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.

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Not Connected



Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’ Jeremiah 33:3

All of us who use computers, mobile devices, and tablets have one time or another received that dreaded pop up 'not connected' which often occurs when traveling and away from your signal at home. It is so frustrating when you need on the Internet and can't because of a connectivity issue. 

Aren't you glad our connection with God is there and we don't receive error messages? We can call on Him 24/7 and He is there. Not having earthly connections is disruptive but Jesus is our around the clock friend. No need to talk to tech support.

Are you in need of a Jesus connection? He is waiting to hear from you.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for being there around the clock to reach out to. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, September 29, 2014

Going My Way?


Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit,striving together as one for the faith of the gospel. Philippians 1:27
Have you ever stopped to think if your actions point people to Jesus or away from Him? For instance, are you a constant complainer? Do you pick up after yourself, meaning shopping carts and popcorn bags at the theater? Are you constantly judging others, even silently? What kind of movies might someone see you in? Is your speech 'preacher friendly'?
These questions are asked simply to make you think. A Christian bumper sticker is great but if you have it on your car,  better obey traffic laws and be kind to others. Also try to be joyful even if you don't feel the best. Don't just huddle with other believers but let your light shine in your realm of influence. 
I guess it boils down to if we claim to be a follower of Christ someone is probably watching. Jesus is! 

PRAYER: Lord I want to be a great example for the kingdom of God. I know I have slipped up so please forgive me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Set Apart


Know that the LORD has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the LORD hears when I call to him. Psalm 4:3

Lately I have been noticing a trend with new 2015 SUV's. No matter what automobile manufacturer it is they all seem to be indistinguishable from others. Presently I drive a Sante Fe but the new Sante Fe looks no different from say a Kia, a Honda Pilot, or a Lexus. The only way you can tell what car it is would be to look up close for their logo. It makes me sad.
 What if we as believers were all alike? Pretty boring wouldn't you think. What is we all were given the same spiritual gift? God has a better plan and we all have different gifts. A believer is set apart for the kingdom of God. He knows us by name and the very head of our heads are numbered it says in Matthew 10:30.


What are you doing with your life? Are you just a carbon copy of someone or do you use your unique abilities to serve The Lord?

PRAYER: I recognize Father you have created me different from anyone else. My fingerprints are mine alone and my talents are mine alone. Help me use what you have given me to shine in this world for you. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Saturday, September 27, 2014

Yeah, You're Religious


If the ministry that brought condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry that brings righteousness. 2 Corinthians 3:9

I am not sure if anyone else has faced this before, being called 'religious'. Personally I know what the person is trying to say but I am NOT religious, I just love Jesus. When I think of religious people I think of people set in their ways. Unloving. No grace. Too many thou shalt nots. You know the Saduccee and Pharisee type who were legalistic about healing on Sunday or someone more concerned about rules and thou shalt nots than love, mercy,and grace. 

       Maybe a person who writes devotions and leads prayer groups seems religious but when we do these things we may be seen as 'religious' but I prefer to say "I just love Jesus" period!  Those who love the Lord need not go around acting like they are superior but we are supposed to be ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ, not the gospel of a particular church or religion. Just go show Jesus' Love and shine for Him!

      Don't be religious, but be in love with Jesus! 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus it is my desire to not come off as holier than thou but to be used to draw people to you. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Friday, September 26, 2014

Your Choice! Worrier or Warrior?



Cast all your anxiety on Him for he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

Your situation may never change. Your children may never stop doing dangerous things. You are going to die someday. Everyone will. You can enjoy flying without gripping the arm rests. You may get sick, people do. 

Please know when you worry you make yourself into an ineffective prayer warrior. Pray, trust, believe, then let it go. Your fretting and anguish will not bring you closer to God or change anything. Many worriers out there need to understand  when you worry you make Satan very thrilled. Don't keep saying "I'm just a worrier" and go through life stressed and anxious. Learn to practice letting go of a situation knowing that by you worrying as it says in scripture in Matthew 6:27, "you can not add an hour to life."

Wake up each day and look at yourself in the mirror and say "I am not going to allow Satan to make me ineffective for you. I trust you God and will NOT worry" then walk away and let it go. If you have been a constant worrier as your daily routine this may take a while to get this new habit.

I have a son who flies planes for a living and another son and daughter in law who enjoy rock climbing.  Do not wake up and fret all day. I am excited for them that they are doing what they enjoy.

Start your day and truly let God have your situation. Turn on some praise music and think of the song 'I Surrender All' then do just that.

PRAYER: You are always with me. You care for my needs and walk with me each day. I need your strength to trust you and stop trying to constantly be on edge. Help me Lord. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Remorse

  Why, my soul, are you downcast?Why so disturbed within me?Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 43:5
     
 Have you ever felt bad about doing something or saying something? That would be called being remorseful. We get a guilty conscious and the Holy Spirit living inside of us convicts us of right and wrong. We have forgiveness of our sins through the blood of Jesus Christ. Once we confess a sin Jesus remembers it no more. Satan wants us to keep worrying about it but God says "Sin, what sin?" If you confessed it.

As I was preparing to write my devotion on an entirely different subject and the word 'remorse' popped up. I figured maybe God wanted me to write on being remorseful so I changed my plan.

Face things in life and instead of trying to rehash and go over and over and over the same things, drop it, forget it and move on. Get control of your thought life and your mouth. We know it is Satan who tries to bring us down. We can not be a victorious Christian if we constantly complain and harbor  bitterness. 

The thing is we are to go and sin no more as Jesus said in John 8:11. Whatever is bothering you friend confess it to Jesus and know His love and grace make you whole. 

PRAYER: Thank you Lord that you paid for my sins with your death on the cross. Help me remember to know that your grace is greater than all my sins. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Wounded, Pitiful, Pathetic




Why, my soul, are you downcast?Why so disturbed within me?Put your hope in God,for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 43:5

Stop whining and get moving. Stop complaining about how life has treated you and charge on. It is not always the other person's fault. Sometimes we need to take responsibility for what is wrong in our life. Do not allow others to steal your joy and above all, keep looking up to Jesus. 

Face things in life and instead of trying to rehash and go over and over and over the same things, drop it, forget it and move on. Get control of your thought life and your mouth. We know it is Satan who tries to bring us down. We can not be a victorious Christian if we constantly complain and harbor  bitterness.

  Today is the day for a new you to emerge. Start marching to the beat of a different drummer and get joyful for a change. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I want to always have your joy. Forgive me when I have been consumed with myself and whined. I choose to look up to you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Hate God? Hate Church?



Not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.Hebrews 10:25

Many people do hate God. Some people who once were on fire for the Lord have turned their backs on God. Maybe they started listening to wrong voices. Guess where wrong voices are from? The enemy. Maybe you are reading this today and you have justified why you are not involved in a growing church or a small group Bible study. Maybe a life experience soured you on things of Christ. Friend, the enemy is out to get your souls. Many a Christian parent languishes over children they raised for the Lord who do not love Him with their whole heart anymore.

Wherever you are at today, the Lord understands and He is waiting to be truly first place in your life for the first time or welcomed back if you turned your back on Him.


If you are not active in a church right now or living for the Lord because of whatever reason go to this link below and listen to their messages. In the meantime search your heart and ask yourself why you are so mad at God and why you think you can do what you want to on Sunday.
http://live.churchofthehighlands.com/

PRAYER: Oh Lord restore to me the joy of my salvation. Help me resist to temptations to do my own things on your day. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a song of praise and worship:
http://youtu.be/JiD0_Krgbo4

Monday, September 22, 2014

Form of Godliness



But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its' power. Have nothing to do with such people. 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Lots of people think we are in the last days. Every day we are getting closer that is for sure. If you dissect the above Bible verse you can see many of the things written about going on today and perhaps all of them. Maybe even a reader or two has been guilty of one or two or knows someone perhaps even a family member or friend. But point finger at self first before judging others.

The first thing that struck me in lovers of self were all the 'Selfies' being taken with our mobile devices, like 'look at me'. Sure it is fun but it can get out of hand. Also the lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God could even being going so far to say activities are more important on Sunday than church fellowship is. Ouch!  Having a form of godliness but denying its' power could refer to people in churches who may go there but that is where it ends.

We need to each take account of our own life and insure we are not falling into this trap of anything listed above. Pray for our country and pray for a revival in this land to turn the hearts of men back to God and reignite the passion for Christ.

PRAYER: Father God I thank you for loving me, warts and all. I have been guilty of some of the above and I want to say I am sorry. I choose to stay on our track in these last days and run from tricks of the enemy to take me down. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, September 21, 2014

Easy For You To Say!




Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have for God has said "Never  will I leave you and never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

 Do you ever find yourself uttering this above phrase or thinking it?  Maybe jealous over someone's possessions  not even considering what they went through to get there. Things may look like 'easy street' for some but we do not know the whole story of their life and the struggles and things they faced to get where they are. Sadly our own government has perpetuated this jealously with their income inequality stance.

Basically jealously is not a fruit of the spirit but it is something that the enemy creates in getting us desirous of the position of another or what they have.  You can even be jealous of another person's looks. The key is to be thankful for who you are and what God has set forth for you to do. He makes the sun to shine on all of us.
God wants you to be happy with what he has blessed you with and not be whining that you are unhappy. Your situation could always be much worse.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for my many blessings. Some days I may catch myself being envious and I do not know want to be. I want to look to you and not other people. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, September 20, 2014

No Time For God


No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.Matthew 6:24

God allows certain things for a reason. Sometimes there are people who want nothing to do with church, God, or the Bible as they have no time for Him and are disappointed or angry because of a death of someone close.  Perhaps they think they are 'good enough' and Sunday is their only day for recreation and they certainly do not care to be in a stuffy formal church wasting their time. Only the Holy Spirit can bring conviction of this to those wandering away from the Lord. It may be hurtful to parents who see their adult children turn their back on God or maybe not raise their grandchildren for the Lord.

 This world we live in today is a challenge for the believer. Wrong things are being made to seem right and even accepted by some believers. The truth is the truth but Satan has made God's word twisted to some who want to accept a lie as truth. If a believer follows the guidelines in the Bible they are old fashioned to some or a little freaky.

We are not going to answer to our friends. We are not going to answer to someone at the lake. We are not going to answer to someone on the bike trail. We are only going to answer to Jesus. His heart is broken when He knows there are people who have accepted Him that are being distracted by the enemy.

Wherever you are today ask yourself am  I close  to God or running from Him. No one knows the day or hour of Jesus return. Do you desire more of Him? If not maybe it is time to rededicated your life to Christ or ask Him in your heart for the first time.

Make time for Jesus my friend! It is your choice.

 PRAYER: Lead me to the cross Lord and help me as I seek to turn from things distract me from the truth. I run to you Lord. I want to honor you Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, September 19, 2014

Mean People Deserve Love Too


And the second is this. 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' Matthew 22:39

Allot of you may think my title is ridiculous. "No way Becky. People who treat me mean do not deserve my love at all! Why should I love someone who talks down to me and acts like they can't stand me."  Why indeed! Maybe because God says to? Love covers a multitude of sins it says in 1 Peter 4:8. Love has a transcending power through cultures and generations. Showing love can break through the hardest exterior.

Sometimes even when you show love you may not instantly get love back but keep on showing love. Whether to an unloving and verbally abusive spouse, a arrogant clerk,a rude disrespectful child who was taught otherwise, or anyone you encounter who just seems less than joyful.

Love has the power to heal a wounded heart. Love is from God therefore when we see examples of the beheadings by the ISIS rebels we know there's no part of our Holy God Jehovah Jireh living in them.God can transform really evil people though as it happened in the Bible.

Who do you need to show love to? Sometimes it is necessary to overcome evil and bad behavior with good. That's in the Bible too.

 PRAYER: Lord I want to show your love to all those around me even when it is hard. Help me to remember to pray for the unloving and those around our world who are just plain evil. Help me love through you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a wonderful praise and worship song:
 http://youtu.be/AibBR6j2g54

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Seven Deadly Words


Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish. Proverbs 18:13

A couple months ago I saw a Christian movie that was entitled 'The Seven Deadly Words' and basically it centered around a church unwilling to change or adapt with a new pastor. Now I am not talking about compromising morality or changing the Bible, but not willing to accept new ideas or programs. The seven deadly words were "that's the way we've always done it" or something similar.

If a person becomes rigid and unwilling to talk about a new idea then they won't go very far. This could even apply to families where one spouse is unwilling to listen to an idea and make compromise. Compromise sometimes helps save relationships. It can also help save organizations. The key word behind all this would be 'love'. Demonstrate love in whatever you are deciding. Do not always think it is your way or the highway. We see this demonstrated in our government and it shows arrogance to the utmost especially in a government that is supposed to be for 'we the people'.

What about you? Are you willing to listen to the facts and others opinions before moving forward? The most important thing is to keep Christ in the center and pray for wisdom before any major decision.

 PRAYER: Let my words be few and well thought out. Help me Lord not domineer and try to get my own way. Help me be a kind and willing listener. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a wonderful song of praise:
http://youtu.be/d0Qx1e33Ook

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Stay In Shape For Your Job


God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1
This past September 11 was the 13th anniversary of the horrific attacks on our country at the World Trade Center, Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Similar to 2001, I could hardly believe my eyes as I watched it replay on the History Channel all day. One of the firefighters wives was being interviewed about how the entire NYC firefighter battalions were ordered back to work. Her husband had been out jogging to stay in shape for his job. As we all saw on the news coverage of firefighters bounding up several flights of stairs to rescue people. Indeed running up steps takes a very fit and disciplined person especially when running into danger.

It was necessary that day in order to cope or deal with this tragedy to be strong spiritually as well as physically and emotionally. Why didn't God stop this? Why did this happen? Chaplains were called on to bring peace in the unexplainable.

Are you spiritually fit? If you had to deal with comforting others in a situation like this would you be able to or would you be mad at God? Good things do come out of bad. Yes there was terrible loss and grief and the grief continues, but there were good stories too. Whatever you are going through hold on to God. He is your help and our hope.

PRAYER: I thank you Lord that no matter what life brings you are there for our shelter. I can cry out to you any time day or night. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Peace With People


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

Are you irritated in certain situations such as bad traffic, waiting in line, dealing with co workers or a boss, a slow waitress? If so then you know you need to probably work on developing a peaceful spirit and not one constantly agitated. People who are not peaceful can tend to easily explode and could make a scene. If you are a believer in Christ and want to attempt to live for Him and emulate Him around the clock then ask The Holy Spirit to indwell you and fill you with perfect peace.

When a person is less than peaceful they go through life always angry or upset. Things do not go their way and they 'pop a cork' so to speak. This then could escalate into a angry words, a physical confrontation and from there, who knows what. It is necessary to get a grip on being a peaceful person and being peaceful with others.

It is your choice. Peace or restlessness and worry. Only you can decide.

PRAYER: There have been times in my past Lord I acted less than peaceful. I choose to be peaceful and not allow the craziness of life to turn me into an upset person. Give me your strength. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, September 15, 2014

Unexpected News



 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of one of His faithful servants. Psalm 116:15

 I was preparing for a night of fun with one of my best girlfriends when the phone rang and she called to let me know her sister in law, who was fairly young, had just unexpectedly passed away. Obviously besides being unprepared for something like this you are confused, sad, and not sure what to do next. I listened and then prayed with her over the phone.

 Sooner or later each of us will get some sort of unexpected news because all of us are going to eventually die. We all wish we could maybe plan to just die at about 95 laying in bed at home surrounded by family, certainly not as a baby, a teen, a young spouse, or a fifty something person. The best thing to do with a person going through this grief is to just be there, hug them, let them talk. Don't start saying "well they are in a better place" even though we may know that. No one wants to have to say goodbye to a spouse, sibling, parent, relative, or dear friend but the time is going to come.

The best thing to do is enjoy life to the fullest and reach out and help and comfort those who need comfort. Don't just say "Let me know if I can do something" which is the standard statement but maybe send them a gift card for a restaurant. Perhaps a bouquet of flowers. The best thing to do is to be there and pray.

PRAYER: Give me the words Lord God to comfort someone I may know who is grieving. Show me creative ways to reach out. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for  a song of comfort.

Sunday, September 14, 2014

Jesus Breaks


If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man will be ashamed of them when He comes in His Father's glory, with the Holy angels. Mark 8:38

As I sat down at the coffee shop to write a smile came upon my face. Two people who I passed on my way to my cubby hole chair, were alone and both unashamedly reading their Bible. I remember when I first moved from Phoenix to Alabama back in 1999 I would go to this other coffee shop, only once a week back then, and would always run into a man and his son having Bible study. Wouldn't it be wonderful to see people in their offices, in airports, subway stops, coffee shops,doctor offices, and other 'waiting places' get out the word of God and just read?

I was at a military unit wives function several years ago when we were assigned to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and I will never forget this one wife standing having a conversation at the refreshment table, saying to another lady "If you deny Him before man,he'll deny you" and gave the above verse. Consequently that verse was seared into my memory banks and I am thankful it was.

We are not to go about acting holier than thou, but if you feel like you aren't giving God time at home as you rush about into your busy day,consider taking your Bible with you and taking Jesus breaks.

PRAYER: Father I thank you for the Bible which currently where I live I am allowed to have, read, and share with others. I do not take this privilege for granted as many places you can not have a Bible or risk death or imprisonment. Help me never be ashamed to tell others about you and to study it openly in public. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, September 13, 2014

Tiny House


And if I go and prepare a place for you I will come back and take you to be with me that you can also be where I am. John 14:3

There is a show on television entitled 'Tiny House Nation' where a family decides to super downsize and live in something about 500 square feet. The homes all are very cute, functional, and cozy. So many of us need to have large spaces and places for our stuff and things we think we need to have so it would be hard to imagine a tiny home.

 When we go on vacation it is nice to not have to take all our stuff. That tiny house would suit me just fine. Did you know someday when you breathe your last breath here on Earth, if you have asked Jesus to be your savior,  He will take you to be with Him in heaven. His house is described as a mansion so if you do not live in a mansion here on Earth you will in Heaven if I read and interpret this right. It is hard to imagine.

Wherever you live here on Earth whether in a gorgeous large home, mobile home, in a tent, an apartment, a condo, a town home, or something else just know it is only temporary and something much greater is awaiting those who love Him.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for loving me and providing my needs while I am here on earth. Help me be content with where I am and happy for those who have greater. I look forward to my heavenly mansion. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Read 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 when you have time

Friday, September 12, 2014

Wear White? Yes Indeed!


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. Romans 12:2

The fashion police are on high alert as we transition into the fall season. The big question, can white still be worn? I am no fashion guru, but my answer is to not worry about the worlds' mold but if you want to wear it, do so. Too many try to be clones of others. This is pretty common among teenage girls trying to fit in. If I take a peek at my high school yearbook all the females mostly had the little flip hairdo as it was "the thing" I guess.

 As a believer we have to be set apart. This verse says to not conform. When you know deep down something is wrong or immoral then run the other way. So what if you lose a friend in the process, as you will probably be better for it in the long run.

There is a saying "What is right is not always popular, and what is popular is not always right" so where do you stand today?

 PRAYER: Give me the courage Lord to do the right thing and be different if I need to be. In Jesus'  name. Amen.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Yeah For Freedom


Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. Psalm 33:12

This is not a happy anniversary day for many. Unless you were born before 2001 you should know this is the devastating date that terrorists took down the World Trade Center, crashed into the Pentagon, and a 4th failed attempt on the Capitol crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. Similar to the attacks on Pearl Harbor no one saw this coming. Many think we are on the verge of another similar terrorist attack.

Evil forces do not like freedom. The United States has been a bastion of freedom since its' founding 237 years ago. There will always be those who try to weasel in and corrupt this land and tear it apart. Former president Abraham Lincoln said "America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves." In other words the enemy could be right within our own borders trying to destroy us.

We indeed have a right to speak up for freedom. "Evil triumphs when good men do nothing" was another famous quote from Sir Edmund Burke. How very true that is. Christians have a right to do what they can to preserve not only religious freedom but all freedoms. Now is the time to be in prayer more than ever for us to remain 'one nation under God'!

PRAYER: Lord we thank you for our freedom and for those men and women who served our country and paid the ultimate price with their life. Help us stand up for our freedom and speak out against tyranny. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Note: You can receive this devotion on Facebook too by 'liking' the page entitled God's Lemonade Stand.

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Wasted Time




 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8

 Do you do anything that wastes time? Hmmm. Reading junk snail or email? Too much television. Worrying?
This came to me as I sat searching frantically on my I phone for an 'important' email I accidentally deleted. Not only was I wasting time but causing anxiety too. So I stepped back and said "you know Becky, you could be taking a walk, reading your Bible or something else" and then I stopped.

People can waste lots of time with things that don't matter. Sometimes maybe dwelling on issues we have no control over wastes a ton of time. Perhaps stopping to pray over things would be a better option than trying to figure things out and getting no where. Controlling our thoughts is one way we could save time.

How can you better use the time God gives you each day?

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for each 24 hour day you bless me with. Help me be a good steward of this time and use it wisely. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Strongholds Can Be Broken



The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.Psalm 9:9-10

We are living in perilous times. Here where I am in the United States of America we become very complacent to dangers around us. We refuse to believe anything bad could ever happen. All because of devotion to a political party, many refuse to believe there could be bad elements within our own government who do not like freedom and want to take us down. Evil is ever present. The enemy operates in very subtle ways to destroy what was once a great Christian nation. 

Strongholds can be broken by the power of Jesus name, prayer, fasting, and refusing to give  the enemy any more ground. Our freedom is from the Almighty. Our blessings are from the Almighty. Apart from God we fail. Evil, sinister, tricky forces are definitely at work scheming to destroy this great land. Recently one of the largest prayer tools(Presidential Prayer Team) on the Internet was hacked by someone who obviously does not want prayer for this land. 

Stop what you are doing today and thank God for this great nation. Pray for those who would lie and trick people into believing things that aren't true. Stand up for the truth and realize everyone has a part in keeping this nation truly free.Take the blinders off and get on your knees and pray.  As we approach the anniversary of both the  horrific terror attacks on September 11, 2001 and just a couple years ago on that same day the attacks on our Embassy in Benghazi just remember there is good and there is evil. Be on your guard and on your knees. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I indeed thank you for my freedom. Many people do not enjoy what we have in America. Evil forces are trying to chip away little by little so we do not notice that we are being controlled more. Help your people get on their knees and pray. Protect us Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for praise song:

Monday, September 8, 2014

Pray, Pray, and Pray Some More



Then Jesus told His disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and never give up. Luke 18:1

Ever have a day when it is just hard to get going? That was me on Friday. I had tons of energy,just no motivation for some reason. Everything I seemed to read on email that day from various ministries was about persistence in prayer. Even when we do not feel like it, we have to get up and get going and keep praying.

God will give you the strength. Satan is the one who tries to zap your strength, disable you, and keep you lethargic. After all,  if you feel all blah and trust your feelings over faith,then our enemy is overjoyed. He loves to have Christians feeling weak and powerless. You have to take control of your feelings and charge on.

The joy of the Lord is your strength and will always pull you through. Cry out to God and praise His name.

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for your love for me and your patience with me. Help me get up and get going for the Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, September 7, 2014

Say What?



But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. James 3:8

Do you ever open your mouth at inappropriate times and say the wrong thing? Maybe you are trying to extend comfort and it backfires. Sometimes we may say things that seem appropriate but to the receiver they come out all wrong. Words can be taken the right way or totally be misunderstood. With our computer generation it is easy to be have things misinterpreted on emails and texts. 

Our mouth can certainly be our downfall. With it we can bless people or turn around and beat them down with words. We can cause joy or pain. It is so important for us to be careful what we say and if in doubt to not utter certain things. 

When you go about your day today try to bless people and not cause them pain. 

PRAYER: Oh Lord how I desire to not stumble with my words. It is a battle. Guide me as I speak to make up my mind to only bless. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, September 6, 2014

Undercover Christian


Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel. Philippians 1:27

Occasionally I enjoy watching the television show 'Undercover Boss' and especially when the boss reveals his true identity at the end of each show. How would we each do as an undercover Christian? Maybe some of us act like that now where we don't want people to know. We are not supposed to be living two lives and have one foot in the world and one in church.

If Jesus popped in would you be proud of your actions, what you just said, or how you treat others? Would you have to switch television channels or hide some of your reading materials? This does not mean we need to be street preachers, but we should be ready to answer someone if they ask what is the reason for our hope and joy.

Every opportunity you have why not share God's love just by a simple smile and let God do the rest.

PRAYER: Help me not hide my light under a bushel but shine for you wherever I go each and every day. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, September 5, 2014

Not JUST Anything!


For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

I'm just a mom. I just write devotions. I just volunteer. I'm just a garbage collector.  I'm just a grandma. And on it goes. That little word 'just' can sure tend to belittle a person's status in life. The word 'just' makes a person feel they are not worthy, or perhaps ashamed, of where they are in life. Maybe it is because we are comparing ourselves to someone else, which is a big no no. The enemy can sure make us dwell on it if we allow him to. I know he has dealt me a blow or two. God is bigger than all that. We have to rise above that and embrace where God has allowed us to be.

Whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability, as a representative of Christ. We aren't to compare ourselves or bring condemnation upon ourselves. Think about it. Satan would love to make a stay home mom feel she is wasting her degree. All those negative thoughts do not originate with God! Now is the time to stop dwelling on the word 'just' and instead say "I am blessed to do___________.

Right now thank the Lord for whatever it is you do and wherever it is you are be it a mom or a corporate executive. Then bloom where you are planted.

PRAYER: I want to thank you Lord for where I am and what I do. I know you have a perfect plan for me whether I think it perfect or not. Shine through me Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Jesus Trucks


Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. John 12:9

My husband and I like to watch the Food Network. There was a show one time talking about the rise in popularity of food trucks in populated urban areas. I remember when we were in New York City a few years ago seeing the variety of food trucks up and down city streets. In Tulsa where my sister lives there is a section downtown where they are popular. And here in the Huntsville, Alabama area it is starting to catch on.

As exciting and different that food trucks are, imagine if there could be 'Jesus Trucks' going up and down the street and giving people spiritual food. Would folks flock to them and get as excited as they do about regular food? It just struck me one day. Maybe they could pass out Bibles and offer prayer. But would people be excited?

Are you excited about Jesus? Is He first place in your life? If not why not ask Him to be Lord of your life today.

PRAYER: My Jesus I love you. Often I have let something else be more important than you. Forgive me Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

If you do not know what food trucks are take a peek at this link below I have included for info only.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Forget About It!


Hatred stirs old quarrels, but love overlooks insults. Proverbs 10:12

 Have you ever been hurt verbally by a friend or family member? I have and it is painful. Sometimes you just want to keep talking about it and trying to figure things out when in actuality that only makes things worse. God is in control and you can not change someone's heart or feelings towards you.

Maybe try praying for the person who has hurt you. They may not even be aware of it. None of us are perfect but when you are verbally beat up, your human nature says, "talk this out" when in fact it may be best to let it go, pray,and let God intervene.

Your job is to move on, stay in God's word, and forgive. Learn the best response may be no response at all.

 PRAYER: Lord Jesus it hurts when someone beats up on you with their words and you just take it. Father help me to not get angry but help me Lord to pray for those who have hurt me, some unknowingly. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Frogs In A Pot




I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it. Psalm 101:3

There is an illustration I have heard about being desensitized to evil and sin. It is frogs in a pot of water on the stove. Gradually the heat is increased and the frogs have no idea they are being cooked alive.

With sin it is like that too.  Take our entertainment industry. When I was growing up most everything on television was okay for all ages. It was happy, pure, and often taught valuable life lessons. Those in our generation today, even Christians, are exposed to raunchy stuff in the name of entertainment, often subtly, till they are 'cooked' or desensitized to evil and right versus wrong. There are still good people in Hollywood but Satan would sure like to control it totally.

What we need to do is maybe say, "Would I turn this on or go to this movie if Jesus were here?" Remember to pray for not just actors but those who make decisions about shows and even advertisers that support some stuff. Pray that this country and the world can return to moral purity and teach your children to make wise choices. 

 PRAYER: Father at times I have been guilty of watching something that is bad or just drags me down. Give me discernment to either turn off television or select wholesome shows. Convict me clearly of what is good and evil. In Jesus ' name. Amen.
Check out the following ministry which ministers to those in the entertainment industry in California and New York.
Www.mastermediaintl.org

Monday, September 1, 2014

Labor On!



For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat." 2 Thessalonians 3:10

Work is considered by some to be a curse. Many are in jobs they do not like and can't wait till retirement. But work is a blessing if you think about it. Instead of getting up and dreading to go I heard someone say we should have the attitude "I get to go to work" and be like the Seven Dwarfs in Snow White and sing "Hi ho, Hi ho, It's off to work I go" and out the door you would go happily. Labor Day first became a US Holiday in 1896. It is a joy to get to work. A blessing. This is a means for you to provide for your family and receive blessings. It is not to be dreaded. In the United States virtually the door is wide open to be anyone you want to be if you try hard enough. 

One of my favorite Bible verses about our attitude about work is found in Colossians 3:23.It says "Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men." Whatever and whoever you work for whether you like your job or not, work as a servant of the Lord. Be His representative. Be His hands and feet. Don't be a complainer. Many people out of work would gladly take your job. Shine for Jesus just where he has placed you. Maybe dear moms that place is in the home and your job is to raise those precious babies and children to grow up to be leaders and good citizens so do not  feel you have to be in the work force to make a difference. 

Man is not intended to just sit around and let others give hand outs to him according to the verse above in 2 Thessalonians. So work hard because it is a blessing. 

PRAYER: Dear Lord thank you for the blessing of being able to work. Help me Lord be able to always go in with the right attitude and know I am your light in a dark world. In Jesus' name. Amen.