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.

Sunday, September 30, 2012

YOUR FACE IN THE MIRROR


YOUR FACE IN THE MIRROR

As I was in the drive thru of my local fast food restaurant recently I noted the looks of the peoples faces in their rear view mirrors. The lady behind me looked like she was having the  most terrible day. I was wondering how my face looked to others if they were to see my face in the rear view mirror. Is it happy, joyful with a smile on it? This is something you probably don't give much thought to. Do you appear content? If not, what is there to frown about?

Do you want your face to reflect the joy of the Lord even when you think no one may see you? I am not expecting you are going to smile all your waking hours  but it sure is more pleasant.

There was a song several years ago entitled 'Put On A Happy Face' and part of its' lyrics were as follows "Gray skies are going to clear up, put on a happy face,Brush off the clouds and cheer up, put on a happy face." When a problem consumes our every waking moment  it may be difficult to 'put on a happy face' and the remedy for this is trying to focus on your blessings. Believe it or not, everyone has things to be thankful for. Get out a sheet of paper and start listing some things you ate thankful for. It might surprise you.

Make an effort each day to focus on the good and not the bad in your life. Satan will do what he can to keep your thoughts off God and joy by causing you fear , worry, and doubt. Phillipians 4:8 says " Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable think on these things."  It sure is easier to have a happy face in the mirror when you let Jesus lift you higher than your problems.

Don't spend your time worrying about things down here it says. Once you have developed this spiritual discipline of thinking good thoughts that smile will naturally follow.

PRAYER: I thank you Jesus that the joy of the Lord gives me strength. I thank you that the enemy has no power over me and I will not allow him to cause me a lack of contentment. In Jesus name. Amen.

Saturday, September 29, 2012

THE ACORN




THE ACORN
 
Recently on a hike in a nearby state park I could hear the sounds of acorns dropping to the ground all around me. I picked one up and brought it home. It  got me to thinking about this  and how this little nut of sorts produces a mighty sturdy oak tree. 
 
When you read the word of God it plants a 'seed' of sorts in your heart. There is a passage of scripture that talks about the kind of 'soil' it may drop into. Mark 4:15-20 tells us about this 'soil'. It reads as follows "
Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word;but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown.”


What kind of 'soil' is the word of God falling into in your life. Do weeds choke it out? Start today asking God to help cultivate the soil in your heart so the word of God grows and makes a difference in your life.

 1 Corinthians 3:7 says "So neither he that plants or he that water is anything but God gives the increase."   Make sure the soil of your heart is prepared properly so the word of God is able to take root in your life.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the word of God. Thank you Lord that I can freely read the Bible each and every day without hiding in a basement with a flashlight worried about being arrested. I want the 'soil' of my heart to always be ready to let the word grow and flourish. In Jesus name. Amen.

Friday, September 28, 2012


WHO IS YOUR ROLE MODEL?
A sports hero, parent, military person, political figure, actor, teacher, scout leader? What about Jesus? He should be the ultimate role model for anyone who says they are a Christian. Why try to mold your life after a rock star, sports celebrity, or movie star? Parents, teachers, scout leaders, and military members are certainly great choices but still mere men can fail and mess up and disappoint us. Not Jesus. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is the Alpha and The Omega. He is Almighty, Ever Present, All Knowing. He is Abba Father. He is better than wizards, sorcerers, kings, fortune tellers, genies or a magic spell. Only through Jesus do we live and move and have our being. He alone brings comfort and joy.
 
I am not saying your parents are not super role models and hopefully they indeed are but we are to try to be like Jesus in everything we say and do. Hopefully your parents have done a good job raising you for the Lord but if not forgive them and move on in life.
 
Do you desire to be Christlike? I am not saying a holier than thou type of appearance but do you want people to know you are a Christian by the love you display and your words and actions?
 
1 Peter 1:14-16 reminds us  "So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then. But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.”
 
If you get up each day and read the word of God and start following it soon you will start to be more Christlike and want to be with Him.
 
PRAYER: Lord Jesus I love my parents and they did a super job raising me and for that I am grateful. Lord I love to be like them but I know it is more important to try to be like you .Help me Lord to do things to represent your name in a good way just like I would my earthly parents. I do not want to shame them and I certainly do not want to bring shame on you. In Jesus Name. Amen.



Thursday, September 27, 2012

GOD FOCUSED OR PEOPLE FOCUSED?




GOD FOCUSED OR PEOPLE FOCUSED?
Are you more concerned about what God thinks of you or concerned more about your image in front of people? First of all God loves you and he is waiting for you to fully, completely love Him back. This does not mean token attendance at church each Sunday. Check the block and done for another week. No  but He wants you to love Him with all your heart, soul, and mind. If all you ever do is just attend church out of obligation with no real love behind it what good is that? Sure you are exposed to the true word of God by your attendance at  a Bible teaching church.But being God focused is way more than Sunday morning.

Are you ashamed of God? I hope not for it says in Mark 8:38 "For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamedwhen he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” I take note of the recent decision in the Democratic National Convention to try to oust God from their platform. During the televised vote there were way more' nays' than there were 'ayes' but never the less the ayes took it against the wish of the screaming delegates. This saddened me a great deal. Wonder what God was thinking during all this. We can not keep shoving him out of our lives and expect to keep being blessed as a nation.
 
So is your delight more in what man thinks of you or about God? in John 12:43 there is a verse that says "for they loved praise from men more than praise from God." There may be people in churches today who think it is a little overboard to do more than Sunday. Sure you can have socials and picnics and bazaars but where is the time during the week you are encouraged to read  your Bible and focus on Jesus?
 
God does not like to be second place, or third place or not in your life at all. People can not save you. Only God can save you. In Proverbs 29:25  it says "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe." Who do you trust in today? Have you truly asked Jesus to be Lord of your life? The time is now to put him first!
 
PRAYER:Forgive me Lord when I have cared more about the opinions of others than of pleasing you. In Jesus Name. Amen.


Wednesday, September 26, 2012

IS GOD MOLDING YOU?


Disappointments, problems, hurt, being ignored or overlooked, rejection, fear. Who or what is shaping you? Are you being squeezed into the worlds' mold or are you trying to be molded by the spirit into a vessel for the Lord? Oftentimes the 'world' with its images of success confuse us and make us feel discontent. God created each person for a purpose and it was not to covet other peoples' things or desire to be like a Hollywood Star, Wall Street Mogul, or NY Model. Each of us has a place where God wants us to be. If you are in a certain place in life others look up to and which you no doubt worked hard for, stay humble and stay pliable for God. The main thing is we should desire to be formed and molded into a Christlike image. It should be our all consuming desire.

It says in Isaiah 64:8 that "He is The potter and we are the clay." Think about that for anyone who has ever done pottery. You take a big chunk of clay and start slapping it around to form the image you want before you put it in a kiln to fire it. So it is slapped and kneaded and then set in a very hot oven. Our trials we go through in life may not seem pleasant but they are used to conform us to His image.
Are you able to praise God through hardships of life? Death, illness, job loss, rejection by peers, and many other devastating things? These are all things occurring on the 'potter's wheel' of life. In the end all that matters is our relationship with the Lord.
PRAYER: Lord sometimes it hurts to be shaped and molded on your Potters' Wheel but I am thankful for everything in my life for it is making me into the person you want me to be. Help me Lord keep on the track of life that molds me into your image and not the worlds'. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Click on the link below and worship the Lord in song.

Reading assignment: In the Old Testament Jeremiah Chapter 18

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

LET GOD BE FIRST IN AMERICA AGAIN

 
We are blessed to be founded as a Christian nation. It was very unique how the founders looked to scripture to mold our nation and write our laws. There will always be enemies of God and the Bible that will try to get them removed. The good news is we still have the ability to openly worship in public and own a Bible. Many countries with dictators outlaw anything Christian. We in this country do not need to be so naive to think it can not happen here.(Remember the vote at the recent Democratic Convention to remove God from platform?). Do not take your freedom or your Bible for granted. Evil is always running around trying to destroy any mention of the name of God.
Even some main stream denominations have twisted the word of God to suit their needs. God will have the final say in the end. Church should be about growing in Christ and knowing him better. Our national motto is 'One Nation Under God' yet enemies of Christianity even have tried to remove that. There are atheistic groups who try to ban prayer at football games and other events. Jesus name holds power and perhaps these non believers know that.
2 Peter 3:9 tells us "The Lord is not slow concerning His promise not wishing any to perish but for all to come to repentance." In Proverbs 18:10 it says "The name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run to it and are safe."
Much chaos is going on in the United States today and in Middle Eastern nations. Many think the end is near. We are not to fear. In Mark 13:7 it says "When you hear of wars and rumors of wars do not be alarmed. Such things must happen but the end is still to come."
I always like to pray this verse from Psalm 68:1 which says " Let God arise and His enemies be scattered."
We in America who call ourselves Christians should memorize and do what it says in 2 Chronicles 7:14. It says " if my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways I will hear from heaven and forgive their sins and heal their land."
Psalm 33:12 reminds us "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." Galatians 6:7 says "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap."
PRAYER: Thank you Lord that I can read my Bible without armed guards coming in and locking me up and shooting me. Forgive me when I have neglected daily prayer or reading your word. In it we find eternal life and strength to face everything. Help our leaders get into the Word of God. Thank you for freedom. Protect it Lord. In Jesus name.Amen.
Click on link for a good song of freedom.
Note: If you have not yet seen it already, go see the movie playing now in most states, Last Ounce Of Courage. You will not be sorry.

Monday, September 24, 2012

FEARFUL? WHY?


What has you fearful? There are fears that are sort of normal and okay such as fear of doing something like riding a roller coaster,jumping out of an airplane, going swimming with sharks, whitewater rafting, being bitten by a rattlesnake, but I am referring to fears that grip you and paralyze you that you have no control over. Things like wondering about the future. Fear of losing your job. Fear of betrayal by friends. Fear of bankruptcy.Fear of the end of the world.

All fears can be turned over to God. Fear of the dark, fear of dogs, fear of defeat, fear of failing, fear of heights, fear of getting lost, fear of being alone, fear of tyranny in our country. There are so many things that can scare us. When you are fearful you are not peaceful. When you fear things Satan has you in his grip and you become a weak believer, as being afraid is all you can think of.


Psalm 56:3-4 is an excellent couple of verses to memorize and read out loud if you are scared of something. It says "when I am afraid I will trust in you.In God whose word I praise, in God I trust. I will not be afraid.What can mortal man do to me?"

Start today with prayer thanking God for taking care of you and if you are fearful ask Him to take that away. Trust God.He will deliver and see you through.
PRAYER: There are times I get scared Lord. I know you are always with me and I need to call on you. I wish to be peaceful and not fearful. Deliver me Lord from fears that have their grip on me. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link for a son that will bring you peace.
http://youtu.be/6TfV6nOVCUk

Sunday, September 23, 2012

SERIOUS ABOUT SUNDAY BUT NOT GOD??


Are you 'religious' or do you love Jesus? Do you like to read your Bible and go to conferences and things that help you grow in Christ? Do you feel people who get serious about God are a little freaky? Do you feel Sunday church is enough to get by on and do not even open your Bible the rest of the week? Are you ashamed to pray in public?

Sad to say but many people seem to have a 'Sunday only' form of Christianity. Go to church, check the block, remember the Sabbath Day, then back to their 'real' life on Monday. Jesus wants you to have an abundant and full life with him seven days a week. He does not want you to forget about him Monday through Saturday and just because it is the thing to do, get up grudgingly and out of habit and go to church. Being a Christian is much more than an obligation or duty.

Do you really truly love God with all your heart? Is he first place in your life? Do you search the scriptures to find answers to life's problems or do you go along with the way of me world? He is waiting for you to ask Him into your heart and be totally sold out to Him. It is exciting when you love Jesus that much.

When you ask Christ to be Lord of your life you are transformed and all things should become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says "Therefore if anyone is in Christ he is new creature. The old things are gone and behold all things are new."You can ask Jesus into your heart right now. If you need to find a church that is on fire for the Lord, do not be caught in the denominational trap of "that is where I go because that is the way it has always been." Perhaps it is time to move on in life and go somewhere where people are excited about Jesus and not afraid to praise Him.

Romans 12:2 reminds us " Do not be conformed anymore to the pattern of this work but be transformed by the renewing of your mind that you may prove what the will of God is. His good , pleasing and perfect will." Are you transformed for Jesus and get excited when Sunday rolls around or is it just another day?
PRAYER: Father I love you and want to get to know you better. I purpose in my heart to make each day your day and to get up and read your word to help transform me into your likeness. Give me courage if I need to find a new church home to grow in Christ if that is what is needed. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link for song of worship

Saturday, September 22, 2012

RISE UP FROM THAT PIT!


What has you down in the dumps? Maybe nothing does and if so praise God for that. But many people struggle with worries, fears, concerns, strife and turmoil in their life. Maybe the problems are real and valid but still God does not want you disabled by fear and worries. He wants you to be set free. When you are paralyzed by fear, chaos, and things in the world it is difficult to praise God. It is easy to start being a 'pit dweller' and be overly consumed with our self and our problems. The good news is God wants to set you free. Freedom comes by trusting Christ and believing He will take care of you. He is behind the scenes. Fear glorifies Satan and peace glorifies God. Who are you giving glory to?

Psalm 107:20 says " He sent His word and healed them and delivered them from their destruction's." Destruction's are things that put you in that 'pit' you are in when you can not seem to get your mind off the past, fears, problems, and things dragging you down. People who are drug down are not very close to God when they are dwelling in the valley. God wants to raise you up to the mountain top with Him.

Psalm 30:3 says "O Lord you brought me up from the grave , you spared me from going down into the pit." The remedy for 'pit dwellers' is to praise God even when you do not feel up to it and to stay in the word of God. A good book of the Bible for pit dwellers is to read a Psalm a day.

So choose today where you will be. Are you going to sink into a pitiful pit or raise yourself up to be on God's mountain. 1 Corinthians 15:57 says "But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."

PRAYER: Lord you are my rock,my redeemer,my strength. When I am afraid I will trust in you. Lord I love your word for in it I grow and learn to have your peace. Thank you Lord for setting me free. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to worship the Lord in song.

Friday, September 21, 2012

ROW,ROW, ROW YOUR BOAT


Many people are familiar with the verses in the Bible about the storm where Jesus calmed the sea. ( See Mark 4:35-41)In life storms will come but we can not just 'stop rowing' but we have to press on to gain the victory. Just as in a race if you are in last place you do not just quit but you keep going, charging on.

Is there a storm in your life you wish would calm down or totally disappear? Have you taken your eyes off Jesus and put them instead onto the storm? Do you feel like giving up? God is with you whether you feel like it or not and he cares how you finish in life. It is not his desire that you just give in and quit when life gets hard. Keep rowing and row some more!!

In an actual storm, such as a tornado, massive destruction often occurs. Sometimes we get so fearful of the dark clouds in life and just freeze in our tracks. Even if the storm has blown your property all over the place you have to keep on going. You can not live on a heap of lumber in your yard. Life goes on and so do you.


Trials and storms are never fun. We just want to go through life trouble free. But it is through those trials that we gain strength to build our character. James 1:2-4 says "Consider it pure joy my brothers and sisters when you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance . Let perseverance finish its' work so you may be mature and complete lack to lacking anything."

Is your 'storm' a wayward child, broken marriage, overdue bills, pending lawsuit, time in jail, alcoholism or drug addiction, estranged family member? Whatever it is lean on Jesus as the dark clouds will leave and the sun will shine again. Keep praying, keep believing, keep trusting, and keep rowing.
PRAYER: Lord those storms in life are not fun especially when they seem to go on and on. I know Lord you have a perfect plan for my life and help me to focus on you and not my problem. I know Satan wants me to stop rowing and give up but I choose to press on. In Jesus name.Amen!
Click on link below and take a moment to worship the Lord in song. Be blessed. Happy Friday!

Thursday, September 20, 2012

TESTING TESTING 1 2 3 4


Are there things in your life that test your patience? Most of us would answer yes. Check out lines that are too long when you are in a hurry. The Internet not coming on or working too slow. Your phone going dead. A slow elevator. Waiting for your order at a restaurant or waiting to be waited on. Tailgaters on the highway. Delayed or cancelled flights at the airport. Waiting for the train or subway. An important piece of mail to arrive. Results of medical tests. Waiting for an appointment in a waiting room. Trying to find someone to help you at your local big box store. A person who talks ugly to you or is mean. Traffic jams or traffic going too slow for your liking. Waiting for it to be morning if you can not fall asleep at night. A flat tire or overheated engine. Perhaps a car that won't start in cold weather for my friends that live up north. Many things happen in life to test our ability to stay patient. Perhaps you were able to identify with one I listed above.
I heard a sermon once that said your 'test' might continue till you are able to master it with a Christian response and not one of anger. Anger does not achieve anything. It simply gets your blood pressure to raise and makes the recipient of your anger angry too. Hand gestures, flashing car lights, saying ugly words, and other ways to react against a person that has caused you to wait do no good. Responding with grace is the best solution.

First of all patience is one of the fruits of the spirit mentioned in the Bible in Galatians 5:22-23 when it says "And the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Against such things there is no law."

Why not pick an area that you are weak in on the patience meter and try to work on having a godly response? Ask God to help you not be mad, mean, or revengeful and to react instead by being like Christ. Let's say Jesus were at a store and trying to find a clerk. Do you think he would yell and spout off and make a scene? Funny to imagine Jesus this way but I want to make a point. If we claim to know Him we are supposed to be trying to be like him. Anger directed at a clerk is not a good way to witness or show God's love.

Let me end with an awesome verse in James 1:19-20. It is one to memorize to help all your relationships. "This you know my beloved brethren, but let everyone be slow to speak, quick to listen, and slow to get angry.For the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God. "


PRAYER: Lord I desire to not let things in this world upset me that I can do nothing about. Give me your strength to keep my mouth closed when I feel like reacting to a certain situation. I choose to try with your help Lord to remain with a peaceful spirit. In Jesus name. Amen.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

PLEASING OTHERS


Are you the kind of person who wants to please and likes to be liked? For those of us suffering from this malady we have to really trust Jesus and give things over to Him. We can imagine things that aren't true at all. For those who like to be liked, Facebook can be particularly hard when someone unfriends you. Ouch! Many put too much stock in this social media anyway when we should be concentrating on developing one on one friendships and spending more time alone with the Lord each day. Not everyone is going to like you and it is not really necessary to know everything is it? The good news is God loves you. Try to be work on knowing God and not worry about people. Someone may like you one day and not the next or they could use you if you know certain people or have something they need.

If we really concentrated on Jesus and being more like him, this issue should not even have to surface but to some of us it is a real struggle. Maybe something from childhood causes it, I am not really certain. If you are troubled by this turn this over to the Lord. He cares for you and wants to comfort you and have you be victorious in this area. The Lord loves you with all your little quirks.  You do not drive Him nuts, exasperate Him, or bore Him. He made you and He loves you warts and all. Sometimes our sinful behavior doesn't please Him but he is still our 'daddy'.He is sad when you sin as it separates you from Him. But he won't reject you.
In John 12:42-43 it says "But many people believed in Jesus. Even many of the Jewish leaders believed in Jesus. But they were afraid of the Pharisees. So they did not say openly that they believed. They were afraid that they would be put out of the synagogue. These men loved praise from people more than praise from God." are you guilty of this? Are you one way with some people and totally different with others. The key is to be yourself and allow God's love to flow through you to those you meet each and every day.
Put Christ first and do not worry about trying to please mere man. Do you best and God will do the rest.
PRAYER: Lord I thank you for being my best friend. I thank you for loving me even when I have broken your heart. I thank you that you show unconditional love and I likewise need to show unconditional love to those around me. My strength and hope is in you and you alone.In Jesus Name. Amen.
Click on link below and enjoy a powerful worship song.

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

PEACE VERSUS FEAR


It is so very easy to get fearful. We can choose to remain peaceful or we can choose to lose our peace and fret. Lately for we in America the situation overseas has become tense with an American Ambassador to Libya murdered as well as three others. This can strike fear in our hearts when terrorists infiltrate this country and we are too politically correct or worried about offending them so we do nothing. There have been too many attacks inside our own country and yet the government wants to slash the Defense budget leaving us practically defenseless and unable to be a world super power. America's are angry and fearful. In a time like this we have no one else to turn to but God. It is scary.

We can fret and wonder what this world is turning into and wonder if our our borders will be infiltrated even more or we can trust God and stand on His promises in order to know we will be okay. Worrying does nothing but make us sick and scared.

Your assignment today is to get your Bible out and turn to Psalm 91 in the Old Testament and read it . This chapter contains sixteen verses of peace for your soul. Isaiah 41:10 says " Do not fear for I am with you and be not dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Try to memorize that verse and know God is with you. Give him your fears and concerns as it says in 1 Peter 5:7 " Cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you."

PRAYER: Lord you alone are a shield, a protector. You are our rock and our strong fortress. I need not fear for you are with me always. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link below for a song of worship.
http://youtu.be/vpYA5sHhPnY

Note: For those of you who are looking for an alternative to cartoons on Saturday morning tune in to Adventures in Dry Gulch known also as Gospel Bill. That is where this music video came from. The show has been around since our sons were small. I am not sure what netword carries it but on Trinity Broadcasting there are a host of good children's programs on Saturdays.

Monday, September 17, 2012

SATAN'S TOOLBOX



 Our chief enemy is Satan,aka the devil. He has an arsenal of tools he uses to try to cripple Christians. Some of these are doubt, defeat, despair, depression, worry, comparison, fear, lies, tricks, critical spirit, alcohol abuse, drug addiction, anger, abuse, hurt, self pity, jealousy, hatred,bitterness, sickness and I am sure you could add to this list. These are his  tactics to get us off course and feeling hopeless. He weaves a web to destroy and torture us and to get our eyes off Jesus. We defeat Satan by the word of God and the power of our testimony it says in Revelation 12:11.

Remember you need to talk out loud to the enemy, the devil, and remind Him God is in control, not Him. Fear and worry are two of his specialities. He can literally get us so focused on a problem or situation we feel powerless. The good news is we have plenty of power to defeat him through Jesus.

The Bible says in Isaiah 54:17 that "no weapon formed against me shall prosper."  That is a promise to believe in.

 Will you be victorious in the power and authority of Jesus or allow Satan to make you powerless and weak? Start today and use the best tool yet in a Christians' toolbox and that is the word of God! Read it daily,  study it, claim its' promises and let it guide you through the ups and downs of life. Satan has no authority over you so do not let Him destroy you.

 PRAYER: Thank you Lord that I can use the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God to come against the enemy, Satan. I will not allow him to distract me and get me down in the dumps. I will rise up each day Lord and praise your name. I know when I praise you the devil has to flee. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link below to worship the Lord and defeat the enemy.
http://youtu.be/xi0yLRX4d2M

Sunday, September 16, 2012

WHY BE OFFENDED?




Do you know Satan loves to get people offended? It ruins friendships. It starts fights in church meetings. Divides families. It separates us from God. This is one of Satan's specialties when people get mad and take offense and refuse to let things go. Obviously something has to give or the people involved will never speak again.

I know of two brothers that for over three years have not spoken even though living in the same town. Very sad indeed for the parents. And to think it was over something that could have been talked over, but unfortunately  these two men refuse to budge. Neither one wanted to humble himself and admit wrongdoing.

Being misunderstood causes offense. Politics often cause friends of opposite parties to be offended. I am sure you can think of many incidents of how people get offended or how you may  have even taken offense. Do you think Jesus likes this? Absolutely not. Misspoken words or something people do not often see eye to eye on, can cause a real breech in a relationship. To keep things peaceful,  talking is necessary as well as being willing to forgive and move on.

Several years ago I had a close friend who no longer wants to be my friend because of something I mistakenly did. She says she has forgiven me but apparently not enough to let me back into her circle of friends or to not be blocked on her Facebook page. I find this very sad. Two believers especially should be able to sit down and pray and resolve things. When self and pride get in the way it is a whole new ballgame so to speak. I had no choice but to let it go and move on.

Offense is really a tool the enemy can use to even have church members at odds with each other. When we forget Jesus and are so focused on ourselves it is a recipe for trouble. Stop an offense before it springs up.

Be willing to forgive, forget, and move on instead of getting your way. In Ecclesiastes 7:9 says "Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit for anger resides in the bosom of fools." Proverbs 18:19 says " A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city, and quarreling is like the bars of a castle."
Do you need to forgive someone today who has hurt you or offended you? Why not give it to the Lord and just let it go.

PRAYER: Lord God it is easy to be offended when we are hurt by someone. Help me learn to overlook things that could escalate into a bitter, revengeful spirit. You want us to be loving and kind and  not someone wanting to get back at people. Help me show love and learn to forgive. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Saturday, September 15, 2012

BE NICE TO EVERYONE


Can you turn away when insulted or hurt or do you feel like getting back and getting the last word? Are there people you feel you can not love or who you do not feel like praying for? Some of these people may be complete strangers such as evil people in our world such as dictators or tyrants. They make you mad and you can not find it within you to lift them up in prayer.The Bible does command us to overcome evil with good(Romans 12:21 ) and to pray for our enemies(Matthew 5:44).

Do you ever catch yourself thinking bad of someone or judging them when in fact you need to remember they were created by God too and all of us have our faults? In one of my devotions awhile back I mentioned trying this little experiment. When you feel like being critical of someone first ask why you are doing that? Next give them over to the Lord. Third,  say to yourself as you pass people "I love you and I love you and I love you." We have no idea what people are going through anyway. Stop that critical spirit.

Romans 12:14-15 says to "Bless those who persecute you. Bless and curse not. Rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn." So yes, even if a person has hurt you, it is necessary to keep praying for them. Proverbs 24:17 is a good scripture to end on and it says "Do not gloat when your enemy falls. When they stumble do not let your heart rejoice."

 PRAYER: Lord Jesus sometimes it is hard to get along with different personalities but. You command us to love one another. Help me Lord as I seek to love like you love. In Jesus name. Amen.

Friday, September 14, 2012

FIRST WORLD PROBLEMS

A few days ago on WAY FM Christian radio the morning DJ's were discussing the Third  World nations and mission trips. They had said how once you go to a Third World nation on a mission trip your life is changed by what you saw and you become more grateful for what you have in your life. They referred to our minor problems as 'First World Problems'. I got to thinking about that and even though I have never been on a mission trip I am indeed grateful for many things. I am sure if I ever am blessed to get to go on one I will be even more appreciative of my blessings.

Later after I heard them discussing this I was at my local car dealer getting my car serviced when a gentleman in the waiting room struck up a conversation with me. A commercial came on TV for a Stryker knee and I nonchalantly made a comment I was glad I did not have a fake knee. He said "I have a fake leg" and proceeded to pull up his pant leg displaying a prosthesis decorated with Alabama memorabilia. It was then I felt very 'little' and ashamed of my comment. I apologized. He said not to worry. This got us in to talking about being grateful. It is funny how the Lord opens doors to chat with strangers.

 Do you ever stop and think of the many things you have to be thankful for? Even a poor person in the United States would be extremely blessed if compared to a resident of a Third World nation. Most of us have a place to sleep at night. Nearly all of us can have access to medical care. We are blessed with clean running water and flush toilets. Most Americans not living where there are subways own a car or truck or perhaps a motorcycle or bicycle. But even if we have no transportation we have shoes on our feet so we can walk places without damaging our feet.  There is food to eat and we do not have flies landing on us or any open sores to get infected by disease. We are blessed to have vaccines to help prevent life threatening illnesses. I could go on but you get the point.

 What are you thankful for today? Your friends, your family, a job, good health? Psalm 107:1 reminds us to "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good His love endures forever." Will it take a visit to a poverty disease ridden Third World country to make you sing  out your praises to God? In the big scheme of things our minor inconveniences and complaints are nothing compared to what the individuals in far off lands go through on a regular basis. Our creature comforts are something they could not even imagine.

Start today waking up grateful for a mattress you slept on, a roof over your head, a car to take you places, a shower, money for gasoline, food to eat,friends to hang out with, employment, a family, clean water to drink and so much more. God is good!! Could you or would you still bless Him without all these things?  Philippians 4:11 says " I have learned whatever state I am into be content." 1 Timothy 6:8 says "But if we have food and clothing we will be content with that."

 We all probably know the story of Job and how he literally lost everything then later it was restored. Job 1:21 says "Naked I came from my mother's womb and naked I will depart .The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord."

PRAYER: I am indeed grateful for each day of life and good health and each blessing in my life. Forgive me when I have complained about where I live, the food I have to eat, the traffic jams, the lines at a store or bank and so much more. In the big scheme of things life is pretty good. For that Lord I give you thanks and praise. In Jesus name. Amen

Thursday, September 13, 2012

GODLESS CHATTERBOX



It is no secret or big surprise that our mouths and the words we say can make us or break us. They can cause joy or sorrow. They can create peace or fear. They can cause hurt or set someone free. It is so important to think before we speak or words may slip out that a person never intended  to say thus creating all sorts of chaos. In today's world with non stop communication because of 'communication devices' (aka phones) it is even more important to think before you text, email, tweet, or speak.

2 Timothy 2:16 reminds us to "avoid godless chatter because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly." Godless chatter could be criticism, gossip, complaining, lying, bragging, stretching the truth,nagging,  meddling, arguing, bullying, belittling, and shaming among other things. Have you ever been guilty of any of these? If you have a weakness and you know it ,then work  on setting yourself on the path to godly chatter instead.

To help you in your journey to being more Christlike in your speech let me leave you with two verses the first is Ephesians 4:29 which says " let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths but only that which is helpful in building others up according to their needs that it may benefit those who listen."   The next is found in Psalm 19:14 and  it simply says "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight oh Lord my strength and my redeemer."
If you can memorize these verses and put them into daily practice both at home and outside the home, then those  around you will be better off for it.

PRAYER: Lord help me be more careful about words that come out of my mouth. Help me slow down and think before I speak. Help me Lord chooses my words wisely so as to not hurt or offend anyone. Help me to respond in grace to those around me and to be kind back even if spoken to harshly. In Jesus name. Amen.

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

WORLDLY OR GODLY?


 We live in this world but are not to be of this world. (See Romans 12:2). What does that mean exactly you might wonder. The world through television,magazines, and movies primarily, tries to tell us how we should be or what we should do or wear to be 'cool' and popular. Seemingly it affects younger people more than older ones. These are the people whose minds are  being influenced and shaped by popular culture. Unless there is more of a God culture inside of them and a desire for righteousness it would be easy to fall for the lure of the New York or Los Angeles scene. Cool, popular,chic, the in crowd, famous, well liked, lots of money, big homes, lots of clothes and shoes, a fancy new car, parties  and on it goes. It is as if the culture wants us to buy into their lie of happiness. In Psalm 32:1 it says " Happy is the man whose sins are forgiven." Certain things seem to make us happy but does your happiness include the joy of the Lord which is where true happiness is found?

 Mark 4:19 tells us "the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires or other things come in and choke the word and make it unfruitful." Think about it. If your life is consumed with keeping up with others all the while squeezing out time with the Lord you will end up with lots of stuff but as a spiritual weakling. What is more important to you? Acquiring wealth and going to parties or building up a life that will bring glory,honor,and praise to God? If you acquire riches be sure to share and help others. There is nothing wrong with money but it is when it controls us that is bad.

There are many well to do Christians who know how to manage their life and do not let their wealth lure them into sin. You have to determine when God has blessed you to not forget Him. It is He, after all, who gives the power to gain wealth and blesses us with gifts and talents. (See Deuteronomy 8:18).

PRAYER: You oh Lord Give me the power to achieve and create and gain wealth. All things are from you. Help me to commit to staying away from the pattern this world wants to shape me into and instead seek to be more like you. In Jesus name  Amen.

Click on link for a song of praise.
http://youtu.be/5xvtDi0x6P4

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

A MEMORIAL TRIBUTE



 On this day in 2001 most people in the United States can remember what they were doing when the planes flew into the north and south towers of the World Trade Center in New York City and later the Pentagon and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. It was an unbelievable scene as people jumped to their death on the sidewalks below or stayed to burn up. No one ever expected or could fathom such as horrific tragedy in our own free nation.  Some of you reading this may know someone affected by this in one way or another or may have even lost a friend or family member. It was just too unreal and left a mark on most of us in our memory banks that will ever be erased. It shows what happens when evil, anti Christian, jealous forces come against a great power. No one could ever imagine such a bizarre event unfolding. The United States was forever changed.

 For days afterward American flags were sold out, blood drives collected an over over abundant supply, churches held prayer services, flags fluttered from cards, and in nearby Madison, Alabama the local police even went to The Big Apple to provide security near the Empire State Building. It was a time in which Americans from all backgrounds were united. But as time went by and memories faded and time took care of some wounds, we returned to our normal lives ,if you can call being patted down at the airport normal. We realized there were those living among us who we could not trust as they were enemies of our country and Americans in general.

Today let us not forget those brave fire fighters who rushed in the towers as others ran out some perishing as the towers collapsed. Or the police who assisted and many lost their lives as well. How about the medical teams who were bombarded by more patients that had ever been seen at one time in an Emrgency Room. Humanity was at its' best as we all came together. Chaplains tried to offer comfort to those who had lost friends and family.

 It has been 11 years since that unspeakable day of sadness. We pick up the pieces as best we can and a new Freedom Tower is being erected in the footprints of the towers. New Yorkers and the world try to get on with life. We are more cautious. We are more thankful for freedom. We realize there are those among us who would seek to destroy us and we pray they are caught and that 'political correctness' doesn't end up causing even a worse disaster and more innocent lives all because an evil people hate Americans and what we stand for.

 Let me leave you with a verse from John 14:27 which says "Peace I leave you my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

PRAYER: Lord Jesus we pray for protection from evil forces within our borders and outside our borders who do not like us. Lord it is hard to fathom the absolute disdain and hatred our enemies who killed so many on 9-11 have for us. Help us to remember to pray for them in Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link for a tribute song to 9-11 victims and survivors.
http://youtu.be/FyPtqvaKAfU








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Monday, September 10, 2012

DEEP ROOTS


 Do you have plants in your yard or are there some trees? Most of us have these things unless we are apartment dwellers. These plants and trees, like all living things grown in the soil, need substantial roots going down deep to help them grow and get nourishment and water. If they do not receive it they tend to wilt and die. We in the Southeast experienced that during the recent drought.

We believers are like those plants in that if we do not stay grounded in Christ and his word our roots become shallow and we can tend to wither up and not amount to much in the body of Christ.
Jeremiah 17:7-8 says "But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord.whose confidence is in Him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its' roots by the stream.It does not fear when heat comes, it's leaves are always green. It has no  worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."

 Let your roots go down deep in Jesus and His word. Be able to withstand the 'storms' of life that may come your way. When you 'plant' yourself in Him you will stand strong against those storms of life.
Colossians 2:6-7 says "So then just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him.Rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing, with thankfulness."

Let me end with Ephesians 3:16-19 which tells us "that He would grant you according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwelling our hearts through faith that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height to know the  love of Christ which passes knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."

PRAYER: Father it is my desire to have strong roots and to be able to endure any situation which comes my way. I know when I stay in the word of God I gain strength and can stand up to the trials of life. Give me strength Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

C AND C


It is easy to be fearful in today's world. Impending financial collapse, end of the world, medical problems, death and many things get our focus off God and onto problems that may or may not even happen. The title here stands for 'Cancer and Christ'.

For anyone who has had the doctor diagnose cancer in yourself or a loved one it strikes fear in your heart. As much as you can say you will trust God and He is in control, that C word is a bad word and likes to rear its' ugly head.

 I remember a couple times in my life or my families life where the 'C word' popped up. It is frightening because the main thing that normally comes to mind is death. First of all, a diagnoses of cancer is not a death sentence but it brings fear to many. When you fear you are in a state of constant worry. Let me ask you, when you worry does that show faith in God?

 The other 'C word' is Christ . Focusing on Christ instead of cancer or other fears will give  you more joy and courage. You will be less fearful of impending doom if you can turn your thoughts to Him. If you wake up daily and have fear in your heart, it will be rather difficult to feel like praising Jesus. Whether you face cancer, a lawsuit, bills, divorce,bankruptcy,  family problems, or a scary medical diagnosis, that is not the end of your life. You have to intentionally  focus on positive things and get your mind off the bad. I once heard the comedian Kevin Nelon in a TV comic sketch saying "harness the good, release the bad. Harness. Release. Harness. Release."  Funny but true if you think about it. Hold on to good things and let go of the bad that drags you down and takes your focus off God and thus robs you of peace.

Staying in the word of God is the first and foremost thing you can do to combat fear. Of course Satan wants you to be afraid and powerless as then he has you in his grip. Wake up each day knowing the Lord has something special for you today. Get your mind off 'self' and onto others and part of the battle is won. Always thinking of self is selfish anyway.

This leads me back to a verse I have referred to numerous times which is Philippians 4:8 which says "Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admiral, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things."

 Are you able to get up each day thanking Him for another day of life? Every day is a gift from God. He loves you no matter what you are going through and wants you to lean on Him. When bad thoughts come into your brain speak out loud "get thee behind me Satan. I refuse to  let fear dominate me as I am a child of God."


PRAYER: Lord today is another day you have blessed me with. If things sometimes make me fearful I know you are ultimately in control. Help me Lord to seek to keep my focus off myself and onto the things of the Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.

Saturday, September 8, 2012

PEACE BE WITH YOU



 In the world we live in it is hard to have peace. The media bombards us with hype and fear. Perhaps you wake up in the morning and feed yourself a steady diet of depressing news, celebrity gossip, and the local paper. If so, do you feel any better when done with what to many is a normal morning ritual? The answer, if you are honest, is probably no. How can you feel positive and peaceful with a steady diet of lies, gossip, and fear? As a believer you have a choice. Waste one hour watching morning shows or spend the same time getting closer to God. The newspaper or the Bible. Your choice.  Which is first in your life? Be honest.

 Many forget about God each day. Church is enough many think. In past blog writings I have mentioned about not being 'conformed' to this world'. Challenge yourself to be different and be set apart for kingdom work. Strengthen your spirit and focus on Christ. Don't get into the pattern of thinking you need to know about the Kardashians before Jesus. Why does it matter? Will it improve your life?

It is very difficult to maintain peace, joy, and love when the things of the world consume your every waking hour and there is no time for Jesus. Why not begin anew today and purpose in your heart to know Jesus  better through the reading of his word. If you do not know where to begin start with the book of John in the New testament and read a few verses each day. See if your outlook on life doesn't improve once you start doing this on a regular basis.

John 14:27 says "Peace I leave you. My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

PRAYER: Lord I choose to have the peace only you can give. Help me as I seek to re prioritize my day focusing on your word instead of worldly affairs. In Jesus name. Amen

Friday, September 7, 2012

ARE YOU A 24/7 CHRISTIAN OR A CHURCH GOER?



What are you doing right this minute? Maybe you are in a coffee shop reading this or at work? Are you representing Jesus well in whatever you are doing? Does your light shine in the darkness around you? Just some questions to ask yourself.

There is a church in nearby Madison, Alabama that has a sign exiting the parking lot that simply says "You are now entering the mission field." Now that about sums it up. All of us who name the name of the Lord are missionaries in the little corner of the world God has placed us. It is not necessary to go overseas to be a missionary. There are many needy people right here. Look around you and see if there is a need you can meet in a hurting life. Get to know those around you. If you are working in an office somewhere do not chime in at the water cooler with all the other folks gossiping but instead let your light shine for Christ.

If you are blessed to get to be a stay home mom then your mission field is right there with your darling gifts from God. Do not beat yourself up comparing yourself to professional women thinking you need to be out there too. Your children are only home for such as short time you have such as small window of opportunity to impact their lives for Christ.

So around the clock in all of your waking hours no matter where life takes you your light should be bright for Jesus. Do not gripe, complain, worry, bicker, frown, judge, and get angry but focus on doing things to bring joy to others around

Is Sunday the only time you bring out the Bible or think about things of Christ? Do you desire to
change that? Ask God to place within you this desire for his word and the things of Christ. Be hungry for righteousness.

We are to be different than the world. 1 Peter  1:16 reminds us to" Be holy for I am holy." Does your life reflect the holiness of God? Matthew 5:16 says "Let your life shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven." Finally 1 Peter 2:12 says " Live such good lives among the pagans that , though they may accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us."

So there you have it? Do not just feel that you have arrived by checking the 'church block' on Sunday but go into the world the other 6 days sharing his love with others and above all do not forget to dust off that Bible and read it!!

PRAYER : I am so thankful for freedom in Christ.  I am  thankful Lord for the opportunity to freely go around different places impacting the world for you. Forgive me for any time I may have fallen short and did not set such a favorable example. In Jesus name. Amen.

Thursday, September 6, 2012

SET ME FREE LORD



What are the stumbling blocks in your life?Guilt, shame, freedom from the past, fear, worry, self pity, alcohol., drugs, pornography, same sex attraction, stealing, cheating, impure thoughts, defeat, meddling, control of your mouth, lack of self control, anger, lying , a mean spirit or something not on my list? You do not have to be burdened by things such as these.

Galatians 5:1 says "It was for freedom that Christ set us free. Stand firm then and do not allow yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." If you are weak in some area and you are aware of it and know it is dragging you away from the Lord ask Him for strength to run the other way. Amos 5:14 says "Seek good, not evil that you may live.Then the Lord God almighty will be with you just as you say he is."

There are many things the enemy Satan uses to keep us from the path God intended for his children to walk. We all have fallen but the good news is God can lift you back up and set you free. Do not let Satan lie to you if you have been tripped up and caught in sin because God can restore you and make you stronger than you were. Ask God to give you His strength to run the other way and not be tempted. Do not go places where you know you will be tempted. Turn off the TV, stay out of the theater, throw away the magazines, get new friends, whatever it takes. Most importantly try to find a Bible believing on fire church that shows Gods love to hurting people and get plugged in to gain strength and be set free.

John 8:36 says "If the son sets you free you are free indeed."
Romans 8:1 says "There is no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus."

PRAYER: Lord God I need you in my life. I mess up and do things to take me away from you and I know Satan is thrilled as he starts condemning me and lying to me. I know you love and you forgive. Guide my steps Lord to stay on the path you have set or me. In Jesus name.Amen.

Click on link or awesome song of praise.
http://youtu.be/38EVco7eba0army

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

7 DAYS WITHOUT JESUS MAKES ONE 'WEAK'




 Many of you have probably seen this title on a church sign  but think about what it really means. When you do not eat food for nourishment your body becomes weak and if you have a constant diet of junk food your body will get fat, broken down, and possibly sick. The same thing occurs without Jesus in your life. If you claim to be a Christian yet do not keep plugged into your power source, The Bible, you will not be equipped and strengthened to face the myriad of battles that may come your way each week.

Do you get up each day and thank the Lord for another day He has blessed you with to serve Him and impact your world or do you gripe and complain about having to get up and go to work, again? I guarantee you many unemployed people would love your job and the income and benefits it provides. Work is a gift from God. Try to start your day saying "This is your day Lord and I will rejoice and be glad."  That is actually a Bible verse found in Psalm 118:24.This is a good start to not being a weakling in Christ.

If you have time in the morning before rushing out the door do you spend it getting informed of the events in the world by newspaper or TV or do you take the time to nourish your spirit by reading the Bible? Many find it easier to click on the television or pick up the local paper than they do to pick up a devotional or Bible. Maybe you feel church is enough. Is eating one meal a week enough? The answer is NO.

The Bible says in Matthew 5:6 "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be satisfied."  Are you hungry for the things of the Lord or do you find them dull and boring? What do you suppose heaven will be like?

Try to start a new habit of putting God first place in your life. When you hear the sermons that say to do it that does not mean simply going to church. That is only one tiny aspect of walking with Christ. Mark 12:30 reminds us to "Love the Lord your of with all your heart with all your soul with all your strength and with all your mind." Do you love him this way? Do you want to? Do you want to have strength to fight the battles ahead of you?

 Being a Sunday Christian only is all fine and good, but what are you doing with that Bible the other six days? It is not a book end or a coffee table decoration. Start today to really put God first. Saying it is fine but living it and doing it is quite another story. Start today and read one chapter in Psalms a day and see if your day isn't better.

PRAYER: Lord God there are times I rush into my day giving you little time. You have given me so much yet sometimes I fail to even give you more time than a prayer at meals. My desire is to be strong in the Lord and to do that I know I need to re order my daily priorities to not put you in if there is time. Forgive me Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

ARE YOU BEING INFECTED AND POISONED?



Is the culture you live in infecting you and poisoning you? I do not mean by chemicals and illnesses but by the things you choose to do that are not good for you. Things such as movies, television shows, video games, music, magazines you choose to read, books and on the list goes. Have you heard the saying "Garbage in, garbage out?" This refers to what you choose to expose your brain and spirit to. A person can not expect to feed on a constant diet of crude humor, sex scenes, foul language, murders, rapes, lust, incest and all the rest and say it has no effect on them. It is called being desensitized. Basically it means the more you read something, hear it or watch it the less it bothers you. It is sad that happens but it will if you are not careful  it does indeed happen. It always saddens me when parents of young children seemingly do not care what they watch.

As a Christian do you think you have any place in movies that depict sex scenes, whether married or unmarried, or ultra violent behavior? Some may stop reading this right now and tell me to 'get with the program' as that is all there is. I beg to differ. Do you realize if you say you love Jesus you are to be his examples on the earth?  That is not to say you have to go to church around the clock. God expects you to get out among the people to win others to the Lord but  your mind has to stay clear too. If you get to a point that things no longer shock you or bother you then I would say there is a good likelihood you have been bitten by the 'desensitization monster' and been poisoned and infected.


Many movies nowadays depict vulgar language and crude humor. There is a verse in the Bible that deals with crude joking. Ephesians 5:3-4 says "But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving."  Aren't we supposedly supposed to be lights in a dark world? Light dispels darkness. Darkness is evil and light is good. The Bible says in 1 John 1:5 "This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all." None, zero, nada!

People today do not even blush anymore at commercials on TV. Those who grew up without wholesome entertainment in  movies may think people like me are prudish but you can only put so much junk into your brain without it having an effect on you. Do you spend more time getting to know God or going to movies you have no business in? Someone told me once their parents did not allow them go to any movies as they were all bad. Now that to me seemed far fetched but each to their own. For instance in Romans 14:5 it says "One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind." When you get a moment read all of Romans Chapter 14 as there is some good stuff in there.
The Holy Spirit brings conviction to you heart. People can start to get a appetite for violence, monster movies, sex scenes until that is all they care to see. Be on the alert. Satan can use this as a trap to get you away from the Lord and take you down the wrong path of life. 2 Corinthians 2:11 tells us to be aware of "Satan's schemes" and indeed he is a scheming liar and deceiver trying his best to get people away from Jesus.

Do the things you do bring you closer to God or further from him? Do you think what you choose to do is holy and would it bring shame to God or glory? Do you feel bad after doing something knowing perfectly well it was not the thing to do?

I love Philippians 4:8 which says "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." It is rather difficult to think on good and pleasant things when you are watching a slasher movie or some film that can not stop taking the Lord's name in vain.

So today is your heart and mind pure before the Lord? Do you desire to know Him better? In Matthew 5:13 it 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, except to be thrown out and trampled by men." Salt seasons and makes food taste better. Are you doing that in the lives of those around you? Let me leave you with one final verse which may be a good one to post on your television set. Psalm 101:3 which says "I will set no worthless thing before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; It shall not fasten its grip on me."

PRAYER: Father I know at times I go watch movies that may not be the best choices for helping me grow in the Lord. I do it because it is popular. Forgive me. Help me be more selective in what I choose to do for entertainment not worrying about what others think. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link for an awesome song of praise!
http://youtu.be/zASHA-9WhHY

Monday, September 3, 2012

WORK AS IF WORKING FOR THE LORD


Today our nation celebrates Labor Day usually bringing on the anticipation of cooler weather,football season, and back to school time. What is Labor Day really? The first Labor Day was 1882. It stemmed from a Central Labor Union wanting a holiday for their workers. It became a Federal holiday in 1894. People were to celebrate trade and labor organizations. Some places used to hold parades and speeches.

 As I think of Labor Day I think of work. When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden by eating fruit God told them not to God had something to say in Genesis Chapter 3. It is too long to put here but basically God said to man " because you disobeyed me you will work the land all the days of your life". Take time and read Genesis 1 through 3 for a refresher. It has some good things in there we all need to remember.

 In society today in America, our government almost encourages laziness by increasing welfare and unemployment. People get to feeling entitled and thus become dependent and lazy expecting everything. They have no desire to do anything if the government and hard working tax payers are  doling it out to them. It says in 2 Thessalonians 3:10 "For even when we were with you we gave you this rule, if a man does not work he does not eat." Parents, it is good to start  teaching your young children responsibility so they do not grow up lazy and expecting someone else to do things for them . Their future spouses will thank you too. When you do work, do it with a smile and be thankful for your job. Colossians 3:23 says " Whatever you do do it with all our heart as if working for the Lord and not for man." Working brings a reward too to help you pay your bills and do fun things. Now stay at home moms out there, you are working too and yours is the most important job ever so never say "I am just a mom" and men show respect and love to those beautiful women who are raising your children. It is not easy. My husband even got me my own stay home mom business card several years ago when my children were small.

Genesis 2:2-3 is where the verse is giving us Sunday, the Sabbath, as a day of rest. When I was young, on this day no malls were open and mostly only an occasional gas station, movie theater, or restaurant were open. It was actually quite refreshing as I recall. One day of less hustle and bustle, giving workers a day of rest and time to worship the Lord too. You need to to refresh and renew. Honor that day.

Those retired among us, do not just drift away thinking you can play golf or sit in a rocking chair. If you are blessed with health and ability to get around go find a place to volunteer. There are many places who would be thrilled with your services. Stop saying you are too old.Keep working past that set retirement age if you feel like it. Who says you are too old?

Today stop and say thanks too for those critical employees such as doctors, nurses, medical staff, firefighters, police, and the military who do not have this day off. We appreciate what they do to keep us healthy, safe, and secure.

So today if you are blessed with a day off enjoy it. Regardless be sure to thank the Lord for your job and the blessing of work. Get up each day and say "I get to go to work today" instead of "I have to go to work today". See your job as a Mission field God has placed you in. Stay home moms that means you are ministering to those darling little children. Go now into your mission field being thankful each and every day.

 PRAYER: Lord thank you for jobs. Thank you for those who create jobs.thank you for the blessing of an income. Thank you Lord for giving me the opportunity to witness where you have placed me. In Jesus name.amen.
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Sunday, September 2, 2012

GOD BLESS AMERICA...HOPE SO!





We in America are at a unique crossroads between liberty and tyranny. We have been blessed and given  freedoms from God,which our government, who works for us by the way, is trying to take away. Many have been lied to and deceived or because of endearment to their parents political party, even though naming the name of Jesus, can not see domination of the people right on our doorstep. It is happening in a very subtle way. Destroy the economy, make people dependent on the government, de-fund the finest military in the world and therefore lose the ability to wage war, allow Muslim extremists special rights and you have a mixture for disaster. Many feel we need to tolerate each other, don't pray if it offends others, and give away our money to those too lazy to work. They call it a nice word, 'fair' to make it seem alright. Tomorrow I will write about work it today I am writing to say we need to wake up. God is giving us another chance.

This is not about a person or a political party but is about Spiritual Warfare. Wouldn't the enemy, Satan, just love tearing apart the most free and God fearing country on earth? The answer is yes and he is in the process of attempting that right now. Satan and  his warfare are subtle and deceptive and that is why we need to be constantly on guard. Do not be so in love with a particular political party that if they go against God's word you do not run the other way.


1 Corinthians 16:3 says "Be on your guard. Stand firm in your faith. Be men of courage. Be strong." Further  in 1 Peter 5:8 it reminds us "Be self controlled and alert. Your enemy Satan prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." Satan is deceptive. He is not going to appear with a red suit, horns, and pitchfork but will work through those he has captured and lied to to trick more people. He hates prayer and the name of Jesus, I can assure you. He would like nothing better to get rid of everything Christian from our great land. Do not be mad at those working on his side but lift them up in  prayer.

I have something on my refrigerator at home from the Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC which reads "First they came for the Socialists but I did not speak out because I was not a Socialist; Then they came for the trade unionists and I did not speak out because I was not a trade unionist; Then they came for the Jews and I did not speak out because I was not a  Jew; Then they came for me and there was no one let to speak for me." Writing by Pastor Martin Niemoller.

Basically this is telling us to stop taking freedom for granted or feeling someone is a bit extreme thinking free speech is really threatened just because we have a Constitution and things such as that. Evil will not follow the rule book or the Constitution but it will steam roll and take over and only God  will be able to save us. The enemy likes it when folks do not take threats to our liberties seriously. He is a divider,liar and destroyer. It says that in John 10:10 "The thief does not come but to kill, steal, and destroy. I came that you might have life and have it more abundantly."

Galatians 5:1 says "it is for freedom that Christ set us free. Stand firm then and do not let yourselves be entangled again in a yoke of bondage." 2nd Corinthians 3:17 reminds us "Now the Lord is a spirit and where the spirit of the Lord is there is freedom." I do not think it makes God happy when dictators act like God and lord over their people. God did not intend that. We have a Constitution and Bill of Rights that gives us freedoms too if only they are adhered to. Many are ignored by our current administration. The founding fathers intended for government to be limited and to answer to the people, not become bullies trying to dominate and divide us. But we skeptics in America have had it way too good and often do not even read our Bibles and pray. The creature comforts we enjoy often lure us away from God. We listen to people more than we do the voice of God our Saviour. We tune into the TV more than tuning into the voice of God. This is sad indeed. It says in 2 Chronicles 7:14 that "If my people who are called my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and forgive their sin and heal their land."

Are you willing to do that today? Can you really truly get serious about God and thank Him for the wonderful freedoms we enjoy? Loving Jesus is not saved just for Sunday. To be victorious you need to be connected to Him around the clock. This nation can be saved. It is not too late.

God Bless an America whose Government says marriage is just not between a man and woman and says it is okay to kill innocent unborn babies in the name of choice? Hmm. Blessings or cursing?

Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. The people he has called to His inheritance."

PRAYER: Lord I love freedom and I hate the enemy and how he is trying to trick people in order to destroy our wonderful nation. People buy into lies and then start trying to remove your name from our world. Lord Jesus I thank you that you are still in charge and on the throne. No mere man or government is greater than you. Thank you for saving us and protecting us and blessing us with freedom. Forgive me for not speaking up when liberty is threatened. In Jesus name. Amen.


Click on link for awesome song of praise.
http://youtu.be/KudssJKRBB0





Saturday, September 1, 2012

RESTORATION NOT CONDEMNATION



 Are you perfect? Never ever messed up? Then if so no need to read any further. Most of us would admit we have done something stupid and not really holy at one time or another.The saying goes when you point your finger condemning someone or judging them, look out as your other fingers are left pointing back at you.

The good news is God allows second chances, third chances and even more chances to get it right. He wants you to restored, refreshed, renewed, and redeemed. Do not allow the lies of the enemy to defeat you making you feel you can not start over and get close to God. Even when human relationships fail us God is there. He loves you with an everlasting love.

1 Peter 5:10 is one of my favorite verses given to me during a hard time in my life and it says "After you have suffered a little while the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ will himself restore, confirm, strengthen and establish you." If that is not a verse of promise what is? 1 Corinthians 6:10-11 says "nor thieves,nor the greedy,nor drunkards, nor reviles,nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God. But such were some of you but you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the spirit of God." Basically this verse is warning us to not be so high and mighty thinking we have 'arrived' but let's us know God can set us free and heal our brokenness.

Let me conclude with Psalm 107:20 which says "He sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction."

 Do you need a touch from God today? He is only a prayer away.

 PRAYER: Lord thank you so much for the times you are there to pick me up when I fall and you set me back on the right path. I choose to believe you and not the lies of Satan. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to worship the Lord in song. Be blessed.
http://youtu.be/UzK5y5T5v64