The Five Times I Met Myself ~ A Book Review

by Alycia W. Morales
@AlyciaMorales

5 Reasons You Should Read The Five Times I Met Myself by James L. Rubart:

1. The cover resembles a Christmas gift or Valentine's chocolates. Maybe it's the red. But by the end of the book, you'll know you've found a sweet gift in the pages of this book.

2. It's all about relationship. Our relationship with God the Father. Our relationships within our families. And our friendships.

3. It's about how our personal decisions don't only affect our lives. They affect others just as much. Because there are many people we touch with our words and our actions (or lack thereof). And unlike Brock Matthews, we can't go back in time and talk to our younger selves to try to fix our past mistakes to make our present better. All we can do is live in the moment and hope to make amends.

4. It's about forgiveness. We all make mistakes. We're sinful by nature. But GOD. But JESUS. But LOVE. When we can look at others the way God sees them, it's far easier to love them and to free ourselves from the deadly root of bitterness unforgiveness will harbor.

5. The story is pure genius. Of course, I would expect no less from my friend Jim. His stories always are. It will leave you thinking for a good long while...

And if you're a fan of his novel, Rooms, you'll love this just as much! (Or, if you love this, check out Rooms.) For more on Jim, visit James L. Rubart.com.

My One Word for 2016 ~ Relationship

by Alycia W. Morales
@AlyciaMorales

2015 has come and gone. Last year, my One Word was "Fullness." And 2015 was definitely a year of that. We experienced a lot in our household: my father-in-law's death, three different kids breaking bones, another move (local, this time), and several unexpected bills (financial crunch). Yet we also experienced a shift in life. God revealed that we are to begin fostering children with the intent to one day adopt. God provided a solid ministry plan for my husband and I to pursue (Together Ministries International). I was given the opportunity to submit a novel to Love Inspired (which I'm working on writing). And we had one of the best Christmases ever. We actually got to relax!

So as I look back on 2015, I can definitely see God's abundant life infused throughout it. His "Fullness" is definitely evident.

This year, God has blessed me with the word "Relationship."

It is going to be a year of getting to know Jesus on an even more intimate level. A year of experiencing the Holy Spirit in power. A year of strengthening the bonds of my marriage and with my children. A year of bringing new children into our home. A year of deepening friendships. A year of networking with other ministries and ministers and writers and readers.

I am looking forward to what 2016 holds in store. The prophetic word is that 2016 will be the best year yet. It's supposed to be a year of restoration. Of blessing. Of miracles and breakthrough. These are the words being spoken by various ministries and ministers across the world. The hope and expectation that's rising in me looks forward to the testimonies 2016 holds.

What about you? Has God given you a word or verse to stand on in 2016? Have you heard the same prophetic words in the Spirit? Feel free to share in the comments below. I'd love to hear from you!