Joshua 1:9 (NKJV) Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities; Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit; Who crowns you with loving kindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like an eagle." Psalms 103:1-5
"It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man." Psalms 118.8
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear ; do not be frightened."
Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it."
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
The day has come when you will need These words of hope to bring you peace.
This too shall pass and you will know that God has brought you through.
We will not waver from the truth.
Have A Blessed Day
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Changing Truth?
Ephesians 4:25 (Amplified Bible) Therefore, rejecting all falsity and being done now with it, let everyone express the truth with his neighbor, for we are all parts of one body and members one of another.
There is a difference in the truth, and in the perception of the truth. And yet, it is not Truth that changes. Truth is not relative, becoming what it is in the eye of the beholder. God's Truth remains constant; it is complete and absolute in Him. Imagine if all you know, or think you know, was found to be wrong. You suddenly are at a loss and have nowhere to turn--nowhere except for God, that is. Does that thought comfort, or trouble you? Are you willing to let all you think you know come under the close scrutiny of the Holy Spirit? Are you willing to "trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding?" Are we willing to let how we perceive the Truth concerning God's church to come under the scrutiny of the Holy Spirit? How far would we go to ensure His church is His? And when all is said and done, how much are we willing to give up of our own perceptions of His Truth?
Have A Blessed Day
There is a difference in the truth, and in the perception of the truth. And yet, it is not Truth that changes. Truth is not relative, becoming what it is in the eye of the beholder. God's Truth remains constant; it is complete and absolute in Him. Imagine if all you know, or think you know, was found to be wrong. You suddenly are at a loss and have nowhere to turn--nowhere except for God, that is. Does that thought comfort, or trouble you? Are you willing to let all you think you know come under the close scrutiny of the Holy Spirit? Are you willing to "trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding?" Are we willing to let how we perceive the Truth concerning God's church to come under the scrutiny of the Holy Spirit? How far would we go to ensure His church is His? And when all is said and done, how much are we willing to give up of our own perceptions of His Truth?
Have A Blessed Day
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Stay The Course
2 Timothy 4:7 (Amplified Bible) I have fought the good (worthy, honorable, and noble) fight, I have finished the race, I have kept (firmly held) the faith.
There are many people who never saw their dreams come true, didn't reach their full potential, or didn't fulfill their purpose in life simply because they gave up the fight. They lost the faith somewhere along the way. They didn't stay the course. The darkest hour is just before dawn. The most tiring moment is just before the second wind. A car shifts gears and enters into a different level when the previous gear is about maxed out. If you're going to break through to a higher level, you'll need to keep the faith and keep fighting until you break through. Don't give up today when your moment of breakthrough may be tomorrow. Don't quit when you're reward is just around the next corner. When you've quoted the word and it seems nothing is happening, keep quoting the word. When you've said "By His stripes I'm healed" a hundred times, say it again. When you've tried walking in love and others still treat you wrong, keep putting love first. God is faithful and He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Don't be discouraged, stay the course!
Have A Blessed Day
There are many people who never saw their dreams come true, didn't reach their full potential, or didn't fulfill their purpose in life simply because they gave up the fight. They lost the faith somewhere along the way. They didn't stay the course. The darkest hour is just before dawn. The most tiring moment is just before the second wind. A car shifts gears and enters into a different level when the previous gear is about maxed out. If you're going to break through to a higher level, you'll need to keep the faith and keep fighting until you break through. Don't give up today when your moment of breakthrough may be tomorrow. Don't quit when you're reward is just around the next corner. When you've quoted the word and it seems nothing is happening, keep quoting the word. When you've said "By His stripes I'm healed" a hundred times, say it again. When you've tried walking in love and others still treat you wrong, keep putting love first. God is faithful and He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Don't be discouraged, stay the course!
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
All Have Sinned
Luke 6:42 (The Message) It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbor's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this I-know-better-than-you mentality again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your own part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.
If our righteousness is as filthy rags, to what do we compare our sin? If we are like most, we often attempt to compare our sin to the sin of others; sin that we might consider worse than our own. Perhaps, it is easier on our ego to say "God, I thank You that I am not like other men..." rather than saying, "God, be merciful to me a sinner!" (Luke 18:13). Yet, the wages of all sin is death, from the perceived least of sins to those considered greatest. Therefore, we have no business comparing ourselves to any other sinner, nor our sin to any other's sin. From the "white" lie to adultery, it is all clearly defiant rebellion against God. As we honestly see ourselves, we understand our deep need for God's grace and mercy. And then, as we are able to look more clearly into the eyes of others, we find a strange connection in our fallen, sinful state; and we are compelled to stop the comparisons, and with a newfound compassion become the extensions of God's grace needed to encourage and lift one another up. By this we will know the love of Christ is indeed present and working in us. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Have A Blessed Day
If our righteousness is as filthy rags, to what do we compare our sin? If we are like most, we often attempt to compare our sin to the sin of others; sin that we might consider worse than our own. Perhaps, it is easier on our ego to say "God, I thank You that I am not like other men..." rather than saying, "God, be merciful to me a sinner!" (Luke 18:13). Yet, the wages of all sin is death, from the perceived least of sins to those considered greatest. Therefore, we have no business comparing ourselves to any other sinner, nor our sin to any other's sin. From the "white" lie to adultery, it is all clearly defiant rebellion against God. As we honestly see ourselves, we understand our deep need for God's grace and mercy. And then, as we are able to look more clearly into the eyes of others, we find a strange connection in our fallen, sinful state; and we are compelled to stop the comparisons, and with a newfound compassion become the extensions of God's grace needed to encourage and lift one another up. By this we will know the love of Christ is indeed present and working in us. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Have A Blessed Day
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
The Sweetest Satisfaction
Genesis 50:19-20 (Amplified Bible) And Joseph said to them, Fear not; for am I in the place of God? [Vengeance is His, not mine.] As for you, you thought evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring about that many people should be kept alive, as they are this day.
It has been said, that when life hands you lemons, you should make lemonade. Not all of us are quickly comforted by such positive thinking. However, most of us might agree that we would like to more readily adopt a positive attitude, look at the bright side, and somehow find the better good regardless of the bitter bad. This may hardly be possible for you, but Jesus tells us that "all things are possible with God." Of that we can be certain. And not only that, but with God, "all things are worked together for the good, to them that love God, to them that are called according to His purpose." Let's face it-life is filled with lemons But there is a sweetness to be found in a deeper joy that come from knowing that God is still in control. He still has your best interest at heart. He still loves you today as He did yesterday. And most assuredly so, He can still work even the most sour of situations around in a way that will bring out the sweetest satisfaction.
Have A Blessed Day
It has been said, that when life hands you lemons, you should make lemonade. Not all of us are quickly comforted by such positive thinking. However, most of us might agree that we would like to more readily adopt a positive attitude, look at the bright side, and somehow find the better good regardless of the bitter bad. This may hardly be possible for you, but Jesus tells us that "all things are possible with God." Of that we can be certain. And not only that, but with God, "all things are worked together for the good, to them that love God, to them that are called according to His purpose." Let's face it-life is filled with lemons But there is a sweetness to be found in a deeper joy that come from knowing that God is still in control. He still has your best interest at heart. He still loves you today as He did yesterday. And most assuredly so, He can still work even the most sour of situations around in a way that will bring out the sweetest satisfaction.
Have A Blessed Day
Monday, January 25, 2010
Words That Ruin
Proverbs 16:28 (NIV) A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.
All the sugar coating in the world does not change the truth about gossip. Your words may be dipped in honey, and spoken softly, light-heartedly to another. But don't be fooled. For many there are of us who justify ourselves, slipping our words beneath the cover of so called concern. What is it that stirs in us a need to gossip? Is it envy, anger, jealousy, or strife? Is it an insatiable curiosity that peaks and all the more when we peak the curiosity of someone else? Whatever the reasons, all are rooted in sin. It is truly amazing how powerful words can be--and how easy it is for some to act as though their words are no big deal. Gossip is spread, the damage is done, and when caught by our words we say, "Oh, you're blowing it out of proportion." Do we blame the victim as though he somehow deserved it? Do we try to act as though we did nothing wrong? Jesus does not take a soft position on such things. He tells us, "But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment," and, "with what judgment you judge, you will be judged." It is trouble enough as we look on others with the sinful judgments of our hearts, but how much more terrible for us to allow the cancerous thoughts to be spread from our lips to the ears of others.
Have A Blessed day
All the sugar coating in the world does not change the truth about gossip. Your words may be dipped in honey, and spoken softly, light-heartedly to another. But don't be fooled. For many there are of us who justify ourselves, slipping our words beneath the cover of so called concern. What is it that stirs in us a need to gossip? Is it envy, anger, jealousy, or strife? Is it an insatiable curiosity that peaks and all the more when we peak the curiosity of someone else? Whatever the reasons, all are rooted in sin. It is truly amazing how powerful words can be--and how easy it is for some to act as though their words are no big deal. Gossip is spread, the damage is done, and when caught by our words we say, "Oh, you're blowing it out of proportion." Do we blame the victim as though he somehow deserved it? Do we try to act as though we did nothing wrong? Jesus does not take a soft position on such things. He tells us, "But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment," and, "with what judgment you judge, you will be judged." It is trouble enough as we look on others with the sinful judgments of our hearts, but how much more terrible for us to allow the cancerous thoughts to be spread from our lips to the ears of others.
Have A Blessed day
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Righteousness
Matthew 5:20 (NKJV) For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus is warning us that our righteousness must pass the level of hypocrisy; which the Pharisees represented. The Pharisees were religious but not relational. They understood the letter of the law but not the spirit of it. Jesus is teaching us that this type of religiosity is false righteousness. It speaks of righteousness instead of living it and that was exactly the problem with the Pharisees. They talked the talk but did not walk the walk. If you asked the majority of the unsaved what their primary problem with Christians is the answer would likely be, hypocrisy. It is not righteousness, it is self righteousness. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells a parable of a Pharisee and a tax collector to show the difference between the way we should be and the trap we can fall into. This is how it is introduced in the Gospel:
To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: - Luke 18: 9-14.And he spake this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:
Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be humbled; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Jesus tells the parable of how the Pharisee was so self-righteous that his very prayers unto God exalted himself and how the sinner showed true humility before God because he knew he had no righteousness. That is the frame of mind we need to be walking our salvation in. Humility which comes from the realization that we have no righteousness except for the blood of Jesus Christ, which covers our sins before Almighty God!
Have A Blessed Day
Jesus is warning us that our righteousness must pass the level of hypocrisy; which the Pharisees represented. The Pharisees were religious but not relational. They understood the letter of the law but not the spirit of it. Jesus is teaching us that this type of religiosity is false righteousness. It speaks of righteousness instead of living it and that was exactly the problem with the Pharisees. They talked the talk but did not walk the walk. If you asked the majority of the unsaved what their primary problem with Christians is the answer would likely be, hypocrisy. It is not righteousness, it is self righteousness. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells a parable of a Pharisee and a tax collector to show the difference between the way we should be and the trap we can fall into. This is how it is introduced in the Gospel:
To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: - Luke 18: 9-14.And he spake this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:
Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be humbled; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Jesus tells the parable of how the Pharisee was so self-righteous that his very prayers unto God exalted himself and how the sinner showed true humility before God because he knew he had no righteousness. That is the frame of mind we need to be walking our salvation in. Humility which comes from the realization that we have no righteousness except for the blood of Jesus Christ, which covers our sins before Almighty God!
Have A Blessed Day
Friday, January 22, 2010
Unwillingness
Mark 11:25 (Amplified Bible) whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father Who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop.
One of the biggest blessing-blockers in the lives of many people is the unwillingness to forgive others. Jesus says in this 11th chapter of Mark that you can have what you say if you only believe and do not doubt. Question is, are you seeing what you believe? Are you having what you ask? Is the mountain you are facing in your life moving? Maybe it's time to do a little check in the forgiveness department. Forgiveness is a choice. It is not based on feelings or emotions. It is not even based on the other persons current actions towards you. Forgiveness is a choice you make in faith, just like salvation was a choice and confession you made in faith. If you are battling this today, just say "In the name of Jesus, I choose today to forgive __________." Now trust God, in faith, to walk you through this choice and decision and be diligent to do what He instructs you to do. If you're not struggling in this area, then chances are someone around you is. Remember you have the message of reconciliation, and you can tell them the good news today that in Jesus Christ, they can be set free from the bondage of un-forgiveness!
Have A Blessed day
One of the biggest blessing-blockers in the lives of many people is the unwillingness to forgive others. Jesus says in this 11th chapter of Mark that you can have what you say if you only believe and do not doubt. Question is, are you seeing what you believe? Are you having what you ask? Is the mountain you are facing in your life moving? Maybe it's time to do a little check in the forgiveness department. Forgiveness is a choice. It is not based on feelings or emotions. It is not even based on the other persons current actions towards you. Forgiveness is a choice you make in faith, just like salvation was a choice and confession you made in faith. If you are battling this today, just say "In the name of Jesus, I choose today to forgive __________." Now trust God, in faith, to walk you through this choice and decision and be diligent to do what He instructs you to do. If you're not struggling in this area, then chances are someone around you is. Remember you have the message of reconciliation, and you can tell them the good news today that in Jesus Christ, they can be set free from the bondage of un-forgiveness!
Have A Blessed day
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Moving On
Romans 7:15 (Amplified Bible) For I do not understand my own actions [I am baffled, bewildered]. I do not practice or accomplish what I wish, but I do the very thing that I loathe [which my moral instinct condemns].
Unfortunately, there are times you will fall down. You will face uncertainties, or challenges that are the most difficult, and it is so easy to fail-to fall down-to fall to the sin that so easily besets you. But there is always a time to brush yourself off and get to your feet. You cannot move forward in your Christian walk when you're sitting in self-pity. God wants you to see your sin for what it is, be sorry for it and move (walk) away from it. He understands you feel bad, but beating yourself up is as much out of His will as the reason you are beating yourself up. Both things keep you from moving forward. But God will provide you what you need to get up-what you need to overcome-what you need to move on.
Have A Blessed Day
Unfortunately, there are times you will fall down. You will face uncertainties, or challenges that are the most difficult, and it is so easy to fail-to fall down-to fall to the sin that so easily besets you. But there is always a time to brush yourself off and get to your feet. You cannot move forward in your Christian walk when you're sitting in self-pity. God wants you to see your sin for what it is, be sorry for it and move (walk) away from it. He understands you feel bad, but beating yourself up is as much out of His will as the reason you are beating yourself up. Both things keep you from moving forward. But God will provide you what you need to get up-what you need to overcome-what you need to move on.
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Each New Day
2 Corinthians 7:10 (NKJV) For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.
Each new day offers new opportunity-new hope. We are given a clean slate, should we choose to accept it, and with it, the wherewithal to lay aside yesterday's regrets in favor of today's possibilities. We have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But we do not have to remain fallen. We can confess our sin, knowing "He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." We can repent and turn away from our sinful behaviors, and with determination stand firm. "This time, this is what counts," exclaims recording artist David Meece, "...this time, there's no backward glance. Now is the time, this is our chance..." It has been said that our God is the God of second chances. Regret and self-defeat often keep us powerless and paralyzed. But Gods is ready to enable the fallen to "throw off everything that hinders," including the sins of yesterday, so that we can live anew to Him each new day.
Have A Blessed day
Each new day offers new opportunity-new hope. We are given a clean slate, should we choose to accept it, and with it, the wherewithal to lay aside yesterday's regrets in favor of today's possibilities. We have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But we do not have to remain fallen. We can confess our sin, knowing "He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." We can repent and turn away from our sinful behaviors, and with determination stand firm. "This time, this is what counts," exclaims recording artist David Meece, "...this time, there's no backward glance. Now is the time, this is our chance..." It has been said that our God is the God of second chances. Regret and self-defeat often keep us powerless and paralyzed. But Gods is ready to enable the fallen to "throw off everything that hinders," including the sins of yesterday, so that we can live anew to Him each new day.
Have A Blessed day
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
You Can't Make It On Your Own
Exodus 18:18 (King James Version) Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.
You may have a monumental task you are facing, and you may be overwhelmed and over-loaded. You have a choice to make - try and do it all on your own, or ask God for His wisdom and help to get it done. Many people trust in themselves and their own abilities, or some other power of this world. Those who trust in God will not be disappointed. Even if the task at hand seems impossible, God is God of the impossible and makes all things possible. Through Christ you can do all things. If God has anointed and appointed you to a task, it doesn't matter if the resources are too small or the time is too short. God can make a way where there seems to be no way. Keep trusting God - do your best and trust God to do the rest.
Have A Blessed day
You may have a monumental task you are facing, and you may be overwhelmed and over-loaded. You have a choice to make - try and do it all on your own, or ask God for His wisdom and help to get it done. Many people trust in themselves and their own abilities, or some other power of this world. Those who trust in God will not be disappointed. Even if the task at hand seems impossible, God is God of the impossible and makes all things possible. Through Christ you can do all things. If God has anointed and appointed you to a task, it doesn't matter if the resources are too small or the time is too short. God can make a way where there seems to be no way. Keep trusting God - do your best and trust God to do the rest.
Have A Blessed day
Monday, January 18, 2010
Sigh of Relief
Psalm 62:8 (Amplified Bible) Trust in, lean on, rely on, and have confidence in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is a refuge for us (a fortress and a high tower). Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
It is often at the conclusion of a difficult time that we breathe a long awaited sigh of relief. Yet it is something that we never need experience. Within a difficult time, we have the privilege to take the matter to the Lord-and leave it with Him. Easy as that is to say, it is often hard to do. We go to God, pray to Him, entrust a matter to His capable hands; and once a little time passes, we find ourselves taking the matter again into our own hands. But God is faithful, and patient, and gracious. He will continue to provide us the direction we need and teach us to rely on Him more with each passing trial. In time, perhaps we will learn the lesson He so desires us to learn-that is that we can entrust something to Him, find His peace in that very moment, and not have to hold our breath until the trial has came to an end.
Have A Blessed Week
It is often at the conclusion of a difficult time that we breathe a long awaited sigh of relief. Yet it is something that we never need experience. Within a difficult time, we have the privilege to take the matter to the Lord-and leave it with Him. Easy as that is to say, it is often hard to do. We go to God, pray to Him, entrust a matter to His capable hands; and once a little time passes, we find ourselves taking the matter again into our own hands. But God is faithful, and patient, and gracious. He will continue to provide us the direction we need and teach us to rely on Him more with each passing trial. In time, perhaps we will learn the lesson He so desires us to learn-that is that we can entrust something to Him, find His peace in that very moment, and not have to hold our breath until the trial has came to an end.
Have A Blessed Week
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Press On!
1 Timothy 6:11 (KJV) But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
There are all sorts of evil that attempt to entrap you every day. There's also things that try to occupy your time and your life to pull you away from God. There's doubt and fear that try to pull you out of faith. There's circumstances and evil forces that try to get you into anger, frustration and hate to pull you away from an attitude of love. There's the little voices that tell you to give up, it's not worth the fight. There's the aggravations in life that work on you to cause you to have a short temper and no patience instead of a spirit of gentleness. There's the immorality and ungodliness that comes at you from every direction trying to keep you from living a godly life. Then there is the busyness of life that keeps you from spending time in the Word and in prayer and fellowship with God. If you're going to avoid falling into any of these traps, you're going to have to pursue the things that are right and good. The word "pursue" literally means to "follow after" and "press towards", with the idea of "fleeing" from those things that try to pull you back and off the path of blessing that God has for you. When you make the choice to follow after the things that are pleasing to God, He will be there to give you strength and ability to overcome. When you pursue fellowship and relationship with Jesus, the things that are righteous and godly will become second nature to you. Don't give up - keep on pressing through to victory!
Have A Blessed Day
There are all sorts of evil that attempt to entrap you every day. There's also things that try to occupy your time and your life to pull you away from God. There's doubt and fear that try to pull you out of faith. There's circumstances and evil forces that try to get you into anger, frustration and hate to pull you away from an attitude of love. There's the little voices that tell you to give up, it's not worth the fight. There's the aggravations in life that work on you to cause you to have a short temper and no patience instead of a spirit of gentleness. There's the immorality and ungodliness that comes at you from every direction trying to keep you from living a godly life. Then there is the busyness of life that keeps you from spending time in the Word and in prayer and fellowship with God. If you're going to avoid falling into any of these traps, you're going to have to pursue the things that are right and good. The word "pursue" literally means to "follow after" and "press towards", with the idea of "fleeing" from those things that try to pull you back and off the path of blessing that God has for you. When you make the choice to follow after the things that are pleasing to God, He will be there to give you strength and ability to overcome. When you pursue fellowship and relationship with Jesus, the things that are righteous and godly will become second nature to you. Don't give up - keep on pressing through to victory!
Have A Blessed Day
Friday, January 15, 2010
Take Dominion
Genesis 1:26 (KJV) And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
God created you for dominion. Dominion means to reign and rule. However, God did not create us to try and dominate one another. He created us to dominate the earth and to take control over it. The devil wants to dominate this world with all sorts of evil. His plan is to rob you of your authority to reign and rule in life. Adam lost his authority in the garden of Eden. Jesus came and got it back for us. Through Him we are now more than conquerors and over comers. To let the devil run amuck in your family, household, thoughts and actions is not taking dominion. Be encouraged that God has not created you to be overtaken by the circumstances of life, but through Jesus Christ He has given you back the power to rise up and take authority over every negative and evil attack the devil tries to send your way. Rise up. Let your light shine. Take the dominion and authority you have in Jesus Christ and fight the good fight of faith!
Have A Blessed
God created you for dominion. Dominion means to reign and rule. However, God did not create us to try and dominate one another. He created us to dominate the earth and to take control over it. The devil wants to dominate this world with all sorts of evil. His plan is to rob you of your authority to reign and rule in life. Adam lost his authority in the garden of Eden. Jesus came and got it back for us. Through Him we are now more than conquerors and over comers. To let the devil run amuck in your family, household, thoughts and actions is not taking dominion. Be encouraged that God has not created you to be overtaken by the circumstances of life, but through Jesus Christ He has given you back the power to rise up and take authority over every negative and evil attack the devil tries to send your way. Rise up. Let your light shine. Take the dominion and authority you have in Jesus Christ and fight the good fight of faith!
Have A Blessed
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Through The Fire
Isaiah 43:2 (King James Version)
When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.
So many times i've questioned certain circumstances
Or things I could not understand
Many times in trials, weakness blurs my vision
And my frustration gets so out of hand
Its then I am reminded I've never been forsaken
I've never had to stand the test alone
As I look at all the victories
The spirit rises up in me
And its through the fire my weakness is made strong
He never promised that the cross would not get heavy
And the hill would not be hard to climb
He never offered our victories without fighting
But He said help would always come in time
Just remember when your standing in the valley of decision
And the adversary says give in
Just hold on, our Lord will show up
And He will take you through the fire again
I know within myself that I would surely perish
But if I trust the hand of God, He'll shield the flames again, again
These are the words to the song Through the fire. I thought they were fitting for to days Word.
Have A Blessed Day
When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.
So many times i've questioned certain circumstances
Or things I could not understand
Many times in trials, weakness blurs my vision
And my frustration gets so out of hand
Its then I am reminded I've never been forsaken
I've never had to stand the test alone
As I look at all the victories
The spirit rises up in me
And its through the fire my weakness is made strong
He never promised that the cross would not get heavy
And the hill would not be hard to climb
He never offered our victories without fighting
But He said help would always come in time
Just remember when your standing in the valley of decision
And the adversary says give in
Just hold on, our Lord will show up
And He will take you through the fire again
I know within myself that I would surely perish
But if I trust the hand of God, He'll shield the flames again, again
These are the words to the song Through the fire. I thought they were fitting for to days Word.
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Press On
Philippians 3:13-14 (NKJV) Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Don't look behind you. Your past is just that, past You can learn from it, but time has already falling on it. You may not be able to obliterate it from your memory, but you can refuse to let the bad obstruct your progress toward tomorrow. What is important is in front of you, not behind you. In front of you there are new desires, new dreams, new plans. You can learn from the past to over come what you may think were failures, but God may know it was just part of his plan for your tomorrow.
Have A Blessed Day
Don't look behind you. Your past is just that, past You can learn from it, but time has already falling on it. You may not be able to obliterate it from your memory, but you can refuse to let the bad obstruct your progress toward tomorrow. What is important is in front of you, not behind you. In front of you there are new desires, new dreams, new plans. You can learn from the past to over come what you may think were failures, but God may know it was just part of his plan for your tomorrow.
Have A Blessed Day
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Brighter and Brighter
Proverbs 4:18 (NKJ) But the path of the just is like the shining sun,That shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.
Today is brighter than yesterday. Tomorrow will be brighter than today. Is it not going that way in your life? If not, begin to look at things from a different perspective. Instead of looking at things from the earthly perspective, look at things from a heavenly perspective. See things the way God sees them - from the heavenly realm where you, in the spirit, are actually seated right now in Christ (Ephesians 2:6). Change your focus to the promises of God, instead of the circumstances of this life. Instead of Monday being the dreaded first day of the week, it can actually be one of the best days of the week. Monday is the day that you start with a clean slate. It's the day you start off fresh. It's the day after Sunday - the day you get to put into practice everything you learned at church. If you'll start seeing it from that perspective, you'll begin to see more and more, and much clearer, that God is for you not against you. He has a plan for your future and it's a good one. God has created you with a destiny. He is going before you causing your path to be brighter and brighter! Get your sunglasses on - your future is bright and full of promise!
Have A Blessed Day
Today is brighter than yesterday. Tomorrow will be brighter than today. Is it not going that way in your life? If not, begin to look at things from a different perspective. Instead of looking at things from the earthly perspective, look at things from a heavenly perspective. See things the way God sees them - from the heavenly realm where you, in the spirit, are actually seated right now in Christ (Ephesians 2:6). Change your focus to the promises of God, instead of the circumstances of this life. Instead of Monday being the dreaded first day of the week, it can actually be one of the best days of the week. Monday is the day that you start with a clean slate. It's the day you start off fresh. It's the day after Sunday - the day you get to put into practice everything you learned at church. If you'll start seeing it from that perspective, you'll begin to see more and more, and much clearer, that God is for you not against you. He has a plan for your future and it's a good one. God has created you with a destiny. He is going before you causing your path to be brighter and brighter! Get your sunglasses on - your future is bright and full of promise!
Have A Blessed Day
Monday, January 11, 2010
Still
Psalm 18:2 (KJV) The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
You still feel something is missing. You still wonder what it is. You still try to find God's answers. You still question whether the answers are His. You still put your best foot forward. You still feel inept in your tries. You still long for something far greater. You still hope God hears all your cries. And somewhere in the midst of questioning, and confusion in all that is, Truth quietly whispers. "I'm still here," the voice says. In your heart of hearts you have no doubt that He is. He's still present no matter how quiet. Still faithful no matter the trial. Still longing to help you get through it. Still walking with you, every mile. He's still beside you in the still quiet moments. Still comforting you in His arms. Still cherishing you as His loved one. Still keeping you safe from what harms. "I'm still here," He says, "So be still." Embrace His peace and take heart. And know no matter whatever may be-God's still with you throughout every part.
Have A Blessed day
You still feel something is missing. You still wonder what it is. You still try to find God's answers. You still question whether the answers are His. You still put your best foot forward. You still feel inept in your tries. You still long for something far greater. You still hope God hears all your cries. And somewhere in the midst of questioning, and confusion in all that is, Truth quietly whispers. "I'm still here," the voice says. In your heart of hearts you have no doubt that He is. He's still present no matter how quiet. Still faithful no matter the trial. Still longing to help you get through it. Still walking with you, every mile. He's still beside you in the still quiet moments. Still comforting you in His arms. Still cherishing you as His loved one. Still keeping you safe from what harms. "I'm still here," He says, "So be still." Embrace His peace and take heart. And know no matter whatever may be-God's still with you throughout every part.
Have A Blessed day
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Burden
Galatians 6:5 (KJV) For every man shall bear his own burden.
Everyone has a cross to bear, a load or burden to bear. This verse may appear to be a negative thing, or refer to some type of affliction, trouble or something dreadful. This is not the case. Actually this "burden" that we all carry refers to being "our self". Remember Jesus said that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. When we are living for Him, when we are born again, we are called and set apart for a purpose. The purpose, or burden, that He gives is our individual gifting and calling to fulfill a purpose here on earth. These first series of verses in Galatians chapter 6 encourages us as individuals to seek out our purpose and calling in life, then to "bear that load", or carry out and live out that calling. Too many times we are trying to imitate or be like someone else. If we're trying to be like someone else, then we're not being our self or the person God created us to be. Carry your load, not someone else's. In other words, be the unique person that God created you to be, don't try to do and be something that you are not. When you find your calling and be yourself, then your load will be easy and your burden will be light!
Have A Blessed Day
Everyone has a cross to bear, a load or burden to bear. This verse may appear to be a negative thing, or refer to some type of affliction, trouble or something dreadful. This is not the case. Actually this "burden" that we all carry refers to being "our self". Remember Jesus said that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. When we are living for Him, when we are born again, we are called and set apart for a purpose. The purpose, or burden, that He gives is our individual gifting and calling to fulfill a purpose here on earth. These first series of verses in Galatians chapter 6 encourages us as individuals to seek out our purpose and calling in life, then to "bear that load", or carry out and live out that calling. Too many times we are trying to imitate or be like someone else. If we're trying to be like someone else, then we're not being our self or the person God created us to be. Carry your load, not someone else's. In other words, be the unique person that God created you to be, don't try to do and be something that you are not. When you find your calling and be yourself, then your load will be easy and your burden will be light!
Have A Blessed Day
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Front Door
Psalm 100: 2,4. (NKJV) 2 Serve the LORD with gladness;Come before His presence with singing. 4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving And into His courts with praise.
When you go to visit someone's house, most likely you enter their house through the front door. Well, to enter into God's House, there is a front door that He wants all of us to use... The door of Praise. A lot of people try to get to God through the "back door."They come to him with their prayer request and complaints. But Psalm 100 tells us the correct way to enter into God's presence.So the next time you go to church, remember to take these three things along: a joyful song, a thankful heart, and praise on your lips! That is the way you'll enter God's front door.
Have A Blessed Day
When you go to visit someone's house, most likely you enter their house through the front door. Well, to enter into God's House, there is a front door that He wants all of us to use... The door of Praise. A lot of people try to get to God through the "back door."They come to him with their prayer request and complaints. But Psalm 100 tells us the correct way to enter into God's presence.So the next time you go to church, remember to take these three things along: a joyful song, a thankful heart, and praise on your lips! That is the way you'll enter God's front door.
Have A Blessed Day
Friday, January 8, 2010
Conscience
Titus 2:11-12 (Amplified Bible)
11.For the grace of God (His unmerited favor and blessing) has come forward (appeared) for the deliverance from sin and the eternal salvation for all mankind.
12.It has trained us to reject and renounce all ungodliness (irreligion) and worldly (passionate) desires, to live discreet (temperate, self-controlled), upright, devout (spiritually whole) lives in this present world,
What is America's hope? We need a resurrection of conscience! We need a revival of righteousness, a revival of repentance! We Christians must lead the way by learning how to lead consistent lives. If you're walking in the flesh, you will ignore that quiet voice of conscience. Beware of listening to the carnal man. Revelation 3:16 tells us that God has no use for a Christian who is lukewarm in his commitment to Christ: So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. When a man won't listen to his conscience, it's usually because he doesn't want to accept advice from a stranger.
Have A Blessed Day
11.For the grace of God (His unmerited favor and blessing) has come forward (appeared) for the deliverance from sin and the eternal salvation for all mankind.
12.It has trained us to reject and renounce all ungodliness (irreligion) and worldly (passionate) desires, to live discreet (temperate, self-controlled), upright, devout (spiritually whole) lives in this present world,
What is America's hope? We need a resurrection of conscience! We need a revival of righteousness, a revival of repentance! We Christians must lead the way by learning how to lead consistent lives. If you're walking in the flesh, you will ignore that quiet voice of conscience. Beware of listening to the carnal man. Revelation 3:16 tells us that God has no use for a Christian who is lukewarm in his commitment to Christ: So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. When a man won't listen to his conscience, it's usually because he doesn't want to accept advice from a stranger.
Have A Blessed Day
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Stir yourself up
Isaiah 64:7 (NKJV) And there is no one who calls on Your name, Who stirs himself up to take hold of You; For You have hidden Your face from us, And have consumed us because of our iniquities.
God has not turned His face from us. His eye is not blind, nor is His ear deaf that He can't see or hear us. He stands with open arms, waiting for those who would call on Him. Stir yourself up to call on Him - to pray and ask, then to listen for His direction. Stir yourself up to meditate on His words and promises. Stir yourself up to seek wisdom and understanding. Stir yourself up to speak the word of God out loud and claim the promises as your own. Stir yourself up to fight the good fight of faith. "Stirring" implies an action or motion. You can have the gifts, anointing, faith, wisdom and understanding, but unless it is put into motion it accomplishes nothing. The kingdom of heaven is at hand, stir yourself up to lay hold of it.
Have A Blessed Day
God has not turned His face from us. His eye is not blind, nor is His ear deaf that He can't see or hear us. He stands with open arms, waiting for those who would call on Him. Stir yourself up to call on Him - to pray and ask, then to listen for His direction. Stir yourself up to meditate on His words and promises. Stir yourself up to seek wisdom and understanding. Stir yourself up to speak the word of God out loud and claim the promises as your own. Stir yourself up to fight the good fight of faith. "Stirring" implies an action or motion. You can have the gifts, anointing, faith, wisdom and understanding, but unless it is put into motion it accomplishes nothing. The kingdom of heaven is at hand, stir yourself up to lay hold of it.
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Led By The Spirit
Galatians 3:24 (NKJV) Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
God's laws have always been in existence. He is a God that does not change. The written law came when God's people continued to fail at living up to His standards. The law was given to show the people they needed a savior; a redeemer. Through Jesus Christ we can now receive the promise of the Holy Spirit, to be led not by rules and regulations, but by the Spirit of God each day. Through Jesus Christ, we can now focus on being led by the Holy Spirit each day instead of focusing on laws, rules and regulations. The Bible says that by the works of the law, no one will be justified. But, the righteous man shall live by faith. The Holy Spirit is here to guide you through life, give you spiritual wisdom and understanding, power to carry out the purpose for your life, and to show you what that purpose is. If you've been obsessed with trying to keep laws, commandments, rules and regulations, begin to focus more on hearing the voice of God and being led by the Holy Spirit. If you follow and listen to His voice, you can never go wrong.
Have A Blessed Day
God's laws have always been in existence. He is a God that does not change. The written law came when God's people continued to fail at living up to His standards. The law was given to show the people they needed a savior; a redeemer. Through Jesus Christ we can now receive the promise of the Holy Spirit, to be led not by rules and regulations, but by the Spirit of God each day. Through Jesus Christ, we can now focus on being led by the Holy Spirit each day instead of focusing on laws, rules and regulations. The Bible says that by the works of the law, no one will be justified. But, the righteous man shall live by faith. The Holy Spirit is here to guide you through life, give you spiritual wisdom and understanding, power to carry out the purpose for your life, and to show you what that purpose is. If you've been obsessed with trying to keep laws, commandments, rules and regulations, begin to focus more on hearing the voice of God and being led by the Holy Spirit. If you follow and listen to His voice, you can never go wrong.
Have A Blessed Day
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Be Prepared
Joshua 1:11 (NKJV) "Pass through the camp and command the people, saying, 'Prepare provisions for yourselves, for within three days you will cross over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land which the LORD your God is giving you to possess.'"
No one goes on a successful trip without first making provisions. No one cooks a meal without first preparing the ingredients. People in manufacturing prepare an inventory of parts and a manufacturing plant in order to build a product. A competitor or contestant in a sport or rodeo does not go to the competition without preparing with weeks, months and years of training. Why would God be any different with His plan for your life? First of all He made preparations before the foundation of the world for every day of your life that you would live here on earth. He's done His part. The bible says to study yourself to be approved; always be ready with an answer for those who ask about the hope that is within you; and shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel. God is a god of order. This time of learning and growing, this time of uncertainty that some of you may be going through, it is the time of preparation. God is preparing you. Study the bible, find out what the promises and will of God is, so when the opportunities come, you will be able to recognize them and not miss out on something great God is trying to show you. Be prepared.
Have A Blessed Day
No one goes on a successful trip without first making provisions. No one cooks a meal without first preparing the ingredients. People in manufacturing prepare an inventory of parts and a manufacturing plant in order to build a product. A competitor or contestant in a sport or rodeo does not go to the competition without preparing with weeks, months and years of training. Why would God be any different with His plan for your life? First of all He made preparations before the foundation of the world for every day of your life that you would live here on earth. He's done His part. The bible says to study yourself to be approved; always be ready with an answer for those who ask about the hope that is within you; and shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel. God is a god of order. This time of learning and growing, this time of uncertainty that some of you may be going through, it is the time of preparation. God is preparing you. Study the bible, find out what the promises and will of God is, so when the opportunities come, you will be able to recognize them and not miss out on something great God is trying to show you. Be prepared.
Have A Blessed Day
Monday, January 4, 2010
Don't Lose Hope
Jeremiah 29:10-11, NKJV: For thus says the Lord: After seventy years are completed at Babylon,I will visit you and perform My good word toward you,and cause you to return to this place. For I know the thoughts that I thank toward you, says the Lord,thoughts of peace and not of evil,to give you a future and a hope.
We are, within periods of our lives, held captive. We may be imprisoned by choices we have made, habits we cannot kick, or external circumstances over which we have no control. Perhaps, the best news we could hear is that all will be well tomorrow. To Israel, The Lord spoke of seventy years to be completed before they would be freed. Those words could not have provided much comfort to Israeli exiles. For us, as well, all things must be in accordance with God's time, and the proper amount of time must be completed. During such times, the best thing we can do is to stay the course-continue in the way of Christ. A day will come when the time of captivity is over. As for the meantime, take comfort. Don't give up. And keep your eyes on Christ. For most assuredly, the Lord has plans for you-"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Have A Blessed Day
We are, within periods of our lives, held captive. We may be imprisoned by choices we have made, habits we cannot kick, or external circumstances over which we have no control. Perhaps, the best news we could hear is that all will be well tomorrow. To Israel, The Lord spoke of seventy years to be completed before they would be freed. Those words could not have provided much comfort to Israeli exiles. For us, as well, all things must be in accordance with God's time, and the proper amount of time must be completed. During such times, the best thing we can do is to stay the course-continue in the way of Christ. A day will come when the time of captivity is over. As for the meantime, take comfort. Don't give up. And keep your eyes on Christ. For most assuredly, the Lord has plans for you-"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Have A Blessed Day
Saturday, January 2, 2010
New Year
Behold, the former things have come to pass, and new things
I declare; - Isaiah 42:9
Another year has come and gone, the past is the past. God is a God of creation and He is always doing a new thing. He is a God of new beginnings; a God who makes a way where there seems to be no way; a God who makes rivers in the desert and roadways in the wilderness. Now is the time to forget, but learn from, the failures of the past and praise God for the victories of 2009. Many people see the coming of the new year as a time to make new commitments and resolutions. Now is the time for you to refresh yourself on the dreams and visions God has given for you to accomplish. It may be the time to get started on the tasks that you never got around to. But now more than ever, it is time to press in, persevere and continue in the calling, purpose and destiny that God has for you. Now more than ever, keep pushing forward - don't give up. Don't let the failures of yesterday keep you from the promised land of today. Run your race and keep your eyes on the prize!
Have A Blessed Day
I declare; - Isaiah 42:9
Another year has come and gone, the past is the past. God is a God of creation and He is always doing a new thing. He is a God of new beginnings; a God who makes a way where there seems to be no way; a God who makes rivers in the desert and roadways in the wilderness. Now is the time to forget, but learn from, the failures of the past and praise God for the victories of 2009. Many people see the coming of the new year as a time to make new commitments and resolutions. Now is the time for you to refresh yourself on the dreams and visions God has given for you to accomplish. It may be the time to get started on the tasks that you never got around to. But now more than ever, it is time to press in, persevere and continue in the calling, purpose and destiny that God has for you. Now more than ever, keep pushing forward - don't give up. Don't let the failures of yesterday keep you from the promised land of today. Run your race and keep your eyes on the prize!
Have A Blessed Day
Friday, January 1, 2010
He Must Increase
John 3:30 (KJV) He must increase, but I must decrease.
John the Baptist had a special work wherein he would be the one who came to prepare the way for the one yet to come. Simply put, John's ministry pointed to Jesus. He did not consider his ministry something whereby he would get attention or glory for himself-it was all about Jesus. As John the Baptist's disciples questioned John regarding the work that Christ was doing and the attention it was drawing; John simply reminded them for what purpose he had come. Just as John did, it is ours to do today and everyday: to point the way to Christ, and to see that our lives increase the glory to Jesus above anything we would ever gain for ourselves. As we start this new year let us strive to point the way to Jesus
Have A Blessed New Year
John the Baptist had a special work wherein he would be the one who came to prepare the way for the one yet to come. Simply put, John's ministry pointed to Jesus. He did not consider his ministry something whereby he would get attention or glory for himself-it was all about Jesus. As John the Baptist's disciples questioned John regarding the work that Christ was doing and the attention it was drawing; John simply reminded them for what purpose he had come. Just as John did, it is ours to do today and everyday: to point the way to Christ, and to see that our lives increase the glory to Jesus above anything we would ever gain for ourselves. As we start this new year let us strive to point the way to Jesus
Have A Blessed New Year
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