Seasons of Transformation
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”
—Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV)
I love that Scripture teaches us that everything has its season, because it reminds us to stay present in the moment. I remember when I used to facilitate an OmniGroup for our church. In almost every meeting, I sensed the Holy Spirit prompting me to encourage the women not to leave without sharing what was on their hearts—because we were only together for a season.
Now that that season has come to an end, I truly miss the group. We formed meaningful friendships and shared such beautiful times in the Lord. We witnessed God move in powerful ways in our lives, and although that season was very good, the time came for me to step away. The season changed.
When things are going well, it can be especially difficult to let go. But Scripture reminds us that there is a season for everything. For me, the time has come to take a break from sending out devotionals. I love writing, and I truly enjoy creating these devotionals, but God has shown me that this is a time to focus on writing the books He has placed in my spirit. In 2026, I will be working on writing and publishing those books.
This is not a goodbye, but a pause in this season as I follow God’s leading. I trust He will continue to meet each of us right where we are.
I am going to miss this time with you. However, if you would like to continue the journey with me, I invite you to follow and subscribe to our YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@jccministriestv8904?sub_confirmation=1
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Merry Christmas—The Beautiful Gift of Love
During this time of year, most people are focused on purchasing gifts and showing kindness to those we love. As a believer in Christ Jesus, my mind always returns to the true purpose of this holiday—the birth of Jesus, the wonderful gift that God gave to the world. As I reflected on this, I could feel the Holy Spirit speaking to my heart. This thought came to my mind:
You are giving gifts to those you love in celebration of My birth, and that is good. But I gave a personal gift from My heart to those who did not love Me.
I hope that truth lands on you as deeply as it did on me.
God took His most precious and costly gift and gave it to a world that could not—and would not—give Him anything in return. That is the ultimate expression of unconditional love. We are His world. He created us, and He loved us even while we were lost in sin.
Scripture teaches us that He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us for adoption to Himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will, to the praise of His glorious grace, with which He has blessed us in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight, making known to us the mystery of His will, according to His purpose, which He set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in Christ, things in heaven and things on earth.
—Ephesians 1:3–10
We were not an afterthought. The gift of Jesus was God’s plan from the beginning. He knew we would be lost in sin, and His love and grace extend far beyond the mess we were in—or even the messes we may still make—when we accept His Son as our personal Savior. This is the real reason for the season: LOVE. We are loved more than we could ever begin to imagine, simply because we are His.
Scripture also says, Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life]. But all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation…
—2 Corinthians 5:17–19 (AMP)
Family, this message brings us right back to the heart of this devotional: Merry Christmas! You have been given the beautiful gift of love.
If you have not yet received this gift, I invite you to accept the gift that has been waiting for you for years. Scripture tells us, If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
Key Takeaways
We are all loved by God
The gift of Jesus Christ is available to everyone
You cannot earn this gift of love—it is waiting for you to receive it
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
He Heard My Voice
I was in the midst of studying the different meanings of the word love. I was reading various commentaries to understand the different levels and expressions of this word. While researching, one commentary cited Psalm 116:1 as an example of how the word love is used in Scripture. I opened my Bible and began to read the verse. Instantly, I was deeply moved by the passage. I knew I had read it before, but perhaps because I was studying the word love, I gained a deeper understanding this time.
The passage reads:
I love the Lord, for He heard my voice;
He heard my cry for mercy.
Because He turned His ear to me,
I will call on Him as long as I live.
I remember saying to myself, I have to write about this passage. God loves us so much that He listens to our voices and He answers us. In the same way that we recognize the voices of our parents or our children, God knows our voice. We do not have to say who we are or introduce ourselves—He already knows us. He knows our concerns before we ask, and He already has an answer for every situation we face.
God is not trying to figure out how to take care of our situation. The answer is already waiting on us to get there. How do I know this? Scripture tells us that before the creation of the world, He chose us and had a plan for our lives. You are God’s creation, and just like every loving parent plans for their children, God has planned everything for each one of us.
I invite you to take a few minutes and reflect back over your life. You will see that the Lord has been there for you. He has given grace and mercy beyond measure. The writer says, “I love the Lord, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy.” Each one of us can relate to this level of love the writer is expressing, because we have each experienced this same level of love from YHWH in our own personal lives.
Key Takeaways
We love because God taught us how to love.
Love extended mercy when we did not deserve it.
God is always showering us with His love.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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God Shows Up
God shows up in ways we least expect.
I met a dear friend for lunch, and it truly was a setup from God. It was about a week before Christmas, and we had scheduled to meet. When we sat down at the restaurant, she reached into her purse, casually pulled out an envelope, and said, “Here is your Christmas card.” I was actually going to wait and open it when I got home, but I felt led by the Holy Spirit to read it right then.
When I opened the envelope and began reading the card, I noticed there was money inside—hundreds of dollars. I looked at her, completely perplexed, and said, “What is this?” She calmly replied, “God told me to replace your tablet that was stolen.” I just sat there in shock. I didn’t even know what to say.
About a month earlier, I had written a devotional about my remarkable tablet being stolen and how God used that incident to teach me a lesson about unconditional love. Now, here I was, sitting in a restaurant, watching God replace what had been taken. As I reflected, I realized that the only reason I received this precious gift was because I had learned the lesson God wanted to teach me. It was never about the tablet—it was about my growth and my complete trust in Him.
I remember praying and telling God, “If taking the tablet is the only way this person could be saved, then let them keep it. I don’t want it back. It is more important for their soul to be delivered than for me to have this thing.”
Many times, when something bad happens to us, we forget that God has allowed it. Satan must go through God for permission to do anything to us. We are His children, and He is protecting us. Remember when God told Peter that Satan had requested to sift him like wheat—Satan had to ask permission.
I believe that when we can look past what is happening to us and ask God what He wants to teach us, we step into a new season. I am not saying the situation is easy, but as we surrender to God, our faith grows, and we come to know Him in a more intimate way. Peter denied knowing Jesus three times, yet after Christ rose from the dead, Peter was the first to testify about God on the day of Pentecost, and over three thousand people were saved.
God is not the one who brings these trials our way, but He will always work them out for our good.
Key Takeaways
God is always in the midst of what we are experiencing.
Surrendering to God in obedience brings the victory.
God always shows up in ways we least expect.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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A Fragrance of Worship
“…a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head.”
Mark 14:3, ESV
There is a song called Like Oil, and the Holy Spirit kept bringing it to my heart. One morning, instead of getting out of bed at my usual time, I lay there for hours as the chorus played over and over in my spirit. I couldn’t quite understand what the Holy Spirit was saying, so I finally got up and listened to the entire song on repeat. I knew God was speaking.
Then, all of a sudden, it hit me. The “oil” being poured out represented the gifts and talents God has given us. We are called to lay everything we have at His feet.
I was reminded of the woman who came to Simon’s house:
“…a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head” (Mark 14:3, ESV).
This song was reminding me that the oil inside of us will cost us something to bring it out. Yes, God has given us these gifts, but the alabaster box had to be broken. We, too, must be broken—freed from old ways—and sacrifice will be required.
The woman who poured the oil on Jesus went to a place where she was not welcome. She knew she would be judged and looked down upon, but she was not there for people—she was there for Jesus.
She knew Jesus was there to free her, and she wanted Him to know how grateful she was. She was willing to do whatever it took to serve Him. We must be willing to do the same: bringing all that we have and laying it before the Lord.
There is a line in the song that says:
“I pour this perfume not to impress the people standing ‘round;
I pour this perfume ’cause of Your worthiness, as I behold You now.”
Our focus must be on one audience—YHWH. He is worthy of it all. When we serve through our gifts, we are praising God. His love has freed us and given us the gift of eternal life.
Key Takeaways
We each have our own alabaster box.
To release the gift inside, some things in our lives will have to be broken.
No one else can present your unique gift to God. When you do, it becomes a deeply personal and sacred act of worship unto Him.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Never Lost a Battle
You shall not fear them, for it is the Lord your God who fights for you.’, Deuteronomy 3:22, ESV
I enjoy having soft, quiet music playing in the background while I write. I usually put one song on and then allow the Holy Spirit to direct what comes next. During one writing session, the song “Never Lost a Battle” by CeCe Winans came on, and it lifted my soul. The chorus declares that God can do all things but fail, because He has never lost a battle—and He never will. Those words resonated deeply within me.
For those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior, we have the amazing assurance that we move in victory. This does not mean we will never face problems, because Jesus clearly tells us, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
God never abandons His children, and He always knows what we are walking into before it happens. He told His disciples, “I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe” (John 14:29, NIV). Jesus even told Peter, “Before the rooster crows, you will disown Me three times.” God is aware of everything and He never loses a battle because He is the Beginning and the End.
There is a story in the Bible where Moses was giving instructions to the Israelites about how they were to live before the Lord. Korah, a prominent Levite, believed he was just as important as Moses. He gathered 250 well-known leaders of Israel to oppose Moses and Aaron.
When Moses heard their accusations, Scripture says he immediately fell facedown before the Lord (Numbers 16). Moses understood that he could not fight this battle on his own. In fact, he did not even address Korah until after he sought the Lord. Scripture reminds us to “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). When we give thanks to God, it immediately positions us in His presence and silences the noise of the enemy.
After Moses surrendered everything to God, he received clear instructions. He then told Korah and his followers what they were to do before the Lord, allowing God to judge whom He had chosen.
When Korah and his group returned, Moses declared that they had come against God Himself. The ground opened and swallowed Korah and all that belonged to him—alive. The remaining 250 men who opposed Moses were consumed by fire. Moses never had to lift a hand against his enemies; God fought the battle for him.
No matter who comes against us or how overwhelming the situation appears, when we surrender to God, He fights the battle for His people.
I remember a time when everything seemed to work against me receiving a promotion. I pushed and tried in my own strength, but nothing happened. When I finally stopped striving and surrendered it to God, He stepped in—and the promotion came almost immediately.
Key Takeaways
All battles belong to God.
We must first seek God and receive instructions from Him.
God never loses a battle.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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Called Before Time Began
“Greetings from Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus. I am an apostle because that is what God wanted.”—Ephesians 1:1, ERV
What caught my attention in this verse is Paul’s simple confidence: “I am an apostle because that is what God wanted.” He wasn’t guessing about his calling. He wasn’t trying to convince himself. He understood that his assignment came straight from the heart of God.
As you read further in Ephesians, Paul explains how he knows this. He writes, “In Christ, he chose us before the world was made… And before the world was made, God decided to make us his own children through Jesus Christ. This was what God wanted, and it pleased him.” (Ephesians 1:4–5, ERV)
Before time began, God chose Paul—and He chose us too. Each of us carries an assignment woven into our being before we ever took our first breath.
While meditating on this, the Lord brought to mind the automobile industry. Before a car is ever built, every detail is planned, drafted, reviewed, and refined. I learned that manufacturers even sculpt a life-size clay model of the car so they can examine every inch before production begins.
As I thought about my own car, I realized how every piece was designed for a specific purpose. Nothing is random. Nothing is extra. Nothing is without intentionality.
Suddenly, Paul’s words came alive. God designed us the same way—precisely, purposefully, and with the assignment in mind. He created everything we would ever need before He placed us on the earth. The resources, the timing, the gifts, the grace—all of it was planned so we could thrive in what He called us to do.
Think about a simple car door handle. It doesn’t matter how old it gets or how insignificant it might seem. The designer created it for that vehicle, and it fits the assignment perfectly. Likewise, your age, your past, your doubts—none of these disqualify you from what God has ordained. You were created for this season.
The enemy whispers lies: “You’re too young… too old… too flawed… too late.” But we must silence those voices and believe the Word of God. The Holy Spirit is already guiding you. The assignment is already in you. And you are already prepared.
Listen—you were chosen before the world was established. So move boldly in what God has placed in your spirit. You have been crafted and perfected for your assignment. Amen!
Key Takeaways
You are perfectly designed and prepared for your God-given assignment.
You were chosen by God before the world began—walk confidently in what resonates in your soul.
Your age or your mistakes cannot remove the call God has placed on your life.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Stand in the Gospel (2)
“In Christ, he chose us before the world was made. He chose us in love to be his holy people—people who could stand before him without any fault. And before the world was made, God decided to make us his own children through Jesus Christ. This was what God wanted, and it pleased him to do it. And this brings praise to God because of his wonderful grace. God gave that grace to us freely. He gave us that grace in Christ, the one he loves.”— Ephesians 1:4–6 (ERV)
I love how God shapes His Word to reach us. He will send a message through so many different means. I had been writing about standing in the gospel and meditating on that idea. One Sunday, my husband and I couldn’t attend church because of other appointments, so later that week I listened to the service online. I put it on during a run.
When I exercise, I can listen to the message and be encouraged, but afterward I always go back and write down my thoughts. When I opened my Bible app to look up the Scripture from the sermon, the passage above appeared—and it was in a different version than I normally use. As I started reading it, I thought, Oh my God, this is such a confirmation that we can stand on the gospel! I felt like God specifically led me to read this passage in that version so I could see, more clearly, how powerful we are in Christ and how much assurance we have when we stand on the gospel.
We have nothing to fear or be intimidated by, no matter what comes against us. The passage says we were chosen before the world was made and that we can stand before God without any fault. Listen—we have the force of the Almighty behind us. Whatever is coming against us was created by Him, and He chose us! Yes, we can stand in the gospel, because it is our defense, it is our armor, and nothing can penetrate it. Hallelujah!
Key Takeaways
Our identity in Christ is secure and eternal
We stand before God without fault because of what Jesus Christ has done.
The gospel is our foundation and our armor.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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God Answers Prayers
“But truly God has listened; he has attended to the voice of my prayer.”— Psalm 66:19, ESV
In Matthew 6, we see the disciples asking Jesus to teach them how to pray. Jesus gives them a model for prayer, and then in Matthew 7 He offers assurance that God hears and responds to prayer:
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!”
— Matthew 7:7–11
Over the years, I have learned that God rarely answers prayer in the way we expect. Let me share an example.
God put it in my spirit to go to the shopping mall and pray. When He first told me this, I was skeptical, but I obeyed—and now we have a prayer booth set up at the mall. After several months, however, very few people came to request prayer. I became discouraged and asked God, “Why do You have me here praying when hardly anyone is coming?”
I didn’t hear an immediate answer, so I assumed God hadn’t responded. But then things started happening that I didn’t understand. On two separate occasions, the mall administration assigned me to a different location than usual. Each time, the vendor who normally occupied that spot—first Jehovah’s Witnesses and then Muslims—approached me and said I was sitting at their table. I apologized and explained that mall administration had placed me there. Sure enough, security would arrive, check my paperwork, and apologize for the mistake before moving me again.
After the last move, when I was finally seated back at my original location, I asked God, “Why does this keep happening?” He answered: “You see, there is false religion set up all over this mall, but My church is not here. I need you here because people need to see My church and know that I am here.”
In that moment, God helped me understand that it wasn’t about me—or even about how many people came for prayer. My job was simply to be present for Him. When I asked God why so few people were coming, I expected Him to answer in my spirit or send more people. Instead, He answered in a way I never expected.
Many times, when we ask God for something, it may seem like He hasn’t answered. But often the problem is that we’re looking for the answer in the wrong place. Scripture says, “Ask, and it will be given to you.” God is not a man that He should lie. If He said it, He will do it. Sometimes our perspective simply needs to change.
If you’ve asked God for something and feel He hasn’t answered, go back and ask again—and ask Him to open your spiritual eyes so you can see the answer revealed. Because Scripture assures us: God listens, and He attends to the voice of our prayers.
Key Takeaways
God is not a man that He should lie; what He says, He will do.
We must ask God to open our eyes so we can see the answers to our prayers from His perspective.
God hears every prayer of the righteous, and He answers.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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“Search me, O God, and know my heart.”
This is one of my favorite Psalms because it confirms how deeply God knows us and how faithfully He cares for us. When we read this Psalm, it brings peace, rest, and the assurance that He has everything under His loving control.
O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.
You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it. Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!
If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.
If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light about me be night,” even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you.
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.
How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I would count them, they are more than the sand. I awake, and I am still with you.
Oh that you would slay the wicked, O God! O men of blood, depart from me! They speak against you with malicious intent; your enemies take your name in vain. Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord? And do I not loathe those who rise up against you? I hate them with complete hatred; I count them my enemies.
Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! Psalm 139, ESV
Key Takeaways
God has every detail of your life perfectly planned.
Before you were even conceived, God already knew you.
Every one of your days has been written in God’s book—nothing about you is ever a surprise to Him.
He invites you to rest in Him and trust His loving plan.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
He Already Knew
I was up early writing when I heard the rain pounding outside. It was a heavy downpour. As I sat there, I listened and began to reflect on how mighty our God is. Then this thought came to me:
Man can predict when the rain will come, but man can’t stop the rain.
Isn’t that something? We think we have so much power and so much knowledge, but the truth is, we will only ever know in part. I’m reminded of God’s words to Job:
“Who makes the rain fall on barren land, in a desert where no one lives?
Who sends rain to satisfy the parched ground and make the tender grass spring up?
Does the rain have a father?
Who gives birth to the dew?”
—Job 38:26, 28
I love that we serve the Creator of the world. He knows everything and is aware of what is happening long before the world was even formed. Think about that—before the existence of this world, God already had a plan. He knew exactly what would happen. He determined when we would be born, and nothing we experience surprises Him.
When we fix our focus on the Almighty God—when we remember that everything begins and ends with Him—joy, peace, comfort, and assurance begin to fill our souls. We walk and live in victory because God declared it and Jesus accomplished it.
So when the things of this world come pouring down on you and you feel overwhelmed, I invite you to stop for a moment. Look outside and see the mighty hand of God at work. The same God who commands the rain is the God who cares for you. You are His handiwork, and He takes care of His own. He has already made a way for whatever you are facing.
Prayer
Father, thank You! I praise You for the rest, peace, and joy that overflow when we take time to look at Your miraculous works. All the earth testifies to who You are. I pray that when life gets hard, the Holy Spirit will remind us of Your greatness and of who we are in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Key Takeaways
Everything in the earth testifies to how great our God is.
Before the earth came into existence, God already had great plans for you.
No one and nothing is greater than YHWH.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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The Answer
“…Thus says the Lord to you, ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God’s.’” —2 Chronicles 20:15 (ESV)
In the passage above, King Jehoshaphat and all of Judah had prayed to the Lord for help because the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir had come against them. They were outnumbered and would have been defeated. But the king sought the Lord, and God sent them an answer. God reassured them that there was no need to fear because, although it looked like they would have to fight, the battle belonged to God.
This passage is so encouraging because it reminds us that God cares about His people. He is interested in our problems, and He is greater than anything we will ever face. Hallelujah! Scripture teaches us that we will have troubles in this world, but our focus should never be on the problem—it should be on the Problem Solver.
God brought the answer to the king and told him that Judah would have victory, but they still had to face the battle. Many times, we want God to simply wipe away the problem, but that is not usually how He works. God told the king where to meet the enemy and how to approach the battle line. He gave them a specific formation that made no sense in the natural: the praise and worshippers were to march out first.
Scripture says, “And when they began to sing and praise, the Lord set an ambush against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah, so that they were routed. For the men of Ammon and Moab rose against the inhabitants of Mount Seir, devoting them to destruction, and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, they all helped to destroy one another.” —2 Chronicles 20:22–23 (ESV)
We learn that although God promised them victory, it required them to move in faith. It was not until they began to praise and worship God that victory took place. Every battle we face belongs to the Lord, and victory will come as we worship, praise, and step out in faith.
Key Takeaways
The answer always requires a move of faith.
God uses our problems to mature us and draw us closer to Him.
Beginning every battle with praise and worship positions us for victory.
Prayer
Father,
Thank You for reminding us that every battle we face belongs to You. Help us to trust Your voice above our fear and to follow Your instructions even when they don’t make sense to us. Teach us to begin every battle with praise, knowing that worship shifts our focus from the problem to the One who holds the victory. Strengthen our faith so that we move when You speak, confident that You go before us. We give You glory, honor, and praise for the victories You have already prepared. Amen.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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The Gift of Perspective
For we know in part, and we prophesy in part… 1 Corinthians 13:9, AMP
I called my parents—who are in their eighties and live just down the street—to invite them to ride with me to the mall. My father had been restricted from driving for about three weeks after receiving a pacemaker, so I felt the Holy Spirit nudging me to see whether they might enjoy a little outing. What I didn’t know was that my father had actually been cleared to drive just the day before. When I spoke with them, they said the ride would be nice, but my dad needed to stop by the clinic to get his blood drawn first. Then they would call me when they returned home and were ready to be picked up.
I had called around 9:45 a.m., and by 11:30 a.m. I still hadn’t heard from them. I had hoped to be on my way back from the mall by noon, so I started to feel anxious and frustrated that my schedule was now completely off. As I prayed for peace, I sensed the Holy Spirit prompting me to watch our church service online. I pulled up the church website and saw that a celebration-of-life service was being streamed live. I had forgotten that they sometimes broadcast those services. The woman they were honoring was a beautiful 97-year-old member of our congregation.
As I watched, her children and grandchildren shared how deeply they missed her. A video montage played, showing all the wonderful moments they had enjoyed together over the years. In that quiet, unexpected moment, the Holy Spirit began to speak to me about perspective.
There I was, irritated about a delayed schedule, and I was about to miss the beautiful opportunity God had given me. We can become so distracted by our own plans and preferences that we fail to notice the blessings God places right in front of us. While I was stewing in frustration, there were people in that very service who would have given anything to have one more ordinary morning with their loved one.
When I finally picked up my parents, I learned that they had been stuck waiting at the clinic. My dad said the process usually went quickly, but for some reason that day everyone else was called before them. I believe their delay was God’s way of teaching me about His timing and reminding me of what truly matters.
“Love bears all things [regardless of what comes], believes all things [looking for the best in each one], hopes all things [remaining steadfast during difficult times], endures all things [without weakening].”
God loves us enough to gently reshape our plans so He can reshape our hearts. He gives us moments that open our eyes, helping us see not just with our natural understanding but from His eternal perspective.
“For we know in part, and we prophesy in part…” — our view is so small, and His is so perfect.
Key Takeaways
Without God’s guidance, our perspective stays small and limited.
God works His purpose through every circumstance—even delays.
If we cling too tightly to our schedules, we may miss God’s unexpected blessings.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
A Divine Awakening
Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. 1 Corinthians 2:12, ESV
God has so many ways of speaking to us, and it is rarely on our terms. I was awakened around 2:00 a.m., maybe a little earlier. The previous evening, my husband, son, and I had gone out to dinner to celebrate our son’s birthday. We got home late and went straight to bed. I was exhausted and ready for a good night’s sleep.
When the Holy Spirit woke me up, I was quite surprised to find myself fully alert. I had energy and didn’t feel sleepy at all. As I sat in my room to pray, I sensed that God had something He wanted to say—some instructions He wanted to give me. My husband and son were in a deep sleep, which confirmed that this moment was meant just for me.
I share this experience because when God speaks directly to you, He often moves you into a place where it’s just you and Him. Sometimes, you might rather be doing something else, or because of busyness, you might even ignore His call. But God’s timing is not our timing. He often chooses moments that pull us out of our comfort zone. I believe these are times of testing—moments when we must be ready to respond with a “yes” to Him.
When God first spoke to Abraham, He spoke to his spirit, saying, “Go from your country, your people, and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” Abram had no idea where God was sending him, but he listened and obeyed the voice of God. Although Scripture never mentions Abram hearing from God before that moment, he knew deep within that it was God speaking.
God spoke to Joseph through dreams, revealing what was to come in his future. He sent the prophet Samuel to Jesse’s house to anoint David as king. He met Moses while he was tending sheep. He sent the angel Gabriel to Mary to tell her about her future. And Jesus Himself met the woman at the well.
God’s messages rarely come when or how we expect them. He might drop a word into our spirit or send someone to speak a word that resonates deeply within us. I remember a dear sister who was planning to resign from her job. That Sunday morning, she went to church, and when the pastor stood to preach, he said, “God says someone is planning to resign from their job, and He says—not yet.” She knew immediately that God was speaking directly to her.
Scripture says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27 (KJV)
I didn’t hear an audible voice saying, “Get up at 2:00 a.m.,” but there was an awakening in my spirit, and I knew it was Him. When God calls you, He will make sure you know it’s His voice—but it’s up to you to surrender and obey.
Reflection
Are you listening and responding to God’s voice?
Key Takeaways
God’s voice may be quiet, but it speaks loudly in our spirit.
God’s goal is not to make us comfortable but to challenge and grow us.
God’s messages often take us out of our comfort zone to bring us closer to His purpose.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Grace in the Middle of Adversity
“This pleased Potiphar, so he soon made Joseph his personal attendant. He put him in charge of his entire household and everything he owned.”
— Genesis 39:4 (NLT)
I thought I was finished writing on grace, but I couldn’t let this one slip away. In the passage above, we see Joseph standing in grace in the midst of intense adversity. From the very beginning of his story, we read about one attack after another coming against him.
Satan is always looking for a way to get us offended and cause us to abandon our post before the call God has placed on our lives is complete.
Joseph’s Journey of Grace
Joseph’s journey of adversity began the moment his father gave him a special coat:
“Now Israel loved Joseph more than any other of his sons, because he was the son of his old age. And he made him a robe of many colors. But when his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, they hated him and could not speak peacefully to him.”
— Genesis 37:3–4 (ESV)
Joseph simply received a gift of love from his father — and immediately, Satan stirred up jealousy and hatred in his brothers.
Because of the favor on Joseph’s life, his brothers’ hatred led them to plot his death. The very person God had ordained to save their lives was the one they wanted to destroy:
“When Joseph’s brothers saw him coming, they recognized him in the distance. As he approached, they made plans to kill him. ‘Here comes the dreamer!’ they said. ‘Come on, let’s kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns.’”
— Genesis 37:19–20 (NLT)
His own family sold him into slavery — not because of anything he had done wrong, but because of the favor that was on him.
Even in slavery, God’s favor continued to rest upon Joseph:
“The Lord was with Joseph, so he succeeded in everything he did as he served in the home of his Egyptian master.”
— Genesis 39:2 (NLT)
Despite being falsely accused by his master’s wife and thrown into prison, Joseph still stood in grace — and even there, the Lord blessed him.
Grace as Our Defense
Joseph’s life teaches us that even in seasons of opposition and offense, we can stand firm in the grace of God. Grace will not only bring us favor but will also be our defense.
In the middle of adversity, Joseph leaned into grace — and grace carried him through. We must recognize the power of grace as a divine gift. No matter what we face, grace enables us to stand.
Key Takeaways
When adversity shows up, stand in grace.
When you feel defenseless, stand in grace.
When you’re treated unfairly, remember — grace still protects you.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Final Reflection: Standing Firm in the Grace of God
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:6, ESV
As we come to the close of this Standing in Grace series, one truth shines above them all — grace is the power of God at work in us.
From Noah to Esther, from Jacob to Gideon, and through the words of Paul, we see that grace is not passive. It moves, it builds, it restores, it elevates, and it sustains. Grace positions us for purpose, brings restoration where there has been brokenness, elevates us through humility, empowers us in weakness, and sustains us through every trial.
Through each story, we are reminded that grace is not something we earn — it’s a divine gift freely given. It meets us in our humanity and fills the gaps that we never could. Grace is the gentle yet powerful reminder that God’s hand is always on His people, shaping us, guiding us, and calling us into deeper relationship with Him.
When we stand in grace, we are standing in the full assurance that we are loved, chosen, and equipped by God Himself. It’s not about our ability, status, or perfection — it’s about His presence and power working through surrendered hearts.
So, wherever you find yourself today — whether standing in faith, standing for restoration, standing in obedience, or standing through weakness — remember this: you are standing in His grace.
Key Takeaway:
Grace will always be enough.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Know What is in the Will
Jonathan said to the young man who carried his armor, “Come, let us go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised. It may be that the Lord will work for us, for nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few.” 1 Samuel 14:6 (ESV)
I love how our God moves. He doesn’t need a massive army—just a willing heart full of faith in Him.
In this passage, Israel was at war with the Philistines. Jonathan was with his father Saul, the king of Israel, and the rest of the army. The entire camp was stationed at Migron, on the outskirts of Gibeah. While everyone else was waiting for the next command, Jonathan decided to act in faith.
He was so confident in who God is that he knew victory was certain. Jonathan wasn’t afraid to step out and reveal himself to the enemy because he trusted God to deliver them. Before he moved, he made this bold declaration of faith to his armor-bearer: “Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.”
Jonathan’s courage reminds me of David when he faced Goliath. When David heard Goliath mocking the Lord, he said, “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?” (1 Samuel 17:26). Both Jonathan and David understood the power of the God who was on their side. While others focused on the size of the enemy, they fixed their eyes on the greatness of God and His promises.
A few Sundays ago, one of our pastors preached a message called “Read the Will.” The main point was this: If you know what’s in the will, you’ll know what belongs to you—and you can stand confidently no matter what you face.
Two verses from that message deeply resonated with me:
“Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you will revive me; you will stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand will save me. The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me.”
—Psalm 138:7–8
In these verses, we see God’s will clearly expressed through four promises: He will revive, protect, save, and fulfill His purpose for our lives. When we know the Lord’s will, we can stand boldly—just like David and Jonathan—and witness God’s hand move in our lives.
God’s will is His covenant: a sacred, unconditional commitment initiated by Him—unchanging and irrevocable.
Key Takeaways
You have the advantage because God is on your side.
You must read and understand the will that God has written concerning you.
God’s covenant is irrevocable!
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
Standing in Grace (Part 5 of 5): Grace Sustains Us
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. — 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
In this passage, Paul shares how he pleaded with God three times to remove what he called “a thorn in the flesh.” God did not take it away, but instead gave Paul something far greater — a revelation of sustaining grace.
Paul explains that the thorn was allowed “to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations.” (2 Corinthians 12:7) In other words, God knew Paul so intimately that He allowed this weakness to keep him humble, dependent, and aligned with His will.
What a beautiful reminder that God knows exactly what we need to keep us close to Him. Sometimes His grace doesn’t remove the struggle; it strengthens us through it. God told Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you.” That means His grace is enough — more than enough — for every weakness, every hardship, every season of our lives.
When we are weak, God’s power shines the brightest. Our limitations become the very place where His strength is perfected.
This truth brings such peace to my heart. When God calls us — even when we feel unqualified, inexperienced, or uncertain — that’s exactly where He wants us to be. Our insufficiency creates space for His sufficiency. His power is displayed through our dependence on Him.
Just like Paul, we can rejoice in our weaknesses because they become a platform for God’s glory. The focus is no longer on what we can do, but on what He can do through us.
We see this same pattern all throughout Scripture. Jesus called disciples who had no formal training, no wealth, and no social status — yet by His grace, they turned the world upside down. God’s grace didn’t just call them; it sustained them. And that same sustaining grace is still at work in us today.
No matter what challenges or weaknesses we face, God’s grace is our constant source of strength. Like Paul, we can boldly declare:
“Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Hallelujah!
Key Takeaways
Our weakness is not a limitation — it’s an invitation. God’s grace works best where our strength runs out.
Grace empowers us to fulfill God’s design. We can move forward confidently, knowing His power sustains every step.
Sustaining grace is our strength. Whatever situation we face, His grace is sufficient — always enough.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Standing in Grace (Part 4 of 5): Grace Empowers the Unqualified
“And he said to him, ‘If now I have found favor in your eyes, then show me a sign that it is you who speak with me. Please do not depart from here until I come to you and bring out my present and set it before you.’ And he said, ‘I will stay till you return.’” — Judges 6:17–18 (ESV)
In this passage, the angel of the Lord appears to Gideon and tells him that God has chosen him to deliver Israel from the Midianites. But Gideon’s first response reveals his insecurity and doubt.
“Please, Lord, how can I save Israel? Behold, my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house.” — Judges 6:15 (ESV)
The Lord’s answer is simple and powerful:
“But I will be with you, and you shall strike the Midianites as one man.” — Judges 6:16 (ESV)
Even after hearing this promise, Gideon still wrestled with uncertainty. He asked for a sign — some assurance that it was truly God speaking to him. Despite his hesitation, God patiently met him where he was. Gideon’s doubts didn’t disqualify him; instead, they became the backdrop for God’s grace to shine.
Gideon gave God every reason why he shouldn’t be chosen — his background, his lack of strength, his position in society — but notice this: God never answered Gideon’s excuses. He simply assured him, “I will be with you.”
That’s the essence of grace. Grace doesn’t focus on our qualifications; it magnifies God’s presence. When God’s grace is upon your life, it empowers you to do what you could never do on your own.
Gideon didn’t earn God’s favor. He didn’t seek it out or perform some ritual to receive it. God simply showed up and extended grace. That’s the mystery and beauty of divine favor — it’s not fair. God’s grace goes beyond what we deserve and calls us into what only He can accomplish through us.
Grace took a fearful, uncertain man and transformed him into a mighty warrior. The same grace still empowers us today. Even when we feel weak, overlooked, or unqualified, God’s grace equips us to fulfill His purpose.
When we stand in grace, we stand in God’s power, not our own.
Key Takeaways
Grace empowers, not excuses. God doesn’t remove our weakness; He works through it to reveal His strength.
Grace chooses the unlikely. God delights in using those who feel unqualified, proving that His power is greater than our limitations.
Grace meets us in our doubt. Like Gideon, we may question or hesitate, but God’s presence is the assurance that we are standing in His favor.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks
Standing in Grace (Part 3 of 5): Grace Elevates Through Humility
“The king loved Esther more than all the women, and she won grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins, so that he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti.” — Esther 2:17 (ESV)
Many of us know the story of Esther — a young Jewish woman raised by her cousin Mordecai after the loss of her parents.
“Now there was a Jew in Susa the citadel whose name was Mordecai, the son of Jair, son of Shimei, son of Kish, a Benjaminite, who had been carried away from Jerusalem among the captives. He was bringing up Hadassah (that is, Esther), the daughter of his uncle, for she had neither father nor mother.” — Esther 2:5–7 (ESV)
When King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) removed Queen Vashti from her royal position because of her disobedience, he sought a new queen. A royal decree went out, gathering many young women from across the kingdom to the citadel of Susa. Among them was Esther, who was taken into the palace and placed under the care of Hegai, the king’s eunuch in charge of the women.
Scripture tells us that Esther “pleased Hegai and won his favor.” He immediately provided her with beauty treatments, special food, attendants, and the best place in the harem. Though the Bible doesn’t specify exactly what Esther did to gain such favor, her character speaks volumes.
Just as Noah found grace in God’s eyes through his obedience and righteous heart, Esther’s favor came through her posture of humility and submission. She respected those in authority, listened to instruction, and honored the process she was placed in.
When it was her turn to go before the king, Esther did not rely on her beauty or her own ideas. Instead, she sought wisdom:
“She asked for nothing except what Hegai, the king’s eunuch who had charge of the women, advised.” — Esther 2:15 (ESV)
That single choice reveals the depth of Esther’s heart. She trusted the guidance given to her. She was teachable, obedient, and wise enough to understand that favor flows through submission.
It wasn’t Esther’s outward beauty that positioned her as queen — it was the beauty of her heart. Her humility, obedience, and reverence created an atmosphere for grace to operate. Grace elevated her because her heart was aligned with God’s will.
When we stand in grace, it may not always be in a palace or before a king, but grace still elevates us — not through striving or self-promotion, but through a humble heart yielded to God’s direction.
Key Takeaways
Esther’s humility was her grace. Her heart posture positioned her for divine favor and advancement.
Grace flows through submission. When we honor authority and follow godly guidance, grace opens doors that effort alone cannot.
True elevation begins in the heart. Standing in grace means cultivating a spirit of humility, obedience, and quiet confidence in God’s timing.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
You can also follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My published books are now available at: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks