1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NKJV) Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Complaining, being negative and focusing on problems never solved anything. If there's a problem to deal with, we can be thankful to God that He can and will show us the answer. It's a matter of perspective. Focus on the problem and complain about how bad it is and say every negative thought that comes to your mind, OR focus on God who provides the solution and be thankful that He is able to help you through it. For every evil and negative thing the devil brings about, there is a good and positive counterpart that God can bring about. Great big God and little bitty devil. Good overcomes evil and light extinguishes darkness. To be Kingdom minded is life, to be worldly minded or carnally minded is death. Focus on the good that God brings into your life and the negative will become smaller and smaller.
Have A Blessed Day
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Words of Healing
Proverbs 12:18 (Amplified Bible) There are those who speak rashly, like the piercing of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
You've heard the old sayings "Think before you speak", and "Choose your words wisely." Words that are spoken hastily can more times than not, be words that tear down, not build up. Words can cut like a knife and do damage to the soul of the ones they are directed towards. Words can cause deep wounds and offenses, but words can also bring peace and healing. There is much wisdom in thinking before you speak. You can be the person today who either causes the ruckus, or stops it by simply speaking the right words. I'm not talking about being "politically correct" or avoiding the truth, but there is something the bible calls "speaking the truth in love". Even a word of correction or rebuke can be said in such a way that helps the one who needs to hear it, instead of offending them. Avoid the offense today by walking in the wisdom of God. Use your words to bring peace, not destruction.
Have A Blessed day
You've heard the old sayings "Think before you speak", and "Choose your words wisely." Words that are spoken hastily can more times than not, be words that tear down, not build up. Words can cut like a knife and do damage to the soul of the ones they are directed towards. Words can cause deep wounds and offenses, but words can also bring peace and healing. There is much wisdom in thinking before you speak. You can be the person today who either causes the ruckus, or stops it by simply speaking the right words. I'm not talking about being "politically correct" or avoiding the truth, but there is something the bible calls "speaking the truth in love". Even a word of correction or rebuke can be said in such a way that helps the one who needs to hear it, instead of offending them. Avoid the offense today by walking in the wisdom of God. Use your words to bring peace, not destruction.
Have A Blessed day
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Re-new your mind
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
In 2 Corinthians 5:17, the scripture tells us that when we accept Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, old things are passed away and all things become new! At that very moment, on the inside, in our spirit, we are created in the image of Christ. However, our mind, will, and emotions (soul), do not automatically change. As human beings, living in a carnal world, we still have carnal thoughts. Satan attacks us in the realm of our thought life and tries to get us to think carnally. When we think carnal thoughts, we often times feel condemned and ashamed! This is a playground for the devil! Thank God we do have a way in which we can renew our minds! “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God”. (Romans 12:2). In order for us to think, act, and speak like God, we must renew our mind with HIS word. As we grow and develop in His word, we take hold of our thought life and bring it into subjection with the spirit!
Have a blessed day!
Susan White
In 2 Corinthians 5:17, the scripture tells us that when we accept Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, old things are passed away and all things become new! At that very moment, on the inside, in our spirit, we are created in the image of Christ. However, our mind, will, and emotions (soul), do not automatically change. As human beings, living in a carnal world, we still have carnal thoughts. Satan attacks us in the realm of our thought life and tries to get us to think carnally. When we think carnal thoughts, we often times feel condemned and ashamed! This is a playground for the devil! Thank God we do have a way in which we can renew our minds! “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God”. (Romans 12:2). In order for us to think, act, and speak like God, we must renew our mind with HIS word. As we grow and develop in His word, we take hold of our thought life and bring it into subjection with the spirit!
Have a blessed day!
Susan White
Monday, September 27, 2010
Set Free
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
- Galatians 5:1
As believers in Jesus Christ, we have been set free to live life to the full and serve one another in love. That simply means do not let yourself be burdened by rules and regulations. You have the Holy Spirit on the inside of you and God desires that you learn how to recognize and listen to the leading of His voice, not try and keep a list of rules. You have been freed from every kind of bondage, whether it be depression, fear, lack, poverty, self-doubt, discouragement, physical bondages, emotional and mental problems, stress, anger, rage, etc... the list goes on. Though you may have lived with these negative elements before you got saved, you no longer have to be subject to their oppression. You now have the spirit of God on the inside of you and the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth - the name above all names. The name that every other name bows down to. You have been set free by the God of the universe. Guard that freedom with all you have and don't allow any negative thing to hold you captive any more! Decide today to verbally renounce those things and the devil that brings them against you. Greater is God who is in you, than the devil who is in the world. You have been set free to be the person God created you to be!
Have A Blessed day
- Galatians 5:1
As believers in Jesus Christ, we have been set free to live life to the full and serve one another in love. That simply means do not let yourself be burdened by rules and regulations. You have the Holy Spirit on the inside of you and God desires that you learn how to recognize and listen to the leading of His voice, not try and keep a list of rules. You have been freed from every kind of bondage, whether it be depression, fear, lack, poverty, self-doubt, discouragement, physical bondages, emotional and mental problems, stress, anger, rage, etc... the list goes on. Though you may have lived with these negative elements before you got saved, you no longer have to be subject to their oppression. You now have the spirit of God on the inside of you and the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth - the name above all names. The name that every other name bows down to. You have been set free by the God of the universe. Guard that freedom with all you have and don't allow any negative thing to hold you captive any more! Decide today to verbally renounce those things and the devil that brings them against you. Greater is God who is in you, than the devil who is in the world. You have been set free to be the person God created you to be!
Have A Blessed day
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Believe and Receive
Hebrews 13:8 (NKJV) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
God’s word never changes! He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8). Whatever He says in His word He will do! His word is His will. Legally, a will is a document that grants a survivor specific rights or possessions upon death. For example, let’s say someone states in his or her will that upon death you will receive a plot of land, a sum of money, or even a sentimental possession. Whatever that will states, is what you are entitled to receive. It’s a gift! However, in order to validate the will, or be able to use the gifts, an action is required on the part of the receiver! The land, money or the possession won’t be yours until you take them! Jesus said in Mark 11:24, “when you stand praying you must believe that you receive.” Notice this verse has two parts, believing and receiving. Believing is the first step, but in order to fulfill the terms of the will, you must believe that you “receive”, or simply, “take it”. Jesus has already fulfilled the terms of God’s will through His death, burial, and resurrection! He said, “Ask anything according to His will and He will do it.” In order for the will to be validated, you must take it! You must believe and “RECEIVE
Have A Blessed day
By Susan White
God’s word never changes! He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8). Whatever He says in His word He will do! His word is His will. Legally, a will is a document that grants a survivor specific rights or possessions upon death. For example, let’s say someone states in his or her will that upon death you will receive a plot of land, a sum of money, or even a sentimental possession. Whatever that will states, is what you are entitled to receive. It’s a gift! However, in order to validate the will, or be able to use the gifts, an action is required on the part of the receiver! The land, money or the possession won’t be yours until you take them! Jesus said in Mark 11:24, “when you stand praying you must believe that you receive.” Notice this verse has two parts, believing and receiving. Believing is the first step, but in order to fulfill the terms of the will, you must believe that you “receive”, or simply, “take it”. Jesus has already fulfilled the terms of God’s will through His death, burial, and resurrection! He said, “Ask anything according to His will and He will do it.” In order for the will to be validated, you must take it! You must believe and “RECEIVE
Have A Blessed day
By Susan White
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Reach Out
Proverbs 25:25 (NKJV) As cold water to a weary soul, So is good news from a far country.
There is a saying that goes something like this: To the world, you are just one person; but to one person, you are the world. There is someone today that needs to hear your voice on the phone. Someone, somewhere, needs the encouragement that you can give. As you go through your day and begin to think of someone you haven't seen, spoken to or thought of in a long time, don't pass it off - it may be God telling you that they need to hear from you. The ministry of reconciliation that you have, is the hope that they need to hear about today. Don't pass up an opportunity to give someone good news of encouragement, hope, peace, salvation, friendship, love, etc. You are chosen of God - called for such a time as this. You have God's strength, wisdom, grace, love, joy, peace and kindness operating on the inside of you. Freely you have received, freely give. In Jesus Christ, you are the light of the world. Take the opportunity to brighten someone's day!
Have A Blessed Day
There is a saying that goes something like this: To the world, you are just one person; but to one person, you are the world. There is someone today that needs to hear your voice on the phone. Someone, somewhere, needs the encouragement that you can give. As you go through your day and begin to think of someone you haven't seen, spoken to or thought of in a long time, don't pass it off - it may be God telling you that they need to hear from you. The ministry of reconciliation that you have, is the hope that they need to hear about today. Don't pass up an opportunity to give someone good news of encouragement, hope, peace, salvation, friendship, love, etc. You are chosen of God - called for such a time as this. You have God's strength, wisdom, grace, love, joy, peace and kindness operating on the inside of you. Freely you have received, freely give. In Jesus Christ, you are the light of the world. Take the opportunity to brighten someone's day!
Have A Blessed Day
Friday, September 24, 2010
Persistence
Luke 11:10 (Amplified Bible) For everyone who asks and keeps on asking receives; and he who seeks and keeps on seeking finds; and to him who knocks and keeps on knocking, the door shall be opened.
Persistence. Is it something you lack or something that defines you? The devil is very persistent in his schemes. He constantly bombards you with thoughts and all sorts of things to distract you, to keep you down, and to restrict you to a mediocre life. But what about us when it comes to spiritual things? Oh, we're persistent when it comes to money. We fight to the finish when it comes to getting a better deal on a car, finding the right gift for someone, or acquiring something we want or desire. But when it comes to the things of God, do we carry that persistence over into the spiritual area? Most people pray once, or they ask once, or they seek for a little bit, and when they don't feel like they've heard anything from God they give up. The Lord says to believe you receive when you pray. That is where faith comes in. Faith does not give up, so along with faith is persistence. These verses teach that it's the one who asks and keeps on asking, receives. The one who seeks and keeps on seeking, finds. And the one who knocks and keeps on knocking, it is opened. When it comes to God, don't just try once and give up. Be persistent.
Have A Blessed day
Persistence. Is it something you lack or something that defines you? The devil is very persistent in his schemes. He constantly bombards you with thoughts and all sorts of things to distract you, to keep you down, and to restrict you to a mediocre life. But what about us when it comes to spiritual things? Oh, we're persistent when it comes to money. We fight to the finish when it comes to getting a better deal on a car, finding the right gift for someone, or acquiring something we want or desire. But when it comes to the things of God, do we carry that persistence over into the spiritual area? Most people pray once, or they ask once, or they seek for a little bit, and when they don't feel like they've heard anything from God they give up. The Lord says to believe you receive when you pray. That is where faith comes in. Faith does not give up, so along with faith is persistence. These verses teach that it's the one who asks and keeps on asking, receives. The one who seeks and keeps on seeking, finds. And the one who knocks and keeps on knocking, it is opened. When it comes to God, don't just try once and give up. Be persistent.
Have A Blessed day
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Overcome Evil
Romans 12:21 (The Message) Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
Life is full of choices. There are many opportunities everyday to let evil prevail, or to overcome evil with good. When someone talks behind your back, it's easy to repay evil with evil by talking behind their back, or simply blow it off and let peace prevail. When someone does you wrong, it may be human nature to get revenge, but a citizen of the kingdom of God knows that vengeance belongs to the Lord. As you learn to let the peace of God reign and rule in your life, it becomes easier to rise above negative situations. Don't give in to speaking and acting evil, but instead say "I release the peace of God into this situation" and you'll find yourself taking the high road every time.
Have A Blessed Day
Life is full of choices. There are many opportunities everyday to let evil prevail, or to overcome evil with good. When someone talks behind your back, it's easy to repay evil with evil by talking behind their back, or simply blow it off and let peace prevail. When someone does you wrong, it may be human nature to get revenge, but a citizen of the kingdom of God knows that vengeance belongs to the Lord. As you learn to let the peace of God reign and rule in your life, it becomes easier to rise above negative situations. Don't give in to speaking and acting evil, but instead say "I release the peace of God into this situation" and you'll find yourself taking the high road every time.
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Release The Feast
Psalm 23:5 (NKJV) You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.
God's plan for you is to have victory and overcome the circumstances in life. When the devil comes in to steal, kill and destroy you, God wants to give you life more abundantly through Jesus Christ. When life has been one setback after another, right in the midst of the nay-sayers, God wants to promote you when you put Him first place in your life. He is looking for the one who will look to Him so He can show that what is impossible with man is possible with God. With all the evil and destructive works that the devil brings about, God doesn't want to bring in more destruction to show His greatness. No, He wants to show His greatness by finding someone to bless. Someone who will forsake it all to live for Him so He can release His blessing into the earth through them. And He wants to do it right in the midst and presence of your enemies. He wants to show that when they said you can't, God says you can. When they say there's no way you'll ever get out of the hole you're in, God says he will make you greater than before and restore double what the enemy has stolen. When they say there's lack and recession, God wants to show that His people continue to increase and prosper. Who will choose His kingdom and His way of doing things, to be anointed and set apart to have their life overflow with blessings? You don't have to wait until you get to heaven to experience the blessings. God wants to do it here and now in the presence of your enemies.
Have A Blessed Day
God's plan for you is to have victory and overcome the circumstances in life. When the devil comes in to steal, kill and destroy you, God wants to give you life more abundantly through Jesus Christ. When life has been one setback after another, right in the midst of the nay-sayers, God wants to promote you when you put Him first place in your life. He is looking for the one who will look to Him so He can show that what is impossible with man is possible with God. With all the evil and destructive works that the devil brings about, God doesn't want to bring in more destruction to show His greatness. No, He wants to show His greatness by finding someone to bless. Someone who will forsake it all to live for Him so He can release His blessing into the earth through them. And He wants to do it right in the midst and presence of your enemies. He wants to show that when they said you can't, God says you can. When they say there's no way you'll ever get out of the hole you're in, God says he will make you greater than before and restore double what the enemy has stolen. When they say there's lack and recession, God wants to show that His people continue to increase and prosper. Who will choose His kingdom and His way of doing things, to be anointed and set apart to have their life overflow with blessings? You don't have to wait until you get to heaven to experience the blessings. God wants to do it here and now in the presence of your enemies.
Have A Blessed Day
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Blind Sighted
Matthew 15:14 (The Message) Jesus shrugged it off. "Every tree that wasn't planted by my Father in heaven will be pulled up by its roots. Forget them. They are blind men leading blind men. When a blind man leads a blind man, they both end up in the ditch."
Ever notice how children and teens often will take the advice a peer offers, over that of a parent. For some strange reason, so many people will more readily accept the thoughts and opinions of someone at the same life-stage as themselves, rather than that of someone who has many more years of experience from which to offer counsel. It is often frustrating to a parent when a child rejects good sound counsel to blindly follow the words of a friend who knows no more than the child does. How much more might we consider the same thing about how God sees us? It must trouble Him to see his children blindly follow poor advice and “reasonable” worldly counsel. But so often we turn a deaf ear to God in favor of personal experience, or experience of others, when what He offers is the best counsel we could ever possibly receive.
Have A Blessed Day
Ever notice how children and teens often will take the advice a peer offers, over that of a parent. For some strange reason, so many people will more readily accept the thoughts and opinions of someone at the same life-stage as themselves, rather than that of someone who has many more years of experience from which to offer counsel. It is often frustrating to a parent when a child rejects good sound counsel to blindly follow the words of a friend who knows no more than the child does. How much more might we consider the same thing about how God sees us? It must trouble Him to see his children blindly follow poor advice and “reasonable” worldly counsel. But so often we turn a deaf ear to God in favor of personal experience, or experience of others, when what He offers is the best counsel we could ever possibly receive.
Have A Blessed Day
Monday, September 20, 2010
HAUNTED BY YOUR PAST
Have you ever been haunted by your past...by stuff like over resent or many years ago I mean HAUNTED!! Do you try so hard to just dismiss it all mentally, but the dang video just kept showing in your head!
Nobody knows it. On the outside, it looks like business as usual....everything looks great. But inside, it is like your own private hell. Guilt and shame; self condemnation and self hatred.
Do you ever tell God, I would change all those things I did if I could...but I can't change them now. Please help me.
I am so thankful for what the Lord told me!! He said, "I OWN YOUR PAST!"
"I BOUGHT IT"
"I AM NOW RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR PAST"
Oh Praise You Jesus!! It will totally set you free!! He loves me. And He loves you too! I pray your past is in Jesus' hands!! You know what? I also know that my present belongs to Jesus, and my future too!
He totally annihilated what was haunting me, and he will totally annihilate what is haunting you.
What can wash away my sin, nothing but the Blood of Jesus, What can make me whole again, nothing but the Blood of Jesus. Oh precious is the flow that makes me white as snow No other fount I know NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD OF JESUS!
Psalm 103:12 (NKJV) As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
So far hath he removed our transgressions from us - That is, he has put them entirely away. They are so removed that they cannot affect us any more. We are safe from all condemnation for our sins, as if they had not been committed at all.
1 John 1:9 (NKJV) 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 Week
Nobody knows it. On the outside, it looks like business as usual....everything looks great. But inside, it is like your own private hell. Guilt and shame; self condemnation and self hatred.
Do you ever tell God, I would change all those things I did if I could...but I can't change them now. Please help me.
I am so thankful for what the Lord told me!! He said, "I OWN YOUR PAST!"
"I BOUGHT IT"
"I AM NOW RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR PAST"
Oh Praise You Jesus!! It will totally set you free!! He loves me. And He loves you too! I pray your past is in Jesus' hands!! You know what? I also know that my present belongs to Jesus, and my future too!
He totally annihilated what was haunting me, and he will totally annihilate what is haunting you.
What can wash away my sin, nothing but the Blood of Jesus, What can make me whole again, nothing but the Blood of Jesus. Oh precious is the flow that makes me white as snow No other fount I know NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD OF JESUS!
Psalm 103:12 (NKJV) As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
So far hath he removed our transgressions from us - That is, he has put them entirely away. They are so removed that they cannot affect us any more. We are safe from all condemnation for our sins, as if they had not been committed at all.
1 John 1:9 (NKJV) 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 Week
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Showing The Truth
1 John 3:18 (NKJV) My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.
The kingdom of God is not about rules, regulations, or do's and don'ts. It is about righteousness, joy and peace, working or acting out in love. Actions speak louder than words and a sermon is better lived, rather than spoken. There is a phrase that says "what would Jesus do", but if we only say the words without actually doing what Jesus did, we are deceiving ourselves. You can be an instrument of God to change the world around you, but it won't be with words only, but by your attitude and actions. A follower of Christ is not one who merely repeats His words, but one who also walks His walk.
Have A Blessed Day
The kingdom of God is not about rules, regulations, or do's and don'ts. It is about righteousness, joy and peace, working or acting out in love. Actions speak louder than words and a sermon is better lived, rather than spoken. There is a phrase that says "what would Jesus do", but if we only say the words without actually doing what Jesus did, we are deceiving ourselves. You can be an instrument of God to change the world around you, but it won't be with words only, but by your attitude and actions. A follower of Christ is not one who merely repeats His words, but one who also walks His walk.
Have A Blessed Day
Friday, September 17, 2010
Decisions
Proverbs 16:33 (The Message) Make your motions and cast your votes, but God has the final say.
God is in control. There may be times that you wonder if you are on the right path, but the real question is "are you seeking the Lord?" If your focus is on Him and His plan for your life, He will lead you in the right way. Even when you make mistakes, it's not too big for our God. He is well able to cause all things to work together for good! God never throws up His hands and gives up - He always has a plan. Keep seeking Him, keep praising Him, keep giving thanks! Don't be discouraged by the trees of the forest, keep looking for the path. He will show you the way. Seek Him in all your decisions and follow peace.
Have A Blessed day
God is in control. There may be times that you wonder if you are on the right path, but the real question is "are you seeking the Lord?" If your focus is on Him and His plan for your life, He will lead you in the right way. Even when you make mistakes, it's not too big for our God. He is well able to cause all things to work together for good! God never throws up His hands and gives up - He always has a plan. Keep seeking Him, keep praising Him, keep giving thanks! Don't be discouraged by the trees of the forest, keep looking for the path. He will show you the way. Seek Him in all your decisions and follow peace.
Have A Blessed day
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Feeling Less Than Spiritual
John 14:1-3 (NKJV) Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.
No, you are not the only one who has faced it. You know—a time when you feel, shall we say, less than spiritual. Just as many others, I too can say, “Been there…lived through that.” Sometimes, that’s all you feel you’ve accomplished. Living through it, that is. And barely even that, perhaps. Maybe you wonder how it is possible to get through the tough times and feel more like a victorious Christian, than a beaten believer. The first thing you must do is put your eyes on Jesus. The second thing is to keep them there. In our “less than spiritual” times, it is tempting to believe the voice that tells you, you have failed—and tells you, you will only fail again. But that is not the voice of Jesus; and it is only His voice to which you should be paying close attention. Don’t let your heart be troubled, believe in Jesus. He has wonderful things in store for you. If it were not so…He would have told you.
Have A Blessed day
No, you are not the only one who has faced it. You know—a time when you feel, shall we say, less than spiritual. Just as many others, I too can say, “Been there…lived through that.” Sometimes, that’s all you feel you’ve accomplished. Living through it, that is. And barely even that, perhaps. Maybe you wonder how it is possible to get through the tough times and feel more like a victorious Christian, than a beaten believer. The first thing you must do is put your eyes on Jesus. The second thing is to keep them there. In our “less than spiritual” times, it is tempting to believe the voice that tells you, you have failed—and tells you, you will only fail again. But that is not the voice of Jesus; and it is only His voice to which you should be paying close attention. Don’t let your heart be troubled, believe in Jesus. He has wonderful things in store for you. If it were not so…He would have told you.
Have A Blessed day
Monday, September 13, 2010
Jealousy
Galatians 5:26 (Amplified Bible)
Let us not become vainglorious and self-conceited, competitive and challenging and provoking and irritating to one another, envying and being jealous of one another.
When we use the word “jealous,” we use it in a sense of being envious of someone who has something we do not have. This kind of jealousy is a sin and is not characteristic of a Christian; rather, it shows that we are still being controlled by our own desires.The Bible tells us that we are to have the perfect kind of love that God has for us. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” The more we focus on ourselves and our own desires, the less we are able to focus on God. When we harden our hearts to the truth, we cannot turn to Jesus and allow Him to heal us . But when we allow the Holy Spirit to control us, He will produce in us the fruit of our salvation, which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Being jealous indicates that we are not satisfied with what God has given us. The Bible tells us to be content with what we have, for God will never fail or forsake us . In order to combat jealousy, we need to become more like Jesus and less like ourselves. As we learn how to serve others instead of ourselves, our hearts will begin to change. “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will”
TODAY’S PRAYER
Father, forgive me for taking my eyes off of you and setting up my own kingdom. I know that jealousy and selfish ambition have been prevalent in my life. I renounce these attitudes and ask that You would show me Your will for my life. Help me be content and live a life pleasing to you.
AMEN
Have A Blessed Week
Let us not become vainglorious and self-conceited, competitive and challenging and provoking and irritating to one another, envying and being jealous of one another.
When we use the word “jealous,” we use it in a sense of being envious of someone who has something we do not have. This kind of jealousy is a sin and is not characteristic of a Christian; rather, it shows that we are still being controlled by our own desires.The Bible tells us that we are to have the perfect kind of love that God has for us. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” The more we focus on ourselves and our own desires, the less we are able to focus on God. When we harden our hearts to the truth, we cannot turn to Jesus and allow Him to heal us . But when we allow the Holy Spirit to control us, He will produce in us the fruit of our salvation, which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Being jealous indicates that we are not satisfied with what God has given us. The Bible tells us to be content with what we have, for God will never fail or forsake us . In order to combat jealousy, we need to become more like Jesus and less like ourselves. As we learn how to serve others instead of ourselves, our hearts will begin to change. “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will”
TODAY’S PRAYER
Father, forgive me for taking my eyes off of you and setting up my own kingdom. I know that jealousy and selfish ambition have been prevalent in my life. I renounce these attitudes and ask that You would show me Your will for my life. Help me be content and live a life pleasing to you.
AMEN
Have A Blessed Week
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Put Love First
1 Corinthians 13:2 (NKJV And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
According to the Coinage Act of 1792, the Federal Reserve Note that we know as the "One Dollar Bill", is worth approximately 27.0g of silver. Everyday, these little pieces of paper are exchanged for various goods and services, however, they are only considered to be of any worth because of the silver that backs them up. If there is no silver, then all you have is a worthless piece of paper. Faith is the currency of heaven. We enter in by faith. We receive the free gift of salvation by faith. We speak the word of God in faith that it will do what God says it will do. But, faith only has as much value as the amount of love that empowers it. If there is no love behind faith, it is worthless. Every spiritual gift is a powerful force, but if it is not backed with love, it is nothing. That's why love is the greatest of all. If you want your faith to work, if you want your wisdom and knowledge to be of any value, put love first.
Have A Blessed Day
According to the Coinage Act of 1792, the Federal Reserve Note that we know as the "One Dollar Bill", is worth approximately 27.0g of silver. Everyday, these little pieces of paper are exchanged for various goods and services, however, they are only considered to be of any worth because of the silver that backs them up. If there is no silver, then all you have is a worthless piece of paper. Faith is the currency of heaven. We enter in by faith. We receive the free gift of salvation by faith. We speak the word of God in faith that it will do what God says it will do. But, faith only has as much value as the amount of love that empowers it. If there is no love behind faith, it is worthless. Every spiritual gift is a powerful force, but if it is not backed with love, it is nothing. That's why love is the greatest of all. If you want your faith to work, if you want your wisdom and knowledge to be of any value, put love first.
Have A Blessed Day
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Faith Speaks!
God is a faith God. Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith. (Heb. 12:2). Everything God created, he created by faith in His words! Remember, in Genesis, “God said, then God saw”. In Mark 11:23 Jesus spoke to the fig tree, providing us with an example of the power of speaking. Notice that believing is mentioned once and speaking is mentioned three times! Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. (Rom. 10:17). Confessing God’s word produces faith. When you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, by faith, you acted on the Word by speaking. For with the heart (spirit), man believeth unto righteousness (right standing with God), and with the mouth, confession (speaking), is made unto salvation (health, deliverance, and preservation)! (Rom. 10:10). The Word is seed to your spirit man. By continually speaking His words about any situation or circumstance, this seed is planted into your spirit and is watered every time you speak. In other words, by speaking what the Word says about your situation, you are forming a plant on the inside of you that is taking root in the Word of God. The plant will ripen as you speak, (act on the Word), which in turn will produce a bountiful harvest! Faith speaks!
Susan White
Susan White
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Expectation
Matthew 7:1-2 (NKJV)
1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.
Probably one of the greatest obstacles to maintaining good relationships is the expectation so often placed on others. Believing someone should do a certain thing, say a certain thing, or be a particular way in a given situation often leads to undue criticism, and dissatisfaction. It is very unfortunate that we so often set up a measuring stick against our brothers and sisters in Christ that is base more upon personal preference, than upon the Word of God. We do this in the church; and, we do this in our closest relationships. We should be encouraging others to become exactly what God wants, but what we want often clouds our thinking. When we consider others, let’s first consider asking God to correct our attitudes, so that we can love others for who they are now--and pray for them that God will continue to shape them as He desires, not as we desires.
Have A Blessed Day
1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.
Probably one of the greatest obstacles to maintaining good relationships is the expectation so often placed on others. Believing someone should do a certain thing, say a certain thing, or be a particular way in a given situation often leads to undue criticism, and dissatisfaction. It is very unfortunate that we so often set up a measuring stick against our brothers and sisters in Christ that is base more upon personal preference, than upon the Word of God. We do this in the church; and, we do this in our closest relationships. We should be encouraging others to become exactly what God wants, but what we want often clouds our thinking. When we consider others, let’s first consider asking God to correct our attitudes, so that we can love others for who they are now--and pray for them that God will continue to shape them as He desires, not as we desires.
Have A Blessed Day
Monday, September 6, 2010
God is Agape!
Most of us have all heard or read something referring to the definition of love. Do we really know or understand what love is? Much of the scriptures use the word "charity", to describe love. The bible tells us in First John 4:8 that God is love! In this verse and elsewhere in the New Testament, the Greek word is actually "agape". We know that God's love is not like the natural human love that uses emotions to ground itself in hatred that can come overnight. The God kind of love or "agape", does not fail, nor does it change with the circumstances or situation.
What is this "agape", or "God kind of love"? The Message translation describes it this way: Love:
Never gives up!
Cares more for others than for self.
Doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Doesn't strut, doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle, or keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
(1 Corinthians 13:4-7). (Message).
You might say, "How can we ever have this God kind of love"? The good news is that we when we become born again, our spirits are re-created in the image of God. This "agape", or "God kind of love", is shed in our hearts or (spirit man), by the Holy Spirit. We already have the "God kind of love", operating on the inside of us. It is our choice to release this love by making a conscience decision to renew our minds by His words and allow the Holy Ghost to manifest His love through us.
When we operate in God’s love, rather than through our emotions, we are not only fulfilling the commandment of love but we are placing ourselves in a position to operate in faith. Faith works by LOVE! Faith works by the “agape”, or “God kind of love”. (Galatians 5:6).
By Susan White
What is this "agape", or "God kind of love"? The Message translation describes it this way: Love:
Never gives up!
Cares more for others than for self.
Doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Doesn't strut, doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle, or keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
(1 Corinthians 13:4-7). (Message).
You might say, "How can we ever have this God kind of love"? The good news is that we when we become born again, our spirits are re-created in the image of God. This "agape", or "God kind of love", is shed in our hearts or (spirit man), by the Holy Spirit. We already have the "God kind of love", operating on the inside of us. It is our choice to release this love by making a conscience decision to renew our minds by His words and allow the Holy Ghost to manifest His love through us.
When we operate in God’s love, rather than through our emotions, we are not only fulfilling the commandment of love but we are placing ourselves in a position to operate in faith. Faith works by LOVE! Faith works by the “agape”, or “God kind of love”. (Galatians 5:6).
By Susan White
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Let Your Light Shine
Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV) “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven
There is no question--"You are the light of the world." Jesus did not say "you might be the light of the world," or "you are the light of the world one day--but maybe not the next." As a follower of Jesus Christ, a believer and disciple of His teachings, you are the light of the world. To be a Christian means to be light--the two cannot be separated. Jesus instructs, "let your light shine before men." Although we are the light of the world, we must do what is necessary to let our light shine. We must keep the light fueled. A flame will not burn if there is nothing feeding it. Our source of fuel is Christ Himself, for He is the true Light and He is the Life of the light that He has placed within us.
Have A Blessed day
There is no question--"You are the light of the world." Jesus did not say "you might be the light of the world," or "you are the light of the world one day--but maybe not the next." As a follower of Jesus Christ, a believer and disciple of His teachings, you are the light of the world. To be a Christian means to be light--the two cannot be separated. Jesus instructs, "let your light shine before men." Although we are the light of the world, we must do what is necessary to let our light shine. We must keep the light fueled. A flame will not burn if there is nothing feeding it. Our source of fuel is Christ Himself, for He is the true Light and He is the Life of the light that He has placed within us.
Have A Blessed day
Saturday, September 4, 2010
An Opportunity For Joy
James 1:2 (NKJV) My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials
No one likes to face hardships and problems. The thought of being joyful during a time of crisis or trouble might even sound silly. If you can pause for a moment, take a deep breath, focus on the fact that God promises to see you through to victory, that is something to be glad about. The devil wants to see you fall, get upset, get angry and lose your joy because he knows that the joy of the Lord is your strength. If he can get you to lose your joy, then your strength to overcome just went out the window. But if you can smile and remember that God is for you not against you, that He always causes you to triumph, then you've just whipped the devil at his own game.
Have A Blessed Day
No one likes to face hardships and problems. The thought of being joyful during a time of crisis or trouble might even sound silly. If you can pause for a moment, take a deep breath, focus on the fact that God promises to see you through to victory, that is something to be glad about. The devil wants to see you fall, get upset, get angry and lose your joy because he knows that the joy of the Lord is your strength. If he can get you to lose your joy, then your strength to overcome just went out the window. But if you can smile and remember that God is for you not against you, that He always causes you to triumph, then you've just whipped the devil at his own game.
Have A Blessed Day
Friday, September 3, 2010
Faith and Obedience
Isaiah 55:1 (KJV) Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.
The currency of this world is money - silver & gold. The currency of heaven is faith. God is saying to all whose spirits are dry and empty - come and be quenched. The gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ is free to all who will receive. God says "come"! To all who will put their faith in Him, He says come and be filled. To have God supply all your needs, the basic necessities of life is free; it is a benefit of the kingdom of heaven. There is no money involved, just simply surrender your life to Him and put Him first. His wisdom is free to all who will ask. His grace, mercy, love, provision and protection is free to all who will put their faith in Jesus Christ. Faith is the currency and obedience releases the blessing. By faith, you are an heir with Christ to everything God has. However, obedience to do what He says is what keeps you on the path of blessing and allows you to experience those blessings here on earth! Faith will make it yours and obedience will bring it to pass.
Have A Blessed Day
Faith is the currency and obedience releases the blessing.
The currency of this world is money - silver & gold. The currency of heaven is faith. God is saying to all whose spirits are dry and empty - come and be quenched. The gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ is free to all who will receive. God says "come"! To all who will put their faith in Him, He says come and be filled. To have God supply all your needs, the basic necessities of life is free; it is a benefit of the kingdom of heaven. There is no money involved, just simply surrender your life to Him and put Him first. His wisdom is free to all who will ask. His grace, mercy, love, provision and protection is free to all who will put their faith in Jesus Christ. Faith is the currency and obedience releases the blessing. By faith, you are an heir with Christ to everything God has. However, obedience to do what He says is what keeps you on the path of blessing and allows you to experience those blessings here on earth! Faith will make it yours and obedience will bring it to pass.
Have A Blessed Day
Faith is the currency and obedience releases the blessing.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Shield
Ephesians 6:16 (KJV)
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
Disciples of Jesus Christ are given a protective defense shield from God to hinder Satan’s incoming warheads (scripture refers to them as “fiery darts”). The Bible calls this protective shield, “Our shield of faith.” God gives us this weapon … but we must learn how to use it as affectively as possible to receive maximized benefit from it.
Some believers may only be yielding a defense shield equivalent to the size of a penny, though they may not realize it. More seasoned warriors may have grown in maturity and wisdom to where they are completely surrounded by this defense shield … most of the time. How big one’s faith shield is at any given moment of time may not be as important as understanding the importance of having a faith shield in the first place. Look God is saying, get behind me and use me as a shield, there is safety, assurance and protection. Why would you not want that.
Remember Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?
Have A Blessed day
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
Disciples of Jesus Christ are given a protective defense shield from God to hinder Satan’s incoming warheads (scripture refers to them as “fiery darts”). The Bible calls this protective shield, “Our shield of faith.” God gives us this weapon … but we must learn how to use it as affectively as possible to receive maximized benefit from it.
Some believers may only be yielding a defense shield equivalent to the size of a penny, though they may not realize it. More seasoned warriors may have grown in maturity and wisdom to where they are completely surrounded by this defense shield … most of the time. How big one’s faith shield is at any given moment of time may not be as important as understanding the importance of having a faith shield in the first place. Look God is saying, get behind me and use me as a shield, there is safety, assurance and protection. Why would you not want that.
Remember Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?
Have A Blessed day
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Wisdom
James 1:5 (NKJV) If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
When there are important decisions to make, how can you be sure of the right choice? There are many choices you have to make every day. Maybe your past is full of wrong choices. Don't let your past determine your future. God's mercies are new every day. He designs and creates each day with an abundant supply of grace, provision, love, wisdom, etc. You can make wise choices if you look to God for wisdom in every choice you make. Some decisions may require much prayer and seeking, while other choices need to be made almost instantly. Chapter 1 of the book of James says to ask God for wisdom because He supplies it generously to all who ask in faith. So believe you receive when you ask and listen for the wisdom that God gives. Be sensitive to the still small voice within you. It's the light (or candle) of the Lord within you that guides your spirit. The Holy Spirit is within you and He is your helper; the one who teaches you and leads you in all things. Wisdom brings blessing, honor, life, favor, knowledge and truth. Seek the wisdom of God in all you do.
Have A Blessed day
When there are important decisions to make, how can you be sure of the right choice? There are many choices you have to make every day. Maybe your past is full of wrong choices. Don't let your past determine your future. God's mercies are new every day. He designs and creates each day with an abundant supply of grace, provision, love, wisdom, etc. You can make wise choices if you look to God for wisdom in every choice you make. Some decisions may require much prayer and seeking, while other choices need to be made almost instantly. Chapter 1 of the book of James says to ask God for wisdom because He supplies it generously to all who ask in faith. So believe you receive when you ask and listen for the wisdom that God gives. Be sensitive to the still small voice within you. It's the light (or candle) of the Lord within you that guides your spirit. The Holy Spirit is within you and He is your helper; the one who teaches you and leads you in all things. Wisdom brings blessing, honor, life, favor, knowledge and truth. Seek the wisdom of God in all you do.
Have A Blessed day
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)