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.

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Angry? Give It To God


A gentle answer turns away wrath but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1
There has been lots of anger in our world news lately which is not uncommon for the news to saturate us with things that are not very positive. The most recent I can recall is all the anger and rage in Ferguson, Missouri which first caused an unfortunate death but then mostly resulted in destruction. 
Anger is caused by many things. Many of the angrier people in society are carrying chips on their shoulder and are not walking in love. Parents have a responsibility to train a child in love as love can heal an angry spirt. Anger is from the enemy, Satan, who loves to kill, steal, and destroy it says in John 10:10. God brings life, love, and peace.  Satan loves people to be at war or conflict with each other. There can be anger on a more one on one personal basis too in each of our lives. This type we have to purpose in our heart to contain and not erupt. Once eruptions occur it results in fights, break ups, divorce, lawsuits, accidents, and death. 
Obviously anger is not a fruit of the spirit. If you are feeling angry ask yourself why. Next we know it is not right to hate so if this is a issue with you give it over to God. Ask God to show you His love for all people and give you a spirit filled temperament. 
PRAYER: Lord I choose this day to start loving and give an anger over anything to you. Jumping to conclusions can cause anger sometimes as well as being impatient. I need your help daily to walk in calmness and peace. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, November 29, 2014

Vanity, Vanity, All Is Vanity



For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. Romans 12:3

I get a kick out of reading personalized license plates on vehicles and have even had a few myself in years past. Sometimes they are hard to understand but sometimes quite easy. They can tell much about a person too. For instance the other day I saw one in Alabama that read 2BTOPLS and said "whoa". Too much information. I have seen them that say BAMAFAN, IRUN, SEXY, BACKDOC and so it goes. Some of the ones I or my husband have had in years past have been GODSGR8,RMEFLYR, RMEAV8R, GOD24 7 and N2FLYIN.

These tags on cars are a cute and fun way to tell about hobbies, schools, and priorities in a persons' life. They are known as 'vanity tags' as I guess they can be vain or braggy to some extent. It is sometimes a temptation to not brag to others about what you have accomplished. God wants us to be humble. He is the one who has blessed us with abilities to do certain things. We are to never think more highly of ourselves and put others down.

Whenever you are praised for some accomplishment don't get puffed up but instead give the glory to God.

PRAYER: Help me Lord to remain humble no matter what. Help me let others praise me and not my own lips. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, November 28, 2014

Your Devotion To Duty


Devote yourselves to prayer being watchful and thankful. Colossians 4:2 
Do you realize what a privilege it is to be able to pray to our Father in Heaven? There are those missing out on this time simply because life gets too busy and sadly Jesus is out totally on the back burner. I have been guilty of it. How do we stop this? 
It is Satan who tries to keep us from reading our Bible and praying as He knows the power that lies in prayer and meditating on scripture. Everything else in life can seem so much more important even the good duty of 'church work' where you may feel you have done your part by simply serving. It also is easy to substitute a good Christian TV sermon for quiet time. That time alone should be cherished and made top priority.
As this year draws to a close and typically becomes to frantic because of Christmas and New Years plans, why not stop and take a breath and purpose in your heart you will spend time daily with God. Someone once told me the word 'busy' could be put into acronym form and mean 'Being Under Satan's Yoke'. It is Christmas, the celebration of Jesus' birth, so why not make sure He fits into your daily schedule?

PRAYER: Thank you for the awesome privilege of praying daily to you. I thank you Lord for the word of God, my Bible, and forgive me when I have let it gather dust. I choose to allow you be a vital part of each day. I resist satan's attempts to get me off track. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Thanksgiving In Your Heart


Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.Psalm 95:2
Yeah! Thanksgiving is here! For many this signifies family time. For other without family around it is spent with friends. For some it magnifies loneliness and loss. This is the kick off of the Christmas season too. This time of year can bring many people stress over obligations they do not look forward to. 

Could this Thanksgiving time be the one where maybe even on your own you sit down and ponder why we have this holiday to begin with? It is NOT about football. It is NOT about Black Friday. It is NOT about overeating and regret the day after. It IS about some brave men, women,and children who sailed over the dangerous ocean in order to have a life of freedom and not dictatorship. The first harvest feast occurred in the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts in 1621. It was officially made a holiday a couple hundred years later. It is part of our religious heritage. Today it is hard to find pilgrims figures for sale amongst Thanksgiving decorations I guess because they represent religion.

Today while you enjoy maybe the Macy's parade, a football game, and time with family and friends first stop and remember what this day is really about. Maybe have each person give one thing they are grateful for and make a new tradition. 

PRAYER: I thank you this day for all the wonderful things you have blessed me with. Thanks for freedom which erodes more daily and thank you for friends. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

What Are You Thinking About?


Set your mind on things above, not earthly things. Colossians 3:2
Keeping your mind focused on good things is truly a discipline. When you dwell on past problems, worries, things that may happen, world issues, and a host of other things , it is nearly impossible to have peace. That is not the kind of life God wants us to live. He wants you to cast or throw your burdens on Him then walk away and trust Him to handle things. Also sitting around speculating about things can you make you almost mentally sick. Let it go and move on.
Whatever is on your mind today why not make sure it is a good and happy thought. If you start thinking about stuff you know you should not, don't even go there. If you have to, say out loud "Devil get thee behind me as I am not thinking wrong thoughts". Sounds a bit crazy if you have never done it but it sure helps, I know I have done it. 
When you make it a consistent habit to 'think on things above' then you will end up in the long run being a more kind, joyful, and gentle person.  Find a way to think of others more than yourself and you will start thinking right. 
PRAYER: Lord I choose this day to keep my mind focused on 'things above' and get in the habit of praising you instead of having a wandering mind. In Jesus' name. Amen.




Tuesday, November 25, 2014

The Four Men



He created them male and female and blessed them. And he named them "Mankind" when they were created. Genesis 5:2

When I arrived at my doctor appointment for a follow up visit a few days ago I was the only female in the office. There were four men in the waiting room and everyone that came in was also male. I decided to silently pray for these men that they would be the men of God that He wanted them to be. I prayed that their families were thriving and intact. I prayed that they would be the spiritual head of their home or ask Jesus to be Lord of their life.

In our world today,men are often the butt of jokes in commercials or television shows. Sometimes they are made to look like bumbling idiots. This is wrong because God designed the man to be the strong one,the provider,the head of the house and so it goes. Many liberated women do not like this scenario but it is the way God intended it from the Garden of Eden. I did not make it up. This does not mean men are better or are to lord over women like they do in the Muslim culture, but that they are designed by God to do certain things. 

Many of the problems of our world we see on nightly news are a result of the breakdown of the family or the absence of a father figure in the home. Dads, you are important. Your kids need you regardless of their age. They need your imprint in their lives.  Your are important. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus you designed a perfect creation. It is only mankind that has messed it up. You want man to be head of the house. We know this does not mean they are better but this is plan for a good life. Help me not resent this and bring honor and respect to those men in my life and for men praying this prayer help them to be the men you called them to be. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, November 24, 2014

Looking At My Watch



For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2

On a recent trip, while waiting in the airport for flights, a common scene were passengers looking at their watches. Men and women  were scurrying about trying to get to their gate on time while others were checking how much longer till their flight departed. The watch is a valuable tool to have to keep us on track. 

Our watch will not matter when it comes to wondering when Jesus will return. He will in fact return one day so we need to always be living like today could be the day. No one knows the day nor the hour this will occur so your watch won't matter much. Many may make Christ's return into a joke but it is no joke I can assure you. He will return like He said He would.

If the Lord came today do you know for sure you would go to heaven? Baptism or church membership are not the keys to heaven so that is not the right answer. Being dedicated as a baby is not the key. Being a certain denomination is not the answer either. Knowing for sure you have asked Jesus into your heart to be your Lord and savior is the answer. You can say a simple prayer right now and like this. "Lord Jesus, I need you. Forgive me for living my own way and doing my own thing. I ask your forgiveness and ask you to come into my heart today." 

Now go live for Him and don't worry about your watch.

PRAYER: Lord God I love you and want to serve you all the days of my life. I know I need to keep looking up and not letting the enemy drag me down with his lies. I have placed my hope and trust in you, In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, November 23, 2014

Don't Be Scared


So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.Isaiah  41:10

Halloween and the holiday to scare people is behind us, thank goodness. Don't get me wrong. Halloween can be fun for children and some dressing up is not necessarily evil but this one day all the stops seem to be out. I have heard Halloween decorating is second to Christmas. Some of the decorations are quite elaborate with zombies in front yards and howling sounds coming from some hidden speaker system. So what is so wrong with people wanting to be scared on purpose? 

Many differing opinions are in the Christian community on this holiday. I am not here to judge or preach at you about this but to say the concept of being fearful is not from God. God offers peace and tranquility not a shop of horrors. There are many things people are fearful of things such as heights, getting on escalators, darkness, being alone, and dying. I for one used to be afraid of birds no thanks to the Alfred Hitchcock movie "The Birds" and I was scared of flying monkeys thanks to 'The Wizard of Oz'. 

Jesus wants us to strive for peace, not fear. Sure suspense such as in the children's books Nancy Drew mysteries which I read as a child, and Hardy Boys, is perfectly okay. But to get to the point of just deliberately wanting to be frightened is another thing. Today seek for peace in your life and in your heart. Surround yourself with things that bring peace. Make your thoughts peaceful and good. Do not purposely try to terrify yourself with bad images and things you know Jesus would not want to go to with you. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I want to have peace, joy, and contentment in my life. Help me avoid those things which can pull me down into a kingdom Satan has prepared and that is one of terror. I choose to remain in a state of harmony and with your help and conviction of Holy Spirit I can and will. In Jesus' name. Amen.  

Saturday, November 22, 2014

His Reward



Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. Psalm 127:3

Today is my son Matthew's birthday. I am excited to celebrate whether he is able to come home or not. He was our first born son 32 years ago and he has been a joy and blessing. I am thankful for his life and his kind and honoring spirit. 

Children really are a blessing and gift from the Lord. The scripture goes on to say in Psalm 127:5 to "let your quiver be full of them" and I know of a few families with more than 7 children. Instead of gasping we should say what a thrill these families are choosing to raise up a family for the Lord. Children truly are a gift and should be treated as such. Not spoiled but trained in godliness. If later on they choose a different path you simply believe in faith God will restore them and bring them back to the truth of His word.

If you are blessed to have children make sure you see your responsibility to train them in godliness and pray for them daily. Take your responsibility of a Christian home seriously. Christian parents are raising warriors and leaders for the future. Keep that in mind stay home mom if you ever feel you are missing out by not being in the corporate world. Children are only with us a short time so if you are able to be a stay home mom be thankful. Mom and dad both have a vital impact in the life of the child. Pray for God to give you his strength in each stage of life of the blessing he has given you and learn when it is time to let go and let God. 

Happy Birthday Matthew!

PRAYER: I am so very thankful for the gift of motherhood. Mend the broken hearts of those moms grieving the loss of a child  by miscarriage or stillborn and restore hope to the hurting parent of the wayward child. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, November 21, 2014

It's Blue Jean Day!


For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18

Those working in corporate America surely become excited like little school children on foot long hot dog day when Friday rolls around. It is casual Friday or blue jean day for those not requiring a uniform to work in. It is a fun way to end the week being casual and perhaps more productive in the long run. 

Wouldn't it be great if Sunday were like blue jean day and we actually looked forward to going to church and learning and growing? For many it is just simply a routine formality they have  been doing for years with no real thought why. For some it is because this is the way our family has always done it without perhaps even making a personal commitment to the Lord and being excited about the Lord. 

Does this describe you? Are you in a rut where church is no fun and you see little sense in it?It might be time to find a growing dynamic church where you look forward to going. This may mean breaking with the family tradition of doing something just because ma and pa did. Find a church that is more about love and grace and less about denominational man made rules. 

Above all search your heart. Is Jesus truly Lord of your life,  first place? I if not why not ask Him to be today. 

PRAYER: Lord I need you in my life.I want to grow and get excited about Sunday and every day. Direct my steps and see if there is any wicked way in me and cleanse me. Show me where you want me to be where I can grow and serve you and be excited in the process. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Comparison Monster


We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. 2 Corinthians 10:12

As I sat in a local coffee shop writing one day, I could not help overhear two women chatting at a nearby table. Apparently the one woman had just published a book and was giving the other woman a copy. All of a sudden the envy monster reared its' ugly head. Then came the comparison monster. Next came the 'what's wrong with you' monster. These feelings and thoughts are not from the Lord and need to be rejected and replaced with faith,thanksgiving, and patience.

My writing journey has gone on for about 6 years now and I am yet to publish a book. First of all I am working with an editor. It is only me that beats myself up as to what is taking me so long. But I know and am assured that all things happen in God's perfect time and not mine. Why should it matter if it has happened yet? I I am still writing and apparently people are still reading. Hopefully no one has grown frustrated waiting on this book,which is in progress by the way.

Is there something in your life that you have not done and intend to and you do like me and compare yourself to others? First of all the only standard we need to measure by is Jesus. He is the one who gives us our dreams and visions and puts hope in our hearts.It is the enemy Satan who tries to put wrong thoughts in your head and rob you of purpose and joy. Don't allow him to do this friend. Stand strong and charge on in whatever task God has called you to. Do it by His timetable.

PRAYER: Forgive me Lord when I don't trust you with the timing and details in my life. I know you have a plan and purpose and in you I put my hope. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Click link for awesome song of encouragement:
http://youtu.be/DmZZr5NASu0

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Bread of Life Is Never Stale


Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35

I love church signs. I can not take credit for my title today as I saw it on a church sign somewhere so thought I would 'borrow' it to build a devotion on. It does hold a lot of truth.Jesus is described as the 'Bread of Life' in the verse above. He is never stale, molded, torn, or hard to swallow. He is all we need for a life of fulfillment. 

You can 'feed' on other things and be distracted from following the Lord but all the other things will not satisfy. No amount of money, fame, friends, education, or a fancy job title can bring you the nourishment and growth you get from Jesus, the true bread of life.

Do you hunger and thirst for Jesus? If not why not pray you will start to?

PRAYER: My hope is in your Lord. I have hungered for other things that did not satisfy me. I need to be hungering for you. I desire more of you in my life and less of this world. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a song of worship:

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

How's My Driving?

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you;and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
On my travels down the interstate I often see semi-trucks displaying a placard on the back which reads "How's My Driving?Call 000-000-000". This is a way the trucking company can keep tabs on their drivers to insure they are being courteous drivers and obeying posted traffic laws. There was a time I actually called a number when a truck was speeding.What if we believers had a sign on our back that said "How is my 'walk'" and it provided a number for those who came in contact with us daily to report if we were being less than a Christian?Do you suppose a sign would change our behavior? Each of us should be aware we are examples for the Lord. You represent Him. Just because Sunday may be behind you does not mean your Christian life is packed up until the following week. Our job is to witness for Him daily.
Are you doing your part to be a good representative for the Lord or is someone going to have to report you? Obviously no one is really going to call and it is between you and Jesus how you behave but why not purpose in your heart you will live each day as if you could be turned in?

PRAYER: Guide my steps daily Lord as I seek to do and say only that which builds up the kingdom. This means at work and at home and everywhere else. I want to shine for you  and forgive me when I have not been a faithful representative. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, November 17, 2014

Mind Fest

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.Colossians 3:2

 What does your mind dwell on daily? Perhaps a movie or television show you watched or are watching. Maybe a book you are reading. Perhaps it is dwelling on problems. To get your mind off bad stuff you have to intentionally think on good stuff. To think on good stuff you have to make a habit of focusing on good. That is harder to do if in your spare time you fill your mind with junk. 

A mind controlled by the things of the spirit thinks on good things. A mind controlled by things of the flesh will dwell on wrong things. You must make it a point to fill your mind on what is good, uplifting, pure, peaceful, and loving. Don't get up and the first thing you do is to start worrying. Stop if you do that and start praising God and praying instead. Be careful what you choose for 'entertainment' if the shows are full of immorality, swearing, killing and the like. Better to turn off the television. 

Don't allow Satan to control your thoughts and make you become anxious. Talk out loud to him and say "Satan you have no power over me. I am a child of God. I refuse to think wrong thoughts.Be gone and leave me alone." Try it and see if you do not feel better. Before you know it you will have a mind fest of pure, wholesome, and positive thoughts and the other kind will be just a memory. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I purpose in my heart today to think on things above not my problems down here. I choose to think good thoughts and keep you in them. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Sunday, November 16, 2014

My Hospital


When the  Pharisees saw this they said to His disciples,"Why is your teacher eating with the tax collectors and sinners?" But when Jesus heard this He said, "It is not those  who are healthy who need a physician but those who are sick." Matthew 9:11-12

Church is not just supposed to be just a 'Ra Ra club' for believers or 'holy huddle' but instead is a 'hospital' for the sick, hurting, lonely, rejected, bitter, broken, or in other words a place where people go to 'get spiritually and emotionally' well. The routine of many is to make a habit of Sunday worship which is fine but make sure you are attending a dynamic church where you hate to have to leave after the service is over.
Each of us never stops having a need for the savior. We may think we do but we need Jesus in our lives 24/7 to have a life truly sold out to Him. All of us have some sort of 'issue' in our lives and we need healing. That is what church is for, to be healed and set free. 
What is you need to be healed or set free from?God's hospital, the church, is waiting for you now. No appointment necessary. 
PRAYER:I am thankful for the men and women You have called to share the good news each Sunday. I pray for those who do not have a desire to worship that you will give them a hunger for you. I love going to your 'Holy hospital'.
Click link to listen to a song of praise and worship.http://youtu.be/CoxopsRSfdU



Saturday, November 15, 2014

Life Rewind



If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

 As I was getting ready to go out in public and applying my makeup entitled 'Age Rewind', I thought about in life when we wish we could go back and 'rewind' the clock and do something over. Just like I know this makeup is not a miracle product and I still look the same, not 30, we can't go back in a time machine like in the movie 'Back To The Future' and fix things.

The good news is that God does give us a second chance, third chance and even more chances to come to Him and repent of your sins and get our life back on track. Jesus does not say to us "get away from me you lousy scum bag sinner" but instead it says in Matthew 11:28 "Come to me all you who are wearied and heavy laden and I will give you rest."

What is in your life you need to give to your Heavenly Father? Is there a sin you need to turn from and ask God to forgive you? Go to Him today and let Him rewind the clock.

 PRAYER: I am so thankful Lord you forgive me of all my mess ups. Even when I have ignored you and blatantly sinned you still are there with open arms calling me back. Thank you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, November 14, 2014

If Only



For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you.We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[ to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. Colossians 1:9-12

Often we have regrets in life after someone passes away. If only I had given them one last hug. If only I had been nicer. If only I had not said harsh words the last time we spoke. If only I had let go of that grudge. If only I had called them more. If only I had remembered their birthday. 

Life can not be lived with regrets. We live and we die. Every day should be lived as if it were you last one on Earth cause it may be. Treat you family and friends kindly all the time. You do not want to have to live with the fact you had a fight with your spouse then they go to work and get in car wreck and die. Guilt takes over and you are consumed by it. Live a life worth living every day and go about doing good and sharing and loving then you won't have to worry you should not have said or done something. 

Above all do not live in the past. It is over and nothing can be done about it. Live for today. Find a way to help others. Go about showing Jesus' love wherever you go and stop saying "If Only" cause God knows your heart. He is not mad at you for missing an opportunity. Only Satan condemns you. just make sure each day is lived for Christ and you will have no regrets. 

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for loving me. Thank you Lord for forgiving me when I mess up. Thank you Lord for hearing my prayers. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Be Contagious For the Kingdom

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

With the recent scare of outbreak of Ebola, which made many go to a panic mode, we    know how bacteria can spread and get into people. You can feel perfectly good one day and      a few days go by and if you were exposed to something you may start exhibiting symptoms.
Wouldn't  it be wonderful if we followers of Jesus Christ could be like that for the cause of Christ? Instead of hiding our "Sunday go to meeting" light under a basket all week long and hoarding the joy of the Lord all to ourselves to make us feel good, we would go out and righteously "infect" people with the joy of the Lord. The love of Jesus would ooze from us and we would spread his kindness, hope, and grace everywhere we went in life. No doctor would be needed because no cure would be necessary.

Find a way to show the love of God today either in a note or word of encouragement, forgiving someone you have hurt, being kind when you don't feel like it, or perhaps seeking peace when you would rather argue. Try it and you will be showing Christ to other's.

PRAYER: Make me an instrument for your kingdom Lord. I choose to not hide the light you have placed inside of me and show your love to others even when I do not feel like it. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Shaking The Finger


When they kept on questioning Him, He straightened up and said to them, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." John 8:7

As a writer of devotions I have to be very careful to not come across as 'shaking my finger' as if to say "shame on you", as my job is to spread God's love and let the Holy Spirit bring any conviction. It can be easy to fall into the trap of condemning someone's actions as sinful but we need to show the love and grace of our Lord, as when we point a finger there are three pointing back at us.

Many things are wrong and all of us have sinned, but continue to stay in God's word, pray, and show love to others whether you feel they are living a Christian life or not. In Romans 2:4 it says that "kindness leads to repentance" basically meaning in my interpretation that loving a person through their sin or waywardness is the way to bring them to the Lord not banging the Bible over their head.

Are you able to love the person you may feel is mocking God or His word and be patient while God does a work in their heart? Keep praying. That is our job.

PRAYER: Thanks for bringing conviction to my heart when I have done wrong or thought wrong thoughts. My desire is to lead a life pleasing to you and to be on my knees in prayer for your truth to change people. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Freedom Is Precious



It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1

Ask anyone who has been locked up for any period of time in jail or prison or a combat prisoner of war. Being free is such a privilege that here in America has been secured over the past 235 years by those brave men and sometimes women who gave the ultimate gift of their life to protect this country. We were warned on September 11, 2001 that we are vulnerable to attacks on our own shore and we still are. Each day we go about freely often not even thinking about those people who put their lives on the line each day in service to the country in the Armed Forces. Well today is Veterans' Day a day to pay tribute to those currently serving and those who have served.

We are free in Christ and not subject to a yoke of bondage. Satan likes to hold us captive but Jesus breaks the chains Satan tries to bind us up in. Just like the freedom we enjoy we too can be free in Christ. Freedom is special and no dictator or king has the right to take it away from us. This is why our brave men and women in uniform go to foreign lands, to secure liberty and justice for all. 

Take a moment and thank the Lord for the blessings of liberty. Thank Him for those brave and courageous service members  today and in the past that served so we might sleep better at night and enjoy the things we enjoy. One of those freedoms is freedom of religion to worship God freely and openly. Only an evil force would try to come in and steal that from us. Never take freedom for granted and today when you get a chance, thank a vet!

PRAYER: Thanks Lord for liberty and for those brave souls who paved the way to give us what we have today. Protect those serving currently and help us never forget those also who paid the ultimate price for freedom and are not here to celebrate Veterans' Day. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a wonderful patriotic tune:



Monday, November 10, 2014

Smile. The Universal Language.

Clap your hands, all peoples! Shout to God with loud songs of joy! Psalm 47:1
As I was waiting for a friend for lunch two young Korean ladies and a baby girl were at a table nearby. When they got up to put their trash in the cans, I smiled at the baby. This little girl gave me a thumbs up. I kid you not. It was so cute to see an infant in a baby carrier do this gesture. The mother kept trying to get him to do it again. She had a sheer look of delight on her face.

Sometimes you may not feel quite up to smiling but there is always someone having a worse day than you are. Maybe your simple smile will cause them to have a better day. Some examples would be elderly people in doctor waiting rooms, a person on a subway or bus, a stranger in church. Be creative and think of ways to bring joy to others by a gift of your smile.

Today why not get your mind off yourself and your day and as you go about see who you can get to smile at you, kind of a fun experiment. A smile says allot.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the gift of a smile. Even whenI am feeling gloomy help me to remember a smile will brighten my day and someone else's. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, November 9, 2014

I Love God!

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Matthew 22:37
 Think about what this verse means. Do you really truly love the Lord? I mean really!? He is supposed to be first place in our life, not a casual after thought. But is He? When you love someone such as a boyfriend, girlfriend, best friend or spouse you want to be with them and get to know them. What about the Lord? Is Sunday the only day or only hour you give Him?

 What many people have is a form of religion but often times do not want to go overboard. If you love the Lord you should not care what others think. Somehow many think God has to be compartmentalized to one day a week. I used to be this way before I became born again in 1975. Then things became real to me. I wanted more of Jesus in my life. When you talk about the Lord then some say you are "religious".  Jesus hated religion in the Bible that was when people were all about rules and rituals. Jesus is about love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy.

Do you love the Lord or do you love your denomination? Something to think about, as I am pretty sure we won't have denominations in Heaven. If you have lost your first love that being Jesus or never had it in the first place ask Him to be Lord of your life today. 

PRAYER: Lord at times I may have acted like you were not first place in my life or acted ashamed to declare that I was a believer. If I have done this please forgive me. In Jesus' name.Amen.


Saturday, November 8, 2014

What Are You Thinking About?

 Set your mind on things above, not earthly things. Colossians 3:2

 Keeping your mind focused on good things is truly a discipline. When you dwell on past problems, worries, things that may happen, world issues, and a host of other things , it is nearly impossible to have peace. That is not the kind of life God wants us to live. He wants you to cast or throw your burdens on Him then walk away and trust Him to handle things. Also sitting around speculating about things can you make you almost mentally sick. Let it go and move on.

 Whatever is on your mind today why not make sure it is a good and happy thought. If you start thinking about stuff you know you should not, don't even go there. If you have to, say out loud "Devil get thee behind me as I am not thinking wrong thoughts". Sounds a bit crazy if you have never done it but it sure helps, I know as I have done it.

When you make it a consistent habit to 'think on things above' then you will end up in the long run being a more kind, joyful, and gentle person.  Find a way to think of others more than yourself and you will start thinking right.

PRAYER: Lord I choose this day to keep my mind focused on 'things above' and get in the habit of praising you instead of having a wandering mind. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Enjoy this little country tune about thinking on good things:
http://youtu.be/Qi9eN0V36_s

Friday, November 7, 2014

Sampling or Feasting?


Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Matthew 5:6

One of my husbands favorite things is when we have been in grocery stores like Sam's Club when they are giving out food samples. You could practically get your days caloric intake wandering from vendor to vendor sampling the various food items.

When it comes to God are you simply sampling Him or are you serious? Many think they do not need Him at all and life is just fine without church and Bible study. Others may say Sunday is quite enough and rarely pick up their Bible during the week. That indeed is just sampling. 

Now feasting is when you want to fill up until you are bursting at the seams with worship and God's word. That is how I felt recently at the Moms in Prayer Festival of Joy held in mid October in Dallas, Texas. I hated for the praise and worship time to end. If you don't get hungry for Jesus and things of the Lord, have you ever truly asked Him into your heart to be your Lord and savior or are you going through Sunday motions because that is what you learned as a child? Today why not make Him Lord of your life?

PRAYER: I need you in my life and I am hungry each day for you. Guide my path things that bring me closer to you not further away. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for a very powerful song:
                      http://youtu.be/ZUg9qE_KjLg

Thursday, November 6, 2014

People Can Hurt Us

But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! Matthew 5:44

Ever heard the phrase "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never harm me?" Well I am here to attest to the fact that is untrue. I have been treated very hatefully verbally by people in my past who were once friends. It goes to prove you just never know and friendship can be unpredictable and fragile.  These friends comments deeply hurt me and sometimes stunned me as I never saw it coming. I had to make a decision to let them go as most wanted nothing else to do with me. Then I had to learn from it.

If you have been on the receiving end of  hateful speech, comments behind your back, verbal abuse, betrayal, or someone just shutting  you out of their life  with clear blue with rejection, it hurts really bad. God can help you learn from rejection and you can eventually let them go. Pray for God to bless them, then move on. 

We do not know what makes people "tick" so to speak. Something else may be the root cause but you get the brunt of the verbal abuse and rejection. Continue to pray for them, leave them alone, and live regardless. Then cherish and nurture the relationships you do have currently. 

PRAYER: It is so hard to be ridiculed or talked down to by a friend. It is hard from strangers too but a trusted friend or perhaps a spouse It would be  much worse. Lord help me love them regardless through my pain. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

In Case Of Emergency, Pray.


Pray continually. 1 Thessalonians 5:17

We all have probably seen the little red boxes in many buildings that read 'in case of emergency break glass'. They are there in case a fire breaks out to alert the fire department to hurry over and to make occupants of the building aware so they can evacuate ASAP. 

All sorts of emergencies happen in life. When you least expect it there is the dreaded phone call informing you of a death or accident. No one is prepared for that type of scenario. Don't sit around dwelling on that wondering if and when that call at come because it may never come and hopefully not.

Constantly be in an attitude of prayer. Do not wait until a major crisis to be a prayer warrior. Pray in good times and in not so good times. Let God hear your praise too because He loves those. Just know that God is near and is able and He does love you.

PRAYER: Lord God use me in the life of a friend who may have experienced tragedy in their life and help me learn to be on my knees each and every day and not wait till the bottom falls out of something. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click on link for a wonderful song of worship:
http://youtu.be/X1OJ3DmO75c

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Elevated? Stay Humble


For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Luke 14:11

 My husband is one of the most humble people I know besides my two sons. They do not brag all over the place about good stuff they do and they put other people first.  They would be mad I used them for an example so if they are reading, sorry guys. I am very proud of all three of them. When you have accomplished something great it is human nature to think people ought to know but really it does not matter. A former Army boss of mine used to say "Let your virtues speak for themselves" and that is so true.

 It is not necessary to toot our own horn. Humble people are truly pleasant to be around whereas a braggart sometimes is hard to take. Our job is to live, love,laugh, and show kindness to others and when we have done something great let others praise us and not our own lips.

 Maybe some reading have slipped up some on this,I know I have. I pray for God to keep me humble and useable in His kingdom and if I get praise to God be the glory. It is God who creates us and gives us the skills, talents,and gifts we possess. Never forget that. It is not necessary to prove anything to anyone. Let God do the exalting.

PRAYER Lord if I have ever been less than humble forgive me. I choose to give you the praise and glory and thank you for what you have given me in my life. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Click link below and worship the Lord in song:

PS: Don't forget to go vote today here in America!

Monday, November 3, 2014

Get Out of God's Way(Let Him Work)




 For I know the plans I have for you,” clares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

 Do you ever try to orchestrate change in things by manipulation or some sort? This is not a good thing and when you do it you are acting like what Bible teacher Joyce Meyer calls 'Holy Spirit junior' which we are not called to do. We are called to pray and give things over to God not sit and stress and figure it out ourselves.

Things happen in God's timing and trying to jump ahead of God often has dire consequences. Think of the story of Abraham and Sarah not trusting God to bring them a baby in their old age and tried to work it out on their own. Read Genesis 18:10-12 for background on this story.

Our job is to keep praying, keep believing, and keep trusting. Let God do the rest.

 PRAYER: Lord your plans are perfect and your timing is perfect. Help me not try to manipulate outcomes to prayers as your job is to hear our prayers and our job is to be faithful and trust. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, November 2, 2014

People At Work



Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Colossians 3:23

As I sat for a three hour layover recently at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport I observed all sorts of employees doing there jobs. Facilities management emptying trash. Skycaps pushing people in wheelchairs. Customer Service answering confused passengers inquiries. Restaurant workers busily fulfilling orders. People were scurrying about on this busy day working hard at their jobs.

As a believer no matter what we do we need to perform it as if working for the Master Himself because ultimately we are. God does not want us to be slackers but to work hard whether we are a grave digger, store clerk, CEO of billion dollar company, or a mom at home, to name a few. Be an example for the kingdom in every facet of your life

When you are at work or at play take your duties seriously.

PRAYER: I am your servant Lord and I willingly work at each of my jobs in a manner to please you and be an example for your kingdom to non believers. Give me strength to persevere. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, November 1, 2014

Ripe For The Harvest


Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. John 4:35

Most of Alabama's cotton crop has been harvested by now. Before it was picked and baled the fields looked like southern snow. Some call it 'white gold'.

There is another type of harvest mentioned in the word of God and that is souls. When things start to go crazy and get scary often times people finally wake up and maybe really do start to believe this 'God thing'. Often times that is what it takes to get someone to turn to the Lord.  When life is going great many have no need for God and certainly think they are 'okay' and can not get serious about this 'religious' stuff.

Believers are supposed to be out there in the 'fields' doing our part to share Jesus with others. This does not mean you have to pack up and go to Africa to minister but wherever you live make use of the time you have left on this Earth to share Jesus' love with hurting souls around you. The fields indeed are 'ripe' for the harvest.

PRAYER: Help me keep my eyes open for those who need me to share your love and give me Holy boldness to speak the truth in love at the appropriate time. In Jesus' time. Amen.