Thursday, July 1, 2010
Today's Passage: Mark 7:7-8
Memory Verse: Mark 11:25
As we explore the curses that keep us from being fully blessed, let us discuss two major places of hinderance: Religion and Unforgiveness.
Mark 7:7-8 (Message) says: "They act like they are worshipping Me, but they don't mean it. They just use me as a cover for teaching whatever suits their fancy. Ditching God's command and taking up the latest fads." This passage is the perfect depiction of the religious life. Most religious people don't know they are. Their whole belief is centered around the fact that something is wrong with everyone else but them. They don't need passionate worship, they don't need faith, and being challenged to get to know God on a deeper level is unnecessary. Concern is for the religious lies in making sure the 'outside show' is intact.
Religion blocks blessing by keeping us from being flexible. It keeps us settled into one mindset that soon becomes old and out-dated. We immediately become inconvenienced by fresh moves of God. Church services become predictable and uninspiring. The letter of the law becomes what is worshipped instead of Christ Himself.
The Word of God is specific in its stance on forgiveness. Mark 11:25 says, "And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it's not all asking. If you have anything against someone, forgive--only then will your heavenly Father be inclined to also wipe your slate clean of sins". Quite simply, to be forgiven, we MUST forgive. Our very prayers are in jeopardy when we refuse to forgive our brother. What are you standing in need of today? Are you going to allow something as simple as unforgiveness to keep it from you? Our blessing is connected to our treatment of one another; not to how many times we attend church, or how much offering we give, or how loud we sing.
Unforgiveness blocks blessing by keeping us from knowing our place in God. If we don't forgive, we don't need forgiveness. If we don't need forgiveness, we don't need Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. That places us out of place with God. Jesus said " no man comes to the Father but by Me".
So I challenge you today to seek the Lord for freedom of spirit, and the ability to forgive. It is imperative that we understand these principles. The blessing designed for your life depends on it. Be blessed, my Friends....
Prayer: Lord, I need Your manifested presence in my life. I desire to walk in Your ways. I want to know You more and more. As I forgive others, I pray You're forgiving me. Now, I'm free to hear Your voice and follow You with my whole heart in Jesus name...Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day!!!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Happy Hump Day, Folks! We hope and pray you're having a great summer. Summer is a good time for those special ministry projects you've always wanted to do. How'd your Bible camps go, Lifers? I know some children were blessed by God through you, so way to go. Keep up the "God" work.
Today's mission is Retool. Yes, Retool for School! Get your outfits, shoes, and backpacks ready. One (or more) of God's children will be blessed by your awesome sacrifice. So let's get started, if you haven't already. God will reward your obedience. Also, you can't beat the feeling you get when you see His favor on a child. It literally gives you goosebumps! So get busy living, for Christ that is. Get out there and start being what God made. What did He make, you say? He made us to be "God Men" and "God Women".
Prayer: Thank You Lord, for giving me a heart like yours. I've set my heart to walk in your ways, to be what You intended. Cover me as I go into this world and try to make You famous. Your will is my will, now and forever...in Jesus' name, Amen.
Happy Hump Day, Folks! We hope and pray you're having a great summer. Summer is a good time for those special ministry projects you've always wanted to do. How'd your Bible camps go, Lifers? I know some children were blessed by God through you, so way to go. Keep up the "God" work.
Today's mission is Retool. Yes, Retool for School! Get your outfits, shoes, and backpacks ready. One (or more) of God's children will be blessed by your awesome sacrifice. So let's get started, if you haven't already. God will reward your obedience. Also, you can't beat the feeling you get when you see His favor on a child. It literally gives you goosebumps! So get busy living, for Christ that is. Get out there and start being what God made. What did He make, you say? He made us to be "God Men" and "God Women".
Prayer: Thank You Lord, for giving me a heart like yours. I've set my heart to walk in your ways, to be what You intended. Cover me as I go into this world and try to make You famous. Your will is my will, now and forever...in Jesus' name, Amen.
The Curses of Anger and Poverty
Tuesday, June 28th, 2010
Today's Passage: Numbers 20: 1-13
Memory Verse: James 5:16
This first curse is close to home because the effects of it still impact my family today. I cannot say for sure which ancestor passed it on to us, but I know without a shadow of a doubt that this was a generational curse that was passed on to me. The details of how this spirit manifested in my home when I was a child are a little fuzzy, but I do remember the blow-ups between my siblings. I also remember that I was often put down when I didn't get something right the first time, and that tempers flared easily at our house. Add that to a couple of really humiliating experiences in my young adulthood, and you've got a recipe for outbursts of anger that my children are still recovering from. All I can say is, praise God for freedom!
When I tell you that anger is something that stops you from walking in the blessings of God, it's from personal experience. But today's passage gives you a pretty close view of how negatively anger will impact a child of God. Moses was entrusted with the challenge of taking the children of Israel into the promised land, and he was not unfamiliar with their complaining. But he forgot that God's ways are not our ways, and neither are His thoughts ours. So when he openly disobeyed God's command to SPEAK to the rock, and struck it in an outburst of anger, his consequence was that he would not be able to see the promised land. Verse 12 shows God' heart on anger. When we focus more on things that we can't control and allow those things to dictate our emotions, we make our Father God look bad. We misrepresent Him in front of people who may interpret our behavior as something all Christians do. And as a result of of this, we forfeit the personal promised land we're praying for. As James tells us to do, confessing this fault to someone you trust will bring healing and freedom like you'd never imagine.
The next curse is something that has plagued believers for many generations: the spirit of poverty. It's the enemy's attempt to stop us from being the witnesses God intends. Rather than opening our spirits and asking the Owner of cattle on a thousand hills to open the windows of heaven over us so that we can be the blessing to this world in the end-time harvest, many of us are holding on to man-made traditions (NOT based on the Word) that are stopping our blessings. Many churches believe that Jesus was poor, so we were destined to be as well. Some believe that money itself is evil, when the Bible says that it's the LOVE of money that creates evil schemes and causes man to sin against God. Even more Christians are convinced that prosperity is not God's plan for us. No wonder many believers still do not tithe, and give very little offering to a church.
Which bring us to the basis of prosperity: why DO we want to be prosperous? If you were given a million dollars right now, what would you do with it? If you looked around you at the lifestyles of the rich and famous, the enormous parties and multiple cars are the result of the extent of their dreams. That's NOT why prosperity is being made available to the saints of the Most High God. Our Father wants us to be the answer to starvation, homelessness, slavery and every evil that's been unleashed on the earth by the enemy of our souls. The Word tells us to cast down imaginations (thoughts, basically) and everything that goes against the knowledge of God. So when we hold on to traditions that stop the financial blessings from coming through, we are also saying no to the Will of God on this earth. We need to get to the place where we're so devoted to God and His Will that, by faith we must get rid of everything that's not like Him -- starting today.
Prayer: Father, I believe everything that Your Word says I can be and do. Today I release myself from the spirits of anger and poverty. I declare that I SHALL prosper and be in health, even as my soul prospers. My desire is to make You famous with my life, my peace, my wealth, my giftings, and everything that bringsYou glory. I pray this same prayer for my brothers and sisters, asking that You get the glory out of their lives in every area as well. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Numbers 20: 1-13
Memory Verse: James 5:16
This first curse is close to home because the effects of it still impact my family today. I cannot say for sure which ancestor passed it on to us, but I know without a shadow of a doubt that this was a generational curse that was passed on to me. The details of how this spirit manifested in my home when I was a child are a little fuzzy, but I do remember the blow-ups between my siblings. I also remember that I was often put down when I didn't get something right the first time, and that tempers flared easily at our house. Add that to a couple of really humiliating experiences in my young adulthood, and you've got a recipe for outbursts of anger that my children are still recovering from. All I can say is, praise God for freedom!
When I tell you that anger is something that stops you from walking in the blessings of God, it's from personal experience. But today's passage gives you a pretty close view of how negatively anger will impact a child of God. Moses was entrusted with the challenge of taking the children of Israel into the promised land, and he was not unfamiliar with their complaining. But he forgot that God's ways are not our ways, and neither are His thoughts ours. So when he openly disobeyed God's command to SPEAK to the rock, and struck it in an outburst of anger, his consequence was that he would not be able to see the promised land. Verse 12 shows God' heart on anger. When we focus more on things that we can't control and allow those things to dictate our emotions, we make our Father God look bad. We misrepresent Him in front of people who may interpret our behavior as something all Christians do. And as a result of of this, we forfeit the personal promised land we're praying for. As James tells us to do, confessing this fault to someone you trust will bring healing and freedom like you'd never imagine.
The next curse is something that has plagued believers for many generations: the spirit of poverty. It's the enemy's attempt to stop us from being the witnesses God intends. Rather than opening our spirits and asking the Owner of cattle on a thousand hills to open the windows of heaven over us so that we can be the blessing to this world in the end-time harvest, many of us are holding on to man-made traditions (NOT based on the Word) that are stopping our blessings. Many churches believe that Jesus was poor, so we were destined to be as well. Some believe that money itself is evil, when the Bible says that it's the LOVE of money that creates evil schemes and causes man to sin against God. Even more Christians are convinced that prosperity is not God's plan for us. No wonder many believers still do not tithe, and give very little offering to a church.
Which bring us to the basis of prosperity: why DO we want to be prosperous? If you were given a million dollars right now, what would you do with it? If you looked around you at the lifestyles of the rich and famous, the enormous parties and multiple cars are the result of the extent of their dreams. That's NOT why prosperity is being made available to the saints of the Most High God. Our Father wants us to be the answer to starvation, homelessness, slavery and every evil that's been unleashed on the earth by the enemy of our souls. The Word tells us to cast down imaginations (thoughts, basically) and everything that goes against the knowledge of God. So when we hold on to traditions that stop the financial blessings from coming through, we are also saying no to the Will of God on this earth. We need to get to the place where we're so devoted to God and His Will that, by faith we must get rid of everything that's not like Him -- starting today.
Prayer: Father, I believe everything that Your Word says I can be and do. Today I release myself from the spirits of anger and poverty. I declare that I SHALL prosper and be in health, even as my soul prospers. My desire is to make You famous with my life, my peace, my wealth, my giftings, and everything that bringsYou glory. I pray this same prayer for my brothers and sisters, asking that You get the glory out of their lives in every area as well. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Curses that Block the Blessing
Monday, June 28th, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew 9:27-29
Memory Verses: Prov. 18:21
For the next couple of months, the book club at Abundant Life Ministries is reading the book Ten Curses that Block the Blessing by Pastor Larry Huch. We believe that nothing in the lives of believers is worth fighting for if we don't face the demons that threaten to stop us from being and doing what God wants us to be and do. So the first two that we'll be exposing are the curse of spoken words, and the curse of evil speaking.
In today's passage, Jesus encounters two blind men who cry out for Him to heal them. When Jesus asks if they believe He can do it, they reply that they do. That's when He makes a statement that will revolutionize all of our lives if we'll only walk in it: "According to your faith, let it be unto you." What Jesus wants us to know is that our faith affects the words we speak. But faith can be negative as well as positive, so whatsoever we speak is what we shall have. Proverbs says that the tongue has the power to create death or life for us. We fall into the trap of speaking death into our lives by the idle words we speak, not realizing that heaven and earth are listening to and recording the words we confess over ourselves and our loved ones.
The second area in which we open ourselves up to curses is the casual way we use our words to speak evil of, or gossip about, others. I didn't realize how much God hates this habit until I read scripture after scripture to back it. Romans 1: 29-32; 2 Corinthians 12:20; Palm 15:1-3; Deuteronomy 27:24; and Proverbs 6:16-19 are just a few of the passages that let us know God's heart on the matter. Remember that Galatians 6: 7 tells us we will reap whatever we sow. God doesn't want us to sow evil speaking, because the enemy uses it as a door to bring curses such as sicknesses and unfulfilled dreams into our lives.
This week's devotionals are really meant to give you a hunger to do more studying on these curses. We all need to search our hearts, asking for forgiveness in these two areas. We're all guilty of using our mouths to undo the blessings that we are praying for. It's time to begin closing the doors the enemy has been using to rob us of what God has for us.
Prayer: Father, I take time today to repent for every idle word I've spoken against myself and others. Give me the grace to begin choosing my words carefully, remembering that I am created in Your image. I realize that, in order to show that I am totally devoted to You, I need to be obedient in this area. Thank You for another chance to bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Matthew 9:27-29
Memory Verses: Prov. 18:21
For the next couple of months, the book club at Abundant Life Ministries is reading the book Ten Curses that Block the Blessing by Pastor Larry Huch. We believe that nothing in the lives of believers is worth fighting for if we don't face the demons that threaten to stop us from being and doing what God wants us to be and do. So the first two that we'll be exposing are the curse of spoken words, and the curse of evil speaking.
In today's passage, Jesus encounters two blind men who cry out for Him to heal them. When Jesus asks if they believe He can do it, they reply that they do. That's when He makes a statement that will revolutionize all of our lives if we'll only walk in it: "According to your faith, let it be unto you." What Jesus wants us to know is that our faith affects the words we speak. But faith can be negative as well as positive, so whatsoever we speak is what we shall have. Proverbs says that the tongue has the power to create death or life for us. We fall into the trap of speaking death into our lives by the idle words we speak, not realizing that heaven and earth are listening to and recording the words we confess over ourselves and our loved ones.
The second area in which we open ourselves up to curses is the casual way we use our words to speak evil of, or gossip about, others. I didn't realize how much God hates this habit until I read scripture after scripture to back it. Romans 1: 29-32; 2 Corinthians 12:20; Palm 15:1-3; Deuteronomy 27:24; and Proverbs 6:16-19 are just a few of the passages that let us know God's heart on the matter. Remember that Galatians 6: 7 tells us we will reap whatever we sow. God doesn't want us to sow evil speaking, because the enemy uses it as a door to bring curses such as sicknesses and unfulfilled dreams into our lives.
This week's devotionals are really meant to give you a hunger to do more studying on these curses. We all need to search our hearts, asking for forgiveness in these two areas. We're all guilty of using our mouths to undo the blessings that we are praying for. It's time to begin closing the doors the enemy has been using to rob us of what God has for us.
Prayer: Father, I take time today to repent for every idle word I've spoken against myself and others. Give me the grace to begin choosing my words carefully, remembering that I am created in Your image. I realize that, in order to show that I am totally devoted to You, I need to be obedient in this area. Thank You for another chance to bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Be Blessed!!!
Sunday June 27, 2010
On several occasions I've opened this devotional with "Blessings, Friends & Lifers". That's not just a vague statement put in place to solicit the reader's attention, I really desire that you be blessed. God's blessing is critical to the life of the Christian. Without it, there is no identifiable trace of His perfect love and care in our lives. To have God's "blessing" is to have His approval, not just His gifts. We must understand that being blessed allows us access to supernatural favor. Quite specifically, having His favor is better than life itself. Incidently, just as there are principles that access the blessing of God, there are also practices that block blessing. Let's explore them.
1) The Destructive Tongue- (what we say about ourselves)
2) Evil Speaking- (what we say about others)
3) Anger
4) Disobedience in Tithing
5) Witchcraft
6) Harming the Innocent
7) Unforgiveness
8) Racism
9) Legalism (religion)
10) Dishonoring Mother & Father
Of course we cannot get into all of them in today's devotional. We will however discuss a pair of them each day for the next few days. Our purpose is simple. We want our brothers and sisters to be blessed. We desire God's approval on your life. Ever wonder why you seem to get so close to that good thing, yet it always seems to slip away? Do you ever wonder why you can't seem to get to the next level? You're not alone. Most of us experience these feelings. Finally there's a "why" to our "what". Stay tuned my friends, the best is yet to come.
Okay, today is Sunday. So first of all, find your place of praise and offer God your total devotion. Don't let this day go by without giving Him all you got. Second, determine which of the principles above may be hindering you. Begin your own self-study. Meet us on this blog so we can compare notes. God wants you to be blessed. And if He wants you to have it, you may as well walk in it.
Prayer: Lord, we want all that You have said we can have. Because we pledge our devotion to You daily, we know You have the best in store for us. So take us on this journey to making You famous by walking in everything You want for us. Thank You for Your favor for life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
On several occasions I've opened this devotional with "Blessings, Friends & Lifers". That's not just a vague statement put in place to solicit the reader's attention, I really desire that you be blessed. God's blessing is critical to the life of the Christian. Without it, there is no identifiable trace of His perfect love and care in our lives. To have God's "blessing" is to have His approval, not just His gifts. We must understand that being blessed allows us access to supernatural favor. Quite specifically, having His favor is better than life itself. Incidently, just as there are principles that access the blessing of God, there are also practices that block blessing. Let's explore them.
1) The Destructive Tongue- (what we say about ourselves)
2) Evil Speaking- (what we say about others)
3) Anger
4) Disobedience in Tithing
5) Witchcraft
6) Harming the Innocent
7) Unforgiveness
8) Racism
9) Legalism (religion)
10) Dishonoring Mother & Father
Of course we cannot get into all of them in today's devotional. We will however discuss a pair of them each day for the next few days. Our purpose is simple. We want our brothers and sisters to be blessed. We desire God's approval on your life. Ever wonder why you seem to get so close to that good thing, yet it always seems to slip away? Do you ever wonder why you can't seem to get to the next level? You're not alone. Most of us experience these feelings. Finally there's a "why" to our "what". Stay tuned my friends, the best is yet to come.
Okay, today is Sunday. So first of all, find your place of praise and offer God your total devotion. Don't let this day go by without giving Him all you got. Second, determine which of the principles above may be hindering you. Begin your own self-study. Meet us on this blog so we can compare notes. God wants you to be blessed. And if He wants you to have it, you may as well walk in it.
Prayer: Lord, we want all that You have said we can have. Because we pledge our devotion to You daily, we know You have the best in store for us. So take us on this journey to making You famous by walking in everything You want for us. Thank You for Your favor for life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Undisputed!!!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Today's Passage: John 16:33 (Message)
Memory Verse: Same
Did you see the big fight on TV the other night? Okay, me neither, but I heard it was a doozy. The attraction to a championship fight is the fighters themselves. It's the unstoppable force versus the immovable object effect that draws millions of viewers. At the end of the night however, fans usually come face to face with the fact that one of the fighters wasn't so unstoppable or immovable at all. If you're one of those fans, today's your day. I'm going to introduce you to a conquerer Who's unstoppable AND immovable at the same time.
First, in the DEAD corner: It weighs in at a sinfully, unholy, disgusting, measure. It holds titles in the WDO (world depression organization), the IBF (ignorance, blasphemy, & fornication), and the WBC (worldy bounds & chains). It hails from all around. Its fight style is vulgar music, vulgar dancing, and foul language. It makes its home everywhere, but it was born in Sin, Hell. God loves them, but they refuse to accept it. Sinners and demons, put your hands together for: The World!
In the LIVE corner: The weight of His glory is unmatched. He holds titles in the CBO (conquered blindness organization, IBC (issue of blood coalition), and the MWL (miracle workers league). He hails from Heaven, but trained in Nazareth. His fight style is love, peace, and mercy. Saints and Angels, put your hands together for Jesus Christ!
Okay, all jokes aside. This is not even a fight. Jesus said in John 16:33 (Message) "I've told you all this so that trusting Me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this Godless world you will experience difficulties. But take heart! I'VE CONQUERED THE WORLD!" To put it plainly, there will be times when we take shots from the world. We'll take shots to the marriage, shots to the kids, and shots to our wallets. When the ref's not looking, it'll hit us below the belt too. That's the stuff that comes from out of left field that took you totally by surprise. This world will make sure we have difficulties. It doesn't like us. But we have to have what every successful fighter must possess: heart. My grandfather used to tell me that the size of the man in the fight is not as important as the size of the fight in the man. He meant you have to have heart to win this battle. You have to be able to take a shot and get back up again.
I challenge you today to have heart. It's the person with heart who discovers they have the ability to accomplish anything through Christ. It's the person with heart who realizes the battle is not even theirs....it's the Lord's. And He's the undisputed Champion.
Prayer: Thank You, God, for giving me the strength to conquer in Your name. With You, I can win every battle the world brings. It can't beat You; therefore, it can't beat me. I'll stay in Your presence always. I love You. I will not be afraid of the world, nor allow its temptations to take me away from You. I'll be one with You forever, God. In Jesus' name...Amen.
Today's Passage: John 16:33 (Message)
Memory Verse: Same
Did you see the big fight on TV the other night? Okay, me neither, but I heard it was a doozy. The attraction to a championship fight is the fighters themselves. It's the unstoppable force versus the immovable object effect that draws millions of viewers. At the end of the night however, fans usually come face to face with the fact that one of the fighters wasn't so unstoppable or immovable at all. If you're one of those fans, today's your day. I'm going to introduce you to a conquerer Who's unstoppable AND immovable at the same time.
First, in the DEAD corner: It weighs in at a sinfully, unholy, disgusting, measure. It holds titles in the WDO (world depression organization), the IBF (ignorance, blasphemy, & fornication), and the WBC (worldy bounds & chains). It hails from all around. Its fight style is vulgar music, vulgar dancing, and foul language. It makes its home everywhere, but it was born in Sin, Hell. God loves them, but they refuse to accept it. Sinners and demons, put your hands together for: The World!
In the LIVE corner: The weight of His glory is unmatched. He holds titles in the CBO (conquered blindness organization, IBC (issue of blood coalition), and the MWL (miracle workers league). He hails from Heaven, but trained in Nazareth. His fight style is love, peace, and mercy. Saints and Angels, put your hands together for Jesus Christ!
Okay, all jokes aside. This is not even a fight. Jesus said in John 16:33 (Message) "I've told you all this so that trusting Me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this Godless world you will experience difficulties. But take heart! I'VE CONQUERED THE WORLD!" To put it plainly, there will be times when we take shots from the world. We'll take shots to the marriage, shots to the kids, and shots to our wallets. When the ref's not looking, it'll hit us below the belt too. That's the stuff that comes from out of left field that took you totally by surprise. This world will make sure we have difficulties. It doesn't like us. But we have to have what every successful fighter must possess: heart. My grandfather used to tell me that the size of the man in the fight is not as important as the size of the fight in the man. He meant you have to have heart to win this battle. You have to be able to take a shot and get back up again.
I challenge you today to have heart. It's the person with heart who discovers they have the ability to accomplish anything through Christ. It's the person with heart who realizes the battle is not even theirs....it's the Lord's. And He's the undisputed Champion.
Prayer: Thank You, God, for giving me the strength to conquer in Your name. With You, I can win every battle the world brings. It can't beat You; therefore, it can't beat me. I'll stay in Your presence always. I love You. I will not be afraid of the world, nor allow its temptations to take me away from You. I'll be one with You forever, God. In Jesus' name...Amen.
True Freedom
Friday, June 25th, 2010
Today's Passage: Romans 6: 23
Memory Verse: Galatians 5:1
I often watch the exchange between the state prisoners and the guards who accompany them when they work on the roads. Sometimes these men are spread out over at least a hundred feet as they work on a stretch of road. At first glance, everything seems a little too relaxed. You would think that, if one of the prisoners made an attempt to escape, it would be almost impossible to catch him. But if you look closer, you'll see that there's a big enough ratio of guards to prisoners that would prevent this from happening. And wherever the guards are, you'd better believe there's enough firepower to stop the prisoner who dares to try breaking away dead in his tracks. So although these guys are more free than their compadres at the prison, they're not free at all.
Can you see the parallel to the spirit realm? Look around you: freedom is what people seem to be crying out for the most these days. They want freedom from religious "boundaries", freedom to say what they want, wear what they want, eat what they want, and marry who they want. But what they don't know is that there's an enemy of their souls who knows the rules to spiritual laws more than they do. The wages of sin has always been death, and will always be death as long as people keep choosing what the flesh wants. He's counting on the fact that they would mistake the laws of God for bondage because of how limiting they seem to be. Yet and still, the Father stands by with His arms wide open, willing us to accept His way because it's the only way out of death.
Ever since God created us, humanity has chosen what's easy over what's true. As a result, we open ourselves up to being devoured by the enemy, who is not so forgiving when we try to leave his camp and come back to God. Consequently, any of us who chooses "freedom" over truth is condemned to serving time for the devil, living life the way they think they want to. They don't see the demonic guards watching over and prompting them to do and say more evil. The moment they dare to break away, out come the guns, and the enemy immediately launches an all-out attack upon their lives, hoping to scare them back into serving him again without causing any trouble.
Here's the point of today's challenge: if you're like me, and you find yourself having escaped the terror of living for the devil because you realize who he really is, make up your mind NEVER to allow yourself to be bullied into accepting that false "freedom" again. Search your hearts, saints, and ask the Lord to show you any area in which you may be using the liberty that Jesus purchased for us on the cross to make excuses and give you a reason to be rebellious against God in any way. If I know anything about the enemy's camp, he never takes an inch without ultimately becoming the ruler. Hold fast to the Word of God and everything Jesus did to make us truly free. If you find yourself compromising and accepting sin in the lives of others -- even if you're not engaging in it personally -- the enemy is beginning to win. Let's never forget that nothing born of the enemy is innocent and harmless. Its ultimate purpose is to steal from, kill, and destroy us, rendering us powerless to take over the world for Jesus Christ. I bless you to shun worldly freedom and walk in that which is true: freedom in Jesus.
Prayer: Father, You went through so much to make sure I had access to true freedom. As the end times come closer, help me to cling to Your ways and be a shining example of what it means to walk in everything Jesus purchased on the cross. I declare over my life and over the lives of all your Saints today that there will be NO compromise, but rather pure choices to follow You with total devotion. Thank You for Jesus, and may my life always strive to make You famous. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Romans 6: 23
Memory Verse: Galatians 5:1
I often watch the exchange between the state prisoners and the guards who accompany them when they work on the roads. Sometimes these men are spread out over at least a hundred feet as they work on a stretch of road. At first glance, everything seems a little too relaxed. You would think that, if one of the prisoners made an attempt to escape, it would be almost impossible to catch him. But if you look closer, you'll see that there's a big enough ratio of guards to prisoners that would prevent this from happening. And wherever the guards are, you'd better believe there's enough firepower to stop the prisoner who dares to try breaking away dead in his tracks. So although these guys are more free than their compadres at the prison, they're not free at all.
Can you see the parallel to the spirit realm? Look around you: freedom is what people seem to be crying out for the most these days. They want freedom from religious "boundaries", freedom to say what they want, wear what they want, eat what they want, and marry who they want. But what they don't know is that there's an enemy of their souls who knows the rules to spiritual laws more than they do. The wages of sin has always been death, and will always be death as long as people keep choosing what the flesh wants. He's counting on the fact that they would mistake the laws of God for bondage because of how limiting they seem to be. Yet and still, the Father stands by with His arms wide open, willing us to accept His way because it's the only way out of death.
Ever since God created us, humanity has chosen what's easy over what's true. As a result, we open ourselves up to being devoured by the enemy, who is not so forgiving when we try to leave his camp and come back to God. Consequently, any of us who chooses "freedom" over truth is condemned to serving time for the devil, living life the way they think they want to. They don't see the demonic guards watching over and prompting them to do and say more evil. The moment they dare to break away, out come the guns, and the enemy immediately launches an all-out attack upon their lives, hoping to scare them back into serving him again without causing any trouble.
Here's the point of today's challenge: if you're like me, and you find yourself having escaped the terror of living for the devil because you realize who he really is, make up your mind NEVER to allow yourself to be bullied into accepting that false "freedom" again. Search your hearts, saints, and ask the Lord to show you any area in which you may be using the liberty that Jesus purchased for us on the cross to make excuses and give you a reason to be rebellious against God in any way. If I know anything about the enemy's camp, he never takes an inch without ultimately becoming the ruler. Hold fast to the Word of God and everything Jesus did to make us truly free. If you find yourself compromising and accepting sin in the lives of others -- even if you're not engaging in it personally -- the enemy is beginning to win. Let's never forget that nothing born of the enemy is innocent and harmless. Its ultimate purpose is to steal from, kill, and destroy us, rendering us powerless to take over the world for Jesus Christ. I bless you to shun worldly freedom and walk in that which is true: freedom in Jesus.
Prayer: Father, You went through so much to make sure I had access to true freedom. As the end times come closer, help me to cling to Your ways and be a shining example of what it means to walk in everything Jesus purchased on the cross. I declare over my life and over the lives of all your Saints today that there will be NO compromise, but rather pure choices to follow You with total devotion. Thank You for Jesus, and may my life always strive to make You famous. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Squirrel!
Thursday, June 24th, 2010
Today's Passage: James 1:25 (Message)
Memory Verse: Matthew 14:24-31 (Message)
Lol! Y'all remember that dog in the animated movie 'Up?' My kids (okay I did too) laughed loudly when he was talking to the man and stopped mid-sentence to acknowledge the squirrel he saw. The dog was so distracted, he couldn't stay focused long enough to properly introduce himself to the man. That was funny, but distraction in real Christian life is not.
James 1:25 says: "But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God (the free life) even out of the corner of his eye, AND STICKS WITH IT, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action." God's word is teaching us that we are either locked on to His will, or a bunch of people who.....squirrel! The mind is a delicate thing. It's a biological supercomputer. It's always analyzing, rationalizing, developing, planning, responding, and producing new thoughts. Therefore, it needs a focus; a bullseye. Because God is the only One who understands the mind, He put enough "mysteries" in His word to keep it busy. The reason He did that is He knew all satan needs is a distracted mind. Just one look away from God gives him enough space to cause trouble. satan (within himself) has no tangible power over us, but we give him power via distraction. Let's look at Peter. He looked out over the water and saw Jesus walking on it. He asked if he could meet Jesus on the water, and He allowed him to come. There was Peter, walking on water like Jesus. Then it happened.....Squirrel! As soon as Peter became distracted, natural law took over where spiritual law was abounding. He began to sink into the deep, forcing Jesus to save him. My Friends, Jesus allowed Peter to walk on the water because He had a theory. He wanted proof that a focused mind can leave the natural and "walk" in the supernatural upon request. Jesus was right, of course. Can you imagine our church services being full of supernatural occurrences; that "free life" mentioned in James? If we stay focused on God's will, we can have it.
I challenge you to find your focus. It's important to do so because a distracted mind leads one to a divided walk. Don't worry about the water (natural) under your feet. God's got you. Stay focused on Him, and nothing will stop you. You want the job over the person with the degree? Stay focused. You want health in spite of the doctor's report? Stay focused. God's got such great plans for you. Those plans are revealed more and more each time our Pastors speak to you on Sundays. Therefore, lock in and be attentive, or you'll miss the very thing you'll need to get to the next level of your life.
Prayer: Lord, You are my focus, and You have my undivided attention. I commit to listening to whatever You have to say. I repent for allowing myself to become distracted. So speak to my heart. It's ready for You now. Teach me how to live that free life You talk about in Your word. Show me Your glory, and I'll never look away again...in Jesus' name, Amen.
Today's Passage: James 1:25 (Message)
Memory Verse: Matthew 14:24-31 (Message)
Lol! Y'all remember that dog in the animated movie 'Up?' My kids (okay I did too) laughed loudly when he was talking to the man and stopped mid-sentence to acknowledge the squirrel he saw. The dog was so distracted, he couldn't stay focused long enough to properly introduce himself to the man. That was funny, but distraction in real Christian life is not.
James 1:25 says: "But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God (the free life) even out of the corner of his eye, AND STICKS WITH IT, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action." God's word is teaching us that we are either locked on to His will, or a bunch of people who.....squirrel! The mind is a delicate thing. It's a biological supercomputer. It's always analyzing, rationalizing, developing, planning, responding, and producing new thoughts. Therefore, it needs a focus; a bullseye. Because God is the only One who understands the mind, He put enough "mysteries" in His word to keep it busy. The reason He did that is He knew all satan needs is a distracted mind. Just one look away from God gives him enough space to cause trouble. satan (within himself) has no tangible power over us, but we give him power via distraction. Let's look at Peter. He looked out over the water and saw Jesus walking on it. He asked if he could meet Jesus on the water, and He allowed him to come. There was Peter, walking on water like Jesus. Then it happened.....Squirrel! As soon as Peter became distracted, natural law took over where spiritual law was abounding. He began to sink into the deep, forcing Jesus to save him. My Friends, Jesus allowed Peter to walk on the water because He had a theory. He wanted proof that a focused mind can leave the natural and "walk" in the supernatural upon request. Jesus was right, of course. Can you imagine our church services being full of supernatural occurrences; that "free life" mentioned in James? If we stay focused on God's will, we can have it.
I challenge you to find your focus. It's important to do so because a distracted mind leads one to a divided walk. Don't worry about the water (natural) under your feet. God's got you. Stay focused on Him, and nothing will stop you. You want the job over the person with the degree? Stay focused. You want health in spite of the doctor's report? Stay focused. God's got such great plans for you. Those plans are revealed more and more each time our Pastors speak to you on Sundays. Therefore, lock in and be attentive, or you'll miss the very thing you'll need to get to the next level of your life.
Prayer: Lord, You are my focus, and You have my undivided attention. I commit to listening to whatever You have to say. I repent for allowing myself to become distracted. So speak to my heart. It's ready for You now. Teach me how to live that free life You talk about in Your word. Show me Your glory, and I'll never look away again...in Jesus' name, Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day!!!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
"Be generous to the poor--you'll never go hungry..."
God's promises are sure....even when the economy is bad. We just have to position ourselves to activate the promise. Everytime a promise/blessing was issued by God, there was a "statement of activation" preceding or following it. I mean, we know God's not a slot machine, but His design basically says: "If I can get it THROUGH you, I can get it TO you." The above quote comes from Proverbs 28:27 (Message). Within it you'll see a promise preceded by a statement of activation. The promise 'you'll never go hungry' is led by the statement 'be generous to the poor.' Which means if we want to walk in abundance, we must make abundance happen for someone else.
Our mission today is generosity. Find someone who may be less fortunate than you and bless them. Try to provide a meal or something they can use to help get through this hot summer (hat, sunglasses, etc). Be creative in your approach. The more thought you put into them, the more thought God puts into you. Giving to someone less fortunate always makes God's heart smile. Oh, and when they ask you why you're doing it, just tell them you give..... to keep from going hungry.
"Be generous to the poor--you'll never go hungry..."
God's promises are sure....even when the economy is bad. We just have to position ourselves to activate the promise. Everytime a promise/blessing was issued by God, there was a "statement of activation" preceding or following it. I mean, we know God's not a slot machine, but His design basically says: "If I can get it THROUGH you, I can get it TO you." The above quote comes from Proverbs 28:27 (Message). Within it you'll see a promise preceded by a statement of activation. The promise 'you'll never go hungry' is led by the statement 'be generous to the poor.' Which means if we want to walk in abundance, we must make abundance happen for someone else.
Our mission today is generosity. Find someone who may be less fortunate than you and bless them. Try to provide a meal or something they can use to help get through this hot summer (hat, sunglasses, etc). Be creative in your approach. The more thought you put into them, the more thought God puts into you. Giving to someone less fortunate always makes God's heart smile. Oh, and when they ask you why you're doing it, just tell them you give..... to keep from going hungry.
"The Turn"
Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010
Today's Passage: Proverbs 1
Memory Verses: Prov. 1: 5-7
Two weeks ago, Pastors Chad and Nette released a word about "The Turn" -- declaring to us that total devotion brings you to a point of decision about how deeply you're going to follow Christ. This passage really ties into that message. In order to make a TURN, one key thing that we must set our hearts and minds to receive is wisdom from the Holy Spirit. God wants to give us instruction in wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity. He wants us to be wise by hearing the Word of life and increase in learning. GOD DOES NOT WANT HIS CHILDREN IGNORANT OF THE ENEMY'S DEVICES AND SCHEMES (2 Corinthians 2:11).
So what may be missing from our hearts that make it hard to receive this wisdom? The fear of the Lord. This passage says that the spirit of wisdom is calling out daily, and when we fear (reverence, deeply respect) the Lord, knowing that we need Him to be successful, He makes evident the traps the enemy has set for us. Fear of God wil stop us from allowing those who want "quick fixes" in their situatons to have influence over us. When we hear the voice of the Spirit of wisdom call out for us to stay away from anything that's unlike God, we must make "THE TURN" immediately. Our lives depend upon our falling out of agreement with EVERY form of evil, or it will literally set a trap right in front of us, but we won't see it.
For every one of God's conditions, there are rewards. So here's the reward you'll receive if you decide to make the turn today. The Father promises that He will pour out His Spirit upon us and make known to us His words. No longer will we be in the dark about the enemy's plans for us. To be honest, Saints, many times when we arrive at a crossroads in our lives, we use these words: "I don't know what to do." But what we're really saying is, "I don't know whether or not I really want to follow God's way or hold on to my own way of doing things." God's way is steadfast and clear -- the only sure path we can take. He has not made His way cloudy before us the way the enemy does.
So everytime we hesitate when it's time to make the turn, it reveals what's deep inside of our hearts. Do we REALLY want to serve God with everything that's within us? Or do we just want what we can get right now, even if it means compromising and breaking God's heart? Saints, let's search our hearts today and decide in advance before we even get to the crossroads that it's all or nothing when it comes to serving God. Once and for all, know that He loves us and will never require us to do anything that will hurt us. So join the Totally Devoted to Jesus movement and make THE TURN today.
Prayer: Father, I can remember countless times when I went my own way and ignored Your commands. All I received was hurt and loss. But everytime I've obeyed You, I've enjoyed peace, joy, and abundant life. May I never lose my fear of You, and may I continue to increase in learning Your wisdom and instruction. No matter what the cost, it's worth the safety and security that I'll live in. Be ever glorified in this life in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Proverbs 1
Memory Verses: Prov. 1: 5-7
Two weeks ago, Pastors Chad and Nette released a word about "The Turn" -- declaring to us that total devotion brings you to a point of decision about how deeply you're going to follow Christ. This passage really ties into that message. In order to make a TURN, one key thing that we must set our hearts and minds to receive is wisdom from the Holy Spirit. God wants to give us instruction in wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity. He wants us to be wise by hearing the Word of life and increase in learning. GOD DOES NOT WANT HIS CHILDREN IGNORANT OF THE ENEMY'S DEVICES AND SCHEMES (2 Corinthians 2:11).
So what may be missing from our hearts that make it hard to receive this wisdom? The fear of the Lord. This passage says that the spirit of wisdom is calling out daily, and when we fear (reverence, deeply respect) the Lord, knowing that we need Him to be successful, He makes evident the traps the enemy has set for us. Fear of God wil stop us from allowing those who want "quick fixes" in their situatons to have influence over us. When we hear the voice of the Spirit of wisdom call out for us to stay away from anything that's unlike God, we must make "THE TURN" immediately. Our lives depend upon our falling out of agreement with EVERY form of evil, or it will literally set a trap right in front of us, but we won't see it.
For every one of God's conditions, there are rewards. So here's the reward you'll receive if you decide to make the turn today. The Father promises that He will pour out His Spirit upon us and make known to us His words. No longer will we be in the dark about the enemy's plans for us. To be honest, Saints, many times when we arrive at a crossroads in our lives, we use these words: "I don't know what to do." But what we're really saying is, "I don't know whether or not I really want to follow God's way or hold on to my own way of doing things." God's way is steadfast and clear -- the only sure path we can take. He has not made His way cloudy before us the way the enemy does.
So everytime we hesitate when it's time to make the turn, it reveals what's deep inside of our hearts. Do we REALLY want to serve God with everything that's within us? Or do we just want what we can get right now, even if it means compromising and breaking God's heart? Saints, let's search our hearts today and decide in advance before we even get to the crossroads that it's all or nothing when it comes to serving God. Once and for all, know that He loves us and will never require us to do anything that will hurt us. So join the Totally Devoted to Jesus movement and make THE TURN today.
Prayer: Father, I can remember countless times when I went my own way and ignored Your commands. All I received was hurt and loss. But everytime I've obeyed You, I've enjoyed peace, joy, and abundant life. May I never lose my fear of You, and may I continue to increase in learning Your wisdom and instruction. No matter what the cost, it's worth the safety and security that I'll live in. Be ever glorified in this life in Jesus' Name. Amen.
The Valley of Decision
Monday, June 21st, 2010
Today's Passage: 2 Kings 7:3-8
Memory Verse: 2 Kings 7:3-4
Decisions. For the past few days, I've heard this word, and am beginning to realize how tightly connected it is to our receiving anything from God. If you think about it, almost every life example in the Bible we live by tells a story of someone hearing a Word from God and acting on it. In the book of Esther, we find that this young woman positions herself to become queen by honoring her older cousin, Mordecai, and doing things exactly the way he told her to. Later on, when she discovers that her people as a whole were in danger of being destroyed, she is able to use this position to reverse the situation.
Let's take a look at David. Although he had already been anointed king (which meant he had nothing to prove, and all he had to do was wait until Saul was removed), something stirred on the inside of him, propelling him to participate in his destiny. He made the decision to take a stand against Goliath, not allowing the inconveniences of his size and the fact that he was standing alone to stop him from doing so. What about the disciples? Each time Jesus met one of them and called them to serve Him, they responded with a decision. Only a few times did God push people into their destiny without their consent. Joseph, for example, was sold into slavery and served strangers before his dream was realized. Saul was stopped in his tracks by Jesus, Who turned him the other way by speaking audibly from heaven. But the majority of the time, it was all about people being given a decision that was left up to them.
In today's passage, we find that four lepers are in this same valley of decision. They realize that just sitting in that place where the famine was would be just as bad as going back to what they knew. So they make up their minds to MOVE in the direction of destiny, aware of the possibility of death. They come to the understanding that they have nothing to lose either way, so they might as well go where they'd never gone before. Now, as soon as they get there, God has prepared for their success by eliminating their enemies IN ADVANCE. Get this, Saints: God has no problem doing His part to get us to our destiny. But if those lepers had never ACTED on their decision to go to the Syrian camp, they wouldn't have enjoyed plundering the food and riches.
Now it's your turn. What is the Lord calling YOU to do that you may be reluctant to act on for whatever reason? In what area of your life is God requiring you to MOVE or TURN and do things His way? You may want to use this story to motivate you to act without delay. Your very life may depend on it -- your spiritual life, that is. Why sit here and starve to death where you are, when God has riches untold for you to claim? If you're willing to admit that you're not walking in everything God has provided for you, make a decision to OBEY and MOVE today. There are certain spiritual laws we all must satisfy if we're going to see this end-time harvest fulfilled. We must show God our TOTAL devotion by ignoring every inconvenience and reaching for the things of Him with all our hearts. I'm ready to see and experience everything God ordained: aren't you?
Prayer: Father, thank You for reminding me today that my will has to be lined up with Yours in order for me to receive all You have for me. Yes, there are giants in the promised land, but You've given me the giant- slaying anointing. Nothing is impossible for me to accomplish today because You live. So live BIG in me, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Today's Passage: 2 Kings 7:3-8
Memory Verse: 2 Kings 7:3-4
Decisions. For the past few days, I've heard this word, and am beginning to realize how tightly connected it is to our receiving anything from God. If you think about it, almost every life example in the Bible we live by tells a story of someone hearing a Word from God and acting on it. In the book of Esther, we find that this young woman positions herself to become queen by honoring her older cousin, Mordecai, and doing things exactly the way he told her to. Later on, when she discovers that her people as a whole were in danger of being destroyed, she is able to use this position to reverse the situation.
Let's take a look at David. Although he had already been anointed king (which meant he had nothing to prove, and all he had to do was wait until Saul was removed), something stirred on the inside of him, propelling him to participate in his destiny. He made the decision to take a stand against Goliath, not allowing the inconveniences of his size and the fact that he was standing alone to stop him from doing so. What about the disciples? Each time Jesus met one of them and called them to serve Him, they responded with a decision. Only a few times did God push people into their destiny without their consent. Joseph, for example, was sold into slavery and served strangers before his dream was realized. Saul was stopped in his tracks by Jesus, Who turned him the other way by speaking audibly from heaven. But the majority of the time, it was all about people being given a decision that was left up to them.
In today's passage, we find that four lepers are in this same valley of decision. They realize that just sitting in that place where the famine was would be just as bad as going back to what they knew. So they make up their minds to MOVE in the direction of destiny, aware of the possibility of death. They come to the understanding that they have nothing to lose either way, so they might as well go where they'd never gone before. Now, as soon as they get there, God has prepared for their success by eliminating their enemies IN ADVANCE. Get this, Saints: God has no problem doing His part to get us to our destiny. But if those lepers had never ACTED on their decision to go to the Syrian camp, they wouldn't have enjoyed plundering the food and riches.
Now it's your turn. What is the Lord calling YOU to do that you may be reluctant to act on for whatever reason? In what area of your life is God requiring you to MOVE or TURN and do things His way? You may want to use this story to motivate you to act without delay. Your very life may depend on it -- your spiritual life, that is. Why sit here and starve to death where you are, when God has riches untold for you to claim? If you're willing to admit that you're not walking in everything God has provided for you, make a decision to OBEY and MOVE today. There are certain spiritual laws we all must satisfy if we're going to see this end-time harvest fulfilled. We must show God our TOTAL devotion by ignoring every inconvenience and reaching for the things of Him with all our hearts. I'm ready to see and experience everything God ordained: aren't you?
Prayer: Father, thank You for reminding me today that my will has to be lined up with Yours in order for me to receive all You have for me. Yes, there are giants in the promised land, but You've given me the giant- slaying anointing. Nothing is impossible for me to accomplish today because You live. So live BIG in me, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
I Was Neglecting "HIM"!!!
Sunday, June 20th, 2010
Today's Passage: Hebrews 13:5-6
Memory Verse: Same
Happy Father's Day!
For the longest time, my testimony has been that I grew up without a father. The fact is, I can't remember a man being there to teach me how to run fast, or throw a football. For the life of me, I can't remember a man being there on Christmas morning. He wasn't on the floor with me making sure my Dukes of Hazard racecar worked properly. I'm sorry, but I just don't remember!
Let's go back to the summer of 1983. I'm up to bat against the fastest pitcher in the league. As I stood in the batter's box, thoughts of my dad crossed my mind. "If he were only here to help me with this fear." "Strike one!" yelled the umpire. A huge knot grew in my gut. This guy was throwing the baseball like a blazing fireball. My friend's dad was trying to encourage me, but it wasn't "his" voice. "Strike two!" Okay now, I'm really scared. Consequently, while standing at the cusp of giving up, I heard that still small voice admist the shouting of the crowd say: "You can do it Chris, hit that ball." It was Momma, not my daddy. So with tears in my eyes, I took the most desperate swing I could take. "Clink!" The crowd yelled as I realized I had hit the ball....HARD! The ball walked a tightrope down the first base line deep into right field. I ran as fast as I could. It was a homerun. After crossing home plate, my mom was at the dugout gate ready to hug me. She kept saying she knew I could do it. It made me feel good. However, as a young boy, I was still frustrated because "he" wasn't there.
As I grew older, I became used to a female's voice in the shadows behind me when I was being celebrated: at 5th grade spelling bee, 8th grade graduation, high school graduation, then college, etc. But the day I gave my life to Jesus, there was only one voice celebrating me. It was HIS. When I heard it for the first time, I felt so confident and secure. Then it happened, the day I got married. I was sitting in the waiting room and God spoke to me. "You've done well, son", He said. Hearing his voice was always comforting, but here was another big moment in my life and "he" wasn't here. Then God, being the Father He is, began to tell me my story. He said, "You've done well in all your accomplishments." And you've always had my favor on your life. Yes God, but why was I never good enough to have a father? "You've had one, Chris." I was there when you asked who would be your mother. I was comforting you through the nightmares. I even helped you hit your first homerun. See, you've always had a loving father. You father wasn't neglecting you, you've been neglecting Him. See, My word says that I will never leave you nor forsake you. Also, I'll be with you always, even until this world ends. I didn't lie, Chris. Who do you think has been covering you, preserving you, and favoring you? I had nothing else to say but "Please forgive me, God. Forgive me for neglecting You all these years."
Today, I challenge you to appreciate your Father. If you've had the benefit of having your biological father, then celebrate him; but celebrate God as well. If your background is like mine, celebrate your spiritual Father. He has cared for us in ways no-one else ever could. Fathers are special. They have the most profound effect on our lives. We love all our Dads today and everyday. But there is NO other Father like God.
Prayer: Father, I'm reminded that even if my earthly father had been in my life, he couldn't compare to You. You were in my past way before I was even born, and You're the only One Who can go into my tomorrow to get it ready for my success. I will spend eternity thanking You for always being there. Happy Father's Day.
Today's Passage: Hebrews 13:5-6
Memory Verse: Same
Happy Father's Day!
For the longest time, my testimony has been that I grew up without a father. The fact is, I can't remember a man being there to teach me how to run fast, or throw a football. For the life of me, I can't remember a man being there on Christmas morning. He wasn't on the floor with me making sure my Dukes of Hazard racecar worked properly. I'm sorry, but I just don't remember!
Let's go back to the summer of 1983. I'm up to bat against the fastest pitcher in the league. As I stood in the batter's box, thoughts of my dad crossed my mind. "If he were only here to help me with this fear." "Strike one!" yelled the umpire. A huge knot grew in my gut. This guy was throwing the baseball like a blazing fireball. My friend's dad was trying to encourage me, but it wasn't "his" voice. "Strike two!" Okay now, I'm really scared. Consequently, while standing at the cusp of giving up, I heard that still small voice admist the shouting of the crowd say: "You can do it Chris, hit that ball." It was Momma, not my daddy. So with tears in my eyes, I took the most desperate swing I could take. "Clink!" The crowd yelled as I realized I had hit the ball....HARD! The ball walked a tightrope down the first base line deep into right field. I ran as fast as I could. It was a homerun. After crossing home plate, my mom was at the dugout gate ready to hug me. She kept saying she knew I could do it. It made me feel good. However, as a young boy, I was still frustrated because "he" wasn't there.
As I grew older, I became used to a female's voice in the shadows behind me when I was being celebrated: at 5th grade spelling bee, 8th grade graduation, high school graduation, then college, etc. But the day I gave my life to Jesus, there was only one voice celebrating me. It was HIS. When I heard it for the first time, I felt so confident and secure. Then it happened, the day I got married. I was sitting in the waiting room and God spoke to me. "You've done well, son", He said. Hearing his voice was always comforting, but here was another big moment in my life and "he" wasn't here. Then God, being the Father He is, began to tell me my story. He said, "You've done well in all your accomplishments." And you've always had my favor on your life. Yes God, but why was I never good enough to have a father? "You've had one, Chris." I was there when you asked who would be your mother. I was comforting you through the nightmares. I even helped you hit your first homerun. See, you've always had a loving father. You father wasn't neglecting you, you've been neglecting Him. See, My word says that I will never leave you nor forsake you. Also, I'll be with you always, even until this world ends. I didn't lie, Chris. Who do you think has been covering you, preserving you, and favoring you? I had nothing else to say but "Please forgive me, God. Forgive me for neglecting You all these years."
Today, I challenge you to appreciate your Father. If you've had the benefit of having your biological father, then celebrate him; but celebrate God as well. If your background is like mine, celebrate your spiritual Father. He has cared for us in ways no-one else ever could. Fathers are special. They have the most profound effect on our lives. We love all our Dads today and everyday. But there is NO other Father like God.
Prayer: Father, I'm reminded that even if my earthly father had been in my life, he couldn't compare to You. You were in my past way before I was even born, and You're the only One Who can go into my tomorrow to get it ready for my success. I will spend eternity thanking You for always being there. Happy Father's Day.
We Need Fathers!!!
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 4:15 (NKJV)
Memory Verse: Hebrews 12:6-8 (Message)
Before considering yourself an educated person, you'd have to attend a lot of school, thus enduring a lot of teachers. Every teacher will impact your life in some way. Just think, they spend at least 90 days within a school year instructing, guiding, and advising you. Hats off to the teachers who have gone above and beyond. These are the ones who make you feel like they've invested in you. The last thing you'd ever want to do is let them down. Each day they challenge your strengths, and have patience for your weaknesses. With all that said and done, they don't even scratch the surface of who a "father" is.
1 Corinthians 4:15 (NKJV), says "For though you might have 10,000 instructors, you don't have many fathers." Paul's statement is not a slight to teachers by any stretch of the imagination. It just draws the line to the roles each position plays. For instance, as we mentioned before, most teachers are great people. They do the best they can to make sure their students know what's being taught them. Lately, teachers have become parents, nurses, psychologists, law enforcement officers, and mentors now that the landscape of the education system has offered so many challenges. However, it's all done on a temporary basis, for a temporary purpose. Fathers, conversely, are forever. Not only do they teach us things for a lifetime, but also their teaching is not limited to the 3 R's. Teachers can only teach with the hopes you will understand the subject matter as the year goes along. Fathers "walk" with us step by step. You'll find them when you're being applauded for getting it all right, and you'll find them when you're all alone after getting it wrong. Their chastisement is just as impactful as their reward.
Listen, friends, it's okay to have teachers, but to get anywhere in life you have to have someone "fathering" you. You need that covering, that protection, and that favor. Those of you who have ministry in them and pastoring is in the plan for you, don't do it until you've established for yourself a Godly covering. you can never plant and/or raise up an effective ministry if you don't have anyone to be accountable to. Elisha needed an Elijah. Joshua needed Moses. Ruth needed Naomi, and Silas/Timothy needed Paul. Those are only a few examples of the relationship I'm talking about. I was an adult before I learned how to be a man. After submitting my life totally to Christ, I asked a man named Ray Willis to be my spiritual father. Now I have many teachers (again, nothing wrong with that), and they mean the world to me, but Ray Willis walked me through the nuances of man and fatherhood. His loving hand didn't always feel good. Neither does God's. And we all know God chasens those He loves. However, he's always there when I need him. Now I get that kind of fathering to a greater degree from Chad Willis (his son). It all works out for me. It'll work out for you too.
Incidently, I have a few spiritual sons myself now. So as they look to me for guidance and truth, I don't have to create anything. I just offer them the same covering that's being offered to me. That's the way it works, folks. So the challenge this Father's Day is to find your father. Yes, you should spend the day offering love and appreciation to your biological father, but find your spiritual father as well. Let that person guide you through your life. Know that accountability to a trusted one is not only a good thing, it's a God thing. God bless and Happy Father's Day!!!
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for being such a loving Father. You are the pattern of perfection for every "dad" on Earth. True love for our children can only come from you, but Lord, we as adults need the covering, guidance, and favor that comes from a loving father also. Happy father's Day to the BEST Father ever. We love You God....forever! In Jesus' name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 4:15 (NKJV)
Memory Verse: Hebrews 12:6-8 (Message)
Before considering yourself an educated person, you'd have to attend a lot of school, thus enduring a lot of teachers. Every teacher will impact your life in some way. Just think, they spend at least 90 days within a school year instructing, guiding, and advising you. Hats off to the teachers who have gone above and beyond. These are the ones who make you feel like they've invested in you. The last thing you'd ever want to do is let them down. Each day they challenge your strengths, and have patience for your weaknesses. With all that said and done, they don't even scratch the surface of who a "father" is.
1 Corinthians 4:15 (NKJV), says "For though you might have 10,000 instructors, you don't have many fathers." Paul's statement is not a slight to teachers by any stretch of the imagination. It just draws the line to the roles each position plays. For instance, as we mentioned before, most teachers are great people. They do the best they can to make sure their students know what's being taught them. Lately, teachers have become parents, nurses, psychologists, law enforcement officers, and mentors now that the landscape of the education system has offered so many challenges. However, it's all done on a temporary basis, for a temporary purpose. Fathers, conversely, are forever. Not only do they teach us things for a lifetime, but also their teaching is not limited to the 3 R's. Teachers can only teach with the hopes you will understand the subject matter as the year goes along. Fathers "walk" with us step by step. You'll find them when you're being applauded for getting it all right, and you'll find them when you're all alone after getting it wrong. Their chastisement is just as impactful as their reward.
Listen, friends, it's okay to have teachers, but to get anywhere in life you have to have someone "fathering" you. You need that covering, that protection, and that favor. Those of you who have ministry in them and pastoring is in the plan for you, don't do it until you've established for yourself a Godly covering. you can never plant and/or raise up an effective ministry if you don't have anyone to be accountable to. Elisha needed an Elijah. Joshua needed Moses. Ruth needed Naomi, and Silas/Timothy needed Paul. Those are only a few examples of the relationship I'm talking about. I was an adult before I learned how to be a man. After submitting my life totally to Christ, I asked a man named Ray Willis to be my spiritual father. Now I have many teachers (again, nothing wrong with that), and they mean the world to me, but Ray Willis walked me through the nuances of man and fatherhood. His loving hand didn't always feel good. Neither does God's. And we all know God chasens those He loves. However, he's always there when I need him. Now I get that kind of fathering to a greater degree from Chad Willis (his son). It all works out for me. It'll work out for you too.
Incidently, I have a few spiritual sons myself now. So as they look to me for guidance and truth, I don't have to create anything. I just offer them the same covering that's being offered to me. That's the way it works, folks. So the challenge this Father's Day is to find your father. Yes, you should spend the day offering love and appreciation to your biological father, but find your spiritual father as well. Let that person guide you through your life. Know that accountability to a trusted one is not only a good thing, it's a God thing. God bless and Happy Father's Day!!!
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for being such a loving Father. You are the pattern of perfection for every "dad" on Earth. True love for our children can only come from you, but Lord, we as adults need the covering, guidance, and favor that comes from a loving father also. Happy father's Day to the BEST Father ever. We love You God....forever! In Jesus' name, Amen.
The Spirit of Sonship
Friday, June 18th, 2010
Today's Passage: Romans 8:14-17
Memory Verses: Rom. 8: 14-15
"Dad". "Pops". "Daddy". "Papa". "Dada". "Baba". "Father". Any way it's said, this is one of the most important words in any human language. No wonder it's the first word a baby says when the father is in the home, or that this word is used over 1, 376 times in the Bible. Even less suprising is the fact that 85% of children with behavior disorders, 75% of adults who become chemically independent, 85% of all youths in prisons, and 70% of high school dropouts lived in a home where the father was absent.
God created fathers to cover the children, provide direction and guidance, as well as correction and training. These things are so easy when fathers are in their place! It doesn't matter how many times a mother can make a request for a child to do something; it might take a while for them to respond. But when dad speaks, it's as if God Himself is speaking. And that's because He gave them His very own anointing to father. So when that anointing is nonexistent, everything that should be in order is torn apart. My husband often talks of how heartbreaking it was to get his hopes up at the news of his father's visit, only to be let down time after time when he didn't keep his word. So he spent his early and later teen years searching for that father figure wherever he could find it, receiving instruction from males who had no clue how to be fathers.
And yet there is hope! In spite of the pitiful condition of our society because of the enemy's assault on the family, Abba Father (Daddy God) is still here. As soon as we surrender our lives to Him, and allow Him to direct, guide, correct, and train us, we gain access to the right of sonship. Today's passage reminds us that we have received the Spirit of adoption, which enables us to call out to Him when we are in need. There is no amount of bullying or name-calling that can happen to a child who knows he or she is loved by his or her father. My children have a safe place to come to where their dad reminds them that they are anointed, called of God, and covered. In the same manner, there's no amount of bullying satan can do to us. In our Father's presence, we are accepted, covered, and always loved. Our success is guaranteed in spite of our past. So no matter whether you grew up in a home with a father or not, YOU HAVE THE RIGHT ONE NOW.
Prayer: Father, thank You for sacrificing Your only Son so you could gain a multitude of sons. I'm so grateful to be counted in that number. I call You Abba, my very own Father. I accept Your love, covering, and fellowship. May I never forget who I am in You another day in my life. Happy Father's Day! In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Romans 8:14-17
Memory Verses: Rom. 8: 14-15
"Dad". "Pops". "Daddy". "Papa". "Dada". "Baba". "Father". Any way it's said, this is one of the most important words in any human language. No wonder it's the first word a baby says when the father is in the home, or that this word is used over 1, 376 times in the Bible. Even less suprising is the fact that 85% of children with behavior disorders, 75% of adults who become chemically independent, 85% of all youths in prisons, and 70% of high school dropouts lived in a home where the father was absent.
God created fathers to cover the children, provide direction and guidance, as well as correction and training. These things are so easy when fathers are in their place! It doesn't matter how many times a mother can make a request for a child to do something; it might take a while for them to respond. But when dad speaks, it's as if God Himself is speaking. And that's because He gave them His very own anointing to father. So when that anointing is nonexistent, everything that should be in order is torn apart. My husband often talks of how heartbreaking it was to get his hopes up at the news of his father's visit, only to be let down time after time when he didn't keep his word. So he spent his early and later teen years searching for that father figure wherever he could find it, receiving instruction from males who had no clue how to be fathers.
And yet there is hope! In spite of the pitiful condition of our society because of the enemy's assault on the family, Abba Father (Daddy God) is still here. As soon as we surrender our lives to Him, and allow Him to direct, guide, correct, and train us, we gain access to the right of sonship. Today's passage reminds us that we have received the Spirit of adoption, which enables us to call out to Him when we are in need. There is no amount of bullying or name-calling that can happen to a child who knows he or she is loved by his or her father. My children have a safe place to come to where their dad reminds them that they are anointed, called of God, and covered. In the same manner, there's no amount of bullying satan can do to us. In our Father's presence, we are accepted, covered, and always loved. Our success is guaranteed in spite of our past. So no matter whether you grew up in a home with a father or not, YOU HAVE THE RIGHT ONE NOW.
Prayer: Father, thank You for sacrificing Your only Son so you could gain a multitude of sons. I'm so grateful to be counted in that number. I call You Abba, my very own Father. I accept Your love, covering, and fellowship. May I never forget who I am in You another day in my life. Happy Father's Day! In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Who You Gonna Call?
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 91:14-16 (Message)
Memory Verse: Psalm 91:1-2 (NKJV)
Sometimes things happen in our lives that are so spiritually bizarre we don't know who to call. Normally we'd call this person for prayer, or that person to sharpen us, but when something comes our way that totally takes us by surprise, we're often powerless to reach out to anyone.
Remember the movie 'Ghostbusters'? I know it was a long time ago. But it's relevant. When the ghosts started wreaking havoc on the city, all the people who normally responded to emergencies were at a loss. They didn't know what to do or who to call. The police, FBI, and the Army were as perplexed as the citizens when it came to figuring out what to do about the attack. Sometimes we're up against spiritual things we've never battled before. Things we didn't expect, or things we didn't know were part of us seem to always surface when we begin to grow in God. Making "The Turn" (get the DVD from Sunday 6/13) will cause things to come against us we've never had to fight before. But there's always Someone we can call. Flash back to our movie. The people in the city found out there was an elite group of people who called themselves 'Ghostbusters'. They had knowledge and equipment the police didn't. They had strategies and tactics the Army never dreamed. They were the only group of people who weren't 'scared of no ghost' (sorry). Several scenes later, the 'Ghostbusters' destroyed all the ghosts and the city was free. Also, because of what they had done, they went from being an obscure group of ordinary men, to being famous throughout the city. The whole city had a parade and a party for them and hailed them as heroes.
So if I'm talking to you today I ask you: "Who you gonna call?" Psalm 91:14-16 says "If you'll hold on to Me for dear life," says God, "I'll get you out of any trouble. I'll give you the best of care if you'll only get to know and trust Me. Call me and I'll answer, be at your side in bad times; I'll rescue you, then throw you a party. I'll give you a long life, give you a long drink of salvation!" God is your hero. He's already saved the day for you. Just cling to Him for dear life and you'll be in the best of care. Besides, who can take care of you better than God, your boyfriend/girlfriend, husband/wife, or Mom/Dad? He can provide things for you before you know you need them. And the better news is His favor is for life, my Friends. So remember, you are never alone and you are not powerless. The Most High is with you every step of the way. He's waiting for you to call out to Him. He wants you take hold of Him and never let go. And when he frees you from your trouble, come to Abundant Life where we'll throw Him a party and help you make Him famous. I know who I'm gonna call from now on, do you?
Prayer: Thank You, God, for always being there for me. You are truly my Hero. Cover me in Your love and care as I cling to You with all my might. I know I cannot live this life without You. You are my
purpose and my desire. Let me be one with You for the rest of my days. In Jesus' name...Amen!
Today's Passage: Psalm 91:14-16 (Message)
Memory Verse: Psalm 91:1-2 (NKJV)
Sometimes things happen in our lives that are so spiritually bizarre we don't know who to call. Normally we'd call this person for prayer, or that person to sharpen us, but when something comes our way that totally takes us by surprise, we're often powerless to reach out to anyone.
Remember the movie 'Ghostbusters'? I know it was a long time ago. But it's relevant. When the ghosts started wreaking havoc on the city, all the people who normally responded to emergencies were at a loss. They didn't know what to do or who to call. The police, FBI, and the Army were as perplexed as the citizens when it came to figuring out what to do about the attack. Sometimes we're up against spiritual things we've never battled before. Things we didn't expect, or things we didn't know were part of us seem to always surface when we begin to grow in God. Making "The Turn" (get the DVD from Sunday 6/13) will cause things to come against us we've never had to fight before. But there's always Someone we can call. Flash back to our movie. The people in the city found out there was an elite group of people who called themselves 'Ghostbusters'. They had knowledge and equipment the police didn't. They had strategies and tactics the Army never dreamed. They were the only group of people who weren't 'scared of no ghost' (sorry). Several scenes later, the 'Ghostbusters' destroyed all the ghosts and the city was free. Also, because of what they had done, they went from being an obscure group of ordinary men, to being famous throughout the city. The whole city had a parade and a party for them and hailed them as heroes.
So if I'm talking to you today I ask you: "Who you gonna call?" Psalm 91:14-16 says "If you'll hold on to Me for dear life," says God, "I'll get you out of any trouble. I'll give you the best of care if you'll only get to know and trust Me. Call me and I'll answer, be at your side in bad times; I'll rescue you, then throw you a party. I'll give you a long life, give you a long drink of salvation!" God is your hero. He's already saved the day for you. Just cling to Him for dear life and you'll be in the best of care. Besides, who can take care of you better than God, your boyfriend/girlfriend, husband/wife, or Mom/Dad? He can provide things for you before you know you need them. And the better news is His favor is for life, my Friends. So remember, you are never alone and you are not powerless. The Most High is with you every step of the way. He's waiting for you to call out to Him. He wants you take hold of Him and never let go. And when he frees you from your trouble, come to Abundant Life where we'll throw Him a party and help you make Him famous. I know who I'm gonna call from now on, do you?
Prayer: Thank You, God, for always being there for me. You are truly my Hero. Cover me in Your love and care as I cling to You with all my might. I know I cannot live this life without You. You are my
purpose and my desire. Let me be one with You for the rest of my days. In Jesus' name...Amen!
H.U.M.P. Day!!!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Blessings, Friends & Lifers! Welcome to our first "Summer Edition" of HUMP (His Ultimate Mission & Purpose) Day. I pray your children had a great school year. However, school is out for a while, so let's be ready to take advantage of all the opportunities to make God famous in the life of a child.
Our mission today is "planning". Yes, planning. Take some time to plan a 2-hour Bible camp for your child(ren) and 1 or 2 of their friends. Include interactive scenes from the word of God during the teaching phase. You can even use videos, Youtube clips, or movies. Get your child(ren) to help. It's summer time, so use a portion of the time to share some cool slices of watermelon or some popsicles. Team up with another Lifer if you can (the more the merrier). Don't forget to HAVE FUN. If you don't have fun, the kids won't either. I can't wait to hear the feedback from your camps. God bless, and happy camping!!!!
Blessings, Friends & Lifers! Welcome to our first "Summer Edition" of HUMP (His Ultimate Mission & Purpose) Day. I pray your children had a great school year. However, school is out for a while, so let's be ready to take advantage of all the opportunities to make God famous in the life of a child.
Our mission today is "planning". Yes, planning. Take some time to plan a 2-hour Bible camp for your child(ren) and 1 or 2 of their friends. Include interactive scenes from the word of God during the teaching phase. You can even use videos, Youtube clips, or movies. Get your child(ren) to help. It's summer time, so use a portion of the time to share some cool slices of watermelon or some popsicles. Team up with another Lifer if you can (the more the merrier). Don't forget to HAVE FUN. If you don't have fun, the kids won't either. I can't wait to hear the feedback from your camps. God bless, and happy camping!!!!
The Ultimate Father II
Tuesday, June 15th, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 68:1-6
Memory Verses: Ps. 68:5-6
My father was the greatest. When I was a child, I remember him as a jovial person, always cracking jokes, whistling, and talking in a singsong voice. Everytime I turned around, he was tickling me and making me laugh. By no means was he a perfect man, but when I stop to think about the impressions I developed of him over the years, the moments that remain with me are mostly of him laughing. Even when he had to discipline me, it was done in a manner that was objective and not as if he were trying to hurt me.
When I became older, my relationship with my father changed from one of nurturing to one where he was teaching me to be prepared for the world. But even then, I knew that his ultimate desire was to see me succeed. Later on, when I began thinking about my future and who I might want to spend my life with, the first thing I realized was that I wanted a man who didn't take life too seriously -- much like my dad.
How does this picture tie in with today's passage? The day I found out my father had passed, I felt this void that I never thought would ever be filled. I'd had dreams of becoming successful in the United States so that I could bring my father to this country, away from the guns and fear, just so I could see his smile and hear his jokes again. I felt uncovered. Even though I had a relationship with God at that time, it was hard to see Him the same way I saw my dad. So when I read this passage a few years later, it hit me that God had been the source of joy and more for me even in my deepest moments of sorrow. He'd sent me my husband, who reminded me so much of my father because I'd never laughed so much since my childhood. Who else would be so concerned about me getting back my laugh but a Father Who was there to watch me grow?
This passage speaks a lot about our joy -- and gives us an idea about the fact that He's concerned about our wellbeing. He knows that joy in Him is where our strength comes from to deal with the trials and problems of life. And when we praise Him, we're able to receive exceeding joy -- literally as if He were telling heavenly jokes into our spirits that make it impossible for depession, fear, and sorrow to remain. After the heartache of going through the war and losing my father, my Heavenly Father made it so easy to laugh by giving me a man my earthly dad would've been so proud of. If you've lost your father, let Him be everything you're missing. He's the One Who created you, and He knows all about you. Trust the Father that He is, and know that everything you need has already been provided. He is the ultimate Father --already there for the fatherless.
Prayer: Father, thank You for knowing what I needed in a dad. You are my joy now, and You have filled the void in my heart. I know You to be a Father to those who have none, and I pray that I am a daughter You can be proud of. Use me and get Your glory out of my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 68:1-6
Memory Verses: Ps. 68:5-6
My father was the greatest. When I was a child, I remember him as a jovial person, always cracking jokes, whistling, and talking in a singsong voice. Everytime I turned around, he was tickling me and making me laugh. By no means was he a perfect man, but when I stop to think about the impressions I developed of him over the years, the moments that remain with me are mostly of him laughing. Even when he had to discipline me, it was done in a manner that was objective and not as if he were trying to hurt me.
When I became older, my relationship with my father changed from one of nurturing to one where he was teaching me to be prepared for the world. But even then, I knew that his ultimate desire was to see me succeed. Later on, when I began thinking about my future and who I might want to spend my life with, the first thing I realized was that I wanted a man who didn't take life too seriously -- much like my dad.
How does this picture tie in with today's passage? The day I found out my father had passed, I felt this void that I never thought would ever be filled. I'd had dreams of becoming successful in the United States so that I could bring my father to this country, away from the guns and fear, just so I could see his smile and hear his jokes again. I felt uncovered. Even though I had a relationship with God at that time, it was hard to see Him the same way I saw my dad. So when I read this passage a few years later, it hit me that God had been the source of joy and more for me even in my deepest moments of sorrow. He'd sent me my husband, who reminded me so much of my father because I'd never laughed so much since my childhood. Who else would be so concerned about me getting back my laugh but a Father Who was there to watch me grow?
This passage speaks a lot about our joy -- and gives us an idea about the fact that He's concerned about our wellbeing. He knows that joy in Him is where our strength comes from to deal with the trials and problems of life. And when we praise Him, we're able to receive exceeding joy -- literally as if He were telling heavenly jokes into our spirits that make it impossible for depession, fear, and sorrow to remain. After the heartache of going through the war and losing my father, my Heavenly Father made it so easy to laugh by giving me a man my earthly dad would've been so proud of. If you've lost your father, let Him be everything you're missing. He's the One Who created you, and He knows all about you. Trust the Father that He is, and know that everything you need has already been provided. He is the ultimate Father --already there for the fatherless.
Prayer: Father, thank You for knowing what I needed in a dad. You are my joy now, and You have filled the void in my heart. I know You to be a Father to those who have none, and I pray that I am a daughter You can be proud of. Use me and get Your glory out of my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
The Ultimate Father
Monday, June 14th, 2010
Today's Passage: James 4: 1-10
Memory Verses: James 4: 7-8
God has given me awesome revelations of who He is from just observing and listening to my children. My youngest son, for example, is so predictable. At least four to five times a day, he comes to "love on" his parents. Strangely enough, when he's full or being entertained, he doesn't have time to do this. But watch out when you see him coming with that smile on his face. You know his affection isn't truly genuine, because he only wants something from us. Don't get me wrong -- most of the time, this is cute, since we get to have him come close to us at any cost. But every now and then, it does become disturbing that he would only want to come near us when he wants something. Sometimes, we have to flat out refuse to give him what he wants in spite of his attention to us, because we know it's not good for him. And that's when the revelation hits: is this how God feels about our relationship to Him?
In this passage, God shows us our true selves when it comes to how we relate to Him. When all is well, we act as if it's not really necessary for us to seek God's face. But when we see something we want, whether it's in God's will for us or not, we attempt to "show" our devotion to God by spending more time with Him, paying Him the attention He desires more often than we usually do. In actuality, what we should be doing is pouring our hearts into seeking God's face rather than just His hand. Isn't it a blessing to know, though, that in spite of our ulterior motives, He only wants what's best for us, and will not allow us to have what we ask for if we're asking amiss, and if it will not bring about His will in our lives.
Today, no matter what you seem to lack in your life, remember that God is the ultimate Father. All He wants is true fellowship with us. It grieves His heart when we only draw near to Him because we need something from Him. Remember that it is His desire to give us good things, but we must have the right motives, and submit everything under His will. Even while surrendering, we must resist the enemy, who also has a clue about what we want and would be glad to take us through short cuts (NO PROCESS). We must fall out of agreement with the enemy's plan for us, which is to miss out on all the blessings God has in store for us by our compromise. No matter how enticing it looks, we cannot choose popularity and friendship with the world over total devotion to our Father. My prayer is that You'll begin to choose drawing near to Him over any other desire that there could be in this world, and watch Him draw near to you like you've never known.
Prayer: Father, Your Word has made it clear that any desires I may have that are contrary to Your will for my life must also be contrary to me. What You hate, I hate. What You think is not good enough for me, I think the same way. No more compromise, Daddy. My devotion is completely to You. Thank You for being the ultimate Father to me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: James 4: 1-10
Memory Verses: James 4: 7-8
God has given me awesome revelations of who He is from just observing and listening to my children. My youngest son, for example, is so predictable. At least four to five times a day, he comes to "love on" his parents. Strangely enough, when he's full or being entertained, he doesn't have time to do this. But watch out when you see him coming with that smile on his face. You know his affection isn't truly genuine, because he only wants something from us. Don't get me wrong -- most of the time, this is cute, since we get to have him come close to us at any cost. But every now and then, it does become disturbing that he would only want to come near us when he wants something. Sometimes, we have to flat out refuse to give him what he wants in spite of his attention to us, because we know it's not good for him. And that's when the revelation hits: is this how God feels about our relationship to Him?
In this passage, God shows us our true selves when it comes to how we relate to Him. When all is well, we act as if it's not really necessary for us to seek God's face. But when we see something we want, whether it's in God's will for us or not, we attempt to "show" our devotion to God by spending more time with Him, paying Him the attention He desires more often than we usually do. In actuality, what we should be doing is pouring our hearts into seeking God's face rather than just His hand. Isn't it a blessing to know, though, that in spite of our ulterior motives, He only wants what's best for us, and will not allow us to have what we ask for if we're asking amiss, and if it will not bring about His will in our lives.
Today, no matter what you seem to lack in your life, remember that God is the ultimate Father. All He wants is true fellowship with us. It grieves His heart when we only draw near to Him because we need something from Him. Remember that it is His desire to give us good things, but we must have the right motives, and submit everything under His will. Even while surrendering, we must resist the enemy, who also has a clue about what we want and would be glad to take us through short cuts (NO PROCESS). We must fall out of agreement with the enemy's plan for us, which is to miss out on all the blessings God has in store for us by our compromise. No matter how enticing it looks, we cannot choose popularity and friendship with the world over total devotion to our Father. My prayer is that You'll begin to choose drawing near to Him over any other desire that there could be in this world, and watch Him draw near to you like you've never known.
Prayer: Father, Your Word has made it clear that any desires I may have that are contrary to Your will for my life must also be contrary to me. What You hate, I hate. What You think is not good enough for me, I think the same way. No more compromise, Daddy. My devotion is completely to You. Thank You for being the ultimate Father to me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
My Precious Integrity!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Today's Passage: Job 2:9 (Message)
Memory Verse: Job 11:13-18 (Message)
How much value do you give integrity? Is it a big thing for you, or just an ambiguous character definition? Integrity is defined as clinging (you knew I was going there, didn't you?) to moral standards and ethical principles. It's also defined as being whole; undimished, unimpaired, and in perfect condition. Having integrity is setting one's mind to a Godly standard and subsequently producing the fruit of that standard.
In thinking about what it takes to walk in integrity, we have to understand 3 things: 1) integrity is not situational, 2) integrity is often not popular, and 3) integrity is always well- rewarded. Let's re-visit our friend Job. Although he lost everything and just about everyone he held dear, he still remained totally devoted to God. He constantly reminded everyone that God gave him those things, so it was up to Him to take them away. We could go through "minor" things, and God becomes the first person we blame. We rarely consider the fact that we may be in a season of God's pruning. We often forget that we recently prayed for Him to "have His way" in our lives, but when His way begins to be manifested, we change our minds. In Job 2, God allows Satan to strike him with an incredible illness. Job had sores and ulcers all over his body. His wife sees him writhing in pain and she asks him "Still holding on to your precious integrity, are you?" That leads to the second thing we've learned about integrity: it's seldom a popular thing. Clinging totally to God causes us to make some harsh decisions. We have to sometimes tell friends not to gossip to us. We have to sometimes make sacrifices we wouldn't dream of in our old way of living.
For instance, my wife went to the store one night and decided to buy my son a shirt he liked. The shirt didn't have a hanger so she put it across her shoulder to keep it from getting dirty inside the basket. After the clerk checked out all the stuff in the basket, my wife took her reciept and walked out. She got all the way to her van before she dicovered she hadn't paid for the shirt. She went back to the clerk and explained what happened. The clerk almost cried as she explained how she would've lost her job if her drawer had come up short that night. Then she thanked her several times. That's never a popular decision to those not devoted to God. But to the totally devoted, that decision would not have been about us; it would've been all about HIM. Third, integrity always pays off. God has a heart for those who cling to Him. Remember, His eyes search to and fro for those who are devoted to Him. In Job 11, His word says: "Still, if you set your heart on God and reach out to him (cling), If you scrub your hands of sin and refuse to entertain evil in your home,You'll be able to face the world unashamed and keep a firm grip on life, guiltless and fearless. You'll forget your troubles; they'll be like old, faded photographs. Your world will be washed in sunshine, every shadow dispersed by dayspring. Full of hope, you'll relax, confident again; you'll look around, sit back, and take it easy." If that's what integrity gets me, I'll answer Job's wife's question with a resounding yes, I think I'll hang on to my precious integrity.
Prayer: Father, You require total devotion from those who walk in integrity before You. As You've shown me from Job's life, it's never easy, but it's always rewarding. Help me today to give my all no matter what the cost, but not just because of what I'll receive. Let me make the sacrifice to stand for You just because You're worth it. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Job 2:9 (Message)
Memory Verse: Job 11:13-18 (Message)
How much value do you give integrity? Is it a big thing for you, or just an ambiguous character definition? Integrity is defined as clinging (you knew I was going there, didn't you?) to moral standards and ethical principles. It's also defined as being whole; undimished, unimpaired, and in perfect condition. Having integrity is setting one's mind to a Godly standard and subsequently producing the fruit of that standard.
In thinking about what it takes to walk in integrity, we have to understand 3 things: 1) integrity is not situational, 2) integrity is often not popular, and 3) integrity is always well- rewarded. Let's re-visit our friend Job. Although he lost everything and just about everyone he held dear, he still remained totally devoted to God. He constantly reminded everyone that God gave him those things, so it was up to Him to take them away. We could go through "minor" things, and God becomes the first person we blame. We rarely consider the fact that we may be in a season of God's pruning. We often forget that we recently prayed for Him to "have His way" in our lives, but when His way begins to be manifested, we change our minds. In Job 2, God allows Satan to strike him with an incredible illness. Job had sores and ulcers all over his body. His wife sees him writhing in pain and she asks him "Still holding on to your precious integrity, are you?" That leads to the second thing we've learned about integrity: it's seldom a popular thing. Clinging totally to God causes us to make some harsh decisions. We have to sometimes tell friends not to gossip to us. We have to sometimes make sacrifices we wouldn't dream of in our old way of living.
For instance, my wife went to the store one night and decided to buy my son a shirt he liked. The shirt didn't have a hanger so she put it across her shoulder to keep it from getting dirty inside the basket. After the clerk checked out all the stuff in the basket, my wife took her reciept and walked out. She got all the way to her van before she dicovered she hadn't paid for the shirt. She went back to the clerk and explained what happened. The clerk almost cried as she explained how she would've lost her job if her drawer had come up short that night. Then she thanked her several times. That's never a popular decision to those not devoted to God. But to the totally devoted, that decision would not have been about us; it would've been all about HIM. Third, integrity always pays off. God has a heart for those who cling to Him. Remember, His eyes search to and fro for those who are devoted to Him. In Job 11, His word says: "Still, if you set your heart on God and reach out to him (cling), If you scrub your hands of sin and refuse to entertain evil in your home,You'll be able to face the world unashamed and keep a firm grip on life, guiltless and fearless. You'll forget your troubles; they'll be like old, faded photographs. Your world will be washed in sunshine, every shadow dispersed by dayspring. Full of hope, you'll relax, confident again; you'll look around, sit back, and take it easy." If that's what integrity gets me, I'll answer Job's wife's question with a resounding yes, I think I'll hang on to my precious integrity.
Prayer: Father, You require total devotion from those who walk in integrity before You. As You've shown me from Job's life, it's never easy, but it's always rewarding. Help me today to give my all no matter what the cost, but not just because of what I'll receive. Let me make the sacrifice to stand for You just because You're worth it. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
He'll Teach Us How....
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Today's Passage: Job 12:13,25
Memory Verse: Psalm 37:1
I was listening to the news while getting ready for work the other day and heard yet another famous person had been the focus of a scandal. It seems although they have everything a person could ever want, they still don't know how to live. Why do rich kids run away from home? Why do husbands with beautiful wives or wives with hard-working providers for husbands cheat? God told me it's because we haven't allowed Him to teach us. "Teach us what, Lord?" I thought. "How to live", He replied.
Whatever a man creates, he has a function and a purpose for. He has a plan for how the thing he created is to exist, produce, and function. If I were to take some wood and build a chair for my wife, I'd know what I created it for. Maybe she needs it for her classroom. Maybe she needs a place to sit when she does my daughter's hair, or to rest her feet after a long walk. The point is, after I finish building it, I'll present it to her and let her know the purpose for which it was built. Job 12:13 (Message) says: "True wisdom and real power belong to God; from Him we learn how to live, and also what to live for." No matter who we are or what we achieve, we must realize wisdom and power belong to God. The choices we make should derive from His word, not our ideas. There are people who have made a great living being the "experts in their particular fields", but they lack the wisdom it takes to be balanced, not having as many private failures as they do public successes. It 's amazing that a man can run a fortune 500 company with thousands of employees successfully, but he can't maintain a good marriage where there are just 2 people. The problem is that making money isn't living. Making money is working. Which means there are many of us who replace living with working. Living is knowing the purpose for which he/she was created. Living is knowing full well we are finite beings (yes, CREATED things); therefore we are not the developers of our own purposes. We are thus mandated to find them in "the Manufacturer of the chair".
I hope you've recieved this revelation. If you haven't, you'll find yourself being envious of the workers of iniquity (Psalms 37). You'll begin to be devoted to those homes, cars, and lavish lives. You'll get lulled into thinking that THAT'S real life, not the one that's found in being totally devoted to God. That's the life you want. You want His favor and love. You want His power and authority, so that when He raises you up to a place of wealth and prosperity, you'll know how to live. You see, the news reporters shouldn't be surprised when people hit the wall or fall into pits of shame. Verse 25 of Job 12 says they are literally groping around in the dark without a clue, lurching and staggering like drunks. That's not living. That's merely breathing to death.
Prayer: Father, I've searched for true love and satisfaction in people and things, but nothing satisfies like You. May I never waste another moment searching, when You are life itself. Thank You for showing me the road to abundant living. I'll never stray from it. I WILL stay totally devoted to You and all that You are. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Job 12:13,25
Memory Verse: Psalm 37:1
I was listening to the news while getting ready for work the other day and heard yet another famous person had been the focus of a scandal. It seems although they have everything a person could ever want, they still don't know how to live. Why do rich kids run away from home? Why do husbands with beautiful wives or wives with hard-working providers for husbands cheat? God told me it's because we haven't allowed Him to teach us. "Teach us what, Lord?" I thought. "How to live", He replied.
Whatever a man creates, he has a function and a purpose for. He has a plan for how the thing he created is to exist, produce, and function. If I were to take some wood and build a chair for my wife, I'd know what I created it for. Maybe she needs it for her classroom. Maybe she needs a place to sit when she does my daughter's hair, or to rest her feet after a long walk. The point is, after I finish building it, I'll present it to her and let her know the purpose for which it was built. Job 12:13 (Message) says: "True wisdom and real power belong to God; from Him we learn how to live, and also what to live for." No matter who we are or what we achieve, we must realize wisdom and power belong to God. The choices we make should derive from His word, not our ideas. There are people who have made a great living being the "experts in their particular fields", but they lack the wisdom it takes to be balanced, not having as many private failures as they do public successes. It 's amazing that a man can run a fortune 500 company with thousands of employees successfully, but he can't maintain a good marriage where there are just 2 people. The problem is that making money isn't living. Making money is working. Which means there are many of us who replace living with working. Living is knowing the purpose for which he/she was created. Living is knowing full well we are finite beings (yes, CREATED things); therefore we are not the developers of our own purposes. We are thus mandated to find them in "the Manufacturer of the chair".
I hope you've recieved this revelation. If you haven't, you'll find yourself being envious of the workers of iniquity (Psalms 37). You'll begin to be devoted to those homes, cars, and lavish lives. You'll get lulled into thinking that THAT'S real life, not the one that's found in being totally devoted to God. That's the life you want. You want His favor and love. You want His power and authority, so that when He raises you up to a place of wealth and prosperity, you'll know how to live. You see, the news reporters shouldn't be surprised when people hit the wall or fall into pits of shame. Verse 25 of Job 12 says they are literally groping around in the dark without a clue, lurching and staggering like drunks. That's not living. That's merely breathing to death.
Prayer: Father, I've searched for true love and satisfaction in people and things, but nothing satisfies like You. May I never waste another moment searching, when You are life itself. Thank You for showing me the road to abundant living. I'll never stray from it. I WILL stay totally devoted to You and all that You are. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
It's time to GROW UP!
Friday, June 11th, 2010
Today's Passage: Ephesians 4:11-15
Memory Verses: Eph. 4: 14-15
All around us, we see signs of growth and maturity. Students in the 5th grade are on their way to middle school, and those who've completed middle are headed for the high school. The greater the level of maturity, the greater amount of choices young people seem to have. Once done with high school, some may choose to enter the military and take the longer route to college, while others may decide to go immediately so that they can find themselves in the work force at a later time. Still others may not go down the path of education, but might begin a career. But whatever the decision, some steps will be made in the forward direction.
Never in all my days have I heard a young person say, "This path is too hard for me. I think I'll go back to the grade I just came from." On the contrary, it's almost second nature for them to GROW no matter how uncertain or hard the path ahead looks. My question for today is this: why is it so hard for us to do the same in our Christian walk? In every other area of our lives, it's very normal to advance to a greater level than where we were before as time goes by. On a job, we think something's wrong with a person who doesn't make strides towards becoming a supervisor after working there for a considerable amount of time. So why would we think the opposite in the spirit realm?
Today's passage reminds us that the whole purpose of becoming saved, coming to church, and hearing the Word on a regular basis is so that we can -- there's that word again -- GROW up in all things into Him (Christ) Who is the head. What would it look like if a baby were born with an adult's head, and its body never grew to be proportionate with the head, but stayed in its childlike form all its life? It would be an abnormality. In the same manner, God desires for us to take on the things of Him so well that we throw away the childish things and grab a hold of the things for which we were created.
The things you struggled with as a baby Christian should no longer be the same things you struggle with today. Take a look around you: if you're blessed like I am to attend a church where the unadulterated word is preached, you are being equipped even now to bring maturity into the lives of others. Every day that you live should be a day God is preparing you for more of Him. Don't be deceived by the enemy into thinking you have all the time in the world. Actually, we're the bride being prepared for the bridegroom. So I encourage you today to re-arrange your thinking to reflect God's heart on the matter. We ALL are expected to come into the unity of the faith, putting away childish habits, attitudes, and desires so that we may unite with one another in Christ. No more excuses, saints: it's time to GROW UP.
Prayer: Father, everything You prepared for me to experience in Your church is so that I can join with my brothers and sisters in the body to accomplish Your end-time harvest. Please give me a heart that is filled with the desire to grow up into the things of You. No more will I allow myself to remain childlike in my mindsets and expectations of others. I will depend on Your Spirit to take me to places in You that I need to advance to. I speak and declare that I am going to new and greater levels for Your glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Ephesians 4:11-15
Memory Verses: Eph. 4: 14-15
All around us, we see signs of growth and maturity. Students in the 5th grade are on their way to middle school, and those who've completed middle are headed for the high school. The greater the level of maturity, the greater amount of choices young people seem to have. Once done with high school, some may choose to enter the military and take the longer route to college, while others may decide to go immediately so that they can find themselves in the work force at a later time. Still others may not go down the path of education, but might begin a career. But whatever the decision, some steps will be made in the forward direction.
Never in all my days have I heard a young person say, "This path is too hard for me. I think I'll go back to the grade I just came from." On the contrary, it's almost second nature for them to GROW no matter how uncertain or hard the path ahead looks. My question for today is this: why is it so hard for us to do the same in our Christian walk? In every other area of our lives, it's very normal to advance to a greater level than where we were before as time goes by. On a job, we think something's wrong with a person who doesn't make strides towards becoming a supervisor after working there for a considerable amount of time. So why would we think the opposite in the spirit realm?
Today's passage reminds us that the whole purpose of becoming saved, coming to church, and hearing the Word on a regular basis is so that we can -- there's that word again -- GROW up in all things into Him (Christ) Who is the head. What would it look like if a baby were born with an adult's head, and its body never grew to be proportionate with the head, but stayed in its childlike form all its life? It would be an abnormality. In the same manner, God desires for us to take on the things of Him so well that we throw away the childish things and grab a hold of the things for which we were created.
The things you struggled with as a baby Christian should no longer be the same things you struggle with today. Take a look around you: if you're blessed like I am to attend a church where the unadulterated word is preached, you are being equipped even now to bring maturity into the lives of others. Every day that you live should be a day God is preparing you for more of Him. Don't be deceived by the enemy into thinking you have all the time in the world. Actually, we're the bride being prepared for the bridegroom. So I encourage you today to re-arrange your thinking to reflect God's heart on the matter. We ALL are expected to come into the unity of the faith, putting away childish habits, attitudes, and desires so that we may unite with one another in Christ. No more excuses, saints: it's time to GROW UP.
Prayer: Father, everything You prepared for me to experience in Your church is so that I can join with my brothers and sisters in the body to accomplish Your end-time harvest. Please give me a heart that is filled with the desire to grow up into the things of You. No more will I allow myself to remain childlike in my mindsets and expectations of others. I will depend on Your Spirit to take me to places in You that I need to advance to. I speak and declare that I am going to new and greater levels for Your glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Nice Pants!!!
Today's Passage: Jeremiah 13:11
Memory Verse: Same
Let's use today's devotional to take the mask off. Remember when you were younger, ladies, and you bought a new pair of shorts? They were so tight you could barely walk in them. Don't you remember having to jump up and down, or lie on the bed to pull them up? Oh yeah, and you literally had to peel them off too, right? Well, I have proof that God wants your spiritual shorts tighter than those were.
Jeremiah 13:11 (Message) says: "For I say just as shorts cling tightly to a person's body, so I bound the whole nation of Israel and the whole nation of Judah tightly to Me. I intended for them to be My special people and to bring Me fame, honor, and praise." Whoa! God equated closeness to Him to a tight pair of shorts? Don't get it twisted, folks. This is not a fashion lecture, or a green light to dig out your summer shorts from the 70's (you shouldn't still have those anyway....do better lol!). God is simply saying He wants it to be hard for you to "take Him off". He wants you to cling to Him so tightly you become one with Him. Why? Because His purpose for you is to be special. He wants you to be separated from the ordinary. Ever seen someone with shorts on that are too tight? They stand out, don't they? God wants you to stand out. Standing out in the crowd gives us the opportunity to bring glory to God. Yes, we get to make Him famous. When God allows someone to achieve "fame", they must remember why it was allowed. God puts them in these positions so they can share His love, be devoted, and bless the broken. The very reason we live is to accomplish this. The very prayer of our lives is "thy kingdom come thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven." The only way that happens is by us using whatever notoriety we achieve to make God famous.
I challenge you today to cling to God so tightly that His very character bursts through you. Love Him more than anything in your life. Give Him your total devotion, and loyalty and blessings and favor will be yours. Only don't forget to stay away from the shorts!!!
Prayer: Father, only You could desire a relationship with me so badly that You would paint such a clear picture of how close You want me to be to You. Thanks for reminding me that I am to wear You like a piece of clothing that's almost impossible to take off. Where You go, I'll go, what You say, I'll say, and what You pray, I'll pray. In Jesus' Name, Am
Memory Verse: Same
Let's use today's devotional to take the mask off. Remember when you were younger, ladies, and you bought a new pair of shorts? They were so tight you could barely walk in them. Don't you remember having to jump up and down, or lie on the bed to pull them up? Oh yeah, and you literally had to peel them off too, right? Well, I have proof that God wants your spiritual shorts tighter than those were.
Jeremiah 13:11 (Message) says: "For I say just as shorts cling tightly to a person's body, so I bound the whole nation of Israel and the whole nation of Judah tightly to Me. I intended for them to be My special people and to bring Me fame, honor, and praise." Whoa! God equated closeness to Him to a tight pair of shorts? Don't get it twisted, folks. This is not a fashion lecture, or a green light to dig out your summer shorts from the 70's (you shouldn't still have those anyway....do better lol!). God is simply saying He wants it to be hard for you to "take Him off". He wants you to cling to Him so tightly you become one with Him. Why? Because His purpose for you is to be special. He wants you to be separated from the ordinary. Ever seen someone with shorts on that are too tight? They stand out, don't they? God wants you to stand out. Standing out in the crowd gives us the opportunity to bring glory to God. Yes, we get to make Him famous. When God allows someone to achieve "fame", they must remember why it was allowed. God puts them in these positions so they can share His love, be devoted, and bless the broken. The very reason we live is to accomplish this. The very prayer of our lives is "thy kingdom come thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven." The only way that happens is by us using whatever notoriety we achieve to make God famous.
I challenge you today to cling to God so tightly that His very character bursts through you. Love Him more than anything in your life. Give Him your total devotion, and loyalty and blessings and favor will be yours. Only don't forget to stay away from the shorts!!!
Prayer: Father, only You could desire a relationship with me so badly that You would paint such a clear picture of how close You want me to be to You. Thanks for reminding me that I am to wear You like a piece of clothing that's almost impossible to take off. Where You go, I'll go, what You say, I'll say, and what You pray, I'll pray. In Jesus' Name, Am
H.U.M.P. Day!!!!
Wednesday, June 9th, 2010
Blessings, Friends and Lifers! Our H.U.M.P. Day challenge is to pray in faith for the breakthrough, salvation, or answer in whatever form for a friend, neighbor, loved one, or workmate. The request has to be one that seems impossible in the natural. But more than that, keep in mind Jesus' words that certain answers only come about by prayer that is accompanied by fasting.
So as you call out to the Father on behalf of the person(s)the Lord puts on your heart, consecrate yourself through a sacrificial fast on this day of God's ultimate mission and purpose. Pray not only for the answer to the person's prayer, but also that God will use this situation to perform His complete will in that person's life. Pray for God to make Himself famous through him or her, and that EVERYTHING God intended to accomplish in that person's life be accomplished by the Spirit of God, not by human power or might.
We all know that we are living in tough times with people experiencing so many heartbreaking situations. People need the miracle-working power of Jesus Christ in their lives. We, the redeemed of the Lord, are the ones who can manifest that power on this earth. But God needs us to be willing to make sacrifices to walk in that power. So let's join our faith together today that victory is on its way.
Prayer: Father, as we arise today, we consecrate ourselves unto You. We remind ourselves of Your Word that You know the plans You have for us, plans to prosper and not to harm us. Honor our fast today, God. Thank You for already showing Yourself strong on behalf of the ones we're lifting up today. As always, we say get the glory out of our lives forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Blessings, Friends and Lifers! Our H.U.M.P. Day challenge is to pray in faith for the breakthrough, salvation, or answer in whatever form for a friend, neighbor, loved one, or workmate. The request has to be one that seems impossible in the natural. But more than that, keep in mind Jesus' words that certain answers only come about by prayer that is accompanied by fasting.
So as you call out to the Father on behalf of the person(s)the Lord puts on your heart, consecrate yourself through a sacrificial fast on this day of God's ultimate mission and purpose. Pray not only for the answer to the person's prayer, but also that God will use this situation to perform His complete will in that person's life. Pray for God to make Himself famous through him or her, and that EVERYTHING God intended to accomplish in that person's life be accomplished by the Spirit of God, not by human power or might.
We all know that we are living in tough times with people experiencing so many heartbreaking situations. People need the miracle-working power of Jesus Christ in their lives. We, the redeemed of the Lord, are the ones who can manifest that power on this earth. But God needs us to be willing to make sacrifices to walk in that power. So let's join our faith together today that victory is on its way.
Prayer: Father, as we arise today, we consecrate ourselves unto You. We remind ourselves of Your Word that You know the plans You have for us, plans to prosper and not to harm us. Honor our fast today, God. Thank You for already showing Yourself strong on behalf of the ones we're lifting up today. As always, we say get the glory out of our lives forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Cultivating Greatness in Others: A Matter of Faith
Tuesday, June 8th, 2010
Today's Passage: Hebrews 11
Memory Verses: Heb. 11:1 & 3
Barely two months ago, I heard a word ministered by Pastor Nette that caused my baby to begin jumping. The gist of the message was that God has created a destiny for greatness in all of us, and that we should not allow what people around us do to make us stop seeing what God sees in them. But by the time I had the opportunity to hear those concepts again, I had forgotten the most important one: it takes faith to see what God sees in others.
You've heard this verse often enough, but every word of it is true. Faith is truly the foundation of everything that exists in this world. God stepped out on the nothingness of space, but before He spoke it into existence, He had to envision it -- every tree, the rolling waves that make up the oceans, birds and other animals moving and breathing. Then, when He pictured it and saw how pleasurable all of it would make Him, He spoke it into being. Well, why is this important for us to know? Because when He breathed life into us, He breathed that very essence of His nature, which is the ability to believe something into existence, into us.
So when we arise in the morning and begin to make our confession about the greatness we're about to walk in, in spite of the awful mistakes we ourselves have made, let's not forget to "SEE" through the eyes of faith the greatness in the lives of those around us. Mom, just because your son or daughter seems to be turning out the very opposite of what you "saw" when you held him or her in your arms as a baby, don't let that stop you from believing and speaking words of life over your child. Husband or wife, you'll never see what you desire in your spouse until you begin to plant, water, and cultivate those desires through your words. Never forget that the power of death and life is still in your tongue. Jesus told the blind men in Matthew 9:29, "According to your FAITH, let it be unto you".
Saints, God is no respector of persons. Read every example of faith hall of famers there is. They had to see it, and only when they grasped a hold of it were they then able to see it manifest in the natural. Look aroud you. How many people where God has placed us are not walking in the things God has in store for them? How long are we simply going to complain about it? When are we going to SEE them saved, healed, set free, and victorious instead of simply what they look like right now? It's according to our FAITH that things will begin to change, because our faith is what will cause us to SPEAK God's will and not our own.
Now, mind you, if our faith is the vehicle that brings destinies to life, then if we've negatively been speaking what we believe IS, it will take some time for that vehicle to turn around and move in the opposite direction. But watch the awesome manifestations that are coming to pass. Greatness is coming to the lives of those around us -- just because we dare to believe.
Prayer: Father, forgive me for the many times I've allowed what I see and hear about those around me to cause me to form opinions and speak death into their lives. But just as You've never given up on me, allow me now to begin to believe with an even greater fervency than ever before that their lives WILL be changed. Thank You even now for the turnaround in Jesus' Name, Amen!
Today's Passage: Hebrews 11
Memory Verses: Heb. 11:1 & 3
Barely two months ago, I heard a word ministered by Pastor Nette that caused my baby to begin jumping. The gist of the message was that God has created a destiny for greatness in all of us, and that we should not allow what people around us do to make us stop seeing what God sees in them. But by the time I had the opportunity to hear those concepts again, I had forgotten the most important one: it takes faith to see what God sees in others.
You've heard this verse often enough, but every word of it is true. Faith is truly the foundation of everything that exists in this world. God stepped out on the nothingness of space, but before He spoke it into existence, He had to envision it -- every tree, the rolling waves that make up the oceans, birds and other animals moving and breathing. Then, when He pictured it and saw how pleasurable all of it would make Him, He spoke it into being. Well, why is this important for us to know? Because when He breathed life into us, He breathed that very essence of His nature, which is the ability to believe something into existence, into us.
So when we arise in the morning and begin to make our confession about the greatness we're about to walk in, in spite of the awful mistakes we ourselves have made, let's not forget to "SEE" through the eyes of faith the greatness in the lives of those around us. Mom, just because your son or daughter seems to be turning out the very opposite of what you "saw" when you held him or her in your arms as a baby, don't let that stop you from believing and speaking words of life over your child. Husband or wife, you'll never see what you desire in your spouse until you begin to plant, water, and cultivate those desires through your words. Never forget that the power of death and life is still in your tongue. Jesus told the blind men in Matthew 9:29, "According to your FAITH, let it be unto you".
Saints, God is no respector of persons. Read every example of faith hall of famers there is. They had to see it, and only when they grasped a hold of it were they then able to see it manifest in the natural. Look aroud you. How many people where God has placed us are not walking in the things God has in store for them? How long are we simply going to complain about it? When are we going to SEE them saved, healed, set free, and victorious instead of simply what they look like right now? It's according to our FAITH that things will begin to change, because our faith is what will cause us to SPEAK God's will and not our own.
Now, mind you, if our faith is the vehicle that brings destinies to life, then if we've negatively been speaking what we believe IS, it will take some time for that vehicle to turn around and move in the opposite direction. But watch the awesome manifestations that are coming to pass. Greatness is coming to the lives of those around us -- just because we dare to believe.
Prayer: Father, forgive me for the many times I've allowed what I see and hear about those around me to cause me to form opinions and speak death into their lives. But just as You've never given up on me, allow me now to begin to believe with an even greater fervency than ever before that their lives WILL be changed. Thank You even now for the turnaround in Jesus' Name, Amen!
Positioned for Greatness 2
Monday, June 7th, 2010
Today's Passage: The book of Esther
Memory Verse: Esther 4:14
There's a young lady who's truly been an inspiration to me the last few weeks. I've always known she had an awesome anointing since the first time I saw her sing in our very own hometown. Now, to see her on television's "Sunday Best" is a testimony to the reality of God's timing when it comes to the destiny of each of His children.
Yesterday, we discussed one aspect of greatness, which involves being a servant and doing whatever needs to be done to further God's kingdom. Today, we'll explore the subject of greatness as it pertains to always knowing who God has called us to be no matter what we have to endure. Paul says that we have a treasure called greatness in these earthen vessels so that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us. In other words, we're not supposed to take any of that glory for ourselves, but we should still be able to arise and let God make himself famous through us.
In this passage, Esther came from very humble beginnings. She wasn't even supposed to be among the prospective queens because she was a Jew, but God still opened doors for her to become the favored one. Just at a time when the Jews needed someone to stand up for them, Esther realized after hearing the words of her uncle that she wasn't just placed in this position to be a pretty face. When she decided to seek God and do His will, she was able to bring her people to safety.
What has God called YOU to do? What are YOU positioned for? What problem has God created you to be an answer to? Begin now to thank God for every situation, especially the ones that were tragic, that will give you the testimony God will use to inspire others through your life. Watching that young lady walk into her destiny on "Sunday Best", I've no doubt God wants to do that for each one of us. All we must remember to do is always remain totally devoted to Him. It's in this position of adoration that greatness is sure to come. Just wait and see.
Prayer: Father, I'm so excited to see You move mightily in the lives of Your children. You are welcome to position me for the ministry of inspiring others to worship You. I know You created me to bring You glory, so however and whenever You choose to do so is fine with me. I just want to abide in You forever. Be glorified in my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: The book of Esther
Memory Verse: Esther 4:14
There's a young lady who's truly been an inspiration to me the last few weeks. I've always known she had an awesome anointing since the first time I saw her sing in our very own hometown. Now, to see her on television's "Sunday Best" is a testimony to the reality of God's timing when it comes to the destiny of each of His children.
Yesterday, we discussed one aspect of greatness, which involves being a servant and doing whatever needs to be done to further God's kingdom. Today, we'll explore the subject of greatness as it pertains to always knowing who God has called us to be no matter what we have to endure. Paul says that we have a treasure called greatness in these earthen vessels so that the excellency of the power may be of God and not of us. In other words, we're not supposed to take any of that glory for ourselves, but we should still be able to arise and let God make himself famous through us.
In this passage, Esther came from very humble beginnings. She wasn't even supposed to be among the prospective queens because she was a Jew, but God still opened doors for her to become the favored one. Just at a time when the Jews needed someone to stand up for them, Esther realized after hearing the words of her uncle that she wasn't just placed in this position to be a pretty face. When she decided to seek God and do His will, she was able to bring her people to safety.
What has God called YOU to do? What are YOU positioned for? What problem has God created you to be an answer to? Begin now to thank God for every situation, especially the ones that were tragic, that will give you the testimony God will use to inspire others through your life. Watching that young lady walk into her destiny on "Sunday Best", I've no doubt God wants to do that for each one of us. All we must remember to do is always remain totally devoted to Him. It's in this position of adoration that greatness is sure to come. Just wait and see.
Prayer: Father, I'm so excited to see You move mightily in the lives of Your children. You are welcome to position me for the ministry of inspiring others to worship You. I know You created me to bring You glory, so however and whenever You choose to do so is fine with me. I just want to abide in You forever. Be glorified in my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Positioned for Greatness
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Today's Passage: Mark 10:35-45
Memory Verses: Mk 10: 43-45
Many years ago, I had this notion that once you became saved, you were now considered "great" in God's eyes, "the head and not the tail". I thought that somehow whatever your gifting was involved you standing before a multitude of people, ministering and being seen. Then I came to Abundant Life Ministries, and everything I ever thought I knew about greatness was changed. I saw my pastors cleaning along with everyone else, and doing whatever it was that needed to be done for God's house to be ready for His service to go forth.
I guess that's why God included this passage in His book. He wanted those of us who call ourselves His children to be mindful not to get this warped attitude about "greatness". The greater you want to be in God's kingdom, the more willing you should be to serve others. Jesus Himself was the greatest example of servant leadership that there is. From the moment His ministry was launched, He set about serving others -- always healing, always teaching, always listening, and pointing the way to His Father's heart. He even went so far as to wash His disciples' feet just to show them what the true position of greatness was.
This morning, as you prepare to enter your house of worship, examine your mentality of greatness. Are you one of those who feels as though you've been saved for others to cater to you? Have you placed yourself on the altar of "it's all about me, my needs, and that's all I see"? If so, I admonish you to ask for God to show you His heart on the matter. The kingdom of God needs you to stand up and show your greatness by contributing to the building of His kingdom WHEREVER YOU'RE NEEDED.
For those of you who've caught on to the vision of true greatness, you may never receive any recognition or thanks on this side of heaven. But know that every act of service you render in the name of the Lord is being observed, recorded, and set up for reward. I speak strength to you for your tireless effort to be there when help is needed, and I praise God for your willingness to be used. Don't forget to spend time in His presence, because that's the one thing Jesus came away from everyone else to do. But when He fills you back up, get back into the field and keep working until you can see evidence of God's presence on everything you touch. Serve on, my brothers and sisters. That is true greatness.
Prayer: Father, fill me today and give me strength to reach outside of myself and serve others. You gave me the most wonderful example of being great: Your Son. If He hadn't given me all He had, I'd be lost today. So I give all I have to point the way to you for others to see, and I count it a privilege. Use me today and everyday. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Mark 10:35-45
Memory Verses: Mk 10: 43-45
Many years ago, I had this notion that once you became saved, you were now considered "great" in God's eyes, "the head and not the tail". I thought that somehow whatever your gifting was involved you standing before a multitude of people, ministering and being seen. Then I came to Abundant Life Ministries, and everything I ever thought I knew about greatness was changed. I saw my pastors cleaning along with everyone else, and doing whatever it was that needed to be done for God's house to be ready for His service to go forth.
I guess that's why God included this passage in His book. He wanted those of us who call ourselves His children to be mindful not to get this warped attitude about "greatness". The greater you want to be in God's kingdom, the more willing you should be to serve others. Jesus Himself was the greatest example of servant leadership that there is. From the moment His ministry was launched, He set about serving others -- always healing, always teaching, always listening, and pointing the way to His Father's heart. He even went so far as to wash His disciples' feet just to show them what the true position of greatness was.
This morning, as you prepare to enter your house of worship, examine your mentality of greatness. Are you one of those who feels as though you've been saved for others to cater to you? Have you placed yourself on the altar of "it's all about me, my needs, and that's all I see"? If so, I admonish you to ask for God to show you His heart on the matter. The kingdom of God needs you to stand up and show your greatness by contributing to the building of His kingdom WHEREVER YOU'RE NEEDED.
For those of you who've caught on to the vision of true greatness, you may never receive any recognition or thanks on this side of heaven. But know that every act of service you render in the name of the Lord is being observed, recorded, and set up for reward. I speak strength to you for your tireless effort to be there when help is needed, and I praise God for your willingness to be used. Don't forget to spend time in His presence, because that's the one thing Jesus came away from everyone else to do. But when He fills you back up, get back into the field and keep working until you can see evidence of God's presence on everything you touch. Serve on, my brothers and sisters. That is true greatness.
Prayer: Father, fill me today and give me strength to reach outside of myself and serve others. You gave me the most wonderful example of being great: Your Son. If He hadn't given me all He had, I'd be lost today. So I give all I have to point the way to you for others to see, and I count it a privilege. Use me today and everyday. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Like...Totally Dude!!!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Today's Passage:Luke 9:22-24
Memory Verses: Lk 9:23-24
Every since our Pastors spoke to us about total devotion, I've been making some changes in my life. The Word of God has been arriving with such clarity, it's been hard to stay the same after hearing it. So I've gone on a quest in my life to see if I were really totally devoted to God. Of course, the answer was a resounding "no"!
As I look to the people in the Bible, I can clearly see what it means to be totally devoted. For instance, God told Noah to build a cruise ship where there was no water or rain, and he did it. He told Abraham to go to that place and have that boy, that way he'd become a father to all those people, and he did it. He told Mary, because you're a virgin, you'll give birth to a king in a barn, and she did it. Can I go on? Daniel defied a king, was thrown to the lions, and lived. The 3 Hebrew boys stood in the face of death, and lived, and Jesus became sin for a humanity that would reject Him. All these people had one thing in common: they were totally devoted to the Father. So when I look at my life, I have to ask myself how I can show my total devotion. What can I do to let God know He has my undying love?
What about you? I challenge you to take an introspective view of yourself. Find out what God is telling you to do and devote yourself to Him. Remember, the "total" in totally devoted means all in. It means complete, or the whole. Nothing can be allowed to get you off course. No-one can be allowed to come between you and God. Daniel, Abraham, Mary, and Jesus made the most of their opportunity. What will you do with yours?
Prayer: Father, You're calling me to a place where I'm being made brand new. This place is out of my comfort zone, and requires 100 per cent trust in You and Your will for my life. Let me lose myself in You, and find myself totally devoted so You can become famous through me. I am and always will be Yours. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage:Luke 9:22-24
Memory Verses: Lk 9:23-24
Every since our Pastors spoke to us about total devotion, I've been making some changes in my life. The Word of God has been arriving with such clarity, it's been hard to stay the same after hearing it. So I've gone on a quest in my life to see if I were really totally devoted to God. Of course, the answer was a resounding "no"!
As I look to the people in the Bible, I can clearly see what it means to be totally devoted. For instance, God told Noah to build a cruise ship where there was no water or rain, and he did it. He told Abraham to go to that place and have that boy, that way he'd become a father to all those people, and he did it. He told Mary, because you're a virgin, you'll give birth to a king in a barn, and she did it. Can I go on? Daniel defied a king, was thrown to the lions, and lived. The 3 Hebrew boys stood in the face of death, and lived, and Jesus became sin for a humanity that would reject Him. All these people had one thing in common: they were totally devoted to the Father. So when I look at my life, I have to ask myself how I can show my total devotion. What can I do to let God know He has my undying love?
What about you? I challenge you to take an introspective view of yourself. Find out what God is telling you to do and devote yourself to Him. Remember, the "total" in totally devoted means all in. It means complete, or the whole. Nothing can be allowed to get you off course. No-one can be allowed to come between you and God. Daniel, Abraham, Mary, and Jesus made the most of their opportunity. What will you do with yours?
Prayer: Father, You're calling me to a place where I'm being made brand new. This place is out of my comfort zone, and requires 100 per cent trust in You and Your will for my life. Let me lose myself in You, and find myself totally devoted so You can become famous through me. I am and always will be Yours. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Are You Ready?
Friday, June 4th, 2010
Today's Passage: Colossians 3:1-10
Memory Verse: Matthew 24:44
It could happen any minute. Some of us could be in the middle of a meal, on the way to or from the store, or soundly sleeping. Others might be sitting at their work desks, while yet others may be on a plane or other form of public transportation. Can you imagine what it will be like to experience the electricity in the air the moment before our Savior Christ cracks the sky?
With bills and other everyday things threatening to consume our minds, it's sometimes difficult to focus on the fact that this earth is NOT our eternal home. Because of the fall of man, God's plan to create a new heaven and earth for us was set into motion. Consequently, it is very important for us to, as the passage warns us, set our minds on things above. Think about it for a moment: what really preoccupies us on a daily basis? What's going on at work or school, our children and immediate loved ones, or what the status of our relationships is at the time.
Even for those of us who are committed to giving our lives totally to God, being burdened with the souls of those around us is not always a priority. To be honest, it seems easy to put off ministering to the ones that we know who don't have a relationship with God. But His Word is very specific about what will happen to the "sons of disobedience" (Col. 3:6). God is a very loving Father Who is not willing that any of His children be lost, as we've already been reminded. So it's obvious He's planned for them to come in contact with His Son. How? Through the ones of us that have already been given this eternal life.
So our challenge today, Saints, is to be ready to step up and boldly share the salvation message through our lives, our smile, and our testimony. We don't have time to be weighed down with fleshly lusts that destroy our witness. Let's pray that the Father will put His Word in our hearts in such a powerful way that we have no other choice but to pass it on. Are you ready? It could be any day.
Prayer: Father, my honest answer to the question "are you ready" is yes, but I know I haven't always been consumed enough with your kingdom that I'd be anxious to share what You've done in my life with others. Prepare me now, God. I need You to consume me from the inside out so that Your love for me can flow outward to others. I want to hear You say, "Well done, good and faithful servant". Use me to draw others to You in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Colossians 3:1-10
Memory Verse: Matthew 24:44
It could happen any minute. Some of us could be in the middle of a meal, on the way to or from the store, or soundly sleeping. Others might be sitting at their work desks, while yet others may be on a plane or other form of public transportation. Can you imagine what it will be like to experience the electricity in the air the moment before our Savior Christ cracks the sky?
With bills and other everyday things threatening to consume our minds, it's sometimes difficult to focus on the fact that this earth is NOT our eternal home. Because of the fall of man, God's plan to create a new heaven and earth for us was set into motion. Consequently, it is very important for us to, as the passage warns us, set our minds on things above. Think about it for a moment: what really preoccupies us on a daily basis? What's going on at work or school, our children and immediate loved ones, or what the status of our relationships is at the time.
Even for those of us who are committed to giving our lives totally to God, being burdened with the souls of those around us is not always a priority. To be honest, it seems easy to put off ministering to the ones that we know who don't have a relationship with God. But His Word is very specific about what will happen to the "sons of disobedience" (Col. 3:6). God is a very loving Father Who is not willing that any of His children be lost, as we've already been reminded. So it's obvious He's planned for them to come in contact with His Son. How? Through the ones of us that have already been given this eternal life.
So our challenge today, Saints, is to be ready to step up and boldly share the salvation message through our lives, our smile, and our testimony. We don't have time to be weighed down with fleshly lusts that destroy our witness. Let's pray that the Father will put His Word in our hearts in such a powerful way that we have no other choice but to pass it on. Are you ready? It could be any day.
Prayer: Father, my honest answer to the question "are you ready" is yes, but I know I haven't always been consumed enough with your kingdom that I'd be anxious to share what You've done in my life with others. Prepare me now, God. I need You to consume me from the inside out so that Your love for me can flow outward to others. I want to hear You say, "Well done, good and faithful servant". Use me to draw others to You in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Please Don't Touch The Art!!!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 64:8
Memory Verse: Same
Ever look into the mirror and make a list of all the things you'd change about yourself? Everybody's got something they'd like to be: thinner or smaller, wider or smoother. Changing the body has gone from a tool used for helping accident victims to being a social trend. Now, I'm not here to criticize plastic surgery. My message is more spiritual in its context anyway. I'm here to remind you that your life has a design perfectly sculpted by God, and therefore should not be tampered with.
I remember being on a school field trip to the museum. Every exhibit we saw was so very well put together, we wanted to touch them. But as you know, you're not allowed to touch the art in the museum. Why not? It's because only the touch of the original artist can keep it valuable. Our passage for the day says God is the potter and we are the clay. We are God's workmanship. He molded us to be exactly what He wants. He wants us to be bold but broken, mature but new, and strong but dependant. All we have to do is stick to the design. We have to stay totally devoted. We can't allow God's art to be tampered with. We can't give in to just anyone or anything. God's art has to be preserved. It has to be kept in its valuable state. When you allow the world to tamper with you, it messes with your authenticity. It messes with the product. And God's not going to put His signature on something that's not His, something strange, or something that's been mixed or tainted.
I challenge you today to be what God made. Again, I'm not just talking about outside stuff. I'm also talking about the character He shaped into you, the mind He shaped into you, and the attitude He shaped into you. Don't try to add to His design. It's perfect just the way it is....
Prayer:
Father, I want to always be made in Your image. Mold and make me into what You want me to be. I'll carefully walk in Your ways. I want to be like You. I want to be used by You. I want to make You famous. Let me stay in Your care so I can produce after You and Your kingdom, in Jesus' name...Amen!
Today's Passage: Isaiah 64:8
Memory Verse: Same
Ever look into the mirror and make a list of all the things you'd change about yourself? Everybody's got something they'd like to be: thinner or smaller, wider or smoother. Changing the body has gone from a tool used for helping accident victims to being a social trend. Now, I'm not here to criticize plastic surgery. My message is more spiritual in its context anyway. I'm here to remind you that your life has a design perfectly sculpted by God, and therefore should not be tampered with.
I remember being on a school field trip to the museum. Every exhibit we saw was so very well put together, we wanted to touch them. But as you know, you're not allowed to touch the art in the museum. Why not? It's because only the touch of the original artist can keep it valuable. Our passage for the day says God is the potter and we are the clay. We are God's workmanship. He molded us to be exactly what He wants. He wants us to be bold but broken, mature but new, and strong but dependant. All we have to do is stick to the design. We have to stay totally devoted. We can't allow God's art to be tampered with. We can't give in to just anyone or anything. God's art has to be preserved. It has to be kept in its valuable state. When you allow the world to tamper with you, it messes with your authenticity. It messes with the product. And God's not going to put His signature on something that's not His, something strange, or something that's been mixed or tainted.
I challenge you today to be what God made. Again, I'm not just talking about outside stuff. I'm also talking about the character He shaped into you, the mind He shaped into you, and the attitude He shaped into you. Don't try to add to His design. It's perfect just the way it is....
Prayer:
Father, I want to always be made in Your image. Mold and make me into what You want me to be. I'll carefully walk in Your ways. I want to be like You. I want to be used by You. I want to make You famous. Let me stay in Your care so I can produce after You and Your kingdom, in Jesus' name...Amen!
#1 in Coverage! (H.U.M.P. Day)
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew 28:19
Memory Verse: Same
I saw a cell phone commercial the other day that got me thinking. The ad was trying to convince me that they were #1 in coverage. Hmmm, I thought. They may have more coverage than their competition, but they're a distant second compared to the Body of Christ; or they should be.
Our assignment this H.U.M.P. Day is to 'extend the coverage'. Make sure someone around you knows how much Jesus loves them. Call an old friend who lives out of town and tell them Jesus loves them. You can even communicate that love via an act of service. The important thing is to do whatever you can to make God famous. Let's go Td (totally devoted) nation, we've got work to do. More coverage!!!
Prayer: Father, You've already given us the command to go and tell others about You. Give us Your heart, and help us make sharing the news of Your Son our number one priority. For the harvest is ripe, but the laborers are few. May we live only to bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Matthew 28:19
Memory Verse: Same
I saw a cell phone commercial the other day that got me thinking. The ad was trying to convince me that they were #1 in coverage. Hmmm, I thought. They may have more coverage than their competition, but they're a distant second compared to the Body of Christ; or they should be.
Our assignment this H.U.M.P. Day is to 'extend the coverage'. Make sure someone around you knows how much Jesus loves them. Call an old friend who lives out of town and tell them Jesus loves them. You can even communicate that love via an act of service. The important thing is to do whatever you can to make God famous. Let's go Td (totally devoted) nation, we've got work to do. More coverage!!!
Prayer: Father, You've already given us the command to go and tell others about You. Give us Your heart, and help us make sharing the news of Your Son our number one priority. For the harvest is ripe, but the laborers are few. May we live only to bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
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