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.

Friday, November 30, 2012

THE LANGUAGE OF FEAR


What type of reaction do the words Y2K, laid off, fiscal cliff, bankruptcy, global warming, communism, Armageddon, lawsuit, and cancer stir inside of you? Probably most readers would initially respond 'fear'. Those are not words that bring joy and happiness. The thing a person needs to do is to dwell on good thoughts. Sure, who would not be frightened by looming tragedies? You can overcome this fear by trusting that God in fact is going to take care of you.


To needlessly just worry over something you have no control over only makes you tense, stressed, and sick. The Bible has said in 1 Peter 5:7(NIV) to 'cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you.' Picture a fisherman casting his fishing line into a body of water. He or she tries to get the line out as far as possible. This is what God wants you to do with your cares. Throw them out onto Him, so to speak.
2 Timothy 2:7(NIV) says 'For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.' Today stop, take a deep breath,and tell God He can have your fears. Then go relax.


PRAYER: Lord I need you to take the controls of my life. There are so many things that tend to frighten me as I dwell on them. I trust you are in control and have a plan. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click link below to help get you in the right frame of mind for joy and the Christmas season.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

TONGUE CHECK



 How many of you reading this have complete control of your mouth? Do you say things you often regret or blurt out things at inappropriate times? If only that brain of ours would kick in to gear before the mouth did, how much easier life would be. We think something then say it and before you know it you wish you could take it back. Too bad we can not have some way to "check" our tongues and root out any wrong words that may accidentally come out. Usually what is in the heart the mouth speaks.

Luke 6:45(NIV) says 'The good man brings good things out of the good stored in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things from the evil stored in his heart. For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.' I am not saying this to say we are all just a bunch of evil people but if you dwell on things that anger you, make you jealous, cause bitterness to your soul and create friction, then more than likely you will let someone be the recipient of ugly words.

So my friend, it is time for a "tongue check". If you know you have problems in this area ask God to fill your mind with His thoughts. Let go of things you harbor against anyone in your heart. Try to make it a practice to not gossip, belittle, curse, argue, lie, meddle, or nag. Ephesians 4:29(NIV) is a good verse to commit to memory and even when others still talk to you hateful or with disrespect you can respond in love. It says 'Do not let unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.'

There you have it. Your assignment is to be nice and speak nice. Purify your thoughts and your mouth should follow. And when you get to thinking 'well I am pretty good' look out! James 1:26(NIV) reminds us 'If anyone considers himself religious but does not keep a tight rein n his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.'

Go out now and be nice!

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you so very much for the ability to talk. We often do not think to say thanks for that gift as there are those who are mute who can not speak at all. What a treasure and gift it is indeed! Forgive me if I have ever used my tongue to hurt someone or said something to cause problems. Help me Lord get control of my words before I let them come out. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

NO MORE


There is good news for the sinner. We first of all are all sinners. It says in 1 John 1:9 (NIV) ' if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.' Isn't that nice to know? No more record. No more list. He has wiped our slate clean so to speak. It is only the enemy, Satan, who brings condemnation on us. Once you asked God for forgiveness then let it go. If constant thoughts come in your head then your mind needs to be renewed with a good dose of the word of God. Reading the word keeps the lies of Satan out. He said He remembers them NO MORE and He means NO MORE.

When you take a bath to wash dirt off your body the dirt is gone. You can take a spiritual "mind" bath as well and cleanse yourself from the filth of the world. Confessing sin is that "bath." When Jesus caught the woman in the act of adultery in John 8:11(KJV) he said 'Go and sin NO MORE.'

There you have it. Once you are forgiven you are to try to not fall back into sin but it says in Psalm 103:12 'As far as the East is from the West that is how far He has removed our sins from us!' Believe it my friend and go and 'Sin No More!'

PRAYER: Father sometimes it is easy to have things I did wrong to come back to my memory. I know you have forgiven me so I need to forgive myself. Help me Lord to do that and not dwell on faults and failures. I know Lord you are a righteous and forgiving God and full of compassion. Thank you for forgiving my sins. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click on link below and worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/xPonvq5SbrA

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

UNDER THE RUG


How many of you out there are guilty of hiding things when unexpected company drops by? Maybe not under a rug but say underneath the bed, in a closet, or on a kitchen chair? You maybe are embarrassed by the clutter and not time to do anything with it so whisk it away till another time. The visitors probably could care less as everyone has a pile or two around their house but at times we feel a compulsion to hide it. Perhaps to create a different image. Not sure of everyones reasoning. It is not as bad of course as on the TV show "Hoarders" but still we hide it.

Are you guilty of treating sins in your life that way? You either make excuses for them and justify them or try to hide them from certain people. After all you have an image to live up to. Jesus is always at your house and everywhere you go so there is no hiding our sins from Him. Guess what? He knows them all. There is no sweeping your sins under the rug or putting them in a closet. You must deal with them.

In Romans 3:23(NIV) it reminds us 'for all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory.' Think you are pretty good you say? Romans 3:10(NIV) says 'there is none that is righteous, no not one.' Actor Kirk Cameron on doing his man on the street interviews on Trinity Broadcasting will ask a passerby if they are a sinner. The response is usually something like 'oh I am pretty good.' Next he says 'well have you ever told a lie' and of course the answer is yes. Next he says 'do you look at someone with lust ever' and once again they have to say honestly yes. The next question may be 'Have you ever cheated on anything' and once again the honest answer for most is yes. So then Mr. Cameron says 'then by your own admission you are a liar, adulterer, and cheater.' Sort of puts it in a different light wouldn't you say? Most people think of adultery as divorcing someone or cheating on a spouse but in Matthew 5:28(NIV) it says 'But I tell you anyone who looks upon a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.' I did not say it, it is in the Bible. Our society sure gives plenty of opportunities for that sin doesn't it?

Let me leave you with a verse from the book of Numbers 32:23(NASB) which says 'But if you will not do so, for you have sinned against the Lord and behold your sins will find you out.' You can only hide so long. Eventually you will have to fess up and admit your faults and ask God to forgive you and cleanse you and give you the strength to stay on the path He has planned for you.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you that you are a loving and forgiving God and nothing is hidden from you. Give me the strength to live a life pleasing to you. Convict my heart of wrong and keep me from secret sins or any sins. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click on link below to worship the Lord and get your heart filled with a song of praise.
http://youtu.be/Jv0C1gCuayI

Monday, November 26, 2012

LESS THAN A MONTH


 'Oh gracious! Less than 30 shopping days til Christmas. Whatever will I do?' Is this the sentiment in your home these days frantically thinking of decorations, gifts, parties, food, and a host of other things? And this past Friday was a big shopping day called "Black Friday" and today is "Cyber Monday." Is shopping the only thing that consumes you this special season? Hopefully your response is no!

I think back fondly on family memories of going to live Nativity scenes with our children or Christmas programs complete with live animals in a church out in Phoenix. Then there was 'Walk Through Bethlehem' at another church out there which was very memorable. Singing Christmas carols at The VA Hospital in Dayton, Ohio with our Bible study group at Wright Patterson Air Force Base was very special. Driving to see Christmas light displays depicting the Real Christmas has been high on the "to do" list. Cutting down a live tree in zero degree weather followed by hot cider and cookies is also a fond memory. My younger son used to say getting out the "red and green M and M's" was the official start of the Christmas season.Even when children are grown and gone and when married starting their own traditions those reading this who are married still need to keep Jesus birthday first and foremost.

In the past few years Nativity Scenes have been outlawed by some local governments. The Christmas vacation is called the "holiday vacation" and you go to "holiday parties" instead of Christmas parties. Santa is glorified and put on a pedestal more than Jesus. Whose party is it anyway? Christmas is for giving, symbolic of the Three Wise Men bringing gifts to the newborn baby Jesus. But do not become so frantic and consumed by all the commercialism of the season. Maybe start the tradition of truly giving to a needy family since. Fill up that Salvation Army kettle every time you pass it. Give a toy to Toys for Tots.Fill up a Shoe Box for Samaritans Purse to give to a child in a Third World country.


Try to decide here and now you will not get so caught up in things you think you "have to do" and try to reflect on peace on earth good will to all men. It is hard to have peace rushing about trying to do everything just so. Do not let your frantic pace make you too busy for your morning time with the Lord. It is his birthday after all.

Isaiah 9:6 says 'For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given. And the government shall be on his shoulder. And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the prince of peace.'

Today and each day of this season try to maintain peace and joy.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I am excited about your birthday. I pray for those people who do not celebrate the meaning of this season. I pray for governments who try to take Christ out of their countries. Lord Jesus I choose peace this season and all times. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click on link below for a song to get you in the mood for the "real" meaning of this season.

Sunday, November 25, 2012

NEVER, IMPOSSIBLE, WON'T HAPPEN, IT'S OVER, NO CHANCE

 
What do hearing the words above stir up in you? They are words lacking any hope. When you speak negative your mind is set up to be negative. What about the scripture that says 'nothing is impossible with God?' (Luke 1:37)
A person who gets in this kind of mindset feels hopeless. There is always hope as there is always God. When you think negative all the time and do not believe good things can happen then they probably won't. Worry and fear of the future do nothing but increase one's blood pressure. After this last election many Americans started feeling less than hopeful. The great country they know and love and the freedoms they have enjoyed are in danger of extinction. Worrying over this scenario will not help matters. Whatever is troubling you today you have to pray and never give up. (Read Luke 18:1). Almighty God is totally on our side and against evil. He may allow evil at times for His purposes.
So the words above, which are the title of my devotion today, are words that should not be in our vocabulary because they certainly aren't part of God's. Instead words of faith, hope, trust and encouragement should replace them. Stand firm, stay strong, and keep believing no matter what is troubling you today.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus many times I get scared even though your words say to not worry about mere men and what they can do. I know at times you may allow bad things to get my attention. Father forgive me when I have ever been complacent about evil and not take a stand. I fear not though as I know you are with me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click on link below to hear a wonderful worship song:

Saturday, November 24, 2012

FOOTBALL COACHES COME AND GO BUT....


 Many people all over America are football fans or fanatics. I am not one of them so may be considered an oddity. During college and professional football season one thing I take note of is how fickle the fans and school can be. If a coach loses one or two games and can not get the team to a bowl game his multi million dollar contract is in jeopardy. It is like the world is revolving around the almighty "pigskin". Quarterback Tim Tebow brought the Christian emphasis to the game in the past couple years but now you hardly hear anything about him since going from the Denver Broncos to New York Jets. So whether a player or a coach, watch out if you aren't doing everything right.

In life if we are not 'winning' Jesus does not look for a replacement. He does not sit there with a statistics card in hand evaluating your performance and then saying 'next'. No Jesus is loving, gracious, and kind and loves us no matter what. Our sins sadden him but he gives us a second chance. If we accept Him and ask Him to be Lord of our life we will then have eternal life in heaven once our time on earth is over.
For instance, in the story found in the book of John Chapter 8 verse 11 concerning the woman caught in the act of adultery who the Pharisees wanted to stone this verse says 'go and sin no more.' He forgave her and set her on her way to have another chance. In 2 Peter 3:9(ESV) it says 'The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.'
Aren't you glad our God is not going to discard us for making a mistake? Unlike fickle fans and those in charge of hiring and firing, Jesus alone is waiting at the door of your heart. He is knocking. Want you let Him come in today?
Revelation 3:20(KJV) Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
PRAYER: Father thank you for accepting me with all my problems and mistakes I have made in life. Your love for me is unconditional. Forgive me Lord when I have ignored you. I know I need you in my life and need to make you first priority. Help me Lord resist the temptation to make other things more important. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Once again I have included a link below to an awesome and appropriate song. Hope you have time to listen and worship God.

Friday, November 23, 2012

KEEP YOUR COOL


Are you able to keep your cool and be calm no matter what or do you feel yourself getting mad and wanting to lash back at a person who has insulted you or hurt you with words or actions?

God's word clearly states in Proverbs 15:1(NIV) 'A soft answer turns away wrath but a harsh word stirs up anger.' Ponder that verse for a few moments about what it is saying. How do its' words speak to you?
 
Today is "Black Friday" in America. This day may cause people to say words they regret later or that could get them into trouble. Shoppers intent upon securing a high dollar electronic item or a special toy at an extremely cheap price, will at times camp out over night and then rush the store once the doors open at O Dark Thirty. Silly Americans! There have been people killed and seriously hurt when shoppers trampled them. You have to ask yourself how important a material item is to nearly get killed trying to buy it. Is that what Christmas is all about?

Shopping would be an excellent time to test your skills of love, peace, patience and kindness. No matter what you are doing, be it shopping, eating out, or visiting friends, let your life shine brightly for Jesus.


PRAYER: Lord I want to be kind and treat all people with love and kindness whether or not they return the kindness to me. Help my life be a witness for you in my home or out in the world I am in. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

ARE YOU THANKFUL??


Today our nation celebrates Thanksgiving. Most will sit down and overstuff themselves and afterwards lie down for a nap never even thinking what this holiday really is about. After that will be watching football. Don't forget the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade which is televised each year. It could be rather easy to just forget God on this day because of all your busy activities.


This holiday is based on the 1621 feast between the Pilgrims and Native Americans thanking God for their harvest. In 1789 President George Washington declared Thursday November 26th, a day of public thanksgiving and prayer. It was still not a national holiday until October 3rd, 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln declared the last Thursday in November as Thanksgiving, but President Franklin D Roosevelt in 1939 declared it to be the next to last Thursday in November.

So what do you give thanks for today? A family, good health, food to eat, friends, a job, living in freedom, and so much more. Take some time right now and think of all the ways God has tremendously blessed you.


'Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His mercies endure forever.'Psalm 107:1 (NIV)

PRAYER: Lord I am truly thankful for the abundance of blessings in my life. I am overflowing with joy because you love me so much. Today I stop and say thank you for directing my steps and guiding me each and every day. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Happy Thanksgiving! Take about 6 minutes and praise God in song by clicking link below.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

IMPACT YOUR WORLD


Recently I was watching a Christian film on TV with sort of the same type spin as the classic film "It's A Wonderful Life" where the main character was tempted to not want to follow Christ anymore since it was not "cool" or fun, or so he thought. He made the comment to God in prayer, 'I wish I were not a Christian' or something to that effect and an "angel" allowed him to have his wish. Similar to Jimmy Stewarts character, George Bailey, in the classic Christmas film, this young man got to see what it would be like if he had not been working for the Lord with his daily witness for Him. He found out how many lives had been impacted and even people whose lives had been saved.

You may not feel like you make much a difference in the world thinking you are no "Billy Graham" but each person does impact others lives. We each are a witness for Christ in our own circle of friends, our family, and wherever life takes us. Not everyone has to be on TV to make a difference. You are used by the Lord just where you are. So I guess the question to ask yourself is how are you doing and by this I mean do you end up doing things to gain your friends approval even though you know you are wrong or do you stand strong and "light" the world for Jesus?

The Bible says in Mark 8:38(NIV) 'If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation then the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when He comes in His Father's glory with His holy angels.' Don't be afraid to stand up for what is right in this sinful world. Be strong and keep at it. Keep praying. God has "got your back" so to speak.

Let me end with Colossians 3:17(NIV) which says 'And whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.'

PRAYER:Lord help me as each day I seek to light up the world around me for your kingdom. Give me boldness,strength, and courage for the task at hand. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for a powerful song of praise.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

DO NOT FEAR


What are you afraid of today? Many are concerned about the "fiscal cliff" or loss of a job. 2 Timothy 1:7(NKJV) reminds us 'For God did not give us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind.' Fear can stop you in your tracks if you allow it to do so. Refuse to cave into fear. Fear is not of God. It is a tool in Satan's arsenal to destroy our walk with Christ. If you are constantly worried and fearful of your future then you have taken your eyes off God.

What we need is a good dose of peace. Isaiah 26:3(NKJV) reminds us 'You will keep in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, Because he trusts in you.'

The Bible tells us in Deuteronomy 31:6(NKJV) 'Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you.' This is repeated in Hebrews 13:5 saying 'Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'

Friend can you relax and trust God?

PRAYER: Lord I know you are above all things. You are greater than presidents. Kings, dictators, rulers and labor unions. You are mighty to save. I thank you for giving me peace over the chaos around me. My hope is in you. In Jesus' name. Amen

Click on link to listen to powerful song of praise.

Monday, November 19, 2012

YOUR LIFE IN A PATCHWORK QUILT


 For any of you fortunate enough to have a grandma or a mom who quilts you know what a neat thing it is to receive the gift of a quilt. The most recent new quilt I got to view was one my friend Kim and her new husband David received last year for a wedding gift from her mom. A special pen was used by the guests to sign their name on it. When someone takes the time to make any type of homemade gift you feel extra special and blessed.

My grandma used to give us quilts that had pieces of fabric from dresses she or my mother had made us. When I would see the fabric, a flood of memories came rushing back. My aunt made us a double wedding ring quilt for a wedding gift and it too was such a neat gift of love. Quilts can tell a life story or at least a special part of one.

Your life is like a quilt. You do different things and go different places in life and these can be put together to tell a story. Every place life takes you is a chance to impact the world around you. Are you making a good impression or is it necessary to go hide your face somewhere? What type of "fabric" would your quilt have on it to tell your life story?

Are you cheerful, helpful, generous, polite, considerate, humble, loving, forgiving, and joyful or just the opposite? Think about that in relation to someone maybe piecing together a quilt of your life. What would it look like?

'In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness.' (Titus 2:7)

PRAYER: Lord God I want you to be in the center piece of my "quilt of life" and want to shine for you in every facet of my life. I want to live so that when you come back you will say 'well done good and faithful servant.' In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, November 18, 2012

HOW GREAT GOD IS!



 
Stop for a moment and think about God. Think on how wonderful He is. He is the Alpha, the Omega. He is above all things. He is the creator of the universe. He never slumbers nor sleeps. He is all knowing. He loves you with an unconditional love. His kingdom knows no end. He performs miracles. He forgives those we humans feel do not deserve it. He does not hold a grudge. He is able to do all things. Nothing is impossible with Him. He rescues the weary. He creates life. You could go on and on and on saying how wonderful He is.
 
If you can, intentionally wake up each day and be thankful. Meditate on God's  goodness and His Greatness. He is worthy of our praise  each and every day.

Job 36:26(NIV) says 'How great is God, beyond our understanding. The number of His years is beyond finding out.' Psalm 90:2(NIV) says 'Before the mountains were born and you were brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting, you are God!'

PRAYER: Lord you are great and your mercies endure forever. I will think on you instead of the world and it's problems. Thank you for who you are and what you do. In Jesus' name. Amen!
 
Click on link below for a wonderful song to start your Sunday!

Saturday, November 17, 2012

PRAY AND BE THANKFUL



Tne Bible says in Psalm 100:4(NIV) that we should 'enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name.'  Does this sound like your life? Are you a thankful person or only when you really have to be? 

Thanksgiving is fast approaching and it traditionally is when  we gather with family and friends to celebrate all the goodness that God has blessed us with. Indeed here in these United States we are indeed blessed by God. A free nation! What more could one ask for? But never take this freedom for granted as men and governments are always encroaching upon citizens to try to control us more. 

Besides your freedom, what else comes to mind on list of thanks? Stop for a moment and take a piece of paper and jot down those things in your life you are thankful for. At this time also is a good time to release any bitterness or bad feelings harbored against a friend or family member you may be estranged from. 

Thanksgiving is all about family and giving God thanks for this Christian nation. The love of Jesus can be alive in your heart. Take time to give thanks today and every day and give up your bitterness which keeps you from enjoying a full life with the Lord. 

PRAYER: This is the day you have made we shall give thanks and be glad in it it says in Psalm 118:24.  Today I choose to be glad and choose to be thankful. In Jesus' name. Amen.


Friday, November 16, 2012

ARE YOU GROWING OR DYING?


When you get up each day what do you do? Perhaps you take a shower. Then get the morning newspaper. Next you maybe turn on the morning show on TV. Of course you eat breakfast or have a cup of coffee. In your morning "to do" list where does God fit in? Is He there at all or some after thought if there is time?

You can not grow in Christ by not purposely making sure you add "time with the Lord" on the "to do" list of your daily life. Don't know how? It is not hard. Almost every American home has a Bible. We are allowed to have one whereas in some countries you can be jailed for having a Bible. Maybe you envy those who can quote scripture. The way to acquire this skill is to open the Bible.
Spiritual growth requires spiritual nourishment. Do you want to be a Christian in name only or do you want to be victorious in Christ living a life of joy and fullness in Him?
Plants can not grow without sunshine, water and perhaps some fertilizer or plant food. Likewise our human bodies need to be cared for and fed in order to grow. The spiritual part of us needs to be able to resist the arrows and problems Satan is sure to throw at us and the only way to be properly equipped is to study the Bible. Make it part of your morning routine. This might require you getting up a few minutes earlier and making sure Christ comes first not as an afterthought. Arm yourself with the word of God. Pray and ask Him to guide you through the day ahead. Hide the word of God in your heart to make you strong.
2 Timothy 2:15(AKJV) says 'Study to show yourself approved to God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.' Are you studying daily? Make God's word first place in your life today. In Psalm 94:19(NASB) it says 'When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul.' When the cares of the world are weighing down on you only God's words will bring you peace. Why not start today to make growth in Christ a priority in each day?
PRAYER: Father thank you for the Bible, the Holy Word of God. Forgive me when I have neglected reading it and allow my day to be filled with so many other unimportant things. I know it is only through you Lord that I can get the strength I need for each day. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

GOD IN MY WHISTLE



 Now this title is sure to get your attention so let me explain. A couple weeks ago in church during communion time when they passed the bread and juice representing Christs' body and blood we were to hold them both and then take them together with everyone. So I placed the small little cracker wafer in my pants pocket. Well when it was time to retrieve it I couldn't. You see it had slipped down the slot in my whistle which is on my key chain. I kind of laughed at the time. I shook it but to no avail. So I thought, well I guess I will carry around daily a reminder of God's sacrifice for us since the little piece of bread is lodged in my whistle apparently not coming out anytime soon. I felt it was something good to use in a devotion so that is what I am doing. Just like the little 'cracker' reminding me of Jesus' body broken for us is in my whistle it makes me really think of what he did for us.


Do you realize the pain that God went through for you and many times we do not even give him any more time than is absolutely required, that being one single hour on Sunday? He endured the worst death ever. Excruciating pain and torture on a cross but yet never said a hateful word to his accusers or those that crucified him. His was beaten, bruised, crushed, whipped, spit on, and cursed at, yet he said not a word or fought back. The only thing he uttered was "Father forgive them for they know not what they do." (See Luke 23:34). Read the entire account in the book of John chapter 19.

Isaiah 53:5 says "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities, the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed." Examine your own heart first and get right with the Lord. Any jealously, resentment, bitterness, hate or lack of forgiveness in your heart? Confess it and get yourself right with the Lord first.
When you receive the elements at communion time you aren't to partake because it is the thing you should do but really think about what it means. It is not just cracker and grape juice time.


Matthew 5:44 is the key item to get out of what happened to Jesus to use in today's world and that is "Love your enemies and pray for them that persecute you."

So are you daily carrying Jesus with you not in the form of a cracker but in your heart? If not why not ask Him in today?
PRAYER: Lord you paid the ultimate price on the cross so that we might receive the forgiveness of our sins and eternal life once we have asked you into our heart. Help me to think each day of what you have done for me. Give me opportunities to share your love daily with others. In Jesus name.Amen.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

GOD IS RULING ON HIGH


A week ago in the United States our elections were held and the saying is 'let the best man win' but not necessarily. Things happen for reasons unknown to we mere humans but the thing is our ultimate 'ruler' is God on high, creator of heaven and earth. Our supreme enemy is not a man or a candidate but it is Satan who has caused spiritual warfare here on earth. If he can get us fighting between political parties and not against him then he has success. Satan gets people deceived and believing lies. He is the Father of lies.

I have a few Bible verses I want to share with you. The first comes from the book of Psalm 47:8 and it says "God reigns over the nations. God is seated on His holy throne." 1 Chronicles 16:31 says "Let the heavens rejoice and let the earth be glad. Let them say among the nations The Lord Reigns." Psalm 22:28 reminds us "For dominion belongs to the Lord and from His throne He rules the nations." Psalm 103:19 says " The Lord has established his throne in heaven and His kingdom rules over all."
Do you catch yourself saying ugly things about a person when knowing the real thing you need to do is pray? Christians are not supposed to be letting their mouth get out of control. It is difficult, but when and if you catch yourself slipping ask the Lord to help you. If the individual is doing something not of God, in your opinion, let God deal with him. Your job is to trust God and pray. This goes for lifting up leaders even when we do not agree with them or fear they want to do us harm. Freedom is very precious and our religious freedoms especially. Evil forces would love to drive them completely out of this great land and do it in the name of politics and so far is starting to do that at many levels.

God will take care of those doing wrong and spreading lies. Once again our job is to pray and try to love like Jesus loved. Proverbs 19:9 says "A false witness will not go unpunished and he who breathes out lies will perish."

So my friend we are to keep trusting God, keep praying, and not give up hope. God rules over all and His kingdom will have no end.
PRAYER: Father I thank you so much for the fact that when things in our world go crazy I know you are the ultimate ruler and you do not like it when a man tries to become like you and lord over the people. If anyone is guilty of this Lord set this country free from the chains oftheir tyranny. Protect our own land and we pray for our own President that he can learn to turn to you and treat the people kind and not be divisive. Father convict him of wrong and help him have a servants heart. But Lord Jesus we know you reign over all. Fill our minds with peace as we wait for your return one day.Moreover Lord protect Christians from being caught in Satan's web of deception. Open our eyes to the truth that sets us free.Thank you Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to enjoy a wonderful song to lift your spirits.
http://youtu.be/tPE-MoT_QG0

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

MOTHER NATURE OR FATHER GOD?



I got the idea for this title after listening to author/speaker Bill Weise who wrote '23 Minutes in Hell'. So many people seem to be infatuated with using the term 'mother nature'. It is said quite frequently by meteorologists  giving the weather report on television. 'Mother nature' did this or 'mother nature' did that. It drives me crazy,as who on earth is this 'mother nature' anyway?  Many feel more comfortable with  the term and also call God 'the man upstairs'. It must be easier and less threatening to refer to God in these cute terms than thinking that there is a God who is responsible for this wonderful creation.
Just who is God? He is the Alpha and the Omega. The beginning and the end. He is the creator of the universe. He holds all things in his hand. He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is the Almighty. He can do all things. He is glorious. He is amazing. He is all knowing. He never runs out on us.His love never fails.He is everlasting. His love never fails. His love is unconditional. He is called Abba Father or daddy. He is watching over you,
 Do you know Jesus? Do you love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and strength? Is Jesus real to you? Are you ready to meet Him should this be your last day on earth?
1 John 4:16 says "And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them."
PRAYER: Father I thank you for who you are. I thank you for hearing my prayers. I thank you for mercy and forgiveness when I have messed up. I thank you that you love  me with an unconditional love. Help me Lord love others like you love me. In Jesus Name. Amen. .
Click on link below and be ready to praise God for who He is .
Double your joy with song number two. Praise him in song.

Monday, November 12, 2012

DAY OFF


Today many reading this are enjoying an extended weekend. This day off is thanks to those courageous men and women who are serving currently in our Armed Forces or have served in the past. They are true patriots so if you know one say thank you. The freedoms they fought to protect are under fire today by politicians trying to domineer and control us. Those buried in our national cemeteries did not die so our country could fall to a socialistic or worse yet, communist government. So enjoy this day off and do not take your freedoms of any kind for granted.

While you are taking a day off do not take a day off from God. Many say hello to Jesus one day one hour a week and that is it. Do you suppose if you ate only one hour a week on one day you would last long? The answer of course is no. Well you need spiritual food too. If you claim to live for the Lord and want to be closer to him that will only happen by spending time in the word of God, the Holy Bible. It is not a coffee table ornament but a tool to use daily to grow in Christ

Psalm 119:11 says " I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Hiding refers to reading it, studying it, and memorizing it. What if forces came into our land and took our Bibles away. Don't laugh as it could happen. If this occurred your only Bible would be what you memorized and carried in your heart.

So start today and make it a daily habit to get into the word of God. Don't know where to start you might say? Well read a Proverb a day.Start by spending some of your day with God.

PRAYER: Today Lord I first thank you for the freedoms we have here in America. I thank you for those who died so I might enjoy this day. I will not allow Satan to keep me from reading my Bible by having me make excuses. Thank you for your words. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, November 11, 2012

WE SALUTE YOU


Today November 11th, is Veteran's Day, which is a time to pay tribute to all those who have served this nation in its' Armed Forces whether in peacetime or at war. We all owe a debt of gratitude to all service personnel for the sacrifices they made to help keep us free. Many today are serving in dangerous overseas locations. Even here stateside there is danger as we have seen in the past couple years with terrorism attacks on secure military installations.
What does it mean to sacrifice and what exactly is honor? Scripture in John 15:13 says that "Greater love hath no man than a man lay down his life for his friends." In 1 John 3:16 it says "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers." This is sacrificial love. The greatest love ever was when Jesus died for us on the cross and took the blame for all of our sins past, present, and future.
Now to the subject of honor. We pay tribute and show honor today to those who serve us now and have served in the past. The definition of honor is personal integrity: strong moral character or strength, and adherence to ethical principles,respect: great respect and admiration and finally dignity: personal dignity that sometimes leads to recognition and glory. There is a movie based on a true story that was recently shown on TV about a Navy diver entitled of 'Men of Honor'. Duty, honor, and country is what is important to the military service member. If they do something dishonorable they can get put in military jail or discharged with a dishonorable or general discharge. Most service members end their tour of service with an honorable discharge.
Who do you show honor to? First it should be the Lord Jesus Christ as he is above all things. Next we show honor to our spouse if we are blessed to be married. The Bible speaks in Exodus Chapter 20 about honoring your father and your mother. At the state park near here at the entrance there is a box when an attendant is not on duty which says 'Honor Box' where a motorist, upon entrance to the park, if they are 'honorable' will put their park entrance fee in there. So you see what honor is. We show honor to the Lord by giving the first fruits of our labors in tithing. (Proverbs 3:9).
Today stop a moment and take the time to pray for the service men and women currently in harms' way and those stateside and those who served at any time. Learn what honor and sacrifice are and put it to practice in your own daily life. When you are out enjoying your 3 day weekend think of those who made it all possible.
PRAYER: Father we do humbly thank you for those men and women who signed up to serve this country to protect our freedoms. May you put your angels around them Lord. Show us what it means to honor and respect others as we honor and show respect to our military who serve and give their lives so that we might live. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Click on link and listen to a song that will make you be very grateful for the United States and its' military.

Saturday, November 10, 2012

SOLDIER ON! PRESS ON!! RUN THE RACE TO WIN!


As a former member of our nations Armed Forces I can certainly identify with the first part of my title that says ' soldier on'! In the military this means to not quit, don't make excuses, and fulfill your mission. To charge on and take that hill!! But as a Christian we are called 'soldiers' of the Lord. 2 Timothy 2:3 says " Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Jesus Christ." Military personnel endure much hardship that the civilian world has no way of understanding.

When I first entered the Army and was in my barracks one day reading my Bible it fell open to Psalm 18:29 which simply says " with your help I can crush a troop or leap over a wall!" Now how crazy is that? Here I was just starting out in the US Army and am going to have to do things I had never experienced before to include learning to jump a wall and this verse ' just happened' to pop up. I called it a 'God thing' and it truly was. But you too can 'charge on' as you look to Jesus.

In life in addition to 'soldiering on' we have to 'press on' too. Do not quit. When the fight or battle seems too big and overwhelming you may be tempted to give up the fight. God does not want you to. Only the enemy, Satan, brings doubt, discouragement, and fear. You can do it. Quote the scripture from Philippians 4:13 which says " I can do ALL things through Christ which gives me strength." You indeed can with the help of the Lord!!

Finally if you are a runner and have ever been in a race you learn to keep on going and not look back. Just run and run some more. Do your best. The reward is at the finish line. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 9:21 that "Did you not know that in a race not all runners win the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." Keep looking at Jesus as the finishing line and the crown of life.

So today do your very best to look to Jesus and when you feel like all hope is lost know in fact that it is not.

1 Corinthians 15:57 says " But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!"

PRAYER: Thank You so much Lord for guiding me each day and giving me the ability to keep looking to you when things around me seem hopeless. I am hopeful because of you. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on links below for two mighty songs to draw home the point we are 'soldiers' for Christ.
http://youtu.be/vDIy5TUXovo

Friday, November 9, 2012

RICHES HAVE WINGS





Throughout the scriptures there is plenty of talk about money, sort of a right and wrong list. We are not to focus on riches as it says in Proverbs 23:5 "will you set your eyes on that which is not. For riches certainly make themselves wings. They fly away."  We can have 'fat' bank accounts, make a good salary, have investments for the future, live in luxury, and have plenty of money to spend, but in  an instant there could be a financial collapse or a big fall off 'financial cliff'  as the media is calling what is going to happen to the US on January 1st of 2013. I am not saying this to scare you but to get you to truly trust in God and not your insurance policies, stock certificates, bank account, or savings. It all belongs to God anyway and we are simply to be good stewards of it giving a good portion back to the Lord for kingdom work. Deuteronomy 8:18 says it is God who gives the ability to gain wealth.

Many of us live for today. Staying so busy in our own lives we do not see what is happening around us. We may have lots of money and can not imagine having another Great Depression like our parents or grandparents experienced. The USA has borrowed trillions of dollars and keeps printing money if they run out. If we did this in our families we would not last long. My mom used to say " a fool and his money are soon parted." Our nation reminds me of a spoiled brat always wanting more and crying till they get it. Just as with a 'human brat' who if parents give in continually they never learn, and grow up expecting everything, so too these  United States are being a 'brat' and expecting the people to pay their bills through higher taxes since they want everything. You can not live that way and neither should they.

Do you trust in your money or in God? Many people are way too dependent on government handouts and even those who are not still may tend to think as long as there is a job they have money. The 'entitled' people feel government should provide everything for them such as food stamps, free phone, housing, health care, social security, free birth control, free education and on the cycle goes. The desire to become someone and do something great is often lost when people are subjects of the 'government plantation' a term I got from former California Congressional candidate Star Parker. When people get things free they rarely have the desire to try harder. It becomes a pathetic cycle. If anything were to happen would they be able to go on? 

Money will not last forever. When the financial security blanket is removed or the 'money carpet' is pulled out from under you, will you be able to go on and trust Jesus?  Those  who lived in the Great Depression can tell you their horror stories. In the United States we are close to what news media call a 'fiscal cliff'. The government has continued to spend but blames it on a president long gone. The problem is they want control and they want too many unnecessary programs.

Luke 6:38 says " Give and it shall be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, it will be poured into your lap.With the measure you use it will be measured unto you." 1 Timothy 16:17 reminds us" Command those who are rich in this present world to not to be arrogant or put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God who richly provides for us everything for enjoyment." Proverbs 11:28 says "whoever trusts in his riches will fall but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf."

Be a giver not a taker. I remember the words of the late President John F Kennedy who said "Ask not what your country can do for you but what YOU can do for your country." And remember what our dollar bill says' In God We Trust' so trust Him okay?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for blessing me with earthly treasures for my enjoyment down here but I know I need to not trust them as they may 'fly away' and I will not know what to do. Thanks father for the opportunity to give the money you gave me to others who are in need. Help me Lord keep my eyes on you and not my checkbook. In Jesus name. Amen. 

Thursday, November 8, 2012

DISARM THE ENEMY

 
Do you want to make the devil mad? Like really really mad? Then get serious about your relationship with Jesus. Do not allow yourself to sit around and wonder what next, what is going to happen, or what should I do? Do not fear and worry about the future because that is how the enemy sinks his fangs into you and causes you to panic. You have to still run the race to win and keep going no matter what the attacks upon you. Do not just check the 'Sunday go to meeting block' and that is that. Fall in love with Jesus and get serious about knowing Him. That is the real way to peace and victory.
The enemy has taken root in the wonderful country of the United States of America. No other place is like this once godly nation. I say once because the enemy is trying to come in and change this wonderful nation and deceives many to do it. But our freedom is from God almighty and man and governments have no right to take it from us. Evil dictators throughout history have tried to remove God from nations. When a nation forgets God it falls. But once again we are not to fear. We are not to hate. We are to trust God and keep praying no matter what. Pray for your enemies. Ask God to save them.
Keep looking up to Jesus. Keep praising his name. Keep trusting God to deliver us from the kingdom of darkness. Satan uses the tool of deception to trick many to go his way and believe his lie. He also uses complacency. He traps people when they think their 'religion' is enough. You go to church. That is great, but do you love Jesus I mean really love Him? Are you sold out to Him? Does He have first place in your life? If he does then do you make Him first and not other things and or do you save him til the last five minutes of the day?
The Lord is good and his mercies endure forever. It is time to get serious for the battles which lie ahead. Do not sit around fretting about the demise of our land but start arming yourself with the word of God and disarming the enemy by knowing and reading his word.
If you expect to have victory in Christ over the devil and the fears he brings to you then you have to fill up your mind with the truth of God's word. Try reading this out loud. Psalm 1 says "Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction"
Do you want peace in your life? When the world is out of control and you worry and can not figure out the future that is when you need this kind of peace. But you can not wait til chaos erupts to run to God. You need to run to Him now. Run full force and say Jesus I need you. Satan will try to stop you and continue to make you be consumed in worry but know my friend that worry will not bring you closer to God.
Isaiah 54:17 says "No weapon formed against you shall prosper and every tongue that rises against you in judgment, you shall condemn." So evil men and evil governments may have plans to bring us down or make us little or try to weaken us but remember that verse. Our real enemy is not a man or a government but it is Satan himself in a battle against anyone who would dare be serious about Jesus. We know who wins in the end.
What is it going to take for God to get our attention and keep it? It is time to get serious about loving Jesus!
PRAYER: Father God I love you and want to trust you for the future. Forgive me when I try to start figuring things out on my own. Forgive me when I have only done what I have to do to be able to say I am a Christian. Forgive me for reading the newspaper more than the Bible. I know it is time to get serious about this spiritual warfare thing. Enough is enough. I will not allow the enemy to steal anymore ground. I will disarm him with the mighty power of Jesus. He has not authority of me. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on the link below and enjoy praising Jesus.

YouTube - Videos from this email

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

PEACE WHEN YOU DO NOT FEEL LIKE IT

 
Today is God's day. This is HIS world. We have free will. We can choose to love God and follow Him or treat him like a business associate we visit for one hour one day a week. We can saturate our mind with negativity and spend 3 hours in front of the morning shows and news reports which totally do not bring peace. We can focus on good news or bad news. We can say "Oh whoa is me. We are doomed. This is it. Did not God hear my prayers" or we can choose to love God and serve Him with ALL of our hearts. Know brother and sister that Jesus is on the throne and He rules from on high. He is more powerful than presidents, kings and dictators. His will will be done in the earth.
2 Chronicles 16:9 says "The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. What a fool you have been! From now on you will be at war." He is looking and He is always there. But sometimes perhaps he allows some things to happen so we can learn to love him, trust him, obey him, and serve him. Hold on, keep praying, keep believing. Turn off the bad and tune in to God. Don't stop praying and don't lose heart. Philippians 4:19 says "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."
One of the things we who name the name of Christ need to do is to not rejoice over an evil person when he falls.("Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when he stumbles, do not let your heart rejoice." Proverbs 24:17) We are to pray and love EVEN when it is hard. We are in a battle for good and evil. Men's hearts are hardened towards things of the Lord. People live for today. But in this world there are many who love the Lord with all their heart. It is so very easy when the world around us is going 'down the toilet' ,so to speak, to join in and feel gloom, doom, and despair. Choose to get up daily regardless of what is happening around you and say "THIS IS THE DAY THE LORD HAS MADE AND I WILL REJOICE AND BE GLAD IN IT"! (See Psalm 124:18).
When I work up this morning I just started singing one of the songs from the hit musical 'Annie'. The words "Tomorrow, tomorrow, I'll love you tomorrow , it's only a day, away". True, not a Christian song, but it gave me peace and hope in a strange way. I just kept singing it over and over. My husband had the news on and I went over and I turned off the NBC news and turned on a Christian network to start getting my mind focused on good news of Jesus Christ. Jesus is Lord and never forget that. Perhaps it is time for His people who are social Sunday Christians to get more serious about Him than they are about their hobbies, their sports, their jobs. Something to think about? What does Jesus need to do to get us to totally be sold out to Him? Is He truly first place in your life? Or is he first place only on Sunday for one hour?
Jesus is coming again. Are you ready to meet him? Are you able to believe and trust Him? He is mighty to save. Perhaps now is the day to decide you will put his word ahead of the TV or the newspaper and get your mind renewed so you can get up and face each day with peace.
PRAYER: Father I am so very thankful for your word which gives me hope and peace. I have been guilty of thinking wrong thoughts and being upset with what is going on around me instead of trusting, even in the seemingly bad, you are behind the scenes with a plan. Help me to learn to pray for my enemies or the enemies of Christians. I know I need a peaceful heart Lord. Show me each day how to love others by loving you first. Help me bring hope to someone who is hurting. Help me never be guilty of uttering ugly words but only words that build up your kingdom. This is your day and I need not fret. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click on link and know that God is still king of the whole earth and behind the scenes working.
As a departure from my normal Christian songs I have also added a one minute clip of the song I spoke of from Annie.
Be blessed to be a blessing!
 
 
 

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

STILL STANDING!


The day has finally arrived. Prayers have gone out for the past forty days and now the day of reckoning is here. In America today many are in fear over their future and the possible toppling of freedom to a tyrannical regime. We fear socialism and communism. We trust God to save us. Many still do not see it happening.

Stand up, stand tall and proclaim the goodness of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The enemy will try to bring doubt, fear, frustration, and a host of others negative emotions but do not fall for his tricks. If he can get you in a negative mindset then he will start to do his work. By the mighty name of Jesus, Satan has no authority over you!! Talk to Him out loud and say according to the word of God in Matthew 16:23 it says "by the authority of Jesus I command you Satan to get thee behind me!" You have victory in Jesus Christ against all the lies of the enemy. It says in 1 Corinthians 15:57 "But thanks be to God who gives us the victory in our Lord Jesus Christ." Until you realize and believe that we are indeed in a spiritual battle you will continue to let the enemy defeat you. ( Read Ephesians 6:10-20).
For me to be writing about Satan may be too much for some. Especially if the church you attend does not give much time to dealing with spiritual warfare. But here in this nation, founded on Christian principles and the Bible, we are under great attack. Satan would like nothing better than to shut us up and take us out. He does it in coy ways too. He pits people against each other in the name of politics. When a nation's liberties are coming under attack by our own government something is terribly wrong. When a political party wants to deny God in their platform you are treading on a slippery slope. God is on the throne and rules all the nations of the earth. This is not about a political party but it is about freedom!

Our nation can not continue on the course it is and be blessed. Psalm 33:12 says " Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord!" Today is the day the Lord has made. Vote Biblical values and look to Him not to a man to help and save us.

PRAYER: Lord I love you and I know my strength and power lie in you and you alone. Help me Lord to keep my armor of God on so that the enemy can not attack me. I pray for my family to keep their armor on as well. It says in Revelation 12:11 that we defeat Satan by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony. Thank you Jesus for that promise. I refuse to let Satan's fear and lies drag me down. I thank you for helping me stand tall and strong. In Jesus name. Amen,

Click on link below for one of my favorite Spiritual Warfare songs.
http://youtu.be/GsjJmk7tdk4


Second song included for uplifting you today.
Reading assignment : Deuteronomy Chapter 28

Monday, November 5, 2012

SING PRAISES INSTEAD OF SPEAKING WORRIES


Our mouth is a powerful tool for good or bad. We can use it to uplift or to belittle. We can use it to hurt others or to praise them. When it comes to things we tend to worry about we can speak fear and worry or faith, hope, and trust.

God inhabits the praises of His people it says in Psalm 22:3. Matthew 12:37 says "For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned."



The Bible says in Colossians 3:2 to "set your mind on things above not about things on earth." Focusing on what terrible things might happen takes you further away from the Lord. He wants you to trust him that He will see you through.

What is bothering you today? Are you able to let this burden go knowing full well your useless worry makes you sick inside and brings glory to the enemy Satan who is a peace robber? The Bible says in 1 Peter 5:7 to "Cast all your cares on Him for he cares for you." Do you believe that? It is true!
The power of life and death is in the tongue it says in Proverbs 18:21. If you sit around only speaking negative that is probably what you will get and your mindset will be negative. For God's People to have peace you have to fill your mind with good thoughts! Remember is says in Philippians 4:8 "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."
Today why not trust Him and know He has all things under control by His mighty hand and His outstretched arm. His love does endure forever. Let me leave you with this comforting scripture. Psalm 37:25 says "I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread." Trust Him today.
PRAYER: Father God when it seems the world is caving in around us I know Lord you are in charge. I know you love me with an everlasting love. I know you care. Father God help me to lean on you and forget the issues and problems of the day. Help me keep my television set off and instead pick up my Bible and start reading the Psalms and Proverbs. 'The Today Show' and 'Good Morning America' will not bring me peace and will waste a big chunk of my time. Lord your word brings me comfort. Help me to read it daily. Forgive me when I have forgotten to spend time with you. Father God the sun rises and sets each day whether I worry or do not worry. When I stay focused on you and your word it is much easier to have peace. When the world around me seems to be spinning out of control I know Lord you are there and will rescue me. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to worship the Lord.

Sunday, November 4, 2012

THE BATTLE IS GODS



 There is a battle for good and evil going on in the world. The forces of darkness and the forces of light. Satan is coy and uses all the tools in his arsenal to divide and conquer. He gets lies going and then gets people to believe them and his work is in progress. Unless your mind is saturated in the word of God to know the truth you can easily be led astray by Satan.

Satan is real and demonic spirits are real. Often many churches do not talk about them. Lots of churches like to puff up their denomination as best and the only true way to Jesus but I have got news for you. That arrogance alone is a tool the devil loves because he gets the body of Christ bickering over their churches and not fighting together against him and his sinister forces of evil.

Many may feel church is adequate and therefore remain powerless to come against the forces of darkness. Church is more than a social activity. It is where you gain power to face the battles in the week ahead not just feel good for one hour. If you do not realize there are any forces of darkness then once again Satan has gained ground. He is tricky. He is an angel of light. He is out to destroy the Bible, friendships,families, marriages, Christians, and Christian nations such as the United States of America. He makes people buy into his lies that same sex marriage is just fine and another life style. If you are inconvenienced with an unwanted pregnancy he gets you to believe that it is your 'right' to abort your baby and makes you feel like it is a woman's choice. Regardless of how this life was created, it is still life.,created by God. He, Satan, would like to snuff out as much life as he possibly can. If he gets Christians to buy into the lie of same sex marriages then there goes the opportunity for life right there. Two men can not produce a baby nor can two women. Life is special to God. Since 1973 millions of innocent babies have been slaughtered in the name of 'choice'. What about the babies choice?

When our nation stoops to redefining marriage, taking away religious freedoms, and starting to domineer people and take away their rights given by God something is wrong. The schools also can reeducate the little ones from the get go to believe lies. Many have been sucked into the lie of socialism thinking it is something wonderful. It is the first step to open the door to Communism and total control. We would never recognize the United States if this happened to us. Many laugh it off but so did people in Germany when the charismatic Adolph Hitler wooed them with his fancy rhetoric.

I am not afraid to speak the truth in love. America is one nation under God. If people do not like this then there are plenty of other countries to live in. We are blessed with abundance and are able to help many other nations willingly. We do not have to have our wealth stolen from us and 'redistributed' to help others. Each person has a chance to succeed. Communism is big into class warfare with the premise everyone should be the same. The government will run the show. It will control the people.Ask people who have lived under this if they like it. Ask them if the things they were promised came true. The answer will be a resounding NO.
America is on the threshold of losing her freedoms. I have been told to not write political things in my Christian blog. This is not politics. This is about freedom given by God. God is our master and not a man. God gives us what we need. We have life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. When a nation spends itself into a tizzy with more government programs it can not afford it is on the brink of a major collapse. We have reached that point. Evil forces in the form of Islamic terrorists have crept into the United States the last few years because we did not want to offend anyones religion. Never mind offending Christians but never offend Allah. Now look where we are at. Many still do not see it. They are walking the plank and we pray for their eyes to open. It is not about a political party anymore. It is about saving America.
Now back to Satan. He sure has us where he wants us. But we are on to him and want to save our land. We love America.We love freedom of the press, religion, speech, to peacefully assemble, to own a gun and so much more. If evil powers can take these away from us they can control us. Enough is enough. Jesus is Lord. Not a bunch of men and women trying to lie and dominate us and change our belief system totally removing God.

The Bible says in Psalm 33:12 "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." Exodus 19:5 further says "Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine." Exodus 34:9 says to us "O Lord, if I have found favor in your eyes," he said, "then let the Lord go with us. Although this is a stiff-necked people, forgive our wickedness and our sin, and take us as your inheritance." Psalm 122:6 says to "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May those who love you be secure." What is America doing to Israel? Giving her orders to move her borders. Say what? The Jews are God's chosen people yet the current government tries to order them around. That is treading in dangerous territory if you ask me.

God wants us to have success. He wants us to prosper. He wants us to love and serve Him. He hates when evil rulers try to hurt his people.

It is time for America to wake up. Revival is needed and needed now. We are not to be against each other or a mere human. We are not to be divided among friends who believe some other way. We are to stand up and recognize and proclaim that Jesus is Lord over this great land and no other.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus you are sad when we do not listen to you. You are sad when evil creeps in and tries to deceive your people. Lord God bring revival to your land. Protect Israel. Help our nation stop treating Israel bad. Lord God wake up your people to see danger on the doorsteps. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Click link for a song to inspire you and lift you up.

YouTube - Videos from this email

Saturday, November 3, 2012

PEACE AND TRUSTING GOD IN TURBULENT TIMES



I have written a good deal the past few days on having peace as many are very concerned about living under tyrannical control and losing the freedoms that have been given to us by God. The government is getting way too big and over the past four years has misused its' powers.  The good news is God is not sitting around chewing his fingernails in despair. After all He is God! The Alpha and the Omega. The creator of heaven and earth. He is bigger than any earthly problems or any lies man can tell to scare other men. He gets the final say in the end so that should bring comfort to you in and of itself. He is not a Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, or Independent. He is God and He sits on his throne and rules from high.

God is not happy when our own government bosses Israel around. Read the Bible and see for yourself. He is not happy when babies are killed in their mother's protective womb in the name of women's health or choice. It saddens him when men change his words to suit their earthly habits. His gift of marriage is between one man and one woman and provides the gift of children. Satan has perverted this and made it sound like we are hateful if we do not let two people  of the same sex who love each other to be married. Our society has accepted it and many Christians are caught up in this lie from the enemy.

If men governed by the holy word of God and fell to their knees daily before doing anything we would be a lot better off. When mankind is tricked, lied to, ridiculed, and the freedom God gave to us is taken away by laws for the 'good of the people' then something is terribly wrong.

It is time for all people to search their hearts. Republican, Democrat, black, white, brown, red or yellow.. This is not about politics but this is about the survival of mankind and the God given gifts of freedom to enjoy this wonderful land without being dictated to or made to feel stupid.

It is time for God to be God and for men and women who name His name above all others to get serious about being a Christian. Get on your knees and pray. Pray for this country. Our land in the United States is like none other but socialist and communistic forces and creeping into our own government to try to take control. America needs to wake up.We have taken things for granted way too long and been 'asleep at the wheel' so to speak and this 'train wreck' has caught  up with us.

It is not time to fear but it is time to pray.

2 Chronicles 7:14 says " If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways then I will hear from heaven and forgive their sin and and heal their land." America, it is time to stop sugar coating what the Bible says and pray for this nation to remain free. Ministers in pulpits, it is time to preach the word of God in season and out of season. Get bold. Get serious. Don't bury your head in the sand. Be more endeared to God and his ways than a political party.

Proverbs 3:5-6 says "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths."  It is time to pray!

PRAYER: Lord God, the United States of America is One Nation Under God yet how can you continue to bless a nation that disregards your laws? Judgment is upon us if we do not turn again to be a righteous nation with a government that truly fears you. Forgive us Lord. Wake up those too attached to a political party more than you. We trust you Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click link to praise God in song.

Friday, November 2, 2012

KEEP FOCUSED ON THE GOODNESS OF THE LORD!



 Much is happening in the world and our own country to make one scared about tomorrow. We wonder if we are nearing the end of time. Perhaps we are falling into a dictatorship. If you sit around thinking of these scenarios instead of trusting God for each day of course you would be fretful. But God is the true 'Master of the Universe' and He is the one who lets kingdoms rise or fall. Many verses talk about evil kings and evil rulers and how we are to put our hope and trust in God and God alone. Government can not save us. A mere man can not save us. A horoscope can not save you. A four leaf clover will not save you. A government bureaucracy can not save us. Only the King of Kings and Lord of Lords can save us and deliver us from evil!!

Instead of not being able to get to sleep at night because of the 'what ifs' of the government and what a tiny 'mere man' can do instead start focusing in what God CAN do, not the enemy. We are in a battle of good and evil in the world. Satan is a deceiver. He can deceive the most unknowing of people to believe lies from the pit of hell. That is why it is important to stay focused on the word of God which is the truth and can give you peace for the days ahead no matter what happens. This is not about a political party but this is about freedoms being under fire in this Godly nation like never before. If Satan can keep you clinging to a political party because you always have, then he has won half the battle. Focus on God and His righteousness!

There are people that read this blog from foreign countries and the issues facing you may be in fact much worse than what we face here. The thing to remember is that God can set us free and put us above our enemies. Have faith brothers and sisters. Jesus loves us this I know for my Bible tells me so. The enemy can even get you to change what the Bible means to justify what you think or do.. John 10:10 says " The thief(Satan) comes to steal, kill, and destroy. I came that they might have life and have it more abundantly."

So today let Jesus set you free from your fears and tune in to Him and away from news reports that make you fearful. Psalm 71:5 says "You have been my hope O Sovereign God. My confidence since my youth." Believe that today! Do not allow the lies of the enemy to make you be in fear. Psalm 39:7 says "Oh Lord in what do I look for?My hope is in you."


PRAYER: Father you are in control of the earth. You let the sun rise on evil people and on good. Thanks so much for being the one I trust in. Help me not to look to man to bring comfort. And Lord give me strength to turn off the TV if it is causing me fear and worry. In you I trust. In Jesus name. Amen.
Click link below and worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness.

Thursday, November 1, 2012

TURN OFF THE BAD AND TUNE INTO GOD!!




There is much uncertainty today about the future. Many in the United States see the upcoming elections as critical to freedom as we know it. Ultimately we know God is the one who sits on the throne and is in charge of the earth. He does give man free will and sometimes we mess up when we stop listening to Him but He is here to rescue us.
This is a very important election on November 6th  but right now something else captures our attention, as it rightly should, and that is the aftermath of the major storms in the Northeast.  We see what is really important when the winds and waves crash around us. Life, as we know it, comes to a stand still. Airports  shut down that are under water. Structures are destroyed. Electricity is non existent. Trick or treating is not what mattered on Halloween. Transportation comes to a screeching halt. The Northeast certainly received a beating as a result of hurricane Sandy.
When all the chaos and confusion around us seems to take us off course we see what really matters. In order to not be overwhelmed by all the issues of life swirling around us it is necessary to attempt to stay focused on the good. For those families affected by tremendous loss or inconvenience due to Hurricane Sandy it may not be that easy to get your mind on good things. There is a saying "Praise God in the storm" and that is what we have to purpose in our hearts to try to do.
Whether it is an election where freedom teeters in the balance or a devastating natural disaster, life is going to go on and focusing on positive thoughts is key. Let me leave  you with a few Bible verses of hope and encouragement. 
Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation of whom shall I fear. The Lord is the strength of my life of who shall I be afraid.
Isaiah 12:2  Behold God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid. For the Lord God Jehovah is my strength and my song!
Matthew 10:31 Don't be afraid for you are of more value than many sparrows.
Psalm 23:1-4 The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the path of righteousness for His names sake. Yeah though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me. Your rod and your staff they comfort me.
Psalm 3:6. I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side.
Psalm 71:1. In you oh Lord I put my trust. Let me never be put to confusion.
If you can stop now and pray and repeat these verses OUT LOUD it should help to still your restless, anxious heart.
PRAYER: Father we are not in control of our lives. You have a plan for us. Bad things sometimes happen in the world but we bounce back with your help. There are those who have suffered tremendous losses in their lives. Comfort them today. Use me Lord in your kingdom to help bring comfort and joy to the scared and hurting. In Jesus name. Amen.
Reading assignment: Psalm 46
Click link to praise God in song.
NOTE: I apologize for the lateness of this devotion today. My home phone line and DSL are out so I am at the Redstone Arsenal Library using their computer. Thanks for your understanding and patience. -