Sunday, May 1st, 2011
Today's Passage: Revelations chapters 4 through 7
Memory Verse(s):
Father, today I thank You for Jesus, the Lamb slain before the foundation of the world. I find myself in awe that He sacrificed Himself to provide redemption for all my sins. No-one else was found worthy to open the scrolls. But He, because He laid down His life for us all, was the only One worthy to do this. For this reason, we will all praise You both until eternity.
As I prepare to go into Your house this morning, I strip myself of everything that would stand in the way of my entrance into Your presence. I repent for allowing complacency and distractions to cloud my view and make my priorities something other than seeking and placing You first in my life. As I worship You today, may the scales fall off my eyes that I may see Who Your Son Jesus really is: the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End.
He is the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the True and Faithful Witness. And I testify along with all the saints who will be too many to be numbered that my life is Yours. I will be forever devoted to You, living out my days by declaring Your goodness to those who may not have a clue. I prY also for those who don't know that death, he'll, and the grave have been cheated by taking away their power. Live big in me forever, and I am so looking forward to worshipping at Your feet when You come to take us all home. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
More Revelations on the Revelation of John
Saturday, April 30th, 2011
Today's Passage: Revelations chapters 2 & 3
Memory Verse(s): Rev. 3:11-12
Revelation number three: God wants us to know where we stand with Him more than anything. When I was attending grade school, the teachers habitually gave us a round-about idea of what we should study, almost as if they wanted us to fail. But God never approaches us with this hit- and- miss attitude. Everything He wants us to know about what He expects of us is outlined in His Word.
Revelation number four: we may attempt to deceive others as to how righteous we are, but there's no way we're fooling God! He knows us inside and out. Each time He addresses the churches, He reminds them: "I know your deeds"... I can see God speaking to TD Nation, reminding us of what we need to do to stay close to His heart. To some of us, He sees that we are steadfast, always working and serving in His house. We're not easily swayed from our course, and won't be found among those who fall prey to false teachings.
But the warning to this group of us is to go back to our first love. This means we may have become so focused on serving and doing for God (the Martha syndrome), that we've forgotten the passion of pursuing a relationship with Him, just sitting at His feet and woshipping Him for Who He is (Mary's portion). To others of us God is saying we're having to go through persecution for a specific season and purpose. He's calling us to remain faithful despite it all so that we can receive a crown of life on the day of judgment.
Revelation number five: I believe the spirit that the Father hates the most is the spirit of apathy, or the lukewarm spirit. This spirit allows the person to feel or show little enthusiasm for the things of God. The person operating in this spirit attends church often, but is unattached to or unaffected by anything that goes on there. The difference between such an individual and all the others is the lack of a desire to repent and draw closer to God. The key is repentance. If we will humble ourselves, seek His face, and live in a place of repentance, we will never stay far from the Father's heart.
Prayer: Father, I've heard Your Word, and I now take the time to repent of callousness. I repent for allowing procrastination, containment, and distraction to keep me from totally selling out to Your kingdom. I now re-commit my soul, heart and body to pursuing You forever. Be glorified in me all my days. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Revelations chapters 2 & 3
Memory Verse(s): Rev. 3:11-12
Revelation number three: God wants us to know where we stand with Him more than anything. When I was attending grade school, the teachers habitually gave us a round-about idea of what we should study, almost as if they wanted us to fail. But God never approaches us with this hit- and- miss attitude. Everything He wants us to know about what He expects of us is outlined in His Word.
Revelation number four: we may attempt to deceive others as to how righteous we are, but there's no way we're fooling God! He knows us inside and out. Each time He addresses the churches, He reminds them: "I know your deeds"... I can see God speaking to TD Nation, reminding us of what we need to do to stay close to His heart. To some of us, He sees that we are steadfast, always working and serving in His house. We're not easily swayed from our course, and won't be found among those who fall prey to false teachings.
But the warning to this group of us is to go back to our first love. This means we may have become so focused on serving and doing for God (the Martha syndrome), that we've forgotten the passion of pursuing a relationship with Him, just sitting at His feet and woshipping Him for Who He is (Mary's portion). To others of us God is saying we're having to go through persecution for a specific season and purpose. He's calling us to remain faithful despite it all so that we can receive a crown of life on the day of judgment.
Revelation number five: I believe the spirit that the Father hates the most is the spirit of apathy, or the lukewarm spirit. This spirit allows the person to feel or show little enthusiasm for the things of God. The person operating in this spirit attends church often, but is unattached to or unaffected by anything that goes on there. The difference between such an individual and all the others is the lack of a desire to repent and draw closer to God. The key is repentance. If we will humble ourselves, seek His face, and live in a place of repentance, we will never stay far from the Father's heart.
Prayer: Father, I've heard Your Word, and I now take the time to repent of callousness. I repent for allowing procrastination, containment, and distraction to keep me from totally selling out to Your kingdom. I now re-commit my soul, heart and body to pursuing You forever. Be glorified in me all my days. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Revelations on the Revelation of John
Friday, April 29th, 2011
Today's Passage: Revelations chapter 1
Memory Verse (s): Rev. 1: 11 and 19
Revelation number one: In order for God to trust any of His saints with revelation, they must be willing to undergo a certain level of persecution. Persecution is the great separator. It definitely separates those who merely SAY they will serve God with all their hearts from those who are actually willing to DO it. If you find yourself floating on a flowery bed of ease all the time, with no trials or tribulation in sight, chances are you're not going to be in a place where you might hear or see God speak.
John, one of the apostles who lived and suffered because he knew Jesus, lived a life of total devotion even in suffering. After having been targeted by the Roman government as a troublemaker, he was sent to a deserted island where he lived in exile for many years. Did he waste any time grumbling or complaining about his lot in life? No, because he was too busy looking out for the purpose for which he was placed here. He had already been used by God to minister to many, and now he was put in a place where there was no-one to talk to.
Which leads me to revelation number two: no matter WHERE you are, you have to recognize that God has a purpose and a plan to use you if you've given yourself totally to Him. As a man who was already familiar with the miraculous, I can just see John the beloved chuckling to himself and saying: "Well, Father, I know You're not bringing me to this deserted island for nothing. Show me Your will, and bring it to pass.". And as God began to do just that-- revealing His Word to John for those present believers and others yet to come, John was ready to accomplish the task, one he was already prepared for beforehand.
In these last days, the very ones John prophesied about, are you even ready to stand for righteousness and holiness... Even to the point of death? Be careful what declaration you make, for you just might have to walk it out, and your decision will stand for eternity and beyond. May we all be in just the right place at the right time to carry forth the powerful gospel of the kingdom of God, no matter the cost. May we be so blessed to be entrusted with great revelation for generations yet to be birthed.
Prayer: Father, it is a very sobering thought that many believers may not want to consider. But You are calling us to a place of selflessness and sacrifice. No matter what that might be, may we not forget that we are ultimately to carry out Your will, which is to spread the gospel of the kingdom throughout this world. Draw us closer to Yourself, and help us be able to face every trial, no matter how fiery it may be. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: Revelations chapter 1
Memory Verse (s): Rev. 1: 11 and 19
Revelation number one: In order for God to trust any of His saints with revelation, they must be willing to undergo a certain level of persecution. Persecution is the great separator. It definitely separates those who merely SAY they will serve God with all their hearts from those who are actually willing to DO it. If you find yourself floating on a flowery bed of ease all the time, with no trials or tribulation in sight, chances are you're not going to be in a place where you might hear or see God speak.
John, one of the apostles who lived and suffered because he knew Jesus, lived a life of total devotion even in suffering. After having been targeted by the Roman government as a troublemaker, he was sent to a deserted island where he lived in exile for many years. Did he waste any time grumbling or complaining about his lot in life? No, because he was too busy looking out for the purpose for which he was placed here. He had already been used by God to minister to many, and now he was put in a place where there was no-one to talk to.
Which leads me to revelation number two: no matter WHERE you are, you have to recognize that God has a purpose and a plan to use you if you've given yourself totally to Him. As a man who was already familiar with the miraculous, I can just see John the beloved chuckling to himself and saying: "Well, Father, I know You're not bringing me to this deserted island for nothing. Show me Your will, and bring it to pass.". And as God began to do just that-- revealing His Word to John for those present believers and others yet to come, John was ready to accomplish the task, one he was already prepared for beforehand.
In these last days, the very ones John prophesied about, are you even ready to stand for righteousness and holiness... Even to the point of death? Be careful what declaration you make, for you just might have to walk it out, and your decision will stand for eternity and beyond. May we all be in just the right place at the right time to carry forth the powerful gospel of the kingdom of God, no matter the cost. May we be so blessed to be entrusted with great revelation for generations yet to be birthed.
Prayer: Father, it is a very sobering thought that many believers may not want to consider. But You are calling us to a place of selflessness and sacrifice. No matter what that might be, may we not forget that we are ultimately to carry out Your will, which is to spread the gospel of the kingdom throughout this world. Draw us closer to Yourself, and help us be able to face every trial, no matter how fiery it may be. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen.
Blood That's Thicker than Water
Thursday, April 28th, 2011
Today's Passage: 1John 3:11-4:21
Memory Verse(s): 1 John 4:20-21
Many times, I've heard the expression, "Blood is thicker than water". Every time I heard it, I knew exactly what it meant. It meant that the bonds we have with our family members should be stronger and mean more than those we have with people who are not related to us by blood. In some ways it rings true, but in a different sense now that I know the truth.
On one hand, I've seen families that are extremely close. They do everything together, and have relationships that last beyond any challenges that could possibly arise. On the other hand, I've seen family members tear each other down and manifest nothing but hatred for each other, even though they shared the same genes. Look at the example of Cain and Abel. What is the difference? It certainly couldn't be that some are born with this love, while others have to struggle to find it.
The difference, of course, is Jesus Christ. No matter how close or distant we may feel towards our blood relatives, there is something about having the living blood of Jesus inside you. It compels you to love like He loves, which in turn means you'll be willing to make the sacrifices necessary to communicate the love of God. And because of that love, there will be no favoritism or partiality towards others -- whether they are family or not.
But if God's love doesn't live and dwell in us, what you'll see present among us is envy, malice, backbiting, hatred, covetousness, and-- you guessed it: murder. We'll allow seeds of contempt to grow in our hearts towards our brothers, which in turn will become trees of unrighteousness that will ultimately lead us to commit murder -- spiritual or otherwise. God is serious about us loving our brothers and sisters, being their keeper, and performing acts of love towards them. It's this love that will convict us and prepare us for the Lord's coming. Will you be ready? Only those who have God's love will be.
Prayer: Father, You have specific plans for Your children where the plan of love is concerned. Knowing this, I am determined to link up with Your sons and daughters, giving and receiving the love You have given us. You remind us in Your Word that we can't claim to know You, yet show contempt for our brothers. So I open my heart today. Flood me with Your true love and get the glory out of what others will see. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1John 3:11-4:21
Memory Verse(s): 1 John 4:20-21
Many times, I've heard the expression, "Blood is thicker than water". Every time I heard it, I knew exactly what it meant. It meant that the bonds we have with our family members should be stronger and mean more than those we have with people who are not related to us by blood. In some ways it rings true, but in a different sense now that I know the truth.
On one hand, I've seen families that are extremely close. They do everything together, and have relationships that last beyond any challenges that could possibly arise. On the other hand, I've seen family members tear each other down and manifest nothing but hatred for each other, even though they shared the same genes. Look at the example of Cain and Abel. What is the difference? It certainly couldn't be that some are born with this love, while others have to struggle to find it.
The difference, of course, is Jesus Christ. No matter how close or distant we may feel towards our blood relatives, there is something about having the living blood of Jesus inside you. It compels you to love like He loves, which in turn means you'll be willing to make the sacrifices necessary to communicate the love of God. And because of that love, there will be no favoritism or partiality towards others -- whether they are family or not.
But if God's love doesn't live and dwell in us, what you'll see present among us is envy, malice, backbiting, hatred, covetousness, and-- you guessed it: murder. We'll allow seeds of contempt to grow in our hearts towards our brothers, which in turn will become trees of unrighteousness that will ultimately lead us to commit murder -- spiritual or otherwise. God is serious about us loving our brothers and sisters, being their keeper, and performing acts of love towards them. It's this love that will convict us and prepare us for the Lord's coming. Will you be ready? Only those who have God's love will be.
Prayer: Father, You have specific plans for Your children where the plan of love is concerned. Knowing this, I am determined to link up with Your sons and daughters, giving and receiving the love You have given us. You remind us in Your Word that we can't claim to know You, yet show contempt for our brothers. So I open my heart today. Flood me with Your true love and get the glory out of what others will see. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Count It All Joy!!!
Wednesday April 27, 2011
Today's Passage: James 1:27-2:26
Memory Verse: James 1:2
Oprah, Dr. Phil, Montell, Maury. The names in the previous list have become this nation's conscience. If people want to know how to love, they ask Dr. Phil. If they want to know how to be happy or successful, they ask Oprah. If they need help with an abusive spouse, they ask Montell. And if they want to know who their baby's daddy is (lol)......well, you get the point.
As for me, I'll take James. You know, the Book of James in the Bible. God's Word in this book contains life lessons that will never grow old. It's amazing that something written so many years ago is still so relevant today. Only God can do that. Initially, James tells us to consider it a gift when tests and challenges come at us. Why? Well, because tests and challenges build faith, and when a faith-life is on display, one's true colors are shown. God wants us to have faith. He doesn't want us to try to get out of things prematurely. He wants us to learn, develop strength, and grow. Now that doesn't mean God has set you up for a lifetime of suffering. It just means resistance builds strength. If a body-builder wants bigger muscles, he works out with heavy weights. Therefore, if you want stronger faith, allow the tests of life to come, then meet them head-on with the Word of God. James also tells us not to worry. I heard it said once that worry is the fear (or pride) of not being in control. People have issue with not being in control, so worrying is their defense mechanism. It's their way of "tricking their minds" into thinking they're handling the problem. Foolish, isn't it? If your dad owned all the water in the world, would you worry about dying of thirst? If your dad owned all the farms in the country, would you worry about starving to death? If the answer to those questions are no, why would you worry then when your Father can do anything?
In conclusion, God wants us to trust Him. He'll never forsake us. Therefore we can't make prosperity our goal in life. James says prosperity withers like a flower in the sun. It's literally here today and gone tomorrow. It's bad enough to put all your eggs in one basket, it's even worse if that basket (like the world) has holes in it. Oprah, Dr. Phil, Maury, Montell. I tell you what....I'll still take James.
Prayer: Father, You are the light on our pathway. Only Your counsel is sure. If we pay attention, we'll realize You've already given us the answers to all life's problems. If we'll trust in You, we'll discover a whole new level of faith, the kind of faith that pleases You. Let us begin today. You are our source and our provider, and our lives are ever Yours, in Jesus' name. Amen
Today's Passage: James 1:27-2:26
Memory Verse: James 1:2
Oprah, Dr. Phil, Montell, Maury. The names in the previous list have become this nation's conscience. If people want to know how to love, they ask Dr. Phil. If they want to know how to be happy or successful, they ask Oprah. If they need help with an abusive spouse, they ask Montell. And if they want to know who their baby's daddy is (lol)......well, you get the point.
As for me, I'll take James. You know, the Book of James in the Bible. God's Word in this book contains life lessons that will never grow old. It's amazing that something written so many years ago is still so relevant today. Only God can do that. Initially, James tells us to consider it a gift when tests and challenges come at us. Why? Well, because tests and challenges build faith, and when a faith-life is on display, one's true colors are shown. God wants us to have faith. He doesn't want us to try to get out of things prematurely. He wants us to learn, develop strength, and grow. Now that doesn't mean God has set you up for a lifetime of suffering. It just means resistance builds strength. If a body-builder wants bigger muscles, he works out with heavy weights. Therefore, if you want stronger faith, allow the tests of life to come, then meet them head-on with the Word of God. James also tells us not to worry. I heard it said once that worry is the fear (or pride) of not being in control. People have issue with not being in control, so worrying is their defense mechanism. It's their way of "tricking their minds" into thinking they're handling the problem. Foolish, isn't it? If your dad owned all the water in the world, would you worry about dying of thirst? If your dad owned all the farms in the country, would you worry about starving to death? If the answer to those questions are no, why would you worry then when your Father can do anything?
In conclusion, God wants us to trust Him. He'll never forsake us. Therefore we can't make prosperity our goal in life. James says prosperity withers like a flower in the sun. It's literally here today and gone tomorrow. It's bad enough to put all your eggs in one basket, it's even worse if that basket (like the world) has holes in it. Oprah, Dr. Phil, Maury, Montell. I tell you what....I'll still take James.
Prayer: Father, You are the light on our pathway. Only Your counsel is sure. If we pay attention, we'll realize You've already given us the answers to all life's problems. If we'll trust in You, we'll discover a whole new level of faith, the kind of faith that pleases You. Let us begin today. You are our source and our provider, and our lives are ever Yours, in Jesus' name. Amen
Be Holy, Be Sober, Be Ready
Tuesday, April 26th, 2011
Today's Passage: 1 Peter 1-2:12
Memory Verse(s): 1 Peter 2:12
Today's passage is a confirmation of everything we have already received from our pastors as late as Sunday, and as early as the beginning of this year. In Peter's letter to the believers of the early church spread abroad, there is a sense of urgency to stand firm in everything Christ has purchased for us on the cross. I was so blessed to hear the word for the house, complete with a thorough explanation of what salvation really means.
It was God's answer to the problem of sin- sickness, infirmity and hopelessness. Christ finished the work when He took the keys of our dominion and inheritance from the enemy. I was so overjoyed to hear that salvation means "defense". No wonder Peter said the prophets were in awe of how perfect this plan was, and even angels are curious about it.
With all this in mind, get rid of all attitudes that would distract and derail us from the purpose of God. If I could sum up for Peter what we need to do, I would only need these three phrases: Be holy, be sober, and be ready! Be holy, for God is holy. There are no longer any excuses for constantly failing just so we can be rescued by God's grace. We must use what has already been provided: our armor of defense and offense against the enemy. Remember that a successful soldier never leaves any part of his armor exposed.
Secondly, be sober (the opposite of playful) and prayerful. The enemy is a master deceiver, finding tricky little ways to cause us to lose sense of time. We're so busy squabbling over petty things, the appointed times ordained for ministry are fading. Our eyes need to be wide open. Our senses do not need to be dulled by anything created by man or demon. The Lord is near, and many lives are at stake. Finally, we must be ready to face the fiery darts of temptation and persecution. Get rid of the "why me?" mentality-- we must be willing to participate in the sufferings as well as the glory of Jesus. Our ultimate goal: to let our lives be used for the advancement of God's kingdom. Ready or not... The war has already begun waging. But God's plan has also already been put in place. All that's needed is you.
Prayer: Father, I gird myself up in my my mind. I wrap myself in God's armor, and spiritually make every part intact. I declare that I will not be a casualty of the enemy, but will walk in Your love. I humble myself under Your mighty hand. My life is Yours, and I am so glad this fight is fixed. Thank You for Jesus and His way out. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 1 Peter 1-2:12
Memory Verse(s): 1 Peter 2:12
Today's passage is a confirmation of everything we have already received from our pastors as late as Sunday, and as early as the beginning of this year. In Peter's letter to the believers of the early church spread abroad, there is a sense of urgency to stand firm in everything Christ has purchased for us on the cross. I was so blessed to hear the word for the house, complete with a thorough explanation of what salvation really means.
It was God's answer to the problem of sin- sickness, infirmity and hopelessness. Christ finished the work when He took the keys of our dominion and inheritance from the enemy. I was so overjoyed to hear that salvation means "defense". No wonder Peter said the prophets were in awe of how perfect this plan was, and even angels are curious about it.
With all this in mind, get rid of all attitudes that would distract and derail us from the purpose of God. If I could sum up for Peter what we need to do, I would only need these three phrases: Be holy, be sober, and be ready! Be holy, for God is holy. There are no longer any excuses for constantly failing just so we can be rescued by God's grace. We must use what has already been provided: our armor of defense and offense against the enemy. Remember that a successful soldier never leaves any part of his armor exposed.
Secondly, be sober (the opposite of playful) and prayerful. The enemy is a master deceiver, finding tricky little ways to cause us to lose sense of time. We're so busy squabbling over petty things, the appointed times ordained for ministry are fading. Our eyes need to be wide open. Our senses do not need to be dulled by anything created by man or demon. The Lord is near, and many lives are at stake. Finally, we must be ready to face the fiery darts of temptation and persecution. Get rid of the "why me?" mentality-- we must be willing to participate in the sufferings as well as the glory of Jesus. Our ultimate goal: to let our lives be used for the advancement of God's kingdom. Ready or not... The war has already begun waging. But God's plan has also already been put in place. All that's needed is you.
Prayer: Father, I gird myself up in my my mind. I wrap myself in God's armor, and spiritually make every part intact. I declare that I will not be a casualty of the enemy, but will walk in Your love. I humble myself under Your mighty hand. My life is Yours, and I am so glad this fight is fixed. Thank You for Jesus and His way out. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
A New Creation
Monday, April 25th, 2011
Today's Passage: 2 Corinthians 4:1-6:2
Memory Verse(s): 2 Cor. 5:16-17
I used to be known as many things, but I am not those things anymore.
Jesus took my very soul and drenched it in the blood that He shed for me. I gradually drowned in it, but when I was revived, He had allowed me to die to every evil thing that I once was. The Word of God says that it is shameful to even mention those things done in the dark, but my only purpose here is to release it and allow it to be put into the atmosphere as a witness to the life-changing power of God, where it has no more power over me.
I used to be a fornicator, having value only in my body, which I thought could only be used for one thing: to seduce men and have them pay attention to me. I became an adulteress, having had that iniquity passed on to me before I was even formed in my mother's womb. My whole outlook on my life was one of worthlessness, for why else would I have allowed myself to be subjected to such debasing acts? I had given in to the same spirit of deceit that has played the lie so many times, it sounded like the truth.
Until The Way, The Truth, and The Life walked in. Brick by brick, He removed the shame that was so much a part of my makeup that I didn't think I could let it go. He replaced the lies I had been told -- that I wasn't much to look at -- with the most beautiful words a woman could hear: " You ARE the most beautiful woman in the world.". He planted a young man in my life who feared Him, and whose destiny was entwined with mine to make a mighty impact on this world. The worth I found did not come from this young man, my husband and knight in holy armor-- but from God Who made me complete.
Almost twenty years later, as I have grown and matured in the love, wisdom and knowledge of the Father, it has been revealed to me that the new creature is emerging more and more. By no means am I the finished product I will be when I stand before Him in my glorified body. But most certainly, as I look at myself in His mirror, I see the image of Himself that motivates me to press toward the mark of looking just like Him. Those who knew me before will have to blink several times if they are looking for the labels by which I was once known. Those garments have all been stripped away, and the stench of sin is surely fading. In what ways have I become a brand new creature? In every way, inside and out. In what way can this take place for you? The moment you trust that God is the Deliverer, and give Him all of you.
Prayer: Father, never in my wildest dreams would I have ever dreamed my life could change the way it has. Thank You for giving me the new life I needed. Old things have passed away. I pray now for those reading this, and ask that the magnetic force that is Your love would embrace and draw them to You like they never have been before. May their hearts' desire be only to become what You intended for them as well. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's Passage: 2 Corinthians 4:1-6:2
Memory Verse(s): 2 Cor. 5:16-17
I used to be known as many things, but I am not those things anymore.
Jesus took my very soul and drenched it in the blood that He shed for me. I gradually drowned in it, but when I was revived, He had allowed me to die to every evil thing that I once was. The Word of God says that it is shameful to even mention those things done in the dark, but my only purpose here is to release it and allow it to be put into the atmosphere as a witness to the life-changing power of God, where it has no more power over me.
I used to be a fornicator, having value only in my body, which I thought could only be used for one thing: to seduce men and have them pay attention to me. I became an adulteress, having had that iniquity passed on to me before I was even formed in my mother's womb. My whole outlook on my life was one of worthlessness, for why else would I have allowed myself to be subjected to such debasing acts? I had given in to the same spirit of deceit that has played the lie so many times, it sounded like the truth.
Until The Way, The Truth, and The Life walked in. Brick by brick, He removed the shame that was so much a part of my makeup that I didn't think I could let it go. He replaced the lies I had been told -- that I wasn't much to look at -- with the most beautiful words a woman could hear: " You ARE the most beautiful woman in the world.". He planted a young man in my life who feared Him, and whose destiny was entwined with mine to make a mighty impact on this world. The worth I found did not come from this young man, my husband and knight in holy armor-- but from God Who made me complete.
Almost twenty years later, as I have grown and matured in the love, wisdom and knowledge of the Father, it has been revealed to me that the new creature is emerging more and more. By no means am I the finished product I will be when I stand before Him in my glorified body. But most certainly, as I look at myself in His mirror, I see the image of Himself that motivates me to press toward the mark of looking just like Him. Those who knew me before will have to blink several times if they are looking for the labels by which I was once known. Those garments have all been stripped away, and the stench of sin is surely fading. In what ways have I become a brand new creature? In every way, inside and out. In what way can this take place for you? The moment you trust that God is the Deliverer, and give Him all of you.
Prayer: Father, never in my wildest dreams would I have ever dreamed my life could change the way it has. Thank You for giving me the new life I needed. Old things have passed away. I pray now for those reading this, and ask that the magnetic force that is Your love would embrace and draw them to You like they never have been before. May their hearts' desire be only to become what You intended for them as well. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
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