Wednesday October 13, 2010
H.U.M.P. (His Ultimate Mission & Purpose) Day
Hello Everyone! I pray the sound of Heaven's rain is still ringing in your spiritual ears. God has so graciously poured His awesome love into us, and through that love, He's letting us know His rain is about to fall in abundance. "My seed is in the ground and I'm ready".
Speaking of seed, today's H.U.M.P. Day mission offers us an incredible opportunity. The local food bank feeds thousands of homeless people in our city. However, with the holiday season approaching, they have a shortage of some much-needed items. This Friday, Hope FM is hosting a food drive to assist with this matter. So if you can, bring a few non-perishable items to the Hope FM radio station (located on Palm Avenue next to 1st Assembly) by Friday. I encourage you to take every opportunity to plant seed, cause when the rain comes, your harvest will be plentiful. Happy H.U.M.P. Day.....
Why're You Eatin' That?
Tuesday, October 12th, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalm 103
Memory Verse: Isaiah 55:1-2
Our pastors ministered a word at ALM a couple of weeks ago that's still ringing in my spirit. It exposed a medical condition that pretty much mirrors what happens in the spirit realm. The condition is known as PICA. It is defined by the Web MD website as a medical disorder characterized by an abnormal, prolonged craving for substances that have no nutritional value, and that could even cause death.
One basic reason for this condition in humans is usually the presence of a deficiency in minerals such as iron, which in turn results in the body's search for the missing mineral inside of those substances. If these cravings persist, the body could develop a serious addiction to the desired items. Some common examples of items people crave include clay, coal, soap, chalk, paper, soap, and uncooked foods.
When I read this for myself, I immediately saw how easy it is for individuals suffering from this disorder to forget or totally disregard the potential danger of the stuff they're craving to harm them. In their minds, there is something lacking inside of them, and all they want is immediate relief from that craving. So I asked the question: Is that what could be going on in the spirits of many believers? Is it possible that spiritually unhealthy cravings may be occurring in the lives of people who really love the Lord with all their hearts?
In this season of the Lord's provision of perfect order, restoration and provision of everything that was lost, we have not been left with a void in our spirits. Did you hear what I said? THERE IS NO LACK in God. So here's the question to ask yourself if you are in a place where you're being drawn to things not meant to bring you God's design of good: why're you eatin' that? Why give in to the cravings of a deprived person when Your Father has provided the good of the land for you to partake of? Stop, turn around, and go back to the Father's arms. There you'll find all you need to fill every part of you-- for as long as you live.
Prayer: Father, I repent for taking my eyes off Your promises long enough to think I knew what was good for me. I turn away now, fall out of agreement with the devil's deceptive ways, and fill my mouth with the good things You've provided. I love you forever. In Jesus'
Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalm 103
Memory Verse: Isaiah 55:1-2
Our pastors ministered a word at ALM a couple of weeks ago that's still ringing in my spirit. It exposed a medical condition that pretty much mirrors what happens in the spirit realm. The condition is known as PICA. It is defined by the Web MD website as a medical disorder characterized by an abnormal, prolonged craving for substances that have no nutritional value, and that could even cause death.
One basic reason for this condition in humans is usually the presence of a deficiency in minerals such as iron, which in turn results in the body's search for the missing mineral inside of those substances. If these cravings persist, the body could develop a serious addiction to the desired items. Some common examples of items people crave include clay, coal, soap, chalk, paper, soap, and uncooked foods.
When I read this for myself, I immediately saw how easy it is for individuals suffering from this disorder to forget or totally disregard the potential danger of the stuff they're craving to harm them. In their minds, there is something lacking inside of them, and all they want is immediate relief from that craving. So I asked the question: Is that what could be going on in the spirits of many believers? Is it possible that spiritually unhealthy cravings may be occurring in the lives of people who really love the Lord with all their hearts?
In this season of the Lord's provision of perfect order, restoration and provision of everything that was lost, we have not been left with a void in our spirits. Did you hear what I said? THERE IS NO LACK in God. So here's the question to ask yourself if you are in a place where you're being drawn to things not meant to bring you God's design of good: why're you eatin' that? Why give in to the cravings of a deprived person when Your Father has provided the good of the land for you to partake of? Stop, turn around, and go back to the Father's arms. There you'll find all you need to fill every part of you-- for as long as you live.
Prayer: Father, I repent for taking my eyes off Your promises long enough to think I knew what was good for me. I turn away now, fall out of agreement with the devil's deceptive ways, and fill my mouth with the good things You've provided. I love you forever. In Jesus'
Name, Amen.
No Substitute for Prayer
Monday, October 11th, 2010
Today's Passage: Proverbs 3: 1-12
Memory Verse: Jeremiah 29:12
I've always wondered how awesome it is for me to be able to talk and listen to older ladies without either of us feeling as if the other person were on a different wavelength. Lately I've come to understand that this exchange happens as a result of their willingness to share the treasures of their hearts with me, and because I've recognized what's in their hearts as something valuable and worth receiving. Well, prayer is a whole lot like that.
The more time we spend with the Father, the more we recognize how many riches are in His heart towards us. He is more than willing to share so that we can become rich ourselves, but it depends on how ready we are to receive. The "E" in prayer is for the eternal exchange we have as we enter into conversation with God. At the risk of sounding corny, there may be some people who don't know that you can talk to our Daddy anytime, anywhere. After all, He IS everywhere, isn't He? It makes sense, then, that we would want to include Him in everything we say and do.
Well, God's invitation to us is to call on Him, and He will answer. But not only that, he will show us great things we didn't know before. So what makes the difference? It's the WISDOM He speaks to us. In this continuous exchange between Father and child, as He gives us counsel and correction, we can receive long life, well-being, favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man. He also gives us straight paths for our feet, provision, grace, and no fear even when the temptation to do it our way arises.
Today, when you plan your time of fellowship with God, remember all the benefits we all receive from spending time talking to as well listening to Him. Oh-- don't forget to "rejoice" when you experience the victory of not giving in to the enemy's lies. As a result of prayer, your praise and worship will increase as your faith in what He continues to do for us also increases. There is absolutely no substitute for PRAYER.
Prayer: Father, I can't begin to tell You how grateful I am that You love me, and that You desire to speak with me. I make a conscious decision to spend more time listening to what You have to say, and responding with my tooth devotion. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, amen.
Today's Passage: Proverbs 3: 1-12
Memory Verse: Jeremiah 29:12
I've always wondered how awesome it is for me to be able to talk and listen to older ladies without either of us feeling as if the other person were on a different wavelength. Lately I've come to understand that this exchange happens as a result of their willingness to share the treasures of their hearts with me, and because I've recognized what's in their hearts as something valuable and worth receiving. Well, prayer is a whole lot like that.
The more time we spend with the Father, the more we recognize how many riches are in His heart towards us. He is more than willing to share so that we can become rich ourselves, but it depends on how ready we are to receive. The "E" in prayer is for the eternal exchange we have as we enter into conversation with God. At the risk of sounding corny, there may be some people who don't know that you can talk to our Daddy anytime, anywhere. After all, He IS everywhere, isn't He? It makes sense, then, that we would want to include Him in everything we say and do.
Well, God's invitation to us is to call on Him, and He will answer. But not only that, he will show us great things we didn't know before. So what makes the difference? It's the WISDOM He speaks to us. In this continuous exchange between Father and child, as He gives us counsel and correction, we can receive long life, well-being, favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man. He also gives us straight paths for our feet, provision, grace, and no fear even when the temptation to do it our way arises.
Today, when you plan your time of fellowship with God, remember all the benefits we all receive from spending time talking to as well listening to Him. Oh-- don't forget to "rejoice" when you experience the victory of not giving in to the enemy's lies. As a result of prayer, your praise and worship will increase as your faith in what He continues to do for us also increases. There is absolutely no substitute for PRAYER.
Prayer: Father, I can't begin to tell You how grateful I am that You love me, and that You desire to speak with me. I make a conscious decision to spend more time listening to what You have to say, and responding with my tooth devotion. I love You forever. In Jesus' Name, amen.
Yeeeaaa God!
Sunday October 10, 2010
Today's Passage: Psalms 33:1-3
Memory Verse: Psalms 33:1
"Good people, cheer God! Right-living people sound best when praising".
Psalms 33:1
No words have ever been truer. Because the spirit of the Lord lives in us, there's good in us. We are God's people, so that makes us good people. And because God is our hero, we should always seize the opportunity to cheer Him. 2, 4, 6, 8, who do we appreciate yeeeeaaaaa God! Let's go Jesus, You're our Man, if You can't do it no one can! Well, you get the point. Let's cheer for God today. Let's let Him know we can't win without Him.
What do you think we sound like to God when we praise God? Many of us claim to offer praise to God, but our lifestyles are not what they should be. So it produces a strange sound in the throne room. Nothing is more beautiful than love coming from a heart that's true. Our praise is not about our situation, it's about our relationship with the Father. We have to learn that praise is about who God is, not how we feel. And God's goodness has nothing to do with how we feel. I believe if we really knew who He was, we would strive for right-living on a daily basis. It should break our hearts when we disappoint Him. When we fall, our firdt priority should be making it right with Him. That way, our praise produces the sound it should produce. So cheer for God with a pure heart today. He's "worthy" to hear from you....
Prayer: Father You are so awesome. I stand in awe of you today. Thank You for bringing victory into my life. As I enter into You presence today, I will boldly declare Your goodness for all to hear. You are so worthy of my praising You this way. Gooooooooo God! in Jesus name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Psalms 33:1-3
Memory Verse: Psalms 33:1
"Good people, cheer God! Right-living people sound best when praising".
Psalms 33:1
No words have ever been truer. Because the spirit of the Lord lives in us, there's good in us. We are God's people, so that makes us good people. And because God is our hero, we should always seize the opportunity to cheer Him. 2, 4, 6, 8, who do we appreciate yeeeeaaaaa God! Let's go Jesus, You're our Man, if You can't do it no one can! Well, you get the point. Let's cheer for God today. Let's let Him know we can't win without Him.
What do you think we sound like to God when we praise God? Many of us claim to offer praise to God, but our lifestyles are not what they should be. So it produces a strange sound in the throne room. Nothing is more beautiful than love coming from a heart that's true. Our praise is not about our situation, it's about our relationship with the Father. We have to learn that praise is about who God is, not how we feel. And God's goodness has nothing to do with how we feel. I believe if we really knew who He was, we would strive for right-living on a daily basis. It should break our hearts when we disappoint Him. When we fall, our firdt priority should be making it right with Him. That way, our praise produces the sound it should produce. So cheer for God with a pure heart today. He's "worthy" to hear from you....
Prayer: Father You are so awesome. I stand in awe of you today. Thank You for bringing victory into my life. As I enter into You presence today, I will boldly declare Your goodness for all to hear. You are so worthy of my praising You this way. Gooooooooo God! in Jesus name, Amen.
He's Looking For You!!!
Saturday October 9, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 43:3-4
Memory Verse: Isaiah 43:4
Can you imagine? Once again I'm on my way to work and I'm ready to walk out the door, and it occurs to me....."I don't have my keys". I look on the table but they aren't there. I look on my nightstand and again, they aren't there. While the clock won't stop or slow down for me, I'm naturally starting to panic.
When we lose things that are important to us, there's a void that can't be replaced. Because the items are such big parts of our lives, we search desperately for them; not ever tiring or giving up. What have you lost that's caused a void in your life? Let's be careful. I'm not talking about loved ones. I know how hard it is to lose a loved one. That kind of heaviness can only be lifted by the Holy Spirit. Let's stick to the losses that simply aggravate us. If you need to get somewhere and you can't find your keys (like me), it's ripple effect can be felt throughout your day.
Now imagine you're God (just for kicks folks, don't hurt me), and you need to get somewhere today and the thing you need to use to get there is not in place. You look high and low but they're nowhere to be found. They know you need them, but they're still not where you put them. See my friends, allowing yourself to be out of position not only effects you, but the ripple effect can be felt throughout the heavens. But just like my keys, God would do anything to get you back. I tore up my house, my bedroom, and everywhere else I could think of, searching for those keys. For the few moments they were lost, they were my priority. I'd do anything to get them back. How does God feel about it? Let's take a look. Isaiah 43:3-4 says "Because I am God, your personal God (I love that), the Holy of Israel, your Savior. I paid a huge price for you: all of Egypt, with rich Cush and Seba thrown in. That's how much you mean to Me! That's how much I love you! I'd sell off the whole world to get you back, trade the creation just for you". God can't stand losing us. One reason is because He loves us dearly, the other is when we're out of His reach, we can't fulfill the call to advance the kingdom. And no one is too small or insignificant. We are all important to the Father. Imagine this, we drive 15, 20, even 30 thousand dollar automobiles that won't move without a $5 set of keys. So if you think you're too small to advance the kingdom, think again. You may not be the big shiny car, but you could definitely be the keys that make it go.
Speaking of keys, I eventually found mine underneath the sofa cushion. Although they weren't far away from me, because they were out of my range of access, there was a breakdown in progress. Stop hiding from God my friends. Now you might say "But I don't hide. I go to church every week". That's good. But what about your gifts? What about the keys inside you that makes the car (ministry) go? For example, if you love kids, how about helping in children's ministry, or singing, or playing an instrument for praise and worship? What about helping to tidy up the sanctuary after a service? C'mon, you can do it. Get out from under that sofa cushion (fear, comfort, the unknown). God's looking for you!
Prayer: Father I thank You for the opportunity to receive You word. I hear You loud and clear. Holy Spirit, show me where my gifting is needed in the kingdom. I want to make myself available to God. I want to be used by Him. show me how to deny my self. Teach me to overcome my fears so I can be ready for God's call, in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: Isaiah 43:3-4
Memory Verse: Isaiah 43:4
Can you imagine? Once again I'm on my way to work and I'm ready to walk out the door, and it occurs to me....."I don't have my keys". I look on the table but they aren't there. I look on my nightstand and again, they aren't there. While the clock won't stop or slow down for me, I'm naturally starting to panic.
When we lose things that are important to us, there's a void that can't be replaced. Because the items are such big parts of our lives, we search desperately for them; not ever tiring or giving up. What have you lost that's caused a void in your life? Let's be careful. I'm not talking about loved ones. I know how hard it is to lose a loved one. That kind of heaviness can only be lifted by the Holy Spirit. Let's stick to the losses that simply aggravate us. If you need to get somewhere and you can't find your keys (like me), it's ripple effect can be felt throughout your day.
Now imagine you're God (just for kicks folks, don't hurt me), and you need to get somewhere today and the thing you need to use to get there is not in place. You look high and low but they're nowhere to be found. They know you need them, but they're still not where you put them. See my friends, allowing yourself to be out of position not only effects you, but the ripple effect can be felt throughout the heavens. But just like my keys, God would do anything to get you back. I tore up my house, my bedroom, and everywhere else I could think of, searching for those keys. For the few moments they were lost, they were my priority. I'd do anything to get them back. How does God feel about it? Let's take a look. Isaiah 43:3-4 says "Because I am God, your personal God (I love that), the Holy of Israel, your Savior. I paid a huge price for you: all of Egypt, with rich Cush and Seba thrown in. That's how much you mean to Me! That's how much I love you! I'd sell off the whole world to get you back, trade the creation just for you". God can't stand losing us. One reason is because He loves us dearly, the other is when we're out of His reach, we can't fulfill the call to advance the kingdom. And no one is too small or insignificant. We are all important to the Father. Imagine this, we drive 15, 20, even 30 thousand dollar automobiles that won't move without a $5 set of keys. So if you think you're too small to advance the kingdom, think again. You may not be the big shiny car, but you could definitely be the keys that make it go.
Speaking of keys, I eventually found mine underneath the sofa cushion. Although they weren't far away from me, because they were out of my range of access, there was a breakdown in progress. Stop hiding from God my friends. Now you might say "But I don't hide. I go to church every week". That's good. But what about your gifts? What about the keys inside you that makes the car (ministry) go? For example, if you love kids, how about helping in children's ministry, or singing, or playing an instrument for praise and worship? What about helping to tidy up the sanctuary after a service? C'mon, you can do it. Get out from under that sofa cushion (fear, comfort, the unknown). God's looking for you!
Prayer: Father I thank You for the opportunity to receive You word. I hear You loud and clear. Holy Spirit, show me where my gifting is needed in the kingdom. I want to make myself available to God. I want to be used by Him. show me how to deny my self. Teach me to overcome my fears so I can be ready for God's call, in Jesus' name. Amen
Praying The Father's Will
Friday, October 8th, 2010
Today's Passage: Isaiah 55: 8-11
Memory Verse: is. 55: 11
We left off a couple of days ago describing the process of prayer. It begins and ends with praise and worship. It continues with the recognition of God's sovereignty. And it keeps going with the promise that we can ask our Father for anything-- as long as that "anything" remains in the Father's will.
One of the most important ingredients that make prayer powerful and productive is our willingness to pray the Father's will over our lives and the lives of others. Just because we may desire for those close to us to follow a certain path, no matter how good that path may seem, does not mean that it's what God wants for them.
Let me explain. My older sisters have always recognized the gifting inside of me to sing. As a matter of fact, God used one of my sisters to open doors for me by allowing her to find the means for me to leave West Africa and come to the United States so that I could receive a scholarship to attend college. She even struggled to pay some of my tuition during some very tough times until I could begin receiving that scholarship money. But while I was in college, I met and married the most awesome man. And once I graduated, God opened doors for us to become part of the powerful ministry called Abundant Life.
I don't even have to tell you that my sisters and I have agreed to disagree concerning where they think I should be living, and how they think I should be pursuing the gifting the Lord has given me. As my children get older, I'm learning to release them into the Father's hand, trusting that whatever He ordained for their lives will come to pass. I encourage you today to stand on God's Word for the ones you love. But remember--it's His will that shall prevail forevermore, not ours.
Prayer: Father, there's nothing I want more than to see Your will accomplished in my life and in the lives of my loved ones. Please help me remember that You love them even more than I ever could. So I fall into agreement with Your powerful Word, and declare that it SHALL accomplish everything You sent it out to accomplish. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Isaiah 55: 8-11
Memory Verse: is. 55: 11
We left off a couple of days ago describing the process of prayer. It begins and ends with praise and worship. It continues with the recognition of God's sovereignty. And it keeps going with the promise that we can ask our Father for anything-- as long as that "anything" remains in the Father's will.
One of the most important ingredients that make prayer powerful and productive is our willingness to pray the Father's will over our lives and the lives of others. Just because we may desire for those close to us to follow a certain path, no matter how good that path may seem, does not mean that it's what God wants for them.
Let me explain. My older sisters have always recognized the gifting inside of me to sing. As a matter of fact, God used one of my sisters to open doors for me by allowing her to find the means for me to leave West Africa and come to the United States so that I could receive a scholarship to attend college. She even struggled to pay some of my tuition during some very tough times until I could begin receiving that scholarship money. But while I was in college, I met and married the most awesome man. And once I graduated, God opened doors for us to become part of the powerful ministry called Abundant Life.
I don't even have to tell you that my sisters and I have agreed to disagree concerning where they think I should be living, and how they think I should be pursuing the gifting the Lord has given me. As my children get older, I'm learning to release them into the Father's hand, trusting that whatever He ordained for their lives will come to pass. I encourage you today to stand on God's Word for the ones you love. But remember--it's His will that shall prevail forevermore, not ours.
Prayer: Father, there's nothing I want more than to see Your will accomplished in my life and in the lives of my loved ones. Please help me remember that You love them even more than I ever could. So I fall into agreement with Your powerful Word, and declare that it SHALL accomplish everything You sent it out to accomplish. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
God's Strength In My Weakness!
Thursday October 7, 2010
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:27
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
There's nothing more humbling than coming face to face with your weakness. It can be embarrassing and humiliating all at once. Just when you thought you were making strides, an area of weakness presents itself. What is your area of weakness? What part of your life do you finally need to have victory? We have to discover these things and confront them. If we confront them (instead of deny them) we'll move toward conquering them.
There was a time in my life when I was very selfish. The thought of giving or making someone else's life better was not something that came easy for me. I felt like I had been denied so much, I should just spend the rest of my life looking out for myself. Then I met my wife and not long after that got saved. What a life change! My whole world revolved around pleasing Him and covering her. When sharing was once a weakness for me, I was now giving everything I had to this new life. I also discovered even while I was weak, God was still using me. That season of time taught me how God has a purpose for our weaknesses. Although I was used to hiding, defending, and even excusing them, God was calling me to confront them. My bad habit was actually preventing Him from using me the way He desired. His perspective was different than mine and I needed to come to grips with that. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:27 "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things that are mighty". God chose my weakness to break my pride and thus make me stronger. I love it.
So don't worry if you have areas of weakness in your life. Just submit them to God. He has a purpose and a plan for them and for you. He's waiting to take your weakness away and replace them with strength. All you need is faith. With faith, you can lay it at His feet knowing He'll change you for the better. After all, a weakness is simply an area of life God hasn't had the opportunity to touch yet. So let Him....He's ready.
Prayer: Father I place my life in Your hands. You know the places that need to fixed. You know the things that need to be removed. Make me what You want me to be. Help me come closer and closer to being Your image...in Jesus' name. Amen!
Today's Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:27
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
There's nothing more humbling than coming face to face with your weakness. It can be embarrassing and humiliating all at once. Just when you thought you were making strides, an area of weakness presents itself. What is your area of weakness? What part of your life do you finally need to have victory? We have to discover these things and confront them. If we confront them (instead of deny them) we'll move toward conquering them.
There was a time in my life when I was very selfish. The thought of giving or making someone else's life better was not something that came easy for me. I felt like I had been denied so much, I should just spend the rest of my life looking out for myself. Then I met my wife and not long after that got saved. What a life change! My whole world revolved around pleasing Him and covering her. When sharing was once a weakness for me, I was now giving everything I had to this new life. I also discovered even while I was weak, God was still using me. That season of time taught me how God has a purpose for our weaknesses. Although I was used to hiding, defending, and even excusing them, God was calling me to confront them. My bad habit was actually preventing Him from using me the way He desired. His perspective was different than mine and I needed to come to grips with that. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:27 "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things that are mighty". God chose my weakness to break my pride and thus make me stronger. I love it.
So don't worry if you have areas of weakness in your life. Just submit them to God. He has a purpose and a plan for them and for you. He's waiting to take your weakness away and replace them with strength. All you need is faith. With faith, you can lay it at His feet knowing He'll change you for the better. After all, a weakness is simply an area of life God hasn't had the opportunity to touch yet. So let Him....He's ready.
Prayer: Father I place my life in Your hands. You know the places that need to fixed. You know the things that need to be removed. Make me what You want me to be. Help me come closer and closer to being Your image...in Jesus' name. Amen!
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