Monday, November 1st, 2010
Today's Passage: Deuteronomy 11: 11-15
Memory Verse: Deut. 11:13-14
We're still talking about the rain, y'all. We need to keep it fresh in our spirits that God wants to give us something that will cause our lives not to be the same. We must be hungry to receive it, especially when we understand what's in store.
Our Father wants to give us three things from this rain. The first is grain. You know what that is? Provision. If you want to make someone prosperous, you don't give them money. You don't give them bread. You give them grain. A grain is a dry seed-like fruit that is used to prevent hunger. Why is grain so important? You'll always have the seed of a thing to keep reproducing, even when the thing itself runs out. We're all carrying around inside of us the promise of grain, but the rain will water it and bring it forth.
The next thing we're believing for is grapes. These are pulpy fruits that grow in clusters and are used to make wine. The wine from grapes could be used to quench the thirst of those who are parched and dry. It could also be used to sterilize and disinfect that which is dirty and unclean. If your life is anything like mine, there are some boo-boos I've made that need to be wiped clean so the healing process can begin. So many scars from old wounds haven't been allowed to be totally disinfected, so we carry them around without realizing healing has already been provided.
Finally, we're expecting the oil from olives. No doubt, this is the anointing that will come and destroy the yokes in all our lives. Even when our Father has to correct or chastise us, the oil will sooth the pain of correction. Trust me--I'm one of those who has had to be chastised quite a bit. It's also the oil of joy meant to replace the period of sadness. Do you know what that means? The enemy can't afflict us with condemnation or depression. No matter what we've been through, provision is going to be made for NO LACK to arise in our lives. I'm excited abut this rain. Get ready!!!
Prayer: Father, no matter what I've done, You've always shown me so much mercy. I ready myself now for more of You, recognizing that it's not just for me and mine. Let this life exist only for the purpose of of mKing you famous. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
A Prayer of Consecration
Sunday, October 31st, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 42
Memory Verse: Ps. 42:1
Father, as the deer pants for the water, my soul thirsts for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water. In a society where man has chosen to drink sodas and other enticing liquids which hold no nutritional value, I choose to wait on Your water that comes from above. You created that thirst within me so that I'll learn to refuse every other substitute.
I'm thirsty because my throat is parched from the pain of consuming too much solid foods and not enough liquids. Too many thoughts and ideas from the world have found their way into my spiritual digestive system. Too many opportunities to depend on Your Living Water that I allowed myself to think I could put off.
As I prepare to go into the sanctuary, where You have prepared a refreshing through worship and the washing of the Word, I ask You to search my heart. Flush out everything that exalts itself against the knowledge of You. Replace every void, filling me with the goodness of You. Remind me that Your lovingkindness is better than life itself. I am ready to go to another dimension in You. Let every scheme the enemy has attempted against my devotion to You be destroyed as I lift my hands in praise to You.
I declare over my life and that of all the totally devoted ones that the voice of the enemy will be silenced in our lives. As we wait for Your rain, which will bring healing, restoration, and provision, we will do so in peace-- the peace that passes all understanding in the midst of every situation. May Your Living Water flow to every part of our being and produce everything You intended us to produce. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 42
Memory Verse: Ps. 42:1
Father, as the deer pants for the water, my soul thirsts for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water. In a society where man has chosen to drink sodas and other enticing liquids which hold no nutritional value, I choose to wait on Your water that comes from above. You created that thirst within me so that I'll learn to refuse every other substitute.
I'm thirsty because my throat is parched from the pain of consuming too much solid foods and not enough liquids. Too many thoughts and ideas from the world have found their way into my spiritual digestive system. Too many opportunities to depend on Your Living Water that I allowed myself to think I could put off.
As I prepare to go into the sanctuary, where You have prepared a refreshing through worship and the washing of the Word, I ask You to search my heart. Flush out everything that exalts itself against the knowledge of You. Replace every void, filling me with the goodness of You. Remind me that Your lovingkindness is better than life itself. I am ready to go to another dimension in You. Let every scheme the enemy has attempted against my devotion to You be destroyed as I lift my hands in praise to You.
I declare over my life and that of all the totally devoted ones that the voice of the enemy will be silenced in our lives. As we wait for Your rain, which will bring healing, restoration, and provision, we will do so in peace-- the peace that passes all understanding in the midst of every situation. May Your Living Water flow to every part of our being and produce everything You intended us to produce. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Why We Need the Rain
Saturday, October 29th, 2010
Today's Passage: Deuteronomy 11:8-18
Memory Verse: Isaiah 1:18
The question was asked a couple of days ago, "Why do you need the rain?". What I understood that question to ask was, why is the rain necessary? Each of us on the praise team was given an opportunity to answer. Some said the rain refreshes and revives us because we give out so much to others. Others gave their reason for wanting the rain as flooding and drenching all the dry places around us. Still another reason was that the rain is needed so that all the prayers we thought were forgotten could come to pass. Then some things happened in my life to give me a personal reason for needing the rain.
I realized that, in the vast wisdom and mercy of our God, He sees and knows of the secret
places in our lives we try to keep hidden from His light. Whether due to shame from our past, or from decisions we've made from one day to the next that do not line up with His word, we can accumulate some heavy condemnation that ends up paralyzing us and rendering us ineffective in fulfilling our purpose in The kingdom.
And so, because our Father's desire is to free us from these chains, He wants to send us a drenching downpour of rain to do all those things. But most important of all, the rain comes to wash away every stain of our sin and shame. It's coming to flood our hearts, removing every sign of the enemy's lies to us about ourselves and our destiny. When the rain comes, it will restore the years the locusts ate-- precious time stolen from our marriages, relationships with our children and other loved ones, and strengthen the bond between believers in the body.
If you happen to be in a place where you're experiencing any of that condemnation, or even a spirit of despair that what the Lord promised is too far away, allow me to come into agreement with you that it's time for the rain. It will be a rain that's bringing healing for the broken, second chances to those who think they've messed it up for the last time, and restoration of the purpose destroyed by the enemy's lies. With everything you have within you, reach for and expect the Lord's promise of the rain, and watch Him change every single aspect of our lives.
Prayer: Father, You are the Deliverer Who comes to rescue us when we've dug holes too deep to get ourselves out of. You have made provision of another chance that we don't deserve, but that Your Son's blood has purchased. Send now Your rain and let it wash away every stain, preparing us for the new victory and purpose. We praise You once again that You will not go back on Your Word. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Deuteronomy 11:8-18
Memory Verse: Isaiah 1:18
The question was asked a couple of days ago, "Why do you need the rain?". What I understood that question to ask was, why is the rain necessary? Each of us on the praise team was given an opportunity to answer. Some said the rain refreshes and revives us because we give out so much to others. Others gave their reason for wanting the rain as flooding and drenching all the dry places around us. Still another reason was that the rain is needed so that all the prayers we thought were forgotten could come to pass. Then some things happened in my life to give me a personal reason for needing the rain.
I realized that, in the vast wisdom and mercy of our God, He sees and knows of the secret
places in our lives we try to keep hidden from His light. Whether due to shame from our past, or from decisions we've made from one day to the next that do not line up with His word, we can accumulate some heavy condemnation that ends up paralyzing us and rendering us ineffective in fulfilling our purpose in The kingdom.
And so, because our Father's desire is to free us from these chains, He wants to send us a drenching downpour of rain to do all those things. But most important of all, the rain comes to wash away every stain of our sin and shame. It's coming to flood our hearts, removing every sign of the enemy's lies to us about ourselves and our destiny. When the rain comes, it will restore the years the locusts ate-- precious time stolen from our marriages, relationships with our children and other loved ones, and strengthen the bond between believers in the body.
If you happen to be in a place where you're experiencing any of that condemnation, or even a spirit of despair that what the Lord promised is too far away, allow me to come into agreement with you that it's time for the rain. It will be a rain that's bringing healing for the broken, second chances to those who think they've messed it up for the last time, and restoration of the purpose destroyed by the enemy's lies. With everything you have within you, reach for and expect the Lord's promise of the rain, and watch Him change every single aspect of our lives.
Prayer: Father, You are the Deliverer Who comes to rescue us when we've dug holes too deep to get ourselves out of. You have made provision of another chance that we don't deserve, but that Your Son's blood has purchased. Send now Your rain and let it wash away every stain, preparing us for the new victory and purpose. We praise You once again that You will not go back on Your Word. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
A Forecast of Rain
Friday, October 29th, 2010
Today's Passage: isaiah 55: 10-14
Memory Verse: James 5: 7
Pastor Chris told us a story this week in Praise Team rehearsal about what happened at a football game he attended once. Anyone who knows my husband knows how excited he is about watching football --live or on television. So you can imagine his elation to be at the Jaguars football game that particular day. But the heat was do oppressive that day that even the most enthusiastic fans could not get into the game.
Looking around at that moment, you'd think there was no way possible that a refreshing from the sky in the form of rain would be on the way. Pastor Chris said it got so miserable in the stadium that they were considering leaving before half-time (which, trust me, would have been more difficult for him to do than you could ever imagine).
Then Pastor Antoinette, who is super sensitive to these things, looked at the weather report on her I-pad. Strangely enough, the forecast said that rain was coming. Who would've ever thought a crazy thing like that would be possible? Looking into the sky, there was not one single shred of evidence that rain was on the way. And yet, by the time the second half came, Pastor Chris told us that it was raining so hard, everyone in the stadium was drenched almost to the bone. It rained so hard and so long that, when the rain finally stopped, on the ground as well as on every seat was the residue of that which could not be discerned with the human eye earlier.
So what am I saying? This rain that God has promised us IS on the way. And here's the important thing to remember: it's because you can't see any evidence of it right now that you know with an assurance it's coming. How else is the rain supposed to fall unless the intense heat from the sun soaks up all the excess moisture that we didn't know was there? Here's your spiritual forecast: Expect intense discomfort during the process of evaporation. Finances, relationships -- anything that has the promise of blooming and blossoming when the rain comes -- will experience pain. But oh, when the rain comes, every aggravation will be washed away. And you're not the only one who'll be carrying the residue. May we all get to the place in our lives where we can pray: "Bring the rain, Lord."
Prayer: Father, we are earnestly awaiting the approaching of the rain we've asked you for. Let the heat of that preparation not run us away from You, but straight to to Your heart. Then, as we enjoy the downpour, may the evidence of the rain follow us everywhere we go, in Jesus' mighty Name.
Today's Passage: isaiah 55: 10-14
Memory Verse: James 5: 7
Pastor Chris told us a story this week in Praise Team rehearsal about what happened at a football game he attended once. Anyone who knows my husband knows how excited he is about watching football --live or on television. So you can imagine his elation to be at the Jaguars football game that particular day. But the heat was do oppressive that day that even the most enthusiastic fans could not get into the game.
Looking around at that moment, you'd think there was no way possible that a refreshing from the sky in the form of rain would be on the way. Pastor Chris said it got so miserable in the stadium that they were considering leaving before half-time (which, trust me, would have been more difficult for him to do than you could ever imagine).
Then Pastor Antoinette, who is super sensitive to these things, looked at the weather report on her I-pad. Strangely enough, the forecast said that rain was coming. Who would've ever thought a crazy thing like that would be possible? Looking into the sky, there was not one single shred of evidence that rain was on the way. And yet, by the time the second half came, Pastor Chris told us that it was raining so hard, everyone in the stadium was drenched almost to the bone. It rained so hard and so long that, when the rain finally stopped, on the ground as well as on every seat was the residue of that which could not be discerned with the human eye earlier.
So what am I saying? This rain that God has promised us IS on the way. And here's the important thing to remember: it's because you can't see any evidence of it right now that you know with an assurance it's coming. How else is the rain supposed to fall unless the intense heat from the sun soaks up all the excess moisture that we didn't know was there? Here's your spiritual forecast: Expect intense discomfort during the process of evaporation. Finances, relationships -- anything that has the promise of blooming and blossoming when the rain comes -- will experience pain. But oh, when the rain comes, every aggravation will be washed away. And you're not the only one who'll be carrying the residue. May we all get to the place in our lives where we can pray: "Bring the rain, Lord."
Prayer: Father, we are earnestly awaiting the approaching of the rain we've asked you for. Let the heat of that preparation not run us away from You, but straight to to Your heart. Then, as we enjoy the downpour, may the evidence of the rain follow us everywhere we go, in Jesus' mighty Name.
Ready For Rain!
Thursday October 28, 2010
I got home from church last night and (motivated by Pastor Chad & Nette's Word) asked myself "Am I truly ready for God's rain"? Over the years, we've learned how to have church. We know how to use the church lingo and protocals. We know when to sing the songs, pray the prayers, and greet the people. But what we struggle with is how to get on one accord and make ourselves ready for rain.
First of all, we have to have good soil. Good soil is porous and yielding, not hard and brittle like drought-ridden soil can be. Just as our Pastors said last night, good soil has to have openings so when it rains, the water can go all the way through it. What we have become however, is rigid, non-porous surfaces full of "matter". Family matters, financial matters, and even emotional matters, all keep our soil from being ready for rain. Think about it for a moment, when we have allowed all the cares of this world to distract us from God's purpose, we've essentially set ourselves up for a season of drought. You know how dangerous taking our eyes off God can be, but it's a common practice among God-seekers. To recieve the rain, we must be prepared. Second, we can't have our soil filled with debris and litter. Let's face it y'all, we have so much "junk" in our lives. So much baggage from bad relationships, past hurts, and old games have been attached to us and covered our soil, keeping it from absorbing God's rain.
So let's make sure we have what it takes to be receive the rain. God's waiting on us. We're not waiting on Him. Do a soil analysis on yourself to make sure you are absorbant and clutter-free. The rain's coming. God promised it so you can rest assured. But we have to be ready. We have to have the capabilities to channel floodwaters from one place to the other. So begin now by asking yourself "Are YOU ready for rain"?
Prayer: Father I thank You for Your rain. Let it fall on us in it's season. Let Your anointing, power, and presence overflow in our lives like never before. We need You. We need Your rain. Send it now, and we'll give You praise, in Jesus' name. Amen
I got home from church last night and (motivated by Pastor Chad & Nette's Word) asked myself "Am I truly ready for God's rain"? Over the years, we've learned how to have church. We know how to use the church lingo and protocals. We know when to sing the songs, pray the prayers, and greet the people. But what we struggle with is how to get on one accord and make ourselves ready for rain.
First of all, we have to have good soil. Good soil is porous and yielding, not hard and brittle like drought-ridden soil can be. Just as our Pastors said last night, good soil has to have openings so when it rains, the water can go all the way through it. What we have become however, is rigid, non-porous surfaces full of "matter". Family matters, financial matters, and even emotional matters, all keep our soil from being ready for rain. Think about it for a moment, when we have allowed all the cares of this world to distract us from God's purpose, we've essentially set ourselves up for a season of drought. You know how dangerous taking our eyes off God can be, but it's a common practice among God-seekers. To recieve the rain, we must be prepared. Second, we can't have our soil filled with debris and litter. Let's face it y'all, we have so much "junk" in our lives. So much baggage from bad relationships, past hurts, and old games have been attached to us and covered our soil, keeping it from absorbing God's rain.
So let's make sure we have what it takes to be receive the rain. God's waiting on us. We're not waiting on Him. Do a soil analysis on yourself to make sure you are absorbant and clutter-free. The rain's coming. God promised it so you can rest assured. But we have to be ready. We have to have the capabilities to channel floodwaters from one place to the other. So begin now by asking yourself "Are YOU ready for rain"?
Prayer: Father I thank You for Your rain. Let it fall on us in it's season. Let Your anointing, power, and presence overflow in our lives like never before. We need You. We need Your rain. Send it now, and we'll give You praise, in Jesus' name. Amen
Everything Means Everything!
Wednesday October 27, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalms 23:4-5
Memory Verse: Job 22:21
"Everything must go!"Everything's on sale!Everything! Everything! Everything! The world we live in loves to throw around promises it can't keep, especially when it wants to sell you something. Think about it. Can a store or relationship really offer you everything?
I love the definition of everything. Our dictionary defines it as ALL. So that takes us back to our question. How can someone or something offer you everything? Don't you have to be the possesser of all to offer all as a possession? The Bible says in Job 22:21 to "Give in to God, come to terms with Him and EVERYTHING will turn out just fine" When God uses the word "everything", I'm sure He means it. Why would He save your life, but leave your marriage in shambles? Why would He restore your marriage, but leave your children out there alone? Point is, God is ready to bring everything in your life to a new level. Listen, when man says everything, what he really means is everything you can see. He's actually holding the cards on what you can't see. That part usually belongs to him, or someone else. But when God says everything, He means EVERYTHING. All aspects of your life have an appointment for blessing. He will not leave anything out. It gives Him glory to see every part of your life in divine order. "For God's Word is solid to the core; everything He makes is sound inside and out. He loves it when everything fits, when His world is in plumb-line true. Earth is drenched in God's affectionate satisfaction" (Psalm 33:4-5).
Get ready People of God! God's rain is about to fall. And when His rain falls, EVERYTHING gets drenched. Your whole life and everything in it is subject to change. Prepare yourself. Put out your buckets and pots. Plant your seed while you still have time. It won't be much longer now!!!
Prayer: Thank you God for Your rain. It seems this drought has lasted forever. But You have us in Your loving hands. Rain on us. Rain on us. Rain on us. We're ready! Saturate us in Your love, favor, healing, and grace. We give You all our praise....in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalms 23:4-5
Memory Verse: Job 22:21
"Everything must go!"Everything's on sale!Everything! Everything! Everything! The world we live in loves to throw around promises it can't keep, especially when it wants to sell you something. Think about it. Can a store or relationship really offer you everything?
I love the definition of everything. Our dictionary defines it as ALL. So that takes us back to our question. How can someone or something offer you everything? Don't you have to be the possesser of all to offer all as a possession? The Bible says in Job 22:21 to "Give in to God, come to terms with Him and EVERYTHING will turn out just fine" When God uses the word "everything", I'm sure He means it. Why would He save your life, but leave your marriage in shambles? Why would He restore your marriage, but leave your children out there alone? Point is, God is ready to bring everything in your life to a new level. Listen, when man says everything, what he really means is everything you can see. He's actually holding the cards on what you can't see. That part usually belongs to him, or someone else. But when God says everything, He means EVERYTHING. All aspects of your life have an appointment for blessing. He will not leave anything out. It gives Him glory to see every part of your life in divine order. "For God's Word is solid to the core; everything He makes is sound inside and out. He loves it when everything fits, when His world is in plumb-line true. Earth is drenched in God's affectionate satisfaction" (Psalm 33:4-5).
Get ready People of God! God's rain is about to fall. And when His rain falls, EVERYTHING gets drenched. Your whole life and everything in it is subject to change. Prepare yourself. Put out your buckets and pots. Plant your seed while you still have time. It won't be much longer now!!!
Prayer: Thank you God for Your rain. It seems this drought has lasted forever. But You have us in Your loving hands. Rain on us. Rain on us. Rain on us. We're ready! Saturate us in Your love, favor, healing, and grace. We give You all our praise....in Jesus' name. Amen.
Another True Horror Story
Tuesday, October 26th, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew 25: 31-46
Memory Verse: Matt. 25: 41
Ready for another horror story? Imagine standing before the Father at the Great White Throne judgment. You've spent all your Christian life serving on every committee possible. You've attended every church service except due to illness or death in the family. You have the most impressive record for fundraising to help the church that's ever been seen.
And yet, when the Father calls the roll, your name is nowhere to be found. In alarm, you tell the angel, "Check it again!" but alas, the Heavenly host is incapable of making any type of error possible. As your disbelief turns into the fear of being completely separated from the Creator of all mankind, you fall trembling to your knees. In a voice that is barely above a whisper, you ask for an explanation.
"Your kind is unknown here," you hear the beloved voice of God say with great sadness. "All the deeds you performed were done with ulterior motives, not propelled by My love.".
"But I did everything in and through Your Name", comes your shocked reply. "You did everything for man's reward," comes the gentle response. Even when I tugged at your heart, you brushed me off to pursue the praise of man. You thought buying things for the needy was what they truly cried out for. But what they hungered and thirsted for the most was ... ME."
But how can that be? You... You tricked me, God! My friends and I read this passage over and over again to be sure we got the details right! We even named our ministry "The Least of These.". How can You say I didn't give them what they needed?". " Because when they looked for my compassion, you had no patience for it. You only had appointments and deadlines. Although you did everything My Word told You exactly by the book, you only went through the
Motions. When I tried to get your attention in the middle of the night, you only took pills to drown out My Still, small, Voice. There was no room for. Me in a heart like yours , for it was filled with pride. So as much as it pains Me to say it, DEPART from Me. I KNOW you NOT..."
Saints, for those of us who ARE serious about living for God all the way, I believe the twist to this story is that we may forget to live WITH Him. The danger in doing God's Word lies in doing it to receive man's recognition. Let's search our hearts and truly live to bring Him pleasure.
Prayer: Father, now more than ever before I desire to be intimate with You. Shine Your light upon my deeds and the motives behind them as I strive to live for You. Let my love be poured out for Your broken, remembering that You found me just like that. Keep my heart forever Yours, filled with humility and compassion. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Matthew 25: 31-46
Memory Verse: Matt. 25: 41
Ready for another horror story? Imagine standing before the Father at the Great White Throne judgment. You've spent all your Christian life serving on every committee possible. You've attended every church service except due to illness or death in the family. You have the most impressive record for fundraising to help the church that's ever been seen.
And yet, when the Father calls the roll, your name is nowhere to be found. In alarm, you tell the angel, "Check it again!" but alas, the Heavenly host is incapable of making any type of error possible. As your disbelief turns into the fear of being completely separated from the Creator of all mankind, you fall trembling to your knees. In a voice that is barely above a whisper, you ask for an explanation.
"Your kind is unknown here," you hear the beloved voice of God say with great sadness. "All the deeds you performed were done with ulterior motives, not propelled by My love.".
"But I did everything in and through Your Name", comes your shocked reply. "You did everything for man's reward," comes the gentle response. Even when I tugged at your heart, you brushed me off to pursue the praise of man. You thought buying things for the needy was what they truly cried out for. But what they hungered and thirsted for the most was ... ME."
But how can that be? You... You tricked me, God! My friends and I read this passage over and over again to be sure we got the details right! We even named our ministry "The Least of These.". How can You say I didn't give them what they needed?". " Because when they looked for my compassion, you had no patience for it. You only had appointments and deadlines. Although you did everything My Word told You exactly by the book, you only went through the
Motions. When I tried to get your attention in the middle of the night, you only took pills to drown out My Still, small, Voice. There was no room for. Me in a heart like yours , for it was filled with pride. So as much as it pains Me to say it, DEPART from Me. I KNOW you NOT..."
Saints, for those of us who ARE serious about living for God all the way, I believe the twist to this story is that we may forget to live WITH Him. The danger in doing God's Word lies in doing it to receive man's recognition. Let's search our hearts and truly live to bring Him pleasure.
Prayer: Father, now more than ever before I desire to be intimate with You. Shine Your light upon my deeds and the motives behind them as I strive to live for You. Let my love be poured out for Your broken, remembering that You found me just like that. Keep my heart forever Yours, filled with humility and compassion. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
The Real Horror Story
Monday, October 25th, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew9:35-38
Memory Verse: Matt. 9:36-37
As I ride around our city, it's not difficult to see how seriously some take the celebration of Halloween. They go all out with ghoulish decorations, setting the atmosphere for a "scare" on the 31st when families take their children trick-or-treating. Most people even indulge in a scary movie or two during this season. After all, that's pretty much all that's available to watch on tv anyway, we tell ourselves. But the Lord reminded me that there's really no need to look for scary things to think about.
So here's some really scary stories for you. All we need do is look at the walking dead around us. We live around them, work with them, and have many of them in our families. We know the answer that will bring them life--actually, we have that answer within us. And yet, we continue to go past them day after day. We even watch them try to function without the loving guidance of a Sovereign God, and we find ourselves talking about them, but mostly judging them. Often we forget that we are being held accountable for those lives before the Father on the day of judgment.
What about the real-life gremlins we allow to wreak havoc in our lives? I'm talking about demonic forces that are given the authority to plant thoughts in the minds and hearts of believers like me and you who truly claim to love our God. Those are thoughts of worthlessness, doubt and unbelief, and strife-- high things that make strong effort to exalt themselves against the knowledge of God. They take away precious minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, even years from our purpose of representing our Father and His kingdom to those who are lost.
I'm not really trying to paralyze you with fear, as is the true purpose of those horror movies. But there is a sense of urgency coming from Heaven for us to turn our focus and our hearts to the things of God. Jesus is on His way back for a bride without spot or wrinkle. But are we really preparing for His coming? Are we investing the time required to prepare others to be ready? I don't know about you, but that's enough to snap me back into reality-- the reality of seeking first God's kingdom rather than the distractions that consume our time. That's the beginning of the real horror story.
Prayer: Father, I'm taking the mask off to admit today that in can really be self-centered and easily distracted. I really don't know how You do it, but You gently bring me back to a place where I can see and hear things from Your perspective once again. Cause me to look at the fields of souls that are ripe for Your harvest. Let that be my heart's priority. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Matthew9:35-38
Memory Verse: Matt. 9:36-37
As I ride around our city, it's not difficult to see how seriously some take the celebration of Halloween. They go all out with ghoulish decorations, setting the atmosphere for a "scare" on the 31st when families take their children trick-or-treating. Most people even indulge in a scary movie or two during this season. After all, that's pretty much all that's available to watch on tv anyway, we tell ourselves. But the Lord reminded me that there's really no need to look for scary things to think about.
So here's some really scary stories for you. All we need do is look at the walking dead around us. We live around them, work with them, and have many of them in our families. We know the answer that will bring them life--actually, we have that answer within us. And yet, we continue to go past them day after day. We even watch them try to function without the loving guidance of a Sovereign God, and we find ourselves talking about them, but mostly judging them. Often we forget that we are being held accountable for those lives before the Father on the day of judgment.
What about the real-life gremlins we allow to wreak havoc in our lives? I'm talking about demonic forces that are given the authority to plant thoughts in the minds and hearts of believers like me and you who truly claim to love our God. Those are thoughts of worthlessness, doubt and unbelief, and strife-- high things that make strong effort to exalt themselves against the knowledge of God. They take away precious minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, even years from our purpose of representing our Father and His kingdom to those who are lost.
I'm not really trying to paralyze you with fear, as is the true purpose of those horror movies. But there is a sense of urgency coming from Heaven for us to turn our focus and our hearts to the things of God. Jesus is on His way back for a bride without spot or wrinkle. But are we really preparing for His coming? Are we investing the time required to prepare others to be ready? I don't know about you, but that's enough to snap me back into reality-- the reality of seeking first God's kingdom rather than the distractions that consume our time. That's the beginning of the real horror story.
Prayer: Father, I'm taking the mask off to admit today that in can really be self-centered and easily distracted. I really don't know how You do it, but You gently bring me back to a place where I can see and hear things from Your perspective once again. Cause me to look at the fields of souls that are ripe for Your harvest. Let that be my heart's priority. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Reverence, not Fear!
Sunday October 24, 2010
Today's Passage: Proverbs 14:26-27
Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 1:7
Okay I get it, the world has designated the month of October as 'the month of fear'. I went into several stores yesterday and all I saw was decorations depicting ghosts, monsters, and other scary things. People even have their homes adorned with make-shift graveyards in their yards and ghoulish pictures in the windows.
Why are we so enamored with fear and death? I don't really know. But since this is the month of fear, let's go with it shall we? Fear, in this context, is defined as a distressing emotion caused by the feeling of impending danger. Basically, fear is a defense mechanism that is used to warn the body that something's about to happen that is going to cause pain. For instance, the moment before two cars collide causes fear. The moment before a small child is injured causes fear. And being confronted by someone who can potentially harm you causes fear. As a society, we have been conditioned to embrace this emotion. As a matter of fact, Satan has been so good at it, he's caused us to allow this emotion to guide us in our daily lives. So, now we fear everything. We fear other cultures. We fear trying (failing). We fear commitment. We fear the unknown, and a lot of other things that do not put us in impending danger. There is even a complete list of "phobias" (irrational fears) online. You can google them if you'd like. In contrast, the Bible says, in 2 Timothy 1:7, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind". Which means we shouldn't fear anything to the point we cannot live fulfilled lives that produce after the Kingdom of God. In all actuality, the one person we should always fear is: God. I know I know. I just spent the last minute telling you NOT to fear. But the definition of this fear is a reverential awe. This fear doesn't make you cower and hide, it makes you bow and worship. It's like finding the most beautiful and valuable item in the known world. Although you found it, you dare not touch it for fear of abusing or ruining it. That's kinda how God is. He says we can come before Him boldly because He's a loving Father. But we still have to reverence Him because He's King. Having a healthy fear of God leads us to worship and reverence. Proverbs 14:26-27 says "The fear of God builds up confidence, and makes the world safe for your children. The fear of God is a spring of living water so you won't go aff drinking from poison wells". Isn't that true? If our nation had a fear of God, would its leaders make some of the decisions they make? And if they made decisions based on that "fear", wouldn't the world be safer for our children? All of us could have eliminated a few bad choices from our lives had we had a healthy fear of God before making them.
Well, as you attend your church services today, remember to give reverence to our God. He's worthy of it. He hasn't given you a spirit of fear, but He did give you a heart of worship. So use it today. He's waiting!
Prayer: Father, You are mighty and powerful. The same gentle hand You used to love and shield me, You use to destroy my enemies in front of me. My fear of You doesn't keep me away, it draws me to Your soveriegnty. And it keeps me from taking You for granted. Thank You for Your love and care. I am forever Yours, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Proverbs 14:26-27
Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 1:7
Okay I get it, the world has designated the month of October as 'the month of fear'. I went into several stores yesterday and all I saw was decorations depicting ghosts, monsters, and other scary things. People even have their homes adorned with make-shift graveyards in their yards and ghoulish pictures in the windows.
Why are we so enamored with fear and death? I don't really know. But since this is the month of fear, let's go with it shall we? Fear, in this context, is defined as a distressing emotion caused by the feeling of impending danger. Basically, fear is a defense mechanism that is used to warn the body that something's about to happen that is going to cause pain. For instance, the moment before two cars collide causes fear. The moment before a small child is injured causes fear. And being confronted by someone who can potentially harm you causes fear. As a society, we have been conditioned to embrace this emotion. As a matter of fact, Satan has been so good at it, he's caused us to allow this emotion to guide us in our daily lives. So, now we fear everything. We fear other cultures. We fear trying (failing). We fear commitment. We fear the unknown, and a lot of other things that do not put us in impending danger. There is even a complete list of "phobias" (irrational fears) online. You can google them if you'd like. In contrast, the Bible says, in 2 Timothy 1:7, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind". Which means we shouldn't fear anything to the point we cannot live fulfilled lives that produce after the Kingdom of God. In all actuality, the one person we should always fear is: God. I know I know. I just spent the last minute telling you NOT to fear. But the definition of this fear is a reverential awe. This fear doesn't make you cower and hide, it makes you bow and worship. It's like finding the most beautiful and valuable item in the known world. Although you found it, you dare not touch it for fear of abusing or ruining it. That's kinda how God is. He says we can come before Him boldly because He's a loving Father. But we still have to reverence Him because He's King. Having a healthy fear of God leads us to worship and reverence. Proverbs 14:26-27 says "The fear of God builds up confidence, and makes the world safe for your children. The fear of God is a spring of living water so you won't go aff drinking from poison wells". Isn't that true? If our nation had a fear of God, would its leaders make some of the decisions they make? And if they made decisions based on that "fear", wouldn't the world be safer for our children? All of us could have eliminated a few bad choices from our lives had we had a healthy fear of God before making them.
Well, as you attend your church services today, remember to give reverence to our God. He's worthy of it. He hasn't given you a spirit of fear, but He did give you a heart of worship. So use it today. He's waiting!
Prayer: Father, You are mighty and powerful. The same gentle hand You used to love and shield me, You use to destroy my enemies in front of me. My fear of You doesn't keep me away, it draws me to Your soveriegnty. And it keeps me from taking You for granted. Thank You for Your love and care. I am forever Yours, in Jesus' name. Amen.
It's What Matters Most!
Saturday October 23, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew 25:36-40
Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 13:3
"No matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love".
1 Corinthians 13:3 (Mess.)
You know what? I'm discovering more and more life is ALL about love. Because God is love, the most important lesson He wants us to learn on earth is love. Ever ask yourself what love was, or what it meant to love? Well, 2 John 1:6 says "Love means following His commandments, and His unifying commandment is that you conduct your lives in love". This "love" that we know has been tainted by our own ideals and experiences. In a nutshell, our love is connected to our feelings, meaning we love what makes us feel good, and don't love what doesn't. I thank God for His love not being motivated by feelings. The Bible sums this up quite eloquently when it says "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us".
Let's face it folks, love is what matters most. It's going to stand forever. And believe it or not, God's going to evaluate us on our love in eternity. His Word says "The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love" (Gal. 5:6 NIV). I'm glad He's not going to ask me how many churches I planted (0), or how much money I gave (not nearly enough). At the end of the day, my devotion to "Him" will be demonstrated by the way I treat "you". Jesus said the way to love Him is to love His family and care for their practical needs. Jesus told His disciples "I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me. Then those sheep are going to say, Master what are You talking about? When did we ever see You hungry and feed You, thirsty and give You drink? And when did we ever see You sick or in prison and come to You? Then the King will say, I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me--you did it to me" (Matt. 25:36-40). My Friends, because love matters most, it takes top priority. Without it, maximizing the necessary relationships it takes to have a good life wouldn't be possible. Love will always save the day, and it conquers everything. Does it keep you from getting hurt? Gosh no! But it does bring healing from pain and keeps you free from emotional bondage. So allow the Word of God to teach you how to love. Let it be the lifestyle that drives you. You'll thank yourself (and God) later because you'll find it's the one thing that mattered all along.
Prayer: Father I thank You for loving me. Without Your love, I'd never be considered for Heaven with You. Now, give me the strength and the courage to share Your love with others. Everyone should have the opportunity to know what You did for them. You are so awesome! I am Totally devoted to You...in Jesus' name. Amen!
Today's Passage: Matthew 25:36-40
Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 13:3
"No matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love".
1 Corinthians 13:3 (Mess.)
You know what? I'm discovering more and more life is ALL about love. Because God is love, the most important lesson He wants us to learn on earth is love. Ever ask yourself what love was, or what it meant to love? Well, 2 John 1:6 says "Love means following His commandments, and His unifying commandment is that you conduct your lives in love". This "love" that we know has been tainted by our own ideals and experiences. In a nutshell, our love is connected to our feelings, meaning we love what makes us feel good, and don't love what doesn't. I thank God for His love not being motivated by feelings. The Bible sums this up quite eloquently when it says "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us".
Let's face it folks, love is what matters most. It's going to stand forever. And believe it or not, God's going to evaluate us on our love in eternity. His Word says "The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love" (Gal. 5:6 NIV). I'm glad He's not going to ask me how many churches I planted (0), or how much money I gave (not nearly enough). At the end of the day, my devotion to "Him" will be demonstrated by the way I treat "you". Jesus said the way to love Him is to love His family and care for their practical needs. Jesus told His disciples "I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me. Then those sheep are going to say, Master what are You talking about? When did we ever see You hungry and feed You, thirsty and give You drink? And when did we ever see You sick or in prison and come to You? Then the King will say, I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me--you did it to me" (Matt. 25:36-40). My Friends, because love matters most, it takes top priority. Without it, maximizing the necessary relationships it takes to have a good life wouldn't be possible. Love will always save the day, and it conquers everything. Does it keep you from getting hurt? Gosh no! But it does bring healing from pain and keeps you free from emotional bondage. So allow the Word of God to teach you how to love. Let it be the lifestyle that drives you. You'll thank yourself (and God) later because you'll find it's the one thing that mattered all along.
Prayer: Father I thank You for loving me. Without Your love, I'd never be considered for Heaven with You. Now, give me the strength and the courage to share Your love with others. Everyone should have the opportunity to know what You did for them. You are so awesome! I am Totally devoted to You...in Jesus' name. Amen!
Our Father's "Instead"
Friday, October 22, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 55:8-11
Memory Verse: Is. 55: 8-9
So, I was telling you guys the other day about my personal experience with God's "No" to my prayer for a CD. But what I didn't get a chance to share with you was the "Instead" my Father has been preparing for me and my husband since then. That plan God has for us is so big that it requires Him to say "No" to the things that would take us completely out of His will.
We had already been worship leaders at ALM for about 4 years when I stepped out on this venture. I was excited about the recording, but when that night came and went, I found within me a spirit of unrest. Quite a few questions surfaced when we learned of the problems with the CD. Out of those problems came God's response. You see, I had begun to wonder why it seems as if people in the world who didn't even acknowledge God were successful, while believers tried to make ends meet. He led me to Psalm 34, and began speaking to me about the benefits of being a believer.
By the time He was done talking, the Lord had given me the makings of a book entitled "The Benefits of Righteousness", which was a huge encouragement to me in that season. Then, around that same time, the Lord spoke to Chris and me about something that would totally change the way we saw ourselves in ministry. Through Bishop Ray, who was then still senior pastor, God showed us that there is no personal destiny without corporate destiny. From that moment to this, we've been working not to get where WE want to be, but to push our pastors where God wants Them to be, knowing that our destiny is connected to the fulfillment of theirs.
All I know is that, since then, our lives have been much more fulfilled, more God-centered and kingdom- minded than before. How's that better than what I asked God for? You may be wondering. It is because I'm spending more of my time thinking about what He wants instead of what I didn't get. And that is the life of self-sacrifice that He honors and rewards.
Prayer: Father, thank You for not giving in to my every whim. You know what's best for me, and so I thank You for teaching me to trust Your hand. I also look forward to the "Instead" that You have in store. May every inch of my life bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Isaiah 55:8-11
Memory Verse: Is. 55: 8-9
So, I was telling you guys the other day about my personal experience with God's "No" to my prayer for a CD. But what I didn't get a chance to share with you was the "Instead" my Father has been preparing for me and my husband since then. That plan God has for us is so big that it requires Him to say "No" to the things that would take us completely out of His will.
We had already been worship leaders at ALM for about 4 years when I stepped out on this venture. I was excited about the recording, but when that night came and went, I found within me a spirit of unrest. Quite a few questions surfaced when we learned of the problems with the CD. Out of those problems came God's response. You see, I had begun to wonder why it seems as if people in the world who didn't even acknowledge God were successful, while believers tried to make ends meet. He led me to Psalm 34, and began speaking to me about the benefits of being a believer.
By the time He was done talking, the Lord had given me the makings of a book entitled "The Benefits of Righteousness", which was a huge encouragement to me in that season. Then, around that same time, the Lord spoke to Chris and me about something that would totally change the way we saw ourselves in ministry. Through Bishop Ray, who was then still senior pastor, God showed us that there is no personal destiny without corporate destiny. From that moment to this, we've been working not to get where WE want to be, but to push our pastors where God wants Them to be, knowing that our destiny is connected to the fulfillment of theirs.
All I know is that, since then, our lives have been much more fulfilled, more God-centered and kingdom- minded than before. How's that better than what I asked God for? You may be wondering. It is because I'm spending more of my time thinking about what He wants instead of what I didn't get. And that is the life of self-sacrifice that He honors and rewards.
Prayer: Father, thank You for not giving in to my every whim. You know what's best for me, and so I thank You for teaching me to trust Your hand. I also look forward to the "Instead" that You have in store. May every inch of my life bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Are You Immune?
Thursday October 21, 2010
Today's Passage: Job 5:20-22 (Mess.)
Memory Verse: Lamentations 2:14 (Mess.)
Of all the complexed systems of the body, not one of them interest me more than the immune system. To think that God has placed a group of cells in our bodies that find and kill diseases is beyond comprehension. Why do we need an immune system? How does it work spiritually?
An immune system (biologically), is a system of biological structures and processes within an organism that protects against disease by identifying and killing pathogens and tumor cells. It detects a wide variety of agents, from viruses to parasitic worms, and needs to distinguish them from the organism's own healthy cells and tissues in order to function properly. Detection is complicated as pathogens can evolve rapidly, producing adaptations that avoid the immune system and allow the pathogens to successfully infect their hosts. Based on that information, our spiritual immune system is a series of spiritual processes that protects against sin sicknesses by identifying and killing soul-ties, strongholds, old habits, and addictions. It also detects agents (familiar spirits and ignorance), and preserves healthy spiritual functioning. Detection here is also complicated as pathogens (old habits/relationships) can return and evolve without notice. Job 5:20-22 (Mess.) says "In famine, He'll keep you from starving, in war, from being gutted by the sword. You'll be protected from viscious gossip and live fearless through any catastrophe. You'll shrug off disaster and famine, and stroll fearlessly among wild animals". Now that's a powerful system! God promised to protect us. We have to trust Him. We have to decide to stand on His Word and never be moved.
Now having an immune system doesn't mean we'll be free from attacks. We're exposed to spritual germs (just like biological ones) everyday. Some of them are airborne, which means they come by people infecting you with gossip, betrayal, neglect, and/or lies. God's immune system is designed to detect gossip and lies and destroy them with cells of truth. Best practice to prevent infection is making sure your eyes, ears, hands, and face are washed thoroughly with the Word of God. Other germs are blood-borne, which means they come by ingesting something foreign or heredity. Ingesting foreign germs happen when we "take in" advice or teaching that isn't healthy or prepared properly. Even with good intentions, advice and suggestions are given out religious views, not the truth of God's Word. "Your prophets courted you with sweet talk. They didn't face you with your sin so that you could repent. Their sermons were all wishful thinking, deceptive illusions" (Lamentations 2:14 Message). Inherited germs are ones that have been produced in us by our mothers and fathers. Anger, abuse, rejection, and illness are all examples. Immunity has been establish by receiving a full blood transfusion. Our blood must be exchanged with the blood of Jesus. His blood takes away all the germs the enemy designed to hurt us. So are you immune? Being immune means you possess the spirit of a fighter. It means you don't sit and wait to be attacked, you're constantly on the attack. You're a fighter...and a winner!
Prayer: God You are so awesome. You fixed us before we could even be broken. If we trust You, our lives will be protected by Your promises of life abundantly. Keep us in You awesome hands Lord, and we'll always live to praise You...in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Job 5:20-22 (Mess.)
Memory Verse: Lamentations 2:14 (Mess.)
Of all the complexed systems of the body, not one of them interest me more than the immune system. To think that God has placed a group of cells in our bodies that find and kill diseases is beyond comprehension. Why do we need an immune system? How does it work spiritually?
An immune system (biologically), is a system of biological structures and processes within an organism that protects against disease by identifying and killing pathogens and tumor cells. It detects a wide variety of agents, from viruses to parasitic worms, and needs to distinguish them from the organism's own healthy cells and tissues in order to function properly. Detection is complicated as pathogens can evolve rapidly, producing adaptations that avoid the immune system and allow the pathogens to successfully infect their hosts. Based on that information, our spiritual immune system is a series of spiritual processes that protects against sin sicknesses by identifying and killing soul-ties, strongholds, old habits, and addictions. It also detects agents (familiar spirits and ignorance), and preserves healthy spiritual functioning. Detection here is also complicated as pathogens (old habits/relationships) can return and evolve without notice. Job 5:20-22 (Mess.) says "In famine, He'll keep you from starving, in war, from being gutted by the sword. You'll be protected from viscious gossip and live fearless through any catastrophe. You'll shrug off disaster and famine, and stroll fearlessly among wild animals". Now that's a powerful system! God promised to protect us. We have to trust Him. We have to decide to stand on His Word and never be moved.
Now having an immune system doesn't mean we'll be free from attacks. We're exposed to spritual germs (just like biological ones) everyday. Some of them are airborne, which means they come by people infecting you with gossip, betrayal, neglect, and/or lies. God's immune system is designed to detect gossip and lies and destroy them with cells of truth. Best practice to prevent infection is making sure your eyes, ears, hands, and face are washed thoroughly with the Word of God. Other germs are blood-borne, which means they come by ingesting something foreign or heredity. Ingesting foreign germs happen when we "take in" advice or teaching that isn't healthy or prepared properly. Even with good intentions, advice and suggestions are given out religious views, not the truth of God's Word. "Your prophets courted you with sweet talk. They didn't face you with your sin so that you could repent. Their sermons were all wishful thinking, deceptive illusions" (Lamentations 2:14 Message). Inherited germs are ones that have been produced in us by our mothers and fathers. Anger, abuse, rejection, and illness are all examples. Immunity has been establish by receiving a full blood transfusion. Our blood must be exchanged with the blood of Jesus. His blood takes away all the germs the enemy designed to hurt us. So are you immune? Being immune means you possess the spirit of a fighter. It means you don't sit and wait to be attacked, you're constantly on the attack. You're a fighter...and a winner!
Prayer: God You are so awesome. You fixed us before we could even be broken. If we trust You, our lives will be protected by Your promises of life abundantly. Keep us in You awesome hands Lord, and we'll always live to praise You...in Jesus' name. Amen
H.U.M.P. Day!
Wednesday October 20, 2010
Greetings People of God!
With all the stuff going on around us, it's hard to remember we're in the midst of an election. There are people running for the senate, and a few candidates vying to be this state's next Governor. Let's keep it real yall, it's time for us to be heard in Washington, Tallahassee, and in our own cities. The people of God have to continue to stand for the Word of God in our homes, schools, and at the polls.
Today's mission is research. First of all, we have to vote. We can't continue to sit back and make up "spiritual" reasons for not doing so any more. When the Body of Christ refuses to go into activation, laws are passed in our state and nation that move us further and further away from the Father's heart. That being said, find all the information you can on the candidates running for office. It's important to know where they stand on critical issues such as same-sex marriage and abortion. Prepare yourself to make "informed" decisions, not decisions based on TV commercials, or politcal party affiliations.
So c'mon everyone! Let's be heard in these elections. Let's make sure these candidates take us seriously. It's up to you now. Happy H.U.M.P. Day!
Greetings People of God!
With all the stuff going on around us, it's hard to remember we're in the midst of an election. There are people running for the senate, and a few candidates vying to be this state's next Governor. Let's keep it real yall, it's time for us to be heard in Washington, Tallahassee, and in our own cities. The people of God have to continue to stand for the Word of God in our homes, schools, and at the polls.
Today's mission is research. First of all, we have to vote. We can't continue to sit back and make up "spiritual" reasons for not doing so any more. When the Body of Christ refuses to go into activation, laws are passed in our state and nation that move us further and further away from the Father's heart. That being said, find all the information you can on the candidates running for office. It's important to know where they stand on critical issues such as same-sex marriage and abortion. Prepare yourself to make "informed" decisions, not decisions based on TV commercials, or politcal party affiliations.
So c'mon everyone! Let's be heard in these elections. Let's make sure these candidates take us seriously. It's up to you now. Happy H.U.M.P. Day!
Heavenly Fans!
Tuesday, October 19th, 2010
Today's Passage: Hebrews 12: 1-13
Memory Verse: Heb. 12: 1-2
Anyone who knows anything about me knows football is not my favorite thing to watch. In my defense, I didn't grow up in the States, and so I missed out on what it means to be a fan of a team from middle school on. However, I have to admit that lately something strange has been happening to me. I don't know if it's the sixteen years of being married to a diehard football fan that's finally wearing me down.
Whatever the reason, I'm starting to warm up to the idea of watching the interaction between the fans and their favorite team. And let me tell you: there's no comparing the real thing to what you see on TV. The whole atmosphere is super-charged with the electricity of the beloved team possibly getting a win. Fans are serious about their support: they'd be the first ones to voice their disappointment when that team loses. One week, they love the coach and the major players in the game. But after a loss, watch out: they're ready to fire or replace everyone involved.
Still, week after week during the season, they show up with their devotion and hopes that their screams and prayers of encouragement might somehow will that team to fight and win. To every fan of every team, the playoffs are a possibility. And if it doesn't happen this year, they'll be back next year to believe and show their support again. Which brings us to today's passage. I imagine the cloud of witnesses -- all the angels, apostles and believers who have gone before us gathering around to cheer on believers like us on our Christian journey-- to be something like sports fans. They're there for every success, and disappointed at every failure. But everyday, I believe they stand around again to believe that we can accomplish our purpose in Christ, praying for us every leg of the way.
If you're a believer for any length of time, you know that there are moments when you could charge hell with a water pistol, as Bishop usually says. Then there are those times when you just don't think you can go another mile of the way. During those times, remember that you've got a cloud of witnesses cheering you on, believing and praying for you. You've even got Jesus Christ Himself sitting at the right hand of His Father, interceding on your behalf. Don't ever give up, because they never will.
Prayer: Father, You are so faithful to place us here and make provision for us to run this race successfully. When I'm tempted to give up, I'll remember You never fail. And I'll rest on the hopes and prayers of the saints who have gone before me. Thank You for never giving up on me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Hebrews 12: 1-13
Memory Verse: Heb. 12: 1-2
Anyone who knows anything about me knows football is not my favorite thing to watch. In my defense, I didn't grow up in the States, and so I missed out on what it means to be a fan of a team from middle school on. However, I have to admit that lately something strange has been happening to me. I don't know if it's the sixteen years of being married to a diehard football fan that's finally wearing me down.
Whatever the reason, I'm starting to warm up to the idea of watching the interaction between the fans and their favorite team. And let me tell you: there's no comparing the real thing to what you see on TV. The whole atmosphere is super-charged with the electricity of the beloved team possibly getting a win. Fans are serious about their support: they'd be the first ones to voice their disappointment when that team loses. One week, they love the coach and the major players in the game. But after a loss, watch out: they're ready to fire or replace everyone involved.
Still, week after week during the season, they show up with their devotion and hopes that their screams and prayers of encouragement might somehow will that team to fight and win. To every fan of every team, the playoffs are a possibility. And if it doesn't happen this year, they'll be back next year to believe and show their support again. Which brings us to today's passage. I imagine the cloud of witnesses -- all the angels, apostles and believers who have gone before us gathering around to cheer on believers like us on our Christian journey-- to be something like sports fans. They're there for every success, and disappointed at every failure. But everyday, I believe they stand around again to believe that we can accomplish our purpose in Christ, praying for us every leg of the way.
If you're a believer for any length of time, you know that there are moments when you could charge hell with a water pistol, as Bishop usually says. Then there are those times when you just don't think you can go another mile of the way. During those times, remember that you've got a cloud of witnesses cheering you on, believing and praying for you. You've even got Jesus Christ Himself sitting at the right hand of His Father, interceding on your behalf. Don't ever give up, because they never will.
Prayer: Father, You are so faithful to place us here and make provision for us to run this race successfully. When I'm tempted to give up, I'll remember You never fail. And I'll rest on the hopes and prayers of the saints who have gone before me. Thank You for never giving up on me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
When God Says No
Monday, October 18th, 2010
Today's Passage: Jeremiah 29:11-13
Memory Verse: Jer. 29:11
The year was 2004. I remember it well as if it were yesterday. I remember it so well because it was the time I had waited for all my life. It was the year I was going to launch my dream: the recording of what I thought would be the first of many CD's. What made it even more special was the way God seemed to open doors to make this happen.
Over the space of what seemed to be weeks, He gave me songs that were written by my husband, his brother, and myself that were so anointed that I just knew it was within God's will for them to be heard wherever He chose. He sent me people who were willing to help with the organizing and planning of this event while I concentrated on rehearsing. When the moment finally came, I was filled with amazement that my Father was getting ready to show Himself strong in my life. It was, after all, for His glory, wasn't it?
But after the worship experience had come and gone, and all the anointed songs had been sung, the guy who had done the recording and was mixing it down to be duplicated just couldn't get it done. For six months, he worked at it to no avail. In the end, what it boiled down to was that he couldn't make the CD sound professional enough to be duplicated. So it seemed as though all that work was in vain. Although God had allowed me to write songs and minister to people that night, He said no to all the other things I wanted concerning making a CD. When all the dust settled, I went back to a question one of my dear friends asked me at the beginning of this quest: ARE YOU READY? Was I really ready to leave my family and go on the road to promote a CD? Was this the lifestyle God had chosen for me? Sure, it had worked for Yolanda Adams, but was it what God was calling ME to?
You may have a desire to accomplish something great for the Lord. Yes, He created you and put those dreams there. But time spent in prayer-- to listen as well as to speak -- will teach you that sometimes God says no because we're really not ready for what we think we want with all our hearts. And because our Father is so faithful to see where we can't, we must be content to wait for His plan. Because there's always one when God says no.
Prayer: Father, I'm learning more and more everyday that You have my best interests at heart. You know me better than I know myself. You created me and know what path in my life will accomplish Your will or not. Give me Your grace today to see what it is You have in store, being content to serve You however You desire. My life is Yours always. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Jeremiah 29:11-13
Memory Verse: Jer. 29:11
The year was 2004. I remember it well as if it were yesterday. I remember it so well because it was the time I had waited for all my life. It was the year I was going to launch my dream: the recording of what I thought would be the first of many CD's. What made it even more special was the way God seemed to open doors to make this happen.
Over the space of what seemed to be weeks, He gave me songs that were written by my husband, his brother, and myself that were so anointed that I just knew it was within God's will for them to be heard wherever He chose. He sent me people who were willing to help with the organizing and planning of this event while I concentrated on rehearsing. When the moment finally came, I was filled with amazement that my Father was getting ready to show Himself strong in my life. It was, after all, for His glory, wasn't it?
But after the worship experience had come and gone, and all the anointed songs had been sung, the guy who had done the recording and was mixing it down to be duplicated just couldn't get it done. For six months, he worked at it to no avail. In the end, what it boiled down to was that he couldn't make the CD sound professional enough to be duplicated. So it seemed as though all that work was in vain. Although God had allowed me to write songs and minister to people that night, He said no to all the other things I wanted concerning making a CD. When all the dust settled, I went back to a question one of my dear friends asked me at the beginning of this quest: ARE YOU READY? Was I really ready to leave my family and go on the road to promote a CD? Was this the lifestyle God had chosen for me? Sure, it had worked for Yolanda Adams, but was it what God was calling ME to?
You may have a desire to accomplish something great for the Lord. Yes, He created you and put those dreams there. But time spent in prayer-- to listen as well as to speak -- will teach you that sometimes God says no because we're really not ready for what we think we want with all our hearts. And because our Father is so faithful to see where we can't, we must be content to wait for His plan. Because there's always one when God says no.
Prayer: Father, I'm learning more and more everyday that You have my best interests at heart. You know me better than I know myself. You created me and know what path in my life will accomplish Your will or not. Give me Your grace today to see what it is You have in store, being content to serve You however You desire. My life is Yours always. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Any Given Sunday!
Sunday October 17, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew 4:4
Memory Verse: James 1:18
Hello All! Today is Sunday. It's the day we all fill our houses of worship in order to gain more truth in our lives. Honestly, we should really call it 'Truthday'. The fact is, we ideally go to church to obtain spiritual growth. And spiritual growth is the process of replacing lies with truth. The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to make us more like the Son of God. In order to become like the Son of God, we have to fill our lives with His Word.
Jesus said (Matthew 4:4 NLT), "People need more than bread for their life; they must feed on every word of God". Without the Word of God, there can be no transformation from lies to truth. Ever wonder why even after people get saved they still struggle with being converted? It's because they failed to fill their lives with the Word of the Lord. Therefore, they never discover how much influence and power it has. It literally changes the way we talk, where we go, who we hang out with, and other things. That's how the truth of it dispels all the lies we're accustomed to. You see, getting saved is like moving to another country. In the new country, your old language is useless, the customs aren't the same either, and the government is altogether different.
God's Word is unlike any other word. Without it, the very concept of life would not be possible. James 1:18 (Mess.) says "He brought us to life using the true Word, showing us off as the crown of all His creatures". Life as we know it receieves its foundation from God's truths. It's so important because it keeps us from falling for the devil's tricks. If you're full of truth, you'll never be in a position where you have to second guess yourself either. Think about this: there are so many experts out there in this new season of time. And nowadays, everyone seems to be running to these so-called 'self-help' gurus. They claim to offer the 'truth' about life's issues, but without God's Word, how much truth are they really offering? The point is, you have a therapist, life coach, mental-wellness counselor, and marriage and family facilitator, in your church every Sunday. We call them "Pastors". They spend their entire week preparing to give us the truth (God's Word). It's up to us to take those truths and apply them to our daily lives. Aren't you tired of living the lie the devil's been speaking over you? Isn't it time to be honest with yourself about who you are and where you're headed? If the answers to those questions are yes, then pursue truth with your whole heart. It's not hard to find. You can find it in church on any given Sunday.
Prayer: Father, as I prepare to go to Your house, I thank You for making provision for me to receive everything I need for my life today. Thank You for the exchange of all my hangups for Your wholeness. I'm excited to know that I won't leave the way I went in. Consecrate me as I get ready to join my brothers and sisters in giving You total praise. May they too be filled with all that is of You. In Jesus' Name.
Today's Passage: Matthew 4:4
Memory Verse: James 1:18
Hello All! Today is Sunday. It's the day we all fill our houses of worship in order to gain more truth in our lives. Honestly, we should really call it 'Truthday'. The fact is, we ideally go to church to obtain spiritual growth. And spiritual growth is the process of replacing lies with truth. The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to make us more like the Son of God. In order to become like the Son of God, we have to fill our lives with His Word.
Jesus said (Matthew 4:4 NLT), "People need more than bread for their life; they must feed on every word of God". Without the Word of God, there can be no transformation from lies to truth. Ever wonder why even after people get saved they still struggle with being converted? It's because they failed to fill their lives with the Word of the Lord. Therefore, they never discover how much influence and power it has. It literally changes the way we talk, where we go, who we hang out with, and other things. That's how the truth of it dispels all the lies we're accustomed to. You see, getting saved is like moving to another country. In the new country, your old language is useless, the customs aren't the same either, and the government is altogether different.
God's Word is unlike any other word. Without it, the very concept of life would not be possible. James 1:18 (Mess.) says "He brought us to life using the true Word, showing us off as the crown of all His creatures". Life as we know it receieves its foundation from God's truths. It's so important because it keeps us from falling for the devil's tricks. If you're full of truth, you'll never be in a position where you have to second guess yourself either. Think about this: there are so many experts out there in this new season of time. And nowadays, everyone seems to be running to these so-called 'self-help' gurus. They claim to offer the 'truth' about life's issues, but without God's Word, how much truth are they really offering? The point is, you have a therapist, life coach, mental-wellness counselor, and marriage and family facilitator, in your church every Sunday. We call them "Pastors". They spend their entire week preparing to give us the truth (God's Word). It's up to us to take those truths and apply them to our daily lives. Aren't you tired of living the lie the devil's been speaking over you? Isn't it time to be honest with yourself about who you are and where you're headed? If the answers to those questions are yes, then pursue truth with your whole heart. It's not hard to find. You can find it in church on any given Sunday.
Prayer: Father, as I prepare to go to Your house, I thank You for making provision for me to receive everything I need for my life today. Thank You for the exchange of all my hangups for Your wholeness. I'm excited to know that I won't leave the way I went in. Consecrate me as I get ready to join my brothers and sisters in giving You total praise. May they too be filled with all that is of You. In Jesus' Name.
Air Jesus!
Saturday October 16, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18
Memory Verse: 1 Thessalonians 4:17
Happy Saturday Td Nation! I hope you are able to rest from your busy work and school schedules. As you know, I try to make Saturdays the day we focus on the supernatural. It's the day we consider the wondrous works of God, and how they apply to us.
Today we'll talk about flight. Have you ever wanted to fly? I know, I know, everybody's nervous about getting on airplanes and things like that. But what if you could do it without the fear and anxiety? A friend of mine did some skydiving some years ago. I asked him what it was like to be so far up in the air. His response shocked me. "It's actually kinda peaceful", he said. Peaceful? That's the last sense I thought one would feel. The more I think about it though, the more I realize we were made to be up there. Our spirits are conditioned to be prepared for flight. 1 Thessalonians 4:17 says "Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air". Man! As a fan of basketball I was big on Michael Jordan, but Jesus is getting ready to display some serious hang time. I don't know if we'll still be "alive" when Jesus comes back, but if we are, we're going to get to fly. How awesome is that? It's going to be so cool to lift off without having to have a plane, glider, or jet pack. I can just see us rising above the sin and pain of THIS world, to arrive at our true home; one not made by man's hands. That's why my friend said being in the air was peaceful. His spirit man was in a place it had already been prepared for. See, the fear in being "up there" comes from the flesh. The reason is, the flesh is vehemently opposed to anything that has the potential to break it. Falling from a great distance would do just that; so would getting shot, drowned, burned, beaten, or SAVED. It's no wonder why these are all things we're conditioned to "fear". However, the spirit man has no such fears. And that's because it knows it has an eternal existence. It cannot be broken because it's the perfect image of God in us. Therefore, look to take flight my friends. You're made for it. When you have the opportunity today, look up and say "Break open the sky. Turn off gravity, so we can fly. We want to see Your face, so take the roof off this place. Jesus, break open the sky".
Prayer: Father, all things are possible in You. We can defy the very laws of gravity if You allow it. I will not allow myself to be bound by natural things. My spiritual existence is what I will lean to. I can't wait to take flight with You Jesus. I'll be ready....in Jesus' name. Amen!
Today's Passage: 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18
Memory Verse: 1 Thessalonians 4:17
Happy Saturday Td Nation! I hope you are able to rest from your busy work and school schedules. As you know, I try to make Saturdays the day we focus on the supernatural. It's the day we consider the wondrous works of God, and how they apply to us.
Today we'll talk about flight. Have you ever wanted to fly? I know, I know, everybody's nervous about getting on airplanes and things like that. But what if you could do it without the fear and anxiety? A friend of mine did some skydiving some years ago. I asked him what it was like to be so far up in the air. His response shocked me. "It's actually kinda peaceful", he said. Peaceful? That's the last sense I thought one would feel. The more I think about it though, the more I realize we were made to be up there. Our spirits are conditioned to be prepared for flight. 1 Thessalonians 4:17 says "Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air". Man! As a fan of basketball I was big on Michael Jordan, but Jesus is getting ready to display some serious hang time. I don't know if we'll still be "alive" when Jesus comes back, but if we are, we're going to get to fly. How awesome is that? It's going to be so cool to lift off without having to have a plane, glider, or jet pack. I can just see us rising above the sin and pain of THIS world, to arrive at our true home; one not made by man's hands. That's why my friend said being in the air was peaceful. His spirit man was in a place it had already been prepared for. See, the fear in being "up there" comes from the flesh. The reason is, the flesh is vehemently opposed to anything that has the potential to break it. Falling from a great distance would do just that; so would getting shot, drowned, burned, beaten, or SAVED. It's no wonder why these are all things we're conditioned to "fear". However, the spirit man has no such fears. And that's because it knows it has an eternal existence. It cannot be broken because it's the perfect image of God in us. Therefore, look to take flight my friends. You're made for it. When you have the opportunity today, look up and say "Break open the sky. Turn off gravity, so we can fly. We want to see Your face, so take the roof off this place. Jesus, break open the sky".
Prayer: Father, all things are possible in You. We can defy the very laws of gravity if You allow it. I will not allow myself to be bound by natural things. My spiritual existence is what I will lean to. I can't wait to take flight with You Jesus. I'll be ready....in Jesus' name. Amen!
Only God's Way Works
Friday, October 15th, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 1
Memory Verse: Ps. 1:1
I get a huge kick out of the way criminals get caught on shows like CSI and Law and Order. They start off with this cocky attitude, thinking they can get away with what they're about to do. What they don't understand is that the very enemy who empowered them to do what they did will be the same one to expose them. So the more comfortable they get in their skin, the more vulnerable they are, and the closer they get to being found out.
I mean, have you seen some of those episodes where it seems as though the detectives have nothing to go on? They have no evidence, no leads, and no witnesses. Then, bit by bit, they start piecing clues together that lead them to the perpetrator -- a trail of bread crumbs that were there the whole time, just like what Hansel and Gretel used to lead them home in that story. The amazing thing that always happens is that, no matter whether they are rich or poor, popular or nobodies, their lives end up the same way: in bondage.
What am I trying to say here? I guess today's passage reminds me of how fruitless it is to follow the advice of the wicked (those who choose to do whatever they please regardless of God's ways). If you have any devotion to the Father, people like those will be found everywhere around you. But if you give in, you'll surely be exposed by the enemy. He's just waiting for you to drop your guard and forget everything Our Daddy has taught you. If you think I'm talking about real live people, think again; spokespeople for the enemy are on our computers, television, radio, and magazines.
You will hear advice to compromise -- compromise in your tithing and giving, keeping your commitment to your spouse, or simply fall into the trap of complacency. To completely avoid this advice, find pleasure in the presence of the Lord. Stay in His Word, knowing that it holds the key to life and lifelong fruitfulness. Remember: everything the enemy is trying to tempt you with, already belongs to you. What else can bring peace like knowing God is with you? And genuine love is only found in the Father's arms. Acceptance? It only comes from walking away from sin and accepting God's grace. The bottom line is this: only God's way works.
Prayer: Father, I'm so glad I got a chance to really understand what it means to be partaker of Your promises. I thank You for Your counsel, which is sure. I choose to hear Your Voice and Your Voice alone, for Your paths are full of life and peace. Speak loudly today, and I will obey. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 1
Memory Verse: Ps. 1:1
I get a huge kick out of the way criminals get caught on shows like CSI and Law and Order. They start off with this cocky attitude, thinking they can get away with what they're about to do. What they don't understand is that the very enemy who empowered them to do what they did will be the same one to expose them. So the more comfortable they get in their skin, the more vulnerable they are, and the closer they get to being found out.
I mean, have you seen some of those episodes where it seems as though the detectives have nothing to go on? They have no evidence, no leads, and no witnesses. Then, bit by bit, they start piecing clues together that lead them to the perpetrator -- a trail of bread crumbs that were there the whole time, just like what Hansel and Gretel used to lead them home in that story. The amazing thing that always happens is that, no matter whether they are rich or poor, popular or nobodies, their lives end up the same way: in bondage.
What am I trying to say here? I guess today's passage reminds me of how fruitless it is to follow the advice of the wicked (those who choose to do whatever they please regardless of God's ways). If you have any devotion to the Father, people like those will be found everywhere around you. But if you give in, you'll surely be exposed by the enemy. He's just waiting for you to drop your guard and forget everything Our Daddy has taught you. If you think I'm talking about real live people, think again; spokespeople for the enemy are on our computers, television, radio, and magazines.
You will hear advice to compromise -- compromise in your tithing and giving, keeping your commitment to your spouse, or simply fall into the trap of complacency. To completely avoid this advice, find pleasure in the presence of the Lord. Stay in His Word, knowing that it holds the key to life and lifelong fruitfulness. Remember: everything the enemy is trying to tempt you with, already belongs to you. What else can bring peace like knowing God is with you? And genuine love is only found in the Father's arms. Acceptance? It only comes from walking away from sin and accepting God's grace. The bottom line is this: only God's way works.
Prayer: Father, I'm so glad I got a chance to really understand what it means to be partaker of Your promises. I thank You for Your counsel, which is sure. I choose to hear Your Voice and Your Voice alone, for Your paths are full of life and peace. Speak loudly today, and I will obey. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Flame On!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Today's Passage: Romans 12:11-12
Memory Verse: Romans 12:11
Whew! I got home from a long day at work yesterday and crashed on the couch. I was tired. The devil wasn't, though. He immediately began to work on my mind. The mind is usually the epicenter for his deceptions. So in my weakened state, his attack began. Ever been there?
Fatigue is an enemy of committment. And it eats at dedication from its core. You can barely function when you're tired. Being tired makes the simplest job extremely tough. So, if that's the case when we're tired, what are we like when we allow ourselves to get burnt out? Burnout has claimed the ministries of several men and women of God over the years. It leaves people questioning their very calling. They can't focus or see God clearly, and they end up experiencing spiritual disorientation. Which means they began to minister things that don't line up with the word, don't make sense, or is not what God said. Think about it. What if I dropped you off in the middle of the desert? When all your food and water is gone, your body will begin to shut down, or burn out. Which means you'll begin to lose energy, focus, and even become disoriented or hallucinate. God's word warns us about this. In Romans 12:11-12 (Mess.), it says "Don't burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder". Burn out keeps us from being fueled and alert. If we aren't alert, we miss what God is doing/saying, and we can't discern the tricks of the enemy. We should be like a flame. A flame is constant. A flame can stand on its own, or be the ignition for an all-out blaze. Wow! The Word advises us to pray. A consistent prayer life keeps us from burning out. Remember what Pastors Chad & Nette said? In prayer we are the car; prayer is the gas pump. God fills us through prayer. He gives us direction through prayer. He keeps our flames lit through prayer. So are you ready......flame on!
Prayer: Father, let Your spirit energize me. No matter how my body feels, I want You to know my spirit will drive me. Lord, rebuke the enemy's plan to make me feel bored or tired. As I stay in Your hands, give me that time of refreshing I so desperately need....in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Romans 12:11-12
Memory Verse: Romans 12:11
Whew! I got home from a long day at work yesterday and crashed on the couch. I was tired. The devil wasn't, though. He immediately began to work on my mind. The mind is usually the epicenter for his deceptions. So in my weakened state, his attack began. Ever been there?
Fatigue is an enemy of committment. And it eats at dedication from its core. You can barely function when you're tired. Being tired makes the simplest job extremely tough. So, if that's the case when we're tired, what are we like when we allow ourselves to get burnt out? Burnout has claimed the ministries of several men and women of God over the years. It leaves people questioning their very calling. They can't focus or see God clearly, and they end up experiencing spiritual disorientation. Which means they began to minister things that don't line up with the word, don't make sense, or is not what God said. Think about it. What if I dropped you off in the middle of the desert? When all your food and water is gone, your body will begin to shut down, or burn out. Which means you'll begin to lose energy, focus, and even become disoriented or hallucinate. God's word warns us about this. In Romans 12:11-12 (Mess.), it says "Don't burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder". Burn out keeps us from being fueled and alert. If we aren't alert, we miss what God is doing/saying, and we can't discern the tricks of the enemy. We should be like a flame. A flame is constant. A flame can stand on its own, or be the ignition for an all-out blaze. Wow! The Word advises us to pray. A consistent prayer life keeps us from burning out. Remember what Pastors Chad & Nette said? In prayer we are the car; prayer is the gas pump. God fills us through prayer. He gives us direction through prayer. He keeps our flames lit through prayer. So are you ready......flame on!
Prayer: Father, let Your spirit energize me. No matter how my body feels, I want You to know my spirit will drive me. Lord, rebuke the enemy's plan to make me feel bored or tired. As I stay in Your hands, give me that time of refreshing I so desperately need....in Jesus' name. Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day!
Wednesday October 13, 2010
H.U.M.P. (His Ultimate Mission & Purpose) Day
Hello Everyone! I pray the sound of Heaven's rain is still ringing in your spiritual ears. God has so graciously poured His awesome love into us, and through that love, He's letting us know His rain is about to fall in abundance. "My seed is in the ground and I'm ready".
Speaking of seed, today's H.U.M.P. Day mission offers us an incredible opportunity. The local food bank feeds thousands of homeless people in our city. However, with the holiday season approaching, they have a shortage of some much-needed items. This Friday, Hope FM is hosting a food drive to assist with this matter. So if you can, bring a few non-perishable items to the Hope FM radio station (located on Palm Avenue next to 1st Assembly) by Friday. I encourage you to take every opportunity to plant seed, cause when the rain comes, your harvest will be plentiful. Happy H.U.M.P. Day.....
H.U.M.P. (His Ultimate Mission & Purpose) Day
Hello Everyone! I pray the sound of Heaven's rain is still ringing in your spiritual ears. God has so graciously poured His awesome love into us, and through that love, He's letting us know His rain is about to fall in abundance. "My seed is in the ground and I'm ready".
Speaking of seed, today's H.U.M.P. Day mission offers us an incredible opportunity. The local food bank feeds thousands of homeless people in our city. However, with the holiday season approaching, they have a shortage of some much-needed items. This Friday, Hope FM is hosting a food drive to assist with this matter. So if you can, bring a few non-perishable items to the Hope FM radio station (located on Palm Avenue next to 1st Assembly) by Friday. I encourage you to take every opportunity to plant seed, cause when the rain comes, your harvest will be plentiful. Happy H.U.M.P. Day.....
Why're You Eatin' That?
Tuesday, October 12th, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 103
Memory Verse: Isaiah 55:1-2
Our pastors ministered a word at ALM a couple of weeks ago that's still ringing in my spirit. It exposed a medical condition that pretty much mirrors what happens in the spirit realm. The condition is known as PICA. It is defined by the Web MD website as a medical disorder characterized by an abnormal, prolonged craving for substances that have no nutritional value, and that could even cause death.
One basic reason for this condition in humans is usually the presence of a deficiency in minerals such as iron, which in turn results in the body's search for the missing mineral inside of those substances. If these cravings persist, the body could develop a serious addiction to the desired items. Some common examples of items people crave include clay, coal, soap, chalk, paper, soap, and uncooked foods.
When I read this for myself, I immediately saw how easy it is for individuals suffering from this disorder to forget or totally disregard the potential danger of the stuff they're craving to harm them. In their minds, there is something lacking inside of them, and all they want is immediate relief from that craving. So I asked the question: Is that what could be going on in the spirits of many believers? Is it possible that spiritually unhealthy cravings may be occurring in the lives of people who really love the Lord with all their hearts?
In this season of the Lord's provision of perfect order, restoration and provision of everything that was lost, we have not been left with a void in our spirits. Did you hear what I said? THERE IS NO LACK in God. So here's the question to ask yourself if you are in a place where you're being drawn to things not meant to bring you God's design of good: why're you eatin' that? Why give in to the cravings of a deprived person when Your Father has provided the good of the land for you to partake of? Stop, turn around, and go back to the Father's arms. There you'll find all you need to fill every part of you-- for as long as you live.
Prayer: Father, I repent for taking my eyes off Your promises long enough to think I knew what was good for me. I turn away now, fall out of agreement with the devil's deceptive ways, and fill my mouth with the good things You've provided. I love you forever. In Jesus'
Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 103
Memory Verse: Isaiah 55:1-2
Our pastors ministered a word at ALM a couple of weeks ago that's still ringing in my spirit. It exposed a medical condition that pretty much mirrors what happens in the spirit realm. The condition is known as PICA. It is defined by the Web MD website as a medical disorder characterized by an abnormal, prolonged craving for substances that have no nutritional value, and that could even cause death.
One basic reason for this condition in humans is usually the presence of a deficiency in minerals such as iron, which in turn results in the body's search for the missing mineral inside of those substances. If these cravings persist, the body could develop a serious addiction to the desired items. Some common examples of items people crave include clay, coal, soap, chalk, paper, soap, and uncooked foods.
When I read this for myself, I immediately saw how easy it is for individuals suffering from this disorder to forget or totally disregard the potential danger of the stuff they're craving to harm them. In their minds, there is something lacking inside of them, and all they want is immediate relief from that craving. So I asked the question: Is that what could be going on in the spirits of many believers? Is it possible that spiritually unhealthy cravings may be occurring in the lives of people who really love the Lord with all their hearts?
In this season of the Lord's provision of perfect order, restoration and provision of everything that was lost, we have not been left with a void in our spirits. Did you hear what I said? THERE IS NO LACK in God. So here's the question to ask yourself if you are in a place where you're being drawn to things not meant to bring you God's design of good: why're you eatin' that? Why give in to the cravings of a deprived person when Your Father has provided the good of the land for you to partake of? Stop, turn around, and go back to the Father's arms. There you'll find all you need to fill every part of you-- for as long as you live.
Prayer: Father, I repent for taking my eyes off Your promises long enough to think I knew what was good for me. I turn away now, fall out of agreement with the devil's deceptive ways, and fill my mouth with the good things You've provided. I love you forever. In Jesus'
Name, Amen.
No Substitute for Prayer
Monday, October 11th, 2010
Today's Passage: Proverbs 3: 1-12
Memory Verse: Jeremiah 29:12
I've always wondered how awesome it is for me to be able to talk and listen to older ladies without either of us feeling as if the other person were on a different wavelength. Lately I've come to understand that this exchange happens as a result of their willingness to share the treasures of their hearts with me, and because I've recognized what's in their hearts as something valuable and worth receiving. Well, prayer is a whole lot like that.
The more time we spend with the Father, the more we recognize how many riches are in His heart towards us. He is more than willing to share so that we can become rich ourselves, but it depends on how ready we are to receive. The "E" in prayer is for the eternal exchange we have as we enter into conversation with God. At the risk of sounding corny, there may be some people who don't know that you can talk to our Daddy anytime, anywhere. After all, He IS everywhere, isn't He? It makes sense, then, that we would want to include Him in everything we say and do.
Well, God's invitation to us is to call on Him, and He will answer. But not only that, he will show us great things we didn't know before. So what makes the difference? It's the WISDOM He speaks to us. In this continuous exchange between Father and child, as He gives us counsel and correction, we can receive long life, well-being, favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man. He also gives us straight paths for our feet, provision, grace, and no fear even when the temptation to do it our way arises.
Today, when you plan your time of fellowship with God, remember all the benefits we all receive from spending time talking to as well listening to Him. Oh-- don't forget to "rejoice" when you experience the victory of not giving in to the enemy's lies. As a result of prayer, your praise and worship will increase as your faith in what He continues to do for us also increases. There is absolutely no substitute for PRAYER.
Prayer: Father, I can't begin to tell You how grateful I am that You love me, and that You desire to speak with me. I make a conscious decision to spend more time listening to what You have to say, and responding with my tooth devotion. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, amen.
Today's Passage: Proverbs 3: 1-12
Memory Verse: Jeremiah 29:12
I've always wondered how awesome it is for me to be able to talk and listen to older ladies without either of us feeling as if the other person were on a different wavelength. Lately I've come to understand that this exchange happens as a result of their willingness to share the treasures of their hearts with me, and because I've recognized what's in their hearts as something valuable and worth receiving. Well, prayer is a whole lot like that.
The more time we spend with the Father, the more we recognize how many riches are in His heart towards us. He is more than willing to share so that we can become rich ourselves, but it depends on how ready we are to receive. The "E" in prayer is for the eternal exchange we have as we enter into conversation with God. At the risk of sounding corny, there may be some people who don't know that you can talk to our Daddy anytime, anywhere. After all, He IS everywhere, isn't He? It makes sense, then, that we would want to include Him in everything we say and do.
Well, God's invitation to us is to call on Him, and He will answer. But not only that, he will show us great things we didn't know before. So what makes the difference? It's the WISDOM He speaks to us. In this continuous exchange between Father and child, as He gives us counsel and correction, we can receive long life, well-being, favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man. He also gives us straight paths for our feet, provision, grace, and no fear even when the temptation to do it our way arises.
Today, when you plan your time of fellowship with God, remember all the benefits we all receive from spending time talking to as well listening to Him. Oh-- don't forget to "rejoice" when you experience the victory of not giving in to the enemy's lies. As a result of prayer, your praise and worship will increase as your faith in what He continues to do for us also increases. There is absolutely no substitute for PRAYER.
Prayer: Father, I can't begin to tell You how grateful I am that You love me, and that You desire to speak with me. I make a conscious decision to spend more time listening to what You have to say, and responding with my tooth devotion. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, amen.
Yeeeaaa God!
Sunday October 10, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalms 33:1-3
Memory Verse: Psalms 33:1
"Good people, cheer God! Right-living people sound best when praising".
Psalms 33:1
No words have ever been truer. Because the spirit of the Lord lives in us, there's good in us. We are God's people, so that makes us good people. And because God is our hero, we should always seize the opportunity to cheer Him. 2, 4, 6, 8, who do we appreciate yeeeeaaaaa God! Let's go Jesus, You're our Man, if You can't do it no one can! Well, you get the point. Let's cheer for God today. Let's let Him know we can't win without Him.
What do you think we sound like to God when we praise God? Many of us claim to offer praise to God, but our lifestyles are not what they should be. So it produces a strange sound in the throne room. Nothing is more beautiful than love coming from a heart that's true. Our praise is not about our situation, it's about our relationship with the Father. We have to learn that praise is about who God is, not how we feel. And God's goodness has nothing to do with how we feel. I believe if we really knew who He was, we would strive for right-living on a daily basis. It should break our hearts when we disappoint Him. When we fall, our firdt priority should be making it right with Him. That way, our praise produces the sound it should produce. So cheer for God with a pure heart today. He's "worthy" to hear from you....
Prayer: Father You are so awesome. I stand in awe of you today. Thank You for bringing victory into my life. As I enter into You presence today, I will boldly declare Your goodness for all to hear. You are so worthy of my praising You this way. Gooooooooo God! in Jesus name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalms 33:1-3
Memory Verse: Psalms 33:1
"Good people, cheer God! Right-living people sound best when praising".
Psalms 33:1
No words have ever been truer. Because the spirit of the Lord lives in us, there's good in us. We are God's people, so that makes us good people. And because God is our hero, we should always seize the opportunity to cheer Him. 2, 4, 6, 8, who do we appreciate yeeeeaaaaa God! Let's go Jesus, You're our Man, if You can't do it no one can! Well, you get the point. Let's cheer for God today. Let's let Him know we can't win without Him.
What do you think we sound like to God when we praise God? Many of us claim to offer praise to God, but our lifestyles are not what they should be. So it produces a strange sound in the throne room. Nothing is more beautiful than love coming from a heart that's true. Our praise is not about our situation, it's about our relationship with the Father. We have to learn that praise is about who God is, not how we feel. And God's goodness has nothing to do with how we feel. I believe if we really knew who He was, we would strive for right-living on a daily basis. It should break our hearts when we disappoint Him. When we fall, our firdt priority should be making it right with Him. That way, our praise produces the sound it should produce. So cheer for God with a pure heart today. He's "worthy" to hear from you....
Prayer: Father You are so awesome. I stand in awe of you today. Thank You for bringing victory into my life. As I enter into You presence today, I will boldly declare Your goodness for all to hear. You are so worthy of my praising You this way. Gooooooooo God! in Jesus name, Amen.
He's Looking For You!!!
Saturday October 9, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 43:3-4
Memory Verse: Isaiah 43:4
Can you imagine? Once again I'm on my way to work and I'm ready to walk out the door, and it occurs to me....."I don't have my keys". I look on the table but they aren't there. I look on my nightstand and again, they aren't there. While the clock won't stop or slow down for me, I'm naturally starting to panic.
When we lose things that are important to us, there's a void that can't be replaced. Because the items are such big parts of our lives, we search desperately for them; not ever tiring or giving up. What have you lost that's caused a void in your life? Let's be careful. I'm not talking about loved ones. I know how hard it is to lose a loved one. That kind of heaviness can only be lifted by the Holy Spirit. Let's stick to the losses that simply aggravate us. If you need to get somewhere and you can't find your keys (like me), it's ripple effect can be felt throughout your day.
Now imagine you're God (just for kicks folks, don't hurt me), and you need to get somewhere today and the thing you need to use to get there is not in place. You look high and low but they're nowhere to be found. They know you need them, but they're still not where you put them. See my friends, allowing yourself to be out of position not only effects you, but the ripple effect can be felt throughout the heavens. But just like my keys, God would do anything to get you back. I tore up my house, my bedroom, and everywhere else I could think of, searching for those keys. For the few moments they were lost, they were my priority. I'd do anything to get them back. How does God feel about it? Let's take a look. Isaiah 43:3-4 says "Because I am God, your personal God (I love that), the Holy of Israel, your Savior. I paid a huge price for you: all of Egypt, with rich Cush and Seba thrown in. 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". God can't stand losing us. One reason is because He loves us dearly, the other is when we're out of His reach, we can't fulfill the call to advance the kingdom. And no one is too small or insignificant. We are all important to the Father. Imagine this, we drive 15, 20, even 30 thousand dollar automobiles that won't move without a $5 set of keys. So if you think you're too small to advance the kingdom, think again. You may not be the big shiny car, but you could definitely be the keys that make it go.
Speaking of keys, I eventually found mine underneath the sofa cushion. Although they weren't far away from me, because they were out of my range of access, there was a breakdown in progress. Stop hiding from God my friends. Now you might say "But I don't hide. I go to church every week". That's good. But what about your gifts? What about the keys inside you that makes the car (ministry) go? For example, if you love kids, how about helping in children's ministry, or singing, or playing an instrument for praise and worship? What about helping to tidy up the sanctuary after a service? C'mon, you can do it. Get out from under that sofa cushion (fear, comfort, the unknown). God's looking for you!
Prayer: Father I thank You for the opportunity to receive You word. I hear You loud and clear. Holy Spirit, show me where my gifting is needed in the kingdom. I want to make myself available to God. I want to be used by Him. show me how to deny my self. Teach me to overcome my fears so I can be ready for God's call, in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Isaiah 43:3-4
Memory Verse: Isaiah 43:4
Can you imagine? Once again I'm on my way to work and I'm ready to walk out the door, and it occurs to me....."I don't have my keys". I look on the table but they aren't there. I look on my nightstand and again, they aren't there. While the clock won't stop or slow down for me, I'm naturally starting to panic.
When we lose things that are important to us, there's a void that can't be replaced. Because the items are such big parts of our lives, we search desperately for them; not ever tiring or giving up. What have you lost that's caused a void in your life? Let's be careful. I'm not talking about loved ones. I know how hard it is to lose a loved one. That kind of heaviness can only be lifted by the Holy Spirit. Let's stick to the losses that simply aggravate us. If you need to get somewhere and you can't find your keys (like me), it's ripple effect can be felt throughout your day.
Now imagine you're God (just for kicks folks, don't hurt me), and you need to get somewhere today and the thing you need to use to get there is not in place. You look high and low but they're nowhere to be found. They know you need them, but they're still not where you put them. See my friends, allowing yourself to be out of position not only effects you, but the ripple effect can be felt throughout the heavens. But just like my keys, God would do anything to get you back. I tore up my house, my bedroom, and everywhere else I could think of, searching for those keys. For the few moments they were lost, they were my priority. I'd do anything to get them back. How does God feel about it? Let's take a look. Isaiah 43:3-4 says "Because I am God, your personal God (I love that), the Holy of Israel, your Savior. I paid a huge price for you: all of Egypt, with rich Cush and Seba thrown in. 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". God can't stand losing us. One reason is because He loves us dearly, the other is when we're out of His reach, we can't fulfill the call to advance the kingdom. And no one is too small or insignificant. We are all important to the Father. Imagine this, we drive 15, 20, even 30 thousand dollar automobiles that won't move without a $5 set of keys. So if you think you're too small to advance the kingdom, think again. You may not be the big shiny car, but you could definitely be the keys that make it go.
Speaking of keys, I eventually found mine underneath the sofa cushion. Although they weren't far away from me, because they were out of my range of access, there was a breakdown in progress. Stop hiding from God my friends. Now you might say "But I don't hide. I go to church every week". That's good. But what about your gifts? What about the keys inside you that makes the car (ministry) go? For example, if you love kids, how about helping in children's ministry, or singing, or playing an instrument for praise and worship? What about helping to tidy up the sanctuary after a service? C'mon, you can do it. Get out from under that sofa cushion (fear, comfort, the unknown). God's looking for you!
Prayer: Father I thank You for the opportunity to receive You word. I hear You loud and clear. Holy Spirit, show me where my gifting is needed in the kingdom. I want to make myself available to God. I want to be used by Him. show me how to deny my self. Teach me to overcome my fears so I can be ready for God's call, in Jesus' name. Amen
Praying The Father's Will
Friday, October 8th, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 55: 8-11
Memory Verse: is. 55: 11
We left off a couple of days ago describing the process of prayer. It begins and ends with praise and worship. It continues with the recognition of God's sovereignty. And it keeps going with the promise that we can ask our Father for anything-- as long as that "anything" remains in the Father's will.
One of the most important ingredients that make prayer powerful and productive is our willingness to pray the Father's will over our lives and the lives of others. Just because we may desire for those close to us to follow a certain path, no matter how good that path may seem, does not mean that it's what God wants for them.
Let me explain. My older sisters have always recognized the gifting inside of me to sing. As a matter of fact, God used one of my sisters to open doors for me by allowing her to find the means for me to leave West Africa and come to the United States so that I could receive a scholarship to attend college. She even struggled to pay some of my tuition during some very tough times until I could begin receiving that scholarship money. But while I was in college, I met and married the most awesome man. And once I graduated, God opened doors for us to become part of the powerful ministry called Abundant Life.
I don't even have to tell you that my sisters and I have agreed to disagree concerning where they think I should be living, and how they think I should be pursuing the gifting the Lord has given me. As my children get older, I'm learning to release them into the Father's hand, trusting that whatever He ordained for their lives will come to pass. I encourage you today to stand on God's Word for the ones you love. But remember--it's His will that shall prevail forevermore, not ours.
Prayer: Father, there's nothing I want more than to see Your will accomplished in my life and in the lives of my loved ones. Please help me remember that You love them even more than I ever could. So I fall into agreement with Your powerful Word, and declare that it SHALL accomplish everything You sent it out to accomplish. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Isaiah 55: 8-11
Memory Verse: is. 55: 11
We left off a couple of days ago describing the process of prayer. It begins and ends with praise and worship. It continues with the recognition of God's sovereignty. And it keeps going with the promise that we can ask our Father for anything-- as long as that "anything" remains in the Father's will.
One of the most important ingredients that make prayer powerful and productive is our willingness to pray the Father's will over our lives and the lives of others. Just because we may desire for those close to us to follow a certain path, no matter how good that path may seem, does not mean that it's what God wants for them.
Let me explain. My older sisters have always recognized the gifting inside of me to sing. As a matter of fact, God used one of my sisters to open doors for me by allowing her to find the means for me to leave West Africa and come to the United States so that I could receive a scholarship to attend college. She even struggled to pay some of my tuition during some very tough times until I could begin receiving that scholarship money. But while I was in college, I met and married the most awesome man. And once I graduated, God opened doors for us to become part of the powerful ministry called Abundant Life.
I don't even have to tell you that my sisters and I have agreed to disagree concerning where they think I should be living, and how they think I should be pursuing the gifting the Lord has given me. As my children get older, I'm learning to release them into the Father's hand, trusting that whatever He ordained for their lives will come to pass. I encourage you today to stand on God's Word for the ones you love. But remember--it's His will that shall prevail forevermore, not ours.
Prayer: Father, there's nothing I want more than to see Your will accomplished in my life and in the lives of my loved ones. Please help me remember that You love them even more than I ever could. So I fall into agreement with Your powerful Word, and declare that it SHALL accomplish everything You sent it out to accomplish. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
God's Strength In My Weakness!
Thursday October 7, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:27
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
There's nothing more humbling than coming face to face with your weakness. It can be embarrassing and humiliating all at once. Just when you thought you were making strides, an area of weakness presents itself. What is your area of weakness? What part of your life do you finally need to have victory? We have to discover these things and confront them. If we confront them (instead of deny them) we'll move toward conquering them.
There was a time in my life when I was very selfish. The thought of giving or making someone else's life better was not something that came easy for me. I felt like I had been denied so much, I should just spend the rest of my life looking out for myself. Then I met my wife and not long after that got saved. What a life change! My whole world revolved around pleasing Him and covering her. When sharing was once a weakness for me, I was now giving everything I had to this new life. I also discovered even while I was weak, God was still using me. That season of time taught me how God has a purpose for our weaknesses. Although I was used to hiding, defending, and even excusing them, God was calling me to confront them. My bad habit was actually preventing Him from using me the way He desired. His perspective was different than mine and I needed to come to grips with that. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:27 "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things that are mighty". God chose my weakness to break my pride and thus make me stronger. I love it.
So don't worry if you have areas of weakness in your life. Just submit them to God. He has a purpose and a plan for them and for you. He's waiting to take your weakness away and replace them with strength. All you need is faith. With faith, you can lay it at His feet knowing He'll change you for the better. After all, a weakness is simply an area of life God hasn't had the opportunity to touch yet. So let Him....He's ready.
Prayer: Father I place my life in Your hands. You know the places that need to fixed. You know the things that need to be removed. Make me what You want me to be. Help me come closer and closer to being Your image...in Jesus' name. Amen!
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:27
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
There's nothing more humbling than coming face to face with your weakness. It can be embarrassing and humiliating all at once. Just when you thought you were making strides, an area of weakness presents itself. What is your area of weakness? What part of your life do you finally need to have victory? We have to discover these things and confront them. If we confront them (instead of deny them) we'll move toward conquering them.
There was a time in my life when I was very selfish. The thought of giving or making someone else's life better was not something that came easy for me. I felt like I had been denied so much, I should just spend the rest of my life looking out for myself. Then I met my wife and not long after that got saved. What a life change! My whole world revolved around pleasing Him and covering her. When sharing was once a weakness for me, I was now giving everything I had to this new life. I also discovered even while I was weak, God was still using me. That season of time taught me how God has a purpose for our weaknesses. Although I was used to hiding, defending, and even excusing them, God was calling me to confront them. My bad habit was actually preventing Him from using me the way He desired. His perspective was different than mine and I needed to come to grips with that. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:27 "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things that are mighty". God chose my weakness to break my pride and thus make me stronger. I love it.
So don't worry if you have areas of weakness in your life. Just submit them to God. He has a purpose and a plan for them and for you. He's waiting to take your weakness away and replace them with strength. All you need is faith. With faith, you can lay it at His feet knowing He'll change you for the better. After all, a weakness is simply an area of life God hasn't had the opportunity to touch yet. So let Him....He's ready.
Prayer: Father I place my life in Your hands. You know the places that need to fixed. You know the things that need to be removed. Make me what You want me to be. Help me come closer and closer to being Your image...in Jesus' name. Amen!
God's Strength In My Weakness!
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:27
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
There's nothing more humbling than coming face to face with your weakness. It can be embarrassing and humiliating all at once. Just when you thought you were making strides, an area of weakness presents itself. What is your area of weakness? What part of your life do you finally need to have victory? We have to discover these things and confront them. If we confront them (instead of deny them) we'll move toward conquering them.
There was a time in my life when I was very selfish. The thought of giving or making someone else's life better was not something that came easy for me. I felt like I had been denied so much, I should just spend the rest of my life looking out for myself. Then I met my wife and not long after that got saved. What a life change! My whole world revolved around pleasing Him and covering her. When sharing was once a weakness for me, I was now giving everything I had to this new life. I also discovered even while I was weak, God was still using me. That season of time taught me how God has a purpose for our weaknesses. Although I was used to hiding, defending, and even excusing them, God was calling me to confront them. My bad habit was actually preventing Him from using me the way He desired. His perspective was different than mine and I needed to come to grips with that. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:27 "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things that are mighty". God chose my weakness to break my pride and thus make me stronger. I love it.
So don't worry if you have areas of weakness in your life. Just submit them to God. He has a purpose and a plan for them and for you. He's waiting to take your weakness away and replace them with strength. All you need is faith. With faith, you can lay it at His feet knowing He'll change you for the better. After all, a weakness is simply an area of life God hasn't had the opportunity to touch yet. So let Him....He's ready.
Prayer: Father I place my life in Your hands. You know the places that need to fixed. You know the things that need to be removed. Make me what You want me to be. Help me come closer and closer to being Your image...in Jesus' name. Amen!
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
There's nothing more humbling than coming face to face with your weakness. It can be embarrassing and humiliating all at once. Just when you thought you were making strides, an area of weakness presents itself. What is your area of weakness? What part of your life do you finally need to have victory? We have to discover these things and confront them. If we confront them (instead of deny them) we'll move toward conquering them.
There was a time in my life when I was very selfish. The thought of giving or making someone else's life better was not something that came easy for me. I felt like I had been denied so much, I should just spend the rest of my life looking out for myself. Then I met my wife and not long after that got saved. What a life change! My whole world revolved around pleasing Him and covering her. When sharing was once a weakness for me, I was now giving everything I had to this new life. I also discovered even while I was weak, God was still using me. That season of time taught me how God has a purpose for our weaknesses. Although I was used to hiding, defending, and even excusing them, God was calling me to confront them. My bad habit was actually preventing Him from using me the way He desired. His perspective was different than mine and I needed to come to grips with that. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:27 "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things that are mighty". God chose my weakness to break my pride and thus make me stronger. I love it.
So don't worry if you have areas of weakness in your life. Just submit them to God. He has a purpose and a plan for them and for you. He's waiting to take your weakness away and replace them with strength. All you need is faith. With faith, you can lay it at His feet knowing He'll change you for the better. After all, a weakness is simply an area of life God hasn't had the opportunity to touch yet. So let Him....He's ready.
Prayer: Father I place my life in Your hands. You know the places that need to fixed. You know the things that need to be removed. Make me what You want me to be. Help me come closer and closer to being Your image...in Jesus' name. Amen!
God's Power In Our Weakness!
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:27
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
There's nothing more humbling than coming face to face with your weakness. It can be embarrassing and humiliating all at once. Just when you thought you were making strides, an area of weakness presents itself. What is your area of weakness? What part of your life do you finally need to have victory? We have to discover these things and confront them. If we confront them (instead of deny them) we'll move toward conquering them.
There was a time in my life when I was very selfish. The thought of giving or making someone else's life better was not something that came easy for me. I felt like I had been denied so much, I should just spend the rest of my life looking out for myself. Then I met my wife and not long after that got saved. What a life change! My whole world revolved around pleasing Him and covering her. When sharing was once a weakness for me, I was now giving everything I had to this new life. I also discovered even while I was weak, God was still using me. That season of time taught me how God has a purpose for our weaknesses. Although I was used to hiding, defending, and even excusing them, God was calling me to confront them. My bad habit was actually preventing Him from using me the way He desired. His perspective was different than mine and I needed to come to grips with that. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:27 "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things that are mighty". God chose my weakness to break my pride and thus make me stronger. I love it.
So don't worry if you have areas of weakness in your life. Just submit them to God. He has a purpose and a plan for them and for you. He's waiting to take your weakness away and replace it with strength. All you need is faith. With faith, you can lay it at His feet knowing He'll change you for the better. After all, a weakness is simply an area of life God hasn't had the opportunity to touch yet. So let Him....He's ready.
Prayer: Father I place my life in Your hands. You know the places that need to fixed. You know the things that need to be removed. Make me what You want me to be. Help me come closer and closer to being Your image...in Jesus' name. Amen!
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
There's nothing more humbling than coming face to face with your weakness. It can be embarrassing and humiliating all at once. Just when you thought you were making strides, an area of weakness presents itself. What is your area of weakness? What part of your life do you finally need to have victory? We have to discover these things and confront them. If we confront them (instead of deny them) we'll move toward conquering them.
There was a time in my life when I was very selfish. The thought of giving or making someone else's life better was not something that came easy for me. I felt like I had been denied so much, I should just spend the rest of my life looking out for myself. Then I met my wife and not long after that got saved. What a life change! My whole world revolved around pleasing Him and covering her. When sharing was once a weakness for me, I was now giving everything I had to this new life. I also discovered even while I was weak, God was still using me. That season of time taught me how God has a purpose for our weaknesses. Although I was used to hiding, defending, and even excusing them, God was calling me to confront them. My bad habit was actually preventing Him from using me the way He desired. His perspective was different than mine and I needed to come to grips with that. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:27 "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things that are mighty". God chose my weakness to break my pride and thus make me stronger. I love it.
So don't worry if you have areas of weakness in your life. Just submit them to God. He has a purpose and a plan for them and for you. He's waiting to take your weakness away and replace it with strength. All you need is faith. With faith, you can lay it at His feet knowing He'll change you for the better. After all, a weakness is simply an area of life God hasn't had the opportunity to touch yet. So let Him....He's ready.
Prayer: Father I place my life in Your hands. You know the places that need to fixed. You know the things that need to be removed. Make me what You want me to be. Help me come closer and closer to being Your image...in Jesus' name. Amen!
H.U.M.P. Day!
Wednesday October 6, 2010
What is a good measure? How many is it? How much does it weigh? It's hard to determine what a good measure is these days because we all need a little bit of this and a whole lot of that. So what quantity do we ask God for?
Man's measurements are determined by what is "needed" to fill a void. For example, six feet of something may be needed here, or three inches of something there. A fixed dollar amount may be needed here, or so many ounces of a liquid there. Moreover, there HAS to be a void in order to activate the measure. In contrast, God's measure is determined by what "seed" has been sown. God sends His good measure into activation when something is given, not lacked. Jesus said in Luke 6:38 "Give, and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you". Jesus didn't say our good measure would be predicated upon what we lacked, He said it'd predicated upon what we gave. John 3:16 says For God so loved the world that He GAVE His only begotten Son. Did He not reap millions of devoted sons and daughters because of His seed? If it worked for Him....it'll certainly work for you. Now get out there and share the love of Jesus. You want your good measure? Give....Happy H.U.M.P. Day!
What is a good measure? How many is it? How much does it weigh? It's hard to determine what a good measure is these days because we all need a little bit of this and a whole lot of that. So what quantity do we ask God for?
Man's measurements are determined by what is "needed" to fill a void. For example, six feet of something may be needed here, or three inches of something there. A fixed dollar amount may be needed here, or so many ounces of a liquid there. Moreover, there HAS to be a void in order to activate the measure. In contrast, God's measure is determined by what "seed" has been sown. God sends His good measure into activation when something is given, not lacked. Jesus said in Luke 6:38 "Give, and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you". Jesus didn't say our good measure would be predicated upon what we lacked, He said it'd predicated upon what we gave. John 3:16 says For God so loved the world that He GAVE His only begotten Son. Did He not reap millions of devoted sons and daughters because of His seed? If it worked for Him....it'll certainly work for you. Now get out there and share the love of Jesus. You want your good measure? Give....Happy H.U.M.P. Day!
The Posture of Prayer II
Tuesday, October 5th, 2010
Today's Passage: Proverbs 3: 5-8
Memory Verse: Prov. 3:5
We started our discussion on the necessity of prayer in our lives, and we began the process of giving prayer a definition. The next letter, "R", stands for Recognition. We must recognize or acknowledge the absolute lordship of our God when we approach Him in prayer. There must be no doubt in our minds that He is not only able to hear us, but also that He is the only one with the answer. Hebrews 11: 6 reminds us that the very attitude with which we approach Him must be one of reverence, knowing that He is well able to reward us for our faith in Him.
When we pray, it should never be as a last resort, but our first response to every situation. I love what the teacher says in today's passage. We are told to acknowledge Him in ALL our ways -- every decision must include Him. As Pastor Nette said in her message on Sunday, it breaks every parent's heart to see his or her child in the middle of a mess. The first thing that parent would want to know is: "why didn't you ask me for help?" If we stand willing to go to any lengths for our children, surely the Heavenly Father is more than ready to provide the answer to any question and meet any need. So we must be humble and ASK Him for everything. He's our Father Who will never withold any good thing from us. How much confidence God must have to be able to give us a guarantee of an anwser. All He asks is that we not allow anxiety to steal our faith.
Here's what many people miss as a result of the lack of a prayer life. The more you pray, the more you will change. This is because, as we get to know Him more deeper, we become more aware of His character and His love for us. Consequently, we learn to YIELD to His ways on a matter. He already told us in His Word that His thoughts are not our thoughts, nor are His ways our ways. When we ask Him to answer us, it is important for us to always leave ourselves open for Him to answer our prayer HIS way. He is the ultimate parent Who sees the end of a thing before its very beginning. Prayer is a time to mould and surrender ourselves to His perfect, not His permissible, will for our lives and the lives of the people we are praying for.
Today, before you even draw up your wish list for God to fulfill, make a decision in your heart that you will come craving His answers and their solutions.Our lives are not ours, and when we live to please him, it will show in the way we respond when He says , "no" or "wait". Such a heart will always find in the Father a listening ear.
Prayer: Here I am again, Father. You have been so good to me and my loved ones. I acknowledge You as the answer to every question I may have ever had in my life. You've always steered me in the right direction, even when I didn't want You to. Please come now and abide in my thoughts as well as in the place where I make my decisions. May I not spend another moment trying to do it on my own. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Proverbs 3: 5-8
Memory Verse: Prov. 3:5
We started our discussion on the necessity of prayer in our lives, and we began the process of giving prayer a definition. The next letter, "R", stands for Recognition. We must recognize or acknowledge the absolute lordship of our God when we approach Him in prayer. There must be no doubt in our minds that He is not only able to hear us, but also that He is the only one with the answer. Hebrews 11: 6 reminds us that the very attitude with which we approach Him must be one of reverence, knowing that He is well able to reward us for our faith in Him.
When we pray, it should never be as a last resort, but our first response to every situation. I love what the teacher says in today's passage. We are told to acknowledge Him in ALL our ways -- every decision must include Him. As Pastor Nette said in her message on Sunday, it breaks every parent's heart to see his or her child in the middle of a mess. The first thing that parent would want to know is: "why didn't you ask me for help?" If we stand willing to go to any lengths for our children, surely the Heavenly Father is more than ready to provide the answer to any question and meet any need. So we must be humble and ASK Him for everything. He's our Father Who will never withold any good thing from us. How much confidence God must have to be able to give us a guarantee of an anwser. All He asks is that we not allow anxiety to steal our faith.
Here's what many people miss as a result of the lack of a prayer life. The more you pray, the more you will change. This is because, as we get to know Him more deeper, we become more aware of His character and His love for us. Consequently, we learn to YIELD to His ways on a matter. He already told us in His Word that His thoughts are not our thoughts, nor are His ways our ways. When we ask Him to answer us, it is important for us to always leave ourselves open for Him to answer our prayer HIS way. He is the ultimate parent Who sees the end of a thing before its very beginning. Prayer is a time to mould and surrender ourselves to His perfect, not His permissible, will for our lives and the lives of the people we are praying for.
Today, before you even draw up your wish list for God to fulfill, make a decision in your heart that you will come craving His answers and their solutions.Our lives are not ours, and when we live to please him, it will show in the way we respond when He says , "no" or "wait". Such a heart will always find in the Father a listening ear.
Prayer: Here I am again, Father. You have been so good to me and my loved ones. I acknowledge You as the answer to every question I may have ever had in my life. You've always steered me in the right direction, even when I didn't want You to. Please come now and abide in my thoughts as well as in the place where I make my decisions. May I not spend another moment trying to do it on my own. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
The Posture of Prayer
Monday, October 4th, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew 6: 5-13
Memory Verse: Matt. 6:9
There are quite a few things we all take for granted that we couldn't live without. Breathing is one of those things. I couldn't tell you how many breaths I take in one minute, let alone in a day's time. And yet, the second that breath becomes no longer available to me, my entire existence would go on alert. Everything else that I thought was so necessary would pale in comparison.
Yesterday's message at The Life reminded me of another thing that is just as important as breathing, if not more so. It's prayer. Pastor Nette described it as the posture through which we position ourselves to recieve everything we need from God. If He holds everything we need, you can begin to see why many of us don't receive it: because we don't pray. Prayer is one of those words you'll find often in Scripture, because our Father wants us to know how important it is to Him. And if He thinks it's important, so should we.
One reason prayer is not as precious to us as it ought to be is our attitude towards it. For many of us, it's only a means of communicating our needs to God. We don't see it as a time when He also wants to communicate with us. He desires to reveal Himself -- give us wisdom for confusion, infuse us with His peace in times of storm, and answer the millions of questions we have about day-to-day issues. Let's start this week with a basic definition of prayer in an attempt to fully understand and devote ourselves to it.
The "P" in prayer stands for Praise and worship. You can't have prayer without it. Actually, you could go the entire length of your prayer time just giving God words of adoration. When you think about how awesome and faithful He is in the big and the small things, isn't it worth taking the time to tell Him so? How do you feel when your own children take the time to tell you how special they think you are? If you're like me, you want to give them nice things just because they did that. How much more our Heavenly Father? Let's determine to make more of our prayer time about Him and not us.
Prayer: Father, let me start right off praising You today. You are my King, the most powerful and awesome God Who ever existed. And the fact that You love me never ceases to amaze me. I will spend the rest of my days worshipping You for Who You are to me. Thank You for just allowing me to breathe Your air. May my life make You famous today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Matthew 6: 5-13
Memory Verse: Matt. 6:9
There are quite a few things we all take for granted that we couldn't live without. Breathing is one of those things. I couldn't tell you how many breaths I take in one minute, let alone in a day's time. And yet, the second that breath becomes no longer available to me, my entire existence would go on alert. Everything else that I thought was so necessary would pale in comparison.
Yesterday's message at The Life reminded me of another thing that is just as important as breathing, if not more so. It's prayer. Pastor Nette described it as the posture through which we position ourselves to recieve everything we need from God. If He holds everything we need, you can begin to see why many of us don't receive it: because we don't pray. Prayer is one of those words you'll find often in Scripture, because our Father wants us to know how important it is to Him. And if He thinks it's important, so should we.
One reason prayer is not as precious to us as it ought to be is our attitude towards it. For many of us, it's only a means of communicating our needs to God. We don't see it as a time when He also wants to communicate with us. He desires to reveal Himself -- give us wisdom for confusion, infuse us with His peace in times of storm, and answer the millions of questions we have about day-to-day issues. Let's start this week with a basic definition of prayer in an attempt to fully understand and devote ourselves to it.
The "P" in prayer stands for Praise and worship. You can't have prayer without it. Actually, you could go the entire length of your prayer time just giving God words of adoration. When you think about how awesome and faithful He is in the big and the small things, isn't it worth taking the time to tell Him so? How do you feel when your own children take the time to tell you how special they think you are? If you're like me, you want to give them nice things just because they did that. How much more our Heavenly Father? Let's determine to make more of our prayer time about Him and not us.
Prayer: Father, let me start right off praising You today. You are my King, the most powerful and awesome God Who ever existed. And the fact that You love me never ceases to amaze me. I will spend the rest of my days worshipping You for Who You are to me. Thank You for just allowing me to breathe Your air. May my life make You famous today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Let's Clean It Up
Sunday, October 3rd, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 John 1:5-10; 2:1-2
Memory Verse: Psalm 51:10
There are a few people in this world who actually love to clean. I mean, they have a sincere love for it, and are very happy when they find themselves performing cleaning chores. I am not one of those people. For a long time, I wondered why it always took me so long to get a cleaning task done. I've just figured out why that is: I DON'T ENJOY CLEANING. But, like every responsible wife and mother, I know that this is something I need to do so that my family is comfortable and safe. So I do it with my focus on the results. I try to get down to where the real stuff is that I've been avoiding. Under or behind the furniture, I tackle dust mites and stubborn dirt that could harm us even though it is unseen.
Well, every once in a while, you just have to get down and dirty in the spirit realm. Hidden in the recesses of your soul (where your mind, will, and emotions reside), you will find thoughts and feelings that don't leave just because you pushed them to the back. They're still there, waiting to create clutter in your spirit and cause just enough trouble to stop you and God from communicating fully. As long as they stay there, hidden away from everyone else, we may think we're okay. But if you truly want to walk in fellowship with the Father, you must expose those things to the light of His Spirit.
Today's passage shows us how David accomplished this necessary spiritual task. He knew what some of us also know but try to hide: that our hearts are deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. If we try to pretend it doesn't hold on to thoughts and emotions that are contrary to the Word of God, we keep the light from penetrating, and we harm our relationship with God. But if we are bold enough to say where we've gone wrong, God is faithful and just to forgive, cleanse us, and set us back in right standing with Himself.
As you prepare to go into the house of the Lord today, let His Spirit gently guide you through the cleaning process. Expose those things you may have been harboring : you and He know what they are. Then go to your place of worship and thank Him for His mercy, renewing your resolve to continue serving and being totally devoted to Him. Whether in the spiritual or the natural, clean feels good.
Prayer: Father, create in me a clean heart. Renew a right spirit within me. I desire to be close to You, and I want Your joy to be my strength. In exchange for all that, I release every sinful thought and feeling, embracing only those thoughts that please You. Cleanse me from unrighteousness, and bring me back into right standing with You as only You can do. I love You and thank You for Your amazing grace. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 John 1:5-10; 2:1-2
Memory Verse: Psalm 51:10
There are a few people in this world who actually love to clean. I mean, they have a sincere love for it, and are very happy when they find themselves performing cleaning chores. I am not one of those people. For a long time, I wondered why it always took me so long to get a cleaning task done. I've just figured out why that is: I DON'T ENJOY CLEANING. But, like every responsible wife and mother, I know that this is something I need to do so that my family is comfortable and safe. So I do it with my focus on the results. I try to get down to where the real stuff is that I've been avoiding. Under or behind the furniture, I tackle dust mites and stubborn dirt that could harm us even though it is unseen.
Well, every once in a while, you just have to get down and dirty in the spirit realm. Hidden in the recesses of your soul (where your mind, will, and emotions reside), you will find thoughts and feelings that don't leave just because you pushed them to the back. They're still there, waiting to create clutter in your spirit and cause just enough trouble to stop you and God from communicating fully. As long as they stay there, hidden away from everyone else, we may think we're okay. But if you truly want to walk in fellowship with the Father, you must expose those things to the light of His Spirit.
Today's passage shows us how David accomplished this necessary spiritual task. He knew what some of us also know but try to hide: that our hearts are deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. If we try to pretend it doesn't hold on to thoughts and emotions that are contrary to the Word of God, we keep the light from penetrating, and we harm our relationship with God. But if we are bold enough to say where we've gone wrong, God is faithful and just to forgive, cleanse us, and set us back in right standing with Himself.
As you prepare to go into the house of the Lord today, let His Spirit gently guide you through the cleaning process. Expose those things you may have been harboring : you and He know what they are. Then go to your place of worship and thank Him for His mercy, renewing your resolve to continue serving and being totally devoted to Him. Whether in the spiritual or the natural, clean feels good.
Prayer: Father, create in me a clean heart. Renew a right spirit within me. I desire to be close to You, and I want Your joy to be my strength. In exchange for all that, I release every sinful thought and feeling, embracing only those thoughts that please You. Cleanse me from unrighteousness, and bring me back into right standing with You as only You can do. I love You and thank You for Your amazing grace. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Jesus, the Lion!
Saturday, October 2nd, 2010
Today's Passage: Revelation 5:1-5
Memory Verse: Revelation 5:5
I was watching a movie the other day on TV. It seemed to me like all the characters of the movie had animal nicknames that were based on their characteristics or personality. For instance, one guy was named 'Joey the Rat'. This guy had a squeaky voice, ate anything, and wasn't very clean. Another guy was named 'The Bull', and another 'The Tiger'. Yeah I know, sounds like your classic mob flick. And it probably was, but it still got me thinking.
When I think about men who were truly "tough guys", my mind can't help but go to the Bible. You had to be really tough to last in those days. Guys back then didn't complain of headaches and hard times while doing the work of the Lord. As a matter of fact, these so-called tough guys or gangsters couldn't walk a second in Jesus' shoes. Okay, let's get back to the names. Let's start with 'Moses the Ant'. Ant, you say? Yes, ant. A sargeant ant can lead up to 10,000 ants miles across the jungle floor; all at the instructions of his queen. Moses led half a million children of Israel across the desert; all at the instructions of his King. Ants are resilient, they are determined, and they can carry haevy objects for long distances. Yes, Moses the Ant. He was a true tough guy.
Here's another one: David the Cat. He's small, cute, homely looking. But when threatened, he becomes this ferocious beast that can take down any predator that tries to bring harm to him. This little dude can handle himself. Just ask Goliath and the Philistines. Last but not least, 'Jesus the Lion'. Who else can be so beautiful and intimidating at the same time? Have you ever seen a lion in real life? When you do, part of you wants to lay under his awesome mane; knowing that no other beast in the world would dare try to harm you. The other part of you is shaken with fear because you know if it weren't for the barricade, that thing could tear you apart whenever it chose to. Jesus, for those who really know him, is kinda like that. When we are in His presence, we are compelled to run to Him, knowing that no demon from Hell would ever try to harm us. But we also have to approach Him with "respectable caution". He's not some fairy tale character that won't show up to a fight. And He does possess the power to tear some stuff up, if you know what I mean.
Well, thank you for humoring me, Td Nation. I try to keep the reading light on Saturdays. I still have that little kid in me that believes Saturdays are for heroes. It's just that Jesus is my hero now. I sleep well at night knowing that He's already saved the day.
Prayer: Father, I thank you for Your saving grace. You are as powerful as You are beautiful. I appreciate how You love and care for me. I realize just because You are a God of love, it doesn't mean You're not a God of strength. I am confident that You always know what's best for me. so I leave my life in Your hands...in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Revelation 5:1-5
Memory Verse: Revelation 5:5
I was watching a movie the other day on TV. It seemed to me like all the characters of the movie had animal nicknames that were based on their characteristics or personality. For instance, one guy was named 'Joey the Rat'. This guy had a squeaky voice, ate anything, and wasn't very clean. Another guy was named 'The Bull', and another 'The Tiger'. Yeah I know, sounds like your classic mob flick. And it probably was, but it still got me thinking.
When I think about men who were truly "tough guys", my mind can't help but go to the Bible. You had to be really tough to last in those days. Guys back then didn't complain of headaches and hard times while doing the work of the Lord. As a matter of fact, these so-called tough guys or gangsters couldn't walk a second in Jesus' shoes. Okay, let's get back to the names. Let's start with 'Moses the Ant'. Ant, you say? Yes, ant. A sargeant ant can lead up to 10,000 ants miles across the jungle floor; all at the instructions of his queen. Moses led half a million children of Israel across the desert; all at the instructions of his King. Ants are resilient, they are determined, and they can carry haevy objects for long distances. Yes, Moses the Ant. He was a true tough guy.
Here's another one: David the Cat. He's small, cute, homely looking. But when threatened, he becomes this ferocious beast that can take down any predator that tries to bring harm to him. This little dude can handle himself. Just ask Goliath and the Philistines. Last but not least, 'Jesus the Lion'. Who else can be so beautiful and intimidating at the same time? Have you ever seen a lion in real life? When you do, part of you wants to lay under his awesome mane; knowing that no other beast in the world would dare try to harm you. The other part of you is shaken with fear because you know if it weren't for the barricade, that thing could tear you apart whenever it chose to. Jesus, for those who really know him, is kinda like that. When we are in His presence, we are compelled to run to Him, knowing that no demon from Hell would ever try to harm us. But we also have to approach Him with "respectable caution". He's not some fairy tale character that won't show up to a fight. And He does possess the power to tear some stuff up, if you know what I mean.
Well, thank you for humoring me, Td Nation. I try to keep the reading light on Saturdays. I still have that little kid in me that believes Saturdays are for heroes. It's just that Jesus is my hero now. I sleep well at night knowing that He's already saved the day.
Prayer: Father, I thank you for Your saving grace. You are as powerful as You are beautiful. I appreciate how You love and care for me. I realize just because You are a God of love, it doesn't mean You're not a God of strength. I am confident that You always know what's best for me. so I leave my life in Your hands...in Jesus' name. Amen
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