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The Beauty of the Empty Cup: Finding Purpose in the Pour

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

Spiritual maturity involves gradually emptying our ego, time, and energy until, by the end of our life, only the vessel remains. Apostle Paul exemplified someone who dedicated himself completely to God’s service until the very end of his life (Phil. 2:17; 2 Timothy 4:6, ESV).

We live in a culture obsessed with “the refill.” We are told to protect our energy, refill our cups, and hoard our resources. We treat our lives like bank accounts, aiming to die with the highest balance possible. But when the Apostle Paul reached the end of his journey, he didn’t boast about how much he had left. He boasted that he was empty.

“I am being poured out” (2 Timothy 4:6), he wrote from a cold Roman cell. He didn’t view his impending death as a tragic loss or a squandered potential. Instead, he saw it as a libation – a sacred drink offering. In the ancient world, a drink offering was the final act of a sacrifice; it was the wine poured over the flames that sent a sweet-smelling cloud of incense upward toward heaven.

What if the purpose of your life isn’t to keep your cup full, but to find the right “altar” to pour it on? What if our greatest joy isn’t in what we hold onto, but in the intentional, sacred act of being used up for something eternal?

If Paul’s “drink offering” serves as the theological symbol of a life poured out, then the woman with the alabaster jar (Mark 14:3-9, Luke 7:36-50) is the tangible expression of that truth.

In those days, an alabaster jar of nard was essentially a “retirement fund” or a “dowry.” It was the most valuable thing she owned. To pour it out, it had to be broken.

You cannot pour out a drink offering if the vessel stays sealed. Often, our lives must be “broken”—through trials, humility, or surrender—before the fragrance of our spirit can be released.

The disciples, especially Judas, called her act a “waste.” They looked at the liquid on the floor and saw that its value was lost.

To the world, your time spent in prayer or serving “the least of these” might seem like a waste of talent. But Jesus redefined “waste” as beauty. He said, “She has done a beautiful thing to me” (Matthew 26:10; Mark 14:6).

Our lives will mean more when we leave nothing behind but a sweet aroma.

We often desire the fragrance of a spiritual life without the pain of the “break.” But an unopened jar is just a container; its value is hidden inside, serving no one. Vulnerability is the “aroma” of the Christian life. When we stop trying to appear “put together” and instead pour out our true, broken selves at the feet of Jesus, people notice.

I heard something on the radio this week that really resonated with me. The Air1 host pointed out that we spend our entire lives searching for our calling, when all we are called to do is know God and make Him known to others. 

To know Him is the “filling” of the jar. You can’t pour out what you haven’t first received. This is the private, quiet work of intimacy, study, and prayer.

To make Him known involves the “breaking” and the “pouring.” Once the jar is full, the next natural step is to release that fragrance so others can experience it as well.

Still, a deeper meaning is coming to light here. There was prophecy in the perfume.

When we look closer at the physical properties of the Alabaster Jar, the Gospel story begins to glow with new colors. Consider the symbolism tucked away in the materials:

  • The Alabaster (His Body): Alabaster is a white, translucent stone—pure and fine-textured. It vividly depicts Jesus’s sinless humanity. Like the jar, He was the perfect, holy vessel that carried the presence of God.
  • The Nard (His Blood): Pure nard is a rare, costly, and notably reddish spice. As this crimson liquid flowed from the jar, it served as a prophetic “preview” of the blood that Christ would soon shed on the cross.
  • The Break (The Cross): The jar had to be broken to release the treasure. It couldn’t be “unplugged” or “siphoned.” Similarly, Christ’s body was broken (Isaiah 53:5) so that the “fragrance” of salvation could be released to all of us.

The woman was not just performing a random act of kindness; she was unknowingly embodying the Gospel. The most beautiful gift the Father ever gave us was a “Broken Jar”—the body of His Son—poured out so that the scent of grace would fill the world.

As you walk away from this page, take a deep breath and remember: You can let go of everything you think you are to embrace all that Jesus knows you to be. The “pour” isn’t a loss; it’s an upgrade.

Learning to Thrive – not Just Survive

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

We often treat our spiritual lives like a life raft—something to keep us from drowning during a tough week. But what if God didn’t call us to just keep our heads above water? What if the goal wasn’t only to survive until Sunday, but to thrive every single day in the Vine?

In a world where busyness is constant, we need to intentionally slow down and find peace. Achieving peace amid chaos isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. It comes from abiding in God, which is rooted in thriving, not just surviving.

Where busyness is the symptom, striving is the cause, often marked by frantic activity. A branch doesn’t struggle to produce grapes; it stays connected to the vine. Thriving results from spiritual positioning, while survival comes from human effort, which can lead to unnecessary stress, to say the least.

Last year, my focus was on intentionality, but this year God has led me to a deeper place: “Abide.” Jesus tells us that He is the vine, and we are the branches. “Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5, ESV, Emphasis added).

This is a great reminder that our only role is to stay connected. Jesus is the source of nourishment. When we become tired, we may be just surviving by our own strength rather than thriving in His.  

Similarly, the image of pruning branches so they will bear more fruit (John 15:2) is not meant as punishment but as preparation. God sometimes removes what is good so we can have the energy to produce what is excellent. Otherwise, we risk overextending ourselves with many good things when we need to say no to some of them to say yes to something greater.

Based on my experience, the times I was in survival mode—just trying to get through the day—were when I neglected to spend time with God or got distracted from it. On days I started with prayer, quiet time, and God’s Word, I felt more peace.

Peace is more than just quiet; it’s the renewal of everything to its intended, flourishing state. The Holman Bible Dictionary describes it as the “state of being spiritually whole again” (Rom. 14:17; Gal. 5:22; Brand, 1234). There is a clear difference between being ‘near’ the vine (religion) and being ‘in’ the vine (relationship).

God the Father tended, watched over, and protected the garden. Jesus is the source that supplies the nutrients, and the Holy Spirit is the invisible lifeblood that moves like sap from the vine to the branch, through which God’s power flows in us.

This reminded me of something God put on my heart when I needed it most:

You are a beautiful flower in My garden. I send rain and sunlight to nurture you and help you grow. You are protected under the care of the Master Gardener, never to be plucked or taken away from Me again.

May we stop trying to manufacture fruit and start abiding in the Gardener’s Care.

God is glorified when His followers bear abundant fruit to advance His kingdom on earth (John 15:8). While attending church and worshiping in community each Sunday is important, it is even more vital for us to be fruit-bearers throughout the week. Thriving occurs when we realize that “worship” isn’t just the songs we sing on Sunday, but also the way we interact with others and God on Tuesday afternoon. A “living” sacrifice moves, acts, and bears fruit throughout the week.

I have never claimed to be a great houseplant caregiver. Still, a kind lady at church gave us a plant – we named him George – thinking that giving it a name would help us remember to water it. It doesn’t always work, but we’re trying. The idea of worship only once a week is like watering a plant just once a month – it might survive, but it will never thrive. Community is the “greenhouse’ that encourages us, but the “fruit” is meant to be shared with a hungry world outside the greenhouse walls.

In which area of your life are you just “maintaining” (simply trying not to break it), instead of practicing “stewardship” (seeking God’s guidance to make it flourish)?

God didn’t call you to merely survive in the world; He called you to be a light to it. Survival is about avoiding death, but thriving is about embracing Life. Choose to abide today.

“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:11, emphasis added).

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (Romans 12:1 ESV).

Healed by the Truth: Finding Your Worth in Christ After Spiritual Abuse

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

This may be a sensitive subject, but I believe it’s important to highlight the beauty of God’s Word and how it can be twisted into a heavy burden. This content started as a school paper assignment a few years ago that resonated deeply with me as a former victim of abuse, even though it wasn’t specifically spiritual abuse. Still, over the years of leading a care group for women who are or have been victims of all types of abuse, this topic has touched my heart, reflecting a very real situation that is still happening today.

By referencing the true character of Christ and the “Filter of Love” in 1 Corinthians 13, I aim to help you dismantle the lies you’ve been told and return to the healing, freeing grace of our Heavenly Father. When we accept Christ and let Him be our First Love, we are no longer victims at the hands of men — we become victors in Christ.

Domestic abuse isn’t always marked by a broken arm or a black eye. Sometimes, the deepest wounds are inflicted with words—specifically, the Word of God.

For many Christian women struggling to save their marriages despite their husbands’ abuse, the Word of God is turned against them. Their home can become a place of silent despair instead of a refuge. Even more heartbreaking is when the very Bible meant to offer comfort is twisted into a tool of control.

If you have felt the sting of Scripture being used to shame or silence you, you are not alone – more importantly, you are seen by God, who never intended for you to be treated this way. Many husbands, who want to control their wives, use the Bible as their weapon, with selective quoting – focusing on submission while ignoring sacrificial love – by distorting God’s Word.

Whether you’re familiar with the term ‘spiritual abuse’ or not, you might know someone who has experienced it firsthand, or perhaps you have been a victim yourself. Spiritual abuse is characterized by an entitlement mentality that seeks power instead of the “mutuality and service” Paul calls for in Ephesians 5. Tension and unrest undermine the very purpose of God’s design in a fallen world. The husband’s challenge is not to abuse his power by using Scripture to justify his actions while blatantly ignoring other crucial verses.

Many women who experience spiritual abuse remain and endure it because of their faith, believing that God does not permit divorce or even separation from their husbands. For these women and others, it is crucial to understand the character of God so they can replace lies with Gospel truth.

If you’re in a relationship where God’s Word is used to shame or punish you, know this: The abuse is not your fault. God is not punishing you; your worth is defined by Christ, not by the person claiming to lead you. Submission does not constitute a license to abuse. God designed marriage for harmony, not for a hierarchy that allows cruelty. While marriage is a blessing, God does not expect you to stay in a situation of violence.

Don’t get me wrong; I am not endorsing all divorces, but I believe that the Shepherd voice of Jesus (Ps. 23) speaks softer, kinder, and far exceeds the shaming voice of an abuser. Jesus points out that sin originates from the heart of the oppressor (Mark 7:20-23). The victim is not responsible for the abuser’s choices. An abuser always has a choice, regardless of what triggers him.

Furthermore, the body and spirit are God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19), deserving of care and protection, not destruction. All too often, Ephesians 5:22-24 is used to justify dominance, while Ephesians 5:25 is completely ignored. It states that husbands are commanded to love their wives “as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” Jesus modeled the servant leadership He expects of husbands; it does not include physical or emotional suppression.

Humans are made in God’s image (Gen. 1:27). Abuse violates this sacred identity and is never justified.

The path to healing is recognizing God’s design for marriage—between a man and a woman—as a reflection of Christ and the Church (ESV Study Bible, Eph. 5:25). A God-honoring reflection of Christ and the Church does not include any form of abuse in the marriage relationship.

This relationship is founded on sacrifice, safety, and deep respect. Anything less warps God’s grace. May you find the courage to believe that His voice is louder than your oppressor’s, and that His love is a shield that can never be broken.

Paul describes the nature of love that we can use as a filter in our relationships to determine if they align with Scripture, God’s intentions, and character.

“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth” (I Cor. 13:4-5, emphasis added).

This passage serves as a “divine litmus test” for any relationship, especially marriage. When we examine an abusive dynamic through this lens, the flaws in the foundation quickly become apparent.

We often hear 1 Corinthians 13 at weddings, surrounded by flowers and smiles. But for a woman experiencing spiritual abuse, these verses aren’t just poetic—they serve as a diagnostic tool.

Paul offers a clear standard for determining whether a husband’s “leadership” reflects the heart of Christ or that of an oppressor.

How to Use the Filter

Compare the behavior you are experiencing behind closed doors with the biblical definition of love:

  • “Love is patient and kind” vs. A home governed by walking on eggshells and sudden outbursts.
  • “It is not arrogant or rude” vs. Using Scripture to belittle your intelligence or spiritual standing.
  • “It does not insist on its own way” vs. Using “submission” as a weapon to demand total control over every decision.
  • “It is not irritable or resentful” vs. A husband who keeps a “record of wrongs” to use against you in future arguments.

If the “leadership” in your home takes pride in control rather than truth, or insists on its own way through manipulation, it is not moving toward God’s design — it is moving away from it. When a husband ignores the self-sacrificial love of Christ and demands his “own way,” he is violating the very Scripture he claims to uphold.

God’s character embodies gentleness and protection. Any interpretation of the Bible that makes a woman feel worthless, unheard, or oppressed does not reflect God’s voice; it distorts it. If you have had these verses thrown at you like stones, please know that was never God’s intent. Scripture was meant to be a lamp to your feet, not a weight around your neck.

Heavenly Father, my prayer is that every woman with a bruised heart from words meant for healing will reclaim her identity and self-worth as a daughter of the King, fearfully and wonderfully made (Ps. 139:14), a temple of the Holy Spirit, bought with a price, and deserving of honor and protection. Wash away the lies, shame, and false guilt that were never theirs to bear. Grant them discernment to recognize the Love Filter and the courage to seek safety, health, and biblical community that reflects Your true character.

Thank you for being a God of grace and for Jesus, who demonstrated a love that serves and sacrifices instead of rules or demands. Restore their soul, lead them beside still waters, and help them walk forward in the light of Your unconditional love.

In Jesus’ powerful and gentle name, Amen.

Is there a “false belief” you’ve been holding onto (e.g., “This is my fault” or “God wants me to suffer”) that you’re ready to surrender to Jesus today?

Action Step: Write that lie on a piece of paper, cross it out, and write a verse of God’s love (like Isaiah 41:10) over it.

There is hope—His name is Jesus Christ.

If you’re seeking a community of women who understand this journey, please reach out or find a local care group. You were never meant to carry this alone.

Greenhouse 17 Certified Domestic Violence Hotline

800.544.2022

The Heartbeat of the Bible: Love

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

Have you ever loved someone so deeply that you would do anything for them? I’m not talking about a controlling, manipulative kind of love that demands an action to prove it, as I and so many others experienced from an abuser. Instead, I mean an unconditional, everlasting love that only God can fill our hearts with. God is love (I John 4:8, ESV).

The motivation behind God’s actions toward us and for us drives His desires for a relationship with us, His promises, and the provisions that bring it to completion. God’s promises are everlasting. They align with His desires; so, we can trust He will make provisions to fulfill every one of them.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16, emphasis added). Don’t overlook that just because you’ve heard it before. Pause for a moment to reflect on its magnification; gently let its simplicity enter your heart and mind.

One of my favorite phrases in the Bible is God’s declaration, “I will be their God” and “They will be my people,” known as the Covenant Formula. According to Biblehub.com, “it represents the ultimate goal of God’s relationship with humanity.” He desires to be with His people. He created us to have a relationship with Him.

Echoed throughout both the Old and New Testaments – it isn’t just a repetitive phrase – it’s the backbone of the entire biblical narrative. In Jeremiah 31:33, we see a significant shift as God promises to move this relationship from external rules to the heart.

Basically, God is telling us that He will be our God for the long term through a dependable covenant sealed by His promise. God will provide all that is needed to uphold the covenant and will rejoice in doing good. In other words, God keeps His promises not reluctantly but with great joy (Jer. 32:40-41, ESV).

This love isn’t just for individuals; it’s designed to give us ‘one heart,’ uniting us to serve Him with a reverence that protects our children and us from harm.

His promises cannot fail because they are as firm as the earth He created (Jer. 33:2). Just as God tells Jeremiah, all he needs to do is ask, and He will reveal hidden things—this has a broader application for all of God’s people. Because of His great love and grace, He will give us understanding of His Word and His purposes in our lives (Jer. 33:3).

What an incredible assurance we can depend on to get us through. God’s character is good, reliable, and trustworthy because His love for us never ends: “Give thanks to the Lord of hosts, for the Lord is good, for his steadfast love endures forever” (Jer. 33:11, emphasis added)! This is also repeated many times throughout the OT, but is most closely associated with Ps. 136, where it appears in every verse. No matter what happens, we can remember that God’s covenant love never quits.

God says He will send a righteous Branch who shall execute justice and righteousness in the land, fulfill the promises, and serve as priest and king (Jer. 33:18; 2 Sam. 7:16; I Chron. 17:11-12). This explicitly points to the coming of Christ, bridging the gap between the Old and New Testaments. It is like an architect’s plan for restoration.

In Jeremiah’s time, the Davidic monarchy resembled a felled tree—the kings were corrupt, and the nation was on the verge of exile. By promising a “Branch” (or “Shoot”) emerging from a stump, God was assuring that even though the tree seemed dead, new life would grow from the same royal “root.”

The Old Testament provides a blueprint for the life and mission of Jesus. Just as we see Jeremiah pointing to the coming of Christ, one can also observe this foreshadowing in the other Old Testament books.

God is revealing His ultimate plan for restoration: the prophecies demonstrate God’s restoration of a broken lineage and a failed priesthood, perfectly fulfilled through Christ. We see references to the Branch in the Old Testament throughout the Gospels, and we recognize that Jesus fulfilled every role and detail, all carefully aligned with the ancient blueprint of the Branch.

The Provisions, Promises, and Desires of God are the heartbeat of the Bible. Stemming from His love, these truths establish the foundation, the framing, and the finished work of Jesus Christ.

God Provides (Jehovah Jireh)

This is the “materials” phase. God doesn’t just give us a task; He provides what is needed to complete it.

  • The Ultimate Provision: Just as He provided the ram for Abraham on the mountain (Genesis 22:14), He provided Christ as the ultimate “resource” for our restoration.
  • Daily Provision: Matthew 6:33 promises that when we seek His kingdom first, “all these things” (our basic needs) will be provided.

God Keeps His Promises

This is the “contract.” Unlike humans, who might overpromise and underdeliver, the Bible states that God is not a man who would lie (Numbers 23:19).

  • The Track Record: Joshua 21:45 says, “Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.” * The “Branch”: As we discussed, even when the Davidic line looked like a dead stump, God kept His 400-year-old promise to bring a King who would rule forever.

God Desires to Be with Us

This is the “occupancy.” A house isn’t a home until the owner moves in.

  • The Tabernacle: God told Moses, “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst” (Exodus 25:8).
  • Immanuel: The name literally means “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
  • The Holy Spirit: Jesus promised He wouldn’t leave us as orphans but would send His Spirit to live in us (John 14:16-18).

It’s incredible to realize that the Creator of the universe wants to dwell in our lives and hearts. He is the ultimate Project Manager, making sure that what He started in us, He will finish (Philippians 1:6).

“…so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:17–19, emphasis added)

Reflection: From the Stump to the Spring

Take a moment to quiet your heart and consider how God’s “blueprint” is unfolding in your own life today.

  • The “Dead Stump”: Is there an area of your life—a dream, a relationship, or a sense of hope—that feels like a felled tree? How does the promise of the “Branch” (the new life growing from the stump) change how you see that situation?
  • The Contract vs. The Heart: Are you currently relating to God through “external rules” (the hustle to be “good enough”), or are you resting in the “Cistern of Grace” where He has written His love directly on your heart?
  • The Project Manager: If you viewed your current struggle not as a “failure” but as a “construction zone,” how would that change your level of peace? Do you trust that the One who laid the foundation will also complete the finished work?
  • A Simple Prayer: “Lord, thank You for being the God who provides the materials, keeps the promises, and desires to move in. Today, I stop trying to be the architect, and I trust Your blueprint instead.”

I’d love to hear from you! Which verse or image from this post resonated most with your heart today?

The Well That Never Runs Dry: Finding Living Water

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

We’ve all been there—standing over a project, a relationship, or even just our own exhausted hearts, feeling like we’re scraping the bottom of a dry bucket. We spend so much of our lives “digging.” We seek a sense of purpose, carry the weight of expectations, and try to fill ourselves with things that were never meant to satisfy. It’s draining.

But right in the middle of our “dusty” seasons, the Bible gives us this incredible, almost stubborn hope. In Isaiah 55:1, God doesn’t tell us to go find a shovel and dig a better hole; He says, “Come.” He invites us to a different kind of water—what the ancients called Mayim Hayim, or “Living Water.” It’s the kind of water that doesn’t just sit in a tank waiting to be used up; it’s a bubbling, moving, never-ending spring. Today, I want to invite you to stop the “hustle” of trying to stay hydrated on your own and join me at the edge of the well that never runs dry.

Jesus didn’t depend on complex theological diagrams or abstract lessons. Instead, He drew people into the Kingdom through tangible things they could touch, taste, and see. In the Gospel of John, this is clearly shown: Jesus uses everyday objects to reflect our inner selves. Specifically, He equates ‘Living Water’ with the Holy Spirit—a promise that when we come to Christ, our deepest spiritual desires aren’t just temporarily satisfied but ultimately fulfilled forever.

Jesus was the ultimate storyteller because He began with the tangible aspects of life rather than abstract ideas. He understood that if we could grasp the significance of the bread on our tables or the water in our jars, we would gradually come to understand the heart of God.

Other physical objects Jesus used to describe the Holy Spirit include “wind” (John 3:8), which emphasizes the Spirit’s power in moving where He wills; “Olive Oil” represents the anointing—healing and being set apart for a purpose; the gentle presence of God is like a “Dove” or the Peace of the Spirit; while “Fire” signifies purification—burning away the dross in our lives.

While the dove and fire appeared at His baptism and Pentecost, Jesus specifically used wind and water in His direct conversations in the Gospel of John.

When Jesus meets the woman at the well, the “physical object” isn’t just the water—it’s the bucket and the well itself.

When she says, “Sir, you have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep” (John 4:11), she is focused on the physical limitation. Jesus uses that bucket to pivot her heart. He’s essentially saying, “You’re worried about how deep the well is, but I’m talking about a Spring that is already inside you” (John 4:13-14).

By comparing this water to the Holy Spirit, as mentioned, Jesus teaches that God doesn’t want to be someone we “visit” at a well once a week. He wants to be a constant, flowing presence—a literal part of our internal “ecosystem.”

Cistern water is stored through human effort. Living water is given by God.

Cistern Water vs. Living Water

  • Cistern: Stagnant, requires digging, can break, human-maintained.
  • Living Water: Dynamic, flows from the Source, never runs out, Spirit-filled.

When Isaiah 55:1 says, “Come to the waters,” he is inviting people to leave their stagnant, hand-dug pits and return to the original, flowing Source.

“Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat” (Is. 55:1).

The only requirement to access this well is thirst.

In a spiritual sense, thirst is the recognition of our own emptiness. Usually, a purchase requires an exchange of equal value. But here, the “Living Water” is so valuable it cannot be bought, yet so free it can be possessed. The water flows, but we must position ourselves at the riverbank.

In Jeremiah 2:13, God laments that His people have committed two evils: “They have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water.” When Jesus speaks with the Samaritan woman, He is essentially responding to the invitation of Isaiah 55. He tells her that the water He gives will become a spring —a bubbling, active fountain—within the believer.

To summarize, cistern water is stagnant, requires manual digging, can break, and requires manual maintenance. In contrast, Living Water is living and dynamic, flows freely from the Source, never runs out, and symbolizes the presence of the Holy Spirit within.

Are we attempting to survive on “cistern water”—relying on past successes, our own efforts, or outdated traditions? Or are we poised at the edge of the Living Water, which renews itself each morning?

Refection:

“If you left your ‘water jar’ (your primary source of stress or self-reliance) at the well today to follow the Living Water, what would that jar be labeled?”

As we step into this year, what is one area of your life where you want to “stop digging” and start “drinking” from the flow of the Holy Spirit?

This Week’s Practice: Next time you pour yourself a glass of water or turn on the tap, take a moment to pause. As you feel the water, ask yourself: “Am I trying to ‘dig’ for my peace today, or am I letting the Spirit flow through me?” Let the physical act of drinking be a prayer of return to the Source.

I’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment below and share which physical ‘object’ helps you remember God’s presence the most, or type ‘I’m thirsty’ if you’re joining me at the riverbank today.

A Reliable Witness

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

In a world searching for answers in all the wrong places, there is a hope that doesn’t just survive the storm—it breaks the chains. His name is Jesus, and He is the reliable witness to the life you were meant to live.

Come to me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (Matt. 11:28).

Embrace this truth, and He will set you free—free from the slavery to sin that binds us all. I remember a time after leaving the abusive relationship when I believed I was in a good place. Still, I hadn’t told anyone what I had gone through or how I coped with it. I would say I suppressed it and told myself I was okay.

One of my church leaders confronted me about not having seen a counselor and even arranged to pay for my first six visits. This happened after he shared a dream with our group about a child walking with him and a chair with chains in the back of the room. He knew that once he stopped talking to the child, it would go back to the chair. I started crying, realizing the dream was about me.

At one time, I would have returned to the chair or chains. Even though I didn’t tell him the details, I didn’t have to – God worked through him to help me realize that, although I was free from the chains, I needed to peel back some layers and start my healing journey from what I had endured at the hands of an abuser.

Just as the Bible testifies to Christ, this leader witnessed my lingering pain, and you can now witness God’s healing in your own life.

It wasn’t until I had my abuse validated that I felt anger, an emotion necessary to start my journey. God uses this as a warning that something’s wrong.

Are you still chained to something from your past? Christ offers complete freedom and healing. Don’t let it eat away at your insides. That is a miserable existence. You are meant for so much more. Your heart can be transformed from death to life.

My healing journey involved peeling back layers of a painful past. Interestingly, when we examine Jesus’s lineage, we see that He didn’t shy away from ‘layers’ or ‘labels’ either; He directly embraced a family history as complex as ours to show us He truly understands.

Christmastime is approaching, and it’s a good opportunity to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Some may still question His lineage, but the Bible makes it clear that Jesus was both divine and fully human. His human side experienced the same pain and temptations as we do (Matt 4:1). In other words, you can bring whatever you are going through to Jesus, and He understands (Heb. 4:15). In return, He offers comfort, peace, healing, and shelter from the storms of life. He doesn’t say there won’t be storms but provides hope and peace through them (John 16:33).

In his book, The Case for Christmas, Lee Strobel states, “Jesus lived physically and emotionally on our planet, so when we bring him our problems, worries, and challenges, he can relate to us personally.” He also mentions, “Thanks to Jesus’ divinity, he can provide us with supernatural wisdom and the power of God to assist us.”

You can see Jesus’s lineage in both Matthew and Luke, whose genealogy includes men, women, adulterers, heroes, and Gentiles – showing that Jesus came to be the Savior for all and that His family tree is full of broken people, just like us.  (Matt. 1:1-16; Heb. 11:31; Josh. 2:1; James 2:25; Prov. 31).

Matthew traces Jesus’ lineage from Abraham to emphasize His Jewish heritage, whereas Luke traces it back to Adam to show that Jesus fulfills the hope of all humanity (Luke 3:23-38; Acts 17:26).

But don’t just take my word for it. John the Baptist, Moses, and the Scriptures were all witnesses that pointed to Jesus (Biblica Study Bible). Still, the most reliable witness was God Himself. The description of Jesus as God’s Son is supported by His genealogy—in other words, God’s declaration at His baptism, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased” (Luke 3:22, Emphasized), provides clear testimony, with God Himself serving as a trustworthy witness.

The Biblica Study Bible notes that studying and learning all the Scriptures is beneficial, but it’s Jesus who gives meaning to everything Scripture teaches.

Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to Me except through me (John 14:6, Emphasis added).

The truth will set you free.

Paul explains how we are all in darkness and are brought to the light when we accept Christ. He encourages us to “walk as children of the light” (Eph. 5:8, Emphasis added) and bear fruit of the light only found in “all that is good and right and true: (v9, Emphasis added). We should not take part in unfruitful works of darkness any longer – instead, there is a different way and another option on the table that we need to consider.

“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you” (Eph. 5:14, Emphasis added).

Maybe you, like me, feel like you’re in a self-made trance- something that kept me stuck in an abusive relationship for too long, thinking I didn’t have a choice. Once I woke up, I saw that being a Christ follower, or having a relationship with God, is possible. God provides the foundation and strength to break free from the chains and start a new life with Christ at the center.

He brought me from darkness to life. Hope is alive – His name is Jesus Christ. Freedom is real (Rom. 15: 13; Gal. 5:13; John 8:36).

It’s not about what we do for God, but rather an intimate relationship with your heavenly Father who loves you immensely.

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you” (James 4:8).

“Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Ps. 46:10, Emphasis added)!

Why Godly Fruit Isn’t Earned, But Grown by the Spirit

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

Bearing fruit in season and out of season, like an evergreen planted by a flowing stream, producing vibrant green branches year-round, comes from a heart guided by the Holy Spirit (Ps. 1:3; Jer. 17:7-8).

When Paul talks about staying in sync with the Spirit, he means letting God lead (Gal. 5:25, ESV). When our hearts are transformed by accepting Christ and the Spirit enters, we can start to produce the fruits of the Spirit that mirror God’s character (Gal. 5:22-24). There is an urge to actively cooperate with the new life we’ve received.

The fruit isn’t just something we produce on our own. Spiritual fruit comes from being made in the likeness of God’s image. Day by day, we as Christians can strive to become more like Jesus, who exemplified all aspects of God’s character as a model for us to follow. We are made in God’s image (Gen. 1:26).

Jesus is described as the perfect “image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15) and the “exact imprint of his nature” (Hebrews 1:3). He perfectly demonstrated the character qualities we call the Fruit of the Spirit.

On the path to becoming like Christ, we often fall short because of our human nature. The flesh cannot please God without the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and hearts (Rom. 8:8). Paul describes a struggle between flesh and spirit, a division caused by human sin that prevents us from doing what is right in God’s eyes until we accept Christ. Then, the Holy Spirit equips us with the spiritual armor needed to fight battles and push back the devil. The Spirit fights against sin, not just defensively but offensively, developing in Christians the positive qualities of a godly character, all of which are seen in Jesus in the Gospels (Gal. 5:22-23).

The Spirit’s essential role in equipping the believer is to strengthen us.

  • Defensive and Offensive: The Holy Spirit doesn’t just passively wait; He actively fights against sin. This is the power that overcomes the “works of the flesh” (Galatians 5:19-21) and enables the believer to “walk by the Spirit” (Galatians 5:16).
  • Spiritual Armor: The armor described in Ephesians 6:10-18 is often seen as the tools given by God, with the Holy Spirit acting as the active force that helps us use them effectively (e.g., the “sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God”).
  • Positive Development (Fruit): The ultimate offensive move of the Spirit is the positive development of godly character—the Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, etc.). This fruit embodies the very character of Christ being formed within us, making the Christian progressively more resilient against sin and temptation.

Isaiah prophesied about a child from David’s line, “There shall come forth a shoot and a branch from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him” (Is. 11:1-2, Emphasis added). He was speaking of Jesus the Messiah. He ruled with the help of the Spirit (Is. 4:2). He is described as the root and descendant of David, the bright and morning star (Rev. 22:16).

Jesus set an example for living and invited everyone to wash their robes—no longer living in their old ways (Rev. 22:14). While we wait for His return, we can trust in His promise that we will be together again (John 14:2). Essentially, the Holy Spirit is the way Jesus remains present with us until His physical return, empowering us to live a holy life and grounding us in the certainty of His promise. It guides us throughout our lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ and producing The Fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

“He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither” (Ps. 1:3, Emphasis added).

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit” (Jer. 17:7-8, Emphasis added).

Paying it Forward: Part Two – Our Testimony Matters

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

Last week, we looked at the relationship between Jethro and Moses and how a mentor’s wisdom can help us avoid burnout, as Jethro showed Moses how to delegate tasks effectively. This week, we examine how Moses helped lead Jethro to faith in God.

Moses helped lead Jethro, a Midianite priest, to faith through his testimony of the Lord’s work (18:1-12). Jethro had been caring for Moses’ wife, Zipporah, and his two sons while Moses was leading the Israelites out of Egypt. This oral history of the Exodus served as Moses’s powerful testimony (Ex. 18:8).

Jethro’s response was to rejoice, bless the Lord, recognize Yahweh as the God of Israel, and offer burnt offerings as a profound act of worship (Exodus 18:9-12). This event is especially significant because it demonstrates the powerful influence of personal testimony and a non-Israelite’s acknowledgment of the God of Israel.

Not only did Jethro give Moses practical advice on leadership and governance, as we saw in last week’s blog, “Paying it Forward,” but Moses’ testimony also led his father-in-law to faith. Sometimes, accepting wise counsel is difficult, but it requires humility, as demonstrated by Moses, and recognizing our weaknesses to receive a more effective solution.

Similarly, personal testimony can inspire others. This shows how sharing what God has done in our lives can be a powerful way to lead others to faith or deepen their existing relationship with God. Note that before offering practical advice, the shared testimony laid the foundation of their relationship and Jethro’s spiritual growth.

Our relationship with God has a direct impact on our spiritual growth.

This direct connection emphasizes three essential elements that are key to growth, all centered on the relationship.

  1. Communication (Prayer and Scripture): A relationship requires talking and listening.
    1. Prayer is communicating with God—making requests, giving thanks, and confessing. Jesus consistently prioritized prayer, demonstrating that it is directly aligned with the Father’s will and power.
    1. Scripture involves listening to God by learning His character, will, and commands. Spiritual growth needs the ongoing nourishment and guidance found in His Word.
  2. Obedience and Trust: A strong relationship builds trust and encourages action.
    1. Moses obeyed God’s commands to go to Pharaoh, even when fearful.
    1. The disciples followed Jesus’ instruction to “Go and make disciples.”
    1. Our obedience to what God reveals in His Word naturally shows our trust in His goodness and wisdom, serving as the motivating force for spiritual growth.
  3. Presence and Solitude (The “Recharge”) involves setting aside focused, dedicated time for growth.
    1. Jesus often withdrew to be alone with God. This practice of solitude protects the relationship from being overwhelmed by the demands of the world (or, in a work setting, the demands of the job). This dedicated time encourages a deeper intimacy and dependence on God.

By intentionally cultivating this relationship—through communication, obedience, and dedicated time—we invite the grace and guidance necessary for genuine, lasting spiritual growth.

“Therefore, do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord” (2 Timothy 1:8, ESV, Emphasis added).

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20, Emphasis added).

Paying It Forward: Cultivating a Generational Legacy Through Mentorship and Rest

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

Sometimes we need a fresh perspective from wise counsel. We all can benefit from having a more experienced mentor in our lives, whether it’s for advice on daily matters or for spiritual guidance.

In turn, we can serve as a resource for others who can benefit from our knowledge and experiences. It’s a generational act of paying it forward. We are called to disciple others and to pursue discipleship and accountability within the Christian community.

The idea of discipleship guarantees that faith—and the practical wisdom gained through life—is not lost after just one generation but is repeatedly multiplied and reinforced through intentional relationships.

One notable example of this in the Bible is when Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, visited him in the wilderness and watched Moses judge disputes among the people (Ex. 18:13-23, NLT). Moses served as a mediator. Only Jesus surpassed Moses as an intercessor between God and humans (Acts 17:26; Heb. 3).

Still, Moses took on the burden of handling all cases himself. Jethro advised him on how to organize the people and delegate the minor disputes to honest men who feared God, so that neither the people nor Moses would become exhausted. Moses listened to Jethro (18:12-24). In today’s world, we would call this experiencing burnout.

It’s always wise to step back and evaluate how much we’ve taken on ourselves when others can assist. We also need mental breaks and time with God to reassess our load, recharge, and be filled so we can better serve others. Running on empty isn’t good for us or those we serve. Sometimes, we have to say no to good things in order to say yes to better ones.

Jethro’s wise advice illustrates God’s leadership approach of providence—delegating authority (NLT Study Bible Notes).

Jesus exemplifies a leader who delegates. As Biblehub.com explains, He didn’t hoard all the work; instead, He trained others and empowered them to join His mission. The Twelve Apostles (Mark 3:14-15; Luke 9:1-6) are an example: Jesus chose twelve disciples, gave them “power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases,” and sent them out to preach the kingdom of God. This was His initial delegation of ministerial duties. Later, He appointed seventy-two more disciples who went out two by two to all the towns and places He planned to visit. This helped spread the message more widely and quickly.

Jesus consistently emphasized the importance of rest, solitude, and spiritual renewal—concepts often called withdrawal or retreat. He balanced demanding ministry work, like teaching, healing, and feeding crowds, with intentional times away from people’s demands (Mark 1:35; Luke 6:12; Mark 6:30-32; Luke 22:39-44). This biblical pattern highlights the need to avoid burnout, devote time to God, and prioritize rest and renewal.

Please tune in next week for Part Two of “Paying It Forward,” when we will explore the other side of the relationship and how Moses helped Jethro.

The Little Girl – Throwback Thursday

by Angela K. Crow-Mitchell

Some of you may remember this story from a few years ago… but it seemed like a good time to bring it back. (She looks like she has it all together in this photo – I believe this dog’s name was Mandy if I’m not mistaken; we had two at the time, the other was Candy, so I may have them mixed up.)

Before I became a Christ-follower, I didn’t know what it meant to put God first instead of myself or others in my life. I wasn’t in a great place, although I hid it well. It makes me realize that we never know what someone else is going through and the battles they are fighting internally.

One night, during a particularly dark time in my life, I dreamed I was driving down the road where I grew up. I looked in the rearview mirror and saw a little girl sitting in the backseat. She stuck her tongue out at me right as we locked eyes. That little girl was me. She didn’t like me very much.

After becoming a Christ-follower, I sat in prayer and quiet time with the Holy Spirit and was reminded of that dream.  As quickly as that scene appeared, I was whisked away to one of my fondest childhood memories. Swinging on the front porch with my mom on a summer night, singing I See the Moon and the Moon Sees Me.

The next thought was a question: “What would you tell her?”

My first reaction was to tell her, “Don’t do it!”

But just as I finished contemplating those words, another thought crossed my mind. If I hadn’t gone through those tough life experiences, I wouldn’t be the person I am today; at least, I wouldn’t appreciate what Christ did for me as much as I do now. Being in the valley for so long made me value the mountaintop much more. I use those experiences to share my story and help others in similar circumstances. God recycles our pain in the most magnificent ways.

So, I told her this, “You will make mistakes, there will be heartache and pain, but you will persevere. YOU WILL PERSEVERE!”

I heard a whisper in my heart, “She likes you now. She is proud of who you have become.”

What a lovely and heartfelt message from my Heavenly Father. I try to be mindful of thanking God every day for saving my life, rescuing me from an abusive relationship, and, most importantly, transforming my character.

Recently, I dreamt of being back at my childhood home, in the kitchen, dancing with a baby. That dream reignited this story, causing me to reflect on how far I’ve come and the joy that fills my heart. This joy makes me want to dance and celebrate the milestones that come from my relationship with Christ. Maybe that baby was me, too– either way, I woke up smiling and knew I had to post this message again for someone who needs to hear it.

Our past does not define us. Our identity is only found in Christ.

Even then, I was a daughter of the King and valuable in God’s eyes. It took a powerful wake-up call to make me see where my worth truly comes from. Only God. There is hope – His name is Jesus Christ.

P.S. I would also tell my former self that the devil is a liar (John 8:44); you do have a better choice, and you can have a relationship with God.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (Rom. 15:13, ESV, Emphasis added).

“We have this [hope] as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into he inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf” (Heb. 6:19, emphasis added)