Category: Healing

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Jesus Weeps with You Healing Through Loss

.-This snippet is from the revised version of my book, Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul. In this chapter, I lovingly engage the narrative behind the “sovereignty of God” teaching that once crippled my faith by incriminating the goodness of God when it came to healing. I hope this snippet helps build your faith, comforts the hurting places in your heart and helps you trust in your heavenly Father’s heart toward you. Jesus came to heal, and it is God’s will that we have abundant life.

Chapter 8: The Accuser

..Jesus smiled with pleasure at my decision to trust his word. He explained, “My love, the adversary has no grounds to accuse you before our Father, because my blood has purified the heavenly holy of holies. I forever sit as your High Priest in heaven. Your right standing with our Father is as secure as mine as long as you never reject me.

“Wow,” I breathed, feeling as if I were inhaling air fragrant with grace.

“As well, Father is not displeased with you. He is not angry with you in the slightest. He has promised never to be incensed against you. He has promised never to rebuke you.[i] This is the Gospel of Peace Isaiah prophesied about. Our Father delights in you and he rejoices over you. You are his well-beloved child.”

I smiled without knowing, “amen” I whispered, feeling at a loss of anything more to say. All I wanted to do was continue to listen to Jesus and be healed by his words.

“Even though the Accuser cannot slander you before our Father, he can still whisper lies to you about Him. He has falsely accused the Father to you for months now. He’s used almost every hardship that you’ve experienced as an opportunity to blaspheme God in your ears. The incorrect way that you see the Father now has not just been a result of your own conclusions.”

***

Without warning, my emotions were thrust back to eight months prior when one of my dearest childhood friends, Cassie, passed away forty-eight hours after a terrible car accident. I had rushed to the ECU to see her, praying hard the whole way in the car. I remember struggling to see through my tears as I drove and cried out for God to heal her.

I was let into the hospital room with her family and together we prayed, hugged, sobbed, and anxiously waited, hoping she would wake up. When the heart monitor flat lined, I felt like my own heart had stopped. We all watched with held breath as more doctors rushed in after a small emergency alarm rang. They tried and failed to revive her. When the head doctor finally dropped the defibrillator and turned toward us with sad eyes, I broke down. A flood of wails erupted in the room as Cassie’s family cried loudly.

In that moment of hopelessness and heartbreak, I remembered hearing an evil being whispering in my mind. It told me that God wanted my friend to die and that’s why my prayers hadn’t been answered. It told me, God needed another, “flower in his garden in heaven,” so he took her. It told me that perhaps if I was a better Christian, God would have reconsidered and healed Cassie. A chilly sensation had run through my heart that day. The words of the enemy successfully broke a tender place in my soul and formed a bleeding rift in the area of my trust in God’s goodness.

***

The memory opened up my hidden wound afresh and I bowed my head as heavy sorrow weighed on me.

Jesus read my thoughts and asked, “do you think it was God’s will that Cassie died by a drunk driver?”

I shut my eyes tightly as the fresh inner wound of Cassie’s tragic death opened. Fast tears formed before slipping down my cheeks, “I don’t know,” I said brokenly even though I knew I believed it had been God’s will.

“It wasn’t,” Jesus said, his eyes flooding with pained compassion.

“But how can that be? I thought God’s will was always done?” I said with a small frown of confusion.

“Sadly, not always. The Word of God says, God wills that none should perish but that all should come to repentance.[ii] Tragically, people perish every day even though God paid the ultimate price for everyone to be saved. When my disciples asked me to teach them how to pray, I told them to pray for God’s kingdom to come and for his will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.[iii] The fact that I told them to pray for God’s will to be done on earth implies that his will is not always done.”

Jesus continued, “My dear if our Father’s will was always done, earth would look just like Eden, and everyone would have a life-giving relationship with God. My earthly ministry alleviated human suffering by destroying the works of the devil through preaching the truth of the Gospel to the poor, through healing the sick, binding up the broken hearted, casting out devils, raising the dead, and ministering to the needs of people.[iv] God’s will came to earth from heaven in every miracle his Holy Spirit performed through me. For the Spirit of the Lord was upon me to do all those things.[v] With every blind eye opened, with every hungry belly filled, with every crippled man leaping for joy, with every truth spoken, and every disease healed, people saw God and often praised him afterward. I only did what I saw my Father doing.[vi]

“This is beautiful news,” I said as a cleansing flow of cool tears spilled from my eyes and slipped down my cheeks. Jesus smiled tenderly at me and softly held my chin with his thumb and pointer finger. For a moment, he watched my tears fall as if they were precious gemstones. I remembered the scripture that said God collected the tears of his children in a bottle and that he recorded each one in his book.[vii]

After a few seconds of only our eyes speaking, he gently released his hand from my chin and continued sharing the good news. “My ministry on earth is the clearest picture mankind has of the heart of God. His heart is good. He does not delight in human suffering. I always obeyed his command to love and to declare truth. If you’ve seen me, you’ve seen the Father.[viii] I and my Father are one.[ix] And no one who denies me truly knows God for I was with God in the beginning.[x] I am Truth, I am the Word made flesh.[xi] My dear, God is love.[xii] He so loved the world that he sent me.[xiii] All true goodness originates with him.”

His healing words broke through a dam of religious lies and self-protection in my heart releasing a fresh pool of tears. My eyes welled before the assembling tears began dripping down my chin and wetting my sleeves.

Moved by great love, Jesus gently wiped them away even as his eyes misted with deep consoling compassion. He inched his face closer to mine until all I could see was his radiant face. His visage was pouring with beautiful love. “Noelani, God wanted to heal Cassie and comfort you and her family, like I did at Lazarus’s tomb when I came as the resurrection and raised him from the dead.[xiv] God wept with you as I wept with Mary and Martha. He felt your pain, as well as his own.”

I shut my eyes to flush them of the tears that began blinding my vision. When I began to turn to look away, Jesus softly cupped my face still and I allowed my face to rest in his hands. As I did, I felt peace behind the surface of his fingertips. Jesus tenderly stroked my eyelids with his thumbs and to my surprise, I didn’t flinch away. Normally, I had a natural reaction to protect my eyes from anything that would touch them because of how sensitive and crucial they were to body and well-being. But when Jesus touched my eyelids, I felt no need to self-protect. This soothing motion of his thumbs melted me. It was like he was blessing me with clearer spiritual vision. He spoke again and I felt his balmy breath on my nose. His words washed over me like a warm mineral pool.

“Healing is my Father’s will for his kids, it is part of the atonement. Healing is the children’s bread.”[xv]

I felt a stony weight lift from my chest and my breathing became more relaxed as the truth came in. A place in my mind felt disencumbered.

Jesus released his hands from my face, and I looked upon him like someone who woke up to see sunshine for the first time after hibernating through the winter.

For the first time in a year, I felt a sense of peace come into the pained place that ached for Cassie’s presence. I smiled without effort at Jesus.

-To delve more deeply, check out the unrevised version of Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul, by clicking here.

“Ashley depicts such a level of intimacy with Jesus so poignantly that I believe it will arouse others’ hearts with passion to pursue a new depth and commitment in their relationship with Him. I pray with all my heart that through her insights seamlessly woven into the stories, the church (men and women) would recognize their one true identity as brides and not servants. The author helps us learn to allow ourselves be loved and healed and no longer driven to meet unrealistic expectations of ourselves and others. I believe that Ashley’s book will facilitate cultivating a fulfilling relationship with Jesus and abandoning religion once and for all! Ashley gives hope to those of us who feel or have felt they have sunk too low in their depravity. She demonstrates and enables us to believe that, no matter how vile our pasts, we can be washed white as snow by the blood of the Lamb and made beautiful new creations. She conveys with a refreshing rawness that nothing is beyond His power and (most reassuringly) His desire to redeem and restore. She illustrates the amazing grace of God with its power to enable us to live holy lives by His spirit and not the letter of the law and religion.
Possibly the most pertinent lesson that Ashley wisely shares in some of her stories is the most painful yet wonderful journey we go through if we choose to face the surrender of our lives and desires to God. Through her writing she gently urges us to come to this place of trust with the Father who loves us beyond our comprehension. The stories are heartwarmingly honest. Ashley has a beautiful gift of using descriptive language which instantly creates pictures in your minds as she relates her stories and makes them so real and alive.
May it lead you into your own passionate journey deeper into the heart of Jesus and to experience wonderful encounters with Him, our eternally faithful and true love.” ~Celina Haywood, Licensed Minister, Former Missionary to Thailand, Beautiful Encourager 💗

Scripture references from this snippet:

[i] Isaiah 54:9

[ii] 2 Peter 3:9

[iii] Matthew 6:10

[iv] Acts 10:38

[v] Luke 4:18

[vi] John 5:19

[vii] Psalm 56:8

[viii] John 14:9

[ix] John 10:30

[x] 1 John 2:23, John 1:2

[xi] John 1:14, John 14:6

[xii] 1 John 4:8

[xiii] John 3:16

[xiv] John 11:25

[xv] Matthew 15:22-28, John 6:32-35

-For an amazing Biblical teaching on the Sovereignty of God by Andrew Wommack, click here.

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Upcoming Book: His Beauty for My Ashes

I’m very excited to share this chapter in the book, His Beauty for My Ashes!

God showed me a vision of Heaven and how He created me… and it’s my honest belief that He wants to show you your priceless value, acceptance, purpose and divine uniqueness so you can shine on the earth because the DNA of Heaven is inside of you…

❤

HIS BEAUTY FOR MY ASHES Anthology with Visionary DrSherley Lefevre.

This book is a dedication to the resilient kings and queens transitioning from weeping to reaping. Crafted by fearless women who’ve conquered adversity, it’s your manual for empowerment, filled with testimonies, revelations, and biblical insights to deepen your faith. Get ready to rise above, triumph, and thrive!

🙌🏽

Promo Video:

The expected publishing month is November 2023! Be on the lookout for more details soon.

To check out my previously published books, click on the books tab. I pray you are blessed by God as you read!

Reviews:

“Ashley Thompson’s book, Visions of Celestial Love is just that; a visionary work of epic proportions. It is glimpses into a loving and remarkable relationship with the creator of the universe. You are invited to Dive into stories of love and compassion, healing and provision, loss and recovery, profound grace and faith. Ashley draws us in with her descriptive prose and unique style of writing. There are so many stories to relate to in this book and I’m sure you will find your own story among the many that are told here. So, find your favorite spot, your favorite beverage, and curl up with, Visions of Celestial Love.” -Amazon reviewer

“Romantic Rendezvous is a beautiful invitation into intimacy with Jesus! Ashley has done a masterful job of creating stories that depict the heart of the Father. I have truly been blessed by this book! As I read each story, I felt the closeness of Jesus and had continual reminders of how deep the Fathers love is for me. From the very first chapter, I felt the flame of my heart be rekindled with God’s goodness and love. This book is a must read!” -Jessica Leon

My review is biased but Fallen Coins really reminded me of my childhood growing up with the author(My Sister) she would tell me many stories before bed but this one i remember i asked to repeat several different times. The characters brought back many memories of us playing and enjoying each others company as well as the situations we’d find ourselves in often due to our impulsive curiosities the settings paints beautiful scenery of a wonderful small village our protagonists find themselves in. This short story is a wonderful read driving the importance of obedience especially to our parents.” -Amazon Reviewer

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Falling in Love with Jesus

Have you ever thought about this, the Bible begins with a marriage relationship in a beautiful garden between Adam and Eve, and it ends with a divine marriage feast in Heaven between Christ and the church?

This is a glimmering preview into a new book idea I’ve had in my heart for several years now. This book is about preparing the hearts of God’s people for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7). It is a prayerful and worshipful journey of mine to create words that make others thirsty for Jesus and to fall in love with Him. I often pray that the Holy Spirit would use me to woo the Bride of Christ back to Jesus. Just as the Spirit of God helped John the Baptist turn the hearts of the children back to their fathers, may He rise up within my heart to help the Bride of Christ return to her First Love. May you be blessed by this sneak peek:

-This book is artistically based off the Biblical writings of: Songs of Songs, Isaiah 54, Esther, Eden, Ezekiel 16, and finally the Marriage between Jesus and the Church in Revelation.

Eden scene:

“How come the King makes it so I am always attended?” I asked my attending angel.

“Because you are his royal wife.”

“We are not married yet.”

“In your carnal mind time still exists.” He said without condemnation or rudeness, “You forget that the Word says the Lamb was slain before the foundation of the world.  Before Adam sinned in this Paradise, Christ had already become the sin offering.” (Revelation 13:8)

I (Ariel, name meaning, Jerusalem) remembered that God symbolically showed Adam and Eve the promise of his eternal redemption through Christ when He slaid an animal to cover them with its skin. He covered their shame. He paid for their sin. He kept them warm…all with that one act to show them divine grace, mercy and sacrificial love. But it came at an ugly cost…the cost of innocent blood. (Genesis 3:21)

“It doesn’t seem like death could have ever happened in such a beautiful place as this…” I whispered thoughtfully.

The garden was vibrant with flowers and fruit and vegetables bright like polychromatic gems. Sparkling mist rose from the foundations of Eden like clouds of cream. The etherealness of it reminded me of the slow dancing clouds that descend like steaming, gauzy sheets of vapor over the amazon rainforests.

The rivers of Eden could be heard everywhere. The sound of moving water pleasantly rushed around my ears as if I were canoeing on streams with the clearest crystal waters fresher than artic rivers. One river had flecks of gold chaffing so plentiful that the gold clustered smoothly on river stones and when aureate sunlight graced the waters it gleamed so brilliantly it was like light on mirrors, refracting the brightest yellow.

I knelt by this heavenly river, feeling the soft, moist turf cushioning my knees. As I cupped this water in my hand, fine gold settled to the bottom of my palms like light glitter floating in water and it covered my skin completely like a layer of metallic lotion after the water had dripped from my hands. (Genesis 2:10-14)

All of the animals glowed like moonlight. They seemed to be infused with an otherworldly presence…as if divinity had been sewed into the delicate weaving ladder of their DNA. They were full of life. Holy life. They were full of peace. They never harmed one another. They lived in harmony with the earth and all of creation around them. Even through them, I saw Him. (Romans 8:20-23, Isaiah 11:6-9)

He was inescapable…

Even when He went off to judge, to reign, to deliver, to conquer and to rule as the mighty King of kings, and Lord of lords …He was always still with me. (Matthew 28:20, 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20)

In my own heart, I tasted the fragrance of his pure presence. His loving faithfulness was transcendent. Not even death could overpower or diminish it. (2 Corinthians 2:15)

It was like I was in a dream. Or a dream of a dream. But at the same time, no fantasy or dream, could come close to matching the beauty of Paradise. Undefiled, unadulterated…Eden. The highest hopes of man paled in comparison to the dreams of God.

In some ways, I felt like Esther, living within the gilded fortress and walls of the king’s magnificent palace, and his subsequent beautiful mansions speckling around his main palace. Within this main gate was his royal court made of pearl floors almost as clear as glass with thick curvy pillars crested and belted with rose gold that flamed into an amber color when torchlight came near.

All of this was encircled with water and delightful gardens rich with life, fruit, exotic animals, jewels, and every good delight known to man. Between two of these gardens was the king’s lush vineyard where grapes more aromatic than flowers grew in iridescent rows of emerald leafy vines….

The [Holy] Spirit and the bride (the church, believers) say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take and drink the water of life without cost. -Revelation 22:17 AMP

For previous books on the amazing love of Jesus, check out, Visions of Celestial Love and Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul. 

"Ashley Thompson’s book, Visions of Celestial Love is just that, a visionary work of epic proportions. It is glimpses into a loving and remarkable relationship with the creator of the universe. You are invited to Dive into stories of love and compassion, healing and provision, loss and recovery, profound grace and faith. Ashley draws us in with her descriptive prose and unique style of writing. There are so many stories to relate to in this book and I’m sure you will find your own story among the many that are told here. So, find your favorite spot, your favorite beverage, and curl up with “Visions of Celestial Love”!" -Amazon Reviewer
"Romantic Rendezvous is a beautiful invitation into intimacy with Jesus! Ashley has done a masterful job of creating stories that depict the heart of the Father. I have truly been blessed by this book! As I read each story, I felt the closeness of Jesus and had continual reminders of how deep the Fathers love is for me. From the very first chapter, I felt the flame of my heart be rekindled with God's goodness and love. This book is a must read!" -Amazon Reviewer

Worship Him

He’s so beautiful, isn’t He? Look at Him, the desire of the nations. The world trembles for his presence again. (I don’t own any rights to this beautiful music or video):

Beauty – Bethel Music – YouTube

xoxo

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Royal Righteousness to Replace Shame

This testimony is shared in the revised version of my book, Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul. To read the original version, click here.

But YOU will be called the priests of the LORD; they will speak of you as ministers of our God; you will feed on the wealth of nations, and you will boast in their riches. In place of your shame, you will have a double portion; in place of disgrace, they will rejoice over their share. So they will possess double in their land, and eternal joy will be theirs. -Isaiah 61:6-7 (emphasis mine)

I have found that shame was the number one tool the devil used to keep me in bondage throughout my early Christian walk. During one of my first visits to Charis Bible College, the Father gave me a vision of myself. One of the worship leaders began keying what sounded like a spontaneous worship song on the stage piano. She created melodic and beautiful music on the keys.

Within seconds I saw a vision of myself kneeling on a still, watery floor. The water was so calm it appeared like glass. I was robed in a dark shirt and pants. Jesus began walking toward me to embrace me. Instead of receiving his love, I turned my face away and held out my hands as if pushing the air to discourage him from seeing me.

“No, no!” I cried. “Stay away from me.”

 I closed my eyes tightly until he “left.” I didn’t think of myself as worthy enough to look at him. Being a gentleman, he walked away (although he never truly left). When I opened my eyes again and didn’t see him. I began to feel lonely and I regretted pushing him away.

Before I could cry because of my poor decision, my black clothes began to transform into a beautiful pink dress with twinkling lights that moved. After I saw that I was more prettily donned, I felt worthier and my heart began to desire to see Jesus.

As if the water below me heard the silent language of my heart, it began to rise in large drops. It was like reverse rain. Large drops of water solidified and formed a spiral staircase that had the appearance of precious stone. The stairway led up to the heavens, beyond the starry dome ceiling. As I gazed up, I saw billions upon billions of stars. They twinkled and shimmered like silver, blue, green, gold and purple glitter refracting light. Star dust painted the sky like aurora lights and cosmic clouds.

Unconsciously, I knew the stairway would lead me to God. It was like Jacob’s ladder in a way. I began to ascend the stairs but before I could reach the top, Jesus reappeared. This time, I didn’t turn him away, because he had dealt with my shame by clothing me in a gown of royal righteousness.

I also believe he appeared before I could reach the top because he wanted to show me that I didn’t have to labor for intimacy. He didn’t want me to. He wanted to show me that he was always wanting connection with me.

And that he was the only way to the Father, who lived up the stairs…

In the same way, I pray Jesus shows you a picture of yourself clothed with royal righteousness. You are a child of God. Thus, you are royalty. You don’t ever have to earn your way to God because Jesus paid the ultimate price for the veil to be torn that separated you from God. The work is already finished. You are perfectly loved by God. Your body has been made into the temple of the Holy Spirit. Christ, the Lord lives in your heart by faith. All your sins have been washed away. You have no stains. You are a new creation in Christ and you have been given a righteous nature.

“Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault.” -Colossians 1:22

Reflection Questions:

  1. Are you dealing with any level of shame in your life? If yes, why?
  2. Are you currently struggling with faith righteousness? In what ways have you personally allowed Jesus to show you that you are the righteousness of God through him (not by your works but his finished work)? “For it is by graceyou have been saved,through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works,so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8–9 NIV) “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile.” (Romans 3:22 NIV) Look up 2 Corinthians 5:21.
  3. Would you describe yourself as more God-reliant or self-reliant?

“This book is simply wonderful. Deliciously descriptive, it nourishes the soul with fresh revelation of God’s love for humanity. This collection of short stories may challenge your thinking about what true intimacy looks like, while making your heart yearn to daily experience the Perfect Love described within its pages. It invites you into a world created by Love Himself, where there’s no mistaking that His love is not only unconditional and never-failing, but also deeply personal and precious to Him. Get ready to experience the purpose, pleasure, and power of real love!” -Amazon Reviewer

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Medicine for the Soul

“And the LORD will continually guide you, And satisfy your desire in scorched places, And give strength to your bones; And you will be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.” -Isaiah 58:11

I think it’s so easy to neglect the deep care our souls need. 

In the busyness of life, in the deceit that other things are more important, and the constant distraction and to to-do lists, our heart connection with Jesus can be pushed to the side. 

But Jesus is everything we need and our relationship with Him is the most precious relationship in all the world. 

We need Him. He is our Life. He is our Truth. He is our Healer. He is our Savior. He is our Lord. He is our Counselor. He is the medicine our hearts need. 

He is, I Am. 

This has not been an easy year for me so far. Before the end of February, Stephen and I had 4 deaths of people we have known, cared for, and loved. And I haven’t made time to truly stop and grieve properly.

In the same breath, I saw revival break forth in a part of our nation that was beautiful. More personally, several of my Bible students had encounters with God in class that were healing, amazing and personally comforting. I saw students crying, embracing one another, bowing their heads in prayer, and reaching out to touch Jesus. One girl student described seeing Jesus as a majestic lion with a mane of fire, warm golden eyes and big, white, comforting wings. As she shared her vision of Jesus, my husband, who was in a different state, broke out in tears because the anointing of God was so strongly felt by him. That day of worship and prayer was so special. 

I’ve recently dealt with bouts of fear, one of them being job loss because of lack of finances in my school.

Then there’s been the familiar nagging of the spirit of the enemy coming against my own tender and sacred dreams. He has sought to sow seeds of doubt, hopelessness, and depression that the dreams I believe God has promised me will never come true. There’s been the excitement of hearing from my literary agent that a Christian publisher requested two samples of my work…only to have weeks of silence after. 

This season has been full of paradoxes: joy, revelation, fear, doubt, brokenness, blessings, grief, breakthrough, and chronic struggles. 

Through it all, Jesus has come after my heart. Through it all, He’s invited me to trust in Him. Sometimes I find myself running so fast, that it feels like Jesus must run up to me and tap me on the shoulder to get my attention. 

A week ago, I searched inside myself and finally asked Jesus for help. When I slowed down enough, I realized what the underlining source of my running is:

I’m running to keep up a façade of perfection. I’m running from the broken places of wounding that have been buried for years in my soul (which is a real detriment because the enemy has used these hidden aching places to keep me in perpetual pain). I’m running from secret insecurities and fears that I just don’t want to deal with because it feels too hard for me to fix. And I haven’t wanted to be vulnerable and share these things with the Body of Christ (the church) because I feel too unsafe and for some reason, I think sharing my weaknesses and needs with others might be an unwelcome burden to them. It just feels too messy. 

So, I’ve been running. 

But Jesus is called our Forerunner (Hebrews 6:20).

He already has run the ultimate race for us. He ran and won the prize of eternal life. And He frequently reminds me that eternal life isn’t just for Heaven. It’s the life of God He provided for us through His death and resurrection (which many believers will more closely observe this April for Easter/Passover). He gave His life not just so we may go to Heaven, but so that we can have the kingdom of Heaven on earth which the Bible describes as righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). 

Running to me represents striving. I never want to be in a place of striving because Jesus is our Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). If I am striving, it means there’s an undercurrent of doubt or fear lodged in my soul that keeps me from trusting in God’s ability for my own ability. I don’t want to put my trust in this world.

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” -John 14:27

Are you striving in any area of your life?

Are there any places of unrest in your soul?

Are you experiencing the beautiful, wholesome, healing, and powerful peace of the Holy Spirit on a daily basis?

If not, then I pray Jesus will tap you on the shoulder and draw you ever deeper into His heart until his peace becomes as common as your breathing. I pray you will experience the love of the Father in a way that fills your life with fullness, joy, blessings, comfort, hope, and everything good Jesus paid for you to have. His heart toward you is so good and He has a special place in His heart for you. Along with that, is a special plan for your life.

Lastly dear friend, as I have prayed for you, may you say a prayer for me? That I may receive the deep and sweet inner healing Jesus wants me to receive and that I may release my need for control for His amazing and loving Lordship? I don’t want to have an idol of control in my heart where His throne should be (James 5:16). 

There is a place of rest He has promised us, and it is sweeter and grander than the Promise Land He gave to Israel (Hebrews 4). I’ve been in that secret spiritual place before. I’ve tasted the wonder and beauty of His kingdom on earth before and it is to this place that I constantly want to abide. 

Just this morning a student in my class told me she was in a lot of pain. She confessed she didn’t go to bed until 3am because of how bad it was. I noticed she was quieter in class than normal, and she didn’t look very well. She told me her chest felt constricted, it was hard for her to breathe and that she was sick. I felt prompted to pray for her. Even though I was having an emotional morning and some doubt flared up, I pushed my insecurity away and offered her prayer. She said yes to receiving prayer and so I laid my hands on her and prayed for Jesus to touch her, I asked the Holy Spirit to minister healing to her body and spoke life over her body and peace and love over her soul. At recess she told me, “Mrs. Thompson, as soon as I went into my other class after you prayed for me, I felt completely better. All I needed was prayer.” I noticed her mask was off now, and later, I watched as she ran across the parking lot and played around with other students. She wasn’t short of breath anymore, instead she was full of energy.

A miracle had taken place. Jesus touched her body. This just happened today. And through this instant God reminded me that He is with me. That He loves people. That He never wants any of us to suffer whether it’s emotional, physical, or spiritual because Jesus paid for our healing through His death and resurrection (Isaiah 53). Even as I sit, in some emotional pain, the healing of this student brings me hope for my own healing. 

Our Jesus is amazing. We have His life inside of us. We are born again from above (John 1). 

I would love to share this refreshing song with you about Jesus being the restorer of your soul by Sarah Hart Pearsons:

(I do not own any rights to this lovely song)

-For more words of counsel, and the grace of God, check out my book, Visions of Celestial Love, by clicking here:

An Invitation into Healing Intimacy with God

“A delightful book that reflects the praises from a heart that desires to abide closely with our Heavenly Father. Written in a style that summons us to experience a journey of deeper intimacy with a loving God. Ashley covers the foundation of the Christian faith that brings encouragement and assurance of God’s promises when faced with life’s challenges. Embracing our uniqueness and the safety of transparency before our Maker who cares about the most intricate details of our life. Yes, an invitation indeed from the One and only who can fill what are heart’s ache for.” — Jocelyn Reyna

Bless you dear one reading this. Until next time, may the peace of God guard your heart and mind and may you grow in your trust of Him. 

Warm Sincerity from Your Sister in Christ,

Ashley

xoxo

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Valentine: His Healing for the Hurting Heart

-This snippet is taken from the revised version of my book, Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul.

The rich truth in Jesus’s words began settling over me like a weighty revelation. For a moment, I stared at a stately marble pillar decorated with a large ruby. Flames from nearby heat lamps danced on the glassy surface of the ruby like burning carmine and gold stars.   

Jesus grabbed one of my hands with one of his, before completely covering it with his other hand. The feeling of his large palm over my skin was comforting. I studied the terrain of his swarthy skin with my sensors and experienced the paradox of toughness and gentleness in his touch. His palm carried the callouses of carpentry as well as the softness of a Healer.

Temporarily putting my question aside, Jesus stated soothingly, “The fertile soil of your heart has already been made wet with my presence. Your heart is a garden that only needs to receive the healing words that I speak.”

“Healing,” I whispered, mostly to myself as a broken place in my heart called out. I winced in pain and patted my heart with my free hand as if to comfort the splintered place.

Jesus continued with a compassionate look in his eyes, “You cannot ignore nor belittle the damage that’s been done to your heart through lies and wounding experiences. Nor should you berate your heart by condemning it for hurting. Your heart is my treasure.”

“But the hurt is still there.”

“I know my dear, that’s why I’ve come. My compassions are kindled together for you.”

I didn’t fully believe his words, so I unconsciously began to turn away from his gaze. I felt sorry for giving him a cold shoulder. I willed myself to face him again but some sinister lie in my mind fought against it. Outside of myself, the same unwelcome presence that had followed me for months hovered near, feeding this lie.

“I am not what religion has taught you. I do not look upon a wounded person in a ditch and sneer at them with consternation and ask, ‘Where is your faith?’ I do not jeer at the bruised. I will not break a bruised reed, nor will I snuff out a smoldering wick.[i] I am not cold nor indifferent. Don’t put any pressure on your heart that I don’t place there.”

I faced him now, “It’s so hard for me to not pressure myself, because I genuinely want to be perfect for you. I want to be everything that you deserve and a daughter who always pleases her heavenly Father.”

“You are already pleasing to me. You don’t have to deserve me or any part of your heavenly inheritance in me. Father has already qualified you to share in this blessing along with all the saints.[ii] All you must do is repent by believing you already are all these things in me. You’ve been re-created in me and born of our Father’s Spirit. You have been given freedom. You just haven’t accepted it yet.”

“It’s that kind of faith that seems so impossible for me to reach. Because I feel I must somehow earn it in order to be it.”

“Do you remember when I told you on our drive to the lake that faith works by love?”

“Yes,” I answered.

“A lack of faith in Father is simply a result of lovelessness. You don’t believe how much he loves you. Neither do you fully believe my finished work in making you holy before our Father.”

“After all you’ve done, both tonight and over two thousand years ago, it’s amazing to me, in the worst possible way, that I still don’t believe the way you love me. I must need a lot more healing than I realized.”

“Yes, you do. But that’s why I came to you tonight. It’s also why I came for you over two thousand years ago. Your need does not intimidate me like it does you. It excites me because my supply is far greater than any need you have, and I look forward to fulfilling it. I’m looking forward to your future with much anticipation.”

“That makes one of us,” I said heavily before explaining myself. “I haven’t looked forward to the future much this year.”

“I know,” Jesus said compassionately. “I am excited for the continual healing that is coming your way.” He smiled with a look of great hope in his eyes.

“I thought I needed faith first in order for you to heal me?” I voiced, feeling like I kept ping-ponging the same question using different verbiage.

“You’ve been given a measure of faith according to my word.”

“Wait, I don’t have enough faith to be your bride and fully surrender to the Truth, yet I have enough faith for you to heal my heart?”

“If your heart is healed you will accept my proposal and surrender. Faith for healing is the starting place for you. A whole heart is capable of living fearlessly. Let me heal you by your continually feeding on my truth and abiding in my presence. My love will go into every cracked place and bind together the broken places. Think of my love as curative sap entering into the aching and burned places to restore and piece together. This ministry of healing is just as important as physical healing. As Isaiah wrote, the Spirit of the Lord God is upon me because the Lord has anointed me to bind up the broken hearted.[iii] So, let me love you for as long as it takes. I plan on loving you for eternity. Why should you lack patience with yourself about your faith when I don’t?”

My lips slowly smeared into a smile like butter on hot bread.

“I shouldn’t,” I said, feeling a small bit of relief.

Jesus smiled as well and lifted his hand to caress my cheek, “That’s right, beloved. Besides, I am the author and completer of your faith.[iv] You need only to spend time with me and continually receive my word for your faith to be energized. Guilt and condemnation diminish faith, whereas love quickens it.”[v]

Discussion Questions for Chapter 7:

What moved you most in this chapter? Why? Have you ever felt the need to compare yourself with others—what they are able to offer Jesus (the analogy of crowns in this chapter) only to discover that all Jesus really wants is more of you? True treasures are only offered through his grace.

Who or what are you trusting in the most right now? (“The only perfection required is trust and willingness. Who and what you trust will always be who you follow. In essence, your god…and you will always find your safety in it.”)

In what ways has your faith been quickened and energized by the love of God? In what ways has your faith been diminished through condemnation? Ask God to show you more of his love in a way that quickens your faith.

If Jesus personally proposed to you, would you say yes? Would you be willing to throw off your old identity and truly live from his perspective of you?

Scripture Meditation: “For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.” (Romans 8:6 NASB)

Scripture Endnotes:

[i] Isaiah 42:3

[ii] Colossians 1:12

[iii] Isaiah 61:1

[iv] Hebrews 12:2

[v] Galatians 5:6

This snippet was adapted from the unrevised version of my book, Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul. To dive deeper into its intimate pages, click here.

“This book is simply wonderful. Deliciously descriptive, it nourishes the soul with fresh revelation of God’s love for humanity. This collection of short stories may challenge your thinking about what true intimacy looks like, while making your heart yearn to daily experience the Perfect Love described within its pages. It invites you into a world created by Love Himself, where there’s no mistaking that His love is not only unconditional and never-failing, but also deeply personal and precious to Him. Get ready to experience the purpose, pleasure, and power of real love!” -Amazon Reviewer

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Coffee House Ministry

~This snippet is taken from my book, Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul:

“What makes your beloved better than any other?
What is it about him…?” – Jerusalem Maiden, Brides-to-Be

—Song of Songs 5:9b TPT

Vaporous spicy aromas licked the air with heat. Warm ginger mingled with clove. Pine kissed ground coffee scents. Chai danced with vanilla. And nutmeg blended with buttery pear creating a bath of incense. A group of teenagers sat on a plush, ruby red sofa drinking piquant drinks from decorative mugs. They shared headphones and watched videos on their laptops, which were resting on their legs. An old couple sharing a booth, sat across from one another talking. The wife reached a pale, trembling hand over her husband’s tan, leathery one. His opaque eyes misted as he looked upon her, and I felt his ripe love for her like hot honey in my chest. Some young adults were seated around a wooden oval table doing homework. I guessed they were all a part of a study group. Still there were others scattered about. I passed by a small girl with pigtails happily eating a lemon tart dessert.

When Jesus walked in, I expected him to stand on a table and evangelize. Instead, he walked right up to the counter to greet a comely barista. Her thick, brown hair was weaved in the back and hung like glossy rope with tawny blonde highlights. She had clear green eyes like olive oil and lips the color of crushed raspberries.

“Good evening, sir. How may I help you?” she asked perfunctorily.

She looked frazzled and her day must have been long, for although she looked at Jesus, she didn’t see him. He was just another customer. It was almost as if her pretty eyes were shuttered by the repetitive routine of work. She glanced at me and asked the same question before her eyes fell to the cash register, ready to proceed with her normal protocol.

I ordered an apple spice tea with sweet buttercream drizzle. “Good choice,” she said without feeling.

Jesus remained silent for a few seconds. His eyes scanned her as she stared at the cash register waiting for him to order next. She glanced up at him when he said nothing.

“What would you recommend, Diane?” he asked, with deeply compassionate eyes and a warm smile. I knew he asked that question only to rouse her.

Her eyes quickened slightly, and her shoulders perked up. “That depends. How are you feeling?”

Jesus answered with a bright smile, “I’m feeling like I could use something with a kick of zest in it.”

The corners of Diane’s lips slightly lifted at his charming and welcoming visage. “We have pineapple tea with ginger root. That usually provides a nice kick.”

“That sounds good, but I’d like to hear other options.”

Diane began to read off to Jesus a list of other teas and coffees that were energy boosters. She went through the entire list before he asked, “Which ones are your favorites? For those nights where you need a booster?”

Diane chortled softly. “It would be the spiked cider or the whiskey Irish creamed coffee,” she said with a mischievous sparkle in her eyes. “But if you’re looking for a nonalcoholic solution, I’d recommend the hot chocolate supreme. It has a few shots of caffeine.”

By this time my tea was finished, and I picked up my order before finding a nearby table. I knew Jesus was ministering to Diane.

“What if I didn’t want anything with alcohol or caffeine in it?” Jesus asked, his demeanor still warm.

“Then the pineapple ginger is your best bet, but you can choose from these other teas,” she said fingering a few, her eyes fixed on the list. “Like I said it really just depends on how you feel.”

“How do you feel?” Jesus asked her.

His question surprised her, and I noted a flicker of shock cross her face before she masked it with her customary employee visage.

“I feel like I could use a booster myself,” she said politely.

“I know a booster that you can’t get in a tea or a coffee or anything material but it always works. And I’d like to give it to you if you’re willing.”

Her eyebrows lifted. “It always works?”

Jesus gave a gentle laugh. “It hasn’t failed yet. Millions of people who’ve had this would tell you so, from centuries ago to modern day, from all around the world to right in this city.”

“How much is it?”

“It’s completely free.”

Diane’s eyebrows creased slightly, and she tilted her head trying to discern Jesus. Nothing but waves of love came off him. She glimpsed around. Everyone had been served, and her fellow co-worker had gone into the kitchen.

“What is it?” she asked, partly suspicious.

“Not what, but who.”

Misunderstanding his intent, Diane stated, “I have a boyfriend.”

Jesus nodded. “I know you do, and I’m not coming onto you if that’s what you’re thinking…at least not in that way.”

Diane pressed her lips together. “Then…?”

“It’s Jesus.”

Diane rolled her eyes. “Please, sir, I’ve had enough of religious jargon. And I’m too old to believe or be humored by fairy tales.”

“I would disagree,” Jesus said kindly.

“What would you like to drink?” Diane asked, cutting him off.

“Humor me for a moment, Diane.”

Diane gave an audible sigh and then shrugged. She stared him up and down again before her demeanor softened. “Okay,” she said cautiously.

“I don’t doubt that you’ve had enough of religious jargon. I’ve had enough of it myself. But I do question whether or not you’re being truthful about fairy tales.”

Diane arched an eyebrow at him and crossed her arms.

Jesus continued, “Think of it. Most movies are composed of fairy tales, even the action ones. There’s some level of magic in them—of superhuman strength, of beauty, of endurance, of ideal romance, of triumph and adventure beyond common life. Most songs consist of a yearning for superhuman love. Many best-selling books are littered with these noble ideas that are often fleeting in human experience, yet they are an ever-constant source of ache and desire in the human heart.”

Diane’s lips untightened and her arms slowly uncrossed.

Jesus expounded, “If those aren’t fairy tales, then I don’t know what is. Every human heart longs to experience something more than the dreariness of life. That’s why people stuff themselves with fancies, be it food, relationships, temporary thrills like theme parks, drugs, movies, vacations, promotions, possessions, whatever it be. The soul of man knows there’s something more that it was created for, and so most people numb this yearning by stuffing it with entertainment. The only problem is,” he paused, and his eyes deepened; “Is that they’re trying to fill an eternal ache with temporary things. Worldly things can never mask heavenly desire. Many have tried, and all of them have failed. Do you not find yourself entertained by these things, Diane?”

When Diane didn’t answer, Jesus replied, “I know you do.” His tone was thick with bowls of compassion that rose like sweet fragrance.

“Well, religious people entertain themselves with rules and criticizing others. At least ‘secular’ people seek happiness over hate,” Diane retorted. Although her facial expression was defiant, her voice was strained, and I caught a glimpse of sorrow in her eyes before she drew it back.

Jesus reached out to Diane with such compassion that I felt a lump rise to my throat.

“Religious people do. You’re right. And I’m sorry for everyone that has hurt you. Truly, I am. Many people are so busy making religion their god that they don’t allow God in their religion. Turns out religion is much more easily manageable than God. Those people you speak of are afraid. They may not even know it, but they are. Pride is a form of fear. They seek control, perfection, a way to escape chaos. They are desperate to measure up for fear of rejection, failure, exposure, whatever the fear is. They have so many layers of behavior modifications and thought processes piled on top of their fear that they can’t even detect it. They look to somehow redeem themselves. But there is only one Redeemer. There is only one love that casts out all fear and those who have that are not religious. That’s what I want to offer you tonight.”

Jesus paused and stared deeply into her eyes. “Diane, the happiness that people seek is Jesus. Eternal happiness can be found in nothing else.”

Diane’s eyes watered and she closed them. Her breath shook a little as she tried to compose herself, “You speak as if you know him. No Christian has ever spoken to me like that.”

Jesus reached out and gently touched her arm. She collapsed into tears at his warm touch, and I knew she was feeling his love for the first time. It was as if the pores of her skin opened up to his liquid love. Diane covered her face with her hands and tried hard not to weep so loudly.

Customers noticed and passed curious glances. Some seemed concerned that whoever was touching her had somehow hurt her, but their thoughts quickly turned when he lifted his hand and caressed the side of her face. Diane grabbed and then pressed his hand against her cheek with hers. Her teeth clenched as she sobbed.

“Do you feel that?” Jesus asked, his voice rough with emotion.

“It’s like fire in my heart,” she sobbed, choking on tears. Her skin became damp with sweat from crying so hard and from the heat of his love. Her smooth skin reddened until her nose was like plumb sauce. Her tears, snot, and saliva got on Jesus’ hand, but it didn’t bother him. He was smiling. He was happy and content…

~To read the full story, click here.

For centuries, the female heart has burned with desire for the lasting pleasure of unchanging love. In the course of time, civilizations have risen and fallen, yet the longing for tangible intimacy has never faded. Millions of lyrics have been written to the passionate tune of this fluid yearning.

Unfortunately, few people find the lasting love they’ve longed for, even as children. Life, education, and societal pressures transform what was once a tangible hope into a mythical fairy tale. Industries have reaped unlimited monetary gain from the erosion of this hope. Billions of girls grow up to become women who have long since tossed their dreams of true love in the trash bin of cynicism. Countless others have buried their ache of unmet desire under the disappointment of failed relationships and hopelessness.

Despite most women’s best attempts, this starved craving remains alive, like a stimulating aroma. This ethereal hope goes back to the first relationship, in a place of being so “seen” and “lovingly known” that “she” was naked and unashamed.

This novella was not written to add salt to the gaping wound of unsatisfied need. It was written to satisfy the need completely. Let Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul introduce you to a lasting relationship with Transcendent Love, where reality becomes sweeter than your dreams.

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Miracles of Loving Grace

“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.” -Jesus in John 14:12

The Holy Spirit moves so mightily in prayer ❤🕊

“You’ll never believe what happened!” I turned and saw the woman I had prayed for three days ago standing beside my chair with an excited look in her eyes. It was break time at Charis Bible college and I had just set out on the new adventure of trusting God with everything…finances, school, this journey, transportation, boarding, etc.

She had told me earlier that week that she lost all appetite for food. “Why?” I asked as she forced herself to eat. “I had stomach surgery years ago…and something went wrong. Since then, I only eat because I remember to. My body never feels hungry.”

I watched her chew and asked her, “do you want God to heal you of that?”

“Well…I’ve had it so long.”

I marvel at the level of faith I showed those 4ish years ago…it was almost as if I didn’t hear her words. They rolled over me like water off a ducks back. I simply inquired again, “do you want God to heal you of that?” I was confident the Lord would touch her.

When she saw I didn’t flinch she nodded, “yes.”

I took her hand and prayed a simple prayer, “thank you God for touching her body and making her whole. In Jesus name amen.”

Now three days later, she found me in a crowd with the good news.

“Ashley! For the first time in years I feel hungry again!”

I smiled at the news of healing and said calmly, “praise God.” She seemed confused at my lack of visible enthusiasm. I continued my studies. Healing miracles were a natural part of my life back then.

As I look back on my journey of understanding grace, faith-righteousness, the Holy Spirit, and the Gospel, I realize I’ve been going through loops…between victory and defeat, faith and fear, resting and striving, etc. Recently my husband and I have been re-evaluating our beliefs. We both went to Colorado seeing more supernatural miracles than when we left.

My husband has shared stories like praying over a cloth and seeing a man healed of cancer, seeing a man’s back healed, and seeing demons cast out. We both believe in the power of the Gospel to heal, deliver and save. Recently we’ve seen more acts of God in witnessing, seeing someone baptized in the Holy Spirit, and seeing healing manifest. (I just want to say that knowing God is with us in our mess and wants to set people free from whatever cripples them, makes living in hope and joy a beautiful, comforting reality). We both came to California for the purpose of doing the Lord’s work by making disciples.

Years later, I found myself praying for a friend and she felt a weight lift off of her mind and experienced a level of freedom. Weeks after that I was praying for my daycare children and a little girl heard God’s voice speaking to her (she has since changed dramatically). Before that I prayed for a lady who had pain in her hand and a lump. Before I was done praying the lump shrank and went away along with the pain.

I’m learning again to lean into Him when I pray and rest in His love and abide in His truth. Trusting only in His power 🙏😇🌈

He truly wants to heal the sick, comfort broken hearts, set captives free and minister grace. God truly gets all the glory. It’s by His grace.

Thank you Jesus for paying it all so that mankind could receive the favor and blessings of God on earth as it is in heaven. ❤

~I pray you receive from Gods loving heart the power of his miracle working grace in your circumstances. He doesn’t give to us because we work for it, He gives to us because He loves us and Jesus paid for us to have nothing short of God’s kingdom on earth. There is nothing that you may be suffering with right now that God hasn’t paid for it to be taken care of. He loves you soo much. You are his beloved child. God has richly blessed you in Christ!

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His Rejoicing Love

“The LORD your God is in your midst, A Warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with joy; He will be quiet in His love [making no mention of your past sins], He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy. -Zephaniah 3:17 AMP

The way God loves is just sooo deep, sweet and especially personal ❤. For many years I didn’t know He was like this.

This evening as I was having one on one time with Him during a long drive, I began to become enraptured in worship. I sang to Him. As heartfelt music played in the background, I sang loudly with the passionate emotions bubbling with me, “You are my hallelujah (my praise, my joy 💛)!” Just as I was becoming in awe that He was mine, I felt a holy pause in my soul and it was like He sang these same lyrics to me, “You (Ashley) are mine… hallelujah!” It was like He was rejoicing over the fact that I am his. As if He were giving himself kudos and congratulations for winning me. It reminded me of the Bible verses in Zephaniah that talks about God rejoicing over us in his love!!!

I almost pulled over on the side of the road as tears rose to my eyes from his affectionate love and I felt the anointing and presence of the Holy Spirit in the car with me.

Years ago when I was in Bible college, I closed my eyes and I saw a Man coming toward me with speed. He was running with all his might and strength (picture a scene with Tom Cruise running in one of the mission impossible movies). The sun behind Him was glorious and He was silhouetted in golden light brighter than fire… everything behind Him was washed with radiating sunlight. Every blade of grass, all the waters of the lake beside us, every strand of wheat was glowing like glimmering auburn stars.

Somehow I knew, this was Jesus just after He rose from the dead and walked out the tomb…there was a joy in Him that was powerful (the Bible says in Hebrews 4:2, “for the joy set before Him, He endured the cross…” (we are a part of that glorious joy). As He ran, He flung his arms open and declared, “You are Mine! I have you now! I have won you! I love you! You are finally Mine!!!”

The scene reminded me of what Jesus might have described when He told the story of the prodigal son in a parable that was meant to reveal the nature of God…the Father ran toward the sin-stained son in that story, threw his arms around him and wept from overwhelming love (which was a cultural disgrace for an elder/old man of wealth to run back in those days…especially since he probably would have to hold up his robe to keep from tripping).

When I pictured Jesus running toward me in that vision, I felt I had to open my eyes and end the vision before He got any closer. His love was too powerful, too pure, too passionate, too holy, too amazing and I wasn’t used to it (I felt like a person born blind having to gaze upon sunlight for the first time…the brilliance was too bright, too blindingly good and splendid ☀️ ).

I think of why Mel Gibson named the movie about Jesus’s suffering, The Passion? Did he name it that to describe the passionate, excruciating pain of Jesus’s suffering, lashing, crucifixion, persecution and eventual death? He certainly captured the pain more than any movie producer I’ve known. Seeing scenes from the movie was almost too unbearable and I would turn away or close my eyes on certain parts. But even deeper, I’m beginning to see that there was something more powerful than the pain Jesus suffered on the cross that He was looking forward to. It was joy. It was the joy of having us 💛. His love was greater than the greatest human suffering.

The Father’s love for you is greater than any suffering you’ve experienced on earth 🌎👑!

So much goodness! Dear, beloved Jesus 🥰!

Recently these lyrics from Steffany Gretzinger’s song 🎵 More To Me, have left an imprint on my heart more sweet than a steaming bath of incense:

“All of the others

They don’t matter

You are everything

All of the others

They come after

You mean more to me

You mean more to me.

Let me set a table

For the One that I love

This is my desire

All I have is ready

To fulfill Your longing

What do You desire?

I wanna know

Let me set a table

For the One that I love

This is my desire.”

(Steffany Gretzinger, Chandler Moore) © 2020 Watershed Worship Publishing / Ivory and Ink Publishing (ASCAP) (admin. at WatershedMusicPublishing.com); Chandler Moore Publishing Designee (C) 2020 Provident Label Group LLC, a division of Sony Music Entertainment

The Lord’s love for you is truly endless! May you forever drink deeply of his love and bask in the wonder, power and warmth of it.

Until next time, be blessed with his mighty grace, perfect peace, freeing truth and redeeming love.

For similar words of inspiration, check out my book, Visions of Celestial Love:

“Visions of Celestial Love is a book of inspiring quotes and beautiful prose about God’s unconditional love for mankind. The insights of this book help us to understand that it was the Father’s great love for us that made a way for us to have life together with His Son, Jesus Christ. Through it we get a glimpse into the true meaning of Christ’s sacrifice of love expressed through His death, burial and resurrection as God’s magnificent gift of grace to us. His blood made it possible for all those who put their faith in Him to have fellowship with His Father again. 

I am confident that at the completion of this book, you will also seek after God with your whole heart and want to be in His presence forever.” —Alice Paige, True-Heart friend of author

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Longing For Your Arms

“Let his left hand be under my head And his right hand embrace me.” -Song of Solomon 2:6 AMP

Father, I’m in one of those moments right now.

You know where I am and you come to find me.

It’s a place I’ve been many times since knowing you.

It’s the moment where my heart longs to sit inside a cozy cottage centered amid a jade glen with emerald climbing vines and flowering wisteria decorating the walls.

I want to enter into this place you’ve created inside of me. (Luke 17:21)

I long to gaze upon a burning, crackling and humming hearth and smell sage and cinnamon blending together. The vibrant flames of gold, orange, and ruby red glimmer and mix together like precious pieces of treasure–each beautifully unique and eye-catching.

I’m longing for your arms to embrace me.

I’m longing for your tangible touch again.

I’m longing to enter that sacred place in my heart where the Word becomes flesh. (John 1:14)

This holy place where heaven meets earth.

This special place where eternity enters time, and this shared space becomes divine.

I’m thirsting for this place where you set a table before me, where you enter my soul with words filling like the last Supper–your words are sweet bread to my tongue. (John 6:51)

Where my heart is poured upon with the fragrant oil of your Holy Spirit and He coats my skin with radiant love.

I long to rest in this place where incense covers the soil of my inner being like dewy mist in a lush garden.

Oh Abba, I desire you.

I wait for you like the watchmen for the morning. (Psalm 130:6)

I am sick with love. (Song of Solomon 2:5)

I seek to gaze upon your heart.

I seek to be hidden in the deepest alcove in your chest.

I desire to be secured inside the core of your being.

I want to walk with you inside of your heart.

In your heart I find the beauty of heaven and earth.

An immense beauty,

A glowing light.

A translucence more captivating than a million rainbows in a hazy sky.

A vast beauty more breathtaking than the expanse of every azure sea.

A mystery more spectacular than the starry constellations.

Your love is the safest place.

There is no fear in your love.

No worry.

No anxiety.

No stress.

No selfishness.

Your love for me is personal.

Your love for me is priceless.

Your love for me is the source of my life.

My security.

My surety.

My eternity.

My peace.

My harmony.

My self-worth is solid in your love.

Oh Father, I’m longing for your embrace.

For your warm arms to wrap around me.

I long to feel your heartbeat on my back.

To nuzzle my face under your chin.

To fall asleep wrapped up in you.

To be with you is to truly be free.

To be with you is to be with pure love.

“Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul; Like a weaned child [resting] with his mother, My soul is like a weaned child within me [composed and freed from discontent].” -Psalm 131:2 AMP

~If you enjoyed this poem, check out my book, Visions of Celestial Love (a modern day book of psalms and prayers):

“Ashley presents us with a true cornucopia of modern psalms, personal testimonies, and short stories. She has set out to reveal and unravel some of the most complex heart issues mankind faces in our quest of understanding what true intimacy with God really looks like. Prepare to have your soul massaged and worked on as you read Visions of Celestial Love.” — Jeremy Minard, Servant King Apparel

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