A Journal of Love http://marvlunreed.com Marvlun Reed Fri, 30 May 2025 03:30:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 http://marvlunreed.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/cropped-profile-picture4-32x32.jpg A Journal of Love http://marvlunreed.com 32 32 Mother of Men (Quiet-Time Review) http://marvlunreed.com/2025/05/29/mother-of-men-quiet-time-review/ http://marvlunreed.com/2025/05/29/mother-of-men-quiet-time-review/#respond Fri, 30 May 2025 03:25:13 +0000 http://marvlunreed.com/?p=8571

This day 5 years ago had an impact on our family’s life!

Facebook Memory: I woke up this morning to a song penned by my youngest son, concerning what’s happening in America today as it relates to black men! To say the least, I was heartbroken and It got me to thinking!!!

I heard the $20 bill that George Floyd was trying to use was later to be determined as real (not a forgery). For $20, he died?

How do we as parents comfort our young black men and tell them it’s going to be alright? They believe that they are being hunted down and murdered and that their cries for help are not being HEARD! My heart hurts for the families that have loss loved ones from “any” senseless violence (period). But it especially hurts when it is by the hand of someone who is suppose to “serve and protect!” Where is the accountability? Change is Necessary!

Question: What do we as parents tell our young black men? We can not control how others see them!!!! What do you see when you look at them????? It’s time!!!! Much prayer is needed! 2 Chronicles 7:14 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽#MotherOfBlackMen#blackmenweloveyou

I wrote this post 5 years ago today after hearing a song my youngest son wrote – This was a very emotional day, and here we are, 5 years later.

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2025/05/29/mother-of-men-quiet-time-review/feed/ 0
A Mother’s Words (Quiet-Time Review) http://marvlunreed.com/2025/05/12/a-mothers-words-quiet-time-review/ http://marvlunreed.com/2025/05/12/a-mothers-words-quiet-time-review/#respond Mon, 12 May 2025 07:30:46 +0000 http://marvlunreed.com/?p=8525

A day of reflection!

We returned home around 1 in the morning (quick turn-around trip to Kentucky), rested, attended 2nd service, then spent some quality time with our boys. It was a good day, and I was happy to see them (we missed seeing our daughter – but spoke with her earlier over the phone).

As I sit here reflecting over the day, what stood out most was a lesson my mom taught me – and how it impacted my life. I didn’t understand it at the time, but I do now.

When I was very young, my mom said to me; “I love you, but I want others to at least like you.”

You see this quiet, bright-eyed little girl pictured here (who lost her dad at a very young age) enjoyed the quiet, enjoyed being alone; reading, writing & drawing abstract art (and, still do). 

My mom wanted me to get out of my comfort zone, meet, and make some friends – and I gave her a hard time over that. I was content to just to be with my family, and Jesus – my very best friend (I would often call him).

Through elementary, high school and college, God did bring me some good friendship – without me trying! He just did. Becoming an adult (those early years) – I wasn’t trying to make any new friends (my circle stayed small- my heart didn’t have room enough for any more – Married with 3 kids, at the time, that was hard enough to manage). 

Quick Sidenote: I dated 3 guys through High School – the 3rd one I met at 16, we married shortly after (and, this June, we will celebrate 37 years of marriage – it hasn’t always been easy but it has definitely been worth it with us putting God in 1st place, and making Him the Lord of our Lives | I’d say, we’ve got a lot to be thankful for.

Back to the story: A little over 25 years ago, my husband’s job moved us here, to a new city. And, here comes my mom – “Marvlun, get out and make some new friends (she knew her daughter – and this was very frustrating to me).

Before we moved, we prayed with our former Pastor, and God directed us to a church in our new city. I tried getting to know a few people there, and was met with some opposition – which caused me to get over into people pleasing – in which God corrected almost immediately before it gained a foothold in my life (Joyce Meyers had a great series on this back in the day – I think I still have it somewhere around here).

I heard God speak; “seek me and I will bring you friends.” I did, and he brought some incredible friendships my way – ones where I could be myself (my sometimes funny, quirky, creative self). Those friendships came easy. The ones in which God put together. He didn’t need my help (trying to make it happen) – just a willing and open heart. I still cherish those friendships to this day!

One friend, in particularly, had such a genuine love for her family and for God. I loved being around her. We would talk on the phone and in-person for hours. We became the best of friends. We prayed with and for each other. Our husbands, and children got along – and enjoyed spending time together. Sadly, she and her family moved out of state and we kind of lost touch. It was a short, but impactful friendship. Man, I miss our talks about the goodness of God!

I found that the more I studied the word and spent time in prayer – God brought more incredible friendships into my life (not all on the same level of friendships but friends non the less). I learned the value of an inner circle (and that stays small).

The Covid season changed a lot of things in my life. One of which, was the death of my mom – not from covid. Now both my mom and my dad are no longer on this earth – wow, what a sobering thought. I found myself getting comfortable being at home, the quiet was a beautiful thing. Then came the call; we’re headed back into the office (and for me, on a new team). Man, did I get in my head about it. Yes, I am an over-thinker for sure.

“What if they don’t like me,” I heard myself say?  Then (in my mind), I heard my mom’s word: “I love you, but I want others to at least like you…. ” What? I had to get alone with Jesus! Find comfort in His scripture…. “Not my will, but thy will be done!!!!” I let a few people nearly 25 years ago get into my head. “Not Today Satan.” And, guess what? My new team was – Amazing! That FEAR – was false evidence appearing real. Our friendships formed easy, and I enjoy being around these amazing humans!

My mom was right to encourage me out of my comfort zone (not too sure about that being liked part, though).….

To Love God and To Love His People is my heart’s desire/my spiritual mandate! That and standing firmly in His (God’s) Will for my life (not mine). Satan tries to distort our vision. He tries to keep us from seeing others as God sees them. He is the Father of Lies. Those that are God’s -knows His voice, and another they will not follow!

John 10:27

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.

I enjoy celebrating wins, praying and encouraging my friends. I have found that it is okay if others misunderstand me or even question my motives for showing Kingdom Kindness (not just being nice to be nice but having The Fruit of the Spirt on display). “Kingdom Kindness, is not in-love with being liked!” Dharius Daniels

I am committed to being someone who comes in and brings Love, Laughter & Joy into the atmosphere and not Hate, Jealousy and/or Strife! My prayer is to leave people better than I found them. And, that they know that they are loved.

My mother taught me the value of kindness, and the necessity of perseverance. She instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility and the importance of always working to do good to others. I may not always get it right (smile, eyes on Jesus).

My mother loved me! Her wise words were meant to build, to encourage – although, I did not see it that way, at that time in my life.

Here is how I see friendship through the lens of the Bible:

Proverbs 27:17

”Iron sharpeneth iron; so, a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”

This Bible verse about friendship reminds us that friends can impact how we think, feel and behave! Our relationships are important! #MadeNewInChrist #Surrendered

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2025/05/12/a-mothers-words-quiet-time-review/feed/ 0
Christ, My Firm Foundation (Quiet-Time Review) http://marvlunreed.com/2024/07/21/christ-my-firm-foundation-quiet-time-review/ http://marvlunreed.com/2024/07/21/christ-my-firm-foundation-quiet-time-review/#respond Mon, 22 Jul 2024 03:09:47 +0000 http://marvlunreed.com/?p=8384

Recently, I was asked to share, during our small group meeting, a little bit about what the Lord had been speaking to me. It was a last minute ask – but one that I was happy to accommodate. Some years back (prior to the pandemic), the Lord placed my 2nd book within my heart (I shopped it around to a few publishers – interest was expressed, but distractions came and I put it aside).

This blog is helping me to get back ready (a little rusty) – God’s Timing is always Perfect, and I Trust Him. #HereWeGrowAgain #WhatWillTheLordTeachMeDuringThis Process #LifeLongLearner

The first assignment given, was to; eliminate distractions. So, I have been going about my day doing just that. Twitter (X) had to go (my creative space – this one was hard. I am a sucker for a good quote – and there are so many good ones out there). To be honest – I spent way too much time on there (time that could have been spent writing).

I made a promise to God that I would not write a blog, just to write one- but would wait for His leading, for His timing. So, this is me, responding to hearing Him say, Now! Lord, I surrender all to you.

This book, I believe, contains a relevant message from God. My goal is to steward it carefully! The title was given over 20 years ago (to be revealed at a later date). The Lord showed it to me, along with the 1st book. I am excited to see what the Lord is going to do through my obedience.

Christ is my Firm Foundation! Its ok if others do not understand – this right here is a; labor of love…. And, this book will be asking some really tough questions! #ICantWaitToShare #TrustingGod

This, A beautiful work in Process!

Scripture Reference:

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Ephesians 3:20-21

To view my last blog, click here!

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2024/07/21/christ-my-firm-foundation-quiet-time-review/feed/ 0
Finding Value in; “The Pause” (Quiet-Time Review) http://marvlunreed.com/2024/07/07/there-is-value-in-the-pause-quiet-time-review/ http://marvlunreed.com/2024/07/07/there-is-value-in-the-pause-quiet-time-review/#respond Mon, 08 Jul 2024 01:00:00 +0000 https://marvlunreed.com/?p=8387

I often find myself on “go-mode” and if I am not careful, my calendar seems to fill way too quickly!

I am an Encourager by nature and one way I “get to” do that is through my writings. I am excited to begin blogging again – to share my faith, encourage and hopefully inspire others.

It’s been two years since I last posted a blog – and, this is me sticking my big toe back into the waters of blogging (smile).

Pauses, as it relates to speeches, allow you to gather your thoughts and choose your words carefully – And this, a week-long pause, was exactly what I needed, time to pray, gather my thoughts and to prepare to – begin, again. 

Finding value in; The Pause #HereWeGrowAgain

Please understand me – I am not referring to your daily quiet-time (which is also vital to our Christian journey – but something more). Its about being intentional about our relationship with Christ, by not allowing ourselves to become too busy/boggled down – that we forget to keep “first things first.” Its about knowing/discerning the importance of having “Mary moments” at the feet of Jesus!

Scripture Reference:

As Mary sits at Jesus’s feet, Martha finds herself “distracted by her many tasks” (Luke 10:40). #selah

#YourRelationshipWithChristMatters

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2024/07/07/there-is-value-in-the-pause-quiet-time-review/feed/ 0
How Great Thou Art (Moments In Worship) http://marvlunreed.com/2022/07/31/how-great-thou-art-moments-in-worship/ http://marvlunreed.com/2022/07/31/how-great-thou-art-moments-in-worship/#respond Sun, 31 Jul 2022 19:54:42 +0000 http://marvlunreed.com/?p=8321
Sunday Morning Worship at The Crossing | How Great Thou Art (July 10, 2022)

The Story behind this Hymn;

“If you’ve heard two hymns in your life, chances are you’ve heard “How Great Thou Art.” In terms of popularity, it’s generally considered second only to “Amazing Grace”. Covered by everyone from Elvis to Carrie Underwood, the beloved hymn didn’t start its life as a song. It began as a poem, a Swedish poem at that.

In 1885, Carl Boberg, a Swedish editor and future politician, was walking home in the bayside town of Mönsterås, located on Sweden’s south-eastern coast. A thunderhead appeared on the horizon. Lightning flashed. Thunderclaps shook the air, sending Boberg running for shelter.

When the storm began to relent, he rushed home. He opened his windows to let in the fresh bay air, and the vision of tranquility that greeted him stirred something deep in his soul. The sky had cleared. Thrushes sang, and in the distance, the resonant knell of church bells sounded. With the juxtaposition between the roaring thunderstorm and such bucolic calm as background, Boberg sat down and wrote “O Store Gud”—the poem that, through a winding series of events would become “How Great Thou Art.”

After being published in a local newspaper, an unknown Swede put “O Store Gud” to the tune of a Swedish folk song, whose name has also been lost to history. In the late 1800s several versions were published, but it wasn’t until the early 1900s that “O Store Gud,” which translates literally to “O Mighty God,” hopped the Swedish border.

In the first decade of the 20th century the song was translated into German. A handful of years later a Russian version appeared. The first English language version wouldn’t be penned until 1925. But this English iteration, translated by the Swedish-American E. Gustav Johnson, is a far cry from the song we know today. It took another quarter century, a British missionary, and a new translation before the song developed into its now recognizable form.

In the early 1930s, Stuart K. Hine, an English missionary, first heard the Russian version of “O Store Gud” while in the Ukraine. For years he and his wife sang the song with locals before he finally sat down and translated it into English. Translation is of course more art than science, and Hine took some liberties, most particularly with the title, which in 1949 he rechristened “How Great Thou Art.”

Hine published his English translation alongside the Russian version in Grace and Peace, a magazine that he published and was circulated to missionaries in over 15 countries. The story of “How Great Thou Art” might have ended here, in relative obscurity, were it not for a British-American theologian traveling to India, a singing cowboy, and a popular American evangelist on a self-described crusade.”

When J. Edwin Orr, a British-American theologian and evangelist, travelled to India in 1954, music was the farthest thing from his mind. He was there to preach. But while there he heard an English version of “How Great Thou Art” sung by a Naga choir from the state of Assam in north-eastern India. He was so impressed by the song he brought it back to America and had it performed at a conference for college students where he was speaking.

In attendance at that fateful conference were the children of Tim Spencer, a singing cowboy and actor who had found fame singing in the Sons of the Pioneers alongside Bob Nolan and Roy Rogers. At that time, Spencer owned Mana Music, Inc, a publisher of Christian music. He quickly arranged to buy the rights to the song and then did what all good publishers do—he started pushing the song.

As late as 1954, “How Great Thou Art” remained all but unknown in the U.S., but with Mana Music’s backing the song eventually landed in the hands of George Beverly Shea, famed soloist in Billy Graham’s travelling crusade. Graham reportedly loved the song and quickly made it his evangelical crusade’s signature song. Given Graham’s reach, Shea all but introduced the song to the nation. He sang it live on radio, before stadiums filled with thousands of people—and during nationally televised events like the 1957 Madison Square Garden Crusade, which ran for 16 weeks and was viewed by an estimated 96 million people.

Then came Elvis. Though Shea and other popular artists like Tennessee Ernie Ford and Loretta Lynn recorded versions before him, Elvis’s recordings—his more restrained studio version from 1967 and his slightly looser live version from 1974, both of which earned him Grammys—are generally considered the canonical versions against which all others are compared. That said, many people today think first of Carrie Underwood’s chart-topping rendition from 2011.

Regardless of your favorite recording, when we reflect upon the various chance encounters and serendipitous occurrences that combined to birth “How Great Thou Art” and bring it to prominence, it’s hard not to be awed by the sheer improbability of it all; fate, dumb luck, God’s grace, call it what you will, the path from “O Store Gud” to “How Great Thou Art” is nothing if not unlikely.”

Information found on the Internet!!!

Here is the Video Link to “How Great Thou Art,” click here!

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2022/07/31/how-great-thou-art-moments-in-worship/feed/ 0
A Better Way (Quiet-Time Review) http://marvlunreed.com/2022/06/30/a-better-way-quiet-time-review/ http://marvlunreed.com/2022/06/30/a-better-way-quiet-time-review/#respond Thu, 30 Jun 2022 15:37:17 +0000 http://marvlunreed.com/?p=8294

Logging into social media, tuning into the latest trending news story, or simply engaging in a conversation around the water cooler can seem daunting these days or, at the very least, like an; “at your own risk (kind of moment),” if you choose to participate.

Ask yourself; “How are you showing up these days?” Are you a part of the problem or are you a part of the solution? I recently read a post that stated; ” We can disagree and still be friends.” Can we, really? Personally, I believe that we can! I believe that there is a better way to relate to one another! And that examples can be found in the Bible, in the way Jesus related to others!

He (Jesus) is; “the way, The Truth and the Life!” according to John 14:6

People engage in social media for different reasons. Me; I like sharing encouraging thought-provoking, inspiring scriptures and quotes, communicating with family and friends, along with sharing special behind-the-scene moments. I like to create content and to tell stories through pictures! I am not interested in using my social media platform to air my concerns, or to argue my point of view (one on one maybe, but not on this platform).

I cherish the time I spend alone in God’s word and in prayer (my quiet-times). I value my Peace!

You, my friends, are a unique masterpiece who is highly valuable to God and a rare treasure. You are not a “Trash Can” for others to dump their issues on (and disturb your peace). Guard your heart! Maintain your Peace! Enjoy your Journey and Embrace the moments! It pays and is well worth your attention to this detail… Trust me!

Live With Purpose, Think with Clarity, Act with Character, and Grow with Courage!

There is a better way to relate to one another! See you next month (smile).

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2022/06/30/a-better-way-quiet-time-review/feed/ 0
Jireh | Elevation Worship (A Song of Encouragement) http://marvlunreed.com/2022/05/31/jireh-elevation-worship-a-song-of-encouragement/ http://marvlunreed.com/2022/05/31/jireh-elevation-worship-a-song-of-encouragement/#respond Tue, 31 May 2022 23:05:01 +0000 http://marvlunreed.com/?p=8289
On Repeat!

“I’ll never be more loved than I am right now
Wasn’t holding You up
So there’s nothing I can do to let You down
It doesn’t take a trophy to make You proud
I’ll never be more loved than I am right now, oh

Going through a storm but I won’t go down
I hear Your voice
Carried in the rhythm of the wind to call me out
You would cross an ocean so I wouldn’t drown
You’ve never been closer than You are right now
(Let’s sing it loud y’all)

You are Jireh, You are enough
Jireh, You are enough
And I will be content in every circumstance
You are Jireh, You are enough

Forever enough
Always enough
More than enough
Forever enough
Always enough
More than enough

I don’t wanna forget how I feel right now
On the mountaintop
I can see so clear what it’s all about
So stay by my side when the sun goes down
Don’t wanna forget how I feel right now (Jireh)

Jireh, You are enough
Jireh, You are enough (so I will be)
I will be content in every circumstance
Jireh, You are enough (He is always enough)

He’s forever enough
Always enough
Always more than enough
He is, He is
Forever enough
Always enough (He’s everything, He’s always)
More than enough (yeah)

I’m already loved
I’m already chosen
I know who I am
I know what You’ve spoken
I’m already loved
More than I could imagine
And that is enough, oh-oh

I’m already loved (I’m already loved)
I’m already chosen (I’m already chosen)
I know who I am (I know who I am)
I know what You’ve spoken (I know what You’ve spoken)
I’m already loved (I’m already loved)
More than I could imagine (more than I could imagine)
That is enough (that is enough)
It’s enough for me, oh

I’m already loved (I’m already loved)
I’m already chosen (I’m already chosen)
I know who I am (I know who I am)
I know, I know what You’ve spoken (I know what You’ve spoken)
I’m already loved (I’m already loved)
More than I could even fathom (more than I could imagine)
And that is enough (and that is enough)
Yes it is, it’s enough, it’s enough

And that is enough (that is enough)
What His truth says is better than anything
That is enough (that is enough)
What He’s declared over us, it’s true
That is enough (that is enough)
That is enough (that is enough)

That is enough (that is enough)
Jehovah, You are (that is enough)
El Shaddai, You are (that is enough)
When I have You, I have everything (that is enough)
When I have Jesus, I have everything (that is enough)
That is enough (that is enough)

‘Cause You are enough (You are enough)
You’re my portion (You are enough)
You’re my portion (You are enough)
More than enough for me (You are enough)
Say, You are enough (You are enough)
So I am enough (so I am enough)
You are enough (You are enough)
So I am enough (so I am enough)
Say, Jireh

Jireh, You are enough (Jireh)
Jireh, You are enough (yes Your are)
I will be content in every circumstance
Jireh, You are enough, oh-ooh (You are)

If He dresses the lilies with beauty and splendor
How much more will He clothe you?
How much more will He clothe you?
If He watched over every sparrow
How much more does He love you?
How much more does He love you?

If He dresses the lilies with beauty and splendor
How much more will He clothe you?
How much more will He clothe you?
If He watched over every sparrow
How much more does He love you?
How much more does He love you?

If He dresses the lilies with beauty and splendor
How much more will He clothe you?
How much more will He clothe you?
If He watched over every sparrow (don’t you worry!)
How much more does He love you? (Our Father loves you)
How much more does He love you? (How much more?)

How much more does He love you? (How much more?)
How much more does He love you? (How much more?)
How much more does He love you? (How much more?)
How much more does He love you? (How much more?)
How much more does He love you?

It’s more than you ask, think or imagine
According to His power working in us
It’s more than enough
It’s more than you ask, think or imagine, oh yeah
According to His power working in us
It’s more than enough (let’s go y’all)

It’s more than you ask, think or imagine (so according)
According to His power, it’s working in us (how much more does He love you?)
It’s more than enough (how much more? Sing!)
More than you ask, think or imagine (so according)
According to His power working in us (how much more does He love you?)
It’s more than enough (one more time, sing!)

More than you ask, think or imagine
According to His power working in us (how much more does He love you?)
It’s more than enough (how much more?)
It’s more than enough (how much more?)
More than you know (more than enough)
It’s more than enough (more than you know)
More than you know (more)

Jireh, You are enough
Jireh, You are enough (You’ve always been enough)
And I will be content in every circumstance
Jireh, You are enough

And I will be content (yes) in every circumstance
Jireh, You are enough”

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2022/05/31/jireh-elevation-worship-a-song-of-encouragement/feed/ 0
Fresh Wind (A Song of Encouragement) http://marvlunreed.com/2022/05/31/fresh-wind-a-word-of-encouragement/ http://marvlunreed.com/2022/05/31/fresh-wind-a-word-of-encouragement/#respond Tue, 31 May 2022 22:49:22 +0000 http://marvlunreed.com/?p=8279

“Life isn’t measured by the breathes we take but the moments that take our breath away.”#CherishTheMoments #WeNeedFreshWind

With all that has transpired these past few weeks, this song has been on repeat. “Fresh Wind” by Hillsong (featuring, “What A Beautiful Name.”)

Spirit sound, rushing wind
Fire of God fall within
Holy Ghost
Breathe on us, we pray

As we repent, turn from sin
Revival embers smouldering
Breath of God
Fan us into flame

We need a fresh wind
The fragrance of Heaven
Pour Your Spirit out
Pour Your Spirit out

For hearts that burn with holy fear
Purified in faith and deed
Refiner’s fire
Strengthen what remains

So we the church who bear Your light
Lamp aflame, city bright
King and kingdom come is what we pray

Yeah, we need a fresh wind
The fragrance of Heaven
Pour Your Spirit out
Pour Your Spirit out

A holy anointing
The power of Your presence
Pour Your Spirit out
Pour Your Spirit out

Pour Your Spirit out (pour Your Spirit out)
Pour Your Spirit out (pour Your Spirit out)
Pour Your Spirit out (pour Your Spirit out)
Pour Your Spirit out

Pour Your Spirit out (pour Your Spirit out)
Pour Your Spirit out (pour Your Spirit out)
Pour Your Spirit out (pour Your Spirit out)
Pour Your Spirit out

Let all the redeemed
Prophesy and sing
We can hear the wind
Blowing, blowing, blowing

Move upon our praise
Sons and daughters sing
We can hear the wind
Blowing, blowing, blowing

Let all the redeemed (prophesy)
Prophesy and sing
We can hear the wind
Blowing, blowing (pour Your Spirit out), blowing

Move upon our praise
Sons and daughters sing
We can hear the wind
Blowing (blowing)

We need a fresh wind
The fragrance of Heaven
Pour Your Spirit out
Pour Your Spirit out

A holy anointing
The power of Your presence
Pour Your Spirit out
Pour Your Spirit out

Pour Your Spirit out

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2022/05/31/fresh-wind-a-word-of-encouragement/feed/ 0
Motivated By His Grace (A Word Of Encouragement) http://marvlunreed.com/2022/05/18/motivated-by-his-grace-a-word-of-encouragement/ http://marvlunreed.com/2022/05/18/motivated-by-his-grace-a-word-of-encouragement/#respond Wed, 18 May 2022 11:26:06 +0000 http://marvlunreed.com/?p=8244

Running has never been easy for me, but always a challenge! Especially when it comes to hills (I haven’t quite mastered those yet). It is in those moments, when running, that I am truly motivated by His Grace, and totally dependent upon His (God’s) Love for me! That, and an inspiring playlist (oh course)…

My 1st 5k, my husband and I came in last. We took our sweet time (with trucks patiently riding behind us picking up cones). That was my husband’s first and last race. For me, I just knew that if I ran one of those again – I wasn’t going to come in last (I didn’t like the way it felt – I was not prepared). I promised myself that, next time, I would train! I would be focused and ready! That was what I was standing on and that was what I was believing for. This 10 miler (DisneyRun/pictured here), almost proved too much for me! Was I ready? Had my training prepared me adequately?

Back Story: A few years ago while training for my 2nd half-marathon, I ended up in the hospital & was unable to run my race (I volunteered instead). After the incident, I began dealing with one health issue after the other (in and out of the hospital). As soon as I would began training, another setback. I was told that my running days were probably over. But God, I put my trust in Him! My Healer! And, I began to get stronger and stronger. In April (2022), I finished that, my first race, since the incident. I made it safely through training and finished a 10 mile race with my daughter and oldest son.

Important to note: There is nothing wrong with finishing last. Celebrate the win (you finished – and, I celebrate with you). Recently, I saw a video with an elderly man (I believe 100 years old) finishing a marathon, last. Hey! that’s quite an accomplishment (last or not)…. Respect!

C.S. Lewis once said, “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”

I have met some pretty incredible individuals along the way during these runs. In fact, I look forward to it!

The DisneyRun (10 miler): I knew I was coming back slower, and decided I would run towards the end in the very last leg/heat of the race. That, for me, was a big mistake because it meant that I would have to maintain the minimum pace or be swept up (meaning, I would not have been afforded the opportunity to finish the race). Forget about being last, I would not have even finished. Now that was pressure! There were people on bikes, and a bus riding behind us, picking up runners that lagged behind.

I looked back and the runners behind me were gone (swept up). If I was going to finish, I needed to stay focused. His grace carried me through, and His love was a bright light that guided me along the way! I finished! I crossed the finished line! I maintained the pace (and I was not last – inside joke between my husband and I). Over 11,000 runners finished that race (not sure of the exact number), but my son found out that my finishing time placed me faster than about 3,000 runners on that day. Wow! I was surprised. If I would have ran in an earlier leg/heat, I could have taken my time (and finished at my own pace). We agreed that the pressure that came from the bus, and the bike riders pushed me to finish quicker than I would have otherwise. That, and prayer (oh course). We plan to do it again next year (with our eyes set on the half marathon/13.1 miles). I will not be running in the very last leg (ha – too much pressure for a slow runner like me).

My journey back to health has been quite an adventure. I have lost nearly 70 pounds (with a few more to go), and I breathe much better now! My health has begun to improve. And, that was just what my doctor ordered!

A Word Of Encouragement: I don’t know what it is that you are believing for/dreaming about but I want to encourage you not to give up even though the road may not always be easy.

I decided to be transparent and to share my journey on this platform in order that it may encourage you to keep going, to keep believing, and to never stop dreaming a new dream!

I am a dreamer. I am a goal setter. And, I believe that you are never too old to set another goal, or to dream a new dream. So dream, and run “your race” with perseverance.

Scripture Reference: “Since we have such a huge crowd of men of faith watching us from the grandstands, let us strip off anything that slows us down or holds us back, and especially those sins that wrap themselves so tightly around our feet and trip us up; and let us run with patience the particular race that God has set before us.” Hebrews 12:1 (The Living Bible)

My prayer is that this blog helps, motivates and inspires you all not to give up! Your best days are ahead! #BelieveIt #ReceiveIt and #WalkItOut

I love you, but God loves you more!

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2022/05/18/motivated-by-his-grace-a-word-of-encouragement/feed/ 0
Faithful Father (Quiet-Time Review) http://marvlunreed.com/2022/02/06/faithful-father-quiet-time-review/ http://marvlunreed.com/2022/02/06/faithful-father-quiet-time-review/#respond Sun, 06 Feb 2022 13:24:24 +0000 http://marvlunreed.com/?p=8210

Blog update: 2/10/2022: As writers, if we are not careful, we assume the reader knows us, and understands exactly what we are working to communicate – but that is not always true. In an effort to bring clarity to a particular section of this blog, I have decided to add an update. I hope this helps!

I have come to realize that some of my favorite moments in life are those spent alone in God’s Presence (studying, praying and reading His Word). In truth; those moments have proven to be invaluable to me! A much needed “time out,”from the hustle and bustle of the day. Moments where I allow the truth of His Words to build, encourage and guide me into all truth.

It was in those “quiet” moments (down through the years), that I discovered the value of; “Thinking on These Things….” Philippians 4:8 The power of perspective! It was in those “quiet” moments that I learned that I was “Fearfully and Wonderfully made…” Psalm 139:14 (as noted in my first book).

If we are honest with ourselves: This life can be filled with “ups and downs”; “wins and losses”; as well as “good and not so good times.” We all need to be reminded – that is why I cherish those “quiet” times as much as I do!

Just take a quick look around, and see the heartache, the division and those suffering around us – and those who are wanting to just, “give up!”

A little over a year ago, I loss one of the great loves of my life – my mother! And; It was in one of those “quiet” moments; that I found comfort and was reminded that I would indeed see her again. Where would I be without Jesus, “my personal Savior?” He is Everything to Me (my smile). I have found value in those “quiet” moments. I have found value in the “quiet.”  

For it is in those moments (along with the moments spent in community) that, I have found Him to be a “Faithful Father!”

This week’s blog comes to encourage you to prioritize your “quiet times,” and your “gathering together” in community times. I know that it is not always easy, but I believe that it is worth it!

We need the Lord and we need one another!

Imagine the impact that we could have in our families, and in our communities. This would be our opportunity to share hope and encouragement to those within our sphere of influence. Our opportunity, to be; His (God’s) hands and His (God’s) feet here on this earth.

So, let us endeavor to make a difference. To be a light. And to Shine brightly for Jesus!

Scripture Reference:

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6:10 #BlessedToBeABlessing

To check out last week’s blog, click here!

]]>
http://marvlunreed.com/2022/02/06/faithful-father-quiet-time-review/feed/ 0