Help Wanted, Inquire Within!!!

Today's Passage: Matthew 9:37
Memory Verse: Matthew 9:38

Saturday May 1, 2010

Hello Friends & Lifers! Let's face it, we have all grown so distraught with this weak job market. Within the last year or so, many have fallen victim to this struggling job market. For our readers who may be in this situation, the pastoral staff of Abundant Life Ministries is believing God for supernatural favor for you. God hasn't forgotten you, and He won't let you down.

God has a different employment issue. He, unlike our situation, has enough jobs. He just doesn't have enough employees. Think about it. If the Kingdom of God was fully staffed, how powerful would it be? For every person we lead to Christ, there are thousands more who need Him. And yes, we've done well for a company that started with 12 people and a CEO. We sarted in a small country but now we're world-wide. Our stock seems to rise with every tragedy or calamity. And nobody has better benefits; not Lehman Bros., or Goldman Sachs, nobody. Our retirement package is second-to-none too. So if it's such a sweet place to work, why is it so hard to get and keep people employed? There's plenty to be done. And although we're basically doing the same job, we can use our own creative ways to do it. In Matthew 9:37, Jesus said "The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few." He made this statement as He looked out over a multitude of broken and hurting people. His intent was to inspire the disciples to have a heart for someone other than themselves. He used that situation to show them their true purpose. When we begin to feel what Jesus felt we'll discover things about ourselves we never knew. For instance, did you know that God will put you directly in line for the "job" that has the greatest similarities to your ministry? He doesn't just want you to have a job, He wants your job to be full of opportunities to share His love.

I challenge you today to find the harvest field and get to work. God has already equipped you with everything you need. Allow Him to use your gifts to bring someone to Jesus today. So many people need Him so help them find their way. Who knows, doing so might even create a favorable opportunity for your life.

Prayer:
Father in these seemingly difficult times I pray for Your favor in my life. As I remain faithfull to You, let me remain in Your care. You are my Source and my Provider. Thank You for Your awesome love. Today, I dedicate myself to walk into the harvest field and become a reaper for You. So strengthen me as only You can. Show me opportunities to share your love. Give me creative ways to introduce people to You. My desire is to follow You today and everyday, in Jesus name...Amen!

Will You Be Found Faithful?

Friday, April 30th, 2010

Today's Passage: Matthew 25:14-30
Memory Verses: Matt. 25:23

Wars and rumors of wars everytime we turn on the news reveals to those of us who are watching that these are truly end times. Although it seems we've heard it too often, are we really living our lives as though Christ were to return soon? Here are some thoughts for your consideration as well as mine today. Is it possible that there might be more to living a saved life than just being free from sin? What is it that God is requiring of us before the trumpet sounds?

Jesus tells this parable to teach his disciples what their attitudes should be about service to Him. Like the three servants in this parable, we all have been given "talents", or gifts, according to our own abilities. That in itself is remarkable to me. Is it possible that we spend too much of our time trying to be like someone else, or compete with other believers who are gifted to do things we weren't? Often times, we don't think our abilities are as praiseworthy as those of others around us. So we do very little about using them, somehow thinking that God made a mistake when He created us.

Another awesome thing about this story is how the servants with the two and five talents conducted themselves. They immediately went to work, multiplying what they had been given. This confirms to me that those who desire to be productive barely have time to worry about what others are doing. Their main objective is to accomplish the will of the Father. They know how short life truly is, and how easy it is to get caught up in everything but what we were put on this earth to do.

The unfaithful servant, on the other hand, strikes me as extremely selfish. He hides his talent, using for an excuse that the lord of the house was a hard taskmaster. In other words, he refused to use the talent given to him because he thought his master was unfair in how he distributed his gifts. Is this how we see our Lord? Do we refuse to go above and beyond where we are because we resent Him for not blessing us the way He has blessed others? If you read the end of the story, you'll find that not only was the talent taken away from this servant whom the Lord called "wicked", but he was cast into outer darkness.

So back to my original question. Even if we lived holy and blameless lives as believers, but did nothing to serve God by using the talents He has given us on this earth, do you think He would still receive us into His heaven as "good and faithful servants"? Let's begin to truly search our hearts today and ask God to make us sensitive about what He wants us doing while we await His return. Because more than anything, what we want Him to say about us is that we were found faithful.

Prayer: Father, search our hearts today. If you find any selfish thoughts within that cause us to delay being productive for Your kingdom, please forgive and cleanse us. Renew our minds and set us on the course that will allow us to multiply the giftings You've placed wthin us. May everything we accomplish from sunrise to sunset be for the purpose of hearing You say, "Well done!" In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Articles of Worship!!!

Today's Passage: Psalm 95:6-10
Memory Verse: Psalm 132:7

Thursday April 28, 2010

Blessings Friends & Lifers! The most important experience we have as Christians is worship. Worship is defined as adoration and complete devotion toward another. No matter how many times we attend church, sing in the choir, and teach in children's church, we have to fulfill our daily call to worship God. In order to have a true relationship with Him, we have to be intimate with Him.

Being a worshipper requires 3 things: an offering of heart, an offering of repentance, and an offering of humility and trust. Offering your heart to God signifies He has your full devotion. It says your affection belongs to Him, and you'll always be loyal. An offering of repentance fulfills God's requirement for purity. God is eager to respond to the petitions of those who live holy and righteous lives. Finally, an offering of humility & trust places the very life of the worshipper completely in God's hands. It says although we get tempted to lean on our own devices, we'll resist. Why is worship so important? It's the only way we can connect with the Father. We can pray all day. Which is good because prayer is communcating with God, and often leads worship. But worship is not just you communicating with Him, it's getting a tangible response. It's not asking for what He has, it's loving Him for who He is. And although worship is not about us, it still offers us benefits. Being in God's presence provides joy, rest, peace, and blessings. It also provides security, dominion over our surroundings, and it disarms the enemy. The Bible says "the weapons we fight with are not of this world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds." The weapons that verse is speaking of are prayer, praise, and worship.

I challenge you today to find time to worship God everyday. Take a few moments to declare your love for Him. Offer Him your undivided attention. Doing so will not only take your relationship with Him to new levels, you'll come away with an awesome time of rest and refreshing. He's that good yall!!! Be encouraged. God has special things for you. You just have to find Him.....He's waiting!

Prayer:
Father I need more of You in my life. I'm nothing without you. Allow me to come into Your presence and commune with You. Change me in Your Holy presence so I can be more like You. I give You my life and it's Yours forever, in Jesus' name....Amen

H.U.M.P. Day!!!

Wednesday April 27, 2010

It's H.U.M.P. Day Friends & Lifers! The day we observe God's ultmate mission and purpose for our lives. Pastor Yassah and I are praying super natural favor will fall on all who make an effort to expand the kingdom of God.

So what IS God's purpose for your life? What is He calling your heart to? Don't know? You can easily find out by asking yourself what breaks your heart the most. Does it hurt you to see kids quit school? Does it bother you to know that some elderly people go without food or medicine? Have you ever had someone you love go through alcohol/drug addiction and you really wanted to help them but didn't know how? All these scenarios fall under the ultimate mission and purpose of God.

Subsequently, I challenge you today find out what a ministry opportunity may be for you, then make an effort to fulfill it. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with creative ideas and resources. As you go into the harvest field, I bless you with the courage, faith, and prime opportunity to be the image of our God for someone today.

Prayer:
Father, make me enough today. By Your spirit, make me exactly what someone needs to get to You. Relieve me of all my inadequacies and excuses and let me stand boldly before Your harvest and be a reaper for You. As I walk though this day, I will not give in to fear. Because through You, I can take over the world!!! In Jesus' name...Amen!

"Water, Water Everywhere"

Tuesday, April 27th, 2010

Today's Passage: John 4: 1-14
Memory Verse: Jn 4:10

Everyday as a teacher in the public school system, I'm amazed at how many resources have been made available to help students be more enthusiastic about learning. Coming from a West African country, the importance of education was stressed daily, but we were not exposed to so many manipulatives and computer programs which motivate stdents to be everything they can be. So when I see how students for the most part are nowhere near excited about learning, even with all that's available to them, it really breaks my heart. I do my best to remind them that somewhere else in the world, there are other students who would give anything to take their place.

Ever since I heard the expression "Water, water everywhere, and not a drop to drink", I always wondered how it was possible to be surrounded by water and yet be unable to drink it. Which brings us to today's message. Isn't that just what some of us are doing with our Christian walk? There's so much life, excitement, hope, and joy available in a real relationship with Christ. And yet we walk around, longing for those very things and thinking we can find them outside of Him.

Just like some of my students, we watch others dive into their walk with Christ and come up refreshed, but are content to settle for a mediocre life just beause we're unwilling to pay the price for more of Him. I challenge you today to never again be a person who remains on the outside looking in, thirsty for the Living Water while He's right in front of you. As soon as He manifests Himself to you, do exactly what the woman at the well did. Step -- no, run -- past your comfort zone to receive it, always keeping in mind that the enemy will not make it easy. But oh, how worth it it's going to be!

Prayer: Father, I see You daily stretching Your Hands to reach all Your children. You want to walk with us "in the cool of the day" like it was in the garden of Eden. And for fellowship with us, You offer joy unspeakable if we will only respond. So as I reach out to receive what I never deserved, I thank You from the bottom of my heart for the Living Water Jesus gives. Fill me to overflowing today, and I'll forever give You praise. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Price of My Praise

Monday, April 26, 2010

Today's Passage: 2 Samuel 24: 10-25
Memory Verses: 2 Sam. 24: 24

For the past couple of weeks, Pastors Chad and Nette have been ministering to us about our attitude in worship. Last week, we learned that we should acknowledge God our Father for His greatness. This week, we found out that as King, Jesus the Son is worthy of our worship because of the victories He has won for us. This coming Sunday, I'm sure our pastors are going to receive another rhema word from God regarding why worship is so important.

But whatever the reason to worship and praise our God, we must understand that it won't come from us without a price. Most of us will agree that because we live in this world, satan, our mortal enemy, spends his entire existence providing hindrances and distractions to discourage us from freely praising and worshipping. For this reason, as long as we live in this flesh suit, there will always be a reason NOT to do so, or at least to do it half-heartedly. Which is why it's called a SACRIFICE.

In the passage, David's purpose for wanting to reach God's heart was to ask for forgiveness after disobeying Him. So he knew that it was important for God, Who searches the heart and its intentions, to know that he was willing to pay whatever price was needed. He could have accepted the threshing floor without having to pay for it, but as a worshiper, David knew that the way we come to God is just as important as the fact that we do come to Him. So he told the man who owned it in so many words, "I refuse to give God something that cost me nothing."

Today, as you start a new week, I'd like you to remember that God knows what a sacrifice it is for you to find time to pray, seek His face, and worship Him. It's exactly the reason it pleases Him to accept it. So, as you press through your days of work, church, and family responsibilities, let the worship you give Him not only be the time you spend on your knees or in church; let it be everytime you respond to an angry person with soft words rather than wrath. Let it be everytime you spend quality time with your kids rather than send them away so you can get some much-needed rest.
May the worship you offer the Lord be a lifestyle of sacrificial giving, knowing that our awesome God deserves nothing less.

Prayer: Father, You deserve more than just lip service. You deserve the very air I breathe. The life I live,I live to bring You praise. Today, may everything I do be a sacrifice that costs me everything I have and then some. And as I offer it to You, may it be a sweet aroma, not strange incense. May it please You for the rest of my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Bigger Is Better!!!

Today's Passage: 1 Chronicles 4:10

Memory Verse: Same

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Blessings, Friends & Lifers! Look around. What do you see? Is it that same office, or that same house, or same life? Is what you see the same thing you've been looking at for years and years? I'm not suggesting there's something wrong with your life, I'm suggesting there's something small about your space. I'll explain.....

It is our priority as Christians to be kingdom-minded. We should always have our minds on growth, touching more, and doing more. So if we're all kingdom-minded, how big is the kingdom? If we're all kingdom-minded, what kind of territory are we talking about? My Friends, is your mind always consumed with the things that only concern you? Does your world shut down if one little thing is out of place? If so, that makes your territory very small. You can't make it in this world trying to be an island unto yourself. It takes a nation of selfless citizens to build this kingdom on Earth as it is in Heaven. In 1 Chronicles 4:10, Jabez asked God to keep him from evil, keep him from causing pain, bless him, and enlarge his territory. I think Jabez got the formula right. He knew the only way he could go beyaond where he was, or keep from being stuck in one place, he had to first stay away from evil and not cause anyone pain. We have to understand our lives are connected one way or the other. We need each other to survive. So if you want bigger territory, or a better life, think outside the box.

I challenge you to let your love reach out beyond your own borders. The more you develop a passion for the plight of others, the more God will intervene on the things that cause you concern. Allow God to show you His will. You'll find He has so much compassion for the people who need Him. Ask Him to show you where ministry is needed; then fulfill it. If you do, God will have to give you bigger territory to minister in. And bigger territory comes with bigger benefits.

Prayer: Father I realize I need to focus more on things other than myself. With Your help, I'll dedicate myself to the expansion of Your kingdom rather than my own selfish will. Help me be sensitive to the needs of my neighbor, and offer them love and fellowship as You instructed. I realize as I make things happen for them, You'll make things happen for me. In Jesus name....Amen!

"To Tell The Truth"

Today's Passage: Genesis 3:2-6
Memory Verse: John 14:6

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Hello, Friends & Lifers! What is truth? This is one of those questions that people ask all the time, yet they often leave the conversation without an answer. Truth is defined as the actual state of a matter, or conformity with fact or reality. It's a given if you say there's a can of Coca-Cola on the table (after you've placed it there) that that is the truth. But is being persuaded to conform to someone's ideals actually a persuasion to truth? Or, what if you put orange juice inside the Coca-Cola can before placing it on the table? Is it still a can of Coca-Cola? I'm not trying to confuse you, I'm just trying to say without Christ, truth is relative. So instead of asking WHAT is truth, a better question would be WHO is truth.

Jesus said: "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life." This statement takes understanding truth to a whole new level. It means if we are to have truth, we have to have Christ. Everything else has either been misinterpreted by man, or perverted by the devil. Jesus wants us to understand that truth is a life-walk, not an opinion, or mere statement from someone else's reality. So many Christians get sidetracked by buying into things they have accepted as truth, when they really are only misconceptions that lead to distractions. Let's look at Eve for a moment. Eve saw that the tree of the knowledge of good and evil was beautiful. So when the serpent realized it, he sold her a lie that she received as truth. It subsequently caused her and Adam to sin and be kicked out of the garden. What we need to learn from this is that the truth can only be found in Christ. This truth is everlasting and inexhaustable. If you're tired of the devil selling you fool's gold, let Jesus be the source of your reasoning. He'll keep you in truth and light.

I challenge you today to enhance your walk with Jesus. He will take you places you never thought you'd go. And better than that, He'll never lie to you. He'll never leave you or let you down. His ways are perfect and His ways are sure. He'll give you all you need to survive in a world full of lies and deceptions.

Prayer: Father, I've spent so many wasted years seeking the truth of who I really was, who really loved me, and what I was here for. Thank You for allowing me to find those truths in You. Today, my life is proof that You are all anyone needs to find the answers to those questions. Use me forever to bring others to You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Stronghold of Finances

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

Today's Passage: Proverbs 3:1-10

Memory Verses: Prov. 3: 9-10

Most of you so far have been in agreement with the strongholds we've studied up to this point. But I guess this one's a stronghold just because of this simple fact: it's about MONEY. But by the Spirit of God, we're going to expose this one just as He's used us to expose the others. Brothers and Sisters, can we be real? Why do you think the laws in this country have gone from reverencing God to almost forgetting He exists? Money. Why do you think all things worldly and immoral manage to make the news as well as primetime television, while anything based on Christianity finds its way on the back burner? MONEY. And why do you think people who pretty much live for the devil are the ones meeting the needs of the poor and the destitute? MONEY!!!

Brothers and Sisters, many of us are still holding on to the reins when it comes to who's in control of our money. As a result of this, God is not able to multiply it and make it produce for His kingdom what only He can. That's why the passage for today is that we are not to lean unto our own understanding. There is no way our human minds can conceive of what He has prepared for His children to accomplish on this earth. If you are still unwilling to let God control how much and how often you give, it's a matter of how much you really TRUST Him.

Let's get even closer to home and run a few basic tests of who's in control of your money. Do you find yourself constantly "broke" and unable to give at church? Are you one of those Christians who believe that our money should not be given to the pastor because he or she is spending it on himself/herself? Worse yet, do you think 10% is way too much to give out of the little you are making for yourself and your family? If this is where you are, the enemy has deceived you into thinking that the church only wants to rip you off and take all your money.

After today, I pray that the scales will be removed from your eyes and that you never again allow the enemy to keep you blindfolded and in bondage to money. What he doesn't want you to know is that ONLY by giving -- and giving the FIRST tenth of everything that comes in your hand -- can you truly begin to recieve what God has in store for you. God can discern our selfish intentions when we hold on to what is His to begin with. How can we hope to overcome the evil that is in the world if we spend all our lives broke, busted and disgusted? Despite what you have seen in the examples of those believers that God has raised up, His desire is not only to give us wealth so we can be like the people in the world and acquire two of everything.

God's purpose for wealth goes far beyond what we've ever been able to conceive. When our heart is in the right place, and we become determined to give according to God's Word, we become rulers over many. God is still looking for believers who will finance shelters, charter schools where young people can learn to fear Him again, and who will stand up to the lawmakers and have the voices of true believers heard rather than ignored. God's Name is not reverenced because His people have chosen to be selfish instead of about the business of doing His will on this earth. How can anyone take us seriously when all we can say is "I'll pray for you"?

When is the day going to come when we begin to BE the church, which was able to finance the greatest revival the world has ever seen by adding 3,000 members to itself DAILY, even without the modern technology we boast about today? If every believer in every church in every city in the United States alone became a tither and a giver, I believe we could end world hunger in less than a year. Yes, y'all, God is that serious about how involved He wants to be in your finances. Begin today to give Him more and more of this area in your life, and watch Him change you and everything around you.

Prayer: Father, Your Word is challenging me today to put my complete trust in You concerning my finances. Please allow me to trust You and You alone, and then use me to bring Your kingdom down to this earth. For Your glory and in Jesus, Name, Amen.

The Stronghold of Religion!!!

Today's Passage: Romans 7

Memory Verse: Rom. 7: 5-6

Thursday April 22, 2010

Blessings, Friends and Lifers! Religion: man's attempt to reach God. Religion by label started out as a good idea. It points the hearts of men toward a moral standard of living. It, for the most part, calls the attention of men to the fact that there's Someone greater than them in existence.

Here's how the enemy uses religion. It causes us to live under the "letter" of the law instead of the "spirit" of the law. And the trouble with that is we couldn't fulfill the letter of the law even on our best spiritual day. Most people who try to live this way fail and ultimately give up before they can even begin the journey. Look at the lives of the people in the Old Testament. They had to pray at pre-ordained times, dress in certain ways, and sacrifice animals, over and over again, just to connect to the Father. Their lives were filled with rules. They were told they couldn't do this and they couldn't do that. What a life! Not only that, the penalty for breaking the law was severe. There were stonings and imprisonments for even minor infractions. Most of us would be dead or serving lifetime sentences for the laws we break. So we approach living under the law from an avenue of fear, not reverence. But then Jesus came. See, as I said before, religion is man's attempt to get to God. And we must realize that as a man, who is flesh and blood, we'll never be able to satisfy the rigors of the law to accomplish that. Jesus' presence was a clarion call to the fact that God wants relationship, not religion. Now relationship still acknowledges the law, but it allows us to respond to the law by way of love, not fear. God wants us to love Him, worship Him, and live for Him in spirit and in truth. Religion holds us in this place of complacency (just like the people in the Old Testament) that says if we perform the same way over and over again, we'll be doing God a favor. So we enter our churches doing and saying the same things week after week; feeling as though if we just "attend" church, it validates us as Christians. Wake up, Body of Christ! You know full well that going to church doesn't make you any more a Christian than standing in your garage makes you a car. We cannot allow ourselves to buy into this doctrine that because nobody's perfect, we can lead these double lives (being Christians on Sunday and sinners on Monday through Saturday).

I challenge you today to grow. Desire to know God on a deeper level. The more you get to know Him, the more you'll know how much He really loves you. And you'll understand why He went to such great lengths to demonstrate that love. Discovering your relationship with God will also keep you from breaking the law because you love Him so much, not because you're afraid to get stoned to death. And can you imagine having to pour lamb's blood all over yourself instead of just calling His name in worship? I don't know about you, but I'll take the relationship. Relationship says "Jesus, your death on the cross is my sacrifice and my pathway to the presence of God." You can live knowing you'll be covered by "His" blood as long as you stay submitted to Him.

Prayer: Father, thank you so much for seeing my end from my beginning. You knew before I was even born that I'd never be able to measure up to the standard of your holiness. Your sacrifice for me was greater than any sacrifice I'll ever make for You. That's why I'll worship You for the rest of my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Stronghold of Racism!!!

Today's Passage: Psalm 133

Memory Verse: John 4: 9-10

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Blessings, Friends & Lifers! I know Wednesdays are usually set aside for H.U.M.P. Day, but we thought it important to continue with our strongholds series. Our devotional calls our attention to the spirit called "Racism". My earliest experience came when I was in middle school. I became friends with a Caucasion classmate who would always try to get me to come to his house. For some reason, I was never able to accommodate him. Something always got in the way. One day, we wanted to walk downtown after school to get a good spot for the homecoming parade. On the way, he convinced me to stop at his house to grab some snacks. As I sat in his room, I couldn't help but hear my friend in conversation with his parents. "What's he doing here?" his dad asked. My friend answered: "That's my friend Chris, he's cool." My friend's father then said something that shook me to my core. "Don't you ever bring a n____ into my house again"! Of course my friend informed me that I had to leave. I ended up having to walk to the parade alone.

My friends, racism is a spirit. People aren't born racist. It's learned. The devil has taught man to hate each other ever since Jesus uttered the words "you'll know them for the love they show one to another." Now, I don't need to get into a history lesson; we all know the stories. My job here is to expose racism as the spirit it is and shed light on how God feels about it. Romans 10:12 says "there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him." We must understand that the ONLY separation there'll be in heaven is the wheat from the tares and the sheep from the goats. So, if you think Heaven's going to filled with only your race, you're sadly mistaken. As a matter of fact, we'll be in our glorified bodies in Heaven. So we won't be able to tell who was white, black, latino, or whatever before they got there. We'll all look the way God sees us: the same. Remember Jesus' conversation with the woman at the well. Because of the racist undertone of the time, she almost missed an opportunity to meet Jesus. She said "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?" How many of us have missed a move of God because an interracial couple walks into our church, or because the Pastor's white/black, or the person next to us is latino? I love the way Jesus told her (paraphrasing) "If you knew who I was, race wouldn't matter to you." The more we get to know Jesus, the more we should understand racism has no place in His body.

Prayer: Father, if I have held onto any mindsets or feelings about any other race, please reveal it and set me free from this day forward. I don't want anything to stop me from moving closer in my relationship to You. Give me the grace to walk in love towards those who may still feel this way, and help me to be part of the generation that is not afraid to tear down racial walls for Your glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Stronghold of Rebellion

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Today's Passage: 1 Samuel 15:1-28
Memory Verses: 1 Sam. 15:22-23

Our baby son has taught me more about rebellion towards God than I ever thought possible. That child will sit or stand in front of you with a straight face, listen to you tell him specifically what you want or don't want him to do, and say, "Yes, ma'am". Then, a few short minutes later, you'll find yourself asking him, "Did you not hear what I just told you NOT to do?" He usually ends up losing his video game privilege, something he absolutely loves to do. Here's the question I've quit asking him, though: "Why did you do it when you KNEW I told you not to?" The main reason why I don't anymore is because I didn't want to come face to face with the reasons I rebel against my Heavenly Father.

Rebellion is the act of turning away from the heart of the Father, knowing full well what His commands -- and the consequences for disobedience -- are. In this passage, we see that Saul was given specific instructions for defeating the Amalekites: destroy them all, including humans and animals. They performed half of what they were told to do, but left the best of the animals alive. According to the Bible, they were "unwilling to destroy them" (1 Sam. 15: 9).

Which brings us to the heart of the matter concerning rebellion. It's such a stronghold in the lives of believers because, when it comes to completely obeying God in a certain area, we're unwilling to do so because we allow our five senses (which greatly impact our mind, will, and emotions), to speak louder than the voice of God. Somehow, we are deceived into thinking that we know better than God what we need. But all we end up doing is disappointing God by sending him the message that we don't trust His ability to protect and know what's best for us.

So, in what area are you struggling to completely obey God? Understand that, just as it disappoints you and forces your child to be exposed to consequences, the same happens to your heavenly Father. The more we rebel, the greater the consequences. Saul consistently rebelled against God, ultimately losing the kingdom. The cure for rebellion is OBEDIENCE at all costs. Search your heart and begin the journey towards uprooting rebellion today.

Prayer: Father, Your ultimate desire is for me to accomplish everything You have planned for my future. Because of this, I desire to please You in every way. Please forgive me for the times I've gone my own way, thinking I knew better. Give me the grace to walk in faithful obedience daily. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Stronghold of Iniquity

Monday, April 19th,2010

Today's Passage: Ezekiel 18
Memory Verses: Ezekiel 18: 30-31

When we moved into our home 12 years ago, there was a giant tree in our yard that was a plus for us. It provided shade from the Florida sun, and our kids played under it when the weather was warm. Little did we know that beneath the ground, the tree's equally giant roots were growing by leaps and bounds, doing so much damage to our yard that the septic system didn't work properly, and eventually all the grass on that side of the yard stopped growing. Finally, we had no choice but to pay someone to completely cut down the tree and grind its stump so those roots would have no more life going to them. After that, we had to get a completely new drain field put in and remove all the roots.

Iniquity is very much like those roots. The word itself means "that which is twisted", or anything that turns away from God's straight and perfect path. It originates from the twisted thoughts of Lucifer, who deviated from the divine and righteous essence of God. Iniquity is the enemy's attempt to contaminate the righteous seed placed in us when we give our hearts to God. It is transferred from one generation to another, causing even believers who love God with all their hearts to still engage in sins that their ancestors committed (see the book Iniquity by Ana Mendez for more). David, a man after God's own heart, is an example of this (Psalm 51:5).

If you ever wondered why a saved man can watch his mother suffer from abuse by his father, know of the damage it causes, and still struggle with beating his wife and/or children, iniquity is the reason. If you've seen entire families bear the name of drunks, or thieves, or trouble-makers, iniquity is the reason why. It is imprinted upon our DNA in the form of whatever sin our forefathers committed, and is compounded when we engage in those and greater sins. When we become saved, we enter into the realm of grace where God has made provision for forgiveness from iniquity. But how can we get what's imprinted on our DNA to just disappear if we don't even know it's there?

So we spend years asking for forgiveness for the sins we continually commit, not understanding why we haven't yet been set free from that temper mama had, or that spirit of gluttony. Because iniquity is buried deep into the ground of our souls, all we've been doing is cutting back the tree which bears the fruit of the sin everyone can see. Now, everyone knows that if you cut back a tree, you're simply pruning it. Although you may not see the fruit for a while, it's coming back in full force in the near future.

When you consider the damage roots can cause, you may ask if there's any hope of deliverance. Yes, our God has already provided a way out! But it involves some deep soul-searching on your part. You must first ask God to reveal to you the sins that your family has passed on to you --not just the ones you were guilty of, but the ones your ancestors committed before you ever came on the scene. Then, you must ask God (preferably after some fasting)to forgive you and your ancestors for the iniquity.

Finally, use your authority to command that every root be uprooted from your life so that it never shows up again in the lives of you and your children. It is a spiritual process that many don't preach about, because it takes a lot of courage to go back in the past and trace the "root" of things you and your family may have done. You see, as long as those roots remain in the ground, the curses associated with them are free to plague your life. But when you fall out of agreement with all those things, satan has no choice but to loose his hold. I don't have to tell you how awesome it is that, after 12 years, my family and I are finally able to shower and flush our toilet (things we were never able to do freely until we removed those roots).

Brothers and sisters,I pray that you are willing to go through the process to get rid of the iniquity in your lives. God has already done his part. The rest is up to you.

Prayer: Father, thank You for making a way of escape from my past sins and the iniquity of my ancestors. Please give your people the courage they need to search for the truth of what those sins are, repent of them, and command that they be uprooted. I give you praise for giving us all the victory in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Strongholds!!!

Today's Passage: 2 Corinthians 10:4
Memory Verse: Same

Sunday April 18, 2010

Blessings, Friends & Lifers! I pray all is well with you and your family. I pray as you continue to walk in obedience, the blessing of our God will overtake you. We seek to start a series today called "5 Strongholds the Church Must Pull Down". Continue with us this week as God sheds light on a delicate but very important subject.

The dictionary describes a stronghold as a well-fortified place; a fortress. It also defines it as a place that serves as the center of a group of militants or persons holding a controversial viewpoint. My Friends, we know we have authority over the devil, but there are some areas where he has simply dug his heels in the sand and refused to let go. The areas I'm talking about are: Racism, Religion, Finances, Iniquity, and Rebellion. To truly expand the kingdom of God, the church has to come together and focus on the pulling down of these fortresses. For the next few days, we'll highlight each of these items. We pray God will reveal to us what it takes to successfully attack these areas so that you can see growth in your home, ministry, and community. I'm believing God for a clarion call to the nations that we will overtake these strongholds so that the glory of our God can prevail. Pray with us. Study with us. God's going to show up strong!!!

Prayer:
All glory, honor, and praise, be to You, Lord. You're worthy of it all. Let this week be full of Your revelation and power. Let this week open the eyes of Your people. We want to experience Your true power and authority. Open our eyes and our hearts this week. May we be one with You now and forever more...in Jesus' name....Amen.

Follow The Leader!!!

Today's Passage: Psalm 23:2
Memory Verse: Matthew 4:19

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Hello, Friends & Lifers! Today's devotional takes me back to a game I played as a kid. The game was called 'Follow the Leader'. The object of the game was to do everything exactly the way the leader did, or else you were declared out and made to sit to the side and watch.

We were so good at 'follow the leader' as youth, but we seem to constantly fail at it as adults. Why? Now, it's not my intent to judge anyone as I have my own issues. I'm just saying if we were better followers of our leadership, our lives would be so much better, don't you think? If we truly followed our leaders, shouldn't our work ethic be like theirs? Shouldn't our prayer and study lives be like theirs? And shouldn't our homes and daily walk be like theirs? In Psalm chapter 23, David said "He makes me to lie down in green pastures and He leads me beside still waters...". He is describing God as a leader who, if we followed Him, would make sure we stayed in the safety and security of a full and nuturing environment as well as still, not raging, waters. This analogy is based on the fact that sheep can't swim. So, if a shepherd tried to lead them beside raging waters, they'd stray into the water and probably be killed. Shepherds who cared about their sheep meticulously sought out still waters that would be safe for drinking and/or crossing. Now fast forward to the New Testament. Jesus told the disciples to follow Him and He'd make them fishers of men. Jesus wanted them to know that following Him would not change their "person", it'd change their "purpose". That's the reason many of us have trouble following Him; we don't want to change. But the truth is, Jesus doesn't want to change you. He wants to change your purpose. If you're a dancer, He wants to change the purpose for which you're dancing. If you're a cook, or a poet, or a writer, or whatever, it's not Jesus' plan to have you give that up. He just wants you to do it for the "kingdom". The alternative to that is a lack of progression in our lives due to being "out of the game". Ever ask yourself why your life seems to be on hold? It may be because you forgot to follow God and/or your spiritual leader. You could be stuck on "out mode". The good news is because of God's grace you can always be "tagged"(touch from God) back in to start following again. In other words, if you find yourself out of the game, get back in as quickly as you can with a shout of praise and a prayer of repentance. It'll work for you, I promise.

I challenge you today to become a better follower. Knowing, by faith, that God wants the best for you is the only thing you need to stay in the game. I admonish you to stay under your spiritual covering as well. If that person is who God chose for you, link up with them and help push them forward. Serve them and pray for them. Don't fall into the temptation of rebellion and gossip if they have to make decisions you don't agree with. Someone told me once they left a ministry because they and the pastor "didn't see eye to eye". I told them it wasn't their place to see eye to eye with their leader. They should only see the "back of his/her head". They should have been behind them pushing forward, not in front of them pushing backwards. Stay under your covering and you'll always be beside green pastures and still waters. It's guaranteed, Baby!!!

Prayer:
Father, You are so worthy of my praise and adoration. I commit to follow You, and I'll never turn away again. Please continue to order my steps as I continue this journey by faith. I love You forever. In Jesus name.. Amen!

Running On Empty?

Friday, April 16th, 2010

Today's Passage: Psalm 23
Memory Verses: Ps. 23:5

My husband always gets onto me for not putting gas in my van. I don't know why, but it seems that I can remember to do everything else except refuel. I realize that I would hate for any of my planned daily activities to be interrupted because I ran out of gas. As a matter of fact, I find myself praying against the possibility that this would happen to me while I'm transporting my babies, or trying to get home from church at night. If you asked me why I continue to allow my vehicle, the very thing I need to get around, to go without gas, I couldn't for the life of me figure it out.

Although I am still working out my issues with procrastination (Pray for a sister, y'all -- LOL), the message we can get from this spiritually is unmistakeable. We love God, and we know that He has provided us with everything we need to get where He has ordained for us to go. However, we still find it so easy to spend so much time away from His Presence. We feel ourselves getting weaker, and we don't mean to, but we end up running on empty.

So how do we fight this tendency to avoid the very things we need from God? David shares with us his heart on the matter. He describes a relationship with God that is neverending; there is no separation from Him. There is never a time when I can consider myself independent from the One Whose breath keeps me alive. It would be the equivalent of me driving around with the gas pump literally attached to me so that I never risk running on empty. On the contrary, David says, "You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over" (Ps. 23:5).

Saints, such a relationship is possible. And not only that: it's available to each and every one of us. But it begins with an attitude that doesn't see God as an appointment on our calendar that we must reluctantly fill. He is our Source, the very air we breathe. Because of Him, we have a significance on this earth that would otherwise be nonexistent. And who wouldn't desire to be continually filled with a God like Him? When my van has the gas it needs, I'm not afraid to go to certain places. I'm not creeping around, wondering when I'll be coming to a complete halt in the middle of my destination. I boldly go as far as I want, knowing that no-one but my own stubborn self can get in my way.

Today, let David's words compel you to seek a more fulfilling relationship with God. May you never have to creep around, afraid to pursue your destiny because you think it's too hard for you. Drink deeply of the fountain of life springing up in your soul as the Father causes your cup to overflow everyday.

Prayer: Father, I'm so grateful for that relationship with You that guarantees me a continuous refreshing. Thank you for rescuing me from that person I used to be who knew I needed You but tried to pursue my dreams without You. Fill me today. Let Your anointing overflow from my life into every place my foot treads, so that You can forever get the glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Oh, Yes You Can!!!

Today's Passage: Acts 9:1-2
Memory Verse: Acts 9:15

Thursday April 15, 2010

Hello Friends & Lifers!!! What if I told you God wanted to use you to do great and mighty things? Well, He does. God has a specific plan for your life. He didn't save you just to exist. He saved you to be a world-changer, a champion, and a vessel of His. Now, I know what you're thinking. You're thnking, "Me"? "You couldn't be talking about me". "I've done way too much in my past".

My Friends, when you accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, everything in your past was extinguished. Those things no longer have a place in your life. As a matter of fact, the only reason they haunt you is because the enemy wants to keep you bound in the very prison God delivered you from. Now this is the "new you"! And the new you says "I am free from the sins of my past". Remember Paul? Noone had a shadier past than he did. His past life was such a contrast to his new life, God had to literally change his name. When his name was Saul, he, under the authority of the chief priest, bound and killed christians (Acts 9:1-2). It's one thing to be a sinner, it's another thing to be a sinner who persecutes the saved. But the day came when he met Jesus. Jesus knocked him off a horse and changed his life with one statement: "I am Jesus...."! Here's where you come in. After Jesus saved Saul and changed his name to Paul, there was more to be done. He could no longer be identified by his past. Jesus said to Ananias, concerning Paul, "he is a chosen vessel of Mine, to bear my name before the gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel" (Acts 9:15). And you say God won't use you because you've done too much? I say what He did through Paul He'll do through you...and more.

I challenge you today to seek God for what He wants you to do. He saved you, created you, and even changed your name. Now what? He wants you to go, be relevant, and produce after the kingdom. He loves you inspite of your past. There's ministry inside you with a specific assignment for a specific people. Don't think you can do it? Oh yes you can.

Prayer:
Father I thank you for delivering me from my past. Only You can give my life such meaning and purpose. Give me the strength to accept my assignment with courage and faith. Today, I choose to fulfill the call You've placed on my life, now, and forever more. In Jesus' name...Amen.

H.U.M.P. Day!!!

Wednesday April 14, 2010

It's H.U.M.P. Day Friends & Lifers!!! If you're new to our website, H.U.M.P. (His Ultimate Mission & Purpose) Day is the day we embark upon specific assignments in our community that share the love of Jesus. God's purpose for all our lives is kingdom expansion. Whether you do it by giving resources or finances, helps and hospitality, or prayer and intercession, it should be a priority to lead people to Jesus.

Our mission today is intervention. Many of the young people in our neighborhoods or churches are having a hard time finding their way. They know there's more to life than what they see, but finding things that are true and meaningful often leaves them more confused than ever. Then there's Jesus. He has a way of touching them in a way parents and/or friends never could. The problem is they often are left to their own devices and consequently don't get pointed in His direction. Let's love them through this time of their lives by mentoring, prayer, and quality conversation. If there's a teen-ager or young person (19-25) in your area, seek them out and offer them a kind heart or a listening ear. Show them the love of Jesus today!

Let's Tear Down Those Walls!

Tuesday, April 13th, 2010

Today's Passage: Jeremiah 1:4-10
Memory Verse: Jer. 1:10

The other day, I watched without paying much attention as my co-worker slid her coins into a snack machine to retrieve a soda. When she pressed the button that was supposed to release it, nothing happened. Not really thinking a whole lot about it, I lazily wondered what she would do next. Then she began shaking the machine, bound and determined to get out what she was expecting when she put her money in.

What took place after that jolted me out of my daydreaming, and gave me a revelation I couldn't wait to share with you. At first one, then at least two more of our co-workers got up without even being asked and went to help her. In seconds, all four of them were bombarding that machine to cause the stubborn soda can to drop -- which it did immediately.

As I left our eating area that day, I pondered on the spiritual implications of this incident. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that our blessings and benefits, which our Father has promised to supply us daily (Ps. 68:19), are being held back by the enemy of our souls. So, in order to take them back, we must be as determined as my workmate was to get what was hers. We must not be shy in bombarding hell itself in Jesus' Name to command that satan let go of whatever belongs to us. But here's the other side of this that really got me.

What if no-one had gotten up to help her that day? I'm sure she would've still gotten that soda can out of that machine. But how much longer would she have had to stand there all alone? Brothers and sisters, this is the position in which many of us find ourselves -- not because the rest of us don't care, but because we're too wrapped up in our own lives to notice each other's needs.

God's promise to us today is that He has given us everything we need to uproot and tear down sin or the enemy's roadblocks which stand in the way of God's blessings. But until we join forces as believers, praying with the same dogged determination to see each other healed, delivered, and walking in God's abundant life, it will take us longer to get there. So for those of you who are bombarding the gates of hell today, the pastoral staff at Abundant Life Ministries comes into agreement with you that satan WILL loosen his hold on your stuff and release it into your hands. In the spirit, we join with you to demand your victory in every area where he's holding your life captive in any way.

As you find the chains loosening, and you begin to experience true freedom, don't forget to turn around and demand the same for others around you. Be blessed today, and let's tear down those walls!

Prayer: Father, thank You for such an awesome promise that You've already given me power to uproot evil and plant righteousness in its place. Please give me the grace and compassion to reach out and fight with and for others around me, for the building of Your kingdom. May we on one accord tear down every wall of the enemy. In Jesus' Name, Amen!

Walk In the Light

Monday, April 12, 2010

Today's Passage: Romans 13:11-14
Memory Verses: Rom.13:13

"Walk in the light" is a phrase that sounds like a cliche. To be honest, at first glance it gives the impression that we as believers are walking around with a giant flashlight over us, illuminating everything in our path and letting everyone around us know who we are. To some extent, that may be true. God does shine His holiness on us and sets us apart as examples of righteousness for Him. But there's something more.

Paul's words to us in this passage indicate that there is an aspect of this light that is our responsibility. Although God has done His part to bring the light to us, we have to embrace its power in our lives. Actually, Paul tells us to "cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light." This says to me that we can CHOOSE to walk in that light and be God's representatives on this earth. Or, we can continue to stay in the shadows and continue to perform deeds of darkness just to appease our flesh.

I don't think this passage is just about a physical position for us. The light, as Pastor Chris ministered today, is about living life abundantly, being about our Father's business, and doing His will on this earth. That's why we cannot afford to waste our time doing deeds that will not bring glory to His Name. This passage reminds us that we can be holy and have a great relationship with God. But if we're not doing anything to further His kingdom on this earth, our existence is as if we were walking in darkness.

So today, as you prepare to "walk in the light", let us use the power and authority we've been given to spend as much time pleasing our Father as we did breaking His heart when we were living for the enemy. Anything other than His best for us dims that light and lessens God's impact on this earth through us. May every step you take today be evidence to others that God is real and that He loves them.

Prayer: Father, You are so awesome! You didn't give up on me when I failed to manifest the light of Your love even as one of Your children. Now that I truly see who I am because of You, I want to shine with everything within me. Help me bring glory to Your Name today and everyday. In Jesus' Name,Amen.

Are You Expecting?

Today's Passage: Psalm 63:1-2

Memory Verse: Psalm 65:1

Sunday April 11, 2010

Happy Sunday Friends & Lifers!!! I hope you're expecting a mighty move of God in church today. That's what make our worship services meaningful: the expectation of the presence, power, and move of God. What if you were expecting an important letter or a check in the mail? Would you make sure you checked your mailbox everyday? Yes, you would. And you'd be diligent in doing so until your package arrived.

Well, my Friends, God has a "package" for you today. But His package fits only in boxes that are filled with expectation, not doubt. When you get to church, let God know you expect Him to move by offering Him energetic praise. Listen, the enemies of expectation are ignorance and hopelessness. If expectation is hard for you to come by, you either lack clear revelation of who Jesus is(ignorance), or you feel the situation you're in is hopeless. Think about a woman who discovered she was pregnant, or 'expecting'. Although she "couldn't see" the baby right away, she and her family made all the provisions for the day of delivery. There were showers and shopping trips, doctor's visits and vitamins, all for a promise yet to be fulfilled. On top of that, that mother rejoiced over every ounce of 'evidence' of the promise. She knew a change in appetite, a growing belly, and a slight kick signified the promise was on its way. Her expectation also sent her into protection mode. She made sure she kept herself from falling. And, anything she thought could bring harm to her promise was kept away. Why? Because she was 'expecting'. So look for great and mighty things to happen today. Don't let the enemy rob you of hope by focusing on the negative. For if God be for you, who can be against you? If you walk in obedience, you have the right to expect your Father's presence, His love, and His blessing!!!

You know what the challenge is today. It is to praise God with all your heart and all your might. Why? Because you're expecting Him to move without restraint, love us without restriction, and change us without hesitation. Happy Sunday!

Prayer:
Father, Your faithfulness is unmatched in all the Earth. I will remember You today as I enter this time of worship. My praise and my worship are Yours forever. Please have free reign to do with me as You see fit. And I'll rest in the spirit of expectation all the way. In Jesus name...Amen!

I Am!!!

Today's Passage: Exodus 3:13-14

Memory Verse: Psalm 27:4

Saturday April 10, 2010

Blessings, Friends & Lifers!!! One of the biggest questions on the minds and lips of the world today is: who is God? I don't think it's disrespectful to ask. After all, God wants us to know who He is, right? David said in Psalms there was one thing he desired of the Lord and that he would seek. It is to dwell in His house, INQUIRE in His temple, and behold His beauty(Psalm 27:4). God wants us to pursue Him. Incidently, the mystery of who God is is simply defined by our faith.

If I were to change the question from "who is God", to "who is God to you", it'd evoke a whole new pattern of thinking. Let's look to the book of Exodus to find inspiration. Chapter 3 brings us to an interesting conversation between God and Moses. Moses, after being given his assignment by God, asks God "when the children of Israel say to me what is His name, what should I say"? God said to Moses "I Am who I Am". He said "tell them I Am sent me to you". This scripture is a wonderful revelation to those who truly seek to identify our God. God made it such that when we're asked who He is, we don't need to think of some scientific definition. He's simply I Am. Meaning, who does my faith say He is? Some would say He's a deliverer of the addicted and depressed. Some would say He's a healer of the sick, and a Father to the abandoned. In other words, 'I Am' is God's way of saying I'm everything you need at the time you need it. If you seek Me first, everything you need will be provided (Matt 6:33). He eliminates the excuses we give not to have faith. Pastor Chad and Antoinette love to worship with a song we sing called "Everything to Me". The lyrics of the song describe to a tee the many things God can and will be for us if we allow Him.

Finally my Friends, I challenge you today to answer your own "who is God" questions. Consequently, if you don't have an answer to that question, how will the world get their answers? Take a moment to think about who God has been to you over the past few weeks, months, or even years. When you do, I know a smile will come across your face because a fresh revelation will immediately be birthed into your spirit. You'll come to realize that He hasn't just been this or that. In the end, He has consistently, wonderfully, and perfectly been....I Am!!!

Prayer:
Everything, everything; Lord You are, everything to me
Everything, everything; Lord You are, everything to me
My Treasure, My Priority; who can compare to You?
Great is the measure of Your royalty
Oh, Morning Star, You truly are.....Everything!

Wake Up!!!

Today's Passage: Proverbs 6:9-11

Memory Verse: Luke 22:46

Friday April 9, 2010

Blessings Friends & Lifers!!! There's nothing like a good, restful night's sleep. Proper rest is also required for adequate health and energy for daily functioning. But in everything we do there should be moderation right?

First of all, allow me to encourage you to get adequate rest for your mind and body. Go ahead, God won't get mad at you. Genesis 2:2 says "and on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He RESTED on the seventh day from all His work". But here's where we get messed up. God rested...but He didn't sleep. What's the difference? Rest is defined as the refreshing ease of quiet inactivity; or relief from worry, stress, or trouble; tranquility. Sleep is defined as being dormant, or the cessetion of consciousness. It's the state of being careless and unalert. See what I mean? We can allow ourselves to rest, but we can't allow ourselves to sleep. When Christians sleep, moral value gets diluted into the excuse of being politically correct. When Christians sleep, our carelessness numbs us to the conviction of the Holy Spirit. So we feel it's okay to compromise in certain areas of our lives. The enemy has even lulled us into a sleep called "religion". My friends, we must wake up and understand religion is a practice not a belief. But we sleepwalk into our sanctuaries every week desiring the same old practices, songs, and quotes; not realizing it's the enemy's ploy to keep us unconscious to the newness of Christ.

In closing, I challenge you today to wake up. Awaken to a new and fresh approach to your prayer, praise, and worship. Come alive with vigor, energy, freedom, and authority. Always remember energy and vitality are the result of rest, sin is the result of sleep. So put away the cookie-cut, religious patterns of your life and dare to be new. In other words....WAKE-UP!!!!

Prayer:
Father I thank You for making me new. I commit my mind to fresh thoughts of You and Your kingdom. Forgive me for my religious practices that made my walk more about me, and less about you. I awaken to Your glorious presence in a whole new way. In Jesus' name...Amen

Can I Get A Witness?

Today's Passage: Acts 22:15

Memory Verse: Acts 26:16

Thursday April 8, 2010

Blessings Friends & Lifers! Question: if something were to happen in your immediate surroundings and you needed to report it, would you be a good witness? To witness is to see, hear, or know by personal experience or perception. Think about something you've heard before. Can you attest to its truth with assurity? Maybe not, right? Now think of something you saw or exerienced. Can you attest to that with an assurity? Without a doubt!

God has a purpose for everything He creates. He said in Acts 22:15 "you will be His(Jesus) witness to all men of what you have seen and heard". God created the witness to share His goodness to those who may not visit a church or read a bible. Why? Because a witness' testimony will always hold more weight than an account read or heard. The two main characterisics of the true witness is you can't convince them that they didn't see what they saw, and they don't have trouble telling what they exprienced. So, in being true witnesses for Christ, we should be more confident than someone following other gods. Afterall, you've seen and exprienced what a real God can do. Also, witnesses for Christ look forward to sharing their experience with others. God's word says to rise and stand on your feet; for He has appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minster and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which He will yet reveal to you (Acts 26:16).

I challenge you to enhance your ability to witness today. You don't have to preach a 3-part sermon, or quote 20 scriptures. All a witness has to do is tell someone what they've seen or experienced. Who can argue with that? God has done awesome things in your life. He's blessed you in ways words couldn't adequately express. He knows we'd never be able to repay what He's given, so all He asks is that we do a simple thing that doesn't take much at all.......be a witness!

Prayer:
Father you are so faithful to me. I want to be a part of Your kingdom. I want everyone to know You like I know You. I speak to the witness inside me and I say "Arise". There are people who need to know You Jesus, and the only way they will is if I speak up and stand out. So I commit myself to finding ways to be a witness for you.....in Jesus name, Amen.

H.U.M.P. Day!!!

Wednesday April 7, 2010

Blessings Friends & Lifers! How good and pleasant it is for us to dwell together in unity. I don't think we understand how powerful we are when we're together under the umbrella of God's love. Unity protects those who are weak. It forms a defense against our enemy. And unity brings the blessing of life forever more.

Our mission today is unity. A great unity idea is planning a lunch or dinner outing with another believer. When you meet, talk about oppotunities for ministry in your neighborhood or in an area shelter. Ask each other why you feel gathering together is necessary and share answers. Make sure to ask one another for possible prayer requests. Doing this pleases God because He wants us to bear each others burdens (Gal. 6:2). So let's carry out the mission of unity today. God blesses His children who come together on one accord. Happy H.U.M.P. Day!!!

Ready...Set...Run!

Tuesday, April 6th, 2010

Today's Passage: Hebrews 12:1-2
Memory Verses: Heb. 12:1-2

RUNNING. Yet another word that never sits well with me when I think about getting myself into the healthy condition I need to be in. Somehow, I try to convince myself that I can "cut corners" or find other alternatives to this tried-and-true method of discipline, I'll still be able to lose weight. So I spend valuable time doing just enough to make me think a difference will be made in my body. Weeks go by, and I'm disappointed to find that I'm pretty much in the same place I was when I decided to take short cuts to discipline.

So here's another parallel for you: you've been inspired by the Holy Spirit to envision yourself living the successful life of a believer, daily walking in victory and giving the devil a run for his money. For some of us, this vision may include leading our family members to Christ; for others, it may entail being in the forefront of our generation, leading our friends and associates away from a life of worthless pursuits to abundant life in Jesus. But before any of this happens, Paul cautions us that some "weight" has to be shed off of us first.

Why is it so important to run this race? Why not just take giant steps? Surely there must be another way to get the weight off? You may have these questions in the back of your mind. Like me, you may not be accustomed to success in this area. But the failure isn't in WHAT we've been told to do; it's HOW we respond to it. Listen: there's a long list of believers who trusted in God and committed to doing it HIS way, and now we're reading about how they became victorious.

So I'm making a decision to trust that God has foreseen my success and pre-planned the steps I'm to take in living a victorious life. If I want the excess weight to come off, I must run with ENDURANCE. This means I must run with patient determination to get to the finish line. Does this mean I may not get tired, and that I'm not allowed to catch my breath? Certainly not! God knows if I've never run before, I need to start out in walk-run mode. As long as I DON'T STOP MOVING, I'll get to my destination. As long as I don't make excuses for why I can't be successful and quit when the going gets tough, I can do this.

The best part is that we have Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of this RACE of LIFE, Who was completely human, yet Who already went before us and won so we could see how it's done. Who's with me today? Anybody ready to run? Don't forget to stretch first -- spend time meditating on the Father and all His promises to us. And while you're running, remember to BREATHE -- breathe in all the goodness of our God, and breathe out anything that's not like Him. Pace yourself -- the race is not about being the fastest, but to the one who endures until the finish line. I think we're ready to do this.

Prayer: Father, today I focus on Your Son Jesus and His awesome example of how we are to run the race of faith. You've already given us everything we need to be successful, and I walk in all of it today. Thank You for the endurance to finish strong, no matter what challenges come. I will serve You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Press Toward the Mark

Monday, April 5th, 2010

Today's Passage: Philppians 3:7-16
Memory Verses: Phil.3:14-15

Exercise. Discipline. Self-control. Words it seems I've always cringed at everytime I heard them. I've always wondered why, after being gung-ho about starting a new exercise regimen, my enthusiasm would dwindle in only a few days. Why is it that, after deciding to embark on a journey to better health, I can't seem to focus long enough to carry it out?

As I pondered these things,the Holy Spirit brought to my remembrance this passage. Paul tells how I can stay focused. First,I must have a GOAL: what do I want to accomplish with this regimen? Have I written a vision about it that I can refer to constantly so that I don't give up so easily? In addition to that, have I made a commitment to do something DAILY that will bring me closer to that goal? And even when it's hard, do I PRESS THROUGH, or do I just give up?

If you haven't seen the parallel already, here it is: if you struggle with keeping your focus on spiritual things, falling off track more often than not, what Paul has to say will help you today. What are you focusing on? Are you dwelling more on your failures of the past than you are on what Christ purchased for your future? What IS your goal for this Christian journey? Are you simply content with living from one day to the next, trying to stay under the radar so the devil doesn't mess with you? Or have you been given a revelation of your PURPOSE, and won't let anything or anyone stop you until you're walking in it?

Today, I encourage you to take a minute and focus on our mark: the goal of pursuing a relationship with Christ that grows closer and more intimate as time goes by. We can't waste time worrying about mistakes of the past. All we have the energy to do is give God our all with every waking moment. And what an awesome Coach/Trainer we've been given: the Holy Spirit is always there, whispering God's Word to remind us of Whose we are as well as what God wants us to be doing. So if you're in need of Someone to encourage you and keep you on track, depend on Him. Just as I've realized I have everything I need to be successful on my journey to better health, you as a believer have the same. Press toward your mark today.

He Lives!!!

Today's Passage: Matthew 28:18

Memory Verse: Romans 6:23

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Blessings, Friends & Lifers! I have exciting news. Jesus Christ rose from the grave this morning. By the time your eyes opened today, Jesus had already conquered death and the grave. How's that for a busy night? So let's remember to celebrate this great victory. Go to the church of your choice and take advantage of this special moment. Let your praise be louder and more exuberant than ever before. He deserves it. He's worthy.

The challenge today is to understand what all this means. First of all, you are no longer a slave to the bondage of sin. You can choose to say no. Also, when the "accuser" comes to remind God of your guilt, Jesus' blood cleanses you of the evidence levied against you. Second, when Jesus walked out of that tomb, He walked out with all authority in His hands (Matt. 28:18). And He gave us that authority. Therefore, walk in your authority when the devil tempts you with the sins of his world. Walk in authority when your mind is distracted by the cares of life, or when the voice of discouragement is protesting against you. If you have authority over something, is it submitted to you, or are you submitted to it? So live free from the world's traps and strongholds, because those things only lead to death (Rom. 6:23). What would be much easier is to choose life. Life in Christ is always the smartest choice. You can choose Him today and live. After all.....He lives!!!!

Prayer:
Hallelujah! Lord, You reign forever! You've conquered death and the grave just for me. I will always be Yours. I claim authority in Your name over the devil and his works. Now I live, because You live!!! Amen...

Cover Me, In Recovery!!!

Today' Passage: Revelations 1:18

Memory Verse: Galatians 2:20

Saturday April 3, 2010

Blessings, Friends & Lifers! Today's devotional calls our attention to day two of resurrection weekend. As you know, yesterday Jesus was crucified on the cross for claiming to be a king. People watched as He took His last breath while hanging by His nailed hands & feet between 2 thieves. Because it was the Sabbath, there was no time to prepare for the proper rituals of mourning. So there He laid in wait. But was it wait, or was it recovery?

As Jesus laid in that cold, dark tomb, I'd like to think there were 3 things He wanted us to know. (1) Sometimes you find your purpose in the "darkest" hour of your situation. If Jesus hadn't allowed them to break His flesh, He would not have died, become "Spirit", and subsequently fulfilled His mission. He said in Revelations 1:18, "I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forever. And I have the keys of Hades(hell) and of death". (2) Not being able to "see" may be the avenue to your greatest vision. Jesus' natural eyes were rendered useless. So being able to percieve the darkness of the tomb was nullified. Also, natural eyesight would only show Him the lie of how "alone" He was, not the truth of His ever-present Father. (3) New life only comes after something old has died. Jesus said "destroy this temple and in 3 days I will raise it up again" (John 2:19). Paul summed it up by saying "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer "I" who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I now live by faith in the Son of God" (Galatians 2:20). If you want a life that's free from the bondage of sin, your old nature; which are your attitudes, habits, and mindsets, must die.

So, if you're experiencing persecution even though you've done everything the right way, and every ounce of strength seems to be leaving you, the challenge today is to ask God to cover you while you recover with His love and grace. Go ahead, say it..."cover me, while I'm in recovery". Now ask God to cover you while you recover your zeal to pursue Him. Ask Him to cover you while you recover the strength you lost in that broken relationship. You can even ask God to cover you as you learn how to breathe again. So many things and people have stifled your ability to receive a fresh breath of life and energy. Through God, you can recover that ability. So don't give up on your purpose and destiny. Where would we be if Jesus had given up before completing the process? C'mon, just cause you're down, doesn't mean you're out!!!

Prayer:
Lord, I rejoice in the power of Your resurrection. As your body lay still in that borrowed tomb, Your spirit is alive and conquering death as we speak. I'll never be able to thank You enough for what you've done for me. Because You overcame, I overcome....forever and ever!!!! In Your name I pray, Amen

The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power

Good Friday, 2010

Today's Passage: John 19
Memory Verses: Isaiah 53:4-5

Every year about this time, we stop to focus on the painful details of Christ's death to make sure we never forget what He went through for us. I didn't think the crucifixion could be any more real until Mel Gibson's representation in The Passion of the Christ. So what do we do with what we know about how Christ died for us? How do we live so that His shed blood loses none of its value in our lives?

We live daily knowing that when Jesus said, "It is finished", He meant it with every drop of blood that was shed. Christ bled on the outside when he was scourged with the cat-o'-nine-tails. And for that, I can bring to Him my transgressions, asking for forgiveness with a contrite heart, and know that I will be forgiven and set free. But Christ was also bruised on the inside, signifying that my iniquity, the inward struggles and bondages the enemy has used against me through my ancestors, were also covered under the blood, and as I repent for them and break the contract, I will walk away completely delivered.

So today, when we remember what He did, let us do it with joy in our hearts that Jesus' blood is still strong enough to cover every sickness, every problem, every trial, every fear, and every attack from the enemy. That blood was so strong that, even while His body lay in that borrowed tomb, Christ was in the bowels of hell itself, snatching the authority over all principalities and powers from satan, and taking the sting of sin and the grave away from him. And now, we live even on our worst days with that toothless lion under our feet.

Arise, men and women of God, and take your place. Walk in that authority,and apply the blood as liberally as you need it. This Good Friday, be filled with the hope of the cross, and the truth of everything that was purchased for you. Let the rest of the world focus on bunnies and eggs and candy. Spend your time praising our God for ransoming us from the tyranny of sin and death. And let the rest of your lives be lived as a testimony to the awesome power of the blood.

Prayer: Father, words will never be able to express how in awe of You I remain, especially today. Only the thought of my freedom and that of the entire world could have stopped You from calling a host of angels to get Your Son off that cross. And am I grateful You didn't. I live to honor You forever. Thank You for giving me the greatest gift I could've ever received: eternal life wrapped up in victory here on earth. In Jesus' Name, Amen.