Saturday, October 1st, 2011
Today's Passage> 1 Corinthians 2: 6-16
Memory Verse> Matthew 12: 31-32
I've always wondered about the statement that Jesus makes about blaspheming against the Holy Spirit and how no-one who does will be forgiven. As gracious as the God we serve is to forgive all sin, even against Himself, I couldn't figure out why that grace couldn't be extended to those who ignorantly made comments about the Holy Spirit. Then the Lord gave me an awesome revelation that really helped me understand to a tiny extent the extreme importance of the Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the Trinity.
In Matthew 12, the Pharisees were discussing amongst themselves whether Jesus was casting out demons by God, or by satan's power. This was just after He had healed the man who was demon-possessed, blind and mute. The Pharisees were astonished that He was able to call out spirits that did not identify themselves like the others did. How did He know exactly what spirit to cast out? He must have been using demonic powers, since they did not believe He was God's beloved Son. But Jesus reminded them that no house divided itself can stand-- not even in satan's kingdom. But He, Whom God had sent to walk this earth and reveal His power and might, was able to discern things through the Holy Spirit.
Today's passage explains to us that the Holy Spirit is the very extension of God Himself-- the One Who figures out the thoughts and intentions of the kingdom of darkness and reveals them to the children of the kingdom of Light. Think about it: aren't we, although so vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy, made in God's image to the point where we can figure out what someone's intentions are without them even saying a word to us? The minute we look into their eyes, it's almost like we can see into their souls. We can tell whether or not they mean us good or evil, even if we've never seen them before. They may have the cleanest record by man's standards, but we just KNOW there's something about them that's not right.
Well, when you think back to the fall of lucifer, Who was there? Who watched him plan his mutiny against the God of all creation, seducing other angels to agree with and support him to rebel against God? The Holy Spirit! Who was sent by God after Jesus died and rose again to the earth realm where the enemy and his imps exert their influence? The Holy Spirit! And Who lives big inside of a submitted life with the guarantee that God's very wisdom and understanding will be given in every area if we will only obey when we hear what He has to say? The Holy Spirit, of course! Just as the Holy Spirit walked with Jesus every step of His life here in earth, and revealed to Him what He needed to know to defeat the enemy, we can access that same power. As we go and declare the kingdom of God, we will have the signs following us. And we'll be able to "blow the cover" of any covert operations being conducted by the forces of darkness. They are no match for the powerful Spirit of God. That's why Jesus and His Father will not tolerate any blasphemy about Him -- only those who truly receive from Him will discern that He is real or know His purpose.
Prayer: Father, You have given us an awesome treasure in the Person of Your Holy Spirit. As He dwelt in Jesus while He was on this earth, You are calling us to do the same. And as we depend completely on You, Your Spirit will show us how to crush the enemies that align themselves against You. May we never doubt Your power and might. Use us to tear down every wall built by the enemy of our souls in Jesus' Name! Amen.
Bind the Strongman!
Friday, September 30th, 2011
Today's Passage> Matthew 12:22-32
Memory Verse> Matt. 12:29
As believers, we love the idea of ministering spirits following us everywhere we go. They serve as something like our own personal bodyguards, there to keep the enemy forces at bay and carry out the ultimate plan of God in the lives of His children. For a long time, many of us didn't know they were even that important in the spirit realm. But once you discover they're there, you want to do everything in your power to activate them. Here's something else many believers don't know much about, however: there are enemy forces that could be at work INSIDE of us as well as inside of those who have yielded their lives to the kingdom of darkness. These forces can only be defeated by following Jesus' blueprint for deliverance.
The enemy forces I'm referring to are known as "strongmen", spirits employed by the enemy to enforce his will on the earth by oppressing and sometimes possessing the spirits of believers in specific areas. You may think this is a far-fetched concept, but if you've ever had something take over you that you knew wasn't good, but compelled you to make bad choices, you probably experienced the actions of a strongman. The Webster definitions for "strongman" include the following: "a person who uses power or authority in a cruel, unjust, or harmful way; one who leads or controls by force of will and character or by military standards; a dictator, oppressor, or tyrant".
As we discussed this week, the enemy spends a lot of time seeking whom he may devour or destroy, but he cannot gain access into our lives unless there's a doorway. Whether through some traumatic incident, sins that we may have committed, or even through iniquity (transgressions passed down from our ancestors to us), all the enemy cares about is that he gets in. If allowed in through thoughts that are not cast down, the door is then opened for the strongman to make his stronghold (a comfortable place from which to bully us into doing the enemy's will rather than God's). Other less militant but equally destructive spirits are then allowed to take their place in our spirits, secure in the fact that their territory is protected by the strongman.
Here's an example of how this demonic but highly organized system works in a believer. The spirit of pride tries to gain entrance by suggesting thoughts that a man or woman of God should have been raised up by now. Why is it taking so long? Don't the pastors know how anointed he or she is? As these thoughts continue to be allowed to take root, the entryway is opened and the strongman, which is really the spirit of Absalom (see Cindy Trimm's book, Binding the Strongman), comes in. With this spirit come a multitude of others, including the spirit of rebellion, power struggle, divided allegiance, usurping authority, self-exaltation, pretense, disrespect and defiance. Before long, the stronghold has been built and this person is strong-armed as far away from his or her destiny as possible, outside of the will and timing of the Most High God. To answer the question, "why bind the strongman first"? This takes away all his power, re-routes him from his assignments and creates the opportunity to evict him and his co-horts from the life of the oppressed person. Jesus said that all power and authority are his, and He's given it to us to render powerless all spiritual forces at work in our lives or the lives of others. In Jesus' Name, take authority and begin walking in the freedom Jesus purchased with His precious blood.
Prayer: Father, according to Ephesians 1:2, You have blessed Your children with all spiritual blessings and seated us in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, far above ALL principality and power, and every name that is named. You also said that You have placed all things under Jesus' feet. We bind now every strongman of oppression that would operate against us, in addition to all the subordinate spirits that have taken residence in us. We bind every assignment and destroy its purpose, loosing them from their stronghold in our lives. We replace those spirits with the very purpose of You, God, and bind ourselves only to You and Your plans for us. Thank You for the authority to be free. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Matthew 12:22-32
Memory Verse> Matt. 12:29
As believers, we love the idea of ministering spirits following us everywhere we go. They serve as something like our own personal bodyguards, there to keep the enemy forces at bay and carry out the ultimate plan of God in the lives of His children. For a long time, many of us didn't know they were even that important in the spirit realm. But once you discover they're there, you want to do everything in your power to activate them. Here's something else many believers don't know much about, however: there are enemy forces that could be at work INSIDE of us as well as inside of those who have yielded their lives to the kingdom of darkness. These forces can only be defeated by following Jesus' blueprint for deliverance.
The enemy forces I'm referring to are known as "strongmen", spirits employed by the enemy to enforce his will on the earth by oppressing and sometimes possessing the spirits of believers in specific areas. You may think this is a far-fetched concept, but if you've ever had something take over you that you knew wasn't good, but compelled you to make bad choices, you probably experienced the actions of a strongman. The Webster definitions for "strongman" include the following: "a person who uses power or authority in a cruel, unjust, or harmful way; one who leads or controls by force of will and character or by military standards; a dictator, oppressor, or tyrant".
As we discussed this week, the enemy spends a lot of time seeking whom he may devour or destroy, but he cannot gain access into our lives unless there's a doorway. Whether through some traumatic incident, sins that we may have committed, or even through iniquity (transgressions passed down from our ancestors to us), all the enemy cares about is that he gets in. If allowed in through thoughts that are not cast down, the door is then opened for the strongman to make his stronghold (a comfortable place from which to bully us into doing the enemy's will rather than God's). Other less militant but equally destructive spirits are then allowed to take their place in our spirits, secure in the fact that their territory is protected by the strongman.
Here's an example of how this demonic but highly organized system works in a believer. The spirit of pride tries to gain entrance by suggesting thoughts that a man or woman of God should have been raised up by now. Why is it taking so long? Don't the pastors know how anointed he or she is? As these thoughts continue to be allowed to take root, the entryway is opened and the strongman, which is really the spirit of Absalom (see Cindy Trimm's book, Binding the Strongman), comes in. With this spirit come a multitude of others, including the spirit of rebellion, power struggle, divided allegiance, usurping authority, self-exaltation, pretense, disrespect and defiance. Before long, the stronghold has been built and this person is strong-armed as far away from his or her destiny as possible, outside of the will and timing of the Most High God. To answer the question, "why bind the strongman first"? This takes away all his power, re-routes him from his assignments and creates the opportunity to evict him and his co-horts from the life of the oppressed person. Jesus said that all power and authority are his, and He's given it to us to render powerless all spiritual forces at work in our lives or the lives of others. In Jesus' Name, take authority and begin walking in the freedom Jesus purchased with His precious blood.
Prayer: Father, according to Ephesians 1:2, You have blessed Your children with all spiritual blessings and seated us in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, far above ALL principality and power, and every name that is named. You also said that You have placed all things under Jesus' feet. We bind now every strongman of oppression that would operate against us, in addition to all the subordinate spirits that have taken residence in us. We bind every assignment and destroy its purpose, loosing them from their stronghold in our lives. We replace those spirits with the very purpose of You, God, and bind ourselves only to You and Your plans for us. Thank You for the authority to be free. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
It's All Him!
Thursday, September 29th, 2011
Today's Passage> Luke 10:17-24
Memory Verse> Luke 10:20
Remember when Jesus came riding into the city on the back of that donkey? People were laying down palm branches and clothing and shouting 'Hosanna' as He passed by. Question: do you think there was a moment when that donkey thought all that stuff was for him? Of course not. How foolish would that be? That thought immediately comes to mind when I've been asked how I know the enemy will flee when I tell him to.
I know myself quite well. Therefore, I can say with assurance that I am NOTHING without the Lord. I don't have enough intelligence, might, or power (authority), to move anything on my own. So whenever I win a spiritual battle, I never have to remind myself of the fact that I won by God's authority, not mine. As a matter of fact, I'm the donkey (or the palm branch even). When we engage the enemy we can't see what he sees. Because what he sees will astound and humble us. It's like the Lion King when Simba was trying to roar at the hyenas. Remember how cute his lil' growl sounded? The hyenas were laughing hysterically at him. But, when Simba opened his mouth the last time, his father, who had been standing behind him, roared. It paralyzed the hyenas with fear. That's what happens when we encounter the enemy. The devil may be looking at us, but he sees God. Our passage drives this point home in verse 20. It says "All the same, the great triumph is not in your authority over evil, but in God's authority over you. Not what you do for God, but for what God does for you".
So, how do I know if we engage the enemy he will go? Well, if the spirit of the Living God is not living inside of me, I don't know. Without Him, I have no authority to cast out demons, or tread upon serpents. Without Him, my marriage has no chance of surviving a demonic attack; and I am powerless to break addictions. In contrast, wherever He is, His authority is also. So, if I allow Him to live within me, His authority lives within me. In that, I'm free from the fears that others have. I'm allowed to be confident in the fact that the enemy can't harm me. Now that I think about it, it's futile to fight a spiritual battle without God. How do you devise strategy without Him? How do you know when to pray, or what to pray? I encourage you to position yourself for God's using. Engage the enemy with everything you got. Why? Well, because greater is He who is within you, than he who is in the world. The devil will flee because you'll open your mouth, but he'll hear God's roar. And as you come toward him, he'll hear God's footsteps. Remember, we don't win because of who we are. We win because of whose we are. I'll take that......will you?
Prayer: Father, I thank You for Your strong arm of victory. You've delivered Your people from some harsh experiences. You've demonstrated that You are the undisputed Champion of our lives. Forgive me for going into battle without You. Forgive me for leaning on my own understanding. Live inside us so we can have victory time and time again, in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage> Luke 10:17-24
Memory Verse> Luke 10:20
Remember when Jesus came riding into the city on the back of that donkey? People were laying down palm branches and clothing and shouting 'Hosanna' as He passed by. Question: do you think there was a moment when that donkey thought all that stuff was for him? Of course not. How foolish would that be? That thought immediately comes to mind when I've been asked how I know the enemy will flee when I tell him to.
I know myself quite well. Therefore, I can say with assurance that I am NOTHING without the Lord. I don't have enough intelligence, might, or power (authority), to move anything on my own. So whenever I win a spiritual battle, I never have to remind myself of the fact that I won by God's authority, not mine. As a matter of fact, I'm the donkey (or the palm branch even). When we engage the enemy we can't see what he sees. Because what he sees will astound and humble us. It's like the Lion King when Simba was trying to roar at the hyenas. Remember how cute his lil' growl sounded? The hyenas were laughing hysterically at him. But, when Simba opened his mouth the last time, his father, who had been standing behind him, roared. It paralyzed the hyenas with fear. That's what happens when we encounter the enemy. The devil may be looking at us, but he sees God. Our passage drives this point home in verse 20. It says "All the same, the great triumph is not in your authority over evil, but in God's authority over you. Not what you do for God, but for what God does for you".
So, how do I know if we engage the enemy he will go? Well, if the spirit of the Living God is not living inside of me, I don't know. Without Him, I have no authority to cast out demons, or tread upon serpents. Without Him, my marriage has no chance of surviving a demonic attack; and I am powerless to break addictions. In contrast, wherever He is, His authority is also. So, if I allow Him to live within me, His authority lives within me. In that, I'm free from the fears that others have. I'm allowed to be confident in the fact that the enemy can't harm me. Now that I think about it, it's futile to fight a spiritual battle without God. How do you devise strategy without Him? How do you know when to pray, or what to pray? I encourage you to position yourself for God's using. Engage the enemy with everything you got. Why? Well, because greater is He who is within you, than he who is in the world. The devil will flee because you'll open your mouth, but he'll hear God's roar. And as you come toward him, he'll hear God's footsteps. Remember, we don't win because of who we are. We win because of whose we are. I'll take that......will you?
Prayer: Father, I thank You for Your strong arm of victory. You've delivered Your people from some harsh experiences. You've demonstrated that You are the undisputed Champion of our lives. Forgive me for going into battle without You. Forgive me for leaning on my own understanding. Live inside us so we can have victory time and time again, in Jesus' name. Amen
The Process of Binding and Loosing
Wednesday, September 28th, 2011
Today's Passage> Matthew 18:18-20
Memory Verse: Same
Many believers hesitate to engage in spiritual warfare because they think it's a process that takes too long to see meaningful results. Well, they're partly right: spiritual warfare IS a process. Spiritual strongholds that establish themselves in our lives don't come overnight. There's a saying that goes: "Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny." The thought is the foundation for the strategy the enemy uses to build his fortress inside of what should belong to God.
First, usually at an early age, the lie is planted as a seed. Something traumatic happens -- rape or molestation, the death of a dear loved one, or some other devastating event that the enemy uses to establish this lie: "if God really loved you, why would He have let this happen?" Pretty soon those thoughts speak loudly enough that they bleed over into the words you speak. "God doesn't care about me, so I'm going to live any way I want.". This becomes the signature response to anyone who even attempts to remind us of God's love.
Years go by, and one bad decision after another add to the mountain of bricks with which the enemy builds the strongman's house. But when we finally accept the Lord Jesus, we wonder why certain areas in our lives seem to get nowhere. We love the Lord with all our hearts, and yet fall short of the mark in relationships, finances, or with addictions. This is where binding and loosing comes in. According to Dr. Cindy Trimm, binding causes demonic forces and their assignments to become paralyzed, and loosing releases them from their obligation to perform the act(s) that kept us in bondage in a certain area (Binding the Strongman, 2005). The two tactics must be used hand in hand, but must never be used without first establishing the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Next, the will of God must be released to take the place of that which we have loosed off of our life. Then, with a submitted life and a refusal to allow any doors to remain open to the enemy, we will begin to see victory in those areas.
Today, as you make the decision to engage the enemy, let the Holy Spirit guide you through the process of binding and loosing. The important thing to remember is that every knee MUST bow to the authority in Jesus' Name. As long as you stay in the kingdom of light, darkness has no choice but to flee. But you must see it through to the end, no matter how long it takes. God wants His children completely set free; why don't you walk in ALL your freedom?
Prayer: Father, because of a previous life of willful disobedience, I realize that I have allowed certain strongholds to be built in my life. I repent for letting them in, and turn from those habits now, falling out of agreement with their purpose in my life. By the power of the Holy Spirit, I now declare that every spirit of fear, perversion, and intimidation must be loosed from my life in the Name of Jesus. All authority that belongs to Jesus Christ has been given to me to bind their demonic oppression and loose them from their diabolical assignments in Jesus' Name. I now release freedom to walk in power, love, and a sound mind at all times. I give You, God, the praise for the victory. In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen!
Today's Passage> Matthew 18:18-20
Memory Verse: Same
Many believers hesitate to engage in spiritual warfare because they think it's a process that takes too long to see meaningful results. Well, they're partly right: spiritual warfare IS a process. Spiritual strongholds that establish themselves in our lives don't come overnight. There's a saying that goes: "Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny." The thought is the foundation for the strategy the enemy uses to build his fortress inside of what should belong to God.
First, usually at an early age, the lie is planted as a seed. Something traumatic happens -- rape or molestation, the death of a dear loved one, or some other devastating event that the enemy uses to establish this lie: "if God really loved you, why would He have let this happen?" Pretty soon those thoughts speak loudly enough that they bleed over into the words you speak. "God doesn't care about me, so I'm going to live any way I want.". This becomes the signature response to anyone who even attempts to remind us of God's love.
Years go by, and one bad decision after another add to the mountain of bricks with which the enemy builds the strongman's house. But when we finally accept the Lord Jesus, we wonder why certain areas in our lives seem to get nowhere. We love the Lord with all our hearts, and yet fall short of the mark in relationships, finances, or with addictions. This is where binding and loosing comes in. According to Dr. Cindy Trimm, binding causes demonic forces and their assignments to become paralyzed, and loosing releases them from their obligation to perform the act(s) that kept us in bondage in a certain area (Binding the Strongman, 2005). The two tactics must be used hand in hand, but must never be used without first establishing the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Next, the will of God must be released to take the place of that which we have loosed off of our life. Then, with a submitted life and a refusal to allow any doors to remain open to the enemy, we will begin to see victory in those areas.
Today, as you make the decision to engage the enemy, let the Holy Spirit guide you through the process of binding and loosing. The important thing to remember is that every knee MUST bow to the authority in Jesus' Name. As long as you stay in the kingdom of light, darkness has no choice but to flee. But you must see it through to the end, no matter how long it takes. God wants His children completely set free; why don't you walk in ALL your freedom?
Prayer: Father, because of a previous life of willful disobedience, I realize that I have allowed certain strongholds to be built in my life. I repent for letting them in, and turn from those habits now, falling out of agreement with their purpose in my life. By the power of the Holy Spirit, I now declare that every spirit of fear, perversion, and intimidation must be loosed from my life in the Name of Jesus. All authority that belongs to Jesus Christ has been given to me to bind their demonic oppression and loose them from their diabolical assignments in Jesus' Name. I now release freedom to walk in power, love, and a sound mind at all times. I give You, God, the praise for the victory. In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen!
Engage the Enemy!!!
Tuesday, September 27th, 2011
Today's Passage: Mark 16:12-20
Memory Verse> 1 John 4:4
Having come from another culture where the oppression of the enemy is more strongly seen in the spirit of poverty, rampant corruption and political as well as financial systems being broken, I have come to this conclusion. The greatest deception used by the enemy in a culture such as the United States is the pretense of a sense of well-being on the surface, while so many diabolical acts are taking place under our noses. Any amount of time in front of the television (a reflection of the true picture of our society) will quickly bring the reality of the enemy's influence in this nation.
Take a quick survey of your opinion on engaging in spiritual warfare: are you a believer who feels as if Christians who sound the alarm about a "big, bad devil" are over exaggerating? Maybe you are of the position that as long as you do your best to live right and never bother anyone, you don't think churches should spend so much time focusing on warfare. Unfortunately, my friend(s), if this is you, you've successfully become a part of the spiritual statistics. You are one of those who make up the "sleeping giant" that has been lulled into inactivity by the inability of many believers to discern satan's hand at work in our homes, schools and other parts of the society.
As much as we may try to ignore it, the increasing ungodliness running rampant in our nation should be warning sign enough that satan's kingdom is at work. But if you didn't think so, maybe the increasing number of crimes committed by children under the age of ten should raise a tiny red flag. If not, consider that the mention of the name of Jesus, which was not a problem even ten years ago, is becoming more and more unacceptable. In the meantime, Eastern religious influences are being embraced in great numbers by mainstream society. What other spirit would so strategically reject the Word of God as absolute truth, while replacing it with many others? The answer is the reason every believer needs to engage in spiritual warfare: the antiChrist spirit.
The enemy has managed to defeat the people of God by getting them to be ignorant of his schemes through the simple act of not taking the Word seriously. The less we read the Word, the less we know. The less we know, the less we can detect his presence and fight him with spiritual weapons. Through lack of knowledge and revelation of how he operates, we leave doorways open through which he is free to roam and destroy our homes, our values, and erase the impact of our God from our hearts. But oh, if we would just arise and refuse to be lumped in with those content to carry out the status quo! The very meaning of warfare suggests a refusal to allow a strange nation with its values and system to take over ours. And yes, every single soul makes a difference in the battle. Why do you think the enemy fights so hard to keep us clueless? With every ounce of you, fight! Fight for what Jesus purchased on the cross. The good news? The last chapter has already been written, and WE WIN.
Prayer: Father, I engage the enemy now by declaring Your lordship over my life. I join with my brothers and sisters to decree that no weapon formed against us will stand, and every tongue that rises up will be condemned. Arise now and let ALL Your enemies be scattered in Jesus Name! Amen...
Today's Passage: Mark 16:12-20
Memory Verse> 1 John 4:4
Having come from another culture where the oppression of the enemy is more strongly seen in the spirit of poverty, rampant corruption and political as well as financial systems being broken, I have come to this conclusion. The greatest deception used by the enemy in a culture such as the United States is the pretense of a sense of well-being on the surface, while so many diabolical acts are taking place under our noses. Any amount of time in front of the television (a reflection of the true picture of our society) will quickly bring the reality of the enemy's influence in this nation.
Take a quick survey of your opinion on engaging in spiritual warfare: are you a believer who feels as if Christians who sound the alarm about a "big, bad devil" are over exaggerating? Maybe you are of the position that as long as you do your best to live right and never bother anyone, you don't think churches should spend so much time focusing on warfare. Unfortunately, my friend(s), if this is you, you've successfully become a part of the spiritual statistics. You are one of those who make up the "sleeping giant" that has been lulled into inactivity by the inability of many believers to discern satan's hand at work in our homes, schools and other parts of the society.
As much as we may try to ignore it, the increasing ungodliness running rampant in our nation should be warning sign enough that satan's kingdom is at work. But if you didn't think so, maybe the increasing number of crimes committed by children under the age of ten should raise a tiny red flag. If not, consider that the mention of the name of Jesus, which was not a problem even ten years ago, is becoming more and more unacceptable. In the meantime, Eastern religious influences are being embraced in great numbers by mainstream society. What other spirit would so strategically reject the Word of God as absolute truth, while replacing it with many others? The answer is the reason every believer needs to engage in spiritual warfare: the antiChrist spirit.
The enemy has managed to defeat the people of God by getting them to be ignorant of his schemes through the simple act of not taking the Word seriously. The less we read the Word, the less we know. The less we know, the less we can detect his presence and fight him with spiritual weapons. Through lack of knowledge and revelation of how he operates, we leave doorways open through which he is free to roam and destroy our homes, our values, and erase the impact of our God from our hearts. But oh, if we would just arise and refuse to be lumped in with those content to carry out the status quo! The very meaning of warfare suggests a refusal to allow a strange nation with its values and system to take over ours. And yes, every single soul makes a difference in the battle. Why do you think the enemy fights so hard to keep us clueless? With every ounce of you, fight! Fight for what Jesus purchased on the cross. The good news? The last chapter has already been written, and WE WIN.
Prayer: Father, I engage the enemy now by declaring Your lordship over my life. I join with my brothers and sisters to decree that no weapon formed against us will stand, and every tongue that rises up will be condemned. Arise now and let ALL Your enemies be scattered in Jesus Name! Amen...
Kingdom Responders!!!!!
Monday, September 26th, 2011
Today's Passage: Isaiah chapter 61
Memory Verse> Isaiah 61:1
There's an urgency in the heavens to awaken in God's people a desire to see His kingdom come on earth just as it has been established in Heaven. Too many of us have been lulled to sleep by our enemy, the great deceiver. We've been lied to and told that we can't make a difference--that we're insignificant. But the very fact that he tries to get us to receive this thought suggests that the opposite is true.
Yesterday, our pastors exposed the purpose for which the enemy hates us so much: it's because we're eligible for recruitment in the Father's kingdom. As long as there is pain, hopelessness, and despair, the Father will have a need for us. As long as the oppressor continues to inflict bondage upon God's creation, He will be calling for our services. Our pastors called it being God's KINGDOM RESPONDERS, much like the emergency service agents who arrive on the scene at the first sign of trouble.
Now, say we showed up on the scene to do everything today's passage says we can do. We attempted to tell those who are hurting and broken that there's a way out. But when we went to the gates that held them in captivity, there was no way to set them free. No way, that is, except through the blood of Jesus. What if we tried to be conquerors to the world without the authority that comes from being totally submitted to Jesus? That tyrant satan would just laugh in our faces. You see, he knows that he has no defense against a submitted life. Unlike many of us who are ignorant of how powerful we really are, he knows that all we have to do is accept the anointing of Jesus, the Anointed One. The transfer of that anointing will be made in our lives. And there's nothing he can do about it.
Today, as you search your list of things to pursue, make sure you don't miss the most important of all: making yourself available in the Father's kingdom. You've been anointed for the purpose of responding to everything that God did not intend to be on this earth. The question that remains is, WILL we respond to the recruitment call? Will we step up to the challenge and rescue God's lost and broken? Or will we pretend we don't see the pain- filled eyes around us, or hear their cries for help? Arise, army of God. Take up your weapons of war which are not human, but still mighty through God to pull down every stronghold. And the battle has already been won.
Prayer: Father, with each passing day I ask You to make me sensitive to the needs of Your people. May I keep at the forefront the rescue You used others to perform on my behalf. With that in mind, may I respond with Your power and authority to set the captives free. I give You glory for what You've already prepared beforehand. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Isaiah chapter 61
Memory Verse> Isaiah 61:1
There's an urgency in the heavens to awaken in God's people a desire to see His kingdom come on earth just as it has been established in Heaven. Too many of us have been lulled to sleep by our enemy, the great deceiver. We've been lied to and told that we can't make a difference--that we're insignificant. But the very fact that he tries to get us to receive this thought suggests that the opposite is true.
Yesterday, our pastors exposed the purpose for which the enemy hates us so much: it's because we're eligible for recruitment in the Father's kingdom. As long as there is pain, hopelessness, and despair, the Father will have a need for us. As long as the oppressor continues to inflict bondage upon God's creation, He will be calling for our services. Our pastors called it being God's KINGDOM RESPONDERS, much like the emergency service agents who arrive on the scene at the first sign of trouble.
Now, say we showed up on the scene to do everything today's passage says we can do. We attempted to tell those who are hurting and broken that there's a way out. But when we went to the gates that held them in captivity, there was no way to set them free. No way, that is, except through the blood of Jesus. What if we tried to be conquerors to the world without the authority that comes from being totally submitted to Jesus? That tyrant satan would just laugh in our faces. You see, he knows that he has no defense against a submitted life. Unlike many of us who are ignorant of how powerful we really are, he knows that all we have to do is accept the anointing of Jesus, the Anointed One. The transfer of that anointing will be made in our lives. And there's nothing he can do about it.
Today, as you search your list of things to pursue, make sure you don't miss the most important of all: making yourself available in the Father's kingdom. You've been anointed for the purpose of responding to everything that God did not intend to be on this earth. The question that remains is, WILL we respond to the recruitment call? Will we step up to the challenge and rescue God's lost and broken? Or will we pretend we don't see the pain- filled eyes around us, or hear their cries for help? Arise, army of God. Take up your weapons of war which are not human, but still mighty through God to pull down every stronghold. And the battle has already been won.
Prayer: Father, with each passing day I ask You to make me sensitive to the needs of Your people. May I keep at the forefront the rescue You used others to perform on my behalf. With that in mind, may I respond with Your power and authority to set the captives free. I give You glory for what You've already prepared beforehand. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prayers That Prevail
Sunday, September 25th, 2012
Today's Passage: 1 John 2:15-28
Memory Verse> 1 John 2:24
Father, thank You for Your Word and the fact that it is a shield for us. You not only make provision for us to walk in authority in all areas, but even more, what we bind on Earth, You bind in Heaven, and what we loose on Earth, You loose in Heaven. Now Father, with the authority You've given us, we declare war against the enemy. We will no longer take a passive stance to his tactics. Freedom is now our purpose and victory is our strive.
Arise, Lord Jehovah, and let Your enemies be scattered. Let the praise of Your people cause demons to flee a thousand ways. Then, we will infiltrate his territories and establish Your glory there. So poverty will become prosperity. Fear will become faith. Pain will become peace, and dismay will become devotion. The light of Your love will shine brightly in the darkness; exposing the enemy and his plan to destroy us. From there, we'll pull down every stronghold and destroy every snare. You have made us more than conquerers. Therefore we will not fear. We are victorious in You, Lord.
As we arise to worship You, may every spirit of deception be defeated in our lives as well as in the lives of others. May all who call You Lord unite and give You the glory You deserve in every church in the world. We'll sing to Your glory today and everyday, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 John 2:15-28
Memory Verse> 1 John 2:24
Father, thank You for Your Word and the fact that it is a shield for us. You not only make provision for us to walk in authority in all areas, but even more, what we bind on Earth, You bind in Heaven, and what we loose on Earth, You loose in Heaven. Now Father, with the authority You've given us, we declare war against the enemy. We will no longer take a passive stance to his tactics. Freedom is now our purpose and victory is our strive.
Arise, Lord Jehovah, and let Your enemies be scattered. Let the praise of Your people cause demons to flee a thousand ways. Then, we will infiltrate his territories and establish Your glory there. So poverty will become prosperity. Fear will become faith. Pain will become peace, and dismay will become devotion. The light of Your love will shine brightly in the darkness; exposing the enemy and his plan to destroy us. From there, we'll pull down every stronghold and destroy every snare. You have made us more than conquerers. Therefore we will not fear. We are victorious in You, Lord.
As we arise to worship You, may every spirit of deception be defeated in our lives as well as in the lives of others. May all who call You Lord unite and give You the glory You deserve in every church in the world. We'll sing to Your glory today and everyday, in Jesus' name. Amen.
No More Hidden Places!
Saturday, September 24th, 2011
Today's Passage: 1 John chapter 1
Memory Verse> Romans 8:1
One of the most effective tactics used by the kingdom of darkness to paralyze the forward movement of believers is condemnation. Whether by commission or omission, sinful deeds done before or after salvation are at the forefront of the enemy's arsenal. Think about the worst thing you've ever done to break God's heart. If you've never told another soul about it, and spend much of your time trying to make sure no-one ever finds out, you most certainly are being manipulated by satan's spirit of condemnation.
The first level of deception which keeps us defeated in this area is the way in which the enemy convinces us that keeping our sins a secret is the best thing to do. He's counting on several things here; one, that we are unaware of the passage in the Word that tells us to confess our faults one to another that we may be healed. Two, he's counting on the possibility of us never getting close to others for fear that they may spread our business to more people and have everyone talking about us. Three, he doesn't want any of us to take to heart today's passage that invites us to draw near to God, and confess our all to Him so that we can be forgiven.
The second and most effective strategy that keeps us from our freedom is when the father of all lies convinces us that we can pretend we have no issues. This is where he really gets the biggest laugh at our expense. We may think no-one else knows what we've done. But WE know, GOD knows, and of course the accuser of the brethren knows. So who are we really deceiving? Only ourselves. It stops us from walking in an intimate relationship with God, because it communicates to Him that we don't trust His ability to deliver and cover us. When He tells us to confess it, it's not for the purpose of bringing shame and embarrassment. It's so that the enemy has no grounds to keep us from growing in our walk with God, because there's nothing he can hold over our heads.
When I first came to ALM, I kept so many doors and windows in my life locked so that no- one would know what I'd done. As I began to serve in a greater capacity with my husband, I was that person who was afraid to expose the fact that I'd had an abortion. Yes, it's one of the worst things a person could ever do. But trying to hide it was even worse because I spent a long time holding the anointing and gifting hostage inside of me; the enemy had the ammunition to keep me in bondage. But when I received the revelation of exposing my inner self to the Lord, to my pastors and to the people I minister to, I began to walk in a freedom I'd never imagined. It's not easy to let go, because it means becoming transparent and not ashamed of the scars. But if you truly want to be used by God in the powerful way He's planned for you, then you must fall out of agreement with the secrets. And best of all, you take away the authority the enemy wields over you. No more hidden places. Let's be all that God intended.
Prayer: father, I can't take credit for the miracle You performed in my life. All I did was refused the enemy's lie and accepted the truth that You had become the stand-in for my sins through the blood of Jesus. Now I see myself the way You see me-- forgiven. May I no longer allow doors to remain closed between You and me. I declare the same freedom for my brothers and sisters in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 John chapter 1
Memory Verse> Romans 8:1
One of the most effective tactics used by the kingdom of darkness to paralyze the forward movement of believers is condemnation. Whether by commission or omission, sinful deeds done before or after salvation are at the forefront of the enemy's arsenal. Think about the worst thing you've ever done to break God's heart. If you've never told another soul about it, and spend much of your time trying to make sure no-one ever finds out, you most certainly are being manipulated by satan's spirit of condemnation.
The first level of deception which keeps us defeated in this area is the way in which the enemy convinces us that keeping our sins a secret is the best thing to do. He's counting on several things here; one, that we are unaware of the passage in the Word that tells us to confess our faults one to another that we may be healed. Two, he's counting on the possibility of us never getting close to others for fear that they may spread our business to more people and have everyone talking about us. Three, he doesn't want any of us to take to heart today's passage that invites us to draw near to God, and confess our all to Him so that we can be forgiven.
The second and most effective strategy that keeps us from our freedom is when the father of all lies convinces us that we can pretend we have no issues. This is where he really gets the biggest laugh at our expense. We may think no-one else knows what we've done. But WE know, GOD knows, and of course the accuser of the brethren knows. So who are we really deceiving? Only ourselves. It stops us from walking in an intimate relationship with God, because it communicates to Him that we don't trust His ability to deliver and cover us. When He tells us to confess it, it's not for the purpose of bringing shame and embarrassment. It's so that the enemy has no grounds to keep us from growing in our walk with God, because there's nothing he can hold over our heads.
When I first came to ALM, I kept so many doors and windows in my life locked so that no- one would know what I'd done. As I began to serve in a greater capacity with my husband, I was that person who was afraid to expose the fact that I'd had an abortion. Yes, it's one of the worst things a person could ever do. But trying to hide it was even worse because I spent a long time holding the anointing and gifting hostage inside of me; the enemy had the ammunition to keep me in bondage. But when I received the revelation of exposing my inner self to the Lord, to my pastors and to the people I minister to, I began to walk in a freedom I'd never imagined. It's not easy to let go, because it means becoming transparent and not ashamed of the scars. But if you truly want to be used by God in the powerful way He's planned for you, then you must fall out of agreement with the secrets. And best of all, you take away the authority the enemy wields over you. No more hidden places. Let's be all that God intended.
Prayer: father, I can't take credit for the miracle You performed in my life. All I did was refused the enemy's lie and accepted the truth that You had become the stand-in for my sins through the blood of Jesus. Now I see myself the way You see me-- forgiven. May I no longer allow doors to remain closed between You and me. I declare the same freedom for my brothers and sisters in Jesus' Name. Amen.
A "God" Idea!
Friday September 23, 2011
Today's Passage: Psalms 1
Memory Verse: Psalms 1:4
Do we have control over who speaks into our lives, or are we forced to tolerate negative influences? Negative influences are dangerous for the mind and spirit. They are literally created to persuade, alter, and/or cause one to question what is right and true. The very word "influence" means to have the power to be a compelling force on actions and behavior. One thing we know for sure is, we can't allow negativity to dwell in us and still walk in the ways God instructed. So, let's dig deeper into this topic for today's revelation.
Psalms 1:1 says "Blessed is the man who doesn't walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of the scornful". God is telling us He knows we are surrounded by negative influences. It's in the media, it's in the music, and it's even in relationships. For example, television programs are laced with negative influences. They tell you "Hey, if you want to be cool, or enjoy the game, drink this! If you want men/women to like you, talk like this, or wear this!" Kid shows have songs that contain anti-parent and I-don't-have-to-listen-to-anybody messages. Along with that, reality shows teach people that they win in life when they befriend someone, then "vote/kick" them out. That's not all! If negative influences aren't coming at us through music and media, they're coming from family members and friends. Let's face it, there are people "in" our lives who'll never understand (or respect) the anointing "on" our lives. The real problem with this is, they're people we've come to love. They've "been there for us" for years. So, we feel obligated to listen to and receive everything they say to us.
Verses 4 through 6 in today's passage brings revelation to this subject. They say "The ungodly are not so (like the tree bringing forth fruit in verse 3), but they are like the chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore, the ungodly will not stand in the judgement, nor sinners in the midst of the righteous. FOR THE LORD KNOWS THE WAY OF THE RIGHTEOUS, but the way of the ungodly will perish". The ungodly in this passage are the people in our lives who attempt to lead us away from God's purpose. They use their "influence" to advise us to be things God didn't tell us to be, or go places God hasn't told us to go. And if we owe them something, that makes the influence stronger. They use the debt to manipulate us into giving them their way. Our passage says, however, THE LORD knows the way of the righteous, which means they don't know. So the fact that we receive "any" counsel from them, let alone negative counsel, is spiritually reckless. Only God knows where He's taking us, and why He's taking us there. So let's decide to lean on His understanding, not ours. Let's follow His voice no matter how much the alternative seems to make sense. We should always remember there's an enemy out there. And his fingerprints are often all over "good ideas". That's why we as believers only buy into "God ideas". Those are the ideas that are branded "His will.....not ours"! My will is the good idea, His will is the God idea. I choose His will, and so should you. Blessings!
Prayer: Father I thank You for covering me. You've known me since You formed me in my mother's womb. And as I live, I realize Your thoughts and plans for me have been rewarding and beneficial. As Jesus prayed, don't let me fall into temptation. Don't let me stray away from your path. My place is in Your hands, at Your feet, or under Your wings. That's where I'll stay until You bring me home, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalms 1
Memory Verse: Psalms 1:4
Do we have control over who speaks into our lives, or are we forced to tolerate negative influences? Negative influences are dangerous for the mind and spirit. They are literally created to persuade, alter, and/or cause one to question what is right and true. The very word "influence" means to have the power to be a compelling force on actions and behavior. One thing we know for sure is, we can't allow negativity to dwell in us and still walk in the ways God instructed. So, let's dig deeper into this topic for today's revelation.
Psalms 1:1 says "Blessed is the man who doesn't walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of the scornful". God is telling us He knows we are surrounded by negative influences. It's in the media, it's in the music, and it's even in relationships. For example, television programs are laced with negative influences. They tell you "Hey, if you want to be cool, or enjoy the game, drink this! If you want men/women to like you, talk like this, or wear this!" Kid shows have songs that contain anti-parent and I-don't-have-to-listen-to-anybody messages. Along with that, reality shows teach people that they win in life when they befriend someone, then "vote/kick" them out. That's not all! If negative influences aren't coming at us through music and media, they're coming from family members and friends. Let's face it, there are people "in" our lives who'll never understand (or respect) the anointing "on" our lives. The real problem with this is, they're people we've come to love. They've "been there for us" for years. So, we feel obligated to listen to and receive everything they say to us.
Verses 4 through 6 in today's passage brings revelation to this subject. They say "The ungodly are not so (like the tree bringing forth fruit in verse 3), but they are like the chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore, the ungodly will not stand in the judgement, nor sinners in the midst of the righteous. FOR THE LORD KNOWS THE WAY OF THE RIGHTEOUS, but the way of the ungodly will perish". The ungodly in this passage are the people in our lives who attempt to lead us away from God's purpose. They use their "influence" to advise us to be things God didn't tell us to be, or go places God hasn't told us to go. And if we owe them something, that makes the influence stronger. They use the debt to manipulate us into giving them their way. Our passage says, however, THE LORD knows the way of the righteous, which means they don't know. So the fact that we receive "any" counsel from them, let alone negative counsel, is spiritually reckless. Only God knows where He's taking us, and why He's taking us there. So let's decide to lean on His understanding, not ours. Let's follow His voice no matter how much the alternative seems to make sense. We should always remember there's an enemy out there. And his fingerprints are often all over "good ideas". That's why we as believers only buy into "God ideas". Those are the ideas that are branded "His will.....not ours"! My will is the good idea, His will is the God idea. I choose His will, and so should you. Blessings!
Prayer: Father I thank You for covering me. You've known me since You formed me in my mother's womb. And as I live, I realize Your thoughts and plans for me have been rewarding and beneficial. As Jesus prayed, don't let me fall into temptation. Don't let me stray away from your path. My place is in Your hands, at Your feet, or under Your wings. That's where I'll stay until You bring me home, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Guard Your Heart!
Thursday, September 22nd, 2011
Today's Passage: Proverbs chapter 4
Memory Verse> Prov. 4:23
The heart. What a complicated machine. It's the thing that keeps the entire body going. If the veins and arteries function properly, clean blood is pumped to it, and impurities are carried far away from it. But if they are not, the body goes through a process of telltale symptoms to prevent itself from having a heart attack. The human being to whom the deficient heart belongs can choose to ignore these symptoms, or take heed and begin to reverse this process and get the heart back to a state of health again.
One of the symptoms is high cholesterol, which is caused by consuming foods that are not easily absorbed into the bloodstream... Foods high in fatty substances like oils and the skin of certain meats which can clog up the arteries. High cholesterol leads to high blood pressure, which is a buildup of the blood that has nowhere to go as a result of the clogged arteries. After these symptoms manifest, the patient experiences chest pain and shortness of breath, all warning signs that the body is not receiving blood to the critical parts (basically all over). Now, if you or a loved one has ever been to a doctor and heard these words, "Bring your cholesterol down", you've just been advised to guard your heart from things that will eventually lead to heart attack and death.
In the spirit realm, there cannot be a stronger parallel. Our mind, will and emotions serve as the arteries and veins that SHOULD be transporting fresh blood to our heart, and carrying away any impurities. But herein lies the complication. Just like with our physical bodies, we KNOW full well that there are thoughts that cannot be broken down and processed by our system. Thoughts of anger, strife, malice, vengeance, wrath, unforgiveness, and every evil thing can threaten to enter ANY heart-- it does not matter whether the individual is saved or unsaved. But if we allow them in, and refuse to flush them out with the detoxing power of the Water of the Word through the Holy Spirit, they will begin to lodge themselves in the arteries of our spirit and eventually slow the life of God in us down, ultimately causing spiritual death.
Today's passage gives us the solution to never having to suffer a heart attack: GUARD your heart with vigilance, like a bulldog. Understand that in order for it to continue pumping life freely and unrestrained through us, we cannot let anything in that will clog our spiritual arteries. This means if we have to lovingly tell that friend who insists on dumping junk in our spirit that we can no longer receive it, that is what we must do. Even if WE have to go through a season of speaking nothing but the Word because WE have a problem controlling our own mouths, that is what we must do. It's crucial to our very survival as believers, Saints. Our heart's health will determine whether we will be on-fire threats to the kingdom, or weak, broken-down vessels that are of no use to the kingdom. Doctor Jesus is speaking(RED LETTERS, y'all): "Bring the cholesterol down, or suffer a spiritual heart attack."
Prayer: Father, create in me a CLEAN heart, and renew a right spirit within me. As I cling to You, may I cast down every thought that would clog up my arteries and bring death to my spirit man. I declare only life and health, so that You can be glorified in me. I give You praise forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Proverbs chapter 4
Memory Verse> Prov. 4:23
The heart. What a complicated machine. It's the thing that keeps the entire body going. If the veins and arteries function properly, clean blood is pumped to it, and impurities are carried far away from it. But if they are not, the body goes through a process of telltale symptoms to prevent itself from having a heart attack. The human being to whom the deficient heart belongs can choose to ignore these symptoms, or take heed and begin to reverse this process and get the heart back to a state of health again.
One of the symptoms is high cholesterol, which is caused by consuming foods that are not easily absorbed into the bloodstream... Foods high in fatty substances like oils and the skin of certain meats which can clog up the arteries. High cholesterol leads to high blood pressure, which is a buildup of the blood that has nowhere to go as a result of the clogged arteries. After these symptoms manifest, the patient experiences chest pain and shortness of breath, all warning signs that the body is not receiving blood to the critical parts (basically all over). Now, if you or a loved one has ever been to a doctor and heard these words, "Bring your cholesterol down", you've just been advised to guard your heart from things that will eventually lead to heart attack and death.
In the spirit realm, there cannot be a stronger parallel. Our mind, will and emotions serve as the arteries and veins that SHOULD be transporting fresh blood to our heart, and carrying away any impurities. But herein lies the complication. Just like with our physical bodies, we KNOW full well that there are thoughts that cannot be broken down and processed by our system. Thoughts of anger, strife, malice, vengeance, wrath, unforgiveness, and every evil thing can threaten to enter ANY heart-- it does not matter whether the individual is saved or unsaved. But if we allow them in, and refuse to flush them out with the detoxing power of the Water of the Word through the Holy Spirit, they will begin to lodge themselves in the arteries of our spirit and eventually slow the life of God in us down, ultimately causing spiritual death.
Today's passage gives us the solution to never having to suffer a heart attack: GUARD your heart with vigilance, like a bulldog. Understand that in order for it to continue pumping life freely and unrestrained through us, we cannot let anything in that will clog our spiritual arteries. This means if we have to lovingly tell that friend who insists on dumping junk in our spirit that we can no longer receive it, that is what we must do. Even if WE have to go through a season of speaking nothing but the Word because WE have a problem controlling our own mouths, that is what we must do. It's crucial to our very survival as believers, Saints. Our heart's health will determine whether we will be on-fire threats to the kingdom, or weak, broken-down vessels that are of no use to the kingdom. Doctor Jesus is speaking(RED LETTERS, y'all): "Bring the cholesterol down, or suffer a spiritual heart attack."
Prayer: Father, create in me a CLEAN heart, and renew a right spirit within me. As I cling to You, may I cast down every thought that would clog up my arteries and bring death to my spirit man. I declare only life and health, so that You can be glorified in me. I give You praise forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Mountains Into Molehills
Wednesday, September 21st, 2011
Today's Passage> Philippians 4:6-9
Memory Verse> Phil.4:6
I've seen quite a few things in my day that probably should've caused me to have lost my sound mind by now. Every now and then, I go back to the days of the war when we slept on the concrete floor of an abandoned house with only clothes beneath us. We left everything behind us and, from one day to the next, only God knew where provision was coming from. Day in and day out, there were people dying on their own or being killed all around us. I'll never forget the stench of it, coming only from the pit of hell with all the hate and anger that compelled the soldiers to do unspeakable things.
But thanks to God's awesome grace, I came out of it with a confidence that nothing happens outside of God's knowledge and control, and all things work together for the good of those called to accomplish His purpose. Even so, though, many years later,I still carried the scars of those days and manifested the emotional burdens I thought I had gotten rid of. How did I do that? By walking around with a paranoid attitude, thinking everyone was out to get me and that I would have to look out for myself by building these walls. No-one would ever see my tears, but I would internalize and deal with pain by comforting myself with food. And these outbursts of anger that came out of me were so unexpected, especially when my children were younger, that it almost destroyed my relationship with them because I took everything out on them whenever they made mistakes.
It wasn't until God began to show me that I could walk in healing by thinking thoughts of good report and life, not frustration and despair. I discovered that I had heard so many words of condemnation-- even before the war-- that I had learned to find only the negative in others. I didn't know how to praise and encourage because I hadn't heard it often. But as I grew in relationship with God, He showed me that there was no way I could shower praises on Him, yet find only the negative in others that He created. I have truly been changed from the person I used to be to the woman I am now.
Instead of focusing on what the situation calls for, stressing out and being anxious about things I couldn't control anyway, I remember what God's Word says and focus on that. Lately, I even find myself moving away from the negative influences. I no longer feel obligated to tolerate them just to be polite, because that negative stuff only gets deposited in our system. I'm learning that every experience served to teach me how to expect the best from God no matter what. I'm taking Him at His Word that I am not to be anxious or easily frustrated about ANYTHING, but bring EVERYTHING to Him in prayer. And the peace that flows from my communion with Him keeps the evil one from getting in. Talk to Your Father today about the mountains in your life; you'll see them crumble into molehills in His awesome presence.
Prayer: Father, You have so graciously taught me to trust You in everything. You are God alone, and no situation is too big for You to handle. May every mountain be turned into a level plain as I let You in more and more. I pray today that Your people will also begin to trust You and give You their mountains as well. And may the enemy be defeated in all our lives. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Philippians 4:6-9
Memory Verse> Phil.4:6
I've seen quite a few things in my day that probably should've caused me to have lost my sound mind by now. Every now and then, I go back to the days of the war when we slept on the concrete floor of an abandoned house with only clothes beneath us. We left everything behind us and, from one day to the next, only God knew where provision was coming from. Day in and day out, there were people dying on their own or being killed all around us. I'll never forget the stench of it, coming only from the pit of hell with all the hate and anger that compelled the soldiers to do unspeakable things.
But thanks to God's awesome grace, I came out of it with a confidence that nothing happens outside of God's knowledge and control, and all things work together for the good of those called to accomplish His purpose. Even so, though, many years later,I still carried the scars of those days and manifested the emotional burdens I thought I had gotten rid of. How did I do that? By walking around with a paranoid attitude, thinking everyone was out to get me and that I would have to look out for myself by building these walls. No-one would ever see my tears, but I would internalize and deal with pain by comforting myself with food. And these outbursts of anger that came out of me were so unexpected, especially when my children were younger, that it almost destroyed my relationship with them because I took everything out on them whenever they made mistakes.
It wasn't until God began to show me that I could walk in healing by thinking thoughts of good report and life, not frustration and despair. I discovered that I had heard so many words of condemnation-- even before the war-- that I had learned to find only the negative in others. I didn't know how to praise and encourage because I hadn't heard it often. But as I grew in relationship with God, He showed me that there was no way I could shower praises on Him, yet find only the negative in others that He created. I have truly been changed from the person I used to be to the woman I am now.
Instead of focusing on what the situation calls for, stressing out and being anxious about things I couldn't control anyway, I remember what God's Word says and focus on that. Lately, I even find myself moving away from the negative influences. I no longer feel obligated to tolerate them just to be polite, because that negative stuff only gets deposited in our system. I'm learning that every experience served to teach me how to expect the best from God no matter what. I'm taking Him at His Word that I am not to be anxious or easily frustrated about ANYTHING, but bring EVERYTHING to Him in prayer. And the peace that flows from my communion with Him keeps the evil one from getting in. Talk to Your Father today about the mountains in your life; you'll see them crumble into molehills in His awesome presence.
Prayer: Father, You have so graciously taught me to trust You in everything. You are God alone, and no situation is too big for You to handle. May every mountain be turned into a level plain as I let You in more and more. I pray today that Your people will also begin to trust You and give You their mountains as well. And may the enemy be defeated in all our lives. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
If It's a Fight He Wants......!
Tuesday, September 20th, 2011
Today's Passage> 2 Corinthians 10:2-6
Memory Verse> 2 Corinthians 10:4
Let's go straight to the meat of it. This life we're living is the subtopic of a war going on in the spirit realm. That's more real than the car you drive, the job you work, or the house you live in. I mean, let's be truthful: there's an enemy out there who makes it his business to torment us. And the dude NEVER gives up. Our nation's military can go from years of wartime to years of peacetime, but we don't. It's always wartime for us. The bible tells us to "endure hardships like a good soldier". A good soldier? Yeah, this is a fight, folks. So let's take a break from "tiptoeing through the tullips" and find out what's really going on around us.
We know who our adversary is. We just need to remember that he fights. He doesn't just sit by and wait for us to sin, "he walks to and fro seeking whom he may devour". Sickness, anger, poverty, fear, trauma, terror, divorce, neglect, rejection, and suicide/murder, are all tools of his trade. He'll also pit us against each other (husbands against wives, sons against fathers, and churches against churches) in order to accomplish his will. Yes, he fights, and he doesn't do it fairly either. If he can't get us, he'll get our children. If he can't mess with our families, he'll mess with our incomes. Sometimes we want to scream "TAKE A DAY OFF FOR CRYING OUT LOUD"! But he won't. You know it. So get over it.
Why does he fight so hard? Why does the devil have to go to such great lengths to try to destroy us? Well, the answer lies in our defenses....our HOMELAND SECURITY. See, the wings of our God are a mighty fortress. He Himself is a Strong Tower and a Shield for us. By his own power, satan can't pluck us from God's hands. As a matter of fact, while he waits for "us" to fall, his own fall has already happened. In Luke 10:18-19, Jesus said "I saw satan fall like lightning from Heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you".
Did you hear that? He gave us power over the enemy. We have the authority to put him in his place. Through Jesus, we have weapons in our arsenal. Today's passage says "The weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for the pulling down of strongholds". Our weapons give us an edge (or benefit) in battle. The first benefit is the fight's already been fixed. No matter what, the devil's fighting a losing battle. The second benefit is we can't use our weapons on flesh. This fight is not against your brother or sister. The last benefit is it pulls down strongholds. Strongholds are places where the enemy has entrenched himself in an effort to claim a territory. Some of his "faves" are our emotions, health, attitudes, religion, perceptions of race, and definitions of freedom. The good news is we can snatch these kingdoms right out of the sky. The devil doesn't stand a chance against you. He's submitted to God's kingdom. You're not submitted to his. So praise, worship, fast, pray, love one another, obey God's word, and most of all.....if you SEE something, SAY something! And victory will always be yours...Blessings!
Prayer: Lord God, I praise You! You are a Mighty Battle Axe. You're undefeated, undisputed, and unmatched. You're the Champion of champions. Arise, and let Your enemies be scattered. As long as I stay under the shadow of Your mighty wings, You will be my comfort and shield. The enemy cannot bring any harm to me, my spouse, my children, my home, or my church. You reign, Lord. And we claim the victory for all who diligently seek You, in Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> 2 Corinthians 10:2-6
Memory Verse> 2 Corinthians 10:4
Let's go straight to the meat of it. This life we're living is the subtopic of a war going on in the spirit realm. That's more real than the car you drive, the job you work, or the house you live in. I mean, let's be truthful: there's an enemy out there who makes it his business to torment us. And the dude NEVER gives up. Our nation's military can go from years of wartime to years of peacetime, but we don't. It's always wartime for us. The bible tells us to "endure hardships like a good soldier". A good soldier? Yeah, this is a fight, folks. So let's take a break from "tiptoeing through the tullips" and find out what's really going on around us.
We know who our adversary is. We just need to remember that he fights. He doesn't just sit by and wait for us to sin, "he walks to and fro seeking whom he may devour". Sickness, anger, poverty, fear, trauma, terror, divorce, neglect, rejection, and suicide/murder, are all tools of his trade. He'll also pit us against each other (husbands against wives, sons against fathers, and churches against churches) in order to accomplish his will. Yes, he fights, and he doesn't do it fairly either. If he can't get us, he'll get our children. If he can't mess with our families, he'll mess with our incomes. Sometimes we want to scream "TAKE A DAY OFF FOR CRYING OUT LOUD"! But he won't. You know it. So get over it.
Why does he fight so hard? Why does the devil have to go to such great lengths to try to destroy us? Well, the answer lies in our defenses....our HOMELAND SECURITY. See, the wings of our God are a mighty fortress. He Himself is a Strong Tower and a Shield for us. By his own power, satan can't pluck us from God's hands. As a matter of fact, while he waits for "us" to fall, his own fall has already happened. In Luke 10:18-19, Jesus said "I saw satan fall like lightning from Heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you".
Did you hear that? He gave us power over the enemy. We have the authority to put him in his place. Through Jesus, we have weapons in our arsenal. Today's passage says "The weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for the pulling down of strongholds". Our weapons give us an edge (or benefit) in battle. The first benefit is the fight's already been fixed. No matter what, the devil's fighting a losing battle. The second benefit is we can't use our weapons on flesh. This fight is not against your brother or sister. The last benefit is it pulls down strongholds. Strongholds are places where the enemy has entrenched himself in an effort to claim a territory. Some of his "faves" are our emotions, health, attitudes, religion, perceptions of race, and definitions of freedom. The good news is we can snatch these kingdoms right out of the sky. The devil doesn't stand a chance against you. He's submitted to God's kingdom. You're not submitted to his. So praise, worship, fast, pray, love one another, obey God's word, and most of all.....if you SEE something, SAY something! And victory will always be yours...Blessings!
Prayer: Lord God, I praise You! You are a Mighty Battle Axe. You're undefeated, undisputed, and unmatched. You're the Champion of champions. Arise, and let Your enemies be scattered. As long as I stay under the shadow of Your mighty wings, You will be my comfort and shield. The enemy cannot bring any harm to me, my spouse, my children, my home, or my church. You reign, Lord. And we claim the victory for all who diligently seek You, in Jesus' Name, Amen.
Homeland Security is Here!!!
Monday, September 19th, 2011
Today's Passage: Revelation chapter 12
Memory Verse> Rev. 12:11
Imagine that you were the enemy (yes, it's far-out, I know, but just go with me in the spirit). You got this wonderful idea that you could overthrow the God of the universe because of all the gifts you were given. So you staged a mutiny and actually convince some of the angels to follow your idea. But instead of overthrowing His kingdom, you get thrown out-- cast down to earth. You'd never intended to be subjected to such debased living-- after all, you have servants who worship you, too.
So, enraged at such treatment by the God of the whole earth, you seek to find a way to get back at Him. Then you hear of a plan that God has developed to generate fellowship and worship for Himself. He has decided to create a being only a little lower than you-- one who has the capacity to love and seek after the worship of God. But there's a twist: unlike the angels, this being will NOT be given only one option ... To worship Him; it will be his CHOICE-- a matter of this being's free will.
What would you do? Would you sit idly by and be unconcerned about the impact of God on this being and his kind? Or would you, who have been thrown down to the area where you can also exert some influence, decide to use this influence to your advantage? You would make it your life's purpose to create as much difficulty as possible for your archenemy, the God of the whole earth, to have complete authority over humanity. The basic answer to the question "Why does the enemy hate us so much?" is found in today's passage.The enemy knows that we are spirit beings, but subject to the limitations of the flesh and easily swayed one way or the other depending on our circumstances. How do you hurt the most powerful Being on the earth? You hinder His children from living exclusively for Him.
But what the enemy was NOT counting on was the great love of God for His children. He loves us so much that He sacrificed His first begotten Son to bear the guilt and punishment of us all. Now, we don't have to just endure the attacks of the enemy because God's Firstborn defeated him on the cross!!! Armed with that revelation, we can live with our feet on his neck, walking in authority over him... If only we keep him in his place and never allow him to use his strong power of deception and persuasion over us. His time is short, so he's desperate...but WE, the Redeemed of the Lord, have all eternity to rule over him. As long as we stay in the kingdom of LIGHT and use the power made available to us, we will ever be victorious. No fear... HOMELAND SECURITY is here!!!
Prayer: Father, I will never cease to be amazed at Your great love for me. You went to great lengths to cover me and make my enemy powerless to destroy me. But time and time again I failed to take authority over him because of my own unwillingness to do things according to the kingdom of Light. But now that You have given me this revelation of who I am in You, I am empowered to walk in everything You gave me. I yield to You and Your way of defeating him. Thank You for victory! I will worship You forever. In the Champion Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Revelation chapter 12
Memory Verse> Rev. 12:11
Imagine that you were the enemy (yes, it's far-out, I know, but just go with me in the spirit). You got this wonderful idea that you could overthrow the God of the universe because of all the gifts you were given. So you staged a mutiny and actually convince some of the angels to follow your idea. But instead of overthrowing His kingdom, you get thrown out-- cast down to earth. You'd never intended to be subjected to such debased living-- after all, you have servants who worship you, too.
So, enraged at such treatment by the God of the whole earth, you seek to find a way to get back at Him. Then you hear of a plan that God has developed to generate fellowship and worship for Himself. He has decided to create a being only a little lower than you-- one who has the capacity to love and seek after the worship of God. But there's a twist: unlike the angels, this being will NOT be given only one option ... To worship Him; it will be his CHOICE-- a matter of this being's free will.
What would you do? Would you sit idly by and be unconcerned about the impact of God on this being and his kind? Or would you, who have been thrown down to the area where you can also exert some influence, decide to use this influence to your advantage? You would make it your life's purpose to create as much difficulty as possible for your archenemy, the God of the whole earth, to have complete authority over humanity. The basic answer to the question "Why does the enemy hate us so much?" is found in today's passage.The enemy knows that we are spirit beings, but subject to the limitations of the flesh and easily swayed one way or the other depending on our circumstances. How do you hurt the most powerful Being on the earth? You hinder His children from living exclusively for Him.
But what the enemy was NOT counting on was the great love of God for His children. He loves us so much that He sacrificed His first begotten Son to bear the guilt and punishment of us all. Now, we don't have to just endure the attacks of the enemy because God's Firstborn defeated him on the cross!!! Armed with that revelation, we can live with our feet on his neck, walking in authority over him... If only we keep him in his place and never allow him to use his strong power of deception and persuasion over us. His time is short, so he's desperate...but WE, the Redeemed of the Lord, have all eternity to rule over him. As long as we stay in the kingdom of LIGHT and use the power made available to us, we will ever be victorious. No fear... HOMELAND SECURITY is here!!!
Prayer: Father, I will never cease to be amazed at Your great love for me. You went to great lengths to cover me and make my enemy powerless to destroy me. But time and time again I failed to take authority over him because of my own unwillingness to do things according to the kingdom of Light. But now that You have given me this revelation of who I am in You, I am empowered to walk in everything You gave me. I yield to You and Your way of defeating him. Thank You for victory! I will worship You forever. In the Champion Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prayers that Prevail
Sunday, September 18th, 2011
Today's Passage: Exodus chapters 6 & 7
Memory Verse> Exodus 7:4 & 5
Father, I thank You today that You are still THE God of miracles. To those who fear You, You have given the promise to uphold and bless. In spite of the opposition, You still display Your signs and wonders to remind the unbelievers that You are the Most High God.
Today, I celebrate You as the Champion. You are the One Who sees and sets up the enemy to prosper, even in Your great mercy giving him a chance to repent. But when he refuses to acknowledge You, You use his hardheartedness to bring destruction upon his head, thus showing Yourself to be the One True God.
I also Thank You for making provision for Your children through miracles, preparing a table for us in the presence of our enemies. As we learn to walk in obedience to You in everything we do, may You reward us by defeating all our enemies in the Name of Jesus. For those areas that we are still struggling to submit, please soften our hearts so that we can give You our all without holding back any more.
As we all rise to worship You, I declare that a remnant will remember Your mighty acts that You performed before the enemies of Your children of Israel, and grow in their trust fo You by leaps and bounds. Arise today, O Lord, and let Your enemies be scattered forever. In the awesome Name of our Lord Jesus, we pray, Amen.
Today's Passage: Exodus chapters 6 & 7
Memory Verse> Exodus 7:4 & 5
Father, I thank You today that You are still THE God of miracles. To those who fear You, You have given the promise to uphold and bless. In spite of the opposition, You still display Your signs and wonders to remind the unbelievers that You are the Most High God.
Today, I celebrate You as the Champion. You are the One Who sees and sets up the enemy to prosper, even in Your great mercy giving him a chance to repent. But when he refuses to acknowledge You, You use his hardheartedness to bring destruction upon his head, thus showing Yourself to be the One True God.
I also Thank You for making provision for Your children through miracles, preparing a table for us in the presence of our enemies. As we learn to walk in obedience to You in everything we do, may You reward us by defeating all our enemies in the Name of Jesus. For those areas that we are still struggling to submit, please soften our hearts so that we can give You our all without holding back any more.
As we all rise to worship You, I declare that a remnant will remember Your mighty acts that You performed before the enemies of Your children of Israel, and grow in their trust fo You by leaps and bounds. Arise today, O Lord, and let Your enemies be scattered forever. In the awesome Name of our Lord Jesus, we pray, Amen.
Set-Up For a Miracle
Saturday, September 17th, 2011
Today's Passage: Exodus chapter 5
Memory Verse: Exodus 7:5
There's a phenomenon in the believer's life that many avoid talking about, especially to brand new converts to the faith. It's this crazy thing that happens the instant we say no to the world and yes to God's way. We know that our lives were a miserable mess before Christ; a huge load is lifted off of our shoulders when we finally roll everything over on His. But as soon as we accept Christ's invitation to live forever, a different kind of hell breaks loose. This opposition is twofold in that the enemy launches it against us, while God allows it. But why?
It's this same kind of opposition experienced by the children of Israel, who knew firsthand the reality of oppression as they slaved under their Egyptian taskmasters. The irony of their situation was that their ancestors actually CHOSE to live in Egypt, where they had been invited to live as honored guests because of Joseph. So their oppressive treatment may have been especially bitter. But when Moses introduced them to the idea that the I Am was coming to deliver them, what they thought was harsh treatment became a thousand times worse.
Like we would do, Moses went back to God and asked the question, "Why have you brought trouble to us? Since I did what You required, Pharaoh has done nothing but evil to them.". Why would a God Who supposedly loves us expose us to such evil? Does He find some sick pleasure in our discomfort? Or is there some ulterior motive that He wants to use to bring about a greater purpose? This is the primary course in "trial by fire" that all God's children must endure.
How can God show Himself as the Strong Deliverer He promises to be if there's no deliverance? How does He rescue us from a real enemy that is only imaginary? Being God, He plans the whole thing ahead of time, then plays it back in OUR time in such a way that it feels as if it's never happened before. To us, it seems that failure is the only option, but in actuality the enemy gets so overconfident that he shows his whole hand. That's when our Hero, Who knew the whole time that He would scatter His enemies like dust, moves in for the kill and brings us out with a high hand. And the purpose is finally revealed to us: so that ALL will see and know that our God is God. In the midst of your "trial by fire", we pray that you stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, and allow His glory to be revealed in and through you.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for loving me enough to expose me to situations that force me to walk by faith and grow out of the self- dependency we are so used to. In this setup for a miracle, I release all fear and cling completely to You. I have no other choice but to trust that You are in full control. May Your purpose be revealed to its fullest. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Exodus chapter 5
Memory Verse: Exodus 7:5
There's a phenomenon in the believer's life that many avoid talking about, especially to brand new converts to the faith. It's this crazy thing that happens the instant we say no to the world and yes to God's way. We know that our lives were a miserable mess before Christ; a huge load is lifted off of our shoulders when we finally roll everything over on His. But as soon as we accept Christ's invitation to live forever, a different kind of hell breaks loose. This opposition is twofold in that the enemy launches it against us, while God allows it. But why?
It's this same kind of opposition experienced by the children of Israel, who knew firsthand the reality of oppression as they slaved under their Egyptian taskmasters. The irony of their situation was that their ancestors actually CHOSE to live in Egypt, where they had been invited to live as honored guests because of Joseph. So their oppressive treatment may have been especially bitter. But when Moses introduced them to the idea that the I Am was coming to deliver them, what they thought was harsh treatment became a thousand times worse.
Like we would do, Moses went back to God and asked the question, "Why have you brought trouble to us? Since I did what You required, Pharaoh has done nothing but evil to them.". Why would a God Who supposedly loves us expose us to such evil? Does He find some sick pleasure in our discomfort? Or is there some ulterior motive that He wants to use to bring about a greater purpose? This is the primary course in "trial by fire" that all God's children must endure.
How can God show Himself as the Strong Deliverer He promises to be if there's no deliverance? How does He rescue us from a real enemy that is only imaginary? Being God, He plans the whole thing ahead of time, then plays it back in OUR time in such a way that it feels as if it's never happened before. To us, it seems that failure is the only option, but in actuality the enemy gets so overconfident that he shows his whole hand. That's when our Hero, Who knew the whole time that He would scatter His enemies like dust, moves in for the kill and brings us out with a high hand. And the purpose is finally revealed to us: so that ALL will see and know that our God is God. In the midst of your "trial by fire", we pray that you stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, and allow His glory to be revealed in and through you.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for loving me enough to expose me to situations that force me to walk by faith and grow out of the self- dependency we are so used to. In this setup for a miracle, I release all fear and cling completely to You. I have no other choice but to trust that You are in full control. May Your purpose be revealed to its fullest. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Respond to God's "GO"!
Friday, September 16th, 2011
Today's Passage: Exodus chapter 4
Memory Verse:Hebrews 11:6
Yesterday, we talked about how important it is for us to have a personal encounter with the True and Living God before we can be launched out into our destiny. But what happens when you encounter Him, hear His Voice, and still don't move forward? Even with all the confirmations of God's "GO", there's still one element that we have to bring to the table. Without it, destiny will grind to a screeching halt.
Today's passage gives us insight into just how unwilling man's heart is to fall into agreement with God's plans for our lives. Even after a thousand confirmations(yes, I'm calling you. I have need of you;), can you believe the audacity of Moses for finding one excuse after another to explain why he couldn't give in to God's request? The fact that God even entertains these remarks instead of just killing him and moving on shows us that each of us has a huge role to play in what God wants to do. But before we start to get too hard on Moses, we have to acknowledge that we, too, freeze up when God calls us.
So what does it take? If a great man like Moses couldn't even rise to the occasion when his moment came to respond to God's "GO", are we all doomed to mediocrity? Because surely WE might not have enough courage to respond! But God is a just God, and He has already made a way for us to obey. It's a built-in system that we can tap into through God's grace. It's called FAITH. Yep-- it's that simple, folks. God is doing all the work: He goes out of His way to get our attention ( burning bush and all). With every question that we may have, God gives us only answers that He thinks are necessary for our obedience, because-- and let's face it, Folks -- do we really expect God to entertain questions which reveal our unwillingness to conform to His will?
By faith, we must begin to move towards God's "GO" in our own lives. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that it's impossible to please Him any other way. No matter how small the call, it will always be bigger than our ability to carry it out. Which puts the responsibility for carrying out our destiny where it should be: with God. It's HIS Name on the line when we say, "God sent me.". What are we really afraid of? Trusting Him completely only causes Him to show Himself in a strong way. We're all given a measure of faith. Is yours in operation, or is it nonexistent because you won't let Him have all of you? How much faith will it take to respond to God's "GO"? The answer is simple: you'll never know until you release it.
Prayer: Father, I just want to be used by You. You raised me from the garbage heap, cleaned me up and transformed me into something beautiful. If You can use me after all I used to be, I won't hesitate to respond. By faith I receive Your "GO" in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Exodus chapter 4
Memory Verse:Hebrews 11:6
Yesterday, we talked about how important it is for us to have a personal encounter with the True and Living God before we can be launched out into our destiny. But what happens when you encounter Him, hear His Voice, and still don't move forward? Even with all the confirmations of God's "GO", there's still one element that we have to bring to the table. Without it, destiny will grind to a screeching halt.
Today's passage gives us insight into just how unwilling man's heart is to fall into agreement with God's plans for our lives. Even after a thousand confirmations(yes, I'm calling you. I have need of you;), can you believe the audacity of Moses for finding one excuse after another to explain why he couldn't give in to God's request? The fact that God even entertains these remarks instead of just killing him and moving on shows us that each of us has a huge role to play in what God wants to do. But before we start to get too hard on Moses, we have to acknowledge that we, too, freeze up when God calls us.
So what does it take? If a great man like Moses couldn't even rise to the occasion when his moment came to respond to God's "GO", are we all doomed to mediocrity? Because surely WE might not have enough courage to respond! But God is a just God, and He has already made a way for us to obey. It's a built-in system that we can tap into through God's grace. It's called FAITH. Yep-- it's that simple, folks. God is doing all the work: He goes out of His way to get our attention ( burning bush and all). With every question that we may have, God gives us only answers that He thinks are necessary for our obedience, because-- and let's face it, Folks -- do we really expect God to entertain questions which reveal our unwillingness to conform to His will?
By faith, we must begin to move towards God's "GO" in our own lives. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that it's impossible to please Him any other way. No matter how small the call, it will always be bigger than our ability to carry it out. Which puts the responsibility for carrying out our destiny where it should be: with God. It's HIS Name on the line when we say, "God sent me.". What are we really afraid of? Trusting Him completely only causes Him to show Himself in a strong way. We're all given a measure of faith. Is yours in operation, or is it nonexistent because you won't let Him have all of you? How much faith will it take to respond to God's "GO"? The answer is simple: you'll never know until you release it.
Prayer: Father, I just want to be used by You. You raised me from the garbage heap, cleaned me up and transformed me into something beautiful. If You can use me after all I used to be, I won't hesitate to respond. By faith I receive Your "GO" in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Encounters: A Must-Have!!!
Thursday, September 15th, 2011
Today's Passage: Exodus chapter 3
Memory Verse> Exodus 3: 4 & 6
I remember it as clearly as if it were yesterday. It was the day I awoke from a dream. The dream that would cause my entire life to change. I was still homebound while recovering from my baby son's birth. One night, I dreamed that I was at this place that sort of looked like an ampitheater. There were many people there -- I'd guess them to be in the thousands. I don't really remember what I was doing; I'm not sure if it was as a singer or a minister of the Word. I just know that I was doing something that was very important to God.
Anyway, while we were there, I noticed this dark blur afar off that kept approaching the place where we were assembled. As it came closer, I noticed that it wasn't a thing, but it was actually the enemy, dressed all in black. The closer he came towards us, I could tell he was aimed at me and not all these people. So I began to speak in tongues , speaking in my heavenly language just as I'd been taught I needed to do in order to defeat him. But he kept coming closer, looking right at me the whole time as though the words I was speaking had no effect on him.
When he was close enough to me that I could almost smell the sulfur on his breath, and I was scared out of my mind, I woke up. That's when I heard the Lord say these words: "The reason you couldn't scare the enemy away is because the enemy knows when your relationship with Me has grown cold. If you barely get in My Presence, how can you claim to walk in the authority I have provided for you? Just begin to seek Me like never before, and you will become a force to reckon with, for I have set you apart to draw many to My throne." Even having been saved since 1991, I can tell you that I've never encountered the Lord like I did that night. It's something I'll never forget. It's a moment in my life that I believe helped me define who I really am -- a worshipper -- and I know for myself that God orchestrated it that way to make sure I wouldn't soon forget it.
Just like Moses, we all have moments of visitation from God. We can choose to acknowledge that it WAS Him reaching down to us and communicating His direction for our lives... or we can choose to reject it, dismissing it as just something that took place to scare or intimidate us into believing in a devil and a hell. Whatever the case, something we CANNOT say is that we know what God wants us to accomplish in this world WITHOUT having had an encounter with Him. God is serious about letting His children know what He wants from us. He wouldn't leave us to guess what our destiny is, or even how He wants us to go about doing it. The Word says that eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man what God has in store for His people. But God has revealed it to His children through His Spirit. Absolutely under no circumstances will He leave us in the dark. We simply have to seek Him.
Prayer: Father, I know that I heard Your voice, for You spoke to me just as clearly as You spoke to Moses. Just like his encounter with You, I do want to hear You clearly on a regular basis. Breathe into me the visions and dreams You have for me, and I will tell everyone what You did for me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Exodus chapter 3
Memory Verse> Exodus 3: 4 & 6
I remember it as clearly as if it were yesterday. It was the day I awoke from a dream. The dream that would cause my entire life to change. I was still homebound while recovering from my baby son's birth. One night, I dreamed that I was at this place that sort of looked like an ampitheater. There were many people there -- I'd guess them to be in the thousands. I don't really remember what I was doing; I'm not sure if it was as a singer or a minister of the Word. I just know that I was doing something that was very important to God.
Anyway, while we were there, I noticed this dark blur afar off that kept approaching the place where we were assembled. As it came closer, I noticed that it wasn't a thing, but it was actually the enemy, dressed all in black. The closer he came towards us, I could tell he was aimed at me and not all these people. So I began to speak in tongues , speaking in my heavenly language just as I'd been taught I needed to do in order to defeat him. But he kept coming closer, looking right at me the whole time as though the words I was speaking had no effect on him.
When he was close enough to me that I could almost smell the sulfur on his breath, and I was scared out of my mind, I woke up. That's when I heard the Lord say these words: "The reason you couldn't scare the enemy away is because the enemy knows when your relationship with Me has grown cold. If you barely get in My Presence, how can you claim to walk in the authority I have provided for you? Just begin to seek Me like never before, and you will become a force to reckon with, for I have set you apart to draw many to My throne." Even having been saved since 1991, I can tell you that I've never encountered the Lord like I did that night. It's something I'll never forget. It's a moment in my life that I believe helped me define who I really am -- a worshipper -- and I know for myself that God orchestrated it that way to make sure I wouldn't soon forget it.
Just like Moses, we all have moments of visitation from God. We can choose to acknowledge that it WAS Him reaching down to us and communicating His direction for our lives... or we can choose to reject it, dismissing it as just something that took place to scare or intimidate us into believing in a devil and a hell. Whatever the case, something we CANNOT say is that we know what God wants us to accomplish in this world WITHOUT having had an encounter with Him. God is serious about letting His children know what He wants from us. He wouldn't leave us to guess what our destiny is, or even how He wants us to go about doing it. The Word says that eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man what God has in store for His people. But God has revealed it to His children through His Spirit. Absolutely under no circumstances will He leave us in the dark. We simply have to seek Him.
Prayer: Father, I know that I heard Your voice, for You spoke to me just as clearly as You spoke to Moses. Just like his encounter with You, I do want to hear You clearly on a regular basis. Breathe into me the visions and dreams You have for me, and I will tell everyone what You did for me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Character: The Final Frontier
Wednesday September 14, 2011
Today's Passage> Exodus 2: 11-25
Memory Verse> Exodus 2: 14
Character: the final "Christian" frontier. Character is defined as qualities of honesty, courage, integrity, and the like. God has given us all character. In Genesis chapter 1, God made man in His image and gave Him His nature (character). He literally intended for us to be a reflection of Him. Imagine that....
I called character the final Christian frontier earlier for two reasons. Let's start with the flesh. The flesh, as it relates to the world, is a character-changer. It often seeks to be comfortable and validated. It's always reluctant to endure hardness. It wants what it wants, and it wants it right now. It doesn't love who and what doesn't love it, and it only looks after itself. The problem with this is it's the polar opposite of the character of God. Next, events of our lives (good or bad) are character-changers. Some have gone through horrific tragedies in life. Those tragedies, however, have shaped the way they view life. They've created beliefs and attitudes that aren't rational or productive. These effects of these events change God's design of character for those who've endured them. Here's the good news, broken pasts, bad choices, and traumatic events do not have the power to change God's plan for us to be like Him.
There....I said it. The enemy wants us to think that our brokenness and sin prohibits us from being in relationship with God. In a way, he's right, but not completely. Jesus, God's only begotten Son, was crucified and rose from the dead. And if we accept Him as our Savior, His resurrection will raise up our destiny in God. Isn't that awesome? So if someone were to ask you what role does your character play in preparing you for destiny, tell them it plays the biggest role. How? If your character is patterned after the world, there is no destiny (just wandering). If your character, however, is patterned after God, the sky is literally the limit (praise break)!
Prayer: Father, my life is Yours. I declare that my character shall be patterned after Yours -- your love, Your grace, Your peace, Your strength, and everything that shows the world that You live on the inside of me. Take over, Lord. All I want is You, and You are free to live big in me. Get all the glory out of my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Exodus 2: 11-25
Memory Verse> Exodus 2: 14
Character: the final "Christian" frontier. Character is defined as qualities of honesty, courage, integrity, and the like. God has given us all character. In Genesis chapter 1, God made man in His image and gave Him His nature (character). He literally intended for us to be a reflection of Him. Imagine that....
I called character the final Christian frontier earlier for two reasons. Let's start with the flesh. The flesh, as it relates to the world, is a character-changer. It often seeks to be comfortable and validated. It's always reluctant to endure hardness. It wants what it wants, and it wants it right now. It doesn't love who and what doesn't love it, and it only looks after itself. The problem with this is it's the polar opposite of the character of God. Next, events of our lives (good or bad) are character-changers. Some have gone through horrific tragedies in life. Those tragedies, however, have shaped the way they view life. They've created beliefs and attitudes that aren't rational or productive. These effects of these events change God's design of character for those who've endured them. Here's the good news, broken pasts, bad choices, and traumatic events do not have the power to change God's plan for us to be like Him.
There....I said it. The enemy wants us to think that our brokenness and sin prohibits us from being in relationship with God. In a way, he's right, but not completely. Jesus, God's only begotten Son, was crucified and rose from the dead. And if we accept Him as our Savior, His resurrection will raise up our destiny in God. Isn't that awesome? So if someone were to ask you what role does your character play in preparing you for destiny, tell them it plays the biggest role. How? If your character is patterned after the world, there is no destiny (just wandering). If your character, however, is patterned after God, the sky is literally the limit (praise break)!
Prayer: Father, my life is Yours. I declare that my character shall be patterned after Yours -- your love, Your grace, Your peace, Your strength, and everything that shows the world that You live on the inside of me. Take over, Lord. All I want is You, and You are free to live big in me. Get all the glory out of my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Where Is God when It Hurts?
Tuesday, September 13th, 2011
Today's Passage> Exodus chapter 1 and 2: 1-10
Memory Verse > Exodus 2: 5 & 6
All around us, we hear the sounds of defeat. More people are murdered near churches than we even care to think about. The enemy has launched an all-out attack on everything That once seemed off- limits to the kingdom of darkness... And at first glance, he seems to be winning. More divorces, which result in children that are filled with despair, depressed and willing to take their own lives or someone else's.
But look again. This is the same scenario the children of Israel find themselves in according to today's passage. The same nation that embraced Jacob and his descendants for years turns into one that couldn't care less for them. As a matter of fact, not only have they grown to detest them, but they also greatly fear them due to their sheer numbers. They go from being viewed as honored members of Joseph's family to a bunch of misfits who didn't belong in their country. It would almost seem as if God set them up to be destroyed. Surely God knew ahead of time that the Egyptians would turn against His people? Surely their oppression was of no surprise to the omniscient God?
There's something about the way God allows the enemy of His people to come so close to things that could potentially harm them. Pastors Chad and Nette call this moment in every believer's life their "9-11 moment". This is obviously the point when God's Presence is hidden from all involved. Just like the children of Israel, I'm sure the prayers went something like this: God, do You even care that I'm here? Do You see what I'm going through? And sometimes it seems as though He chooses not to respond.
But for those of us who've experienced it personally, God has not only seen, but has mapped a way out long ahead of time BEFORE the problem arose. I guess the whole idea of allowing our enemies to come that close to us is so that they get some false sense of security, and get trapped when He shows Himself strong in our lives. That way, no- One but Him could dream of getting the glory. I mean, look how clean the whole thing went down when Moses was born. Who else but God would manipulate time so that Pharaoh's daughter herself would come and rescue him from the water. Wake up! Never think God is unaware of the ins and outs of our situation. All we have to do is trust, and watch the Master Plan come together as it Always does.
Prayer: Father, I've used the word "trust" far too loosely. But when it came time to let go, I did the opposite. I want to declare to You today that I will trust when You say You know what You're doing. I release every hold on the outcome of what I'm worried about in Jesus' Name. I gaze upon Your face with earnest expectation of Your move, and praise You in advance for what only You can do in my life. In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Exodus chapter 1 and 2: 1-10
Memory Verse > Exodus 2: 5 & 6
All around us, we hear the sounds of defeat. More people are murdered near churches than we even care to think about. The enemy has launched an all-out attack on everything That once seemed off- limits to the kingdom of darkness... And at first glance, he seems to be winning. More divorces, which result in children that are filled with despair, depressed and willing to take their own lives or someone else's.
But look again. This is the same scenario the children of Israel find themselves in according to today's passage. The same nation that embraced Jacob and his descendants for years turns into one that couldn't care less for them. As a matter of fact, not only have they grown to detest them, but they also greatly fear them due to their sheer numbers. They go from being viewed as honored members of Joseph's family to a bunch of misfits who didn't belong in their country. It would almost seem as if God set them up to be destroyed. Surely God knew ahead of time that the Egyptians would turn against His people? Surely their oppression was of no surprise to the omniscient God?
There's something about the way God allows the enemy of His people to come so close to things that could potentially harm them. Pastors Chad and Nette call this moment in every believer's life their "9-11 moment". This is obviously the point when God's Presence is hidden from all involved. Just like the children of Israel, I'm sure the prayers went something like this: God, do You even care that I'm here? Do You see what I'm going through? And sometimes it seems as though He chooses not to respond.
But for those of us who've experienced it personally, God has not only seen, but has mapped a way out long ahead of time BEFORE the problem arose. I guess the whole idea of allowing our enemies to come that close to us is so that they get some false sense of security, and get trapped when He shows Himself strong in our lives. That way, no- One but Him could dream of getting the glory. I mean, look how clean the whole thing went down when Moses was born. Who else but God would manipulate time so that Pharaoh's daughter herself would come and rescue him from the water. Wake up! Never think God is unaware of the ins and outs of our situation. All we have to do is trust, and watch the Master Plan come together as it Always does.
Prayer: Father, I've used the word "trust" far too loosely. But when it came time to let go, I did the opposite. I want to declare to You today that I will trust when You say You know what You're doing. I release every hold on the outcome of what I'm worried about in Jesus' Name. I gaze upon Your face with earnest expectation of Your move, and praise You in advance for what only You can do in my life. In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
The Power of the Spoken Word
Monday, September 12th, 2011
Today's Passage: Genesis chapter 49
Memory Verse: Gen. 49: 28
If you asked fathers from different walks of life what the most important thing is that they could pass on to their sons, you'd probably get a different response. For the wealthy ones, the answer might be tips on how to use their money wisely. For those who are part of the working class, they might decide that their work ethic is most important. But no matter who they are, a father's spoken blessing is the most profound thing that can be passed on.
I initially thought it was awesome that Jacob was able to call his sons together and speak a word into each of their lives. But as I actually began to read more, I saw that what he had to say was not positive for each one. This really got me wondering: could it be possible that God allowed him to prophesy the course his sons' lives would take based on the choices they had ALREADY made? Probably so, because the Bible tells us that Jacob was on the verge of dying. But what if we, as part of the generation that's under grace, would use this authority to speak into our children's lives BEFORE they got a chance to make a mess of it and not after?
We already know how powerful the tongue is. We also know that God has given the man dominion over all God created on this earth, especially everything in his household. How awesome it would be to declare that your sons will be the head and not the tail, above and never beneath all the days of their lives? How about declaring that they will be leaders rather than followers among their peers? And even most important of all, how about saying that as often as possible, instead of every now and then? And speak destiny in their presence, while you look them straight in the eye, letting them know that these words are the only option. Talk about making a difference in the coming generation!
As you go about your day, may the Lord give you creative ideas straight from His heart to find ways to reach our young people. And don't think for a moment that you couldn't make a difference just because you don't have any biological children. Have you looked around you lately? More young men with no fathers find themselves on the path labeled "trouble" than ever before. God has designed this thing in a way that we don't have to see the results right away to believe that they are on the way. But the evidence of the power of a spoken word is still all around us. May we not be afraid to use it. It will make a world of difference for generations to come.
Prayer: Father, You spoke everything we see into existence. Then You showed us how to speak like You in spite of our circumstances. We lift up now the fathers of this great nation of ours, as well as the ones in TD Nation. As they speak life and God's will over their children, may Your words take root in the hearts of the children and cause them never to be the same. And we'll give You all the praise, in Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Genesis chapter 49
Memory Verse: Gen. 49: 28
If you asked fathers from different walks of life what the most important thing is that they could pass on to their sons, you'd probably get a different response. For the wealthy ones, the answer might be tips on how to use their money wisely. For those who are part of the working class, they might decide that their work ethic is most important. But no matter who they are, a father's spoken blessing is the most profound thing that can be passed on.
I initially thought it was awesome that Jacob was able to call his sons together and speak a word into each of their lives. But as I actually began to read more, I saw that what he had to say was not positive for each one. This really got me wondering: could it be possible that God allowed him to prophesy the course his sons' lives would take based on the choices they had ALREADY made? Probably so, because the Bible tells us that Jacob was on the verge of dying. But what if we, as part of the generation that's under grace, would use this authority to speak into our children's lives BEFORE they got a chance to make a mess of it and not after?
We already know how powerful the tongue is. We also know that God has given the man dominion over all God created on this earth, especially everything in his household. How awesome it would be to declare that your sons will be the head and not the tail, above and never beneath all the days of their lives? How about declaring that they will be leaders rather than followers among their peers? And even most important of all, how about saying that as often as possible, instead of every now and then? And speak destiny in their presence, while you look them straight in the eye, letting them know that these words are the only option. Talk about making a difference in the coming generation!
As you go about your day, may the Lord give you creative ideas straight from His heart to find ways to reach our young people. And don't think for a moment that you couldn't make a difference just because you don't have any biological children. Have you looked around you lately? More young men with no fathers find themselves on the path labeled "trouble" than ever before. God has designed this thing in a way that we don't have to see the results right away to believe that they are on the way. But the evidence of the power of a spoken word is still all around us. May we not be afraid to use it. It will make a world of difference for generations to come.
Prayer: Father, You spoke everything we see into existence. Then You showed us how to speak like You in spite of our circumstances. We lift up now the fathers of this great nation of ours, as well as the ones in TD Nation. As they speak life and God's will over their children, may Your words take root in the hearts of the children and cause them never to be the same. And we'll give You all the praise, in Jesus' Name, Amen.
To the 9/11 Deceased, Survivors, and their Families
Sunday, September 11th, 2011
Today's Passage: Genesis 46
MemorY Verse> Gen. 46: 6
Father, today we remember every single family that was impacted by the events of September 11th ten years ago. We know that You are the God that is a Father to the fatherless, and You provide covering and safety for the widows. You are the God Who blesses from one generation to another, no matter what problems arise. You show Yourself faithful to those who need You from the rising of the sun to its going down. We also know that no words can ease the pain of loss to those who suffer loss.
But we stand by faith to declare that You have used, and will continue to use, all things and cause them to work together for the good of them that love and fear You. We believe on their behalf that Your purpose for allowing such tragedy in the great United States of America has not yet been completed, but will extend and be fulfilled for generations yet to come. We also pray that any assignment set out by the enemy to instill fear in the hearts of the people of this nation will be cast down and cancelled on behalf of the righteous remnant of this nation. We dispatch ministering spirits at every point surrounding our nation, and speak protection over every single person on our soil.
As Your people arise to worship You, may all our hearts be set on acknowledging You for the mighty God that You are in good times and in bad. May our devotion to You go to another level, and may we grow by leaps and bounds in our knowledge of You. And not only that, but may our intimacy also go deeper as we open ourselves up to Your will in our lives, letting go of past hurts and unforgiveness. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Genesis 46
MemorY Verse> Gen. 46: 6
Father, today we remember every single family that was impacted by the events of September 11th ten years ago. We know that You are the God that is a Father to the fatherless, and You provide covering and safety for the widows. You are the God Who blesses from one generation to another, no matter what problems arise. You show Yourself faithful to those who need You from the rising of the sun to its going down. We also know that no words can ease the pain of loss to those who suffer loss.
But we stand by faith to declare that You have used, and will continue to use, all things and cause them to work together for the good of them that love and fear You. We believe on their behalf that Your purpose for allowing such tragedy in the great United States of America has not yet been completed, but will extend and be fulfilled for generations yet to come. We also pray that any assignment set out by the enemy to instill fear in the hearts of the people of this nation will be cast down and cancelled on behalf of the righteous remnant of this nation. We dispatch ministering spirits at every point surrounding our nation, and speak protection over every single person on our soil.
As Your people arise to worship You, may all our hearts be set on acknowledging You for the mighty God that You are in good times and in bad. May our devotion to You go to another level, and may we grow by leaps and bounds in our knowledge of You. And not only that, but may our intimacy also go deeper as we open ourselves up to Your will in our lives, letting go of past hurts and unforgiveness. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
For My Good!!!
Saturday September 10, 2011
Today's Passage: Genesis 44 & 45
Memory Verse: Genesis 45:5
Childhood memories always come to mind when I'm reading God's word. I know that sounds strange, but God has a way of taking me back through my past in order to show me how He's been working in my life. What comes to mind are all the times God protected me even through disappointment. That's right! He loved me enough to bear my disappointment because He knew He was protecting me. How has God used negative circumstances in YOUR life to bring about a greater purpose?
God's word teaches us that all things work together for good to those who love God; and to those who are called according to His purpose. If we are called according to God's purpose, we must remain balanced in our perception of circumstances in our lives. What I mean is we shouldn't allow ourselves to get too high when good happens, and too low when bad happens. The reason for that is because "all" things are working together for a common good, or purpose. Let's look to God's word for insight. We've been talking about the life of Joseph all week. Joseph's life is the ideal lesson in not getting too high for good things and too low for bad things. First of all, his father favored him more than all his brothers. He even made him a coat to display that favor. That situation may be perceived as a good thing, but after reading further into the chapter can you really say it was good? Afterward, the "favored" one was thrown into a waterpit, sold into slavery, and accused of rape. However, seeing as though those things led to his promotion in the palace in Egypt, were they really bad?
I remember a sermon our Bishop preached once called 'Don't curse your crisis'. Bishop was teaching us we've not been abandoned just because we're faced with adversity. God will NEVER abandon us. As a matter of fact, He may be using the situation to take us to new levels in Him. Think about it. You wouldn't know God's saving power if you had never been lost. And you wouldn't know His healing power if you had never been sick. It's understandably difficult to embrace the trials of life. I'm not even suggesting you should. What I am saying is every valley is connected to a mountaintop. So embrace the mountaintop. Find joy in the fact that God is covering you. David said "Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death; I will fear no evil because You Lord are with me". God never promised us a lifetime of smooth seas and calm breezes. Storms do come. What He did promise us is, while in the storm, He'll not only protect us, He'll work them out for our good.
Prayer: Father when I think of Your goodness I can't help but praise You. Thank You for being there for me. When I look back over my life, I can now see You were there all along. All those things have taught me to depend on You. Leaning on my own understanding never works. You're in control from now on, in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Genesis 44 & 45
Memory Verse: Genesis 45:5
Childhood memories always come to mind when I'm reading God's word. I know that sounds strange, but God has a way of taking me back through my past in order to show me how He's been working in my life. What comes to mind are all the times God protected me even through disappointment. That's right! He loved me enough to bear my disappointment because He knew He was protecting me. How has God used negative circumstances in YOUR life to bring about a greater purpose?
God's word teaches us that all things work together for good to those who love God; and to those who are called according to His purpose. If we are called according to God's purpose, we must remain balanced in our perception of circumstances in our lives. What I mean is we shouldn't allow ourselves to get too high when good happens, and too low when bad happens. The reason for that is because "all" things are working together for a common good, or purpose. Let's look to God's word for insight. We've been talking about the life of Joseph all week. Joseph's life is the ideal lesson in not getting too high for good things and too low for bad things. First of all, his father favored him more than all his brothers. He even made him a coat to display that favor. That situation may be perceived as a good thing, but after reading further into the chapter can you really say it was good? Afterward, the "favored" one was thrown into a waterpit, sold into slavery, and accused of rape. However, seeing as though those things led to his promotion in the palace in Egypt, were they really bad?
I remember a sermon our Bishop preached once called 'Don't curse your crisis'. Bishop was teaching us we've not been abandoned just because we're faced with adversity. God will NEVER abandon us. As a matter of fact, He may be using the situation to take us to new levels in Him. Think about it. You wouldn't know God's saving power if you had never been lost. And you wouldn't know His healing power if you had never been sick. It's understandably difficult to embrace the trials of life. I'm not even suggesting you should. What I am saying is every valley is connected to a mountaintop. So embrace the mountaintop. Find joy in the fact that God is covering you. David said "Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death; I will fear no evil because You Lord are with me". God never promised us a lifetime of smooth seas and calm breezes. Storms do come. What He did promise us is, while in the storm, He'll not only protect us, He'll work them out for our good.
Prayer: Father when I think of Your goodness I can't help but praise You. Thank You for being there for me. When I look back over my life, I can now see You were there all along. All those things have taught me to depend on You. Leaning on my own understanding never works. You're in control from now on, in Jesus' name. Amen
It's Worth It to Let Go
Friday, September 9th, 2011
Today's Passage: Genesis chapters 42 and 43
Memory Verse: Gen. 43: 26
We've all heard the stories: successful people, even in ministry, who managed to accomplish awesome things in their community or elsewhere in the world. Small problem, however: they have loved ones whom they stopped speaking to at a certain time in their lives, and now there's no relationship. Our society may downplay the importance of family ties, but God created this concept, and it's no laughing matter to Him.
In today's passage, we see that Joseph had been separated from his family for years, a situation certainly not caused by him. Although he could've used a bit more wisdom in revealing his dreams, it was still no excuse for them to plot to take his life or even throw away his future. But God is a defender of the weak and helpless, and He was not going to allow the enemy's plan to succeed. And that's where the knowledge of the things of God comes in. No matter what the enemy tries, God has the final say. Furthermore, we are never in a battle against the flesh and blood that we picture when we put a face to the hurt sometimes caused by loved ones.
So let's take another page out of Joseph's journal today and see how he handles confronting his brothers again after such a long time. How do you react? Is this a simple co-incidence that he should walk away from, or does he stop and consider what GOD's will is in the matter? Fortunately, the young man who has spent the better part of his life receiving God's "commercial breaks" (as Pastor Antoinette often calls visions and dreams) knows exactly what to do in order to see how this situation ends. God reveals to him that the reason for all this suffering and ill treatment was for the very purpose of bringing him and his family together.
That said, we must understand that God is a generational God who never intends for our success to be accomplished outside of the loved ones He has blessed us with. Now, let me offer this disclaimer and say that God will not operate against our will. So if you do your part, and the other party(ies) make the decision that they will not pursue restoration, only prayer and God's presence will bring change in the long run. But the important thing is that it will not be held against YOU. However, if you carry feelings of animosity or resentment and unforgiveness, those emotions will block the door to the destiny that has been specially designed for you. You'll constantly take two steps forward and twelve steps back in an eternal cycle of wilderness living that God never intended for those He called to glorify Him. The sooner we learn to let go, the quicker God's purpose and destiny will be released. And that's worth a hundred times the price we must pay.
Prayer: Father, I hear Your voice reassuring me that it's okay to release the hurtful words that were spoken over me by loved ones out of ignorance. I grab a hold of Your promise to bless those who fear You and obey all Your commands. In order to obtain the level of intimacy that it will require to walk in the place of destiny, I let go of it all. Please live big in me and allow me to not only forgive, but forget the wounds that were inflicted. I also pray for my brothers and sisters who may be struggling to let go of the hurts. May they trust in Your ability to make it right and get the glory out of it all. In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Genesis chapters 42 and 43
Memory Verse: Gen. 43: 26
We've all heard the stories: successful people, even in ministry, who managed to accomplish awesome things in their community or elsewhere in the world. Small problem, however: they have loved ones whom they stopped speaking to at a certain time in their lives, and now there's no relationship. Our society may downplay the importance of family ties, but God created this concept, and it's no laughing matter to Him.
In today's passage, we see that Joseph had been separated from his family for years, a situation certainly not caused by him. Although he could've used a bit more wisdom in revealing his dreams, it was still no excuse for them to plot to take his life or even throw away his future. But God is a defender of the weak and helpless, and He was not going to allow the enemy's plan to succeed. And that's where the knowledge of the things of God comes in. No matter what the enemy tries, God has the final say. Furthermore, we are never in a battle against the flesh and blood that we picture when we put a face to the hurt sometimes caused by loved ones.
So let's take another page out of Joseph's journal today and see how he handles confronting his brothers again after such a long time. How do you react? Is this a simple co-incidence that he should walk away from, or does he stop and consider what GOD's will is in the matter? Fortunately, the young man who has spent the better part of his life receiving God's "commercial breaks" (as Pastor Antoinette often calls visions and dreams) knows exactly what to do in order to see how this situation ends. God reveals to him that the reason for all this suffering and ill treatment was for the very purpose of bringing him and his family together.
That said, we must understand that God is a generational God who never intends for our success to be accomplished outside of the loved ones He has blessed us with. Now, let me offer this disclaimer and say that God will not operate against our will. So if you do your part, and the other party(ies) make the decision that they will not pursue restoration, only prayer and God's presence will bring change in the long run. But the important thing is that it will not be held against YOU. However, if you carry feelings of animosity or resentment and unforgiveness, those emotions will block the door to the destiny that has been specially designed for you. You'll constantly take two steps forward and twelve steps back in an eternal cycle of wilderness living that God never intended for those He called to glorify Him. The sooner we learn to let go, the quicker God's purpose and destiny will be released. And that's worth a hundred times the price we must pay.
Prayer: Father, I hear Your voice reassuring me that it's okay to release the hurtful words that were spoken over me by loved ones out of ignorance. I grab a hold of Your promise to bless those who fear You and obey all Your commands. In order to obtain the level of intimacy that it will require to walk in the place of destiny, I let go of it all. Please live big in me and allow me to not only forgive, but forget the wounds that were inflicted. I also pray for my brothers and sisters who may be struggling to let go of the hurts. May they trust in Your ability to make it right and get the glory out of it all. In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
Seven Words that will Change the World
Thursday, September 8th, 2011
Today's Passage: Genesis chapters 40 & 41
Memory Verse: Gen. 40:7
Many believers find themselves at a standstill over what they feel they should be doing for the Lord. They often look at those in ministry and see a whole different side than really is the case. They see well-dressed, smiling faces as ministers (or those who work alongside them) stand in the limelight with a microphone in their hands. What they don't see is the trials and tribulations that ministers go through just because they decided to be totally devoted to God. So what they end up doing is nothing, with the excuse that they don't "have it all together" yet.
For all those who are still wondering what to do while waiting for God to reveal this great destiny that God has put on the inside of all of us, I pray that we put this question to rest once and for all by taking a page out of Joseph's book. At a time in his life when he was falsely imprisoned and had every reason to be depressed and inactive in some corner somewhere, Joseph speaks seven words that will absolutely revolutionize the believer's life. He steps outside of his own situation and reaches out to someone else when he asks Potiphar's cupbearer: "Why do you look so sad today?"
These words are at the heart of the kind of attitude God is looking for in his people. He doesn't care the least bit for our ability; on the contrary, He wants to know how available we will make ourselves for Him. What are the chances that, because he made the decision to bring glory to God even in spite of his situation, God was going to bring people his way who were looking for just the right answer that He had placed inside of Joseph? Joseph had no way of knowing that the cupbearer and his assistant would be looking for the interpretation of dreams -- a gift that Joseph was endowed with? All Joseph knew was that He wanted to serve God, "blooming" where he was planted no matter what.
Instead of looking for a way of escape out of our trials, God just might be asking us to sacrifice more of ourselves for the benefit of those around us. How many people do we pass by who need us so desperately? All we have to do is hear with our spiritual ears. They are crying out all around us for some sign -- any sign that God is real. They can't afford to wait for our pastors to minister to them. They need some righteous trees, blooming even in the dry places that they find themselves in. So whether your destiny is a year away, or a few days, do you have seven words to show God's compassion and love? Just like in Joseph's case, those words will go farther than you could imagine, and never return to Him void.
Prayer: Father, when I think about how many months and years I've spent idly, waiting for this "great destiny" to take over my life, I realize it was wasted time I could've used to speak into the lives of hungry souls. May I never waste another moment seeking You for whatever glory I think will satisfy me from the inside out, but spend my time being poured out for others. In Jesus' Name.
Today's Passage: Genesis chapters 40 & 41
Memory Verse: Gen. 40:7
Many believers find themselves at a standstill over what they feel they should be doing for the Lord. They often look at those in ministry and see a whole different side than really is the case. They see well-dressed, smiling faces as ministers (or those who work alongside them) stand in the limelight with a microphone in their hands. What they don't see is the trials and tribulations that ministers go through just because they decided to be totally devoted to God. So what they end up doing is nothing, with the excuse that they don't "have it all together" yet.
For all those who are still wondering what to do while waiting for God to reveal this great destiny that God has put on the inside of all of us, I pray that we put this question to rest once and for all by taking a page out of Joseph's book. At a time in his life when he was falsely imprisoned and had every reason to be depressed and inactive in some corner somewhere, Joseph speaks seven words that will absolutely revolutionize the believer's life. He steps outside of his own situation and reaches out to someone else when he asks Potiphar's cupbearer: "Why do you look so sad today?"
These words are at the heart of the kind of attitude God is looking for in his people. He doesn't care the least bit for our ability; on the contrary, He wants to know how available we will make ourselves for Him. What are the chances that, because he made the decision to bring glory to God even in spite of his situation, God was going to bring people his way who were looking for just the right answer that He had placed inside of Joseph? Joseph had no way of knowing that the cupbearer and his assistant would be looking for the interpretation of dreams -- a gift that Joseph was endowed with? All Joseph knew was that He wanted to serve God, "blooming" where he was planted no matter what.
Instead of looking for a way of escape out of our trials, God just might be asking us to sacrifice more of ourselves for the benefit of those around us. How many people do we pass by who need us so desperately? All we have to do is hear with our spiritual ears. They are crying out all around us for some sign -- any sign that God is real. They can't afford to wait for our pastors to minister to them. They need some righteous trees, blooming even in the dry places that they find themselves in. So whether your destiny is a year away, or a few days, do you have seven words to show God's compassion and love? Just like in Joseph's case, those words will go farther than you could imagine, and never return to Him void.
Prayer: Father, when I think about how many months and years I've spent idly, waiting for this "great destiny" to take over my life, I realize it was wasted time I could've used to speak into the lives of hungry souls. May I never waste another moment seeking You for whatever glory I think will satisfy me from the inside out, but spend my time being poured out for others. In Jesus' Name.
FLEE and LIVE!!!!!!
Wednesday, September 7th, 2011
Today's Passage: Genesis chapter 39
Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 6: 18
Fact: temptation is more easily accessible now than ever before. Fiction: temptation can be avoided by simple willpower. The fact that a naive young man such as Joseph would be faced with a monster of a compromising situation in the form of Potiphar's wife gives us insight into why the enemy sets traps for us on the way to our destiny.
Remember, the dreams revealed by Joseph to his family served as a warning not only to them that he would be greater than they. It also alerted the kingdom of darkness to the possibility of Joseph being used by God to change the course of history. This fear is what propels the devil to come up with whatever scheme he can think of to prevent this from happening. So when the idea of death (which is ALWAYS his first attempt to take us out) didn't take root in the hearts of the brothers, he introduced compromise.
I really like the way Joseph reacted to Potiphar's wife's advances. He didn't attempt to explain why he couldn't possibly agree to lower his standard. He didn't even hang around and beg her to have mercy on him, hoping she would somehow sympathize and leave him alone. No---- the Bible says he turned and FLED, not even caring that he left his shirt in her grasp. Which brings me to the million- dollar question: what would've happened if every temptation had been met with the same response: Eve in the garden, David on his balcony, or Judas with the pieces of silver? What if the people in mind ran for their lives instead of trying to resist the way they did?
The Word tells us to flee youthful lusts, which means to run away from something as if it costs your very life. And isn't that what we lose if we give in to the temptation? In spite of the lies spoken about him, eventually Joseph was vindicated and still went on to accomplish the things he had dreamed about. If he had given in, the chances of doing this would have been reduced to nothing. The message in today's passage is clear: flee temptation and live, or give in and die. There's too much at stake to choose the alternative.
Prayer: Father, I have spent countless times fleeing from You when all You wanted to do was shield me from evil. Now that I know what I know about this life, I know that Your ways are steadfast and true. Please always keep me close to You so that I can repel every evil thing from my life, and turn away from temptation. No Compromise in Jesus' Name! Amen.
Today's Passage: Genesis chapter 39
Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 6: 18
Fact: temptation is more easily accessible now than ever before. Fiction: temptation can be avoided by simple willpower. The fact that a naive young man such as Joseph would be faced with a monster of a compromising situation in the form of Potiphar's wife gives us insight into why the enemy sets traps for us on the way to our destiny.
Remember, the dreams revealed by Joseph to his family served as a warning not only to them that he would be greater than they. It also alerted the kingdom of darkness to the possibility of Joseph being used by God to change the course of history. This fear is what propels the devil to come up with whatever scheme he can think of to prevent this from happening. So when the idea of death (which is ALWAYS his first attempt to take us out) didn't take root in the hearts of the brothers, he introduced compromise.
I really like the way Joseph reacted to Potiphar's wife's advances. He didn't attempt to explain why he couldn't possibly agree to lower his standard. He didn't even hang around and beg her to have mercy on him, hoping she would somehow sympathize and leave him alone. No---- the Bible says he turned and FLED, not even caring that he left his shirt in her grasp. Which brings me to the million- dollar question: what would've happened if every temptation had been met with the same response: Eve in the garden, David on his balcony, or Judas with the pieces of silver? What if the people in mind ran for their lives instead of trying to resist the way they did?
The Word tells us to flee youthful lusts, which means to run away from something as if it costs your very life. And isn't that what we lose if we give in to the temptation? In spite of the lies spoken about him, eventually Joseph was vindicated and still went on to accomplish the things he had dreamed about. If he had given in, the chances of doing this would have been reduced to nothing. The message in today's passage is clear: flee temptation and live, or give in and die. There's too much at stake to choose the alternative.
Prayer: Father, I have spent countless times fleeing from You when all You wanted to do was shield me from evil. Now that I know what I know about this life, I know that Your ways are steadfast and true. Please always keep me close to You so that I can repel every evil thing from my life, and turn away from temptation. No Compromise in Jesus' Name! Amen.
FAVOR AIN'T FAIR!
Tuesday, September 6th, 2011
Today's Passage: Genesis chapter 37
Memory Verse> Gen. 37:20
A couple of years ago, Bishop T. D. Jakes preached a sermon titled 'Favor Ain't Fair'. His premise was that if you want the favor of God, you're going to have to come to grips with a few things. For instance, having favor and being liked by everyone won't always be the case. Also, having favor and being a cookie-cut version of everyone else won't work either. At the end of the day however, favor will supernaturally bring things into your life that cost those without it a lot of time, attention, and energy to acquire. So having favor is not a bad thing, it's just that the favored have to be willing to stand firm until it brings them in to their destiny.
One of the things I didn't mention before is the rejection. I purposely left it out of the introduction because I didn't want to scare you away from the devotional. You must know, however, that favor sometimes brings rejection. As certain people begin to recognize you have favor, the enemy uses them to try to convince you that there's something wrong with it. How do you deal with rejection? More importantly, how do you deal with it when it comes from those you love? Does it shut you down, or motivate you? Let's look at Joseph in today's passage for insight. Joseph was a kid who had his father's favor because he was conceived in his old age. Israel so loved Joseph (you know the story) he made him a coat of many colors.
As we go deeper into the story, however, we find that Joseph not only had Israel's favor, he had God's favor. He was so favored in fact, that God began to show him visions of his destiny. Problem was, the visions revealed his father and brothers would be submitted to him. Therefore, when Joseph told his father and brothers about his dream (moon and stars), even his father had a hard time with it. His brothers began to resent him more and more as the days went by. Let's face it, folks: when you're favored, not everyone will be able to handle it, and because of that, you can't discuss the visions and dreams you have with them. They won't understand. They won't rejoice with you. And they'll prey on you instead of pray for you.
So understand my friends, that the favor on your life is not fair. You don't have it because of something you did or someone you know. You have it because the Lord has need of you. There is a purpose ahead He needs you to fulfill. Now don't you run away. Position yourself. Stand firm in the pit all alone. Stand firm when nobody seems to want you around. Stand firm when the fear comes. If you stand firm, you'll soon discover that the thing that led you to your pit will be the exact thing that leads you to your promise. What do I mean? I mean if Joseph had not been thrown into the pit and subsequently sold into slavery, his father and brothers would have starved to death in the famine. So you see, favor ain't fair. But if you trust God, you'll find that it's necessary.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for the favor that You've shown me throughout my life. I also thank You for the grace to stand through the persecution and the rejection I've faced because of it. I set my face now towards the direction of the destiny You've prepared for me to walk out. May my heart remain open and forgiving even towards the ones who have inflicted the pain, because it was necessary to accomplish Your purpose. Thank You for ordering my steps as I bring You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
DETOUR -- OR DESIGN?
Monday, SePtember 5th, 2011
Today's Passage: Genesis chapters 27 & 28
Memory Verses> Genesis 28: 20-22
If anyone in the Bible had a problem with jumping out ahead of God, it was Jacob. It seems at first glance that he was always trying to scam someone just to get his way. Even in his mother's womb, he struggled with his brother for the right to come out first. Having read the story of how he cheated his brother Esau out of his birthright several times, I still say that God had a plan to use all that before it even started.
Yes, Jacob's life seems to have been all about looking out for number one. But a closer look at the story causes me to ask the question: could it all have played out the way it did because of something God said to Rebekah, Jacob's mother? In chapter 25, Rebekah received a word from God concerning the twins she was carrying. From the way they fought inside her, she knew something was not right, so she inquired of the Lord, and this was His answer to her: "Two nations are in your womb; two peoples shall be separated from your body. One people shall be stronger than the other, and the older shall serve the younger" (Gen. 25:22-23).
With that in mind, is it somehow possible that Rebekah favored the younger son over the older from the day they both were born, anticipating that one day he would be "the greater one" the Lord had told her about? Did Jacob constantly hear from his mother's lips how he would have to take what's rightfully his in spite of the fact that he had been born last? I may be simply speculating, but it seems mighty odd to me that Jacob would just up and decide he wanted to cheat his brother out of his birthright. But how do you explain the fact that Esau GAVE it away for a bowl of soup, with no pressure from Jacob (chapter 25:29-34)?
At any rate, I truly believe that if God had not prompted Rebekah to look for the younger son to rule over the older, she probably would never have encouraged her baby boy to pretend to be his older brother when the time came to bless Esau. I couldn't say whether or not God had another plan. But I do know this: His Word assures me that regardless of the plans and schemes of man, God's plans always prevail. You may be wondering whether the detour you took from God's design has caused you to forfeit your original destiny. With all my heart, I believe this is not so. I believe that God, Who sees and knows the thoughts and intents of our hearts, finds a solution for the problem before it even occurs. I dare to even suggest that God KNEW there would be favoritism between Isaac, Rebekah, and their offspring, and He decided to use it to accomplish His purpose. Just know that, no matter what, your steps are ordered and God will use ALL things to work together so that the plan He originally intended comes to pass. If I were you, I wouldn't spend too much time wondering whether God CAUSED the detour, but I know it becomes part of His design. And THAT's enough for me.
Prayer: Father, You are so wise and omniscient. You saw and knew me before I was even conceived in my mother's womb. You knew each step I would take, and You knew where and when I would wander away from You. My heart overflows with the realization that You had a solution for every mistake I would make, and I can see how You're using them for Your glory now as I minister strength and encouragement to others. Let my life be a witness to Your unfailing love, and serve as a reminder to those who may not know that You love us in spite of our past. Thank You for using me, and may my life continue to please You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Genesis chapters 27 & 28
Memory Verses> Genesis 28: 20-22
If anyone in the Bible had a problem with jumping out ahead of God, it was Jacob. It seems at first glance that he was always trying to scam someone just to get his way. Even in his mother's womb, he struggled with his brother for the right to come out first. Having read the story of how he cheated his brother Esau out of his birthright several times, I still say that God had a plan to use all that before it even started.
Yes, Jacob's life seems to have been all about looking out for number one. But a closer look at the story causes me to ask the question: could it all have played out the way it did because of something God said to Rebekah, Jacob's mother? In chapter 25, Rebekah received a word from God concerning the twins she was carrying. From the way they fought inside her, she knew something was not right, so she inquired of the Lord, and this was His answer to her: "Two nations are in your womb; two peoples shall be separated from your body. One people shall be stronger than the other, and the older shall serve the younger" (Gen. 25:22-23).
With that in mind, is it somehow possible that Rebekah favored the younger son over the older from the day they both were born, anticipating that one day he would be "the greater one" the Lord had told her about? Did Jacob constantly hear from his mother's lips how he would have to take what's rightfully his in spite of the fact that he had been born last? I may be simply speculating, but it seems mighty odd to me that Jacob would just up and decide he wanted to cheat his brother out of his birthright. But how do you explain the fact that Esau GAVE it away for a bowl of soup, with no pressure from Jacob (chapter 25:29-34)?
At any rate, I truly believe that if God had not prompted Rebekah to look for the younger son to rule over the older, she probably would never have encouraged her baby boy to pretend to be his older brother when the time came to bless Esau. I couldn't say whether or not God had another plan. But I do know this: His Word assures me that regardless of the plans and schemes of man, God's plans always prevail. You may be wondering whether the detour you took from God's design has caused you to forfeit your original destiny. With all my heart, I believe this is not so. I believe that God, Who sees and knows the thoughts and intents of our hearts, finds a solution for the problem before it even occurs. I dare to even suggest that God KNEW there would be favoritism between Isaac, Rebekah, and their offspring, and He decided to use it to accomplish His purpose. Just know that, no matter what, your steps are ordered and God will use ALL things to work together so that the plan He originally intended comes to pass. If I were you, I wouldn't spend too much time wondering whether God CAUSED the detour, but I know it becomes part of His design. And THAT's enough for me.
Prayer: Father, You are so wise and omniscient. You saw and knew me before I was even conceived in my mother's womb. You knew each step I would take, and You knew where and when I would wander away from You. My heart overflows with the realization that You had a solution for every mistake I would make, and I can see how You're using them for Your glory now as I minister strength and encouragement to others. Let my life be a witness to Your unfailing love, and serve as a reminder to those who may not know that You love us in spite of our past. Thank You for using me, and may my life continue to please You forever. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prayers That Prevail
Sunday, September 4th, 2011
Today's Passage> Romans 8: 14-39
Memory Verse> Rom. 8: 16-17
Father, I praise You today for the special privilege of being called Your Son. That You would love me so much as to endure the suffering of Your Firstborn and dearly Beloved while He walked this earth is so amazing to me. Everything You allowed Him to walk through was for the purpose of getting Him to the place where He would establish authority not only for Himself against the enemy, but for all those who've accepted the role of sonship.
But as I contemplate all of this, I realize that the privilege of having been made to sit in heavenly places in Christ comes with great responsibility: that of accepting the equally high price of going through suffering on this earth as well. The enemy would have us believe that we should shun suffering or try to avoid it like the plague. But over the years I've come to understand that only suffering puts me in the position to consider myself a joint heir with Christ, walking in the full inheritance and authority that He died to provide.
So today, I embrace every trial that I have to walk through, counting it all joy because You use it all to produce maturity and strength for coming battles. You teach my hands to war and my fingers to fight so that the true evidence of my sonship can be seen through the scars of suffering. I shun, reject, and fall totally out of agreement with the enemy's plan for me to lose my sonship by taking the easy road in this life You've called me to.
As I prepare to enter into Your gates with thanksgiving, and into Your courts with praise, I rejoice that my name has been written in Your Lamb's Book of Life. With all my heart, I make a decision to walk ever more closely with You. May You get all glory out of my life, and may others be drawn to Your kingdom through it. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Romans 8: 14-39
Memory Verse> Rom. 8: 16-17
Father, I praise You today for the special privilege of being called Your Son. That You would love me so much as to endure the suffering of Your Firstborn and dearly Beloved while He walked this earth is so amazing to me. Everything You allowed Him to walk through was for the purpose of getting Him to the place where He would establish authority not only for Himself against the enemy, but for all those who've accepted the role of sonship.
But as I contemplate all of this, I realize that the privilege of having been made to sit in heavenly places in Christ comes with great responsibility: that of accepting the equally high price of going through suffering on this earth as well. The enemy would have us believe that we should shun suffering or try to avoid it like the plague. But over the years I've come to understand that only suffering puts me in the position to consider myself a joint heir with Christ, walking in the full inheritance and authority that He died to provide.
So today, I embrace every trial that I have to walk through, counting it all joy because You use it all to produce maturity and strength for coming battles. You teach my hands to war and my fingers to fight so that the true evidence of my sonship can be seen through the scars of suffering. I shun, reject, and fall totally out of agreement with the enemy's plan for me to lose my sonship by taking the easy road in this life You've called me to.
As I prepare to enter into Your gates with thanksgiving, and into Your courts with praise, I rejoice that my name has been written in Your Lamb's Book of Life. With all my heart, I make a decision to walk ever more closely with You. May You get all glory out of my life, and may others be drawn to Your kingdom through it. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Defend Yourself Against Offenses!!!
Saturday, September 3rd, 2011
Today's Passage: John 6:25-71
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 10:5
Signs everywhere around us tell us that these are truly the last days. What generations before us tolerated that was not of God, is now being accepted and embraced by those who choose not to believe that God is real, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. As sad as that may seem, and as concerned as we should be for those who are blind to the Voice of God, there is something that's even sadder: that people who claim to know Him are just as blind, and miss the whole point of living in everything He promised.
In today's passage, we see that the disciples witnessed Jesus, the most powerful Person Who ever walked the earth, perform miracles. They saw Him heal and deliver those who were sick and oppressed; they heard Him speak of things the religious crowd could not even begin to comprehend about the things of God. So how was it possible that they could become offended with the God of the Universe? Even more importantly, how was it possible that they could allow an offense to cause them to walk away from Him?
Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us that the heart or mind of humanity is desperately wicked. At our very heart, we really are selfish and easily led to believe that we have rights, and the world owes us. So, the minute we find ourselves confused about something, especially on matters of faith, we begin to feel betrayed or that those who've offended us have become disloyal to us. The next step is to walk away, or worse still, to stay even while we decide to walk away in our hearts. This is the reason I believe Judas was still able to walk with the Lord up until he gave Him up for thirty pieces of silver. It wasn't even about the money for Judas; what the real issue was had to do with the fact that he felt justified in what he did because he felt as if Jesus turned out to be the opposite of what he'd originally believed. I think he even saw Jesus as the one Who'd betrayed them all, which is why it was so easy for him to walk up to Him and give Him a kiss on His cheek.
Saints, we must be very mindful of this spirit of deception when it comes to walking in loyalty towards our leaders in the church of the living God. If there's something that's said or done that we don't understand, we must immediately seek the counsel of the Lord and not come up with our own opinion. If we're not aware of the enemy's scheming ways, we will fall victim to thinking our high and lofty opinions are actually gospel in and of themselves. The solution? The minute those thoughts enter, we have to be obedient to God's Word and cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the very knowledge of God.
As we walk in obedience, we will be the force that God will use to lift up the standard against the enemy in our churches, but also in our homes and cities. Don't give in to offenses. Stand and see the truth through the Father's eyes, and let the enemy be defeated in Jesus' Name.
Prayer: Father, as the day of the Lord approaches, Your Word has already told us that the love of many will grow cold. May it not be said of us that we long to hear only that which will tickle our ears, but may we pursue You and the unadulterated Word. May we be open to receive truth, discipline, chastisement and training in these last days, and not be offended because of the harshness of what You may have to say to us. We stand now against every scheme of the enemy to use our minds and hearts against one another. May we be completely sold out to Your Will. In jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: John 6:25-71
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 10:5
Signs everywhere around us tell us that these are truly the last days. What generations before us tolerated that was not of God, is now being accepted and embraced by those who choose not to believe that God is real, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. As sad as that may seem, and as concerned as we should be for those who are blind to the Voice of God, there is something that's even sadder: that people who claim to know Him are just as blind, and miss the whole point of living in everything He promised.
In today's passage, we see that the disciples witnessed Jesus, the most powerful Person Who ever walked the earth, perform miracles. They saw Him heal and deliver those who were sick and oppressed; they heard Him speak of things the religious crowd could not even begin to comprehend about the things of God. So how was it possible that they could become offended with the God of the Universe? Even more importantly, how was it possible that they could allow an offense to cause them to walk away from Him?
Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us that the heart or mind of humanity is desperately wicked. At our very heart, we really are selfish and easily led to believe that we have rights, and the world owes us. So, the minute we find ourselves confused about something, especially on matters of faith, we begin to feel betrayed or that those who've offended us have become disloyal to us. The next step is to walk away, or worse still, to stay even while we decide to walk away in our hearts. This is the reason I believe Judas was still able to walk with the Lord up until he gave Him up for thirty pieces of silver. It wasn't even about the money for Judas; what the real issue was had to do with the fact that he felt justified in what he did because he felt as if Jesus turned out to be the opposite of what he'd originally believed. I think he even saw Jesus as the one Who'd betrayed them all, which is why it was so easy for him to walk up to Him and give Him a kiss on His cheek.
Saints, we must be very mindful of this spirit of deception when it comes to walking in loyalty towards our leaders in the church of the living God. If there's something that's said or done that we don't understand, we must immediately seek the counsel of the Lord and not come up with our own opinion. If we're not aware of the enemy's scheming ways, we will fall victim to thinking our high and lofty opinions are actually gospel in and of themselves. The solution? The minute those thoughts enter, we have to be obedient to God's Word and cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the very knowledge of God.
As we walk in obedience, we will be the force that God will use to lift up the standard against the enemy in our churches, but also in our homes and cities. Don't give in to offenses. Stand and see the truth through the Father's eyes, and let the enemy be defeated in Jesus' Name.
Prayer: Father, as the day of the Lord approaches, Your Word has already told us that the love of many will grow cold. May it not be said of us that we long to hear only that which will tickle our ears, but may we pursue You and the unadulterated Word. May we be open to receive truth, discipline, chastisement and training in these last days, and not be offended because of the harshness of what You may have to say to us. We stand now against every scheme of the enemy to use our minds and hearts against one another. May we be completely sold out to Your Will. In jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
He's All You Need!
Friday, September 2nd, 2011
Today's Passage> Numbers 14:1-35
Memory Verse> Psalm 23:1
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want". What do these words mean to us? After reading them, do we somehow get the impression we're going to have everything we've ever wanted provided on a daily basis? And if they're not, do we think God forgets we're here?
I know the questions above sound sacrilegious, but although we may not ask them with our mouths, we often ask them with our behavior. Let's discuss the facts of the matter. First, if God doesn't do another thing for us, it'd still take a lifetime to properly thank Him for what He's done. In today's passage, the children of Israel complained to God about their situation. Complained? This is the SAME God who wrecked Egypt for their deliverance. He even parted the sea in order to let them escape. Not only that, He fed them (manna) from the very throne room of Heaven so they wouldn't starve in the desert. So how could they complain? Did they forget?
Well, did YOU forget? What if the money's low? What if the friend walks away? What if your body aches? Does your behavior say He's not your God anymore? Second, we can't care for ourselves the way God cares for us. You may be in top physical shape. But you are powerless when it comes to the functions of your body. You can't tell your heart to beat, you can't tell your lungs to breathe, and you can't tell your brain to send messages or possess thought. God, however, can (does). That being said, it becomes senseless to try to take our lives into our own hands. It's like telling your cardiologist to step aside and let your barber do the surgery (the comparison's not even that close). Our lives are not fulfilled until we give God complete control and cease from seeking provision from anyone (thing) else.
That takes me back to our opening statement: "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want". If the Lord is TRULY our Shepherd, why do we complain about His provision? And, if He's our Shepherd, why do we look to other people and things for provision? It's plain to see that God is the ultimate caretaker. He'll literally move Heaven and Earth to get to us. So don't allow the world to make you think your life is not complete if you don't have this or that. If you have the Lord as your Shepherd, you don't need a thing (Ps 23:1 Msg)!
Prayer: Father, there's nothing else in the world that satisfies like You. For every time I have shown You otherwise by my behavior or words, I repent.I sincerely ask You to take over my heart and mind, so that I only think Your thoughts. Cause me to be reminded of the awesome miracles You've already performed, and walk out a life of gratitude. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Numbers 14:1-35
Memory Verse> Psalm 23:1
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want". What do these words mean to us? After reading them, do we somehow get the impression we're going to have everything we've ever wanted provided on a daily basis? And if they're not, do we think God forgets we're here?
I know the questions above sound sacrilegious, but although we may not ask them with our mouths, we often ask them with our behavior. Let's discuss the facts of the matter. First, if God doesn't do another thing for us, it'd still take a lifetime to properly thank Him for what He's done. In today's passage, the children of Israel complained to God about their situation. Complained? This is the SAME God who wrecked Egypt for their deliverance. He even parted the sea in order to let them escape. Not only that, He fed them (manna) from the very throne room of Heaven so they wouldn't starve in the desert. So how could they complain? Did they forget?
Well, did YOU forget? What if the money's low? What if the friend walks away? What if your body aches? Does your behavior say He's not your God anymore? Second, we can't care for ourselves the way God cares for us. You may be in top physical shape. But you are powerless when it comes to the functions of your body. You can't tell your heart to beat, you can't tell your lungs to breathe, and you can't tell your brain to send messages or possess thought. God, however, can (does). That being said, it becomes senseless to try to take our lives into our own hands. It's like telling your cardiologist to step aside and let your barber do the surgery (the comparison's not even that close). Our lives are not fulfilled until we give God complete control and cease from seeking provision from anyone (thing) else.
That takes me back to our opening statement: "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want". If the Lord is TRULY our Shepherd, why do we complain about His provision? And, if He's our Shepherd, why do we look to other people and things for provision? It's plain to see that God is the ultimate caretaker. He'll literally move Heaven and Earth to get to us. So don't allow the world to make you think your life is not complete if you don't have this or that. If you have the Lord as your Shepherd, you don't need a thing (Ps 23:1 Msg)!
Prayer: Father, there's nothing else in the world that satisfies like You. For every time I have shown You otherwise by my behavior or words, I repent.I sincerely ask You to take over my heart and mind, so that I only think Your thoughts. Cause me to be reminded of the awesome miracles You've already performed, and walk out a life of gratitude. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
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