Tag: God

Lessons From The Rain

As I sit here listening to the rain outside, I’m reminded of the powerful lessons God teaches us through the rain. It’s a reminder that life’s storms can be cleansing, refreshing, and even necessary for growth.

In Psalm 51:7, David prays, “Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” Just like rain washes away dirt and grime, God’s forgiveness cleanses us from our sins.

In Matthew 5:45, Jesus says, “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” Rain is a reminder of God’s universal love and provision, nourishing all of creation regardless of our deeds.

And in Isaiah 55:10-11, “As the rain and snow come down from heaven… so shall my word be… accomplishing what I desire.” Rain teaches us about the effectiveness and power of God’s word in our lives.

Let the rain be a reminder of God’s love, cleansing, and provision in your life. ~OC

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Break Free

Today’s a new day! We have all been there – stuck in the quicksand of guilt, replaying our worst decisions on loop. But here’s the truth: our past doesn’t define us. Not even our worst mistake has the power to dictate our future. Why? Because when we ask for forgiveness and turn it over to God, it’s like a divine delete button – everything’s wiped clean.

The Bible’s got some powerful verses that drive this home:

Psalm 103:12, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” God doesn’t just move the goalpost; He blows it up and creates a whole new game.

Romans 8:1. “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” You’re not your worst decision. You’re a child of God, redeemed and free.

Isaiah 43:25, “I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake, and I will not remember your sins.” God’s got a forgetfulness problem – He chooses not to remember your sins. Mind blowing! 

So, what’s holding us back? We cannot let guilt anchor us to our yesterday. We’ve been forgiven, redeemed, and set free. Now, let’s go live the life God has planned for us. ~OC

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Soar!

Today’s a new day!

You were created to fly,

Don’t let the darkness clip your wings,

You were meant to rise above,

Like an eagle, you’re designed to thrive.

Listen, you’ve got a fire in your soul,

A spark that flickers, a flame that makes you whole.

Don’t let the haters, don’t let the doubts creep in,

You’re a difference maker, let your spirit win.

God created you unique, a masterpiece divine,

Don’t hide your light, let it shine.

Spread your wings and soar,

Like an eagle, rise above the fray,

You’re meant to fly, don’t be afraid,

Stretch out your wings, let your spirit be displayed.

Comfort zone’s a cozy place to stay,

But growth happens when you step out into the day.

The winds of change, they may shake your world,

But you’re anchored in faith, you’ll find your way.

You’ve got a voice, use it, let it be heard,

A message of hope, in a world that’s blurred.

Spread your wings and soar,

Like an eagle, rise above the fray,

You’re meant to fly, don’t be afraid,

Stretch out your wings, let your spirit be displayed.

Fear’s a liar, it’s a heavy chain,

But faith’s the key, it’s the weight that remains.

You were made for more, don’t settle for less,

You’re a world changer, let your dreams possess.

The sky’s not the limit, it’s just the view,

You’re destined for greatness, let it be true.

Spread your wings and soar,

Like an eagle, rise above the fray,

You’re meant to fly, don’t be afraid,

Stretch out your wings, let your spirit be displayed.~OC

***You can watch a Spoken Word of this writing on my YouTube channel Todd E. Shoemaker Music.

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Walking Through The Storms of Life: The Power of Prayer

Life’s trials can be overwhelming, but prayer is a lifeline that connects us to God’s presence and peace. When we’re walking through tough times, prayer reminds us we’re not alone.

Prayer doesn’t always change our circumstances, but it changes us. It shifts our perspective, calms our hearts, and gives us strength to keep going. In the midst of uncertainty, prayer brings clarity and peace.

Through prayer, we:

– Bring our struggles to God, who understands and cares

– Find comfort in God’s presence, even when things don’t make sense

– Tap into God’s strength when ours is gone

– Align our hearts with God’s purposes, even in the darkness

Prayer is a conversation, not a monologue. It’s a chance to talk to God and listen to His voice. ~OC

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Beyond the Chaos

Today’s a new day! My heart breaks for America,

Turn on the news and all I see is chaos,

A country divided, fractured and torn.

I don’t care if you voted left, right, or somewhere in between,

If your heart’s not breaking for the hurt and pain we see,

You might need to check your pulse and see if you’re still alive.

We scream and we shout, we dig in our heels,

But the truth is, we’re dying, we’re losing our way.

We’re so busy building walls, we’re forgetting to build bridges,

We’re so busy pointing fingers, we’re forgetting to hold hands.

Dear God, please help America come together,

Put away our differences, and actually live

Like the United States of America.

Help us see the humanity in each other,

Help us hear the cries of the broken and the pain.

Help us love like You loved, with a love that’s radical and true,

A love that unites, a love that heals, a love that’s new.

We need a revival, a awakening,

A return to compassion, to empathy, to love.

We need to see each other, not as enemies, but as brothers and sisters,

United in our struggles, in our hopes, in our dreams.

Let’s rise up, let’s rise above,

The noise, the hate, the fear, the pride.

Let’s be the change, let’s be the love,

That America needs, that the world needs, that we all need today. ~OC

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Finding Purpose In The Pause

Lately, I’ve been getting a few messages asking how I’m doing, and how I spend my days. Honestly, it’s a bit of a challenge, but I continue to find beauty in the struggle. As I navigate this crazy beautiful journey with multiple health issues, I am reminded that life is not easy. It’s a little harder getting around these days, so I spend most of my days at home. 

My health journey is a rollercoaster, and it’s okay to admit that it’s tough. Some days are better than others. But my constant desire is to walk closer with God every day and to connect with other people. Trying to put my thoughts together to write these days is much harder, but God helps me through,  because it’s my way of connecting with people and letting those who are struggling know they’re not alone. If I didn’t share, I’d be stuck in silence, alone and that’s a lonely place to be.

My days are pretty simple. I spend most of my time in prayer, trying to write and read when my body allows. It’s not glamorous, but it’s my reality. And you know what?  I am learning to find purpose in the pause, to cherish the quiet moments, and to share my story with others who might be walking a similar path.

I am not writing this for sympathy or to complain. I’m writing this to remind society, that people walking through health battles still need and want to connect with others. I am the same person I have always been, just a little slower. But my story isn’t over yet. And I want people walking through their own storms, to know that you’re seen, you’re heard, you’re loved and you’re not alone. 

As I continue on this journey, I’m grateful for the few friends who have decided to stick around, even when life gets hard.  And to those who’ve disappeared, I am doing my best to understand why. But I am learning to cherish the ones who stay and to find joy in the connections we have made along the way.

If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone. Keep writing, keep praying, and keep pushing forward. And if you need someone to talk to, I am a phone call away. Let’s connect and walk this journey together. ~OC

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I Will

Today’s a new day! In the quiet of the morning, I’ll find my place,

I will open up my Bible, and let God’s love take its space.

I’ll pour out my heart, on the pages worn,

And listen for the whispers, that only He can speak. 

I’ll journal my thoughts, my fears, my doubts,

And let the truth of scripture, shine like a beacon bright and loud.

I will pray, with a humble heart,

And let God’s presence, heal every part.

In the stillness, He’ll restore my soul,

And breathe new life, into my heart that’s grown old.

I’ll sit with God, and let love abide,

And in His presence, I’ll find my heart’s inside.

With every word, with every breath,

I’ll seek His face, and find my peace.

I will trust, I will obey,

And in His love, I’ll find my way. ~OC

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Unity

Today’s a new day! We stand as one, yet we’re fractured, divided

Christians, believers, but our unity’s on the other side

Of racial lines and cultural pride

But God’s got a different plan, a vision to unify

We’re all part of the body, interconnected like limbs

No longer strangers, but family, redeemed by Him

Breaking chains of division, we’re embracing our ties

Unity in Christ, that’s where our hearts arise

No more Jew nor Gentile, no more black or white

In Christ, we’re one, shining with His light

Cultural differences, they’re not erased

But celebrated, as we worship side by side, in His gaze

God’s love is the glue, binding us together

Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we’ve found our tether

No more walls of hostility, we’re breaking free

Unity among Christians, that’s the reality

We’re called to love, to serve, to lay down our pride

Embracing our differences, as we walk side by side

In Christ, we’re united, one body, one heart

Let’s rise up, and let our unity shine. ~OC

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In The Pause

Today’s a new day! In the midst of chaos and noise, it’s easy to get lost in the turmoil. But what if the secret to finding peace and clarity lies in the pause? The Bible reminds us that the Holy Spirit is always present, even in the quietest moments.

In the stillness, I hear Your voice

A gentle whisper, a soothing choice

The Holy Spirit guides me through the night

Leading me to peace, and a heart that’s light

When the world’s loud voice tries to take control

I find solace in the Holy Spirit’s soul

In the pause, I breathe and reflect

Finding calm, and a heart that’s correct

The Holy Spirit’s presence is my peace

A comfort that never leaves, a love that won’t cease

In the silence, I connect with God

And find my strength, in the quiet nod

So I’ll stay in the pause, and listen with care

For the Holy Spirit’s whisper, that’s always there

In the stillness, I’ll find my way

And let God’s love, guide me through each day ~OC

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Not A Performance

“The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.” — Psalm 145:18 

Today’s a new day! Prayer isn’t a performance. It’s not a speech, a sermon, or a spiritual audition. It’s a conversation — raw, real, and sometimes downright messy. You don’t need a robe, a pulpit, or the perfect words. You just need a moment and faith like a mustard seed. 

God doesn’t wait for you to sound holy. He waits for you to be honest. Whether you’re whispering in a hospital room, shouting in frustration, or mumbling through a mouthful of emotions, He hears you. He’s not grading your grammar — He’s listening to your heart. 

Daniel prayed in danger. Jonah prayed in darkness. Peter prayed while sinking. And you? You can pray in your car, your kitchen, your wheelchair, your recliner or your weakest moment. You can pray with a full plate or an empty stomach. You can pray with tears, laughter, or silence. 

There’s no wrong time to pray. No wrong place. No wrong posture. You can pray standing, sitting, lying down, or leaning on the edge of hope. You can pray in church, at the breakfast table, or as you’re being wheeled into the operating room. 

So stop worrying about sounding like Shakespeare or James Earl Jones. Stop waiting for the perfect moment to pray. Just talk to God. Tell Him about your hopes, frustrations, dreams and hurts. Tell Him what’s funny. Tell Him what you need. And if all you’ve got is “Thank You, Lord,” that’s more than enough. 

Because the power of prayer isn’t in how you say it — it’s in Who you’re saying it to. Can I get an amen? ~OC

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