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.

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

HALLOWEEN: GOOD OR EVIL?


 Is Halloween an innocent children's holiday to celebrate or is it something sinister we need to avoid? Online, in the Bing dictionary, it is defined as follows: 'October 31: the eve of All Saints' Day, originally celebrated by Celtic peoples but now popular with children in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.'

It was interesting studying this topic online and the varying opinions. We all have opinions about what is right or wrong.Some parents see nothing wrong with dressing the little ones up, even like Satan himself, and sending them off in the neighborhood to gather candy. In the United States this is

 Is Halloween an innocent children's holiday to celebrate or is it something sinister we need to avoid? Online, in the Bing dictionary, it is defined as follows: 'October 31: the eve of All Saints' Day, originally celebrated by Celtic peoples but now popular with children in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.'

It was interesting studying this topic online and the varying opinions. We all have opinions about what is right or wrong.Some parents see nothing wrong with dressing the little ones up, even like Satan himself, and sending them off in the neighborhood to gather candy. In the United States this is second most decorated holiday after Christmas. There are haunted houses, cornfield mazes, jack-o-lanterns, and harvest parties. If you want to avoid the evil aspect of this day and simply have fun, you could opt to take the kiddies to the church harvest party. That is what we used to do when our boys were small. They did go out in the neighborhood a couple times.

We do not need to embrace this day entirely but we can use it as a witness too. We are not to judge our Christian brothers and sisters who see nothing wrong with dressing up like a witch to come to greet the trick or treater's. I, for one, cannot glorify a witch but people have to be convicted on their own. Each person has to have conviction before they leave this holiday behind entirely. Here in the small town I live in, there is a church doing an alternative to a haunted house. I have experienced this type of 'alternative' a couple times in the past in places I have lived and actually they are a pretty good witnessing tool for those over the age of 12.


Still this day gets mixed reactions in the Christian community. Is it okay to celebrate or is it not? Yours truly was born on Halloween, no joke. So for me as a child this day was one big party and yes, other children came to my parties in their costumes. It is fun dressing up and having fun and the scary part can be funny too but if it gets too overboard and bordering on the demonic that is where I personally would draw the line.

As parents you are forming your child's character. If you start saying anything goes and have no boundaries then what does that teach them? Psalm 141:4 says "Do not let my heart incline to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity, and let me not eat of their delicacies!" Now is Halloween really wicked?
If you want to celebrate something innocently and let your children go to parties dressed up, you can choose to have costumes of heroes and such instead of witches, demons, goblins, ghosts and ghoulish creatures. Some say real life witches have this day as their high holy day but can't we as Christians use this day for good? That is point of the harvest parties.Perhaps what Satan means for evil we could use for good?

So what is a Christian to do? Is this a formerly Christian holiday called 'All Hallowed Eve" or is this when Satanists do their sacrifices and steal black cats and such. First of all evil and Satan are real and are not a joke. There is good and there is evil. We are to let our light shine forth to glorify our father which is in heaven it says in Matthew 5:16. This does not mean to act holier than than or self righteous to others. It is as simple as this. Is what you are doing bringing honor and glory to God? That is always a good question to ask yourself.

Romans 14:16 says "Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken of as evil." Ephesians 5:16 says "making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."

Pray and ask God what you should do. Happy Harvest Day!! Is this a day a Christian should really celebrate? Just something to think about.

PRAYER: Father help me to know in my heart what to do about celebrating Halloween. Thank you Lord for the gift of children and for those reading this with small ones still or grandchildren they have influence over help them be guided by your word and Holy Spirit in what to do for this normally fun day for children. If I have put too much emphasis on this over God forgive me. Show me how to be a light in my neighborhood as well. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Click on link below for a song of praise.

Tuesday, October 30, 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 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 the 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. If you know the news is going to depress you why even bother listening to it. Surround yourself with things that make for a peaceful life and keep those things that drag you away from the joy of the Lord out of your life.
In Isaiah 26:3 it says "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." I find it odd as I wrote this devotion a few days ago I accidentally hit the delete button instead of the save button and never did find it in the trash on my computer. I just laughed and went about recreating it knowing the enemy was trying to steal my peace while I wrote about peace.
Do you have peace today? If not turn on to God and tune out those things in your life causing fear and worry.
PRAYER: Father I thank you for helping me maintain peace when the world around me is going crazy. Help me look to you instead of the news to keep my focus in the correct place. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link below to worship God in song.
Note:Let us not forget to pray for those in the Northeast being hit by one of worst storms ever. Let us not worry and fear but trust God. He is sovereign over all!

Monday, October 29, 2012

REJOICE WITH THOSE WHO REJOICE


In Romans 12:15 it says to do what my title refers to but also to "weep with those who weep." When someone else gets a promotion and you don't, are you jealous? When a friends' child does something outstanding are you able to compliment them or are you envious? Does someone who has money for a new car or house bother you? Maybe it is the college someone attends or their job? We are where we are for reasons God has. No one individual is better in God's eyes.Everyone has a purpose and each of us is important to God.


If you are in a position that is important in the eyes of the world or are blessed with worldly treasures do not get arrogant or think you are better than others. 1 Peter 5:6 says "Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God that in due time he will exalt you."
Especially with your friends, learn to rejoice with them over good news and be sad with them or comfort them when they need it. Try to not be bitter but to be better I think I have heard Bible teacher Joyce Meyer say. John 3:30 says "He must become greater; I must become less." Basically this means to lift Jesus higher and do not be concerned over worrying about status.

Today try to find someone to rejoice with. Practice thinking less of yourself and more of others. You can impact your corner of the world and be thankful for exactly where God has placed you to do his kingdom work.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the blessings in my life. The simple joys of each day are a delight. You truly are King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Forgive me for ever being jealous over the success of others. Help me Lord to always be humble. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, October 28, 2012

TAKE UP YOUR SWORD!!



 When a soldier goes into battle he takes what he needs to defeat his enemy. In the past the sword was a very useful weapon for defeat of our enemies. Bayonets are still on the end of some rifles used in combat in order to charge the enemy.

As Christians, in defeating our greatest enemy, which is Satan, we too have a sword and that is the word of God referred to as a 'sword' in Ephesians 6:17. It is one of the pieces of the armor of God we need to have in order to defeat Satan.

Hebrews 4:12 says "For the word of God is living and active sharper than any two edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart."

Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness. Your Bible has many truths and promises which you can speak out loud, and stop this enemy in his tracks. But how do you do this and what verses do you read? You have to study God's word and make it part of your daily life. Do not just call on God when you are in trouble then keep Him in a box the rest of the time.

Psalm 119:11 says "Thy word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against you." Is God's word in your heart? Are you able to fight off those flaming darts on the battlefield of life?

PRAYER: I need you in my life in good times and in bad Lord. Seems at times it is easy to think things are going okay and to not focus on the word of God and sometimes not even bother to read it till Sunday and then only in church. It is my most important tool in my spiritual arsenal besides prayer. Keep that in my memory Lord as I run the race against my enemies to win. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link for awesome song of praise.

Saturday, October 27, 2012

I'M STARVING!!




As I sit in a local coffee shop doing my writing I am sort of hungry as it is getting close to lunch time. In America most of us do not know real hunger and a good majority are overfed. To be hungry, truly hungry, is an awful experience I hope I never have to experience. Look at Third World nations eating some sort of mush out of a wooden bowl or cup and just gobbling it down. Then we in America waste our food and some hungry Americans find it in the dumpsters across our great land and eat what the privileged tossed aside.

But to really be hungry is something I can not fathom. If we go without being fed too long our bodies would shut down and we would not survive. But the worst kind of hunger is hunger for the word of God. Just as our physical bodies need to be fed food to grow, so too our spirit inside of us needs daily 'feeding' as not to wither away and die. How can we be equipped for the battleground of life unless we are prepared with proper spiritual food?

How many of us though think this feeding only should occur on Sunday? Imagine if you would if you only ate food one hour per week and the other 6 days you starved yourself. All sorts of problems would occur in your physical body. How many of us are guilty of starving our spiritual bodies? It is necessary to renew and refresh ourselves on a daily basis to be able to combat the 'arrows' thrown at us by Satan.Some who are starving for God would not even bother reading this devotion.


2 Timothy 2:15 says "Study to show thyself approved by God a workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." Matthew 5:6 says " Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be saved."
Are you hungry for God and the Word of God? If not, maybe you need a spiritual renewal. Try this. Wake up each day and say out loud "thank you Lord for this new day. Use me today in your kingdom work." After that before you get caught up in the mornings activities or head off to a job or start your motherhood duties or whatever else occupies a majority of your time, set aside time alone with God. Read a passage of scripture. I have suggested before to start by reading the book of John or the book of Proverbs. In Proverbs there are 31 chapters so you could read the one corresponding to the date on the calendar. Just a thought. Then as you read ask God to reveal His truth to you. Before you know it you may be hungry for God and spiritual growth. Many do things in churches to stay busy but how much time do you take to nourish your spirit? Seething to think about.Going to church is great but being in love with Jesus and his word happens more than one hour each Sunday.

PRAYER: Father I thank you for each day you give me. Forgive me for the times I have gotten too busy to put you first. I know it is only through reading your Holy Bible that I can learn how to be more like you. Help me to cast off distractions that keep me from you.Also Lord help me to keep quiet if others around me in my family are not hungry for you and to simply pray. In Jesus name. Amen.

Friday, October 26, 2012

LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO BE UNHAPPY



As I sit writing at a crowded neighborhood coffee shop, the barista named Bob, behind the counter,when a customer said to him, "Boy are you in a good mood!" his response is my title above. It is so very true. Life is short. We do not know when God will call us home and our earthly service will be completed. He is the one who knows the day and the hour. It is important to stay happy. Turn that frown upside down. What good does it do to go around all gloomy? Try smiling and see if your attitude changes. People also say to me "How are you today?" My reply many times is "If I were any better I'd be twins." This gentleman working at the coffee shop answered the same question by exclaiming , "If I were any better the government would have to tax me twice."

Each day is a gift from God and an opportunity to shine for Jesus. If you love Jesus let your eyes sparkle and wear a smile! In the musical 'Annie' there was a song whose lyrics said "You're never fully dressed without a smile." Look around you. Do people around you display joy?

Matthew 24:6 says "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven or the Son, but only the Father." The time you have on earth should be used to serve others. Look at people you pass and give them a smile. Ecclesiastes 3:2 says " A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to pluck up what has been planted."

Many people dread their week especially those working in jobs they do not enjoy. They want Friday to hurry and be here. I heard an evangelist once say "It's Friday, But Sunday is coming!" so instead of being excited for 'Casual Friday' at work why not look in anticipation of the day you get to have fellowship with others.

So are you enjoying your life? If no,t find a way to help somebody. Volunteer at an assisted living center or a hospital. Go out and shine and radiate the love of God wherever your life takes you! Each day is a chance to start over if you have messed up seem way. Live every day to the fullest not knowing how much time you have left.

Psalm 90:2 says " Teach us to number our days aright that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
Talk to any cancer survivor and they will no doubt tell you they are thankful for each day they are alive here on the Earth. Sometimes a brush with death helps us think of life differently. I have come close a couple times myself once being when I was sucked out to sea by rip tides while I was snorkeling and believe me it taught me the value of being alive.

Psalm 39:4 says "Show me Oh Lord my life's end and the number of my days, let me know how fleeting is my life." Death will come to all of us and it is nothing to fear if you know the Lord. In the meantime why not start making it a point to bless someone each and every day you are alive and well.

Get up and thank God saying Psalm 139:4 "This is the day the Lord has made. Will rejoice and be glad in it!"

PRAYER: Lord Jesus forgive me if I eve walk around gloomy thinking only of myself and my problems. Lord I know you want the joy of your presence to radiate to others. From this day forward I am going to make it a point to shine for you. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link below to listen to Nashville song writer Sonia Lee in a song of hope:

Thursday, October 25, 2012

DON'T WORRY ABOUT MAN

 
Have you ever put your trust or faith in a 'mere man' only to be let down and disappointed? Take a sports figure who is caught doping or cheating. Maybe it is a preacher who fell from grace. Perhaps a respected school teacher caught in a criminal act. Maybe it is a friend who has betrayed you in some way. For some maybe it is finding out a spouse has cheated on you. It could be an individual you trusted that it is found they embezzled money. Perhaps you shared something in confidence and found out it was not kept a secret. These are just a few examples. The point is humans can let us down but God never let us down.

When bad things happen to people, and they will at times, we are not to be the judge. Beware or the same scenarios occurring in your life. Pray for protection and for individuals caught in these traps. God does and can restore, redeem, and forgive. Often tragedies and downfalls in life cause the individual to get closer to the Lord.

Our hope and our trust should not be placed in mere man. Now in the case of the mention of an unfaithful spouse, those individuals, if they had a Christian marriage, took a vow before God to stay true to each other so that in fact should be followed as you grow in love daily putting God first and your spouse second. Don't ever put yourself in a tempting situation where you might fall. If one of the partners failed it is time to seek reconciliation and counseling to restore what God brought together. Stay best friends and this is unlikely to occur but still make sure God is number one.

Turn to the Lord and look to Him for your strength. Pray for you to stay strong and not led away by temptations and roadblocks man may put in your path.

Isaiah 40:31 says "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will mount up with wings as eagles. They will run and not be weary. They will walk and not faint."

Who do you trust today?

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for being there for me when it seems the world around me and people are faltering. Lord I thank you for being supremely in control. I look to you for my source of strength as I go through life. In Jesus name.

Click on link for a wonderful song of praise:
http://youtu.be/W48NfLLSFNc

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

SEASONS


Here in the southeast the seasons are changing. Fall is probably just about my favorite season. The leaves are so beautiful. When I lived n the desert of Arizona they used to say the leaves did not change color, only the license plates did, meaning fall in the desert signaled the entrance of thousands of winter visitors(aka snowbirds) from places such Iowa, 'Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and anywhere on the western side of Mississippi River that received lots of snow.So the color of automobile tags was the color change.


I don't know about you, but the seasons are a wonderful treat. I even love winters. We anticipate so much with the changing of these seasons.

Life has it's season as well. Author Charles Swindoll has a book entitled 'Growing Stronger in the Seasons of Life". Things often happen for a reason and a season. We have to be prepared in life for changing seasons that come our way.

I think of the seasons of life in terms of things like raising children then finally letting them go from the nest to the next big adventure God has in store for them. It could be perhaps you are in a season of saying goodbye to elderly parents or grandparents who have passed on. Maybe it is the season of life with moving and living in a new area and the new things God has in store for you. Whatever your season God is there to see you through to the next one.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 says "to everything there is a season. A time for every activity under heaven." Look up this chapter in the old testament and read the entire thing. Seasons of life come and go. Things happen whether good or bad and we get through them. God is there lighting our path and guiding us in each transition. See your new seasons as a new opportunity God has in store for you. Be willing and flexible to journey where he wants you as you enter a new phase of life.

PRAYER: Father I thank you so much for your love for me. I thank you for guiding me through good times and bad. Thank you for opening doors that need to be opened and shutting doors I should not go through. Thank you for your love for me. In Jesus name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

THE PUMPKIN




Recently one of my cousins emailed me this thing about pumpkins and God. Basically it went something like this.

"We are all like pumpkins. God picks us from the patch, brings us in, and washes all the dirt off of us. Then He cuts the top off and scoops out all the yucky stuff in our life. This part can at times be painful as He chisels away using the  trials in life. Next, He removes those seeds of doubt, hate, and greed in our life. Then He carves us a new smiling face and puts His light inside of us to shine for all the world to see." What  a tremendous illustration of a jack o lantern from a Christian perspective!

With this being fall and the season where the leaves are turning gorgeous shades of red and yellow, many minds turn to decorating in a harvest theme. What better time to relay this story of the Pumpkin. I only wish I knew who to credit it to.

How is your life today? Do you feel like their are lots of 'slimy strings and seeds'  inside you that need to get rid of?  Maybe these things are keeping Christian Devotions, Inspirationyou from a closer walk with Jesus. Do you shine for Jesus and does your Christianface reflect joy or sorrow?

God can take all the bad stuff in your life and use it for good. When we are in the midst of a trial we certainly do not think of God's goodness. We just want to have relief from our pain. The enemy, Satan, may try to get you to believe God caused your pain.

James 1:3 says "the testing of your faith produces endurance."  Friend, would you like to get rid of those 'bad seeds' weighing you down that do not produce a good harvest for God? Cry out to Him today. He is waiting to transform you.

2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us " yet if anyone is in Christ, He is a new creation. Behold the old has come and the new has come."

PRAYER: Lord Jesus it is my desire to bear good fruit for the kingdom of God. If it is necessary, 'carve out' those yucky things in my life that keep me from reflecting your glory. In Jesus name. Amen.

Monday, October 22, 2012

A PRAYER VERSUS A SCARE

 
What scares you? What is it you fear? What makes you feel there is no way out? We are not to live fearful lives but faith filled lives. How do you get this faith filled life? The main thing you can do is pray and next it is to trust God. When you are praying and praising God you have little room for fear and worry.
Anything that is causing you fear is not from God. Is there something you can not keep from dwelling on in your mind? When you have a worry, concern, or fear that does not seem to want to go away the best way to get rid of it is to stay in an attitude of prayer and thanksgiving. Satan can have you paralyzed if you keep concentrating on things that scare you or seem to take you away from God.
Phillipians 4:8 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 hard to have bad thoughts if you purposefully focus on good things. Are you able to make your mind dwell on good things?
When you are feeling wrong thoughts creeping into your mind start praising God. Say " I thank you Lord for the victory I have in you. I thank you Lord I do not need to listen to the lies of the enemy. I thank you that the things of the past are behind me. I thank you Lord for loving me and forgiving me. I give you Lord any of my worries and fears and choose to look to you for my strength."
God can turn bad things around. You need to stay focused on Him and His word. Proverbs 3:5-6 says to us "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
PRAYER; Lord God I am so very thankful that you are available 24/7. When friends forsake us you are there. When things go wrong you are there. When we feel a pity party coming on, you are there. I am thankful for your forgiveness in times when I have messed up. Thanks Lord for taking away my fears. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, October 21, 2012

CRABBY? TRY GOD.


Are you crabby or someone in your life crabby? Try to let God's love permeate your very being. For instance, when tailgaters anger you turn it over to God. If frustrations with other people make you want to scream, call on God. When life throws you a curve ball and you feel like quitting, try God.

If it is not you that is the 'crab' be on your guard to not play the 'holy spirit' in the other person's life. It is not your job. Just work on yourself and let God work on the other person. Keep praying.

If you feel a bit crabby at times, once again, it is a problem with the tongue. That little body part can certainly wreak havoc in our lives and the lives of others. It is our job to work on ourselves. Your mom is not around anymore to 'wash your mouth out with soap' for saying the wrong things.

Psalm 19:14 says " Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight oh Lord my strength and my redeemer." If you are praying this prayer for another person try putting their name in where it says 'my'. This personalizes it.

If you are having a problem pray for self control. Also pray for God to give you a gentle and quiet spirit so you will know how to speak to all people in your path. Treat others like you want to be treated. Be able to acknowledge that if there is a problem maybe it is not the other person but perhaps it is you.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I like to feel pleasant and not be a 'crab' so help me to be like you in all I say and do. I give up my right to play the role of Holy Spirit in someone else's life..In Jesus name. Amen.

Saturday, October 20, 2012

WISHING,HOPING,THINKING, AND PRAYING


Back in the 60's there was a pop song with this title. We wish, hope,and think but the real key thing in life to do is to mainly pray. Pray and pray some more. Luke 18:1 reminds us to "Pray and never give up." How many times do you feel like giving up when your prayers do not seem to make a difference? Don't quit, but think of that verse. Believe and know that God does hear and he does care.

We can do all the wishing and hoping and thinking in the world but praying is what truly matters. Praying is simply talking to God. Many people may feel they need to throw in some fancy language in order to get God to listen. You can pray at all times and guess what? You do not need to close your eyes. Pray while you are driving your car. Instead of turning on the radio keep it quiet and try talking to God.


Psalm 121:1 says "I will lift my eyes up unto the hills from where comes my help."
Psalm 120:1 says "In my distress I called to the Lord and He heard me."
1 Thessalonians 5:17 reminds us to "Pray without ceasing."
Take time today to talk to God. He is only a prayer away.Our hope is in the Lord!


PRAYER: Lord I thank you for hearing my prayers. I thank you for guiding me daily. In Jesus name. Amen.

Friday, October 19, 2012

WHY SHAKE YOUR HEAD?


Have there been times when you sort of feel like giving up and you just shake your head? Instead of shaking your head try bowing your head and praying instead. It is so easy to be puzzled by things happening around us. Things can exasperate us. Instead of asking why,maybe say " why not" and "what do I need to learn through this situation?"

To shake your head is sort of a way through body language of saying "I can't believe that!" Sometimes when we shake our head we shake it in judgment against someone too. If you are tempted to judge, try to pray for the person you are judging instead.

If you are a parent of adult children, shaking of the head often occurs when we hear of our children doing something against how we raised them. Perhaps you are perplexed and discouraged. This is the time to trust God and pray more. It is Satan who brings you the discouragement.

I can imagine there were lots of head shakers when Jesus caught the woman in act of adultery. Kind of like saying "Can you believe her. What a tramp." Read John 8:1-11 for this account.

Matthew 7:1 reminds us "Judge not so you will not be judged." Luke 18:1 tells us to "Pray and never give up!"

Are you a 'head shaker'? Try being a person of prayer and a praiser instead and see if that does not cure you.

PRAYER: Lord you are good and your mercies endure forever. From the rising of the sun till the time it goes down your name is to be praised. Help me Lord to focus on you and do less head shaking. In Jesus name. Amen.

Thursday, October 18, 2012

OUR GOD REIGNS


Our God reigns through the turmoil of lost jobs. Our God reigns through a troubled government. Our God reigns through the premature death of a child. Our God reigns when friends run out on us. Our God reigns when we are unjustly accused. Our God reigns when a child goes astray. Our God reigns when the world seems to cave in. Our God reigns when the stock market crashes. Our God reigns in time of war. Our God reigns when friends reject us.
The point is to not let problems defeat you but to know that God is working in any and all things. He does not cause the chaos but can use things to His glory. He is still here. He is in charge. It is His world after all.
Friend, what has got you down today or to the point you feel life is not worth it? Life is always worth it. God can use you and he loves you. He is not ready for you to quit or cave in to fear and despair. It is the enemy who causes those feelings of defeat. Do not allow Satan to win this battle when you know you can, and will, win the war with Jesus strength and help!!
 
Repeat after me " My God loves me and has a plan for me." Romans 8:28 says "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purposes." Isaiah 54:10 tells us "
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you."

Run to Jesus and let Him comfort you as only He can.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I know you reign forever and ever. At times when I take my eyes off you and focus on the problems around me I can get overwhelmed. Forgive me. I choose to trust and run the race with faith, not fear. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to worship God in song

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

OVERLOOK MEAN SPEECH


Have you ever been talked down to or verbally abused? If so, human nature wants to get back and get even. God's nature is one of self control, love and overlooking an offense. To argue back and forth is going to go nowhere. It is likely many of those who can not control their mouth and their anger need to ask Jesus into their hearts and perhaps go to anger management class. Many who are angry sometimes think, in an odd way, that their anger is totally justified.
Try reading Psalm 19:4 out loud. It says "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight  oh Lord my rock and my redeemer." Give the person to God who is being ugly. It may be a friend, family member or a complete stranger. Peace, love and overlooking an offense are what will win the victory.

James 1:19-20 says it well. " My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires."
So be the bigger person and show Christian love and let it go.
PRAYER: Lord God I thank you for the ability to talk. Help me be cautious in what I say and how I respond to someone who is beating me up with their words. Help me to show love no matter what. In Jesus name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

YIKES!

YIKES!!

This is usually the human reaction we get to things when we 'freak out' or start to fret. This could have been my reaction today as I stopped at McDonald's  to post a previously written blog and it was no where to be found. Satan does not like anyone sharing the good news of Jesus and he loves it too when we get stressed and upset and lose our peace as then we can not focus on God. I wrote the missing blog devotion a few days ago but today I can not find it. Am I freaking out? No! I am calm, cool, and collected as I now take a moment here at McDonalds in Ashland, Kentucky to write about peace.

What is causing you to fret today? Worrying and stressing over something does nothing but cause your blood pressure to go up. The best thing is to take a deep breath and stop and pray. I am doing this right now.

The Bible in Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us "Do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and and thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And The peace of God which surpasses all understanding will keep guard your heats and your minds  in Christ Jesus."

Do you have God's perfect peace today?  Also in 1 Peter 5:7 it says to "Cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you." A fisherman 'casts' his line as far our in the lake as possible so as to have a better chance to get fish. Like that fisherman we need to verbally cast our prayers up to God. Most things we feet about never happen anyway. Stop right now as take a deep breath breathing out worry and breathe in the peace of Jesus. 

PRAYER: Lord  Jesus I will not allow the enemy to come in and steal my joy and peace.  I know that you are the one who wants to shoulder my concerns. Forgive me when I have let the enemy rob me of peace. Satan is a liar and thief and he can not harm me. In Jesus name. Amen.


Monday, October 15, 2012

DESPERATE FOR GOD?




DESPERATE FOR GOD??

In life there are lots of things people get desperate for. Desperate to get into a certain school. Perhaps desperate for a pay raise. Maybe desperate to meet a certain person. But is God something we are desperate for?
 
We are to seek God with all of our hearts. Are you the type of person who loves Jesus all the time and is in constant communication with Him or is Sunday for one hour enough? Those people who are 'Bible thumpers' are a little freaky you might think. I mean why isn't going one hour a week enough? I will tell you why.
 
First if you have a lamp if you want it to light up you have to plug it into a power source, the electrical outlet. or it will not light up. Similar we Christians can not  'light up' for Jesus unless we are constantly and consistently plugged into our power source that being reading the Bible and prayer.Second is we are to be in the world but not of the world. 1 John 2:15-17 says "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever."
 
Mark 12:30 tells us "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The same thing is repeated in Deuteronomy 6:5. Think about the feelings of human love and the excitement you get being around someone you are in love with. Jesus is waiting for you to be sold out to Him as well. He is why we are all here in the first place. The worlds ways are not God's ways. We are to be his lights and his servants in the place he has us. We are not to be ashamed of Him it tells us in Mark 8:38. So let me ask you again, are you desperate for Jesus?
 
PRAYER: Lord God I want to put you first in my life and have a hunger for your word and getting to know you better. Forgive me when things of this world push you into the back corner so to speak .I am desperate to live for you .In Jesus name. Amen.
 
Click on link below for an awesome worship song.

Sunday, October 14, 2012

YACKETY YAK




Sometimes we can talk too much.There are times to talk and times to be silent. There are also places our parents taught us to be silent such as in church, at a funeral, at a play, in the movie theater,and in class. I am sure you can add to this list. Have you ever been somewhere you wanted peace and someone is 'yacking'  inappropriately and you can not concentrate?  Happens to me lots as I go places to write. I always feel God is giving me an opportunity to develop patience and peace myself. And when I am the one with a friend talking I always ask if I am disturbing someone if they look busy.

I guess the key to this is to develop a spirit of patience,peace, and self control. Self control so you do not inadvertently spout off and are rude to the person even though they maybe rude. Sort of a way to not repay evil for evil.  Patience is needed so you do not lose control and get angry. You learn to go with the flow so to speak.

Galatians 5:22 says "But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentlest, and self control. Against such things there is no law." it can be easy to pop a cork so if this is a weak area ask God to give you the ability to achieve this. Ecclesiastes 3:7 reminds us "there is a time to speak and a time to be silent."  When you get annoyed it is probably best to deal with it and zip your lip. The best thing sometimes said is nothing at all.

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for ears to hear and a month to speak. Help me to be silent when needed and speak when needed. And when someone is talking and annoying me help me to remain quiet and show your love . In Jesus name. Amen.

Saturday, October 13, 2012

PROBLEMS?

 
Have you ever considered that when things do not go right in your life that you are being sanded and molded into God's image through these situations?Life is not always fun. Bad things happen and you wonder why God abandoned you or did not listen to your prayer. You become impatient and angry at God. God is working things out in His time. The thing you may consider so terrible may just turn out to have a silver lining.
Our ways are not his ways it says in Isaiah 55:8. Further in James 1:2-3 it says " Consider it pure joy my brethren when you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance." In Genesis 50:20 it says "You intended to harm me but God meant it for good, to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of lives." Probably most of us who grew up in church know the story of Job and the terrible things he went through which would cause most of us to go crazy. But yet in Job 13:15 it says " Thou he slay me, yet I will trust in Him." How many of us could say that when the worst case scenarios came into our lives?
Don't keep looking at your problem but look up to Jesus as He is the way out and will see you through to the other side.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus it is hard sometimes when bad stuff happens in my life or a family members. Satan wants to keep us defeated and worried but I know the end of the story has not been written and you are there working. Thanks for the promises in your word. Help me cling to them and not caves in. In Jesus name. Amen.

Friday, October 12, 2012

KEEP ON KEEPING ON


What in life has you feeling you just want to check out,give up,or quit? The pain of something is way too great and you just do not think you can endure and hold on any longer. You maybe feel you just wish you could go home and be with the Lord. The passing of time takes care of most pain. The death of someone close is probably the hardest thing to endure or understand or perhaps the ripping apart feeling of a divorce.
Friend, God is here for you and He has a reason to keep you around. He knows what pain is like.After all he endured the cross. He loves you. Often when people are in pain they get mad at God instead of running to Him. The keyword here is to run and endure whatever is going on. Do not throw in the towel. Hang on to God. Jesus loves you this I know for my Bible tells me so.
James 1:2-4 says "Consider it pure joy my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know the testing of your faith develops perseverance and and perseverance must finish its' work so you may be mature and complete not lacking anything." Do not go up to someone who is suffering loss and quote this to them. Just listen and give them a hug. All of us will go through bad things in life. Being a Christian does not mean we are problem free. Hang on to Jesus and know he has a plan and you will be okay.
PRAYER: Lord God I do not know why bad things happen but I know you are our redeemer and you love us and feel our pain. Lord God help me to run to you and not let Satan drag me into a pit of despair. I know the enemy wants me to be crushed by pain but you want me to be victorious, I want to learn to praise you no matter what.In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link to be blessed by an awesome praise song.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

 
We have all probably seen roadway signs that read 'Under Construction'. As believers we are sort of a work in progress too or 'under construction.' God is not done molding us, sanding us, shaping us into who He wants to be. There is a saying "Please Be Patient God Is Not Finished With Me Yet" and how true that is! Every day we learn more and more of how to be conformed to a Christlike image. Mistakes may be made along the way but it is necessary to keep trudging on. Consider yourself a great project of God and His very special work but still on His easel.
Ephesians 3:20 has been a favorite verse of mine for quite a while. It says "Now unto Him who is able to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine, according to His power which is at work within us." More than we could even imagine!! Wow! We are on God's planning table and all the experiences we have help conform us. Hopefully you are following the Lord so you are transformed into his image.
If you have not done so already or are not sure, why not give your heart to Him today. Say a simple prayer and ask Him to come into your heart today. He wants to start forming you into a vessel for His glory.
PRAYER: Father in heaven thank you so much for the plans you have for me. I want to be submissive to your plan. Help me hang on when things get tough and always remember to give thanks. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link below for an old song with a message:

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

THE LONGEST BOOK


Today I am writing about Psalm 119. It contains so much wisdom and so many topics of spiritual growth and insight. I guarantee you will not be bored reading it so once you have finished this devotion about it, go get your Bible and see for yourself. The main theme is obeying Christ. You will be blessed!!

When you go book shopping and see these 'fat' novels you may feel they would take forever to read. Maybe you see the Bible as way too big and you do not know where to begin. Someone told me once that in their particular denomination they weren't encouraged to bring their Bible to church as the person reading it up front was the 'true authority'. I have news for you. Just because a person has a theological degree does not mean they are closer to God than you or understand the Bible better. You need to take your necessary 'equipment' to church and that includes the Bible. Someone may in fact read it for you or it may be upon a screen, but still it is a good tool to have for reference.


How do you go about reading this massive book.? I often tell people to start with the book of John in the New Testament and go from there. Ideally it is good to get in a Bible study if you can find a good one. For several years while in the military, I was in Officers Christian Fellowship and as a baby Christian went to a Navigators Bible study. Many churches have 'small groups' that meet in homes. When my husband and I were in Arizona for three years we were in a home Bible study where everyone knew Jesus but we did not go to the same church. It was wonderful!

It is important to get plugged in somewhere. As a young married couple this was very important to me and all newlyweds should try to find other Christians to fellowship with. Those days were some of my best Christian memories.

To know the longest book or the shortest book in the Bible it has to be read,studied, and applied. Let me end with Psalm 119:16 which says "I delight in your decrees and will not neglect your word."

PRAYER: Lord I want to make your word the top priority in my life. I know through it I will have the necessary tools to face the battles ahead of me. Forgive me Lord when I neglect you and turn to my own ways. In Jesus name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

YOU ARE SPECIAL TO GOD

Do you ever start your day by listening to negative thought patterns that say you are no good and you have nothing to contribute to the world around you? If so then you are not listening to God's voice. God always has something good for us in mind to do with our lives. If you are comparing yourself to someone with musical talent, brain power, or some other visible gift then that is wrong. Each of us is special to God in our own way. He does not find the Wall Street Broker any more important than the man who drives the city garbage truck. Each and very person reading this needs to know no matter what your age or ability you indeed are special and God can use you. Wake up daily and say out LOUD, "I am the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. God loves me. God has a special plan for me." When you speak out loud it helps. Try it and see.
1 Corinthians 15:10 says "By the grace of God I am what I am.and His grace to me was not without effect. No I worked harder than all of them, yet not I, but the grace of God that is with me." 2 Corinthians 3:5 says " Not that we are competent within ourselves to claim anything to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God." Philippians 2:13 says "for it is God that works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose." Finally Ephesians 2:10 reminds us " For we are Christ's workmanship created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Today stop what you are doing and thank God for your life and where he has placed you right now. Do not ever think you are not useful to Him or to those around you.
PRAYER: I know Lord you have a special plan for my life. Forgive me when I have gotten down into my pity pit and let the enemy control my thoughts. I want to have your thoughts and I know I get them when I sing praises to you and stay in your word. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link below and worship the Lord in song.

Monday, October 8, 2012

DISCOVERY


 Today in the United States we observe the official Columbus Day holiday named in honor of explorer Christopher Columbus who discovered the Americas. And what a discovery it was! Our founding is unique. We are a blessed nation, or at least have been. This nation has been blessed throughout the years with many talented people who came here to create, invent, and discover many things. Our freedom has given rise to the ability to pursue the dream you want or to discover even more.

Perhaps it is time for many to 'discover' the truths within the pages of God's word, The Holy Bible. It holds the key to life and life more abundantly. Discover it today in a new and fresh way. If you have grown up and all your life thought church was boring and religion dull then maybe it is time to search your heart and discover the gifts hidden inside of you. Reading the Bible and living for Jesus gives one freedom! Freedom to do what you want to do and to discover the gifts God has blessed you with. Perhaps your discovery will lead you to a church home for the first time or a new church home where the Bible comes alive. Do not be stuck in a rut somewhere but seek to know God better and have your life come alive as you live for the Lord daily and it may mean changing churches. Some might say "I can't do that. I have always gone here. This is where my family raised me." If you have not asked Jesus to be Lord of your life and become born again then now is the time to do this. Get excited about Jesus. Let Him be your first love.


John 1:1 says " In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God." Take time today to discover Jesus. Start by praying then by getting into the Bible. Find a Bible study to attend during the week or start one yourself. Take each day and read a book out of Proverbs in the Old Testament. Today is the 8th day of the month so read Proverbs 8 and each following day read the chapter in Proverbs that corresponds to that day. It is a great way to get into the word and discover the truths within its' pages.
PRAYER: Thank you Lord Jesus for the word of God. Forgive me if I neglect it and rush about daily and do other less important things. I know through reading your word I am putting on the armor of God to prepare me for attacks from the enemy, Satan, who is out there trying to take me out. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, October 7, 2012

DON'T JUDGE. JUST PRAY. OKAY?

 
How many of us are guilty of judging someone without knowing all the facts or 'their story'? I know I have been. We assume things. We may look at a person with body piercings all over and think the worst. We do not know their heart. There is no way we can have a clue what people have gone through or are experiencing right now. Do not be so quick to form an opinion. What if others were observing you and forming anop inion without knowing you. It is not really fair is it?
I am sure glad God does not do that to us. We do many things to break His heart and perhaps startle Him, but He loves us never the less. Aren't we supposed to be like Him? Being a Christian is not just about Sunday for two hours. It should be your lifestyle. We are to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind and strength it says in Deuteronomy 6:5. Do things you do make God sad? Are you living a life to please Him?
1 Peter 14:16 says "As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” Many who are living a sinful life may claim to be believers and indeed they are but may be turning away and sinning and ignoring what scripture says in order to lead the life they want. Psalm 19:13 says "Keep your servant also from willful sins, may they not rule over me. Then I will be blameless innocent of great transgression." There are Christians caught up in homosexual lifestyle, which is not God's purpose for them for any of his creation. Satan, the great deceiver, has blinded them and made them justify their desires. People can innocently drink alcohol, which is not a sin in itself, but if they drink to the point of alcohol dependency or not being able to life life without it, it can then be harmful causing family problems,sickness, disease or even death. There are those who may be sharing a prayer need that ends up in gossip instead. We are to take care of God's temple, our bodies, yet many may overeat experiencing health problems as a result.
Now back to the judging. All the things above I mentioned are not listed as the worse things therefore you are not to judge and condemn or poke fun at people suffering from these or other problems. We all have our 'issues'. Instead we are to pray. Prayer is always much better than opening our mouth with an ungodly opinion.
So today wherever you are, stop and when tempted to judge a stranger, friend, or family member, remember all of us have sinned and fallen short of his glory according to Romans 3:23.
Matthew 7:1 says "Judge not or you too will be judged."
PRAYER: Lord I thank you for your creation. I thank you for my family and friends. I thank you for all the people you place in my path each day. Help me Lord to not be quick to judge others as I do not know what they are going through. Help me lord instead to pray. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link for powerful praise song:

Saturday, October 6, 2012

GOD CAN'T DO WHAT??


GOD CAN'T DO WHAT??

A few years ago someone gave me a picture with a comic character having a real belly laugh with a caption that read 'God Cant Do What!? '  Seemingly many of us can tend to put God in a box of sorts and think our problem or family members problem is way too big for Him to handle.Say what?! He is the real true Master of the Universe. King of Kings. Lord of Lords. He is the Alpha and The Omega. He is the designer of all things. His works are marvelous. He is there behind the scenes even when it seems the world has gone crazy.  His plan is something we can not fathom.

Satan will come against us and make us doubt that God cares. For some people that little tiny no good devil will put thoughts of suicide,depression, unworthiness and doubt inside their head. If you are there today and feel like all hope is lost turn to Jesus!! He is mighty  to save.

Isaiah 55:9 says "As the heavens are higher than the earth so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts." Why sit around being a nervous wreck crying and not believing a situation is every going to change. God can uses all things for His glory. Mark 9:23reminds us that "nothing is impossible to God".

Friend, what are you going through today? Note the word 'through' indicating you are not 'stuck' there. Run to God. Fear not. He is with you.

Psalm 23 commonly is read at funerals but it is appropriate also when we tend to worry. Let me end by siting a few verses. Verses one thru three say the following " The Lord is my shepherd. I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside quiet waters. He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right path for His name's sake."

Run to Him today!!

PRAYER: Lord Jesus forgive me when I tend to let my situation control me. I know you have my best interest at heart and I know you are in control. I will hold on and not let go. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link below to worship the Lord with a praise song.
http://youtu.be/sR8rlTIU8_Y

Friday, October 5, 2012

JESUS LOVES SINNERS

 
We are all sinners and our righteousness is like filthy rags.(See Isaiah 64:6). Romans 3:23 reminds us that " All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory." Yes indeed we are all sinners saved by grace it says in Ephesians 2:8.
Here in the year 2012 many commit sin and do not think it is sin. For instance, two men or two women wanting to be married is not part of God's design. He created males and females to fall in love and reproduce but with the opposite sex. Satan has deluded men's minds to believe a lie. God did not intend for a man to be in love with another man or a woman with a woman. Mankind has become blinded and desensitized. Many Christians are caught in this trap of the enemy thinking they were born that way but that is a lie from the pit of hell. Also taking the life of an unborn child in the name of 'women's rights' is just not right. God created all life whether it is convenient or desired and all life is to be respected, not snuffed out at an abortion clinic. (Read Psalm 139). Sexual relations with your girlfriend or boyfriend before marriage is wrong. Looking at pornography is wrong and can have devastating consequences. Stealing is wrong even if it is something as innocent as an ink pen from work. Lying is wrong for Christians. Gossip is not right either. I am sure you can add to the list. The first four mentioned have more dire emotional consequences but all sin is wrong. One is not the 'worst' one. The good news is we can be set free and forgiven!!
God desires holiness. Ask yourself if what you are doing is holy.If God were to come to your home today would He be pleased with the TV shows you are watching or the books on your shelf? Would it be necessary to hide some magazines that were not appropriate for the King of Kings to look at? Perhaps you would have to go search for your Bible to make it look like you read it? Colossians 3:5 tells us to put to death the desires of the earthly nature.
Isaiah 5:20 says "Woe to them who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter." In 2012 we find ourselves under attack from the enemy like never before. Many people coast along through life and do not see any danger. That makes Satan happy as he has them blinded and fooled. Many are not convicted of things happening in this world as being wrong. Another victory for Satan when this occurs.
Do not harden your heart towards God. If you are caught up in a sin and know you are, run to Jesus who can heal, deliver you and set you free. You can be forgiven. Do not allow the enemy to put thoughts in your head that you are okay and God is okay with what you are doing. Do not twist scriptures to justify an unholy life. Jesus can forgive so let Him!!
1 Corinthians 6:11 reminds us "And this is what some of you were, but you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of God."
PRAYER: Lord God I know I am not perfect. Help me be alert to the enemies attacks in my life. keep me from believing a lie of the devil. Help me Lord to order my day so as to spend time with you. I pray for any friends or family members caught up in a lie as well. I want to stay on the path you have planned for me and resist Satan. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link below and worship the Lord with an awesome uplifting song.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

JESUS WEPT


The title refers to the shortest verse in the Bible found in John 11:35. Do things you do bring tears to God's eyes? Sometimes do you sense that what you are engaging in will not help bring anyone to Jesus or glory to God? Do you participate in activities you know are wrong and certainly will not identify you as a believer?

Some like to poke fun of the 'WWJD' acronym, but really ask yourself before you do anything, 'What Would Jesus Do' and perhaps it might keep you from making a terrible mistake. The Holy Spirit brings conviction of sin. When you wonder how Jesus would react it may make you think twice before engaging in some activities.

Many things could make Jesus weep. When you sin and you know better it makes Him sad. Misusing your body, which is God's Holy temple, by joining it with a prostitute, committing adultery, defiling it with homosexual sex , or sexual relations before marriage all would seemingly make Jesus weep. He created us for a purpose and when we especially disregard our 'temple of God' it makes the Lord sad. Temptation may be strong but it says in 1 Corinthians 10:13 that "No temptation has seized you except that which is common to man. And God is faithful and will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear but when you are tempted will also provide a way out so you can stand up under it."

What in your life is not pleasing God right now? Judging others? Caught up in sexual sin? Looking at pornography? Drinking way too much and on the verge of a DUI or alcoholism? Talking about others behind their back? Lying? Stealing? Cheating? Adultery? (By the way the Bible says in Matthew 5:28 "That looking on a woman lustfully" is adultery).Gluttony? Men, speaking harshly to the wife of your youth? Not managing the resources God has blessed you with? Abortion? (You can be forgiven). Homosexual tendencies? Cursing?

Cry out to God today. He loves you and wants you to run to Him and leave sin behind. Do not allow Satan to lie to you making it sound like God will not ever love you. The enemy tricks,deceives, and tries his best to get Christians off the path God has prepared for them. Run away from the devil and I to the arms of a loving Saviour . He is waiting to forgive you.

PRAYER: Lord God I love you and I know at times my life brings sadness to you. Help me Lord resist the attacks of the enemy to dismantle my spiritual walk. I pray for family members who are caught up in Satan's web of deceit. Open their eyes to the truth. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link below to worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/rtD-_q2kl-Q

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

DO YOU NEED A TRANSFORMATION?

 
How many times do we feel everyone else has a sin or a problem but not yourself? Many people are good at pointing the finger of ridicule and blame at others. Perhaps when things are going on in your life or a family member's life maybe it is you who needs the transformation. Just something to think about. Sometimes I feel problems occur to help in our own spiritual walk? Maybe we need a good trial or test to shape us up?
If you think you may need to be transformed to be more Christlike then God can help. Sorry to those of you who thought this was a beauty makeover transformation. In a way it is. It is a makeover of your inner self which once it is joyful and serving the Lord can not help but shine on the outside. 1 Peter 3:3-4 says "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight."
Our outward appearance is not what is important in this transformation. Colossians 3:12 says "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Ephesians 4:24 says what we are to do after this spiritual trasnformaton and that is "to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
In 1 Samuel 16:7 it says "But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." So how do you get this transformed life and stop trying to conform to the world?
Romans 12:2 says "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." This renewal of your mind comes when you intentionally say yes to God and to the reading of His word. It is by reading the word and letting it change you from the inside out that total transformation occurs.
PRAYER: Father I do thank you for the word of God which sets us free to live a non conformist life. I know Lord I am to be your light in this world and to stand for the truth so I want to be conformed to your image. Change me oh Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link below to worship and praise the Lord in song.



Tuesday, October 2, 2012

KEEP PRAYING!! KEEP BELIEVING!! GOD HEARS!!




KEEP PRAYING!! KEEP BELIEVING!! GOD HEARS!!
 
What have you been praying about it seems forever? Perhaps a wayward child? Healing for a loved one? New job? That a person who hurt you would ask forgiveness? Whatever it is we require patience for most things in life. No instant fixes.At times maybe the Lord is working on us through the need in the others life. Who is to say? But I know what it says in Luke 18:1 and that is "We should pray and never give up." 
 
The most familiar prayer to almost everyone is the Lords prayer found in Matthew 6:9-14. Get your Bible out and read it when  you can. Basically it is a familiar prayer to most people even those not going to church. "Thy will be done" it says. So what is God's will. Only God knows. But we are not to give up on praying.
 
Prayer is simply put, talking to God. You do not need to go to him with big 'thee's' and 'thou's' and all the rest. He is ready and waiting around the clock to hear you talk to him. And the answer may not always be yes. There was a comical scene in the Hollywood movie 'Bruce Almighty' where Jim Carrey was allowed to have God's powers for a day. Yes I know this would not really happen but in the film it made a good point. When it came to hearing and answering prayers he said "What is all that noise in my head" to which  Morgan Freeman who played "The Almighty' in the film replied "Well Bruce those are people saying their prayers." When Jim Carrey's character decided to answer all prayers 'yes' so as to not be bothered total chaos resulted.
 
There is a plan and a purpose but part of the plan is staying on your knees in prayer. If you are a married couple you should be praying together as much as possible. Praying together draws people closer together.
 
I am blessed to be in a prayer ministry which formerly was called Moms in Touch International but just last year changed its' name to Moms in Prayer International since it was more easily translated in foreign nations. It is a ministry which prays for children and the schools they attend and there is also one for moms of college, career, and military. "Never doubt the power of a praying mom" we say in Moms in Prayer.
 
One thing to make sure of is that you confess your sins before you go to the Lord in prayer as it says in Psalm 66:18 "If I had regarded sin in my heart, the Lord would not have heard." What things in your life do you need to confess to the Lord and start walking away from?
 
PRAYER: Lord Jesus I need you in my life and I love to have a talk with you each day. Show me Lord how to pray if nothing more than the Lords' Prayer. I thank  you to the answers to prayer and the ones you are still working on. In Jesus Name. Amen.
 
Click on link below to worship the Lord in song.