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.

Saturday, March 31, 2012

PRAISE HIM REGARDLESS

It is easy to praise God when things are going our way but when the bottom falls out of life then it gets a little more challenging.   When you are going through a bad time of life the best thing you could do in order to combat the attacks of the   enemy, who seeks to destroy your joyful spirit, is to focus on a loving God and praise Him. Yes you heard me, praise the Lord.

Praise him in the morning. Praise Him at noon. Praise him when you are feeling good and praise him when you are not doing so good.  Praise Him when you lose and praise Him when you win. Praise Him on cloudy, rainy days and praise him on sunny days. Psalm 113:3 says " From the rising of the sun to the place that it sets, the Lord's name is to be praised."

It says in Psalm 22:3 " The Lord inhabits the praises of his people."  Psalm 9:11 says "
Sing praises to the LORD, enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what he has done."

In Job  13:15 it says"Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him."  In Job 1:21 it says "The Lord gives the Lord takes away blessed be the name of the lord." Job went through more than most humans could take. Get your Bible and turn to the book of Job in the Old Testament if you are not familiar with it. It is an eye opener. How do you praise God when a child dies or you lose your job? God did not cause these things and he knows you are broken hearted but it still says to praise Him. Things in life happen. God is still there and still on the throne. It does not praise Him 'if only' or 'when only'.

If you are feeling  down today, read the following OUT LOUD and see if you do not feel better.
Lord I praise you for making me.
Lord I praise your name above all others names.
Lord I praise you for another day of life.
Lord I praise you for friends.
Lord I praise you for answered prayer.
Lord I praise you for providing for my basic needs.
Lord I praise you for my family.
Lord I praise you for our creation.
Lord I praise you for your awesome power.
Lord I praise you for the gift of good health.
Lord I praise you for living in a Christian nation.
Lord I praise you for the valuable lessons I learn in life.
Lord I praise you that I can see in order to read this devotion.

You get the idea. Now go add some of your own. And when Satan tries to get you to be mad at Jesus just say "Get behind me Satan. I do not believe your lies."

PRAYER: Father I thank you for your mighty power and protection. I thank and praise you for the wonderful plan you have for my life. I know you are always with me and will never abandon me. Forgive me if I have ever blamed tragedy on you. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/JaQPUayD-Zs

Friday, March 30, 2012

RELIGION IN VAIN??

Sometimes 'church people' can be some of the meanest and most cruel. You can go to church but what good does it do you if you do not follow the teachings of Jesus in loving one another for instance?  To make up your own standards of who you will love and accept is not God's way.  Erasing the part of the Bible that is not modern enough will not cut it either. A church full of judgmental condemners needs to think again. If you are like this then you need to examine your heart.

Churches are for imperfect people and if you are perfect then you can probably stay home. The Bible says in Matthew  9:10-13 says "While He was reclining at the table in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came as guests to eat with Jesus and His disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, “Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?”But when He heard this, He said, “Those who are well don’t need a doctor, but the sick do. Go and learn what this means: I desire mercy and not sacrifice.For I didn’t come to call the righteous, but sinners.” 

I was in a church service somewhere recently where a lady who looked like a waitress at Hooters walked in, low cut top and all. Now mind you this is very distracting for the menfolk of the church but if this lady has been out of church awhile she probably needs love, not condemnation. Eventually she will perhaps dress more in more modest attire so as to not distract the men. If you are a woman who likes to wear low cut tops maybe you need to think of how this distracts. Now I am not saying you have to dress in pentecostal garb or have some dress code but some do not know better and some do. If a lady of the street comes in to hear God's word you need to show Jesus love to her. Say what? You are not in church to be in a Holy Huddle. 

 In the Bible in James 1:26 "if you claim to be religious but do not control your tongue, you are fooling yourself and your religion is worthless."  Do you have a problem with gossip, cursing, judging, backbiting or some other areas of loose lips? Read what this verse says. I did not make it up. This says our so called 'religion' is in vain if we can not control what we say or talk about. It is certainly easy to slip into a gossip mode or a critical spirit mode against others when talking. You have to be on your  guard. Ask yourself, "Is what I am about to say going to help or hurt?" What good do you achieve by ruining someones character or divulging something by gossiping?"

Committing to keeping your speech 'filled with grace' is a challenge .The brain works, and out come thoughts from the mouth. We can get caught up talking about people, putting them down, talking about what you saw 'so and so' doing, and a host of other things. If you claim to know Jesus even if you are with a Christian friend, doing this and having unedifying conversations is it really right? The answer is NO!

Finally there are those who call themselves 'Reverend' in the news lately that are vile and spewing forth racial hatred which in my estimation does not emulate a loving God and one who loves all people. What is in a 'title' if you do not honor and respect that title anyway? Leaders in the church have the biggest responsibility to act like Jesus.  So are you religious or are you a follower of Christ?


PRAYER: Lord I love you and it is my desire to glorify you in what I say each day. It is so easy to speak and not think. Forgive me when I have talked and hurt someone. And help me forgive when I have been hurt. Help those 'reverends' who spew hatred instead of love come to know you and love all mankind. I thank you for loving me. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link below and worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/cyy6UDGjBdc

Thursday, March 29, 2012

STAY JOYFUL ALWAYS

There is enough going on in our world today to cause us despair and even in your own circle of life there may be things causing you grief and pain. For instance, a wayward child. Let's say you had trained your child to follow the Lord and he or she goes their own way. Bible teacher and author Joyce Meyer says "Do not let others wrong choices steal your joy." You are not responsible for someone's wrong choices so do not beat yourself up. Do not allow others to be 'joy robbers' in your life.

Satan especially is the chief joy robber. He does not want you happy and at peace. Satan would love it if you would just cave in to your emotions and not ever to be able to be at peace. You perhaps compare your life to others and that too can rob you of joy and keep you from attaining a peaceful spirit. Satan is the 'accuser of the brethren' it says in Revelation 12:10. Satan may make you feel if you had not done 'such and such' then 'so and so' would not be living a certain way or doing a certain thing.

 You can not and should not condemn yourself. You are not responsible for the choices others make.
If you have a child you raised for the Lord but they have made wrong choices all you can do is keeping praying for them but do not allow their bad choices to make you not live your life to the fullest. Just keep praying. Keep believing. Remember the promise in Proverbs 22:6 which says " train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it?" God hears your prayers.  3 John 1:4 says " I have no greater joy to know that my children are walking in the truth." I say a hearty "Amen" to that!

God is your source of peace and joy no matter what life throws at you. Things happen and sometimes they happen in order to make someone stronger. Just believe God can see you through and help the other person as well.

Let's say you are living with an unbelieving spouse and you are 'on fire' for the Lord. Then what do you do? 1 Peter 3:1-2 says "wives, in the same way, submit yourselves therefore unto your own husbands, that if any of them do not believe the word they will be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives." 

What if I friend or colleague has hurt you? Say you did nothing and you are getting pushed aside and treated poorly.Do not allow these things to rob you of your ultimate joy in Jesus Christ!

John 14:27 says " My peace I leave you, my peace I give you, not as the world gives you. Do not let your hearts be troubled neither let them be afraid."

PRAYER: Lord it is my desire to not let others rob me of my peace and joy. I have no control of others lives and I can only pray and trust you for the answers. Help me Lord to always have your joy in my life to share with those around me. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link below to worship the Lord in song! Be blessed now go be a blessing!
http://youtu.be/NLhb3qUA3uc

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

STOP LYING

You may say "I do not lie"  but it was pointed out in a sermon I heard recently that all of us probably lie when asked "how are you" and we flippantly in a robotic manner answer "fine". Are you really fine? If we are not why do we say that? Maybe because we do not want to unload our problems on whoever it is. Sometimes you may be really fine and say "If I were any better I'd be twins". I actually have said that before. That gets a look too, but in the case, when  I said it, I meant it!  I feel like most of us do not want to share what is happening. Wouldn't the person who asked the question be shocked if we replied "well I am glad you asked. My dog died. My toilet is backed up. I have overdue bills I can not pay. I just flunked a class I was taking." There may be times when we say something partially truthful but most the time most folks probably just reply "fine'. It is probably more of a habit and you do not mean to actually lie.

In Proverbs 6:16-19 it elaborates on what the Lord hates and it says "There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers." Get that! He hates a lying tongue, not the liar just the lie!

Lying in general is not a good thing. The Bible says not to do it. Seems many in high up places of Government have lied to us lots. That is between them and God. But what does the Bible say? Why do people think they can lie and pay no consequence? In the Christian life it is a no no. How many out there have ever been guilty of having your children say "I'm not home" when the phone rings? Shame on you, for that is a lie too. You are teaching your children to lie when you do that.

In general it is not good to EVER lie. At times we may stretch the truth or do what the world calls a 'white lie' but is any lying really right? We probably all have lied. If you are ever in court you have to take an oath to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help you God. When you tell one lie you have to keep up lying to cover up for the other one. It is best just to be honest. What about when someone asks "Do I look fat"? Then what do you do? Do you hurt their feelings or say that is not a fair question to ask?When you fill out a job application you have to sign that the information is correct and you give your word by your signature. Here it is tax time and how many have lied a little bit when it came to taxes? I sure would not mess with the IRS. It is better to always be honest.

Here is a good example of lying. You say you are a believer and go to church and love the Lord. 1 John 2:4 says "Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him." Are you guilty of this? In John 8:32 it says "The truth will set us free" but also in John 8:44 it says "You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies." Do you want to be like Christ or the devil? Proverbs 12:22 says "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight."  

Colossians 3:9 says "Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices." If someone asks you a question, be truthful with them. It is best to be honest and truthful. Proverbs 13:5 says "The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace." When you accept Christ you are a new creation and old things and old habits are to pass away, this includes lying. Ephesians 4:25 says "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body." Put it off. Stop it. Do not spread falsehoods by gossiping. Gossiping easily ends up in lies as people start adding their own spin to a story. If you say you will keep a confidence do not share something with someone as then you have lied to the friend you promised. "Do not lie" is one of the Ten Commandments as well. Seems like today's world feels it is okay to not be 100% truthful. God is watching at all times so why not be sure to tell the truth.

We have all made mistakes and we can all be forgiven. Just ask God. He is ready to forgive you and help you have the ability to tell the truth.

PRAYER: Lord I want to be honest and truthful and share your love with others. Help me be full of integrity and never tell any kind of lie. Forgive me for when I have lied in the past. If my lies have caused hurt or pain help me go and ask forgiveness then seek restoration. Lord I know it pleases you when I am truthful and I intend to do that with your help.I want a reputation for being a person people can trust and I want to always be truthful. Help me do this.  In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link to enjoy and be blessed by a song of victory and freedom.
http://youtu.be/ZWv-UOHzaIc

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

DESPISED AND REJECTED

For anyone who has been rejected either by a friend, a coworker, spouse, family member, a boss,the public, de-friended on Facebook or a host of other type rejections, it is painful. You have to learn to move on beyond your pain and pray for the person who has hurt or rejected you. Do not call them names or stoop to their level. That is what the enemy wants. You have to love them with 'the love of Jesus'.As in yesterdays devotion title you have to simply have the attitude "it is not that deep" even when you feel yourself drowning in sadness, self pity or anger.

Jesus felt rejection more than any of us.The ultimate rejection! It says in scripture in Isaiah 53:3 "He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. " Isaiah 53:7 further states "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth." Can you imagine being mistreated and keeping your mouth closed? It would be difficult for anyone to do. Human nature wants to get back and get even. Also on the cross with the ultimate act of hate against Him he said in Luke 23:34 "Father forgive them for they know not what they do." A verse in John 1:11 it says "He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him." Can you imagine entering the presence of trusted friends and they ignore you? How painful that would be.In Psalm 22:6-7 David felt rejection when he said "But I am a worm and not a man,scorned by men and despised by the people. All who see me mock me;they hurl insults, shaking their heads." Ouch. How cruel is that?

As a follower of Christ at times we may be made fun of or called a Jesus freak. Maybe you recently accepted Christ or got more serious about your walk with Him yet close friends do not understand and stay away from you. You have to love them anyway. Some of my friends may not understand why I have to be so 'religious' by writing this blog. Newsflash! I am not religious I just love Jesus and sharing his love with others. 1 Peter 4:4 says "Of course, your former friends are surprised when you no longer plunge into the flood of wild and destructive things they do. So they slander you." Some may mock you behind your back. Just pray for them and nurture other relationships.

Sometimes those walking in darkness do not like the light. Light dispels the darkness. Often times even those 'church people' do not get it. Why on earth do you have to be so 'religious'? Well meaning 'church people' can be some of the most cruel. To them, going on Sunday and living like you want the rest of the week is all that is required for admission to heaven. They wonder why you are so overboard and serious about Jesus. Often people think it  is a little 'quacky'  and fanatical to get so serious about Jesus. Do not be ashamed ever! Mark 8:38 says "If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels."

Be thankful for the good relationships you do have in your life and pray for those who have hurt or mistreated you. God is in control.Your pain and heartache were never as great as His.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for friends and family. Thank you for employment. Thank you for what we learn from the hard times in life we go through. Thank you that you are always there when the world runs out. In Jesus name. Amen.

Rejoice in song by clicking on link below.
http://youtu.be/jPJCEQeyZo8

Monday, March 26, 2012

IT'S ALL GOOD. IT'S NOT THAT DEEP. NO WORRIES

 My title stems from the expression you hear nowadays where people are meaning, " it is okay" or " no problem". Sometimes we may get all keyed up about something and tend to worry or just can not be still and relax. The expressions in my title are 'right on the money'  so to speak, and mean just what they say or in other words "calm down, chill out!" You may think you have hurt  or offended someone and their response is one of the three statements in my title.

How many of us can really do that in situations in life that occur? You may worry what others think or worry about something you have no control over. So let it go already okay? You tell someone it is okay or "not that deep" so let your actions follow that. Basically we are 'not to sweat the small stuff' as they saying goes.

The Bible has lots of wisdom in basically saying the same thing and  before these phrases even were uttered. Philippians 4:6 says "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Romans 8:28 says "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Mark 10:18 says ""Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good--except God alone." Matthew 6:31 says "So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'" Matthew 6:27 says "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"

Forgive people. Don't hold grudges. Stop worrying. Stop freaking out. Everything is going to be okay. It's all good!

 PRAYER: Lord I thank you that you see me through things in life I sometimes initially see as overwhelming. Things aren't that bad if I keep looking to you. Thanks for your promises in the word of God. Help me to remember to keep smiling. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, March 25, 2012

WHO OR WHAT IS YOUR HOPE IN?

In the last presidential campaign four years ago there were window decals out with a candidates picture superimposed with the word 'HOPE' on them. We do not place our hope in any man, any government, or any human institution as they will falter and fail us. The only true hope is in Jesus Christ. He is the only one that can rescue and save us. When we start trusting in man and  if man is up on a pedestal higher than God look out. Remember the tower of Babel in the Bible? When man exalts himself over God trouble is brewing. It is arrogant to think a person is better than God or we should hope in a man over God. God after all is supreme and in charge, no one else under heaven or earth.

Jeremiah 29:11 is a familiar verse about hope and it says "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Isaiah 40:31 is another familiar one and it reads "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

When someone asks you who your hope is in you are not supposed to say it is in a human. Humans disappoint and fail us. Your hope alone should be in the Lord God Almighty maker of heaven and earth. No mere man has the power like God does. Psalm 39:7 clearly says "But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you."

PRAYER: Father in your alone is our hope. When things look gloomy we do not look to humans or human solutions but to you. Forgive me if I have ever trusted man over you. When I want to worry help me to remember to look to you as my only source of hope. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link to enjoy worship song. Happy Sunday!
http://youtu.be/wIg6RIbLz1c

Saturday, March 24, 2012

PROBLEMS OR PEACE?? YOUR CHOICE.

You can get up each day and purpose in your heart to worship and praise the Lord or you can get up and be defeated by starting your day with worry, fear,anxiety, stress and fretting. It is basically your choice. You have to choose to set your mind on what is good, pure, truthful and what builds up not tears down. You and you alone have control over your mind and the thoughts that go into it. If you constantly dwell on your problems or fears you will then have a mindset of fear and defeat and worry. How can you get closer to God and expect to hear from Him and walk with Him and have victory if you are down in some pit of despair?

Children of God need to walk in victory, not defeat, no matter what is going on around you. It can be hard at times when the things of the world start caving in around you but in order to get through the trials and tests of life that are sure to come your way you have to maintain your focus on God and his word. This is why it is so vitally important to know the word of God, for in it lies the strength to get beyond our problems. There are enough concerns in this world to go around and many times we try to add more by adding our childrens' problems, particularly if you have adult children. We want to carry the burden for ourselves and everyone else and we do not trust God to see us over the hump, so to speak.

 In God you have power to defeat the enemy and his lies and stay focused on positive hopeful things. Give God your cares! It even says that in scripture. What good can we do by sitting around in mental turmoil and trying to orchestrate everything? Fretting over big or large things will not bring you closer to the Lord. He cares for the smallest details of your life that may be weighing you down.

Stay effective and powerful by staying in the word of God. It is in the word we get strength to defeat the schemes of Satan, the depressed spirit, fear, mental torment and worry. Some may say " I'm just a worrier. I can't help it." Yes you can get beyond worry and stop using that excuse as your justification. Do you enjoy being all stressed and keyed up all the time? If not turn to God.

Start each day with prayer and cast your concerns on the Lord. Cast means to throw. He is there for you and wants you to share your burdens. It says in 1 Peter 5:7 "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." Phillipians 4:6 reminds us "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."  Matthew 6:27 says "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" Worrying does nothing but make us sick and fretful so move on and do something else. Are you able to let go and let God? When you feel your peace slipping and worry creeping up start to pray instead.

 PRAYER: Lord at times I just want to take control of things. I dwell on the negative and start to slip into a chasm of despair. I want to trust you Lord and lean on you. Give me your perfect peace in every thing in life down to the tiniest details. In Jesus name. Amen

 Click on link and worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/XlhGcq9O14U

Friday, March 23, 2012

35 MEANS 35!!

When you are driving you need to be obeying the speed limit. Especially if you are sporting a Christian bumper sticker,vanity tag that says "Jesus" or something that says "Meet Me In Sunday School" but regardless of whether these adorn your vehicle or not you still should be obeying the law and setting a good example. Laws are meant to protect us and speed limits in particular can help us not get injured or killed. If you break the speed limit there is a chance the police will be nearby with a radar gun and catch you driving like a NASCAR driver. If you speed you may end up with a fine or have to appear in court. When  the speed limit sign reads  '35 MPH' it means to drive 35, not 45 or 55. If you do not obey you may suffer the consequences. Scripture even tells us to obey authorities therefore that means law enforcement officials and their signs.

Similarly in life we have laws set forth in the Ten Commandments and other places in the Bible  meant to protect us as well. When we rebel against these rules we face consequences. We are all born sinners. But we are to try to leave a sinful lifestyle and not purposely be doing things that we know are displeasing to God or separate us from Him. When you purposely sin, not unlike breaking a speed limit, you face consequences. God can and will forgive your sins and remember them no more but to willfully do things you know are wrong keep you from receive all His blessings.1 Corinthians 6:11 says "as far as the east is from the west,    so far has he removed our transgressions from us." Psalm 66:18 says "If I had cherished sin in my heart,  the Lord would not have listened." So in other words if you are saying your prayers but willfully doing things to displease him that breaks the line of communication with the Lord. Romans 3:23 tells us "For all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory". You know some of those sins things like adultery, fornication, lying, judging, gossip, homosexuality, murder, coveting others things and the list goes on. I did not make these things up but they are found within the pages of God's word. Read it, study it and you will see for yourself.

The good news is people can be forgiven from their sins and set free. 1 Corinthians 6:11 reminds us referring to being sinful "And that 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 our God."  Watch out judging others and starting to feel you are better because you do not do 'such and such'. This kind of haughty attitude may cause you to stumble and get a taste of your own medicine. One of the best places that I hear people come to the Lord is in prison when they are at life's lowest point. Prison and jail ministries thrive and help bring many to the Lord. Be careful when you pass those men and women along the highway in orange jump suits picking up trash as you are only one car wreck from being out there with them. For instance, what if you are texting and accidentally hit a child crossing the road and they die. You very well may go to jail for manslaughter and end up out there with the trash brigade too.

There are those who like to make up sins and say they are wrong such as with the issues of smoking and drinking. They are not sins but they are not good for the temple of God, your body, and in the case of drinking you could become an alcoholic and end up hurting yourself and others. The Bible warns about drinking and its' effects but does not say it is a specific sin. (See Proverbs 23). Likewise tobacco products cause cancer and make you stink but no where in the Bible does it say smoking is a sin. So be careful trying to play God. Smoking and drinking may hurt someones witness but they are not listed as a sin per se but they can wreak havoc in your life if not under control. Do not get me wrong. I am not condoning going out now and frequenting bars and partying. I am simply stating that these are things that can in fact hurt you but  yet are not listed in the scriptures as a sin. Mankind likes to occasionally make his own rules. Overeating is in fact mentioned as bad in the Bible(called gluttony) yet how many churches have potlucks and people gorge themselves on too much food in the name of fellowship? Be careful trying to decide which things in life God would accept and those He would send someone to hell for if they did not repent. Dancing in some denominations is sort of classified as a sin and frowned upon. I do not see anything in my Bible about that but I think these well meaning people are referring to when someone dances in a lewd of immodest way.All things in moderation. If you feel what you are doing will cause someone to stumble then do not do it. But do not look your nose down on others. Remember when you point a finger at someones faults you have 3 pointing back at you. 1 Corinthians 8:13 says "Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause him to fall."

If you are in a ministry role within the body of Christ often times others are looking at you as an example. You have to decide in your heart what you are going to do. The best thing is to run away from anything that is dragging you down and keeping you away from the Lord or causing you to be an ineffective witness for him. Each of us whether a leader or not should remember to glorify God in what you say and do. No go out and be a blessing and live for Jesus!


PRAYER; Lord Jesus I choose to lead a life that pleases you but it is not my place to be finger pointing at others. Bring conviction upon me when I am straying from what is in your word. Help me to always keep my spiritual light burning so that I can help show others the love of Christ. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link for an awesome worship song.
http://youtu.be/GCKxteuDfEM

Thursday, March 22, 2012

PATIENT OR IMPULSIVE??

Are you able to wait or do you rush into things on your own time table and later embarrass yourself? We can not wait  for answers from people and we assume the worst because we are impatient, impulsive and do not trust God with our situation.

Patience is a character trait and spiritual discipline we all should strive for, as it makes us more enjoyable to be around and things are better tolerated when you can sit still and be at peace. True, there are personality types that may lean more towards a 'rushed' spirit but on the other hand, it is easy to just react or speak  if we don't just stop and think. Sometimes without waiting and thinking we can really make a mess of things. We can cause ourselves  much inner turmoil as well.  Depending on what it is, it could backfire on you. When you relax, let go, and let God you just start feeling better. When you get all worried and flustered about stuff you have no control over, it only leads to fretful behavior. If you suffer from a spirit that can not seem to wait, ask God to set you free. He can! You do not have to make excuses. Be aware of this weakness and seek God's help to get you on a more peaceful path.

Here's what God's word has to say. Perhaps one of the best is Psalm 46:10 which says "Be still and know that I am God." Remember the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42 where Martha was distracted by preparations for Jesus visit when he in effect said "chill out". Read this in your spare time. She was rushing around in a frenzy unable to relax and be patient. He just wanted her to be calm.  Patience is a fruit of the spirit. In Galatians 5:22-23 it says "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."

Start today and be start trying to not be so frenzied and wait for God. Waiting is hard but we have to learn to do it.  Isaiah 40:31 says "Those that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength they shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not be weary and they shall walk and no faint." Finally Ecclesiastes 5:2 says "Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few." What are you waiting for or on today? Let go and let God!


PRAYER: Lord I choose to wait on you. Help me Lord as when answers to prayer do not come or things do not happen on my time table I tend to get flustered. Help me to turn things over to I and trust in your reflect timing. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link for a worship and praise song to help you wait.
http://youtu.be/Bb7TSGptd3Y

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

JESUS IS THE REASON FOR EVERY SEASON

Often times at Christmas we see cards,decorations, and ornaments that say 'Jesus is the Reason for TheSeason' and oh how true that statement is when Christmas seems to get lost in the make believe world of Santa Claus, elves, reindeer, and candy canes.  As we approach the Easter Season we too remember that Jesus is the real reason for this holiday too. It is not about bunny rabbits, chocolate eggs, pretty Sunday dresses, Easter egg hunts, and little baby chicks. It is hard to find anything 'religious' at  all in stores around this holiday unless you venture into Christian bookstores. This day is in fact about Jesus being crucified and raising from the grave 3 days later and being alive today! Easter vacation is  even called 'Spring Break' in our modern world where God is put up on a shelf.

 Jesus is, and should always be, the reason for each and every day and each and every season of life. It is because of him we live and move and have our being. (See Acts 17:28). He is the maker of all things and because of Him things exist. 2 Timothy 4:2 tells us "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." God is always in season and every season is His! Jeremiah 51:19 says "But the God of Israel is no idol! He is the Creator of everything that exists, including his people, his own special possession. The LORD of Heaven's Armies is his name!" Every day should be a Jesus day! Jeremiah 10:12 reminds us "But God made the earth by his power; he founded the world by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens by his understanding." It is all His so every season is His!

 Our world today wants to make 'believing in God' illegal and persecute those who dare to name the name of Jesus. Our own government is getting to the point where it will not respect the 'right of conscious' of those who oppose something because of their strong Christian convictions and beliefs. If we speak up against something we are called hateful.  More and more young people are being re-educated and desensitized to sin. We need to get back to teaching a Christian world view and pray for revival in our land. Isaiah 5:20 says "Woe to those 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." Look out trying to take away God from our world. It is His world after all.

Jesus is Lord over all and no government decree will ever stop that! Psalm 118:24 says "This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Every day is His!Every season is His! Rejoice!

 PRAYER: Each and every day is a gift from you Lord. I thank you for making me and placing me where you have me. I know each day is special to you. Help me be a light in a dark world and speak up against injustice and evil and do it in love. Help my senses be trained to recognize evil and sin. I love you whether it is Christmas, Easter or an ordinary day. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link and worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/wIg6RIbLz1c

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

YOU REBEL YOU!

Submission is a dirty word. You hear it mostly in relation to marriage but it also encompasses much more. I will go over a few areas in this devotion.

 First as related to marriage it is very important that only one person be in charge of final decisions. In the military there is a  chain of command and likewise in marriage you need a chain of command of sorts. This does not mean that the lady is not as important or valued as her male counterpart but that there has to be one person who makes the final call. Of course it is important to discuss decisions and treat the wife with ultimate love and respect. She is not to be trampled upon or treated like a second class citizen such as how Muslims apparently treat their females. Women are special and vital but God designed the man to  be the head. Adam was created first then woman was made from him. This is not meaning she is less important. No matter how much the Women's Lib movement wants to redefine marriage, say marriage is unnecessary  or feel superior to men, God had a plan for the man to take care of the wife, nurture her and  be the spiritual  head of the home. Submission does not imply servitude like in cave man days where the man is some big 'He Man' dragging his wife by the hair and ordering her around. Submission is beautiful when done GOD'S way and it is nothing for the godly woman to fear. The man and woman are joint heirs to the gift of life. Once they say " I do" everything becomes joint. A new family is formed. But there has to be someone who makes the final decisions after all is said and done. The Bible says in Ephesians 5:21-26 "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.  For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior.  Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word." What about the lady who is married to someone who is not a believer or is but maybe does not read his Bible and know all this? Well in that case 1 Peter 3:1-2 applies and it says "Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives." Let  your life be a witness. Husbands,Colossians 3:19 says "Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them."  Proverbs 21:19 is a reminder to wives and it says "It is better to live in a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a quarrelsome wife." Hey ladies let your light shine in your home for Jesus! In 1 Samuel  15:23 says "For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has rejected you as king." Ouch rebellion like witchcraft or divination. Now that makes you think doesn't it?

Secondly submission applies to people submitting to their leaders and those in authority over them. A President, for instance,  is not a King, Dictator, or Lord but he is an elected representative who is supposed to lead and serve the people, not dictate and bully them into submission. When  leaders get haughty and power goes to their head and they start lording over the people, here in the United States we have a Constitution that says we can impeach them. We are to obey and submit to rulers who are fair and just. Hebrews 13:17 says "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you." God will take care of the evil rulers in the end who are hurting the people. He is not pleased with those who try to be more powerful that He is. 1 Peter 2:13-14 says "Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right." If a leader tries to tell you you are not allowed to speak about Christ then he is wrong. Acts 4:18-20 says "Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus.But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”

A third type of submission would be in your workplace or even as a volunteer job .You are to work heartily as if working for the Lord and not be a slacker. Colossians 3:23 should be your job description and it says "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." You are to be fair, honest and full of integrity. Show up on time, work hard, go beyond the call of duty and help others.Let your light shine in your place of work or where you volunteer. Be dependable. Do not cheat or steal. Do not be wasting time on the internet when you are supposed to be working. You submit by  following the rules or the operating procedures or you get put on probation or fired.

A fourth form of submission is to those older than we are. Often times people poke fun of older people and call them derogatory names. Elderly people have paid their dues, so to speak, and we have much to learn from them and they have much to contribute. Just because some of them may not be familiar with  today's modern technology is no reason to discount them or make fun of them. Take time to talk to older people and show respect for them. Help them do things but also realize they still have much to contribute. Many older people feel as if others think they should just go on to the cemetery. What a travesty. If your parents are still living or your grandparents, call them, write them and if nearby go spend time with them. 1 Timothy 5:1-2 says "Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, in all purity." You are not really submitting to the older person but honoring them which is a type of submission.Older people deserve respect!

A Christian leader should be submissive to those they are serving. Never lording over those underneath you to make you feel more superior to them. 1 Peter 5:3 says "not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." Be a willing listener and learn from those you teach.

Finally we are to most importantly to submit to Almighty God. James 4:7 says "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

There you have it. Somewhat lengthy but very important points to remember.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I desire to have a submissive spirit. Forgive me when I have acted with rebellion as I know that is not pleasing to you. Help me live a life to glorify you in all areas of my life. In Jesus Name. Amen.  

Interesting side note: I wrote the first nearly finished draft at the Tulsa Airport about 1 p.m. yesterday while waiting on a flight. While transferring it to my inbox it mysteriously disappeared into cyber space never to return. the enemy must not want some of these out there. I tried my best to recreate as much as I could remember of what I wrote the first time. I recreated this after getting off an airplane at midnight.

Monday, March 19, 2012

SATAN IS A NERD

 Oh my goodness, I am name calling! Shame on me. Not when it comes to the lying, cheating, deceitfulness, and killing of this horrible creature. I got the idea for my title today off an elderly gentleman's baseball cap that I saw as he left church in Tulsa, Oklahoma at Victory Christian Center yesterday. It was funny in a way, but also very true.

Satan is not a little red skinny man with a pitchfork like Halloween costumes attempt to portray him as, but he is in fact a powerful, sinister force working through human subjects, who he has deceived, in order to wreak havoc in the world we live in. He despises Christians and anything they stand for, so he hates America since it is a Christian nation. He is in fact an 'angel of light' tricking and deceiving many people. He can convince you of many things if you are not grounded in the word of God. Satan and his demons of evil like to keep people in bondage. They do not like freedom. They do not like the Bible at all for in it is power to defeat him and his demonic spirits. The good news is that we have the power to defeat Satan and his lies with the blood of Jesus and the word of God. Revelation 12:11 says "They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much  as to shrink from death."

Talk out loud to the devil and say "Get Thee behind me Satan!" Matthew 16:23 says " Jesus turned and said to Peter..get thee behind me Satan. You are a stumbling block to me for you do not have in mind the things of God but the things of men." Matthew 4:10 says "Jesus said to him..away from me Satan for it is written, worship the Lord and serve Him only."

In Isaiah 54:17 it says "No weapon that is formed against you will prosper and every tongue that shall rise against you in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,and their righteousness is of thee says the Lord." Satan will try his best to get you to take his bait and many fall prey to this and do. Even some within churches are tricked by his schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:11 says " in order that Satan may not outwit us for we are not ignorant of his schemes."  He is the ultimate creep and has tricked many unsuspecting earthly subjects to carry out his evil here on earth. We are indeed in a spiritual battle. Do not get mad at 'mere man' knowing Satan has taken them captive to do his evil bidding, but be angry at Satan and be on your knees in prayer for those he is using against righteous men to hurt us.

 The anti Christ will come and will be a powerful force and lead many astray. Be aware. It says in 1 Peter 5:8-9 "Be self controlled and alert . Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking someone to destroy. Resist him standing firm in your faith because you know your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same type of sufferings." James 4:7 tells us to "Submit yourselves then unto God. Resist the devil and he will flee from us." Satan and demons are no joke. You are either doing the work of God or the work of the enemy, think of that for a while. There is no in between. John 10:10 says "The thief comes to kill, steal, and destroy. I came that they might have life and have it more abundantly."

 We know who wins in the end because it says in Revelation 12:9 "This great dragon, the ancient serpent called Satan or the devil, the one deceiving the whole world, was thrown down to the earth with all his angels." John 12:31 says "Now is the time for judgment on this world,and the prince of this (Satan) will be driven out." Jesus is Lord!

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I know there are evil forces of darkness who seek to destroy the body of Christ and our freedoms. I stand strong in the  Lord and the power of your might and resist Satan firm in my faith. I stand on the promises of God and I have victory in Jesus. I will not fear evil man and his schemes for you are with me Lord and will see me through. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link and start your Monday morning out with a praise song to the Lord. Be blessed!
http://youtu.be/wIg6RIbLz1c

PS We are in a world not of this world!!

Sunday, March 18, 2012

YOU NEED MORE THAN CHURCH. YOU NEED JESUS!

Do you go to church on a regular basis? Good for you! Do you think that is all that is required to get into heaven once your time on Earth is up? Do you go simply because it is expected of you? Do you feel any different when church is over or are you glad to be done for another week? Is your life any different as a result of you being in church? Do you go only because relatives expect it? Whatever the reason the saying goes "going into church will not make you into a Christian anymore than going into a garage makes you into a car."

 I guess the point is, do you want to go or do you just do it because it is the right thing to do? Perhaps your heart needs to be changed. Do you know what church is for? When you go to a Bible believing church you should come out 'spiritually fed' with more of a hunger to know Jesus even better. If not, maybe ask yourself if you have ever really committed your life to the Lord or maybe the problem is you need a church where people are growing in Christ and not just stagnating.

Matthew 5:6 says "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for  righteousness for they shall be filled." Psalm 107:9 says " He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things." In Proverbs 21:21 it says "He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor."

Hebrews 10:25 says " Let us not forsake the habit of assembling together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the day approaching."

So my friend, where is your heart at? Are you a church goer or a Jesus lover?

PRAYER: Dear Lord it is my desire to know you better by going to your 'house' to worship but also by desiring the word of God. I give you my heart today Lord. Mold me into the creature you want me to be. In Jesus name. Amen!

Click on link for an awesome praise song:
http://youtu.be/PWDU8rBBIJs

Saturday, March 17, 2012

SHEEP IN WOLVES CLOTHING WILL DECEIVE US

 Lying is so common to many people. To the anti Christ or his forces in our world it is the thing they do best. They lie, deceive, trick people and even make some feel they are Christians by  using just the right words. Do not be fooled. These people may look good but you will know them by their 'fruits'.  In the last days many confusing voices will say they read their Bible or pray or will even lie and say they are a Christian, but is their heart changed? Beware of false prophets and 'sheep in wolves clothing'. The Bible warns of false prophets and people who take others captive or deceive. They are roaming in our midst. Do not be fooled!

 Colossians 2:8 says "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ." Titus 1:16 says "They claim to know God but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient, and unfair for doing anything good." 1 John 2:4 says "The man who says ..I know Him, but does not do what he commands is a liar and the truth is not in him." Jude 1:4 says "For certain men whose condemnation was written about long ago, have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality, and deny Jesus Christ our only sovereign and Lord." 2 Corinthians 2:14 says " And no wonder for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light."

Many will be deceived, it says in the last days. They will deny God's  power but frequently name drop and feel just because they say 'God Bless America' or something similar people will think they are the real thing. You need to be alert to these people amongst us in this world. Pray for discernment and wisdom.

 We should not wish ill or harm on these people, but instead be praying for them to come to repentance and accept Jesus as Lord. Just as there can be double agents in our world who really work for the enemy, there are double agents of sorts for Satan to, sent to lead us off the path and get us to believe lies. Be on your guard. Proverbs  24:17 says "Do not gloat when your enemy falls. When he stumbles do not let your heart rejoice." Pray for these evil people who deceive that they come to know Jesus.

Matthew 7:15 says "Watch out for false  prophets which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ferocious wolves."

PRAYER: Lord thank you for the truth which will set us free. Keep me aware of any false teachers in my midst which may try to deceive me. I love you and you only Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.

Friday, March 16, 2012

PITY THE FOOL AND PRAY FOR HIM

Today in our world many people are anti church, anti religion, anti Christian, and anti God. This includes our own government, sadly, making laws against Christian beliefs. Beware, because you are messing with God and in the end He wins. In Psalm 14:1 it says "The fool says in His heart, there is no God. They are corrupt, their deeds are vile, there is no one who does good."

 Also, many lie, thinking nothing of it trying to trick and deceive people. Once again, the Bible says "God hates a lying tongue". (See Proverbs 6:16-19). No lying is justified, EVER! Believers know that and non believers don't care as to them there is no consequence because obeying the Bible means nothing to them. Proverbs 26:28 says "A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin."

 The Bible and Jesus is a threat to many. In some foreign countries you can be executed for naming the name of Jesus. Thankfully in the USA it is not like that YET, but beware, we are on a slippery slope and making a mockery of saying "God bless America" after speeches when in fact caring nothing about God or obeying Him. It is a mockery to put your hand on the Bible to take an oath of office then to go against its' teachings. Galatians 6:7 says "Do not be deceived. God can not be mocked. Whatever a man sows that will he reap." That is the law of God.  Job 4:8 says "As I have observed, those who plow evil and those who sow trouble reap it." God is not going to continue to bless a nation that turns its' back on Him. Psalm 33:12 says "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord."

We need to be praying for these 'mere men and women' in power who are making laws opposite what the Bible teaches. Instead of being angry at them, pity them and pray for them. Romans 12:14 says "Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse." As a believer if you know someone is going against GOD'S word, come election time, they should probably not get your vote. It does not matter if you are a life long member of some particular political party. If they take stands against God's word, then you need to speak with your vote. A government which  oppresses it's people is not what our founders envisioned.

It is not mere man that is ultimately in control but it is God. He is on the throne, not a king, a prince, a dictator, or a president. Leaders and rulers  may try to lord over their 'subjects' but God is not pleased. If the times today have you fearful,rejoice!! Jesus is Lord over all!  Psalm 37:25 says "I was young and now I am old, yet I've never seen the righteous forsaken or their seed begging bread." So do not worry.

 Psalm 16:8 says "I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken." Psalm 34:17 says " The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them, he delivers them from all their troubles".

PRAYER: Thank you Lord because I know you are Lord over all mankind and all creation. I know you are always behind the scenes working things out. Help me relax, keep praying, and trust you. In Jesus name. Amen.

 For further reading take a coffee break and read the entire chapter of Psalm 37. There is hope in Jesus alone and no man.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

MARRIAGE GOD'S WAY....A GOOD THING!

In the Bible when God created the heavens and the earth he created man from the dust of the earth. Then he took a rib from the man's side and formed woman. He said it was not good for man to be alone. He made a helpmate suitable for Him in the form of woman. He did not create Adam and Steve but Adam and Eve to love each other and have children to populate the earth. After making all His creation He rested on the 7th day and said "It is good!'

Besides marriage being a man and a woman it is about commitment. When a person says "I do" what they are also saying is I will honor and respect you too. Not everyone will get married,  but the fact remains as much as our modern society wants to dispute it, marriage is one man and one woman and there should not be some easy 'escape clause' when troubles come.

It was made for procreation which only a man and a woman can do. When you marry you make a vow before God, or you should, since marriage was created by Him. It is sad to be at a wedding where God and the Bible have been left out. Jesus should be Lord and center of your marriage relationship. Marriage is in fact ordained by God.

When a marriage is controlled by parents of either the bride or groom there is trouble brewing. The husband leaves and cleaves as does the wife. Parents out there back off and let your married adult children live their lives without trying to control them.

The marriage vows are clear when it says "leave and cleave" in Genesis 2:24. If you don't trouble is a brewing. Also the marriage bed should be undefiled it says in Hebrews 13:4.  "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral."

Satan will attempt to pervert love. Look at the Hollywood movies. Is that the ideal we strive for or do we strive for what it says in 1 Corinthians 13? Read that chapter when you get a moment. It is used at lots of weddings.

Matthew 19:4-6 says   “Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate."
God says  in Malachi 2:6 " I hate divorce". Divorce is a tearing away of a joined unit. It is wise to totally understand what marriage is and perhaps even have more marital counseling as many factors can influence the marriage. It is more than kissing and sex. Life takes over and the man and woman need to learn to live together in harmony and in agreement over many issues from finances, vacations, religion, to bearing children some day. Two different backgrounds come together similar to two streams coming together to form a river. There may be some turmoil but you are forming a brand new family and a brand new life. It is exciting!

For further reading see Ephesians 5:21-33. Be blessed. Marriage is indeed a GOOD thing just like God said especially if you marry your best friend!

PRAYER: Lord God I want to be a representative for you whether single or married and if married I want to keep you in the center of my marriage. No matter how my spouse treats me I will love him or her unconditionally. Help me to overlook faults and seek to love with the kind of love you desire me to. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link to enjoy an older song that used to be played at weddings lots.
http://youtu.be/utdPh1Ec1Ws

Note: big time spiritual warfare on this one. First it ends up mysteriously in my trash folder then I could not get it to line up right. But good news is I found it and no matter what the format looks like it is going out.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

BAAA BAAA

How many have been to a farm or petting zoo and observed the cute sheep? When I lived in Arizona the first time in 1984-85 we were on an Air Force Base at the Eastern edge of the city of Mesa. Presently, in 2012 ,that area, is city itself, due to immense population growth. Back then it was countryside and you could witness 'shepherds' taking sheep up to the mountains for the summer to get them out of the heat of the valley. It was impressive indeed. Of course they were not dressed in the attire we picture from Bible days but they were stilling control of their herd and these sheep knew it.

We are like sheep without a shepherd and we need our 'shepherd' Jesus to lead us and guide us so we do not fall off into the 'ravines of life'. If we follow Him and stay on course we will be safe and well provided for but if we are stubborn and go our own way we will be in danger of getting hurt similar to real sheep.

John 14:27 says My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me."  John 10:4 says "
When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice."

Isaiah 53:6 says "we all like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way. And the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all."  Sheep can be stupid creatures and want to do their own thing. That is why they need to follow the shepherds' wisdom and guidance to remain safe. We too need to follow our shepherd, Jesus, to stay safe and protected from the evils in this world.

PRAYER: Lord at times I have been stubborn and have not listened to you or read the Bible. Sometimes I go my own way and pay the price. Forgive me Lord. I want you to  be my shepherd. In Jesus name. Amen.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

FRIENDSHIP IS PRETTY AWESOME

 Friends are one of the greatest treasures of life! A true friend is even more special. Friends like the kind that stick closer than a brother and a friend who likes you warts and all. Friends who you can trust with your deepest secrets and thoughts and not be laughed at or put down. Friends that will go the extra mile to help you out. Friends that will change their plans if you have a need. Friends that let you cry on their shoulder and you need say nothing. Friends will not hurt your feelings. Friends are there when the world walks out on you. Friends that will not judge you or put you down. Friends that will listen.


Then there are friends who seemingly were not real friends at all who put you on the shelf because you are 'out of season' and no longer needed. Maybe you annoy them in some way and they prefer to not be around you anymore. Maybe they disagree with things in your life and cannot love you despite these 'warts'.  True, there are friends that come and go due to certain seasons of your life or places you have  lived .
 
 We are not to be ugly to these people that do this but instead be grateful for the time they were good friends and the time they were in your life. Miles and years can separate friends but a real true friend can always pick up where you left off when you are back together. A friend loves at all times. When you go through things you find out who your true friends are.

 
 Matthew 5:44 says "Pray for your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." This could mean friends who have turned on you and done hurtful things. You are commanded to love like Jesus loves. We do not have the right, according to GOD'S word, to be angry and ugly back at them. Luke 6:27 says " But I tell you, love your enemies and do good to those who hate you." Proverbs 17:17 says "A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for adversity." Further  in Proverbs 18:24 it says " A man of many companions comes to ruin, but there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother."

Do you have that kind of friend? Are you that kind of friend? Have you hurt someone? Go ask forgiveness and pray for restoration.  There is an epidemic of loneliness out there so if you have a special trusted friend do not forget to thank them for they are truly a treasure from God above. Go look for someone who seems lonely and make a new friend!

PRAYER: Lord I thank you so much for the gift of true friendship. I thank you for each and every person you have blessed me with as friends for even if they no longer want to be a friend I learned something from each relationship. Lord I ask you to bless my friends today. Help me never be closed to making new friends and help me look for a lonely person to befriend. In Jesus name. Amen.

Monday, March 12, 2012

HEY HOT SHOT!!

 Think you are pretty special huh? You have done some pretty impressive things in your time, traveled the world perhaps, won numerous awards and honors,have a job others are impressed with (or so you hope) , know important people, and make lots of money. The things of this world are so temporal and fleeting and the best person to know is not a Hollywood celebrity but is Jesus. Do you know Him? Do you live for Him?

The things of this world, all the fame and glory and huge homes and fat bank accounts will soon pass. One day you will die. Then what? Yes for skeptics out there you will either enter heaven or hell. It is no fairy tale. As much as the media pokes fun at those strong in their Christian beliefs they too will one day find out.

 It is even possible for those in Christian service to get 'puffed up' if they are not careful. When people start patting you on the back, be careful to give God the glory and don't let it go to your head.

 Romans 12:3 says  "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you."  Each of us is blessed with talents and abilities that are God given and we need not forget that.  Christian athlete Denver Bronco Tim  Tebow  is an excellent example of someone living their faith and fame with true humility. If only we could emulate those actions. Better yet do not imitate him as he is only human and humans can fail and disappoint us. Imitate Christ and seek to be Christlike! 1 Corinthians 1:11 says "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ."

Give God the glory for the  great things He has done!

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the gifts and abilities you have given me. Help me never compare myself to others and if I am ever complimented help me receive it with true humility as your servant. Keep me from getting puffed up. In Jesus name. Amen.

Sunday, March 11, 2012

TURN OFF THE NOISE

How can you hear from God if you are constantly bombarding yourself with outside noise clutter? At times in this high tech world we live in we need to put down our 'communication' devices and turn off the radio and television long enough to sit still and hear from God. There are so many distractions in our world today that we have to separate ourselves from them at times in order to have quality time alone with God. Weekends especially can be a challenge as all the other activities you want to do take center stage. You hustle about your home doing everything else but sitting down and being still and reading the Bible. You have to make a concerted effort to make a commitment to put 'time alone' with God, with 'no noise' on your daily schedule. It is vital for keeping the spiritual side of you strengthened. Just like muscles of the body get flabby if we do not work them out, the spiritual side gets 'flabby' and lifeless when not exposed to a daily dose of the word of God.

The recent Academy Award winning film 'The Artist' is a silent movie which by the way is excellent! I mentioned this to several people and they indicated they did not think they would enjoy going to a movie with no sound. (Do yourself a favor..go see this movie.)We have gotten so used to noise and distractions that we feel we can not do without them in our lives. Why do people in the city get away to the countryside? Probably to get away from honking horns and tons of people.

Isaiah 30:15 says "This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: "Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it." Jesus even went up alone to a mountain top. Try it sometime. Some of us live where we have mountains. Why not take a DAWG day (Day Alone With God) and spend time somewhere in solitude praying and getting in touch with the Lord?

Exodus 14:14 says "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." See there it is again. Be still! In our hurried lives that is often times a huge challenge. Put 'be still' on your daily calendar just as if you would a dentist or doctor appointment. Being still helps calm the soul too. Psalm 116:7 says "Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you." In Isaiah 32:17 it says "The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever."

Psalm 46:10 says "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Can you just sit and rest a moment with the Lord? John 6:15 says "Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself." Here the word 'again' is used indicating he went up to the mountaintop many times perhaps? It is a spiritual discipline to learn to be still and wait on God. Above all turn off the noise so you can hear His voice.

PRAYER: Lord God thank you for your gift of peace and quiet. If only we would take the time to turn off the noise around us for a short time to renew our spirits. Help me Lord to be disciplined to spend time alone and in quiet with you daily. Thank you Lord for your word which renews and strengthens me daily. In Jesus Name. Amen.


Click on link for worship of the Lord in song. Happy Sunday!
http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=77PDYWNX#


Warning about You Tube videos: Occasionally on You Tube the link will pop up with something not very Christian. It is a shame that we can not even listen to a spirit filled song without dealing with this. I had intended to post this song through You Tube but it has sexual related things attached to it so I chose to go with God Tube instead.

Saturday, March 10, 2012

MISSIONARY TO AMERICA

When you think of missionaries what comes to mind? Africa perhaps or Honduras or India? Have you ever considered that where you live is a mission field?  We are all called to share Jesus love with those around us. You do not need to spend thousands of dollars and go to Africa although that is a worthy cause and helps to fulfill the Great commission and is a good heart changer I hear. You may be reading this not from America but from perhaps Europe or Asia somewhere then where you live and work  is your mission field if you are a believer.

Where are you right now?  A doctor waiting room perhaps?At home? Maybe the service waiting area of your local car dealer waiting for oil change or waiting for a child to get finished with lessons at some sort waiting area with other moms.  Maybe you are at work. Perhaps you are getting ready to go out with friends. The point is wherever you are or wherever you go as a follower of Christ we are to be his witnesses or 'missionaries' to a hurting world around us. Smile at people. You rarely see many people smiling so that alone is a good witness. Be courteous and kind to others. Help with a need if you are able to. Get beyond yourself and make an impact in someone else's life. Do not walk around angry and revengeful but walk in peace and love.


Matthew 5:13-16 says “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

Now go out in Jesus love and be a light in your world!

PRAYER: Father thank you for equipping me to go out and share your love with others through my words and actions. Help me recognize opportunities to share your love with those you put in my path daily. In Jesus name. Amen.

Friday, March 9, 2012

GOD'S BOUNDARIES

The Ten Commandments.They are meant to protect us if only we would follow them. Just like a responsible loving parent sets boundaries for their children to help them grow up safe and learn rules and discipline and not become an uncontrolled citizen in society, God too, has boundaries for the way we act, think and live.  All of them are found in the Bible if only we would open it occasionally. No matter what it is, God has a way to protect you if you follow his commands. He does not give commands to be mean. Likewise, parents do not give rules and boundaries to be mean or controllers but they give them because they love their children and want them to grow up knowing how to act.

The Bible says to love but it also says to stay away from things that wage war with your soul. 1 Peter 2:11 says "Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul." What are those things? Well first sin is anything that separates you from God. When you do anything God is with you. If you are unmarried and in bed with a boyfriend or girlfriend, guess what, God is there. Is He pleased? When you go to a movie filled with sex scenes and curse words, once again God is there too. When you hang out with the wrong crowd and get into trouble, there is God tagging along. A girl who goes into an abortion clinic to end her unborn babies life also has God in there with her. He is everywhere. If you are in a strip club, or gentleman's club as they call them here in the South, God too is along for the ride. Yes he is subjected to the filth you subject your earthly temple to.

If you get in the mindset that Jesus is with you at all times it may make you think twice before you do certain things.  There are consequences to sinful lifestyles too. For instance, homosexuals  and heterosexuals who have sex can end up with diseases, some of which are life threatening. Remember we are to glorify God with our bodies and having sex without being married is for sure not up on God's 'okay to do' list.  Not to mention the emotional toll it will take on you for breaking God's laws. This is just one example.

Take time to sit down and pray and read The Ten Commandments. They are found in Exodus Chapter 20:3-17. Find Exodus in the Old Testament, right after the book of Genesis and read them. These commandments have power so much that evil forces in this world try everything they can to eradicate them. We are in a spiritual battle.

Galatians 5:16 says "live by the spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature."  Love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness and self control are some of the fruits of the spirit. Satan is always warring against you trying to get you off the path God wants you on. You have to resist him and run like crazy from evil. When you do not pray or read God's word you are opening the door for Satan to take you captive with lies and deception.

Psalm 73:23 says "Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand".

PRAYER: Lord it is my desire to walk in the spirit and not fulfill the lusts of the flesh. I seek to do your will and stay on the right path of life. When the enemy tries to get me off the path help me to resist him and run to you, my Saviour and Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.

Thursday, March 8, 2012

DRESSING FOR GOD , PART 3

Did you wake up today and put on your 'armor of God'? Before you step out into the world that awaits you each day you need to have on your spiritual clothes as well as your clothes in your closet. You have to be armed and ready to stand up against the tests and trials that may confront you each and every day. Satan throws darts at you and spiritual armor equips you to stand up against him and his schemes. When you exit your home you are entering the battlefield so be prepared.

Have you prayed? Have you examined your heart to insure it is following God? Psalm 51:10 tells us "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." Is your heart pure and holy? Do you have something against someone that needs to be forgiven and start the restoration process? Psalm 66:18 reminds us "If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened". We can pray til we are blue in the face, so to speak, but you are going nowhere til you have confessed your wrongdoings and sins to the Lord.

When you dress for God are you right before God and have asked him to keep you from willfully sinning? Did you know even taking  home little office supplies here and there is a form of stealing? Also making personal copies on the office copy machine is taking things from your boss as someone has to pay for it. Cheating on a time card is another. Integrity begins at home and should follow you right out the door and into the workplace and community. So when you dress up in the morning ask God to give you a heart of integrity as well.

We can look holy on the outside by our appearance but inside have a life that is nothing close to being Christlike. In Matthew 23:25-26 it says "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean."

Also one more issue for dressing for God for women is do you dress modestly? Do you try to draw attention to parts of your body or show things you should only be showing to your spouse? We are to be women of modest attire. If you have a daughter you have the authority as a mom to keep her dressed in a pure and holy fashion. Do not have her dressing to make men lust after her. Glorify God in your clothing choices as well. 1 Timothy 2:9 says "I also want women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes".

And finally make sure your mouth is 'dressed' for the day? Did you curse recently, belittle someone, gossip, lie, argue, or brag? Take time now to ask God to help clean up your speech and dress it with graciousness. Ephesians 4:29 says "Do not let any 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."

Seek to 'dress up' each day both spiritually and physically and do all things to be pleasing to the Lord.

PRAYER: Father in heaven I want to be dressed for battle and armed and ready to take on any challenges the enemy, Satan, may throw at me. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

DRESSING FOR GOD ,PART TWO

We spend lots of time each day getting ready to go out into the world we are in.  For some it may be more time consuming than for others. Let's say it takes you one hour to shower, do your hair, put your makeup on(ladies), shave(men) and dress.  Did you spend as much time getting your spiritual body and spiritual mind ready for the day?

Each day we enter a 'battlefield' of sorts when we leave our home. Sad to say, some folks have battles at home as well which should not be. Anyway it is important to be clothed spiritually to meet the fiery darts the enemy will throw at you through the course of the day. We put on cloth garments that are washed and pressed but yet our earthly body does not get the spiritual dressing it needs to grow in Christ and be strong in the Lord. The enemy will even put thoughts in your head like, "you can do that later on today" but the day comes and goes and you fall into bed often times not even taking the time to 'rest on the word.'  If you want to walk with the Lord and live for Him then you need to dress spiritually on a daily basis too.

It is going to take desire on your part and discipline to change bad habits and to get in the habit of dressing spiritually.  God does not look at our outward appearance but he looks at our heart. How is your heart? Is it pure and seat apart for God? 1 Samuel 16:7 says " but the Lord says to Samuel, Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him, for God sees not  as man sees , for the man looks at the outward appearance but the Lord looks at the heart. "

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."

Do you pray, read the Bible, and insure your heart is pure? Have you forgiven those who have wronged you? Do you hold bitterness, hatred and envy in your heart? If so it is time to insure you put on your spiritual clothes as well as your regular clothes each day before going out into the world.

PRAYER: Lord I desire each day to clothe myself in righteousness and with a beautiful spirit. I will resist the attempts that Satan shoots at me trying to make me get disinterested in Christian things. I know I need to  dress spiritually daily to stay strong in the Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.

           Click on link for awesome praise song.
           http://youtu.be/B0oZ6BZlQWk

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

DRESSING FOR GOD

When we wake up each day we get ready and get dressed for the day. How many of us who claim to know Jesus dress ourselves spiritually? The first thing we need to put on is 'the whole armor of God' that is mentioned in  Ephesians 6:10-18.  I will put it here for you to read.

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."

If you have children at home you could pray with them to keep the armor of God on and teach them how it helps to quench the fiery darts Satan will throw at us daily through various situations in our life. The younger the child the better to imprint it in on their brain. Satan is out to get our kids and we have authority in Jesus name and can pray them into their spiritual armor.

Colossians 1:12-14 says" Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."

So just like we dress with our earthly garments in the morning we need to also clothe ourselves with spiritual garments to be ready to meet the challenges each day holds.

Put off ugliness, hatred, jealously,bitterness, anger, rage, evil speaking, boasting, gossip, lying, stealing, cheating, sexual immorality, lust, greed, worry, fear, fighting, coveting and sensuality.

These things need to be placed in the 'rag pile'.  Do not send them to the 'thrift store' for others but get rid of them entirely. A child of God should not be 'clothing' themselves with these horrible items. If you have trouble in any area God can help you be delivered from it if I only will call out to Him.

Ephesians 4:22-24 says "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and  to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." Isaiah 64:6 says "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away."

Today if you hear and obey the voice of the Lord seek to be 'clothed' in his holy garments and live for Him.

PRAYER:  Father God I desire to put on good things in my life that draw me closer to you. Help me as I seek to put off the things in my life which do not bring glory to you. Help me to put them in a rag pile and never pick the up again. In Jesus name. Amen.

Monday, March 5, 2012

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS AND BE JOYFUL

Recently I saw a church sign similar to the title of my devotion. This sign is so pertinent to what has just happened in my local area that being the second outbreak of tornado's on a major scale within the same year. Not only did they hit but they struck the same area and some of the same homes were blown apart again.

 Just a couple days ago I rallied with other area volunteers  to once again, in less than a year, help  the same tornado victims who had been hurt on 27 April 2011. How do you help those who have lost their homes and possessions in not one tornado, but two in less than a year? First thing you may think is "move somewhere else for crying out loud!" Not everyone can do that, but some do. These people are stunned that a less powerful F2 or F3 hit them with a direct hit less than 12 months from the F4 or F5 that hit 27 April 2011.  How do you go on after a second devastation like this? It is almost like the 'Job Syndrome' where in the book of Job he lost it all. Get a cup of coffee and sit down and read Job. What do you say to bring comfort to these hurting people who once again have gone through immense material loss?

How do you bring hope to people who have had hopes and dreams of moving into their brand new homes with brand new possessions when the unexplainable happened and blew walls, roofs, and windows from their new homes, some of which were not even moved into yet? Why do things like this happen? How do you console them? The one good thing that most victims will say is "We at least have our lives". The best thing a helper can do besides pick up debris and possessions is to be a listening ear or give a hug and pray of course.

This time these devastating tornado's not only were not as powerful blowing debris 80 miles away, but in our area there were no tornado related deaths. Hallelujah for that! A few injured went to area hospital ER's for treatment but all in all most got away without injuries in this one. But still, there is that issue with the home being destroyed yet again. It almost makes you afraid to try build it for the third time. How do you get peace and contentment at times like these? As I looked at the same exact area that I had walked in less than 11 months ago I was shocked and had no explanation. Can you imagine the homeowners feelings?


"The Lord gives and the Lord takes away" it says in Job 1:21. Blessed be the name of the Lord.

At a time like this you really have to hang on to your faith and not run from it and be mad. In one home I helped in, there was the Bible on a table, several Christian books and multiple copies of laminated Ten Commandments. The woman was in fairly good spirits as we carried what remained out to haul away to storage.


First know that our possessions are not what make us. Next remember that there are no U Haul trucks going to the cemetery with your possessions to send to eternity with you. It is God who gives us our blessings and we are to be good stewards of them. In 1 Timothy 6:8 it tells us "But having food and clothing, we will be content with that." We think all the other things will make us happy but do they really? Proverbs 23:5 says "Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle." Well in a tornado that could be literal but in this sense it means that money is fleeting and in the big scheme of things not what life is about.  In the movie 'It's a Wonderful Life', Jimmy Stewarts' character, George Bailey, after attempting suicide because of financial problems, was saved by his angel Clarence Oddbody 2nd Class. George Bailey says to Clarence when he finds out he was sent here to help him "I know one way you can help me. You don't happen to have 8,000 bucks on you?" Clarence replies "No, we don't use money in Heaven" wherein George responds " Well, it comes in real handy down here, bud!"


Proverbs 27:24 says "for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations." 1 Timothy 6:17 tells us "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." We never know when we will lose it all. Having your life is what counts in the end. Psalm 52:7 says " Here now is the man who did not make God his stronghold but trusted in his great wealth and grew strong by destroying others!"

It boils down to this. Do not trust in your possessions or your wealth as they could be gone in an instant. Let God guide you and show you His perfect peace in the midst of a storm.

Matthew 10:29 says "What is the price of two sparrows--one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it." Just know the Lord is watching over you and you only need to trust Him. You are more important than the sparrows.

PRAYER: Lord help me to not trust in my home, my car, my bank account, or my possessions but you are my source of joy. Help me not be so dependent on things that if they all went away I could not have joy. In Jesus Name. Amen.

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

Sunday, March 4, 2012

RETIREMENT..NOT IN THE BIBLE

Now I am not trying to create a new sin here by saying if you are retired and out sailing, shame on you. The point is the word retirement and the concept of retirement is a modern day phenomena. It is not mentioned in the Bible. Why should someone who loves their job have to quit and sit in a rocking chair because society has deemed them washed up or too old or ready for their 'golden years'? It is refreshing to me in my travels to meet flight attendants who got hired after the age of 50. Why not? Also two ski instructors I met this winter in Maine were both over 65. Stop saying " I am too old". That negative talk  has to end. You can choose to believe you are of no value and no chance to do anything worthwhile or you can choose to know that God can use you at any age.

Also stop letting society make you feel you are old. Do not be afraid to try things. Do not worry that people will comment on your age. Keep doing things and do not sit in that infamous rocking chair unless you want to. You have many good years in you and the mindset of retiring is a new one created by something in today's world. If you love your job and want to keep at it, so be it. But you have to get the voices out of your head saying that  you are too old. Says who? This is the time to keep going. Take classes. Try new hobbies. Get a part time job somewhere. Volunteer. Help others. Keep active. Go to gym and work out. Stop constantly thinking it is time to retire for "after all I am 60".  60 seems young. People who quit on life and think they are too old will talk themselves into feeling it is time to hang it all up. Retirement then gets to mean "ready to die" to many. It should not!

Proverbs 23:7 says "or as he thinks in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee." You start believing things you keep thinking on. God does not say in His word to go retire and sit in a rocker or to head for the eternal golf course. Older people are simply people with a higher number than you for age. It is only a number. Often times you hear of stories of those who retire and they have no purpose in life and want to return to work. Your purpose should be to still serve the Lord with joy in whatever you do just stop saying "I am too old"!


Many feel they deserve to retire and kick back and do what they want as they have worked hard. Especially in the Armed Forces it is a well deserved honor for the sacrifice and hard work of these men and women. Unlike a civilian job they literally have laid their life on the line.

It is maybe time to visit the grandkids or take a trip or two. That  is fine. God wants to use you no matter where you are in life. The point being is not to be so into self and what you 'deserve' that you forget there are many people out there that could still benefit from your talents and gifts. You can only take so many cruises and play so many rounds of golf till maybe it is time to do something else. I have 'retired' friends who are full time missionaries.

Age should be something to be honored and respected and not poked fun at by comedians. With age comes wisdom and experience. Today we say "70 is the new 60 and 60 is the new 50!" Feel good and be thankful for the years the Lord blesses you with and find ways to bring glory to Him through your life no matter how old or young you are. You were created for a purpose! You are never too old in GOD'S kingdom to be valued and worthy to help those around you.

Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper and not to harm you. Plans to bring you a hope and a future."

You save for the future which is good and you provide for your family generations after you. God has blessed you with wealth but just remember no one says nor does the Bible say you have to retire. Keep going if that is what you want to do. God can use you wherever you are!


PRAYER: Lord God I thank you for each year of life you have blessed me with. I thank you for giving me talents and abilities to help serve others. Thank you for the gift of relaxation and thank you for money to enjoy fun times as well. Help me keep balance in my life so it is not all about me and what I deserve. In Jesus name. Amen!

Saturday, March 3, 2012

RELIGIOUS FANATIC? NO I JUST LOVE JESUS!

 Anyone who watches late night TV can attest to the fact that the late night talk show hosts sure are not user friendly to politicians and others  who are bold in their love of Jesus.  They just kept teasing the other night on one show about Presidential Candidate Rick  Santorum, who is outspoken in his faith in the Lord. Seems like it is not allowed and those who do not understand it continue to ridicule and poke fun at those of us who are not ashamed of our faith. Many may say what church they attend or what denomination they belong too but if you are serious about loving Jesus it is somehow not allowed in some circles.

Even some within churches, think people can go overboard and become religious fanatics or Jesus freaks. What is the point of church then anyway if you do not come out changed and loving Jesus?  What do you think heaven is going to be like? There will be no people discussing denominations or doctrines there. There will be no people there twisting scriptures to justify lifestyles and sins.

 I once  heard  that a Jesus freak is someone who loves Jesus more than you do. When you say you love the Lord and really mean it, you should want to stand up and do the wave in church. We do the wave at sporting events. Why not in church? Even some songs where it mentions lifting your hands up in the lyrics, in some churches, everyone stands there frozen. The frozen chosen?? Anyway the point being if you love God with all your heart you want to declare his praises and shout it from the roof top. If the church you are in isn't excited about the Lord and is just doing the church thing and you leave and get nothing from it perhaps it is time to find a place where GOD'S word is alive!! Or if it does not bother you then perhaps it is time to examine your own heart.

1 Corinthians 1:18 says "The message of the cross is to those who are perishing foolishness but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." Wow! Are you excited about God and His word?  Many things in the Bible are spiritually discerned and until the Holy Spirit opens your eyes you are not able to understand much of it. Many things are simple and to the point such as John 3:16 but if you have no desire to get into the word ask yourself why.

1 Corinthians 2:14 tells us "but the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God for they are foolishness to him, nor can he know them for they are spiritually discerned." Mark 8:38 is a verse I will never forget for a very bold Christian lady was at a military ladies coffee one night several years ago back in Kentucky and in conversation over the refreshment table with someone. I heard her quote this verse. It says " be not ashamed of me in this adulterous and sinful generation or the Son of Man will be ashamed when he comes in the glory of His Father with  the holy angels."

Are you excited about Jesus? Do you want to be? Start today and renew your mind with the word of God and ask Him to take control of your life. Then next time you are out eating in public and want to pray it will not be necessary to do the 'headache prayer' where you sort of bow but hold your head looking around like you are embarrassed. Just do it and praise the Lord! There is no shame in Him!

PRAYER: Father create in me a clean heart and a pure heart that wants to serve you and love you. Forgive me for the times I have acted ashamed. Make me a light in the darkness and put me in places during my day where I can shine unashamedly for you. In Jesus name. Amen.