Unveiled Living Digital Magazine - Winter Edition 2025, Vol. 12

E-MAG

VOL.12

WINTER 2025

UNVEILED

The Relentless Pursuit of God

love

Table of Contents RENEE’S STORY OF GOD’S UNSHAKABLE LOVE Heart Talk (Tapestry) Video Podcast

THE SACRIFICIAL PURSUIT How Jesus Emobodied God’s Unshakable Love | by Carmen Chase

UNENDING DEVOTION The Extraordinary Depth of God’s Love | by Janice Conyers

UNLIMITED LOVE God Sees You in the Shadows | by Tricia Clark

FROM GUARDED TO FREE Learning to Trust God’s Love | by Cendrine Hosed

LOVE WITHOUT JUDGEMENT Seeing Others Through the Lens of Grace | by Tiffany Snyder-Thompson

BE STILL AND KNOW

by Beth Nelson

TEARS DRIPPING FROM MY CHIN

by Kathleen Knapp

A TINY MOUSE TO THE RESCUE (KID’S KORNER)

by Michelle A. Balls

UNSHAKABLE LOVE The Relentless Pursuit of God | by Tracee Padilla

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

TRACEE L. PADILLA DESIGN

TRACEE & EDWIN PADILLA EDITOR AND EMAG ASSISTANT

JANICE CONYERS VIDEO PRODUCTION

BRITE LIGHT MEDIA

OUR MISSION: EMPOWERING WOMEN TO LIVE LIFE UNVEILED IN THE FREEDOM THAT GOD GAVE US. BUT WHENEVER ANYONE TURNS TO THE LORD, THE VEIL IS TAKEN AWAY. NOW THE LORD IS THE SPIRIT, AND WHERE THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS, THERE IS FREEDOM. AND WE ALL, WHO WITH UNVEILED FACES CONTEMPLATE THE LORD’S GLORY, ARE BEING TRANSFORMED INTO HIS IMAGE WITH EVER-INCREASING GLORY, WHICH COMES FROM THE LORD, WHO IS THE SPIRIT. I CORINTHIANS 3:16-19

From Tracee Have you ever tried to grasp the idea of God’s love—how wide, how deep, how unshakable it really is? I’ll admit, there are moments when it feels beyond my imagination. Life throws its curveballs—mistakes, regrets, heartbreaks—and we start to wonder if maybe we’ve gone too far or fallen too hard for even God to reach us. But here’s the truth: His love never quits. Not for a moment.

This edition of Unshakable Love: The Relentless Pursuit of God dives into that truth.

Through the pages ahead, you’ll encounter stories and reflections that remind us how God’s love isn’t cautious or hesitant. It’s bold, relentless, and far beyond anything we could ever comprehend.

It’s a love that saw the Samaritan woman at the well and offered her living water. A love that pursued Renee through addiction and self-hatred to write a new story for her life.

And it’s the same love that meets you right now, wherever you are, in whatever you’re facing.

We often see our lives like the back of a messy tapestry—threads tangled, knots everywhere—but God sees the masterpiece. He sees the beauty He’s weaving, even when we can’t.

My prayer for you, as you turn these pages, is that you’ll catch a glimpse of that masterpiece. That you’ll feel the depth of His love for you and realize you’ve never been beyond His reach. Let this be the season you open your heart to the unshakable love of a God who has never stopped pursuing you.

With love and hope, Tracee ~ Editor-in-Chief, Unveiled Living

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THE SACRIFICIAL PURSUIT How Jesus Embodied God’s Unshakable Love John 1:1-3 ESV

“If only I had known...”

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.”

How often have we said those words in regret, frustration or disappointment?

Curiously enough, God has never once spoken it, nor will He ever.

Because He did know. He does know. Everything.

by Carmen Chase

He knew Adam & Eve would take the serpent’s bait. He knew spiritual beings would rebel and entice mankind to worship them instead of the God of all gods. He knew when He sent prophets to speak on His behalf, other humans would torture and kill them. He knew depraved humans would use corrupted knowledge and forbidden supernatural means to overpower and enslave other humans.

words, He is simultaneously there with you now, and with your earliest ancestor at their inception. At this very moment He is both shouting the final victory of the coming Armageddon showdown and calling light to be born of nothing. It’s a mystery our finite minds struggle to grasp.

He knew you and I would fall prey to dark thoughts and selfish habits. He heard every careless word we would ever speak before even one of them vibrated earth’s air. When He reached down and started the clocks of time, He already felt the pain of our rejection.

And yet…He chose. At such an excruciating cost.

Before the moon reflected its first ray of sunshine, Jesus knew the pain of crucifixion. Tasted the blood from his ripped-out beard.

Felt the swelling in his cheeks from the rough fists of Roman soldiers.

But yes, He did know. He does know. Everything. All the good. All the bad.

Chose to gather with His heavenly family to discuss the DNA of mankind. Chose to form the first human out of dust and spark him to life with His breath. Chose to respond to each earthly disaster with limitless mercy and grace.

Chose to knit you in your mother’s womb so you could live out the destiny He wrote for you in His heavenly library. Chose it all, knowing He would suffer for it.

Why? Because He wanted family.

Jesus, called also by His original name, “The Word”, exists outside of time. He is everywhere, all at once. As you are reading these

by Carmen Chase

A family He can love and who will willingly love him back. A family who will govern like Him, appreciate like Him and delight in the same things. A family who will step into eternity with Him when the final sands of time come to rest. A family with whom He can experience everything He has yet to create. A family with you in it.

“If only I had known…how much Jesus loves me.”

Dear one, in light of Christ’s extreme sacrifice through the ages–in pursuit of you–might you echo Paul the apostle’s prayer, that “the eyes of your [heart would be] enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you”. (Ephesians 1:18 ESV) That you might know now–before you join all who are eternal–how much you are loved.

by Carmen Chase

Carmen Chase is a worship pastor in coastal North Carolina. While some know her best as a professional clown, face paint artist, musician or teacher, her favorite title is wife to her husband, Jimmy, and mom to her two grown children. A suspenseful book in her lap (in the shade!) at the beach may be a top pick for a day off, but a deep-dive study of the Bible—with coffee and dark chocolate nearby—is her go-to on any given day.

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THE EXTRAORDINARY DEPTH OF GOD’S LOVE

by Janice Conyers

God’s love is unlike any other: it’s steady, unfailing, and constant, even when we falter. Life throws heartbreak, disappointment, and uncertainty our way. Sometimes, we even turn our backs on God, intentionally or unintentionally. Yet, God’s love remains; always inviting us to return, no matter how far we’ve strayed. This is the beauty of unshakable, unconditional love: a love that never lets go.

A profound illustration of this love is found in the story of Hosea and Gomer, which you can read in Hosea chapters 1–3. A wonderful film adaptation of their story, Amazing Love: The Story of Hosea, is also available to stream.

Hosea was a prophet, and Gomer was his unfaithful wife who repeatedly left him for other men. Despite her betrayal, Hosea’s love for her never wavered. When Gomer hit rock bottom, enslaved by her own poor choices, Hosea went to the marketplace and bought her back, bringing her home and reconciling her to himself.

HOW COULD ANYONE LOVE SO DEEPLY? The payment Hosea made (15 pieces of silver, plus 5 bushels of barley and a measure of wine ~Hosea 3:2) was half the price of a typical slave at the time.

In other words, no one else considered Gomer worth the standard 30 pieces of silver and 10 bushels of barley. This reality must have been extremely humbling for her; she was at her lowest point, yet Hosea gave all he had stored up as a sacrifice, just to bring her home again. How could anyone love so deeply?

“It’s easy to measure God’s love by human standards, but His love is rooted in who He is: unchanging, patient, and kind.”

If you find yourself unsettled by

creation

will

ever

be

able

to

Gomer’s behavior, or opinionated

separate

us

from

the

love

of

by Hosea’s willingness to go after

God.” (Romans 8:38–39, NLT) This

her, pause to reflect on the ways

should be our anchor when life’s

we ourselves are unfaithful to God.

trials or mistakes make us feel

We stray through our actions, our

abandoned or unworthy.

distractions,

and

at

times,

our

indifference. We chase after idols

It’s easy to measure God’s love by

of

the

human standards, but His love is

approval of others. Yet in the midst

rooted in who He is: unchanging,

of all our wandering, God pursues

patient, and kind. Reflect on that for

us with His love. “But God showed

a minute. God stands ready to

his great love for us by sending

welcome us back every single time

Christ to die for us while we were

we fall. The story of Hosea and

still sinners.” (Romans 5:8, NLT).

Gomer is more than a glimpse into

success,

comfort,

or

their personal life, it’s an invitation Just as Hosea went to the slave

to recognize that we, too, have

market to redeem Gomer, God

been like Gomer. We may wander,

steps

and

but our Heavenly Father continues

precious

to pursue us. We may stumble, but

blood of Jesus. We do not deserve

He stands with open arms, eager to

this kind of love, yet it is ours for

lavish us with grace.

into

redeems

us

our

brokenness

with

the

the taking. “For I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love… indeed, nothing in all

If you’ve ever felt undeserving of His

affection,

you’re

not

alone.

Acknowledging we can’t earn His love is precisely what makes it so extraordinary. Hosea’s faithfulness to Gomer is a beautiful picture of God’s faithfulness to us. In the same way Hosea wanted Gomer back

despite

her

unfaithfulness,

God never stops wanting us back, ever.

hopeless, remember: God already paid the ultimate price for your freedom through Jesus. His love remains steadfast. It is a strong foundation that refuses to let go.

No matter how far you’ve drifted, His arms are always open, ready to welcome

you

home.

In

that

beautiful

reality,

we

can

rest

assured: we are truly, deeply loved, limitation.

extend God’s love to someone, remember that with His love at work in you, you can love the

So, when you feel unworthy or

beyond

Alternatively, next time you need to

all

logic

and

human

“Gomers” in your life just as Hosea did. If you allow God to move and work through you, you’ll find you can love those who have hurt you, even as Gomer hurt Hosea. Keep in mind,

though,

love

goes

that

hand

unconditional in

hand

with

forgiveness. Both are possible if you’re willing to let God lead.

A SHORT PRAYER Heavenly Father, thank you for your steadfast,

unconditional

love.

Forgive me for the times I wander from you and help me remember that you have already purchased my freedom through Christ. And help

me

“Gomers”

forgive

and

love

the

in

life

with

your

my

guidance and love. May our hearts be drawn closer to you, finding peace in your never-ending grace.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Janice Conyers

Janice resides in New Hampshire with her husband, William, and their dog Mia. She is a proud mamma of two adult children, Jonathan, and Lydia, and new mom-in-law to Michael.

She is often referred to as "Jan-of-all-trades" by her colleagues and friends.

In addition to being an office and event manager with 20+ years’ experience, Janice is passionate about furthering God’s kingdom by creating meaningful experiences through events, and inspiring readers with engaging and informative content.

Our Tuesday Blogs are like mini-devotionals—deep, real talk, and designed to give you a boost in your faith walk with God. Challenge yourself, share with others, and don’t forget to drop a comment! www.unveiledliving.com/blog

Unlimited Love God Sees You in the Shadows

BY TRICIA CLARK

“FOR GREAT IS YOUR LOVE, REACHING TO THE HEAVENS; YOUR FAITHFULNESS REACHES TO THE SKIES." PSALM 57:10 (NIV) I looked forward to this weekend for months; a much-needed escape from the weight of striving to overcome life-changing circumstances in this season of my life. From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in for a special weekend.

It was the first women’s retreat I had been to in many years, and I wasn’t sure what to expect, only that it was a retreat like no other, as I was told.

As the weekend unfolded, I soon realized how deep and meaningful and intimate this weekend of like-minded women was. Each session kept you on the edge of your seat (or in this case, your comfy chair) But the one we were about to experience…? It was what my soul was aching for!

This session required us to sit for two hours alone with God: no cell phones. Just me and Jesus. I had so many emotions tangled up inside that

needed

answers,

including

“I was desperate to hear a word—a whisper. Anything to know I was seen and heard… or that my broken heart mattered.”

grief, anger, jealousy, fear, and complete

uncertainties.

This

session was appropriately called, “Solitude”.

And in the silence, my frustration was

building.

Questioning

why

I

wasn’t worthy of hearing from Him,

I knew the exact spot Jesus and I

added to the pain of my wounded

would meet; it called to me the

heart.

moment I stepped into what would be my room for this weekend; the view was amazing! I couldn’t wait to escape there.

As the sun beat hotter on my pale skin, I looked for a shady spot to keep cool, since I still had a while in this “hearing from God” session of

As I slowly stepped one foot in

solitude, even if He had nothing to

front of the other toward the hill

say to me.

overlooking the pond, my heart was heavy. I desperately needed Jesus to meet me on that hill. But would He?

toward the old oak trees just beyond the bottom of the hill, opposite the pond.

When I finally reached the top, the cries of my aching heart in the form of

Just then, I felt Him calling me

tears,

translated

into

words

rolling off my tongue with questions

As I sat in my new spot of solitude under the large, cascading oaks, I quietly waited.

of why, God?

And then it happened; He spoke.

So, I waited to hear His reply.

Not in audible words of course, but with a tender touch pressed against

At first, I heard nothing but silence.

my spirit. A peace so fresh, I knew it

could only be the voice of God. He directed

my

vastness

of

attention the

sky,

to

the

stretching

across the endless pasture.

mine, while my hurt goes unnoticed.

Friend, if God seems silent while your life is crumbling, find a place of solitude. Listen for His still, small

And He said this to me: "Look how

voice. You are not forgotten or less

far the sky extends. Do you see it?

important to Him than any other

That is my love for you. It is vast

child.

and never-ending."

He longs for you to see and feel

Then He turned my gaze slightly to

the depth of His love for you. If we

the left, toward the forest of trees.

sit quietly in His presence, we will

Again, He told me, "The trees you

hear Him in the silence.

see have blocked your view of what is

just

on

the

other

side:

a

continuation of soft blue sky and a wide-open

pasture,

representing

My love.”

“The trees represent the fearful and uncertain things in your life keeping you from seeing My love.

But I am still here. My love for you has

not

changed,

only

your

perspective."

In that moment, my view of God’s love for me changed.

I have always known He loves me.

But sometimes it feels He loves others more. That He speaks and moves in their lives bigger than in

My love for you has not changed, only your perspective.

MEET OUR TEAM

TRACEE PADILLA

Founder

Tracee is the founder and visionary behind Unveiled Living, passionate about empowering women to walk in the true freedom God has called us to. Her greatest desire is to shine the light of Jesus to as many as possible. She has dedicated her life to ministry, from growing up as a missionary kid in Spain to roles in Youth Ministry, Worship Leading, and as Girls Ministry Director.

Her greatest joys are her husband, Edwin, their three adult children, four grandchildren, her bundles of joy, and of course, Mr. Kiko the cat.

EDWIN PADILLA

JANICE CONYERS

Edwin, the husband of Tracee, is an Emmy Award winning videographer, having worked in the Media Industry for the past 25 years doing videography production for CBN (Christian Broadcasting Network, Joyce Meyer Ministries, and PBS). Check out his work at www.britelightmedia.com and www.notes.photography

Janice resides in New Hampshire with her husband, William, and their dog Mia. She has an eclectic background that includes expatriation in Japan, and reflects her diverse interests, skills, and experiences, including serving as the Connections Manager with Unveiled Living.

Video Production

UL Website

Connect Manager

In addition to being an office and event manager with 20+ years’ experience, Janice is a writer currently working on getting her first book published and launching a lifestyle blog/website (www.janiceconyers.com). Follow her on Facebook and Instagram. She is passionate about furthering God’s kingdom by creating meaningful experiences and inspiring readers with engaging and informative content.

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BY CENDRINE HOSODA

From Guarded to Free

LEARNING TO TRUST GOD’S LOVE

Logically, it doesn’t make sense. Why would anyone struggle to surrender to a love that’s all good, all safe, and all perfect? But many of us find it difficult. We long for a love that’s safe, unconditional, and pure. But life often teaches us otherwise conditioning us to see love as painful, unreliable, or even dangerous. So, when God invites us into His unshakable, unearned love, our instincts kick in. It feels risky, even though it’s exactly what we crave.

Like many, I wrestled with this paradox.

I spent years unaware I was building walls but living as if I could live without love. Why risk getting hurt? But deep down, I knew different. God’s love— pure, steady, and unconditional—felt out of reach, much like how my rescue cats initially viewed affection. They came with their own wounds, hesitant to trust, wary of human touch. I could relate. Trusting God’s love felt as vulnerable as coaxing a frightened cat to feel safe in my arms.

Why Is Surrender So Hard?

Understanding why we resist love starts with examining our earliest experiences. The people in our formative years were meant to reflect God’s love. Being human, however, they offered imperfect, sometimes hurtful versions of it stemming from their own imperfect experiences of the same. For me, love seemed conditional— available only when I was perfectly obedient. Negative emotions or mistakes felt like love’s withdrawal.

Unconsciously, I developed a need for control: control over myself “I spent years unaware I was building walls but living as if I could live without love.”

and my surroundings to "earn" love or, paradoxically, to resist it so I wouldn’t be hurt when it was taken

away. Like my cats, who initially

Taking Small Steps Toward Trust

recoiled from touch, I believed selfprotection was safer than risking

Surrendering to God’s love often

rejection. But this strategy wasn’t a

mirrors the slow, patient process of

flaw; it was survival. And just as I

gaining a rescue cat’s trust. It’s not

approached my cats with patience and

like leaping into perfect faith

compassion, we need to offer

overnight. Sometimes, it’s as

ourselves the same grace as we

simple as sitting quietly in His

unlearn these protective mechanisms.

presence, letting His love wash over you, even if you don’t fully

The next step in surrendering is

believe it yet.

recognizing the difference between human love and God’s love. God’s

For me, surrender began when I

love is nothing like the conditional or

stopped performing for love. I gave

transactional love we’ve experienced.

myself permission to let go of old

It’s not forceful or manipulative.

habits, to trust that God loved me

Instead, it’s invitational and patient,

even when I didn’t "measure up." I

meeting us exactly where we are.

remember how I loved my cats even when they stayed out of reach

With my cats, I never forced affection

for years. I didn’t withhold affection

on them. I waited, respecting their

because they wouldn’t sit on my

boundaries, offering love in whatever

lap. Instead, I met them where they

way they could accept. Similarly, God

were, loving them in the small ways

doesn’t rush us. He’s not offended by

they allowed. Over time, their walls

our hesitations or struggles. He gently

came down, just as mine did with

invites us, knowing we need time and

God.

space. This gradual process of opening up is freeing—it’s not an allor-nothing event but a series of small, trusting steps.

“God’s love is nothing like the conditional or transactional love we’ve experienced. It’s not forceful or manipulative. Instead, it’s invitational and patient, meeting us exactly where we are.”

Interestingly, as I worked on regulating my nervous system—teaching it to feel safe and relaxed instead of hypervigilant—I noticed my cats responding. They began to trust more, becoming cuddly and relaxed. They were getting co-regulated simply by being around me, and I had gotten coregulated by God, simply by hanging around him. Their healing journey mirrored my own, reminding

Like my cats learning to trust

me that love thrives in an environment

human hands, our hearts can

of safety and patience.

gradually open to God’s love. It’s a process—sometimes slow, often

Small, intentional actions help build

incremental—but always

trust in God’s love.

transformative.

These might include: Acknowledging God’s love throughout the day in simple ways.

Praying for the courage to let go of control, even in tiny increments.

Visualizing His love, flowing like life-giving sap through a vine, nourishing and sustaining you.

One practice I cherish is imagining myself as a branch connected to the vine of Christ. I picture His love flowing freely, nourishing me as I let go of my grip on fear and control. This visualization reminds me that His love doesn’t demand; it simply invites me to receive.

Surrendering to God’s love brings profound healing, not just to our souls but to our bodies. As I’ve leaned

into

His

love,

I’ve

experienced less tension, better sleep,

and

a

deeper

sense

of

patiently

walks

with

us,

peace.

God

offering His love without pressure or deadlines. If you’re struggling to trust, hang in there. Let Him lead you gently on this journey. It may take time, but every step toward His love is worth it. And like the transformation I saw in my rescue cats, you’ll find yourself thriving in the warmth of His perfect love.

Cendrine Hosoda Cendrine Hosoda is a dedicated learner with a focus on holistic health and spiritual nourishment. With a background in nutrition and Bible studies, she shares her journey of overcoming health challenges on her blog. A devoted wife and experienced homeschool mother of two teenagers, she enjoys expressing creativity through writing and playing the pan flute. Born in Switzerland and residing in the States for over 25 years, Cendrine's mission is to inspire, encourage, and motivate others in their walk with God.

www.pursuingwholesomehealth.com

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BY TIFFANY SNYDER-THOMPSON

Love Without Judgement

SEEING OTHERS THROUGH THE LENS OF GRACE

Love is woven through every page of Scripture, and the greatest commandment we’re given is to love one another. But if we’re honest, this command often feels harder than it sounds.

Over the holidays, I attended the funeral of a dear friend’s brother. The circumstances of his passing were unclear, and grief weighed heavily on everyone present. As I sat there, surrounded by the raw pain of loss, I began to see things differently. In that room, I witnessed love in its most unguarded and vulnerable form. It wasn’t polished or perfect —it was messy, raw, and beautiful.

It hit me that too often, we look at people through lenses clouded by judgment or bitterness. We label others based on their struggles, their choices, or their circumstances, forgetting that God created each one of us in His image. That realization challenged me to reflect on how I’ve allowed my own resentment and frustration to overshadow the love I’m called to extend.

Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as yourself," and yet, how often do we fall short of that simple command? How often do we place conditions on love? We try to make sense of life’s hardest questions—of death, suffering, and redemption—but in the process, we sometimes lose sight of grace.

During the past few weeks, I encountered people I might have overlooked or dismissed before. They weren’t the kind of people society celebrates, but their love—raw and unfiltered—humbled me. It was a love that didn’t demand anything in return.

That experience left me with a convicting question: If God loves us right where we are, why are we so quick to withhold love from others who don’t fit into our expectations? We can’t fully embrace love and judgment at the same time. They cannot coexist because unconditional love is rooted in grace, and grace leaves no room for judgment.

“We all carry unseen battles, and your love might be the reminder someone needs to keep going.”

This realization reminded me that life is hard enough as it is. It’s messy and painful, but we make it even harder when we fail to love. Imagine if we chose to love people where they are —not because we agree with them, but because we know what it’s like to struggle, to fall short, to need grace ourselves.

So today, I encourage you to ask yourself: Who have you turned away from? Who have you judged or ignored because they don’t fit into your ideal? And most importantly, what would it look like to love them as Jesus does—right where they are?

Loving others doesn’t mean we ignore the truth or excuse sin, but it does mean we extend the same grace that’s been extended to us.

We all carry unseen battles, and your love might be the reminder someone needs to keep going. Let’s stop overcomplicating what God has made simple. Let’s love, even when it’s hard.

TIFFANY THOMPSON SNYDER

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Be Still and

BY BETH NELSON

"Shhh, move."

quiet,

slow

These

down,

don’t

God, in His infinite wisdom, knows

phrases

have

this. Every word in the Bible is

followed me through life, spoken

intentional,

by others at various times—even

anchor

long past childhood. Anyone who

reassures us: "The Lord will fight

knows me will tell you that stillness

for you; you need only to be still."

doesn’t come naturally to me. My

And the psalmist reminds us: "Be

instinct is to gather information

still, and know that I am God; the

quickly, process it, and take action.

Lord Almighty is with us; the God

Yet, as I grow in self-reflection, I’m

of Jacob is our fortress." I have

learning—slowly

surely—the

always known that God answers

profound importance and beauty of

prayers and walks beside me in

being still.

every trial. But the call to "be

but

given

to

In

Exodus,

us.

guide

and

Moses

still"—truly still—has taken me time Life is filled with battles, both

to fully grasp.

internal and external. It’s part of what it means to live. If you’re

Stillness doesn’t come easily in the

breathing, you’re navigating some

chaos

kind of storm. A recent podcast by

nurture

Proverbs 31 Ministries articulated

maintain

this reality so clearly: we’re either

relationships, leaving little room for

approaching a storm, enduring one,

quiet

or healing from its aftermath. This is

Recently,

the human condition. But the way

unexpected opportunity to retreat

we respond to these storms makes

on a mini-getaway with a dear

all the difference.

friend. This week coincided with the

of

our

days.

families,

others,

and

build

communion

with

however,

of

passing—her

work,

serve

homes,

anniversary

We

I

my

God.

had

an

daughter’s

Angel-versary.

Traditionally, I carve out time in that week

to

grieve

intentionally

at

home. But this time, I ventured into the unfamiliar, leaving my routines and surroundings to sit in solitude with God.

In

that

sacred

I

Stillness isn’t about doing nothing;

encountered something I had not

it’s about making space—space to

known before: healing and holy

hear God’s whispers, to feel His

communion. The posture of my

comfort, and to let Him heal the

heart opened fully to God, allowing

broken places within us. In stillness,

Him to speak truths I needed to

I have found more peace, more

hear. I felt the ache of missing my

understanding, and even more joy.

daughter, but God revealed that

It is a gift, not a task, that allows us

heaven

to glimpse eternity.

isn’t

as

stillness,

distant

as

my

earthly mind imagines. Sitting on the beach, I experienced heaven's

So, I invite you: embrace stillness,

nearness in the warmth of the

even when it feels unnatural. God is

breeze, the salty scent of the

waiting for you there—not with

ocean,

of

answers to all your questions but

waves, the birds’ melodic praise,

with His presence, His love, and the

the laughter of strangers, and the

promise that He is with you in every

innocent giggle of a baby. Peace

storm. Be still and know. Let peace

washed over me—the kind that

find you, for in the stillness, heaven

transcends

draws near.

the

(Philippians

rhythmic

all

crash

understanding

4:7)—and

I

realized

something transformative: while I will

never

be

"okay"

with

my

daughter not being here on earth, I can be okay with my life, trusting God’s grace to sustain me.

Beth Nelson Not your typicall gal! Beth comes with an eclectic background, a wide range of experiences and stories from farm life, education and leadership. She’ll sometimes make you giggle from her sarcastic twist on life’s difficult and sometimes embarassing experiences.

She has diagnosed herself on a spectrum disorder that ranges between hot mess and train wreck. Her nononsense whit makes her relatable and encouraging.

Practically speaking, she understands we’ve all been a mess from time to time. She’ll share how family trauma, spiritual warfare and stressful relationships can be managed with spiritually inspired leadership.

Talk HEART RENEE’S STORY OF GOD’S UNSHAKABLE LOVE

In our latest Heart Talk replay, Renee’s story is one of heartbreak, struggle, and ultimate redemption.

Battling self-hatred and addiction, she hit rock bottom—but God wasn’t finished. Her testimony reveals the power of His unshakable love to take what feels shattered and create something beautiful. This is a story of hope, grace, and the relentless pursuit of God. Don’t miss it.

HEART TALK

2ND WEDNESDAY | MONTHLY RETURNING MARCH 2025 Spotify | Youtube | Apple

Tears Dripping From My Chin

by Kathleen Knapp

As I viewed my Facebook ‘memories’ one morning, one of the pictures brought me to tears with fresh grief. I cried as I viewed the photos and stories of a past day with my son, who died.

Although the memories were good ones, my heart broke afresh with grief for the loss of him in our lives.

Maybe you’ve experienced the same type of loss in your life.

Memories that bring fresh pain on an otherwise sunny day.

To love deeply means also to

I love the visual description of this.

suffer

lose

Have you ever cried so hard that

someone we love. Maybe you have

tears streamed down your face? I

experienced the death of a loved

have. That is what it means to

one, the loss of a relationship, or

weep. Not just moist eyelids with a

another type of loss in your life.

tiny sniffle but tears so overflowing

When we love with passion, we

that they streamed down your face

also grieve with intensity. It’s okay

and dripped off your chin. Deep

to

sorrow is a result of deep love lost.

deeply

allow

when

yourself

to

we

feel

the

emotions God gave us when he created

us.

an

In this verse, Jesus grieves the

excellent example of grief in Jesus

death of his friend Lazarus even

after

though he knows he will raise him

the

We

death

also of

have his

friend

Lazarus.

from the dead. However, he mourns with

Lazarus’

sisters,

Mary

and

“Jesus wept.” (John 11:35 ESV) In

Martha, for their sadness and grief

the Passion Translation, the same

over their brother's death. Jesus

verse says, “Then tears streamed

comforts them in their grief by

down Jesus’ face.” (John 11:35 TPT)

joining them in their sorrow.

He wept—not just light crying, but an expression of deep sorrow and pain. He allowed himself to feel the intense emotion of loss and grief even though he knew there would be joy in the resurrection. He came alongside his friends in their hour of deep

sorrow.

He

acknowledged

their pain. He could relate to their sorrow and grief. There was no lecture,

no

platitudes,

no

distractions, just raw grief. Jesus allowed himself to sit with them in the valley of their grief.

JESUS WEPT

If Jesus can allow himself to feel that deeply, to grieve with his friends, and to comfort the suffering, then so can I. I can follow his example of compassion.

It’s okay for me to grieve my losses fully before seeking joy, before looking on the bright side, and seeing the positive in an otherwise depressing situation. To take my most profound sorrow to Jesus when I’m hurting because he understands my suffering. I can let him comfort me, and I move from grief to joy

in time. It’s okay for me to comfort

As I gaze at the happy memories of

others in their grief by joining them

the past and feel the grief of my

in their sorrow. No platitudes or

loss, I can still smile through the

answers are required. Sometimes,

tears. As the tears stream down my

just a hug can be all the comfort

face and drip off my chin, I can be

needed.

comforted by my faith, knowing there will be joy in the reunion

I appreciate Jesus’ example of how

someday in heaven.

to express emotions. I thank God that I have emotions, even when

(This devotion is an excerpt from

they sometimes hurt. I praise God

the book “Come To The Table -

for the peace and joy that come

Pursuing

Peace

through our sorrow and bring us

Grace

&

hope for the future. I am grateful I

Devotional by Kathleen Knapp. Now

can bring my hurts and grief to God

Available

in

Companion Journal.)

prayer;

comforts,

he and

understands, provides

hope

through the journey of grief.

“If Jesus can allow himself to feel that deeply, to grieve with his friends, and to comfort the suffering, then so can I.”

&

Joy

Through

Mercy”

A

31-Day

on

Amazon

with

a

KATHLEEN KNAPP

Kathleen lives in western Canada with her husband. She is the mother of 3 children. She shares her heartfelt experiences as a parent raising and releasing children with special needs. Through her personal experiences she shows understanding and compassion for parents struggling, feeling isolated, and losing faith. She is recently retired and enjoy new hobbies such as photography, painting, piano, line dancing and playing pickle ball. Check out her website at: www.psalm139promises.com

UNVEILED

WILDFLOWERS FINDING GOD IN THE MESSY

E-MAG

VOL.13

COMING SPRING 2024

A Tiny

MOUSE TO THE

RESCUE

BY MICHELLE A. BALTS

There once was a fable told long ago of a mouse who just happened to come upon a lion. Being frightened he hurriedly tried to scurry off as the lion's paw grabbed him by the tail. "Please, Mr. Lion, let me go!" screeched the mouse. "Someday I'll be able to help you." What an amusing thought that a mouse could ever help him, yet the lion decided to let the mouse go free.

Days later after stalking his prey for something to eat the lion found himself caught in a hunter's trap unable to get untangled. His loud, desperate roar was heard by the mouse he had released. The mouse quickly came to see what the matter was and found the lion all tied up.

Right away he began chewing through the cord that was wrapped around the lion until he was able to set the lion free.

The lion had always been strong and in control of himself and his surroundings, yet here he needed someone else's help to get free.

We, too, can find times in our lives when we don't know what to do and need someone to help us. I've mentioned in earlier articles that we have an enemy, the devil, who prowls around like a lion looking for someone he can tear apart.

The mouse asked the lion for mercy and received it. But our enemy doesn't have any mercy or love to give us. He offers us fear-he is the spirit of fear-hoping we'll give into him so he can steal and ultimately destroy our lives. But we don't have to give into fearful thoughts. We have a Creator God who proved He loves us so much that He sent His only Son to die for us and be raised from the dead so that we can not only be forgiven but have the penalty for sin completely cancelled and the guilt attached to it removed.

Our heavenly Abba Father has given to us His spirit of power, love, and a sound mind (not a fearful mind). He has also given us free will to either choose the lies of the enemy or the truth of our Abba Father's love and acceptance.

The moment we believe Jesus is the Son of God who died and was raised from the dead for us and give our lives to Him we can approach Abba Father with boldness and come close to Him even when we made a mistake and find that He not only loves us but also wants to help us just when we need it the most.

M I C H E L L E

A .

B A L T S

Michelle is the sister of Tracee, friend, school teacher with over 30+ years of teaching in the Christian School Sector and having spent the past 13 years homeschooling her daughter. She has been married 22 years. In her spare time, she enjoys sewing, quilting, hand-stitching, drawing, painting, and walking on the beach.

She is a deep lover of the Word of God and has been on a continual pursuit of spiritual growth in her life that beautifully seeps into everything she does.

She is very creative storyteller and a regular contributor for our Kids Corner - writing stories specifically for our kids to help them grow in their faith and walk with God.

EMAG 2025 g a m E y l r e t r a

Qu

Empowering women to live life unveiled in the freedom that God has called us to live.

www.unveiledliing.org

Unshakable Love THE RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF GOD

BY TRACEE PADILLA

She came to the well at the hottest part of the day, when the sun was high, and the world was quiet. It was easier that way—no whispers, no stares, no judgment from women who drew their water at dawn.

She was used to being alone. Shame has a way of isolating us like that.

We don’t know her name, but we know her story. The Samaritan woman at the well had been married five times and was now living with a man who wasn’t her husband. In her culture, this wasn’t just frowned upon— it was a scarlet letter, a reason to be avoided, talked about, and dismissed. And maybe she believed she deserved it.

But then she met Jesus.

It wasn’t by accident that He was there. He didn’t stumble upon her by chance. No, this was intentional. Jesus—tired, thirsty, and fully aware of her brokenness—sat at the well and waited for her.

When she arrived, she probably didn’t expect much more than a quiet moment to herself, but what she got was a life-changing encounter. Jesus didn’t avoid her.

He didn’t scold her, shame her, or turn away in disgust. Instead, He spoke to her, looked at her, and invited her into a conversation that would break chains she’d carried for years.

He saw her. Not the version of herself she tried to hide or the version the world had labeled her as. He saw her heart—the broken pieces, the regrets, the mistakes—and still, He loved her.

This is unshakable love: the kind of love that doesn’t flinch at our mess. The kind of love that doesn’t retreat when faced with our guilt and shame. Jesus pursued her with relentless grace because that’s who He is.

So many of us are like the Samaritan woman. We carry the weight of bad decisions, broken relationships, and regrets we can’t seem to shake. Maybe it’s a failed

marriage or several. Maybe it’s choices we made when we were younger that left scars we still see in the mirror. Maybe it’s the silent shame of feeling like we’re just not enough.

But here’s the truth: none of it disqualifies you from God’s love. Not one mistake, not one regret, not one part of your story is too messy for Him. His pursuit of you isn’t based on your worthiness—it’s based on His unshakable, unchanging, relentless love.

When Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman, He offered her living water— a gift that would quench her deepest thirst, heal her deepest wounds, and fill the emptiness she had tried to fill with everything else. That same offer stands for you and me today.

It’s easy to think we have to clean ourselves up before we come to God, to believe the lie that we’re too broken for Him to use us. But the Samaritan woman shows us otherwise. She left her jar at the well —her symbol of shame, of thirst, of all the ways she tried to do it on her own—and she ran into town, telling everyone about the man who knew everything about her and still loved her.

She became the first evangelist in her community because her encounter with Jesus wasn’t just for her—it was for everyone she knew.

That’s the power of unshakable love.

It doesn’t just change you; it ripples outward, touching everyone around you.

So, wherever you are today— whether you’re sitting in shame, carrying the weight of your past, or feeling too broken to be loved— know this: God sees you. He knows your story, and He loves you with a love that cannot be shaken. He’s sitting at the well, waiting for you to meet Him there, not with judgment, but with open arms.

Let go of the jar you’ve been carrying.

Step into the relentless pursuit of God’s love. It’s already yours.

THE ‘UNSHAKABLE’ LOVE REMINDER YOUR FAITHFUL REMINER OF GOD’S FAITHFUL, RELENTLESS, UNCONDITIONAL, AND UNSHAKABLE LOVE

1.

2.

God delights in you.

The Lord your God is with you, he will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17

Nothing can separate you from God’s love.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Romans 8:38

3.

God’s love never ends. His mercies are new every day.

4.

You are precious, honored, and deeply loved.

The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease.

Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.

Others were given in exchange for you. I traded their lives for yours because you are precious to me. You are honored, and I love you.

Isaiah 43:4

I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself. Jeremiah 31:3

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