Off to College

Posted on August 21, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

A man’s heart plans his way,
But the Lord directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9 (NKJV)

Today we send our third child, Kevin, off to college at Montana State University. He follows the footsteps of his big sister and big brother while creating his own unique path. It doesn’t get any easier with the third child!

When we first took Kevin’s big sister to college eleven years ago, I visited Coldstone Creamery for a big chocolate indulgence dessert EVERY time we dropped her off just to drown my tears. That was before I was dairy-free.

When Kevin’s big brother left for college six years ago, I couldn’t imagine the day would come for Kevin to go. And now, here it is! And so I pray for Jesus to hear all the prayers from all the years that I have prayed for him. I pray all these verses for Kevin. I pray for Jesus’ angels to guard over Kevin and for him to follow God’s straight and narrow path.

We love you, Kevin! We’re proud of you! Go do amazing things for Jesus at MSU!

Today’s TEA CUPP: Someone you know is headed to college. Pray these verses for him/her. Write a verse on a card and send it to him/her in the mail, and even to his/her mom! Save these verses for future graduation and college students. Forward these verses to all your mom friends with college students. Let’s pray for our college students and turn our campuses around for Jesus, one TEA CUPP at a time!

Hiding in Jesus

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust.” Psalm 91:1-2 (NKJV)

Shine for Jesus

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear. 1 Peter 3:15 (NKJV)

You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 2:1 (NKJV)

But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:11-12 (NKJV)

Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel. Philippians 1:27 (NKJV)

My son, hear the instruction of your father,
And do not forsake the law of your mother;
For they will be a graceful ornament on your head,
And chains about your neck. Proverbs 1:8-9 (NKJV)

Blessings

Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper. Psalm 1:1-3 (NKJV)

Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord,
Who delights greatly in His commandments. Psalm 112:1 (NKJV)

Blessed is every one who fears the Lord,
Who walks in His ways. Psalm 128:1 (NKJV)

Protection from the enemy

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Ephesians 6:10-11 (NKJV)

And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. Romans 16:20 (NKJV)

Let them be like chaff before the wind,
And let the angel of the Lord chase them. Psalm 35:5 (NKJV)

There is no one like the God of Jeshurun,
Who rides the heavens to help you,
And in His excellency on the clouds.
The eternal God is your refuge,
And underneath are the everlasting arms;
He will thrust out the enemy from before you,
And will say, ‘Destroy!’ Deuteronomy 33:26-27 (NKJV)

And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen! 2 Timothy 4:18 (NKJV)

You are my hiding place;
You shall preserve me from trouble;
You shall surround me with songs of deliverance. Psalm 32:7 (NKJV)

And the Lord shall help them and deliver them;
He shall deliver them from the wicked,
And save them,
Because they trust in Him. Psalm 37:40 (NKJV)

Call upon Me in the day of trouble;
I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me. Psalm 50:15 (NKJV)

The Lord shall preserve you from all evil;
He shall preserve your soul.
The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in
From this time forth, and even forevermore. Psalm 121:7-8 (NKJV)

Thanksgiving

I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given to you by Christ Jesus. 1 Corinthians 1:4 (NKJV)

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. 3 John 4 (NKJV)

Wisdom from God

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. James 1:5 (NKJV)

Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O Lord,
And teach out of Your law. Psalm 94:12 (NKJV)

My son, let them not depart from your eyes—
Keep sound wisdom and discretion;
So they will be life to your soul
And grace to your neck.
Then you will walk safely in your way,
And your foot will not stumble. Proverbs 3:21-23 (NKJV)

Wisdom is the principal thing;
Therefore get wisdom.
And in all your getting, get understanding. Proverbs 4:7 (NKJV)

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10 (NKJV)

Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes,
And I shall keep it to the end. Psalm 119:33 (NKJV)

Victory in Jesus

But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57 (NKJV)

Through God we will do valiantly,
For it is He who shall tread down our enemies. Psalm 60:12 (NKJV)

Encouraging Promises

Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6 (NKJV)

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV)

Train up a child in the way he should go,
And when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)

In the fear of the Lord there is strong confidence,
And His children will have a place of refuge. Proverbs 14:26 (NKJV)

He who follows righteousness and mercy
Finds life, righteousness, and honor. Proverbs 21:21 (NKJV)

I have taught you in the way of wisdom;
I have led you in right paths.
When you walk, your steps will not be hindered,
And when you run, you will not stumble. Proverbs 4:11-12 (NKJV)

…No good thing will He withhold
From those who walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11 (NKJV)

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1 (NKJV)

You have hedged me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me. Psalm 139:5 (NKJV)

And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. John 10:28 (NKJV)

Petitions for Student

Keep me as the apple of Your eye;
Hide me under the shadow of Your wings. Psalm 17:8 (NKJV)

May He grant you according to your heart’s desire,
And fulfill all your purpose. Psalm 20:4 (NKJV)

That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 1:12 (NKJV)

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11 (NKJV)

Keep my soul, and deliver me;
Let me not be ashamed, for I put my trust in You.
Let integrity and uprightness preserve me,
For I wait for You. Psalm 25:20-21 (NKJV)

Oh, continue Your lovingkindness to those who know You,
And Your righteousness to the upright in heart. Psalm 36:10 (NKJV)

Do not forsake me, O Lord;
O my God, be not far from me!
Make haste to help me,
O Lord, my salvation! Psalm 38:21-22 (NKJV)

For You are my rock and my fortress;
Therefore, for Your name’s sake,
Lead me and guide me. Psalm 31:3 (NKJV)

Cast your burden on the Lord,
And He shall sustain you;
He shall never permit the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22 (NKJV)

O God, do not be far from me;
O my God, make haste to help me! Psalm 71:12 (NKJV)

Make Your face shine upon Your servant,
And teach me Your statutes. Psalm 119:135 (NKJV)

Staying on God’s Path

You will show me the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11 (NKJV)

For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps. 1 Peter 2:21 (NKJV)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)

Uphold my steps in Your paths,
That my footsteps may not slip. Psalm 17:5 (NKJV)

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. James 1:12 (NKJV)

The righteous should choose his friends carefully,
For the way of the wicked leads them astray. Proverbs 12:26 (NKJV)

There are many plans in a man’s heart,
Nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand. Proverbs 19:21 (NKJV)

A man’s steps are of the Lord;
How then can a man understand his own way? Proverbs 20:24 (NKJV)

A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
Loving favor rather than silver and gold. Proverbs 22:1 (NKJV)

Righteousness will go before Him,
And shall make His footsteps our pathway. Psalm 85:13 (NKJV)

For this is God,
Our God forever and ever;
He will be our guide
Even to death. Psalm 48:14 (NKJV)

If I say, “My foot slips,”
Your mercy, O Lord, will hold me up. Psalm 94:18 (NKJV)

Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path. Psalm 119:105 (NKJV)

Go to Church!

I was glad when they said to me,
“Let us go into the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1 (NKJV)

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV)

When You said, “Seek My face,”
My heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.” Psalm 27:8 (NKJV)

Oh, send out Your light and Your truth!
Let them lead me;
Let them bring me to Your holy hill
And to Your tabernacle. Psalm 43:3 (NKJV)

As iron sharpens iron,
So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV)

For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
Than dwell in the tents of wickedness. Psalm 84:10 (NKJV)

Those who are planted in the house of the Lord
Shall flourish in the courts of our God. Psalm 92:13 (NKJV)

Blessed be the Lord,
Because He has heard the voice of my supplications! Psalm 28:6 (NKJV)

Holding His Feet

Posted on July 31, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

…cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days… Deuteronomy 30:20

Does it seem like you are always going through something? Whether it is an illness, cancer diagnosis, death of loved one, family troubles, money problems, car repairs…there is always a trial that makes us worried, anxious, sad, struggling, depressed…Who can help us? Who is always there for us? Who can we hold onto in the storm?

Jesus! Yes, Jesus is always the answer! And today I have two Bible stories for you where women really did hold onto Jesus, they held onto His feet! Just as a toddler will wrap his arms around Mommy’s legs, these women gripped Jesus’s feet with all their strength and did not let go.

The first example was before Jesus died on the cross for our sins. Jesus was dining at the home of a Pharisee when a woman entered with an alabaster flask filled with fragrant oil. This woman was certainly struggling for the Bible calls her a sinner, and she was weeping as she stood behind Jesus. Then she did the boldest thing, she washed Jesus’s feet with her tears and dried them with her hair, and finally anointed His feet with the fragrant oil. After the Pharisee complained, Jesus told the dear woman, “Your sins are forgiven.” (Luke 7:48) and “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.” (Luke 7:50)

… (She) stood at His feet behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with the fragrant oil. Luke 7:38 (NKJV)

The second story comes after Jesus died on the cross, after He was buried, and after He rose from the grave. It was that very Sunday when Jesus rose that these two Marys went to the tomb to anoint Jesus’s body. But when they arrived, there was a great earthquake. An angel of the Lord descended from heaven and rolled the stone away from the tomb entrance, sitting on the stone. The guards were so scared they fainted, but the women watched amazed as the angel said, “Do not be afraid.” ( Matthew 28:5). The angel invited them to see where Jesus had lain. As the two Marys were leaving to tell the disciples, Who did they meet? Jesus! “So they came and held Him by the feet and worshiped Him.” (Matthew 28:9)

And as they went to tell His disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, “Rejoice!” So they came and held Him by the feet and worshiped Him. Matthew 28:9 (NKJV)

We also can hold Jesus’s feet! Whether we’ve made some terrible mistakes and come to Him as sinners, like the first woman, or we are lost in grief like the two Marys, we can come to Jesus and cling to His feet. And He will comfort us with His Word, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.”

But you shall hold fast to the Lord your God, as you have done to this day. Joshua 23:8 (NKJV)

Today’s TEA CUPP: Hold fast (1 Corinthians 15:2), my friend. Read these Bible stories today in Luke 7:36-50 and Matthew 28:1-10. Then cling to Jesus’s feet, telling Him everything that is on your heart. Perhaps you’ll also enjoy this song entitled, “The Alabaster Flask.”

Abba Father, Yeshua Messiah, I come to your footstool and hold Your feet and bow and worship and love and exalt You! You are the Hope of Israel and my Hope. You are the Savior of the world and my Savior. You are my Risen Lord, the Prince of Life! Be glorified today in all the earth!

…“I will not let You go unless You bless me!” Genesis 32:26 (NKJV)

You shall fear the Lord your God; you shall serve Him, and to Him you shall hold fast, and take oaths in His name. Deuteronomy 10:20 (NKJV)

For as the sash clings to the waist of a man, so I have caused the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah to cling to Me,’ says the Lord, ‘that they may become My people, for renown, for praise, and for glory; but they would not hear.’ Jeremiah 13:11 (NKJV)

Then it shall be, when he lies down, that you shall notice the place where he lies; and you shall go in, uncover his feet, and lie down; and he will tell you what you should do. Ruth 3:4 (NKJV)

Holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. Philippians 2:16 (NKJV)

Now when she came to the man of God at the hill, she caught him by the feet. . . 2 Kings 4:27 (NKJV)

Even there Your hand shall lead me,
And Your right hand shall hold me. Psalm 139:10 (NKJV)

For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end, Hebrews 3:14 (NKJV)

But hold fast what you have till I come. Revelation 2:25 (NKJV)

How to Get Started with your Jesus TEA

Posted on June 26, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. Revelation 3:20 (NKJV)

So you’ve been wanting to get started with a TEA time with Jesus, but aren’t quite sure how to do it? Today’s devotion is for you!

First of all, let’s praise the Lord! You have heard God’s call and accepted His invitation to come! That is fantastic!

The best way to make it happen is to organize your TEA time ahead of time so that the enemy doesn’t slip in and distract you.

So, TODAY, pick your Jesus spot. This is the place in your house where you will have TEA with Jesus each day. Set it up with your Bible, a journal or notebook, and some pens. I also have a devotional book, prayer shawl, calendar, and an old hymnal. But you will find out what you need and add it as you pray over the years. Be sure to tell your family, “This is my Jesus spot! When you see me sitting here, I’m having TEA with Jesus. So please wait until I’m finished to talk to me.”

Also, TODAY, set your alarm for an hour early for tomorrow morning. Leave it set an hour early every day!

TOMORROW, when your alarm goes off, jump out of bed, greet the day and say, “Good morning, Jesus, let’s have TEA!” Don’t check your phone or computer or TV or let anything distract you. Heat your tea kettle, pour yourself a steaming cup, and sit down in your Jesus spot.

Open your Bible and let Jesus speak to you first through His Word. I like to pray a little prayer before reading, such as Psalm 119:18…Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law. If you aren’t sure where to read in your Bible, begin with the book of John, reading a few chapters each day. Then read the Psalms and then Genesis. Or you might try a Bible reading plan to help you read the whole Bible in a year. I follow the plan found in Our Daily Bread.

As you are reading your Bible, have your pen handy to underline favorite verses that God shows you. These verses you can use later as conversation starters for prayer, to write in a card to encourage a friend, or to put on a note card on your bathroom mirror to memorize!

When you finish your Bible reading time, pull out your prayer journal or notebook and write down one of the verses that really spoke to you. Then pray and/or write your prayers to Jesus about that verse. Let your prayers flow from your heart to the throne of God!

The beautiful part of the TEA CUPP invitation is that it is more than just an invitation to sit down and have TEA with Jesus, it’s also an acronym for things you can talk about when you pray. The “T” is for THANKSGIVING where we thank God for His many blessings. The “E” is for EXALTING where we lift up and praise the name of Jesus. The “A” is for ADMITTING where we admit our sins and ask Jesus’ forgiveness. The “C” is for God’s CALLING where we talk to God about what He is calling us to do today or with our lives. The “U” is for UNDERSTANDING our stories so we can share our testimonies with others. The first “P” is for PROMISES where we claim a promise to carry us through the day. And the last “P” is for PETITIONS where we pour our hearts out to Jesus for everyone on our prayer lists.

Over the years the Lord showed me how I could use the different verses I have underlined for different parts of prayer. So in my Bible, I have put the letters “T-E-A-C-U-P-Pet” next to many of the underlined verses. When I want to tell God thank you, I just find a “T” verse and get started praying.

Another neat thing about the TEA CUPP acronym is that there are seven parts, just as there are seven days in a week. So, you could do one part each day of the week, or you could do them all in one day, or you could just pray as God gives you verses each day.

Today’s TEA CUPP: Follow today’s devotion to set up your Jesus spot and get started in prayer. After your TEA time with Jesus, arrange your Jesus spot again so it is ready for tomorrow. Welcome, dear friend, to the best TEA party of all!

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 (NKJV)

Bible Mom: Hannah’s Petition

Posted on June 19, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

“…I…have poured out my soul before the Lord.” 1 Samuel 1:15 (NKJV)

This is the last in our series of Bible Moms…Hannah’s Petition.

Do you know the story of the Prophet Samuel? He has two books named after him in the Old Testament. The story of how he came to serve the Lord and be a prophet is really quite remarkable…and it all began with the prayers of his mom Hannah.

Poor Hannah was one of the two wives of a man named Elkanah. His other wife, Peninnah, had children, but Hannah had no children. This made Hannah very sad. Every year they would go to Shiloh to worship the Lord, but Hannah was too sad even to eat. In fact, her soul was so bitter that she prayed to the Lord and wept in anguish. Hannah even promised the Lord, that if He gave her a son, she would give him to the Lord all the days of his life.

Finally, the Lord remembered Hannah and blessed her with a son. She named him Samuel, because she had asked for him from the Lord. For three years Hannah nursed and cared for her precious baby. Then, because of her vow, she brought Samuel to the priest Eli in Shiloh and gave her boy to him to serve the Lord all his days.

Hannah told Eli, “O my lord! As your soul lives, my lord, I am the woman who stood by you here, praying to the Lord. For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition which I asked of Him.” 1 Samuel 1:26-27 (NKJV)

Each year, Hannah brought Samuel a new robe to wear. The priest Eli blessed her because of her gift of her son. And the Lord visited Hannah and gave her three more sons and two daughters, while Samuel grew to be a great prophet for Israel.

Today’s TEA CUPP: Read the amazing story of Hannah and Samuel in 1 Samuel 1-3 today. I love how God used the prayers of this Bible Mom to turn His people back to Him. Never underestimate the power of your prayers. Use your prayer time today to pour your heart out to the Lord as Hannah did so long ago. This is what the “P” for Petitions is all about.

“Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition which you have asked of Him.” 1 Samuel 1:17 (NKJV)

Bible Mom: Elisha’s Promise to the Shunammite

Posted on June 12, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

Then he said, “About this time next year you shall embrace a son.” 2 Kings 4:16

Our Bibles are full of promises. According to Bibleinfo.com there are 3573 promises! That’s a lot of promises! When we read God’s Word each day we can discover these promises, underline them, pray about them, and claim them for our own. That’s what the first “P” of the TEA CUPP is all about: Claiming God’s Promises.

But I have to tell you a story, a story about me claiming a promise that was for someone else, one that is probably not included in the 3573 Bible promises that are for everyone.

When our second child was born, God put the desire in my heart for more children while I was still in the hospital holding our new born baby boy! But this was a problem because my husband and I had talked about only having two children. I wasn’t a prayer warrior then, but before our son turned one, I was reading a One Year Bible and learning how to pray. Six years later I was still reading the One Year Bible when I came across this story of the Shunammite woman.

Though she doesn’t have a name, this lady lived in the town of Shunem. She was a notable woman who was able to provide food and lodging for the prophet Elisha. Every time Elisha came to town he would stay with her. So Elisha wanted to bless the Shunammite woman and her husband in a special way.

Now you must understand, I’d been reading my One Year Bible every day for six years. I had read this story several times before. But this year a particular verse jumped out at me. When Elisha told the Shunammite woman, “About this time next year you shall embrace a son.” I underlined the verse and claimed it as a promise for me. And guess what, exactly nine months later God gave us our son Kevin Jon. All praise be to God!

In the following years when I was reading my Bible, I would come to that promise and wonder if I could claim it again, wish I could claim it again, not sure if it would be greedy to claim the Shunammite’s promise more than once…but eventually I did claim it, over and over, and finally, after 11-1/2 years, God gave us another son. I’m sure the Shunammite mom had no idea someone would be borrowing her promise thousands of years later!

Today’s TEA CUPP: God’s Word is packed with promises for us to discover and claim…promises of peace and perfection and provision, promises of hope and help and heaven. As you read your Bible today, look for God’s promises, underline them, put a letter “P” next to them, and claim them for your own. Tell Jesus, “I claim this promise!” Here are a few to get you started…

In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. John 14:2 (NKJV)

And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. John 14:13 (NKJV)

And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. John 10:28 (NKJV)

p.s. And next week, our Kevin Jon, who is now 19 years old, leaves on his second international mission trip, this time to the Philippines. And so I claim this promise for Kevin and his team…

For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways. Psalm 91:11 (NKJV)

Bible Mom: Samson’s Mom’s Calling

Posted on May 29, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

…but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4 (NKJV)

God calls us to do so many things as moms. We are called to respect our husbands. We are called to bring up our children in the training and admonition of the Lord. We are called to take care of our homes. But I don’t know if any of us have had a calling quite like Samson’s mom.

First let’s look up these callings for us all:

…and let the wife see that she respects her husband. Ephesians 5:33 (NKJV)
Train up a child in the way he should go,
And when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)
She watches over the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness. Proverbs 31:27 (NKJV)

Next let’s discover the story of Samson’s mom in Judges 13. An Angel of the Lord visited a lady from the tribe of Dan and declared to her:

“…Please be careful not to drink wine or similar drink, and not to eat anything unclean. For behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. And no razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.” Judges 13:4-5

Did you catch that bonus list for Samson’s mom?

Don’t drink wine or similar drink.
Don’t eat anything unclean.
Don’t cut his hair.

Numbers 6 gives even more details of what it means to be a Nazirite, set apart to God. He also could eat no grapes or raisins, nor touch a dead body. Samson was to be kept holy for the Lord.

Well, if you read the entire story of Samson through Judges 16, you find out Samson did not keep himself holy, but his mom had done her part in bringing him up as the Angel instructed her.

Can you imagine having such an instruction list? Some moms do have a list given to them by doctors. Kids these days may have allergies to milk, eggs, soy, nuts, etc. Moms teach their kids with allergies to avoid those foods. How all the more do we need to heed God’s Word when He calls us to do something!

That’s what the “C” part of MY TEA CUPP Prayers is all about, talking to God about our CALLING. It may be what He is calling us to do today, such as visit a neighbor or teach our kids a Bible verse. Or it may be what He is calling us to do with our lives, whether that is to be a godly wife and mom or build cities like Sheerah, the daughter of Ephraim (1 Chronicles 7:24)

Today’s TEA CUPP: Read the fascinating true story of Samson and his mom in Judges 13-16. Recall the instructions the Angel gave to Samson’s mom. What instructions has God given you as you raise your kids? Write what He’s calling you to do in your prayer journal and ask Jesus to help you. Go get ’em, Bible mom!

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. Colossians 3:23-24 (NKJV)

Bible Mom: Admitting with Eve

Posted on May 22, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

…she took of its fruit and ate… Genesis 3:6

And Adam called his wife’s name Eve, because she was the mother of all living. Genesis 3:20

Oh, Eve, why did you do it?

Oh, Eve, why did you listen to the serpent?

Oh, Eve, why did you even talk to that rascal the devil?

Oh, Eve, why did you look at the tree and then stretch out your hand?

Oh, Eve, why did you pluck the fruit and take a bite?

Oh, Eve, why did you give some to Adam? And Adam, why didn’t you throw that fruit on the ground and be a strong spiritual leader for your family, asking God to forgive Eve?

Oh, Eve, why did you hide from God in the garden, didn’t you know He always see you?

Oh, Eve, why did you blame the serpent instead of admitting your sin?

Oh, Eve, how did you feel when God told you that in pain you would bring forth children? Do you know a lot of moms would like to talk to you about that!

Oh, Eve, were your first clothes scratchy and heavy? Weren’t you sad that God killed some of your animal friends to make those clothes? That was the very first time blood was shed for sins.

Oh, Eve, did you hear in God’s curse on the serpent a promise? (Genesis 3:15) From your Seed God will send a Savior to bruise the serpent Satan’s head!

Oh, Eve, how did you feel when God kicked you and Adam out of His beautiful garden and put cherubim and a flaming sword to guard the gate?

Of Eve, do you know how much all your daughters are just like you? We all need the Savior from your Seed, Jesus, who shed His blood once for all and crushed the serpent’s head.

Today’s TEA CUPP: Read the whole story of Eve and the serpent in Genesis 3. What forbidden fruit have you been eating? What sin do you need to cast off? This is what the “A” part of the TEA CUPP is all about, admitting our sins to Jesus and asking for His forgiveness. By using God’s Word to admit our sins, we are cleansed from all unrighteousness.

And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you. Matthew 5:30

Bible Mom: Exalting with Mary

Posted on May 15, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord,
And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.Luke 1:46-67

We all love Mary. You know, Mary and Joseph and the baby Jesus from your Christmas nativity scene? Yes, there are many Marys in the Bible, but none is as special as this young lady whom God chose to be the mother of His Son Jesus. Mary was so obedient when the angel came with the news, that she replied, “Let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

After receiving the angel’s announcement, Mary went to visit her cousin Elizabeth who was also miraculously pregnant in her old age with the special baby John the Baptist. When Mary walked in the door, the baby John leapt inside Elizabeth’s womb for joy that his Savior had come. What better story is there than this for life beginning in the womb!

And it was there in Elizabeth’s house that Mary shared her praise to God. Known as Mary’s song, she sang…

“My soul magnifies the Lord,
And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.
For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant;
For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.
For He who is mighty has done great things for me,
And holy is His name.
And His mercy is on those who fear Him
From generation to generation.
He has shown strength with His arm;
He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He has put down the mighty from their thrones,
And exalted the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
And the rich He has sent away empty.
He has helped His servant Israel,
In remembrance of His mercy,
As He spoke to our fathers,
To Abraham and to his seed forever.”Luke 1:46-55

Mary’s Song inspires me to pray…

O Jesus, Your dear mother Mary had words to praise You when You were just a tiny baby in her womb.

She magnified You and rejoiced in You.

She knew You were God and Savior.

She Knew You were the One who does great things and sends us all blessings.

She knew You are holy and merciful and we should come to You in fear and respect.

And she knew You are forever, from generation to generation.

Mary proclaimed all this and EXALTED You with her cousin Elizabeth as they were both expecting miraculous babies.

May all the world magnify You, Jesus, as did Mary!

Today’s TEA CUPP: Read the wonderful story of Mary in Luke 1:26-56. Isn’t it amazing how she praised the Lord so beautifully with this little life inside of her? Can we do the same? Can we lift up and EXALT the name of Jesus each day as moms? That’s what the “E” part of the TEA CUPP is all about, EXALTING the Lord. This week as you read your Bible, be on the lookout for verses to praise Jesus. Another Bible mom, Hannah, the mother of Samuel prayed this one…

My heart rejoices in the Lord;
My horn is exalted in the Lord.
I smile at my enemies,
Because I rejoice in Your salvation. No one is holy like the Lord,
For there is none besides You,
Nor is there any rock like our God.1 Samuel 2:1-2

Witness of the Stone

Posted on April 17, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb. Luke 24:2 (NKJV)

Easter is here in just a few days! In just a few days we proclaim, “He is risen!” (Mark 16:6) Who is risen? It’s Jesus! How do we know He is risen? Because the stone is rolled away and the tomb is empty and Jesus appeared to so many witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:6). Would you consider that perhaps the first witness to Jesus’ resurrection was the stone?

The stone that was rolled in front of the tomb (Mark 16:46).

The stone that was sealed with the Roman seal and guarded by Roman guards (Matthew 27:66).

The stone that would be too heavy for the ladies to move who came Sunday morning to anoint His body with spices (Mark 16:3).

But the stone had already been rolled away by an angel and an earthquake (Matthew 28:2)! The stone miraculously rolled away, leaving fainting guards and an empty tomb (Matthew 28:4-6)! If the stone could tell the story, what would it say?

Having stones as witnesses is not something new. Centuries before Jesus’ crucifixion when God’s people entered the Promised Land, Joshua set up stones as a witness (Joshua 4:7). Right before Joshua died, he set up another stone, declaring…

…“Behold, this stone shall be a witness to us, for it has heard all the words of the Lord which He spoke to us. It shall therefore be a witness to you, lest you deny your God.” Joshua 24:27 (NKJV)

We wonder what Joshua’s stone thought when God’s people turned away from Him again and again and again? Did it witness to all the words of Moses and Joshua? Did it tell the people how far they had fallen from God? Did the stone show God how much His people needed a Savior?

And when that Savior, God’s Son Jesus, came to walk this earth, He taught the people about stones. He said He could raise up children for Abraham from the stones (Luke 3:8), that if the people didn’t praise God, the very stones would cry out to worship Him (Luke 19:40), and that the Stone the builders rejected had become the Chief Cornerstone (Psalm 118:22).

But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.” Luke 19:40 (NKJV)

Yes, the stone that rolled away is a witness for us that Jesus, who died for our sins on the cross, was buried, and the third day rose to eternal life. The stone shouts, “The tomb is empty! Jesus is risen!” We must believe the stone moved and Jesus is alive, or our faith is in vain.

Today’s TEA CUPP: Listen to the witness of the stone: Jesus is risen! Read one of the Gospel accounts (perhaps Matthew 28:1-10) of this greatest story ever, the true story of our Savior Jesus rising from the grave. Believe in Jesus. Thank Him for His saving work on the cross, His forgiveness, and His promise of eternal life in heaven.

For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (NKJV)

So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” Acts 16:31 (NKJV)

Ways YOU can PRAY for my ministry…

Posted on April 10, 2019 by Jennifer Grace

Dear TEA Friends,
This spring I share with you video clips from an interview my pastor hosted for me last year. Today I offer a short clip entitled, “Ways YOU can PRAY for my ministry.” I share some of my current projects and how you can be praying for me to bear fruit for Jesus. I sure appreciate your prayers!
To view more of my interview please see…

Hello from Jennifer Grace,

How to Have TEA with Jesus.

If you’d like me to come speak for your next ladies’ gathering or retreat, please contact me here.

Thank you for visiting My TEA CUPP Prayers and praying for my ministry to invite ladies everywhere to have TEA each day with Jesus, the King of kings.

Now I beg you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in prayers to God for me. Romans 15:30 (NKJV)

Video Credits: Sam Fossum and Pastor Bryan Baker, 2018

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.
Revelation 3:20 (NKJV)

My TEA CUPP Prayers

Praying God's Word … Inviting Ladies to TEA with the King of kings!

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