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, December 31, 2015

Finishing Strong


May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

What kind of a year has this been for you? For many 2015 brought sorrow at the death of a loved one. For others it brought the joy of a newborn baby. Life is like that. Ups and downs, good and bad. It is how we respond to things that matters. We can't allow bad situations to define us. 

The good thing is at this last day of 2015 is a good time to set goals and make up your mind you will not allow trials and tribulations to drag you down. You will not allow Satan to defeat you. You will look ahead and run the race of life to win!

End this year with a prayer and also by turning over a new chapter in your life. Purpose in your heart to make 2016 good regardless of politics, finances, family matters, jobs, or relationship issues. Give God your concerns and stay hopeful. 

PRAYER: I look forward to a new year. The old is gone and the new is ahead. Help me build on things I have learned and have an attitude of peace, joy, and love in 2016! In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Keep Christmas Alive In Your Heart!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Christmas 2015 has come and gone. Trees and decorations are down. Cards have been read. Parties and family gatherings are but a memory. Christmas should be a time of joy and merriment. The manger scene of Joseph, Mary, and the baby Jesus should remain in your heart all throughout 2016. Jesus is to be celebrated every day not just at Christmas.

The joy and spirit of the season should be a daily thing. Being kind, giving, and loving are not reserved solely for the 25th of December. People need the spirit of Christmas 365 days a year. To many, a sigh of relief is breathed because the season caused undue stress. This is not the intent of this special day. The focus needs to stay on a baby in a manger that is alive today.  

Are you able to make every day a joyous day of praising God and living for Jesus? 

PRAYER: Joy to the world, Jesus has come. I want to have Christmas in my heart every day. Help me not make excuses for getting into the word of God to know you better. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for an awesome song of worship:

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

Be Nice. It's Fun!


Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

There are different personality types, but still there's no personality type that says you need to frown and be ugly to people. We never know what someone is going through so when you are out and about why not try to smile. You may not feel like smiling but it sure can even make you feel better too and brighten another's day.
Perhaps you never made any New Years resolutions, so being kind, regardless, might be a good one. There are many opportunities throughout the day that may cause you to 'steam' or 'boil over' but why not start something new and maybe even uncharacteristic. See how many people you can make smile? I do it as I sit at local coffee shops and write. Very interesting experiment. Try it. 

There is really no reason to allow the enemy to make you be ugly or unkind to others. We have not walked in another's shoes so try to be kind. 

PRAYER: There are times I truly do not feel up to running around being nice so help me Lord to act like a Christian when I am out and about and not rely on a Christian bumper sticker or cross necklace to try to prove to others I am. I intend with your help to live it out daily. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, December 28, 2015

What Are My Options?


What Are My Options?
And if it seems evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Joshua 24:15
Door A or Door B. "I'll take an A Pat". "Give me the leather interior option." "I would like to go by plane instead of on the bus."  "Put some sprinkles on top of my ice cream." Life throws many choices and options at us. "To be or not to be, that is the question." 
When it comes to knowing and following Christ there is no in between ground. You are either not in or all in. No half way. Even Revelation 3:16 says "So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth." Pretty direct I would say. No one likes any thing lukewarm. Lukewarm showers are horrible. Lukewarm coffee is awful. Also a lukewarm believer has no impact in his or her world and really there is a question about how much they really have a passion for the Lord if they act lukewarm.
Are you just a lukewarm believer or do you 100% serve the Lord with all your being? Maybe saying you are a Christian is like being a member of a club but you aren't active. Why not choose Jesus and live for Him and see how great your life can be.
PRAYER: I choose to not be lukewarm and to not listen to the lies of Satan. I commit to pray for those I know who are leading lukewarm lives. Help me never become judgmental or self righteous. In Jesus' name. Ame.





Sunday, December 27, 2015

Culture Or Christ?


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
People living in 2015 are greatly challenged more than anytime in history. What is wrong is being called right. A follower of Christ is not to cave in to what the world says is right. We are to be different and set apart. But what happens when believers get caught up in the worlds' view of truth? 
The Bible is not about compromise or what the media says is right. Christians who are moral and speak the truth are often called hateful. Satan has a hold on so many people and many are afraid to fight him and just accept life as it is. Satan is truly prowling around like a roaring lion seeking to devour people. (see 1 Peter 5:8). Don't be deceived dear friend. Also don't get an attitude that you are above falling into Satan's trap. 
Which worldview are you going to follow? A Christ centered world view or one of the modern anti God culture? Don't be fooled. Keep your eyes on the cross and don't fulfill the lusts of the flesh. 
PRAYER: Help me not be led astray to get captivated by the lies of the enemy. Convict my heart of any sin and help me keep  on the path of righteousness. In Jesus' name. Amen. 




Saturday, December 26, 2015

I Shall Not Want

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.  Psalm 23:1
I am not sure if it is maturity, growing older or what but I am pretty content in life and not desiring a bunch of material things. The verse for today tells us we should not want. Really I am perfectly content when I do not receive presents from people and love giving gifts and never expecting one in return. This verse though could also mean we should never be in want of food, clothing and shelter as God is taking care of us. 
If you read Psalm 23 in its' entirety it becomes pretty clear. The Lord is our Shepherd and basically He has stuff under control. He is not wanting you to be all stressed out about material things in life. 1 Timothy 6:8 says 'if you have food and clothing be content in that.' Possessing lots of stuff does not make a person happier. 
Here we are a the day following the  celebration of Jesus' birth and seemingly the main focus was buy, buy, buy. Things do not bring joy and often leave a person empty. It is truly having peace and contentment in Jesus that matters in the long run. 
PRAYER: I am thankful for how you provide for my needs. I am grateful for gifts for, friends and family. I know with you I am never in want. You provide just what I need. Thank you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, December 25, 2015

Be A Wise Man...Or Woman. Seek Christ!


The teaching of the
 wise is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death. Proverbs 13:14

Well it is finally here. Christmas. The long awaited day when many are so frazzled they just take a deep breath and say "thank goodness".  We know the familiar story of the Christ child's birth in a manger in Bethlehem and the wise men who came bearing gifts for Him. This was the most important child born,ever. Today is His birthday and a day to remember just what this day signifies.

In the hustle of this day many forget what it is all about. It is not just for a big family reunion although that is nice. It is not about Santa Claus for sure. It is not about ice skating or Christmas movies or eating too much. It is about a baby born in a manger who came to save us from our sins. The world would never be the same. 

Are you prepared to meet Jesus and is He important to you or just a historical figure? Many who say they know Him do not 'seek him diligently' and or have  a passion for the things of the Lord. Why not use this Christmas to reexamine your heart and make sure you are 'all in' for  the King of kings and Lord of lords. 

PRAYER: Many say this is their favorite time of year while for others this time brings pain and sorrow. Help me today stop and really think what this day is all about. In Jesus' name. Amen. Oh by the way....Happy Birthday Jesus!

Thursday, December 24, 2015

Love, Love, Love


“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs”. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
Love is not a word that is simply a feeling. It is a commitment. The verse above gives you some qualifiers to see how your love walk is.
There is love for a spouse, a significant other, a friend, family member. In all theses types of love check yourself and see how you are doing. Only you can honestly answer that. 
Can you bear all things, hope all things and endure all things? Can you try to not offend with your words? Are you able to show forgiveness, kindness, and mercy? Love others with God's love and you can't go wrong. 
PRAYER: Help me love others through you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Ultimate Act Of Love


We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:9
If you had to choose what you thought was the ultimate act of love what would you say? What comes to mind for me is giving a body organ to a dying family member, friend, or stranger. Perhaps it would be taking a bullet. Adopting a baby into your family is one I think of as it is totally unselfish. You can probably think of others. 
Christmas is a time of year where love and giving seem to come to the forefront of life. Many have nothing to give. It is not about giving materially but of being able to receive. 
God gave us the ultimate gift of His son and in turn Jesus gave His life for our sins. 
Are you prepared to receive the gift of eternal life? We should think of giving, love, and Jesus around the clock not just on December 25. Is your joy in Him? 
PRAYER: Thanks so much for the gifts you gave so we might have abundant life. Help me to think of ways to give to others in a sacrificial way all year round. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Blossoms And Thorns


Do not be deceived. God can not be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Galatians 6:7
As I picked green beans in my garden this past summer, I was getting poked by thorns from weeds which had intermingled with the vegetables my husband planted. I had not done my part to weed the garden and consequently weeds with thorns sprung up. Gave me an idea for a devotion as many things in everyday life do.
Lush green beans represent your life as a believer. The weeds and thorns represent Satan and sin that comes in to trap us and choke the spirit out of us. If we allow sin to control our life we won't produce spiritual fruit. As we try to navigate through life still not getting sinful things from our life we can get pricked with thorns. 
God is good and His garden does not have weeds, overgrown brush, and things that stick us. "Weed" your spiritual garden of anything that could choke your Christian life out of you. Read the Bible for it is like the food that helps growth occur. Now go bloom for Jesus. 

PRAYER: I want to bloom for you Lord. Help me be aware of weeds of sin that try to choke the spiritual life out of me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, December 21, 2015

Stopping Hatred


Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1

The past several years here in America there has been much talk about gun control stopping acts of violence against innocent victims. What causes this in the first place is not the guns, but it is sheer hatred for another. For those of us who claim to not hate anyone it is hard to fathom just how someone could hate Christians, Jews, and Americans so bad that they would kill them at any expense. Only God can set us free from this cycle of hatred. Many false voices try to plant seeds of anger and division in our hearts and some of these are at the highest government level. 

First off when it comes to Islam, these folks are not guided by love but by the Quran and a whole different mindset and god. No true loving God tells people to hate others and kill an entire race of people or as they call us 'infidels'. The God of the Bible is about peace, love, forgiveness, redemption, kindness, freedom, and truth not hate, violence, prejudice, anger, rage,rape, lying, division. We are to not be fearful but to keep praying. As mad as we may be at those in our own country who say this is not a problem all we can do is pray for them and not stop. 

In order to change a person needs to turn away from sin and give their heart to Jesus. If you yourself are struggling with hate for others why not ask God to do that transforming work today and set you free. 

PRAYER: Oh Lord Jesus our nation is not taking care of who is being allowed within our borders and is letting people in that seek to destroy us. First I pray for this practice to stop. Next I pray for a transformation of hearts of those who hate not just Americans and Jewish people but who hate anything. The word hate has been misused as well in this nation simply if I disagree with a lifestyle I am said to hate it. I know Lord that is not true. Guide us to the perfect truth found only in your Word. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, December 20, 2015

Faith, Freedom, Friends, Family


But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19

I was pondering things in my life that were of importance to me and they ended up all starting with the letter F and are in my title today. All these things are the backbone of my life and many of you probably yours as well. It is a good practice to sit and ponder things when you are able to be still. This time of year makes for chaos in many cases but it does not have to be that way. Schedule some alone time to just think about your blessings.  

So it is Christmas time. There are parties, events, traditions, cookie baking, decorating, and on and on the list grows. When does anyone have time to 'ponder' their life in December? Make time. Start 2015 being different. If you were to make a list of important things in your life and things are grateful for what would it include? Don't let the craziness, which often happens, control you. Remember peace on Earth good will to men. 

Do you have peace in your heart? Is your heart in a giving mode not just at Christmas but all through the year? What in your life do you treasure? Go ahead,set aside some time to sit and ponder. It will do you a world of good. 

PRAYER: I do not want to let the manmade demands of this sacred season take away from the true meaning. Help me to prioritize my life each and every day to be able to just be still and think of my blessings. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, December 19, 2015

What's Going On Lord?


You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. Psalm 32:7

We here in the United States have had it pretty good. We come in on the coat tails of the founding fathers  and also those brave men and woman who gave their lives for our freedom.  When things have been so good for so long it is easy to become complacent about evil seeping  into the fabric of our society. The excuse to pacify many and keep them in an ignorant stupor is the statement "but we have a Constitution" which is good if it is enforced. 

The Bible has been and continues to be the standard for this country. There are those in government who try to make us believe all religions are equal and they in fact are not. Religions whose purpose is to "kill the infidel"  and justifies lying  are not equal to Christianity.  The Constitution can not coexist with Sharia law. Keeping the citizens ignorant is what the enemy Satan wants to do. You need to not be ignorant of his schemes to deceive and trick.


Whatever happens we know God is ultimately on the throne he may allow an evil ruler for a time being maybe for no other reason but to wake us up and stir revival in the hearts of men. We don't have all the answers, but we must trust God

PRAYER: I pray for this nation founded on your word Lord. Help people who are caught up in the Devils lies be set free. Protect us from terrorist attacks on our own soil. Your kingdom come and your will be done. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, December 18, 2015

Don't Cave In

Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who out darkness for light,and light for darkness. Who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. Isaiah 5:20

My husband and  I raised our sons to know right from wrong and good from evil. They were raised in the Christian faith to follow after the truth and pursue it. After you leave home you are on your own and confronted with many choices and often times moral and ethical dilemmas. Colleges often take our children and brainwash them into new philosophies of life. For whatever reason many children reject the faith of their childhood much to the dismay of parents who did the right thing initially.

Maybe some of you reading this have wandered from the way you were raised or your adult children have. Satan roams around trying to captivate people with lies and deceit and at times he is pretty convincing. Unless you counteract it with the truth in God's word you may be left to wander in the wilderness. Many a praying mom and dad has worn out the carpet on their knees praying for their children to be protected from the wiles of the devil and to fall back in love with Jesus again.

If you are needing peace over prayers you have sent up continually for a wayward loved one , just know God's love transforms. God's love sets free. God's love heals. God's love restores. God's love redeems. God's love forgives. Give Him your cares today.

PRAYER: You are mighty to save Lord. I thank you for rescuing me when I wandered in a dark place. I pray for those today who have left their first love and have no desire for things of the Lord. Touch hearts as only you can Lord and set the captives free. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Unashamed

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 eating lunch in a local restaurant I observed four 'twenty something' young people bowing in prayer before their meal. My first thought was "oh if only their parents knew. How proud and thankful they would be!"

Do you ever get embarrassed that someone might know you are 'religious'? First off, let me state that  I am not religious, I just love Jesus. Sure the world won't fall apart if you don't say grace before you eat but it sure is nice to do. It acknowledges your gratitude for His provision. Also we are not to do things to be showy, but similar to the four young people I observed, it sets an example for others. 

Do you hide your light under a basket or do you shine it for Jesus in the dark world around you? 

PRAYER: Forgive me when I don't remember to give you the praise and glory for all good things. Help me never be ashamed of you or your word. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Who Or What Is Influencing You?

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:2

Chances are if you are reading this you more than likely are being influenced to walk in the spirit so you do not fulfill the desires of the flesh. But I am sure we all know people, some very close to us, who may have become tired of Christian things for whatever reason. A heart broken mother yearns for her child to return to the faith and passion he or she once had. On the other hand there are those who may go to church for one hour but that is quite enough. Both of these cases above lead you in the wrong direction and that is away from the Lord. 

You become like what you saturate yourself with. Our enemy Satan,  lies to many people making them accept lies as truth. It is not all just about church but about much more. It is about having a personal relationship with Jesus. There may be those people out there who have this personal relationship and at one time asked Jesus to be Lord but then something led them away from their original passion for things of the Lord.  If a person is not careful it is very easy to get conformed to 'this world' and be taken away from things of the Lord. 

If you are wandering away from the Lord first stop and pray God would relight your spiritual fire. Next stay in places you know will lift you up and not drag you into a pit.  Know that the pleasures of this world are fleeting and only what is done for Christ will last.  Continue to pray for whoever it is you know who has lost their way. God hears and can restore. 

PRAYER: I pray for those people who have been distracted by this world and lied to by Satan that they would be restored to their first love or find Him for the first time. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

A Cup Of Water

If anyone gives you even a cup of water because you belong to the Messiah, I tell you the truth, that person will surely be rewarded. Mark 9:41

Imagine for a moment being in a desert and being thirsty for water. You are parched. No canteen or no water bottles with you. There is no question about it, you need water. Water is such a simple need and we here in America are blessed with clean water coming out of our sinks and tubs plumbing. Some complain about fluoride additions or chemicals in the water but would they rather live in a Third World nation where at times there is not even a water well to pump from? 

Water seems so easy to give. Think about people right in our own country who are homeless or just have no money. We get water at a restaurant and throw it away. We waste water in our homes. We have the luxury of fountains for decoration, swimming pools, spas, or automatic lawn sprinklers. Think though of those who you may pass on the street who look worn out and thirsty. Our minds are geared up for being kind because of the Christmas season but why not let Christmas carry on to through out the entire year. 

A cup of water or a bottle of water in our modern days is a nice gesture say for a worker outside lugging things. Perhaps a neighbor doing lawn work. Maybe a policeman. Be creative and think of ways you can share a cup of water in Jesus' name. 

PRAYER: Help me to be Christmas minded the other 11 months of the year. Help me Lord to not just think of food, decorations, gifts but to truly think of ways to help those who are hurting or needy and do it all the time. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, December 14, 2015

Foot And Mouth Disease


And to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed. 1 Thessalonians 4:11

I don't mind being transparent as maybe other readers can identify with me. Occasionally I am inflicted with foot and mouth disease. This means sometimes I do not need to be running around sticking my nose into someone else's business and also need to learn I do not always have to be talking. Women are good at using our mouths to talk too much. One Christian teacher I heard said it is because women have more words than men do, so therefore we talk more. It is not the talking that is bad but it is saying the wrong things at the wrong times or just not knowing when to be silent. 

Satan loves it when people run off at the mouth. Words can break up relationships whether they be friendships, business partners, or marriages. Sometimes it is best to be  still and think before responding to someone or something.  Impulsiveness really leads to turmoil. Misspoken words lead to misunderstanding and a host of other problems. 

If you have this issue in your own life stop for a moment and assess what you could do to change things up and make things different in the approaching new year of 2016. 
If you have hurt someone with words go and ask forgiveness. Even if a person will not forgive you you can let it go and forgive them. Turn a new leaf and be careful with your mouth. 

PRAYER: Lord I love you and I love my friends and family. Help me learn to think before I speak and to be careful with my choice of words and when to speak and when to be silent. In Jesus' name. Amen.




Sunday, December 13, 2015

Gossip? Who Me?

A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much. Proverbs 20:19
Several places in scripture we are warned about bad companions, hanging out with fools or those who are angry and hot tempered. But we are also warned to not keep company with those who are  gossips. People can tend to become like those who they choose to associate with. Sometimes gossip can be innocent such as through a prayer chain when people begin speculating and add their own twist. May we never be guilty of this.

Woman frequently are known as talking more or being gossipy but it can happen with men has well. If you are around someone who is constantly telling tall tales or talking about someone behind their back, perhaps first try to change the subject or maybe be bold enough to suggest that the conversation needs to go in a different direction.
Don't catch yourself getting self righteous and starting to talk about 'bad people'. Pray and pray hard. Remember according to Romans 3:23 "we all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory."

Just make sure everything you say is said to the glory of God and as if Jesus were right there with you. 

PRAYER: Help me to be careful choosing what I say and never be caught gossiping about other people. Help me to keep my nose where it belongs and to only say things that build up. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, December 12, 2015

Squeezing God Out


Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.  2 Timothy 2:15

Nearly every household in America has a smart phone. There are Apps for just about everything these days. Many are inviting but they take away valuable space from your phone. Unless you buy more space, some day when you go to the a picture, you may get an error message. We have so much competing for our time these days and having endless Apps, which really don't make life any better, is a waster of valuable time and human contact time more importantly.

Just as Apps take up space on our phone they also take up time in our life. There are many good Christian APPs such as 'Abide' and 'Shut Up Devil' but if not careful your entire life is going to be looking down at your phone. No time for God or any quality study of His word. Also no time for face to face meet ups with friends.Managing your time everyday means getting rid of 'clutter' that draws you away from things that really matter.

Is God being squeezed out of your life and maybe only given any thought on Sunday? If so maybe it is time to do some checking and see what you need to get rid of that is pulling you away from Him. 

PRAYER: Forgive me Lord for times when I let the computer or my electronic devices take me away from you. I choose this day to take a look at my schedule and see if any adjustments need to be made. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, December 11, 2015

No Matter How I Feel God Is Working



Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5-6

Do you ever feel like God does not hear you or care about you? Things are going on in life and you feel so overwhelmed and like you will never see the light at the end of the tunnel? It could be a troubled marriage, financial problems, unruly children, prodigal children,end of a job. Whatever it is God has not abandoned you.

Is your own heart right with God first of all? Psalm 66:18 reminds us "If I cherished sin in my heart,  the Lord would not have listened;" . Make sure your sins are confessed and you are not harboring sins in your own heart. Sins like anger, bitterness, resentment, selfishness, and a host of others. God loves you my friend. Hang on to the rope so to speak. Do not let Satan get you down deceiving you and getting you depressed.

Start each and every day with a dose of God's word. Start today reading the book of John. I guarantee if you make this a habit your problems will diminish and you will be able to make it through.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord that you are an ever present help in times of trouble, my Bible says that. I trust you and believe you will work things out in your time. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, December 10, 2015

Right Versus Wrong


"Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it,' Whenever you turn to the right hand Or whenever you turn to the left." Isaiah 30:21

Each person has that little voice inside of them, a conscience, that makes you instinctively know right from wrong. Some call it a God shaped hole. As bad as a person can get they know certain things are wrong and certain things are right. Society can pass laws that say "stealing is okay" but deep inside we KNOW it is not.

According to Ephesians 2:2 Satan works in the heart and mind of those doing wrong. Many are misled or deceived into believing lies because of him. He is tricky. A schemer. He manipulates the truth of God into a lie. The Bible is truth but Satan is trying to distort it. You can't change the truth of God into a lie. 

If you know people close to you caught up dabbling in the darkness of Satan's lies, continue to pray for them. Also pray you will not be captivated and led down the wrong path. 

PRAYER: Help me to always recognize the lies of the enemy. I pray for any people I know being deceived by him right now to be set free out of darkness. In Jesus' name. Amen. 


Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Can You Be Thankful?


Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; Colossians 4:2

All of us have problems, situations, or issues in life that if we constantly dwelled on them would not allow us to have a thankful spirit. The enemy, Satan, wants us to dwell on negative stuff. Refuse to do that. Don't even let bad stuff enter your thinking. 

What do you have to be thankful for? Start making a list. A warm house. Good friends. Food to eat. Freedom. A Bible to read freely. Education. Go on and come up with your own unique list. This time of year brings 'forced merriment' but you can indeed decide to have a merry and thankful heart even if you do not 
'feel' like it. 

Get up each day with a smile and give God thanks for another day of life. Another day to shine His light. If you catch yourself becoming negative, stop right then and there and tell the enemy to get behind you. Take each day as it comes and be joyful. 

PRAYER: Indeed there is much to be thankful for and to celebrate not just this time of year but every day and every month. Help those people who struggle with finding joy or feel hopeless. Lead me to someone to share your love with. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

God Is On The Throne



"The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen." 2 Timothy 4:18

With the recent terror attacks by ISIS in the city of Paris, France,  on the same day news broke that a conservative black female college professor, who speaks out about the dangers of Islam being threatened with her job, it leads one to shake their head and say  "What is going on?" Evil that's what!

Fear is a real problem for many people. To combat fear you need to trust God and know that He is in fact stronger and greater than any dictator, tyrant, terrorist, or suicide bomber. Many in this country have become so complacent and politically correct that the perfect scenario is being set for another attack here similar to 911. Open borders allow undocumented aliens, some from countries where these terrorists hail from, to freely enter this country. Yes God is in control but He wants His people to use common sense too.

Continue to pray. Pray for those who would want to harm America. Do not allow yourself to cave in to a fearful spirit. Do your best and keep looking up. Jesus is Lord!

PRAYER: I thank you Father for the gift of freedom. There are always factions who try to destroy it. You have blessed this nation and we pray for America to remain free and protected. Help those fearful trust in you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, December 7, 2015

Freedom...A Gift From God



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

There are those veterans from World War II often still alive. Not too many of them but they are around. I was blessed a couple months ago to be arriving at Washington Reagan Airport at the same time an Honor Flight of WWII veterans from Kansas City was deplaning. What a sheer joy it was to witness this plane load of older gentleman who made it through the war and were in the nation's Capitol to see the Memorial in their memory and honor. This generation was known as 'The Greatest Generation' and indeed they were.

Our country and its' freedom were paid for by the blood of soldiers,sailors,airmen,and Marines who fought and died to protect us from tyranny, evil, and domination. Freedom is a gift from the Almighty God. Our Founders knew that and that is why this nation is so unique.  Evil though does not like freedom and so this nation,blessed by God, remains free because of the blessings of the Lord. When we start to turn our backs on Him and His word we are in trouble. 

Today we pay tribute to those courageous men and women whose lives were lost in Pearl Harbor on this day in 1941. We should never forget the sacrifices made for freedom and each of us who love America is responsible to help secure that freedom. 

PRAYER: Help me to never forget that this country is blessed because we were founded as a Christian nation. Satan lies to people to try to reeducate them to this part of history. We know it is true Lord and we thank you for how we were founded. May the people who wander in the darkness be made known to know the truth. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, December 6, 2015

Times Up


Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12

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. My heart goes out to those who lost babies and children. I wonder how many died without Jesus.

No one can predict their life span. The average age according to scripture is 70 years(Psalm 90:10) but many live much longer and some much less. Death is nothing to fear yet many do. You could be sitting reading this and God calls you home. You just don't ever know. The key is to be sure you know beyond a shadow of a doubt where you are going. 

You are either for Christ or against Him. Have you asked Him into your heart to be your Lord and Savior and confessed your sins to Him? Now is the time for salvation as you are not promised tomorrow

PRAYER: I pray for those who do not know you as Lord and even those who mock your very existence. Give believers grace when witnessing to those who are not saved. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, December 5, 2015

Incredibly Lucky....No.....A Miracle!


also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power
 that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 1:19-20

 I was recently watching the television show 'So You Think You'd Survive' on the Weather Channel. There was a segment on a solo sky diver that fell 8000 feet into a recently plowed field between sharp grape vines in a vineyard and survived. One medical doctor commented that he was really lucky. You think?

 Why can't people who witness or hear about a true miracle say the word miracle?  Lucky, what is that supposed to mean. Fear of acknowledging that maybe a higher power had something to do with beyond the odds survival? Miracles happen even today. When someone defies human odds or medical odds and survives that indeed is a miracle and Jesus name is to be praised. No other explanation, think about it! Luck,no way. I hate the word luck. What does that imply? The person has been blessed,they are not lucky. 

When something that can not be explained happens why not just give God the glory! Great things He has done and is still doing!!

PRAYER: I praise your name for each and every day. I thank you for the skilled experts in the medical profession who work on the impossible then the people survive. Help me not say luck but call it what it is. A miracle. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, December 4, 2015

Cast Your Care On Him


Cast all your anxieties on Him because He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
I am not just preaching to the crowds here but I am writing this for myself right now. I have experienced my Google account being disabled and consequently as of 26 October 2015 had a break in the cycle of my blogs on blogspot and to my email recipients. I was able to copy and post what still showed up on my IPAD screen, but could not access it through my laptop. I was angry. I shed many tears. I did not act very grownup. I did not act like I trusted God to help me through. For the first time in 6 years I was unable to get my writing out nor was I able to check my email. Back to the 'Little House On The Prairie' days I went. It was as if an electronic pulse had shut down electronics. Life will go on and people will go on without my writing but would I survive the momentary lapse?  So truly the verse I gave today has to apply to me and I have to live it out.

Life gives us many tests and this temporary glitch was one of my little tiny trials to see how I handled it. Not so great at first to be honest, but as the day wore on and moved into two days, I came to the realization that life was going to go on one way or the other and fretting and fuming over it changed nothing. What do I tell others to do with similar issues in their life? Trust God and pray. Did I take my own medicine at first? No I did not. Then I made up my mind to resist the enemy and blow it off. Satan was not going to get the upper hand in this battle. 

Where are you today and what trials are you facing in your life? You may feel they will never end but really they will. Hang in there and hang on to God. Been there, done that, got the tee shirt. All things will be okay. 

PRAYER: There is a hymn that says "Only Trust Him, Only Trust Him, Only Trust Him Now" and that is what I intend to do. Help me when I am tempted to run for the hills so to speak to lean on you and know that this too shall pass. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Trimming Bad Branches

I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch on me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it may be even more fruitful. John 15:1-2

Every since we were married we have purchased a live Christmas tree. Whether you go to the woods and chop one down or buy it pre-cut at your local tree lot, you still need to get rid of straggly branches. These branches are trimmed to make the tree nice and neat. Live plants and bushes are likewise 'pruned' to help them grow better.

Our life at times needs to have some 'dead branches' cut off in order to make us grow better and thrive for God wherever we are placed. Sometimes this 'spiritual pruning' may hurt. It may be a lesson we have not grasped that we need to learn and often times is painful.  Things have to be 'cut off' that are holding us back from our full potential as believers. 

Can you think of a time in your life when you were pruned and did not understand it till much later? God's purposes will prevail. 

PRAYER: I know there are things in my life that need pruning at times to make me more Christlike. Help me not complain but realize it is for my own good. In Jesus' name. Amen.i

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Overcoming And Bouncing Back


In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7

One of the most amazing stories of bouncing back is the story of Job in the book of Job. All the junk he went through and all the more reason to want to give up, yet he hung in there. How many of us when faced with crisis after crisis after crisis would have the will to continue? There are often times purpose in the pain. Nowhere are we promised a life of ease with no problems. Trials are used to grow us and shape us and more importantly to help patience take root. 

The ultimate goal of life is in fact living for Jesus and preparing for our heavenly kingdom. This earthly home is so very temporary yet how many people feel it is the end all. The very short duration of life here compares nothing to what lies ahead. Sometimes life is sprinkled with trouble, pain, grief, and heartaches. The key is to not let those consume you and realize you are in a training ground for heaven. 

Are you enduring something now you feel you can not take anymore?  There are lessons to be learned in suffering. Those who endure till the end have a crown of life for them if they have asked Jesus to be Lord of their life. Do you know the best is yet to come? 

PRAYER: Even in trials Lord I need to say thanks for the things I learn during the hard times. Help me to shine my light for you in good times and not so good times. I am aware Satan would have me give up and I do not plan to. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

A Companion Of Fools


Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. Proverbs 13:20

Did you know the Bible has much to say about the kind of people we choose to associate with? Now this does not mean you can not witness to folks and be a light around them,but it is saying to not get entrenched too deep with them lest you should learn their ways. 

1 Corinthians 15:33 lays it on the line when it says "Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." Yes it does. You tend to become like who you hang out with. Parents will tell their children to "choose your friends wisely" but once they are grown up off in high school and later college, a parent has little control over this aspect. God does not want you sitting around worrying, but to pray and trust that your children will be wise. Prayer goes out for friends who build up not tear down. Of course also friends who are not drunks, drug users, or criminals who could drag them into this lifestyle. 

Even we adults need to be careful not to  hang out with those who are hot tempered, gossips, greedy, curse and take Lord's name in vain, liars, cheaters or else we may learn their ways. We are to associate with the lowly and try to win others to the Lord but just not become saturated and affected by a corrupt life. Don't catch yourself getting self righteous and starting to talk about bad people. Pray and pray hard. It is only by the grace of God we are where we are, just remember that. 
PRAYER: Thank you so much Lord for watching over me and guarding my steps. Thank you for rescuing me in my life when I did things that were stupid or far from you. Help me shine my light so others may have a change by coming to know you. In Jesus name. Amen.