I was an adultress, but that is not what defines me. I am not defined by my biggest failures, past mistakes, sizeable sin, greatest accomplishments, or astounding achievements. My identity doesn't come from my job or a title, but it is found in the One who gave His life for me, Jesus Christ. He has given me a new name: redeemed, chosen, adopted, forgiven, daughter, royalty, and even masterpiece.

Mike gets up before most people. He reads the Bible, prays, and drinks a few cups of coffee. He may write a new series and/or work on the message that he will teach that weekend before he goes to the gym to train people. After the gym, he will come home and study more. I will hear him on the phone at different times, listening to people bare their souls to him because they are in desperate straits.

I did something I never thought I would ever do, I had an affair a couple of years ago. The world around me, inside and outside, blew up. I became so embarrassed and ashamed. I hated myself for not doing what I encouraged others to do. I hated myself for going outside the boundaries of God, ultimately disobeying Him.

I was reading about Nehemiah yesterday, and there were a few things that really stood out to me. I love that about the Bible! You can learn something new every time you read it! The Bible says, “it is LIVING, and active, sharper than any two edged sword.” (Hebrews 4:12)

Have you ever gossiped about someone? As much as I would like to be able to say I have not, I know I have. Have people ever gossiped about you?! Maybe what was said was so ridiculous that you wanted to laugh? Or maybe it was so incredibly hurtful that you wanted to cry?

There have been times in my life that I thought I was so broken, even beyond repair. Have you ever felt that way?! Have you ever felt so discouraged, beaten down, ruined, overwhelmed, and even hopeless that you wondered how in the world could the Lord ever make you whole again?!

I just watched it’s a “ It’s Wonderful Life.” I have seen this movie several times, but this movie spoke to me a little differently this time. Have you ever read or watched something and got something different from it, no matter how many times you read or watched it?! They don’t seem to make feel good, sweet movies like this anymore.