We've all felt rejection. 

Whether you were turned down for a date or a job, rejection hurts and takes time to heal.

Being rejected by a parent, however, leaves a scar that never goes away. Nonetheless, as eight women learned, the pain of rejection can begin to fade when the love and grace of Jesus fills your heart.

Knowing what is to come, Jesus desires to impart some last minute wisdom before his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. In the next few days, these men gathered around him will have their worlds turned upside down. Our lives can change in a matter of seconds, but how you react in the midst of adversity can portray the trust-worthiness of Christ to others. No matter how daunting the obstacle facing you, remember Jesus has already overcome the world.

The simple truth is: God doesn’t want to harm you; He wants to give you hope and a future. Jesus didn’t come to condemn you but to save you. And He did this for all people! We know hope and salvation come only through Jesus Christ, AND we are called to share that truth with others. We have a chance to view every circumstance as either a curse or a blessing, and our reaction has the ability to reflect God’s light into the world. How will you look at the events of your life today?

It has been said that without the lows in our lives, the highs would not be as sweet. Without understanding the dismal lives we once lived, we cannot fully enjoy the immensity of the gift of salvation. So, don’t lose heart! Take the time today to revel in the glory of the Savior who died so that we may never die. Don’t worry about the unimportant things. Instead, when you struggle today, take the time to ask, “Does this matter in the scope of eternity? Will this affect someone’s eternal life?”

Heavenly Father, thank you for being the life giver and for always caring for me in every situation. Help me to show your compassion and love to those I come in contact with daily. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Before you go any further, stop! Take a few minutes to be still and quiet. It is impossible to hear God’s voice if you never stop to listen. Know with confidence, God wants to fight for you and with you, as you share Jesus’ love and shine his light in your world.

Check out this film about an all-women wildland firefighter crew from the White Mountain Apache Tribe!

This Week in Native American News: strong women, miseducated students, and the rez accent. 

We all grow weary, but our God does not! When you start to falter or want to give up, turn your eyes upon Jesus—your strength, your power, your Savior! When do you feel most tired or rundown? Have your Bible or a page of encouraging scripture nearby. There is no better pick-me-up than the re-realization of Jesus’ love for you!

Set aside 20 minutes for this one. It's longer but highlights a piece of history most of us never learned about: Native American slavery.