Marissa Henley

Encouraging weary women to hope in Christ alone

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Your Waiting Will Not Last Forever {No Matter What Monday}

November 19, 2018 by Marissa Leave a Comment

Do you remember what it was like to have out-of-town visitors arriving in the days before cell phones? When I was a kid, I loved the days when our grandparents were coming to town. We knew how far they were driving and could ballpark a estimated arrival time, but we couldn’t be certain. All day we’d watch with eager anticipation for our loved ones, never knowing when the doorbell would end our waiting.

We’ve been talking about waiting for the past couple of weeks. We have courage because it’s the Lord we are waiting for. We remember that God is good to us while we wait. And today let’s find comfort in the promise that our waiting will not last forever. Whether we receive the desires of our hearts here or in heaven, there will be a glorious day when all our waiting will end.

“It will be said on that day, ‘Behold, this is our God; we have waited on him, that he might save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for him; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.’” (Isaiah 25:9)

One day, we will behold our God and realize that all we need is Him. Can you imagine seeing the Lord and wishing you’d gotten that new car you’d always dreamed of? Everything else we’ve been waiting for will flee from our thoughts as we see the glory of God and enjoy His presence forever.

This line from a song by Sandra McCracken is one of my favorite descriptions of that day: “He has done great things, we will say together, we will feast and weep no more.”

Can you picture all of God’s people together, finally seeing the full goodness and beauty of our Lord and Savior, giving Him praise for all the great things He has done? Can you see the eyes that will never again cry sorrowful tears? On that day, we will have all we have ever waited for in Christ.

No matter what you face this week, your waiting will not last forever.

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Wait for the Lord {No Matter What Monday}

November 5, 2018 by Marissa Leave a Comment

I hate to wait. As someone who hates to wait at red lights, you can imagine the distress I felt last month when I learned that to renew my husband’s car registration, one of us would need to go to the Department of Motor Vehicles in person and visit not just one but THREE separate departments in the building. And as the one who doesn’t have a full-time job, this lovely responsibility fell to me.

We groan when we hear that we need to visit the DMV, don’t we? Because we know we will have to wait. We expect to wait at the DMV, doctor’s offices, and the car line at school. But these are all minor inconveniences compared to the big waits in life. Maybe you’re waiting for healing, for reconciliation in a relationship, or for a prodigal child to return. Maybe you don’t know which way to go, and you’re waiting for direction.

While I knew I’d eventually leave the DMV with a little sticker for my husband’s license plate, we often don’t know when or how our waiting will end. What we do know is the One we are waiting for.

“Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” (Psalm 27:14)

We can be strong and have courage as we wait, because we know the Lord is with us. Our hope isn’t in a particular outcome; our hope is in Him. His presence gives us peace as we wait.

“And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you.” (Psalm 39:7)

And as we wait, we can have peace because of the promises of God’s Word. The truth of His Word sustains us as we wait.

“I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope.” (Psalm 130:5)

Waiting is hard, friends. But we are not left alone. We are waiting for the Lord, who gives us hope through the promises of His Word.

No matter what you face this week, let your heart take courage as you wait for the Lord.

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Loving Your Friend Through Cancer ~ A live interview with Marketers on a Mission

October 9, 2018 by Marissa Leave a Comment

Last week I had the privilege of doing a Facebook live interview with Patricia Durgin from Marketers on a Mission. Patricia helps Christian writers and speakers succeed online with a daily Facebook live show, and last week she hosted a special breast cancer awareness week. I was thrilled to be able to share God’s story of faithfulness to me during my battle with angiosarcoma and discuss how we can support our friends with cancer. You can check out the replay from YouTube here!

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Nothing Can Separate You {No Matter What Monday}

October 8, 2018 by Marissa Leave a Comment

 

A few weeks ago, I asked my daughter what she learned at Bible study as we made our way through the dark parking lot to our car. Her answer surprised me: “We learned how God kept parting all the water for the Israelites.”

If you spent much time in Sunday school as a kid, you probably saw the parting of the Red Sea on a felt board at some point. As the Egyptian army with their horses and chariots came barreling after them, the recently-freed Israelites huddled on the shore of the sea, waiting to see what God would do.

Forty years later, those who had crossed the Red Sea on dry ground had died in the wilderness. The next generation stood on the banks of the Jordan River as it rushed past them at floodstage. On the other side lay the long-awaited Promised Land. Once again, God proved that nothing can separate His children from His unfailing love, His perfect plans, and His gracious salvation. (Check out Joshua 3 to read more.)

The God who won’t let anything stand in the way of showing His love to His children is still the same today:

“For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39)

In these verses, Paul gives us a comprehensive list of all the circumstances and powers that can’t separate us from God’s love. And in case he missed anything, he adds these powerful words: “nor anything else in all creation.” That pretty much covers it, wouldn’t you say?

Do you ever feel like a roaring river or a foreboding sea is keeping you from what God has promised? The hard circumstances we face can separate us from comfort, from happiness, from friends – maybe even separate us by death from someone we love and miss. But no matter how hard things get, our suffering will never be able to separate us from God’s love for us in Christ.

No matter what you face this week, nothing in all creation can separate you from God’s love in Christ Jesus.

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I write to remind myself of the truth of God's promises. I share my writing here in case you need to be reminded sometimes, too.

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The house is still quiet in the mornings as I open The house is still quiet in the mornings as I open my Bible and place my coffee mug on the teal coaster that a friend gave me for Christmas. It says, “It’s as if no one in my family appreciates that I stayed up all night overthinking for them.”⁠
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It’s funny because it’s true. As the mom of two teens and a tween, I had a lot of opportunities to overthink even before our world was rocked by a pandemic and political turmoil. Now my nightly overthinking has shifted into overdrive.⁠
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As we continue our study of Psalm 63, we see that David had a better approach to his bedtime routine.⁠
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“My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food, and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips, when I remember you upon my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night; for you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy.” (Psalm 63:5-7)⁠
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Isn’t it fascinating that David specifically mentioned thinking about God in the watches of the night? He didn’t just praise God during the day - he turned his thoughts to the Lord as he laid down to sleep.⁠
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I think God understands that when we’re alone in the dark with our thoughts, we will be tempted to stew over the past or worry about the future. Through David’s words, God shows us another way. Instead of focusing on our troubles and fears, we can meditate on what God has done and remember that we can trust Him.⁠
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These verses also tell us that David had a satisfied soul and joy-filled lips. These two things are connected—when we find our satisfaction in the Lord, it leads us to praise. We are grateful rather than grumbling. We look at our gracious God and find reasons to be joyful in all circumstances.⁠
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David behaved this way because of what he believed about God. He was satisfied, joyful, and peaceful because he knew the Lord was his refuge and his help. Rather than running out on his own to fix All. The. Things, David sang for joy in the shadow of God’s wings. And so can we.⁠
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No matter what you face this week, you can shift from anxious overthinking into peaceful praise.⁠
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#NoMatterWhatMonday
Just sharing a teaching on another favorite passag Just sharing a teaching on another favorite passage - isn't Ephesians sooo good?! I was dead in my sin, but God didn't leave me there--this is the best news ever.

You can read the entire teaching at the link in my bio or in the @first5app. ❤️

Posted @withregram • @first5app “Which do you want first, the good news or the bad news?” 

I cringe when I hear this question. If I have to choose, I’d rather get the bad news over with first. In Ephesians 2:1-7, Paul shares devastating news followed by the best news imaginable. He starts with the bad news that we were all hopelessly and helplessly dead in our sin. 
 
Dead people can’t do anything to change their situation. They can’t make themselves better or even ask for help. Spiritually dead people have only one hope: a rescuer with the power to raise the dead and give them new life. Now it’s time for the good news. In Ephesians 2:4, we find these two little words that change everything: “But God.” 

You were dead in your sin, but God made you alive together with Christ. You were a child of God’s wrath, but God showed His mercy, love and kindness to you as one of His own. God has saved us so that He can spend eternity putting the immeasurable riches of His kindness and grace on display for us. Dear friends, there is no better news than that. 

-@marissa.henley #First5
Ten years ago, I was spending most of my time in H Ten years ago, I was spending most of my time in Houston. Over and over again, I left my husband and three young kids to travel to MD Anderson Cancer Center and receive chemotherapy and injections through a clinical trial. I never expected to “winter in Houston,” as I jokingly called it. But when a cancer diagnosis means you might not live long enough for your toddler to remember you, you do whatever it takes to live.⁠
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My story is just one example of how much we love life. We wear seat belts. We take vitamins. We turn our society upside down to attempt to minimize the impact of a deadly virus. When our life is threatened, do anything we can to survive.⁠
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And yet, Psalm 63 teaches us that there’s something even better than life: the steadfast love of God.⁠
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“Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.” (Psalm 63:3-4)⁠
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As we continue our study of Psalm 63, we find one of the reasons that David’s soul thirsts for the Lord—because His love is even better than life itself. Better than life?! I don’t think David is using hyperbole here, and his choice of words makes me wonder if I fully grasp the magnitude of God’s steadfast love.⁠
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The Hebrew word translated here as “steadfast love” carries a connotation of loyalty and faithfulness. God’s steadfast love involves His commitment to keep all His covenant promises to His people. He promised to be with us. He promised to be our Deliverer. He sent His Son to make a new covenant with us and shed His blood for the forgiveness of our sins. God’s love for His children isn’t just an emotion—it’s a commitment to us and to our salvation in Christ.⁠
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So whatever you’re struggling with today, even if your very life is threatened, you can praise God for His steadfast love. And if you’re enjoying the good gifts God has given you in this life, keep this perspective in mind—God’s given you something even better. His steadfast love and promises will never fail.⁠
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No matter what you face this week, God’s steadfast love is better than anything—even better than life itself. ⁠
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#NoMatterWhatMonday
Today I have the privilege of sharing an audio tea Today I have the privilege of sharing an audio teaching on one of my favorite passages in Scripture. Here's a preview - you can listen or read a transcript at the link in my bio or in the @first5app! ❤️

Posted @withregram • @first5app What makes you feel blessed? I feel blessed when the sun is shining, when my children are being obedient with happy, joyful hearts and when I find the perfect parking spot. But sometimes, when things don't go that way, I might feel a little bit less blessed. We're going to see in Ephesians 1:3-14 that even on those days when we don't feel blessed, we are blessed by our salvation in Christ. 

In Ephesians 1:3, Paul shares an amazing list of the spiritual blessings God gives his children. God chose us before the foundation of the world, redeemed us through the blood of Jesus, forgave our trespasses,  lavished the riches of His grace on us, and gave us wisdom and insight into His plan of reconciliation and salvation. This inheritance has been guaranteed with the Holy Spirit who has sealed us for it and for spiritual blessings. Spiritual blessings are a free gift of God's grace!

Why does God give these blessings, this salvation to us in Christ? For the purpose of bringing praise and glory to Himself! Now, when we hear that, a few questions might pop up. Is God being selfish? Well, if God really is the most glorious, highest, most supreme being, then for Him to give glory to another would be to deny the truth of who He is. Where do we fit in, then, if it's kind of all about Him? God’s glory is His ultimate purpose in all that He does, but He has other purposes as well. He loves us and is faithful to keep His promises. God delights in showing us mercy and lavishing his grace on us. 

Our spiritual blessings give us confidence, comfort, and the assurance of our salvation. We know that this is God's ultimate purpose in these spiritual blessings. And here's why: God is fully committed to His own glory, as He should be. Bestowing these spiritual blessings on us in Christ is done to the praise of His glory. He is glorified more when He gives us spiritual blessings.

-@marissa.henley #first5
I knew January 1st wouldn’t magically change any I knew January 1st wouldn’t magically change anything. I’ve left 2020 behind, but I woke up last Friday with the same pandemic, the same struggles, the same fears, and the same temptations. I didn’t become happier, holier, peaceful, or more disciplined overnight. That first workout of the year didn’t immediately reverse the effects of several months of baking.⁠
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So maybe the problem wasn’t the date on the calendar—maybe the problem is me. What brings me joy? What am I clinging to? The year 2020 revealed a lot about the answers to these questions, and it wasn’t always pretty. If you’re in the same boat, I’ve got good news. Psalm 63 teaches us that when we seek the Lord, we will be satisfied in Him.⁠
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“O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory.” (Psalm 63:1-2)⁠
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The God who is our God is the only one who will satisfy the longing of our souls. David earnestly seeks God; he thirsts for God; he longs to be in the sanctuary, worshipping with the people of God. Do I want the same?⁠
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Am I more disappointed by how the pandemic robbed me of vacations or how it disrupted our ability to meet together with other Christians? When I look ahead to 2021, am I hopeful that I will have more fun? Or do I long to be in the sanctuary with my church family, worshipping God, encouraging each other, and serving together?⁠
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There’s no guarantee that 2021 won’t be just as disappointing as our old friend 2020. Many of us are weary. We’re discouraged and longing for normalcy. We won’t find answers by chasing entertainment, distraction, or control. But when we seek the Lord and turn our eyes upon His power and glory, He will be our peace, our joy, and our strength. His steadfast love will never fail.⁠
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No matter what you face this week, the Lord your God will be like water for your dry, weary soul.⁠
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#NoMatterWhatMonday
Are you looking to jumpstart your time with the Lo Are you looking to jumpstart your time with the Lord in the new year? I know I'm ready for a fresh start!⁠
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I wanted you to know that I offer a FREE 21-day devotional on my website, and I'd love to share it with you! You can receive the devotionals by email for 21 days or download an ebook to read on your own schedule. There's a link in my bio if you'd like to sign up!⁠
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Happy New Year, friends!
Remember when we used to fly on airplanes? I loved Remember when we used to fly on airplanes? I loved the ease and efficiency of air travel (at least most of the time!) and hope that one day soon I’ll get to enjoy it again. But for a control-freak like me, it’s a little unsettling to place my life in the hands of someone I’ve never met. I wish I could interview the pilot before each flight: How long have you been doing this? Did you get good sleep last night? Any distracting personal problems you’d like to talk through before we take off?⁠
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And yet, the truth is that no matter how sleep-deprived or distracted the pilot may be, I can count on him or her to do a better job flying the plane than I would. I definitely don’t know as much about flying a plane as the one behind the wheel. (Is there a steering wheel?! I don’t even know!)⁠
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When the plane starts barreling down the runway and the butterflies start, it helps to remember that there is One who has even more control over that plane than the pilot. Psalm 139 tell us that our heavenly Father has planned every single one of our days:⁠
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“Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.” (Psalm 139:16)⁠
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There’s no need for us to interview God about His qualifications to hold our days in His hands. He is all-knowing and all-wise, and His understanding is beyond measure. He’s perfectly holy, good, faithful. He has the power to bring about all His plans for us, and nothing can thwart His purposes.⁠
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Sometimes life feels out of control, and we don’t know what’s coming next. I feel this acutely as we get ready to turn the calendar page to a new year that’s still filled with uncertainty.⁠
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But I know this: Nothing will touch my life that isn’t known and planned by my loving heavenly Father. Psalm 139 also promises His Spirit to be with us, always and everywhere (v. 7). We can have confidence in God’s good plans and His faithful presence through this next year and for eternity.⁠
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No matter what you face this week, you can trust the plans and presence of your faithful Father.⁠
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#NoMatterWhatMonday
I love telling the stories of how well my friends I love telling the stories of how well my friends loved me through my cancer battle 10 years ago. They showed me how the body of Christ can love and support those who are suffering, and today I get to share what they taught me on the Proverbs 31 Ministries podcast.⁠
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There's a link in my bio if you'd like to listen via Apple podcasts, or check it out wherever you listen to podcasts!
The election was still two weeks away, but the lin The election was still two weeks away, but the line snaked around the building as I stood with other voters, wearing masks and spaced six feet apart. While a pandemic raged around us, we showed up and waited as long as it took to cast our vote. Millions of Americans did the same, because we believe that, especially in times of difficulty, it matters who’s in charge.⁠
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When the Old Testament prophets spoke of the Messiah, they spoke of a king. This king would reign on the throne of David forever. But this king would be different from the line of kings that followed King David, many of whom were wicked, foolish leaders. Isaiah prophesied about this Messiah-King:⁠
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“Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.” (Isaiah 9:7)⁠
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“Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule in justice.” (Isaiah 32:1)⁠
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The King of all creation humbled Himself to take on flesh, walk and talk with man, and suffer and die for His people. Christ’s life, death, and resurrection demonstrated His sovereignty over this world and His sound defeat of His enemies. Now Christ the King is exalted by the Father and seated in glory at the Father’s right hand (Eph 2:20-21, Phil 2:8-9).⁠
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In Revelation 19:16, we find the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy:⁠
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“On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.”⁠
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As we look at the chaos and challenges around us, we don’t have to wonder who’s ultimately in charge. Our good and faithful King, our Savior Jesus Christ, reigns now and forever.⁠
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This is one of the wonders of Christmas: the infant about whom we sing “Away in a Manger” is also the Savior about whom we sing, “Crown Him with many crowns, the Lamb upon His throne.” As we celebrate, our hope is in righteous, just, eternal kingship of the Lord Jesus Christ.⁠
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No matter what you face this week, Jesus Christ reigns as the righteous King of kings and Lord of lords. Merry Christmas, friends!⁠
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#NoMatterWhatMonday
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