Wednesday September 1, 2010
Blessings Td Nation! We are thankful to God for allowing us to see another H.U.M.P. Day. For our new readers, H.U.M.P. is our acronym for "His Ultimate Mission & Purpose". Which means Wednesday is the day Td (Total Devotion) Nation comes out from under the rigors of life to share the love of Christ somewhere within our community.
Today's mission is intercession. Intercession is simply defined as 'pleading on behalf of another'. As I am fully aware of the fact that there are probably some great needs in your own life right now, I implore you to consider the plight of someone else today. God's word clearly teaches us to bear one another's burdens. Where it would be quite difficult to do that in the natural, it's a piece of cake to do it in the spiritual. So pray for someone today. While interceding for someone else, you'll find that someone's interceding for you.
Prayer: Lord give me a heart for those less fortunate than I. I want to love the way You love, and provide hope to the broken the way You've instructed. If I am to truly love You, I must learn to truly love my neighbor. I now challenge myself to do more of both...in Jesus' name. Amen
Everything to me
Tuesday, August 31st, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 23
Memory Verse: Ps. 23: 5-6
On days like this, I'm grateful for the unshakeable Word of God. Days like this when the seasons we are told about in the book of Ecclesiastes come. Sometimes, we tend to quote certain passages so frequently that they may begin to sound cliche. But on days like this, the Word has a powerful way of sinking in as we stand on it and apply it with all our hearts.
One such powerful passage is the 27th psalm. The simple words of a sheperd-almost-king reassure us that God really is in control of it all. The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. Jehovah Roha, my caretaker, will make sure that all my needs are met. When something's missing from my life, He's already been in my past and has seen to it that the void is filled.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, and restores my soul. With all the stresses of life and distrust of one another, isn't it awesome to know that where there is obedience, there is also provision? The more I trust Him, the more He goes out of His way to show me that His faithfulness knows no bounds. He leads me in the path of righteousness for His Name's sake. This means he's determined to make Himself famous through me no matter what! His Name is on the line-- I have to make it to the finish line!
Even when I must walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil. Why? Because He is with me. All I have to do is watch the shepherd's rod and staff, putting one foot in front of the other. After all, my steps are ordered. With every step, I walk in peace. The peace that passes even human understanding is upon me. That's the greatest way to be a witness!
The anointing of the Lord covers me at all times. It enables me to do things I wouldn't be able to do otherwise. It won't be a "just enough' anointing, but one that overflows and brings Him glory. Surely, ministering spirits will be stationed about me always. And the privilege of the Lord's presence will be with me-- forever. What a promise! I claim it as mine today, and invite you to do the same.
Prayer: Father, what can we say to these things? You are for us, so we rest in the fact that no-one can come against You. Thank You for Your peace in the storm, joy in sorrow, and hope in despair. You truly are EVERYTHING to me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 23
Memory Verse: Ps. 23: 5-6
On days like this, I'm grateful for the unshakeable Word of God. Days like this when the seasons we are told about in the book of Ecclesiastes come. Sometimes, we tend to quote certain passages so frequently that they may begin to sound cliche. But on days like this, the Word has a powerful way of sinking in as we stand on it and apply it with all our hearts.
One such powerful passage is the 27th psalm. The simple words of a sheperd-almost-king reassure us that God really is in control of it all. The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. Jehovah Roha, my caretaker, will make sure that all my needs are met. When something's missing from my life, He's already been in my past and has seen to it that the void is filled.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, and restores my soul. With all the stresses of life and distrust of one another, isn't it awesome to know that where there is obedience, there is also provision? The more I trust Him, the more He goes out of His way to show me that His faithfulness knows no bounds. He leads me in the path of righteousness for His Name's sake. This means he's determined to make Himself famous through me no matter what! His Name is on the line-- I have to make it to the finish line!
Even when I must walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil. Why? Because He is with me. All I have to do is watch the shepherd's rod and staff, putting one foot in front of the other. After all, my steps are ordered. With every step, I walk in peace. The peace that passes even human understanding is upon me. That's the greatest way to be a witness!
The anointing of the Lord covers me at all times. It enables me to do things I wouldn't be able to do otherwise. It won't be a "just enough' anointing, but one that overflows and brings Him glory. Surely, ministering spirits will be stationed about me always. And the privilege of the Lord's presence will be with me-- forever. What a promise! I claim it as mine today, and invite you to do the same.
Prayer: Father, what can we say to these things? You are for us, so we rest in the fact that no-one can come against You. Thank You for Your peace in the storm, joy in sorrow, and hope in despair. You truly are EVERYTHING to me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
What Is HOPE?
Monday, August 30th, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 Thessalonians 4
Memory Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4: 16-18
What is HOPE? Is it what we long to have when we set our hearts on the desires of our hearts sometime in the future? Or is it what causes despair when that desire is not met? One poet said, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick.". So what happens when we set our hopes on things, places, and people that are no good? We end up having a life with nothing to look forward to.
But I remember the old hymn, "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay. On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand... And though the words still give me goosebumps, many people have no idea what's in store for us after our bodies leave this earth. They are convinced that anything spiritual is really just a fairy tale, while what we see on this earth is what's real.
For those of you who are aware of God's promises, sink your teeth a little deeper into them. But if this is new to you, be assured this is no fairy tale. Today's passage tells us that, if you happen to have lost someone on this side of heaven, they have a special place in the resurrection. No matter how badly the person's body was destroyed before his or her death, we can rest assured that Jesus' shout will awake them when He comes back for us. But not only are they going to be raised in Christ, but they'll be raised FIRST. Then those of us who may still be alive will be caught up in the air with them. God's plan was to expose the enemy's lie that this earth is all there is, and give us hope even as we grieve their loss.
So once again, when asked the question "what is hope", I'll respond that hope means Having Our Father's Perspective of Eternity. The anxiety people feel that they are alone can be so easily replaced with the peace of knowing God gave everything so we can have access to His entire kingdom --here on earth, and when He comes to take us home. So do not grieve when your loved ones have to be separated from us for a short season. But comfort one another with these words. And keep having our Father's perspective of eternity.
Prayer: thank You so much for loving me enough to prepare me for what I must face when my loved one leaves the earth. But as hard as it is, I thank You that You're coming back for us all. We choose to be totally Devoted to You, and ask You to live big in us as we strive to make You famous daily. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 Thessalonians 4
Memory Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4: 16-18
What is HOPE? Is it what we long to have when we set our hearts on the desires of our hearts sometime in the future? Or is it what causes despair when that desire is not met? One poet said, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick.". So what happens when we set our hopes on things, places, and people that are no good? We end up having a life with nothing to look forward to.
But I remember the old hymn, "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay. On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand... And though the words still give me goosebumps, many people have no idea what's in store for us after our bodies leave this earth. They are convinced that anything spiritual is really just a fairy tale, while what we see on this earth is what's real.
For those of you who are aware of God's promises, sink your teeth a little deeper into them. But if this is new to you, be assured this is no fairy tale. Today's passage tells us that, if you happen to have lost someone on this side of heaven, they have a special place in the resurrection. No matter how badly the person's body was destroyed before his or her death, we can rest assured that Jesus' shout will awake them when He comes back for us. But not only are they going to be raised in Christ, but they'll be raised FIRST. Then those of us who may still be alive will be caught up in the air with them. God's plan was to expose the enemy's lie that this earth is all there is, and give us hope even as we grieve their loss.
So once again, when asked the question "what is hope", I'll respond that hope means Having Our Father's Perspective of Eternity. The anxiety people feel that they are alone can be so easily replaced with the peace of knowing God gave everything so we can have access to His entire kingdom --here on earth, and when He comes to take us home. So do not grieve when your loved ones have to be separated from us for a short season. But comfort one another with these words. And keep having our Father's perspective of eternity.
Prayer: thank You so much for loving me enough to prepare me for what I must face when my loved one leaves the earth. But as hard as it is, I thank You that You're coming back for us all. We choose to be totally Devoted to You, and ask You to live big in us as we strive to make You famous daily. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Life's A Beach?
Today's Passage: Romans 8:17
Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 3:12
Years ago, there was a bumper sticker on cars that read 'Life's a Beach'. The message it gave was living is easy. But we all know the truth don't we? Even in our walk with the Lord, trouble seems to find us. We shudder to think what a walk without Him brings. In thinking back on things, the ONLY difference between the two lives is 'the promise'.
"Yes, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 3:12). That statement alone teaches us that life will not always be a bed of roses. This life has its seasons of pain, betrayal, lack, misunderstandings, and injustices. I told a colleague of mine the other day people commit suicide because dying is easy; it's living that can get really hard sometimes. Now this is not a doom- and-gloom speech by any stretch of the imagination. It is however a dose of the reality that persecution is a part of life. Therefore, if you've spent any time living, you too have learned that this life ain't for the weak or faint of heart. God told Joshua after the death of Moses: "Be strong and of good courage". He actually said it to Him more than once. So it tells me it must take strength and courage to live a life devoted to Christ. So what should our mindset be when faced with persecution? Should we close our eyes and give up? Should we succumb to our fears and "tap out"? No. We should do what the word of God says. We should set our hearts upon endurance like the good soldiers we are. If we believe our God is in control, shouldn't we let Him control it? Finally, if we are truly in Christ, then we must believe wherever we are, He is. If we do, it'll make enduring persecution less troubling. We'll even discover that our persecution is not so much about us as it is about the God in us.
My friends, we live according to the holy promise. Jesus said He'll never leave us or forsake us. So instead of focusing on what we're going through, let's be mindful of whose we are, and what He has for us if we endure. In the 8th chapter of Romans, Paul wrote "And we know we're going to get what's coming to us--an unbelievable inheritance! We go through what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with Him, then we're certainly going to go through the good times with Him". In other words, cling to Jesus like a life preserver when the storms of life are raging. When the storm is over, you'll find your feet planted on solid ground and the "Son" will be shining on your face. So I guess the bumper sticker has some truth after all. In Christ Jesus, life will eventually be a beach!
Prayer: Father, You are my hope and I trust in You. Although this life is full of pressure, I can find relief in You. When I am exhausted from the cares of life, breathe fresh life into me. I am Yours forever, in Jesus' name. Amen!
Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 3:12
Years ago, there was a bumper sticker on cars that read 'Life's a Beach'. The message it gave was living is easy. But we all know the truth don't we? Even in our walk with the Lord, trouble seems to find us. We shudder to think what a walk without Him brings. In thinking back on things, the ONLY difference between the two lives is 'the promise'.
"Yes, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 3:12). That statement alone teaches us that life will not always be a bed of roses. This life has its seasons of pain, betrayal, lack, misunderstandings, and injustices. I told a colleague of mine the other day people commit suicide because dying is easy; it's living that can get really hard sometimes. Now this is not a doom- and-gloom speech by any stretch of the imagination. It is however a dose of the reality that persecution is a part of life. Therefore, if you've spent any time living, you too have learned that this life ain't for the weak or faint of heart. God told Joshua after the death of Moses: "Be strong and of good courage". He actually said it to Him more than once. So it tells me it must take strength and courage to live a life devoted to Christ. So what should our mindset be when faced with persecution? Should we close our eyes and give up? Should we succumb to our fears and "tap out"? No. We should do what the word of God says. We should set our hearts upon endurance like the good soldiers we are. If we believe our God is in control, shouldn't we let Him control it? Finally, if we are truly in Christ, then we must believe wherever we are, He is. If we do, it'll make enduring persecution less troubling. We'll even discover that our persecution is not so much about us as it is about the God in us.
My friends, we live according to the holy promise. Jesus said He'll never leave us or forsake us. So instead of focusing on what we're going through, let's be mindful of whose we are, and what He has for us if we endure. In the 8th chapter of Romans, Paul wrote "And we know we're going to get what's coming to us--an unbelievable inheritance! We go through what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with Him, then we're certainly going to go through the good times with Him". In other words, cling to Jesus like a life preserver when the storms of life are raging. When the storm is over, you'll find your feet planted on solid ground and the "Son" will be shining on your face. So I guess the bumper sticker has some truth after all. In Christ Jesus, life will eventually be a beach!
Prayer: Father, You are my hope and I trust in You. Although this life is full of pressure, I can find relief in You. When I am exhausted from the cares of life, breathe fresh life into me. I am Yours forever, in Jesus' name. Amen!
Death, Where Is Your Sting?
Saturday, August 28th, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 15: 50-58
Memory Verse: 1 Cor.15: 55-56
Today's blog is going to be in honor of a pretty awesome woman. One who was placed on this earth seventy-nine years ago, and made quite an impact until she took her last breath during the early hours of this morning. Her name was Nora Giddings Howard, and she was my mother. Mommy, as I affectionately called her, carried seven children of her own, but she was mama to many. At an early age, I learned that a huge pot with enough food for everyone who came by was an outward sign of the equally huge heart within her.
If I could find some adjectives to describe Mommy, one of them would be strong. How she found the strength to wake up early every weekday and go to work at the government hospital, come home and minister to the patients who came to our walk-in clinic, then wake up in the middle of the night to deliver a baby, only God knows. But in spite of all that, do you think she'd even consider sleeping in on Saturday mornings? No way. She was a passionate gardener, and she had two farms in the interior part of our country that she had to go oversee every other weekend.
Another word that comes to mind about my mom is devoted to God. With some of the religious practices in Liberia involving idol worship, my parents made the decision to turn away from those things when they were introduced to Jesus Christ through some Lutheran missionaries who gave them scholarships to receive nursing training. Christ being the foundation of their lives, they made a decision to follow Him by raising us to fear Him. I can still see the family altar we had almost every night, singing songs of praise to the Lord before kneeling to pray as a family. Many years later, my mother would find comfort and peace between the pages of God's Word when she lost my father and had to spend the next 16 years without him.
Even as I process the pain of realizing that I won't be hearing her voice again on this side of heaven, I receive comfort in knowing that though absent in the body, she is present with the Lord. Every ounce of pain has been removed, and death for her is swallowed up in victory. May my life be a fraction as full of purpose as hers was, and may the fruit of her labor be seen in her children's children for God's glory.
Prayer: Father, You do ALL things well. Thank You for a life well-lived, and for using my mother's life to be the example You meant it to be for us all. I praise You for Your infinite wisdom and for seeing fit to call Your servant home.
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 15: 50-58
Memory Verse: 1 Cor.15: 55-56
Today's blog is going to be in honor of a pretty awesome woman. One who was placed on this earth seventy-nine years ago, and made quite an impact until she took her last breath during the early hours of this morning. Her name was Nora Giddings Howard, and she was my mother. Mommy, as I affectionately called her, carried seven children of her own, but she was mama to many. At an early age, I learned that a huge pot with enough food for everyone who came by was an outward sign of the equally huge heart within her.
If I could find some adjectives to describe Mommy, one of them would be strong. How she found the strength to wake up early every weekday and go to work at the government hospital, come home and minister to the patients who came to our walk-in clinic, then wake up in the middle of the night to deliver a baby, only God knows. But in spite of all that, do you think she'd even consider sleeping in on Saturday mornings? No way. She was a passionate gardener, and she had two farms in the interior part of our country that she had to go oversee every other weekend.
Another word that comes to mind about my mom is devoted to God. With some of the religious practices in Liberia involving idol worship, my parents made the decision to turn away from those things when they were introduced to Jesus Christ through some Lutheran missionaries who gave them scholarships to receive nursing training. Christ being the foundation of their lives, they made a decision to follow Him by raising us to fear Him. I can still see the family altar we had almost every night, singing songs of praise to the Lord before kneeling to pray as a family. Many years later, my mother would find comfort and peace between the pages of God's Word when she lost my father and had to spend the next 16 years without him.
Even as I process the pain of realizing that I won't be hearing her voice again on this side of heaven, I receive comfort in knowing that though absent in the body, she is present with the Lord. Every ounce of pain has been removed, and death for her is swallowed up in victory. May my life be a fraction as full of purpose as hers was, and may the fruit of her labor be seen in her children's children for God's glory.
Prayer: Father, You do ALL things well. Thank You for a life well-lived, and for using my mother's life to be the example You meant it to be for us all. I praise You for Your infinite wisdom and for seeing fit to call Your servant home.
In Due Season
Friday, August 27th, 2010
Today's Passage: Galatians 6: 7-9
Memory Verse: Gal. 6:9
Over the summer, I got involved in an online game. Some of you may recognize it from Facebook. It's called "We Farm". The objective of the game is to purchase fields, buy seeds of different crops, plant them, then sell them to purchase more products on the farm. The more crops you grow, the more points you can earn, and this will give you access to higher levels and larger fields.
My only problem was that I didn't understand the basic principle to earning extra points. All I saw was that there were crops to grow. I didn't stop to notice that there were time limits on each fruit or vegetable, but I sure jumped at the chance to skip the process. Each time I went to buy some seeds, I was offered the opportunity to watch them grow instantly-- for a small fee. Because I didn't want to wait, I eagerly accepted the offer to "purchase" a special gro solution. Little did I know, all I was doing was using up my resources that could have been saved to purchase more property. I even got so caught up in wanting more of this gro solution that I gave permission to deduct ten dollars from my actual account. By the time I realized that was for real, it was already too late.
When I got tired of taking short cuts to this game but getting nowhere, I finally thought through it long enough to ask someone who had played the game successfully. That's when they told me all I had to do was WAIT IT OUT and let the crops grow naturally, and they would bring me returns in due season. Go figure. You'd think if anybody knew about waiting patiently for a harvest, it'd be me. But that just goes to show you how we are in this flesh suit we call a body.
We've been given a promise that God is going to produce good fruit in us. But we want the harvest without having to go through the process. And that just can't happen. So our challenge to you is this: stay planted by streams of living water. Saints who've overcome one trial and temptation after another are there to encourage and give counsel. The best advice I could've been given is to just let the crops grow. God designed them to bring a harvest, and that's what they'll do-- if we only wait. New levels await those who wait on the Lord.
Prayer: Father, I can't count how many times I've impatiently jumped out in front of You, thinking I knew what was best for my life. But now I'm learning to trust Your hand and not the other voices I hear, leading me away from my destiny. Please keep me in Your path and continue to shield me from the enemy's grasp. I'll take it one day at a time while I wait for Your great harvest. I am Yours forever, In jesus' Name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Galatians 6: 7-9
Memory Verse: Gal. 6:9
Over the summer, I got involved in an online game. Some of you may recognize it from Facebook. It's called "We Farm". The objective of the game is to purchase fields, buy seeds of different crops, plant them, then sell them to purchase more products on the farm. The more crops you grow, the more points you can earn, and this will give you access to higher levels and larger fields.
My only problem was that I didn't understand the basic principle to earning extra points. All I saw was that there were crops to grow. I didn't stop to notice that there were time limits on each fruit or vegetable, but I sure jumped at the chance to skip the process. Each time I went to buy some seeds, I was offered the opportunity to watch them grow instantly-- for a small fee. Because I didn't want to wait, I eagerly accepted the offer to "purchase" a special gro solution. Little did I know, all I was doing was using up my resources that could have been saved to purchase more property. I even got so caught up in wanting more of this gro solution that I gave permission to deduct ten dollars from my actual account. By the time I realized that was for real, it was already too late.
When I got tired of taking short cuts to this game but getting nowhere, I finally thought through it long enough to ask someone who had played the game successfully. That's when they told me all I had to do was WAIT IT OUT and let the crops grow naturally, and they would bring me returns in due season. Go figure. You'd think if anybody knew about waiting patiently for a harvest, it'd be me. But that just goes to show you how we are in this flesh suit we call a body.
We've been given a promise that God is going to produce good fruit in us. But we want the harvest without having to go through the process. And that just can't happen. So our challenge to you is this: stay planted by streams of living water. Saints who've overcome one trial and temptation after another are there to encourage and give counsel. The best advice I could've been given is to just let the crops grow. God designed them to bring a harvest, and that's what they'll do-- if we only wait. New levels await those who wait on the Lord.
Prayer: Father, I can't count how many times I've impatiently jumped out in front of You, thinking I knew what was best for my life. But now I'm learning to trust Your hand and not the other voices I hear, leading me away from my destiny. Please keep me in Your path and continue to shield me from the enemy's grasp. I'll take it one day at a time while I wait for Your great harvest. I am Yours forever, In jesus' Name. Amen.
Failure Is Not An Option!
Thursday, August 26th, 2010
Today's Passage: Colossians 1:19-23
Memory Verse: Col. 1:21-22
What an interesting week this has been already! Back-to-school times are always hectic as parents try to pull what resources they can together to make sure their children have what they need to be successful. But at my daughter's sixth grade open house, I realized how important it is to be involved in our children's lives. Instead of just handing us schedules and showing us what rooms our babies would be going to, those teachers took the time to explain exactly what would be required in each subject area.
As a parent, I was very impressed. I was also ashamed of how easily I would have accepted the schedules and push out the door if this is what we had been offered. I could think of so many excuses for not really wanting to invest the time needed to find out about our children's education. One major reason we can all agree stops us from being more involved is WE'RE JUST PLAIN TIRED. And so we allow things to fall through the cracks like what our kids may or may not be wearing to school, homework, or behavior patterns they may be picking up.
Maybe that's why my heart jumped for joy when I heard how dedicated the administration at my kids' middle school are to make sure failure is not an option this year. They have put plans in place to help students be successful whether they want to be or not. When a student fails or misses a test, that student will simply miss out on his or her free time in order to make it up. This plan is really exciting because it takes the responsibility of finding time to catch up on their own away from the students. And that's where our Heavenly Father comes in.
Aren't you glad you serve a God Who has already put a PLAN of salvation in place for you that makes failure impossible? The blood of Jesus was shed, making it impossible for the enemy to stop you from walking in every single promise that was provided for you. If you happen to fall, you have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Himself, Who walked in our shoes and was tempted as we are, yet without sin. Yes, we're in a war, but you can relax in the knowledge that the battle's already been won. Are you a believer today? Then yes, even for you, failure is not an option.
Prayer: Father, nothing I could ever have done would be able to bring me the redemption You provided. My steps are ordered because of You, and the enemy is under my feet. May I always walk with my head high and make You proud forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Colossians 1:19-23
Memory Verse: Col. 1:21-22
What an interesting week this has been already! Back-to-school times are always hectic as parents try to pull what resources they can together to make sure their children have what they need to be successful. But at my daughter's sixth grade open house, I realized how important it is to be involved in our children's lives. Instead of just handing us schedules and showing us what rooms our babies would be going to, those teachers took the time to explain exactly what would be required in each subject area.
As a parent, I was very impressed. I was also ashamed of how easily I would have accepted the schedules and push out the door if this is what we had been offered. I could think of so many excuses for not really wanting to invest the time needed to find out about our children's education. One major reason we can all agree stops us from being more involved is WE'RE JUST PLAIN TIRED. And so we allow things to fall through the cracks like what our kids may or may not be wearing to school, homework, or behavior patterns they may be picking up.
Maybe that's why my heart jumped for joy when I heard how dedicated the administration at my kids' middle school are to make sure failure is not an option this year. They have put plans in place to help students be successful whether they want to be or not. When a student fails or misses a test, that student will simply miss out on his or her free time in order to make it up. This plan is really exciting because it takes the responsibility of finding time to catch up on their own away from the students. And that's where our Heavenly Father comes in.
Aren't you glad you serve a God Who has already put a PLAN of salvation in place for you that makes failure impossible? The blood of Jesus was shed, making it impossible for the enemy to stop you from walking in every single promise that was provided for you. If you happen to fall, you have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Himself, Who walked in our shoes and was tempted as we are, yet without sin. Yes, we're in a war, but you can relax in the knowledge that the battle's already been won. Are you a believer today? Then yes, even for you, failure is not an option.
Prayer: Father, nothing I could ever have done would be able to bring me the redemption You provided. My steps are ordered because of You, and the enemy is under my feet. May I always walk with my head high and make You proud forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day!
Wednesday August 25, 2010
Happy H.U.M.P. Day Td Nation! We hope you're having an awesome week thus far. Today begins with mercies that have been made new just for you. For some, we get to gather all that mercy together and join the other parts of Christ's body in an impactful time of praise, worship, and exploration of God's word tonight.
First and foremost, we have an assignment to seek His Ultimate Mission & Purpose. Our assignment today is "momentum". Momentum is defined as force or speed of movement. Having momentum means having an unstoppable drive to finish the journey. It also has an innate drive to increase in intensity when faced with opposition. In the book of Exodus chapter 1, the Bible says even though the Egyptians dealt more and more harshly with the children of Israel, they continued to "multiply and grow". So whatever your taskmaster is today (unemployment, low finances, illness, troubled marriage, etc), know that God has given you the power to continue to multiply and grow. He's given you His momentum. So get out there and let God make things happen through you.
Happy H.U.M.P. Day Td Nation! We hope you're having an awesome week thus far. Today begins with mercies that have been made new just for you. For some, we get to gather all that mercy together and join the other parts of Christ's body in an impactful time of praise, worship, and exploration of God's word tonight.
First and foremost, we have an assignment to seek His Ultimate Mission & Purpose. Our assignment today is "momentum". Momentum is defined as force or speed of movement. Having momentum means having an unstoppable drive to finish the journey. It also has an innate drive to increase in intensity when faced with opposition. In the book of Exodus chapter 1, the Bible says even though the Egyptians dealt more and more harshly with the children of Israel, they continued to "multiply and grow". So whatever your taskmaster is today (unemployment, low finances, illness, troubled marriage, etc), know that God has given you the power to continue to multiply and grow. He's given you His momentum. So get out there and let God make things happen through you.
Four!
Today's Passage: John 15:1
Memory Verse: Same
I was looking at the news yesterday when they reported Tiger Woods and his wife had agreed to divorce. My heart grieved for the couple. It seems although they have the wealth of the world at their disposal, and although he is the proprietor of a multi-million dollar empire, they still weren't immune to the "wiles of the enemy". Of course Tiger didn't help himself with the lifestyle he'd been living. However, to say "that" led to the demise of his marriage (and top level golf game) would not only be judging him, it'd be making a mistake.
Let's go back to the beginning. Remember the phenom that "was" Tiger Woods? He was young, gifted, and smart. Whatever he touched seemingly turned to gold. Those who liked him wanted to be like him, and those who didn't, well, they wanted to be like him too. Tournament after tournament he seemed to shred the competition. At the time, his only love was his family, especially his father. Then it happened. During a press conference, he was asked about his nationality and the religion to which he subscribed. His answer consisted of this "league of races" one would need a world map to understand, and a reference to Budha. A contract was immediately struck. The enemy had instantly put an expiration date on anything he did.
I wish I had the chance to have a one on one with Tiger. Not that I'm any better than anyone else, but I'd love the ability to share with him from a heart that's totally devoted. I can imagine me telling him that I'd like to introduce him to someone. I can also imagine him sensing where I'm going (Stanford grad folks. Not a dummy) and telling me he's not interested in talking about religion or Jesus. That's where I'd tell him I wouldn't be interested in the religion or Jesus the world has shown him either. Man has made a huge mess of the "Jesus" we know. Our unscriptural ideals and fluctuating moral standard have opened us up to the world's criticisms (deservedly so). However in some way, I'd try to convince him that Jesus is someone who needs another chance, just like him. A lot of misguided information has gone out about Him so He therefore should be able to re-establish His true self. Sound like anyone you know Tiger? I'd go on to tell Tiger "The more you change your mind about Him, the more people (including your wife in whom you still want to be with but you're buckling under media pressure) will change their minds about you". I guess the moral to this way too far out fantasy is this: there's a real world out there. One that exists outside of money, popularity, even life itself. And the only way to truly live is to have a true relationship with the One who gave life. Away with religion. Away with notion that our God lives in a faraway place and we'll only be with Him when we die and go to that place. There's a remnant of the totally devoted who knows we can experience the fullness of His love and presence right here, right now. They wake up everyday expecting Heaven to come colliding with Earth in a beautiful display of holy unity. That type of relationship with God allows one to live above the temptations of this world. It keeps them grounded. Knowing the Lord would have placed Tiger's desires on a different plain. See, Tiger's mistake was thinking his family wanted a tiger, when all they needed was the "Lion"!
Prayer: Lord bless us with more of You. Fill our lives with Your presence and power. No matter what type of success we experience on Earth, let it never compare to our success in a life with You. You are our only hope! So our lives are Yours. Amen!
Memory Verse: Same
I was looking at the news yesterday when they reported Tiger Woods and his wife had agreed to divorce. My heart grieved for the couple. It seems although they have the wealth of the world at their disposal, and although he is the proprietor of a multi-million dollar empire, they still weren't immune to the "wiles of the enemy". Of course Tiger didn't help himself with the lifestyle he'd been living. However, to say "that" led to the demise of his marriage (and top level golf game) would not only be judging him, it'd be making a mistake.
Let's go back to the beginning. Remember the phenom that "was" Tiger Woods? He was young, gifted, and smart. Whatever he touched seemingly turned to gold. Those who liked him wanted to be like him, and those who didn't, well, they wanted to be like him too. Tournament after tournament he seemed to shred the competition. At the time, his only love was his family, especially his father. Then it happened. During a press conference, he was asked about his nationality and the religion to which he subscribed. His answer consisted of this "league of races" one would need a world map to understand, and a reference to Budha. A contract was immediately struck. The enemy had instantly put an expiration date on anything he did.
I wish I had the chance to have a one on one with Tiger. Not that I'm any better than anyone else, but I'd love the ability to share with him from a heart that's totally devoted. I can imagine me telling him that I'd like to introduce him to someone. I can also imagine him sensing where I'm going (Stanford grad folks. Not a dummy) and telling me he's not interested in talking about religion or Jesus. That's where I'd tell him I wouldn't be interested in the religion or Jesus the world has shown him either. Man has made a huge mess of the "Jesus" we know. Our unscriptural ideals and fluctuating moral standard have opened us up to the world's criticisms (deservedly so). However in some way, I'd try to convince him that Jesus is someone who needs another chance, just like him. A lot of misguided information has gone out about Him so He therefore should be able to re-establish His true self. Sound like anyone you know Tiger? I'd go on to tell Tiger "The more you change your mind about Him, the more people (including your wife in whom you still want to be with but you're buckling under media pressure) will change their minds about you". I guess the moral to this way too far out fantasy is this: there's a real world out there. One that exists outside of money, popularity, even life itself. And the only way to truly live is to have a true relationship with the One who gave life. Away with religion. Away with notion that our God lives in a faraway place and we'll only be with Him when we die and go to that place. There's a remnant of the totally devoted who knows we can experience the fullness of His love and presence right here, right now. They wake up everyday expecting Heaven to come colliding with Earth in a beautiful display of holy unity. That type of relationship with God allows one to live above the temptations of this world. It keeps them grounded. Knowing the Lord would have placed Tiger's desires on a different plain. See, Tiger's mistake was thinking his family wanted a tiger, when all they needed was the "Lion"!
Prayer: Lord bless us with more of You. Fill our lives with Your presence and power. No matter what type of success we experience on Earth, let it never compare to our success in a life with You. You are our only hope! So our lives are Yours. Amen!
True Fulfillment
Monday, August 23rd, 2010
Today's Passage: Ecclesiastes 2
Memory Verse: Ecc. 2: 24-25
I was watching "Sixty Minutes" with my husband and saw an interview with the richest man in Russia. He is said to be worth a whopping seventeen billion dollars. As journalists usually do, this one shadowed him, I guess to get an idea of a day in the life of the man who also happens to own about 80% of the New Jersey Nets basketball team. I saw that he was what the world calls an excitement junkie, constantly looking for the next rush. He always works out for at least two hours, then spends his spare time searching out the most extravagant foods, adventures, and companionship.
When asked whether knowing how rich he was gave him any satisfaction, he only said something like he didn't have time to think about it because he was too busy trying to find the next thing that would captivate him. My husband and I actually talked briefly about what it would be like to have all that money. But when I stopped to reflect, I realized that if this guy could trade all of that "fun", he'd probably trade it all for a moment of peace that Christ gives.
I found an interesting parallel between this man's life and that of Solomon, also known as the "Preacher" in the book of Ecclesiastes. You'll remember him as the wealthiest king in Israel. When I read this passage, I found out that he set out to discover the key to happiness. With the wisdom God gave Him, Solomon did a sort of study on whether or not pursuing life's pleasures to the fullest brought any true satisfaction. What His study yielded was that all those things only bring a feeling of emptiness. No wonder why a rich person would pour all his or her resources into a lifetime of searching for the possibility of finding true fulfillment.
But you and I already know what Solomon discovered, don't we? Even though we may not have billions of dollars at our disposal, I, too have poured what little I had into pursuing pleasures of my own. And just like Solomon, nothing I did brought me any joy. As a matter of fact, all I felt was a deep heartache -- until I met Christ. Take Solomon's advice today and live to please God. You'll find more fulfillment than anything else in this world.
Prayer: Father, You're my deepest heart's desire. Nothing I may think I desire compares to You. Thank You for reminding me that all my goals and dreams should lead me to Your heart. That's where the true fulfillment lies, and that's where I'll always be. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Ecclesiastes 2
Memory Verse: Ecc. 2: 24-25
I was watching "Sixty Minutes" with my husband and saw an interview with the richest man in Russia. He is said to be worth a whopping seventeen billion dollars. As journalists usually do, this one shadowed him, I guess to get an idea of a day in the life of the man who also happens to own about 80% of the New Jersey Nets basketball team. I saw that he was what the world calls an excitement junkie, constantly looking for the next rush. He always works out for at least two hours, then spends his spare time searching out the most extravagant foods, adventures, and companionship.
When asked whether knowing how rich he was gave him any satisfaction, he only said something like he didn't have time to think about it because he was too busy trying to find the next thing that would captivate him. My husband and I actually talked briefly about what it would be like to have all that money. But when I stopped to reflect, I realized that if this guy could trade all of that "fun", he'd probably trade it all for a moment of peace that Christ gives.
I found an interesting parallel between this man's life and that of Solomon, also known as the "Preacher" in the book of Ecclesiastes. You'll remember him as the wealthiest king in Israel. When I read this passage, I found out that he set out to discover the key to happiness. With the wisdom God gave Him, Solomon did a sort of study on whether or not pursuing life's pleasures to the fullest brought any true satisfaction. What His study yielded was that all those things only bring a feeling of emptiness. No wonder why a rich person would pour all his or her resources into a lifetime of searching for the possibility of finding true fulfillment.
But you and I already know what Solomon discovered, don't we? Even though we may not have billions of dollars at our disposal, I, too have poured what little I had into pursuing pleasures of my own. And just like Solomon, nothing I did brought me any joy. As a matter of fact, all I felt was a deep heartache -- until I met Christ. Take Solomon's advice today and live to please God. You'll find more fulfillment than anything else in this world.
Prayer: Father, You're my deepest heart's desire. Nothing I may think I desire compares to You. Thank You for reminding me that all my goals and dreams should lead me to Your heart. That's where the true fulfillment lies, and that's where I'll always be. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Stand & See!!!
Sunday August 22, 2010
Today's Passage: Exodus 14:4
Memory Verse: Exodus 14:13
Ever been in a situation you thought would be impossible to get out of? Can you remember how you got out of it? Now let me ask the REAL question: as you look back on it, do you think God put you there on purpose? I know I know. It's inconceivable to think God would do that, but hear me out first.
There are 2 things God seems to be very serious about: redeeming His lost and showing His power & glory. All throughout the Bible, you will find Him doing either one or the other. That being said, do you think He'd ever put us in a situation where His glory is the only option? Did he do that to Job, the 3 Hebrew boys, or Daniel? Christians have walked away from God because He turned up a little heat in their lives, only to realize that the heat they so despised was merely a set up for God to move. That leads me to ask if we really believe we belong to Him. Do we really believe He cares for us? Let's reference a pivotal event in the lives of the Children of Israel. After God (through Moses) had successfully convinced Pharaoh to let His people go, he led them out of Egypt toward the Red Sea. You know this story so let's pick it up in Exodus 14. Verse 4 says "Then I'll (God) make Pharaoh's heart stubborn again and he'll chase after them". What? God WANTED the Egyptians to chase them? I thought His will was for the Israelites to be free? But wait, there's more. God goes on to say "And I'll use Pharaoh and his army to put my glory on display". God says it's not enough to just free you from your bondage. He wants to do it so that His glory is on display. He wants you to know where the credit goes. And He wants your enemy destroyed.
In order for God's power & glory to be seen on Earth, He has to have people of faith who are not afraid of a little heat. He has to have children who'll declare His might and STAND on what they declare. If they get sick, they'll say "Lord You're mighty". If their finances get out of whack, they'll say "Lord You're mighty". See, they'll say it because they know their situation is not a set back, it's a set up. Exodus 14 ends with God parting the Red Sea so the Israelites can safely cross. When the Egyptians tried to pursue them, the waters returned and drowned them. Is that the work of a mighty God or what? So if you're in an impossible situation today, I dare you to believe that God is setting you up to show His glory in your life. Just do what Moses told the Children of Israel to do in verse 13. He told them to stand firm and watch God do His work of salvation. He said "Take a good look at the Egyptians today for you're never going to see them again". With faith my Friends, God will show His glory and destroy our enemies the same way. Just stand back and let Him work.
Prayer: Lord I place my life in Your hands. Although the trouble in my life cause me to fear, I'll never let go of You. I'll stand and watch You deliver me. Lord, You're mighty. Lord, You're mighty. Yes, You are so mighty....Amen!
Today's Passage: Exodus 14:4
Memory Verse: Exodus 14:13
Ever been in a situation you thought would be impossible to get out of? Can you remember how you got out of it? Now let me ask the REAL question: as you look back on it, do you think God put you there on purpose? I know I know. It's inconceivable to think God would do that, but hear me out first.
There are 2 things God seems to be very serious about: redeeming His lost and showing His power & glory. All throughout the Bible, you will find Him doing either one or the other. That being said, do you think He'd ever put us in a situation where His glory is the only option? Did he do that to Job, the 3 Hebrew boys, or Daniel? Christians have walked away from God because He turned up a little heat in their lives, only to realize that the heat they so despised was merely a set up for God to move. That leads me to ask if we really believe we belong to Him. Do we really believe He cares for us? Let's reference a pivotal event in the lives of the Children of Israel. After God (through Moses) had successfully convinced Pharaoh to let His people go, he led them out of Egypt toward the Red Sea. You know this story so let's pick it up in Exodus 14. Verse 4 says "Then I'll (God) make Pharaoh's heart stubborn again and he'll chase after them". What? God WANTED the Egyptians to chase them? I thought His will was for the Israelites to be free? But wait, there's more. God goes on to say "And I'll use Pharaoh and his army to put my glory on display". God says it's not enough to just free you from your bondage. He wants to do it so that His glory is on display. He wants you to know where the credit goes. And He wants your enemy destroyed.
In order for God's power & glory to be seen on Earth, He has to have people of faith who are not afraid of a little heat. He has to have children who'll declare His might and STAND on what they declare. If they get sick, they'll say "Lord You're mighty". If their finances get out of whack, they'll say "Lord You're mighty". See, they'll say it because they know their situation is not a set back, it's a set up. Exodus 14 ends with God parting the Red Sea so the Israelites can safely cross. When the Egyptians tried to pursue them, the waters returned and drowned them. Is that the work of a mighty God or what? So if you're in an impossible situation today, I dare you to believe that God is setting you up to show His glory in your life. Just do what Moses told the Children of Israel to do in verse 13. He told them to stand firm and watch God do His work of salvation. He said "Take a good look at the Egyptians today for you're never going to see them again". With faith my Friends, God will show His glory and destroy our enemies the same way. Just stand back and let Him work.
Prayer: Lord I place my life in Your hands. Although the trouble in my life cause me to fear, I'll never let go of You. I'll stand and watch You deliver me. Lord, You're mighty. Lord, You're mighty. Yes, You are so mighty....Amen!
A Better Life
Today's Passage: Romans 5:1 (Message)
Memory Verse: Romans 5:1-4
What a life! I was sitting in my living room last night thinking of my life before Jesus saved me, compared to my life now. Whereas I'm nowhere near perfect, there is a vast difference between the two. My old life consisted of this man-pleasing, cookie-cut, way of doing things. I can remember being more confused than informed, more mistaken than understood, and certainly more foolish than wise. I needed a plan. I needed something I could build on. I needed to get myself together.
I realized I didn't have the power to do it. Get myself together? How can I get myself together when my only skill was destruction. I almost destroyed my hopes, dreams, and marriage in one dumb decision. But God right? When I began to find my way through God's word, and when He allowed me to see myself through His eyes, things began to change for me. I took my plans and replaced them with God's plan for me. The results I received were astounding. The Bible says in Romans 5 (Message) "By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us (set us right w/Him - make us fit for Him) we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that's not all: we throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment He has already thrown open His door to us. Verse 3 - There's more to come: we continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next.". That's a mouthful. But this description of life is EXACTLY what I'm after. If I receive God's instruction by faith, and stay totally devoted to Him, the only thing the troubles in my new life can do is make me better. I'll take that trade. I desire to wake up every morning and be on high alert for what "God" is going to do next. I no longer desire what the world wants "me" to do next (which was all the ambition I could muster in my old life).
I challenge you today to take a look at your life. See if you can recognize significant changes the Lord has made in your life. Be sure to thank and praise Him for His love and grace. You owe Him that much. Remember, by the time you open your heart to Him, His heart was already open for you. What a sweet life!
Prayer: Thank You Lord for this life You've given me. I couldn't have brought myself to this place on my own. Your love has saved and kept me. I will never turn away from You. I have no desire for the passions of my old life. I'm Yours forever......in Jesus' name Amen
Memory Verse: Romans 5:1-4
What a life! I was sitting in my living room last night thinking of my life before Jesus saved me, compared to my life now. Whereas I'm nowhere near perfect, there is a vast difference between the two. My old life consisted of this man-pleasing, cookie-cut, way of doing things. I can remember being more confused than informed, more mistaken than understood, and certainly more foolish than wise. I needed a plan. I needed something I could build on. I needed to get myself together.
I realized I didn't have the power to do it. Get myself together? How can I get myself together when my only skill was destruction. I almost destroyed my hopes, dreams, and marriage in one dumb decision. But God right? When I began to find my way through God's word, and when He allowed me to see myself through His eyes, things began to change for me. I took my plans and replaced them with God's plan for me. The results I received were astounding. The Bible says in Romans 5 (Message) "By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us (set us right w/Him - make us fit for Him) we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that's not all: we throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment He has already thrown open His door to us. Verse 3 - There's more to come: we continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next.". That's a mouthful. But this description of life is EXACTLY what I'm after. If I receive God's instruction by faith, and stay totally devoted to Him, the only thing the troubles in my new life can do is make me better. I'll take that trade. I desire to wake up every morning and be on high alert for what "God" is going to do next. I no longer desire what the world wants "me" to do next (which was all the ambition I could muster in my old life).
I challenge you today to take a look at your life. See if you can recognize significant changes the Lord has made in your life. Be sure to thank and praise Him for His love and grace. You owe Him that much. Remember, by the time you open your heart to Him, His heart was already open for you. What a sweet life!
Prayer: Thank You Lord for this life You've given me. I couldn't have brought myself to this place on my own. Your love has saved and kept me. I will never turn away from You. I have no desire for the passions of my old life. I'm Yours forever......in Jesus' name Amen
A Better Life
Today's Passage: Romans 5:1 (Message)
Memory Verse: Romans 5:1-4
What a life! I was sitting in my living room last night thinking of my life before Jesus saved me, compared to my life now. Whereas I'm nowhere near perfect, there is a vast difference between the two. My old life consisted of this man-pleasing, cookie-cut, way of doing things. I can remember being more confused than informed, more mistaken than understood, and certainly more foolish than wise. I needed a plan. I needed something I could build on. I needed to get myself together.
I realized I didn't have the power to do it. Get myself together? How can I get myself together when my only skill was destruction. I almost destroyed my hopes, dreams, and marriage in one dumb decision. But God right? When I began to find my way through God's word, and when He allowed me to see myself through His eyes, things began to change for me. I took my plans and replaced them with God's plan for me. The results I received were astounding. The Bible says in Romans 5 (Message) "By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us (set us right w/Him - make us fit for Him) we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that's not all: we throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment He has already thrown open His door to us. Verse 3 - There's more to come: we continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next.". That's a mouthful. But this description of life is EXACTLY what I'm after. If I receive God's instruction by faith, and stay totally devoted to Him, the only thing the troubles in my new life can do is make me better. I'll take that trade. I desire to wake up every morning being on high alert for what God is going to do next. In my old life, I had no such ambition. There were no goals to attain. And to think it was easy. The only thing that was required was total devotion.
I challenge you today to take a look at your life. See if you can recognize significant changes the Lord has made in your life. Be sure to thank and praise Him for His love and grace. You owe Him that much. Remember, by the time you open your heart to Him, His heart was already open for you. What a sweet life!
Prayer: Thank You Lord for this life You've given me. I couldn't have brought myself to this place on my own. Your love has saved and kept me. I will never turn away from You. I have no desire for the passions of my old life. I'm Yours forever......in Jesus' name Amen
Memory Verse: Romans 5:1-4
What a life! I was sitting in my living room last night thinking of my life before Jesus saved me, compared to my life now. Whereas I'm nowhere near perfect, there is a vast difference between the two. My old life consisted of this man-pleasing, cookie-cut, way of doing things. I can remember being more confused than informed, more mistaken than understood, and certainly more foolish than wise. I needed a plan. I needed something I could build on. I needed to get myself together.
I realized I didn't have the power to do it. Get myself together? How can I get myself together when my only skill was destruction. I almost destroyed my hopes, dreams, and marriage in one dumb decision. But God right? When I began to find my way through God's word, and when He allowed me to see myself through His eyes, things began to change for me. I took my plans and replaced them with God's plan for me. The results I received were astounding. The Bible says in Romans 5 (Message) "By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us (set us right w/Him - make us fit for Him) we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that's not all: we throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment He has already thrown open His door to us. Verse 3 - There's more to come: we continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next.". That's a mouthful. But this description of life is EXACTLY what I'm after. If I receive God's instruction by faith, and stay totally devoted to Him, the only thing the troubles in my new life can do is make me better. I'll take that trade. I desire to wake up every morning being on high alert for what God is going to do next. In my old life, I had no such ambition. There were no goals to attain. And to think it was easy. The only thing that was required was total devotion.
I challenge you today to take a look at your life. See if you can recognize significant changes the Lord has made in your life. Be sure to thank and praise Him for His love and grace. You owe Him that much. Remember, by the time you open your heart to Him, His heart was already open for you. What a sweet life!
Prayer: Thank You Lord for this life You've given me. I couldn't have brought myself to this place on my own. Your love has saved and kept me. I will never turn away from You. I have no desire for the passions of my old life. I'm Yours forever......in Jesus' name Amen
A Better Life
Today's Passage: Romans 5:1 (Message)
Memory Verse: Romans 5:1-4
What a life! I was sitting in my living room last night thinking of my life before Jesus saved me, compared to my life now. Whereas I'm nowhere near perfect, there is a vast difference between the two. My old life consisted of this man-pleasing, cookie-cut, way of doing things. I can remember being more confused than informed, more mistaken than understood, and certainly more foolish than wise. I needed a plan. I needed something I could build on. I needed to get myself together.
I realized I didn't have the power to do it. Get myself together? How can I get myself together when my only skill was destruction. I almost destroyed my hopes, dreams, and marriage in one dumb decision. But God right? When I began to find my way through God's word, and when He allowed me to see myself through His eyes, things began to change for me. I took my plans and replaced them with God's plan for me. The results I received were astounding. The Bible says in Romans 5 (Message) "By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us (set us right w/Him - make us fit for Him) we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that's not all: we throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment He has already thrown open His door to us. Verse 3 - There's more to come: we continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next.". That's a mouthful. But this description of life is EXACTLY what I'm after. If I receive God's instruction by faith, and stay totally devoted to Him, the only thing the troubles in my new life can do is make me better. I'll take that trade. I desire to wake up every morning being on high alert for God is going to do next. In my old life, I had no such ambition. There were no goals to attain. And to think it was easy. The only thing that was required was total devotion.
I challenge you today to take a look at your life. See if you can recognize significant changes the Lord has made in your life. Be sure to thank and praise Him for His love and grace. You owe Him that much. Remember, by the time you open your heart to Him, His heart was already open for you. What a sweet life!
Prayer: Thank You Lord for this life You've given me. I couldn't have brought myself to this place on my own. Your love has saved and kept me. I will never turn away from You. I have no desire for the passions of my old life. I'm Yours forever......in Jesus' name Amen
Memory Verse: Romans 5:1-4
What a life! I was sitting in my living room last night thinking of my life before Jesus saved me, compared to my life now. Whereas I'm nowhere near perfect, there is a vast difference between the two. My old life consisted of this man-pleasing, cookie-cut, way of doing things. I can remember being more confused than informed, more mistaken than understood, and certainly more foolish than wise. I needed a plan. I needed something I could build on. I needed to get myself together.
I realized I didn't have the power to do it. Get myself together? How can I get myself together when my only skill was destruction. I almost destroyed my hopes, dreams, and marriage in one dumb decision. But God right? When I began to find my way through God's word, and when He allowed me to see myself through His eyes, things began to change for me. I took my plans and replaced them with God's plan for me. The results I received were astounding. The Bible says in Romans 5 (Message) "By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us (set us right w/Him - make us fit for Him) we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that's not all: we throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment He has already thrown open His door to us. Verse 3 - There's more to come: we continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next.". That's a mouthful. But this description of life is EXACTLY what I'm after. If I receive God's instruction by faith, and stay totally devoted to Him, the only thing the troubles in my new life can do is make me better. I'll take that trade. I desire to wake up every morning being on high alert for God is going to do next. In my old life, I had no such ambition. There were no goals to attain. And to think it was easy. The only thing that was required was total devotion.
I challenge you today to take a look at your life. See if you can recognize significant changes the Lord has made in your life. Be sure to thank and praise Him for His love and grace. You owe Him that much. Remember, by the time you open your heart to Him, His heart was already open for you. What a sweet life!
Prayer: Thank You Lord for this life You've given me. I couldn't have brought myself to this place on my own. Your love has saved and kept me. I will never turn away from You. I have no desire for the passions of my old life. I'm Yours forever......in Jesus' name Amen
The "Death Crawl"
Thursday, August 19th, 2010
Today's Passage: Numbers 13
Memory Verse: Numbers 13:30
Yesterday was my first day back at work after a few weeks of summer vacation. I reported for pre-planning as all other teachers had to do. But perhaps unlike those others, I was somehow anticipating the words of inspiration my principal would give us to propel us into another school year. What I received was even better than I had anticipated: she showed us a movie clip. And you'd never guess which movie it was. I just knew God had some revelation prepared just for me.
The scene was called "The Death Crawl". It was the part where the coach was trying to inspire his team to see themselves as champions, but they were being badly beaten by their own negative attitudes. So he demonstrated how nothing was impossible by getting one of his players to carry another teammate on his back, supposedly for about 20 yards or so, in a football training maneuver called the "death crawl". But he convinced this player to make the attempt while blindfolded. I'm sure you know the movie by now-- it's "Facing the Giants".
As the player began crawling, not really believing he could make it even 10 yards, you could hear the snickers of the other teammates, who thought the same. But the coach continued to urge him on, his voice rising as he put his all into getting his player not to quit. Pretty soon, even the voices of the doubtful teammates were silenced as they watched their fellow player crawl past the 20-yard line, 30 yards, even 40 -- all the way to the 100. We all agreed that, as teachers, we have the potential to be that coach who must be willing to motivate our students to be and do more than they ever dreamed they could. But later, something else struck me.
In the spirit realm, some of us are called to be the player required to carry our teammate on our backs while blindfolded. This part is extremely important because, when the Holy Spirit begins to motivate us to push forward into the land of the impossible, we won't focus our eyes on the giants and quit. But here's what really God wanted me to see: others of us have an equally, if not more important, job. While the two teammates are trying to make it to the end zone, WHAT IS GOD REQUIRING OF US? We can't be the ones joining in with the voices of doubt. Rather, we have to encourage, inspire, and cheer our fellow teammates on. After all, we're the ones who can ACTUALLY see the possibility of success. Why is it so much easier for us to believe failure is an option before we'll even consider the opposite?
Saints, at this point in the race, God is calling us to believe, receive, and achieve more for His kingdom than ever before. Get ready to be used to accomplish something bigger than yourself -- and begin cheering on others who are positioning themselves to do the same. By the Spirit of the Living God, we're on the way to the promise.
Prayer: Father, I thank You that You are God of Your Word. You have already told us that You're causing a new thing to spring forth. That new thing involves Your children pushing and pulling one another towards the Promise-- no sign of jealousy, strife, or competition. Let Your total Will be done in these last days. In Jesus' Mighty Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Numbers 13
Memory Verse: Numbers 13:30
Yesterday was my first day back at work after a few weeks of summer vacation. I reported for pre-planning as all other teachers had to do. But perhaps unlike those others, I was somehow anticipating the words of inspiration my principal would give us to propel us into another school year. What I received was even better than I had anticipated: she showed us a movie clip. And you'd never guess which movie it was. I just knew God had some revelation prepared just for me.
The scene was called "The Death Crawl". It was the part where the coach was trying to inspire his team to see themselves as champions, but they were being badly beaten by their own negative attitudes. So he demonstrated how nothing was impossible by getting one of his players to carry another teammate on his back, supposedly for about 20 yards or so, in a football training maneuver called the "death crawl". But he convinced this player to make the attempt while blindfolded. I'm sure you know the movie by now-- it's "Facing the Giants".
As the player began crawling, not really believing he could make it even 10 yards, you could hear the snickers of the other teammates, who thought the same. But the coach continued to urge him on, his voice rising as he put his all into getting his player not to quit. Pretty soon, even the voices of the doubtful teammates were silenced as they watched their fellow player crawl past the 20-yard line, 30 yards, even 40 -- all the way to the 100. We all agreed that, as teachers, we have the potential to be that coach who must be willing to motivate our students to be and do more than they ever dreamed they could. But later, something else struck me.
In the spirit realm, some of us are called to be the player required to carry our teammate on our backs while blindfolded. This part is extremely important because, when the Holy Spirit begins to motivate us to push forward into the land of the impossible, we won't focus our eyes on the giants and quit. But here's what really God wanted me to see: others of us have an equally, if not more important, job. While the two teammates are trying to make it to the end zone, WHAT IS GOD REQUIRING OF US? We can't be the ones joining in with the voices of doubt. Rather, we have to encourage, inspire, and cheer our fellow teammates on. After all, we're the ones who can ACTUALLY see the possibility of success. Why is it so much easier for us to believe failure is an option before we'll even consider the opposite?
Saints, at this point in the race, God is calling us to believe, receive, and achieve more for His kingdom than ever before. Get ready to be used to accomplish something bigger than yourself -- and begin cheering on others who are positioning themselves to do the same. By the Spirit of the Living God, we're on the way to the promise.
Prayer: Father, I thank You that You are God of Your Word. You have already told us that You're causing a new thing to spring forth. That new thing involves Your children pushing and pulling one another towards the Promise-- no sign of jealousy, strife, or competition. Let Your total Will be done in these last days. In Jesus' Mighty Name, Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day (In the Mix)!!!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Imagine waking up one morning and discovering everyone in the world was an exact likeness of you. Whether it was the morning news person on TV, the President of the United States, the newspaper delivery person, or the homeless guy in the park, what if they all looked, talked, and acted like you? It gets worse (or better if you're a narcissist). You make it to work, and again all your co-workers are, well......you.
I don't know about you, but that'd be a BAD day if it happened to me. Everybody like Chris Lee? I don't think so. Before you make fun of me, you have to admit the world would be just as messed up if it were you too. I believe God intended for mankind to be a puzzle. A puzzle is a box of differently-shaped and colored pieces. No one piece is like the other. Nor is a piece more or less valuable than its neighbor. Inasmuch, if you keep the pieces separated, you'll never experience the beauty of the big picture. If the box falls open and you lose ONE piece, you could never refer to what you have as a puzzle again. Why? Because the value is in all the different colors, shapes, and sizes being fit together to become one. God's message today is this: "Being inside the box is NOT enough. You don't have value until you 'connect' with a neighbor to make something bigger than you".
Our mission today is: Connecting. Let's mix it up, Td Nation. Connect with someone in order to make this big picture called unity a reality. You can do it. Blessings!
Imagine waking up one morning and discovering everyone in the world was an exact likeness of you. Whether it was the morning news person on TV, the President of the United States, the newspaper delivery person, or the homeless guy in the park, what if they all looked, talked, and acted like you? It gets worse (or better if you're a narcissist). You make it to work, and again all your co-workers are, well......you.
I don't know about you, but that'd be a BAD day if it happened to me. Everybody like Chris Lee? I don't think so. Before you make fun of me, you have to admit the world would be just as messed up if it were you too. I believe God intended for mankind to be a puzzle. A puzzle is a box of differently-shaped and colored pieces. No one piece is like the other. Nor is a piece more or less valuable than its neighbor. Inasmuch, if you keep the pieces separated, you'll never experience the beauty of the big picture. If the box falls open and you lose ONE piece, you could never refer to what you have as a puzzle again. Why? Because the value is in all the different colors, shapes, and sizes being fit together to become one. God's message today is this: "Being inside the box is NOT enough. You don't have value until you 'connect' with a neighbor to make something bigger than you".
Our mission today is: Connecting. Let's mix it up, Td Nation. Connect with someone in order to make this big picture called unity a reality. You can do it. Blessings!
Correction, Not Condemnation
Tuesday, August 17th, 2010
Today's Passage: Proverbs 3:1-12
Memory Verse: Prov. 3:11-12
Lately, I've noticed how often my husband and I are having to chastise our children. We do believe in spanking (yes, for the Bible tells us so), but as they get older and more exposed to the influences of television or friends who may not have a godly upbringing, we find it necessary to use other methods that will get their attention more effectively. It may mean taking away something they love to do, or it might just mean more chores over an extended period of time. To the child, chastening is never pleasant. But oh, how impactful those moments are for the rest of their lives!
In today's passage, we are reminded that there are times when the Lord has to be a Father to us. When He sees us straying in a certain area, or walking in error in another, God's Word and His Holy Spirit both raise the standard to provide correction. We actually know what happens to us as CONVICTION. It's that feeling that tears you up inside when the Holy Spirit witnesses with our spirits that we're not where we should be in our walk with God. This is actually a wonderful thing, because this is what lets us know that God doesn't want anything to keep us apart from Him.
But here's where the danger lies for the believer. If we ever begin to mistake God's chastening for condemnation, we'll start doing exactly what we should NOT do: have an attitude of contempt towards whatever form of correction God is giving us. And the moment we start doing that, we take God out of the place of a real Father and make Him an illegitimate one. What Father wants to harm his child? What parent wants anything but the best for his or her offspring? God's heart is no less towards us. There are just some moments in our lives that He must chastise us to make us better.
Today, meditate on some hard lessons you've had to learn (as a believer as well as when you were a child). How did those lessons help you become better? Now think about what you may be going through spiritually that might be tempting you to harden your heart against God. Here's our advice: DON'T DO IT!!! As Pastor Nette often says, trust the Potter's Hand. He knows what He's doing with your life. See yourself walking in victory over the enemy in this area. Don't be like the children of Israel who only wanted God to deliver them, but refused to allow Him to tell them what to do. Remember: it's only correction, not condemnation.
Prayer: Father, I'll be honest and admit that this chastening I'm walking through doesn't feel good to my flesh. But then I look back and see how every time you had to correct me was only for my good. I yield myself once again to your Hand and thank You for Your Fatherly covering. Let this time produce pure gold in me, bring me ever closer to You, and make You famous in my life. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Proverbs 3:1-12
Memory Verse: Prov. 3:11-12
Lately, I've noticed how often my husband and I are having to chastise our children. We do believe in spanking (yes, for the Bible tells us so), but as they get older and more exposed to the influences of television or friends who may not have a godly upbringing, we find it necessary to use other methods that will get their attention more effectively. It may mean taking away something they love to do, or it might just mean more chores over an extended period of time. To the child, chastening is never pleasant. But oh, how impactful those moments are for the rest of their lives!
In today's passage, we are reminded that there are times when the Lord has to be a Father to us. When He sees us straying in a certain area, or walking in error in another, God's Word and His Holy Spirit both raise the standard to provide correction. We actually know what happens to us as CONVICTION. It's that feeling that tears you up inside when the Holy Spirit witnesses with our spirits that we're not where we should be in our walk with God. This is actually a wonderful thing, because this is what lets us know that God doesn't want anything to keep us apart from Him.
But here's where the danger lies for the believer. If we ever begin to mistake God's chastening for condemnation, we'll start doing exactly what we should NOT do: have an attitude of contempt towards whatever form of correction God is giving us. And the moment we start doing that, we take God out of the place of a real Father and make Him an illegitimate one. What Father wants to harm his child? What parent wants anything but the best for his or her offspring? God's heart is no less towards us. There are just some moments in our lives that He must chastise us to make us better.
Today, meditate on some hard lessons you've had to learn (as a believer as well as when you were a child). How did those lessons help you become better? Now think about what you may be going through spiritually that might be tempting you to harden your heart against God. Here's our advice: DON'T DO IT!!! As Pastor Nette often says, trust the Potter's Hand. He knows what He's doing with your life. See yourself walking in victory over the enemy in this area. Don't be like the children of Israel who only wanted God to deliver them, but refused to allow Him to tell them what to do. Remember: it's only correction, not condemnation.
Prayer: Father, I'll be honest and admit that this chastening I'm walking through doesn't feel good to my flesh. But then I look back and see how every time you had to correct me was only for my good. I yield myself once again to your Hand and thank You for Your Fatherly covering. Let this time produce pure gold in me, bring me ever closer to You, and make You famous in my life. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Monday's Moment of Wisdom
Monday, August 16th, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 146
Memory Verses: Ps. 146: 3-5
Not to be disrespectful towards any political leader, but do you see how some of their tactics to get people to vote for them center around making promises for things that are needed in our society? "Vote for me, and I'll see to it that more and better jobs are provided." "If you vote for me, I'll fight to get better health care." But it's interesting to me that, after the most popular candidate is elected, disillusion sets in once again when people realize that those promises aren't as easily obtained as originally planned.
Today's passage reminds us of the dangers of placing our trust in any other source except Jehovah Jireh, our Sole Provider. The Word tells us not to trust in man who is in as much need of help as every other man on this earth. Yesterday's message was an awesome reminder that the Lord alone is mighty. He's mighty to save our souls, but doesn't just stop there. He's also mighty to deliver from any situation in which we may find ourselves. Who has the power to give us breath that will sustain us through the night? He alone. And on Whom alone can we depend to wake us up the following day? God alone. So why on earth would we need to depend on man to provide our earthly needs?
Read the Word again. It says HAPPY (content, at peace with oneself in spite of the circumstances) is the one who has the God of Jacob for his or her help, and whose hope is built on the Lord God. So this means that many of us spend unncessary time and energy looking elsewhere when God alone has everything we need. Of course, God is in the business of using people around us to get what we need TO us. But we cannot make the mistake of focusing our admiration and hope on the messengers. Psalm 121 says, "I will lift my eyes unto the hills; where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth." This verse suggests that our attitude should never be one of fearful worry, wondering whether God is going to come through or not (as if God were some politician, making idle promises). But we should always be looking upward for the creative ways He alone knows how to bless us.
God's Word to the Wise today is FOCUS: on how BIG our God is, and how unbound He is by time, space, or opportunity. Nothing is impossible for Him when it comes to His children. As Pastors Chad and Nette encouraged us to do today, all we have to do is get to a place with Him where we're seeing things from HIS vantage point. And it wouldn't hurt to send up a prayer for the politicians running for office in a couple of weeks, either. They actually need it more than we'll ever know.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for this beautiful beginning of my work week. I recognize and acknowledge You as my source. You supply all of my needs, and everything I need comes from You. I do praise and worship You today for Who You are to me. I remain always totally devoted to You. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 146
Memory Verses: Ps. 146: 3-5
Not to be disrespectful towards any political leader, but do you see how some of their tactics to get people to vote for them center around making promises for things that are needed in our society? "Vote for me, and I'll see to it that more and better jobs are provided." "If you vote for me, I'll fight to get better health care." But it's interesting to me that, after the most popular candidate is elected, disillusion sets in once again when people realize that those promises aren't as easily obtained as originally planned.
Today's passage reminds us of the dangers of placing our trust in any other source except Jehovah Jireh, our Sole Provider. The Word tells us not to trust in man who is in as much need of help as every other man on this earth. Yesterday's message was an awesome reminder that the Lord alone is mighty. He's mighty to save our souls, but doesn't just stop there. He's also mighty to deliver from any situation in which we may find ourselves. Who has the power to give us breath that will sustain us through the night? He alone. And on Whom alone can we depend to wake us up the following day? God alone. So why on earth would we need to depend on man to provide our earthly needs?
Read the Word again. It says HAPPY (content, at peace with oneself in spite of the circumstances) is the one who has the God of Jacob for his or her help, and whose hope is built on the Lord God. So this means that many of us spend unncessary time and energy looking elsewhere when God alone has everything we need. Of course, God is in the business of using people around us to get what we need TO us. But we cannot make the mistake of focusing our admiration and hope on the messengers. Psalm 121 says, "I will lift my eyes unto the hills; where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth." This verse suggests that our attitude should never be one of fearful worry, wondering whether God is going to come through or not (as if God were some politician, making idle promises). But we should always be looking upward for the creative ways He alone knows how to bless us.
God's Word to the Wise today is FOCUS: on how BIG our God is, and how unbound He is by time, space, or opportunity. Nothing is impossible for Him when it comes to His children. As Pastors Chad and Nette encouraged us to do today, all we have to do is get to a place with Him where we're seeing things from HIS vantage point. And it wouldn't hurt to send up a prayer for the politicians running for office in a couple of weeks, either. They actually need it more than we'll ever know.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for this beautiful beginning of my work week. I recognize and acknowledge You as my source. You supply all of my needs, and everything I need comes from You. I do praise and worship You today for Who You are to me. I remain always totally devoted to You. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
You Can Do It!!!
Sunday, August 15th, 2010
Today's Passage: Philippians 4:13
Memory Verse: Same
I had an interesting thing happen to me yesterday. I got in my truck and it wouldn't start. Why was that a big deal for me? It's because I don't know anything about automobile repair. When faced with the challenge of having to fix my truck, my first inclination was to back down. As it turns out, it was a simple fix. But if I had given up on it, my truck would be stuck in the yard needing help.
We all have limitations. There are things in ours lives that just seem impossible to do by our own hands. But how IMpossible are they? Let's be realistic, we're not going to get off the couch and go do successful brain surgery on someone. It's quite obvious there is a certain gifting that comes with certain things. However, there are everyday challenges that God has given us the power to overcome. I think the determining factor in whether we pass or fail is how we see the challenge. The word challenge is defined as a "call" to engage in any contest, skill, or strength. By definition, a challenge is a calling to show skill or strength. Whenever we step up in ministry, we like to say God "called" us. He summoned us and set us aside to do what we're doing. If this statement is true, we must believe we've been strategically placed where His strength has to be shown through us. God purposely put you in that position in order for you to make Him famous. Paul said in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things THROUGH CHRIST who strengthens me." God is telling us (through Paul) that challenges don't come into our lives to break or hinder us; they come to be met and conquered, so that we become stronger.
So I challenge you to meet the challenges in your life head-on. Know that God "is" the strength within you to conquer anything. Every step you take has been ordered by Him, so He wouldn't put something in your path that will stop you. He wants you to be better, stronger, and more than a conquerer through Him.
Prayer: Father, I need You more and more everyday. I can't make it in this life without Your strength. I'm confident in the fact that this life won't defeat me because You are my hope. I love You with all my heart......in Jesus' name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Philippians 4:13
Memory Verse: Same
I had an interesting thing happen to me yesterday. I got in my truck and it wouldn't start. Why was that a big deal for me? It's because I don't know anything about automobile repair. When faced with the challenge of having to fix my truck, my first inclination was to back down. As it turns out, it was a simple fix. But if I had given up on it, my truck would be stuck in the yard needing help.
We all have limitations. There are things in ours lives that just seem impossible to do by our own hands. But how IMpossible are they? Let's be realistic, we're not going to get off the couch and go do successful brain surgery on someone. It's quite obvious there is a certain gifting that comes with certain things. However, there are everyday challenges that God has given us the power to overcome. I think the determining factor in whether we pass or fail is how we see the challenge. The word challenge is defined as a "call" to engage in any contest, skill, or strength. By definition, a challenge is a calling to show skill or strength. Whenever we step up in ministry, we like to say God "called" us. He summoned us and set us aside to do what we're doing. If this statement is true, we must believe we've been strategically placed where His strength has to be shown through us. God purposely put you in that position in order for you to make Him famous. Paul said in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things THROUGH CHRIST who strengthens me." God is telling us (through Paul) that challenges don't come into our lives to break or hinder us; they come to be met and conquered, so that we become stronger.
So I challenge you to meet the challenges in your life head-on. Know that God "is" the strength within you to conquer anything. Every step you take has been ordered by Him, so He wouldn't put something in your path that will stop you. He wants you to be better, stronger, and more than a conquerer through Him.
Prayer: Father, I need You more and more everyday. I can't make it in this life without Your strength. I'm confident in the fact that this life won't defeat me because You are my hope. I love You with all my heart......in Jesus' name, Amen.
Satisfied!
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Today's Passage: Ecclesiastes 5:18-19
Memory Verse: Matthew 5:5
Hello, Td Nation! I'm filled with excitement today. Why? Because when I woke up this morning God was still in control. He allowed night to be night, and when the time had come, He called for it to be day. My body hadn't lost its breath or the use of its limbs. As I took the first of many walks through my home, I realized my children were all where I left them last night.
Some of you may ask why these things excite me so much. The reason they are is because I'm learning to appreciate God for the little things. I'm learning to be content with what and "who" I have in my life. There was a time when I was always searching for the "next thing". If God gave me a home, I was looking for the next one. If He gave me some money, I was looking for the next opportunity to get paid. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 5:18-19 (Message), "After looking at the way things are on this Earth, here's what I've decided is the best way to live: take care of yourself, have a good time, and make the most of whatever job you have for as long as God gives you life." And that's about it. That's the human lot. Yes, we should make the most of what God gives, both the bounty and the capacity to enjoy it, accepting what's given and delighting in the work. It's God's gift!"
So you see, God is pleased by us being content with what He's given. It's a demonstration of devotion and faith when we delight ourselves in how He cares for us. What if your children complained to you everyday about things they DIDN'T have? It'd just make you want to take what they had, wouldn't it? Jesus said in Matthew 5:5 (Message) "You're blessed when you're content with just who you are- no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that CAN'T be bought." Wow! The Bible says that's the moment I find myself the owner of what can't be bought. What are some things that can't be bought? Love, peace, joy, wisdom, and favor are all examples of things that can't be bought. That being said, we have to be content with what we have, Folks. Now being content doesn't mean we should be complacent. God also expects us to cultivate what He's given. We should make sure our lives are productive and growing. A complacent person not only complains about what he lacks; he also doesn't take care of what he already has.
So I challenge you as you go about your day to be content with what God has given you. What He's given, He's given for a purpose. So find out what that purpose is and get after it. Maximize every opportunity you have with family and friends. Love God, love yourself, love your family, and more importantly, love your neighbor. If you do, the reward will be overwhelming!!!
Prayer: Thank You, God, for everything You've done for me. I'm learning to be content with what You've given. You know I could not have planned my life any better. Your favor and love has carried me this far and I appreciate You. Your care is second to none! Amen.
Today's Passage: Ecclesiastes 5:18-19
Memory Verse: Matthew 5:5
Hello, Td Nation! I'm filled with excitement today. Why? Because when I woke up this morning God was still in control. He allowed night to be night, and when the time had come, He called for it to be day. My body hadn't lost its breath or the use of its limbs. As I took the first of many walks through my home, I realized my children were all where I left them last night.
Some of you may ask why these things excite me so much. The reason they are is because I'm learning to appreciate God for the little things. I'm learning to be content with what and "who" I have in my life. There was a time when I was always searching for the "next thing". If God gave me a home, I was looking for the next one. If He gave me some money, I was looking for the next opportunity to get paid. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 5:18-19 (Message), "After looking at the way things are on this Earth, here's what I've decided is the best way to live: take care of yourself, have a good time, and make the most of whatever job you have for as long as God gives you life." And that's about it. That's the human lot. Yes, we should make the most of what God gives, both the bounty and the capacity to enjoy it, accepting what's given and delighting in the work. It's God's gift!"
So you see, God is pleased by us being content with what He's given. It's a demonstration of devotion and faith when we delight ourselves in how He cares for us. What if your children complained to you everyday about things they DIDN'T have? It'd just make you want to take what they had, wouldn't it? Jesus said in Matthew 5:5 (Message) "You're blessed when you're content with just who you are- no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that CAN'T be bought." Wow! The Bible says that's the moment I find myself the owner of what can't be bought. What are some things that can't be bought? Love, peace, joy, wisdom, and favor are all examples of things that can't be bought. That being said, we have to be content with what we have, Folks. Now being content doesn't mean we should be complacent. God also expects us to cultivate what He's given. We should make sure our lives are productive and growing. A complacent person not only complains about what he lacks; he also doesn't take care of what he already has.
So I challenge you as you go about your day to be content with what God has given you. What He's given, He's given for a purpose. So find out what that purpose is and get after it. Maximize every opportunity you have with family and friends. Love God, love yourself, love your family, and more importantly, love your neighbor. If you do, the reward will be overwhelming!!!
Prayer: Thank You, God, for everything You've done for me. I'm learning to be content with what You've given. You know I could not have planned my life any better. Your favor and love has carried me this far and I appreciate You. Your care is second to none! Amen.
The Way to Live Wisely
Friday, August 12th, 2010
Today's Passage: Ephesians 5:1-17
Memory Verse: Eph. 5:15-17
Another issue that breaks my heart is that which concerns people who believe that Christian values are outdated and unnecessary. They feel church and state should be separated, and that everyone should be given the right to live the way they want to. God and His laws should not only be put on the back burner of our society, but some want His influence erased completely. What's even more heartbreaking is how many believers support politicians who share this mindset. They agree with the notion that we can fear God on Sundays, but between Mondays and Saturdays, we can't expect Him to intervene in the lives of people around us.
Every time I watch the news and see how far away from God's laws we are getting, I realize how close to end-time prophecy we are. By the time the rapture occurs, the spirit of Antichrist will have skillfully removed every trace of godliness possible from our society and replaced it with rebellion against God. With these things in mind, what should be the attitude of those of us who know the truth?
Today's passage admonishes us to remain in the light of the Lord, remembering His commandments even while others turn away, thinking they can escape having to give account of their deeds to Him. We are reminded to come out from among them and be separate, not joining in their opinions or taking the side of any who claim "pro-choice" over God's laws. But at the same time, God wants us to interact with them compassionately, remembering that at one time our minds were also against God, desiring only to please our flesh. We are to love them, pray for them, and shine with God's glory before them.
Sound impossible? Remember that with the Father nothing is impossible. Wherever we are, there is always the possibility of bringing the kingdom to that place. No need to fear, because they are not rejecting us; they're rejecting the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. But no matter what, always live to bring His will to pass. That, Saints, is the way to live wisely.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the blueprint You've left me in these evil days. As I keep my eyes on You, show me how to live wisely. Make me ever ready to meet Your Son, and get all the glory out of my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Ephesians 5:1-17
Memory Verse: Eph. 5:15-17
Another issue that breaks my heart is that which concerns people who believe that Christian values are outdated and unnecessary. They feel church and state should be separated, and that everyone should be given the right to live the way they want to. God and His laws should not only be put on the back burner of our society, but some want His influence erased completely. What's even more heartbreaking is how many believers support politicians who share this mindset. They agree with the notion that we can fear God on Sundays, but between Mondays and Saturdays, we can't expect Him to intervene in the lives of people around us.
Every time I watch the news and see how far away from God's laws we are getting, I realize how close to end-time prophecy we are. By the time the rapture occurs, the spirit of Antichrist will have skillfully removed every trace of godliness possible from our society and replaced it with rebellion against God. With these things in mind, what should be the attitude of those of us who know the truth?
Today's passage admonishes us to remain in the light of the Lord, remembering His commandments even while others turn away, thinking they can escape having to give account of their deeds to Him. We are reminded to come out from among them and be separate, not joining in their opinions or taking the side of any who claim "pro-choice" over God's laws. But at the same time, God wants us to interact with them compassionately, remembering that at one time our minds were also against God, desiring only to please our flesh. We are to love them, pray for them, and shine with God's glory before them.
Sound impossible? Remember that with the Father nothing is impossible. Wherever we are, there is always the possibility of bringing the kingdom to that place. No need to fear, because they are not rejecting us; they're rejecting the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. But no matter what, always live to bring His will to pass. That, Saints, is the way to live wisely.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the blueprint You've left me in these evil days. As I keep my eyes on You, show me how to live wisely. Make me ever ready to meet Your Son, and get all the glory out of my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Let Go and Float
Thursday, August 12th, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 John 4: 15-19
Memory Verse: 1 John 4: 18
Twenty-four hours. That's one thousand, four hundred forty minutes or eighty-six thousand, four hundred seconds. Exactly how long it's been since my twelve-year-old son let go of his fears and became a swimmer. Some may not believe we pass things on generationally. But I know for a fact that my firstborn inherited my over-cautious old nature, which I in turn got from generations of living in a culture where anything unfamiliar was to be feared, or at the least, highly distrusted.
Prior to this moment, my boy had been on vacations for the last five years where he would be excited about getting in the pool with his dad and siblings. But once he got in there, the possibility of being swallowed up by the water would overwhelm him to the point of being frozen to one spot the whole time they were in the pool. Even the reassurance that he was in good hands from his father, an expert swimmer who even earned a lifeguard certificate years ago, was not enough to make him trust that it was okay to just let go, take a deep breath, and float.
I'm not sure what finally clicked for Derris. It could've been the sight of his sister, who's embraced every swimming tip her dad has given her and has super fun every time there's a chance to get in a pool. Or it could be that his dad's words, "I've got you, son. Just trust me" finally sank in after he heard them almost a thousand times. But whatever it was that did it, this child decided to just let go and float, which immediately gave him the freedom to begin swimming rather than just standing around waist-deep in water.
After witnessing my son transformed right before my eyes, I started thinking about fear and its destructive nature. I wonder how many of God's children, standing around close to their promises, miss out on experiencing the joy of just trusting Him and walking in it. Today's passage says that perfect love casts out all fear. As long as we're walking with the Father, Who created it all, we have His promise that if we let go and give in to total devotion to Him, our success is guaranteed. What are you waiting for? Let go, take a deep breath, and float.
Prayer: Father, thank You for reminding me that You're in control, not me. All You're asking me to do is completely trust You to take me places in my walk with You that I couldn't have dreamed possible. I let go now and put my trust in You. Lead and guide where You desire my life to go. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 John 4: 15-19
Memory Verse: 1 John 4: 18
Twenty-four hours. That's one thousand, four hundred forty minutes or eighty-six thousand, four hundred seconds. Exactly how long it's been since my twelve-year-old son let go of his fears and became a swimmer. Some may not believe we pass things on generationally. But I know for a fact that my firstborn inherited my over-cautious old nature, which I in turn got from generations of living in a culture where anything unfamiliar was to be feared, or at the least, highly distrusted.
Prior to this moment, my boy had been on vacations for the last five years where he would be excited about getting in the pool with his dad and siblings. But once he got in there, the possibility of being swallowed up by the water would overwhelm him to the point of being frozen to one spot the whole time they were in the pool. Even the reassurance that he was in good hands from his father, an expert swimmer who even earned a lifeguard certificate years ago, was not enough to make him trust that it was okay to just let go, take a deep breath, and float.
I'm not sure what finally clicked for Derris. It could've been the sight of his sister, who's embraced every swimming tip her dad has given her and has super fun every time there's a chance to get in a pool. Or it could be that his dad's words, "I've got you, son. Just trust me" finally sank in after he heard them almost a thousand times. But whatever it was that did it, this child decided to just let go and float, which immediately gave him the freedom to begin swimming rather than just standing around waist-deep in water.
After witnessing my son transformed right before my eyes, I started thinking about fear and its destructive nature. I wonder how many of God's children, standing around close to their promises, miss out on experiencing the joy of just trusting Him and walking in it. Today's passage says that perfect love casts out all fear. As long as we're walking with the Father, Who created it all, we have His promise that if we let go and give in to total devotion to Him, our success is guaranteed. What are you waiting for? Let go, take a deep breath, and float.
Prayer: Father, thank You for reminding me that You're in control, not me. All You're asking me to do is completely trust You to take me places in my walk with You that I couldn't have dreamed possible. I let go now and put my trust in You. Lead and guide where You desire my life to go. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day!!!!
Wednesday, August 11th, 2010
Blessings, Friends and Lifers! Today is the perfect day to walk out our purpose because we have been delivered from darkness and translated into the kingdom of God's beloved Son. So even though everything may not be the way you want it, one thing is certain: we have the heart, love, and favor of the Most High God. This means our circumstances are subject to change, and we must carry this promise with us everywhere we go.
Our challenge to you today is to simply BE. Be the answer to the world's questions. Don't walk around in fear of letting the real you be seen. As believers, we go through trials and tribulations just like everyone else. It's the way we respond to them that's different from the way the world does. Carry the blessed hope that what is seen is only temporary, while that which is not seen is eternal.
Even when all around you seems to be crumbling, remember that God only wants to use our lives as a testimony of His miracle-working power. So carry a smile in reserve for the day -- like today -- when someone who may not know of this hope may need to see it. Carry God's promises around on the inside of you like it's the best-kept secret. And it is. With this testimony, shine as brightly as only you can. Hold your head up high, and give away to a dying world what Jesus gave His life for: the essence of Himself that's available to all who ask for it. Let the Lord truly be seen in You today. Just BE a willing vessel for His glory to dwell in. After all, that IS our ultimate purpose.
Prayer: here I am, Father. I thank You for giving me the opportunity to be of some use to You. I offer up myself as Your vessel. Let others see You when they see me. I live only for You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Blessings, Friends and Lifers! Today is the perfect day to walk out our purpose because we have been delivered from darkness and translated into the kingdom of God's beloved Son. So even though everything may not be the way you want it, one thing is certain: we have the heart, love, and favor of the Most High God. This means our circumstances are subject to change, and we must carry this promise with us everywhere we go.
Our challenge to you today is to simply BE. Be the answer to the world's questions. Don't walk around in fear of letting the real you be seen. As believers, we go through trials and tribulations just like everyone else. It's the way we respond to them that's different from the way the world does. Carry the blessed hope that what is seen is only temporary, while that which is not seen is eternal.
Even when all around you seems to be crumbling, remember that God only wants to use our lives as a testimony of His miracle-working power. So carry a smile in reserve for the day -- like today -- when someone who may not know of this hope may need to see it. Carry God's promises around on the inside of you like it's the best-kept secret. And it is. With this testimony, shine as brightly as only you can. Hold your head up high, and give away to a dying world what Jesus gave His life for: the essence of Himself that's available to all who ask for it. Let the Lord truly be seen in You today. Just BE a willing vessel for His glory to dwell in. After all, that IS our ultimate purpose.
Prayer: here I am, Father. I thank You for giving me the opportunity to be of some use to You. I offer up myself as Your vessel. Let others see You when they see me. I live only for You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
God's Plan Revisited
Tuesday, August 9th, 2010
Today's Passage: Romans 6: 1-14
Memory Verse: Rom. 12-14
For quite some time now, I've been pondering upon the mindset of some who have embraced the gospel of inclusion. At its foundation, those who are for it believe God is too loving to turn away any of His children. So, no matter what their lifestyles are, people are invited to "come in" and participate in a walk with Christ. After all, God loved the world so much that He sacrificed His Son in order for the world to be saved. Why would He go to all that trouble only for some to be allowed in? Surely the God we serve could not be so cruel as to offer salvation from a dying world only to deny it to the majority of the world He came to save, right?
But then I take a moment to go back to my Bible, and I see that yes, God loves us all. He would never have sacrificed His only Son if there were any other way He could have saved us from the wrath that's reserved for the devil and his angels. But that's where the comparison ends. What exactly have we been saved FOR? Did Christ endure the battering of His body and loss of every ounce of His blood just so we can continue to live the same way we used to before we became saved?
Today's passage gives us the focus needed to walk in newness in Christ. We had no way of getting out of the penalty of sin that we walked in before Christ. This is why He, the God- man, went and paid that penalty for us (Rom. 5:6-8). But once we accepted the terms of that payment -- which includes the clause that we've been bought with a price -- then we do our part by putting all of our new- found energy into living life GOD's way, not ours. I think this is the part people struggle with the most: after salvation, there has to be a change.
Friends and Lifers, the Lord will not have us to be deceived. Salvation IS free, but after that, we also must pay a price. That means, every day that we live, we get to show our Lord and Savior that the price He paid was not in vain. It's not a burden heavier than the one we had imposed on us by the enemy of our souls. Let's never forget we've been saved FROM a life of heartache and death, TO a life of eternity with Christ. This is the true meaning of God's love.
Prayer: Father, thank You for giving me the true revelation of what You accomplished at Calvary. I now commit more than ever before to let go of the struggles of living holy before You. When I realize that the power to overcome the enemy lives within me, I love You even more. I remain totally devoted to serving You always. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Romans 6: 1-14
Memory Verse: Rom. 12-14
For quite some time now, I've been pondering upon the mindset of some who have embraced the gospel of inclusion. At its foundation, those who are for it believe God is too loving to turn away any of His children. So, no matter what their lifestyles are, people are invited to "come in" and participate in a walk with Christ. After all, God loved the world so much that He sacrificed His Son in order for the world to be saved. Why would He go to all that trouble only for some to be allowed in? Surely the God we serve could not be so cruel as to offer salvation from a dying world only to deny it to the majority of the world He came to save, right?
But then I take a moment to go back to my Bible, and I see that yes, God loves us all. He would never have sacrificed His only Son if there were any other way He could have saved us from the wrath that's reserved for the devil and his angels. But that's where the comparison ends. What exactly have we been saved FOR? Did Christ endure the battering of His body and loss of every ounce of His blood just so we can continue to live the same way we used to before we became saved?
Today's passage gives us the focus needed to walk in newness in Christ. We had no way of getting out of the penalty of sin that we walked in before Christ. This is why He, the God- man, went and paid that penalty for us (Rom. 5:6-8). But once we accepted the terms of that payment -- which includes the clause that we've been bought with a price -- then we do our part by putting all of our new- found energy into living life GOD's way, not ours. I think this is the part people struggle with the most: after salvation, there has to be a change.
Friends and Lifers, the Lord will not have us to be deceived. Salvation IS free, but after that, we also must pay a price. That means, every day that we live, we get to show our Lord and Savior that the price He paid was not in vain. It's not a burden heavier than the one we had imposed on us by the enemy of our souls. Let's never forget we've been saved FROM a life of heartache and death, TO a life of eternity with Christ. This is the true meaning of God's love.
Prayer: Father, thank You for giving me the true revelation of what You accomplished at Calvary. I now commit more than ever before to let go of the struggles of living holy before You. When I realize that the power to overcome the enemy lives within me, I love You even more. I remain totally devoted to serving You always. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
A Place of Rest
Monday, August 9th, 2010
Today's passage: Matthew 11: 25-30
Memory Verse: Matt. 11: 28
Wake up. Work. Come home. Take care of the kids. Church. Work at church. In between, encourage others. Pray for and undergird others. Find time to sleep. Wake up and do it all again. It sounds cold and lifeless, but these are the realities of living a life that's totally devoted to the Lord. And this is the reason we are also called to make spending time to refuel in the Lord's presence a priority.
In today's western world, our lives may not be as perilous with the worries of outright persecution the way it was for the early believers. But it can be just as stressful for those of us who're committed to giving our lives away so that we can be used by God. But there is a place of rest that the Father offers us. He tells us to come unto Him, all those who labor and are heavy laden. That means He is not disappointed when we admit we're tired. As a matter of fact, He expects it. Why else would He be giving us such an invitation?
The catch here is to find our way back into His arms, running to Him rather than away from Him. He's the One Who created us, so Who better to restore everything we've given out? Too often we try to find our own means of rest that mostly leaves God out. By the time we realize we need to get poured into, we're already past the point of being depleted of everything we've got left. So when God says, "Come and I'll give you rest," know that He never makes idle promises, but rather will fill us with more than enough strength to get going again.
Today, I pray that you're able to let go of the wheel long enough to let God take over. Find some time and a place to regroup-- even if it means taking a day off from work. Get still before the Lord and let Him restore you. You spend so much time being a blessing to others-- let this time be a blessing to you. I pray that the Lord will give you back one hundredfold what you've given. Find rest in the Lord today.
Prayer: Father, here I am, coming to You for some much- needed rest. There's nothing else I'd rather be doing than serving in Your kingdom. But when my physical body has endured all it can, please receive me in Your arms and restore what I need to give out again. Thank You for this place of rest. I give You praise in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Today's passage: Matthew 11: 25-30
Memory Verse: Matt. 11: 28
Wake up. Work. Come home. Take care of the kids. Church. Work at church. In between, encourage others. Pray for and undergird others. Find time to sleep. Wake up and do it all again. It sounds cold and lifeless, but these are the realities of living a life that's totally devoted to the Lord. And this is the reason we are also called to make spending time to refuel in the Lord's presence a priority.
In today's western world, our lives may not be as perilous with the worries of outright persecution the way it was for the early believers. But it can be just as stressful for those of us who're committed to giving our lives away so that we can be used by God. But there is a place of rest that the Father offers us. He tells us to come unto Him, all those who labor and are heavy laden. That means He is not disappointed when we admit we're tired. As a matter of fact, He expects it. Why else would He be giving us such an invitation?
The catch here is to find our way back into His arms, running to Him rather than away from Him. He's the One Who created us, so Who better to restore everything we've given out? Too often we try to find our own means of rest that mostly leaves God out. By the time we realize we need to get poured into, we're already past the point of being depleted of everything we've got left. So when God says, "Come and I'll give you rest," know that He never makes idle promises, but rather will fill us with more than enough strength to get going again.
Today, I pray that you're able to let go of the wheel long enough to let God take over. Find some time and a place to regroup-- even if it means taking a day off from work. Get still before the Lord and let Him restore you. You spend so much time being a blessing to others-- let this time be a blessing to you. I pray that the Lord will give you back one hundredfold what you've given. Find rest in the Lord today.
Prayer: Father, here I am, coming to You for some much- needed rest. There's nothing else I'd rather be doing than serving in Your kingdom. But when my physical body has endured all it can, please receive me in Your arms and restore what I need to give out again. Thank You for this place of rest. I give You praise in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Many, Many, Thanks!!!
Sunday August 8, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew 10:39-40
Memory Verse: Same
Awesome job Td Nation! We'd like to commend you for the job you did on the 'Retool for School' event yesterday. The way you came together to benefit those kids was truly remarkable. Thank you so much for your time, donations, and prayers. The reward for your selflessness has no doubt been recorded in Heaven. Additionally, we pray the harvest for the seed you've sown comes back to you 100-fold.
In Matthew 10:39-40, Jesus says "If your first concern is to look after yourself, you'll never find yourself. But if you forget about yourself and look to me, you'll find both yourself and me. We are intimately linked in this harvest work. Anyone who accepts what you do, accepts me, the One who sent you. Anyone who accepts what I do accepts my Father, who sent me". I'm encouraged by this passage of scripture. I'm encouraged because what I saw this weekend was the 'body' engaged in harvest work. We were functioning as a body while we were producing after the kingdom of God. Noone was "looking after themselves". Everyone was totally devoted to the task at hand.
God's people turned out by the hundreds to experience His love. The hopeless were shown hope, the broken was shown love, and the forgotten was given another chance. People were allowed to receive without being judged or looked down on. The favor of God was displayed on every outfit, backpack, and pair of shoes. God's heart was saying "I still love you Palatka. If you'll turn to me, I'll do things for you you've never seen before". So let's continue to seek God's kingdom as He'll add to us the things we need. I again express many thanks to all the staff and volunteers. Way to go Td Nation!!!
Today's Passage: Matthew 10:39-40
Memory Verse: Same
Awesome job Td Nation! We'd like to commend you for the job you did on the 'Retool for School' event yesterday. The way you came together to benefit those kids was truly remarkable. Thank you so much for your time, donations, and prayers. The reward for your selflessness has no doubt been recorded in Heaven. Additionally, we pray the harvest for the seed you've sown comes back to you 100-fold.
In Matthew 10:39-40, Jesus says "If your first concern is to look after yourself, you'll never find yourself. But if you forget about yourself and look to me, you'll find both yourself and me. We are intimately linked in this harvest work. Anyone who accepts what you do, accepts me, the One who sent you. Anyone who accepts what I do accepts my Father, who sent me". I'm encouraged by this passage of scripture. I'm encouraged because what I saw this weekend was the 'body' engaged in harvest work. We were functioning as a body while we were producing after the kingdom of God. Noone was "looking after themselves". Everyone was totally devoted to the task at hand.
God's people turned out by the hundreds to experience His love. The hopeless were shown hope, the broken was shown love, and the forgotten was given another chance. People were allowed to receive without being judged or looked down on. The favor of God was displayed on every outfit, backpack, and pair of shoes. God's heart was saying "I still love you Palatka. If you'll turn to me, I'll do things for you you've never seen before". So let's continue to seek God's kingdom as He'll add to us the things we need. I again express many thanks to all the staff and volunteers. Way to go Td Nation!!!
"I Am What I Am"
Saturday, August 7th, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 15: 1-12
Memory Verses: 1 Cor. 15: 9-10
We know him as the apostle who probably made the greatest impact on Christianity from the days of the early church up until now. Paul, who wrote almost half of the New Testament, headed the campaign to spread the gospel throughout Asia and Europe, and endured multiple instances of persecution, is one of our shining examples of what it means to live totally devoted to the cause of Christ. And yet, he calls himself "the least of the apostles" -- not even worthy to be called an apostle -- because of what he did before giving his life to the Lord.
Many may hasten to agree with Paul that, if you spent the majority of your adult life hunting down believers of Christ, it would be difficult to accept your calling to minister to the very ones who spent their time running away from you. It was so hard for the saints to receive him when he got saved that God had to speak to a disciple named Ananias in a dream about releasing them to open their hearts to Paul as one of their own (Acts 9: 10-19). But you can tell from all his accomplishments in the kingdom that he didn't waste one minute worrying about what others thought of him.
So if you're in any way struggling with condemnation over your life before Christ, and allowing those thoughts to paralyze and prevent you from operating in ministry the way you should, let Paul's life be the example to let you know how unnecessary it is to entertain this mindset. The Word of God tells us that even while we were yet sinners (haters of God and lovers only of ourselves), God had already made up His mind to show us His love. This means that God knew all there was to know about you, and yet this didn't change His love for you. Why now, when you've finally given Him your heart, would God consider you inadequate to bear His anointing and carry His glory?
Begin now to declare as Paul did the following over your life: "by God's grace, I am what I am--saved, set free, anointed to live totally devoted for His kingdom, and ready to walk in my calling. I will never allow that grace toward me to be extended in vain.". Then continue to labor in the Lord's service-- and watch Him make Himself famous in and through your life like you've never imagined.
Prayer: Father, like Paul, my life was a wretched mess. Then along You came, and now everything that I am is because of You. Help me never to waste time listening to the voice of condemnation sent by the enemy. May my life accomplish everything You intended. In Jesus' awesome Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 15: 1-12
Memory Verses: 1 Cor. 15: 9-10
We know him as the apostle who probably made the greatest impact on Christianity from the days of the early church up until now. Paul, who wrote almost half of the New Testament, headed the campaign to spread the gospel throughout Asia and Europe, and endured multiple instances of persecution, is one of our shining examples of what it means to live totally devoted to the cause of Christ. And yet, he calls himself "the least of the apostles" -- not even worthy to be called an apostle -- because of what he did before giving his life to the Lord.
Many may hasten to agree with Paul that, if you spent the majority of your adult life hunting down believers of Christ, it would be difficult to accept your calling to minister to the very ones who spent their time running away from you. It was so hard for the saints to receive him when he got saved that God had to speak to a disciple named Ananias in a dream about releasing them to open their hearts to Paul as one of their own (Acts 9: 10-19). But you can tell from all his accomplishments in the kingdom that he didn't waste one minute worrying about what others thought of him.
So if you're in any way struggling with condemnation over your life before Christ, and allowing those thoughts to paralyze and prevent you from operating in ministry the way you should, let Paul's life be the example to let you know how unnecessary it is to entertain this mindset. The Word of God tells us that even while we were yet sinners (haters of God and lovers only of ourselves), God had already made up His mind to show us His love. This means that God knew all there was to know about you, and yet this didn't change His love for you. Why now, when you've finally given Him your heart, would God consider you inadequate to bear His anointing and carry His glory?
Begin now to declare as Paul did the following over your life: "by God's grace, I am what I am--saved, set free, anointed to live totally devoted for His kingdom, and ready to walk in my calling. I will never allow that grace toward me to be extended in vain.". Then continue to labor in the Lord's service-- and watch Him make Himself famous in and through your life like you've never imagined.
Prayer: Father, like Paul, my life was a wretched mess. Then along You came, and now everything that I am is because of You. Help me never to waste time listening to the voice of condemnation sent by the enemy. May my life accomplish everything You intended. In Jesus' awesome Name, Amen.
The Season of Dreams
Friday, August 6th, 2010
Today's Passage: Genesis 37: 1-11
Memory Verse: Gen. 45: 7
I can't seem to get away from this thing about dreams. It's interesting to me that, in the movie "I, Robot", the inventor of the robot-man didn't just create him and tell him everything he had placed inside of him up front. Instead, he created him, then gave him dreams to ponder over. As this robot began to walk out his destiny, he was propelled by this one recurring dream of a robot (man) standing alone at the top of a hill, while thousands of others watched him from below.
While he, the created one, had no idea what the dream was about, something on the inside of him kept him believing that there was a purpose for his being around. He had no idea that everything about him had been created to be the answer to a problem that didn't even exist yet. I loved the way he, who had been given a mind, will, and emotions, decided to use them for the purpose of keeping his creator's vision --to protect the humans at all cost.
What I'm wondering today is, what dreams have been placed inside of you that are tied to your destiny? Although you can't really see it manifested yet, what small steps is God leading you to walk out as part of the process? You are by no means just a robot; on the contrary, you've been given a mind, will, and emotions for a reason. He wants our hearts to be sensitive to those who are hurting, lost, or unaware of His love. Our emotions were not given to us so that we could allow them to consume or control us. They were given so we can respond to a need with the answer.
I challenge you today to begin to dream again. Those dreams have been given to us by our Father, Who will use them to inspire us to walk it out until the manifestation is complete. While you wait, don't forget to live each day to its fullest. Enjoy what and who you have in your life now. Sharpen your skills and prepare for what He's calling you to do. Then one day, you'll wake up to find that dream an awesome reality that will bring Him glory for the rest of your life.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the Holy Spirit, Who always reminds me of who and Whose I am. I receive the season of dreams, and wait for them to become manifest with great anticipation. Until that happens, use everything I have to bring You glory now. I am yours forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Genesis 37: 1-11
Memory Verse: Gen. 45: 7
I can't seem to get away from this thing about dreams. It's interesting to me that, in the movie "I, Robot", the inventor of the robot-man didn't just create him and tell him everything he had placed inside of him up front. Instead, he created him, then gave him dreams to ponder over. As this robot began to walk out his destiny, he was propelled by this one recurring dream of a robot (man) standing alone at the top of a hill, while thousands of others watched him from below.
While he, the created one, had no idea what the dream was about, something on the inside of him kept him believing that there was a purpose for his being around. He had no idea that everything about him had been created to be the answer to a problem that didn't even exist yet. I loved the way he, who had been given a mind, will, and emotions, decided to use them for the purpose of keeping his creator's vision --to protect the humans at all cost.
What I'm wondering today is, what dreams have been placed inside of you that are tied to your destiny? Although you can't really see it manifested yet, what small steps is God leading you to walk out as part of the process? You are by no means just a robot; on the contrary, you've been given a mind, will, and emotions for a reason. He wants our hearts to be sensitive to those who are hurting, lost, or unaware of His love. Our emotions were not given to us so that we could allow them to consume or control us. They were given so we can respond to a need with the answer.
I challenge you today to begin to dream again. Those dreams have been given to us by our Father, Who will use them to inspire us to walk it out until the manifestation is complete. While you wait, don't forget to live each day to its fullest. Enjoy what and who you have in your life now. Sharpen your skills and prepare for what He's calling you to do. Then one day, you'll wake up to find that dream an awesome reality that will bring Him glory for the rest of your life.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the Holy Spirit, Who always reminds me of who and Whose I am. I receive the season of dreams, and wait for them to become manifest with great anticipation. Until that happens, use everything I have to bring You glory now. I am yours forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
The Father's Love
Thursday, August 5th, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 43:4
Memory Verse: Isaiah 43:4-5
Have you seen the news lately? It seems there are a lot of children missing from their homes. Whether they're kidnapped or decide to run away, more and more parents are having to deal with this problem every day.
How painful it must be to be a parent of a missing child. I remember the night my family and I went walking in the Ravines (state park). My 12- year- old was ahead of me, while my 8- year-old was with me. As my 8-year-old loves to be with his brother, he asked me if he could run ahead to join him. While doing so, he got turned around in the park. The next 15 minutes in the park was an all-out blitz to find my son. Praying (and crying), I yelled his name as loud as I could at first to no avail. However, it wasn't long afterward that God allowed us to find him. During the time my son was missing, the fear that filled my heart grew within me exponentially. My own mind began to betray me by creating thoughts of life without my boy. I could feel the strength leaving my body with every minute that passed by.
After returning home from our ordeal, I remember thanking God for what He'd done. In the midst of my prayer, God said, "How do you think I feel everyday when I think about all my lost children"? Whether they're kidnapped by the ploys of the enemy, or choose to run away, the pain of not having them in God's life hurts Him deeply. In Isaiah 43:4, God says "That's how much you mean to me! That's how much I love you! I'd sell off the whole world to get you back, trade the creation just for you". It's good to know even after the crucifixion, He is still willing to pay the ransom so His children can come home.
I challenge you to first make sure you're still in your Father's care. Don't run away from Him. He loves you so much. Second, if you know someone who's been kidnapped by the enemy, pray for them fervently. They need you. Let them know God will pay the same ransom for them as He did for you. Tell them coming back home is ALWAYS an option.
Prayer: Father, I'm overwhelmed with the way You love me. Even when I walked away from You You still loved me. If I've separated myself from You, please let me come home. My life is Yours forever. Comfort all the parents going through the tragedy of losing a child. We pray for the safety of all lost children, that they will soon be brought back home, in Jesus' name Amen.
Today's Passage: Isaiah 43:4
Memory Verse: Isaiah 43:4-5
Have you seen the news lately? It seems there are a lot of children missing from their homes. Whether they're kidnapped or decide to run away, more and more parents are having to deal with this problem every day.
How painful it must be to be a parent of a missing child. I remember the night my family and I went walking in the Ravines (state park). My 12- year- old was ahead of me, while my 8- year-old was with me. As my 8-year-old loves to be with his brother, he asked me if he could run ahead to join him. While doing so, he got turned around in the park. The next 15 minutes in the park was an all-out blitz to find my son. Praying (and crying), I yelled his name as loud as I could at first to no avail. However, it wasn't long afterward that God allowed us to find him. During the time my son was missing, the fear that filled my heart grew within me exponentially. My own mind began to betray me by creating thoughts of life without my boy. I could feel the strength leaving my body with every minute that passed by.
After returning home from our ordeal, I remember thanking God for what He'd done. In the midst of my prayer, God said, "How do you think I feel everyday when I think about all my lost children"? Whether they're kidnapped by the ploys of the enemy, or choose to run away, the pain of not having them in God's life hurts Him deeply. In Isaiah 43:4, God says "That's how much you mean to me! That's how much I love you! I'd sell off the whole world to get you back, trade the creation just for you". It's good to know even after the crucifixion, He is still willing to pay the ransom so His children can come home.
I challenge you to first make sure you're still in your Father's care. Don't run away from Him. He loves you so much. Second, if you know someone who's been kidnapped by the enemy, pray for them fervently. They need you. Let them know God will pay the same ransom for them as He did for you. Tell them coming back home is ALWAYS an option.
Prayer: Father, I'm overwhelmed with the way You love me. Even when I walked away from You You still loved me. If I've separated myself from You, please let me come home. My life is Yours forever. Comfort all the parents going through the tragedy of losing a child. We pray for the safety of all lost children, that they will soon be brought back home, in Jesus' name Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day!
Wednesday August 4, 2010
Hello Td Nation! I pray all of you are being blessed by God. God's message of total devotion is becoming more and more clear to us. We are discovering new levels of His power and glory with each encounter with Him. His ultimate mission and purpose is for us to be devoted to Him, and connected to each other. We can no longer think of the church as a place where christians gather. God's word clearly teaches us that we are Christ's "body", and therefore must function and respond as such by being "joined" one to another. Our desire should be to be His hands and feet so this world can feel His presence, see His power, and experience His undying love.
The mission this week is "Service". If you're in the area, join us for our annual "Re-tool for School" event. We'll be meeting on Friday night (7pm) at Beasley Middle School. The event will be this Saturday morning. Come and join us for an awesome demonstration of God's mission and purpose. See you there!
Hello Td Nation! I pray all of you are being blessed by God. God's message of total devotion is becoming more and more clear to us. We are discovering new levels of His power and glory with each encounter with Him. His ultimate mission and purpose is for us to be devoted to Him, and connected to each other. We can no longer think of the church as a place where christians gather. God's word clearly teaches us that we are Christ's "body", and therefore must function and respond as such by being "joined" one to another. Our desire should be to be His hands and feet so this world can feel His presence, see His power, and experience His undying love.
The mission this week is "Service". If you're in the area, join us for our annual "Re-tool for School" event. We'll be meeting on Friday night (7pm) at Beasley Middle School. The event will be this Saturday morning. Come and join us for an awesome demonstration of God's mission and purpose. See you there!
The God-Man Dilemma
Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 15: 20-28
Memory Verses: 1 Cor. 15: 21-22
Okay, here's another movie analogy for you. A scientist helps invent top-of-the-line robots who can perform any human function with the purpose of providing assistance to the human race. With three basic laws built in to prevent the robots from mal-functioning and becoming harmful to the very ones they were created to protect, each household is persuaded to invest in one. After all, who wouldn't want a nanny for their children that would never be tempted to sneak his girlfriend into the house or steal things? Or who wouldn't want a strong caretaker for one's elderly parent that didn't need to get paid? It seemed the robots presented the best of both worlds.
Until this scientist discovers that the computer system used to help create the robots has found a way to make the robots break the three laws and turn them against their human masters. Knowing how powerful this computer is, he must outsmart her by creating a new species of robot that felt what humans felt but could never be corrupted by that computer. Furthermore, the scientist placed within this new robot the answer to defeating and destroying the computer. But he would need to give up his life in order for one of the humans, a detective, to partner with the man-robot in accomplishing this task.
I don't know about you, but when I saw this movie, "I, Robot", any doubts I may have had that people in Hollywood know God is real were erased from my mind. Can you see the parallel to what God did for us? He created us in His image with a built-in purpose to fellowship with Him. But when the enemy, who thought himself equal with God, used us against ourselves to pervert our purpose, God outsmarted him. He presented His only Son with the answer on the inside of Him to defeat Satan. Although completely God, He was also human and compassionate about everything we go through. But never would He succumb to the temptations of the enemy, and He teaches us to do the same.
With this sacrifice, God secured the victory for us by using the Christ- the first God-man to go before us and show us how to walk in fellowship with His Father while defeating the evil one. We have much to be grateful for as we daily witness the benefits of knowing that without Christ, there was no hope for redemption. But because of Him, we who were doomed for eternal death have been made alive, and will live forevermore with Him. If you don't know Jesus, accept this awesome gift today.
Prayer: Father, what a mighty Creator You are!! Because of Jesus, we have the built-in answer to this world's problems caused by sin. May we never live another day with our heads held down, but make it our life's goal to make you famous. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 15: 20-28
Memory Verses: 1 Cor. 15: 21-22
Okay, here's another movie analogy for you. A scientist helps invent top-of-the-line robots who can perform any human function with the purpose of providing assistance to the human race. With three basic laws built in to prevent the robots from mal-functioning and becoming harmful to the very ones they were created to protect, each household is persuaded to invest in one. After all, who wouldn't want a nanny for their children that would never be tempted to sneak his girlfriend into the house or steal things? Or who wouldn't want a strong caretaker for one's elderly parent that didn't need to get paid? It seemed the robots presented the best of both worlds.
Until this scientist discovers that the computer system used to help create the robots has found a way to make the robots break the three laws and turn them against their human masters. Knowing how powerful this computer is, he must outsmart her by creating a new species of robot that felt what humans felt but could never be corrupted by that computer. Furthermore, the scientist placed within this new robot the answer to defeating and destroying the computer. But he would need to give up his life in order for one of the humans, a detective, to partner with the man-robot in accomplishing this task.
I don't know about you, but when I saw this movie, "I, Robot", any doubts I may have had that people in Hollywood know God is real were erased from my mind. Can you see the parallel to what God did for us? He created us in His image with a built-in purpose to fellowship with Him. But when the enemy, who thought himself equal with God, used us against ourselves to pervert our purpose, God outsmarted him. He presented His only Son with the answer on the inside of Him to defeat Satan. Although completely God, He was also human and compassionate about everything we go through. But never would He succumb to the temptations of the enemy, and He teaches us to do the same.
With this sacrifice, God secured the victory for us by using the Christ- the first God-man to go before us and show us how to walk in fellowship with His Father while defeating the evil one. We have much to be grateful for as we daily witness the benefits of knowing that without Christ, there was no hope for redemption. But because of Him, we who were doomed for eternal death have been made alive, and will live forevermore with Him. If you don't know Jesus, accept this awesome gift today.
Prayer: Father, what a mighty Creator You are!! Because of Jesus, we have the built-in answer to this world's problems caused by sin. May we never live another day with our heads held down, but make it our life's goal to make you famous. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
A Complete Portrait of You
Monday, August 2nd, 2010
Today's Passage: Philippians 1: 3-8
Memory Verse: Phil. 1: 6
Do you find yourself struggling with thoughts of insecurity, lack of fulfillment, and depression? Do you see yourself as not having a reason for being although you've given your life to the Lord? Do you find it difficult to get excited about day-to-day living if no big "events" are going on at your place of worship? Then I have some news for you: YOU'RE NOT BUSY ENOUGH IN THE KINGDOM! Not to sound harsh, but when you're involved in the workings of ministry, you simply don't have time to entertain such thoughts.
I've said all that to say this: God has placed something on the inside of us that He can use to further His kingdom. But the enemy stops us from walking in our purpose by placing false burdens on us to distract us from being effective in what God has called us to do and be. If you didn't already know this, let me explain that God is a specific God. He completes the portrait of what He wants us to be, then gives us glimpses of that portrait to inspire us and focus us on our walk. If we're not careful, we'll miss those glimpses and forfeit the opportunity to be used by Him daily.
Let me give you a testimony of my own. About twelve years ago, I remember being insecure and not at all aware of what God was calling me to do beyond singing. When I wasn't doing that, I thought my life didn't have any meaning. The enemy tormented me with a lack of fulfillment on days when there were no church events. What was really lacking in my life was a personal walk with the Lord. I was saved, but didn't understand what being totally devoted was all about. Until I had an encounter with the Lord that left a lifelong impact on my life.
I had just had my first child, and dreamed that I was in front of a large audience whose faces I couldn't really see. The enemy was also there, and with every effort I made to rebuke him away, he kept coming closer. He was not in the least bit intimidated by me. So when I woke up, the Lord told me that the opposite of what I saw in my dream was true: I was really a threat to the enemy, and that He would use me to speak into the lives of many. All I had to do was draw closer to Him. In that moment, I saw that glimpse of a woman of God with so much potential to defeat the enemy-- not only in my life, but also in the lives of others. Now I live to see Him use me to accomplish what He's promised. I pray that you will live and walk in that same expectancy in Jesus' Name.
Prayer: Father, thank You for reaching into me and pulling out what You desire to see in me. I pray that You do the same for my brothers and sisters today. Remind them that You've begun a good work in them, and You won't stop until You complete it. Thank You for keeping Your promises to Your children. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Philippians 1: 3-8
Memory Verse: Phil. 1: 6
Do you find yourself struggling with thoughts of insecurity, lack of fulfillment, and depression? Do you see yourself as not having a reason for being although you've given your life to the Lord? Do you find it difficult to get excited about day-to-day living if no big "events" are going on at your place of worship? Then I have some news for you: YOU'RE NOT BUSY ENOUGH IN THE KINGDOM! Not to sound harsh, but when you're involved in the workings of ministry, you simply don't have time to entertain such thoughts.
I've said all that to say this: God has placed something on the inside of us that He can use to further His kingdom. But the enemy stops us from walking in our purpose by placing false burdens on us to distract us from being effective in what God has called us to do and be. If you didn't already know this, let me explain that God is a specific God. He completes the portrait of what He wants us to be, then gives us glimpses of that portrait to inspire us and focus us on our walk. If we're not careful, we'll miss those glimpses and forfeit the opportunity to be used by Him daily.
Let me give you a testimony of my own. About twelve years ago, I remember being insecure and not at all aware of what God was calling me to do beyond singing. When I wasn't doing that, I thought my life didn't have any meaning. The enemy tormented me with a lack of fulfillment on days when there were no church events. What was really lacking in my life was a personal walk with the Lord. I was saved, but didn't understand what being totally devoted was all about. Until I had an encounter with the Lord that left a lifelong impact on my life.
I had just had my first child, and dreamed that I was in front of a large audience whose faces I couldn't really see. The enemy was also there, and with every effort I made to rebuke him away, he kept coming closer. He was not in the least bit intimidated by me. So when I woke up, the Lord told me that the opposite of what I saw in my dream was true: I was really a threat to the enemy, and that He would use me to speak into the lives of many. All I had to do was draw closer to Him. In that moment, I saw that glimpse of a woman of God with so much potential to defeat the enemy-- not only in my life, but also in the lives of others. Now I live to see Him use me to accomplish what He's promised. I pray that you will live and walk in that same expectancy in Jesus' Name.
Prayer: Father, thank You for reaching into me and pulling out what You desire to see in me. I pray that You do the same for my brothers and sisters today. Remind them that You've begun a good work in them, and You won't stop until You complete it. Thank You for keeping Your promises to Your children. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
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