Deuteronomy 33:5 - The Lord became King in Israel - when the leaders of the people assembled, when the tribes of Israel gathered as one.
During the exodus from Egypt, Moses reminded the people to teach the laws and decrees to their children so that they would be passed down and not forgotten. Here Moses reminds them that the Lord is the King of His people. So why did they later ask Samuel to give them a king? Either they didn't listen to what they were taught, or they weren't taught at all. Perhaps they just forgot. Or maybe a combination of all three...
Am I passing on my love and passion for God to the children I have influence over? I don't have any kids of my own, but I do have a couple nephews and a niece that would benefit greatly from hearing God's Word and His promises (but then again, who wouldn't?). I love when I see the people I know from my church, taking the time to spend time in God's Word with their kids. They aren't just relying on the kid's ministry at church to do it for them. They are taking an active role in the spiritual well-being of their kids. This is such a blessing to see them living out the commands of Moses, 3,000 years after they were given. This obedience to God's Word and instructions are a great example that I, and everyone, should be following.
Dear Lord, thank You for this reminder today that I need to be doing more for the ones that I have the power to share Your Word with. Although you haven't blessed me with children of my own, I still have the responsibility to share these things with the ones that are in my life. Please give me the wisdom and the words to be an effective teacher to them. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Staying Patient
Colossians 1:11 - We also pray that you will be strengthened with all His glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy.
Paul knew that the power to be patient in waiting on the Lord's timing could only be given by God through our trust in Him and surrender to His will. In verse 9, he prays that God will reveal His whole plan for the people of Colosse, but by verse 11, he is reminding them that they need to be patient for the Lord to reveal Himself and His plans for them. And that they need to remain joyful and thankful for everything God has blessed them with.
A lot of discussions I have been having with different people lately, seem to be coming back to patience quite a bit. I know I am not the most patient person (particularly when I'm driving). I believe I am pretty good about exercising patience when it comes to God's will and plan for me. I have gotten so much better about my trust in and surrender to Him. I wonder if God is speaking to me to prepare me for a trial, and reminding me that I will need to maintain my patience and trust in Him during the time ahead. All I can do is pray, like Paul did here, that I will be strengthened with His glorious power so that I will have the endurance and patience I need. I trust that my persistent prayers to God are heard, and because of that, I am filled with joy and thankfulness.
Dear Lord, give me strength today and every day. I can only get the true strength I need from You, and I know that You only have good plans for me. If I am lacking in something, or need to be stronger in something, I ask that You speak to me and show me. I strive to be a shining light and good example of Your power, glory, and love to others, so that they can come to know what I have come to know. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Paul knew that the power to be patient in waiting on the Lord's timing could only be given by God through our trust in Him and surrender to His will. In verse 9, he prays that God will reveal His whole plan for the people of Colosse, but by verse 11, he is reminding them that they need to be patient for the Lord to reveal Himself and His plans for them. And that they need to remain joyful and thankful for everything God has blessed them with.
A lot of discussions I have been having with different people lately, seem to be coming back to patience quite a bit. I know I am not the most patient person (particularly when I'm driving). I believe I am pretty good about exercising patience when it comes to God's will and plan for me. I have gotten so much better about my trust in and surrender to Him. I wonder if God is speaking to me to prepare me for a trial, and reminding me that I will need to maintain my patience and trust in Him during the time ahead. All I can do is pray, like Paul did here, that I will be strengthened with His glorious power so that I will have the endurance and patience I need. I trust that my persistent prayers to God are heard, and because of that, I am filled with joy and thankfulness.
Dear Lord, give me strength today and every day. I can only get the true strength I need from You, and I know that You only have good plans for me. If I am lacking in something, or need to be stronger in something, I ask that You speak to me and show me. I strive to be a shining light and good example of Your power, glory, and love to others, so that they can come to know what I have come to know. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Monday, July 29, 2013
Restoration
Isaiah 57:15 - The High and Lofty One who lives in eternity, the Holy One, says this: "I live in the high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. I restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts."
God restores us! He has a place for us to live with Him, which Jesus confirmed when He said He was going to prepare a place for us. God doesn't tell us that we have to live perfect lives. He wants us to be contrite and humble. When we fall away or backslide, we have to take that one step of humility back to Him and repent. He promises to restore our crushed spirit.
Have I been contrite and humble? I have definitely felt God's healing hand on my heart, and I pray that I don't get prideful because of it. I have been beyond blessed by my salvation. Beyond blessed by my Abba Father, and I pray that I continue to find favor in Him. I must remain humble and repentant, because I know that I will make mistakes. I know He loves me and wants me to be with Him.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for Your promise of restoration. Thank You for healing the wounds of my heart, and restoring my courage. Please give me the strength I need to get through another day in service to Your Glorious Kingdom, and say the words You want me to say to those who need to hear them. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
God restores us! He has a place for us to live with Him, which Jesus confirmed when He said He was going to prepare a place for us. God doesn't tell us that we have to live perfect lives. He wants us to be contrite and humble. When we fall away or backslide, we have to take that one step of humility back to Him and repent. He promises to restore our crushed spirit.
Have I been contrite and humble? I have definitely felt God's healing hand on my heart, and I pray that I don't get prideful because of it. I have been beyond blessed by my salvation. Beyond blessed by my Abba Father, and I pray that I continue to find favor in Him. I must remain humble and repentant, because I know that I will make mistakes. I know He loves me and wants me to be with Him.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for Your promise of restoration. Thank You for healing the wounds of my heart, and restoring my courage. Please give me the strength I need to get through another day in service to Your Glorious Kingdom, and say the words You want me to say to those who need to hear them. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Sunday, July 28, 2013
His Delight
Deuteronomy 30:10 - The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey His voice and keep the commands written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul.
God revealed His plan for our redemption through His grace to Moses long before He sent Jesus to die for us on the cross. God has always wanted us to be with Him Jesus' purpose was for God to give us a demonstration of how serious He was about our salvation. Our best possible demonstration to Him is to accept His free gift, turn from our sinful ways, and submit ourselves to His will for our lives with all of our heart and soul. A totally one-sided trade in our favor, but God doesn't mind, because we are His delight.
My heart breaks for those who have died and never knew God. It continues to hurt for those who haven't turned to Him yet. I pray these people regularly. Every Sunday when the Pastor gives the invitation, and prays the prayer with the new believers, I pray for those who are on the fence and haven't begun a relationship with Christ that the Holy Spirit will stir in them, and they will make that commitment. We should all be praying for them. We can share the Gospel with them, but the choice is theirs. I pray that those who haven't yet, will make that choice before it is too late.
Dear Lord, today I pray for those that don't know You yet, to come to know You now. There are so many out there that either haven't heard Your Good News, or have ignored it for far too long. I pray that they won't wait until it's too late. I know that in Your unfailing love and amazing grace You will forgive and accept them when they come to You with an open heart. Please use me in whatever way I can be of service to You and them, to help in the cause of Your Kingdom. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
God revealed His plan for our redemption through His grace to Moses long before He sent Jesus to die for us on the cross. God has always wanted us to be with Him Jesus' purpose was for God to give us a demonstration of how serious He was about our salvation. Our best possible demonstration to Him is to accept His free gift, turn from our sinful ways, and submit ourselves to His will for our lives with all of our heart and soul. A totally one-sided trade in our favor, but God doesn't mind, because we are His delight.
My heart breaks for those who have died and never knew God. It continues to hurt for those who haven't turned to Him yet. I pray these people regularly. Every Sunday when the Pastor gives the invitation, and prays the prayer with the new believers, I pray for those who are on the fence and haven't begun a relationship with Christ that the Holy Spirit will stir in them, and they will make that commitment. We should all be praying for them. We can share the Gospel with them, but the choice is theirs. I pray that those who haven't yet, will make that choice before it is too late.
Dear Lord, today I pray for those that don't know You yet, to come to know You now. There are so many out there that either haven't heard Your Good News, or have ignored it for far too long. I pray that they won't wait until it's too late. I know that in Your unfailing love and amazing grace You will forgive and accept them when they come to You with an open heart. Please use me in whatever way I can be of service to You and them, to help in the cause of Your Kingdom. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Useful
1 Corinthians 15:58 - So my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Everything we do for God and His Kingdom has a purpose. And it's always for good. No matter how boring or mundane it may seem, God has a great and mighty plan for it. Remember to stay focused on and trusting in His plan.
There have been plenty of times in my life, where I have felt useless. Both before and since I surrendered my heart and life to Christ. More than I would care to try and count. This reminder from Paul here is such a big help to me. I have to remember to do everything I am doing with joy and enthusiasm. It is all for God's Kingdom on earth, and I never know whose life it may be touching.
Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me of this. I know I can be prone to ruts from time to time, and I needed this great reminder to stay focused on You and Your plan for me and my life. I ask for Your continued guidance and patience with me, as I work enthusiastically and joyfully for Your Kingdom. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Everything we do for God and His Kingdom has a purpose. And it's always for good. No matter how boring or mundane it may seem, God has a great and mighty plan for it. Remember to stay focused on and trusting in His plan.
There have been plenty of times in my life, where I have felt useless. Both before and since I surrendered my heart and life to Christ. More than I would care to try and count. This reminder from Paul here is such a big help to me. I have to remember to do everything I am doing with joy and enthusiasm. It is all for God's Kingdom on earth, and I never know whose life it may be touching.
Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me of this. I know I can be prone to ruts from time to time, and I needed this great reminder to stay focused on You and Your plan for me and my life. I ask for Your continued guidance and patience with me, as I work enthusiastically and joyfully for Your Kingdom. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Friday, July 26, 2013
Final Victory
Revelation 21:4 - He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.
The final victory will belong to Jesus. He will do away with all that is bad and replace it with all that is glorious and good. This is His promise to us, and we can always trust Him to keep His promises.
There are certainly parts of the book of Revelation that can be frightening. But they should only be that way for those who haven't put their faith in Jesus yet. I am blessed beyond words that I have faith in Him. I will share in that victory with Jesus. I will fear nothing of this world, because I know the final outcome will forever be in my favor.
Dear God, thank You so much for including me in Your plans. Thank You for allowing me to share in the final victory with You that will give You the final glory You so deserve. Words cannot adequately express how grateful I am, but I trust You know my heart. Please use me to share Your Good News with everyone I can, so more can share in victory with You. In Jesus' precious and holy name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
The final victory will belong to Jesus. He will do away with all that is bad and replace it with all that is glorious and good. This is His promise to us, and we can always trust Him to keep His promises.
There are certainly parts of the book of Revelation that can be frightening. But they should only be that way for those who haven't put their faith in Jesus yet. I am blessed beyond words that I have faith in Him. I will share in that victory with Jesus. I will fear nothing of this world, because I know the final outcome will forever be in my favor.
Dear God, thank You so much for including me in Your plans. Thank You for allowing me to share in the final victory with You that will give You the final glory You so deserve. Words cannot adequately express how grateful I am, but I trust You know my heart. Please use me to share Your Good News with everyone I can, so more can share in victory with You. In Jesus' precious and holy name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Thursday, July 25, 2013
The Great Shepherd
Psalm 23:1 - The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.
I came across this passage in a devotional I was reading, and it explained something in a way I hadn't thought of before. A shepherd in Biblical times, like David, was a shepherd out of obligation, not by choice. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, became our shepherd by choice. A shepherd was kind of an unwanted job, but God WANTED the job. He WANTED to care for us. That makes Him the Great Shepherd.
God wants to be around the dirty, stinky, stubborn flock that I am certainly a part of. He left His 99 and chased me down and kept me from wandering any further. That makes feel even more special than I already did. To have such a loving God to serve that wanted the dirtiest job of all just so He could make me clean. And all because He loves me.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for loving me like no other could ever be capable of. I have been truly blessed to be a part of Your flock, and to be cared for by You, the Great Shepherd. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
I came across this passage in a devotional I was reading, and it explained something in a way I hadn't thought of before. A shepherd in Biblical times, like David, was a shepherd out of obligation, not by choice. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, became our shepherd by choice. A shepherd was kind of an unwanted job, but God WANTED the job. He WANTED to care for us. That makes Him the Great Shepherd.
God wants to be around the dirty, stinky, stubborn flock that I am certainly a part of. He left His 99 and chased me down and kept me from wandering any further. That makes feel even more special than I already did. To have such a loving God to serve that wanted the dirtiest job of all just so He could make me clean. And all because He loves me.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for loving me like no other could ever be capable of. I have been truly blessed to be a part of Your flock, and to be cared for by You, the Great Shepherd. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Goals
Psalm 27:4 - The one thing I ask of the Lord - the thing I seek most - is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord's perfections and meditating in His Temple.
David was a man who found great favor with God. If he had asked for it, God would have probably granted Him anything he wanted. What did David want most? To be with God. To serve, praise, and worship Him forever. That's a goal everyone should have. David understood that any earthly possession was meaningless, and that God meant everything.
It's important to have goals in our life, although I'm not the best goal setter. However, God has shown me some of the plans and goals He has for me. He is the best goal-setter, and I trust His plan for me. I will serve, praise, and worship Him forever, and anything He blesses me with will be icing on the cake.
Dear Lord, thank You for allowing me to serve You. Thank You for allowing me to praise and worship You. I know You will grant me the blessings that You have planned for me, because of Your unfailing love and grace. I will trust in Your plans, and give You all the honor and glory You deserve forever. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
David was a man who found great favor with God. If he had asked for it, God would have probably granted Him anything he wanted. What did David want most? To be with God. To serve, praise, and worship Him forever. That's a goal everyone should have. David understood that any earthly possession was meaningless, and that God meant everything.
It's important to have goals in our life, although I'm not the best goal setter. However, God has shown me some of the plans and goals He has for me. He is the best goal-setter, and I trust His plan for me. I will serve, praise, and worship Him forever, and anything He blesses me with will be icing on the cake.
Dear Lord, thank You for allowing me to serve You. Thank You for allowing me to praise and worship You. I know You will grant me the blessings that You have planned for me, because of Your unfailing love and grace. I will trust in Your plans, and give You all the honor and glory You deserve forever. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
He Is Worthy
Revelation 5:9 - And they sang a new song with these words: "You are worthy to take the scroll and break its seals and open it. For You were slaughtered, and Your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation."
Jesus is the the only worthy to open the scrolls and pronounce the judgement. He shed His blood to purchase our freedom from sin. The angel told John not to cry because no one on earth was worthy. We should rejoice because we have the One who is worthy.
Putting my faith and trust in Jesus and accepting His sacrifice for my sins has transformed my life more than I could have ever thought possible. Any tears I shed are tears of joy. I know I cannot rely on any person to help me when I need it, but I know Jesus will always be there for me to catch me when I start to fall and put me upright again.
Dear Lord, thank You for sending the One who is worthy. His love and sacrifice for us all has given us such a hope and a promise that we will one day be able to serve You in Your Glorious Kingdom forever. I look forward to that day with joy. I pray that You will continue to use me to serve Your people on earth during my time here. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Jesus is the the only worthy to open the scrolls and pronounce the judgement. He shed His blood to purchase our freedom from sin. The angel told John not to cry because no one on earth was worthy. We should rejoice because we have the One who is worthy.
Putting my faith and trust in Jesus and accepting His sacrifice for my sins has transformed my life more than I could have ever thought possible. Any tears I shed are tears of joy. I know I cannot rely on any person to help me when I need it, but I know Jesus will always be there for me to catch me when I start to fall and put me upright again.
Dear Lord, thank You for sending the One who is worthy. His love and sacrifice for us all has given us such a hope and a promise that we will one day be able to serve You in Your Glorious Kingdom forever. I look forward to that day with joy. I pray that You will continue to use me to serve Your people on earth during my time here. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Monday, July 22, 2013
Backsliding
Revelation 2:5 - "Look how far you have fallen! Turn back to me and do the works you did at first. If you don't repent, I will come and remove your lampstand from the place among the churches."
In His message to the church at Ephesus, Jesus is concerned about them backsliding in their faith. It takes a lot to backslide in our faith, but only one step to find favor with God again - repent. God wants that none of us miss out on Heaven, and promises it to us if we repent. That is true mercy.
I know that I have been guilty of backsliding before. I am so blessed to serve such a loving and merciful God that requires only one step forward to return to His good graces. He has been justified to forsake and abandon me, but He never has and He never will. I am forever grateful and blessed.
Dear Lord, thank You for giving me the opportunity to return to the shelter of Your love and grace. I will forever praise You for never abandoning me when You were more than justified to do so. I pray for Your strength to stay strong in my faith, and Your wisdom to share it with others. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
In His message to the church at Ephesus, Jesus is concerned about them backsliding in their faith. It takes a lot to backslide in our faith, but only one step to find favor with God again - repent. God wants that none of us miss out on Heaven, and promises it to us if we repent. That is true mercy.
I know that I have been guilty of backsliding before. I am so blessed to serve such a loving and merciful God that requires only one step forward to return to His good graces. He has been justified to forsake and abandon me, but He never has and He never will. I am forever grateful and blessed.
Dear Lord, thank You for giving me the opportunity to return to the shelter of Your love and grace. I will forever praise You for never abandoning me when You were more than justified to do so. I pray for Your strength to stay strong in my faith, and Your wisdom to share it with others. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Powerful Prayer
Matthew 26:44 - So He went to pray a third time, saying the same things again.
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was praying desperately to God. He was afraid and He was at His weakest. But He still wanted God's will to be done. He still remembered that He came to us to fulfill God's purpose. He was in such distress about the events to come, He was actually sweating blood. If Jesus needed prayer at His weakest, how much more do we need it?
At my church we have been going through a series on the power of prayer. The Pastor today spoke of putting prayer in perspective, and it really challenged me to think about my prayer life. Do I pray enough? Do I try to take situations into my hands to figure them out, or do I go to God for guidance? I am usually pretty good about lifting things up to God in prayer, but "pretty good" isn't enough. I must remember to pray and then plan. God is happy to listen and help me when I ask Him for it, but I have to ask Him for it. I have to remember that trying to figure things out on my own is not the way to go, and will only lead me down a path that I have already been on and do not want to go down again.
Dear Lord, thank You for the opportunity to petition You through prayer. I trust that You are listening and You will hear me when I talk to You. I know You will answer my prayers according to Your will and Your purpose for my life, and I will rely not on my own understanding, but trust in You for everything. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was praying desperately to God. He was afraid and He was at His weakest. But He still wanted God's will to be done. He still remembered that He came to us to fulfill God's purpose. He was in such distress about the events to come, He was actually sweating blood. If Jesus needed prayer at His weakest, how much more do we need it?
At my church we have been going through a series on the power of prayer. The Pastor today spoke of putting prayer in perspective, and it really challenged me to think about my prayer life. Do I pray enough? Do I try to take situations into my hands to figure them out, or do I go to God for guidance? I am usually pretty good about lifting things up to God in prayer, but "pretty good" isn't enough. I must remember to pray and then plan. God is happy to listen and help me when I ask Him for it, but I have to ask Him for it. I have to remember that trying to figure things out on my own is not the way to go, and will only lead me down a path that I have already been on and do not want to go down again.
Dear Lord, thank You for the opportunity to petition You through prayer. I trust that You are listening and You will hear me when I talk to You. I know You will answer my prayers according to Your will and Your purpose for my life, and I will rely not on my own understanding, but trust in You for everything. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Saturday, July 20, 2013
What Is Love?
1 John 4:10 - This is real love - not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
God is love. John puts it so well here when he says that God's sacrifice of His Son is what real love is. Even though we absolutely didn't deserve it, He gave it to us. We can never earn it. And we don't need to, because God gives it to us freely and abundantly when we believe in Him and accept His gift of salvation. And why? Because God is love.
Understanding God's love for me has been such a blessing. Realizing that God wants me to have a life abundant in love and fellowship with Him in His Glorious Kingdom has given me such peace at heart. I never could get this peace anywhere in this world. I certainly tried to find it, but it just isn't out there. When I turned my eyes on Him and gave Him my heart, He gave me something that I wouldn't trade for all the wealth and power that this world could ever give me.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for saving me from myself. I looked everywhere for something that only You can give. And you give it so abundantly and freely, how could I not want to share it with everyone. I thank You for Your love and grace, and ask that You continue to light my path so that I may continue to walk with You forever. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
God is love. John puts it so well here when he says that God's sacrifice of His Son is what real love is. Even though we absolutely didn't deserve it, He gave it to us. We can never earn it. And we don't need to, because God gives it to us freely and abundantly when we believe in Him and accept His gift of salvation. And why? Because God is love.
Understanding God's love for me has been such a blessing. Realizing that God wants me to have a life abundant in love and fellowship with Him in His Glorious Kingdom has given me such peace at heart. I never could get this peace anywhere in this world. I certainly tried to find it, but it just isn't out there. When I turned my eyes on Him and gave Him my heart, He gave me something that I wouldn't trade for all the wealth and power that this world could ever give me.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for saving me from myself. I looked everywhere for something that only You can give. And you give it so abundantly and freely, how could I not want to share it with everyone. I thank You for Your love and grace, and ask that You continue to light my path so that I may continue to walk with You forever. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Friday, July 19, 2013
Simple Instruction
John 21:22 - Jesus replied, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? As for you, follow me."
Jesus' admonition to Peter was for him not to worry about His plans for anyone. Jesus wanted Peter to follow Him. It's not that we shouldn't worry about what other people are doing, because we should. We should always be willing to help others achieve success in their walk with God. But each person's purpose from God is between God and that person. We are here for support.
A lot of times, I have caught myself complaining, "Why is he doing this and that and I'm stuck here doing this?!" I have to remind myself that complaining takes away from my worship of God, and doesn't fulfill God's purpose for me. I am exactly where God wants me to be, and so are they. It's human nature to be selfish, but it shouldn't be second nature for me and I have to remember that.
Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me to stay focused on You and Your purpose for me. I am sorry that I grow impatient from time to time. I think it just comes out of an eagerness to serve You and Your people more. I always feel like I can do more, but I have to remember that I am doing exactly what You want me to do. I will work harder on staying focused on following You and supporting Your Kingdom on earth in any way I can. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Jesus' admonition to Peter was for him not to worry about His plans for anyone. Jesus wanted Peter to follow Him. It's not that we shouldn't worry about what other people are doing, because we should. We should always be willing to help others achieve success in their walk with God. But each person's purpose from God is between God and that person. We are here for support.
A lot of times, I have caught myself complaining, "Why is he doing this and that and I'm stuck here doing this?!" I have to remind myself that complaining takes away from my worship of God, and doesn't fulfill God's purpose for me. I am exactly where God wants me to be, and so are they. It's human nature to be selfish, but it shouldn't be second nature for me and I have to remember that.
Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me to stay focused on You and Your purpose for me. I am sorry that I grow impatient from time to time. I think it just comes out of an eagerness to serve You and Your people more. I always feel like I can do more, but I have to remember that I am doing exactly what You want me to do. I will work harder on staying focused on following You and supporting Your Kingdom on earth in any way I can. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Take Heart
John 16:33 - "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in Me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."
Indeed He has! Jesus has overcome everything that could possibly hurt us. He overcame death and defeated Satan on the cross, all because He loved us. Whenever we start to worry, we need to remember to lay our worries at His feet, and He will eliminate them.
My fear of death used to be so bad. It would give me anxiety attacks to the point where I couldn't function, and would almost get sick. When I finally understood and accepted God's love, and this promise that Jesus gives here, my anxiety disappeared. From time to time, it will start to creep up, but I know that is just Satan trying to wedge his way into my mind. But Jesus has my heart, and He will faithfully push Satan away from me.
Dear Lord, thank You for overcoming everything. Your love and protection is more than I could ever hope to ask for, and exactly what I needed to live. I am so blessed by all that You have done for me, and I pray that You will continue to comfort and strengthen me when I am being attacked, so that my heart doesn't waver. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Indeed He has! Jesus has overcome everything that could possibly hurt us. He overcame death and defeated Satan on the cross, all because He loved us. Whenever we start to worry, we need to remember to lay our worries at His feet, and He will eliminate them.
My fear of death used to be so bad. It would give me anxiety attacks to the point where I couldn't function, and would almost get sick. When I finally understood and accepted God's love, and this promise that Jesus gives here, my anxiety disappeared. From time to time, it will start to creep up, but I know that is just Satan trying to wedge his way into my mind. But Jesus has my heart, and He will faithfully push Satan away from me.
Dear Lord, thank You for overcoming everything. Your love and protection is more than I could ever hope to ask for, and exactly what I needed to live. I am so blessed by all that You have done for me, and I pray that You will continue to comfort and strengthen me when I am being attacked, so that my heart doesn't waver. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Be Ready
John 12:35 - Jesus replied, "My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going."
Jesus tells us to trust in Him. To walk in His light before it is too late, and to be careful not to let the darkness of this world take over our lives. His Way will light our path into eternal life. But we don't have forever, and we never know how long we have before it is too late.
I have been so blessed since I have accepted Christ's salvation. I truly have seen the light. Being a procrastinator, I am glad I didn't wait until the last minute on this one, because it could have wound up being too late. Plus, I get to share the Gospel with people...BONUS!
Dear Lord, thank You for lighting my path into eternal life in Your Glorious Kingdom. I am so thankful that You softened my heart so that it accepted You into it. I pray for Your continued blessings as I go into the world each and every day, so that the darkness of the world does not overtake me, and that I am able to continue to share the Good News of Your love. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Jesus tells us to trust in Him. To walk in His light before it is too late, and to be careful not to let the darkness of this world take over our lives. His Way will light our path into eternal life. But we don't have forever, and we never know how long we have before it is too late.
I have been so blessed since I have accepted Christ's salvation. I truly have seen the light. Being a procrastinator, I am glad I didn't wait until the last minute on this one, because it could have wound up being too late. Plus, I get to share the Gospel with people...BONUS!
Dear Lord, thank You for lighting my path into eternal life in Your Glorious Kingdom. I am so thankful that You softened my heart so that it accepted You into it. I pray for Your continued blessings as I go into the world each and every day, so that the darkness of the world does not overtake me, and that I am able to continue to share the Good News of Your love. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
For A Purpose
John 9:3 - "It was not because of his sins or his parents' sins, " Jesus answered. "This happened so the power of God could be seen in him."
When they asked Jesus why the man had been born blind, they were certain that it was because either he or his parents had done wrong. Jesus pointed out that it was neither. He was this way for a reason...so that Jesus could heal him and show the power and glory of God through him. God has a purpose for all of us in that sense. When we repent and accept His salvation, He starts to reveal that purpose to us little by little.
What's my purpose? What can I do to show God's power and glory in me? The big picture I believe is to minister to drug and alcohol rehabilitator's through counseling and ministering to them. I believe that this was the purpose of my past addiction - so that I could relate to them on a different level than just an ordinary counselor. I pray for God to use me every day. I ask God to use me to bless someone so that His power and glory can be revealed to them. I want so much for them to see what God has done for me, and accept it for themselves.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for Your blessings. Thank You for using me for Your power and glory. This is the best blessing that You have ever given me. I pray that I will continue to find favor with You and that You will continue to use me to show others the unfailing love and amazing grace that You have for them. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
When they asked Jesus why the man had been born blind, they were certain that it was because either he or his parents had done wrong. Jesus pointed out that it was neither. He was this way for a reason...so that Jesus could heal him and show the power and glory of God through him. God has a purpose for all of us in that sense. When we repent and accept His salvation, He starts to reveal that purpose to us little by little.
What's my purpose? What can I do to show God's power and glory in me? The big picture I believe is to minister to drug and alcohol rehabilitator's through counseling and ministering to them. I believe that this was the purpose of my past addiction - so that I could relate to them on a different level than just an ordinary counselor. I pray for God to use me every day. I ask God to use me to bless someone so that His power and glory can be revealed to them. I want so much for them to see what God has done for me, and accept it for themselves.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for Your blessings. Thank You for using me for Your power and glory. This is the best blessing that You have ever given me. I pray that I will continue to find favor with You and that You will continue to use me to show others the unfailing love and amazing grace that You have for them. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Monday, July 15, 2013
Freedom
John 8:32 - "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Jesus is the truth. The way, the truth, and the life. He has set us free from our bondage to sin. If we believe, He has promised to forgive AND forget our sins.
Last year at my church, they asked us what the Bible meant to us. The phrase was "The Bible is ____", and then we filled in the blank for ourselves. For me, the Bible is Freedom. I found everything I had been looking for when I opened the Bible. I found the truth of God's love and promise of freedom. I could have easily filled in the blank with the word 'truth', but freedom was a more important aspect of the Bible for me. I was free to live a life devoted to Jesus, because He set me free from a life devoted to sin. I had the freedom I had always been looking for.
Dear Lord, thank You so much for setting me free. You are all that I have ever needed, and I am so blessed to have You in my life. Your love and truth have set me free from my bondage to the things of this world. I am forever changed because of Your love and grace. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Jesus is the truth. The way, the truth, and the life. He has set us free from our bondage to sin. If we believe, He has promised to forgive AND forget our sins.
Last year at my church, they asked us what the Bible meant to us. The phrase was "The Bible is ____", and then we filled in the blank for ourselves. For me, the Bible is Freedom. I found everything I had been looking for when I opened the Bible. I found the truth of God's love and promise of freedom. I could have easily filled in the blank with the word 'truth', but freedom was a more important aspect of the Bible for me. I was free to live a life devoted to Jesus, because He set me free from a life devoted to sin. I had the freedom I had always been looking for.
Dear Lord, thank You so much for setting me free. You are all that I have ever needed, and I am so blessed to have You in my life. Your love and truth have set me free from my bondage to the things of this world. I am forever changed because of Your love and grace. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Sunday, July 14, 2013
The Great Comforter
Psalm 34:18 - The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.
During the times when we are hurting, God promises to stay close to us. He will give us the comfort, courage, and assurance we need to survive and thrive.
Now that my second divorce is officially final, I am hurting a little. I am feeling broken. Not because I am harboring any feelings towards my now ex-wife, but because of the situation. I have to do this right. I know that if I draw closer to God, He will draw closer to me. I know that He will lift my spirit up. He has promised to never abandon me, and I trust His promise. I need to maintain my focus on God and His will for me, and stay surrendered to Him. His reassuring comfort and love will get me through any situation in my life.
Dear Lord, thank You for being the Great Comforter that You are. Your promises of love, comfort, reassurance, and protection will last forever, and I will forever trust in You. I ask for Your healing during this time, so that I may bring You glory. Let me be a light to those who are hurting and broken, so that they may see You through me. So that they may see the strength and comfort You promise to provide. Pull me closer to You, Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
During the times when we are hurting, God promises to stay close to us. He will give us the comfort, courage, and assurance we need to survive and thrive.
Now that my second divorce is officially final, I am hurting a little. I am feeling broken. Not because I am harboring any feelings towards my now ex-wife, but because of the situation. I have to do this right. I know that if I draw closer to God, He will draw closer to me. I know that He will lift my spirit up. He has promised to never abandon me, and I trust His promise. I need to maintain my focus on God and His will for me, and stay surrendered to Him. His reassuring comfort and love will get me through any situation in my life.
Dear Lord, thank You for being the Great Comforter that You are. Your promises of love, comfort, reassurance, and protection will last forever, and I will forever trust in You. I ask for Your healing during this time, so that I may bring You glory. Let me be a light to those who are hurting and broken, so that they may see You through me. So that they may see the strength and comfort You promise to provide. Pull me closer to You, Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Saturday, July 13, 2013
More AND Less
John 3:30 - He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.
John the Baptist had the right mindset here. Our focus needs to be on God. We need more of Him and less of the world. The world promises nothing but material things that can (and will) vanish in the blink of an eye. Jesus promises us a life abundant in love for all eternity. That is what we need to be focused on.
Am I keeping my focus on God and His eternal promises? I am certainly trying. I know I have a tendency to get a little impatient when certain things don't happen the way I want them to. But if I maintain my focus on Jesus, I will see that the doors that He closes are because He has a much better one to open for me.
Dear Lord, thank You so much for helping me to maintain my focus on you and keep my 'eye on the prize'. I pray that I will stay strong in my faith in You, and I know I will with Your love and guidance. You have promised me more than I could ever hope to get from this world a million times over, and for that, I will work hard to serve and honor You forever. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
John the Baptist had the right mindset here. Our focus needs to be on God. We need more of Him and less of the world. The world promises nothing but material things that can (and will) vanish in the blink of an eye. Jesus promises us a life abundant in love for all eternity. That is what we need to be focused on.
Am I keeping my focus on God and His eternal promises? I am certainly trying. I know I have a tendency to get a little impatient when certain things don't happen the way I want them to. But if I maintain my focus on Jesus, I will see that the doors that He closes are because He has a much better one to open for me.
Dear Lord, thank You so much for helping me to maintain my focus on you and keep my 'eye on the prize'. I pray that I will stay strong in my faith in You, and I know I will with Your love and guidance. You have promised me more than I could ever hope to get from this world a million times over, and for that, I will work hard to serve and honor You forever. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Friday, July 12, 2013
Patient Planning
2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord isn't really being slow about His promises, as some people think. No, He is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.
God wants none of us to perish. He didn't send Jesus into the world to condemn us, He sent Him to save us. People often complain that He is taking too long. It's not Him that's taking too long, it's us. Everything is happening according to God's perfect schedule and time table, not ours. We need to do our part to bring more people to know Christ, and not focus on God's schedule.
I am beyond blessed that God waited for me. It took me longer than it should have, at least by my standards, but it happened exactly when God wanted it to. Fortunately, my standards aren't what's important. How loved and blessed by God am I that He wants to use me for His glory, and to spread His message. I get to be a part of winning souls to Christ. I get to be a part of God's plan of victory! There are no words to describe the joy I feel when I take the time to realize that instead of complaining about things not happening fast enough.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for using me. Thank You for Your perfect time table that brought me to You. I am so happy that You waited for me even when I didn't really deserve it. Please continue to give me the strength, guidance and wisdom I need to serve Your Kingdom Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
God wants none of us to perish. He didn't send Jesus into the world to condemn us, He sent Him to save us. People often complain that He is taking too long. It's not Him that's taking too long, it's us. Everything is happening according to God's perfect schedule and time table, not ours. We need to do our part to bring more people to know Christ, and not focus on God's schedule.
I am beyond blessed that God waited for me. It took me longer than it should have, at least by my standards, but it happened exactly when God wanted it to. Fortunately, my standards aren't what's important. How loved and blessed by God am I that He wants to use me for His glory, and to spread His message. I get to be a part of winning souls to Christ. I get to be a part of God's plan of victory! There are no words to describe the joy I feel when I take the time to realize that instead of complaining about things not happening fast enough.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for using me. Thank You for Your perfect time table that brought me to You. I am so happy that You waited for me even when I didn't really deserve it. Please continue to give me the strength, guidance and wisdom I need to serve Your Kingdom Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Lead By Example
1 Peter 2:12 - Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when He judges the world.
Peter is calling us to lead by example here when we are with our unbelieving friends and neighbors. In Army leadership school, this is what is taught as well. We are, more often than not, the first contact that unbelievers have with the Church, and the Word of God. If we want to win more souls for Christ (and we should), we have to show them a stunning example of how God's light shines through us. The last thing we want to do is turn them away because of hypocritical behavior. We have to be 24:7 Christians, not Convenient Christians.
This is something I have struggled with in the past, even though I knew better. I know I will sin, because that is my human nature, but it no doubt irritates me when I do something that I absolutely know better than to do. All I can do is pray, ask for God's forgiveness, and work harder not to repeat stupid behavior. I have to remember that my commission isn't JUST to love God and love people, but it is also to make disciples. I can't do that, if I'm not living a 24:7 Christian life. God's beacon of light won't be shining through me when I'm acting in ways contrary to His Word. I will improve on this, because I want to stay in His favor, and I want to have more brothers and sisters in heaven.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for this reminder. I have been feeling You tugging on my heart about this the last couple of weeks, and now I get this great reminder that there is still work to do in my heart. I know I will always be a work in progress, I just pray that I will require less maintenance as time goes on, so that I can serve You and Your Glorious Kingdom with honor. Thank You for your grace and forgiveness for all of my shortcomings, Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Peter is calling us to lead by example here when we are with our unbelieving friends and neighbors. In Army leadership school, this is what is taught as well. We are, more often than not, the first contact that unbelievers have with the Church, and the Word of God. If we want to win more souls for Christ (and we should), we have to show them a stunning example of how God's light shines through us. The last thing we want to do is turn them away because of hypocritical behavior. We have to be 24:7 Christians, not Convenient Christians.
This is something I have struggled with in the past, even though I knew better. I know I will sin, because that is my human nature, but it no doubt irritates me when I do something that I absolutely know better than to do. All I can do is pray, ask for God's forgiveness, and work harder not to repeat stupid behavior. I have to remember that my commission isn't JUST to love God and love people, but it is also to make disciples. I can't do that, if I'm not living a 24:7 Christian life. God's beacon of light won't be shining through me when I'm acting in ways contrary to His Word. I will improve on this, because I want to stay in His favor, and I want to have more brothers and sisters in heaven.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for this reminder. I have been feeling You tugging on my heart about this the last couple of weeks, and now I get this great reminder that there is still work to do in my heart. I know I will always be a work in progress, I just pray that I will require less maintenance as time goes on, so that I can serve You and Your Glorious Kingdom with honor. Thank You for your grace and forgiveness for all of my shortcomings, Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Good Deeds
James 2:17 - So you see, faith by itself isn't enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
The only way we can "show" our faith is through our good deeds. We are saved by God's grace through our faith in Him, but Jesus told us to go and teach His Word and make disciples. If we're not showing our faith to unbelievers, we're only doing it half way, and God doesn't accept half way. The people of the world need to see our faith in action, so that they can understand what we are talking about.
Does my faith "show" enough to those around me? I think I need to do better in this area. The last thing I want is for God to say that I am only doing it halfway, or that I'm lukewarm. Abraham demonstrated his faith by being willing to sacrifice Isaac. That was a real demonstration of faith. I seriously don't believe that God would ask anyone to sacrifice their children, but He does want real commitment from us. I need to be willing to do whatever God calls me to do to "show" my faith, because I want to be called a friend of God like Abraham was.
Dear Lord, how can I show my faith today? Who can I bless in Your Name today so that they can see Your love in me? I want nothing more than to be a beacon of Your light in this world, and I pray for Your guidance and wisdom so that I may show anyone and everyone what You can do for them. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
The only way we can "show" our faith is through our good deeds. We are saved by God's grace through our faith in Him, but Jesus told us to go and teach His Word and make disciples. If we're not showing our faith to unbelievers, we're only doing it half way, and God doesn't accept half way. The people of the world need to see our faith in action, so that they can understand what we are talking about.
Does my faith "show" enough to those around me? I think I need to do better in this area. The last thing I want is for God to say that I am only doing it halfway, or that I'm lukewarm. Abraham demonstrated his faith by being willing to sacrifice Isaac. That was a real demonstration of faith. I seriously don't believe that God would ask anyone to sacrifice their children, but He does want real commitment from us. I need to be willing to do whatever God calls me to do to "show" my faith, because I want to be called a friend of God like Abraham was.
Dear Lord, how can I show my faith today? Who can I bless in Your Name today so that they can see Your love in me? I want nothing more than to be a beacon of Your light in this world, and I pray for Your guidance and wisdom so that I may show anyone and everyone what You can do for them. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Pray, Then Plan
Jude 1:10 - But these people scoff at things they do not understand. Like unthinking animals, they do whatever their instincts tell them, and so they bring about their own destruction.
This is a great reminder to pray and seek God's guidance for our lives. Relying on our own wisdom and following our instincts is a fast track to trouble. God will tell us what we need to know and do, but we have to take it to Him first.
For those that know me well, I am not the most patient person (that's an understatement). When I need or want something, it needs to happen now. I need to be better about praying before doing. I need to remember to trust God to give me the right answers. I know He will never fail me or abandon me, so not seeking Him first is not glorifying Him. I must do better.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for reminding to pray before planning. I trust that You will guide me down the paths I need to be on. Just because it wasn't my idea, doesn't make it a bad one. If it comes from You, it is only good and right. I will get better about this, so that I can give You the glory and honor You deserve. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
This is a great reminder to pray and seek God's guidance for our lives. Relying on our own wisdom and following our instincts is a fast track to trouble. God will tell us what we need to know and do, but we have to take it to Him first.
For those that know me well, I am not the most patient person (that's an understatement). When I need or want something, it needs to happen now. I need to be better about praying before doing. I need to remember to trust God to give me the right answers. I know He will never fail me or abandon me, so not seeking Him first is not glorifying Him. I must do better.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for reminding to pray before planning. I trust that You will guide me down the paths I need to be on. Just because it wasn't my idea, doesn't make it a bad one. If it comes from You, it is only good and right. I will get better about this, so that I can give You the glory and honor You deserve. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Monday, July 8, 2013
Guaranteed Trust
Hebrews 10:23 - Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.
We can always trust God. God promises to never forsake or abandon us, and He is not capable of lying. This is a guaranteed trust, not like some security we get from a bank or something that is left in human hands. God's promises are infallible and unwavering. He can forever be counted on to keep His word to us.
I seem to keep coming back to the issue of trust lately. Why is that? Like anyone else, my trust has been taken advantage of by people throughout the years. I won't lie and say that I'm not a little jaded when it comes to trusting humans. But I am unshaken in my trust in God. He has proven to me time and again that I can always count on Him, and I will continue to do so for the rest of my days.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for being the trustworthy Creator that You are. Your promises have given me a hope that I could never and will never find anywhere else. While I may be a little jaded when it comes to human trust, Your love and grace and mercy have shown me how to love and forgive those who have hurt me in the past. I thank You so much for these teachable moments in my life. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
We can always trust God. God promises to never forsake or abandon us, and He is not capable of lying. This is a guaranteed trust, not like some security we get from a bank or something that is left in human hands. God's promises are infallible and unwavering. He can forever be counted on to keep His word to us.
I seem to keep coming back to the issue of trust lately. Why is that? Like anyone else, my trust has been taken advantage of by people throughout the years. I won't lie and say that I'm not a little jaded when it comes to trusting humans. But I am unshaken in my trust in God. He has proven to me time and again that I can always count on Him, and I will continue to do so for the rest of my days.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for being the trustworthy Creator that You are. Your promises have given me a hope that I could never and will never find anywhere else. While I may be a little jaded when it comes to human trust, Your love and grace and mercy have shown me how to love and forgive those who have hurt me in the past. I thank You so much for these teachable moments in my life. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Sunday, July 7, 2013
A Better Hope
Hebrews 7:19 - For the law never made anything perfect. But now we have confidence in a better hope, through which we draw near to God.
That hope that we have confidence in, is found only in Jesus Christ. He is not only a better hope, He is our best, last, and only hope. Like the writer of Hebrews says, the law never made anything perfect. If it had, Jesus' coming and sacrifice would not have been necessary. But it was necessary, because we are all sinners and we all fall short. Putting our trust and confidence in the best, last, and only hope is the only path to righteousness.
Have I put my total trust and confidence in the hope of Jesus? Have I totally surrendered to His will for my life? Yes I have! That does not mean I am perfect. Far from it. I will still make mistakes (one of my specialties), but I have total trust and confidence that He will forgive and accept me by His grace. There is nothing in this world that is worthy of that trust and confidence, so I put it in the One who promises to give it abundantly regardless.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for accepting me through Your amazing grace. There is so much I have done that could have easily given You a reason to turn Your back to me. But You never did. And I know You never will. I ask for Your guidance and wisdom as I walk the path You have placed me on so that I may be a beacon of light to those I encounter for Your glory and honor. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
That hope that we have confidence in, is found only in Jesus Christ. He is not only a better hope, He is our best, last, and only hope. Like the writer of Hebrews says, the law never made anything perfect. If it had, Jesus' coming and sacrifice would not have been necessary. But it was necessary, because we are all sinners and we all fall short. Putting our trust and confidence in the best, last, and only hope is the only path to righteousness.
Have I put my total trust and confidence in the hope of Jesus? Have I totally surrendered to His will for my life? Yes I have! That does not mean I am perfect. Far from it. I will still make mistakes (one of my specialties), but I have total trust and confidence that He will forgive and accept me by His grace. There is nothing in this world that is worthy of that trust and confidence, so I put it in the One who promises to give it abundantly regardless.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for accepting me through Your amazing grace. There is so much I have done that could have easily given You a reason to turn Your back to me. But You never did. And I know You never will. I ask for Your guidance and wisdom as I walk the path You have placed me on so that I may be a beacon of light to those I encounter for Your glory and honor. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Stay Strong
Hebrews 3:12 - Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God.
This is a great reminder that we need to stay strong in our faith and trust in God. God does not test our faith, Satan does (see Job). We must be careful not to give in to these temptations, and we are reminded at the end of Hebrews 4 that God's grace will help us when we need it most. If we cling to that promise and seek Him during the trials and tribulations, He promises to sustain us by His love and grace.
I am the man I am today, because of God's love and grace. He has sustained me through the hardest times in my life. I confidently trust Him to continue to do so for the rest of my life as well. I know Satan will try to test and tempt me as I grow stronger in my faith, but I have no fear because I know that God has my back, and He will carry me through anything. When I am weakest, He is strongest.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for keeping me going when I thought I couldn't go anymore. Your love and grace have sustained me, and they are more than sufficient to keep me going. I pray that You will continue to give me the strength I need to resist the temptations that Satan puts in front of me everyday. I know I am not perfect, and I will slip and fall, but I confidently trust that You will pick me up and put me back on my feet again. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen!
God Bless!!!
This is a great reminder that we need to stay strong in our faith and trust in God. God does not test our faith, Satan does (see Job). We must be careful not to give in to these temptations, and we are reminded at the end of Hebrews 4 that God's grace will help us when we need it most. If we cling to that promise and seek Him during the trials and tribulations, He promises to sustain us by His love and grace.
I am the man I am today, because of God's love and grace. He has sustained me through the hardest times in my life. I confidently trust Him to continue to do so for the rest of my life as well. I know Satan will try to test and tempt me as I grow stronger in my faith, but I have no fear because I know that God has my back, and He will carry me through anything. When I am weakest, He is strongest.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for keeping me going when I thought I couldn't go anymore. Your love and grace have sustained me, and they are more than sufficient to keep me going. I pray that You will continue to give me the strength I need to resist the temptations that Satan puts in front of me everyday. I know I am not perfect, and I will slip and fall, but I confidently trust that You will pick me up and put me back on my feet again. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Friday, July 5, 2013
Hot, Hot, Hot
Revelation 3:15 - "I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other!"
In His message to the church in Laodicea, Jesus is speaking to all of us about being wishy-washy in our faith. He doesn't want us to be on the fence, and promises to spit us out for being lukewarm. He wants us to be on fire for Him. He doesn't accept lukewarm, He accepts HOT.
I have definitely been lukewarm in my faith before. I used to think that since I believed and accepted Christ, I was good. Oh how wrong I was. God wants me, and all of us, to have a burning, passionate love for Him. He has always had a burning passionate love for us, which He demonstrated by sacrificing His only Son. He wants to have an intimate relationship with us. In 2 Timothy, Paul tells us that this was His plan since the beginning of time. God chose us to be with Him, and we should be nothing less than on fire for His love.
Dear Father, thank You so much for being passionately in love with me. I thank You for giving me Your Holy Spirit to ignite this spark of love in me that I have for You. Lord, I ask that You continue to be with me, as You always have, so that I will stay on fire for You, and that I am strong in my faith. I want others to see Your love inside of me, so that they will see what they may be missing if they haven't come to You yet. Thank You for everything You have done, and everything You have meant to me. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
In His message to the church in Laodicea, Jesus is speaking to all of us about being wishy-washy in our faith. He doesn't want us to be on the fence, and promises to spit us out for being lukewarm. He wants us to be on fire for Him. He doesn't accept lukewarm, He accepts HOT.
I have definitely been lukewarm in my faith before. I used to think that since I believed and accepted Christ, I was good. Oh how wrong I was. God wants me, and all of us, to have a burning, passionate love for Him. He has always had a burning passionate love for us, which He demonstrated by sacrificing His only Son. He wants to have an intimate relationship with us. In 2 Timothy, Paul tells us that this was His plan since the beginning of time. God chose us to be with Him, and we should be nothing less than on fire for His love.
Dear Father, thank You so much for being passionately in love with me. I thank You for giving me Your Holy Spirit to ignite this spark of love in me that I have for You. Lord, I ask that You continue to be with me, as You always have, so that I will stay on fire for You, and that I am strong in my faith. I want others to see Your love inside of me, so that they will see what they may be missing if they haven't come to You yet. Thank You for everything You have done, and everything You have meant to me. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Great Instruction
Joshua 1:8 - Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed.
God's instructions to Joshua here are crucial instructions for us as well. He tells Joshua to study the Book of Instruction daily and that if he obey's it, he will be prosperous and successful. This is great instructions for all of us. If we aren't studying His Word, then how can we say we know God (as finitely as we are able to, at least). How can we say that we have any understanding of God's love and grace for us, if we aren't studying about it?
I cannot say enough how much reading the Bible has meant to me. Even though I was saved over 15 years ago, I never really ready my Bible until about 4 years ago, and even then sporadically. I have now been in His Word every day for the last 436 days, and I have learned more about living than I ever thought I knew. I have learned so much about God's love and mercy and grace, and because of that, I am truly saved. I know I am not perfect about obeying it sometimes, and I never will be perfect. But knowing how much God loves me and wants me to be with Him in His Glorious Kingdom makes me strive that much harder to meditate on His Word day and night, and to strive harder to obey. Only then, will I prosper and succeed.
Dear Lord, thank You so much for giving us all Your Word. I realize that through it I can truly have an understanding of who You are, and what You have done for me. Even though I know I am not worthy, Your love and grace have made me worthy. I know You will never fail me or abandon me, and I will strive harder to know You more and love You more and obey You more. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
God's instructions to Joshua here are crucial instructions for us as well. He tells Joshua to study the Book of Instruction daily and that if he obey's it, he will be prosperous and successful. This is great instructions for all of us. If we aren't studying His Word, then how can we say we know God (as finitely as we are able to, at least). How can we say that we have any understanding of God's love and grace for us, if we aren't studying about it?
I cannot say enough how much reading the Bible has meant to me. Even though I was saved over 15 years ago, I never really ready my Bible until about 4 years ago, and even then sporadically. I have now been in His Word every day for the last 436 days, and I have learned more about living than I ever thought I knew. I have learned so much about God's love and mercy and grace, and because of that, I am truly saved. I know I am not perfect about obeying it sometimes, and I never will be perfect. But knowing how much God loves me and wants me to be with Him in His Glorious Kingdom makes me strive that much harder to meditate on His Word day and night, and to strive harder to obey. Only then, will I prosper and succeed.
Dear Lord, thank You so much for giving us all Your Word. I realize that through it I can truly have an understanding of who You are, and what You have done for me. Even though I know I am not worthy, Your love and grace have made me worthy. I know You will never fail me or abandon me, and I will strive harder to know You more and love You more and obey You more. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Generous Love
1 Timothy 1:14 - Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.
Paul is pointing out just how loving our God is. God wasn't concerned about what Paul did - which is good, because Saul of Tarsus was a wicked man. Instead, He used that to show Paul how to love, and to spread the message of the love of Jesus. God filled Paul with the generous love that only comes from Jesus Christ.
Has God filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus? He sure has! Like Paul, I did a lot of stupid things out of ignorance and unbelief. But because of God's amazing grace, and generous and unfailing love, He has transformed me. Like Paul said in verse 12, He has given me strength to do His work. He has considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve Him. And serve Him joyfully, I will. I don't intend to compare myself with Paul, because Paul was a great man who did so many wonderful things for the Kingdom of God. But I can relate to him in some ways. God has truly shown me what a God of generous and gracious love He is.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for showing me what love is, and what love does. I am blessed by You because of Your love, and I have been saved by You because of Your grace. Thank You for transforming me into what I am and what I will become. I will joyfully serve You no matter where You send me. In Jesus' name, Amen!
Paul is pointing out just how loving our God is. God wasn't concerned about what Paul did - which is good, because Saul of Tarsus was a wicked man. Instead, He used that to show Paul how to love, and to spread the message of the love of Jesus. God filled Paul with the generous love that only comes from Jesus Christ.
Has God filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus? He sure has! Like Paul, I did a lot of stupid things out of ignorance and unbelief. But because of God's amazing grace, and generous and unfailing love, He has transformed me. Like Paul said in verse 12, He has given me strength to do His work. He has considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve Him. And serve Him joyfully, I will. I don't intend to compare myself with Paul, because Paul was a great man who did so many wonderful things for the Kingdom of God. But I can relate to him in some ways. God has truly shown me what a God of generous and gracious love He is.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for showing me what love is, and what love does. I am blessed by You because of Your love, and I have been saved by You because of Your grace. Thank You for transforming me into what I am and what I will become. I will joyfully serve You no matter where You send me. In Jesus' name, Amen!
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
The Bottom Line
Colossians 3:11 - In this new life, it doesn't matter if you are a Jew or Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave or free. Christ is all that matters, and He lives in all of us.
And that's the bottom line...All that matters is Jesus. It doesn't matter who we are, where we came from, or what we've done. Christ living in us, because of our acceptance of His free gift of Salvation, is all that matters.
God doesn't care about what I've done, He cares about what I do. He knows my heart, and He knows that I strive each day to work for His glory. I am so thankful for His wonderful blessings. I'll never regret what I've done, because it all led me to seek Christ...but I will regret what I don't do with the gifts God has given me.
Dear Lord, thank You so much for Your amazing blessings you have given me. Thank you for forgetting my past, and teaching me to forget my past. I know that there is nothing I can do to change the past. All I can do is serve and worship You with all of my heart, mind, and soul, and that is sufficient for me. Thank You for being such a loving God. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
And that's the bottom line...All that matters is Jesus. It doesn't matter who we are, where we came from, or what we've done. Christ living in us, because of our acceptance of His free gift of Salvation, is all that matters.
God doesn't care about what I've done, He cares about what I do. He knows my heart, and He knows that I strive each day to work for His glory. I am so thankful for His wonderful blessings. I'll never regret what I've done, because it all led me to seek Christ...but I will regret what I don't do with the gifts God has given me.
Dear Lord, thank You so much for Your amazing blessings you have given me. Thank you for forgetting my past, and teaching me to forget my past. I know that there is nothing I can do to change the past. All I can do is serve and worship You with all of my heart, mind, and soul, and that is sufficient for me. Thank You for being such a loving God. In Jesus' name, Amen!
God Bless!!!
Monday, July 1, 2013
No Regrets
Philippians 3:13 - No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead.
Regret is wasted time and energy. Focusing on our past mistakes and hurts takes away from our worship and praise of Christ. There is nothing wrong with looking behind us to learn from our own mistakes, but after that we need to focus on what is in front of us, and that is Jesus Chrst. He died to free us from the bondage of our past, not so we could dwell on it and be miserable. Rejoice in your freedom...Rejoice in His love!
When I first got clean from drug addiction, this was a tough one for me to learn. I spent a lot of time feeling sorry for myself because of the people I had hurt, the mistakes I had made, and thinking about what might have been. I am so glad this finally sank in. Because of Christ, I am free to love all of His people and not think about what might have been. Because what is now and what God has planned for me tomorrow is what matters most, and that I am thankful for the most. I learned from my mistakes, and now I have moved on to a better life, and a better me, and have found my true identity as a child of God.
Dear Abba Father, thank You for teaching me that I don't need anything but You. Thank You for reminding me to keep my focus not behind, but ahead on You. I know that I can and will accomplish anything through the strength You provide me everyday, and I am eternally grateful for that strength each and every moment of my life. I know I will occasionally stumble, but I know that Your loving arms will be there to pick me up and dust me off. In the precious, holy, and powerful name of Jesus, Amen!
God Bless!!!
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