Author: Allison Bramlett

In true loving relationships there is nothing to hide. Strong relationships don’t keep secrets and they speak the truth in love. This truth must be spoken even if it makes you uncomfortable to say or hear. That is why the saying just follow your heart can get you in trouble. The Word of God says that the heart is deceitful, so you have to just follow the Word of God. The Word teaches us to have open communication without being defensive. You have to make Jesus your treasure and your heart will follow. Unrealistic and unspoken communication, unmet expectations are the cause of most conflicts and disagreements in relationships. 

This means your Words are so important, but your tone is too. The majority of what we communicate comes from our tones, actions and body languages. This means the best time to work and invest in relationships is when things are good. The healing adventure can be long, emotional, and not quickly- it is a process. That means healing the hurt which causes defense in your relationships can be painful but worth the process. Your pain carries a purpose which will lead to healing in others lives. This means don’t give up too quickly. Disagreements should make you look at yourself first. You must look at the wound, the pain, the good, the wrong, and be transformed to look more like Love. Please keep pressing, keep healing, keep apologizing, keep forgiving, and keep rebuilding. So ignoring the problem doesn’t make it go away. In every relationship it takes two to have emotional intimacy. Many times we are more invested than others or they may be more invested than you are. Yet, the greatest connections take place when both parties are invested. So, the strongest relationships communicate everything that is relevant to that relationship. 

 Coming to the realization that the quality of your relationships is the quality of your communication. If you treat someone at the end like you did in the beginning most relationships would never end. It is about connection and not just communication. That means that our relationships should be full of appreciation and our meditation must be on what so ever is good. Reminds me of Philippians 4:8. 

Growth in everything is intentional. Seeing the difficulty we have with others is normally there because we don’t get along with ourself. The disagreement is there as a strategic attack from the enemy to take over your territory. The territory of your thoughts, emotions, time, and relationships. It is about the lives you will touch, businesses you will be part of, giving you can do, and fun you can have. Decide today that you are going to have breakthroughs in your relationships. You are not going to be defensive. You are not going to be caught in negative cycles. You are going to win. You are going to lead. You are going to impact and influence. It is time for Breakthrough. SMALL DISCIPLINES DONE CONSISTENTLY LEAD TO BIG RESULTS OVER TIME. 

The small things no one sees that lead to the big things everyone wants. 

Start today being intentional with communication and Stop doing what doesn’t grow you. Great friends and leaders impact mindsets, skillsets, toolsets, upsets, and resets. So, today what could you do in your relationships 10% less or more that would stretch you out of your relational comfort zone? Remember, Holy Spirit is our comforter for when we press our comfort zone- we have a helper and a guide as a stretching partner. The truth is GROWTH IS UNCOMFORTABLE BECAUSE WE HAVE NEVER BEEN THERE BEFORE. Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Today you are going to have courage to make new things happen in your relationships.

Now is the time! It is wonderful to reflect on yesterday and dream about someday, but you can not get lost in those and not live in the now. 2 Corinthians 6:2 says that “now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

The Word of God addresses us in the now. In John 2 where we read about Jesus and His first miracle at the wedding, it is about now. The story has six water pots which represent mankind. Jesus doesn’t empty out the water pots, but He transforms them with His Word. That is exactly what He does in us. We are transformed into His image by His Word. While reading the Word that the best was saved for now jumped out at me. Understanding that we were created for such a time as this. We are the best for now. You are the best for now. Father God wants us to live favor-minded! He wants us to live expecting the fulfillment of His promises in our life. The Word of God shows us that we are suppose to have an intimate and interactive relationship with Father God and our faith family.

Esther 4:14, “Perhaps this is the moment for which you have been created.” The mission of heaven never changes but the men and women do. The choice lies in whether or not I do my part in fulfilling heaven’s mission on earth. God has given us jobs, positions, education, relationships, and opportunities to use bring His kingdom to earth. We are here to fulfill His divine destiny and not our own. We have a kingdom mission assignment. It is not for our own personal kingdom but for King Jesus! God has a destiny for your life, and every event can be used to make that destiny a reality. Esther’s life, Daniel’s life, Joshua’s life, your life…. it is not just a bunch of coincidences strung together. Father God has chosen you for His purpose for this time. You are the Best for Now!

Just a few weeks ago I received a phone call that would change my life forever. I was invited to be part of a trip to Israel with the Israel Collective team. My answer was immediately YES! There were a few obstacles in the way but the Lord went before me and opened all the doors. My husband and family knew that this was an amazing opportunity for me.

On April 4th in the JFK airport I would meet new faces that would quickly become faith family. Friendships that sharpen and encourage you. Before leaving and even having our initial group zoom call I felt that this trip would be one of celebration, expansion, and revelation. My eyes and heart would be opened to so many things. The depth of the Word coming to life. Realizing how much Jesus loves his hometown and family. Seeing the Bible in color. Understanding that following Jesus is not convenient but is extraordinary! Understanding that the joy of the Lord is truly our strength.

We actually started our trip breaking bread together on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea in Caesarea. Laughter would be part of this group from start to finish. What joy it is to be together in Him. At Caesarea I thought of Paul leaving his homeland to never return but full of hope that the Gospel was being spread. It is where Peter came and preached to Cornelius the centurion

On our second day we would begin by walking where Jesus walked. We would go to Magdala, the hometown of Mary Magdalene. We would see the town, the synagogue, the purification pools, and the destruction. Just thinking that this could be the very place that Jesus likely taught.

Then we went to the Mount of the Beatitudes. Where we read the Word together. Took in the lane around us. I could see Him pointing to the mustard plants that were surrounding us, the city across on the hill, the river below us- making ordinary things extraordinary.

We would grab lunch as a group in a wonderful Israeli Druze community village in the north. It was wonderful. The best falafel I have ever eaten and my first coke in Israel. Yes and hallelujah.
We would then jump in jeeps and head to Israel’s northern border next to Syria. What an extraordinary experience. And we truly went off road…. Learning the truths of the people in and around this area.

Then we were headed to the Sea of Galilea for a ride on the water. The very same water Jesus and Peter walked on. The same area where He spoke peace to the storm. As we read the Word and sang together I felt His peace- His laughter- His Smile on us.

Our days would be full of amazing scenes out of the Bible and bus rides of rich conversations with laughter and tears. In Capernaum I would see how the families lived and shared such a beautiful community. We read in the scriptures about in our Father’s House are many rooms and this was beautifully shown to me.

“In My Father’s house are many dwelling places. If it were not so, I would have told you, because I am going there to prepare a place for you.”
‭‭John‬ ‭14:2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

On our way to Jerusalem. Thinking how Jesus loved and wept over Jerusalem. Everyday was full of amazing conversations from many different people all speaking of the peace and hope of Israel. And on the way an amazing stop seeing the road to Damascus. Stopping for people, just like Jesus!

In Jerusalem we would walk the Palm Sunday road- knowing that our own Palm Sunday was at hand. Imaging all the people crying out Hosanna! Go to the Mount of Olives. We would sit together in the Garden of Gethesamne. Knowing that we were the joy set before Him to endure the cross. That He drank the cup for me.

One of the greatest parts of the trip for me was the Garden Tomb. I had the great honor of leading this group of dynamic leaders in communion. Sharing in this time of community with Christ as the centerpiece. Worshipping together in a small chapel lifting up the name of Jesus. Then heading over to the Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust Museum, which is beyond words. I would later on during the trip meet one of the holocaust survivors accidentally at breakfast and share a sweet time with him. Making what I saw in the museum come to life. We would leave the museum to walk the trail from Yad Vashem to Mount Herzl, celebrating the founding of the State of Israel and all those that have lead with the hope of peace.

We would eat many times in the busy markets enjoying the local culture. We would journey to the Old City of Jerusalem and walk the Western Wall. It actually felt like we walked many walls. And this day would end with an amazing Sabbath meal with a beautiful Jewish family in Jerusalem that opened up their home to a loud joy filled bunch of Jesus lovers and the night would be full of learning and blessings.

We would meet with so many amazing leaders- an Israeli Muslim journalist, Pastor Stephen Khoury, Colonel Dani Tisza, Danielle Mor, other citizens, leaders and organizations that are helping keep Israel safe and hopeful.

We would see the City of David, the water system, the walls of Jerusalem, the road that ascended to the tabernacle. So much that I think it will take me weeks to unpack it all from my heart and mind. We would pray at the western wall while seeing the children learning with big smiles, men dancing and singing, women dancing and singing, wailing and rejoicing all together. It made me want to be at home with my amazing faith family- sharing worship and prayers together. I would see the amazing churches and places that those that I have read about actually built and walked on. We would float in the Dead Sea together as a group enjoying the goodness of God with a few accidents- don’t get the water in your eyes and use the steps getting in- if you know you know! We would see how Israel keeps its heart and arms open to others while working to keep itself safe. It is a country full of hope innovators. I feel such a great new responsibility to lift up the name of Jesus and stand with Israel. And I believe this is just the beginning. So from Tiberius, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and all in between I bless and pray for you- Israel!

These last few days have brought the gift of friendship with some of the most amazing people in the world- my Israel Collective family. I know that the best is yet to come and we are better together. My life has been transformed by them. I feel fresh Fire and greater Love than ever before. So just know there is more to come. Going from glory to glory and faith to faith!

So- Going to Israel did make me fall more in love with Jesus- but it also made me fall more in love with what He loved…. His community, His family, His homeland, His people!

Did you know that what we say only accounts for 7 percent of what is really believed? The way we communicate it accounts for about 38 percent (tone and timing). That means that 55 percent is based on what others see. That means the statement is true, “actions speak louder than words”. This means that 90 percent of what we actually say is not conveyed. So how do we truly communicate and have real connection. This is something that I am constantly working on.

I know connecting helps in every area of life! True communication is genuine connection. Here are some keys to connecting: •go the extra mile- be intentional •exchange appreciation with expectation •be vulnerable•share enjoyable experiences that refresh •give energy that recharges- positive partners•set vision and synergy•be love-unconditional. When connecting if you see some of these keys then you are on the path to success.

In real connection people know that you care for them. Really stop and think of experiences you have had in your own life with connection. Do you see a common thread? I would bet that you felt cared for by the person or people in those moments. What is so beautiful about this is we have the ability to grow beyond our personal circles and care for others. When we learn to truly care about others we can then connect with them.

People want to be encouraged and helped. When we learn to help others we truly help ourselves. This is real connection. It is wonderful to know that when we help others go to new levels, they lift us up too. I challenge you to look for people to help today. Recently I was in the grocery store and had two buggies full of groceries. I was thinking how am I going to get this to the car. Then two young men from our youth group at church appeared and helped me out. I was so thankful. As I began to put my purse in the car I saw some cash. This alone was a miracle because I rarely have cash on me. I felt prompted by Holy Spirit to give it to them. I am believing that from this experience they will see the benefit of focusing on helping others.

When someone really connects they know that they can be vulnerable. They know that they are unconditionally loved. Real connection is full of trust! The other person feels seen and valued. Listening with your heart to hear their heart.

In my own life there are times that I have felt that I really connected and other times where I have really failed. In both, my heart was for others to experience the love of God. I am thankful that we are all growing and learning together. And I hope to continually grow as a connector. Remember your words may be heard but your attitude is always felt. Philippians 2:5 says, “Let this same attitude and purpose and humble mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus.” I am working to have the attitude of Jesus all the time.

It takes energy and intentionality to connect and have the right attitude. You have to bring it every time to have real connection. This means jump first- (smile first, make eye contact, speak kindly, take a step toward others and not away….) Malcom Bane says, “if you wait until you can do everything for everybody, instead of something for somebody, you’ll end up not doing anything for anybody.” So, if you want to have connection then go first!

It all takes selflessness. GIVE REAL CONNECTION! This is not always easy in hard situations, but it is possible. It is a choice to be a giver and not a taker. When you are a giver then you are a grower. Giving brings life. Takers communicate out of need, insecurity and ego. They are always needing attention and praise. Givers communicate out of love, compassion, passion and overflow. We have the choice to be either. I declare today that you are a giver!

These are questions I constantly ask myself: Did I do my best in that situation? Did I understand and relate? Did I add value to the other person? Did I give hope and faith? Did I help them know that they are loved? Did I make a difference for eternity? Did I Give?

Let me know how your Connection Giving is going. I believe we are growing together in Connection!

Resting is not easy for me! One of my favorite scriptures is “Be still, and know that I am God…” Psalms 46:10 KJV I like to quote it but practicing it is not so easy.

I have had to practice being still. I believe rest is becoming a lost thing in our busy culture.

We’ve exchanged being still and resting for a hectic and fast-paced speed of life. Each 24-hour time span is packed with a number of tasks we’ve placed on ourselves and then a few extra task from others. When we do not take time to reset and refresh we get fatigued, fearful, frantic and frustrated.

We have to make a choice to rest!

Jesus tells His disciples this, ‘Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest a while.’” Mark 6:31

Jesus knew when He sent us out to share the Gospel that our assignment and journey would not be easy. He knew that we just like the disciples would have difficult times and relationship issues. He knew that we would face discouragement and obstacles.

Yes- just like the disciples we have been empowered by Holy Spirit to preach, spread the Goodnews, represent the Kingdom of Heaven, heal, set captives free- But we also have to deal with exhaustion physically, emotionally and spiritually. It says in Mark that even after finally coming back home from journey, people would still be “coming and going,” enough that the disciples “did not even have time to eat” (v. 31b).

Jesus reminds us to rest. And He doesn’t just remind He request. It was Jesus’ command. He knows what the disciples were doing. And there is much more that remains to do. He says this to me and you too. But there are times He says for now come and rest. Maybe just for a second- but catch your breath and let me refresh you.

I know that I have felt guilty for taking time away to regroup and recharge in the past.

But I hear the voice of my first love, Savior- King Jesus calling me away for some rest time. Inviting me into a place where grace flows, where the Spirit refuels, and where mercy fixes what’s been fatigued, frustrated and stressed. It is the place where He repairs, refreshes, refuels, restores and relaunches me.

This quiet time is a wise investment for me. It is necessary for the diligent and committed, active servants and followers of Jesus to be still. When I prioritize rest for myself and those I love, I rediscover joy and gain strength.

So recently one of my dear friends and I went for a time of rest. We prayed, read, listened, shared, slept, laughed- we were still! I was refreshed. I was recharged! I had a wonderful reset! I am hoping that you get to grab a daily cup of coffee with Jesus and rest with Him! Oh it is such a sweet time ❤️☕️