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.

Thursday, April 30, 2015

Being Kind

A new command I give you:  Love one another.  Just as I have loved you so you must love one another.  By this everyone will know you are my disciples if you love one another.  John 13:34-35
The ache of rejection is hard, at least for me. I have been rejected by close friends before. Some though have been rejected by family members or spouses which is much worse probably. 
Thinking about Easter which we recently celebrated, Jesus was despised and rejected by men. Beat up, mocked,whipped, scorned yet all along he said not one word. Accounts have Him grimacing in pain from this torture but never once saying once ugly word. How many of us could endure that type brutality without wanting to say something back? Luke 23:34 says "Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up his clothes by casting lots." 
Is there someone in your life you need to learn to be kind to? Humanly maybe they deserve to be spoken ugly to, but that is not God's desire. He desires kindness. Start your week being kind under impossible situations. You will feel better for it.

PRAYER: There are people who rub me the wrong way sometimes Lord but I know it's not right to be ugly back or even think ugly thoughts. Help me remember to be kind and pray for them, not gossip. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

I Am So Very Thankful



I will give You thanks with all my heart;I will sing Your praise before the heavenly beings. Psalm 138:1
Today marks the end of a 'school calendar year' of praying with the Moms in Prayer group I am a part of. At the end of each year it is very exciting because we have a 'Thanksgiving celebration' to give thanks once again to many answers to prayer during the year. Our group consists of college/career/and military moms.

To be thankful for things helps you stay focused on the positive things of life. God does care and it is a comfort to go to Him with prayer and thanksgiving. Complaining and being ungrateful comes easy and usually drags other people down besides the one doing it. If you have trouble being thankful stop a moment and just sit with a pen and paper or your computer and make a list of all the things you are grateful for. I have a blessing jar at home where each day I put one thing I am thankful for or blessed because of.

No matter what is going on in your life,keep praising Jesus through the storms as one day you will indeed see the sunshine.

PRAYER: At times I have forgotten to get up and say thanks for another day of life and another day to try to be a blessing in this world. Forgive me Lord for not being more thankful. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a song of Thanksgiving:
http://youtu.be/xtxmSAqMtDA

For more info on Moms in Prayer go to www.momsinprayer.org

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Fallen World



"I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

Ever since the beginning of creation and the sin of Adam and Eve we have lived in a fallen, imperfect, sinful world. It wouldn't have been,  as God did not intend that, but now sin is rampant. The enemy, Satan, is alive and well and operating overtime on planet Earth deceiving and lying to Christians and non Christians alike. Many do not even acknowledge Him and even realize they are captivated in his spell. 

Don't lose heart because we still have a beautiful Earth and God is still God. He gave us so much to enjoy. Though problems and tests will occur, it is how a person handles these situations that shows if they are walking in the Spirit or not. A consequence of falling away is disobedience to God. Deep down you know what is right but you do something wrong anyway. Some even change scripture to suit their needs or 'the times'. 

The way to know God and be aware of situations that could cause you to fall is to stay grounded in the word of God. That is where truth is found and that is where you learn how much Jesus loves you. 

PRAYER: Lord I do not want to step foot in the enemies camp. I am aware of Satan's schemes to get me to fall away from you. I choose to not make excuses why I can not study your word daily. Help me stay on track and say no to distractions. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, April 27, 2015

Think Right First Thing



In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. Psalm 5:3

I myself find the best time to get alone with God is in the morning. It is kind of like exercising. If I do not do it first thing it is harder to be motivated later in the day. One advantage of doing it first thing is it sort of prepares your mind and heart for the day ahead. Your thoughts and mind are turned to Him and His word so it is a good way to start 'thinking right first thing'. 

Try this. Put God on your calendar. Do not schedule everything else then forget about time alone with Him. How can a person know anyone without spending time one on one with them? Same holds true for knowing Jesus. Sunday being spoon fed  by a pastor or priest is not the answer. You have to do it yourself on your own. 

Do you want a renewed peaceful mind? Try getting up and casting your cares on the one who loves you more than anything. 

PRAYER: I choose today and every day to let you have first place in my life. First place before Facebook. First place before the morning show or news. First place before the newspaper. Help me stay disciplined and learn to say no to things that take my time from you away. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for a wonderful song to get your Monday off to good start:

Sunday, April 26, 2015

Look Up!



Then they will see THE SON OF MAN COMING IN A CLOUD with power and great glory. “But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Luke 21:27-28

When I was in the United States Army we had a jody call that said "What's the use of looking down, ain't no discharge on the ground. One two three four. One two give me some more". These songs were meant to motivate us to keeping running or keep marching. That particular little jingle sort of stuck in my head here 40 years later. We are indeed to keep looking up.

When a person looks down they miss things. For instance when we are glued to our mobile devices we are not paying attention to people or things around us. Someone with their nose stuck in their phone as as a passenger in a car may miss beautiful scenery out the window. If we are looking down and not paying attention either and not looking to Jesus as our hope we may indeed miss Him. Some day is He going to come back and it is going to be so exciting. 

Are you 'looking up' and ready for His return?

PRAYER: I love looking up at your creation and also pondering what it will be like when you return in all your glory. Help me keep looking up to the needs of those around me. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Saturday, April 25, 2015

Passion For Christ



I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.Revelation 3:15-16

What is the center of your life that gets most your attention? Your passion? Is it a hobby? A pet? A car? A sports team? An activity? Do you get excited about Sunday and look forward to worship? Perhaps you are a good person coasting through life who claims to know Christ but has no interest in spiritual things to get closer to Him.

For a person to truly 'know' and be passionate about Christ first they need a heart transplant of sorts. If you are just ho hum, so so, maybe it is time to ask God to renew your fire and zeal for Him. If you never had it in the first place perhaps now is the time to get it.  It is the Holy Spirit that convicts a person of their need for Jesus. The verse I gave today is pretty clear. If you are just living life without God except one hour Sunday that is like lukewarm food. Not very tasty.

What are you going to do about it my friend? Some priorities may need to be changed to fit God into each and every day. Spend time in His word, The Bible, for there you find your tools for getting through the challenges of life.

PRAYER: I ask forgiveness Lord for those days I have let something squeeze you out of my morning. You are more important than checking my Facebook status so I just need discipline to do what is truly important. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, April 24, 2015

Crosses By The Road



I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, Philemon 1:4

Here in the state of Alabama every now and then I see a cross on the roadside where someone died in a car wreck. Some are simple wooden crosses with a name etched on them and others are very elaborate with flowers and other decorations. They represent one thing. The death of a special person in someone's life. 

When passing these crosses, usually too fast to be able to read the names, I try to remember to pray for the family and friends of this victim who suddenly and unexpectedly was involved in a car crash and lost their life. The pain the family endures is mostly shoved done as the years go on. The memory lingers on and this roadside tribute is a families way of dealing with the unthinkable. A couple names I did see were Emily, Brandon, and Courtney. These families  could use prayer to help them each day wake up and face the new day. 

Are there people in your life who could use prayer? When you say you will pray for someone do you do it or just say it? I am ashamed to say sometimes I forget. Why not do it right then and there on the spot and even with the person who asks you if you have time. You may not have a 'cross by the road' to remind you of praying for people but try to make an effort each day to think of who you know who could use your prayers. 

PRAYER: Father I thank you for the privilege of prayer. I know you hear our prayers and answer them in time. Maybe not how we think they should be but your plan is greater than anything we could conjure up. I will keep on praying. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Times Up


Show me, LORD, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. Psalm 39:4

I like to read obituary's. Some say this trait occurs when you get old but I find it fascinating to see the various ages of those who have passed away. I wonder how many died without knowing Jesus. I have even thought of writing obits as a business idea. The fact is we are all going to die some day, we just do not know when. The very young deaths always make me sad. My heart goes out to the parents. I can not imagine the pain they carry.

If your life ended today would you be ready to meet God? We are all going to. When we die we either go one of two places: heaven or hell. I have heard it say that God is not loving if He sends people to hell. People send themselves to hell by rejecting Him and not living for Him. Why wait till you lay dying to decide to follow Him. Experience all He has for you now. John 14:6 says to us 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but through me." It is the truth my friend. 

I do not know if I will die tonight, tomorrow or thirty years from now but I know this. When my time is up I want the Lord to say to me "well done good and faithful servant'. (See Matthew 25:23). 

PRAYER: Lord thank you loving me even when I act like I do not love you. Help me to shine for you and let my witness draw others to you. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Worship The Creator, Not The Earth!

For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. Romans 1:25

Earth Day, Say What? This is a day we celebrate Mother Earth a term which greatly bothers me. "The Earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof" it says in 1 Corinthians 10:26. We are not to be worshipping creatures and idolizing the earth. We are to be thankful for things God made but to serve and worship them is a form of idolatry almost. Instead of Earth Day why not have the 'Creator Day'. Why are so many afraid to acknowledge God? Well many do not believe in Him and still think some big bang made everything. The modern Environmental Protection Agency was created as a result of the first Earth Day in 1970, a movement spawned in the flower child hippie era.

God made the Earth for us to enjoy. Since the fall of Adam and Eve we have had to labor to take care of it. When you go  out and see the flowers, trees, brooks, meadows, mountains, streams, and beautiful creatures say a prayer of thanks for everything He made. If we paid as much attention to our souls and not so much for worrying about earthy things just think how things would be. Some of the regulations put upon us by this agency have bordered on ridiculousness and have hurt many more than helped. Sure it is good to recycle, not litter,   and not purposely pollute but to go overboard  and stop enjoying God's creation is quite another thing. 

Now as creatures of God we are to be good stewards of His creation and therefore I guess that means taking care of His biggest creation, the Earth. Just do not let it consume you to the point of idol worship is all I am saying. Put God first always and let His life flow out of you to those around you. 

PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus I am so thankful for this Earth and all of your creation. I intend to be a good steward of the things you have given me to take care of. But my worship goes to you and not to the Earth itself. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Divine Appointments





And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Do you get irritated if you have to wait? I used to but lately I learn to be still and see what assignment God may have for me. Maybe someone I need to give a word of cheer or hope to. Maybe those mere inconveniences have an underlying purpose to them. You know sort of like being in the right place at the right time. We all have probably had 'interesting' encounters when things maybe didn't turn out on our time table. I can think of many. Once was getting to pray with a cancer patient at airport. 

Be willing to be used by God. Stay flexible and peaceful. Don't explode when your schedule is thrown off as there may be reasons for it.  Getting all wound tight will only cause to get a person agitated and frustrated. Look at these times as opportunities maybe to shine for Jesus and meet needs. 

You just never know when the Lord has an assignment for you so keep your eyes and ears open. 

PRAYER: Forgive me Lord when I go to an appointment and have to wait. Sometimes I realize things happen for a reason so help me stay peaceful and try to smile. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, April 20, 2015

Evil Around Us


Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21
Sixteen years ago today the unthinkable happened. Thirteen innocent high school students were shot to death at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado by two other students who later took their own lives. At the time, shootings like this were pretty rare, especially one of this magnitude in a very nice suburb of Denver, Colorado. At the time I lived in a Phoenix suburb and when I heard the news had just dropped off my older son to his high school after having lunch together.  Later, come to find out that one of the thirteen dead had a mom who was in the same prayer ministry I was in, there in Mesa, Arizona entitled Moms in Touch(Moms in Prayer now). 
The typical thing you hear during tragedy is why did God let this happen especially to the son of a praying mom.  I have no answers and I am sure this boys' mom also had no answers. Bad things do happen and sometimes to good people. But God can turn tragedy into triumph.  Prayers always go up to make something good out of this horrible mess. 

The thing is, in life there are bad things and good things. Good and evil. This act by these two young high school students was the height of evil. What caused them to go beserk and commit these atrocious acts. We can only lift those families up in prayer who probably relive this every April 20th. Do not get bitter but get better and if tragedy comes your way unexpectedly pray for God to give you the ability to press on. 

PRAYER: Thanks for each day of life you have given to me. Help me to comfort those who weep and stand firm when faced with the unexpected myself. Help me release any bitterness to those who do evil. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, April 19, 2015

Love, Not Hate


If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also. 1 John 4:20-21

Do you hate anyone? Hate is a pretty strong. The definition is to feel intense or passionate dislike for someone. Now that is pretty intense. As a believer we are to love one another even if we do not agree with a person and something they are doing. 1 Peter 4:8 says "Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins." 

Is there a individual you are having a difficult time loving or maybe these days, someone in public office? Ask God to put His love in your heart for this person. If a person outwardly curses you or abuses you it may be humanly difficult to do this. Guess what? Nothing is impossible with God. 

Your assignment is to go be a lover not a hater and pray and keep on praying. 

PRAYER: I confess that at times certain people may have irritated me. Help me Lord remember to pray for them and for me as well. Give me a loving Spirit. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, April 18, 2015

Whew!

Peace I leave with 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

We have all lost things in our lives. If you haven't you are a rare creature. I had been on a roll and had not misplaced anything in a while and felt like maybe I had passed the 'peace test'. But then it happened. I looked at my wrist as I was entering a local eating establishment  and my Fitbit was missing. I tried to stay calm. Much better than in the past. I left quickly and retraced my steps. I prayed and had prayer sisters pray. Searched my car. Returned to the coffee shop and it had been turned in. Oh happy day! Honest people. 

Life requires us to maintain cool emotions. Both my sons are in career fields that require calmness and cool thinking. Maybe your job requires you to stay cool and collected as well. Getting all flustered about losing objects does not bring them back any quicker. Sometimes it is necessary to resolve that no matter what, you will move on. Do not let it wreck your day or your life. Don't let missing things tear you apart. I know this is easier said than done especially when looking for keys, passports, birth certificate, adoption papers, car titles and other things like those. But still, fretting does not do one thing to help you or get the object back.

To help maintain a life of calmness and be able to function well at work and at play give your care to God. Fuming does not help but only creates more tension and stress. Ask God to help you. He is only a prayer away.

PRAYER: First of all thank you for helping me find most things I have lost. Thank you for honest people that turn things in that do not belong to them. Help me stay cool when I should misplace things in the future. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, April 17, 2015

Jesus To The World


Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to Angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2

The scenario was a stormy dark morning as I drove into Redstone Arsenal recently. As I proceeded down the road towards the post there I saw a man in baggy pants, unkept hair, carrying plastic bags. He was covered up by a hoody. Not sure what his story was, but I felt so terrible as I drove past him all dry in my nice car. There is a safety issue for a woman alone approaching a strange man so I drove on by like most others.

After this occurrence I said to myself, "geez he could have been an angel. Maybe you could have gone around the block and given him some food". Never the less this gentleman is still a creature of God and deserves to be treated with respect. Someone later told me he is a mentally ill man who is not actually homeless but wanders the streets in that area of Huntsville. Have you been faced with something like this in your life? Do not endanger yourself but if you can help, do so.

Do you have a kind heart for those in our society that are down and out or do you feel they deserve what they get? Today just look for opportunities to be Jesus to the world.  Now go be a blessing.

 PRAYER: Dear Lord I see hurting people every day. It makes me grateful but also makes me wonder how I can reach out but yet stay safe. Help me shine your light to a hurting world. In Jesus' name. Amen.

P.S. And if you get a chance check out the movie 'Do You Believe' in theaters now.

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Lonely Epidemic



24 A man who has friends must show himself friendly,  and there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

You don't have to go far to see lonely people. Some loneliness is visible and some is not. It is not just found in large cities like New York. The elderly, the poor, even the very rich and successful. It is caused by a host of things too involved for a short devotion. Question is, what to do if you are lonely or to help lonely people. 

We have probably all seen those who fit in this category and we ourselves if honest have been there at one time or another. Some loneliness is brought on by self pity. It could be someone sitting alone in a park, a coffee shop, a restaurant. We just never know. Don't be afraid to smile and say hello. If you have some free time visit a nursing home as I guarantee you there are lonely in there. If prison ministry is your calling many there are lonely.

Today whatever you are doing stop and think about someone who needs their spirit lifted. Maybe a friend or family member you could call. Write a letter to a friend or send a card. Be creative. Showing God's love is the best cure for loneliness. 

PRAYER: I need to be aware of those around me who may need a hug or a smile. Help me learn to put down my electronic devices and tune in to people for a change. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

The Tax Man Cometh!!


Give to everyone what you owe them. If you owe taxes pay taxes, if revenue, then revenue, if respect, then respect.Romans 13:7

The dreaded day has arrived. Before the stroke of midnight tonight for those of you in the United States, you’d better make sure your 2015 income taxes are postmarked or filed electronically. Some of those in government who vote for unnecessary taxes may not be wise God fearing people but we still are to pay our taxes. We have a voice to speak up against unfair and unjust confiscation of our private bank accounts, but until something changes, we are still to pay or go to jail.Many in public office do support immoral things or wasteful spending and this trail goes all the way to the occupant of the Oval Office.

As a servant of the Lord we are to follow rules and regulations and set an example. If something is evil we have a responsibility to speak out in love to get things changed. As Christians we need to vote for God fearing men and women who will lead us according to the Constitution, the scriptures, and not lord over us like subjects of a king. 

Today be thankful for money to be able to pay what is due. In the meantime make sure your voice is heard when it comes to unjust actions by a tyrannical government trying to control us way too much. 


PRAYER: Lord I thank you so very much for all you have blessed me with. I am honest therefore I pay taxes. Help me in whatever I do to shine for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

Prayer Is For Nutty Idiotic People? Says Who?


Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

Do you ever feel that you are paddling up stream? You pray but things don't quite turn out the way you hoped. Nay sayers say "why bother." 

Recently I had what some would call an accidental encounter on text messaging with a stranger who had a number that used to be assigned to a Christian prayer sister of mine in Colorado. I texted a prayer request and this atheist who received it let me have it. I was called stupid, unthinking, idiot and a couple cuss words. Wow kind of sounds like Jesus being beat up in a way. 

I saw this not as an accident but as an opportunity to plant a seed for Christ. I did not get angry or spit bad ugly things. I said something to this individual I had heard the pastor say on Easter Sunday and that was "Earth is as close as you will ever get to heaven." The individual responded berating me again. I stood firm and told them not to email again unless I could tell them how to ask Jesus into their heart. Do you believe God is real or are you like this individual who thought Christians were loony? Jesus is the way and the only way. 

What do you need to do to believe or if you already believe what can you do to spread this belief to others? 

PRAYER: Lord when I pray to be used by You like I have many times recently, help me be ready for what you bring my way. I know you can strengthen me to say and do the right thing.in Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, April 13, 2015

Monday, Monday


This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
Each day is a gift from God whether it is Sunday or any other day. Yes even Monday's! Somehow people may think Monday is to be dreaded. That 'engine' of ours has to somehow get 'restarted' in order to function at the first part of the week. If anything is going to go wrong it is bound to happen on Monday or so we think. I had a Monday recently where after completing my gym workout and was getting dressed to go to a prayer group, discovered my blouse fresh from the cleaners, was  minus all four buttons. It was not my desire to show myself off to the world wearing a plunging neck line throughout the day. This could have wrecked my day but a friend loaned me a tee shirt to wear.

We can choose to make a day bad or good. It is all in the attitude we have. Of course Satan wants you getting up sad,depressed, angry,anxious, and upset. God wants you to look at each new day, and it's troubles as an opportunity. Yes even the way you react to a problem can be a witness, good or bad,to those your encounter throughout your day. 

Think about all your have to be thankful for. Try to start each new day and say thanks when you get out of bed. Then make time for God in your morning before the morning shows, newspaper, or other things like Facebook, that could easily lure you away. After all what is more important? 

PRAYER: I am so thankful for each day you give me to impact the world around me. Help me learn to be patient with others and to show kindness. Keep my speech and thoughts pure. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, April 12, 2015

Coffee Time



Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20

Recently when I was at one of my favorite local writing caves(coffee shops) which just happens to be Christian, the tune 'Come Thou Fount Of Every Blessing' was coming over the PA system. What a joy to hear that song and to really soak in the true meaning of what this song was saying. 

Here I was having time to write when many people had no choice but to go to work. Yes I felt blessed indeed. Not to say that work is not a blessing because God has each of us where we are to serve Him and to hopefully do it joyfully. Take time and do this exercise today. Make a list of your blessings. Food, clothing, shelter, friends, money, a Bible to read, freedom, good health, family, mobility, vision,hearing, and on the list goes. Each person is unique so the lists would be different. 

When you tend to want to complain about your 'lot' in life stop and count your blessings naming them one by one. Then indeed you will see what the Lord has done. 

PRAYER: Lord I do indeed thank and praise you for how you watch over me and have me right where you want me. Forgive me for ever complaining or comparing myself to others. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, April 11, 2015

The Forest Fire



Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. James 3:5

My country, the United States of America, has its' share of forest fires, especially out West. These fires sometimes are caused by lightening strikes but often times by a careless person not putting out a campfire or throwing a cigarette butt on ground. Never the less the fires are destructive to property and lives.

Our words are like forest fires. It is critical to be very careful what we say. A misspoken word can wreak havoc and even break up relationships. I am sure I have had burning 'embers' that may have started a small blaze a few times. If we are honest, probably we all have. It is essential to be very wise in the use of our words. Words can build up but can also tear down and destroy.

Are there any 'forest fires' in your own life you need to throw the water of love and grace on before the turn into a raging blaze?

PRAYER: Help me Lord be wise in the use of the words that come out of my mouth. Also help me with my thought life to show love and not be dragging people down even in my thoughts. Help the words I say only bring glory to you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, April 10, 2015

What Kind Of Friend Are You?



One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

Friends are very important. To be a friend you need to be friendly. Sometimes friends can disappoint us. We are not to put our total trust in them. Guess who is our very best friend? Jesus. That is right. He will not unfriend you ever. He can be trusted. He is not moody or fickle. He puts you first. He understands your heartbreaks and pains. Too bad earthly friends are not fail proof like our savior. Indeed the old hymn 'What A Friend We Have In Jesus' is so true.

Who is your best friend? Is it Jesus? I tried to teach our sons through the acronym J.O.Y. that Jesus was first, others second, and themselves last. This sort of slaps the worlds' view in the face. Look out for number one. Go for the gusto! For a believer there should be no question that Jesus is your best friend and should be the one you keep a daily morning appointment with before dashing out the door.

If you remember to think more highly of others right after Jesus of course, you will be a much better friend, and have a fulfilled life. Start setting up that appointment with your best friend each day!

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for being there when the world seemingly has run out. When hurts come you are there in the midst of them. I choose to make you my best friend. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, April 9, 2015

Hope and Healing For Your Hurting Soul


Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

 It is difficult to make it through a lifetime without experiencing emotional pain. Some I know have had to endure more than their fair share. I am sure you have heard that trials and struggles make you stronger and indeed in a strange way that is how it works. Our pain and suffering often helps us down the road to help others going through their own battles. But why?
All I can say is God is on the throne and even though He did not cause all the calamities we blame Him for, He uses all things to work out for good. Don't tell that to a grieving mother, but it is still true. How do you think Mary felt seeing her son Jesus being whipped, spit on, beaten, and crucified? We as children of God need to know that Jesus knows our pain. Run to Him my friend.
Above all never ever stop praying, believing, or hoping. Our God indeed is a miracle working God even today.
 PRAYER: Lord Jesus sometimes I feel like I can't breathe due to emotions getting me down. I choose to stay lifted up knowing you Lord are my hope. You have been and always will be. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click link for a song of praise to lift your spirit. 
https://youtu.be/R3yCod-IfjY

Wednesday, April 8, 2015

Easter Is Over. Now What?


Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. Mark 12:30

Hopefully most of you reading this today made it to church on Easter Sunday. Traditionally this is the day many unchurched people come out of the woodwork and make their way to worship somewhere. Others even if they are believers may get lazy and make excuses that church will be too crowded that day so they will stay home. Even some believers just really have not made God a priority and have other idols in their lives that have taken them away from worshipping each weekend or even making time daily for Him.

The minister where I attended church on Easter made a profound statement to close his message. Chris Hodges, Pastor of Church of the Highlands, Birmingham, Alabama,  said the following: "For a believer Earth is as close as you will ever get to Hell. For a non believer Earth is as close to Heaven as you will ever get." Think about those statements for a while. 

Do you love the Lord? If not why not? And if you say you do and someone were to arrest you would there be enough evidence to convict you of loving the Lord? Are you sold out to Him? 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I pray today for those reading this who may not love you very much. I pray you will help the things of the world not capture them and drag them away from spending time with you. Give me eyes to see and ears to hear those things you want to teach me as well. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Sound The Alarm


But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people and the sword comes and takes someone’s life, that person’s life will be taken because of their sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for their blood. Ezekiel 33:6

Drip, drip, drip is the sound of our freedoms in America going down the drain of political control and takeover. We stand idly by allowing evil rulers to take advantage of us not even following the US Constitution. The time is coming when The Lord will come back. We twist everything in the Bible to make it politically correct. Folks,  we just can not do that. The Bible is the truth and not to be messed with. People are too busy to care or too endeared to a political party that they can not see what is happening and the subtle way this is happening. 

Brothers and sisters the ball is in our court now as it always has been. When religious freedoms are messed with and people go to court for their beliefs we have a problem. Still God is in control. Stand firm, be on your guard. Know the enemy hates the United States of America and would love to see us bow to a Communist Dictatorship and sand blast all the Bible verses off our monuments and in our government buildings. 

I urge everyone to show love but do not be foolish. Keep praying and keep asking God to intervene. 

PRAYER: Lord I know you have a plan and I ask you Lord to stir up the hearts of men and women to rise up and help keep this country 'One Nation Under God' and never compromise our Christian beliefs. Protect us from those who hate us some even in our own government. In Jesus'  name. Amen.

Click on link to praise God in song:
https://youtu.be/aGkEE5dwmdY

Monday, April 6, 2015

Time To Eat


Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation. 1 Peter 2:2
I get my ideas and titles for my writing in many strange ways. One day as I sat in a local eating establishment watching people enter on their lunch hour it dawned on me all these people think they have to eat. It is 11 or 12 and it is time to go nourish our bodies for the rest of the day. One by one people lined up at this very popular dining establishment. I wondered how many of them were this hungry for God? Do they crave Sunday worship like they do that noon meal? 
We eat to grow and to stay healthy. Many third world nations have malnourished citizens just wondering where they will get food and water. We are blessed in the United States with not only an abundance of food but also with Christian churches all over the place. There is no real excuse to not get involved other than fear or complacency. Maybe you had a bad experience in church or with a particular denomination. So find another one. If you want to be close to Jesus you have to fellowship with Him and spend daily time with Him through His word, The Bible.
I urge you today to not just go to church on holidays like Easter and Christmas. Imagine if you 'ate' only twice yearly. You would waste away. Don't let your spirit waste away and leave you open to the attacks of the great deceiver, Satan. 
PRAYER: I desire you Lord. I choose to make my schedule around you and not get so busy I forget I need my 'spiritual food'. I want you to be my main passion above hobbies and other things in my life. I will resist Satan's attempts to get me making excuses. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Click link to hear a wonderful song of worship:
https://youtu.be/IdJBYyNsQd0?list=RDIdJBYyNsQd0

Sunday, April 5, 2015

Happy Easter Hunt...Finding Jesus


Seek the Lord while He may be found. Call upon Him while He is near. Isaiah 55:6  

Just like Christmas, Easter seems to get lost in commercial hoopla. Stores have candy sales and dress sales. About the only place you see the true meaning is at a Christian bookstore. Easter Egg Hunts are very popular. I used to hide 'Christian eggs' with a Bible verse and money in them. I even bought some 'Resurrection Eggs' for the children. There is nothing really wrong about hunting eggs just like there is no problem with Santa Claus. We just have to keep our focus on Jesus not the Easter Bunny.
Easter is a happy time because it celebrates Jesus resurrection from the dead. While you are maybe helping hunt eggs have you found Jesus? Is He part of your every day life or a historical figure you learn about on these two holidays?  Is He real to you? He can be.

Christ the Lord is risen, he is risen indeed. Seek Him today!! Don't just wait till next Easter to get to know Him better.

PRAYER: Lord I am thankful you are alive and here daily for us to call upon you. Someday you will come back with a mighty shout and all people will indeed know you are Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a song of praise for this celebration day:
http://youtu.be/8M3_p2i6bH0

           Further reading: John chapter 1

Saturday, April 4, 2015

Final Moments


Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. James 4:14

Each of us is born and we die. We are not promised tomorrow. We never know when we will take our last breath. Our purpose on earth is to live for Christ, He made us for a reason yet how many people fail to even acknowledge Him?  Don't go through life worried about dying,  as yes, we all are going to die. Instead embrace each day of life and be willing to be used by God for His purposes during your short duration on Earth. 

Too many people think their life will go on forever. Many, like myself, have ways we wish we could die such as in our sleep, the less painful way. Don't waste time wondering and speculating about this or being scared to live. Try new things. Go out boldly and courageous each day facing whatever challenges life gives you each day. Don't be mad at God if a family member or friend has died but instead try to make the memory of that loved one something special. Don't get mad because one person lives to age 95 and others die in their teens or as a child. 

No matter what happens, keep looking up to Jesus and living for Him so you can enter His heavenly kingdom one day when you breathe your last breath. 

PRAYER: Thank you for the gift of life. Thank you for letting me be born. Help me Lord to  not focus on death but what I can do while I am alive. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, April 3, 2015

Access Denied



Through Him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:2

I don't know about you, but technology can be a real headache at times. Logging onto computers or into smart phones that continue to give error messages is maddening. Recently I had this occur over and over again when trying to do my writing. I laugh at times and see it as spiritual warfare.

On the other hand, you never receive error messages from the Lord. We may have to be patient and wait but access to Jesus on duty around the clock. There are no messages telling us to please stand by or you need to reboot. Access is now! 

What is troubling you today my friend? Are there problems you just can't seem to handle alone? Go to God and just simply talk to Him. He alone cares.

PRAYER: I thank you there are no error messages with you Lord. I thank you that when the world throws stuff at me that is overwhelming I can run to you and talk to you. Thanks for 24 hour access. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Thursday, April 2, 2015

Crave, Seek, Pursue

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.Matthew  6:33
Rock concert, sales, first in line book signing, front row Tournament of Roses, Black Friday, free door prizes, World Series tickets. There are lots of things that may make a person stand in line for a long time. You hear about it for after Thanksgiving day sales and a massive amount of people sometimes even camp out in front of the store to be there for limited quantities of a certain item.

I have stood in a few lines but how many would stand in a line to find out more about Jesus? Would it take the first 100 getting 'I Love Jesus' tee shirts to get you in line? What do you need to do to truly make sure God is first? Get up earlier? Say no to some invitations. Re arrange your schedule. Hang out with different people who love Jesus?

Stop making excuses. Find your Bible and put it on table next to sofa. Just get still, meditate on God's glory and goodness. Don't just make Sunday the day you are 'holy' but make the entire week a quality time week. When you focus more on God your problems will seem to fade.

PRAYER: Lord I can not imagine a world where I wasn't free to worship or own a Bible but many can. I would stand in line for you and your word. I hunger for more of you. In Jesus' name. Amen

Click link for a song of praise:

http://youtu.be/Aq8P5i9U7-g

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Don't Be A Fool!



For the director of music. Of David. The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good. Psalm 14:1

Today is April Fool's Day! Has anyone pulled a prank on you yet? The verb 'fool' means to "trick or deceive someone" and the noun means "a person who acts unwisely" and even goes on to say "idiot" in one dictionary. Ouch now that is pretty strong. Never the less none of us want to actually be a fool, or at least I do not think so. This day is innocent and it is difficult to find out the origin of it. It is not a national holiday but a day hoaxes occur and practical jokers abound. I actually was told I was promoted to Captain in the Army on April Fool's Day and since I saw no piece of paper officially documenting this, which should have been standard procedure, I did not believe the clerk who told me until about 5 hours later and a couple phone calls to my branch officer in Washington, DC to confirm it. 

Now in the Bible there are numerous verses about foolish people. Parents also might have told us a fool and his money are soon parted. I have heard it said that foolish people build their house on sand and not a rock. Fools who spend all their money and do not save, go broke. Check out this link which gives several verses about fools or foolish acts.http://www.openbible.info/topics/fool

I know one thing for sure, those who trust in God for guidance and seek Him for wisdom are much less likely to fall into the category of fool. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I seek your wisdom. Many times I have fit the Biblical definition of being a fool and I do not want to be one. I seek to be more like you and less like the world. Help me be wise and not a fool. In Jesus' name. Amen.