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, April 30, 2016

Celebrate Jesus!




One generation commends your works to another;they tell of your mighty acts.
They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty-  and I will meditate on your wonderful works.They tell of the power of your awesome works—
and I will proclaim your great deeds. Psalm 145:4


Today is an exciting day in the Miller household for today I have a gathering to celebrate the release of my first ever book. Many people have helped me get here but above all this is the Lord's work and so to Him be the glory. I am not just saying that,  but things happen in His way and His time and this book is no exception. 

When you do something first pray about it. Work hard on it as if you are working for Him (Colossians 3:23) as you are ultimately His witness no matter what field of endeavor you are in. Give God the praise and glory and don't be puffed up in your own self glory. (Deuteronomy 8:18) (1 Peter 5:6). 
Whatever it is you are working on trust God to see you through. Continually pray and remember to give Him the glory. 

PRAYER: Thanks Lord for helping me each and every day as I seek to honor you. Help me run from evil and run to truth. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, April 29, 2016

Two Or Three



"For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Matthew 18:20

I absolutely love the Moms in Prayer group I am a part of. On a weekly basis I look forward to getting together with these 11 awesome ladies to lift up our children in prayer. We come from different backgrounds, different countries, different denominations and churches, but we have a common bond. We love Jesus and we know the power of a praying mom and prayer in general. 

Is prayer a part of your life? If not you may want to consider finding a prayer 'sister' or 'brother' you can share things with and pray confidentially. Sure we know God can hear us alone but what a powerful time to pray with someone else. Young marrieds reading this should consider praying together with and for each other daily.

In James 5:16 we are told, "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." Start today making a daily habit of talking to the Lord. Before you know it it becomes a wonderful new part of your day. 

PRAYER: Lord you are good and righteous altogether. I love your Word as they speak truth and life. I choose to make a daily habit of 'talking' to you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Note: For more information on Moms in Prayer International go to www.momsinprayer.org

Thursday, April 28, 2016

Three Leaves


 By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. Hebrews 11:24-25

 My title is not the name of a restaurant but refers to the 'three leaves' of the poison ivy plant that serve as a warning to not touch it or else you will get a horrible rash and may need a visit to the emergency room in worst case scenarios. Wouldn't it be nice if sin was as obvious as those three leaves on poison ivy? I know when I hike and see poison ivy I avoid it at all costs.

 Mankind likes to define sin in terms of things like drinking,smoking, cussing, getting a tattoo when in fact none of those are listed as outright sins in the Bible. Of course it is not good to drink too much or you could wind up an alcoholic or your drunkenness can result in killing someone in a car wreck or stupid immoral behavior. Smoking is not good for your body, which is the temple of God, and can cause cancer. Cussing doesn't glorify your witness for Christ at all and much is said in the Bible about the dangers of the tongue. Then there are tattoos. In the Old Testament there is something(Leviticus19:28)  about not making marks on your body but it will not send you to hell. There you have it.

Look at the Ten Commandments in Exodus chapter 20. And remember we ALL have sinned and fallen short of God's glory in says in Romans 3:23. Sex sin is a pretty big one. But if you have had an abortion, had sex outside marriage, committed adultery,  chosen an alternate lifestyle, committed murder that is sin that can be forgiven just as is the sin of gossip, gluttony, lying, judging, and stealing(office supplies ring a bell?). My point is we should avoid sin, period. Satan is out trying on a daily basis to sugar coat sin and deceive us. Be on guard. Don't fall for it.

 PRAYER: Help me Lord to make a point daily of getting into the word so I know what pleases you and what to stay away from. Help me not be led astray by Satan's tricks. Above all help me not point fingers at other people but to pray instead. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Don't Lose Heart


Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16

Many things in life can make us lose heart or lose hope. Perhaps you have uttered the same prayer for a loved one to come to know Jesus. Maybe a family member has wandered away from faith. It could be an illness or financial problem. Sometimes you just feel like you can not take it. This waiting game is wearing you down. 

Hope never disappoints. Don't let hopeless people drag you down. When you pray believe God is going to work a miracle. Keep holding on to your faith. Keep looking for the light at the end of the tunnel cause it will indeed come. 

God is working whether see or feel the evidence of it. If you tend to drag yourself down and feel all is lost, pick up your Bible and read verses of hope. A good one is Ephesians 3:20 which simply states 'God can do immeasurably more than we ask or think" and yes He can and does still today!

PRAYER: I love hearing stories of hope and miracles and I know you still live and do miracles today both big and small. You are a God of possibilities. Nothing is too hard for you. Thanks for that. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Note: If you want to see a couple great movies full of faith,hope,and miracles make it a point to see 'Miracles From Heaven' and 'God's Not Dead 2'. 

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Enquiring Minds Want To Know!



And to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you. 1 Thessalonians 4:11
There is a supermarket tabloid whose 1980's TV advertisements used to proclaim "Enquiring Minds Want To Know! I Want To Know!" My response to that is "why"? What do we gain by filling our minds with celebrity gossip? Is it a necessary part of life, fun diversion, or a time waster? Mind you I am not standing in judgment just asking you to think on this.

This sort of leads me into the area of being nosey and thinking we have to know everything about people. I am sure celebrities wish they could be left alone. Much of the write ups are sheer garbage in my opinion, but shoppers, mostly females I assume, crave this stuff. Therefore it flies off the shelves. Does it improve the life of the person consuming this information any? Another verse for my message today could be Philippians 4:8 which says "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." 

Do you focus your mind on good, decent, pure, and perfect things or do you find your mind dwelling in the moral gutter at times? It can get there easily by not only reading tabloids, but by things we read, listen to, or watch on TV or on the big screen. My challenge for you today is to try to keep your mind focused on the King! He alone is worthy! 

PRAYER: Lord I find at times it is difficult to keep my mind from going into places it should not. Help me keep the word of God as the center of my life and give me strength to resist things that are not pleasing to you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, April 25, 2016

Think Right


"For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them."  Matthew 13:15

I find many things I write focus on the mind and trying to be careful what you let into that brain and heart of yours. You and I have to purposely focus on good things and stop dwelling on bad stuff. It is an exercise of discipline similar to disciplining yourself to not eat too much or do other things bad for you. 

Get up and first off have a time alone with God. If you don't have time schedule it into your day. Things of the Lord should not be afterthoughts. Start putting good thoughts into your head. Don't dwell on problems, people who don't like you, mistakes you have made, or wondering what someone is thinking, but instead make Satan shake in his little red boots by standing firmly on the word of God and not allowing stuff to upset you. For when we are upset the little red man(Satan)  who likes to deceive people and even to the point some laugh him off, doesn't win by causing you to be down and out.

Decide today is going to be a great day no matter what comes your way.  I keep a blessing jar in which each day I write down one good thing that happened that day. If you can't think of anything, how about having a hot shower or clean drinking water? You get the idea. Now go focus on things above!

PRAYER: Your mercies are new every morning. Help me recognize and acknowledge them. Make me a light in the dark world around me. Help me shine for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, April 24, 2016

Christian In Training



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
My next door neighbors are putting in a invisible wireless fence for their dogs and there is a sign in front yard that says 'Dog In Training' to make people aware if they see these pooches running to not worry as the invisible fence will not allow them out. 

Should we have a sign posted around our neck that maybe says 'Christian in training' so when we screw up, say something wrong, or hurt someone,  people will know we are in training? Probably not, but the point is as you grow in Christ you are being trained unto righteous. There is a bumper sticker I have seen that reads 'Christians aren't perfect, just forgiven' and there is much truth to that. 

Just remember that each time trials come your way you learn more and can grow closer to the Lord if you don't rebel against Him during that time. Life is a training ground. Let your life shine each day wherever you are in the world around you. You might just be asked for the reason you are so joyful.

PRAYER: Thank you for opportunities to share your love with those around me. Help me be aware that others who know I am a Christian may be looking at me so help me stay on the right path. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, April 23, 2016

Keep Going, Keep Going!

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1

I was watching the live coverage of the 120th Boston Marathon live streaming this past Monday  and noticed one thing close to the finish line. Most participants raised their hands as they crossed over the finish line after running 26.2 miles. What a victory. A couple of the participants bent down and patted the finish line. Many probably hit the wall, as marathon runners call it, and wanted to just quit and walk the rest of the way but most probably kept on going.

How many of you reading this feel like quitting on life sometimes? You are overwhelmed with the 'hand dealt to you' as some call it and just wish Jesus would beam you up. Life does present challenges. It is Satan who wants to defeat and discourage you, not the Lord.
 Whatever is going on in your life no matter how hard, sad, tough, or scary cry out to God.

Don't run away from Him and get angry. I have known people who have gotten mad at God and consequently stopped praying or wanting to do things of the Lord. All along God has not left them. He is waiting. Keep running that race because there is joy in the morning. Just believe!

 PRAYER: I am thankful for each and every day you have given me. Forgive me when I have wimped out and started listening to lies of the enemy rather than truth and comfort from you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, April 22, 2016

Following The Crowd....Or Not



Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” 1 Corinthians 15:33

In the movie 'Grease' Olivia Newton-John plays the clean cut girl Sandy who meets a summer romance Danny played by John Travolta. When Sandy moves and ends up at his high school that fall as a new student,  much to his surprise, she is tempted to change to a bad girl to win him since he is part of a cool gang. 

Bad company and bad influences can make people do stupid things they regret later. Youth is full of foolishness but even as adults wrong choices can be made if you have wrong peer group or perhaps even wrong work. Deep down inside if a person was raised correctly with Christ as center of life, then the concept of right and wrong is there implanted. In the business world people may be tempted to cheat on travel reports, steal office supplies, fudge the books, and many other things. Honesty and integrity are vitally important. 

Choose wisely my friend. Surround yourself with people who love Jesus first and foremost. If you have gotten off track,  God is a God who restores and redeems. Many a despairing parent has been on their knees when the children they raised turned their back on Bible things. Stand strong as the story is not over! 

PRAYER: Oh Lord thank you for second and even third and fourth chances. Your heart breaks when your children go astray but you gently call them back. Thank you for constant hope. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Thursday, April 21, 2016

Beyond Ourselves

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Have you ever been guilty of not being a good neighbor or of not opening your home to a family in need. I am ashamed to say I have. Lord please forgive me. There are 'easier' things to do for God such as praying, paying for a meal for car behind you, paying a bill, giving clothes, writing a letter of encouragement, but to sacrifice personal time or our comforts is quite another thing. My purpose in writing is not to guilt anyone but to make you think. What does it mean to be a Christian? 

Rah rah clubs to make us feel great and to learn the Bible are fine but to get out in the trenches and live your faith is quite another thing. Perhaps something maybe out of your comfort zone. If so ask God to help you in that area.

Now granted different people are gifted spiritually in a variety of ways and that is something to take into account. Why not just once do something out of your comfort zone. God can see you through. 

PRAYER: Lord thank for opportunities to serve you by serving others. Help me not just think about myself. Give me a sensitive spirit to those hurting around me and those in need. Help me not just talk but to act. In Jesus' name. Amen.






Wednesday, April 20, 2016

The Chat Support Line


Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8
In the past few days I have had to get on chat lines with customer support personnel from various businesses I was dealing with when I had a glitch. They were usually very helpful even though I might have to wait just a bit. It made me think about our chat support line as a believer. 
First of course we go to the Word of God where we 'hear' from God. Christian friends are a great support for helping us through many trials in our life as well. Prayer is our hotline or our 'chatline' to our Father in Heaven. How do you reach this 'hotline' you might ask? It is as simple as crying out to God in prayer. No special words or fancy language is required. Just pour out your heart to Him. 
Isn't it nice to know we have a Father who loves us and is available to hear our prayers anytime day or night. He never slumbers or sleeps. Whatever it is you need help with go to Him with confidence and full assurance. Don't hesitate. 
PRAYER: I am so grateful that I have 24 hour access to you Lord. I am thankful I never get a busy signal or a disconnect. I am thankful for my Bible where I get comfort as well. Thanks for hearing my prayers. In Jesus' name. Amen. 
Note: Life Outreach Ministries of Fort Worth, TX has a 24/7 prayer line if you are hurting and do not know which way to turn in a crisis. The numbers are as follows as copied from their webpage.
In the U.S/Canada: 1.800.947.5433In Australia (Calling to the U.S.): 1.800.10.1137In New Zealand (Calling to the U.S.): 0800.450.008In Europe (Calling to the U.S.): 001.817.267.543

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Headline Grabbers


.....in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.2 Corinthians 2:11

Facebook tends to thrive on pop up advertisements usually implying some celebrity  has died or divorced to get readers to stop what they are doing and click on the ad. When you do, as I did recently, I found out no one was dead but it was an ad to get you sucked into some skin care to make you look younger. Geez did I feel stupid for thinking a celebrity was dead and thankful they were not. 

Satan is coy like that. He has little schemes dreamed up to get believers off track and to keep non believers from wanting Jesus. He makes sin look acceptable and fun and hey, if our once Christian government agrees, it must be right. Wrong! He is the ultimate trickster. Satan throws bait to people and sadly many bite at it. Many a parent is sad when their once Christian child chooses another route after leaving home, than how they were raised. I hate Satan and I hate what he is doing to America through people who are being misled by his devious schemes. 


Don't let Satan captivate you by some scheme or lie. He is the father of lies it says in John 8:44. Look it up when you get a chance. The way to defeat Satan at his own game is to keep praying. Keep studying the word of God and quote scriptures to the enemy. He hates that. Nominal believers don't threaten him as they just do the Sunday thing, if that, then go on their merry way into the clutches of the world. Stand strong and keep the armor of God on to defeat the enemy(see Ephesians 6:11) and keep praying.

PRAYER: I will resist the devil and he has to flee. I claim my family for Jesus. I ask that no weapon formed against me will prosper and I know faith can move mountains. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, April 18, 2016

Reaping


Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
As I walked our property recently checking on the 8 fruit trees we planted about 9 years ago my heart jumped for joy. We have never really had any fruit to speak of from any of them. We planted about four more that had died. These remaining trees were flourishing in that they had fragrant blossoms on them. I had actually laid hands on these trees a while back and prayed over them to produce fruit. I had also done this to a non fruit tree that is now thriving. 

This example reminded me of how in our prayer life we may think that a change is not going to occur in a situation you have been crying out to God for. You see no  difference even after months or years of praying. Some may mock you saying prayer does not work. My friend prayer indeed does work! Keep at it!

What is it you are having faith for and believing you will see change and answers? God has a plan. His plan is not our plan. He does His perfect work in His time not ours and for His purposes and His glory. Do not lose hope!

PRAYER: Lord you are good all the time. Your ways are beyond our comprehension. I choose to trust you no matter what even when I don't see a hint of an answer coming my way. You will be glorified! In Jesus' name. Amen.





Sunday, April 17, 2016

Would God Have Chosen You To Escape The Flood?


I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Genesis
 9:15

A friend gave me a response to one of my devotions one day and she said that an interesting bumper sticker would be that of my title above.  Very thought provoking so I asked if I could borrow it for a title and build a devotion on it.  It refers of course to the days of Noah in the Old Testament where God had basically had it with mankind and how depraved they had become and chose Noah and his righteous family as well as and one male and one female of each animal species to inhabit the ark Noah built so they would survive the 40 days and nights of rain that would cover the earth. The verse above indicates He will never again flood the earth.

That does not mean we will not be judged and have to suffer the consequences of the depravity of mankind and how evil has seeped into our once Godly nation. Things are getting pretty bad today. Christians worldwide are persecuted and killed  for their faith. Here in the United States it has not gotten to the point of being killed, but many times God is removed from places He once held a place of prominence. Take your family to see the powerful Christian film playing in theaters today called 'God's Not Dead 2' which will encourage you to stand up for the truth in God's word and your freedom to exercise your faith. 

Stand for the truth. To know the truth you have to get into the word of God. Don't be lead astray by diverse teachings which don't line up to scripture. There is only one way to Jesus it says in John 14:6. Oh yes, don't forget to pray for your enemies. 

PRAYER: I thank you Lord that you have a plan  and you are behind the scenes even in this chaos today. I thank you for being able to exercise my freedom to freely carry my Bible and worship. You alone are King of Kings and Lord of Lords. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Don't Just Look At It!


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
How many of you have started an exercise program only to just let the weights you bought just sit there on the floor or the exercise bike collect dust? Exercising our spirit is also important yet how many intend to start getting up early and start having a quiet time only to have the Bible gather dust or the news take priority over God? 
Discipline in life is needed. Discipline to arise from bed daily to be on time for work or school. Discipline to control anger. Discipline to not overeat before you get obese or have a health issue. Life takes discipline and a 'can do' attitude. Discipline is needed for a daily time with the Lord too. You make time in life for what is important so surely our savior should be up there on the top of your list. 
What do you need to do with your daily schedule to insure that you spend time each day in the Bible? Just something to think about. Have a blessed day and go be a blessing to others. 
PRAYER: Lord you are good all the time and all the time you are good. I thank you for the ability to own many Bibles when in some countries they can't even have them. I want to make my schedule around you and not the other way around. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, April 15, 2016

Letting Go, Moving On


 "You shall have no other gods before me." Exodus 20:3

 I am here to say please don't build your life and your worth around Facebook or you will be sorely disappointed. Someone I know called it living vicariously through another. One of the worst things about it, is the ability to block or unfriend someone. How hurtful is that? This generation today is growing up embracing this social media but truly there are many more things vitally more critical to life than checking your 'likes' and basing your worth on this media tool.

 Decide how you will spend your time in your day and if you have a problem with spending say more than 15 minutes on Facebook ask yourself if there is something else you could better do with you time than checking everyone's status. Not saying it is not interesting but it can be a huge  time waster and can take you away from time you could better spend with your savior.

I post my devotion on Facebook daily as a way to spread the word online. I have to make myself not base things on likes. So very superficial if you think about it. The big thing is the one and only King of Kings the Lord Jesus Christ doesn't just 'like' you but he loves you. Grasp that and decide to budget your daily time so he gets a good chunk of it preferably before checking on your likes.

 PRAYER: Father I seek to develop time management skills when it comes to managing and mastering the social media monster. It can be a good tool to share your word but can waste time if not controlled. Give me self control to not treat it like I was reading People magazine. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Little People, Big World


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

As I was at 35,000 feet recently flying from Tulsa to Chicago, I gazed out my airplane window to the land below dotted with family farms and small communities. An occasional larger town or city but mostly wide open space. My first thought was 'no farms, no food' but my next thought was how little I was compared to this big huge world I live in.

No matter what your job title or status in life it is important to remember we all put our pants on the same way. Just because someone is famous due to having their face flashed all over television, magazines, or movie screens does not make them any more important in God's eyes than we the 'little people' as I affectionately call myself. By the grace of God you are what you are. It says that in 1 Corinthians 15:10. 

The world is filled with all sorts of people so be humble and watch out getting 'too big for your britches'.  Whether you went to Princeton, Harvard, Penn State, Stanford, or a community college or no college at all does not make you better or worse than others. Each person has a different gift in life and we should indeed be grateful. Don't ever think you are better than a hotel maid, garbage collector, or janitor but instead be content and grateful where you are.

PRAYER: Thanks for the opportunities I have in life. Help me never exalt myself over another and to always remember to give thanks in any situation. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

A Hurting World

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, Ephesians 3:20
It is hard to know what to say to someone who feels a dead end in their job. Maybe a person with an incurable disease. How about someone in debt. The list goes on. You may know someone in a similar depressing situation or it may be you. Believe me God does know your pain and He does care.
Once 'by accident' I found myself in a text communication with an atheist. I say by accident as we know there is no such thing as a God thing accident. This person told me it was so sad that I believed the way I did and he or she could not imagine an eternity in Heaven saying it was worse possible thing they could think of. Anyway I just saw this as an opportunity to witness to this individual. This happened because of a prayer request I sent to a friend who no longer had that number in the 719 area code vicinity. 
I saw this person as hurting and wondered how he or she had gotten to the point they thought having a faith in Jesus and having hope was stupid. Many of you may pass people every day who are hurting in some way. Some may believe but others are totally without Christ. Wherever you find yourself today take a moment to smile at someone. It is a rare thing to see happy people smiling for no reason. Pray for people in your vicinity that may not know Christ as their savior. Indeed the world is hurting but Jesus can make all the difference. 
PRAYER:  Thank you for the opportunities you give me to pray for other people whether friends, family, or total strangers. Nothing is by chance or accident and you have plans that only you know. Use me in a way to impact the world around me and help the hurting. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Testing, Testing


Count it all joy, my brothers,when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

"The teacher is always quiet during the test" was a phrase uttered by actor Pat Boone during the recent film 'Gods' Not Dead 2'. His character was the father of a school teacher played by actress Melissa Joan Hart who was undergoing a court trial because of her faith. 

When you go through trials sometimes you may feel where is God in all this? Why is this happening? I have done nothing wrong. The statement about the teacher being quiet during a test in class is true. Often our teacher, God, is often silent during our 'tests' too. This is the time for our faith to stretch its' muscles and grow. 

If you are going through something know that God can and will use whatever it is for his glory and your spiritual growth. You have to continue to press on with courage only He can give. 

PRAYER: Tests of any kind aren't pleasant to endure but I do realize you can strengthen me and help see me through. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Monday, April 11, 2016

Last One Picked

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

Do you ever feel left out? Maybe no one likes you? Perhaps as a child you were always selected last when teams were chosen. Maybe in your mind you conjured up scenarios that never really existed and thought people were thinking certain things they really weren't. It is essential to get control of your thought life. Your mind sort of controls everything. One thing to really get a handle on is basing your worth on Facebook likes. If you do this, or spend entirely too much time on Facebook,perhaps it is time to give this social media site a rest. 

What we dwell on in our mind is critical. If you have a habit of watching TV news then you may become fearful. If crime dramas are your forte, then you may go to bed stressed. What we watch enters into our subconscious mind and can shape us whether we think it does or not. 

God loves you my friend. His love for you is unconditional. Sure you may do things to break His heart every now and then but He would for sure pick you to be on His team, He already has! Have you made Jesus first place in your life? 

PRAYER: I choose to start basing my worth on you Lord and not what people think of me or who likes me and who does not. You alone are worthy to be praised and I thank you for all the goodness you have brought into my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, April 10, 2016

Don't Spout Off


My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. James 1:19-20

Don't be the 'little teapot'  from the old children's song and let others "hear you spout" even though you may feel like it. Long lines at fast food that are anything but fast, long waits for a doctor appointment or auto repair, or at a very long stop light. Many scenarios can cause a person to 'lose it' and spout off. 

Take a deep breath. Breathe in God's goodness and blessings and breathe out anger and hatred. Breathe in love and breathe out arrogance. Whatever it is in life that makes you want to steam like a tea pot, get it under control before it controls you. Only the enemy gets a charge out of angry steaming people. 

Today whatever you face, whatever comes your way, be prepared to reflect Jesus' in your outward response and also let peace rule your inner self. You will feel much better in the long run. 

PRAYER: Anger is a common emotion but it does not have to rule me or control me. I choose to be at peace no matter what is thrown at me. Give me your strength to handle all things that come my way. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, April 9, 2016

Running The Race To Win!


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

Today I am in Tulsa, Oklahoma participating in the Color Run along with my sister and great niece. I am not here to try to win, although as I get older, as long as there aren't that many in my age group I might have a chance,  as I surprisingly did in the Warrior 5k in Huntsville, Alabama last February 13(Third for my age group). 

Life is a big race too. It is referred that way in the Bible in several verses. Not all runners win races but they all are supposed to try hard. Many people at races are just there to get by. Accomplish a goal perhaps but not that into it. A real runner wants to do his or her best. 

In life are you just existing or are you vying for the Heavenly prize? Are you waking up each day excited about what God has in store for you that day or do you dread each day like hurdles on a runner's track? Life is exciting and each of us needs to embrace it and be prepared. Most important keep looking straight ahead with your focus on the finish line which is Christ Jesus calling us to Heaven. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord to make sure I keep looking towards the finish line and not behind me for the prize is straight ahead. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, April 8, 2016

You Rebel You!


The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against Him. 
Daniel 9:9

Rebellion is not a good thing when it comes to we humans rebelling against God. Now rebellion can be a good thing when it means to rebel against a evil government. For the purposes of this writing it deals with we mere humans acting like we know more than God. Does Adam and Eve ring a bell?

Being rebellious is not a fruit of the spirit. It can often be a demonic influence. God hates rebellion against His authority. A person can be hard hearted and think they don't need God and in a sense that is displaying a rebellious attitude. 1 Samuel 15:23 says it is "as the sin of witchcraft" and I say "ouch" to that. 

How many of you reading have had rebellious children? Perhaps a spouse at times may have acted  in a rebellious way. Criminals rebel against police authority meant to keep us safe. Don't be a rebel. Turn from wickedness of any form and seek God continually.

PRAYER: Oh Lord your commands are meant for our good. Forgive me if I have ever rebelled against you in any way by sinning against you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, April 7, 2016

Dying Will Happen


The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. Isaiah 57:1

Several years ago in a Sunday school class there was a prayer spoken for someone's grandma to be healed who was approaching 100. Now of course selfishly we don't want to let our loved ones go, but there comes a time it will inevitably happen.

 I often think the prayer should be for comfort for the one dying and peace for the family members. No one says it is going to be fun, but if the deceased is a follower of Christ it is time for celebration, not sadness.

 Sometimes with young people prayers for healing go up but for some reason God calls them home. We don't know His plans, purposes, or ways we only need to trust Him. Just remember death is part of life and we all will die. It is nothing to fear if you have asked Jesus to be your Savior.

 PRAYER: Satan would love to keep me scared about dying. There is no need and it is wasted energy. What is to fear as long as I trust in you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link and enjoy a song of praise and promise:

https://youtu.be/8TipLsmZgjI

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Trust God In The Storms


  Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 1 Timothy 6:17

Here in my region of the United States, the spring severe storm season is upon us. As I wrote  this a few days ago  I was watching non stop coverage of tornado watches and warnings. My husband and I have been in our underground storm shelter once. When a possible tornado is bearing down on you possessions are the least of your concerns.

Storms can wipe out everything you have in a matter of minutes. Your hope needs not to be on your closet full of clothes, high definition TV, fancy car, or actual home. In times like this basically you pray and wait.

 Are you able to let go of Earthly possessions or would you be freaking out if they were destroyed? This is a real test of not being materialistic. Your hope in the storms of life is Jesus Christ. Why not trust Him?

PRAYER: I am very thankful Lord for the peace only you can provide. When the storms of life come whipping up destruction help me stay calm and trust you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

Blocked By Man, Loved By God

He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Isaiah 53:3
2016 is the year of a new form of rejection. Being blocked on Facebook and unliked, are two new forms of social shunning. It's enough to be left out and unwanted say back on the playground of the 60's when teams were being chosen for a fun game of baseball and you got picked last. Maybe it is in college when a sorority or fraternity does not give you a bid. You are overlooked for an expected promotion. A company you gave your all too lays you off. 
Jesus knew what it was like to be rejected and shunned. All the time this was occurring he did not fight back but stayed in peace. He was humiliated publicly as he was led to the cross to be crucified. 
I don't know what kind of rejection you have experienced but know that God cares for you. You have to keep your mind renewed in the word of God to keep the pain from surfacing and making you bitter. Pray for those who have hurt you like it says in Matthew 5:44. Never seek revenge. 
PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the Holy Bible for within its' pages I find peace, joy, hope, and the promise of deliverance. Thank you for loving me when others have rejected me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, April 3, 2016

Yank Up That Root Now!


See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. Hebrews 12:15
How often do you go to pull up a weed or root from an old plant and if you don't get it all, meaning down to the entire root, it will no doubt pop right back up and continue to grow? Sin is like that. It can grow and spread it's roots and has to be yanked up. If not anger, and a host of other things can be the result. 

Often times if there has been generational sin, or a sin that is deeply rooted and not dealt with,  it can continue to grow and affect your life and even possibly influence future generations. Sexual immorality, greed, hatred, lying, lust, addictions, and anger towards being rejected, need to be nipped in the bud, confessed, and dealt with. If you don't purge your life of certain things you will end up being bitter not better and hurt many people as a result.

If you identify with Christ and are His followers that does not mean you are perfect but it means you need to seek things above and walk a life pleasing to Him. If you are hanging on to junk in your life that separates you from Him deal with that before it does become an entrenched root. 

PRAYER: Lord I come to you warts and all. There are times I have done things or said things that have broken your heart. Bring to mind any thing I need to confess to get rid of any bad roots in my life in order to bloom with the fruits of the Spirit. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, April 2, 2016

Things To Be Grateful For


will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalm 34:1

Often times life gives us enough problems and frustrations you may tend to focus on the negative. This indeed is easier and more convenient at times than to stop and mentally make a list of blessings in your life. I heard somewhere that it takes 7 good things to outweigh 1 bad thing so in other words instead of griping all the time about something or someone try to find positive traits or qualities. Another idea would be to list the blessings in your life. Write them down.

Do that experiment right now. Write down 7 positive things about someone who may be rubbing you the wrong way. Next write down 7 positive elements to your life. I could say living in freedom. Having people who love me. Being free to write this devotion each day. 
Children born to me in my younger days. Sunshine and rain as both are needed. Birthdays. Ability to travel so much. Now you go and do it.

Make a conscious effort to try to be positive or as a local radio station here says "Positive and Encouraging" and indeed you will see your day will be much more pleasant. And you will start to radiate that love outwards to those you come in contact with. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord let things that could tend to bother me roll off me so to speak and instead when I coming on to start praising you for your goodness focusing on 'above' instead of getting drug down by negativity. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, April 1, 2016

No Fooling.....Hell Is No Joke!



"And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshipers of the beast and its image, and whoever receives the mark of its name.”  Revelation 14:11

Seemingly for non believers the question is asked "How can a loving God send people to hell?" God does not wish any to perish but each person makes choices in life and some accept Jesus and others reject Him by continually sinning with seemingly no remorse. 

There is evil in society and there is good. Many are blinded to evil and embrace it. Our nation was founded upon the word of God and it's laws were written with the Holy Bible as a tool. Many of the government buildings in the nation's Capitol have scripture engraved upon them. Truly Satan does not like America or what we stand for. 


I am here on April Fool's day to say that Hell is not a concept but a real place no one wants to end up. How do you not end up there? By accepting Christ and following His teachings found in the word of God. Many a false teacher has come and tried to add to and subtract from the word of God. There is only ONE way to Heaven and that is following Jesus Christ. 2 Chronicles  7:14 says "if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land." First our own heart has to be 100% His. Keep praying and turn to Him if you have not already. 

PRAYER: Lord I know there is only one way to Heaven. I pray for those people who are bent on evil and misinterpreting scripture or denying you altogether. I pray for the heart of evil men and women to be turned to good and truth. Save us dear Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.