Joshua 24:15 (NKJV) And if it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”
Three little words capture my attention within this verse: “we will serve.” It is not I alone who will serve, but we. We, as in, “We stand together,” or “We are in this to the end.” It is sometimes easy to forget that it is about “we”, and not about “me.” A Christian must maintain a concern for others even as for him or her self. So that we will, as in, “an act of the will,” or “I will,” not, “I’ll try.” It will require sheer determination to walk each day in this world while keeping the focus on Jesus. As we stand together, and are determined to fix our eyes on Christ, we will serve. Whereas once the tendency was to live lives serving ourselves, our lives will transform to be about doing for the Lord and doing for others. Can you imagine the impact of a church ( our church ) that lives out a mission statement of, “We will serve?” Can you imagine how God could use you if those words became your own?
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Answer, Challenge & Declare
Genesis 1:1-3 (NKJV) In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light.
God said. Let there be light. answer, challenge and declare. A challenge is a contest or a competition. It is an objection as to the truth of something, often with an implicit demand for proof. When darkness was on the face of the earth, God didn't argue with it. He didn't talk about the darkness or the magnitude of it. Instead, He answered it, then objected to it with a challenge, then made a declaration against it. There is power in words. There is power in the confession of God's Word. Words are made to be spoken, thus the Word of God is meant to be spoken. His Word is truth and it will always prevail over that which is temporary and subject to change. When darkness surrounds your world, don't get caught up in magnifying the darkness (circumstance or problem) instead make a declaration of God's Word against it. Answer the situation with what God says. Challenge it with the truth of God's word.
Have A Blessed Day
God said. Let there be light. answer, challenge and declare. A challenge is a contest or a competition. It is an objection as to the truth of something, often with an implicit demand for proof. When darkness was on the face of the earth, God didn't argue with it. He didn't talk about the darkness or the magnitude of it. Instead, He answered it, then objected to it with a challenge, then made a declaration against it. There is power in words. There is power in the confession of God's Word. Words are made to be spoken, thus the Word of God is meant to be spoken. His Word is truth and it will always prevail over that which is temporary and subject to change. When darkness surrounds your world, don't get caught up in magnifying the darkness (circumstance or problem) instead make a declaration of God's Word against it. Answer the situation with what God says. Challenge it with the truth of God's word.
Have A Blessed Day
Monday, June 28, 2010
A Soft Answer
Proverbs 15:1 (KJV) A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
The Bible is full of contradiction. That is to say, it is full of principle that contradicts the mind of man. For it is often in the less traveled path wherein we find the ways of God. If any of us would be great, we must be servant to all. For the evil that is done to you, respond with love. If someone would strike you on the cheek, turn to him the other also. Respond to hate with love, evil with good, anger with gentleness, persecution with humbleness. So are the ways of God. And there within we find more power than anything contrived in the minds of men. According to the proverb, it is a gentle, soft answer that turns away wrath. It is an answer from a humble spirit; one that seeks not to assert self, but utterly relies upon the wisdom and guidance of God. It is, after all, in God where we find the soft answer to make our reply. It is in Him we find the courage to humble ourselves to another. In all situations, we have all we need in Christ to become full of contradiction--to become people full of the Word and principles of God--living contradictions to confront the empty wisdom of the minds of humanity.
Have A Blessed Week
The Bible is full of contradiction. That is to say, it is full of principle that contradicts the mind of man. For it is often in the less traveled path wherein we find the ways of God. If any of us would be great, we must be servant to all. For the evil that is done to you, respond with love. If someone would strike you on the cheek, turn to him the other also. Respond to hate with love, evil with good, anger with gentleness, persecution with humbleness. So are the ways of God. And there within we find more power than anything contrived in the minds of men. According to the proverb, it is a gentle, soft answer that turns away wrath. It is an answer from a humble spirit; one that seeks not to assert self, but utterly relies upon the wisdom and guidance of God. It is, after all, in God where we find the soft answer to make our reply. It is in Him we find the courage to humble ourselves to another. In all situations, we have all we need in Christ to become full of contradiction--to become people full of the Word and principles of God--living contradictions to confront the empty wisdom of the minds of humanity.
Have A Blessed Week
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Sheep’s Clothing
Jude 1:17-19 (Amplified Bible) But you must remember, beloved, the predictions which were made by the apostles (the special messengers) of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One). They told you beforehand, In the last days (in the end time) there will be scoffers [who seek to gratify their own unholy desires], following after their own ungodly passions. It is these who are [agitators] setting up distinctions and causing divisions--merely sensual [creatures, carnal, worldly-minded people], devoid of the [Holy] Spirit and destitute of any higher spiritual life.
In these times, it is important for us to bear in mind that there are truly those who are within the church that cause separation rather than unity, that seek their own over that of what is good for the whole of the church. But lest we start a witch hunt, we must not become suspicious, but we must weigh everything according to God’s Spirit. There are those who are troublemakers by desire, there are those who make trouble unknowingly, and there are those who stir up strife yet do not wish to. So while we are staying alert so as not to be led astray, we must keep in mind that we ourselves must be certain that we cause no divisions for any reason. Even our good intentions can cause divisions, if we do not keep ourselves in check with God’s Word and His Spirit.
Have A Blessed Day
In these times, it is important for us to bear in mind that there are truly those who are within the church that cause separation rather than unity, that seek their own over that of what is good for the whole of the church. But lest we start a witch hunt, we must not become suspicious, but we must weigh everything according to God’s Spirit. There are those who are troublemakers by desire, there are those who make trouble unknowingly, and there are those who stir up strife yet do not wish to. So while we are staying alert so as not to be led astray, we must keep in mind that we ourselves must be certain that we cause no divisions for any reason. Even our good intentions can cause divisions, if we do not keep ourselves in check with God’s Word and His Spirit.
Have A Blessed Day
Saturday, June 26, 2010
The Harvest Of The Word
Mark 4:14-20 (NKJV) The sower sows the word. And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word’s sake, immediately they stumble. Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.”
There is a difference in hearing the word preached, being excited or encouraged by it and hearing the word preached, being excited or encouraged by it and seeing results of it in your life. There are many who hear the word and it does absolutely nothing for them. There are others who hear the word and are excited by it but it does not produce results because they are not seeking the kingdom first. Therefore, the seeking of other things choke out the effects of the word in their life. So how do you get the word to produce results in your life? 1) Seek first the kingdom of God 2) when you hear the word preached, receive it by faith 3) put your faith into action by doing what the word you hear says to do. Jesus said it's the one who hears the word and acts on it that overcomes the world. The book of James says that those who "hear" only are deceiving themselves (that the word will produce results simply by hearing). Although faith comes by hearing, James goes on to say that unless you put that faith into action, it will produce nothing. God's word is truth and if you'll receive it by faith and put your faith into action by doing what it says, it will produce results. If the results are only small at first, don't give up. Be diligent to keep doing good. Continue acting on the word in faith. You'll continue graduating to the next level and the harvest will come.
Have A Blessed Day
There is a difference in hearing the word preached, being excited or encouraged by it and hearing the word preached, being excited or encouraged by it and seeing results of it in your life. There are many who hear the word and it does absolutely nothing for them. There are others who hear the word and are excited by it but it does not produce results because they are not seeking the kingdom first. Therefore, the seeking of other things choke out the effects of the word in their life. So how do you get the word to produce results in your life? 1) Seek first the kingdom of God 2) when you hear the word preached, receive it by faith 3) put your faith into action by doing what the word you hear says to do. Jesus said it's the one who hears the word and acts on it that overcomes the world. The book of James says that those who "hear" only are deceiving themselves (that the word will produce results simply by hearing). Although faith comes by hearing, James goes on to say that unless you put that faith into action, it will produce nothing. God's word is truth and if you'll receive it by faith and put your faith into action by doing what it says, it will produce results. If the results are only small at first, don't give up. Be diligent to keep doing good. Continue acting on the word in faith. You'll continue graduating to the next level and the harvest will come.
Have A Blessed Day
Friday, June 25, 2010
Your Words
Matthew 12:35-37 (NKJV) A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Words reveal character. God points out the importance of our words. The words that come out of our mouth don't just come from our tongue, but from what is within us. They come from deep within our heart. Most people can probably remember something mean that was said to them at an early age. It affected their life. There are many fights, wars and problems that have all started with words. Sticks and stones may break bones, but words can leave scars for a lifetime. There is power in words. Words can make a person laugh, cry, happy or sad. The very words you speak can affect your life from one moment to the next. You have the power in your mouth to criticize and condemn, or uplift and encourage. It all starts within you. Choose to fix your thoughts on the right things. Make the choice to look and listen to the right things. What you think about, look at and listen to, is affecting your inner most being. What you deposit within yourself is what will come out of your mouth. Choose today to let your words be in agreement with God's word. Your words forecast your future - will it be bright and sunny, or dark and gloomy? The answer is in your mouth!
Have A Blessed Day
Words reveal character. God points out the importance of our words. The words that come out of our mouth don't just come from our tongue, but from what is within us. They come from deep within our heart. Most people can probably remember something mean that was said to them at an early age. It affected their life. There are many fights, wars and problems that have all started with words. Sticks and stones may break bones, but words can leave scars for a lifetime. There is power in words. Words can make a person laugh, cry, happy or sad. The very words you speak can affect your life from one moment to the next. You have the power in your mouth to criticize and condemn, or uplift and encourage. It all starts within you. Choose to fix your thoughts on the right things. Make the choice to look and listen to the right things. What you think about, look at and listen to, is affecting your inner most being. What you deposit within yourself is what will come out of your mouth. Choose today to let your words be in agreement with God's word. Your words forecast your future - will it be bright and sunny, or dark and gloomy? The answer is in your mouth!
Have A Blessed Day
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Say What God Says
1 Peter 2:23 (NKJV) who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously;
Everyone of us has had something bad said about us. We have all been called names at one time or another. When people talk about you, don't think about or even say what they say about you. Think about what God says about you and then speak that over yourself. If people talk about you tomorrow, remember God has already talked about you yesterday. And if God is always the same, then what He says about you is true not only yesterday, but today, tomorrow and forever. In Christ, He has redeemed, justified, sanctified and set you apart for His purpose. He's already called you prosperous, healed, delivered, fearfully & wonderfully made. He's called you the head, blessed, an overcomer, more than a conqueror, above all, a king, a priest, holy and beloved. God is not waiting for you to become it before He starts saying it. He has already said it. He is waiting for you to get a hold of it and start saying it so you will become it here on earth! Once you start declaring it, it releases God's power to work in your behalf. That's the law of confession. Don't let the judgment of someone else's careless words rest upon you. Commit yourself to the good things that God has said about you and let that be your judgment. What God says is always right!
Have A Blessed Day
Everyone of us has had something bad said about us. We have all been called names at one time or another. When people talk about you, don't think about or even say what they say about you. Think about what God says about you and then speak that over yourself. If people talk about you tomorrow, remember God has already talked about you yesterday. And if God is always the same, then what He says about you is true not only yesterday, but today, tomorrow and forever. In Christ, He has redeemed, justified, sanctified and set you apart for His purpose. He's already called you prosperous, healed, delivered, fearfully & wonderfully made. He's called you the head, blessed, an overcomer, more than a conqueror, above all, a king, a priest, holy and beloved. God is not waiting for you to become it before He starts saying it. He has already said it. He is waiting for you to get a hold of it and start saying it so you will become it here on earth! Once you start declaring it, it releases God's power to work in your behalf. That's the law of confession. Don't let the judgment of someone else's careless words rest upon you. Commit yourself to the good things that God has said about you and let that be your judgment. What God says is always right!
Have A Blessed Day
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
The Secret Garden
Scriptural Authority . . .
Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV)
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
However, God did not intend for this command to give you feelings of inadequacy. Instead, this command illustrates God's desire to include us in His wonderful plan to redeem mankind.
The Secret Garden
Lord draw your church out of the secret garden.
Our courtyard is full of fruit that no one is eating.
You said the fields are white with harvest.
But we continue to water the secret garden.
We continue to plow the dressed field.
The fields aren’t in our walls,
The fields aren’t in our courtyard,
The fields are the world.
God expand my love to your fields
And out of my secret garden.
The secret Garden
By Jeff Ralston
Have A Blessed Day
Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV)
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
However, God did not intend for this command to give you feelings of inadequacy. Instead, this command illustrates God's desire to include us in His wonderful plan to redeem mankind.
The Secret Garden
Lord draw your church out of the secret garden.
Our courtyard is full of fruit that no one is eating.
You said the fields are white with harvest.
But we continue to water the secret garden.
We continue to plow the dressed field.
The fields aren’t in our walls,
The fields aren’t in our courtyard,
The fields are the world.
God expand my love to your fields
And out of my secret garden.
The secret Garden
By Jeff Ralston
Have A Blessed Day
Monday, June 21, 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 Week
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 Week
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Through Christ You Can
Judges 6:15-16 (KJV) And he said unto him, Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house. And the LORD said unto him, Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man.
God doesn't call the able, He enables the called. He doesn't set apart only those who are strong, He gives strength to those He sets apart. Moses couldn't speak, Gideon was the least in his family, David was the youngest, Jacob was the runt, Rahab was a harlot, most of the disciples of Jesus were rejects of society. All through the Bible God used those who, by the world's standards, were insignificant, unqualified, unsuspecting, unable, too young, too old, too small, too ugly, uneducated, unruly and unknowledgeable. Does that mean if you are the opposite of all these things God can't use you? Of course not. However, it does mean that there is no earthly excuse why you can't do something great for God. He is looking for the ones who will answer the call. Jesus stands at the door and knocks. Those who will answer the call, He will do great things with. Don't continue to focus and look at all the things you think you can't do, but instead focus on the biblical truth that through Christ you can do all things!
Have A Blessed Weekend
God doesn't call the able, He enables the called. He doesn't set apart only those who are strong, He gives strength to those He sets apart. Moses couldn't speak, Gideon was the least in his family, David was the youngest, Jacob was the runt, Rahab was a harlot, most of the disciples of Jesus were rejects of society. All through the Bible God used those who, by the world's standards, were insignificant, unqualified, unsuspecting, unable, too young, too old, too small, too ugly, uneducated, unruly and unknowledgeable. Does that mean if you are the opposite of all these things God can't use you? Of course not. However, it does mean that there is no earthly excuse why you can't do something great for God. He is looking for the ones who will answer the call. Jesus stands at the door and knocks. Those who will answer the call, He will do great things with. Don't continue to focus and look at all the things you think you can't do, but instead focus on the biblical truth that through Christ you can do all things!
Have A Blessed Weekend
Friday, June 18, 2010
Reforming The Clay
Jeremiah 18:3-4 (NKJV) Then I went down to the potter’s house, and there he was, making something at the wheel. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make.
When the potter begins to make a vessel of clay, he does not intend for the vessel to become marred. However, if it should become marred, he does not do away with the clay, but still uses it to create something good. In the same way, God does not intend for you to go astray, to experience tragedy, suffer lack or sickness and disease. God is a good God, and He is always good. However, He will not interfere with our will to go our own way, do our own thing and run from Him. He will allow what you will allow. He will warn you and give you a way out of every temptation. Through Jesus, He has given you all the weapons necessary to fight and stand firm against the schemes of the devil. But when we miss it and our lives become marred, if we will seek Him and His wisdom, He will turn every bad and negative situation around and create something beautiful from it.
Have A Blessed day
When the potter begins to make a vessel of clay, he does not intend for the vessel to become marred. However, if it should become marred, he does not do away with the clay, but still uses it to create something good. In the same way, God does not intend for you to go astray, to experience tragedy, suffer lack or sickness and disease. God is a good God, and He is always good. However, He will not interfere with our will to go our own way, do our own thing and run from Him. He will allow what you will allow. He will warn you and give you a way out of every temptation. Through Jesus, He has given you all the weapons necessary to fight and stand firm against the schemes of the devil. But when we miss it and our lives become marred, if we will seek Him and His wisdom, He will turn every bad and negative situation around and create something beautiful from it.
Have A Blessed day
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Stand and Keep Standing
1 Corinthians 10:12-13 (Amplified Bible) Therefore let anyone who thinks he stands [who feels sure that he has a steadfast mind and is standing firm], take heed lest he fall [into sin]. For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where it leads] has overtaken you and laid hold on you that is not common to man [that is, no temptation or trial has come to you that is beyond human resistance and that is not adjusted and adapted and belonging to human experience, and such as man can bear]. But God is faithful [to His Word and to His compassionate nature], and He [can be trusted] not to let you be tempted and tried and assayed beyond your ability and strength of resistance and power to endure, but with the temptation He will [always] also provide the way out (the means of escape to a landing place), that you may be capable and strong and powerful to bear up under it patiently.
Christ is the solid rock on which we stand. God has many promises in His word that we can stand on. He says to stand firm, put on the full armor and keep standing. If God is putting such an emphasis on taking a stand, it must mean that there will be opportunity and temptation to not stand. Stand firm against the schemes of the devil. He wants to shoot his little fiery darts at you - darts of frustration, aggravation, doubt, fear, worry, anxiety, hopelessness and every negative thing. Be aware and alert and be on guard against these feelings and emotions. If the devil can defeat you in your mind, he will whip you every chance he gets. Recognize the temptations to not stand on the word and promises of God. Instead, submit yourself to those promises and resist the devil. God has given us His word to confess as a way out. If we'll confess that word right back in the devil's face like Jesus did in the wilderness, we'll have the victory like Jesus did. Stand firm!
Have A Blessed Day
Christ is the solid rock on which we stand. God has many promises in His word that we can stand on. He says to stand firm, put on the full armor and keep standing. If God is putting such an emphasis on taking a stand, it must mean that there will be opportunity and temptation to not stand. Stand firm against the schemes of the devil. He wants to shoot his little fiery darts at you - darts of frustration, aggravation, doubt, fear, worry, anxiety, hopelessness and every negative thing. Be aware and alert and be on guard against these feelings and emotions. If the devil can defeat you in your mind, he will whip you every chance he gets. Recognize the temptations to not stand on the word and promises of God. Instead, submit yourself to those promises and resist the devil. God has given us His word to confess as a way out. If we'll confess that word right back in the devil's face like Jesus did in the wilderness, we'll have the victory like Jesus did. Stand firm!
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
The Secret of Being Content
Philippians 4:12-13 (NKJV) I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Paul said he had learned the secret of being content (have enough, be sufficient) in every situation. The principle of seedtime and harvest is part of it. You may be facing the toughest scenario today. You may have your back against the wall, a stack of bills you no longer know how to pay, or even a concern of where your next meal will come from. People may have done you wrong, treated you bad, and said mean and unkind things about you. You may be so far down that the only direction you can look is up! However, if you'll take the apostle Paul's advice and practice these things, and think "God thoughts", you'll find that God can and will meet all of your needs according to His riches in glory too!
Have A Blessed day
Paul said he had learned the secret of being content (have enough, be sufficient) in every situation. The principle of seedtime and harvest is part of it. You may be facing the toughest scenario today. You may have your back against the wall, a stack of bills you no longer know how to pay, or even a concern of where your next meal will come from. People may have done you wrong, treated you bad, and said mean and unkind things about you. You may be so far down that the only direction you can look is up! However, if you'll take the apostle Paul's advice and practice these things, and think "God thoughts", you'll find that God can and will meet all of your needs according to His riches in glory too!
Have A Blessed day
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
He Is With You
Psalm 23:4 (KJV) Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
You may be going through the biggest trial in your life. However, you can be encouraged to know that God is with you and He is walking with you to see you through that dark place. The crucifixion of Jesus led to eternal life for mankind. Paul said his imprisonment led to greater opportunity for the gospel. Does that mean that God is doing something bad to you so something good can happen for someone else? No. What is does mean is if all you focus on is the bad that is happening to you then that's all you'll see. But if you will focus on God and how big He is and the fact that He can get you through all the bad, then what is unseen becomes bigger and more powerful than what is seen. You will realize that He is close beside you. You will see that God is for you, so who can be against you? You will see that He is with you and He blesses you. Walk by faith, not by sight because what is seen is temporary and subject to change. But God never changes and His word remains forever.
Have A Blessed Day
You may be going through the biggest trial in your life. However, you can be encouraged to know that God is with you and He is walking with you to see you through that dark place. The crucifixion of Jesus led to eternal life for mankind. Paul said his imprisonment led to greater opportunity for the gospel. Does that mean that God is doing something bad to you so something good can happen for someone else? No. What is does mean is if all you focus on is the bad that is happening to you then that's all you'll see. But if you will focus on God and how big He is and the fact that He can get you through all the bad, then what is unseen becomes bigger and more powerful than what is seen. You will realize that He is close beside you. You will see that God is for you, so who can be against you? You will see that He is with you and He blesses you. Walk by faith, not by sight because what is seen is temporary and subject to change. But God never changes and His word remains forever.
Have A Blessed Day
Monday, June 14, 2010
Confusion or Peace?
1 Corinthians 14:33 (KJV) For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.
When you have decisions to make, you can know that you are making the right decision when you seek the Lord first. He is not the author of confusion, but will lead you in the way of peace. If after much prayer you are still confused, it is time to wait for the peace of God. If you have a mental lack of clarity it is best to wait instead of making a rash decision. If the decision you are about to make does not give you an inner quietness and rest, it is best to continue seeking God through prayer and reading the Bible for clear direction. God may not always give you the full picture of every infinite detail, but what He will give you is peace.
Have A Blessed Week
When you have decisions to make, you can know that you are making the right decision when you seek the Lord first. He is not the author of confusion, but will lead you in the way of peace. If after much prayer you are still confused, it is time to wait for the peace of God. If you have a mental lack of clarity it is best to wait instead of making a rash decision. If the decision you are about to make does not give you an inner quietness and rest, it is best to continue seeking God through prayer and reading the Bible for clear direction. God may not always give you the full picture of every infinite detail, but what He will give you is peace.
Have A Blessed Week
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Strong Words
Ephesians 4:15 (Amplified Bible) Rather, let our lives lovingly express truth [in all things, speaking truly, dealing truly, living truly]. Enfolded in love, let us grow up in every way and in all things into Him Who is the Head, [even] Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
Our words are powerful. They can be used to encourage and edify, or they can be used to attack and humiliate. We often forget the power of the spoken word, and are all too often careless with what is said. Jesus tells us in Matthew 12:36, "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment." He also said, "Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man" (Matthew 15:11). With every spoken word comes a great responsibility in the administration of a word. This is not to make us overly anxious, or overly self conscious. But it is to make us take care in what comes out of our mouths, that our mouths become nurturing rivers of life, and not loose cannons.
Have A Blessed day
Our words are powerful. They can be used to encourage and edify, or they can be used to attack and humiliate. We often forget the power of the spoken word, and are all too often careless with what is said. Jesus tells us in Matthew 12:36, "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment." He also said, "Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man" (Matthew 15:11). With every spoken word comes a great responsibility in the administration of a word. This is not to make us overly anxious, or overly self conscious. But it is to make us take care in what comes out of our mouths, that our mouths become nurturing rivers of life, and not loose cannons.
Have A Blessed day
Friday, June 11, 2010
Perspective
Ephesians 2:6 (KJV) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
How is your perspective today? Are your looking at life like the rest of the world and being fearful and overcome by the circumstances you see, or are you looking at life from a heavenly perspective where all your needs are met? In Christ Jesus, you are not like the rest of the world who has no hope. From your heavenly position in Christ, you have God's peace, wisdom and ability at your disposal. You are not at a disadvantage like the rest of the unsaved world. You have the hope of Glory, Jesus Christ on the inside of you and you can deal with things from a higher position in wisdom, peace, provision, protection and ability. If you're not more than a conqueror today, simply change your perspective and start seeing things from a higher position - from heavenly places where you are seated with Christ.
Have a Blessed Day
How is your perspective today? Are your looking at life like the rest of the world and being fearful and overcome by the circumstances you see, or are you looking at life from a heavenly perspective where all your needs are met? In Christ Jesus, you are not like the rest of the world who has no hope. From your heavenly position in Christ, you have God's peace, wisdom and ability at your disposal. You are not at a disadvantage like the rest of the unsaved world. You have the hope of Glory, Jesus Christ on the inside of you and you can deal with things from a higher position in wisdom, peace, provision, protection and ability. If you're not more than a conqueror today, simply change your perspective and start seeing things from a higher position - from heavenly places where you are seated with Christ.
Have a Blessed Day
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Confusion
Acts 19:32 (NKJV) Some therefore cried one thing and some another, for the assembly was confused, and most of them did not know why they had come together.
God is not a God of confusion, ( 1 Corinthians 14:33) but of peace. Confusion is a demonic spirit and it's cohorts are chaos and busyness. There's an old saying that goes "if you don't make a decision, someone will make it for you". This is so true, especially the world we live in today. There is always something to occupy your time, and if you don't spend time with the Lord every morning, putting Him first in your life, you will be subject to one busy thing after another, never getting around to doing the things you need to do, and never seeming to have the time to do them. Your life should be productive, not preoccupied. Doing one thing well and getting it completed is better than doing five things half-way. If you always seem to have way too many irons in the fire, maybe it's time to re-evaluate the activities you are involved in. Don't live a life of confusion. Don't let chaos and meaningless busyness prevail. Make every move count, let everything be done decently and orderly before the Lord and you'll have peace.
Have A Blessed day
God is not a God of confusion, ( 1 Corinthians 14:33) but of peace. Confusion is a demonic spirit and it's cohorts are chaos and busyness. There's an old saying that goes "if you don't make a decision, someone will make it for you". This is so true, especially the world we live in today. There is always something to occupy your time, and if you don't spend time with the Lord every morning, putting Him first in your life, you will be subject to one busy thing after another, never getting around to doing the things you need to do, and never seeming to have the time to do them. Your life should be productive, not preoccupied. Doing one thing well and getting it completed is better than doing five things half-way. If you always seem to have way too many irons in the fire, maybe it's time to re-evaluate the activities you are involved in. Don't live a life of confusion. Don't let chaos and meaningless busyness prevail. Make every move count, let everything be done decently and orderly before the Lord and you'll have peace.
Have A Blessed day
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Penciled In
Ecclesiastes 2:11 (NKJV)Then I looked on all the works that my hands had done And on the labor in which I had toiled; And indeed all was vanity and grasping for the wind. There was no profit under the sun.
I think it is a terrible truth how much Christian activity is lived like an appointment penciled in—easily erased if something of seeming greater importance comes along. Quiet times with our Lord, Bible study, quality prayer time, and serving God are so very often the casualties in the competition for our time and attention. And for what? For what things do the things of God take second place. I am seldom late for work, or a doctor’s appointment, or the start time of my favorite television show. Why is it I hold my appointments with God with less esteem? Each time with God is crucial to my existence—every moment with Him is vital for my life, health, and happiness. I lay down with the best intentions that tomorrow will be better, and when the day progresses, too often I am erasing again my appointment with Him, and say to myself, “Maybe tomorrow…”
Have A Blessed Day
I think it is a terrible truth how much Christian activity is lived like an appointment penciled in—easily erased if something of seeming greater importance comes along. Quiet times with our Lord, Bible study, quality prayer time, and serving God are so very often the casualties in the competition for our time and attention. And for what? For what things do the things of God take second place. I am seldom late for work, or a doctor’s appointment, or the start time of my favorite television show. Why is it I hold my appointments with God with less esteem? Each time with God is crucial to my existence—every moment with Him is vital for my life, health, and happiness. I lay down with the best intentions that tomorrow will be better, and when the day progresses, too often I am erasing again my appointment with Him, and say to myself, “Maybe tomorrow…”
Have A Blessed Day
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Make Room For God
Leviticus 26:9-11 (Amplified Bible) For I will be leaning toward you with favor and regard for you, rendering you fruitful, multiplying you, and establishing and ratifying My covenant with you.And you shall eat the [abundant] old store of produce long kept, and clear out the old [to make room] for the new. I will set My dwelling in and among you, and My soul shall not despise or reject or separate itself from you.
When you are in covenant with God and put Him first place in your life, He surrounds you with his favor and causes you to increase in every area of your life. Does it happen automatically? No. For a harvest to come something must first be planted. God gives seed to the sower. When He gives you peace, you then sow that peace into someone else's life. The joy He gives you, you pass on. When the blessing of the word of God is spoken into your life, you speak a blessing into someone else's life. When you give of your time and resources to further the kingdom of God, you are planting a field that will come to harvest. When you give to the poor, the Lord gives back to you. When you let go of what is in your hand, God let's go of what is in His hand. You can't grab what He has for you if you're not willing to let go of what you are holding on to. When many people are in famine and recession, God can cause you to flourish in the land. Are you making room for Him in your life? Are you making room for the blessings He wants to send your way, or are you trying to hold onto everything you have?
Have A Blessed day
When you are in covenant with God and put Him first place in your life, He surrounds you with his favor and causes you to increase in every area of your life. Does it happen automatically? No. For a harvest to come something must first be planted. God gives seed to the sower. When He gives you peace, you then sow that peace into someone else's life. The joy He gives you, you pass on. When the blessing of the word of God is spoken into your life, you speak a blessing into someone else's life. When you give of your time and resources to further the kingdom of God, you are planting a field that will come to harvest. When you give to the poor, the Lord gives back to you. When you let go of what is in your hand, God let's go of what is in His hand. You can't grab what He has for you if you're not willing to let go of what you are holding on to. When many people are in famine and recession, God can cause you to flourish in the land. Are you making room for Him in your life? Are you making room for the blessings He wants to send your way, or are you trying to hold onto everything you have?
Have A Blessed day
Monday, June 7, 2010
Trust and Believe
Psalm 27:13 (NKJV) I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.
Where is your trust? Many people have put their trust in their employers, their retirement accounts, their savings, the government or themselves, and now that many of those things have failed, or are failing them, they are in a state of despair. They have no hope, no peace, no security. When you have left yourself no other options aside from God acting in your life and on your behalf, then you have come to the place where you have fully put your trust in Him. Moses had led all of Israel out of Egypt to the banks of the Red sea. Pharaoh and his army behind them, the depths of the sea in front of them. Moses had no other option except to trust in God, and God delivered them. In the time of famine, Elijah had no other options except to trust God that He would truly send the ravens to feed him on the riverbank. When you truly believe that what God has promised, He will do for you, there's nothing that will get you into despair. There's nothing that can steal your peace, your hope or your security. Jesus said all things are possible for them that believe. Put your total and complete trust in God. He said that when you abide and trust in Him, you will behold His salvation and He will protect you and satisfy you with long life!
Have A Blessed Week
Where is your trust? Many people have put their trust in their employers, their retirement accounts, their savings, the government or themselves, and now that many of those things have failed, or are failing them, they are in a state of despair. They have no hope, no peace, no security. When you have left yourself no other options aside from God acting in your life and on your behalf, then you have come to the place where you have fully put your trust in Him. Moses had led all of Israel out of Egypt to the banks of the Red sea. Pharaoh and his army behind them, the depths of the sea in front of them. Moses had no other option except to trust in God, and God delivered them. In the time of famine, Elijah had no other options except to trust God that He would truly send the ravens to feed him on the riverbank. When you truly believe that what God has promised, He will do for you, there's nothing that will get you into despair. There's nothing that can steal your peace, your hope or your security. Jesus said all things are possible for them that believe. Put your total and complete trust in God. He said that when you abide and trust in Him, you will behold His salvation and He will protect you and satisfy you with long life!
Have A Blessed Week
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Traditions
Mark 7:6-8 (The Message) Jesus answered, "Isaiah was right about frauds like you, hit the bull's-eye in fact: These people make a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart isn't in it. They act like they are worshiping me, but they don't mean it. They just use me as a cover for teaching whatever suits their fancy, Ditching God's command and taking up the latest fads."
It has been said that the seven last words of a dying church are, “We’ve never done it that way before.” It is only too easy for us to get set, or sometimes cemented, in our ways. We would not say, “I am fully mature in Christ…I have no need to grow anymore,” would we? Just as we do not have all the answers for ourselves for this life, we also have much to learn when it comes to God’s church, and what He desires to see happen within it. Clinging to our traditions is often seen as quite harmless, but if we put our ways of doing things above the commands of God, it is nothing less than sin. Jesus said in Matthew 28:19-20 ?????? Refresh your memory Read it. we need to be about the Fathers business.
Have A Blessed Weekend
It has been said that the seven last words of a dying church are, “We’ve never done it that way before.” It is only too easy for us to get set, or sometimes cemented, in our ways. We would not say, “I am fully mature in Christ…I have no need to grow anymore,” would we? Just as we do not have all the answers for ourselves for this life, we also have much to learn when it comes to God’s church, and what He desires to see happen within it. Clinging to our traditions is often seen as quite harmless, but if we put our ways of doing things above the commands of God, it is nothing less than sin. Jesus said in Matthew 28:19-20 ?????? Refresh your memory Read it. we need to be about the Fathers business.
Have A Blessed Weekend
Friday, June 4, 2010
Our Father Knows Best
1 Corinthians 13:12 (KJV) For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
This lifetime here, at times, seems immense. So much so, that it makes it so easy to forget the eternity that follows. We are, unfortunately, creatures of the moment, it seems. Whatever makes me feel good now, or meets my immediate need, or brings me satisfaction today becomes the proverbial squeaky wheel that gets the grease. And we--we are so often foolish and frail, falling easily; giving ear to Satan’s lies; forsaking God’s truth and His will for momentary satisfaction. And in that moment we turn from God to take hold of our desires today, we can so easily destroy our tomorrows. We know He knows what’s best for us. We know that if only we will trust Him with today, He will take us into our tomorrows and bless us along the way. He will enable us not to stumble today in the wake of poor and selfish choices, but help us instead to choose rightly. And He will show us in the days to come that, though we could not see it, He had it all worked out all along.
Have A Blessed Day
This lifetime here, at times, seems immense. So much so, that it makes it so easy to forget the eternity that follows. We are, unfortunately, creatures of the moment, it seems. Whatever makes me feel good now, or meets my immediate need, or brings me satisfaction today becomes the proverbial squeaky wheel that gets the grease. And we--we are so often foolish and frail, falling easily; giving ear to Satan’s lies; forsaking God’s truth and His will for momentary satisfaction. And in that moment we turn from God to take hold of our desires today, we can so easily destroy our tomorrows. We know He knows what’s best for us. We know that if only we will trust Him with today, He will take us into our tomorrows and bless us along the way. He will enable us not to stumble today in the wake of poor and selfish choices, but help us instead to choose rightly. And He will show us in the days to come that, though we could not see it, He had it all worked out all along.
Have A Blessed Day
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Submit To God
James 4:7 (King James Version) Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Submitting to God is to submit (assign yourself to a right position) to His rule, power and authority in your life. When trouble comes, when testing and temptation comes, submit to the things that produce righteousness, joy and peace. It is also what Jesus said "seeking the kingdom of heaven first." If you submit to cussing and screaming first, then you are submitting to the kingdom of darkness and you begin to lose your joy and your peace. But if you'll stand on the promises and word of God like Jesus did in Luke 4, the devil will flee, or run away from you every time. You are over-coming the tests and temptations by submitting to God, and by resisting the devil you are keeping yourself from falling into his traps. If you don't submit to God, then you will fall prey to the devil and you'll begin to be frustrated and aggravated, depressed, worried, fearful, angry and full of turmoil. How do you submit to God? You begin to speak life into the circumstances. One example would be "I have the mind of Christ! I can hear the voice of God and His wisdom is guiding me in this situation. I have the peace of God and His peace is ruling over this situation." If you'll make this a practice in your life every day, it won't mean that trouble won't come. However, instead of being under the gun and behind the eight ball, you'll learn to rise above and live the life of an over-comer that God wants you to be!
Have A Blessed Day
Submitting to God is to submit (assign yourself to a right position) to His rule, power and authority in your life. When trouble comes, when testing and temptation comes, submit to the things that produce righteousness, joy and peace. It is also what Jesus said "seeking the kingdom of heaven first." If you submit to cussing and screaming first, then you are submitting to the kingdom of darkness and you begin to lose your joy and your peace. But if you'll stand on the promises and word of God like Jesus did in Luke 4, the devil will flee, or run away from you every time. You are over-coming the tests and temptations by submitting to God, and by resisting the devil you are keeping yourself from falling into his traps. If you don't submit to God, then you will fall prey to the devil and you'll begin to be frustrated and aggravated, depressed, worried, fearful, angry and full of turmoil. How do you submit to God? You begin to speak life into the circumstances. One example would be "I have the mind of Christ! I can hear the voice of God and His wisdom is guiding me in this situation. I have the peace of God and His peace is ruling over this situation." If you'll make this a practice in your life every day, it won't mean that trouble won't come. However, instead of being under the gun and behind the eight ball, you'll learn to rise above and live the life of an over-comer that God wants you to be!
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Peace and Provision
Isaiah 9:7 (KJV) Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
There is no government system of this world that is immune to decline. As the Bible says in the book of Daniel, every world government system will eventually fail. Is this bad news? Is this scary? It doesn't have to be. If you've set your treasures up in heaven and are seeking first the Kingdom of God, then God has promised to meet all of your needs according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus - not according to this world system. What does this mean? It means if you put your faith and trust in God, He will meet all your needs even when the world around you is crumbling. Does this mean that it's going to be easy and you won't have to fight the good fight of faith? Of course not. But, God's system of government is one of increase, not decrease. And, when you're seeking first the kingdom of God, there is an endless supply of peace available to you in the midst of a world in chaos. So make the commitment to seek first the kingdom of God every day and endeavor to find your purpose in who God created you to be. As you do, you'll enter into His rest and the peace of God will surround your heart and mind.
Have A Blessed Day
There is no government system of this world that is immune to decline. As the Bible says in the book of Daniel, every world government system will eventually fail. Is this bad news? Is this scary? It doesn't have to be. If you've set your treasures up in heaven and are seeking first the Kingdom of God, then God has promised to meet all of your needs according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus - not according to this world system. What does this mean? It means if you put your faith and trust in God, He will meet all your needs even when the world around you is crumbling. Does this mean that it's going to be easy and you won't have to fight the good fight of faith? Of course not. But, God's system of government is one of increase, not decrease. And, when you're seeking first the kingdom of God, there is an endless supply of peace available to you in the midst of a world in chaos. So make the commitment to seek first the kingdom of God every day and endeavor to find your purpose in who God created you to be. As you do, you'll enter into His rest and the peace of God will surround your heart and mind.
Have A Blessed Day
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
The Path Of Blessing
Job 24:13 (KJV)They are of those that rebel against the light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof.
There is a narrow path that leads to life, and a wide path that leads to destruction. There is a path of blessing, and a way of the curse. There is a way that seems right to man, but it's end is destruction. There is a path of life, and a path of death. God has give us the power and ability to choose which way we go. On His path that He has planned for each of us, there is provision, protection, life, peace & joy. When we walk the right path, we experience the blessing. If we go our own way, there is the curse, which is the absence of blessing. When we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, we put our self in right position with God on His path of blessing. If we decide to go our own way, there is no blessing. God has provided the way that we should go and He is not obligated to change His plan to fit our agenda. If we seek first His kingdom, He will guide us in the way to go. On His path there is light and no darkness. There is peace and no strife. There is joy, not depression. Trust the Holy Spirit to guide you. If you have the mind of Christ, you can hear His voice and you can know the way.
Have A Blessed Day
There is a narrow path that leads to life, and a wide path that leads to destruction. There is a path of blessing, and a way of the curse. There is a way that seems right to man, but it's end is destruction. There is a path of life, and a path of death. God has give us the power and ability to choose which way we go. On His path that He has planned for each of us, there is provision, protection, life, peace & joy. When we walk the right path, we experience the blessing. If we go our own way, there is the curse, which is the absence of blessing. When we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, we put our self in right position with God on His path of blessing. If we decide to go our own way, there is no blessing. God has provided the way that we should go and He is not obligated to change His plan to fit our agenda. If we seek first His kingdom, He will guide us in the way to go. On His path there is light and no darkness. There is peace and no strife. There is joy, not depression. Trust the Holy Spirit to guide you. If you have the mind of Christ, you can hear His voice and you can know the way.
Have A Blessed Day
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