loves him. This devotional was born out of my journey of rediscovery, as I returned to God's heart, learned to worship Him in spirit and truth, and allowed that Worship to extend beyond Sunday Church Services into everyday life. This lesson on Worship is currently being taught by my Senior Pastor, Dr. Joel Tudman, at Faith Center Sunrise. Whenever a lesson is taught in Sunday Worship or Bible Study. I like to take it a step further and put my notes in a journal format to refer to them when I have an issue that needs reinforcement. Worship is not just a song we sing; it is a surrendered life we live. It is in the quiet moments, the hard seasons, and the midnight hours, just like Paul and Silas in prison. I have learned that real Worship breaks every chain, opens hearts, and invites God’s presence into the darkest places.

My prayer is that this message blesses you, strengthens your relationship with the Lord, and draws you into deeper, more intimate Worship. As you write, reflect, and pray, may the Holy Spirit meet you on every page.

 Worship That Breaks All Strongholds

The story of Paul and Silas in prison is found in Acts 16:16-40. This chapter details their imprisonment, their continued prayer and praise to God, an earthquake that releases them from prison, and the jailer's conversion.

Acts 16 teaches us about God's leading and the power of the Holy Spirit in spreading the Gospel, as well as the importance of faith, perseverance, and joy in Christ, even in the face of hardship. It also highlights the significance of praying for God's guidance and direction. 

Devotional Thought:

There is a kind of Worship that does not wait for a breakthrough; it brings the breakthrough. Paul and Silas, shackled and bloodied in the prison of Philippi, did not let their chains stop their praise. At midnight, the darkest moment of their situation, they lifted their voices in prayer and Worship. 

An earthquake shook the very foundation of the prison, doors swung open, and every chain was loosed.

This is not just a historical account; it is a spiritual principle. When we choose to worship God even when it hurts, walls fall, chains break, and hearts are changed. Worship is warfare. Praise is power. And your midnight melody may just be the key to someone else’s freedom.

The Heart of True Worship

Scripture Focus: Psalm 99:5-9, John 4:23-24

Final Thought

Worship is not about music or mood; it’s about meeting God at His footstool and bowing low in our hearts even when life is full of issues. True Worship exalts God because He is holy, not because everything is perfect around us. Worship is our surrender, our echo back to God of who He already is.

Heart Check-In

Am I worshiping from a place of truth (from the bottom of my heart), or is this just an emotion?

Is there something I’ve placed on the throne of my heart that needs to be surrendered?

Do I worship even when I don’t feel Him?

Prayer Starter

Father, I come to Your footstool today, not asking for anything, but to exalt You for who You are. You are holy. You are worthy. Let my Worship resonate through the walls of my heart and out into the lives around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Worship Moment

Do you have a phrase, lyrics, or thought that rose in you during Worship this week? Was it a whisper, a scripture, or a song? Leave a comment on this page, and it will remain here.

Here is mine:

Power in the name of Jesus that breaks every chain.

For your Glory, I will do anything, just to see you and praise your name.

Psalms 9:1-2 (NIV)

I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.

I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.

Bake Turkey Sausage Empanadas

Click the link above for the recipe.

 

🌾 Book Summary: Deuteronomy

“The Book of Remembrance and Renewal”

Matters of the Heart Series – Journal Reflection by Carol A. White

📜 Overview

Deuteronomy, the fifth book of the Torah (Pentateuch), is a powerful collection of Moses' final speeches to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. The name means “Second Law,” not because the law changes but because it is repeated and reinforced for a new generation. Moses, now 120 years old, reviews their journey, failures, and God’s enduring mercy, urging them to obey and remember the covenant that God has made with them.

✍️ Major Themes and Lessons

Remember the Journey

“The Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast wilderness.” – Deuteronomy 2:7

Moses reminds the Israelites how God provided and protected them, even when they were rebellious. Remembering the past is essential for spiritual growth and obedience.

Love the Lord with All Your Heart

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” – Deuteronomy 6:5

This becomes the foundation of worship and obedience. God’s covenant is about love, not legalism, a relationship of trust and wholehearted devotion.

Obedience Brings Blessings

“If you fully obey the Lord your God… all these blessings will come on you and accompany you.” – Deuteronomy 28:12

Deuteronomy clearly outlines the results of obedience and disobedience. Blessings and curses are set before them, and they are told to choose life.

Choose Life, Not Death

“This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses… I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. 

Now choose life…” – Deuteronomy 30:19

Moses pleads with them to make wise choices, because every decision brings an “invoice.” The cost of disobedience is high, but the reward of faithfulness is greater.

Leadership and Succession

Moses passes the mantle to Joshua. Although Moses would not enter the land, his obedience to the end is a testament to his faith and humility.

🎶 The Song of Moses – Deuteronomy 32

This poetic chapter is a spiritual memorial — a witness to God's faithfulness and the people’s tendency to forget. Moses sings of God's justice, mercy, and unchanging character. It is both warning and worship, reminding them who God is and what He has done.

“He is the Rock, His works are perfect, and all His ways are just.” – Deuteronomy 32:4

💭 Reflection Question

Will the Israelites ever learn?

That question echoes not just for them… but for us. God is always faithful — the question is, will we remain faithful to Him? As Moses said, “These are not just idle words for you—they are your life.” (Deuteronomy 32:47)

❤️ My Heart Note:

I have seen myself in this journey: in the wilderness, in moments of rebellion, and the restoration of obedience. Like the Israelites, I’ve had to face my own heart and choose life every day. But through it all, I’ve seen the hand of God. This book has marked my season of waiting and trusting. Just like Moses, I know God is preparing me for the next step, even if I cannot see it yet.

Teriyaki Sesame Chicken Thighs

Click the link above for the recipe.

Matters of The Heart - The Choice is Yours - Life or Death

 Scripture Focus: Deuteronomy 30

Introduction: A Sacred Turning Point

As I come to the end of my study of Deuteronomy, chapter 30 stands out as a sacred invitation from God—an offering of mercy, restoration, and divine choice. It marks not just the conclusion of a book but the beginning of a new season in my life.

There is a saying my sister and I often reflect on: "Choices come with invoices." How true that is. We may be forgiven, but we often have to live through the consequences of our decisions. Deuteronomy 30 lays this out with clarity, compassion, and hope. It reminds me that God doesn’t just give second chances—He gives new beginnings.

Verses 1–10: A Call to Return and Be Restored

"Then the Lord your God will restore your fortunes and have compassion on you..." (v.3)

This section is a beautiful promise of restoration. God acknowledges that we may wander, but He promises to gather, heal, and bless us when we return to Him with all our hearts and souls.

1. He will bring us back from distant places.
2. He will circumcise our hearts (v.6), removing what is dead and making us alive to Him.
3. He will bless our descendants and deal with our enemies.
4. He will rejoice over us once again.

This is grace upon grace. God is not done with us. He is still writing our story.

Verses 11–14: The Word Is Near

"It is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach... the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it" (v.11,14)

God is not asking the impossible. He’s already equipped us with His Word. It’s not locked away in heaven or hidden across the sea; it's accessible, alive, and close. This verse reminds me that obedience starts with intimacy.

This brings me to a personal revelation:
"Am I living as though the Word is in my heart and mouth?"
I can’t have it both ways. It has to start in my heart. When the Word is planted deeply within, it naturally flows from my lips and into my actions. It becomes a guide, a guard, and a grounding place. This is not about religious duty—it’s about relationships. It’s about being a hearer and a doer of the Word.

Verses 15–20: Choose Life

"See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction... Now choose life, so that you and your children may live" (v.15,19)

Here, we arrive at the heart of the chapter. God lays before us a divine fork in the road: life or death, blessings or curses. And then—like a loving Father—He urges us to choose life.

Ø Choosing life means:
1. Loving the Lord your God.
2. Walking in obedience to His voice.
3. Hold fast to Him when life tries to pull you away.

Every decision we make creates a spiritual invoice. Some are paid in joy and growth, and others in tears and consequences. But God is always faithful to forgive, heal, and restore when we return to Him.

Reflection Section: The Invoice of My Choice

Looking back, I see times when I made poor decisions—when I chose fear over faith, flesh over spirit, or silence over truth. Yes, God forgave me, but I still had to walk through the consequences.

Yet, even in those moments, God never left me. He stayed near, offering grace and guidance.

Today, I make a different kind of choice. I choose to:
1. Place His Word deep in my heart.
2. Let it shape my words.
3. Let it lead my decisions.
4. Let it produce the fruit of obedience in my life.

I want my life to be a living testimony of what it means to choose life—not just once, but every single day.

Scriptures to Meditate On:
Galatians 6:7 – “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
Romans 10:8-10 – “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and your heart...”
Joshua 24:15 – “Choose this day whom you will serve...”
Proverbs 14:12 – “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”

Prayer:

Father, thank You for Your mercy and for always welcoming me back. Help me to live with Your Word deeply rooted in my heart so that my words and actions reflect You. Teach me to choose life—not just in theory, but in how I walk, speak, love, and obey. Amen.

Closing Thought:

Deuteronomy 30 isn’t just a chapter—it’s a crossroad, a place of sacred decision. Today, I choose life. I choose truth. I choose obedience.

What invoice is being written by your choices today?

May your heart hear His voice and respond with a resounding choice to say yes. 🌸

Roasted Leg of Lamb

Sunday Dinner Special: Click the link above for the recipe.

Matters of the Heart: Dressed for Battle

 

Putting on the Whole Armor of God 

"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil..." – Ephesians 6:11

Morning Reflection:

Each morning as I rise, I fix my mind on more than just what to wear—I prepare my heart and soul for the day ahead. I get dressed not just in clothes but in spiritual armor because I know the enemy does not wait for an invitation. The day will bring challenges, distractions, and sometimes discouragement. But when I walk covered in God’s armor, I can stand.

The Armor Breakdown:

Belt of Truth

I fasten Truth around my waist. God’s Word is my foundation. I will not be swayed by lies or confusion.

Breastplate of Righteousness

I cover my heart with Christ's righteousness, and I am protected from shame, guilt, and accusation.

Shoes of the Gospel of Peace

I step into my day, ready to walk in peace and share it. His Word guides my steps.

Shield of Faith

I carry faith as my defense. It extinguishes fear, doubt, and fiery attacks from the enemy.

Helmet of Salvation

I protect my mind. I remember who I am and whose I am. My thoughts are renewed in Christ.

Sword of the Spirit

I hold onto God’s Word, ready to speak life, declare promises, and fight with the Truth.

Prayer

My connection to God is my lifeline. I stay alert, pray always, and remain in constant communion with the One who goes before me.

Heart Note:

This armor isn’t for decoration—it’s for warfare. And the battlefield is often invisible. That’s why each piece matters. It covers the most vulnerable areas of our lives. My heart, my mind, my steps, my faith. I put it on intentionally—because my life depends on it.

Understanding the Word “Stand” in Ephesians 6

In Ephesians 6:11, Paul says:
"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil."

The Greek Word used here is "histēmi" (ἵστημι), which means:
- To hold your ground
- To be established
- To set yourself firmly and be immovable
- To resist or withstand pressure

So, when Paul says "stand", he’s saying:

"Be prepared. Stay rooted. Don’t retreat. Take your place in the battle, and refuse to be moved by fear, lies, or temptation."

It’s an action of spiritual courage, not passivity.

Reflection Questions 

•How do I prepare myself spiritually each morning before stepping into my day? 
(Am I dressing for battle or rushing into the day uncovered?)
•Which piece of the armor of God do I tend to overlook or forget? 
(Why might that be, and how can I be more intentional?)
•What does “stand” mean to me in my current season of life?              (Am I resisting the pressure to give in, give up, or go back?)
•How can I use prayer as my daily weapon and shield? 
(Do I talk to God throughout the day or only during specific moments?)
•Have I allowed any part of my heart to remain exposed? 
(What can I surrender to God today so I can be fully covered?)
•When was the last time I truly saw God fight for me when I stood firm? 
(What did that moment teach me about trust and endurance?)

Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry 

Click the link above for the recipe.