Choosing the Better Part

July 30, 2025September 25, 2025 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

I wrote this email to the ladies in my Bible study and thought it might bless others too.

Hey Sis 🫶🏼

I’ve been sitting with this for a couple of weeks now, trying to find the right words to describe what happened the night of my baptism. And to be honest, I’m still not sure I can fully explain it. But I do know something in me changed. Something deep and personal happened between me and the Lord – something I’ll carry with me for forever.

The first time, I said yes to Jesus and made that public commitment and that still means so much to me. But this time felt different. It wasn’t about starting over; it was about going deeper. It wasn’t that the water had power – it was the Holy Spirit moving in response to surrender, drawing my heart closer to the One who gave everything for me.

What I left in the water this time was that part of me that felt like I had to hold everything together in order to be faithful. The part that believed I had to keep going, keep doing, keep proving something – to God, to others, maybe even to myself.

An Invitation to Rest

April 11, 2025 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how easy it is to feel like we always have to be doing something to honor the Lord – to show up, to keep going, to push through. But Jesus gently reminds us in Matthew 11:28:

“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

He doesn’t ask you to pull yourself together first. He simply says, “Come.”

And I think that’s so important to really let settle in our hearts. Because sometimes we assume we have to “get it together” emotionally before we approach Him. Like we need to stop crying, stop doubting, stop feeling anxious – or at least be able to pray with focus and faith.

But the beauty of Jesus is that He’s not waiting for us to clean ourselves up emotionally before coming close.

He invites us – even when we’re all over the place. Even when we’re unsure. Even when our thoughts are racing and our hearts feel heavy or worn out.

We don’t have to come to Him with peace.

🕊️ The First Quarter of 2025: A Season of Faith, Fasting and Transformation

April 1, 2025April 1, 2025 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

As I sit back and reflect on these first three months of 2025, my heart overflows with gratitude. Back in October, I felt a deep nudge from the Holy Spirit – an undeniable sense that something was shifting. It was as if I had reached a turning point, a moment where I had to decide whether to stay comfortable or step into the unknown with God. I knew God was calling me to something deeper and though I couldn’t fully explain it at the time, I sensed that stepping into this next season would require a greater level of faith, trust and surrender. This wasn’t just about a new year – it was about stepping into a new level of growth, obedience and intimacy with Him.

Saying yes to the Lord in this season has changed me in ways I never expected – not just in my personal walk with Him but in my home, my marriage and my role as a mother. And that’s the beauty of obedience – our surrender to God doesn’t just transform us, it ripples into the lives of those around us. I don’t share this to give myself any credit but to remind us all that our obedience isn’t just about us. When we say yes to God, we have no idea how many people that yes might impact. And when we hold back? How many opportunities might pass us by?

Building on the Rock: A Life That Stands Firm

February 1, 2025 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

Have you ever felt like life just keeps throwing storms your way? Like no matter how hard you try to stay steady, the winds keep pushing, the rain keeps pouring, and you’re just exhausted from trying to hold it all together?

Jesus knew we would feel this way. That’s why He gave us this picture in Matthew 7:24-27 – the story of two builders.

“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24-25, NIV)

One builder chose to build on rock – on something solid, steady and unshakable. The other? On sand. It probably looked fine at first, maybe even easier to build on but the moment the storm hit, it all collapsed.

Jesus wasn’t just talking about houses here. He was talking about us – our faith, our choices our foundation.

Hearing vs. Doing

For Those Who Desire to Dive Deeper into God’s Word

January 18, 2025January 18, 2025 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

I wanted to share this for anyone who desires to read the Bible and might be looking for tools or guidance to help along the way. This year, I’ve been reading the Bible in chronological order, following The Bible Recap reading plan in the YouVersion app, and it has been such an incredible experience. As I’ve been journeying through God’s Word these last several years, I’ve discovered some helpful resources that have made my time in scripture more meaningful.

When I sit down to read and study the Bible, I like to begin by inviting the Holy Spirit to guide me. Truly, there is no greater teacher than Him! After I’m done reading – or even while I’m reading – I list my questions (all of them – no matter how foolish it seems!) and then ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate my understanding. One simple way to invite Him is by praying something like this:

“Holy Spirit, I invite You to be with me as I read today. Open my eyes to see the truth in Your Word, soften my heart to receive it, and guide me to understand and apply it. Teach me what I don’t know, and remind me of what I need to hold on to. I trust You to reveal the heart of God to me.”

Here are some of the resources I have found to be wonderful companions in my Bible study:

Stepping Into 2025 Together: Grace Over Perfection

December 31, 2024January 13, 2025 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

As I sit here on my comfy couch on the last day of the year, I’m feeling all the things – excited and a little anxious. Over the past couple of months, I’ve been preparing for the new year, setting plans to grow in my faith and be more intentional about prioritizing my time with God. But if I’m honest, there’s this little voice in my head asking: Will I stick to it? Will I be consistent? Will I show up every day, even on the hard days when life feels overwhelming?

I’ve mapped out a plan that feels both purposeful and intentional, but I’m holding it loosely because I know I’ll need God’s grace along the way. Here’s the plan:

Start my morning with a Christian guided meditation. Taking intentional breaths and simply being present in His presence.
Play a worship song as I pray and commune with Him. Easy by Mercy Culture Worship – is one of those songs that centers my heart and reminds me why I’m doing this in the first place.
Journal and share my heart with God. This one was hard for me to embrace at first because I thought, “Isn’t that selfish?” But I’m learning that it’s not. Pouring out my unedited thoughts to God creates a space for Him to meet me as my Father and Friend. I’ve dedicated a journal specifically for letters to God and prayers.
Follow along with my Bible reading plan, The Bible Recap, for the year. I’ll listen as I read along in my physical Bible – because, let’s be real, I need all the help I can get to stay focused on some days!
Write down questions to study throughout the week. On days when I have extra time, I’ll dig deeper using resources like Kanoe’s Heart Dive YouTube playlist. It’s a game-changer for understanding Scripture more deeply.
Reflect on Secrets of the Secret Place + Companion Guide by Bob Sorge. I plan to meditate on one chapter a week and go through the companion guide for deeper reflection.
Gather with the ladies in the HTW Community every Friday on Zoom. This space is for real, honest conversations and encouragement as we grow in our faith together. I’ll send out a link the morning of our first gathering, Jan 10th at 7:30 PM, where I’ll share more about what to expect and answer any questions. I’ve got you!

Come As You Are – Let’s Grow Together in His Grace

December 20, 2024December 31, 2024 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

I’m so excited to share that after much prayer, the book we’ll be reading for our next gathering starting January 10th is Secrets of the Secret Place by Bob Sorge. This book was gifted to me back in October, and honestly, I can’t stop talking about it because it’s been such a blessing. As I always say, “Sharing is caring” – and there’s no gatekeeping here! I know so many of us want to draw closer to God and experience His presence, but let’s be real: life gets busy, distractions pile up, and sometimes we feel distant from the Lord.

This book has reminded me that it’s not about striving – it’s about being present in His presence.

One of the words God placed on my heart for 2025 is deeper intimacy also known as growing closer to the Lord. For me, that means slowing down, letting go of the pressure to “arrive,” and instead, focusing on the beauty of simply being with God – nurturing that relationship, resting in His grace, and trusting Him to do the work in me.

I’ve had this song on repeat lately called Easy by Mercy Culture Worship. One line says:

“Your yoke is easy, Your burden is light. You’re my reward, my delight.”

I encourage you to take a few minutes to be still as you listen to the words of this song, and let it minister to your heart. Embrace the love of our Heavenly Father.

This song reminds me that faith isn’t about striving or checking off boxes – it’s about surrendering, being present in His presence, and growing in His truth and grace. That’s the heart behind this gathering: creating a space where we can pause, be intentional, and experience the joy of simply being with Him.

It’s not about how long you’ve been on this journey or how much you know – it’s about showing up, being intentional, and letting God meet you right where you are.

We’ll meet every Friday at 7:30 PM on Zoom for about two hours. The chapters are short, so we’ll read them together and have real, honest conversations about what we’re learning. There are 52 chapters – one for each week of the year – but don’t worry, we’ll take intentional breaks throughout the year for the summer, holidays, and other busy seasons. This gives us space to reflect, rest, and remain purposeful in all areas of life.

If you’re longing for a deeper connection with God and a sense of community – without feeling the pressure to have it all together – I’d love for you to join us. Whether you’re new to faith or have been walking with God for years, this is a space to grow, learn, and encourage one another as we stay rooted in His truth and grace. Whether you choose to join us or read on your own, I encourage you to embrace this book as a precious gift from God.

If this sounds like something you’d love to be part of, I’d be honored to have you join us. Let me know if you’re in or if you have any questions!

Spread the word! Remember, sharing is caring. Let’s root ourselves in God’s truth, rest in His grace, and grow in Him – together.

Have a safe and blessed Christmas!

🕊️🌱🌷🌺,

Jen ✌🏼

The Secret Place: Resting and Flourishing in His Presence

December 12, 2024December 12, 2024 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

I wanted to take a moment to share something that’s been on my heart because I think it’s something many of us have, or will, experience. The past few months have been incredibly humbling for me. In a recent video, I talked about my struggle to get back into what I thought was a “familiar rhythm”. But as I prayed and reflected, I realized that rhythm belonged to a past season. God wasn’t calling me to go back – He was gently leading me into something deeper, into a relationship with Him that looks different from what I’ve known before.

It’s a lot like stepping onto an unfamiliar hiking trail. (I’m a homebody, so this is just my imagination!) But I can picture the nervousness of walking somewhere new, relying on signs and markers to find the way. That’s how this season has felt for me. I used to lean on the routines and rhythms that brought me comfort, but God is so much bigger than my comfort zone! He’s been inviting me to trust Him in ways that stretch me, even when I don’t know what’s around the corner. It’s been about taking one small step at a time, knowing He’s with me every step of the way, even when the path feels unclear.

What is Your Focus Word/Anchor Verse for 2025?

September 28, 2024December 14, 2024 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

For the past few years, I’ve loved the practice of choosing a “focus word” and an “anchor verse” to guide me into a new year. It’s such a simple yet intentional way to set the tone for the months ahead, helping me partner with God on this faith journey.

A focus word is a word or phrase that helps guide your thoughts, prayers, and choices throughout the year. Instead of setting a list of resolutions (that can sometimes feel overwhelming), picking one or a few meaningful words gives clarity and direction. It’s a way to keep your heart aligned with where God is leading you.

Purpose: It serves as your “why” for the year, a theme you can return to over and over again.
Reflection: It invites you to pause and consider where God might be calling you to grow.
Simplicity: One word (or three!) is easier to remember and keeps you focused on what matters most.
Growth: It can represent a season God is leading you into – words like “surrender,” “rest,” or “trust.”
Motivation: When life gets hard, your focus word can serve as. a reminder of what God is working in you.
Flexibility: Your word can shift as the year unfolds, allowing room for God to refine and redirect your path.

A anchor verse is a specific Bible verse that becomes your go-to Scripture for the year – a source of truth, encouragement, and direction. It’s not a resolution or checklist, but more of a reminder – to keep your heart aligned with where God is leading you.

Guidance: It provides clarity and direction, pointing you to God’s truth when you need it most.
Encouragement: In hard seasons, your anchor verse can speak life and hope over your situation.
Focus: It keeps your heart centered on God, no matter what the year brings.
Growth: Meditating on your verse throughout the year can deepen your relationship with Him.

I’d encourage you to take some time to pray and ask God what your focus word and anchor verse might be for 2025. It doesn’t have to feel overwhelming – just start by sitting with Him and being open to what He wants to speak into your heart.

For 2025, I have chosen these focus words and anchor verses:

Destiny, Deeper Intimacy, Audacious Faith, and Freedom
Matthew 6:33, Isaiah 26:3-4, Psalm 46:10, James 1:5-6 and James 4:8

If you feel led to share, I would love to hear the focus words and verses God has placed on your heart for this coming year. I’m so encouraged to know that He works uniquely in each of us, yet calls us together as one body. Let’s step into 2025 with an open heart and ready to see all the ways God will move in and through our lives.

🕊️🌱🌷🌺

Battlefield of the Mind + Our Authority in Christ

September 7, 2024September 14, 2024 His Truth WithinLeave a comment

Just recently, I felt defeated in my mind, heart and spirit. Each day felt like it was only getting worse. I’m learning to recognize more and more that one of the enemy’s best strategies against us as believers of Jesus Christ is leading us to believe he (the enemy) no longer exists. When we feed into his lies, he makes a fool of us and our relationship with God while tricking us into believing he’s not at fault.

There’s a battle going on and it’s a battle happening in the spiritual realm between God’s kingdom and satan’s kingdom. It’s a real thing but the enemy would rather we be oblivious to it.

Ephesians 6:12 AMP – For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.”

For example, I spent hours putting this together yesterday after I got out of work in between dinner and making sure the boys were good for their first day of school today and went to sleep at 2am only to realize this afternoon that the email was nowhere to be found. Not in spam. Not in draft. Not in sent. Not in junk – nowhere, BUT I KNOW that I KNOW that I saved it and sent it, but he would rather I believe that I’m bugged out and that I must’ve done something wrong. My laptop was fully charged when I transferred it from my notes to my email, so it wasn’t that either. I KNOW that I saved it and sent it – plus it would automatically save after I’d type and pause for a bit. Could it have been a glitch, yea but what a “coincidence”. So, you see what I mean?! He would prefer that we be ignorant to his wicked ways so that we could continue in this vicious cycle of deception, but I’m here to expose him and remind you how we can wage war against the enemy when faced with these spiritual battles which occur in different ways.

The enemy is always trying to mess with our minds. If he can control how we think and feel, he thinks he’s won. He doesn’t give up easily and plays dirty. This is where the victory or defeat takes place. I noticed that before I surrendered my life to Jesus, life was “smooth sailing”. It felt like things became harder after coming to the faith vs when I was out “living my life” before I turned to Jesus. The truth is I was BLIND. Spiritually blind.