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.

Saturday, October 31, 2015

Why Halloween?






Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds along with those who are evildoers;  do not let me eat their delicacies. Psalm 141:4

My birthday and that of a female first cousin in Texas is on this day. I love this day because it is a celebration day for me. As a child it was fun to dress up and trick or treat. This day seems perfectly innocent to me as a day to have some good old fashioned fun. If you celebrate Halloween it is not my intent to guilt you but to make you reconsider why you do and maybe change things up a bit. 

Many churches use this day to have harvest celebrations or what they call Trunk or Treat.  Hardly anyone I know does not like the season of fall. Hayrides, weenie roasts, s'mores,cool fall air,the changing colors of the leaves all add up to a nice time of year depending on what part of world you live in.  As a believer each person has to decide what they do on this day and be convicted of right or wrong in your own heart. I personally am not into decorating with witches on broomsticks,skeletons hanging outside,a fake cemetery on my front lawn but I know some who do and apparently not feeling there is anything wrong about it. So I am not here to judge. Hollywood goes crazy putting out scary movies and some borderline on the Satanic. 

I ask each person to think about what you doing this day and if there is anything you need to change. That is all. 

PRAYER: Thank for the season of fall. I love the crisp autumn air and the beauty of your creation. Thank you for each day you have give to me. Help me use this day and every day as a witness for you and not put things into my mind and heart that have no place there. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, October 30, 2015

Chill And Be Still


He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”  Psalm 46:10
 Yours truly is far from perfect. Occasionally I have to just 'be still' and turn stuff over to God and not forget to pray.
The enemy knows our weak points and just when you think you have 'arrived' another 'test' may pop up. All these little 'tests' help you learn to handle life and problems in general. You must make yourself calm down, take a breath, and not overreact. Also pray for patience for yourself as well as those around you. 
Are there areas in your life you need to learn to just relax a bit more? God is a big God and He wants His children to have peace. He is not the author of confusion it says in 1 Corinthians 14:33.
PRAYER: Forgive me Lord for the times I don't think things through or pray and consequently make a fool of myself. Help me learn to lean on you all the time. In Jesus' name. Amen. 






Thursday, October 29, 2015

Watch Out For The Pity Monster


And  put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Ephesians 4:24

This monster can strike at any time and without warning. It most readily occurs when you worry, conjure up scenarios, and don't set your mind on Christ. When you feel like 'oh poor little me' or 'I'll show them'  then you are setting yourself up to be attacked by this monster. This monster makes an appearance when we let 'self' be on the throne of our life and not God. We start feeling sorry for 'self' and 'self' takes over. This is a form of self centered behavior but we all have probably been guilty of it. The enemy loves it when we get overly focused on ourself. Even if we are not careful,  Facebook can be a tool where you start feeling sorry for self because no one likes what you posted. I would say don't worry about it,don't even look and focus on something else. Go read a book. Maybe go read the Bible!

If you know you have this problem and it occurs all too frequently ask God to comes I and transform you and help you think of others more than yourself.

PRAYER: Forgive me for the times I have allowed the pity monster to attack my mind and make me feel sorry for poor little me. I want to focus on you Lord and help me recognize self pity when it comes and nip it in the bud. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Oh Please Help Me Lord!


“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my savior”. Habakkuk 3:17-18

If you lost everything and there seemed to be no hope could you honestly say this verse above and mean it? God does care but often times things don't go the way we think they should and we tend to think God has abandoned us. 

Sometimes we have tests and trials to make our walk with the Lord stronger. Atheists would tend to mock this thinking God was going to make everything right and perfect. The Bible never says that. Why is it when someone dies the first to get the blame is God? Why not blame Satan? Satan comes to "kill, steal, and destroy" it says in John 10:10.  All people are going to die someday we just don't know when. It is sad when a young person, an infant, or even your 99 year old mom dies but we can not live forever down here on this earth. 

A Christian has faith and trust that God is behind the scenes and is working out all Things for the good. No matter if it is in the loss of life, property,health, or whatever God can and will see you through each calamity that comes your way, you only need to call out to Him. 

PRAYER: I know you do not cause bad things to happen. Show me how to answer people when they are confused about this. Help me be able to share God's love with someone who is hurting or grieving or just be a listening ear. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Technical Difficulties

Until further notice my writing can be found on godslemonadestandblog.Wordpress.com
Google shut me down for two days and said I violated their policies. I have not a clue unless it means something I wrote was considered what the world likes to call 'hate' speech. Until I get to the bottom of it and do not want to be shut down again you can do one of two things. Go to Facebook and LIKE  my Facebook page entitled 'God's Lemonade Stand' or sign up for my new Wordpress blog I created. Thanks so much. Christians are being censored whether we like it or not so I do not want to lose access to my six years of writing or my gmail account so I am treading lightly till I am able to resolve this. To get my new email message me privately. Pray please. Love in Christ.

Sunday, October 25, 2015

Where Is Your Treasure?


But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:20-21

Recently while getting out of my car at the bank I accidentally banged my less than one year old car door into a sign next to the curb. Geez. I was frustrated when I saw an itsy bitsy little paint chip had come off. Kind of got mad at myself for not being more observant before opening my car door. Being upset will not reverse what just occurred nor will it bring the tiny spot of paint back.

We are to be good managers or stewards of our earthly possessions God blesses us with but not let them rule over us and make us fret, worry, and go broke. God intends for His children to be at peace and to not let what we own own us instead. Thinking we need the latest styles of clothes, the hottest handbag out there, the fanciest boat, or biggest motor home is not God's plan although He is not saying you can't. Just don't let material possessions become what you treasure more than you do the Lord and God's word. 

Where are you today? Do you value this world and your stuff more than things of the kingdom of God? If so maybe now is the time to get your priorities and heart in line.

PRAYER: Forgive me Lord when I allow my possessions to control me or cause me stress. Help me Lord to value the things 'above' more than what I own here on this Earth. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, October 24, 2015

Our Fight Is Against Satan, Not Man


Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:10-12

The world we live in now is getting crazier and crazier. To many people they are unaware of the tragedy befalling this great country. Seduction by Satanic lies and spirits has gotten them numb to anything bad or immoral. Our job is to continue to pray and not to argue with people to convince them. Even those in power we are angry at we are supposed to be trying to love and to pray for. Tall order I realize. 

The verses above clearly indicate our battle is ultimately with the evil forces of darkness that do not like the light of Jesus. When people rush about their day and never give any time to the things of the Lord and are content being 'a Christian' and nothing more, then it is easy to possibly be blinded to things going on. Devotion to a political party can also captivate people that they can not see what is going on.

My friend do not be mad at people but be mad at Satan for trying to destroy the Christian fabric of this land and the minds of its' people. Keep praying and know that God is in control.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus I pray for this great nation. I pray that Christians will not be blinded to the lies of Satan. I pray for revival in this great land. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, October 23, 2015

Like A Good Neighbor____________Is There


The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31
This 'fill in the blank' is not to be filled in with the familiar insurance company name you hear in television commercials but with your own name. Are you a good neighbor? I don't necessarily mean next door neighbor but are you kind to those in your circle of friends and even strangers? Do you purposely like to help people or avoid helping?

This morning I was mentally listing the names of all my neighbors in the past 38 years of marriage. Amazingly I remembered them all. We have lived in many places as a military family and in each place there is always one special neighbor we latch onto or vice versa. Some of you know who you who are reading this. We are getting ready to get new next door neighbors who I heard were my older sons' age. Look forward to taking over some cookies and seeing if I can help some way. But a neighbor in the Biblical sense means more than just next door. 

Are you kind and helpful to those around you or someone you see who needs a helping hand? Are you considerate to others? Are you neighborly to those around you sort of in Good Samaritan fashion? Why not start today to be a neighbor to those in this world who do not know Jesus. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I love you and I thank you for people who have been neighborly to me. Show me how to show that type of kindness to others. In Jesus' name. Amen.



Thursday, October 22, 2015

No Lifetime Achievement Awards For Stay Home Moms

"Arise, cry aloud in the night At the beginning of the night watches; Pour out your heart like water Before the presence of the Lord; Lift up your hands to Him For the life of your little ones Who are faint because of hunger At the head of every street." Lamentations 2:19

Recently I attended my college Homecoming and Alumni Awards Luncheon.During this luncheon four graduates received Lifetime Achievement Awards and one received a Young Alumni Achievement Award. This got me to thinking I was never going to receive one as I did not go out and invent something or get my doctorate at Harvard. It did not bother me though at all. I just realized then, that a stay home mom would not ever be considered for a Lifetime Award from their alma mater. It does not seem important enough to the committees who make the final selection.

If you are a stay home mom now or used to be, do not put yourself down or wish you could be out in the corporate world so you keep up with your degree and can get rehired someday. If you are reading this and chose to return to work I am not trying to guilt you either. Everyone has their reasons. My point is that God gave women a role to fulfill as wife and to some mothers. It is not old fashioned or sexist in the least. I have been very fortunate to have tasted a bit of the career world. I got out of the Army by choice to start a family and hopefully be a stay home mom. I was blessed and fortunate to do so thanks to the hard work and support of my husband of nearly 38 years. At first I was thinking I had to go back to work but could not come to peace with it when I looked at my new born son. 

We are given our children only for a very short time although at times it seems like it is forever. Moms have the opportunity to impact their children and build their values into them. This does not mean everything always turns out perfect but it sure helps to know that you control their environment to some sort extent while they are under your roof.  If you are contemplating what to do about re entering the work force or quitting and coming back to raise your children, by all means pray and God will give you peace as your honor Him. 

PRAYER: Thanks Lord for moms. Both moms who choose to work for pay and those who stay home, impact their child's world. Give wisdom to moms about who should raise their children and help families not put the woman to work just to live a more glamorous life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Resources for Moms:
Mothers of Preschoolers(MOPS) www.mops.org
Moms in Prayer International www.momsinprayerinternational.orgd

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

No Other Way!

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
To many people church is just some building or boring religious institution they want no part of. Some people say they go to church in the woods and worship nature and creation. We are not sent to judge or condemn those who have no desire for Christ or to fight back when mocked or ridiculed. Basically we are to pray for those who are lost and wander,  some of which may be within our own families. Many within the walls of the church don't really know Jesus. There is a saying "Going into church won't make you into a Christian anymore than going into a garage will make you into an automobile." Ponder that.

Many people may have been raised in the Christian faith but then they grew up and started being led astray by seducing and deceptive spirits and wrong 'voices'. Even the current craze over acceptance of Islam as a peaceful religion is scary. We are not to hate Muslims but their religion is not the religion of peace, love, joy, and Jesus Christ. We are to show the love of Jesus to everyone we encounter and pray even for strangers who may be around you who may not know Christ as their savior. But don't judge! Love and pray, period. 

There is good and evil. Evil is Satan's domain of captivating people and making them believe lies.  The truth is found in the word of God. Study it, not the morning news. Meditate upon it, not upon the morning show. If you feel far from God ask Him to relight that flame of passion for Him in your heart today. 

PRAYER: Lord I want to be a Christian in my heart, in my heart. Those words were in a childhood song but they have such deep meaning. I love you Lord and don't want to be captivated by the lies of Satan. I choose to follow you. In Jesus' name. Amen.



Tuesday, October 20, 2015

Under The Radar


"You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies." John 8:44

Most all of us are probably familiar with the term 'under the radar' meaning sneaking in without detection. That reminds me of what Satan does in our lives and is even doing in our nation right now. If you are reading this from a country other than the United States please bear with me a moment. The enemy is Satan and his goal is pure, plain,and simple, destruction and deception.  He hates Christians and anything we stand for. He works through, at times,unsuspecting subjects who he has under his spell. Many are deceived and believe his lies. He weaves a web of deceit.

Thieves mostly come at night or when they think no one is home. They try to steal. At times a home security system catches them but not before they have run off with the loot. Satan is that thief sneaking in under the radar luring unsuspecting victims to his way of thinking through subtle and cunning tricks. We are not ignorant of his schemes. In 2 Corinthians 11:14 he is referred to as an 'angel of light'. So innocent that many fall into his trap. Many in the United States have wandered from the faith and believed the lies being spewed forth by those in Satan's trap. This is why it is ever so important to elect people into office who are honest, believe in the Bible, and know the truth. 

Pray that you will be alert to the schemes of the enemy and if you know people who are captivated under his spell pray for them to be set free. Pray for this nation to turn back to God. Pray for the hearts of the men and women who lead us to be set apart for Jesus. There is no God but Jehovah. 

PRAYER: I love the things of the Lord. I love the United States and what we have always stood for. I  pray you will break the bondage of those in power who are purposely trying to destroy the fabric of this great and blessed land. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, October 19, 2015

Life Is Not Staged


Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2
 Recently as I sat in a local credit union waiting my turn, I was watching a commercial on the television provided for customers.  It struck me how that even in television shows, movies, or yes commercials, life is not real. Actors, stunt men, stand ins, and extras are used to get the effect the producer and director want to achieve." Some "families" are not families at all in the commercial but were put together by the talent agency to make them look related. I know that from a personal experience back in 1992.

Life can seem perfect at the movies, on commercials, or on television but the real story often is behind the scenes. I like how Hollywood is now producing many'based on true story' movies or actual 'true stories' such as last years block buster 'Unbroken' and this weekends release of 'Woodlawn'. Point being, do not base your life on what you see actors and characters doing. This talented person you idolize also are much different when they are not portraying their character. Be yourself. Don't desire someone else's life. Be content with who you are and don't try to mirror an airbrushed Hollywood model.

Every person has gifts God has given them. Some people are blessed to be multi talented and if so do not be jealous of them. Others have gifts no one really sees and is more behind the scenes sort of like the make up artists and prop masters who work in tinsel town. Be happy in the skin God has given you and nurture the gifts He has blessed you with.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus thank you for making me just the way I am. If I get noticed for a talent help me remain humble and give you the glory. Help me not compare myself to others but to rejoice just where I am. In Jesus' name.Amen.    

Sunday, October 18, 2015

The Month Of Purposeful Fear


 Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand. One person regards one day above another, another regards every day alike. Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind. Romans 14:4-5
 October is the month of fear. Hollywood cranks out the bloodiest, scariest, fearful movies. Many well meaning brothers and sisters in Christ see going to these movies as a Halloween ritual. Only the Holy Spirit can bring conviction to a person of evil. The whole thing with glorifying witches on broomsticks and ghosts is a bit much for me, and my birthday even falls on Halloween! I know Christians who decorate their homes in the traditional scary decor obviously not convicted of its' inherent evil. I have close friends who love going to slasher movies. Some parents dress their small children like the devil. My job is not to judge. My job is to love and pray and not act self righteous. I am not the Holy Spirit.
 Here are some things to think about though. Satan loves this day. Satan worshippers celebrate on Halloween. Sure it may be fun to go to a costume party but why not dress up in a fun way and not like a demonic creature. There is good and evil in this world and not much good happens on Halloween except maybe if you were born that day.Smile. Many churches use this as an opportunity to witness to the community with 'harvest parties' where good old fashioned fun is the order of the day. Aren't Christians supposed to be 'different' than the world? We don't have to act better than people who don't think all this celebration of evil is okay but simply pray that God touches their heart with the light of Jesus in this area. This factoid from the History Channel "Evolving from the ancient Celtic holiday of Samhain, modern Halloween has become less about literal ghosts and ghouls and more about costumes and candy. The Celts used the day to mark the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, and also believed that this transition between the seasons was a bridge to the world of the dead.  Over the millennia the holiday transitioned from a somber pagan ritual to a day of merriment, costumes, parades and sweet treats for children and adults."
 Now you can probably see how this holiday got to be where it is. It is how we as believers choose to observe it that matters.
 PRAYERS: Lord help me not be condemning of my friends and family who maybe celebrate Halloween in a big way. Instead perhaps change their hearts and let them see it maybe isn't all that cool to put gross movie content into their heads. Keep all of us safe and alert during this time of year. Let our light shine for you during a dark holiday. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, October 17, 2015

Don't Stop Running


I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14

What kind of challenges are you facing in your life? Some folks have pretty big ones. Incarceration, divorce, life threatening illness, estrangement from family, drug or alcohol addiction. Now you may not face the 'big ones' listed here but even a small issue in life can be overwhelming at times. No matter what, we are not to quit and give up but to keep charging and running the race ahead of us to win. 

How do you do that when life overwhelms you and you feel hopeless. First try to get your mind off yourself for just a moment. By this I do not mean your problem is unimportant because it is important. Focusing on other needs somehow lessens the impact of ours. Seeing how you can help another person. Suggestions would be volunteer at a homeless shelter, prison, jail, nursing home, hospital, after school program. Get involved in the lives of others who need care. Somehow your cares diminish when you get involved in another's life. 

Whatever you are doing today stay focused on the prize and that is Heaven. Keep focused on Jesus and do not allow the enemy Satan to rob your joy and lie to you. Defeat him at his own game by standing up joyfully and thanking the Lord for another day and the blessing coming your way. 

PRAYER: I want to keep running my race of life to win the crown of life. Help me not get distracted by minor problems or issues meant to trip me up. Give me the desire to plant love and hope into another's life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, October 16, 2015

Hate Just Doesn't Cut It!


Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31

Recently the 20th anniversary of the Million Man March occurred in our nations Capitol led by the very angry Islamic black leader Louis Farakhan. His hatred for whites, police, the establishment, and the United States is extremely sad especially when young black moms had their children there to be part of it and this the hate cycle never ends teaching hate and not love and reconciliation?! It blows my mind. So many were buying into it. This would have been the perfect setting for a major riot.
Our problem is our heart not the color of our skin. To stir up major anger in our nation's Capitol is not right. Our 'black' president has certainly not united us as a people and does anything he can do to stir up dissent particularly against conservative citizens, those who do not agree with his way or the highway, and law enforcement to name a few. Only God can heal the hatred deep in the hearts of these people. 
Christians of all colors are to come together not for hate rallies but to unite us in prayer and as a people. Today a movie is being released that people of all races should go see. It is a true story and filmed in Birmingham. It is about racial problems and reconciliation at the former Woodlawn High School in Birmingham, Alabama. I was privileged to see the premier a couple weeks back. I have included a link to the movie at the end of this devotion. We need prayer and Jesus now more than ever. 
PRAYER: Lord Jesus if I have hate in my heart for anyone help me to give it to you. Help those people who are racist give their racism to God and ask for healing. Help us learn to forgive and to love. Also pray for those people who stir up hate that Jesus would come into their hearts. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Www.woodlawnmovie.com



Thursday, October 15, 2015

Don't Quit


Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 1 Corinthians
 9:24
What dream do you have? What prayer has gone unanswered? What goal have you yet to achieve? At times it is so easy to quit. You are tired,frustrated,and just feel defeated. All these are only feelings and they are straight from the pit of hell. Satan is the one who kills dreams and smashes hopes. God for sure does not.  We are in not only a race but a spiritual battle.

Press on to the hopes and dreams you have. Keep lifting up those prayers. Believe that you will see the answers and keep running towards the heavenly prize. Don't let worry or discouragement defeat you. Know that God made you and has a purpose for your life. If you are feeling overwhelmed with life, look around you. Start making a mental list of all that you have to be thankful for. I sit here and gaze out the window at the beautiful sunshine. Next I see flowers. The changing colors of the leaves. Cars traveling about indicating the blessed gift of freedom.

Today if you are feeling down and depressed over whatever it is, stop and praise God for who is is and thank Him for what He has done in your life and your families already. There is joy in the morning. Keep believing. 

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for the life you have blessed me with. I know your plan for me is one of a hope and a future. I will not let the devil lie to me and make me feel worthless because I am a child of the living King. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

The Art Of Stillness And Peace

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10

The world we live in sort of honors and rewards busyness or so it seems. How many of us feel guilty if when someone asks us how we are we say "Busy" as if to not be busy means we must be some sort of societal loser or have no value. I have news for you, you are allowed to have some down time and it is okay to just sit on a park bench without a mobile device or book and just be still. 

Try scheduling stillness into your day. Yes I know some careers such as doctors have very little down time but whatever you do whether a stay home mom, a career person, a student, a grandma or grandpa, a teacher, or a myriad of other titles, learn that it is okay to not do anything every now and then. Recently when I waited almost two hours for a doctor appointment I observed others in the large waiting area. Most were occupied on their cell phones. Very few were just sitting there. When you get  busy somehow God gets squeezed out too and that is not a good thing. 

This week make up your schedule or to do list and list quiet time with God and also sit and be still time. Listen to birds, take a walk, or just lie down. Every one needs time to be still. 

PRAYER: I am guilty of feeling like I have to prove my worth by staying constantly busy. Help me learn to sit and be still and do nothing every now and then. Also I never want to allow busyness to push you to the side of things Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Delivery Notification Status: Failure


And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Colossians 3:17
Oh the joys of technology, email, and the Internet. When operating correctly they are a gem but when glitches occur you want to pull your hair out. For several days in a row when sending my email devotion out I received the message that is also my title for today. Not being techie enough to solve the issue I just pressed on and tried to stay cool. 
When things don't go your way or the way you expected, is your reaction one of anger and frustration? Are you capable of rolling with the punches and still able to enjoy your day? If in the business world it does put more pressure on you than in the world of yours truly, the freelance writer. Never the less, aggravations are part of life and it is learning how to react that matters. 
Learning to maintain joy and peace no matter what, is a spiritual discipline. Just remember that others around you know you are a believer, if in fact you are, so be aware to set a Christlike example. 
PRAYER: Help me Lord when my day goes haywire to not lose my temper but to know this too shall pass. In Jesus' name. Amen. 


Monday, October 12, 2015

Lost And Found



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

Every one reading this today probably has lost an item in their lifetime. Who hasn't? It is frustrating to say the least. To be 'lost' in the spiritual sense is to not know Jesus as Savior and have Him as Lord of your life. Many mainstream church members think being a member of a church is their ticket to heaven when in fact that has nothing to do with loving Jesus or entering heaven when we die. It makes you a participant of your church but has nothing to do with your intimate personal relationship with our Heavenly Father.

To not be 'lost' you have to ask the Lord Jesus to come into your life and take control. No more playing church on Sunday or simply going to a dead church just because your family took you there as a child or that is the denomination you are accustomed to. You do not inherit heaven but have to find Jesus on your own. You surrender your life to Jesus and ask Him to come into your heart and take control. This does not mean you have a perfect life but once He is on the throne of your heart your desires are more about Him and less about you.
If you are not sure if you have Jesus living in your heart say this simple prayer. "Lord Jesus I love you and need you in my life. I am sorry for my sins and I want you to come inside and live in me. I choose to surrender my life to you. You have the controls." 

Once you become 'found' your desires change. I know I hungered immensely for God's word and wanted to go to a church where things were alive for Jesus and not about church committees and infighting. I knew I wanted to grow in Christ and let Him have control. Hopefully this is your desire too if you have not already asked Him into your heart do it today! 

PRAYER: Lord you are good all the time. I am so thankful to have you in my heart. I pray for those people who have a religion but no relationship that they are convicted of their need for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, October 11, 2015

Jesus Fanatic? Yes Indeed!


And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Matthew 22:37
A Jesus fanatic could be called someone who loves Jesus more than you do. Now I am not saying that to step on toes but to make us all think about what is so wrong with being crazy over things of the Lord? This Earth is just temporary or as the military says it "We are TDY on earth". For my civilian friends that means on 'temporary duty' as opposed to permanent station. So while we are here we are to be His representatives and not just blend in and not speak out. This does not mean you need to go holler on a street corner but by being a fanatic I simply mean totally in love with Jesus. 

Are you excited about Christ or is Sunday quite enough? During the week do you like to listen to spirit filled Christian radio stations to help build you up or is your media diet a steady stream of secular stuff? For instance do some of the things you listen to or look at make fun of believers? Do you take the time to pray daily and not just a 'God is Great God is good' prayer but really pray? Perhaps if you can not answer yes to some of these questions it is time to rethink your walk with the Lord. Is Jesus really first or just your hobby or a block to check off? 

This week take inventory of your life. What do you need to do to truly be closer to the Lord? Forgive someone? Stop being unloving to a friend or family member? Cease gossip or lies? Now is the time to try to get fanatical about Jesus. He is crazy about you. 

PRAYER: Forgive me Lord for the times I have had wrong thoughts about people or have not shown love to someone who needs it. Forgive me for the days I rush off and forget you. Help me remember to fill my mind with things 'above'. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, October 10, 2015

Are You Ready?



But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son,but only the Father.  Matthew 24:36


A friend of mine used to have a bumper sticker on her car that said 'R U E' and the E was the color red so meaning 'ready'. A great conversation starter for someone when they ask what it means and a fantastic time to be able to witness about life after death. So many naysayers think this Earth is all it is. There were those who mocked the recent 'blood moon' as being from 'end timers' or quacks. 

There are many signs of His coming today. But like today's verse states no one but God knows the day nor hour. We do have to be ready and to goof around and think it is never going to happen may cause you to be 'left behind' when the Lord does come back. Everyone has a choice to live for Jesus or to reject Him. Now this living for Jesus does not mean joining a church or being a certain denomination. It means being truly 'sold out' to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Here in the United States we used to acknowledge God and follow His ways in the government but years ago when we took prayer from the public schools, took down the Ten Commandments, made abortion legal and now allow same sex couples to marry we went against what God's word says. Also when our President cuddles up to terrorist nations but ridicules the nation of Israel look out. That is not a good thing. 

Stop and take a look at your life. Are you sure if today was the day when Jesus came back you would be with Him? Your heart has to be right with the Lord and you have to ask Him into your heart. Don't delay because you may not have another chance. Also be sure to repent of your sins and ask God to renew your mind. He loves you my friend and He wants you to be in Heaven too. 

PRAYER: Father there are so many lies Satan is spreading not only in the United States but throughout the world. We know you are on the throne and are not going anywhere. We need not fear when terror comes because you have the final word. I pray for those who have not asked you into their hearts to do so and to also repent. I ask you keep my own heart from being led astray and those in my family as well. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Friday, October 9, 2015

Christlike? Really?


Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you,which can save you. 
James 1:21

Each day when I get up I have to remind myself to be kind, selfless, non judgmental, content, loving, not revengeful and to watch what I say. I want to "walk" with the Lord and be able to please Him in all I say and do. Satan knows your weak areas and will throw things at you to take you off your Christlike path. 

  As I wrote this in a local coffee shop two women sat at a nearby table with some sort of business portfolios. My mind envisioned, for a moment, the exciting life they might lead but then I caught myself falling into Satan's trap to lure me off the course God has for me. Comparing is not God's plan but He has something different for everyone. I am thankful He led me to write and share His word. My main focus is to be Christlike and not get caught up drifting away. 

      Are you leading a life pleasing to the Lord? Do you try to be like Him or do you want to try to be something He never intended you to be. Each day wake up and give God thanks for the ability to walk a life pleasing unto Him then go do it .

PRAYER: I am very thankful Lord for where you have me in life. Help me not get caught in Satan's trap to make me discontent or jealous. I want to be Christlike in all I say and do. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Thursday, October 8, 2015

Moving Beyond Broken Beginnings

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18
Your past may have messed you up some way but it does not have to determine your future. You can move beyond hurt, pain, rejection, loss and still have an excellent life. Dysfunctional is a term we hear tossed about but to some extent we all a bit dysfunctional. No one is perfect except Jesus and God.
Each day is a new day with new hopes and new dreams. Letting go of the past and moving forward is what is critical. Continuing to camp out with your pain will not help advance you to freedom. Your thoughts have to get focused on 'things above'. God is a healing God and He can heal your mind, body, and soul. He knows your pain and He hears your heart. 

My friend run to Jesus. Talk to Him each day in prayer. Choose to look forward and not behind. 

PRAYER: I thank you for healing that comes through you. When my heart has been hurt you are the great healer and deliverer. I praise your name for moving me beyond my past. Help me to focus on today and your love for me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Judge Not


"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? Matthew 7:3
It is so easy to be a fault finder or condemning of others. I always heard when you point your finger at someone three more are printing back at you. Who are we to belittle others? Aren't all people created in the image of God? We have no idea what someone is going through so how dare we pass judgment on them. In other words we do not know their whole story. 

If you struggle with passing judgment on others, try to catch yourself doing it and instead say a prayer for the person you feel tempted to judge. It is easy to elevate ourselves above others. All of us have some issues in our life. Just because you have a degree from an Ivy League college for instance does not make you better than others. Each person has different skills and abilities and a different purpose on this Earth. One of the most common judgments I hear is calling people fat. Sure there are lots of overweight people in the world but that is their problem and not ours and what does talking about them do?  It is still a form of condemnation which is wrong. Perhaps they struggle with weight or have no self control or self esteem  so maybe utter a silent prayer for God to help them. 

The point is each of us has something that people could say about us. It is not our job to be the judge. Our job is to be a lover not a hater. A praiser, not a condemner. Do your best this day and the entire week to stop passing judgment on others. 

PRAYER: I am sorry for the times I have thought wrong thoughts about others Lord. You are the only judge. Help me Lord to only think uplifting thoughts and to pray for those who I would want to instead judge. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Name Calling And Being Loving



But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. James 3:14-16
Those of us who are Christians are supposed to be recognizable as different to the world. Our light is supposed to shine for the glory of God and our actions and speech should likewise reflect the love of Christ. I have been called a moron, an idiot, a stalker, exasperating, and other names by both strangers and even a few former friends. Thankfully never to my face but still it hurts.

If you are claiming to know Jesus do you love those who love you even those you may not see eye to eye with you politically or otherwise? Do you gossip about a 'friend' behind their back? Are you jealous of another's success, looks, life experiences? If you have hurt someone can you say you are sorry or if you have been hurt can you let it go regardless of how the other person treats you? Shame on brothers and sisters in Christ for wounding others with their words. We should know better. Even harboring bad thoughts or dislike in your heart is wrong. If you struggle in this area God can set you free if you want to be free.

Start today and if envy is your problem try to rejoice with those who rejoice. Also if you have trouble liking or loving someone ask God to help you love with His love. Start changing your bad or jealous or hateful attitude and do it for Jesus!

PRAYER: Help me Lord never be guilty of thinking bad of those who I may not agree with. Help me not be jealous of another. I choose to love even when it is hard and to know you hold the future. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, October 5, 2015

Faith....Live It!



He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.  Luke 17:6

Faith is defined a complete trust or confidence in something.  To be faithful would mean you are a trustworthy person. We as believers say we have faith in God but how many of us may say that but then doubt in our hearts? If we were honest, many of us have probably been guilty of that.  Maybe you pray for something and think to yourself "how is this really ever going to happen?" Things that may be impossible with man are not impossible for God. He is God after all and miracles still happen in 2015. Do not doubt in your heart but believe and keep believing no matter what people may say. 

In the recent movie release '90 Minutes In Heaven' a real life miracle occurs. If you have not seen the movie I do not want to ruin it for you. This was a true modern day account of God doing what man thought would be impossible. Some people can not actually wrap their minds around things like miracles and call them chance or coincidence. Miracles, big or small, do still happen today. Do not doubt. I heard someone say once "believe receive or doubt and do without."

Where are you at today? Do you believe God is still working behind the scenes in your life and He does hear your prayers? Let me leave with two more verses of scripture to meditate upon. "

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

PRAYER: I choose to believe you and I trust in you and the promises in your word. Forgive me if I have ever started to doubt and not believe miracles still happen today. In Jesus' name. Amen.


Sunday, October 4, 2015

Don't Be Weary


Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.Colossians 4:2

Have you prayed for a person in your life or a situation and it does not seem anything is ever changing? The answer for everyone is probably yes. I know for me it is. When this happens you can not grow weary, lose hope, and give up. Prayer is an ongoing constant thing. God likes to hear from His children. He knows hearts are breaking but His timing and His plan is way better than our manmade ideas of how something should turn out. 
No matter how seemingly impossible by human standards something may seem God is still God and He can intervene and still bring miracles today in 2015. His ways are not our ways. In the recent movie still playing in theaters nationwide,'War Room', the main character is forgiven and let off the hook for something illegal he had done within his company. A couple people I heard say " No way in real life would that ever happen" and Matthew 19:26 says "all things are possible with God" and they are! God is the God of the impossible. His miracles are still for today not just in Bible times. We are still in Bible times and His word is still true for today, yesterday and yes forever. 

Don't doubt and don't give up hope.  Keep praying, keep believing. Know that God is way bigger than any problem in your life. 

PRAYER: There have been times when I have wanted to rush things and wonder why prayers seem to go unheard.I know you hear me Lord and I thank you for your perfect timing and y our perfect plan. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, October 3, 2015

Good Things Can Happen To Those Who Wait

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
No matter how much we may not like it, waiting is a part of life. I certainly learned that lesson in the military. In order to learn to succeed in life you have to learn the art of patience and trying to not rush things. Sometimes rushing into things has disastrous consequences. It is necessary to be wise and to use good judgement and of course to pray. Waiting for fast food, waiting for rides at an amusement park, waiting in traffic, waiting at the doctor office. There are many scenarios where patience is required. 
Sometimes in life 'doors' may be shut and we become discouraged. A certain job does not come through only to find out that down the road there was a better one waiting. Learning to wait is a valuable asset in life. It teaches you to be calm, cool, and collected and all of us could certainly benefit from that, right? In our case one 'ideal' assignment in the military may not come through only to find out a much better one awaited us. 
Basically, trust God to guide you in life and try to be still. Try to practice waiting with small tasks so you will be able to master this when a giant hurdle awaits you.
PRAYER: I for sure need to have more patience. Guide me through times Lord when I feel like wanting something instant. Give me the ability to have peace and stillness. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, October 2, 2015

Watch What You Say

Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.  Colossians 4:6

Many of those reading may recall the childhood Sunday school song 'Be Careful Little Mouth What You Say"? It is an excellent tune that over time sticks in your brain and helps you remember to be careful what you say, look at, go to, and listen to as The Father knows. Yes He does and his desire is for you to not being doing things to bring discredit to you as a believer or to cause you to sin. 
Our mouth can be our downfall many times. Thoughts come to mind and we may overreact and blurt something out. Our mouth needs to be controlled. Stop and think of what you are about to say will bring glory or will even cause a misunderstanding. Many a misspoken word has ruined relationships. 

If you are weak in the area of speaking wrong and hurtful things do a subject search in the Bible about the tongue, speech, and words. God truly does want us to gain wisdom and control in this area. 

PRAYER: Our mouth can gossip, lie, hurt others, judge, and belittle among other things. I choose to be careful and think before I speak and insure what I say edifies instead of tearing down. In Jesus' name. Amen!

Thursday, October 1, 2015

Fire Insurance


So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. Revelation 3:16

I heard this term 'fire insurance' from Bible teacher Joyce Meyer so it is not my original idea. What is Fire Insurance? Not the kind you buy for your property but the kind to insure you go to heaven, not hell. Are you sure if you were to 'check out' , get beamed up, or whatever other term people use for dying, you would in fact be in heaven with Jesus?

Often around this time of year scary movies come out, Halloween costumes and total Halloween stores spring up. I heard that Halloween was second only to Christmas in the way people decorate. Parents may innocently dress their toddler in a devil outfit carrying a pitchfork. Somehow it is so cute and innocent but Hell is a real place no matter how much agnostics or atheists want to declare otherwise. To try to scream sermons at people from street corners or pulpits about "turn or burn" is sometimes not the best method for winning people to the Lord. Basically we need to proclaim the message of salvation and ask who really is on the throne of your heart? Is Jesus or are you? Have you asked Jesus to be Lord of your life?

Now is the day of salvation. Now is the day to make sure you have 'fire insurance'.

PRAYER: I love you Lord. I need you in my life every day and not just one hour on Sunday. Forgive me for ignoring that tug on my heart to do something more. In Jesus' name. Amen.