Welcome to God's Lemonade Stand

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

Friday, May 31, 2013

LOVER OR HATER




If someone were to characterize you would they say you are a person full of love and joy or that your had a spirit of anger and hatred? As a follower of Christ we are to show love even to the unlovely in the world around us. Hating someone was never God's plan. Trying to win others to Jesus takes a heart of love, forgiveness, and compassion.

Think for a moment if it were your funeral today and what they would say in the eulogy about you?  What do you want to be remembered as? I am not trying to get you to constantly worry in this world about what others are thinking or saying but what I am trying to get at is search your heart for a moment. If you say you love Jesus then you should love people. When you talk about someone behind their back that is not showing much love do you think? If you have a problem in this area God can help you.

There are those in this world who hate Christians simply because we are Christians. It is confusing and sad to me but never the less we are still to reach out in love to the hurting world around us and even those you may not see eye to eye with.


It says in Matthew 5:44(NIV) to 'Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you'. Are you able to do this? Do you hold bitterness in your heart towards someone or so you have a grudge hidden away?

1 John 4:20(NIV) says 'If you say you love God but hates a brother or
sister is a liar for whoever does not love their brother or sister,
whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen.'

Where do you stand? A lover or a hater ?

PRAYER: Soften my heart Lord to those arounde who may have hurt me,
ridiculed me, insulted me, made fun of me or just outright shunned me.
Help me forgive as I know I can not show love without true
forgiveness. Give me the power to forgive even when the other person
wants nothing to do with me. Give me your love Lord for my enemies. In
Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, May 30, 2013

GRADUATION DAY

This is the time of year that lots of graduations are occurring. High school, college, graduate school, medical school and even kindergarten and eighth grades often times have graduations. It is a special time families look forward to almost as much as the individual graduating! Receptions, open houses, and parties are held in honor of the graduate.
Another even more "special graduation" awaits the believer who has accepted Jesus Christ into their heart as Lord and savior and that is our "graduation" into the heavenly kingdom. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 2:9(NIV) that '
However, as it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived" -- the things God has prepared for those who love him' or in other words as there is no way a human can possibly conceive of what awaits those who have asked Jesus into their hearts. In Isaiah 65:17(NIV) it says 'see I will create new heaven and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered nor will they come to mind.'
In our mere human minds we often wonder if "papa or mama are looking down on us" but apparently they are overcome by the beauty and grandeur of the heavenly kingdom it sounds like by this verse.


Are you ready for heaven? There have been stories told of believers who have died and miraculously been brought back to life after getting a glimpse of heaven and wished they could have stayed. We friends and family members want our loved ones to live, and rightfully so, but it sounds like by these stories that they are much better off in the splendor that awaits us with Jesus. Everything down here is so temporary. Heaven is forever. It is eternity. I did not ask if you were a church member or have been baptized. In Matthew 7:21-23(NIV) it says 'Not everyone who says to me "Lord, Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day "Lord Lord did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?" and I will tell them plainly "I never knew you. Away from me you evil doers."' I am not saying this to scare anyone but to truly search your heart. There is not one special denomination that has all the answers. Many people do lots of good "church things" but their heart really is not right with the Lord.

James 1:12(NIV) says 'Blessed is the one who has persevered under trial for having stood the test that person will receive the crown of life that is promised to those who love him. '
Many denominations think their way is the only way to heaven. I have news for you. There will no doubt be many surprises in heaven. We human "judges" think we have all the answers and even wonder at someone's death if they "got in". It is not our job to do that. We simply pray. I remember many years ago hearing a friend relate to me how this elderly woman had said to her mom that she did not think it was "fair" for someone to have a "death bed conversion" when she had served Jesus almost all her life. Say what? Like I said, there will be surprises in heaven. Murderers, thieves, rapists, those who committed suicide, and all sorts of people we humans like to say "probably did not get in". If they asked God to forgive them and asked them into their heart they are redeemed and set free.

We all have sinned. There is not a big chart classifying which is "the ultimate worst one". We humans do that, not God. 1 Corinthians 6:11(NIV) says 'And such were some of you but you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.'


Have you asked Jesus into your heart? Are you ready for your "heavenly graduation day"? In Hebrews 3:15(ESV) 'As it is said "Today if you hear His voice harden not your hearts as you did in the rebellion."'
Do you hear God's voice? Do you want to? If only you could stop and make time for Him today. If you are not sure you have asked Him into your heart it is a simple prayer. "Lord Jesus forgive me for doing my own thing. Forgive me Lord for shutting you out. I want you to come in and live in my heart today." Next find a growing dynamic church where you can grow in Christ and one that shows love and forgiveness. Finally get into your Bible each day and get to know Jesus better. You can not "know" friends without spending time with them. Same with Jesus. It is not just one hour on Sunday. Get ready to graduate!!


PRAYER: Today Lord I thank you for being my Lord and savior. Forgive me if I have made judgments on where another person stood or whether or not they would go to heaven because of something they had done. I do not know their heart. I want to know you better and I know that Satan does not want me to. I choose this day to live for you. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Click on link for an awesome praise song.
http://youtu.be/9La_4svq8JI

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

MONEY....IT IS NOT OURS REALLY


Why is it when a preacher gives a sermon on money or a Bible teacher on TV or radio mentions donating to their ministry it does not set well with people? We know there have been a few "bad apples" who have led others astray and misused money but frankly that is between them and God.

All we have is from God. We are only to be good stewards of it. It is God who gives us the power to get wealth. If you do not have a heart to give and just grudgingly put a dollar or two in the offering plate as it passes by, then God would rather you keep your money as your heart is not in it.

Money is indeed a reflection of where our heart is. If you were to die and someone saw your checkbook ledgers what would they "say" about your life ? Where did your money primarily go? Would it show you had a heart for helping others or only helping yourself? The Bible says "Give and it shall be given to you, reap and you will sow".

The following are all verses on money. Read them all and then search your heart and if you do not have a giving spirit ask God to change that. Do not give to show off as that displeases The Lord. Give even if no one ever knows and try your best not to "toot your own horn" and point out what you have done. Ask the Lord to keep you humble.

So here are your money verses:
Psalm 112:5 'It is well with the man who gives generously and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice.'
Proverbs 10:4 'Poor is he who works with a negligent hand , but the hand of the diligent makes rich.'
Proverbs 13:11 'Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles but the one who gathers by labor increases it.'
Psalm 23:1 'The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.'
Philippians 4:11-13 ' For I have learned to be content, whatever the circumstances may be. I know now how to live when things are difficult and I know how to live when things are prosperous. In general and in particular I have learned the secret of eating well or going hungry of facing either plenty of poverty. I am ready for anything through the strength of the One who lives within.'
Hebrews 13:5 'Keep your life free from the love of money and be content with what you have.'
Psalm 37:21 'The wicked borrows and does not pay back, but the righteous is gracious and gives.'
Proverbs 22:7 'The rich rule over the poor and the borrower becomes the lenders slave.'
Luke 6:38 'Give and it shall be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over will be poured into your lap. For the measure you use it will be measured to you.'
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 'Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed.'
Matthew 6:21 'For where your treasure is there will your heart be also.'
2 Thessalonians 3:10 '...If a man is unwilling to work then neither should he eat.'

There are many, many more verses dealing with money. This gives you some to read and ponder and decide perhaps that you need to maybe make some changes when it comes to "God's money".

Go now and share what God has blessed you with. Make a budget even if you do not need to and put Jesus first. Next set aside savings for your emergencies as we should not live like the government needs to help us. Share with others. For instance, right now there are many opportunities to help Oklahoma tornado victims. And finally take care of your bills and
then go do something fun. God will bless you for helping others before always thinking of yourself. Try it and see! It kind of makes you feel good to be unselfish with the treasures God has given to you.

PRAYER: It is is easy and human nature to want to hoard, be stingy, and be selfish with my monetary assets. I know all I have was given to me by God. He is the one who gives the power to get wealth in the first place. Satan is selfish and wants me to follow suit. Help me Lord remember that it is you who have poured blessings upon me. Thank you. In Jesus' name. Amen.



Tuesday, May 28, 2013

PRAY....IT'S NOT ILLEGAL!!! EXCEPT IN SCHOOL

 
In the aftermath of the Moore, Oklahoma tornado a school teacher was being interviewed about how she sheltered several students underneath her and one said to her "Don't let us die" and this teacher said they would be okay. She said at that time she prayed,even though illegal in school, and she prayed OUT LOUD. Oh horrors! The atheist folks from the Separation of church and state club, not sure of their exact name, will probably go after her. This is the group that even tried in my own area to get a football team to stop praying before a game. Give me a break! This borders lines on being ridiculous and a serious affront to religious freedom.
I have been around long enough to be able to pray in school and even have the Gideon's give out free Pocket New Testaments. I am not sure they can do that in public schools today. What are these people who oppose prayer so afraid of? It is sad to me to think of the many adults today born after 1963 who may have no idea what I am talking about. If we keep allowing our religious freedoms to be trampled on someday we may find ourselves having to hide to read our Bible or face jail time. This is no joke. It has happened in other countries where the nation has forgotten God.
Our enemy Satan is doing his "thing" and that is working through deceived people to try to remove anything remotely Christian from the United States. We are in a battle for the soul of this country. Even some who do not have time to check my facts would beg to differ with me thinking we are fine. Others grow up perhaps and are led astray by some textbooks that may have removed any mention of our Christian heritage and have come to believe what they see written by these book companies.

Prayer is not going anywhere. 1 Peter 3:15(NIV) says 'But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.'
I am not sure where I heard it but it was said "As long as there are tests there will be prayer in school." Isn't that the truth? I have been blessed for over 16 years to be a part of Moms in Prayer International (formerly Moms in Touch International). This ministry, which was founded by one mom in her Southern California living room in 1984, prays for school children, their teachers and faculty, and the schools they attend all the way through college. There are even groups for career children and military. Check them out at www.momsinprayer.org.
2 Timothy 3:1-6(NIV) says 'Remember this! In the last days there will be many troubles, because people will love themselves, love money, brag, and be proud. They will say evil things against others and will not obey their parents or be thankful or be the kind of people God wants. They will not love others, will refuse to forgive, will gossip, and will not control themselves. They will be cruel, will hate what is good, will turn against their friends, and will do foolish things without thinking. They will be conceited, will love pleasure instead of God, and will act as if they serve God but will not have his power. Stay away from those people.'
Satan is after the very soul of this country and it's children. Stand firm in the battles ahead for we know there will be religious persecution. We are seeing it now. The "uninformed" do not think this scenario can happen in the United States but it can and it is starting slowly. You have maybe heard the saying "Give a man an inch he will take a mile?". Well my friend we are in a battle of good and evil. Stay in the word and stay on your knees. We are not unaware of Satan's schemes.
PRAYER: Lord I thank you that I have the ability to pray. I thank you no power on earth can take away that freedom. Evil men may try to stop us and shut me down but I have my freedom through you alone. I pray for those individuals who are leading others astray and do not know you as their Lord and savior. I will pray and not give up as it says in Luke 18:1. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Click on link for awesome song about prayer.
 

YouTube - Videos from this email

Monday, May 27, 2013

LAND OF THE FREE BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE



 Memorial Day is here! This is a day we observe here in the United States to remember those who died while serving their country.

This is just not a day for sales at the mall,cookouts, and a day at the beach but it has a solemn meaning we should never forget. Anyone who has had the honor and privilege of visiting the most well known military cemetery on American soil, Arlington National Cemetery, outside Washington, DC can attest to the solemn atmosphere of this day. As a child back in Ohio I remember a parade being held where it ended in the local cemetery. Today's non stop 24/7 world leaves little time to do anything much less take time to honor the war dead who fought and died so you could go to the local pool, the mall, or out for a hike. There seemingly appears to be no respect for a day normally set aside just to observe this day,not to have it ignored.

Many today think this day is for honoring all people who have died. While thy is noble, the true reason for this special day is to pay tribute to those in service to this country have paid the ultimate sacrifice. It was first observed in 1868 and the actual day is May 30th but when our government went to three day holiday weekends back in 1971 they lumped this sacred holiday right in there with all others. I would like to see it return to the 30th and not be changed just for Americans to go out and shop or have the day off work or a long weekend to take a vacation. Then maybe it would have meaning again. If you are a parent or a grandparent who remembers what it used to be like try to instill this in your children or grandchildren.

Everyone reading this needs to stop for a moment, go see if you can locate your American flag or buy one if you do not own one, and go outside and put it on display. We enjoy the freedoms we have in The United States because of the brave me and women who gave their lives so we might live. I saw a bumper sticker recently that said "Marines Die So You Don't Have To". That is true. Army, Navy,Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard and National Guard are out there to serve and defend.


So today stop what you are doing and think about what we enjoy here in America because these brave heroes paid for it with their lives.

John 15:13(NIV) says 'Greater love has no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friends.'
PRAYER: Forgive me Lord for not taking time to give this sacred holiday any thought. Today we remember those brave heroes who lie in graves across this land and overseas, often forgotten and we say thanks. We pray for the families left behind. We also pray for those currently serving in our Armed Forces that you will protect them. We pray for our government to show respect to them and not use them for political tools. In Jesus' name. Amen.


Click on link for a patriotic song.

Sunday, May 26, 2013

KILL, STEAL, AND DESTROY

 
 
 
Our words or those of others to us can make us or break us. If you have ever been the recipient of harsh, hurtful words by either a stranger or one close to you then you know how bad it hurts you. The saying "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never harm me" is crazy. Yes indeed words misspoken cut to the very soul.
The title stems from the fact that words can cause arguments that indeed can lead to deaths or wars. Words can steal your joy and purpose in life. Also words can destroy your peace and crush your self esteem. What we say or what people say to us or about us can indeed make you or break you.
There is much to be said in the Bible about what we say. It is a critical factor of life. If you tend to be impatient you can speak or email something and really create a mess. Believe this writer knows that from much experience.
Did your momma ever say to you "If you can't say something good then don't say anything at all?" Momma was right. This tidbit of wisdom can carry you throughout your life.
Proverbs 15:23(NIV) says 'A person finds joy in giving an apt reply and how good is a timely word.' Are you words timely? Do you think before you speak or just blurt things out? If you are married, do you make it a point to let your words bless your spouse and show appreciation to them? If you do you will have a long happy married life with little conflict. No one enjoys being beat up with an onslaught of angry words so always remember that. If you are on the receiving end then do not act ugly and hateful back. That is what Satan would desire.
Colossians 3:17(NIV) says '
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.'

If you can practice what this scripture says you are on the road to having peace in your life.

PRAYER: Father today I can choose to bless someone or curse them. I can choose joy or sorrow. I can choose to forgive or to be vindictive. I can choose to end a quarrel before it even starts. Let only words that bring glory to you proceed from my mouth. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click link below for a powerful song.
http://youtu.be/D5V8_k70KnI

Saturday, May 25, 2013

CEASE STRIVING




What has got you all "wound up" inside? Is it trying to get a new title or name plate on your desk? Perhaps you are a stay home mom being told you don't do much and you feel bad about yourself even though you know God called you there?  Maybe it is a money issue that has got you concerned and desperate? A friend has unfriended you on Facebook and you do not know why? Is it maybe our world situation? Hopefully it is not a marriage problem. Whatever it is, God truly cares for you and loves you. Remember you are His child! You can talk to Him about it 24/7 as He is never off duty. 

Psalm 46:10(NIV) it 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 be still? Can you trust God to bring you peace only He can?  The enemy of our souls, Satan, is the one who wants you all caught up in this world and it's problems. In the New American Standard Bible the translation reads 'Cease striving and know that I am God.'  Are you able to trust God for the details of your life and not worry about other people? 

Psalm 39:5(NIV) says 'You have made my days a near handbreadth, the span of my years is nothing before you.Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.'  Ecclesiastes 1:11(NIV) puts it this way.'No one remembers the former generations, and even those  yet to come will not be remembered by those who follow them.'  So why the chaos and stress. Pray to God and go where He calls you but do not get yourself all fretful. God will see you through. Whatever you do the most important thing is to impact this world around you for Christ. If that is at home as a mom you have the most important job and that is raising that little one to love Jesus. 

Whatever you are striving for let go and let God guide you.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus there are times I do things that seem futile or I worry about what others think. The only person I need to please is my Father in Heaven. Help me remember that as I journey throughout my life.In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Friday, May 24, 2013

HIGH FIVE

The "high five" sign or "give me five" or "thumbs up" seems to be the universal language of goodness, happiness, or congratulations. My foreign readers will have to let me know if it is used in the country they reside in. When you say hi often you say "Give me five"!
tami

This "giving of five" is done when people feel joyful or happy. Do you feel joy or happiness in your life? Joy should not be dependent upon what is going on in your life but deep down you can experience the joy of the Lord no matter what is happening around you. "Now Becky don't be ridiculous! You are saying people in Moore, Oklahoma who have lost loved ones can actually have joy?"
Scripture says in Nehemiah 8:10 'Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Is The Lord your strength? Do you or can you feel His presence? When you get a moment read the entire chapter of John 15. Verse 11 says 'These things I have spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.'
Joy comes from God. You need to meditate on His word and His love for you. Do not allow your circumstances or people to rob you of joy. Joy could also stand for an acronym which is "Jesus First, Others Second, Yourself Last". Think of that for a moment. If you did concentrate and put Jesus first each day you would have a much better chance for maintaining your joy.

PRAYER:Lord I thank you that in you is found true joy. I know the enemy tries to defeat me daily and steal my joy. I will not allow things to spoil the joy of the Lord.Comfort those who are grieving today and bring them joy in their sadness. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click on link and worship God in praise and song.
http://youtu.be/ibPUbKW5Sak

Thursday, May 23, 2013

LOST KEYS? NO BIG DEAL!

Every adult sooner or later has misplaced the keys to their car either accidentally or by locking them in the car. The natural reaction is to stress and get hyper. Getting agitated over this does not solve the problem or nor does it help get your keys magically back. When you do this try to remain in control and calm.

The other day I did just this. I went to the bank and somehow had placed my car keys on the passenger seat then pushed auto lock not thinking. Sometimes rushing around is what causes us to lose them in the first place. When I had this happen this time I must have turned over a "new leaf" so to speak as when I had to use the bank phone the bank employee says to me 'I can't believe you are so calm". Wow I can not believe someone noticed. Maybe that meant I was actually learning to be at peace.
It takes patience, prayer, practice, and letting God have the controls to be able to not worry or stress. This "key thing" is just one example of something minor that seems major at the time and can distract you and get you extremely agitated. If you have this problem how do you overcome it and begin to relax?
First you need to take a breath then you need to pray. Next realize all the worrying in the world will not change anything so you may as well seek peace and take a breath.
Psalm 34:13-15(NKJV) reminds us 'Keep your tongue from evil, And your lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their cry.' Do you believe this? It takes practice and God's help to remain in control of your emotions. Satan is the great "frazzler" of nerves and Jesus is the gateway to a peaceful life. Trust Him today.
PRAYER: Lord I thank you for the times in my life that things happen as I need to have times to practice your presence and not be sent off the "deep end" and start fretting. I choose this day to allow you to work in my heart and bring peace. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

THOSE PESKY WEEDS!!


This past week I discovered what happens when you forget about your strawberry patch. It gets choked and buried under weeds. You have to work for hours to bring it back to life and make it look pretty again. Then it is necessary to keep weeding it so the plants do not get "choked" and not grow.

Our spiritual life is like that. In previous devotions I have mentioned pulling the "weeds" out and referring to them as sin in our lives. These "weeds" keep the fruit of the spirit from growing in our daily lives. You may think you have yanked them out by the roots but lo and behold they crop up again and again and keep choking the plants. Sometimes they are vines with thorns that stick you when you try to get them out of the ground.

Sin in our life can keep us in bondage. Like these weeds, it grabs hold of you and unless it is dealt with and uprooted completely it will come back again and again. How do you get these devastating things out of your life? It is as simple as not conforming too much to this world and reading your Bible and meditating upon its' truths daily. The world can lure you into many "briar patches". By getting into the word of God you are putting on the "armor of God" to protect you from the attacks of our enemy, Satan. The more you read it you are able to "kill" those "weeds" that are choking your spiritual growth.

Certain things may tempt you and deep down you know you should not do them but that old devil tricks and deceives you and you cave in. Some sins are harder to escape from but you can not quit. God is on your side and He can help you get those roots of sin completely pulled up if you ask Him to.

Is sin choking out God and His word in your life? Make up your mind today that you will do what is necessary to not allow Satan to gain a foothold and become a stronghold of weeds in your life.
James 4:7(NIV) says 'Submit yourselves then to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.' This might mean saying no to something friends want you to do. It might mean being careful what you read and watch on TV and in the movies. It might be that you need to start a regular time with the Lord. You can not be strong and attempt to defeat the enemy if you do not hide God's word in your heart.
Psalm 119:11(NIV) says 'I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.'
PRAYER:Lord I need to be more like you and less conformed to the world around me. Help me Lord to impact the world you have placed me in. Forgive me when I have allowed sin to seep into my life and have done nothing to stop it. Give me your strength Lord to resist temptations the enemy throws at me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click on link for a powerful song to get your day started:
 
Additional reading: Read Ephesians 6:10-18


YouTube - Videos from this email

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

EARTHLY POSSESSIONS BECOMES DEBRIS

 
My heart goes out to the residents of Moore, Oklahoma who endured a deadly F4 possibly F5 tornado this past Monday, May 20. In 40 minutes it came and went leaving dead, injured, smashed cars, houses that were splinters, washing machines, pets wandering around anrd wreaked havoc seemingly in the entire town. Even the hospital took a direct hit. Indeed it is a sad and shocking time for the residents of this Oklahoma City suburb. Oklahoma is in tornado alley and it accustomed to hearing that siren go off but this does not make it any easier.
I can assure you that these devastated people in Moore are not worried about their smashed cars, destroyed furniture, missing jewelry at a time like this but more than likely those who made it out unscathed are thankful to be alive. Psalm 4:5(NIV) reminds us to 'Put your trust in the Lord.'
First Responders to this catastrophic event need our prayers. No one can explain why storms of this magnitude rush and roar into a community taking lives as they sweep at 200 miles an hour through town.
The one thing that struck me during news and weather reports about this tragedy was they keep saying as the funnel touched down "Look at that debris field". Sofas, baby gifts, pictures, curtains, dishes, clothes, shingles, windows and all else is now called debris. All that labor spent to acquire possessions, lock them up, buy insurance to protect them, is turned unto a "debris field".
Psalm 20:7( NIV) says 'Some trust in chariots, some in horses, but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.' Proverbs 11:28(NIV) says 'He who trusts in riches will fall but the righteous will flourish like foliage.'
Right now the people of Moore need our prayers. This tragedy involved the death of children which is always hard. The natural response is to rush in with donations of clothes and food. Right now they are assessing the direction to proceed in emergency response efforts. I for one wish I could go down and help pick up and maybe even be a caseworker for the Red Cross. I remember when the tornado outbreak of April 27, 2011 hit our area and I was fortunate enough to get to help with cleanup, I saw a house spray painted that said, "Don't just look, HELP!"
James 4:13-15((NASB) says 'Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.” Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.”
We do not know what our life will be like tomorrow, or the next day, or the next. Bad things happen in life but people always seem to emerge stronger. Right now simply pray for recovery workers as they sift through rubble. Pray for those formulating relief efforts. Pray for clean up teams and safety for those on the site as there is broken glass and things that can injure people and their rescue dogs. Mainly pray for strength for these folks there in Oklahoma.

PRAYER: Lord God my heart goes out to the people of Moore, Oklahoma. Tragedies come and go and no one is exempt from them. Lord Jesus may good come out of this tragedy somehow. Comfort those who have lost family and friends in this storm. Be with those in the community of churches there who will no doubt be helping in a big way to lift spirits and give comfort. Protect the town from looters and those who would try to profit from tragedy. Help people not think of just themselves but reach out to help. Give strength to medical teams and police and firefighters who are seeing this devastation first hand. Give them strength. In Jesus' name. Amen.
How can I help?
Text STORM to 80888 to make a $10 donation to the Salvation Army or call 1-800-SALARMY or mail check to Salvation Army Disaster Relief and designate your check to Moore, OK tornado and mail to P.O. Box 12600, Oklahoma City, OK 73157.
www.salvationarmy.org
Also go to www.samaritanspurse.org for a link on how to help.
At a time like this everyone seems to want to do something.
Also www.redcross.org for ways to help and possibly be trained for future help.

Monday, May 20, 2013

CONNECTIONS

 
In my travels I get a kick out of everyone on their portable "life saving devices" or at least that is what we modern era folks look like constantly thinking we have to be connected. People almost look like robots rushing through concourses at various airports constantly on these little devices. Oh what on earth will someone do if they can not get you on the phone? How did we manage to survive without our communication devices 24/7 before this?

Every now and then you should seek to find peace without being "connected" all the time. It is necessary to just get away at times and just relax. You do not need to know every friends' Facebook status. Life will still go on.
When thinking of being connected, I was thinking our best and most important connection is with Jesus, yet how many of us fail to even give him any time in our day? We rush about doing all sorts of "necessary" things without even caring to have the power to resist Satan by getting daily into the word of God for a dose of the truth.
Are you guilty of putting God on "hold"? Right now you can change that. How much time do you spend on your wireless devices? Maybe try to budget your time and give Jesus some too. Do not make it legalistic in the sense you are just checking a block. But sincerely ask God to help you make time for Him and give your device a break for a while.
Isaiah 26:3(NIV) says 'You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.'

PRAYER: Lord Jesus it is my desire to let you be my biggest "connection". I know I have been at fault in neglecting time with you as I give more and more time to all the little "communication toys" I own. It is my desire to grow more in Christ and let you have first place. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, May 19, 2013

STOP GLOATING

It seems our world is full of people wanting to get back at people. It is what keeps attorneys in business. Maybe if someone hurt you, you want to get them back. You feel extreme hatred to a person who took the life of a friend or family member in a murder or auto accident and say you want them to receive justice too and get hurt just like they hurt the other person.
It is true that in a court of law people have to account for what they have done wrong. But for we as individuals to wish them ill will is not right either.
Right now our country is buried in scandal and turmoil and people need to be held responsible for the law breaking and atrocious things that have been hidden. Usually it will fall to the person ultimately responsible which in our countries' case would be the President. We need to pray and continue to pray and not be sitting around wishing he would get what is due him. Even though it is "natural" to hate and wish the worst thing when you have been wronged we really need to get our emotions under control. The Bible says in Romans 12:14(NIV) 'Bless them that persecute you. Bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another.'
Our most effective tool in anything is prayer. If you are feeling hatred or immense anger over a situation ask God to replace it with supernatural love and pity for that person. This battle is about good and evil. God and the devil. Spiritual warfare. Proverbs 24:17-18(NIV) says 'Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when he stumbles, do not let your heart rejoice, or the LORD will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from him.' Instead practice the power of prayer. In dealing with our nation's leaders and the corruption that is being uncovered, just pray for the truth to come out and righteousness to be done. Do not allow hatred or anger to control you. Let God do His work.

PRAYER: Lord I know we are commanded to pray for our enemies in Matthew 5:44 to pray for our enemies. Lord I can only do this through you and with your power. Lord Jesus you ultimately are in control and I need not worry but to trust you have a plan. Forgive me for any anger or hate I may have had. I want to remember to pray and let you do the rest. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click on link to post your prayers and read others prayers. This site is not run by the government but is independent.

Saturday, May 18, 2013

ARE YOU CONTENT?

What makes you happy? Do your possessions make you happy? Does your "stuff" bring you joy? If all your "things" blew away in a tornado,were destroyed in a flood or fire, or were stolen could you still be content? If everything you owned were gone in an instant would you not know what to do with yourself?
In Philippians 4:12(NIV) it says 'I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.' Can you make this verse sort of your "marching order" and try to live a life bringing to glory to God without worrying about your possessions?
1 Timothy 6:6(NIV) reminds us 'But godliness with contentment is great gain'. In Luke 12:18-21(NIV) we see a story of a the rich fool who seemingly was not worried as he had things set aside to make him comfortable. These verses say 'Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”
Where is your heart? Are your things or your hobbies more important than serving the Lord? Only you can answer that question.
PRAYER: Father forgive me when I have worried about my "stuff" and not been content with just the fact that you will take care of my needs. Help me remember things will not get me into heaven but loving you and being willing to take up my cross and follow you will. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click on link below for an awesome song to get your day going! Happy Saturday! Be blessed!

Friday, May 17, 2013

DOESN'T PLAY WELL WITH OTHERS



Back when I was in grade school in the "olden days" as some children and young people today would like to think, on our grade cards there was a section on behavior and one of the categories said "Doesn't play well with others". Thankfully I never had this block checked but it gave me an idea for a devotion.
Do you "play well with others" or are you self centered, rude, hurtful, selfish, hateful, unkind, and harsh? Only you know. Do you do things to try to make you look good at the expense of others? Are you a bragger or do you exercise humility? Do you put others before yourself? Do you refuse to forgive and show love?

The world around us is all about number one, me, myself, and I. Magazines even have titles such as "Self". Facebook is nice to share pictures and a good way to keep in touch but if we are not careful we can get self consumed on it. Thinking of number one can occupy most people's time.


Are you able to share? Are you able to let someone go ahead of you? Do you do nice things for others or do you expect people to help you all the time? The more kind, generous, and humble you are the more pleasant you are to be around.
Satan wants you to be self consumed. He wants you to be rude. He wants you to "walk over" others to get ahead. He wants you to be evil and arrogant. He wants you to be a big bully. He wants you to refuse to forgive. But I bet you can guess what God wants?


1 Peter 3:8(NIV) says 'Finally all of you, be like minded, be sympathetic,love one another, be compassionate and humble.' It is never too late to start. If you have trampled people or hurt them go apologize. Treat others like you want to be treated is a good rule of thumb. Now go out and be nice!

PRAYER: Today Lord I choose to be kind for you. Forgive me if I have ever bragged or been less than humble. I want you to be first, others second, and myself last. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, May 16, 2013

SNOW CONES ARE DECEIVING AND OTHER TRICKS

Last week I was  blessed to spend an entire week in Tulsa with my sister and her family and had a wonderful time. One of the things we did was to go to a very popular hang out that had all sorts of flavors of snow cones. I have been extra careful in the past year watching what calories I put in my mouth but somehow these tiny cups of ice with a squirt or two of flavor on top of them hardly seemed like anything. Wow was I surprised when I looked up the calories later in my fitness ap.Yikes, who would've thought they were so many calories!

Sin is kind of like that snow cone. It may look good and appealing and you may feel like it will not harm you or it is only a "little sin" but to God sin is sin. Sinful things can come wrapped in beautiful packages too in order to captivate and lure you off the course God has set for you. 

2 Corinthians 7:14(NIV) says 'And no wonder for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light'. When you celebrate Halloween you are masquerading in a costume as someone or something else. You are hidden. Well Satan hides himself in many foolish pleasures as he is after your very soul. He wants you to be consumed with the world and not God. He tries to trap and ensnare you. You are tempted to lie, cheat, steal, go someplace you would never tell your own mom, or engage in risky behavior. The devil loves it when you do. He is evil and God is good.

Romans 12:2(NIV) is a good memory verse to help you stay in tune with God. It says '
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.'

Are you living and walking with Jesus or caught up in things that would bring shame upon his name? Are you trapped in a lifestyle or have done something you think you can never escape from? First of all God is waiting for you to confess your sins to Him. He wants you to be doing things for His kingdom, not Satan's.

1 John 1:9(NIV) says 'If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and purify  us from all unrighteousness.'  Can you do that today?

PRAYER: Thank you Lord that I have forgiveness from you. No matter what I did in my past you have forgotten it. Keep me on the right path of life. Convict me of my sins. The devil tries to distract me and I will resist and rebuke him. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

HOME RUN FOR JESUS

 
With the recent April and May release of the awesome movie "Home Run" I was thinking of how in baseball it is so exciting when someone hits a home run. Out of the park it flies. The crowds go wild with excitement as they cheer their favorite team on. I have lived in three big baseball cities those being Cincinnati, St Louis, and Phoenix. I had the pleasure to go to several games and it is quite fun and thrilling.
Living for Jesus we are working to hit a "home run" too. Our "home run" is living for the Lord and going to heaven is the ultimate "home run". Our "Home Run" is conquering struggles in our life through the power of Jesus.

Are you presently living for Jesus and trying to grow closer to Him or is He only a passing thought in your day? Does your day start with prayer and Bible reading? Are you in a growing dynamic church that brings you closer to the Lord or is Sunday "your day" for relaxation? Do you just go to church because you "have to"? Are you doing those things in life to help you hit a "home run" for Jesus? Are you trying to fight battles on your own power?

2 Timothy 2:15(NASB) says 'Be diligent to present yourself to God, as one approved, a workmen who need not be ashamed, and who correctly handles the word of truth.' Study God's word. Know that He can rescue and set you free from whatever it is in life that has you stuck in a rut. He loves you more than anything.
PRAYER: Come into my heart today Lord Jesus. I am tired of fighting battles alone and living a defeated life. I know with your power inside of me I can stand strong against anything the enemy throws my way. I choose to hit a "home run" for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below and find out if Home Run is showing in your area.
This link below can help you get on the right road to recovery.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

POSITIVELY SPEAKING

On a recent trip to visit my sister in Tulsa I learned that my great niece Rylees' school,  Jenks Intermediate School, is known as "The Most Positive School in America". Wow wouldn't you like to work in a school or at a company considered the most positive? So does that mean, like the song lyrics in "Home On The Range" that "never is heard a discouraging word, and the skies are not cloudy all day"? I would hope so with that recognition behind their school name.

It is seemingly very easy to act like the Sesame Street character, Oscar the Grouch, which would be constant complaining, grumbling,  and just going through your day with a negative attitude. Satan loves grumblers, especially Christians who grumble. When you are with friends, family, strangers, or co workers wouldn't you rather be with someone who is cheery or would you rather associate with a complainer or gossiper? 

Whatever a person is dwelling on or thinking is usually what ends up popping out of their mouth. In order to have positive speech your mind needs to be disciplined to think on good things.(See Philippians 4:8).  Ephesians 4:29(NASB) says 'Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.' Are you guilty of "unwholesome words"? I am not referring to just cursing but lying, gossip, ridicule, hate, and negativity. Do you think and talk positive? Why not make Philippians 2:14(NIV) your verse to live by? It says 'Do everything without grumbling or arguing.' 

PRAYER: Lord today I  choose to be positive. I know the enemy can drag me down through a negative mindset. I choose to resist the urge to gripe, be mean, complain, or hurt someone with my words. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, May 13, 2013

PRAY! DON'T DELAY! DO IT TODAY!

Make it rhyme any time. I am a poet and don't know it with this title above. Maybe a snappy way to remember to pray and not give up or quit thinking God is not hearing you.
Do you make it a daily habit to talk to God in prayer? If not why not? Do you feel it is not important? Maybe you feel cheated by God because he did not keep a friend or family member alive when you constantly cried out to Him so you feel let down by God? You feel God turned His back on you and now you're hurt or angry. You say church is stupid and a bunch of phonies and hypocrites. Whatever the reason that you are away from the routine of praying now is a good time to go back.
Satan lies to you and captures your thoughts to think his way especially in your weakest most vulnerable moments. 2 Corinthians 10:5(NIV) says 'We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.' That is what you HAVE to do. Take "captive" bad thoughts. Bad thinking can ruin your life. The enemy likes to get into our minds and make us believe lies. To combat this stay in tune with God through the Holy Bible.
 Don't give up on God as He certainly has not given up on you. Revelation 3:20(NIV) says 'Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.' Are you ready to open the door and let Jesus come in?
 PRAYER: Lord forgive me when I have ever blamed you when things did not go my way. I know you have a plan greater than I can understand. I also will not allow Satan to defeat me through my thought life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, May 12, 2013

MOM WE LOVE YOU



 Mother's Day is either a happy occasion or one of sadness. For those who recently lost their moms it can be an emotional time. Even if your mom died several years ago this holiday may be hard to celebrate. It can also be very difficult for those who have either suffered a miscarriage, lost custody of a child due to divorce, had an abortion they regret, had an infant or a child die. Maybe you had an abusive parent and were raised in foster care and that too makes it a hard day to celebrate.

If your mom is still alive celebrate her today. Your mom or your children may be hundreds of miles away but still pick up that phone and call her. Send her flowers. Try to stop if you can and think of all the things she did for you growing up to help you get to where you are today. If your memories are not so glorious try forgiveness and restoration even if she has passed away. Do not let a grudge or hurt fester. Some children forget their moms and this should not happen.

If you harbor resentment towards a mom or even a mother in law or never really had a very good relation with them now is the time to pray for God to help you forgive and not hate. There is a verse in Joel 2:25 which basically says 'I will restore the years the locust has eaten'. After all if it were not for biological moms we all would not be here. If you are adopted just remember you are very special too. Your mom and dad may not have been able to have children but they hand picked you. You are special!
Did you know on this special day there are also moms in prisons across our country? It is true. Try to imagine these women and their children trying to celebrate this day. When Mother's Day comes we often do not think of moms in prison or if we do sometimes do not have compassion for them since they are a criminal. That is not the attitude Jesus wants out of us.
Think of the jobs moms do: counselor, maid services, laundry, short order cook, tutor, finance officer, nurse, motor pool dispatcher, creative artist, proof reader, maintenance, social coordinator, spiritual advisor, mediator, and much much more. You can probably add to this list. Today if you are a man reading this who is married be sure to honor your wife. If your own mothers are still alive do something special for her as well. If you harbor hard feeling ask God to mend your heart and allow you to forgive.
If you are a mom reading this thank the Lord for allowing you the awesome privilege of bringing children into the world. Our jobs as moms ends basically at adulthood but we will always be a mom. Thank the Lord for helping you do the best for your children. If a child has "issues" do not beat yourself up and make Satan believe you messed up somewhere but thank him that you know your child will be okay and that he or she is a gift from God above. Psalm 127:3(NIV) says 'Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him." I like that word picture. They are a REWARD!! We are blessed!
Today take time to celebrate and give thanks for moms everywhere!
PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for this Mother's Day. Help me never forget the awesome things my mom has done for me. In Jesus name. Amen! (If your are a mom or dad add the following...And thank you Lord for my children!)

Saturday, May 11, 2013

PRAY! PRAY! AND PRAY SOME MORE!


I am all about praying. Prayer is our hotline to God. When you feel like all hope is lost why not try praying. In yesterday's devotion I mentioned the Bible verse found in Lamentations2:19(NIV) which says 'Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin, pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at every street corner.'  In other words, don't throw your hands up in despair and feel hopeless but keep praying and pray again. (See Luke 18:1). 

We need to be on our knees in prayer for the lives of our children. We need to pray seducing  spirits do not hold them captive or lead them astray. The enemy works overtime to try to distract our children from not being sold out to him. The devil perverts the message of Jesus Christ and tries to get us to believe lies. He wants you to be mad at God and turn your back on Him. 

When I was a child we were allowed to pray in school. The Ten Commandments were posted. As a result there was lots less crime, teen pregnancies, school drop outs, and drug use. God was the "standard" that kept it all together. But sadly in 1963 God was made illegal in our public school system. School prayer hit the "chopping block" in the Supreme Court and no longer could we pray as a group in school. You can try to take God out of school but I heard someone say, as long as there are tests there will be prayer in public school.

Colossians 2:8(NIV) 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.' Pray this verse for your family members. The forces of the world and the lure of fun do captivate and sometimes take our eyes off Christ. We can not allow that to happen.

Our world has gone crazy. Little by little we push God out. This happens in our daily lives too. It is more "fun" to read a magazine  or paper than the Bible. Our spirit grows when we get into the word of God. Within the pages we have power to defeat the enemy,Satan. 

We can still pray but just don't pray and feel like that is all that is needed. Psalm 66:18(NASB) says 'If I regard wickedness in my heart the Lord will not hear.' Get your heart right with God first. 

Even prayer gets pushed out of our day. Sure we may utter a quick "thank you for this food" prayer but do you really ever "talk to God" in depth and share your heart with him? Find yourself a place to be your "prayer place" and each day make it a point to not forget to go there and start the day right. If you are a married couple maybe try praying together. Prayer does brings couples closer together. After all the marriage is a three strand cord and God is that third strand that keeps it all together. A rope of two strands would easily break. So too a marriage where God is not first and is a priority.

Yesterday's devotion ended with  Psalm 1:1-3(NIV) and I will repeat it today. Perhaps you can commit it to memory. 'Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.'

PRAYER: Lord I know what I need to do. I need to not put you as last on my "to do" list although at times I have. You bless me so much yet at times I am too busy with worldly things to bother to spend time with you in prayer. It is my desire to not make excuses anymore but to make time daily to pray. In Jesus' name. Amen.

NOTE: Moms interested in prayer for their children check out www.momsinprayer.org.  Moms in Prayer was formerly called Moms in Touch. I have been blessed to be a part since 1996. Check it out! 

Friday, May 10, 2013

BE FRUITFUL AND MULTIPLY


This is a command of God found in Genesis 1:27-28(NIV) which plainly says the following. 'So God created mankind in his own image,  in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.

Marriage is between  a woman and man, and that was God's plan all along. Two men or two women can not "be fruitful and multiply". It is impossible. Today our  world has gone crazy trying to pervert the gospel of Christ to make it okay for those loving the same sex person to be married. Opposing this plan, Christians are called hateful. It is not about hate but it is about what the Bible clearly states. Many fine Christians have even bought into this lie and some of them struggle with same sex attraction as well. 

We need to be on our knees in prayer for the lives of our children. We need to pray seducing  spirits do not hold them captive or lead them astray. The devil is at  work overtime to destroy and pervert the message of Jesus Christ. Lamentations 2:19 (NIV) says 'Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at every street corner.'

Turning our backs on God by not opening up and speaking out against things that are contrary to His teaching is wrong. We need to do it in love. Many may oppose you because they have bought into the lie of Satan. Today the culture of America has endorsed and made legal killing babies in the womb and is now attempting to legalize same sex marriage. The more we see it on the news and start getting our minds saturated with the lies of the enemy the more we buy into this false teaching and start thinking "people should get to do what they want" so leave them alone. Let them be happy. 

If you "walk with God" you can not rewrite scriptures to help your "sin" be okay. The word of God never changes. Modern society buzz words are "equality" and "tolerance". Christians who speak up are called hateful. So are we to just roll over and be brainwashed by our society giving no thought to people mocking God? The answer of course is a resounding NO.

I will end with Psalm 1:1-3(NIV) which says 'Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.'

PRAYER: Lord I want to know the truth and I thank you it is found in the uncompromising unchangeable word of God. Help me be gentle in sharing with others who may be believing a lie from Satan. Help me remember to pray, not condemn, those caught up in this lifestyle and being lied to by Satan. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, May 9, 2013

PRUNING......OUCH!


Spring is officially here with it's pleasant weather in many parts of the world. When you think of spring what comes to mind? For me it is baby bird eggs, new life, beautiful flowers and mild temperatures. At the start of  the spring season many may  have plans for growing a garden or planting some flowering trees and bushes. 

When you start a garden or any growing project to keep things  blooming it is necessary to do some pruning and weed pulling. Taking those pruning shears you snip limbs or pick off dead leaves. I think of the movie "The Wizard of Oz" when Dorothy was on her way to Oz with her little dog Toto when she came upon a tree where she pulled fruit from the branches and the tree said "ouch" or some word of pain. Now we know this film was fantasy as there is no such thing as a talking tree but for this devotion I decided to use it in a " word picture" of sorts. 

There are times in our own life where it may be necessary for God to do some pruning on us to get better spiritual fruit to grow. This pruning could take the form of a trial, a loss, or a set back of some sort. Spiritual pruning is not fun when it is happening but the end product will br beautiful. 

John 15:1-6(NIV) says 'I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you.No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.' Those verses sum it up quite while. You must "abide" in Jesus so you will grow in Christ. He is growing you into a beautiful child of God. Only trust Him.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for the things that happened to get me closer to you. Seems there are times I forget about you but when  a crisis hits I cry out to you. Help me to stay connected and get the necessary pruning I need to be more like you. In Jesus' name. Amen

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

BEWARE OF FALSE TEACHERS



What exactly is a false teacher and how do we protect ourselves from them?  My opinion is they are people in known cults who try to deceive and lead you away from the truth instead of to it. They are people who do not worship Jesus Christ but maybe some other god. You start believing lies and do not care to read the Bible to uncover the lies and find the truth.

They are wolves in sheep's  clothing. We know the enemy is out to destroy our lives and steal our soul. He wants nothing to do with the truth. The word of God is truth and if a certain church tries to twist scripture or not use scripture at all, beware. Many in cult churches may be so captivated they are even unaware of it being cult like. Bowing to a false god or a man instead of Jesus is wrong. If a person is not actively proclaiming the word of truth then you need to be careful. 

2 Peter 2:1-3 says 'But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.' 

Galatians 1:6-9 says the following 'I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!' Know your Bible so you won't be led astray to seducing spirits of the anti Christ. 

Some people try to say ministers on TV are false teachers but I beg to differ there. I watch  several good Bible teachers each morning on Christian TV and sometimes even get an idea for my blog from something they may have said. Being on TV does not automatically equate to being a false prophet. Some false prophets may be in local pulpits around the country.  Having a seminary degree does not automatically mean someone is right about everything. Do not be deceived. Study the word of God for yourself.

Matthew 7:15(NIV) says '
"Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.'  Think about that for a moment if you will. You can be tricked if something seems good but once you are sucked in to a cult movement it may be hard to leave.

Colossians 2:8(ESV) says 'See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy  and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.'

KNOW the truth. Read your Bible.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you that your word is truth. I thank you for opening my eyes to sin in this world and protecting me from cults or false teaching. Help me use wisdom in discernment in what I believe. In Jesus' name. Amen.