Thursday, December 1st, 2011
Today's Passage> 2 Kings chapter 2
Memory Verse> Romans 12:3
We've all had the thoughts: big favor= big ministries. Every ministry with more than a thousand members is automatically labeled by believers and non-believers alike as "rich". The basis of their message to the rest of the Christian world is that faith did it all. It almost gives the impression as though they were hand- picked by God Himself to show that not everyone can obtain this gift of faith. After all, even in the everyday lives of people like you and I, some of us seem to thrive and survive the worst situations. But others seem to barely be able to make it from one day to the next.
What is this thing called faith, anyway? Is it really obtainable to every believer? How do you know you have it? If you don't, why not? I think something many believers overlook is that faith is personal and individual. The Word says in Hebrews that faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things nor seen. How is it possible to develop faith for something if you don't even know what you're supposed to be hoping for? We spend so much time looking at the lives and callings of others, comparing ourselves to them and lusting after what they have that we miss our on the time we should be taking to pursue what God has for us.
Secondly, faith only develops as a result of growing in our ability to hear God speak to us through His Word. We can see through the lives of people like Elijah and Elisha that God really isn't a Respector of persons as some may tend to believe. Elisha eased into the position of armor bearer for Elijah, and almost didn't make it into the elite group of prophets. At the beginning, he couldn't decide whether he wanted to be a servant of the Most High God, or go back to his comfort zone. But eventually, as he watched God move through Elijah, he had enough faith built in him to reach for more. You know how the story ends, as he receives the famous "double portion" of the anointing on Elijah's life.
It all boils down to this: how well do you know the purpose God has for your life, and how bad do you want it to come to pass? Are you willing to push past the resistance with some of your own? Faith is something has to be worked. I guess you COULD say that God plays favorites when you look at it this way; He'd do anything for the ones who've figured out what God's sacrifice through His Son purchased for us. It's all about how deep we're willing to go, as our pastors ministered this past Sunday. Every believer is given his or her own measure of faith. Only those who dare to use it will receive more. Do YOU dare?
Prayer: Father, how awesome to be included in the number of Your faithful! And yet my faith does fail at times when it's hard to see what You're doing. I've come to the place where I just want You. Whatever it takes, as long as my life brings You glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
A Heavenly Set-Up
Wednesday, November 30th, 2011
Today's Passage> Genesis chapter 37
Memory Verse> Gen. 45:5
It's supposed to be the safest place in the world. It's a place where nurturing, caring relationships should blossom and help establish us as the people we're supposed to be. And yet, the very family God put on this earth to be a blessing to us can sometimes be used by the enemy to point us as far away from God's plan as possible... Or is it really what happens? In actuality, could this be a set-up from Heaven on our behalf?
Today's passage shows Joseph growing up in a hostile environment. It seems as if the odds were stacked against him from the get-go. The only person in his corner is his father, and he doesn't make things any better by tattling on his brothers and telling them how lowly they are. It's these and other factors that lead me to wonder whether God doesn't orchestrate such circumstances to propel us into the path that would bring Him the most glory. Just go with me for a minute and imagine with me this scenario: what would life have been like if Joseph's family had been the warm-and-fuzzy, nurturing one we all wish for?
For starters, he wouldn't have had the conflict with his brothers that ultimately pushed them to kidnap and sell him off to the first traveling merchants they encountered. They would've loved him so much that Joseph's life as we know it would never have come to pass. He certainly would never have ended up in the very place where he was able to provide for them and save them from starvation. The way I see it, God's system takes what we consider impossible and uses it to make the enemy the liar he is. So maybe, just maybe, a look at our own relationships will find us at the place where God can turn them upside down so that provision can be made for the future and establish His plan in the lives of those whom He has chosen.
Today, we encourage you to stand firm in the place of resistance, even if it is coming from people you know and love. Most resistance is designed by God to orchestrate our entrance into our destiny. Is the process unexpected and painful? Yes. Does it feel to our flesh as if all of heaven and earth is against us? By all means. And yet even that which the enemy means for evil cannot remain that way when God is involved. So how do WE respond when the resistance, which is sure to come, comes from those we love? We walk in love and never in strife; we keep ourselves vulnerable and keep God's peace and forgiveness flowing through us, knowing that God causes ALL things to work together for good to those of us who are totally devoted. And we look forward to the awesome unfolding of His plan that we get the privilege of participating in for His glory.
Prayer: Father, Your ways are perfect and true. We stand now and take this opportunity to partner with You in the making of miracle opportunities in our relationships. Have Your way in our lives, and may we never stop allowing You to work in and through our loved ones for Your glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Genesis chapter 37
Memory Verse> Gen. 45:5
It's supposed to be the safest place in the world. It's a place where nurturing, caring relationships should blossom and help establish us as the people we're supposed to be. And yet, the very family God put on this earth to be a blessing to us can sometimes be used by the enemy to point us as far away from God's plan as possible... Or is it really what happens? In actuality, could this be a set-up from Heaven on our behalf?
Today's passage shows Joseph growing up in a hostile environment. It seems as if the odds were stacked against him from the get-go. The only person in his corner is his father, and he doesn't make things any better by tattling on his brothers and telling them how lowly they are. It's these and other factors that lead me to wonder whether God doesn't orchestrate such circumstances to propel us into the path that would bring Him the most glory. Just go with me for a minute and imagine with me this scenario: what would life have been like if Joseph's family had been the warm-and-fuzzy, nurturing one we all wish for?
For starters, he wouldn't have had the conflict with his brothers that ultimately pushed them to kidnap and sell him off to the first traveling merchants they encountered. They would've loved him so much that Joseph's life as we know it would never have come to pass. He certainly would never have ended up in the very place where he was able to provide for them and save them from starvation. The way I see it, God's system takes what we consider impossible and uses it to make the enemy the liar he is. So maybe, just maybe, a look at our own relationships will find us at the place where God can turn them upside down so that provision can be made for the future and establish His plan in the lives of those whom He has chosen.
Today, we encourage you to stand firm in the place of resistance, even if it is coming from people you know and love. Most resistance is designed by God to orchestrate our entrance into our destiny. Is the process unexpected and painful? Yes. Does it feel to our flesh as if all of heaven and earth is against us? By all means. And yet even that which the enemy means for evil cannot remain that way when God is involved. So how do WE respond when the resistance, which is sure to come, comes from those we love? We walk in love and never in strife; we keep ourselves vulnerable and keep God's peace and forgiveness flowing through us, knowing that God causes ALL things to work together for good to those of us who are totally devoted. And we look forward to the awesome unfolding of His plan that we get the privilege of participating in for His glory.
Prayer: Father, Your ways are perfect and true. We stand now and take this opportunity to partner with You in the making of miracle opportunities in our relationships. Have Your way in our lives, and may we never stop allowing You to work in and through our loved ones for Your glory. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Work It Out!
Tuesday November 29, 2011
Today's Passage: Romans 5:1-11
Memory Verse: Romans 5: 3 & 4
I've been working with a personal trainer this past few weeks, and I must say the results have been nice (just ask Yas). I can feel the difference in my arms, chest, and legs after each session. To say the least, I've been pleased with my progress. Now, as I am well pleased with the new improvements, I can't forget the great pains (thanks Rudy) I endured to get here.
One of the methods our trainer uses to burn calories and build muscle is called 'Resistance Training'. He uses light to heavy weight with continuously quick reps in order to get the best result. Why is resistance needed to build strength? On the spiritual side of things, we grow and develop through our ability to stand in the midst of resistance. At the end of the day, we are people of faith, aren't we? The word of God tells us specifically that trials (resistance) come to build patience and perseverance in us. God knows we won't grow if He pampered us all the time. I mean, would a baby learn to walk if his mother never put him down? We have to develop the ability to use heartache instead of letting heartache use us. Christians don't have to go through life blaming everything on the devil. Some situations we find ourselves in may be God "putting us down" because He wants us to walk.
"We walk by faith....". That statement is the motto for Christian life. But how can we walk by faith if everything comes easy? Faith comes by hearing. There's no doubt about that. In the same light, however, faith is strengthened through operation. We were all given a measure of faith. That's how you came to meet Jesus after hearing His gospel. But, if you give up when presented with resistance, that faith would never grow into the mountain-moving force God intended it to be. Like God, Rudy (our trainer) loves us. He would never do anything to purposely injure us. But the love he has doesn't mean he'll always keep us from pain. He knows every groan, every scream, and every sigh means we're getting stronger. He also knows that delivering us from that minor discomfort too quickly will have no positive effect in the long run. So, as you begin your day, try not to lose sight of who you are if you're faced with a trial. Consider it a workout session with God. He has chosen you to become stronger and more patient today. Take the workout seriously, my friend; because you never know, the weight may get heavier next time. If it does, you'll be prepared. You'll know just what to do (and have the stamina too) to lift it off of you. Now go.....you need a good workout!
Prayer: Father, I thank You for planting inside of me the seed to growth and strength. Every time I encounter what seems like a setback, I'm learning to recognize that it's only fuel for You to use as the miracle situation that builds my faith. I come into agreement with Your plan for the direction in which You're taking me. Yes, indeed to Your Will! In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Romans 5:1-11
Memory Verse: Romans 5: 3 & 4
I've been working with a personal trainer this past few weeks, and I must say the results have been nice (just ask Yas). I can feel the difference in my arms, chest, and legs after each session. To say the least, I've been pleased with my progress. Now, as I am well pleased with the new improvements, I can't forget the great pains (thanks Rudy) I endured to get here.
One of the methods our trainer uses to burn calories and build muscle is called 'Resistance Training'. He uses light to heavy weight with continuously quick reps in order to get the best result. Why is resistance needed to build strength? On the spiritual side of things, we grow and develop through our ability to stand in the midst of resistance. At the end of the day, we are people of faith, aren't we? The word of God tells us specifically that trials (resistance) come to build patience and perseverance in us. God knows we won't grow if He pampered us all the time. I mean, would a baby learn to walk if his mother never put him down? We have to develop the ability to use heartache instead of letting heartache use us. Christians don't have to go through life blaming everything on the devil. Some situations we find ourselves in may be God "putting us down" because He wants us to walk.
"We walk by faith....". That statement is the motto for Christian life. But how can we walk by faith if everything comes easy? Faith comes by hearing. There's no doubt about that. In the same light, however, faith is strengthened through operation. We were all given a measure of faith. That's how you came to meet Jesus after hearing His gospel. But, if you give up when presented with resistance, that faith would never grow into the mountain-moving force God intended it to be. Like God, Rudy (our trainer) loves us. He would never do anything to purposely injure us. But the love he has doesn't mean he'll always keep us from pain. He knows every groan, every scream, and every sigh means we're getting stronger. He also knows that delivering us from that minor discomfort too quickly will have no positive effect in the long run. So, as you begin your day, try not to lose sight of who you are if you're faced with a trial. Consider it a workout session with God. He has chosen you to become stronger and more patient today. Take the workout seriously, my friend; because you never know, the weight may get heavier next time. If it does, you'll be prepared. You'll know just what to do (and have the stamina too) to lift it off of you. Now go.....you need a good workout!
Prayer: Father, I thank You for planting inside of me the seed to growth and strength. Every time I encounter what seems like a setback, I'm learning to recognize that it's only fuel for You to use as the miracle situation that builds my faith. I come into agreement with Your plan for the direction in which You're taking me. Yes, indeed to Your Will! In Jesus' Name, Amen.
It's Necessary!
Monday, November 28th, 2011
Today's Passage> Exodus chapter 1
Memory Verse> James 1: 2 & 3
When we first started working out, our physical trainer said to us, "I'm going to ease you into the routines. We'll take our time." It was challenging, but that was mostly because we were not accustomed to the rigor of moving so much. But gradually, we got used to the exercises. Then I noticed they began to get a little more stringent. The jumping jacks became longer, and we went from running in place to running around the block. And I also noticed something else: as the weeks went by, our trainer began to put us on more weights. When we asked why, he simply said we could handle more.
Then one week in particular, he made one statement to us the minute we walked through the door: "It's about to get worse.". And boy, was it ever! The resistance training began in earnest, and it seemed as if every muscle in our bodies hurt for the next week. But gradually, we've been able to add more resistance. And although it continues to be challenging, the joy of working towards our health, fitness and ultimate weight loss helps me keep the right perspective even through the tough workouts.
I wonder if it goes something like that with our Father. He looks at what He wants us to become, and He sees how out of shape we are in the spirit realm. So He starts out slowly but surely, adding to the variety and level of resistance that would cause us to hurt in the spiritual sense. And when He thinks we're ready to go to the next level, He says, "It's about to get worse, my child." And He allows the resistance to be applied, knowing just how much we can bear but knowing that the resistance is necessary.
The next time you're at the point where you begin to feel the pressure in a certain area, know that God has already measured the amount necessary to build the resistance needed for the next level. And when you get ready to ask, "Why me and why now?" know that humans are naturally resistant to being changed, although they desire change. So He HAS to put us in uncomfortable positions to strengthen our ability to withstand attacks from the enemy, which are sure to come because he also knows where God is taking us. What we need to ask for is the grace to give in to the process of resistance rather than resist it. If God thinks it's necessary, our only answer should be, "Yes, Lord."
Prayer: Father, I can feel the pressure mounting, but I sense that You're up to something. As long as You're there, with Your rod and Your staff, not even the valley of the shadow of death will cause me to fear. Let everything You're planning for my life come to pass. I say yes to the resistance in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Today's Passage> Exodus chapter 1
Memory Verse> James 1: 2 & 3
When we first started working out, our physical trainer said to us, "I'm going to ease you into the routines. We'll take our time." It was challenging, but that was mostly because we were not accustomed to the rigor of moving so much. But gradually, we got used to the exercises. Then I noticed they began to get a little more stringent. The jumping jacks became longer, and we went from running in place to running around the block. And I also noticed something else: as the weeks went by, our trainer began to put us on more weights. When we asked why, he simply said we could handle more.
Then one week in particular, he made one statement to us the minute we walked through the door: "It's about to get worse.". And boy, was it ever! The resistance training began in earnest, and it seemed as if every muscle in our bodies hurt for the next week. But gradually, we've been able to add more resistance. And although it continues to be challenging, the joy of working towards our health, fitness and ultimate weight loss helps me keep the right perspective even through the tough workouts.
I wonder if it goes something like that with our Father. He looks at what He wants us to become, and He sees how out of shape we are in the spirit realm. So He starts out slowly but surely, adding to the variety and level of resistance that would cause us to hurt in the spiritual sense. And when He thinks we're ready to go to the next level, He says, "It's about to get worse, my child." And He allows the resistance to be applied, knowing just how much we can bear but knowing that the resistance is necessary.
The next time you're at the point where you begin to feel the pressure in a certain area, know that God has already measured the amount necessary to build the resistance needed for the next level. And when you get ready to ask, "Why me and why now?" know that humans are naturally resistant to being changed, although they desire change. So He HAS to put us in uncomfortable positions to strengthen our ability to withstand attacks from the enemy, which are sure to come because he also knows where God is taking us. What we need to ask for is the grace to give in to the process of resistance rather than resist it. If God thinks it's necessary, our only answer should be, "Yes, Lord."
Prayer: Father, I can feel the pressure mounting, but I sense that You're up to something. As long as You're there, with Your rod and Your staff, not even the valley of the shadow of death will cause me to fear. Let everything You're planning for my life come to pass. I say yes to the resistance in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Happy Thanksgiving!
This, of course, is the week we celebrate Thanksgiving. But what exactly are we celebrating? If you've lost a loved-one, gone through financial hardship, or been in poor health, should you be thankful? Yes, you should. The reason we should is because although these situations are painful, they're not final. Knowing this gives us a different perspective. It gives us a reason to appreciate life on a whole new level. Jesus said in this world you WILL HAVE tribulation, but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world.
See, you can't be thankful if you don't know Jesus. No matter what your situation is, what He did for us at Calvary trumps it. He's the only remedy for the various trials of life. So, someone who has had his/her heart broken can still embrace the spirit of this holiday. Instead of hiding away and drowning in sorrow, they can use this time to repair broken relationships, or bless the poor. The point is, with the love of Jesus as motivation, a broken heart can be healed and become whole again.
Finally, if you know someone who because of tragedy or misfortune struggle during this season, advise them to win the battle in their minds. God's word tells us to think on things that are true, pure, and noble (Phil. 4:8). He says to meditate on things that are "praise-worthy". Pastor Chad asked us in Bible study if we ever had to struggle to think negative thoughts. The answer for most was no. Thinking negative thoughts is so easy to do. The enemy of our souls always wants us to see the glass as half empty. In contrast, God desires for us to see His fullness in everything. So whether you have a turkey leg, or a bologna sandwich this Thanksgiving, be grateful. Don't allow traditions that bring no relevance to this season to put pressure on you. Don't eat too much. Don't spend too much. And don't forget to give God praise for all His faithfulness. That's where the true spirit of this week lies.
Happy Thansgiving!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, every good and perfect gift comes from You. So before we sit down to all the things that cater to us, we pause to appreciate You. Thank You for Your love and grace. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for salvation and restoration. We are so grateful. And we look forward to receiving more of You, in Jesus' name. Amen.
See, you can't be thankful if you don't know Jesus. No matter what your situation is, what He did for us at Calvary trumps it. He's the only remedy for the various trials of life. So, someone who has had his/her heart broken can still embrace the spirit of this holiday. Instead of hiding away and drowning in sorrow, they can use this time to repair broken relationships, or bless the poor. The point is, with the love of Jesus as motivation, a broken heart can be healed and become whole again.
Finally, if you know someone who because of tragedy or misfortune struggle during this season, advise them to win the battle in their minds. God's word tells us to think on things that are true, pure, and noble (Phil. 4:8). He says to meditate on things that are "praise-worthy". Pastor Chad asked us in Bible study if we ever had to struggle to think negative thoughts. The answer for most was no. Thinking negative thoughts is so easy to do. The enemy of our souls always wants us to see the glass as half empty. In contrast, God desires for us to see His fullness in everything. So whether you have a turkey leg, or a bologna sandwich this Thanksgiving, be grateful. Don't allow traditions that bring no relevance to this season to put pressure on you. Don't eat too much. Don't spend too much. And don't forget to give God praise for all His faithfulness. That's where the true spirit of this week lies.
Happy Thansgiving!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, every good and perfect gift comes from You. So before we sit down to all the things that cater to us, we pause to appreciate You. Thank You for Your love and grace. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for salvation and restoration. We are so grateful. And we look forward to receiving more of You, in Jesus' name. Amen.
God's Arithmetic
Tuesday, November 22nd, 2011
Today's Passage> Acts chapter 9
Memory Verse> Acts 9:21
The Bible clearly tells us that we are not to boast about the sin in our past, and so out of reverence for the Lord and His Word, this is not going to be a stroll down Memory Lane. But what I AM going to stand on is the premise that I am so grateful for the parts of my past that the Lord had always intended to use. There were parts of my life that the Lord placed there to remind me that there was more than what I was settling for at that time.
I'll always be grateful for the gift of ministering in song that the Lord gave me. Even at an early age, I knew there was one thing special about it. So even in the midst of my sin, I cherished it as the most important thing that made me valuable. But without a relationship with God, I didn't understand the purpose of this gift and just how set apart I truly was. When I finally gave my heart to the Lord, the scales fell from my eyes and I began to see more and more clearly with each passing day why the Lord had let me live through the ravages of war.
I especially loved reading the story of Saul, who spent the earlier part of his life doing what he thought was right. Imagine his surprise when he gets literally stopped in his tracks by the Lord Jesus Himself. After his time of isolation, which he no doubt needed to help him figure out what was about to take place, the scales fell from his eyes when hands were laid on him. That's when he began to realize that the law had its place, but a relationship of walking in the Spirit was the best way to honor God. But do you know what he maintained from his past that God had always intended to use for His glory? His fire-hot passion and determination.
This same drive is what pushed Saul to pursue the Jews nd persecute them all those years. And this same drive is what God used to push Paul back into the same synagogues where he'd tried to convince the very Jews of the Lordship of Jesus. Still think there's nothing from your past that is praiseworthy? I beg to differ. There's something in there that God created and will use to make people wonder what changed about you so quickly. I wouldn't worry about what people have to say because there is therefore now NO condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. You just have to be willing to go forward like Paul did with a new name and a new purpose. Don't waste another moment trying to figure out God's arithmetic. He knows just what He wanted to add, and what He's already subtracted from you for His glory. The sum total of you is what He always intended You to be. And that's all that matters.
Prayer: Father, You knew what I would be even before I began to Walk in that direction. I just want to show You how grateful I am that You still want to use me the way You do. Let come what may, I truly want You to be glorified forever. But if possible, please arrange it so that those from my past will be able to see that You have changed me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Acts chapter 9
Memory Verse> Acts 9:21
The Bible clearly tells us that we are not to boast about the sin in our past, and so out of reverence for the Lord and His Word, this is not going to be a stroll down Memory Lane. But what I AM going to stand on is the premise that I am so grateful for the parts of my past that the Lord had always intended to use. There were parts of my life that the Lord placed there to remind me that there was more than what I was settling for at that time.
I'll always be grateful for the gift of ministering in song that the Lord gave me. Even at an early age, I knew there was one thing special about it. So even in the midst of my sin, I cherished it as the most important thing that made me valuable. But without a relationship with God, I didn't understand the purpose of this gift and just how set apart I truly was. When I finally gave my heart to the Lord, the scales fell from my eyes and I began to see more and more clearly with each passing day why the Lord had let me live through the ravages of war.
I especially loved reading the story of Saul, who spent the earlier part of his life doing what he thought was right. Imagine his surprise when he gets literally stopped in his tracks by the Lord Jesus Himself. After his time of isolation, which he no doubt needed to help him figure out what was about to take place, the scales fell from his eyes when hands were laid on him. That's when he began to realize that the law had its place, but a relationship of walking in the Spirit was the best way to honor God. But do you know what he maintained from his past that God had always intended to use for His glory? His fire-hot passion and determination.
This same drive is what pushed Saul to pursue the Jews nd persecute them all those years. And this same drive is what God used to push Paul back into the same synagogues where he'd tried to convince the very Jews of the Lordship of Jesus. Still think there's nothing from your past that is praiseworthy? I beg to differ. There's something in there that God created and will use to make people wonder what changed about you so quickly. I wouldn't worry about what people have to say because there is therefore now NO condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. You just have to be willing to go forward like Paul did with a new name and a new purpose. Don't waste another moment trying to figure out God's arithmetic. He knows just what He wanted to add, and what He's already subtracted from you for His glory. The sum total of you is what He always intended You to be. And that's all that matters.
Prayer: Father, You knew what I would be even before I began to Walk in that direction. I just want to show You how grateful I am that You still want to use me the way You do. Let come what may, I truly want You to be glorified forever. But if possible, please arrange it so that those from my past will be able to see that You have changed me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
It's Our REASONABLE Service!!!!!!
Monday, November 21st, 2011
Today's Passage> Psalm chapter 50
Memory Verse> Psalm 50: 14 & 23
We as parents are peculiar. We're capable of providing for our children, for we love them dearly and would do anything to see them happy. We're also very capable of doing everything that needs to be done in the household, such as cleaning the house, taking out the garbage, and cooking the food for that day. As a matter of fact, we know we're capable of doing this because we performed theses duties before our children got here and when they were too young to help us do it.
But when our babies get old enough, we like for them to begin participating in these duties -- not because we HAVE to depend on them, but because we'd like them to develop a sense of helping as a reasonable service for getting to enjoy the blessings of staying in a home they don't have to pay for, and eat food that's automatically provided for them without fail. And once we assign these duties, we don't like to hear them complain about having to do them because WE don't complain about all the sacrifices WE have to make for them; we just make those sacrifices.
God has this same attitude about the way He wants us to be thankful to Him. He does everything that He knows we need without complaining; He loves to bless us and show Himself faithful to us. So when it comes down to showing Him our gratitude, He expects it to be done without giving off the attitude that it's a chore. It hurts Him that He'd have to MAKE us be grateful to Him when we ought to know it's our REASONABLE service. What do you give a Father like God Who already has everything? Animal sacrifices don't work because everything physical already belongs to Him. You give Him the gift of an attitude of gratitude. It's the only thing He can't make us give Him because it wouldn't make Him happy.
Gratitude is closely linked to total devotion because it lets our Father know we have confidence in His care for us, and that even when we can't see where the provision is coming from or just how He's going to make a way, experience with Him tells us that if He's done it before, He'll surely do it again. While He's out moving this and shaking that to provide for us, the very least we can do is have an expectancy that He's going to come through, and praise Him in advance for what He WILL do. Let's face it, though: our eyesight's not that good all the time. So even when we can't seem to be able to praise Him for what's coming in front of us, how can we pretend to forget what He's ALREADY done? We could literally spend 365 days in a year and not exhaust the number of times He was faithful to us or loved ones around us. Next time you're tempted to complain about how ungrateful your kids are, try remembering how God feels with HIS children and keep an attitude of gratitude because it's our REASONABLE service!
Prayer: Father, You are so faithful. Morning by morning, I feast on Your faithfulness, which You offer asking nothing in return but my devotion through worship, praise and thanksgiving. I open my mouth now so that You can fill it with the praise You deserve. May my life be filled with praises to You and only You for Who You are to me. I love You so much. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Psalm chapter 50
Memory Verse> Psalm 50: 14 & 23
We as parents are peculiar. We're capable of providing for our children, for we love them dearly and would do anything to see them happy. We're also very capable of doing everything that needs to be done in the household, such as cleaning the house, taking out the garbage, and cooking the food for that day. As a matter of fact, we know we're capable of doing this because we performed theses duties before our children got here and when they were too young to help us do it.
But when our babies get old enough, we like for them to begin participating in these duties -- not because we HAVE to depend on them, but because we'd like them to develop a sense of helping as a reasonable service for getting to enjoy the blessings of staying in a home they don't have to pay for, and eat food that's automatically provided for them without fail. And once we assign these duties, we don't like to hear them complain about having to do them because WE don't complain about all the sacrifices WE have to make for them; we just make those sacrifices.
God has this same attitude about the way He wants us to be thankful to Him. He does everything that He knows we need without complaining; He loves to bless us and show Himself faithful to us. So when it comes down to showing Him our gratitude, He expects it to be done without giving off the attitude that it's a chore. It hurts Him that He'd have to MAKE us be grateful to Him when we ought to know it's our REASONABLE service. What do you give a Father like God Who already has everything? Animal sacrifices don't work because everything physical already belongs to Him. You give Him the gift of an attitude of gratitude. It's the only thing He can't make us give Him because it wouldn't make Him happy.
Gratitude is closely linked to total devotion because it lets our Father know we have confidence in His care for us, and that even when we can't see where the provision is coming from or just how He's going to make a way, experience with Him tells us that if He's done it before, He'll surely do it again. While He's out moving this and shaking that to provide for us, the very least we can do is have an expectancy that He's going to come through, and praise Him in advance for what He WILL do. Let's face it, though: our eyesight's not that good all the time. So even when we can't seem to be able to praise Him for what's coming in front of us, how can we pretend to forget what He's ALREADY done? We could literally spend 365 days in a year and not exhaust the number of times He was faithful to us or loved ones around us. Next time you're tempted to complain about how ungrateful your kids are, try remembering how God feels with HIS children and keep an attitude of gratitude because it's our REASONABLE service!
Prayer: Father, You are so faithful. Morning by morning, I feast on Your faithfulness, which You offer asking nothing in return but my devotion through worship, praise and thanksgiving. I open my mouth now so that You can fill it with the praise You deserve. May my life be filled with praises to You and only You for Who You are to me. I love You so much. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prayers that Prevail
Sunday, November 20th, 2011
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapters 9 & 10
Memory Verse> Nehemiah 9:38
Father, thank You that You never allow our past sins to destroy our opportunity for reconciliation! You love us so much that You made provision for the forgiveness of our sin long before we even acknowledged that we were sinners. We join together today to make some declarations to You in the company of heaven and earth.
We thank You for being a God Who does not deal with us as we deserve. Our ancestors took it upon themselves to create their own gods, then fashion religions of their own to avoid giving You the honor You deserved. Even in spite of that, You provided them with the fulfillment of the things they needed. Still they were hesitant to acknowledge You. In Your great mercy You allowed them to go through a time of captivity so that they could see You and call out to You. This caused them to do so, but only for a short period of time. Generation after generation, they ignored You in spite of Your mercy, and taught their children to do the same.
But today, we Your children turn our hearts away from the acts of our fathers. We renounce and cut ourselves off from every act of rebellion they performed. We declare that we will be totally devoted to You in spite of what our forefathers did. We embrace Your righteousness and renounce the rebellion for the rest of our days. Even as we make a covenant to seek You with all our hearts, we recognize that the enemy is planning strategies to cut us off from You and distractions to pull us away from You. But we refuse to be distracted. We desire You and declare that we will not only turn to You, but will teach our children to do the same.
Today, as we arise, we set our hearts on one accord to walk in righteousness from this day forward. We know that every promise You make, You keep to the third and fourth geneneration to those who fear You. So we will arise and worship You, calling You Holy and giving You the glory You deserve. May all those who have struggled with being double- minded in the past begin to see clearly what an awesome God You are as the scales fall from their eyes. We declare that You will be our God, and we will follow You forever. In the mighty Name of Jesus, Amen.
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapters 9 & 10
Memory Verse> Nehemiah 9:38
Father, thank You that You never allow our past sins to destroy our opportunity for reconciliation! You love us so much that You made provision for the forgiveness of our sin long before we even acknowledged that we were sinners. We join together today to make some declarations to You in the company of heaven and earth.
We thank You for being a God Who does not deal with us as we deserve. Our ancestors took it upon themselves to create their own gods, then fashion religions of their own to avoid giving You the honor You deserved. Even in spite of that, You provided them with the fulfillment of the things they needed. Still they were hesitant to acknowledge You. In Your great mercy You allowed them to go through a time of captivity so that they could see You and call out to You. This caused them to do so, but only for a short period of time. Generation after generation, they ignored You in spite of Your mercy, and taught their children to do the same.
But today, we Your children turn our hearts away from the acts of our fathers. We renounce and cut ourselves off from every act of rebellion they performed. We declare that we will be totally devoted to You in spite of what our forefathers did. We embrace Your righteousness and renounce the rebellion for the rest of our days. Even as we make a covenant to seek You with all our hearts, we recognize that the enemy is planning strategies to cut us off from You and distractions to pull us away from You. But we refuse to be distracted. We desire You and declare that we will not only turn to You, but will teach our children to do the same.
Today, as we arise, we set our hearts on one accord to walk in righteousness from this day forward. We know that every promise You make, You keep to the third and fourth geneneration to those who fear You. So we will arise and worship You, calling You Holy and giving You the glory You deserve. May all those who have struggled with being double- minded in the past begin to see clearly what an awesome God You are as the scales fall from their eyes. We declare that You will be our God, and we will follow You forever. In the mighty Name of Jesus, Amen.
Change We Believe In!
Saturday November 19, 2011
Today's Passage: Nehemiah 8
Memory Verse: Nehemiah 8:1-3
Geez! Things are getting crazy around here. Within minutes of watching the evening news, I often find myself mortified by all the reports of murder, abuse, schemes, and other injustices. Where has our morality gone? It seems as the days go by, more people are losing their core values than ever. It can also be seen in our schools. As an educator, I've been in meeting after meeting where children disrespect their parents as if it's the right thing to do. I'm not real sure how things got this way, I know for a fact they have to change. And there's only one thing that will change it.
How does one establish a repentant society? Do we make new laws, build new prisons, or hire more law enforcement? Since we are all natural punishers, do we revert to public stonings or lynchings for those who break the law? Whereas these interventions would probably have some effect on immoral behavior, it wouldn't have a lasting effect. The reason it wouldn't is because punishment only stops us from doing bad things. Now I know what you're thinking. And you're right, it SHOULD stop us from doing bad things. Some of us wouldn't be as well-behaved as we are if it weren't for a bit of punishment. So this discussion is not to convince us that punishment is evil. As mentioned before, it has it's merits. The problem with punishment however, is it doesn't teach. There's no aspect of punishment that makes one understand why they should do good things. That's why the word of God is important. In our passage, due to the choices people were making, Ezra, along with other leaders, gathered everyone together and began to remind them of God's law. They turned their attention back to the moral code on which their nation was founded.
Those of us who agree that humanity has to be better behaved have to make sure our voices are heard. We have to first be prayerful. God has shown us in His word that if there's at least one of us who still desires to live for Him, He'll heal us. Also, we have to be diligent in the way we elect our leaders. We can't afford to allow party lines or race to distinguish who's right or wrong. We must make those decisions based on character. Who's going to lead us according to the Word? That's who should get our votes. In order to re-establish morality in society, its leaders must be the example of that morality. They must lead us in prayer (locally and nationally), and like Ezra, always remind us of what God expects of us.
Repairing our moral compass will be a tall order, but by God's grace, it can be done. Those of us who are reading this devotional can let it begin with us. Let's pray for our nation, be wise during elections, and stand for justice. Let's never allow God's word to go far from our hearts; always reminding our neighbors of its power to change. Alone, we'll never be powerful enough, loud enough, or influential enough to accomplish this. However, together we can do all things through Christ, who I know will strengthen us. Let's not sit back and wait to become victims of lawlessness and immorality. Let's change the world!!!!
Prayer: Our Father, You are glorious and awesome; perfect in all Your ways. As we look around, we see the fruit of our rebellion and immoral practices. We now repent of our sin and turn our hearts back to You. Only You can save us from this path to destruction. So, we totally submit to Your ways, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Nehemiah 8
Memory Verse: Nehemiah 8:1-3
Geez! Things are getting crazy around here. Within minutes of watching the evening news, I often find myself mortified by all the reports of murder, abuse, schemes, and other injustices. Where has our morality gone? It seems as the days go by, more people are losing their core values than ever. It can also be seen in our schools. As an educator, I've been in meeting after meeting where children disrespect their parents as if it's the right thing to do. I'm not real sure how things got this way, I know for a fact they have to change. And there's only one thing that will change it.
How does one establish a repentant society? Do we make new laws, build new prisons, or hire more law enforcement? Since we are all natural punishers, do we revert to public stonings or lynchings for those who break the law? Whereas these interventions would probably have some effect on immoral behavior, it wouldn't have a lasting effect. The reason it wouldn't is because punishment only stops us from doing bad things. Now I know what you're thinking. And you're right, it SHOULD stop us from doing bad things. Some of us wouldn't be as well-behaved as we are if it weren't for a bit of punishment. So this discussion is not to convince us that punishment is evil. As mentioned before, it has it's merits. The problem with punishment however, is it doesn't teach. There's no aspect of punishment that makes one understand why they should do good things. That's why the word of God is important. In our passage, due to the choices people were making, Ezra, along with other leaders, gathered everyone together and began to remind them of God's law. They turned their attention back to the moral code on which their nation was founded.
Those of us who agree that humanity has to be better behaved have to make sure our voices are heard. We have to first be prayerful. God has shown us in His word that if there's at least one of us who still desires to live for Him, He'll heal us. Also, we have to be diligent in the way we elect our leaders. We can't afford to allow party lines or race to distinguish who's right or wrong. We must make those decisions based on character. Who's going to lead us according to the Word? That's who should get our votes. In order to re-establish morality in society, its leaders must be the example of that morality. They must lead us in prayer (locally and nationally), and like Ezra, always remind us of what God expects of us.
Repairing our moral compass will be a tall order, but by God's grace, it can be done. Those of us who are reading this devotional can let it begin with us. Let's pray for our nation, be wise during elections, and stand for justice. Let's never allow God's word to go far from our hearts; always reminding our neighbors of its power to change. Alone, we'll never be powerful enough, loud enough, or influential enough to accomplish this. However, together we can do all things through Christ, who I know will strengthen us. Let's not sit back and wait to become victims of lawlessness and immorality. Let's change the world!!!!
Prayer: Our Father, You are glorious and awesome; perfect in all Your ways. As we look around, we see the fruit of our rebellion and immoral practices. We now repent of our sin and turn our hearts back to You. Only You can save us from this path to destruction. So, we totally submit to Your ways, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Wolves in Sheep's Clothing
Friday, November 18th, 2011
Today's Passage: Nehemiah chapter 6
Memory Verse> 2 Peter 2:1
The Bible clearly tells us in 2nd Peter that there will be false prophets in the fold, just as there were in days of old. For this reason, we are to be sober, watchful and prayerful. It also says that God has ordained the days to be shortened so that the very elect would not be deceived. This brings about the question: is it possible that there exists in the year 2011 prophets who claim to be sent by God that are not? Are there really wolves in sheep's clothing who are destroying and scattering the sheep even as we speak?
It might be hard to hear this because, as I write this, it's hard to put into words. But God would not warn us if there were no danger to be wary of. A false prophet is one whose purpose is to sow seeds of doubt and fear among the saints by speaking words that APPEAR to be from God on the surface, but at the very foundation are nothing but an assignment to destroy what God has built. Over the past twenty years or so, there has been a shift in the Christian church from focusing on being about our Father's business because He's coming soon to living for now. Although our Father promises in His Word that if we seek Him first, He will add these things and all others to us, it seems mighty strange that we began to hear prominent ministers preach a gospel that sounded like it was straight from the throneroom... until we all looked up and found that we had to repent from lusting and coveting after what was not ours, as well as resenting God rather than living in contentment with what He's given us FOR the now.
Rather than take offense, just think about this for a moment: a false prophet may not necessarily be one who knowingly or deliberately sets out to destroy the purpose and plan of the people of God. He or she may just start out with good intentions and end up walking in error due to his or her own selfish desires getting in the way of that person's ability to hear the voice of God and speak what He says without compromising. I believe that this is what we've experienced. There are genuine people of God who missed it while taking their eyes off of the prize of the high calling for just a moment... but a moment is all it takes for the enemy to move in. And before they know it, they're being used by him to accomplish his own agenda rather than God's in this end time harvest. Let's face it: we've all been used by that deceitful dragon at one time or another to take a person off course -- whether it may be through the words we spoke, or our actions. Did that mean we had totally gone off the reservation and began to serve the enemy? No. But that's how cunning and deadly the devil is.
Nehemiah experienced the same thing when he was on the verge of finishing his assignment. All of a sudden, people who should've known that God's Sovereign will is always to lift and bless His people began to speak out against what he was doing, and began trying to instill fear in him. But there's something about those who are totally devoted and intimately connected to the Most High God. Nehemiah didn't waste time forming opinions of them or trying to assassinate their character. He merely kept His eyes on God and asked Him to get them out of the way so that he could finish what he had started. And that's exactly what we need to do.
Pastor Chris reminded us on Wednesday night that we are expected to be steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. Anyone who produces the opposite mentality or heart in us does not have God's heart towards us, no matter how popular that person is or how anointed they may be. If that person's ministry causes doubt rather than confidence to be stirred in us, we'd better be questioning whether they really are who they profess to be in these last, evil days. We must keep locked in to the vision of the house the Lord has planted us in, and be sure that the pastors we're submitted to have the heart of God. If we are supposed to be prospering even as our souls prosper as a result of being under the teaching of godly men and women, there should be no doubt as to whether we are hearing from God or not. Test the spirits by the spirit and see whether the prophetic words you're receiving line up with the Word of God. Period. With perilous times all around us, we simply have no time to be second-guessing our destiny. When we stand before the Father, there'll be no room for "I thought they were YOUR prophets, God." If they're God's messengers, they'll do what the Word says: correct, reprove, teach, exhort, and always love through it all. There will be no scattering, with the purpose of the ministry being split after a period of time Watch and Pray, saints. We must guard ourselves against wolves in sheep's clothing.
Prayer: Father, I think back to times when I could've been led astray by those sent on assignment by the enemy. But You didn't let that happen. I just want You to know that I appreciate Your protection. Continue to cover Your people and see us break free of the spirit of being susceptible to "itching ears". Only You can keep us until end times. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Nehemiah chapter 6
Memory Verse> 2 Peter 2:1
The Bible clearly tells us in 2nd Peter that there will be false prophets in the fold, just as there were in days of old. For this reason, we are to be sober, watchful and prayerful. It also says that God has ordained the days to be shortened so that the very elect would not be deceived. This brings about the question: is it possible that there exists in the year 2011 prophets who claim to be sent by God that are not? Are there really wolves in sheep's clothing who are destroying and scattering the sheep even as we speak?
It might be hard to hear this because, as I write this, it's hard to put into words. But God would not warn us if there were no danger to be wary of. A false prophet is one whose purpose is to sow seeds of doubt and fear among the saints by speaking words that APPEAR to be from God on the surface, but at the very foundation are nothing but an assignment to destroy what God has built. Over the past twenty years or so, there has been a shift in the Christian church from focusing on being about our Father's business because He's coming soon to living for now. Although our Father promises in His Word that if we seek Him first, He will add these things and all others to us, it seems mighty strange that we began to hear prominent ministers preach a gospel that sounded like it was straight from the throneroom... until we all looked up and found that we had to repent from lusting and coveting after what was not ours, as well as resenting God rather than living in contentment with what He's given us FOR the now.
Rather than take offense, just think about this for a moment: a false prophet may not necessarily be one who knowingly or deliberately sets out to destroy the purpose and plan of the people of God. He or she may just start out with good intentions and end up walking in error due to his or her own selfish desires getting in the way of that person's ability to hear the voice of God and speak what He says without compromising. I believe that this is what we've experienced. There are genuine people of God who missed it while taking their eyes off of the prize of the high calling for just a moment... but a moment is all it takes for the enemy to move in. And before they know it, they're being used by him to accomplish his own agenda rather than God's in this end time harvest. Let's face it: we've all been used by that deceitful dragon at one time or another to take a person off course -- whether it may be through the words we spoke, or our actions. Did that mean we had totally gone off the reservation and began to serve the enemy? No. But that's how cunning and deadly the devil is.
Nehemiah experienced the same thing when he was on the verge of finishing his assignment. All of a sudden, people who should've known that God's Sovereign will is always to lift and bless His people began to speak out against what he was doing, and began trying to instill fear in him. But there's something about those who are totally devoted and intimately connected to the Most High God. Nehemiah didn't waste time forming opinions of them or trying to assassinate their character. He merely kept His eyes on God and asked Him to get them out of the way so that he could finish what he had started. And that's exactly what we need to do.
Pastor Chris reminded us on Wednesday night that we are expected to be steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. Anyone who produces the opposite mentality or heart in us does not have God's heart towards us, no matter how popular that person is or how anointed they may be. If that person's ministry causes doubt rather than confidence to be stirred in us, we'd better be questioning whether they really are who they profess to be in these last, evil days. We must keep locked in to the vision of the house the Lord has planted us in, and be sure that the pastors we're submitted to have the heart of God. If we are supposed to be prospering even as our souls prosper as a result of being under the teaching of godly men and women, there should be no doubt as to whether we are hearing from God or not. Test the spirits by the spirit and see whether the prophetic words you're receiving line up with the Word of God. Period. With perilous times all around us, we simply have no time to be second-guessing our destiny. When we stand before the Father, there'll be no room for "I thought they were YOUR prophets, God." If they're God's messengers, they'll do what the Word says: correct, reprove, teach, exhort, and always love through it all. There will be no scattering, with the purpose of the ministry being split after a period of time Watch and Pray, saints. We must guard ourselves against wolves in sheep's clothing.
Prayer: Father, I think back to times when I could've been led astray by those sent on assignment by the enemy. But You didn't let that happen. I just want You to know that I appreciate Your protection. Continue to cover Your people and see us break free of the spirit of being susceptible to "itching ears". Only You can keep us until end times. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
PRE- OCCUPIED!!!!
Thursday, November 17th, 2011
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapter 5
Memory Verse> Isaiah 58: 6-7
OCCUPY. It's the latest form mainstream America is using to express how they feel about an issue. This time, it's the senseless distribution of wealth among those who are already wealthy. A decade ago, it was an outcry about saving the planet through recycling, reducing and reusing materials. The awareness of the suffering in the lives of others besides ourselves has also been growing, but not as fast among believers as it has among those not professing to be Christians.
With all the things we have to focus on, having a burden for what happens to others can get pushed to the bottom of the list in a heartbeat. But to God it is not a laughing matter, nor is it something to consider light. In Isaiah 58, He reminds us that we only walk in blessing if we don't ignore the oppression around us. When we fast and pray, our prayers become top priority to Him, but only when we make lifting the oppression off others a priority. In Matthew 25, God clearly outlines what He expects from us where oppression is concerned. Only those who are preoccupied with feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the lonely and seeing about the needs of the sick will be entering into heaven.
It's quite interesting that we as believers, who are given a spirit of discernment to know what direction to pray, begin to use that discernment for other reasons. We're hypersensitive to the comments of people whose opinions shouldn't matter in the first place. While hurting people continue to hurt around us, we're pre-occupied with everything but what God has called us to be concerned about. Oppression in ANY form should be something that we speak out against-- not out of fear that if we don't, we'll be punished, but out of obedience to the heart of God. Look around: is there a need we can do something about? I've found that the more pre-occupied I am with the needs of others, the less anxious I am about my own needs and issues. Let's be pre- occupied with God's broken.
Prayer: Father, there are so many broken people around us. We pray that You will give us a heart that is sensitive to Your heart. Only You can prepare us for the task of looking out for the needs of others. It takes Your heart, and without Your will to push past our own desires, there will be no- one to go the extra mIle . Please fill us with the desire to please only You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapter 5
Memory Verse> Isaiah 58: 6-7
OCCUPY. It's the latest form mainstream America is using to express how they feel about an issue. This time, it's the senseless distribution of wealth among those who are already wealthy. A decade ago, it was an outcry about saving the planet through recycling, reducing and reusing materials. The awareness of the suffering in the lives of others besides ourselves has also been growing, but not as fast among believers as it has among those not professing to be Christians.
With all the things we have to focus on, having a burden for what happens to others can get pushed to the bottom of the list in a heartbeat. But to God it is not a laughing matter, nor is it something to consider light. In Isaiah 58, He reminds us that we only walk in blessing if we don't ignore the oppression around us. When we fast and pray, our prayers become top priority to Him, but only when we make lifting the oppression off others a priority. In Matthew 25, God clearly outlines what He expects from us where oppression is concerned. Only those who are preoccupied with feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the lonely and seeing about the needs of the sick will be entering into heaven.
It's quite interesting that we as believers, who are given a spirit of discernment to know what direction to pray, begin to use that discernment for other reasons. We're hypersensitive to the comments of people whose opinions shouldn't matter in the first place. While hurting people continue to hurt around us, we're pre-occupied with everything but what God has called us to be concerned about. Oppression in ANY form should be something that we speak out against-- not out of fear that if we don't, we'll be punished, but out of obedience to the heart of God. Look around: is there a need we can do something about? I've found that the more pre-occupied I am with the needs of others, the less anxious I am about my own needs and issues. Let's be pre- occupied with God's broken.
Prayer: Father, there are so many broken people around us. We pray that You will give us a heart that is sensitive to Your heart. Only You can prepare us for the task of looking out for the needs of others. It takes Your heart, and without Your will to push past our own desires, there will be no- one to go the extra mIle . Please fill us with the desire to please only You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
The More We Bind Together...
Wednesday, November 16th, 2011
Today's Passage: Nehemiah chapter 4
Memory Verse> Nehemiah 4:6
"Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! For it is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard.. Of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments. It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; for there the Lord commanded the blessing-- life forevermore." (Psalm 133). What is it about unity that gets God so excited that He would make provision for His children to walk all over the enemy?
Unity is the absence of strife. Where there is no strife, the spirit of confusion cannot dwell. This makes it very difficult for the enemy to hang around, and very easy for him to walk away as frustrated as Sanballat and Tobias did in today's passage. These two, who were bent on destroying the purpose of Nehemiah and his team to get to work and complete it, were no match for the determination and power of one accord. They thought that, with there being so much work to do, the Israelites would soon become engaged in heated arguments and the work would be left by the wayside. After all, it worked when they were in the wilderness. But I love what it says in verse 6: "The people had a mind to work."
This takes me back to the whole mindset of total devotion, which is the opposite of double- mindedness. Minds that are focused on the will of God, being steadfast, unmoveable, and always abounding in His work have no room for strife, confusion and uncertainty. The people of Israel were so ready to do something about the brokenness in their city, so tired of seeing the enemy win, that they refused to allow anyone or anything to stop them from getting it done. Which takes me back to Psalm 133. What do you think happens when God sees His children rally together to bring His will to pass on this earth? He opens the floodgates and removes all limits and boundaries from before them.
And that's where the enemy's defeat is sealed. God is waiting for US to get on one accord so that He can release the blessing that will set into motion the fulfillment of visions, dreams and every possible blessing. Our individual destinies have to take a back seat to the more pressing issues at hand: the needs of the city. As soon as we begin to move towards healing each other out of love from the back-stabbing and selfish bickering, we'll see a turnaround. The enemy HAS to back away because the demonic forces will have to flee when God sends His host of angels to cover us. Imagine what things we could do in short periods of time. Get ready! Begin to gird yourself about with truth. The more we bind together, the more blessed we'll be. And there's NOTHING the enemy can do about it.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the peace of knowing You will do exactly what Your Word says You will do. We ask for the peace that will cause us to strive to walk in unity with one another, and invite Your Holy Spirit to move freely among us. Strengthen us to begin and complete the work you've called all of us to do. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Nehemiah chapter 4
Memory Verse> Nehemiah 4:6
"Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! For it is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard.. Of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments. It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; for there the Lord commanded the blessing-- life forevermore." (Psalm 133). What is it about unity that gets God so excited that He would make provision for His children to walk all over the enemy?
Unity is the absence of strife. Where there is no strife, the spirit of confusion cannot dwell. This makes it very difficult for the enemy to hang around, and very easy for him to walk away as frustrated as Sanballat and Tobias did in today's passage. These two, who were bent on destroying the purpose of Nehemiah and his team to get to work and complete it, were no match for the determination and power of one accord. They thought that, with there being so much work to do, the Israelites would soon become engaged in heated arguments and the work would be left by the wayside. After all, it worked when they were in the wilderness. But I love what it says in verse 6: "The people had a mind to work."
This takes me back to the whole mindset of total devotion, which is the opposite of double- mindedness. Minds that are focused on the will of God, being steadfast, unmoveable, and always abounding in His work have no room for strife, confusion and uncertainty. The people of Israel were so ready to do something about the brokenness in their city, so tired of seeing the enemy win, that they refused to allow anyone or anything to stop them from getting it done. Which takes me back to Psalm 133. What do you think happens when God sees His children rally together to bring His will to pass on this earth? He opens the floodgates and removes all limits and boundaries from before them.
And that's where the enemy's defeat is sealed. God is waiting for US to get on one accord so that He can release the blessing that will set into motion the fulfillment of visions, dreams and every possible blessing. Our individual destinies have to take a back seat to the more pressing issues at hand: the needs of the city. As soon as we begin to move towards healing each other out of love from the back-stabbing and selfish bickering, we'll see a turnaround. The enemy HAS to back away because the demonic forces will have to flee when God sends His host of angels to cover us. Imagine what things we could do in short periods of time. Get ready! Begin to gird yourself about with truth. The more we bind together, the more blessed we'll be. And there's NOTHING the enemy can do about it.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the peace of knowing You will do exactly what Your Word says You will do. We ask for the peace that will cause us to strive to walk in unity with one another, and invite Your Holy Spirit to move freely among us. Strengthen us to begin and complete the work you've called all of us to do. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
Positioned for Greatness
Tuesday, November 15th, 2011
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapter 2
Memory Verse> 1 Corinthians 1: 27
In our society, there's this thing for celebrities that I just can't figure out. All a person has to do is become popular for any crazy old thing nowadays, and people fall all over each other just to be included in a group that gets to meet them. It started out with pop and movie stars, which seemed innocent enough. But in more recent years, the infatuation with celebrities has been expanded to criminals of every kind who peddle their wares on camera and do their best to teach the younger generation that sex, drugs and guns are the right kind of dream to aspire to.
Even in the Christian community, we pass on the same infatuation with stars to pastors and singers that are on television regularly. Believers will barely make it to church on a regular basis, but will pack out an arena to see a televangelist or gospel artist. It turns out that God, too, has a thing for famous people, although not in the way we think. God's agenda involves positioning those who represent Him next to people of very influential status. Here's how and why I believe He does this.
Bishop Ray Willis often says, "God's got this uncanny idea that it's all about Him.". This statement is true in that God wants His glory to be revealed in the most unlikely but prominent of places. HOW does He do this? Why, He's God, of course! He is more than capable of sending His ministering spirits to orchestrate moving us from one place to another until He has us exactly where He wants us. God did this with David, who was just a shepherd boy taking his brothers something to eat when he was thrust into the battle between the Israelites and Philistines. Esther wasn't sure she would ever be chosen from a long list of girls from prominent backgrounds, but her favor with the king paid off. Daniel and Joseph found themselves in similar positions, all of them having one thing in common with Nehemiah: they were all totally devoted to bringing God's will to pass.
God has a way of getting His will done by people who under normal circumstances would never dream of allowing it to happen. God has always wanted His will to prevail over that of people who think they are too powerful to need Him. That's why He uses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. All Nehemiah was doing was being a cupbearer for the king in today's passage. All he had was a heart for God's city not to remain in ruins. And because of His heart, God allowed Him to be positioned among great men so that the city walls would be rebuilt. Don't despise the day of small beginnings, for you, too, are being positioned to walk in favor among great men for His glory. Just never lose your burden for God's heart, and never seek to please man rather than God. By the time all's said and done,you will be on your way to accomplishing something awesome for the Kingdom.
Prayer: Father, thank You for what You've ordained to accomplish in my life. I know You have a purpose for me, and so I release You to pour out Your favor in spite of my limitations. I let go of every doubt and ask that You get ALL the glory in my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapter 2
Memory Verse> 1 Corinthians 1: 27
In our society, there's this thing for celebrities that I just can't figure out. All a person has to do is become popular for any crazy old thing nowadays, and people fall all over each other just to be included in a group that gets to meet them. It started out with pop and movie stars, which seemed innocent enough. But in more recent years, the infatuation with celebrities has been expanded to criminals of every kind who peddle their wares on camera and do their best to teach the younger generation that sex, drugs and guns are the right kind of dream to aspire to.
Even in the Christian community, we pass on the same infatuation with stars to pastors and singers that are on television regularly. Believers will barely make it to church on a regular basis, but will pack out an arena to see a televangelist or gospel artist. It turns out that God, too, has a thing for famous people, although not in the way we think. God's agenda involves positioning those who represent Him next to people of very influential status. Here's how and why I believe He does this.
Bishop Ray Willis often says, "God's got this uncanny idea that it's all about Him.". This statement is true in that God wants His glory to be revealed in the most unlikely but prominent of places. HOW does He do this? Why, He's God, of course! He is more than capable of sending His ministering spirits to orchestrate moving us from one place to another until He has us exactly where He wants us. God did this with David, who was just a shepherd boy taking his brothers something to eat when he was thrust into the battle between the Israelites and Philistines. Esther wasn't sure she would ever be chosen from a long list of girls from prominent backgrounds, but her favor with the king paid off. Daniel and Joseph found themselves in similar positions, all of them having one thing in common with Nehemiah: they were all totally devoted to bringing God's will to pass.
God has a way of getting His will done by people who under normal circumstances would never dream of allowing it to happen. God has always wanted His will to prevail over that of people who think they are too powerful to need Him. That's why He uses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. All Nehemiah was doing was being a cupbearer for the king in today's passage. All he had was a heart for God's city not to remain in ruins. And because of His heart, God allowed Him to be positioned among great men so that the city walls would be rebuilt. Don't despise the day of small beginnings, for you, too, are being positioned to walk in favor among great men for His glory. Just never lose your burden for God's heart, and never seek to please man rather than God. By the time all's said and done,you will be on your way to accomplishing something awesome for the Kingdom.
Prayer: Father, thank You for what You've ordained to accomplish in my life. I know You have a purpose for me, and so I release You to pour out Your favor in spite of my limitations. I let go of every doubt and ask that You get ALL the glory in my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Let the Humility Begin
Monday, November 14th, 2011
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapter 1
Memory Verse> 2 Chronicles 7:14
Fasting and praying seems like a lost art in our churches nowadays. It's been cast aside along with services that were held just to "tarry before the Lord", as any saint who's at least 40 years old will tell you. While tarrying may seem to have no place in our fast-paced, "give me everything now" society, we have to admit that fasting and prayer can never be replaced with any more modern Christian practices if we want to walk in true power.
One of the things fasting does is draw us out of the realm of self and into the realm of kingdom. Only fasting moves us from thinking about what WE want and what WE need to thinking about others. In today's passage, Nehemiah heard about the condition of his homeland and how the walls were broken down. But only when Nehemiah decided to fast did his heart begin to soften concerning the news. Imagine how many disturbing stories we hear on the news or from people around us from day to day. We tend to shield ourselves from these heartbreaking details, which causes us to be de-sensitized to their impact. Only fasting can remind us that our lives are not about us, but that God needs us on the wall, interceding for others.
And that's where prayer comes in. Even if we're denying our flesh the things it craves, the real power comes only when we accompany fasting with prayer -- heartfelt, sincere prayer to the Father. I have found that I wasted quite a bit of time when I tried fasting but didn't do much praying. I pretty much stayed in the carnal realm, only going through the motions rather than crucifying my fleshly desires in anticipation of what God was going to do. So prayer is what turns the focused heart on not our will, but God's will for the situation that we're praying for. Nehemiah did not only complain about the plight of the Israelites, but asked God for His answer to the situation. He was able to ask for forgiveness for not only his immediate family, but for the children of Israel as a whole. And not only that, but he went through this process for several days rather than just one. I believe this is how He tapped into the power to begin the work that lay ahead of him and his people.
We can definitely use Nehemiah as an example of how fasting and prayer prepares us for total devotion to the work that God is calling us to do. Take a look around you. What has God made you sensitive to? Is the plight of the elderly bothersome to you? Young ladies who are not getting any support while they're carrying their babies? Understand that whatever it is, you'll just end up complaining about it if you don't invite God's intervention through prayer and fasting. Total devotion to the work God is calling us to do only comes as we yield our will to the Lord's. With patience and diligence to the process of dying to ourselves, we'll begin to see the Lord move on the behalf of those we are praying for-- so let the humility begin.
Prayer: Father, we've spent so much wasted time trying to ignore the heartache and brokenness around us. Our desire is truly to see Your will be done in our lives and that of others. We bow before You now and repent for the sins of our ancestors as well as ourselves. Please forgive us and begin to break our hearts with the things that break YOUR heart. We lift up our city and ask You to repair the breach, O Most High God. Only You can heal, save and set Your people free. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Nehemiah chapter 1
Memory Verse> 2 Chronicles 7:14
Fasting and praying seems like a lost art in our churches nowadays. It's been cast aside along with services that were held just to "tarry before the Lord", as any saint who's at least 40 years old will tell you. While tarrying may seem to have no place in our fast-paced, "give me everything now" society, we have to admit that fasting and prayer can never be replaced with any more modern Christian practices if we want to walk in true power.
One of the things fasting does is draw us out of the realm of self and into the realm of kingdom. Only fasting moves us from thinking about what WE want and what WE need to thinking about others. In today's passage, Nehemiah heard about the condition of his homeland and how the walls were broken down. But only when Nehemiah decided to fast did his heart begin to soften concerning the news. Imagine how many disturbing stories we hear on the news or from people around us from day to day. We tend to shield ourselves from these heartbreaking details, which causes us to be de-sensitized to their impact. Only fasting can remind us that our lives are not about us, but that God needs us on the wall, interceding for others.
And that's where prayer comes in. Even if we're denying our flesh the things it craves, the real power comes only when we accompany fasting with prayer -- heartfelt, sincere prayer to the Father. I have found that I wasted quite a bit of time when I tried fasting but didn't do much praying. I pretty much stayed in the carnal realm, only going through the motions rather than crucifying my fleshly desires in anticipation of what God was going to do. So prayer is what turns the focused heart on not our will, but God's will for the situation that we're praying for. Nehemiah did not only complain about the plight of the Israelites, but asked God for His answer to the situation. He was able to ask for forgiveness for not only his immediate family, but for the children of Israel as a whole. And not only that, but he went through this process for several days rather than just one. I believe this is how He tapped into the power to begin the work that lay ahead of him and his people.
We can definitely use Nehemiah as an example of how fasting and prayer prepares us for total devotion to the work that God is calling us to do. Take a look around you. What has God made you sensitive to? Is the plight of the elderly bothersome to you? Young ladies who are not getting any support while they're carrying their babies? Understand that whatever it is, you'll just end up complaining about it if you don't invite God's intervention through prayer and fasting. Total devotion to the work God is calling us to do only comes as we yield our will to the Lord's. With patience and diligence to the process of dying to ourselves, we'll begin to see the Lord move on the behalf of those we are praying for-- so let the humility begin.
Prayer: Father, we've spent so much wasted time trying to ignore the heartache and brokenness around us. Our desire is truly to see Your will be done in our lives and that of others. We bow before You now and repent for the sins of our ancestors as well as ourselves. Please forgive us and begin to break our hearts with the things that break YOUR heart. We lift up our city and ask You to repair the breach, O Most High God. Only You can heal, save and set Your people free. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prayers That Prevail!
Sunday November 13, 2011
Today's Passage: Nehemiah 9 & 10
Heavenly Father, we'd like to first thank You for who You are. There's no one like You, Lord. Arise in us as we awaken to this new day. Let every heart beat for You alone; declaring Your Lordship and worth. We won't put anyone or anything before You. You are God and King, and we worship You today.
Father, we realize You are a covenant God. Your love for us goes beyond emotional bargains or vain agreements. Your promises are yea, and amen. Which means if we obey You, Your grace will fulfill every promise made to us. Every word You've spoken is full of life, favor, and blessing. All we need to do is honor the covenant we made with You.
We are not forsaken, nor are we are forgotten. However, Lord, the disobedience of our generation must end. Whereas You are a loving Father, we mustn't forget that You are ALSO King. Therefore, we must live our lives boldly, but carefully. We can't take this covenant lightly. We can't assume because of grace, we can live lives that reject You. As a matter of fact, we repent personally, and corporately for our lack of devotion. So please Lord, be merciful as our hearts turn back to you. From this point forward, our lives will be a reflection of Your word. The world will see that Your covenant with man still lives within the hearts of the totally devoted. We are the generation that will stand on Your word. We are the people that will honor this covenant. Be glorified Lord, in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Nehemiah 9 & 10
Heavenly Father, we'd like to first thank You for who You are. There's no one like You, Lord. Arise in us as we awaken to this new day. Let every heart beat for You alone; declaring Your Lordship and worth. We won't put anyone or anything before You. You are God and King, and we worship You today.
Father, we realize You are a covenant God. Your love for us goes beyond emotional bargains or vain agreements. Your promises are yea, and amen. Which means if we obey You, Your grace will fulfill every promise made to us. Every word You've spoken is full of life, favor, and blessing. All we need to do is honor the covenant we made with You.
We are not forsaken, nor are we are forgotten. However, Lord, the disobedience of our generation must end. Whereas You are a loving Father, we mustn't forget that You are ALSO King. Therefore, we must live our lives boldly, but carefully. We can't take this covenant lightly. We can't assume because of grace, we can live lives that reject You. As a matter of fact, we repent personally, and corporately for our lack of devotion. So please Lord, be merciful as our hearts turn back to you. From this point forward, our lives will be a reflection of Your word. The world will see that Your covenant with man still lives within the hearts of the totally devoted. We are the generation that will stand on Your word. We are the people that will honor this covenant. Be glorified Lord, in Jesus' name. Amen
Show out Through Me, Lord!
Saturday, November 12th, 2011
Today's Passage> 1 Kings chapter 18
Memory Verses> 1 Kings 18: 36-37
Look throughout the Bible, and you'll see it. There's a specific trend that shows how God responds to total devotion from His children. He responded to Abraham with protection over him and his family as they made the move from his homeland to a totally new place God had called him to. He responded to Noah's obedience by giving him the strength to build a huge boat for himself, his family, and two of every species of animal, then releasing rain that flooded the whole earth. God's Word says He looks to and fro about the whole earth, seeking to whom He can show Himself faithful.
When God brought His people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt, He was simply showing out. He wore down the Egyptians with the various plagues until they finally gave in and let the Israelites go. Can you imagine what a spectacular display God orchestrated when they got to the Red Sea? I would've loved to have been there to watch the Egyptians pursue them, then realize they had walked into a watery trap that would be their grave. But the thing that amazes me about some people is that, even as flamboyant as God has been from one generation to another to let those who love Him know how He feels about them, there are still some who remain aloof from His reach and find themselves unsure about whether to serve Him or not.
That's why I absolutely love the way Elijah showed confidence in His God. He basically issued a super challenge to all those who were still straddling the fence, telling them that God was about to manifest Himself, and they needed to make up their minds who they were going to serve. And did God show Himself or what? He responded to Elijah's boasting in Him with fire on an altar that had been doused with water. It would again have been amazing to be an eyewitness to something so spectacular. And yet, it makes me wonder: do we really need God to perform tricks just to get His people to worship Him? I noticed in the passage that only AFTER the miracle by fire did the Israelites who were there bow down and acknowledge God's greatness.
We as believers must be mindful of the mentality that we'll hold off on our worship until God does something big to wow us. Yes, God WILL show Himself strong because that's Who He is. But notice that Elijah's show was to expose the UNGODLY to the terrible power and might of the Most High God. It was not meant to convince those who were already believers that He was worthy of their praise. That's what ended up taking place. But if we don't develop a diehard, totally devoted heart towards our God, we'll only be on the outside looking in, watching as He uses others to display His greatness instead of us. I don't know about you, but I'd rather be on the convincing end of things instead of having to BE convinced over and over due to shaky faith. Gird yourself, people of God. Stand on His Word and let Him respond with a miracle through you.
Prayer: Father, You have shown me throughout my life that You are truly a great God. I'm persuaded that there is nothing impossible for You. I offer myself to be used by You to display Your greatness through me whenever and wherever You so desire. May the world see and bow down in awe of You. Show out through me, Lord! In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> 1 Kings chapter 18
Memory Verses> 1 Kings 18: 36-37
Look throughout the Bible, and you'll see it. There's a specific trend that shows how God responds to total devotion from His children. He responded to Abraham with protection over him and his family as they made the move from his homeland to a totally new place God had called him to. He responded to Noah's obedience by giving him the strength to build a huge boat for himself, his family, and two of every species of animal, then releasing rain that flooded the whole earth. God's Word says He looks to and fro about the whole earth, seeking to whom He can show Himself faithful.
When God brought His people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt, He was simply showing out. He wore down the Egyptians with the various plagues until they finally gave in and let the Israelites go. Can you imagine what a spectacular display God orchestrated when they got to the Red Sea? I would've loved to have been there to watch the Egyptians pursue them, then realize they had walked into a watery trap that would be their grave. But the thing that amazes me about some people is that, even as flamboyant as God has been from one generation to another to let those who love Him know how He feels about them, there are still some who remain aloof from His reach and find themselves unsure about whether to serve Him or not.
That's why I absolutely love the way Elijah showed confidence in His God. He basically issued a super challenge to all those who were still straddling the fence, telling them that God was about to manifest Himself, and they needed to make up their minds who they were going to serve. And did God show Himself or what? He responded to Elijah's boasting in Him with fire on an altar that had been doused with water. It would again have been amazing to be an eyewitness to something so spectacular. And yet, it makes me wonder: do we really need God to perform tricks just to get His people to worship Him? I noticed in the passage that only AFTER the miracle by fire did the Israelites who were there bow down and acknowledge God's greatness.
We as believers must be mindful of the mentality that we'll hold off on our worship until God does something big to wow us. Yes, God WILL show Himself strong because that's Who He is. But notice that Elijah's show was to expose the UNGODLY to the terrible power and might of the Most High God. It was not meant to convince those who were already believers that He was worthy of their praise. That's what ended up taking place. But if we don't develop a diehard, totally devoted heart towards our God, we'll only be on the outside looking in, watching as He uses others to display His greatness instead of us. I don't know about you, but I'd rather be on the convincing end of things instead of having to BE convinced over and over due to shaky faith. Gird yourself, people of God. Stand on His Word and let Him respond with a miracle through you.
Prayer: Father, You have shown me throughout my life that You are truly a great God. I'm persuaded that there is nothing impossible for You. I offer myself to be used by You to display Your greatness through me whenever and wherever You so desire. May the world see and bow down in awe of You. Show out through me, Lord! In Jesus' mighty Name, Amen.
COLD Or HOT?
Friday, November 16th, 2011
Today's Passage> Revelation 3: 14-22
Memory Verse> Rev. 3: 16
God is a Spirit, but He is strong enough to make it abundantly clear that He hates double-mindedness with a passion. And personally, I agree with Him. Whenever I read this passage, I try to put myself in His place and see what it would be like to be Him. I take a moment and remember the whole idea of being able to not only see everyone, but also hear their thoughts. Can you imagine eavesdropping on six billion conversations in a million different languages? "Evan Almighty" doesn't even come close to describing it.
I guess that's why I totally understand God's stance on the issue of double- mindedness. In His own words, He pretty much tells the church, "I'd respect you more if you were either hot or cold." at least that way, He'd know where each of us stands. You can see passion coming a mile away. It's easy to see when someone is head-over-heels in love with something or someone. There's no doubt in that person's mind from one moment to the next what they're planning to do. They already know going in what sacrifices have to be made, and they're prepared to make them with no turning back.
At the risk of sounding superficial, I don't know of a single diehard fan of any football or basketball team that has a problem with being double-minded. I've seen two Seminoles fans in particular just skip the whole team apparel altogether and spray themselves from head to toe in team colors. There's no way you'd get one of those fanatics to turn their backs on their favorite team-- even when things didn't go right on a given week or even a given season. And you certainly wouldn't dare suggest that they root for a rival team just because their own team may be down. On the other hand, someone like me who doesn't really have that diehard spirit where sports is concerned needs help seeing what all the fuss is about. It'd be pretty hard to attend a game to watch a losing team play even in the nicest weather (unless there were something in it for me afterwards-- like dinner, for example).
Now, imagine the God of this universe, who made such sacrifices for all of us, having to hear us bellyache and complain about His care for us just because we may have to walk through hard times. I see now more than ever before why He'd rather have a group of cold, heartless people around than a bunch of timid, apathetic and unsure believers. At least He knows where they stand with Him. Now, let me qualify this by saying He loves us all unconditionally. Nothing we can say or do will ever stop His love from flowing towards us. But if all WE can offer in the form of devotion is our half-hearted attempts to serve God, He'd much rather we take it back. It has to be either cold or hot as far as our devotion goes. What's YOUR temperature?
Prayer: Father, when I compare my sacrifice to Yours, I realize how little I have to sacrifice for Your kingdom. I want to thank You that by Your grace I CAN give my all, and do it with- holding nothing. May my heart and life bring You joy daily, and set a positive example for others to follow in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage> Revelation 3: 14-22
Memory Verse> Rev. 3: 16
God is a Spirit, but He is strong enough to make it abundantly clear that He hates double-mindedness with a passion. And personally, I agree with Him. Whenever I read this passage, I try to put myself in His place and see what it would be like to be Him. I take a moment and remember the whole idea of being able to not only see everyone, but also hear their thoughts. Can you imagine eavesdropping on six billion conversations in a million different languages? "Evan Almighty" doesn't even come close to describing it.
I guess that's why I totally understand God's stance on the issue of double- mindedness. In His own words, He pretty much tells the church, "I'd respect you more if you were either hot or cold." at least that way, He'd know where each of us stands. You can see passion coming a mile away. It's easy to see when someone is head-over-heels in love with something or someone. There's no doubt in that person's mind from one moment to the next what they're planning to do. They already know going in what sacrifices have to be made, and they're prepared to make them with no turning back.
At the risk of sounding superficial, I don't know of a single diehard fan of any football or basketball team that has a problem with being double-minded. I've seen two Seminoles fans in particular just skip the whole team apparel altogether and spray themselves from head to toe in team colors. There's no way you'd get one of those fanatics to turn their backs on their favorite team-- even when things didn't go right on a given week or even a given season. And you certainly wouldn't dare suggest that they root for a rival team just because their own team may be down. On the other hand, someone like me who doesn't really have that diehard spirit where sports is concerned needs help seeing what all the fuss is about. It'd be pretty hard to attend a game to watch a losing team play even in the nicest weather (unless there were something in it for me afterwards-- like dinner, for example).
Now, imagine the God of this universe, who made such sacrifices for all of us, having to hear us bellyache and complain about His care for us just because we may have to walk through hard times. I see now more than ever before why He'd rather have a group of cold, heartless people around than a bunch of timid, apathetic and unsure believers. At least He knows where they stand with Him. Now, let me qualify this by saying He loves us all unconditionally. Nothing we can say or do will ever stop His love from flowing towards us. But if all WE can offer in the form of devotion is our half-hearted attempts to serve God, He'd much rather we take it back. It has to be either cold or hot as far as our devotion goes. What's YOUR temperature?
Prayer: Father, when I compare my sacrifice to Yours, I realize how little I have to sacrifice for Your kingdom. I want to thank You that by Your grace I CAN give my all, and do it with- holding nothing. May my heart and life bring You joy daily, and set a positive example for others to follow in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
It's Just the S.O.P.!!!!!
Thursday, November 10th, 2011
Today's Passage: Daniel chapter 3
Memory Verse> Dan. 3: 17-18
News stories just like this one have been the subject of discussion and debate for the past two weeks or so. A Baptist minister, who has prayed at the flagpole of a school in Green Cove Springs for more than ten years, suddenly was told he could not continue to do so by the principal. In another incident, a prayer that ended "in Jesus' Name" was challenged by a young atheist who opposed the right to call on God at a school game. More and more frequently, those who are set apart as believers have to make a stand against the antiChrist spirit that is in operation in this world.
But for those believers who just might be wrestling with a bit of uncertainty concerning whether or not it's really that serious, and whether or not to believe that we have to go to that extent just to show that we have faith in God, it's necessary to go back to the Word for a lesson in just how the world reacts to us. In Daniel chapter 3, you'll find an example of opposition to righteous people. It is a testament to the fact that the antiChrist spirit has been in operation as long as faith has. It's amazing to me how, with all the different beliefs in Babylon, only the children of Israel were pinpointed as the ones that were disobedient to Nebuchadnezzar's ruling about the worshipping of the golden image.
Fast-forward to today. With all the varying beliefs that exist in the great United States, why is stopping Christian believers from exercising their faith so important to certain people? Don't you find it a tad bit odd that the only nation on the surface of this earth that has made itself a place of refuge to so many cultures and creeds is giving up its original Christian foundation in favor of those who stand for other things besides the One True God? Well, this should not come as a surprise. At the root of all of this upheaval is the basic test from the kingdom of darkness to see whether those who believe REALLY believe as they profess to. The enemy wants to know if the church will give up its faith by just rolling over and playing dead, allowing all kinds of laws to be put in place that oppress and prevent us from being able to express our devotion to Jehovah God.
And that is why we must regard this opposition as merely the enemy's "S.O.P." --standard operating procedure -- not to be ignored by any means, but also not to be feared. All God is requiring from us is that we stand and resist him, and he will ultimately flee. Every knee has been ordained to bow to no-one other than the Most High God, Creator of heaven and earth. But if WE are more afraid of the opposition than God, and offer no resistance, we will be renounced at the day of judgment. Stand firm, men, women,and young people of God. Read the way Daniel and his boys handled "the test". They declared that they would stand for God even if it cost them their lives. We all must search our hearts and ask ourselves the tough question. Is this faith we proclaim worth standing for even to the death? Because if it isn't, we certainly won't live it out effectively. We will be able to convince no-one -- least of all ourselves -- that God is truly Who He says He is. But oh, how powerful the witness is when we pass the test! It's not us who go to bed at night wondering whether it's really worth it to say there's no God. And eventually, when we all stand before Him, there will be none who WILL be able to say they never heard of the good news. So stand tall, even if it means a fiery furnace. God knows how to deliver His totally devoted and create converts out of even the most hard-hearted people. Just ask Nebuchadnezzar...
Prayer: Father, You are so awesome! It's a privilege and an honor to live for You. Your Presence in my life has made such a difference. I offer myself now as a sacrifice to show those who dare oppose You that You're worth living and dying for. You've made such a precious sacrifice for me that I dare to declare I will live and die for You. To live is Christ, and to die is gain. May those who read this today be filled with a passion to allow You to make their lives mean something for the rest of their days. In the Name of Jesus we pray, Amen.
Today's Passage: Daniel chapter 3
Memory Verse> Dan. 3: 17-18
News stories just like this one have been the subject of discussion and debate for the past two weeks or so. A Baptist minister, who has prayed at the flagpole of a school in Green Cove Springs for more than ten years, suddenly was told he could not continue to do so by the principal. In another incident, a prayer that ended "in Jesus' Name" was challenged by a young atheist who opposed the right to call on God at a school game. More and more frequently, those who are set apart as believers have to make a stand against the antiChrist spirit that is in operation in this world.
But for those believers who just might be wrestling with a bit of uncertainty concerning whether or not it's really that serious, and whether or not to believe that we have to go to that extent just to show that we have faith in God, it's necessary to go back to the Word for a lesson in just how the world reacts to us. In Daniel chapter 3, you'll find an example of opposition to righteous people. It is a testament to the fact that the antiChrist spirit has been in operation as long as faith has. It's amazing to me how, with all the different beliefs in Babylon, only the children of Israel were pinpointed as the ones that were disobedient to Nebuchadnezzar's ruling about the worshipping of the golden image.
Fast-forward to today. With all the varying beliefs that exist in the great United States, why is stopping Christian believers from exercising their faith so important to certain people? Don't you find it a tad bit odd that the only nation on the surface of this earth that has made itself a place of refuge to so many cultures and creeds is giving up its original Christian foundation in favor of those who stand for other things besides the One True God? Well, this should not come as a surprise. At the root of all of this upheaval is the basic test from the kingdom of darkness to see whether those who believe REALLY believe as they profess to. The enemy wants to know if the church will give up its faith by just rolling over and playing dead, allowing all kinds of laws to be put in place that oppress and prevent us from being able to express our devotion to Jehovah God.
And that is why we must regard this opposition as merely the enemy's "S.O.P." --standard operating procedure -- not to be ignored by any means, but also not to be feared. All God is requiring from us is that we stand and resist him, and he will ultimately flee. Every knee has been ordained to bow to no-one other than the Most High God, Creator of heaven and earth. But if WE are more afraid of the opposition than God, and offer no resistance, we will be renounced at the day of judgment. Stand firm, men, women,and young people of God. Read the way Daniel and his boys handled "the test". They declared that they would stand for God even if it cost them their lives. We all must search our hearts and ask ourselves the tough question. Is this faith we proclaim worth standing for even to the death? Because if it isn't, we certainly won't live it out effectively. We will be able to convince no-one -- least of all ourselves -- that God is truly Who He says He is. But oh, how powerful the witness is when we pass the test! It's not us who go to bed at night wondering whether it's really worth it to say there's no God. And eventually, when we all stand before Him, there will be none who WILL be able to say they never heard of the good news. So stand tall, even if it means a fiery furnace. God knows how to deliver His totally devoted and create converts out of even the most hard-hearted people. Just ask Nebuchadnezzar...
Prayer: Father, You are so awesome! It's a privilege and an honor to live for You. Your Presence in my life has made such a difference. I offer myself now as a sacrifice to show those who dare oppose You that You're worth living and dying for. You've made such a precious sacrifice for me that I dare to declare I will live and die for You. To live is Christ, and to die is gain. May those who read this today be filled with a passion to allow You to make their lives mean something for the rest of their days. In the Name of Jesus we pray, Amen.
Be the Tree!
Wednesday November 9, 2011
Today's Passage: Psalms 1
Memory Verse: Psalms 1:1
What is the key to keeping oneself totally devoted to God in spite of the double-mindedness that we see around us? The key to remaining totally devoted to God is being rooted and grounded in His word. Simple, huh? To fully understand this point, let's look at the opposite side of things.
In Psalms 1, the Bible says we'll be rewarded for not walking in the "counsel of the unGodly". UnGodly counsel is the seat of double-mindedness. It creeps into or minds when we're in trouble, or scared. Its origin can be tracked to our upbringing (yep, momma and auntie 'nem), past experiences, and friends or co-workers. Over time, it attaches itself to our souls (the place where we make decisions) and becomes the staple by which we live. Then we meet Jesus. And after experiencing His unfailing love, we decide to live totally devoted to Him. However, we often forget to throw out all those unGodly belief systems we held inside us. We're often reluctant to confront the fact that they in fact caused us to 'stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of the scornful'. What results is this new creation with a hint of the old nature hidden inside. We're driven to hold on to it just in case "God fails us". But total devotion requires us to get rid of the unGodly counsel. At the end of the day, it only leads us right back to old mindsets and habits. It's kinda funny. In my experience, people always tell me how hard it is to accept Jesus as their Savior. Truth is, though, I didn't have as much difficulty accepting Jesus as I did denying myself. So like many, my double-mindedness nearly became my undoing.
In conclusion, this day may present the opportunity to make an important decision. On one side, the word of the Lord will knock at your heart, ready to inoculate you with truth. On the other, there'll be the fear-fed advice that only makes "sense", not truth. Which will you choose? My best advice would be to not ask your flesh, or comfort zone. They always appeal to YOUR will. Best practice is to decide now. Decide to choose God's word before you get to that crossroad. Be like that "planted" tree, bringing forth fruit in its season. The tree isn't double-minded, so it prospers, and if you follow suit, so will you.
Prayer: Gracious Father, Your glory is everlasting. I'm thankful I have Your word to guide me through this life. My prayer today is that You will deliver me from myself. The more "I" exist, the less of You I have. So, I give myself away so You can use me! Now, take me as Your own, and I'll give You praise, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalms 1
Memory Verse: Psalms 1:1
What is the key to keeping oneself totally devoted to God in spite of the double-mindedness that we see around us? The key to remaining totally devoted to God is being rooted and grounded in His word. Simple, huh? To fully understand this point, let's look at the opposite side of things.
In Psalms 1, the Bible says we'll be rewarded for not walking in the "counsel of the unGodly". UnGodly counsel is the seat of double-mindedness. It creeps into or minds when we're in trouble, or scared. Its origin can be tracked to our upbringing (yep, momma and auntie 'nem), past experiences, and friends or co-workers. Over time, it attaches itself to our souls (the place where we make decisions) and becomes the staple by which we live. Then we meet Jesus. And after experiencing His unfailing love, we decide to live totally devoted to Him. However, we often forget to throw out all those unGodly belief systems we held inside us. We're often reluctant to confront the fact that they in fact caused us to 'stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of the scornful'. What results is this new creation with a hint of the old nature hidden inside. We're driven to hold on to it just in case "God fails us". But total devotion requires us to get rid of the unGodly counsel. At the end of the day, it only leads us right back to old mindsets and habits. It's kinda funny. In my experience, people always tell me how hard it is to accept Jesus as their Savior. Truth is, though, I didn't have as much difficulty accepting Jesus as I did denying myself. So like many, my double-mindedness nearly became my undoing.
In conclusion, this day may present the opportunity to make an important decision. On one side, the word of the Lord will knock at your heart, ready to inoculate you with truth. On the other, there'll be the fear-fed advice that only makes "sense", not truth. Which will you choose? My best advice would be to not ask your flesh, or comfort zone. They always appeal to YOUR will. Best practice is to decide now. Decide to choose God's word before you get to that crossroad. Be like that "planted" tree, bringing forth fruit in its season. The tree isn't double-minded, so it prospers, and if you follow suit, so will you.
Prayer: Gracious Father, Your glory is everlasting. I'm thankful I have Your word to guide me through this life. My prayer today is that You will deliver me from myself. The more "I" exist, the less of You I have. So, I give myself away so You can use me! Now, take me as Your own, and I'll give You praise, in Jesus' name. Amen.
The Slippery Slope
Tuesday, Nov. 8th, 2011
Today's Passage: Romans chapter 1
Memory Verse> Rom. 1:20
In the course of years that I've been walking with the Lord, I've observed the lives of believers who were in relationship with God at one point. But in time, that walk became less and less evident until there was no longer a trace of the bond between that person and God. And as a result of seeing this phenomenon time and time again, I came to the central question that troubled me for a while. How is it possible for people who supposedly love God to walk away from Him and live the opposite way from His laws?
A relationship with God is just that -- a relationship. It must be maintained, not by us, but by our Father. He knows how easy it is for us to lose focus of the most important thing in our lives. So He uses the Holy Spirit, Who speaks to us and convicts us of the areas where we stand in the most danger of going against His will. While for most of us, this is a good thing, and we run to the throneroom, confess our sins, and receive forgiveness as well as a closer walk with God, others resent this "high-maintenance" activity. What we see in the beginning is they seem to be okay with God living in their hearts. But as time goes by and He requires us to relinquish more and more control, the resentment grows.
The whole idea of being able to simply walk away after having enjoyed a relationship with God at one time has to do with being double-minded. Unholy alliances with the world and everything it stands for cause our allegiance to God to waver depending upon the season we're in if we're not completely sold out to Him. And this is the situation in which those who question their loyalty to God find themselves. Therefore, it IS possible to find oneself "in love" with Jesus one minute, then not even recognized as one of His own the next. What we don't take into consideration is that whatever foothold we give the enemy is access to torment us about our loyalty to the kingdom of God. He dangles whatever he can before us -- relationships, money, things we may have had success with in the world before Christ, you name it -- and it is up to us to reject those things or allow the doubts to rise concerning whether or not to let them go.
In the end, the struggle is simply too painful and no longer worth the trouble. It becomes easier to just lapse back into what we used to know, and to tell the truth, walking in the flesh can be as easy as getting on a bike again after a while. Our old nature WILL return if we don't do what's necessary to cut all ties with it and let the Holy Spirit do His work in our lives, trusting God to make the change complete no matter how painful it may be. Here's the sad reality: the more we reject God's ways, the more we'll find that He releases us to do so. Ultimately, He will give us over to the reprobate mind referred to in today's passage, and we become the complete opposite of what we once used to be. The result: former gospel artists singing secular music, and even so-called ministers condoning homosexuality as well as other sins as something God accepts in spite of what His Word says. Saints, we must be very careful about allowing ourselves to get on this slippery slope of backsliding. There is no going back from it. Stay in the shadow and shelter of the Shepherd's care.
Prayer: Father, You've purchased my soul from the enemy's grasp, and You deserve all of me. But more than anything, I WANT to live for You because You loved me first. You went to the pit of hell itself for me, and I'll go wherever You desire. To live for You is not burdensome, but a privilege and an honor. Keep me in the cradle of Your grace, and I'll live to bring You glory always. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Romans chapter 1
Memory Verse> Rom. 1:20
In the course of years that I've been walking with the Lord, I've observed the lives of believers who were in relationship with God at one point. But in time, that walk became less and less evident until there was no longer a trace of the bond between that person and God. And as a result of seeing this phenomenon time and time again, I came to the central question that troubled me for a while. How is it possible for people who supposedly love God to walk away from Him and live the opposite way from His laws?
A relationship with God is just that -- a relationship. It must be maintained, not by us, but by our Father. He knows how easy it is for us to lose focus of the most important thing in our lives. So He uses the Holy Spirit, Who speaks to us and convicts us of the areas where we stand in the most danger of going against His will. While for most of us, this is a good thing, and we run to the throneroom, confess our sins, and receive forgiveness as well as a closer walk with God, others resent this "high-maintenance" activity. What we see in the beginning is they seem to be okay with God living in their hearts. But as time goes by and He requires us to relinquish more and more control, the resentment grows.
The whole idea of being able to simply walk away after having enjoyed a relationship with God at one time has to do with being double-minded. Unholy alliances with the world and everything it stands for cause our allegiance to God to waver depending upon the season we're in if we're not completely sold out to Him. And this is the situation in which those who question their loyalty to God find themselves. Therefore, it IS possible to find oneself "in love" with Jesus one minute, then not even recognized as one of His own the next. What we don't take into consideration is that whatever foothold we give the enemy is access to torment us about our loyalty to the kingdom of God. He dangles whatever he can before us -- relationships, money, things we may have had success with in the world before Christ, you name it -- and it is up to us to reject those things or allow the doubts to rise concerning whether or not to let them go.
In the end, the struggle is simply too painful and no longer worth the trouble. It becomes easier to just lapse back into what we used to know, and to tell the truth, walking in the flesh can be as easy as getting on a bike again after a while. Our old nature WILL return if we don't do what's necessary to cut all ties with it and let the Holy Spirit do His work in our lives, trusting God to make the change complete no matter how painful it may be. Here's the sad reality: the more we reject God's ways, the more we'll find that He releases us to do so. Ultimately, He will give us over to the reprobate mind referred to in today's passage, and we become the complete opposite of what we once used to be. The result: former gospel artists singing secular music, and even so-called ministers condoning homosexuality as well as other sins as something God accepts in spite of what His Word says. Saints, we must be very careful about allowing ourselves to get on this slippery slope of backsliding. There is no going back from it. Stay in the shadow and shelter of the Shepherd's care.
Prayer: Father, You've purchased my soul from the enemy's grasp, and You deserve all of me. But more than anything, I WANT to live for You because You loved me first. You went to the pit of hell itself for me, and I'll go wherever You desire. To live for You is not burdensome, but a privilege and an honor. Keep me in the cradle of Your grace, and I'll live to bring You glory always. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
If You're Saved and You Know It...
Monday, November 7th, 2011
Today's Passage: James chapter 1
Memory Verse> James 1: 6-7
My brother-in-law is an interesting person. He may be much better at this now, but when he was yet unmarried and lived at home, it took him quite a long time to decide exactly what he wanted to wear. My husband tells me it was even worse when they were in high school. He would pull out five or six outfits, try each one on, then go searching for something completely new until he had the one that he felt the most satisfied with -- the one that matched with the right shoes and made him look the best. This took place nearly everyday, and they would consequently be late for school on a daily basis because he never could go through this process the night before. But even if he did, he would probably change his mind by the morning, and the whole thing would start all over again.
As hilarious as this seems when it comes to clothes, it is no laughing matter when it comes to the issues of our lives. Of all the things not to be sure about, our eternity is not one of them. First Corinthians tells us to "Be steadfast, unmoveable, [and] always abounding in the work of the Lord, because our labor is not in vain in [Him]. But double-mindedness is the opposite of everything in this verse. Our pastors ministered yesterday about how a double-minded person is one whose devotion to God is less than total. His attention is divided between God and other things. This means that other things have equal place in this person's life, and take up as much space as, or more than, what God should. What goes on in our spirits is exactly what manifests in the natural with animals: a two-headed animal.
If an animal has two heads, this means it is getting two completely separate sets of commands. Which one will it be able to follow? How can the one body go left when it's being told to go right at the same time? As a result, they often move in a disoriented and dizzy fashion; some simply zigzag without getting anywhere. In their research, our pastors found out that two brains result from the failure of two fertilized eggs to separate properly during the gestation of the mother. So basically, there are two completely different animals living in the body of one. Eventually, the two-headed animal will die from not being able to properly feed, protect, and sustain itself in its environment.
Do you see the parallel for believers who are trying to live saved but have not made the necessary changes in order to receive everything that God has provided? James strongly warns us to ask for the wisdom necessary to obey and be totally devoted to God. Basically, we must be willing to kill our will, separate and cut off its ability to rule in our lives. In order for us to be the steadfast, sold-out and totally devoted believers we were created to be, God must be the Only One in control. No-one else should be allowed to control us, tell us where to go, who to associate with, or even what to eat and how to spend our money. Everything about us should be completely submitted to the Father. If you're saved and you know it, live like it. Don't live confused, disoriented and unsure from one day to the next whether you're going to follow Christ or not. This decision must be settled in your mind FIRST. There is simply no other alternative.
Prayer: Father, as You show us the uncertainty of the times in Your Word, I feel You urging Your people to make up their minds Who they will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve You, the Most High God. You are the Only One Who deserves our devotion, for You are the Only One worthy to receive it. You paid the highest price for our lives, so we give them back to You without reservation. Live big in us, O God. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: James chapter 1
Memory Verse> James 1: 6-7
My brother-in-law is an interesting person. He may be much better at this now, but when he was yet unmarried and lived at home, it took him quite a long time to decide exactly what he wanted to wear. My husband tells me it was even worse when they were in high school. He would pull out five or six outfits, try each one on, then go searching for something completely new until he had the one that he felt the most satisfied with -- the one that matched with the right shoes and made him look the best. This took place nearly everyday, and they would consequently be late for school on a daily basis because he never could go through this process the night before. But even if he did, he would probably change his mind by the morning, and the whole thing would start all over again.
As hilarious as this seems when it comes to clothes, it is no laughing matter when it comes to the issues of our lives. Of all the things not to be sure about, our eternity is not one of them. First Corinthians tells us to "Be steadfast, unmoveable, [and] always abounding in the work of the Lord, because our labor is not in vain in [Him]. But double-mindedness is the opposite of everything in this verse. Our pastors ministered yesterday about how a double-minded person is one whose devotion to God is less than total. His attention is divided between God and other things. This means that other things have equal place in this person's life, and take up as much space as, or more than, what God should. What goes on in our spirits is exactly what manifests in the natural with animals: a two-headed animal.
If an animal has two heads, this means it is getting two completely separate sets of commands. Which one will it be able to follow? How can the one body go left when it's being told to go right at the same time? As a result, they often move in a disoriented and dizzy fashion; some simply zigzag without getting anywhere. In their research, our pastors found out that two brains result from the failure of two fertilized eggs to separate properly during the gestation of the mother. So basically, there are two completely different animals living in the body of one. Eventually, the two-headed animal will die from not being able to properly feed, protect, and sustain itself in its environment.
Do you see the parallel for believers who are trying to live saved but have not made the necessary changes in order to receive everything that God has provided? James strongly warns us to ask for the wisdom necessary to obey and be totally devoted to God. Basically, we must be willing to kill our will, separate and cut off its ability to rule in our lives. In order for us to be the steadfast, sold-out and totally devoted believers we were created to be, God must be the Only One in control. No-one else should be allowed to control us, tell us where to go, who to associate with, or even what to eat and how to spend our money. Everything about us should be completely submitted to the Father. If you're saved and you know it, live like it. Don't live confused, disoriented and unsure from one day to the next whether you're going to follow Christ or not. This decision must be settled in your mind FIRST. There is simply no other alternative.
Prayer: Father, as You show us the uncertainty of the times in Your Word, I feel You urging Your people to make up their minds Who they will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve You, the Most High God. You are the Only One Who deserves our devotion, for You are the Only One worthy to receive it. You paid the highest price for our lives, so we give them back to You without reservation. Live big in us, O God. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prayers that Prevail
Sunday, November 6th, 2011
Today's Passage> 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-11
Memory Verse > 1 Thess. 5:8
Father, You have chosen us to be sons and daughters of the day, and not of the night. What an awesome thing, to be chosen as one of Your own! You've called us out of darkness and into Your marvelous light, and we come willingly to serve You and live out our lives to bring You the glory You deserve. But this privilege also comes with a responsibility. You require us to awake from our slumber, because we are still in the midst of a war. This war is for our nation, our families, and our faith in You.
We pray today that You will fill us with such a passion to seek You like never before, not as a religious exercise or out of some sort of obligation, but with expectancy to see You move on our hearts and in the lives of the people around us. Give us a spirit of watchfulness, being aware of the times and seasons so as to always keep Your presence before us. Keep us prayerful and thankful for Your intervention in this age. Give us a heart to seek Your Will above all else, and never compromise our devotion to You.
According to Your Word, we declare that we will be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and wearing on our heads the helmet of salvation which is the very hope of our existence. May we embrace this season of comforting and edifying one another like never before, filling each other with this blessed hope, so that we all may walk in contentment and peace, knowing that You, the Shepherd, are in full control. We also lift up our pastors, asking You to cover them and give them even more anointing and intimacy with You so that they may preach Your Word unhindered and unrestrained all their days.
We also pray that You will give us the grace to forgive and release one another no matter what the offense was, not rendering evil for evil at all, but showing them mercy just as You have done for us over and over again. We declare that we will rejoice always, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks to You in every season. May we arise to give You sincere praise today, with that blessed hope in our hearts. May that hope spread to the lives of those who need to know that You are real, and that You reward those who diligently seek You. In the mighty Name of Jesus, Amen.
Today's Passage> 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-11
Memory Verse > 1 Thess. 5:8
Father, You have chosen us to be sons and daughters of the day, and not of the night. What an awesome thing, to be chosen as one of Your own! You've called us out of darkness and into Your marvelous light, and we come willingly to serve You and live out our lives to bring You the glory You deserve. But this privilege also comes with a responsibility. You require us to awake from our slumber, because we are still in the midst of a war. This war is for our nation, our families, and our faith in You.
We pray today that You will fill us with such a passion to seek You like never before, not as a religious exercise or out of some sort of obligation, but with expectancy to see You move on our hearts and in the lives of the people around us. Give us a spirit of watchfulness, being aware of the times and seasons so as to always keep Your presence before us. Keep us prayerful and thankful for Your intervention in this age. Give us a heart to seek Your Will above all else, and never compromise our devotion to You.
According to Your Word, we declare that we will be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and wearing on our heads the helmet of salvation which is the very hope of our existence. May we embrace this season of comforting and edifying one another like never before, filling each other with this blessed hope, so that we all may walk in contentment and peace, knowing that You, the Shepherd, are in full control. We also lift up our pastors, asking You to cover them and give them even more anointing and intimacy with You so that they may preach Your Word unhindered and unrestrained all their days.
We also pray that You will give us the grace to forgive and release one another no matter what the offense was, not rendering evil for evil at all, but showing them mercy just as You have done for us over and over again. We declare that we will rejoice always, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks to You in every season. May we arise to give You sincere praise today, with that blessed hope in our hearts. May that hope spread to the lives of those who need to know that You are real, and that You reward those who diligently seek You. In the mighty Name of Jesus, Amen.
The Promise of Eternity
Saturday, November 5th, 2011
Today's Passage> 1 Peter 1: 3-25
Memory Verse> 1 Peter 1: 4 & 5
I often think about the hard lives many have had from one century to another. What kept the Pilgrim settlers hoping against hope when they took that giant step across the Atlantic Ocean to start their new life? When they had to bury their loved ones taken by the harsh winter and disease, what gave them comfort? No doubt words of a hymn like "How Great Thou Art": "When Christ shall come with shouts of acclamation to take me home, what joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow in humble adoration, and there proclaim, "My God, how great Thou art!"
A few hundred years afterwards, during the capture, murder and enslavement of African people, what did they have to look forward to? When their babies were snatched from them, and their families were separated as they were bought, sold off, and sent to various parts of the country, what gave them comfort? The promise that there was a place much better than this one where no such horrors would take place. They sang the words of the song, "Swing low, sweet chariot, comin' for to carry me home" along with others that warmed their hearts on dark, cold nights and lit their path when all hope seemed lost.
No matter the time or season, the promise of eternity is the one beacon that shines brighter than any other element of our faith. It strengthened our Lord Himself when He was stretched out on the cross, and it sustained him to focus on what He was purchasing for us. Today's passage gives me the feeling that if this was important then, it's important now. Many believers spend countless hours feeling worried, sad, hopeless, or aggravated about the circumstances in which they find themselves. But hope is what makes the difference, and for good reason.
I've said this before and I'll say it again: eternity is the only thing the enemy has no influence over. So rather than try, he simply works on getting us to fear the unknown so much that we lessen the impact of eternity on our NOW. If we can trust God with our future, why wouldn't He take care of our present? We must begin allowing the things God has put in place for us to stand firm in our hearts, even when we can't feel or see it. Hope in our eternity is the best thing we've got to latch on to. In the midst of the hardest situations, it's amazing how a simple song can transport us to another place. I don't know what your "eternity" song might be. For me, it's "Lord, You're my dwelling place; I long to shout Your praise, singing hallelujah. I know that there will come a day when I will see You face to face, and I will be embraced by the beauty of holiness....."
Prayer: Father, thank You for the promise of eternity. I'm longing for the day when I get to see You, hear You say, "Well done", and sit at the welcome feast with Your Son Jesus. All of the issues of this life fade into insignificance when my heart settles on this fact. Be glorified in all I say and do, and may those who do not know You accept this same promise. In Jesus' Name, amen.
Today's Passage> 1 Peter 1: 3-25
Memory Verse> 1 Peter 1: 4 & 5
I often think about the hard lives many have had from one century to another. What kept the Pilgrim settlers hoping against hope when they took that giant step across the Atlantic Ocean to start their new life? When they had to bury their loved ones taken by the harsh winter and disease, what gave them comfort? No doubt words of a hymn like "How Great Thou Art": "When Christ shall come with shouts of acclamation to take me home, what joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow in humble adoration, and there proclaim, "My God, how great Thou art!"
A few hundred years afterwards, during the capture, murder and enslavement of African people, what did they have to look forward to? When their babies were snatched from them, and their families were separated as they were bought, sold off, and sent to various parts of the country, what gave them comfort? The promise that there was a place much better than this one where no such horrors would take place. They sang the words of the song, "Swing low, sweet chariot, comin' for to carry me home" along with others that warmed their hearts on dark, cold nights and lit their path when all hope seemed lost.
No matter the time or season, the promise of eternity is the one beacon that shines brighter than any other element of our faith. It strengthened our Lord Himself when He was stretched out on the cross, and it sustained him to focus on what He was purchasing for us. Today's passage gives me the feeling that if this was important then, it's important now. Many believers spend countless hours feeling worried, sad, hopeless, or aggravated about the circumstances in which they find themselves. But hope is what makes the difference, and for good reason.
I've said this before and I'll say it again: eternity is the only thing the enemy has no influence over. So rather than try, he simply works on getting us to fear the unknown so much that we lessen the impact of eternity on our NOW. If we can trust God with our future, why wouldn't He take care of our present? We must begin allowing the things God has put in place for us to stand firm in our hearts, even when we can't feel or see it. Hope in our eternity is the best thing we've got to latch on to. In the midst of the hardest situations, it's amazing how a simple song can transport us to another place. I don't know what your "eternity" song might be. For me, it's "Lord, You're my dwelling place; I long to shout Your praise, singing hallelujah. I know that there will come a day when I will see You face to face, and I will be embraced by the beauty of holiness....."
Prayer: Father, thank You for the promise of eternity. I'm longing for the day when I get to see You, hear You say, "Well done", and sit at the welcome feast with Your Son Jesus. All of the issues of this life fade into insignificance when my heart settles on this fact. Be glorified in all I say and do, and may those who do not know You accept this same promise. In Jesus' Name, amen.
Hope...Don't Leave Home Without It!
Friday November 4, 2011
Today's Passage: Job 11:7-20
Memory Verse: Job 11:8
Last year, a friend of mine was told she had cancer. At the time, I'm sure fear in regards to her future were ever before her. However, she approached each day as if she had a lifetime to live. When she could, she continued to work and function in ministry as she'd always done. While praying for her one night, I asked God how she maintained such a positive outlook, and His answer was life-changing. He said "As long as she has hope, she has help".
Hope is not a man-made, emotional sensation. Hope is a gift given by God Himself. Its very definition describes it as a confident expectation. For the believer, all is not lost when the loved-one has passed, or when the diagnosis is spoken. All is not lost when the there are more bills than money. All is lost when the expectation that God will deliver what He promised is cast aside. Without faith, it's impossible to please God. Without hope, it's impossible to know Him. Hope brings a spiritual God into our natural world. It literally grants access into the kingdom of God. So, while some might have felt sorry for my friend, we rejoiced in the fact that she knew at any moment, God could take her cancer away. What do you hope for? As you think about your answer, be reminded that hoping is not wishing. Those who wish live by chance. Their lives are like tossing a coin into a well, thinking something will come out. Again, hope is expecting; like buying a ticket knowing the train will soon arrive.
Our passage today says God is far higher than we could ever imagine; deeper than we can comprehend. Nothing will ever be able to go over Him, or get around Him. He's all powerful, and totally inexhaustible. That being said, no matter the circumstances of our lives, we must position ourselves to access His limitless power. Hope establishes that position for us. So what part does hope play in getting us through tough times? It plays the biggest part. You can't get through tough times without hope. Just ask my friend, she sang with our praise team Wednesday night....cancer free!
Prayer: Holy Father, we are in awe of You. You give us everything we need. You knew there would be days our faith would be tested. You knew we'd experience moments of weakness. So You gave us hope. You promised us You'd be there for us. So, we'll live with expectation, in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Job 11:7-20
Memory Verse: Job 11:8
Last year, a friend of mine was told she had cancer. At the time, I'm sure fear in regards to her future were ever before her. However, she approached each day as if she had a lifetime to live. When she could, she continued to work and function in ministry as she'd always done. While praying for her one night, I asked God how she maintained such a positive outlook, and His answer was life-changing. He said "As long as she has hope, she has help".
Hope is not a man-made, emotional sensation. Hope is a gift given by God Himself. Its very definition describes it as a confident expectation. For the believer, all is not lost when the loved-one has passed, or when the diagnosis is spoken. All is not lost when the there are more bills than money. All is lost when the expectation that God will deliver what He promised is cast aside. Without faith, it's impossible to please God. Without hope, it's impossible to know Him. Hope brings a spiritual God into our natural world. It literally grants access into the kingdom of God. So, while some might have felt sorry for my friend, we rejoiced in the fact that she knew at any moment, God could take her cancer away. What do you hope for? As you think about your answer, be reminded that hoping is not wishing. Those who wish live by chance. Their lives are like tossing a coin into a well, thinking something will come out. Again, hope is expecting; like buying a ticket knowing the train will soon arrive.
Our passage today says God is far higher than we could ever imagine; deeper than we can comprehend. Nothing will ever be able to go over Him, or get around Him. He's all powerful, and totally inexhaustible. That being said, no matter the circumstances of our lives, we must position ourselves to access His limitless power. Hope establishes that position for us. So what part does hope play in getting us through tough times? It plays the biggest part. You can't get through tough times without hope. Just ask my friend, she sang with our praise team Wednesday night....cancer free!
Prayer: Holy Father, we are in awe of You. You give us everything we need. You knew there would be days our faith would be tested. You knew we'd experience moments of weakness. So You gave us hope. You promised us You'd be there for us. So, we'll live with expectation, in Jesus' name. Amen
The Necessary Thing
Thursday, November 3rd, 2011
Today's Passage> 1 Peter 3: 8-22
Memory Verse> 1 Peter 8:15
As believers, we are in amazing company. We share in the glory of the disciples and all those who lived and died in Christ after them. We share in the joy of knowing that, no matter how many trials arise, God is always there to strengthen and sustain us. But more than that, we share in the hope that persecution, or suffering for doing good, is worth going through.
Persecution is defined as the act of being mistreated or abused, especially for religious reasons. We greatly sympathize with those who have to endure it, many times voicing our outrage that it even has to happen to them. But the very essence of being a Christian, as much as we may want to avoid facing this fact, is being ready and willing to go through persecution. A look at the lives of those who've gone before us will answer the question: "Is persecution necessary?". God, in His great wisdom, figures this into the equation and allows this as part of the process that makes us who He's calling us to be.
With this in mind, how exactly do you maintain hope in the middle of this necessary thing? Does God expect us to paste this smile on our faces and pretend as though everything were perfect? What purpose does it even serve TO have this blessed hope when one's world is crashing? Again the answers are found in the biblical examples that were left as landmarks. Scourged, crucified, and rejected by His own because He declared Himself to be the Son of God, Jesus endured the pain and shame of the cross. What was He holding on to, and where did it come from? Better yet, why did He hold on to it? The hope was in God's promise that those who did not see but believed anyway would be given a crown of righteousness.
For Christ, Who was already righteous, it was necessary to hold on to that hope because He was the first fruit of the promise that salvation would be made available to every man who accepted it. Can you see Him standing there the whole time He was being hit by the cat' o nine tails? Every lash was for what He was winning for us. While He didn't bear that agony with smiles on His face, He bore it with the promise that it was not in vain. Every blow we are dealt can be withstood in the same way-- because our children's children are coming after us, and we must still set the standard for them to uphold in this world. Just as Jesus saw us, we must see them and reach for that promise with every ounce within us. May our hearts burn with the same fire as all those who were loved by the Father, as we boldly declare, "We CAN do the necessary thing!"
Prayer: Father, You are so loving. You have prepared us to reach for the provision even in the midst of mistreatment. We want You to be glorified no matter what. We hold on to the blessed hope, which will allow us to not take matters into our own hands. Use us always, and speak through us when the time is right in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Today's Passage> 1 Peter 3: 8-22
Memory Verse> 1 Peter 8:15
As believers, we are in amazing company. We share in the glory of the disciples and all those who lived and died in Christ after them. We share in the joy of knowing that, no matter how many trials arise, God is always there to strengthen and sustain us. But more than that, we share in the hope that persecution, or suffering for doing good, is worth going through.
Persecution is defined as the act of being mistreated or abused, especially for religious reasons. We greatly sympathize with those who have to endure it, many times voicing our outrage that it even has to happen to them. But the very essence of being a Christian, as much as we may want to avoid facing this fact, is being ready and willing to go through persecution. A look at the lives of those who've gone before us will answer the question: "Is persecution necessary?". God, in His great wisdom, figures this into the equation and allows this as part of the process that makes us who He's calling us to be.
With this in mind, how exactly do you maintain hope in the middle of this necessary thing? Does God expect us to paste this smile on our faces and pretend as though everything were perfect? What purpose does it even serve TO have this blessed hope when one's world is crashing? Again the answers are found in the biblical examples that were left as landmarks. Scourged, crucified, and rejected by His own because He declared Himself to be the Son of God, Jesus endured the pain and shame of the cross. What was He holding on to, and where did it come from? Better yet, why did He hold on to it? The hope was in God's promise that those who did not see but believed anyway would be given a crown of righteousness.
For Christ, Who was already righteous, it was necessary to hold on to that hope because He was the first fruit of the promise that salvation would be made available to every man who accepted it. Can you see Him standing there the whole time He was being hit by the cat' o nine tails? Every lash was for what He was winning for us. While He didn't bear that agony with smiles on His face, He bore it with the promise that it was not in vain. Every blow we are dealt can be withstood in the same way-- because our children's children are coming after us, and we must still set the standard for them to uphold in this world. Just as Jesus saw us, we must see them and reach for that promise with every ounce within us. May our hearts burn with the same fire as all those who were loved by the Father, as we boldly declare, "We CAN do the necessary thing!"
Prayer: Father, You are so loving. You have prepared us to reach for the provision even in the midst of mistreatment. We want You to be glorified no matter what. We hold on to the blessed hope, which will allow us to not take matters into our own hands. Use us always, and speak through us when the time is right in Jesus' Name. Amen.
It's Tea Time!
Wednesday, November 2nd, 2011
Today's Passage: Jeremiah 29:10-14 (NKJ)
Memory Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJ)
I was so happy when Yassah allowed me to drink Arizona Green Tea again. I had gotten into trouble because I drank too many of them too frequently. So in order to keep her darling husband from overdoing it, she handed down the decree that I'd have to drink water for a while. Finally, I was able to buy one. After buying it, I sat it aside with special plans for it. I thought frequently about when I'd bring it out and enjoy it again. I don't know how many times I opened the refridgerator to make sure it was still in place, unmolested by greedy kids and my out-of-control behavior (lol).
Okay, maybe you don't like green tea that much, but you can still imagine having something special in your possession. You know what it is, and its purpose for existing. Therefore, it is extremely valuable to you. Not only that, there's a specific moment when you plan to unleash that purpose and destiny. Likewise, we are God's special prize. None of us were brought into existence by accident. He purposed for us to be here.
Some may say they didn't have a good beginning. Maybe your upbringing was financially challenged, or your home was more like the Simmons' than the Huxtables. It doesn't matter. God has a plan for you. He has sanctified you (set you aside...like my tea) for a specific purpose. God's word in the Book of Jeremiah says "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope". Listen, when the Creator of Heaven and Earth says He thinks about you, you're in a good place! And since He is incapable of thinking evil about you, His thoughts have to consistently be of love, companionship, and blessing. Don't think you've done too much to be in relationship with Him. He's waiting for you. Besides, You wouldn't preserve something you're planning to throw away would you? Well God wouldn't sanctify what He plans to destroy. But wait, this part excites me even more. He didn't require Jeremiah to be taller, or smarter, or richer, or lighter, or darker. He never told Jeremiah to be anything but obedient. So lose the 'I need to be like them' mentality. You don't need it. He never required you to speak like him, or sing like her. He knows what you can and can't do, yet He still has an awesome plan for your life. What does that tell you? Each day, He looks to make sure you're where He placed you. He doesn't want you to be tainted by the greed of the world and its ideals. Besides, the world is your mission, not your destiny. Pretty soon, God's going to release that purpose for which you were born. So be ready. Don't spend another day being a slave to the past. In contrast, you should spend each moment preparing for a bright and glorious future. Hmmm, that made me thirsty. Would anyone like some tea?
Prayer: Gracious God, You are everything we need. Thank You for giving our lives purpose. When we were living without You, we didn't know what we were here for. But now, through You, life has meaning. Mere words will never be able to express what You mean to us. So we'll just let Your praise continually be in our mouths, in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Jeremiah 29:10-14 (NKJ)
Memory Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJ)
I was so happy when Yassah allowed me to drink Arizona Green Tea again. I had gotten into trouble because I drank too many of them too frequently. So in order to keep her darling husband from overdoing it, she handed down the decree that I'd have to drink water for a while. Finally, I was able to buy one. After buying it, I sat it aside with special plans for it. I thought frequently about when I'd bring it out and enjoy it again. I don't know how many times I opened the refridgerator to make sure it was still in place, unmolested by greedy kids and my out-of-control behavior (lol).
Okay, maybe you don't like green tea that much, but you can still imagine having something special in your possession. You know what it is, and its purpose for existing. Therefore, it is extremely valuable to you. Not only that, there's a specific moment when you plan to unleash that purpose and destiny. Likewise, we are God's special prize. None of us were brought into existence by accident. He purposed for us to be here.
Some may say they didn't have a good beginning. Maybe your upbringing was financially challenged, or your home was more like the Simmons' than the Huxtables. It doesn't matter. God has a plan for you. He has sanctified you (set you aside...like my tea) for a specific purpose. God's word in the Book of Jeremiah says "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope". Listen, when the Creator of Heaven and Earth says He thinks about you, you're in a good place! And since He is incapable of thinking evil about you, His thoughts have to consistently be of love, companionship, and blessing. Don't think you've done too much to be in relationship with Him. He's waiting for you. Besides, You wouldn't preserve something you're planning to throw away would you? Well God wouldn't sanctify what He plans to destroy. But wait, this part excites me even more. He didn't require Jeremiah to be taller, or smarter, or richer, or lighter, or darker. He never told Jeremiah to be anything but obedient. So lose the 'I need to be like them' mentality. You don't need it. He never required you to speak like him, or sing like her. He knows what you can and can't do, yet He still has an awesome plan for your life. What does that tell you? Each day, He looks to make sure you're where He placed you. He doesn't want you to be tainted by the greed of the world and its ideals. Besides, the world is your mission, not your destiny. Pretty soon, God's going to release that purpose for which you were born. So be ready. Don't spend another day being a slave to the past. In contrast, you should spend each moment preparing for a bright and glorious future. Hmmm, that made me thirsty. Would anyone like some tea?
Prayer: Gracious God, You are everything we need. Thank You for giving our lives purpose. When we were living without You, we didn't know what we were here for. But now, through You, life has meaning. Mere words will never be able to express what You mean to us. So we'll just let Your praise continually be in our mouths, in Jesus' name. Amen
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