Friday, December 31st, 2010
Today's Passage:Psalm 139:1-13
Memory Verse: Psalm 121:1-2
I remember the day in July of 1993 that I made the journey from Senegal, West Africa to the U.S for college. I had flown so many hours (the flight would last roughly 18 in all because we made a layover in France). As thoughts of uncertainty about the future --not to mention fear of whether our plane would even make the touchdown safely-- threatened to consume me,I flipped through the Psalms until I was led to this passage.
Peace that could only come from the Father immediately flooded my soul. I knew at once that not only was He in control of my destiny, but He also had the last say concerning when my life would end. Just like the psalmist in this passage, God is aware of every move we make. There is nothing we're thinking, or planning to do, that He hasn't already discerned way ahead of time. Now, I know this may make you want to go down the road of wondering why God doesn't stop some of the mistakes we make if He knows what's in our hearts. But we've got to remember that He doesn't mess with our free will, although His permissive will still allows only that which would not completely destroy us.
As the curtain on this year comes to a close, may all your thoughts of uncertainty that might be lingering about your future be replaced by the fact that He Who keeps you neither slumbers nor sleeps. All your help comes from Him, and you can depend on Him to bring you into every promise. Keep your head up this year-- look for God's hand in every area of your life, and watch Him move mountains on your behalf this new year.
Prayer: Thank You Father, for reminding us that although circumstances tend to make us feel helpless, in You we have the peace of knowing that You are all the help we need day in and day out. May we never spend another day wondering where our help will come from. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
What We Need
Thursday, December 30th, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:25-31
Memory Verse: Ephesians 1:17-18
Okay. Only two more days, and we'll officially be saying goodbye to the year 2010. Every minute that brings us closer to the new year will be filled with the promise of getting another chance to do it all again. Every wrong choice made without thinking of the consequences will seem like an eternity ago, as we look forward to new opportunities.
It's like we're at a giant crossroad, and we're standing before God. In His hands are all the blessings we would need to have an even more successful year than last year: finances, no strife in our relationships, a minimum of three to four vacations throughout the year, and of course--perfect health. So we find ourselves being given the same choice God gave Solomon when he became king.
Just like Solomon, we can take advantage of a brand new year to ask our Father for things WE think will make our lives easier and more successful this year. But, like Solomon, we'd be wise to just ask for His spirit of wisdom and understanding. Why? Because if we truly wanted to be honest, we don't need MORE of what we think we're lacking. We need God's way of dealing with the ISSUES that caused the lack in the first place... And THAT'S what wisdom is.
With wisdom, I would exercise self-control in the food choices I make at least 90 percent of the time. I would ignore my flesh's desire to just be inactive, and do the opposite because I know how much healthier-- and happier-- I'll be. I would be able to manage my time better so that I wouldn't be tired and irritated... And that would reduce the strife in my relationships. As for the finances, the Bible is only stock- full of counsel on our attitudes about money. I am confident that whatever changes need to be made, our God can make possible. But we can't do it without His Spirit.
Prayer: Father, I'm so ashamed to confess that there are areas in my life that I haven't been very successful in this past year. As I prepare to go into this new year, I really need Your Spirit of wisdom and understanding to see beyond the moment and walk in self-denial. I'm truly believing You for change to manifest itself in my life. For Your glory, and in Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:25-31
Memory Verse: Ephesians 1:17-18
Okay. Only two more days, and we'll officially be saying goodbye to the year 2010. Every minute that brings us closer to the new year will be filled with the promise of getting another chance to do it all again. Every wrong choice made without thinking of the consequences will seem like an eternity ago, as we look forward to new opportunities.
It's like we're at a giant crossroad, and we're standing before God. In His hands are all the blessings we would need to have an even more successful year than last year: finances, no strife in our relationships, a minimum of three to four vacations throughout the year, and of course--perfect health. So we find ourselves being given the same choice God gave Solomon when he became king.
Just like Solomon, we can take advantage of a brand new year to ask our Father for things WE think will make our lives easier and more successful this year. But, like Solomon, we'd be wise to just ask for His spirit of wisdom and understanding. Why? Because if we truly wanted to be honest, we don't need MORE of what we think we're lacking. We need God's way of dealing with the ISSUES that caused the lack in the first place... And THAT'S what wisdom is.
With wisdom, I would exercise self-control in the food choices I make at least 90 percent of the time. I would ignore my flesh's desire to just be inactive, and do the opposite because I know how much healthier-- and happier-- I'll be. I would be able to manage my time better so that I wouldn't be tired and irritated... And that would reduce the strife in my relationships. As for the finances, the Bible is only stock- full of counsel on our attitudes about money. I am confident that whatever changes need to be made, our God can make possible. But we can't do it without His Spirit.
Prayer: Father, I'm so ashamed to confess that there are areas in my life that I haven't been very successful in this past year. As I prepare to go into this new year, I really need Your Spirit of wisdom and understanding to see beyond the moment and walk in self-denial. I'm truly believing You for change to manifest itself in my life. For Your glory, and in Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day!
Wednesday December 29, 2010
So many resolutions are developed during the post-Christmas stretch of the year. Resolutions, in an of themselves, are not bad things. They are the result of people taking a look at their lives and determining they need to do better. The thing we must keep in perspective is expectation. Our expectations have to come with purpose. You can't just want to lose weight to look better. Your desire to lose weight should be motivated by the need to develop a healthier lifestyle, not just to be better-looking. The way you view yourself (or self-concept) comes from within.
Subsequently, our HUMP Day mission this week is "resolution"-based one. Write a vision and plan to coordinate or participate in some outreach activities in the new year. Get friends, family, and/or prayer partners to help you. Like we previously mentioned, let your expectation be to please God, not to be noticed. Let's show our community His love still exists, not try to convince them that we're a great church. Remember it's His glory, not ours. Try to plan an activity for children, and another one for adults. I pray the Holy Spirit will guide you. And please remember, no effort is too large or small. God bless you. Let's have another awesome year.
So many resolutions are developed during the post-Christmas stretch of the year. Resolutions, in an of themselves, are not bad things. They are the result of people taking a look at their lives and determining they need to do better. The thing we must keep in perspective is expectation. Our expectations have to come with purpose. You can't just want to lose weight to look better. Your desire to lose weight should be motivated by the need to develop a healthier lifestyle, not just to be better-looking. The way you view yourself (or self-concept) comes from within.
Subsequently, our HUMP Day mission this week is "resolution"-based one. Write a vision and plan to coordinate or participate in some outreach activities in the new year. Get friends, family, and/or prayer partners to help you. Like we previously mentioned, let your expectation be to please God, not to be noticed. Let's show our community His love still exists, not try to convince them that we're a great church. Remember it's His glory, not ours. Try to plan an activity for children, and another one for adults. I pray the Holy Spirit will guide you. And please remember, no effort is too large or small. God bless you. Let's have another awesome year.
What will You Worship?
Tuesday, December 28th, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 40: 12-20
Memory Verse: Is. 40:18
We look at the lives of the people whom the world calls "superstars" showing off their possessions on a show called "Cribs". Almost every single time, they've got an idol in their home that they've declared as their god. And every time we see them do this, we're ready to unleash our holy anger towards them, condemning them as people on a certain path to hell. But how willing are we to admit that we have "idols" of our own that we need to destroy?
An idol in the dictionary is defined as "an image, a person, or an idea that is worshipped". So whereas we may be quick to pat ourselves on the back for not acknowledging a particular thing in our homes that we hold up to the same standard as God, what is it that consumes our affection, time and attention the most? What is it that we would never part with, even if God asked us to? For some, it may be money. Others may have their education. Still others may be blessed with the marriage, property or status that they were told they'd never have.
A Christian rapper says in one of his songs, "Your money, your marriage, singleness, status, your time... They (all) belong to you to show the world that Christ is divine.". But many times, we uphold these things as if they were banners that make us who we are. Really, we are God's children FIRST, then everything else is secondary. In today's passage, Isaiah has a warning for us believers not to put anything before our God, Who created everything that we can see with the natural eye.
During this time when we're reflecting on what went well in our lives, and what didn't, it's a perfect opportunity for us to set new priorities, especially when it comes to what we choose to spend our time on. Let's all be sure to focus our devotion on the One True God, and the building of His kingdom. Jesus is on His way, and we need to invest in preparing ourselves -- and others -- for that day.
Prayer: Father, I want to repent for putting my time, energy and devotion into other things besides what brings glory to Your Name. Help me make seeking You FIRST a priority again, so that my life can be poured out to bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Isaiah 40: 12-20
Memory Verse: Is. 40:18
We look at the lives of the people whom the world calls "superstars" showing off their possessions on a show called "Cribs". Almost every single time, they've got an idol in their home that they've declared as their god. And every time we see them do this, we're ready to unleash our holy anger towards them, condemning them as people on a certain path to hell. But how willing are we to admit that we have "idols" of our own that we need to destroy?
An idol in the dictionary is defined as "an image, a person, or an idea that is worshipped". So whereas we may be quick to pat ourselves on the back for not acknowledging a particular thing in our homes that we hold up to the same standard as God, what is it that consumes our affection, time and attention the most? What is it that we would never part with, even if God asked us to? For some, it may be money. Others may have their education. Still others may be blessed with the marriage, property or status that they were told they'd never have.
A Christian rapper says in one of his songs, "Your money, your marriage, singleness, status, your time... They (all) belong to you to show the world that Christ is divine.". But many times, we uphold these things as if they were banners that make us who we are. Really, we are God's children FIRST, then everything else is secondary. In today's passage, Isaiah has a warning for us believers not to put anything before our God, Who created everything that we can see with the natural eye.
During this time when we're reflecting on what went well in our lives, and what didn't, it's a perfect opportunity for us to set new priorities, especially when it comes to what we choose to spend our time on. Let's all be sure to focus our devotion on the One True God, and the building of His kingdom. Jesus is on His way, and we need to invest in preparing ourselves -- and others -- for that day.
Prayer: Father, I want to repent for putting my time, energy and devotion into other things besides what brings glory to Your Name. Help me make seeking You FIRST a priority again, so that my life can be poured out to bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Year In Review...
Monday December 27, 2010
Now that Christmas (the holiday) has come and gone, it's time to direct our attention on the year that was 2010. As we perform our own personal year end reviews, I'm sure we'll find our fair share of ups and downs. Don't worry though, ups and downs come in life. The things I'd like to call our attention to are the decisions we made that caused us to be seperated from God.
Let's talk about relationships. Are there any you could've done without in 2010? What about that friend who said they had your back? Did they turn their back on you when you needed them most? Or maybe the "lover" you met who promised you the world, where are they now? When it comes to relationships, the one we should put the most energy into in 2011 is the one we have with God. Through Him, we'll quit drawing the guy that cheats, or the girl that betrays. Through Him, we'll be preserved and set aside, and therefore, will only seek those with the same status. So, give God a try in the new year. Let Him be the One your heart longs for. Make Him your desire and He won't let you down like others did.
Now, let's talk about spiritual life. What was the one thing that kept you from going to the next level in God? Was it time, faith, or circumstances? If it was time, make a commitment to spend more time with the Lord this year. I'm not talking about a resolution. I'm talking about a strategic plan to increase your time with God. If your issue was lack of faith, understand that that is why He couldn't find pleasure in you. All the praise you gave didn't move Him, nor did the worship you offered. Why? It was because He knew you didn't believe He could do what you were saying/singing He could do. So in 2011, stand in the face of adversity and see the salvation of the Lord. Know that He is God and He'll never leave you or forsake you.
Finally my Friends, I want to encourage you to love more, forgive more, and trust more in 2011. Doing these three things will allow access to the "right" things in your life. As we desire to be smarter, richer, and healthier in 2011, let's also desire to grow in God. And that doesn't just mean more church attendance; that also means more praise, deeper worship, and more accountability to His Word.
Now prepare yourself. 2011 will be here soon.
Prayer: Father I am so excited about this new year. With every new season, You bring new promise, new mercies, and new blessings. However, I realize I cannot bring the mistakes I made in the old year, into this new one. So in these last few days of 2010, show me what I need to change about me. Show me the path that gets me closer to You. I'm ready for You...in Jesus' name Amen.
Now that Christmas (the holiday) has come and gone, it's time to direct our attention on the year that was 2010. As we perform our own personal year end reviews, I'm sure we'll find our fair share of ups and downs. Don't worry though, ups and downs come in life. The things I'd like to call our attention to are the decisions we made that caused us to be seperated from God.
Let's talk about relationships. Are there any you could've done without in 2010? What about that friend who said they had your back? Did they turn their back on you when you needed them most? Or maybe the "lover" you met who promised you the world, where are they now? When it comes to relationships, the one we should put the most energy into in 2011 is the one we have with God. Through Him, we'll quit drawing the guy that cheats, or the girl that betrays. Through Him, we'll be preserved and set aside, and therefore, will only seek those with the same status. So, give God a try in the new year. Let Him be the One your heart longs for. Make Him your desire and He won't let you down like others did.
Now, let's talk about spiritual life. What was the one thing that kept you from going to the next level in God? Was it time, faith, or circumstances? If it was time, make a commitment to spend more time with the Lord this year. I'm not talking about a resolution. I'm talking about a strategic plan to increase your time with God. If your issue was lack of faith, understand that that is why He couldn't find pleasure in you. All the praise you gave didn't move Him, nor did the worship you offered. Why? It was because He knew you didn't believe He could do what you were saying/singing He could do. So in 2011, stand in the face of adversity and see the salvation of the Lord. Know that He is God and He'll never leave you or forsake you.
Finally my Friends, I want to encourage you to love more, forgive more, and trust more in 2011. Doing these three things will allow access to the "right" things in your life. As we desire to be smarter, richer, and healthier in 2011, let's also desire to grow in God. And that doesn't just mean more church attendance; that also means more praise, deeper worship, and more accountability to His Word.
Now prepare yourself. 2011 will be here soon.
Prayer: Father I am so excited about this new year. With every new season, You bring new promise, new mercies, and new blessings. However, I realize I cannot bring the mistakes I made in the old year, into this new one. So in these last few days of 2010, show me what I need to change about me. Show me the path that gets me closer to You. I'm ready for You...in Jesus' name Amen.
Prayers that Prevail
Sunday, December 26th, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 61
Memory Verse: Is. 61:1
Father, as I prepare to come into Your house, I meditate on the glorious provision You have made for me to be one of Your anointed ones. Not out of anything great that I have done on my own, but because of Your grace, You allow me to stand before Your people, proclaiming that You want to bless them.
May this Sunday not be just another day for me, or for Your children. May they receive the news of Your favor into their lives, and allow Your great love to change them one day at a time. For they are Your chosen, too. You have called us all out of darkness into Your marvelous light. You plan to use us to rebuild the places in our homes and community that have been broken down because of sin.
As we worship You today, fill us all with the desire to fulfill every bit of our calling so that we can bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Isaiah 61
Memory Verse: Is. 61:1
Father, as I prepare to come into Your house, I meditate on the glorious provision You have made for me to be one of Your anointed ones. Not out of anything great that I have done on my own, but because of Your grace, You allow me to stand before Your people, proclaiming that You want to bless them.
May this Sunday not be just another day for me, or for Your children. May they receive the news of Your favor into their lives, and allow Your great love to change them one day at a time. For they are Your chosen, too. You have called us all out of darkness into Your marvelous light. You plan to use us to rebuild the places in our homes and community that have been broken down because of sin.
As we worship You today, fill us all with the desire to fulfill every bit of our calling so that we can bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Merry CHRISTmas!
Saturday December 25, 2010
Oh, come all ye faithful
Joyful and triumphant
Oh come ye oh come to Bethlehem
Come and behold Him
Born the King angels
Oh come let us adore Him
Oh come let us adore Him
Oh come let us adore Him
Christ the Lord!
Happy Birthday Jesus! We love You very much....
Oh, come all ye faithful
Joyful and triumphant
Oh come ye oh come to Bethlehem
Come and behold Him
Born the King angels
Oh come let us adore Him
Oh come let us adore Him
Oh come let us adore Him
Christ the Lord!
Happy Birthday Jesus! We love You very much....
What Christmas Means
Friday, December 24th, 2010
Today's Passage: Luke 2
Memory Verse: Isaiah 9:6
If you were to take a survey of all the people you meet on what Christmas means, they would all have different things to say. For some, it may be the lights, tree, and beautiful decorations they get to put up for this festive season. For others, it might be the symbols of Christmas that everyone can embrace no matter what religious background they have: Santa, the gifts, and traditions they observe.
But for those of us who believe, CHRISTMAS has a whole new meaning. The "C" is of course for our Savior, Christ the Lord Himself, Who left His home above to come and live among us so that He could show us how to live and love. The "H" is for the herald angels who told everyday people of His birth. "R" is for the righteousness that we would inherit through His birth, death, and resurrection.
The "I" would represent the Inn, of course, where Jesus was born. Did you ever wonder why God chose for His Son to come in all obscurity, not even important enough to be born in a regular room? Because God wanted to use the foolish things of this world to shame the wise. The "S" is for Son of God-- the first fruit among many brethren, the One Who went before us so He could produce everything God was in us. And the "T" represents the totality of what He did for us-- everything from justification to redemption, if we will only accept it.
The "M" stands for the one symbol you never hear too much about, but is most important: Mary, the one chosen to be Jesus' mother. She was not perfect, but she was willing to do the will of the Father, no matter how hard it might be. The "A" is for ALL-- He came for Anyone who will accept the sacrifice He came to make. And finally, the "S" represents Savior" -- He's not just a good man who lived, but The One Who came to do what no-one else could possibly do: save us from all sin.
As you celebrate this special day, let these things make Christmas special for you and your family. Merry CHRISTmas to all!
Prayer: Father, I will never stop thanking You for the wonderful gift of Jesus. Had He not come, my soul would be lost. May my life bring You joy for the rest of my days. Happy Birthday, Jesus! Amen.
Today's Passage: Luke 2
Memory Verse: Isaiah 9:6
If you were to take a survey of all the people you meet on what Christmas means, they would all have different things to say. For some, it may be the lights, tree, and beautiful decorations they get to put up for this festive season. For others, it might be the symbols of Christmas that everyone can embrace no matter what religious background they have: Santa, the gifts, and traditions they observe.
But for those of us who believe, CHRISTMAS has a whole new meaning. The "C" is of course for our Savior, Christ the Lord Himself, Who left His home above to come and live among us so that He could show us how to live and love. The "H" is for the herald angels who told everyday people of His birth. "R" is for the righteousness that we would inherit through His birth, death, and resurrection.
The "I" would represent the Inn, of course, where Jesus was born. Did you ever wonder why God chose for His Son to come in all obscurity, not even important enough to be born in a regular room? Because God wanted to use the foolish things of this world to shame the wise. The "S" is for Son of God-- the first fruit among many brethren, the One Who went before us so He could produce everything God was in us. And the "T" represents the totality of what He did for us-- everything from justification to redemption, if we will only accept it.
The "M" stands for the one symbol you never hear too much about, but is most important: Mary, the one chosen to be Jesus' mother. She was not perfect, but she was willing to do the will of the Father, no matter how hard it might be. The "A" is for ALL-- He came for Anyone who will accept the sacrifice He came to make. And finally, the "S" represents Savior" -- He's not just a good man who lived, but The One Who came to do what no-one else could possibly do: save us from all sin.
As you celebrate this special day, let these things make Christmas special for you and your family. Merry CHRISTmas to all!
Prayer: Father, I will never stop thanking You for the wonderful gift of Jesus. Had He not come, my soul would be lost. May my life bring You joy for the rest of my days. Happy Birthday, Jesus! Amen.
Redemption's Birth!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 40
Memory Verse: Ps. 40:3
Of all the things this season represents, the one we often forget is "redemption". Redemption is defined as deliverance, or rescue. It's also defined as atonement for guilt. More importantly, redemption is defined as recovery by payment. Yes! Jesus was born miraculously in order to die sacrificially. He is the payment for the recovery of God's people.
Jesus paid the ultimate price for our redemption. Therefore, being able to relive the story of His birth yields awesome perspective and meaning for the rest of His life. It's like being able to see your child's life in its entirety, just before the doctor tells you you're pregnant. Anyway, that true perspective we have makes it easier to turn away from the world and follow Him. Psalms 40:4 says "Blessed are you who give yourselves over to God, turn your backs on the world's "sure thing" ignore what the world worships. This verse is special because at the time of Jesus' birth, the world was worshipping all kinds of things, including King Herod. But when people found out about Mary's baby boy, their hearts began to change. It's so good to know He's still changing hearts today.
Give yourself totally to God this holiday season. When you do, the blessings of the Lord will soon follow. Part of the blessing is His promise to never leave you or forsake you. He's already demonstrated His undying love by leaving His throne and coming to Earth to be born in a barn. All we have to do is turn away from "for sure" (yeah right) things of the world, and give ourselves to Him.
Prayer: Father, Christmas really comes every day of the year for me. Every time I think of what You did through Jesus, my heart rejoices. May I be an example of Your redemption for the whole world to see -- not just during this season, but every day of the year. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 40
Memory Verse: Ps. 40:3
Of all the things this season represents, the one we often forget is "redemption". Redemption is defined as deliverance, or rescue. It's also defined as atonement for guilt. More importantly, redemption is defined as recovery by payment. Yes! Jesus was born miraculously in order to die sacrificially. He is the payment for the recovery of God's people.
Jesus paid the ultimate price for our redemption. Therefore, being able to relive the story of His birth yields awesome perspective and meaning for the rest of His life. It's like being able to see your child's life in its entirety, just before the doctor tells you you're pregnant. Anyway, that true perspective we have makes it easier to turn away from the world and follow Him. Psalms 40:4 says "Blessed are you who give yourselves over to God, turn your backs on the world's "sure thing" ignore what the world worships. This verse is special because at the time of Jesus' birth, the world was worshipping all kinds of things, including King Herod. But when people found out about Mary's baby boy, their hearts began to change. It's so good to know He's still changing hearts today.
Give yourself totally to God this holiday season. When you do, the blessings of the Lord will soon follow. Part of the blessing is His promise to never leave you or forsake you. He's already demonstrated His undying love by leaving His throne and coming to Earth to be born in a barn. All we have to do is turn away from "for sure" (yeah right) things of the world, and give ourselves to Him.
Prayer: Father, Christmas really comes every day of the year for me. Every time I think of what You did through Jesus, my heart rejoices. May I be an example of Your redemption for the whole world to see -- not just during this season, but every day of the year. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day (Christmas Edition)!
Wednesday December 22, 2010
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
and a Happy New Year!
As you get ready for Christmas, pause to give attention to the reason for the season. Sorry for the cliche', but you know what I mean. One of the things mentioned in God's Word was peace on Earth. For peace to be released in the Earth, it has to first be released in the individual. So, find peace today. Let there be peace among your family members. Through peace, you'll encounter the love and forgiveness this wonderful season brings. The Word also says goodwill toward men, which essentially means 'toward men who do goodwill'. If the goodwill of the Lord is driving you, God's peace will follow you.
Our assignment is to share Jesus' love with a certain family member. While gifts are being opened, share Jesus' story and questions that provoke thought. In the longrun, they'll appreciate you....and God will truly bless you.
Happy HUMP Day....and Merry Christmas!
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
We wish you a Merry Christmas,
and a Happy New Year!
As you get ready for Christmas, pause to give attention to the reason for the season. Sorry for the cliche', but you know what I mean. One of the things mentioned in God's Word was peace on Earth. For peace to be released in the Earth, it has to first be released in the individual. So, find peace today. Let there be peace among your family members. Through peace, you'll encounter the love and forgiveness this wonderful season brings. The Word also says goodwill toward men, which essentially means 'toward men who do goodwill'. If the goodwill of the Lord is driving you, God's peace will follow you.
Our assignment is to share Jesus' love with a certain family member. While gifts are being opened, share Jesus' story and questions that provoke thought. In the longrun, they'll appreciate you....and God will truly bless you.
Happy HUMP Day....and Merry Christmas!
Let It Be Unto Me...
Tuesday, December 21st, 2010
Today's Passage: Luke 2:26-37
Memory Verse: Luke 2: 37
My kids and I were having a conversation about how Abraham got to be called the father of faith. I explained to them that it had to do with his decision to follow God without having physical evidence that what He promised would come to pass. God simply told him to move to a place he'd never been to before. In return for his obedience, God would make him a great nation, giving him descendants as many as the grains of sand on the seashore.
While thinking about that, including the fact that Abraham never lived to see his promise come to pass, I began to wonder what it is about faith that moves God so much. I came to the conclusion that it's the element of trust in Him that every solid relationship must have. It reaffirms that we 're resting in the fact that He knows what He's doing with our lives. No wonder He tells the totally devoted person, "According to YOUR faith be it unto you" when they make the statement both Abraham -- and Mary --made.
We already know the conditions surrounding Mary's faith step. Nowadays, having a baby out of wedlock is not that big a deal in our society. But Mary knew she stood in danger of being an outcast, or possibly even stoned for this. Yet she said, "Let it be unto me as You have said.". That single act of faith, using our words to show our devotion in spite of our circumstances, moves God more than any efforts to make it up to Him through sacrifices.
As you and I celebrate this glorious Christmas season, let's keep our focus on the fact that God has already thought out our future. He's asked us to trust Him and stand in faith, willing to go or stay wherever He's asked us to, clinging to Him the whole time and not being moved from our devotion to Him. Abraham, Mary, and so many others will forever be remembered for believing God. Will you?
Prayer: Father, I'm so grateful that You won't relent until You have my total devotion. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart line up with Your will for my life. May I always say with the same trust in You, "Let it be unto me according to Your Word."
Today's Passage: Luke 2:26-37
Memory Verse: Luke 2: 37
My kids and I were having a conversation about how Abraham got to be called the father of faith. I explained to them that it had to do with his decision to follow God without having physical evidence that what He promised would come to pass. God simply told him to move to a place he'd never been to before. In return for his obedience, God would make him a great nation, giving him descendants as many as the grains of sand on the seashore.
While thinking about that, including the fact that Abraham never lived to see his promise come to pass, I began to wonder what it is about faith that moves God so much. I came to the conclusion that it's the element of trust in Him that every solid relationship must have. It reaffirms that we 're resting in the fact that He knows what He's doing with our lives. No wonder He tells the totally devoted person, "According to YOUR faith be it unto you" when they make the statement both Abraham -- and Mary --made.
We already know the conditions surrounding Mary's faith step. Nowadays, having a baby out of wedlock is not that big a deal in our society. But Mary knew she stood in danger of being an outcast, or possibly even stoned for this. Yet she said, "Let it be unto me as You have said.". That single act of faith, using our words to show our devotion in spite of our circumstances, moves God more than any efforts to make it up to Him through sacrifices.
As you and I celebrate this glorious Christmas season, let's keep our focus on the fact that God has already thought out our future. He's asked us to trust Him and stand in faith, willing to go or stay wherever He's asked us to, clinging to Him the whole time and not being moved from our devotion to Him. Abraham, Mary, and so many others will forever be remembered for believing God. Will you?
Prayer: Father, I'm so grateful that You won't relent until You have my total devotion. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart line up with Your will for my life. May I always say with the same trust in You, "Let it be unto me according to Your Word."
SIGNS
Monday, December 20th, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 53
Memory Verse: Luke 2: 11-12
There's no event in the Bible that shows how specific God is like the birth of Jesus. God knows that the only way humanity would be prepared for His coming is to communicate the fact through other humans. Let's face it, Folks: as much as we say we want to see miracles, how many of us wouldn't simply lose our minds if an angel appeared to us? I can therefore understand why God chose to speak individually to the ones He trusted with His message.
So let's rewind to the prophet Isaiah. Centuries before Jesus even came on the scene, God made known to His chosen people that a Man would come to redeem them from their sins. It may have seemed like mumbo jumbo to those who weren't paying attention, but if you look more closely, you will see that the description of Jesus' death is a strict parallel with what Isaiah describes.
Fast forward to when Jesus was born. As he lies sleeping in that manger, first shepherds, then wise men come to worship him, as if from out of nowhere. How did they know He was there? Of course, God sent His angels to let them know where to look. Next, watch what happens when Mary and Joseph take Him to be dedicated in the temple. All of a sudden, it seems like people start coming out of the woodwork to confirm that this is the Christ, the Lord of the whole earth. If Mary wasn't sure before that she was carrying the Child of God, each messenger brought further confirmation.
Today, let your heart be at rest that if the Lord has called you, He'll get every set of instructions to you that affect your destiny. Whatever He can't get TO you personally, He'll send someone through other means. Always be on the lookout for signs. They're everywhere you care to look.
Prayer: Father, You went to great lengths to seal my destiny. Thank You for Your faithfulness in completing the process of salvation. I ask You now to use me however You see fit, everywhere and anytime to spread the message of love to Your children. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Isaiah 53
Memory Verse: Luke 2: 11-12
There's no event in the Bible that shows how specific God is like the birth of Jesus. God knows that the only way humanity would be prepared for His coming is to communicate the fact through other humans. Let's face it, Folks: as much as we say we want to see miracles, how many of us wouldn't simply lose our minds if an angel appeared to us? I can therefore understand why God chose to speak individually to the ones He trusted with His message.
So let's rewind to the prophet Isaiah. Centuries before Jesus even came on the scene, God made known to His chosen people that a Man would come to redeem them from their sins. It may have seemed like mumbo jumbo to those who weren't paying attention, but if you look more closely, you will see that the description of Jesus' death is a strict parallel with what Isaiah describes.
Fast forward to when Jesus was born. As he lies sleeping in that manger, first shepherds, then wise men come to worship him, as if from out of nowhere. How did they know He was there? Of course, God sent His angels to let them know where to look. Next, watch what happens when Mary and Joseph take Him to be dedicated in the temple. All of a sudden, it seems like people start coming out of the woodwork to confirm that this is the Christ, the Lord of the whole earth. If Mary wasn't sure before that she was carrying the Child of God, each messenger brought further confirmation.
Today, let your heart be at rest that if the Lord has called you, He'll get every set of instructions to you that affect your destiny. Whatever He can't get TO you personally, He'll send someone through other means. Always be on the lookout for signs. They're everywhere you care to look.
Prayer: Father, You went to great lengths to seal my destiny. Thank You for Your faithfulness in completing the process of salvation. I ask You now to use me however You see fit, everywhere and anytime to spread the message of love to Your children. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prayers That Prevail
Sunday December 19, 2010
Father, I'll always call on You because You are my Rock. Please don't be silent to me. Your silence would make me like those who fall in pits. Hear my cry Lord. And as I cry, I'll lift my hands toward Your Holy sanctuary.
Lord, You are my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in You. Therefore I will rejoice, and with a song I'll sing praise to You. You are the saving refuge of Your anointed. So save us God. Save us from ourselves. Save us from our enemies. And save us from eternal seperation from You. Bless Your inheritance. Shepherd us until our days have passed. Then bring us into communion with You....in Jesus' name. Amen
Prayer based on Psalms 28
Father, I'll always call on You because You are my Rock. Please don't be silent to me. Your silence would make me like those who fall in pits. Hear my cry Lord. And as I cry, I'll lift my hands toward Your Holy sanctuary.
Lord, You are my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in You. Therefore I will rejoice, and with a song I'll sing praise to You. You are the saving refuge of Your anointed. So save us God. Save us from ourselves. Save us from our enemies. And save us from eternal seperation from You. Bless Your inheritance. Shepherd us until our days have passed. Then bring us into communion with You....in Jesus' name. Amen
Prayer based on Psalms 28
Bring On The Gifts!
Saturday December 18, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalms 96:8-10
Memory Verse: John 3:16
Bring gifts and celebrate, bow before the beauty of God. Then to your knees--everyone worship! Get out the message--God rules! He put the world on a firm foundation; He treats everyone fair and square.
Psalms 96:8-10
Hello Family and Friends! I pray the joy and peace of this holiday season surrounds you on every side. Yassah and I love this time of year. The atmosphere is usually filled with love, forgiveness, and restoration. Family members who haven't spoken to each other all year, find a way to get together for Christmas. And for humanity, that's always a good thing.
To be honest with you, very few people know what Christmas is all about. Yea, yea I know we know WHO it's about. But do we really know WHAT it's about. Christmas is about a gift. Yes, a gift. John, in chapter 3 verse 16, wrote "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son....". See, a gift is something given voluntarily without payment in return. So giving a gift tells the receiver of that gift they are chosen. It says they're special, singled out, or sanctified (set apart). So when God gave Jesus to the world, it said we matter to Him. It said we had been set apart. Don't you feel special?
With all that being said, God deserves gifts too. He deserves to be singled out. The world is full of copy cats and wanna be's. So God needs His people to bring fame to His name. So let's bring gifts of hospitality, singing, and love to celebrate Him. There's nothing more wonderful than being in an atmosphere where everyone is displaying their gifts and every joint is supplying. Then, as one, let's bow before the beauty of God. His very essence takes our breath away. There's no one like Him....no one. The fun begins when we fall to our knees and worship. Yes! Time to take this thing to another level. This kind of worship leaves the flesh behind. There are no worries, no sickness, and no burdens here. It's all relationship. He's showing His face and we're down on ours. It's the perfect depiction of servant and King. Now let's get the message out--God rules! How do we do it? We do it with character. We do it with showing the love of Jesus in our community. It can't be accomplished by religious routine. It has to be done through the devotion and praise of the kingdom. Let's shout it together Td Nation....You rule God....You rule.
Finally, as you present gifts to your loved ones, bring God's gifts to Him. Continue to honor Him with your life. He's been good to us all year long. So let's take time to acknowledge Him. Afterall, it's His favorite time of year too.
Prayer: Father I thank You for the great gift you gave. I wouldn't be where I am today without Jesus. Because You gave so much, I commit myself to give my gifts to You. If You want me to sing, I'll sing. If You want me to dance, I'll dance. Whatever You want, it's Yours. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalms 96:8-10
Memory Verse: John 3:16
Bring gifts and celebrate, bow before the beauty of God. Then to your knees--everyone worship! Get out the message--God rules! He put the world on a firm foundation; He treats everyone fair and square.
Psalms 96:8-10
Hello Family and Friends! I pray the joy and peace of this holiday season surrounds you on every side. Yassah and I love this time of year. The atmosphere is usually filled with love, forgiveness, and restoration. Family members who haven't spoken to each other all year, find a way to get together for Christmas. And for humanity, that's always a good thing.
To be honest with you, very few people know what Christmas is all about. Yea, yea I know we know WHO it's about. But do we really know WHAT it's about. Christmas is about a gift. Yes, a gift. John, in chapter 3 verse 16, wrote "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son....". See, a gift is something given voluntarily without payment in return. So giving a gift tells the receiver of that gift they are chosen. It says they're special, singled out, or sanctified (set apart). So when God gave Jesus to the world, it said we matter to Him. It said we had been set apart. Don't you feel special?
With all that being said, God deserves gifts too. He deserves to be singled out. The world is full of copy cats and wanna be's. So God needs His people to bring fame to His name. So let's bring gifts of hospitality, singing, and love to celebrate Him. There's nothing more wonderful than being in an atmosphere where everyone is displaying their gifts and every joint is supplying. Then, as one, let's bow before the beauty of God. His very essence takes our breath away. There's no one like Him....no one. The fun begins when we fall to our knees and worship. Yes! Time to take this thing to another level. This kind of worship leaves the flesh behind. There are no worries, no sickness, and no burdens here. It's all relationship. He's showing His face and we're down on ours. It's the perfect depiction of servant and King. Now let's get the message out--God rules! How do we do it? We do it with character. We do it with showing the love of Jesus in our community. It can't be accomplished by religious routine. It has to be done through the devotion and praise of the kingdom. Let's shout it together Td Nation....You rule God....You rule.
Finally, as you present gifts to your loved ones, bring God's gifts to Him. Continue to honor Him with your life. He's been good to us all year long. So let's take time to acknowledge Him. Afterall, it's His favorite time of year too.
Prayer: Father I thank You for the great gift you gave. I wouldn't be where I am today without Jesus. Because You gave so much, I commit myself to give my gifts to You. If You want me to sing, I'll sing. If You want me to dance, I'll dance. Whatever You want, it's Yours. In Jesus' name. Amen.
True Gifts
Friday, December 17th, 2010
Today's Passage: Luke Chapter 2
Memory Verse: Luke 2:51-52
During the Christmas holidays, you can tell every time you watch television that the focus is to get as much as you can. For those who have problems with their finances, this could be a very depressing time. But if you take a step back, you'll find that you've already been given gifts that can't be bought or found under a tree.
Sitting at my children's middle school band Christmas program last night reminded me of my real gifts. I allowed my mind to go back to the times of carrying and bringing forth my babies. In between the discomfort, swelling feet, and unbelievable feeling of tightness as each child grew larger, there were moments of pure ecstasy-- every time I felt them kick, and when I tried to imagine what each of them would look like, sound like, and be like.
My firstborn, Derris, is such an amazing young man for one so young. He is so serious about his gifting of music that he spends hours perfecting his craft. I can already see what a mighty man of God he's going to be. My middle child and only daughter is beautiful, smart, and so funny she's always got something witty to say. Just like her father, she's got such a gifting for singing, writing music, and acting. What a blessing she's going to be in children's ministry. Then there's the baby, my Landon. He's the affectionate one, the one who can read and play anything digital. But he also loves the Lord, loves music, and will be the one to design Christian video games because he's already declaring that God has one million points while the devil has o zero.
I wonder if what Mary felt was similar to these motherly feelings of mine. All I know is she willingly nurtured her Gift, even giving Him up for all of us because she knew God had a Plan.
So no matter how hard times get, I hold up my gifts and treasure the greatness God has manifested in us. I open my true gifts everyday, and give God so much praise for giving them to me. As you go about your day, pull out your own gifts and appreciate the Plan God has for them through you.
Prayer: Father, only You can see far into the future. You know what You've placed inside each of Your children to carry out Your purpose on this earth. May we never allow the shallow gifts of this world's riches to cheapen the true gifts that will remain with us for eternity. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Luke Chapter 2
Memory Verse: Luke 2:51-52
During the Christmas holidays, you can tell every time you watch television that the focus is to get as much as you can. For those who have problems with their finances, this could be a very depressing time. But if you take a step back, you'll find that you've already been given gifts that can't be bought or found under a tree.
Sitting at my children's middle school band Christmas program last night reminded me of my real gifts. I allowed my mind to go back to the times of carrying and bringing forth my babies. In between the discomfort, swelling feet, and unbelievable feeling of tightness as each child grew larger, there were moments of pure ecstasy-- every time I felt them kick, and when I tried to imagine what each of them would look like, sound like, and be like.
My firstborn, Derris, is such an amazing young man for one so young. He is so serious about his gifting of music that he spends hours perfecting his craft. I can already see what a mighty man of God he's going to be. My middle child and only daughter is beautiful, smart, and so funny she's always got something witty to say. Just like her father, she's got such a gifting for singing, writing music, and acting. What a blessing she's going to be in children's ministry. Then there's the baby, my Landon. He's the affectionate one, the one who can read and play anything digital. But he also loves the Lord, loves music, and will be the one to design Christian video games because he's already declaring that God has one million points while the devil has o zero.
I wonder if what Mary felt was similar to these motherly feelings of mine. All I know is she willingly nurtured her Gift, even giving Him up for all of us because she knew God had a Plan.
So no matter how hard times get, I hold up my gifts and treasure the greatness God has manifested in us. I open my true gifts everyday, and give God so much praise for giving them to me. As you go about your day, pull out your own gifts and appreciate the Plan God has for them through you.
Prayer: Father, only You can see far into the future. You know what You've placed inside each of Your children to carry out Your purpose on this earth. May we never allow the shallow gifts of this world's riches to cheapen the true gifts that will remain with us for eternity. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Choose a Side!
Thursday, December 15th, 2010
Today's Passage: Genesis 19:1-26
Memory Verse: 1 John 2:18
Last night, we had an opportunity to minister to ALM about allegiance. For those of you who may not have had a chance to hear it, here's some of what was ministered. We looked at the story of how Lot and his family were miraculously delivered from the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. We saw how Lot and his wife were so different in where each one's allegiance lay that God had to step in and bring separation.
Lot's attitude towards the deep wickedness taking place in Sodom and Gomorrah was one of dread and hatred; his wife on the other hand didn't see anything wrong with it. Whereas he made a sincere effort to separate himself from that wickedness, she was comfortable around it. I believe Lot hesitated to leave out of fear for the loved ones he was leaving behind, but her hesitation was a demonstration of her longing to continue living in that atmosphere.
Once Lot was out, he obeyed the angels and did not look back, but she turned around and looked longingly. I believe she was immediately turned into a pillar of salt because she had communicated her preference for bondage rather than freedom. What's so significant about the salt, you may ask? I asked the same thing. The Lord told me that she was do disconnected from anything to do with the kingdom of Light that she was rendered incapable of representing that kingdom.
Doesn't God tell us that we are the salt of the earth? Salt should preserve and heal. But if the very thing in us that should bring life to us and others around us is dead, it's good for nothing but to be destroyed. So our prayer this morning is that God keep us holy, sober and watchful over what we should be doing in this season. We must ask Him to keep us from falling into the trap of the deceitful anti-Christ spirit. ANYTHING that exalts itself against the knowledge of God is anti-Christ. Our allegiance WILL be tried by the enemy. Let's be found faithful to the One True God.
Prayer: Father, my prayer today is first one of praise that You are willing to come to wherever I am and get me out of any bondage I may find myself in. Then I want to ask You to keep my mind stayed on You. Help me never to fall into the trap of going through the motions rather than knowing and loving You for real. I give You my life once again, all over again, to be used for total devotion to You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Genesis 19:1-26
Memory Verse: 1 John 2:18
Last night, we had an opportunity to minister to ALM about allegiance. For those of you who may not have had a chance to hear it, here's some of what was ministered. We looked at the story of how Lot and his family were miraculously delivered from the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. We saw how Lot and his wife were so different in where each one's allegiance lay that God had to step in and bring separation.
Lot's attitude towards the deep wickedness taking place in Sodom and Gomorrah was one of dread and hatred; his wife on the other hand didn't see anything wrong with it. Whereas he made a sincere effort to separate himself from that wickedness, she was comfortable around it. I believe Lot hesitated to leave out of fear for the loved ones he was leaving behind, but her hesitation was a demonstration of her longing to continue living in that atmosphere.
Once Lot was out, he obeyed the angels and did not look back, but she turned around and looked longingly. I believe she was immediately turned into a pillar of salt because she had communicated her preference for bondage rather than freedom. What's so significant about the salt, you may ask? I asked the same thing. The Lord told me that she was do disconnected from anything to do with the kingdom of Light that she was rendered incapable of representing that kingdom.
Doesn't God tell us that we are the salt of the earth? Salt should preserve and heal. But if the very thing in us that should bring life to us and others around us is dead, it's good for nothing but to be destroyed. So our prayer this morning is that God keep us holy, sober and watchful over what we should be doing in this season. We must ask Him to keep us from falling into the trap of the deceitful anti-Christ spirit. ANYTHING that exalts itself against the knowledge of God is anti-Christ. Our allegiance WILL be tried by the enemy. Let's be found faithful to the One True God.
Prayer: Father, my prayer today is first one of praise that You are willing to come to wherever I am and get me out of any bondage I may find myself in. Then I want to ask You to keep my mind stayed on You. Help me never to fall into the trap of going through the motions rather than knowing and loving You for real. I give You my life once again, all over again, to be used for total devotion to You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day
Wednesday December 15, 2010
Ever had the chance to visit your child's school on a cold wintery morning? If you ever have the chance,take a moment and count how many children there are without coats, or have coats that aren't big enough. It's going to take longer than a moment because there'll be way too many to count.
Our mission is to contact the administrators of our area schools and ask if coats can be donated for the students who need them. If you have coats that your kids have outgrown, donate them to the school. If you do, one of God's children will be able to come to school without being cold. As you know, being a blessing to children is being a blessing to God Himself. He expects us to open our hearts to them whenever they're in need. So make this holiday season special. Give a gift of love in the form of a coat to a child who needs it. The flow of love will warm you.....even in this weather.
Ever had the chance to visit your child's school on a cold wintery morning? If you ever have the chance,take a moment and count how many children there are without coats, or have coats that aren't big enough. It's going to take longer than a moment because there'll be way too many to count.
Our mission is to contact the administrators of our area schools and ask if coats can be donated for the students who need them. If you have coats that your kids have outgrown, donate them to the school. If you do, one of God's children will be able to come to school without being cold. As you know, being a blessing to children is being a blessing to God Himself. He expects us to open our hearts to them whenever they're in need. So make this holiday season special. Give a gift of love in the form of a coat to a child who needs it. The flow of love will warm you.....even in this weather.
It's Not Where You're From....
Tuesday December 14, 2010
Today's Passage: Luke 2:4-7
Memory Verse: Luke 2:6
People often ask whether anything good can come out of the town we live in. Most of the time, their motives for asking usually indicate the answer is nothing. There seems to be a mark of failure or ignorance on anyone who dare say they're associated with this town. Now let's be real, there's plenty of evidence that shows this town is way behind in economic growth, social relevance, and acceptance of cultural diversity. People from bigger cities visit here and marvel at how we seem to find living here possible. But if greatness is in you, does it really matter where you were born? And does it really matter what your harvest field is?
I'm reminded of Jesus' birth. I think it's clear that Jesus had greatness in Him. His purpose for coming was to save us and restore us back to the heart of the Father. But look at where greatness was born. The Bible says "Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, in Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife who was with child. So it was, while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." No room? No room for the person coming to save us?
Some of you were born in some harsh circumstances. Maybe your parents didn't have money, or you were conceived in a relationship that was forbidden. Maybe you were born in a town that was low economically, or where std's were acquired more easily than IRA's. If so, it doesn't matter. God had you born and/or placed there for a purpose. Just because Jesus was born in a barn doesn't mean He was destined to be doomed. He didn't let His begining, dictate His ending. He spent His life forging ahead towards God's plan. So I ask you, can anything good come out of this town? I say yes because......you did!
Prayer: Father I thank You for allowing me into Your presence. You are my hope and my peace. As I seek communion with You, show Me Your plan for me. Show me where You want me to go. Point me toward the place where You want Your glory on display. I'm anxious to be Your handy work. Use me as You see fit, no matter where I'm from. In Jesus' name....Amen
Today's Passage: Luke 2:4-7
Memory Verse: Luke 2:6
People often ask whether anything good can come out of the town we live in. Most of the time, their motives for asking usually indicate the answer is nothing. There seems to be a mark of failure or ignorance on anyone who dare say they're associated with this town. Now let's be real, there's plenty of evidence that shows this town is way behind in economic growth, social relevance, and acceptance of cultural diversity. People from bigger cities visit here and marvel at how we seem to find living here possible. But if greatness is in you, does it really matter where you were born? And does it really matter what your harvest field is?
I'm reminded of Jesus' birth. I think it's clear that Jesus had greatness in Him. His purpose for coming was to save us and restore us back to the heart of the Father. But look at where greatness was born. The Bible says "Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, in Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife who was with child. So it was, while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." No room? No room for the person coming to save us?
Some of you were born in some harsh circumstances. Maybe your parents didn't have money, or you were conceived in a relationship that was forbidden. Maybe you were born in a town that was low economically, or where std's were acquired more easily than IRA's. If so, it doesn't matter. God had you born and/or placed there for a purpose. Just because Jesus was born in a barn doesn't mean He was destined to be doomed. He didn't let His begining, dictate His ending. He spent His life forging ahead towards God's plan. So I ask you, can anything good come out of this town? I say yes because......you did!
Prayer: Father I thank You for allowing me into Your presence. You are my hope and my peace. As I seek communion with You, show Me Your plan for me. Show me where You want me to go. Point me toward the place where You want Your glory on display. I'm anxious to be Your handy work. Use me as You see fit, no matter where I'm from. In Jesus' name....Amen
What Would You Do?
Monday, December 13th, 2010
Today's Passage: Luke 1: 26-38
Memory Verse: Luke 1: 37-38
She was a young girl, probably no older than sixteen. Promised to a young man named Joseph, she had the safe, secure life of a Jewess. Until THE CALL came. What would you do if you were going about your life the same as usual, and the Creator of the universe stopped you in your tracks to request your service? Actually, not request at all, but demand. Even though she could have totally refused, she didn't.
But you and I both know she had a few seconds to stop and count the cost this demand would require of her. Carry a child when I haven't yet known a man? She asked the angel. I would have asked the same. But when he told her that the Holy Spirit would overshadow her and make possible something that would normally be impossible to human beings, she stopped her fretting and knew by faith that God had already thought of everything that needed to be done in order to bring this thing to pass.
So when the whispers began, and people around her started saying things (as they will do when they don't understand what God has told you), she was able to hold her head high. The deep confidence that God gives us in the words, "I know what I'm doing" allowed her to carry that baby as he grew strong inside her. If she didn't know anything else, the promise of God's plan to use her was her lifeline. Isn't it also awesome that God manifested Himself to all the people who needed to know just enough to agree on being a part? Joseph, the fiance, had to be let in on his role in the plan so that he could agree to marry her.
Every year that we celebrate this wonderful story, we rejoice at how great God is for deciding to trust a human being with His Son. But I don't think we really grasp how important Mary and Joseph were in the whole scheme of things. They had to come into agreement with being ridiculed, scorned, possibly even rejected for not following the traditions of the day. That's why their simple "yes" meant more than anything else they could've told the Lord when their lives were required of them.
As you arise and begin your day, think about what your response will be when the Lord calls you. Have you counted the cost yet? Have you added up the fact that the Father has already seen the end from the beginning, and knows what it'll take to put each piece of the puzzle together? He really does know what He's doing. Why don't you let Him use you today?
Prayer: Father, every time I read this story, I realize that Your call on my life is just as important as what You called Mary and Joseph to do. You require a sacrificial walk, completely focused on being totally devoted to Your will and plan for my life. I ask today that You prepare me the way you did them. Let me daily walk in Your grace, knowing that nothing is a surprise to You. May my "yes" bring the fulfillment of everything needed for the furthuring of Your kingdom on this earth. In Jesus' precious Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Luke 1: 26-38
Memory Verse: Luke 1: 37-38
She was a young girl, probably no older than sixteen. Promised to a young man named Joseph, she had the safe, secure life of a Jewess. Until THE CALL came. What would you do if you were going about your life the same as usual, and the Creator of the universe stopped you in your tracks to request your service? Actually, not request at all, but demand. Even though she could have totally refused, she didn't.
But you and I both know she had a few seconds to stop and count the cost this demand would require of her. Carry a child when I haven't yet known a man? She asked the angel. I would have asked the same. But when he told her that the Holy Spirit would overshadow her and make possible something that would normally be impossible to human beings, she stopped her fretting and knew by faith that God had already thought of everything that needed to be done in order to bring this thing to pass.
So when the whispers began, and people around her started saying things (as they will do when they don't understand what God has told you), she was able to hold her head high. The deep confidence that God gives us in the words, "I know what I'm doing" allowed her to carry that baby as he grew strong inside her. If she didn't know anything else, the promise of God's plan to use her was her lifeline. Isn't it also awesome that God manifested Himself to all the people who needed to know just enough to agree on being a part? Joseph, the fiance, had to be let in on his role in the plan so that he could agree to marry her.
Every year that we celebrate this wonderful story, we rejoice at how great God is for deciding to trust a human being with His Son. But I don't think we really grasp how important Mary and Joseph were in the whole scheme of things. They had to come into agreement with being ridiculed, scorned, possibly even rejected for not following the traditions of the day. That's why their simple "yes" meant more than anything else they could've told the Lord when their lives were required of them.
As you arise and begin your day, think about what your response will be when the Lord calls you. Have you counted the cost yet? Have you added up the fact that the Father has already seen the end from the beginning, and knows what it'll take to put each piece of the puzzle together? He really does know what He's doing. Why don't you let Him use you today?
Prayer: Father, every time I read this story, I realize that Your call on my life is just as important as what You called Mary and Joseph to do. You require a sacrificial walk, completely focused on being totally devoted to Your will and plan for my life. I ask today that You prepare me the way you did them. Let me daily walk in Your grace, knowing that nothing is a surprise to You. May my "yes" bring the fulfillment of everything needed for the furthuring of Your kingdom on this earth. In Jesus' precious Name, Amen.
Sunday Prayer
Sunday, December 12th, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 65
Memory Verse: Ps. 65: 3-4
Father, I thank You today for giving me a heart to want to praise You. The more I see You bless me and others around me, the more You prove Your praiseworthiness. As I arise this morning, I set my heart towards entering Your house with thanksgiving and praise.
The most praiseworthy thing about You, God, is that You are determined to get us where You've ordained us to be. You won't relent until You have all of me. You've gone to great lengths to capture my heart, so here I am. I surrender it willingly, knowing that You paid such a great price to obtain it.
When I look back on the times I failed You, choosing my own selfish desires over Your righteousness, I realize the enemy could have totally destroyed me. But not only did You not let him; You also keep him daily from speaking condemnation over me for the things I did to break Your heart. It's this tender love and kindness that draws me ever closely to Your arms.
May my praise touch Your heart today. May the Words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable only in Your sight. You are my Kinsman Redeemer, and I fall at Your feet in total devotion. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 65
Memory Verse: Ps. 65: 3-4
Father, I thank You today for giving me a heart to want to praise You. The more I see You bless me and others around me, the more You prove Your praiseworthiness. As I arise this morning, I set my heart towards entering Your house with thanksgiving and praise.
The most praiseworthy thing about You, God, is that You are determined to get us where You've ordained us to be. You won't relent until You have all of me. You've gone to great lengths to capture my heart, so here I am. I surrender it willingly, knowing that You paid such a great price to obtain it.
When I look back on the times I failed You, choosing my own selfish desires over Your righteousness, I realize the enemy could have totally destroyed me. But not only did You not let him; You also keep him daily from speaking condemnation over me for the things I did to break Your heart. It's this tender love and kindness that draws me ever closely to Your arms.
May my praise touch Your heart today. May the Words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable only in Your sight. You are my Kinsman Redeemer, and I fall at Your feet in total devotion. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Acknowledge God
Saturday, December 11th, 2010
Today's Passage:
Memory Verse:
Every now and then, I catch a few minutes of a television show called "I Shouldn't Be Alive.". I say a few minutes because I'm not really crazy about watching people defy so many odds and live. Every time I see that show, I marvel at the ways human beings are able to escape death. But something else amazes me even more than the things these people do to stay alive: the way they manage to ignore the fact that Someone, not luck or chance, kept them alive.
One particular episode of this show told the story of a man who had been sky-diving with his friends and ended up in the middle of the ocean. After being stung by jellyfish and treading water for 13 hours, when he thought he was really going to die, along came a log from apparently out of nowhere for him to float on until he was rescued a few hours later. And yet, on the other side of his ordeal, could he not bring himself to acknowledge that the God of the universe found a way to get a log to him in the middle of the ocean?
As irritating as that may seem to us, how many times do we neglect to acknowledge God as the Source of all that we need? How many mornings, noons, and nights do we go without so much as a "Thank, You, Lord" or a "I need You, Lord"? Most times, I think we really believe we can make some moves without Him. Then, when we fall flat on our faces (because the enemy capitalizes on our mistake of leaving God out), we call out to Him, expecting to be rescued.
I love God's promise for today. He says,
Proverbs 3:5 (MSG)
"Trust ME from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for MY voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; I'M the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to ME! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor ME with everything you own; give ME the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent MY discipline; don't sulk under MY loving correction."
If it's the correction we're running from, let's stop selling ourselves short. God's covering comes with that. When we seek Him first, we're saying, "God, show me how to do this the right way. I don't want to do it my way anymore". Watch your life change as you change the way you acknowledge the Father.
Prayer: Father, I repent for neglecting to acknowledge You. Help me seek Your Voice always, for correction as well as for direction. My life belongs to You always. I purpose to acknowledge You first, next, and last --every day that I live. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage:
Memory Verse:
Every now and then, I catch a few minutes of a television show called "I Shouldn't Be Alive.". I say a few minutes because I'm not really crazy about watching people defy so many odds and live. Every time I see that show, I marvel at the ways human beings are able to escape death. But something else amazes me even more than the things these people do to stay alive: the way they manage to ignore the fact that Someone, not luck or chance, kept them alive.
One particular episode of this show told the story of a man who had been sky-diving with his friends and ended up in the middle of the ocean. After being stung by jellyfish and treading water for 13 hours, when he thought he was really going to die, along came a log from apparently out of nowhere for him to float on until he was rescued a few hours later. And yet, on the other side of his ordeal, could he not bring himself to acknowledge that the God of the universe found a way to get a log to him in the middle of the ocean?
As irritating as that may seem to us, how many times do we neglect to acknowledge God as the Source of all that we need? How many mornings, noons, and nights do we go without so much as a "Thank, You, Lord" or a "I need You, Lord"? Most times, I think we really believe we can make some moves without Him. Then, when we fall flat on our faces (because the enemy capitalizes on our mistake of leaving God out), we call out to Him, expecting to be rescued.
I love God's promise for today. He says,
Proverbs 3:5 (MSG)
"Trust ME from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for MY voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; I'M the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to ME! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor ME with everything you own; give ME the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent MY discipline; don't sulk under MY loving correction."
If it's the correction we're running from, let's stop selling ourselves short. God's covering comes with that. When we seek Him first, we're saying, "God, show me how to do this the right way. I don't want to do it my way anymore". Watch your life change as you change the way you acknowledge the Father.
Prayer: Father, I repent for neglecting to acknowledge You. Help me seek Your Voice always, for correction as well as for direction. My life belongs to You always. I purpose to acknowledge You first, next, and last --every day that I live. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
A Reason for Thanksgiving
Friday, December 10th, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 65
Memory Verse: Ps. 65:11
Only a week or so after the season of thanksgiving, and already it seems so hard to focus on things to be thankful about. I can't speak for anyone other than myself, but the time of year that should be the most peaceful and enjoyable starts becoming ho-hum and not-so-jolly. To tell you the truth, I'd love to blame the enemy with his self-centered distractions which make it hard for believers to see and feel the good that God has placed around us. But if you really want to be honest, you'll admit it's our own desire to be served rather than to be servants that influences us to be ungrateful.
You know the kinds of things we complain about. If you have young children, for example, there's always some service that 's in need of being rendered -- laundry to do, food to make, or an ongoing string of cleaning to take care of. If you work outside the home, it's the nine-to-five that seems to keep us so unhappy. After all, the rich and famous never seem to be doing anything. They're always vacationing or doing something glamorous that we never get to do. Not unless something extreme happens to someone we know do we stop to realize how blessed we are all year round.
Can you imagine life without the conveniences many of us take for granted? I'm ashamed to say I've complained to myself quite a few times about having to do the laundry, when all i had to do was walk a few feet to the washing machine. Then I took a trip back to Liberia, where 99 percent of the population still uses washboards and bare hands to wash clothes. Here's the other privilege we're completely ignorant of. While we're looking for ways to get out of going to work, untold numbers there go to work everyday with hopes of only earning a paycheck every 3 or 4 months.
In a country such as Liberia, Christmas is a figment of the imagination. Only the very well-off enjoy basic comforts, while everyone else finds a way to beg, borrow, or steal it from whomever. With such a picture in mind, giving thanks for everything we take so lightly doesn't seem so hard, does it?
Prayer: Father, I want to ask You to forgive me once again for not remembering to thank You for things taken so lightly. I offer You my praise for loving me and keeping me in the safety of your arms. May my heart always be thankful . In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 65
Memory Verse: Ps. 65:11
Only a week or so after the season of thanksgiving, and already it seems so hard to focus on things to be thankful about. I can't speak for anyone other than myself, but the time of year that should be the most peaceful and enjoyable starts becoming ho-hum and not-so-jolly. To tell you the truth, I'd love to blame the enemy with his self-centered distractions which make it hard for believers to see and feel the good that God has placed around us. But if you really want to be honest, you'll admit it's our own desire to be served rather than to be servants that influences us to be ungrateful.
You know the kinds of things we complain about. If you have young children, for example, there's always some service that 's in need of being rendered -- laundry to do, food to make, or an ongoing string of cleaning to take care of. If you work outside the home, it's the nine-to-five that seems to keep us so unhappy. After all, the rich and famous never seem to be doing anything. They're always vacationing or doing something glamorous that we never get to do. Not unless something extreme happens to someone we know do we stop to realize how blessed we are all year round.
Can you imagine life without the conveniences many of us take for granted? I'm ashamed to say I've complained to myself quite a few times about having to do the laundry, when all i had to do was walk a few feet to the washing machine. Then I took a trip back to Liberia, where 99 percent of the population still uses washboards and bare hands to wash clothes. Here's the other privilege we're completely ignorant of. While we're looking for ways to get out of going to work, untold numbers there go to work everyday with hopes of only earning a paycheck every 3 or 4 months.
In a country such as Liberia, Christmas is a figment of the imagination. Only the very well-off enjoy basic comforts, while everyone else finds a way to beg, borrow, or steal it from whomever. With such a picture in mind, giving thanks for everything we take so lightly doesn't seem so hard, does it?
Prayer: Father, I want to ask You to forgive me once again for not remembering to thank You for things taken so lightly. I offer You my praise for loving me and keeping me in the safety of your arms. May my heart always be thankful . In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Silly Rabbit.....
Thursday December 9, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew 25:1-13
Memory Verse: Matthew 24:36
I woke up yesterday morning with the words "you can't fool Me" resonating in my spirit. I was convinced it was the Lord, so I said to myself, "Fool You God, never"! But so often we try to fool Him. It amazes me how many of us think He doesn't see our secret habits, or know our innermost thoughts. There are things we know or have done that could never be put to words, but God knows about them. The devil's greatest trick is making us think if a thing is hidden from the world, it's also hidden from God.
In Matthew chapter 25, Jesus says "God's kingdom is like 10 young virgins who took oil lamps and went out to greet the bridegroom. Of the 10, five were silly (or foolish), and 5 were smart (wise). The silly virgins took lamps, but no extra oil. The smart virgins took jars of oil to feed their lamps. The bridegroom didn't show up when they expected Him, and they all fell asleep. In the middle of the night someone yelled out "He's here! The Bridegroom's here! Go out and greet Him!" The 10 virgins got up and got their lamps ready. The silly virgins said to the smart ones "Our lamps have gone out. Lend us some of your oil." The smart ones said "There might not be enough to go around. Go buy your own." They did. But while they were out buying, the Bridegroom arrived. When everyone who was there to greet Him had gone into the wedding feast, the door was locked". Like the 5 silly virgins, we always try to trick God by doing or bringing just enough. We say to ourselves "We'll be ready for You Jesus because we go to church at least twice a month, or we'll waiting for You Lord by giving that bit of change in our wallets/purses. We get caught up in doing just enough to get by; never bringing enough to the table. Then, as soon as our attention is turned, or as soon as our gaze is removed, He comes. His spirit is felt on the horizon of our lives (maybe through a loved one being sick, or financial crisis, etc) and we then realize we need Him. We need Him, but we havn't brought enough worship, prayer, and time of devotion to access Him.
Always be ready Friends. You never know when He's coming. You never know when you'll be face to face with Him again. Any other lifestyle is just silly don't you think? I mean, can we really fool God? I don't think so. He knows where our hearts are. He knows what and who we're devoted to. I think we fool ourselves by thinking the stuff in our lives can be our lord, but Jesus can still be our Savior. It doesn't work that way Folks. He's either Lord of all, or He's not Lord at all. Some come on, make sure the relationship shows total devotion. It's the only way to truly be ready for Him.
Prayer: Thank You Lord for the chance to be in Your presence. I realize I can't compromise and be devoted to You at the same time. I commit myself to You with hesitation, and the fruit of my life will show that commitment. Be Lord of my life now and forever...in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Matthew 25:1-13
Memory Verse: Matthew 24:36
I woke up yesterday morning with the words "you can't fool Me" resonating in my spirit. I was convinced it was the Lord, so I said to myself, "Fool You God, never"! But so often we try to fool Him. It amazes me how many of us think He doesn't see our secret habits, or know our innermost thoughts. There are things we know or have done that could never be put to words, but God knows about them. The devil's greatest trick is making us think if a thing is hidden from the world, it's also hidden from God.
In Matthew chapter 25, Jesus says "God's kingdom is like 10 young virgins who took oil lamps and went out to greet the bridegroom. Of the 10, five were silly (or foolish), and 5 were smart (wise). The silly virgins took lamps, but no extra oil. The smart virgins took jars of oil to feed their lamps. The bridegroom didn't show up when they expected Him, and they all fell asleep. In the middle of the night someone yelled out "He's here! The Bridegroom's here! Go out and greet Him!" The 10 virgins got up and got their lamps ready. The silly virgins said to the smart ones "Our lamps have gone out. Lend us some of your oil." The smart ones said "There might not be enough to go around. Go buy your own." They did. But while they were out buying, the Bridegroom arrived. When everyone who was there to greet Him had gone into the wedding feast, the door was locked". Like the 5 silly virgins, we always try to trick God by doing or bringing just enough. We say to ourselves "We'll be ready for You Jesus because we go to church at least twice a month, or we'll waiting for You Lord by giving that bit of change in our wallets/purses. We get caught up in doing just enough to get by; never bringing enough to the table. Then, as soon as our attention is turned, or as soon as our gaze is removed, He comes. His spirit is felt on the horizon of our lives (maybe through a loved one being sick, or financial crisis, etc) and we then realize we need Him. We need Him, but we havn't brought enough worship, prayer, and time of devotion to access Him.
Always be ready Friends. You never know when He's coming. You never know when you'll be face to face with Him again. Any other lifestyle is just silly don't you think? I mean, can we really fool God? I don't think so. He knows where our hearts are. He knows what and who we're devoted to. I think we fool ourselves by thinking the stuff in our lives can be our lord, but Jesus can still be our Savior. It doesn't work that way Folks. He's either Lord of all, or He's not Lord at all. Some come on, make sure the relationship shows total devotion. It's the only way to truly be ready for Him.
Prayer: Thank You Lord for the chance to be in Your presence. I realize I can't compromise and be devoted to You at the same time. I commit myself to You with hesitation, and the fruit of my life will show that commitment. Be Lord of my life now and forever...in Jesus' name. Amen.
H.U.M.P. Day!
Wednesday December 8, 2010
Be generous; invest in acts of charity. Charity yields high returns. Don't hoard your goods; spread them around. Be a blessing to others.... (Ecc. 11:1-2 Mess.)
We often find ourselves looking for ways to make more. We want to make more time, make more fun, and yes, make more money. There's nothing wrong with these kinds of ambitions. What gives them a black eye is when God's people consult the world for these strategies. God knows we need resources. He knows it takes money to further His kingdom here on Earth. So we need to release ourselves to want more, but recognize the "more" we seek only comes from Him.
God's word says to be generous. This means He not only wants us to freely share what we have, He wants us to make sure it's enough. Sharing, in its root form means equal or sufficient. So when someone needs something from me, I not only seek to fulfill the need, but I try to make sure it's enough to really bless them. Remember the 5,000 people Jesus fed. He took that kid's lunch and multiplied it. When the kid got his basket back, there was more food in it than what he had given. So yes, the kid had to give at a great sacrificial level, but the return was greater than what he sacrificed. God also said to invest in acts of charity. A friend of mine said the other day we should stop talking about outreach and actually DO something. That was a simple but very profound statement. Because God never told us to invest in "thoughts" of charity, or "plans" of charity. He said invest in "acts" of charity.
Some might say "I don't have much to give". The scripture said don't "hoard your goods". This means God is okay with us giving some of the things we already have. There's something you have that's dispensible to you, but valuable to someone else. Share it. The return would be awesome! To get a blessing this holiday season, you have to be a blessing this holiday season. Happy HUMP Day!
Be generous; invest in acts of charity. Charity yields high returns. Don't hoard your goods; spread them around. Be a blessing to others.... (Ecc. 11:1-2 Mess.)
We often find ourselves looking for ways to make more. We want to make more time, make more fun, and yes, make more money. There's nothing wrong with these kinds of ambitions. What gives them a black eye is when God's people consult the world for these strategies. God knows we need resources. He knows it takes money to further His kingdom here on Earth. So we need to release ourselves to want more, but recognize the "more" we seek only comes from Him.
God's word says to be generous. This means He not only wants us to freely share what we have, He wants us to make sure it's enough. Sharing, in its root form means equal or sufficient. So when someone needs something from me, I not only seek to fulfill the need, but I try to make sure it's enough to really bless them. Remember the 5,000 people Jesus fed. He took that kid's lunch and multiplied it. When the kid got his basket back, there was more food in it than what he had given. So yes, the kid had to give at a great sacrificial level, but the return was greater than what he sacrificed. God also said to invest in acts of charity. A friend of mine said the other day we should stop talking about outreach and actually DO something. That was a simple but very profound statement. Because God never told us to invest in "thoughts" of charity, or "plans" of charity. He said invest in "acts" of charity.
Some might say "I don't have much to give". The scripture said don't "hoard your goods". This means God is okay with us giving some of the things we already have. There's something you have that's dispensible to you, but valuable to someone else. Share it. The return would be awesome! To get a blessing this holiday season, you have to be a blessing this holiday season. Happy HUMP Day!
Test Every Spirit
Tuesday, December 7th, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 John 4:1-6
Memory Verse: 1 John 4:1-3
More and more everyday, I see signs of the enemy drawing his lines in the sand, forcing the army of God to declare their allegiance to Him, or the lack thereof. Just today, a group of young Christian singers made a move to participate in a secular music competition called "Singoff". Okay, I thought, surely they're going to represent the remnant of those who will not bow their knee to the kingdom of darkness. Surely they will send a message to the world that once you've been called by the Most High, nothing else will suffice.
But to my horror, those young people agreed to compromise just so they could get a spot on a show where there was no guarantee of success. So they left their hometown-- encouraged by the pastors and elders of their church -- and set out to study secular music which they had never sung before. My question was, how could it have been so easy to forget everything they stood for all their lives? What happened to God's command never to walk in the counsel of the ungodly? Where was the counsel of the people of God when these young people needed it the most?
The harsh reality is that, in these last days, people of God are going to be enticed by the deceitfulness of worldly fame and fortune. Rather than hold fast to total devotion to the Father, whose reward is righteousness and victory over the evil one, some will stray from the faith, finding it more convenient to accept momentary recognition and pleasures. When those young people stood on that stage, it wasn't our God that they ended up showing devotion to. It was the god of self-love and sexual perversion. Yet another casualty had fallen in the battle for the will of man.
Saints, now is not the time to back down. We must question everything we see in this world where the enemy assumes dominion. According to today's passage, we must test the spirits against the Spirit of God. If those motives don't line up with God's plan and purpose for our lives, we must reject them. There must be no compromise in order to ensure satan's defeat. Arise, soldiers of the Most High God! Let's put on our righteous armor, and stand for what we know to be true. The rewards are eternal.
Prayer: Father, You have given us everything we need to be victorious in this battle. Help us continue to stand and discern every scheme of the enemy to steal our devotion from You. May we always find ourselves at Your feet, where Your love and wisdom abound. We remain totally devoted to You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 John 4:1-6
Memory Verse: 1 John 4:1-3
More and more everyday, I see signs of the enemy drawing his lines in the sand, forcing the army of God to declare their allegiance to Him, or the lack thereof. Just today, a group of young Christian singers made a move to participate in a secular music competition called "Singoff". Okay, I thought, surely they're going to represent the remnant of those who will not bow their knee to the kingdom of darkness. Surely they will send a message to the world that once you've been called by the Most High, nothing else will suffice.
But to my horror, those young people agreed to compromise just so they could get a spot on a show where there was no guarantee of success. So they left their hometown-- encouraged by the pastors and elders of their church -- and set out to study secular music which they had never sung before. My question was, how could it have been so easy to forget everything they stood for all their lives? What happened to God's command never to walk in the counsel of the ungodly? Where was the counsel of the people of God when these young people needed it the most?
The harsh reality is that, in these last days, people of God are going to be enticed by the deceitfulness of worldly fame and fortune. Rather than hold fast to total devotion to the Father, whose reward is righteousness and victory over the evil one, some will stray from the faith, finding it more convenient to accept momentary recognition and pleasures. When those young people stood on that stage, it wasn't our God that they ended up showing devotion to. It was the god of self-love and sexual perversion. Yet another casualty had fallen in the battle for the will of man.
Saints, now is not the time to back down. We must question everything we see in this world where the enemy assumes dominion. According to today's passage, we must test the spirits against the Spirit of God. If those motives don't line up with God's plan and purpose for our lives, we must reject them. There must be no compromise in order to ensure satan's defeat. Arise, soldiers of the Most High God! Let's put on our righteous armor, and stand for what we know to be true. The rewards are eternal.
Prayer: Father, You have given us everything we need to be victorious in this battle. Help us continue to stand and discern every scheme of the enemy to steal our devotion from You. May we always find ourselves at Your feet, where Your love and wisdom abound. We remain totally devoted to You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Real-- Or Fake?
Monday, December 6th, 2010
Today's Passage: 2 Peter Chapter 2
Memory Verse: 2 Peter 2:1-2
The other day, there was a news report on television about how many people are now choosing to buy fake trees, which is causing a decline in the sale of real fir trees during the Christmas season. The primary reason for the new trend, of course, is due to financial constraints on the average middle-class family. The real trees have become too expensive for something that will be thrown away after only a month. On the other hand, fake trees are inexpensive, less of a hassle to put up and take down. Some even said they preferred fake trees because they were less likely to catch fire.
I actually have to agree with the argument for the fake tree-- which is why I am not ashamed to say I have one in my living room. But something--no, Someone begins to nudge me and urge me to look deeper than the surface. Just because something is inconvenient and not that easy to maintain, is that reason enough to just abandon it? Come to think of it, choosing ANYTHING fake over something real goes against everything we believe in as Christians.
Please don't get me wrong-- I just told you that I like a fake tree as much as anyone. But the attitude of doing away with what's real just so we can have the counterfeit reflects what is going on in our society today. Slowly but surely, the REAL Christian values that we've always known are being replaced by ideas that promote AntiChrist beliefs, but are disguised as "tolerance" of other faiths. What's even more sobering is that some of these beliefs are being preached from the pulpit of spiritual leaders whom many look up to.
Let me give you an example. When we watch Christian television, we expect that these values will be upheld on that channel, right? Well, that's what I thought, too -- until I saw some advertisements fora Christian matchmaking website for singles that actually encourages believers to step out and find their mates through their own means. All I know is that the Bible is still the One Real thing we'd better not ignore. And we'd certainly better not exchange it for anything that just sounds convenient. Our existence depends on it.
Prayer: Father, in a world where the lines of morality are dissolving at a steady rate, I depend on You to keep me focused on Your ways. I don't want to ever fall into the trap of desiring anything counterfeit instead of You, or Your Word. I love You forever, and will always be totally devoted to You alone. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 2 Peter Chapter 2
Memory Verse: 2 Peter 2:1-2
The other day, there was a news report on television about how many people are now choosing to buy fake trees, which is causing a decline in the sale of real fir trees during the Christmas season. The primary reason for the new trend, of course, is due to financial constraints on the average middle-class family. The real trees have become too expensive for something that will be thrown away after only a month. On the other hand, fake trees are inexpensive, less of a hassle to put up and take down. Some even said they preferred fake trees because they were less likely to catch fire.
I actually have to agree with the argument for the fake tree-- which is why I am not ashamed to say I have one in my living room. But something--no, Someone begins to nudge me and urge me to look deeper than the surface. Just because something is inconvenient and not that easy to maintain, is that reason enough to just abandon it? Come to think of it, choosing ANYTHING fake over something real goes against everything we believe in as Christians.
Please don't get me wrong-- I just told you that I like a fake tree as much as anyone. But the attitude of doing away with what's real just so we can have the counterfeit reflects what is going on in our society today. Slowly but surely, the REAL Christian values that we've always known are being replaced by ideas that promote AntiChrist beliefs, but are disguised as "tolerance" of other faiths. What's even more sobering is that some of these beliefs are being preached from the pulpit of spiritual leaders whom many look up to.
Let me give you an example. When we watch Christian television, we expect that these values will be upheld on that channel, right? Well, that's what I thought, too -- until I saw some advertisements fora Christian matchmaking website for singles that actually encourages believers to step out and find their mates through their own means. All I know is that the Bible is still the One Real thing we'd better not ignore. And we'd certainly better not exchange it for anything that just sounds convenient. Our existence depends on it.
Prayer: Father, in a world where the lines of morality are dissolving at a steady rate, I depend on You to keep me focused on Your ways. I don't want to ever fall into the trap of desiring anything counterfeit instead of You, or Your Word. I love You forever, and will always be totally devoted to You alone. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prayers That Prevail...
Sunday December 5, 2010
Father, as I commit my heart to enter into communion with You, Take rest in me. Be exalted above everything in my life I've put before You. You are higher than my wants, higher than my possessions, and higher than my selfish will. What I mean is, my life is totally Yours. I only exist for Your purpose. My life plan is to live out Your will and direction.
Father I ask for a heart like Yours. I need to love like You love. I want to be free to forgive and restore those who have harmed me. I seek freedom in Your mercy, and shelter in Your love. Make me whole in Your awesome presence. Speaking of Your presence, let my praise invite You into an atmosphere that is welcoming. You are not an intruder. You are the Guest of Honor. I pray You hear Your name being shouted across the world. Let Your praise be loud, let it be long, and let it pierce the ears of Your enemy. Then let our worship to You go to depths unknown. Be crowned by our affection. Be pleased by our heart cries. Know today Lord I am Yours forever. I want You more than the riches of this world. I will pursue You with everything I have. Now bless us oh Lord, as I live for You....in Jesus' name. Amen
Father, as I commit my heart to enter into communion with You, Take rest in me. Be exalted above everything in my life I've put before You. You are higher than my wants, higher than my possessions, and higher than my selfish will. What I mean is, my life is totally Yours. I only exist for Your purpose. My life plan is to live out Your will and direction.
Father I ask for a heart like Yours. I need to love like You love. I want to be free to forgive and restore those who have harmed me. I seek freedom in Your mercy, and shelter in Your love. Make me whole in Your awesome presence. Speaking of Your presence, let my praise invite You into an atmosphere that is welcoming. You are not an intruder. You are the Guest of Honor. I pray You hear Your name being shouted across the world. Let Your praise be loud, let it be long, and let it pierce the ears of Your enemy. Then let our worship to You go to depths unknown. Be crowned by our affection. Be pleased by our heart cries. Know today Lord I am Yours forever. I want You more than the riches of this world. I will pursue You with everything I have. Now bless us oh Lord, as I live for You....in Jesus' name. Amen
Which Image Do You See?
Saturday, December 4th, 2010
Today's Passage: II Corinthians 3: 12-18
Memory Verse: Colossians 1: 15
This time of year, people often have the tendency to look back over their lives and think about what they don't have. No matter how blessed we already are, we still focus entirely on ourselves, making a mad dash to acquire more, more, more. This is how we find ourselves up to our necks in debt, or miserable because our so-called "dreams" haven't yet been realized.
When you really stop and look at things a little more closely, though, you have to be honest with yourself and begin to ask more serious questions. Such as: why am I REALLY here? Was the reason I was put on this earth ONLY to live from day to day, trying to make ends meet? What's the true meaning of this joy some people talk about? How can every believer walk in it?
The answer's in the Book, of course. Bishop always says that God's got this funny idea that it's all about Him. And it is. But He designed it that way because His plan is to teach us selflessness. The crazy thing about it is that the more we focus on God, His ways, and the purpose He has for us that can only be revealed when we open ourselves up to Him, the more we experience fulfillment and concentrate less on things around us.
It's kinda like a mirror. Look into it, and you'll get a picture of what you look like now, compared to what you REALLY want to look like. If you're like me, you'll realize you've got a long way to go in accomplishing that goal. But you don't give up; you simply renew your commitment to keep doing something everyday to get where you want to be. Well, God has given us a Mirror to compare ourselves to. It's His Son, Jesus. The more we look into His beautiful face, we'll keep striving to move closer to what He called us to be so that we can please Him. And when we're focused on Kingdom Business -- representing our Father on this earth -- who'll have time to worry about acquiring more stuff? It'll pale in comparison to who we truly are. And that, my brothers and sisters, is something worth striving for.
Prayer: Father, too many times I use the pages of a magazine as the image of where I should be. I look now into Your Face, and choose to accept Your image of me. My life's goal becomes once again to be like You. Thank You for sending Jesus, the greatest image of grace, mercy, and love that has ever existed. May my life reflect that image for the rest of my days. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: II Corinthians 3: 12-18
Memory Verse: Colossians 1: 15
This time of year, people often have the tendency to look back over their lives and think about what they don't have. No matter how blessed we already are, we still focus entirely on ourselves, making a mad dash to acquire more, more, more. This is how we find ourselves up to our necks in debt, or miserable because our so-called "dreams" haven't yet been realized.
When you really stop and look at things a little more closely, though, you have to be honest with yourself and begin to ask more serious questions. Such as: why am I REALLY here? Was the reason I was put on this earth ONLY to live from day to day, trying to make ends meet? What's the true meaning of this joy some people talk about? How can every believer walk in it?
The answer's in the Book, of course. Bishop always says that God's got this funny idea that it's all about Him. And it is. But He designed it that way because His plan is to teach us selflessness. The crazy thing about it is that the more we focus on God, His ways, and the purpose He has for us that can only be revealed when we open ourselves up to Him, the more we experience fulfillment and concentrate less on things around us.
It's kinda like a mirror. Look into it, and you'll get a picture of what you look like now, compared to what you REALLY want to look like. If you're like me, you'll realize you've got a long way to go in accomplishing that goal. But you don't give up; you simply renew your commitment to keep doing something everyday to get where you want to be. Well, God has given us a Mirror to compare ourselves to. It's His Son, Jesus. The more we look into His beautiful face, we'll keep striving to move closer to what He called us to be so that we can please Him. And when we're focused on Kingdom Business -- representing our Father on this earth -- who'll have time to worry about acquiring more stuff? It'll pale in comparison to who we truly are. And that, my brothers and sisters, is something worth striving for.
Prayer: Father, too many times I use the pages of a magazine as the image of where I should be. I look now into Your Face, and choose to accept Your image of me. My life's goal becomes once again to be like You. Thank You for sending Jesus, the greatest image of grace, mercy, and love that has ever existed. May my life reflect that image for the rest of my days. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Something's Moving!
Friday December 3, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalms 122
Memory Verse: Psalms 57:7
Are you ready? Is your heart prepared for what God's getting ready to pour in? I don't know about you, but I am "amped" up for God. Every encounter I have with Him is showing new revelation. Every Word is filled with new truth. Prepare yourself for His response to everything you've been crying out for these past few days, months, or years.
Let's have a moment of reflection. Inspite of what seems to be going on around us, God has been good to us. We have no reasons to complain. The Lord is truly good and His mercy endures forever. We need to now move on from the "gimme" level of our faith, into anticipation, thanksgiving, and service. God's faithfulness has taught us to stand. Stand because He'll never leave us, nor forsake us. Stand because His favor is better than life. And stand because we will reap if we don't faint. We should also approach Him with anticipation. The anointing that comes into our atmosphere comes with an assignment. It comes to heal, redeem, and restore. If we really trust God and know who He is, it should excite us to come into His presence. David said "I was GLAD when they said to me, let 's go into the house of the Lord. Why was he glad? He was glad because he had an intimate relationship with God. Are you glad on church days? Does it fill you with excitement when you prepare to meet with God?
As Christians, we should not walk around with our heads down. We should walk in confidence because our God is mighty to save. We live in His light and His grace. That alone is enough to get through any problem or situation. Lift up your heads, and be lifted up you everlasting doors. Why, cause the King of Glory will come in. And that's not even the best part. Our King is strong and mighty, and He's mighty in battle. That's right folks, He's no wimp. He can totally take care of business. Love Him with your whole heart. Let Him half control of your life. If you do, you'll win. Search the scriptures and see if He's ever lost a battle. I'm excited folks. God's raining on us in buckets. Get excited. Anticipate His move. He's waiting for you.
Prayer: Father I anxiously await You next move. I'm sensitive to Your presence. I repent for ever taking You for granted. So from now on, I desire to be one with You. There's nothing like Your love. I'll stay with You Lord, forever....in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Psalms 122
Memory Verse: Psalms 57:7
Are you ready? Is your heart prepared for what God's getting ready to pour in? I don't know about you, but I am "amped" up for God. Every encounter I have with Him is showing new revelation. Every Word is filled with new truth. Prepare yourself for His response to everything you've been crying out for these past few days, months, or years.
Let's have a moment of reflection. Inspite of what seems to be going on around us, God has been good to us. We have no reasons to complain. The Lord is truly good and His mercy endures forever. We need to now move on from the "gimme" level of our faith, into anticipation, thanksgiving, and service. God's faithfulness has taught us to stand. Stand because He'll never leave us, nor forsake us. Stand because His favor is better than life. And stand because we will reap if we don't faint. We should also approach Him with anticipation. The anointing that comes into our atmosphere comes with an assignment. It comes to heal, redeem, and restore. If we really trust God and know who He is, it should excite us to come into His presence. David said "I was GLAD when they said to me, let 's go into the house of the Lord. Why was he glad? He was glad because he had an intimate relationship with God. Are you glad on church days? Does it fill you with excitement when you prepare to meet with God?
As Christians, we should not walk around with our heads down. We should walk in confidence because our God is mighty to save. We live in His light and His grace. That alone is enough to get through any problem or situation. Lift up your heads, and be lifted up you everlasting doors. Why, cause the King of Glory will come in. And that's not even the best part. Our King is strong and mighty, and He's mighty in battle. That's right folks, He's no wimp. He can totally take care of business. Love Him with your whole heart. Let Him half control of your life. If you do, you'll win. Search the scriptures and see if He's ever lost a battle. I'm excited folks. God's raining on us in buckets. Get excited. Anticipate His move. He's waiting for you.
Prayer: Father I anxiously await You next move. I'm sensitive to Your presence. I repent for ever taking You for granted. So from now on, I desire to be one with You. There's nothing like Your love. I'll stay with You Lord, forever....in Jesus' name. Amen
Where Your Treasure Is
Thursday, December 2nd, 2010
Today's Passage: Matthew 6:19-24
Memory Verse: Matt. 6:19-21
Okay, be honest now, Lifers. Which ones of you were bold enough to get out there and face Black Friday? I was told that at Wal-mart alone, people had to show up at 11 pm to receive a ticket for certain electronics -- for which, mind you, there was a limited supply. Then, these ticket holders were required to stand in line until 5 am. If you were one of the brave souls to make this journey, hats off to you. You are truly the reason the economy is making a turnaround.
But on a more serious note, how many of us would be willing to admit that pursuing worldly things sometimes seems more achievable than what God is asking us to do? Some of us will stand for hours waiting for a new gizmo to go on sale, or for a new movie to come out. But when worship service runs a little long on Wednesday night or Sunday morning, we find that highly irritating. Furthermore, is it just me, or isn't that a thunderous sea of voices lifted in jubilant praise when our favorite team is victorious? Then how come it's so difficult for us to even lift our hands to praise God?
Today's passage requires us to make sure our priorities are in the right place. When it comes to things that yield instant gratification for us or those we love, do we have our minds already made up that we'll go as far as we need to in order to get what we want? If that is the case, how much energy is left for the things that really count? How much time do we take -- not because we HAVE to, but because we GET to participate in the benefits God provided -- to worship, pray, and spend time with the Father?
As we go about our day, let's remember that where our treasure is, God can tell by how we respond. Without saying a word, our actions will show just how we feel about that thing. Let's ask God to fill us with the desire for Him that money cannot buy, and that moth or rust couldn't steal from us. It may take a while, but as we get to know Who is residing on the inside of us, we'll carry Him like the rich treasure He is in our lives. And that will make all the difference in the world.
Prayer: Father, thank You for revealing to me that You are the most precious treasure that exists in my life. I hide you on the inside of my heart. Help me rise daily to grab hold of You like never before. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Matthew 6:19-24
Memory Verse: Matt. 6:19-21
Okay, be honest now, Lifers. Which ones of you were bold enough to get out there and face Black Friday? I was told that at Wal-mart alone, people had to show up at 11 pm to receive a ticket for certain electronics -- for which, mind you, there was a limited supply. Then, these ticket holders were required to stand in line until 5 am. If you were one of the brave souls to make this journey, hats off to you. You are truly the reason the economy is making a turnaround.
But on a more serious note, how many of us would be willing to admit that pursuing worldly things sometimes seems more achievable than what God is asking us to do? Some of us will stand for hours waiting for a new gizmo to go on sale, or for a new movie to come out. But when worship service runs a little long on Wednesday night or Sunday morning, we find that highly irritating. Furthermore, is it just me, or isn't that a thunderous sea of voices lifted in jubilant praise when our favorite team is victorious? Then how come it's so difficult for us to even lift our hands to praise God?
Today's passage requires us to make sure our priorities are in the right place. When it comes to things that yield instant gratification for us or those we love, do we have our minds already made up that we'll go as far as we need to in order to get what we want? If that is the case, how much energy is left for the things that really count? How much time do we take -- not because we HAVE to, but because we GET to participate in the benefits God provided -- to worship, pray, and spend time with the Father?
As we go about our day, let's remember that where our treasure is, God can tell by how we respond. Without saying a word, our actions will show just how we feel about that thing. Let's ask God to fill us with the desire for Him that money cannot buy, and that moth or rust couldn't steal from us. It may take a while, but as we get to know Who is residing on the inside of us, we'll carry Him like the rich treasure He is in our lives. And that will make all the difference in the world.
Prayer: Father, thank You for revealing to me that You are the most precious treasure that exists in my life. I hide you on the inside of my heart. Help me rise daily to grab hold of You like never before. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
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