Welcome to God's Lemonade Stand

It is my hope that by reading this daily you will grow in your walk with Christ and knowledge of scriptures and be set free from any struggles in your life that are weighing you down. Be blessed to be a blessing.

Monday, April 30, 2012

GOD ALLOWS DO OVERS


Have you messed up somewhere in life? Perhaps you had a misunderstanding with someone and they shut you out of life? Maybe you were put on probation at work or even worse, fired. A disgruntled spouse filed for divorce siting 'irreconcilable differences' and broke up a family. Maybe your church even shunned you, which I often have a hard time understanding how the body of Christ could shut hurting people out, but some do. They 'shoot their wounded' so to speak.

First of all scripture tells us in Romans 3:23 that " we have all sinned and fallen short of God's glory" and in Romans 3:10 says "there is none that is righteous, no not one". Remember the verse in John 8:7 that says "let he who is without sin cast the first stone"? Also "be careful lest you also fall" which is mentioned in 1 Corinthians 10:12. In Ephesians 2:8 it says " By grace you are saved by faith". Then there is the verse which reminds us we have all 'been there, done that, got the tee shirt shirt' so to speak in 1 Corinthians 6:11 when it reminds us "and such were some of you."

Mere man may fail us and set up their own list of requirements for how you can be accepted and loved but God is not like that and aren't you glad and breathing a sigh of relief?

PRAYER: Thanks Lord that you allow me to start again when I have made a mess of things. Sometimes humans will reject us but you NEVER do and for that I praise you and thank you. Forgive me for my sins Lord. I want to live a life that brings glory to you. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to worship the Lord in song.

Sunday, April 29, 2012

GIVE ON!!



Are you a giver or a taker? When it comes to giving money in church or hearing sermons about tithing do you cringe and say "Hear goes the money talk again. The preacher is begging for money". Giving shows the attitude of our heart. We should want to give. It is up to the ministries you give it to and between them and God if they misuse it. It is all God's anyway as it is He who gives the talents and skills to get work. We are to give it back and be good stewards of it. Many find that if they tithe first like you should that you have plenty of money left over for other things.

 When our sons were small we tried to instill the 'God first' mentality in their little heads. I had 3 small Tupperware cups. One had a cross on it. One had a dollar sign on it. Finally the last one had a picture of them on it. We taught them the J.O.Y. principle in giving or in other words, 'Jesus First, Others Second, Yourself Last'. The three cups symbolized giving to God, then saving money and their fun money. We pray as adults they still have that in their minds today.

The Bible has much to say about giving. Giving should not be just so you can get a tax deduction but should be because you want to. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says to us "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." If your heart is not in it keep your money because it is given for the wrong reason.

When we do give we are blessed for it. Scripture says in Luke 6:38 "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Scripture also tells us about helping others when it says in  1 John 3:17 when it says "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?" In Proverbs 19:17 it says "He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done." Now this verse may be wrongly used by a tyrannical government to justify redistributing wealth but that is not what it is saying because it also says in 2 Thessalonians 3:10 "if a man does not work he should not eat." So those who think government should give them everything are wrong.

Your treasures should be laid up in heaven where your real reward will come from. Things down here on earth perish and decay. You should take care of the men and women of God who feed you God's word. The Bible says in Matthew 6:21 that "Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be."

1 Chronicles 29:12 says "Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all."

Are you stingy and keep all your money for yourself or do take care of the body of Christ and ministries where you are taught the word of God? Examine your heart today. Are you are giver or a taker? Now go prove it and write a check and drop it in that offering plate or send it to your favorite Christian ministry today, but only with joy and not compulsion in your heart and not to prove something to whoever is sitting next to you. God knows your heart.

PRAYER: Father it is my desire to share what you have given to me when I have the opportunity and to also be faithful in tithing to the kingdom of God. I know I will reap what I sow financially. I know you want my heart to be right. Forgive me for hoarding all my money and thinking I am doing a favor to God by putting one dollar in the offering plate. Give me a heart that wants to give. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link below for a wonderful message in song.
http://youtu.be/_TDikh4lFJs

Saturday, April 28, 2012

ENEMY TERRITORY



 In a military battle the object is to defeat the enemy. You protect yourself with the proper equipment before you go into battle.

We are in spiritual battle here on earth between the forces of evil(Satan) and good(God). Many are enemies to the cross of Christ and hate the message that is in the Bible and will do anything they can to stop Christians from spreading it. Our protection is prayer and the Armor of God.

Ephesians 6:11-18 says "Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. " You can actually visualize putting on the armor to protect you from those fiery darts fired at you and your family members. The enemy is out to trick and deceive believers and even cause some to believe a lie. It is not just the unsaved who have to worry.

This world is not our home as Christians . We are simply here as representatives of Christ on a temporary basis. The military has a term called TDY when a soldier leaves his home base for 'temporary duty' in another location but will be back when the mission is finished. We too are sort of TDY here and doing our mission to win others to Christ ,or at least we should be.

The world and all its appeal and fun will pass away. Only what its done for Christ will last .1 John 2:17 says "The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever." Are you shining the light of Jesus wherever you go and no matter what happens? Do you cave in when trouble comes your way?

Satan is referred to in the Bible as the 'prince of this world' and one day according to John 12:31 he will be driven out. Jesus is the true light and can drive out the darkness of evil. John 3:19 says "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil."

Do you love darkness and the pleasures of this world more than Jesus? Ponder that for awhile. This world loves the darkness and it hated Jesus and it will hate you according to John 15:18 because you love Him and follow Him. Romans 12:2 reminds believers "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." Who are you conforming to? Do you hide your light under a basket so to speak?

2 Chronicles 20:15 gives us hope when it says "He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's". The battle is not ours!! Hallelujah!! We know the enemy is seeking to destroy us, deceive us, depress us, discourage us, lie to us and just basically hates us. He is called an 'angel of light' in 2 Corinthians 11:14. Pretty tricky the way he tries to get us to fall for his schemes.He even works through humans to carry out some of his plans because he has deceived them as well. Be alert it says in 1 Peter 5:18. "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."


Stay in the word of God and tell Satan to get behind you as you are a child of God!

PRAYER: Lord I know the enemy is roaming around and trying to get us to follow him instead of God,. He puts wrong thoughts into our heads and makes us complacent towards wanting to grow in Christ. He knows if he can trick us and make us too tired to read the Bible we will not have the power to defeat him. Father help me stay alert to his tricks and not fall for them. Keep my family protected and help them too not be deceived. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link and enjoy a wonderful song of praise and worship. You do not want to miss this song.
http://youtu.be/o2eMqGC2_mM

Friday, April 27, 2012

STORMS IN EVERYONE'S LIFE






 Wednesday 27 April 2011 was a horrible day for storms in the Southeast United States especially here in the area I live close to. Devastating killer tornado's swept through at F4 and F5 intensity, leveling homes, picking up vehicles and tossing them like toys and carrying debris over 80 to 100 miles before it came to rest ,some even in our field here in Tennessee. Unbelievable the force of the winds.

 It is amazing more people did not lose their lives this day. I for one did not realize it was going to be so serious and was out running errands. My husband kept calling saying to get on home. We were spared and I was blessed to get to help several days in the clean up efforts in the nearby communities of Harvest and Toney. When a homeowner sees all they have worked for either gone or laying all over their yard or up in a tree it is a little bit disheartening and hard to take mentally. These folks just needed someone to help them pick up the pieces. What a better time to serve the Lord than by pitching in and helping pick up stuff in yards and talking to homeowners in the process.

'Storms' in general are going to come to everyone in their lifetime. Maybe not in the form of a physical killer tornado but in the form of death, bad news, job loss, failed tests in school, disappointment, rejection, and much more. It is how we handle these 'storms' that matters. Do we just give up and get into a depressed state which is natural or do we cry out to Jesus for his help and comfort? Many get mad at God when 'storms' come into their life. Many storms have a silver lining if we can hang on the 'getting through'  process. James 1:3 says "For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow."

What storms are you going through right now? Do you feel like God doesn't care or you will never see the sun again? It seems that way in the midst of turmoil but there are rainbows after storms and there will be 'rainbows' for you too if you only keep praying, believing and hold on to Jesus.
Luke 18:1 says to "pray and never give up". Can you do that? Can you keep praying in the midst of your troubles? It is the best way to get through it and to get victory and peace.

PRAYER: Lord God I thank you for both the good times and the bad. Thank you that you never leave my side and I find comfort in knowing you are always with me even in the rough spots of life. Help me Lord to learn to run to you and not fear when problems arise .In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link for an awesome praise song.
http://youtu.be/xGPS8sa-bRQ

Thursday, April 26, 2012

UNSUBSCRIBE HERE


In this fast paced technological world we are a part of today, whether we like it or not, it is a challenge to not go overboard on too many busy activities,communication devices, and too much email clutter. We can waste so much time just uncluttering our junk email to get to actual notes from friends. Imagine if your regular mailbox by the roadside  had 100 pieces of junk mail per day. It could get to be a bit overwhelming.

In life we have to manage our time or we can get ourselves way overboard and end up having a mental collapse if we are not careful. I like it on emails that come in when at very bottom it reads "Unsubscribe Here". Yeah!!  You mean I can stop getting this and opt out? Even seemingly good things from Christian groups, news groups, and political items that keep us informed can tend to be time killers if we let them. You have to choose what to read and what to send to the trash.

Your activities you choose to be involved in can be like that. Let's say, for instance you are not working,  and feel you have to justify your existence by jumping into every meeting and every volunteer activity to just fill up your days perhaps to 'prove' to someone you matter .That is not really necessary as you matter tons to God and He is the only one that matters anyway. It is okay to volunteer  but if you are never home and spending more time at church or at a volunteer place and neglect your family and friends then it can be bad. The key is 'balance' as my friend Kim in Iowa used to have on her personalized license plate.

 You may be working full time and still volunteering for committees and clubs. You may in fact have valuable talents and skills but life only has so many days and hours. You need time to relax some too. Our society, at least here in America, tends to be constantly going. Do something and try to drop an unnecessary activity robbing you of precious time or the next time tempted to volunteer stop and just say no for a change.I am not saying to not help others but to have balance and use common sense.

 Get away and alone with God. Consider taking your lunch hour in a park where it is quiet and just praying and 'talking' to God. This would be a great time of physical, emotional, and spiritual renewal.

 The Bible says in Isaiah 30:15 that "in quietness and confidence is your strength." Turn to God and ask him to help you be able to 'unsubscribe' from some of the busyness in your life. Psalm 46:10 reminds us "Be still and know that I am God." How do you expect to 'hear' from God if you clutter up your life and do not leave time for Him?

 PRAYER: Father I thank you for times of refreshment and relaxation and times of peace. I know peace will not happen unless I take an effort to get rid of things in my life that are unnecessary. Forgive me Lord when my schedule has squeezed you out. Give me discernment in which activities to be involved in. In Jesus name. Amen.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

SIT, STAND, STAY STILL





In the Bible it mentions three commands almost a if training a pet. We are told to sit, stand and stay still.

Ephesians 6:14 tells us to "Stand firm then with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, and the breastplate of righteousness in your place."Matthew 22:44 says "the Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand till I put your enemies under your feet."Psalm 46:10 says " Be still and know that I am God.I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted a among the Earth."

 Are you able to be still in His presence? It is against the culture we live in almost to actually sit down and rest. The Bible does say John 14:27 " Peace I leave with you and my peace I give you. Not as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Also in Isaiah 30:15 it says " in quietness and confidence is your strength."  Exodus 14:14 says "the Lord will fight for you, you only need be still."

Do you stand for Jesus in your life? Is He your strength? Are you able to be still in his presence? Sometimes it is hard to wait, to sit, to stand still or even to stay. We rush, rush, rush. It is time to let go and let God be your controller.

PRAYER: Lord I want to be still in your presence. I want to worship with confidence and peace. Help me to step back Lord and learn to be still. In Jesus name. Amen.

Attached link is a cute video called God and Dog which I find very eye opening.
http://youtu.be/H17edn_RZoY

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

ENDURE




Are you able to endure through the hard times of life or do you cave in and crumble? Jesus did the ultimate test of endurance up on that cross. Imagine being nailed to a cross and hanging there in pain. Big huge railroad tie like spikes driven into his hands and feet. The weight of his body just hanging there bruised, bleeding, and beaten. He did this for you and I my friend, yet at times we just ignore Him.  He did this for you and I so our sins are forgiven past, present and future!  This was the ultimate torture. It is hard to even imagine it.

What in your life is that bad? Is there a situation you are in the midst of in your personal life or family and you just can not see how it will ever turn out good?

Here in this wonderful country of the United States we do not have to endure lots that people in other countries go through. We complain, moan, and groan about our little inconveniences, aches and pains but they are NOTHING like what the rest of the world goes through. Sure I am not saying we do not have pain, both emotional and physical and pain hurts, believe me, I know.

 I think of a soldier in a prison of war camp being tortured to try to get secrets from him. How many of us could deal with that? Every service member who takes the oath of office to defend this country could at one time or another be subject to that. I am sure glad that the mere 6 years I served I did not have to face that type of treatment.

But our Lord and savior suffered the greatest and did it for us and never complained. In fact while up there he said to the Lord in heaven about his accusers and torturers " Father forgive them for they know not what they do". (See Luke 23:34).

 Can you endure your race of life?? There is blessing in enduring and it produces a wonderful reward. Hebrews 12:2 says "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

PRAYER: Lord forgive me for complaining at times about my 'lot' in life when I really should be thanking you for all the wonderful things you have blessed me with. Help me try to find someone who is worse off than me and help them. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link for worship song.
http://youtu.be/dStIyVOBCKU

Monday, April 23, 2012

ARE YOU A SINNER?


You betcha, we all are. The fact is we need to recognize no one is perfect but we also need to not purposely sin when we know something is against what the Bible says. The Bible says in John 8:7 "let he who is without sin cast the first stone".

Many try to talk themselves out of sin by changing what the Bible says. I have heard some say "Well sex before marriage is not a sin if the couple is going to get married", but wait, they are not married yet. (See Hebrews 13:4). Drinking is itself not a sin but drunkenness is.(See Ephesians 5:18). Lying is a sin.(See Colossians 3:9). Cheating is a sin. (Income tax time ring a bell?) Stealing is a sin, such as even office supplies you may innocently take home,

See we are all sinners. "All have sinned and fallen short of God's Glory" it says in Romans 3:23. Some people may like to put some sins into the five 'worst' categories but there is no such thing. Sin is separation from God and doing things against his word, period!The good news is God forgives. 1 John 1:9 says "If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

"All of us like sheep have gone astray" it says in Isaiah 53:6.  All of us have! No one is perfect. You point your finger in judgement at someone there are three more pointing back at you so get down off your 'holier than thou' pedestal because pride is a sin too. "But wait that guy on television in the orange jump suit and handcuffs did a much worse sin that what I did." Whoops. There you go again. Judging and classifying right and wrong. That is not our job. Our job is to love, show mercy and grace and be ready to forgive. Can you do that? If not clean up your own act first then ask God for the power to love others despite their shortcomings, as we all have them.


PRAYER: Thanks Lord that you forgive us when we mess up and do things that displease you. Help me Lord stay on the straight and narrow path. I want to walk with you and serve you .Help me see clearly the difference in good and evil and follow after the truth .In Jesus Name. Amen.


Click on link and worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/eNhz8BMTqsk

Sunday, April 22, 2012

I AM


Are you feeling down today? Maybe lack direction or purpose? Perhaps you are just having a slow ho hum day. It is time to rejoice and give thanks for this day God created for you and for another day of living and helping make a difference in the world around you. Say the following OUT LOUD:

 I am  a child of God. (Romans 9:8)
I am bought with a price. (1 Corinthians 6:20)
I am created by God. (Genesis 1:27)
I am forgiven. (1 John 2:12)
I am redeemed. (Deuteronomy 24:18)
I am set free. (Romans 8:2)
I am loved.(Romans 1:7)
I am an ambassador. (2 Corinthians 5:20)
I am the head and not the tail.(Deuteronomy 28:13)
I am adopted into God's family.(Romans 8:14-16)
I am able to do all things through Christ who strengthens me.(Philippians 4:13)
I am fearfully and wonderfully made.(Psalm 139)
I am able to overcome with God's help. (Revelation 12:11)
I am on earth for a reason. (Jeremiah 29:11)

It is true!! God has great plans for you and your life. Whatever lies about yourself are in your head get rid of them. It is Satan who puts lies and doubts into your head. He is the father of lies so stop listening to Him.Whatever is in your past ask forgiveness and move on.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the promises in your word. When I want to get depressed and sad help me remembered the wonderful things in the Bible. Thank you Lord for your many blessings which often times I take for granted. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link for a wonderful song. Happy Sunday!
http://youtu.be/fhQnspSDOuk

Saturday, April 21, 2012

THE 'TO DO' LIST REVISITED

A while back I wrote about our daily 'to do' list and I have some more very important factors to add to that list so here goes.

 Don't dwell on problems. Don't believe the devils lies. Don't compromise beliefs. Don't worry!

 But what you should do is as follows:
 Do seek the truth.
 Do Read the Bible.
 Do put others first.
 Do love unconditionally.
 Do pray daily.
 Do forgive.
 Do only say what builds people up.
 Do encourage.
 Do give thanks.
 Do be kind to others.
 Do 'seek first the kingdom of God'!
 Do dwell on good thoughts.
 Do something to help someone each day even if strangers.
 Do not brag.
 Do follow the Ten Commandments.
 Do be thankful in all things!
 Do 'run the race' to win and keep your eyes on the cross.
 Do shine Jesus light to others around you.
 Do give God the glory!

You can probably build upon this list. All of these are from the Bible not my own head. These are not a list of legalistic rules that are made up by man but are things that if followed will help you not only be closer to God but will help you with the trials of life that are surely to come.

Matthew 6:33 says " But seek first his kingdom and God's righteousness and all these things will be added unto you." 1st Corinthians 9:24 says "do you not know that in a race all runners run but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." Get rid of what is weighing you down and keeping you from being all God wants you to be."

PRAYER: Lord being a Christian is more than being in church on Sunday. Lord I want to stay on the path of life you have prepared for me and resist the devil and he will have to flee. Thank you Lord for your word, The Holy Bible, that is my guidebook and instruction manual for life. My desire is to read it daily and not let Satan drag me into his pit of untruths. In Jesus name. Amen.
















Friday, April 20, 2012

HURTFUL WORDS BREED HURT FEELINGS


When someone hurts you with insensitive comments you can choose to dwell on it, get back at them, get angry or try to prove yourself. None of these really brings out the glory of the Lord. All in all it is best to just let it go whether you are right or wrong. Anger festers up and before you know it a relationship is on the brink of destruction. The best advice is to move on and let it go. If not, bitterness can take over. Trying to 'prove your point' or 'defend yourself' is sometimes just not worth the cost in the long run. The only person you have to account to anyway is God.

James 1:19-20 reminds us "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this:Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. For man's anger does not bring about the righteous life God desires." Commit that verse to memory as it is so pertinent in all sorts of relationships from the boardroom to the bedroom.  Anger only makes one sick inside. If someone is trying to get you into a verbal battle just remember what it says in Proverbs 15:1 and that is "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

 You do not have to prove you are right or wrong to anyone. Try to do all in your power and with God's help to maintain peace. Psalm 34:14 says " Turn from evil and do good and seek peace and pursue it."  Above all put on love for whoever it is who wants to engage you in verbal battle.

 PRAYER: Lord often times it is hard not to want to lash out and get back at those who have been insensitive and hurt me. I know that the enemy would love me to start a argument or put down the person who has hurt me. I ask Lord you give me the ability to love my enemies and pray for them. In Jesus name. Amen.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

THE JOURNEY



I am sure you have heard the statement 'life is a journey not a destination'. The story is not over yet. You may be in despair over some situation but it is not over yet. The final chapters are not written. Things happen in life and sometimes we just think we will never get over them. You get overwhelmed and distraught. Do not despair my friend. Your whole story is not over. Do not let the enemy lie to you and make you feel you may as well end it now. You have a purpose and God will do great things with your life if you yield to Him.

Satan is a destroyer and wants you to lose hope. Have no fear. The sun will shine again and things will get better. Storms of life occur and you may fall down but you can be rescued by God and get right back up. Just because you are what the world calls a 'senior citizen' does not mean you are finished so do not even think that way!!

You may wish you had some sort of crystal ball and be able to see ahead. That would probably scare most people. It is a good thing that is impossible to do even though palm readers would tell you otherwise. Only God knows the future.

Jeremiah 29:11 is a good verse of hope and it says " For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future." Ephesians 3:20 likewise is a verse that is good for the future. It says "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work in us." I'm excited and you should be too!!

PRAYER: Father thank you so much for the plans you have in store for me. Forgive me for times I have not trusted you or worried about some situation and why it had to happen. I want to yield to you and trust you with my future. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link and enjoy a tremendous worship song about living for the Lord.
http://youtu.be/oW869_Z73vU

Further reading: Psalm 139

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

CAPTIVATED-BY WHAT?

Jesus came to set the captives free. What entraps you, has a hold on you, or captivates you? The enemy will lie and make you justify what holds you captive. You can not and must not believe his lies. Say " In Jesus name and by his blood, be gone Satan!"

 Alcoholism, drugs, sexual addictions, gossip, pornography, same sex attraction, judging, gluttony, homosexuality, hatred, an unforgiving spirit or something else might have a strong hold on you. The good news is you can be released from that strangle hold that squishes Jesus truth and drags you downhill. There is freedom in Christ and Christ alone. Don't keep justifying your sinful lifestyle and brushing it under the carpet. Satan is all for that. He likes you to be in a state of denial. Do not stoop to his level. Satan is the great deceiver and he has taken many captive by his schemes and tricks. Do not let it happen! Stay in God's word and the truth will set you free. Satan is the great destroyer. He wants to destroy your life and the life of your family. Do not be held  captive to his tricks, lies, deception and schemes.

 Jesus can help set you free. You no longer have to believe the tricks of the great liar, Satan. He will get you to  twist scripture and all sorts of stuff to make you feel you are not so bad. Satan comes to steal, kill and destroy it says in John 10:10. Galatians 5:1 says "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.  Stand firm then, and do not allow yourselves to be entangled again with the yoke of bondage."  That word 'entangled' is a great word picture. Imagine thorny vines choking out a beautiful plant. You have to be careful clipping it or you get cut up pretty bad. In a prayer group I was in we prayed a few years ago for God to 'detangle' a problem that had a stronghold in one person's life. God is the great 'detangler' ,so let Him.

Do not let sin get a grip on you. Acts 8:23 says "For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin." John 8:36 tells us "For if the Son sets you free, you are free indeed." Break loose of the strongholds tearing you away from Jesus and run to Him.

PRAYER:Lord I want to be held captive by your love and your mighty power. I thank you that through you I have the power to resist the enemy and his tricks. He is puny compared to you. Lord thank you for being my strength and my shield and lifting me out of the pit and the trap Satan sets daily for me. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link below for a wonderful song of worship.
http://youtu.be/ENtL_li4GbE

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

PRAY ON!!! AND KEEP IT UP!!!

 Don't give up no matter what. Nothing is beyond hope. All things are possible to him who believes it says in Mark 9:23. I have a sign at home that says "God can't do what?"  Do not start fearing, doubting and listening to negative talk but keep on believing. God is not through with you or whatever it is you are going through yet.

 Isaiah 43:2 says "When you pass through the waters I will be with you, and when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you.  When you walk through the fire you will not get burned, the flames will not set you ablaze."  This tells me that bad stuff is  going to happen but your Father in heaven will see you through your circumstances. He is bigger than any problem you might have. Do not put him in a box. He is God!!

What is weighing on your heart today? What is keeping you from being at peace? The enemy, Satan, is the one who brings discouragement and despair. Take heart because the story is not finished yet.

Deuteronomy 31:6 says "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them. The Lord your God goes with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you."What  a wonderful promise to hold on to friend!!

Luke 18:1  tells us to "pray and never give up". If God loves me why is my life such a mess? Why do bad things happen? I do not know why, but I know God can use all things for His good. Do not start caving into fear. Fear is not from God. Keep praying. Keep living for the Lord. The sun will shine tomorrow.

PRAYER: Lord thank you for seeing me through the tough times of life. Help me to realize it is not just me with problems. It many around me go through many more difficulties than I will every go through. Forgive me when I have bee any at you or turned my back on you. I want to believe and know I will see your goodness. In Jesus name. Amen.

Happy Tuesday. Click on link below and enjoy a song of worship.
http://youtu.be/Lj2_kDyqzvE

Monday, April 16, 2012

THIS WORLD OR GOD'S WORLD?

Who do you live to serve? God or man? Do you wear a cross around your neck but it is meaningless, just jewelry? There is an old hymn that says "this world is not my home I'm just a passing through" and oh how true that is. Scripture tells us in James 4:14 that "Our life is like a vapor".  So many people live as if this world is the final hurrah for them. If you are a believer you should be finding ways each day to make a difference in the world around you or someones life. Perhaps a smile at a coffee shop to a stranger, holding a door open, offering to take a cart back for a total stranger at grocery. Be creative. Think of something.

 Romans 12:2 says "Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and prove what God's will is.  His good, pleasing and perfect will." Are you conformed to the world 'according to TV talk shows, magazines, and movies' or are you living to be different and be a representative of Christ and His kingdom?

In scripture believers are referred to as strange, set apart, peculiar,and as  ambassadors.

 It is so easy to be molded into the worlds image even as a believer. If you watch all the talk shows, bad news, and feed your mind with worldly garbage they spew forth, sooner or later you will no doubt start changing your thinking. What is the purpose of going to church and reading the Bible if we do not lead a life that is somewhat different? We need to be reacting to problems differently and standing firm through trials. You are an example for others who may know you are a believer.

The world believes and operates by different standards. For you to assume everyone is having sex when dating is wrong because that is not true. There are those who believe and follow the Bible and have self control. It sure is easy to think it is normal to go out on a date and hop into the sack if you get a constant diet of some of the movies out of Hollywood. Do you use Hollywood's  standard or God's Standard? Even the way we dress should be different and reflect Christ. Do you ladies reading this tantalize the male employees in your office by wearing  low cut tops or shirts too short? Men are tempted by sight and as a woman of God you should be aware of how what you where affects others and try to dress more modestly. (See 1 Timothy 2:9).Just cause the world swears up a blue streak does not mean we should follow suit.  It is the end of tax season and as a believer I hope you did the honorable thing there too. You get the point?

Challenge yourself to be more God centered and less world centered. We are only
down here for such a limited time. Live for God's world and be a superb representative for Him.

PRAYER: Lord forgive me if I have ever let this world and not your word shape my thinking. I want to work more towards conforming to the heavenly kingdom. Help me as I seek to be your witness here on this earth. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, April 15, 2012

GO IT ALONE

 When you have a problem in life you probably like to go to a trusted friend to talk and get advice. But what if the trusted friend is busy or gone or in some incidences maybe friends are nonexistent. What do you do then? Well, my friend you go it alone. No co-dependency is necessary. But you really aren't alone as Jesus is always with you and cares for you. He is your best counselor and in His word are treasures evermore to get you through the rough patches in life. Psalm 23:4 often sited in funerals but good for all of life situations says "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

 Do you ever feel the world has run out on you? Do you ever feel you can never be forgiven for some messes you have made? Do you ever feel like there is no way God will give you another chance? Has there been a time when you think you are worse than anyone else?  Do you ever feel hopeless?  Well guess what? You are special to God. He is your best counsel in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1 says "God is our refuge and strength. A very present help in times of trouble."Are you weighed down with a heavy load of emotional turmoil? Release it to God.

It is Satan who fills your mind and thoughts with negativity and makes you fear and doubt. You have to purpose in your heart to think good things and know that God in fact does love you , NO MATTER WHAT! Romans 8:37 says "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." You can conqueror your enemy!

There is a saying I heard but do not know where, that says "Run to the throne and not the phone" meaning God is your best and most trusted friend. He will not laugh at you. He will not make fun of you. He will not betray you. He, in fact, cares. 1 Peter 5:7 says " Cast your cares on Him for He cares for you."   Yes He does, believe it!!

John 16:33 tells us "I have told you these things so that in me you might find peace.  In the world you will have trouble but take heart for have overcome the world."  You may be overwhelmed at times with no one human is around  to talk to but God is always there in good times and bad. Concentrate on Him and His goodness. Remember what is says in Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."

PRAYER: Lord thank you for always hearing me and caring for me. Often times I have believed the lies of the enemy and have become discouraged, depressed and fearful. At times mere man has failed me. Thank goodness your love never fails. Thanks for being my best friend. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to enjoy wonderful song of worship.
http://youtu.be/JmVxRl5bc4Y

Saturday, April 14, 2012

WHITE PICKET FENCES

 When you think of a 'white picket fence' what comes to mind? Perhaps the 'perfect little home' and family?" Do you dream of the so called perfect normal life with a cute little house with a white picket fence? Perhaps the perfect job, the perfect family and everything working out good? Who wouldn't like this, but 'things' happen in life where we suddenly are faced with making a U turn and reevaluating our plan. Sometimes we go through  rough, challenging desert experiences where our faith has a chance to grow and be tested.

 Sometimes things go against the ideal plan you had sort of envisioned for life whether it is a wayward child, a failed marriage, a job loss, an unexpected death, or a health concern. The good news is God has not abandoned you in your struggles and pain. He does care and it says in scripture in Joel 2:25 "I will restore the years the locust hath eaten...". In other words things will turn around and get better.
 Just like the Prodigal son returning to his dad's  open arms after really messing up, so God is waiting for you and your 'issue'  whatever it is. ( See Luke 11:15-32). Not very many people have a 'white picket fence' life.

 Let's say you are a parent struggling with why your children have made certain choices against their upbringing. Do not beat yourself up? Instead claim Proverbs 22:6 where it says "train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it" and then release  this situation over to the Lord.

 So yes the Lord wants you to 'prosper and be in good health' as it says in 3 John 1:2  but sometimes there are some rough patches on the way to restoration and healing. Isaiah 55:8 says "For my thoughts are not your thoughts and my ways are your ways my ways ,says the Lord."

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for your unconditional love for me. Thank you for your goodness and mercy. Thank you for providing for my needs. Thank you for seeing me through life and it's occasional 'tests' and never abandoning me. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link for a wonderful song to get your Saturday started.

http://youtu.be/ysrIY84Ubmc

Friday, April 13, 2012

SHAKE THAT SALT OUT!!

If you are a Christian are you keeping your faith all to yourself? Do you like it in your Holy Huddles where everything is comfortable or are you going out into the world as we are commanded in  Mark 16:15 and being salt and light for the kingdom? Matthew 5:13 says "You are the salt of the earth but if the salt loses its' saltiness how can it be made salty again?  It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled by man." Salt flavors food and makes it  taste better and we as believers are supposed to make our world better.

The world is in a pretty big mess right now. One of the few Christian nations on earth, the United States, is under attack by evil forces yet many within the church either refuse to believe it as if in a stupor, do not want to get involved, or are just plain complacent. How are we to heal this world if Christians do not get out there and shake some salt out of that shaker? Many say that we should not get involved in 'politics' and I ask where do they see that in the word of God? When evil forces come in and try to go against our Christian principles and the Ten Commandments, which were part of the structure for the Founding Fathers, and we sit quietly by not getting involved, then we only have to blame ourselves when we fall into tyranny. Others say "God is in control" which is in fact true but he still does not like us to just sit by when the Bible is being ignored in the halls of our leaders. It is a scary thing when a nation forgets God. When prayer was taken out of the public schools many just sat. "It is someone else's  job" they probably said. When killing babies in the womb was approved in 1973 many did not speak up. Now today millions of babies are killed in the name of 'choice' and 'women's health'. We can not continue on the path we are on and expect to be blessed by God.  When we redefine marriage in this politically correct world then look out.

Psalm 33:12 says " Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." Simply saying "God Bless You" after a speech is all fine and good but then actions have to follow. Just because a person has 'Reverend' or 'Minister' as their title does not make them a Christian. You will know them by their fruits it says in Matthew 7:16. 1 John 4:1 says " Beloved do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see if they are from God for many false prophets have gone out into the world."

Today be on your knees for this great land of freedom. Each day more freedoms are slipping away yet hardly anyone notices. We know God is on the throne. Get out there and salt your world.

PRAYER: Father I thank you that I can go out into my world and be your salt shaker. Forgive me if I have become complacent and taken freedom for granted. Lord help me make a difference in the world you have placed me in. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link to enjoy a wonderful worship song. I include these in hopes to introduce some of my readers to songs they may not have heard before. Be blessed.
http://youtu.be/d61LamkXfwk

Thursday, April 12, 2012

NEW STUFF

 When something is new it is special and treated with the utmost care. Take a new car for instance. When it is new we take the extra care to hand wash and wax it and do not let people eat inside of it. When someone has a new baby, particularly their first child, they may be overly protective and make sure no one picks it up if they have a cold and insures the infant is safe and secure. If you have a new home you take good care of it and keep things in place and keep it neat and clean. Recently I was in the food court of a newly remodeled and restored mall after a flood devastated it two years ago. People are looking at awe as they walk by newly cleaned up and rebuilt stores. A cleaning crew walks around picking up the tiniest scrap of paper someone leaves behind. The place is 'spic and span' as the saying goes. When you get new clothes you take good care of them and make sure they are kept clean and repaired. When you are in a relationship that turns into romance then into marriage you do everything possible to stay in love and do wonderful special things for your  beloved. As a new Christian you are excited and hunger and thirst for God's word and want to do things that draw  you closer to God.

Like anything new we become used to it and take it for granted over time and become complacent and let things fall into disrepair. In a relationship this can be devastating. As a married couple you need to insure you love and respect each other and remember why you fell in  love in the first place. Don't stop dating and men, keep opening doors.  As a Christian if you do not stay in the word of God, have fellowship with other believers, and do things to bring you closer to God the enemy will use that as an opportunity to throw you off course. When trials of life come your way, and they certainly will, you need to be grounded in the word of God.

 It is good when we do accept Christ He wipes our sin slate away. It says in 2 Corinthians 5:17 "if anyone is in Christ he is  a new creation the old has gone, the new has come." That  is such a good thing to be brand new babes in Christ. We can move on and try to live for the Lord casting off works of darkness that separated us from Jesus.

 Do not let your new life in Christ be taken or granted. Stay in the word and continually seek to become more mature. Don't let others lead you away from the truth. When you know something is wrong and disappoints the Lord then run fast the other way. Sin can easily entrap us. Stay excited about Jesus and keep on the path that leads you to a heavenly kingdom.

Don't lose you first love which is Jesus. Revelation 2:4 says this "But I have this complaint against you. You don't love me or each other as you did at first." Start keeping Jesus love in your heart fresh and alive. Do it by getting into his word daily. Start today. Read the 12th Chapter of Psalm and 12th Chapter of Proverbs to coincide with it being the 12th day of month. From here on out purpose in your heart to give Christ first place.

 PRAYER: Thank you Lord for my life in you. I want to stay excited and never become complacent or bored. I know the enemy would love to have me stumble off course. I look to you for my daily strength. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click link once again for a wonderful song.
http://youtu.be/HDJjHOJw5bM





 Reply

 Forward

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

PARADISE

When you hear the word 'paradise' what  comes to mind? Perhaps a beach or some other exotic location? Heaven is oftentimes is  referred to as 'paradise'.

In Luke 23:43 when Jesus was hanging on the cross between two common criminals he said "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."  Paradise. Just daydream on it for awhile. No more chaos, no more wars, no more confusion, no more misunderstandings, no more striving but just total beauty and peace! Revelation 2:7 says "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God." In Revelation 21:4 it says "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." Just imagine how wonderful.

For now he has an assignment for we Christians here on this earth before we go to that wonderful place. Are you working for the Lord's kingdom where he has placed you or do you just coast along in life doing your own thing? Say "Lord use me to fulfill your plan and purpose." 1 Corinthians 2:9 says "However, as it is written:“What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” the things God has prepared for those who love him." Just imagine. As much as people in Hollywood's movie industry can dream up the unthinkable in fantastic motion pictures sets they will NEVER be able to dream up anything close to what God has prepared for those who love Him! Do you love Him? I mean REALLY love HIM? Do you look forward to His paradise some day. No one knows when we will be called home. Some leave earth early and some at a very old age. The key is being ready? Are you ready? Do you know if you were to die right now you would be with Jesus in paradise?

2 Peter 3:9 says "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." When men and women reject God and His word they pay the consequences but it does not have to be that way. You can turn from evil and get on the path to walking with the Lord today. It is your choice. Why chance it? Does your life reflect the goodness of God? If you are in question why not get things right today. Revelation 3:16 sort of says it all "So, because you are lukewarm--neither hot nor cold--I am about to spit you out of my mouth." Are you a lukewarm believer or do not believe at all? Do you think what you are doing or how you are living is good enough? Lukewarm water is just so so  and so are lukewarm Christians. Are you one of them? 

Time to make sure today that you will be in that wonderful paradise someday. You can say this prayer "Father God I need you. I confess I have been living my own way and ignoring your words. Forgive me. I want you to come into my life and set me free and make me clean and whole. In Jesus Name."

A Christian life does not mean everything is easy and without challenges. You might have more challenges. But God is there to help you through.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for being my saviour and Lord. Thank you for this beautiful world we experience now and the wonderful paradise to come once we die and enter our heavenly rest. Forgive me for the times I have not put you first place in my life. In Jesus Name. Amen. 

Click on link for worshipping the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/pMNwgYWhwx8

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

GOD IS ALWAYS THERE AND HE LOVES YOU!!

If you go up to heaven He is there but he is here too in our midst and he will never leave you nor forsake you. You can not hide from God. He will find you. You can not run from sin. It will find you. God is not some mean person out to get you in trouble but is a loving merciful father who we call Abba Father or daddy. He loves you, if you ask forgiveness he forgives you. He knows your hurt, your confusion, your anxiety and your pain and he is ready to heal you and set you free.

Psalm 139 is a wonderful Psalm often used for pro life to let women considering ending their babies life that each child is special and it can apply to adults as well. YOU ARE SPECIAL TO GOD! Verses 7-12 of this chapter say "Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.  If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
   if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me  and the light become night around me,”  even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you."

Isaiah 43:2 says "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." So when those trials of life are pressing down on you God is there to see you through. Through, my friend, You WILL NOT be there forever. God is there in the good times and bad times and will work things out.

A favorite verse for many Christians is Romans 8:28 which says "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Deuteronomy 31:8 says "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Hang on because God is there and he will see you through your storm!

God has a plan. Try to be patient. Try not to go by how you feel. Try not to jump to conclusions. Try not to second guess. Try not to listen to the lies of the enemy Satan, who is NOT on your side. I am so glad God's plans and purposes are better than mine, aren't you? I am glad he restores me when I mess up. Remember, NOTHING can separate you from the love of God!(See Romans 8:38-39).

PRAYER: Lord Jesus thank you for always being there for me. Thank you for the wonderful plan you have for me. Thank you that you can restore and redeem. Thank you for forgiveness. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link for a wonderful praise song to get your day started off right!
http://youtu.be/X_2qG22SPwU



Note to Devotion subscribers: I was in AZ for about 5 days so some of you did not receive this devotion then, for that I apologize. I did not have access on my IPAD to my address book. If you want to see the Devotions you missed Log onto www.godslemonadestand.blogspot.com
Once again I thank you for being a blessing in my life and for taking the time to let what God inspires me to write to bless you.

Monday, April 9, 2012

WHAT ARE YOU MAD ABOUT?

There is a lot of stuff out there to cause us to become angry. Often times we feel we deserve have the right to lash back at the thing or person who caused our anger.but is that the best thing to do and does it really help? The answer to both is NO.

In James 1:20 it says "The anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God."
Humanly if someone has hurt or wronged you , you feel justified in lashing back. Usually this behavior will only fuel the fires of anger even more. For instance, in road rage, if a driver reacts with a ugly hand gesture out his car window the person may pursue him further and try to make it a physical brawl or bring out a weapon.

If you are angry with your spouse someone has to end the battle. Don't try to always win. Just learn to pray and let things go. Ephesians 4:26 says " In your anger do not sin and do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." Good advice. Why is it necessary for people to fight anyway? Satan is the one who wants us to be in discord with one another. If you remember this in a little argument and could go to the Lord in prayer things would end quicker.

Crushed spirits take time to heal. If you are hurt by a loved one sometimes they may refuse to acknowledge this and you have to turn the situation over to the Lord. Do not allow things to fester and boil over thus turning into bitterness and resentment. Hebrews 12:5 says " see to it that no one comes short of the grace of God, that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled."  Lashing back with more inappropriate words digs your pit of anger even deeper. James 1:19 reminds us "My dear brothers take note of this, let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to become angry."

Let me end with this. Proverbs 16:32 says "Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city".

PRAYER: Help me Lord control the urge to spout off and get mad but instead help me develop patience and peace to those who may try to get me angry. I know anger does not glorify you and hurts my witness. Thank you Lord for your help. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, April 8, 2012

HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY!!!

Hopefully this is not the only day of the year you are in church but if it is good for you. For some reason people who otherwise do not go to church come out in hoards this day. Churches often times offer multiple services to handle the new crowds. A chaplain we had a few years ago called these people that came on Easter only 'Lilly Christians'.

Jesus did in fact die a gruesome death on the cross and was buried in a tomb and came to life again 3 days later. This holiday is not about chocolate bunnies and Easter eggs. It is about new life as Christ is alive evermore so here in spring we celebrate new life after the a long winter. But Jesus died for the vilest of sinners. He was sinless. He took upon himself the sins of the world. Yet many ignore Him and only show up in church on Easter as it is the thing to do. Easter is  a celebration of Jesus being alive. Hallelujah! Up from the grave he arose!!

My prayer is today that many will enter churches across this great nation of ours with a fresh hunger for the word of God and things of Christ. My prayer is that they do not wait till Christmas or Easter to come to church again.

Isaiah 53:5 says "but He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities, the punishment  that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed."

PRAYER: Lord I am so thankful for this day to celebrate you coming back to save us from our sins.  I know Lord I am to be your witness here on this earth. Lot me who your love to the unlovely and a non judgmental spirit to those who have gone astray. Use me Lord to show your love. in Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link and listen to beautiful Easter melody.
http://youtu.be/WkIJfLfzZ0w

Saturday, April 7, 2012

PULL THOSE WEEDS

Recently I was out in my front yard strawberry patch pulling numerous ugly weeds that had recently grown up and were threatening to choke out our beautiful strawberry crop. Some weeds came out easy and others were harder to get. Some had thorns on them and stuck me when I tried grabbing them.

Sin in our life can be kind of like those weeds. Weeds are something beautiful in some cases that may be pretty to look at with little flowers  such as a dandelion but they are still weeds. Some sin seems pleasant for the time being but it is still wrong in God's eyes.  Hebrews 11:25 says "He chose to be mistreated with the people of God rather to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season." Satan is not a guy in a red suit with a pitch fork but he is the prince of darkness and he loves when Christians lives become entangled in the 'weed patch'.

There is an illustration also about weeds in the Bible referring to how they choke out the word of God.  Matthew 13:22 says "the one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful."

Are you pulling the weeds from your spiritual life by reading God's word and praying? Stay in the word and you can defeat the choking lies of the enemy. Hebrews 12:1 says " therefore since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off anything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles and let us run with perseverance the race laid out for us."

Are you able to get the weeds out of your life? God can help. Call on him.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for your help each and every day to get rid of weeds that are choking you out of my life. With your help I will run with patience the race and win. In Jesus name. Amen.

Friday, April 6, 2012

STAND..FOR WHAT?

What is important to you and what do you care enough about that you would take an outspoken stand for? Is it your family, your community, your country? If things are going wrong you have to be able to be committed and care enough to get on  your knees and pray and stand up for what care about. If you do not who will? You have to tell the devil to take a hike, so to speak.

Have you ever heard the saying "if you do not stand for something you will fall for anything?" If you see things going wrong and do not speak up the you only have to blame yourself when things take a turn for the worse. If you always feel it is someone else's job to speak out then you can not complain

Recently I was able to attend a 'Stand Up For Religious Freedom' rally and a 'Stand for Life' rally. At both of these events people who had a  passion for the protection of both religious freedom and human life were there listening to speakers and taking a 'stand' for what they believed was right.

Standing is also a way to show honor in the fact we stand when we say the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag. We stand when a military member enters the room to honor their service. We give standing ovations when we really like a concert or a speaker to say "Yeah' come back! It used to be people stood when a lady entered the room. ( That does not happen hardly at all anymore).

There are different types of standing. Here are a few:
Stand Firm.
Stand Up.
Stand Beside.
Stand With.
Stand Your Ground.
Stand Apart.
Stand On.

A commitment and a passion to something is a good thing. Do you stand for Jesus? Do you stand for truth? If you are an American do you stand up for freedom? Do you stand for goodness? Do you stand on the promises in God's word

 The Bible says in Galatians 5:1 "it is for freedom that Christ set us free.Stand firm then and do not allow yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."  1 Corinthians 16:13 says "Be on your guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong." Psalm 94:16 says "Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will take a stand for me against evildoers?" Ephesians 6:13 says "Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand."

So are you ready to take a stand?

PRAYER: Lord God help me not be complacent about sin and evil in my world. Help me to stand my ground against the evil one who tries to destroy my family and this world I live in. I want to stand up for you Jesus! Give me a pure and holy passion. In Jesus name. Amen!

Click on link for a wonderful praise song.
http://youtu.be/xGPS8sa-bRQ

Thursday, April 5, 2012

LIFE SUPPORT

In this modern era we live in it seems everyone has to have a 'mobile device' or they're out of the loop. You have to be able to be connected 24/7 or the world is going to fall apart. Recently I was in the food court of a mall observing busy shoppers of all ages scurrying to and fro. A good majority of them over the age of 14 seemed to be having a death grip on their cell phone, aka 'mobile devices'.  Back in the day the only people that 'had' to stay connected were medical doctors and they wore pagers. It is my opinion we would all do just fine if it went  back to that. Didn't things go along just fine then? The younger generation would shriek "eeh gads"! Seems like we can not go out the door of our house without being able to be connected. It can be a rude habit as well if we neglect who we are with to be chatting or texting on our phone with others. Sure it is convenient and fun but is it always crucial? The answer is no.

If only we were enamored with Jesus and our 'walk' with Him the way we are with our cellular 'life support' devices. To get so excited about being a believer you would dare not forget your Bible on vacation. Maybe even carry a Gideon's pocket New testament to have 'just to read' when you are waiting somewhere. It has lots of good stuff in there to help your life. Instead of reading a gossip magazine while waiting somewhere why not pick up the Bible? Just something to think about.  Carry scripture memory cards with you and while waiting go over a verse or two to feed your spirit. We can find all sorts of other distractions to kill time, why not add getting close to God to that list? Who cares if someone thinks you are weird or stares at you? Are you ashamed of Jesus? I hope not as it says not to be in Mark 8:38. It says " If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his father's glory with His holy angels."

My prayer for you is this. That you would grow to love Jesus more than TV, more than hobbies, more than eating out, more than life itself. Jesus is the reason we are all here yet we ignore Him and He sits waiting for us to call on Him. Let Philippians 1:9-10 be your prayer. Say it out loud. "And this is my prayer , that your love may abound more and more in the knowledge and depth of insight , so that you will be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless til the day of Christ."

PRAYER: Lord I love you and want you to have first place in my life. Help me structure my day around you and not wait til the last five minutes of the day to squeeze you in. Forgive me for not putting you first in my daily life and only calling on you in a crisis. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link for praise song to go along with this devotion.
http://youtu.be/I17edLkBDCo

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

 The saying goes that April showers, which we tend to complain about, bring us May flowers. Also without rain there are no rainbows. No one doesn't like to see a beautiful rainbow after a storm. Sometimes bad stuff brings good stuff. Everyone always seems to like and want good weather similar to how we like to have good things happen in life. When bad stuff happens or things go wrong we tend to gripe and complain. It is in the hard times of life that we learn and grow. When we make a mistake we learn from it, or should.

If we expect to have water to drink, water for swimming pools, fresh produce in the grocery store, running water to shower in and a host of other things then we will need those 'showers'. For some, only when tragedy occurs in their lives or lives of loved ones do they even think about praying or running to God for comfort.

1 Peter 1:6-7 reminds us "In this you greatly rejoice though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials, these have come so that your faith, of greater worth. Than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire, may be proved genuine and may  result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed."

Are you able to rejoice in the 'showers' of life?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you and praise you for both the good things ad bad things in life. I know and trust you that all things have a purpose and will work out. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link and worship God in song.
http://youtu.be/xGPS8sa-bRQ

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

UGLY WORDS

Do you claim to know the Lord yet can not seem to get a grip on what comes out of your mouth? One of the saddest things I think is when someone claims to be a believer yet you hear them taking the Lord's name in vain. That just to me is like fingernails on a chalk board and I feel the person knows better and it is the ultimate slap in the face to our Saviour.  I have heard several who claim to follow Christ say 'GD' and it saddens me a great deal.

But there are other trash talking words as well. Lies, gossip,belittling, anger and cursing are pretty awful and really have no place in the vocabulary of a believer. Some say,"who determined what was a cuss word?"  That is an excuse to just do what you want to do. Deep inside there is a little voice that should convict each of us in right and wrong. There is even a place in the Bible that talks about 'course jesting'. Do you like to tell off color jokes and do you laugh at them? Ephesians 5:4 is where that is found and it says "Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving." Whoops. I did not make that up. It takes discipline, desire and training to control what pops out of our mouth.

Do you make it a practice to watch movies filled with bad language or nudity and think it is not going to effect you? There is a website you can go to in order to check the content of a movie(www.pluggedinonline.com). "But wait a minute. That is all that's  out there." How will people see any difference in you unless you are in fact a  little different in your entertainment choices? Our life as a believer should be different. It is not that we have to act 'holier than thou' but there should be a difference. We represent Jesus Christ on this earth and we are only temporary visitors. Does what you say and do and where you go bring glory to God and reflect his character?
 
Ephesians 4:31 says "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice." Does your speech reflect the goodness of the Lord? Remember back in James Chapter 3 the entire chapter is about controlling the tongue and how hard it is to do it but it is something we need to strive for.  
 
So where are you at today? Do you need  your mouth washed out with soap? Think of that word picture. You say something mean, nasty, cruel, hateful, gossipy or derogatory and out comes the bar of soap to 'wash' those bad words away. You can control what you say with God's help if you truly want to clean up your act.
 
PRAYER: Father it is my desire to  not say bad words and to insure that what comes out of my mouth brings glory to you. Forgive me when I have sad hurtful things or said a bad word. Lord God it pleases you when my speech is seasoned with salt. Help me Lord. I want to get control of my tongue. In Jesus name. Amen.
 
Click on link to worship the Lord in song:
http://youtu.be/kgkTwxeIOa8

Monday, April 2, 2012

LOTTERY FEVER

This past week it seemed the world went crazy over the half billion dollar jackpot in the lottery, which was billed as the largest ever. Crowds lined up to buy tickets hoping for the chance at this huge jackpot. Many think, when and if, they would come into this windfall of money all their troubles would be over when in fact there are numerous accounts of past lottery winners and how it has ruined their life.

Why is it money seems to be the cure all for everything? When you work hard and go to school for degrees you are rewarded for our efforts normally by a good paying job. The Bible says in 2 Thessalonians 3:10 "even while we were with you we gave you this command. If a man does not work he should not eat."  Now that does not sit well with the 'redistribute the wealth class warfare crowd' trying to pit  classes of people against each other instead of realizing the people who work hard should get to keep their money. The lottery seems to prey on poor people. Many out there truly do not want to work and want the government to take care of them and many do want to work but maybe can not find a job right now. Do not be jealous of another's wealth or seek to be rich.

It says in 1 Timothy 6:9 "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into  many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction."  Proverbs 15:27 says " A greedy man brings trouble to his family, but he who hates bribes will live." Gambling can be an addiction that can hurt the family finances and break up marriages. Proverbs 23:4 says " Do not wear yourself out to get rich, have the wisdom to show restraint."  In 1 Timothy 6:10 it goes on to say "For the Love of money is the root of all sorts of evil. Some people eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves many griefs."

Matthew 6:19-21 says where our real treasure should be. It says "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Money can bring lots of heartache if that is all you are striving for. Seek first God's kingdom.

PRAYER: Lord I want my treasure to be in heaven and in your word. Help me not purposely be striving for wealth but when it does come to remember it is through you we get the ability to do work and earn money. You bring true riches. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, April 1, 2012

NO FOOLING. JESUS IS LORD!

Welcome to April Fool's Day! The wonderful day we can pull little pranks on people and then say "April Fools"! Not sure how this day came to be celebrated but you have to be prepared for all sorts of jokers on this day. For me, when I was in the Army, I was notified by a clerk in the generals office at Ft Campbell, Kentucky that I was on the promotion list on April 1!! Now I did not see this in writing and I guess I did not have much confidence in myself as I said, "not funny, April Fools right?" Well it was  not until 6 hours later til I called my branch in Washington DC that I confirmed, in fact, I would go up one rank.  Not a good day to not have 'official paperwork' to look at.

We can joke all we want in life but there is no fooling around with God. When you do not accept Him as Saviour and follow Him it will be no joke where you spend eternity. Eternal life is not something to joke around about.


Do you know if you were to die right now where you would spend eternity? No one knows when they will take their last breath. You know there is a saying that "there are no atheists in foxholes" meaning in times of war when your life could be snuffed out at any moment not too many want to gamble with the 'here after'.  The Freedom from Religion group and Atheists can try to say God does not exit or try to shut Him out of our lives but God is not going anywhere. It is HIS world after all.

Church membership does not save you or guarantee you admission. Baptism alone does not save you. Being a certain denomination does not save you as some denominations claim they are the only way to heaven.  Being a good person will not save you.

John 15:5 says "I am the vine and you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit, for without me you can do nothing."  Pretty clear I would say. But the enemy is out the trying to trick people in to believing they do not need God or they are good enough. Satan is a liar and a deceiver who is out to destroy Christians and he is working hard pretty hard in America to remove God. God is not going anywhere, have no fear. Unless you stay in the word of God you will not know the truth. The word is TRUTH. Do not let them enemy lie to you and try to get you to edit the scriptures to fit the lifestyle you want to live.

Say this prayer if you are not sure Jesus is Lord of your life. " Lord Jesus I need you in my life. I confess my sins to you. Forgive me for when I did not listen to you and went my own way. I want to live for you and serve you. Come into my life today and take control of my life. "  Remember the Bible reminds us there is "none righteous no not one" (Romans 3:10) and in Romans 3:23 that "all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory"? When you ask Jesus to come into your life "old things are passed away and behold all things became new" it says in  2 Corinthians 5:17. Once you do have Jesus living on the inside of you, your life should start to show evidence of the 'fruits of the Spirit' in your life. Galatians 5:22-24 says " But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires."

There is no fooling around with eternal life. Do the right thing and ask Jesus to come into your life today and take the controls.

PRAYER: Father many mock your name and joke about heaven. Many make light of the devil making him into a comic strip character instead of the evil sinister character he actually is. Lord help my eyes stay open always to the truth in your word. Take the blinders off anyone in my family who is being deceived by the enemy as well. In Jesus name. Amen.


Note: Today I am including a song by a Christian band called Rush of Fools since it is April Fools Day. Be blessed!
http://youtu.be/iN_DMuahD5o