Soul Food🙏🏾🪴🩷…When Plans Change: Trusting the Lord of the Path

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

-Proverbs 16:9 NIV

Hello, family! Have you ever made detailed plans for your life—mapped out steps and envisioned outcomes—only to find that God took you in a completely different direction? Perhaps you thought you knew the path, only to discover you were walking one you never expected. If this has happened to you, you’re not alone. Proverbs 16:9 gently reminds us of a deeper truth: while we plan our path, God ultimately establishes our steps.

I want to encourage both you and me that, even though we may not see His plans for our lives at this moment, He will reveal them to us in stages throughout our journey. Speaking from experience, facing the unknown and surrendering control is not easy. At times, your faith may feel like it is running on empty, but we must believe in the goodness and consistency of God’s character. Everything happens so we can evolve and grow for our good.

The truth is, our perspective is limited. We plan based on what we see, but God guides us based on what He knows. Surrendering to His direction does not mean we stop planning; rather, it means we hold our plans loosely and trust His wisdom above our own. It’s like drawing a map and then handing the compass to Someone who knows the terrain far better than we do.

Have you ever seen your plans completely fall apart, only to later realize that God was protecting you or redirecting you to something better? Proverbs 16:9 is often understood only in hindsight. The first part of the verse—“In their hearts humans plan their course”—acknowledges that planning is a natural and good part of our lives. We’re meant to be intentional with our time, relationships, and work. However, if we plan without God, we risk moving in a direction that leads us away from His best.

Inviting God into the planning process means praying before acting, listening before deciding, and trusting even when things don’t go the way we hoped. Every step we take, even the ones that feel like detours, is guided by a God who sees the full picture.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you experienced a time when your plans were redirected by God?
  • How do you typically respond when things don’t go according to your plan?
  • What’s one way you can invite God into your planning this week?

A Prayer:

Lord, I bring my plans before You today. I lay down my desire for control and invite You to direct my steps. Help me to trust that Your way is always better, even when it looks different from mine. Thank You for being the One who guides my path. Amen.

Be Encouraged and Live Faithfully!

Love,

Ronni Lauren💗

Soul Food🙏🏾🪴💗…Father’s Wisdom: Holding On to a Legacy of Faith

“Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction. Pay attention and gain understanding.

I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching. For I too was a son to my father, still tender and cherished by my mother.

Then he taught me, and he said to me, ‘Take hold of my words with all your heart. Keep my commands, and you will live.”

~Proverbs 4:1-4 (NIV)

Hello and Happy Father’s day, family! Today, we celebrate all of the amazing fathers, father figures, and those who love with the depth and dedication of a father. You are the unsung heroes who shape our lives with unwavering support, endless sacrifices, and timeless wisdom. Your love leaves a lasting impact, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Thank you for everything you do. May you enjoy today, and every day, knowing how deeply you are appreciated and loved!

Proverbs 4:1-4 reminds us that there’s something powerful about a father passing wisdom to his children. In the scripture, we get a glimpse of a sacred conversation—a father instructing his sons with a heart full of experience, love, and spiritual depth.

Solomon urges his children to listen and pay attention, because what he’s sharing is not ordinary advice—it’s a treasure passed down from his own father, King David. This is a generational chain of godly instruction, a legacy built on truth and grounded in relationship.

In a world filled with noise and distraction, the voice of a father teaching with godly wisdom is both rare and needed. This passage reminds us that sound instruction is not meant to control—it’s meant to give life. Solomon says, “Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live.”

This is more than obedience—it’s an invitation to cling to truth with all that we are. It’s a father saying, “I’ve walked this path. I know what matters. I want you to flourish.”

Whether or not we had a present or godly earthly father, the verse points us to our Heavenly Father—whose instruction is always good, always life-giving, and always worth holding onto.

This passage also reminds us that we each have a role in shaping someone else’s spiritual journey. Whether as parents, mentors, teachers, or friends, we’re called to pass on wisdom that leads to life. What we model and speak has the power to echo through generations.

Reflection:

Am I listening for the voice of wisdom in my daily life? What godly instruction have I been given that I need to hold on to? How can I become a faithful voice of wisdom in the lives of others?

Let us receive the Father’s instruction with open hearts, and then become faithful stewards of that wisdom—passing it on with love, truth, and humility.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your life-giving instruction. Teach me to treasure Your wisdom and walk in it daily. Help me to share it with others, just as it has been shared with me. Amen.

Live Faithfully. Honor the Father’s Voice. Pass On the Legacy. 💛

Love always,

Ronni Lauren💋

Soul Food🙏🏾🪴🩷… Dancing Again: God’s Promise of Joy

“Then young women will dance and be glad, young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.” — Jeremiah 31:13 (NIV)

Hello family! Have you ever felt like the music of your life just…stopped? Like sorrow silenced your joy, and dancing felt like a distant memory? God sees that place. In Jeremiah 31:13, He speaks directly into seasons of deep weariness, offering a breathtaking promise to His children: “You will dance again.”

This verse reminds us that not only does sorrow come to an end—it is transformed. Grief gives way to gladness, pain is reshaped into comfort, and despair blossoms into joy. In the hands of grace, even our deepest sorrows become the foundation of renewed hope.

In moments when hope feels distant, we must always hold onto the truth that God remains faithful and unchanging. He is the One who meets us in the valley, who catches every tear, and who gently restores our ability to laugh, sing, and yes—even dance. Whether you’re young or seasoned, weary or waiting, this promise is for you. Your joy is not lost. Your story is not over.

The God who walks with you in mourning is the same God who leads you into dancing.

Prayer:

Lord, I bring You every piece of my sorrow, every ache I’ve carried in silence. Thank You for being the God who turns mourning into gladness. Restore my joy. Help me believe that laughter and dancing are still part of my story. I trust You to make all things new. Amen.

Encouragement for Today:

Your present tears do not cancel your future joy. God is already at work, turning your sorrow into a celebration.

Stay Encouraged and Live Faithfully!

Love,

💗Ronni Lauren

Soul Food🙏🏾🪴🩷…Clothed in Strength and Dignity


“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”

Proverbs 31:25-26 NIV

Happy Mother’s Day everyone! Today, we celebrate all the incredible moms, mother figures, and those who love like a mother!

In a world that demands so much of us—professionally, personally, emotionally—Proverbs 31:25–26 offers a picture of a woman who is unshaken. She is not overwhelmed by the chaos around her. Instead, she is clothed—wrapped, covered, defined—by strength and dignity. She looks to the future not with fear, but with laughter. And when she speaks, her words are wise, kind, and faithful.

This woman is not perfect by worldly standards, but her life reflects the fruit of a deep walk with God. These verses are a reminder that our value is not in our performance, appearance, or accomplishments—but in our character, and in the God who empowers us.

Reflection Question:

What would it look like in your life to be “clothed” in strength and dignity today?

Application

  • Spend time with God daily, allowing Him to clothe you in His truth and strength.
  • Practice speaking intentionally—pause before you respond and ask, “Is this wise? Is it kind?”
  • Release fear about the future. Instead, laugh—knowing your life is in God’s hands.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the example of this wise and strong woman in Proverbs 31. Clothe me today in Your strength and dignity. Teach me to trust You with the future, so I can laugh instead of worry. Let my words be wise and full of kindness. May my life reflect Your grace and truth in every season. Amen.

Live Faithfully and Fearless!

Love,

🩷Ronni Lauren

Soul Food🙏🏾🪴💗…He Is Risen—And So Are We: New Beginnings From Lifeless Places

Hello and Happy Resurrection Day everyone! Something special has been laid on my heart—and it’s for anyone who might be feeling a little stuck, weighed down, or even lifeless in some areas of your journey. Maybe you’re smiling on the outside, but inside, there’s a place in your heart that feels…hopeless, broken, or dormant. If that’s you, lean in close.

Let’s sit with this powerful truth from John 11:25–26 (NIV):
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Jesus spoke these words to Martha in the middle of her grief, after her brother Lazarus had died. She was heartbroken. Confused. Wondering why Jesus didn’t show up earlier. Can you relate? We’ve all had moments where we wondered if God was late, or worse—silent.

But here’s the good news: Jesus doesn’t just bring resurrection—He is the resurrection. And when He shows up, even the dead things must rise.

Easter reminds us that what looks final is never final with God. That area of your life that feels over? The dream that feels buried? The hope that’s been quietly fading? Jesus is whispering to your heart, “Do you believe this?”

And I get it—some days believing is hard. But faith doesn’t require perfection; it just requires trust. Even mustard-seed faith can move mountains, raise Lazarus, and bring you back to life.

So today, whether you’re dancing in joy or limping in faith, I want you to know this: You are not forgotten. You are not too far gone. And your story is not over. The same power that rolled away the stone is alive in you.

This Easter, let’s rise in bold belief. Let’s breathe again. Let’s trust again. Because with Jesus, even our dead ends can become new beginnings.

Stay hopeful, live faithfully, and let your spirit rise.

He is Risen, and so are we.

Love,

💗Ronni Lauren

Soul Food🙏🏾🪴🩷…When Your Heart Fails, God’s Strength Prevails

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

~Psalms 73:26 NKJV

Hello family! Lately, I’ve been feeling God gently reminding me to trust Him as my source of strength and peace—especially when life feels completely out of my control. In the midst of it all, I came across a scripture that spoke straight to my heart, and I just had to share it with you.This verse beautifully acknowledges human weakness and mortality while emphasizing God’s unwavering strength and consistent support.

I know many of you can relate to being so overcome with your emotions in challenging situations that you react with your heart and not with clarity in your mind. In those moments, it’s easy to feel powerless and overwhelmed. But this verse reminds us that even when our own hearts fail and our strength runs out, God remains our constant source of support.

It’s comforting to know that when we are at our weakest, God’s strength never falters. Instead of relying solely on our limited abilities, we can lean on His unfailing power and faithfulness. Let this verse encourage you to surrender your struggles to God, trusting that He will be your portion and your strength, no matter what you face.

Prayer:

Lord, help us to trust in Your unfailing power and to surrender our struggles to You. Fill us with Your peace, and guide us to rest in the comfort of Your presence.

When we feel powerless, renew our spirits and give us the courage to rely on You completely. Thank You for being our refuge and our strength in every situation.

Live faithfully!

Love,

💗Ronni Lauren

Soul Food🙏🏾🪴🩷… Unshakable Hope: Trusting in God’s Love Through Life’s Storms

“My soul, wait in silence for God alone, for my hope is from Him.”Psalms 62:5 NKJV

Hello, Spiritual Family! Many of us can relate to the feeling of walking through a storm with no clear direction, waiting for answers, longing for peace, and hoping for relief. How often do we find ourselves questioning where to turn in these moments? It is in these very times that Psalms 62:5 serves as a powerful reminder: our hope is found in God alone.

Finding Strength in the Waiting

Believe me, waiting can be challenging at times. It often comes with frustration, doubt, and fear. But God does not call us to wait anxiously—He calls us to wait in silence and trust in Him. This doesn’t mean we do nothing; it means we choose to rest in His promises instead of relying on our own understanding.

God’s love is unwavering. Even when we don’t see the way forward, He is working behind the scenes, strengthening us for what’s ahead. I can personally testify that when we place our hope in Him, we are no longer controlled by fear, but empowered by faith.

Hope That Anchors the Soul

The world offers temporary solutions, but God provides an eternal anchor for our souls. His love is steadfast, and His plans for us are good—even when we can’t see the full picture. Psalms 62:5 reminds us to shift our focus from the uncertainties of life to the certainty of God’s faithfulness.

When we face challenges, we can either allow worry to consume us or we can choose to trust in God’s love. He sees the end from the beginning, and He promises to walk with us every step of the way.

Endurance Through Faith

Endurance is built not in ease, but in trials. God allows seasons of waiting and difficulty to strengthen our faith, deepen our trust, and refine our hearts. It is through these challenges that we learn to depend on Him more fully and experience the depth of His love in a way we never have before.

So, if you are facing uncertainties today, take heart—your hope is secure in God. He is your rock, your refuge, and your unfailing source of strength.

A Prayer for Strength and Hope

“Lord, in the midst of my waiting, help me to trust in You. When I feel uncertain, remind me that my hope is in You alone. Strengthen me to endure, give me peace in the waiting, and fill my heart with the confidence that You are always working for my good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

No matter what you are facing today, remember this: God’s love will never fail you. Your hope in Him will never be in vain. Stand firm, trust in His promises, and let His love be your strength.

Live faithfully and hopeful!

Love Always,

🩷Ronni Lauren

Soul Food🙏🏾🪴💗…. You Are Loved with an Everlasting Love

“The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.” ~Jeremiah 31:3 (NIV)

Hello, my spiritual family! I hope you enjoyed your Valentine’s Day!

In the spirit of “Love Weekend”, Jeremiah 31:3 has been placed in my heart as a beautiful reminder that you are deeply and unconditionally loved. This verse speaks of God’s everlasting love, which never fades, wavers, and never fails.

I am continually amazed at how God reassures us of His presence, reminding us that we are never alone. His love remains constant through every season of life—whether joyful or difficult. His kindness gently draws us closer to Him, revealing His endless mercy and grace.

No matter where you are or what you are going through, take heart in knowing that God’s love is unshakable. His grace reaches out to embrace you, offering comfort, strength, and peace. His love endures beyond struggles, failures, and circumstances, standing as an unbreakable promise that you are cherished beyond measure.

Let this verse be your reminder today: You are loved with everlasting love!

Love Always,

🩷Ronni Lauren

Soul Food 🙏🏾🪴💗… Stay Focused on the Vision: Setting Your Mind on Things Above

In a world full of distractions, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture—especially when life throws challenges our way. But if there’s one thing that can keep us grounded, clear, and purpose-driven, it’s setting our minds on things above. The Bible calls us to do this in Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

When we focus on heavenly things, we align ourselves with God’s divine plan and the vision He has revealed to us. This spiritual focus doesn’t just help us navigate life’s ups and downs, it positions us to receive the fullness of what God has in store for us. Here’s why keeping our minds fixed on God’s promises is the key to staying focused on the vision He has for our lives.

1. Heavenly Focus Aligns You with God’s Purpose

When God gives us a vision, it’s a glimpse of His purpose for us. But earthly distractions—worries, fears, doubts—can easily cloud that vision. When we fix our minds on things above, we take our attention off temporary concerns and place it on eternal promises. The more we focus on God’s Word, His will, and the truth of who He is, the clearer our vision becomes.

The vision God has for us is often greater than what we can see with our natural eyes. It involves trusting Him to lead us step-by-step, guided by His wisdom, strength, and grace. By setting our minds on heavenly things, we grow in confidence that God’s plan is unfolding in our lives, and we stay anchored in the certainty that His vision will come to pass.

2. It Strengthens Your Faith

The journey to fulfilling God’s vision requires faith—faith to step into the unknown, faith to keep going when things get tough, and faith to trust that God is working all things together for your good. By focusing on things above, we strengthen our faith because we’re reminded of God’s greatness, His promises, and His faithfulness in the past.

When your thoughts are consumed with heavenly things, they become a constant reminder of God’s power and ability to accomplish His will in your life. Just as Hebrews 12:2 tells us to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith,” setting our minds on Him keeps our trust in His provision and purpose.

3. It Helps You Overcome Distractions

Life is filled with distractions, and sometimes they come in the form of discouragement, comparison, or even worldly pursuits. It’s easy to become fixated on things that don’t align with the vision God has placed in our hearts. But when we set our minds on things above, we’re able to sift through distractions and focus on what truly matters.

In Matthew 6:33, Jesus teaches us, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” When we seek God’s kingdom and His purpose above all else, everything else falls into place. The more we focus on Him, the less time and energy we waste on things that don’t contribute to His plan for our lives.

4. It Provides Peace and Direction

Focusing on heavenly things brings a sense of peace that surpasses understanding. In the midst of uncertainty, focusing on God’s promises gives us direction and clarity. We may not always know how everything will unfold, but when we set our minds on things above, we trust that God will lead us through the process.

Isaiah 26:3 assures us that, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.” When we keep our thoughts fixed on God’s will, we remain anchored in His peace, and that peace helps us stay focused on the vision He has given us.

5. It Fuels Your Passion and Purpose

Setting your mind on things above also reignites your passion for the vision God has placed in your heart. As you meditate on God’s goodness and His eternal promises, your heart becomes more aligned with His will. The distractions of the world become less appealing, and the things that truly matter—serving God, loving others, pursuing the calling He’s given you—take center stage.

When you are focused on God’s heavenly promises, your purpose in life becomes clearer, and that clarity will fuel the energy and motivation you need to keep moving forward in faith. You’ll find that you can’t help but press on, knowing that God is at work, shaping you, and preparing you for what lies ahead.

Conclusion: Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

As you continue to walk in the vision God has revealed to you, remember that the key to staying focused is to set your mind on things above. When you focus on God’s promises, His purpose, and His eternal kingdom, you find the strength, clarity, and peace you need to fulfill His vision for your life.

God has incredible plans for you, and He will equip you to walk them out. So, keep your eyes on the prize—on the higher calling God has placed before you. Allow your thoughts to be consumed with His glory, His truth, and His love, and watch as He empowers you to fulfill the vision He has uniquely designed for your life.

Stay focused on the things above, and everything else will fall into place.

Live faithfully and focused!

Love,

Ronni💗

Soul Food🙏🏾🪴💗…Commit Your Plans to God and Succeed

Hello my spiritual family! Proverbs 16:3 encourages us to “Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” This scripture serves as a powerful reminder that true success comes when we entrust our goals and efforts to God. It teaches us to align our dreams with His will, trusting in His wisdom and guidance.

When we surrender our plans to God, we invite Him to shape our intentions and actions. This not only gives us peace but also ensures our endeavors have a firm foundation. Even in moments of uncertainty, committing to God helps us persevere, knowing He is in control.

Ultimately, this scripture inspires us to live intentionally, with faith that God’s purpose for our lives is greater than we can imagine. Take heart—when you seek Him first, He will establish your path and lead you to a meaningful, fulfilling life.

Live intentionally!

Love,

💗Ronni Lauren