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.

Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Greener Grass Desired? Get A Lawnmower.


Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

Comparison is so bad. Your eyes wander and TV commercials tell you what they think you need to be happier, more fulfilled, younger, leaner, successful and on it goes. The grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence and if it is you probably need a new lawnmower to take care of it. 

I fall into this trap sometimes when I am out writing in coffee shops. I see some professional woman sitting at a table interviewing someone and think "I could do that". It is the enemy who makes us discontent with what we currently have. 

Do you have a roof over your head? Food on the table? Fresh running water? Clothes on your back? A vehicle to drive? Friends? I would say those basic needs are pretty well met by a majority living in America. When you start looking around at mansions, fancy cars, job titles you don't know in fact where those people's hearts are at or if in fact their life really is happy. So beware. Don't let the enemy make you jealous as that is not a fruit of the spirit and will rot on the vine. 

PRAYER: I love you Lord and I thank you for just where I am in life and the material things you have blessed me with. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, February 27, 2017

Overlooked?


Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
No matter what you do there may be a time in your life when you were overlooked for something. A promotion, a pay raise, acceptance in a school or program, a scholarship, an election, a part in a school play. 
Just remember, to God you are not second best or the runner up. You are the best no matter what the world is throwing at you. Your feelings may be hurt by something right now. You have heard the phrase "when God closes a door He opens a window" and often times things we perceive as bad at the time they occur in the long run do us a tremendous favor. 
So whatever it is you may be facing or waiting on or even dealing with, relax and trust God to direct your paths.
PRAYER: Often when we get left out, overlooked, laid off, or worse it can hurt bad. Help me trust you with all the details of my life and help me to not say or do anything rash but to relax and wait on your timing. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Note: in light of last night's Oscar Best Picture blunder the cast of La La Land has to feel a bit overlooked as well. I wrote this devotion a week ago.

Sunday, February 26, 2017

You Are Blessed So Stop Whining



Do everything without complaining and arguing. Philippians 2:14 

Sorry for the rebuke in my title  but my point is many of us living in America can have it so good sometimes we forget about it and tend to complain. We are not to compare ourselves to each other and wish for something else but to be content right where God has placed you.

There are others in different countries who also read God's Lemonade Stand too and I would also say to you to remember to be grateful, thankful, and step back and look at what  God has done and is doing. The enemy can tend to get our focus off our blessings and onto our problems. If he is successful at doing this then it becomes difficult to praise God.

Your strategy for praying today should be first to tell God how wonderful He is and thank Him for the life He has blessed you with. Next ask Him to help you focus on the good and release the bad.

PRAYER: Thanks for this life you have given me Lord. I choose to focus on my blessings and not bad stuff. Satan has no control over my thoughts. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, February 24, 2017

Humble, Humble, Humble...Just Be It!



           A man's pride will bring him low, But a humble spirit will obtain honor. Proverbs 29:23
When you do a good deed do you often secretly wish people knew you did it or even go so far as to mention it or are you satisfied with only God knowing it? That is something for everyone to ponder on for a moment. 

The best example of humility of course is Jesus himself. He did not seek fame, fortune, attention, trophies, or a special parking place had there been one back then. He humbled himself and we too need to follow His example. How tempting it is though to shout your good deeds or boast of your talents from the roof top. If you have done it, and I know in the past I have, God forgives you. 

Press on in life knowing who it is you are serving and when you have done something outstanding remember give the the full glory to God! It is refreshing to occasionally see in play programs or a Broadway 'Playbill' where the cast or crew member mentions giving glory to God. Makes me smile big time! Start today practicing being humble. It will make God smile. 

PRAYER: Father I thank you for forgiving me for times I boasted or tried to point out good stuff I had done. Help me always to remember to you be the honor and Glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Clear History



Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 1 Corinthians 13:4-6

Recently I had a potential virus on my phone and was instructed by a knowledgeable person to go into Safari and clear my history. I did that and that problem for now should be solved.

Life brings moments to us that would better off be forgotten and swept under the proverbial carpet so to speak. In other words, clearing your history.  Satan is called the 'accuser of the brethren' and he can bring back horrible memories and sins and throw them up in your face. But then you get right back in his face and say 'God redeemed the years the locust has eaten.'

Just like we are not to keep a record of wrongs and throw things back into someone's face to get revenge, God never throws things up in your face. It is done, over, finished, behind you, buried  in the deepest sea. Now you go forget it too. Next time Satan reminds you of his past, remind him of his future.

PRAYER: I am so grateful for the gift of forgiveness, mercy, and grace and I am glad your mercies endure forever. I refuse to let the enemy bring junk up that happened years ago because you forget it so to should I. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Purge Bad Thinking


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

Are you one of those people who occasionally catches yourself dwelling on  the negative or speculating about things that may not have ever happened? Maybe you worry over what you said to someone or how you were perceived. I know I fall into this trap sometimes and it is not a good place to remain so stop it!

It is a spiritual discipline to cast down wrong thinking patterns. You must purposefully make yourself ponder goodness, victory, successes, and joyful moments. Dwelling on your faults and screw ups leads nowhere good nor is wondering what someone may be thinking about you and thinking the worst case scenario.

Get up and say out loud "I am not going to dwell on things that don't matter. I will choose to be content and joyful and press on."

PRAYER: Help me Lord as I seek to discipline my thoughts to not digging a pit of despair.  In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, February 21, 2017

This Country Needs A Dose Of Love



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 6:12

So I risk losing  readers when I dabble in what some call politics. But this writing is not meant to be political but to be honest and forthright.

We just got done celebrating love with the holiday of Valentines Day yet if you look around in many major cities and college campuses it is far from a loving atmosphere.  Even those who claim to be believers are posting mean spirited things on social media. Don't you just know this makes Satan so ecstatic? Don't be misled or fooled. Evil and demonic spirits are alive and thriving in America.

Prayer is our most effective weapon. God doesn't create hate, riots, obstruction, and evil but spiritual demonic forces do. Don't be caught up in the trap of getting sucked into protesting and ugliness. Instead why not start loving and praying. Give it a try. You will feel better. And oh yes, turn off the news. It only stirs the pot.

PRAYER: I love you Lord and I love these United States of America. Not everyone in America loves this country or what it stands for and some are trying to destroy it. Help me remember daily to show love and to pray for those who lead us and the brave men and women in the Armed Forces who protect us from those who want to destroy us. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, February 20, 2017

Is Your Flesh In The Way?


For I know that in me (that is in my flesh) dwells no good thing, for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. For the good that I will to do, I do not do, but the evil I will not to do, that I do. -Romans 7:19-20
Our freshly nature has to stay under control. If not, there would be no limits and Satan would have full control of your life. Discipline is required to keep yourself under control. Godly discipline. 
You discipline yourself to not go places that would drag you down or hurt your witness. You discipline yourself to dress a certain way so as not to make the opposite sex lust after your flesh. You discipline yourself to not watch certain movies or TV shows which deep down you know will do nothing to build you up. You discipline your speech as to not curse, gossip, lie. You get the idea right? 
So today be grateful for this body gave you but also remember to keep it under control throughly Godly discipline. 
PRAYER: Father I ask you to give me strength to resist the temptations of the flesh and to live for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, February 19, 2017

Celebrating The Darkness


For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds. 2 Corinthians 10:4

Riots, violence, anarchy, revolution, hatred  are all alive and well and cheered on by the media in these days after the election of the new President of The USA. He is trying to do things to get us back closer to our founders intent and many are lashing out in the streets, airports, college campuses, on the Senate floor, and oh yes Facebook. This type of anger is not of the Lord and if you catch yourself falling prey to it you had better run hard and fast the other way no matter what political party you identify with or what the color of your skin.

Satan has captured many people in the entire world, not just America. He works through people to lie,scheme, destroy, fabricate, and manipulate. His mission is not freedom, babies saved, law and order restored but instead the exact opposite. It is time for all people to realize who their real enemy is. Don't be fooled by stories in the press that try to force propaganda on you. This is about having a Godly nation once again and no doubt that is why all the frenzy. I am sad to say I have even heard that our former 44th president is stirring the pot for rising up and causing dissension.

If you claim to be a believer do not fall in to the trap of acting evil and saying hateful things. Remember our job is to pray for our leaders not scorn them. Turn off the news and open the word of God. In it you will find your way back to true peace and joy.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus we need you in America again in a mighty way. I pray for those people who are getting paid to riot. I pray that you will restore law and order nationwide. I pray for those rebellious women in the little pink hats who are stirring up trouble as well I pray for all people to get behind our leaders as they seek to do what is best for our nation. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, February 18, 2017

Fill Er Up!?


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

For those of my audience over the age of 50 you can probably recall full service gas stations. Actually the state of Oregon still has them by law. At a full service station an attendant would come to your car while you sat comfortably inside and ask you the question "Fill er up?" Next he would ask if you wanted your oil checked and would also wash your windows. Times were great for we baby boomers.

The 'fill er up' concept would be great when talking to people who don't know Jesus or maybe who do but don't do much beyond Sunday to grow in Christ. Fill yourself up on God's promises and truths found in only one place. The Holy Bible. Don't wait for church for a pastor or priest to spoon feed you but jump right in yourself and fill yourself to the brim.

Do you want to receive a 'fill up' today? Start by reading the Proverb corresponding to today's date and soon this habit will have you going to the 'pump' daily.

PRAYER: I am grateful to live in a nation where currently I am able to sit in public with my Bible and read. Many countries make it illegal. Help me to never take studying your word for granted. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, February 17, 2017

Vital Signs


Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. Matthew 24:12

When you go see a medical doctor most of the time the nurse who sees your prior to the doctor will take your vital signs to insure things are okay with your heart and blood pressure.  Paying attention to your vital signs is very important to stay on top of any medical issues that may be possibly confronting you.

 How much more important it is to make sure you stay on top of your 'spiritual vital signs'. Don't let your love for Christ grow cold. Many distractions in the world will try to get believers and unbelievers alike away from the things of the Lord. If you keep a steady diet of scripture you should be able to maintain extremely healthy 'vital signs' and be spiritually fit.

How are your vital signs for Christ? Can something be done to make them even healthier?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I need to get better at insuring my spiritual vital signs stay completely healthy. I will not allow the enemy to distract me or keep me from my daily study of your word. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, February 16, 2017

Release The Foothold


And do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:27
My younger son and his wife are avid rock climbers. I have tried it and am not very good but they have gone to places that would scare you to think about it. To successfully climb it is more in your legs, and special shoes are even required. Your foot has to find a space to wedge into in order to get your body up higher. If you do not have yourself firmly in a foothold it could result in disastrous consequences.
This verse for today mentions not giving the devil a foothold either. Why allow him to be able to get deeper and more imbedded in your life? Many times a person can be toying in the devils kingdom and not really be aware of it. By allowing certain things in your mind for instance you cane give the devil a foothold.
Is there anything in your life where you think you might be allowing Satan a foothold? Gossip, poor integrity, watching bad movies or TV are but a few ways that he can capture you. Be careful my friend. As 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us "he roams like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour." Don't let it be you!
PRAYER: Lord Jesus I am grateful for the Bible for within its' pages is a wealth of truth to guide me through life and help me recognize the ways of the enemy. I choose to stay on your path and avoid Satanic traps at all costs. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Hit Rock Bottom? Going Up!!


May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:12
I recently saw the most delightful movie entitled 'Sing' which was animated but adults would enjoy as much if not more than children. In it one of the main characters said the only place you can go when you hit rock bottom is up. Isn't that true? 
Have you ever hit rock bottom in your life or feel hopeless in a situation maybe even now? No matter what you are going though or have been through there is light at the end of the tunnel so to speak. Bankruptcy, jail time, divorce, friendship failures, drug or alcohol addiction, lawsuits. You name it and it is not bigger than our Almighty God.
So push that elevator button for the top floor cause my friend you are going up. Don't let Satan make you feel otherwise, tell him to shut up. Now go and look up. 
PRAYER: Many times in life I have been down or messed up. The enemy tries to condemn me making me feel like a huge loser. I am not a loser and I will rise to the top with your help Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, February 14, 2017

Love, Love Me Do



Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

For we baby boomers,  it is super easy to remember lyrics from many popular hit songs of the 60's and 70's. I often think if I had done as well memorizing my school books that I had lyrics to songs I would have been valedictorian. Todays' title are words from an old Beatles hit. Many songs have the lyrics of love in them.

How many of us just want to be loved, needed, felt to be somebody?All of us! No one likes to be lonely. It is okay to get away and be alone and still for awhile but then we all need someone to hang out with. That is the way God designed us I do believe.

You don't need a holiday like Valentines' Day to show love. There are those I know who do not celebrate this holiday as they feel it is forced and fabricated by greeting card companies to make a profit. My younger son used to refer to it as 'singles awareness day'. Love needs to be celebrated every day not just February 14. Take the verse above and really try to live it out in your life with those both easy and difficult to love.

PRAYER: Father in Heaven I am glad you love me unconditionally. Help me to love others unconditionally as well. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, February 13, 2017

Seasonal Faith??


Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him and he with me. Revelation 3:20
We are blessed with four seasons. Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall. Usually at least, for me, when one season is over I anxiously await the next one particularly after the brutal heat of summer.
When it comes to seasons do you allow your faith to only come alive in two major seasons that being Winter/Christmas and Spring/Easter? Many people do as churches seem to be packed out during these two times. It is good at least that Jesus is being thought of.
If you are guilty of being a 'seasonal believer' why not stop and ask yourself why there is no real passion for the Lord. There can be. Is God knocking at the door of your heart? Let Him come in.
PRAYER: Help those people Lord who have no desire for 'Christian' or 'religious' things except in winter and spring. Help those of us who know you let our light shine in all seasons to spread the good news and help win the lost to Christ. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, February 12, 2017

Release The Foothold


And do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:27
My younger son and his wife are avid rock climbers. I have tried it and am not very good but they have gone to places that would scare you to think about it. To successfully climb it is more in your legs, and special shoes are even required. Your foot has to find a space to wedge into in order to get your body up higher. If you do not have yourself firmly in a foothold it could result in disastrous consequences. 
This verse for today mentions not giving the devil a foothold either. Why allow him to be able to get deeper and more imbedded in your life? Many times a person can be toying in the devils kingdom and not really be aware of it. By allowing certain things in your mind for instance you can give the devil a foothold.
Is there anything in your life where you think you might be allowing Satan a foothold? Gossip, poor integrity, not making Sunday worship a priority, watching bad movies or TV are but a few ways that he can capture you. Be careful my friend. As 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us "he roams like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour." Don't let it be you!
PRAYER: Lord Jesus I am grateful for the Bible for within its' pages is a wealth of truth to guide me through life and help me recognize the ways of the enemy. I choose to stay on your path and avoid Satanic traps at all costs. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, February 11, 2017

Use Me Lord



He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." Mark 16:15

Have you ever prayed the prayer "Use Me Lord"? Kind of scary isn't it? But what if He calls you to go to Africa or somewhere dangerous? What if He needs you at the Downtown Rescue Shelter or in prison ministry. You know some places are totally out of our comfort zone.

When you open yourself up to ministry  be prepared for what He has in store. Ask God to maybe help you meet the need of someone and see what happens. It could be as simple as an emotional need, buying the food in the drive thru line for car behind you or something way more committed by volunteering somewhere and giving of yourself. 

I am the first to admit that sometimes certain things scare me. Maybe the enemy doesn't want you helping out and showing Christian love so he makes you all fearful. Pray for God to open doors that need to be opened and shut doors that need to be shut.  

PRAYER: Give me creative ideas and courage to minister to those in need. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, February 10, 2017

Contrails, Clouds, And Cows


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

About 6:45 one evening as I sat on my back porch I gazed upon a field of beef cattle, contrails from jets in the sky high above, and a few clouds in the sky. It is a peaceful time. Add one more C to the list and that is a cat who is sleeping. Granted days can be crazy but this moment of peace is awesome. 

Each of you reading this needs to make time in your day to turn off electronics and just sit and be still. It may be more difficult for some of you with parenting responsibilities and full time employment but do your best to make it happen. Your inner man needs to have a dose of the word of God daily and time to be still. 

Try making your calendar each week and include 'Jesus' time' and time to sit and just be still. See if after a few weeks you don't feel better. 

PRAYER: Forgive me for neglecting my time with you and time for me to sit and regroup daily. I love your word Lord and help me to say no to unimportant things and say yes to more time in your presence. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, February 9, 2017

Dark And Light



For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.
Ephesians 5:8


What happens when you go into a dark room? Well first it is dark and you can't see so you more than likely will turn on a light or light a candle. Immediately the room is illuminated with brightness.

In the spiritual realm this is what it is like too. There is light and dark. Good and bad. Before you know the Lord you most likely participate in works of darkness or things that please the enemy Satan more than are a witness for the kingdom of the Lord. When you ask Jesus to be Lord of your life the darkness has to flee as you are now a child of God. This does not mean evil will not rear its' nasty head to get you to take the wrong path as I know of those this has happened to.

Are you all in for God or do you have one foot inside the kingdom of darkness?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I choose to walk in the light and pray for those I know dabbling in the darkness of life. In Jesus' name. Amen.  

Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Phobia Central


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

There are phobias for just about everything. I feel the younger generation is growing up worrying about losing their phone otherwise known as a Mobile Device.
This proposed phobia, or more of an anxiety,  is called nomophobia or fear of missing mobile device. This may make some of you laugh but look around you when out in public. You can't hardly go anywhere without seeing bunches of people on their cell phones. 
Do you have a fear or phobia about something in your life? Fear seems to grip us and if  you let it can consume your life. Trusting God with your problems and fears needs to be learned. Fear of heights, of spiders, of growing older, of dying, of cancer, of being an invalid, and on the list can go. 

Why not ask God to give you His perfect peace. Teenagers and yes some moms,  things will not end if you do not have your phone with you 24/7. The world will still turn even if you don't know someone's Facebook status for the day. Try instead an exercise in being at peace and not being wrought up and anxious. No matter what your fear is turn it over to God. Allow Him to transform you from the inside out

PRAYER: Help me learn to relax Lord no matter what it is that causes me to be anxious whether a phobia or ordinary fear. Give me peace only you can give. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Breath Of Fresh Air


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

To me the word of God is like a breath of fresh air. Imagine if you will being in a very polluted area where there may be chemicals spewing forth in the air and then you leave that area and are able to breathe freely and healthy again. That is how I feel about God's word. 

So many people who go to church don't really read the Bible. Maybe it scares them. Perhaps they do not know where to begin. There may be even faiths that do not encourage it. The Bible is our toolbox for life. In it are words of life, strength, hope, renewal, and promise. 

If you are having trouble getting into God's word daily might I suggest first you put one in your car. That way you can sit in a parking lot somewhere while waiting for children, appointments or whatever and have it handy. Don't know where to start? The book of John in the New Testament or try the Psalms or Proverbs in the Old Testament. Each day if you make this a habit your mind and heart will start being renewed. You will trust more in God and less in the world. Give it a try. 

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for living in a country where I am free to have God's word in my possession. Forgive me for taking it for granted. Please stir up a hunger in those I know who have no desire for your word. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Monday, February 6, 2017

Spirit Of Aloha



"Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked." Luke 6:35

I was blessed by being able to travel on airline employee family member standby status with my pilot son to the Big Island of Hawaii, his Christmas gift to me, not too shabby I would say. It was so refreshing and surreal to be on the island with the active volcanoes. There was a certain attitude and kindness prevalent on the Big Island,  that being kindness to your fellow man. The Spirit of Aloha Hawaiian 🌺 natives  call it.

Why shouldn't I keep the spirit of aloha going on a regular basis whether in Hawaii or in Tennessee? No matter where you go you should be kind, peaceful, loving, friendly, forgiving or in other words have the fruits of the spirit in your life. It sure is easier to be nice than to be ugly. Anger and bitterness do nothing to improve one's life. Being unselfish is such a good attribute to develop. 

You may not feel well or have been the recipient of bad news but do your best with God's help to stay joyful in the midst of the trials that may be swirling out of control in your life.  "Easy for you to say Becky, you don't have cancer or have been laid off of work." Each of us has our journey in life but no matter what do your best to maintain the joy of the Lord through ups and downs. May the spirit of Aloha prevail in your life with God as your source of strength. 

PRAYER: I know being down and out of sorts is a tool the enemy can use to drag me into self pity and depression. I choose to not allow Satan to define my life no matter what is happening. I choose this day to be joyful even if I do not feel like it. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, February 5, 2017

Live It, Mean It!



If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Manwill be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.” Mark 8:38

I was waiting for a friend at a local restaurant when I glanced to my left and four young businessmen were having a Bible study. My first thought was "how cool is that" and my second was "the girl who marries them will get a spiritual leader for sure"! They were not hiding their light and they were unashamed. I could not help smiling.

Do you purposely carry your Bible around to take out in places like waiting rooms, restaurants, and other places. I don't but I am going to now. I have a small Gideon's Bible that should be in my purse. Don't just take it out to show off but my point is do not be ashamed to read your Bible in public. People can read romance novels, newspapers, magazines so why not the word of God?

What can you do to take Jesus with you each and every day? How do you need to arrange your schedule to make sure He is top priority?

PRAYER:Give me boldness to not worry what people will think or say and to not shy away from reading the scriptures in public places. Help me to be able to give the reason of hope that is in me when  asked. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, February 4, 2017

Escape To Paradise!


And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” Luke 23:43
How many of you have seen the advertisements usually in the winter months advertising 'escape to paradise' and depicting a beach scene or cruise ship? Oh it looks so delightful especially when winter is crushing down on you. Oh to escape, how delightful.

When you escape you eventually have to return to the life you left so the key is in the attitude you possess. A temporary change of scenery and climate is terrific but enjoy it and renew yourself prepared to come back refreshed and recharged.

A forever Paradise called Heaven awaits those who have asked Jesus to be Lord of their life. Have you made that decision for Jesus to be Lord of your life?

PRAYER: Lord I look forward to your eternal Paradise in Heaven. There is no way to imagine what it will be like but I know it will be so much more than anything here on this Earth. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, February 3, 2017

Bland Or Flavorful?


"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot." Matthew 5:13

I don't know about you but when I eat I like my food to be tasty and well seasoned. For health reasons I don't like to pile on the salt but a little bit sure can enhance the flavor of food. Did you know as believers we are called salt of the earth?

Think about that for a moment. You are like a giant salt shaker and everywhere you go throughout your day you are to 'season' things around you. Make a difference in the world in other words. A kind word, a smile, an unexpected gift, be creative with ways you can 'salt' people around you. 

What can you do today to enhance the world around you? Your workplace, your home, your neighborhood, your community. Flavor the world for Jesus!

PRAYER: Help me remember that I am like a giant salt shaker for you flavoring the world around me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, February 2, 2017

Against The Culture


But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15
As a believer we are to be set apart. In the world but not of the world. The modern culture and political scene attempts to mold and shape we humans into their mindset. There is not a war on women but a war on Christian culture. 
So many things today are acceptable in the world but not acceptable to God. You have to be able to recognize the difference and go against the flow knowing for whom you are living for. This world is so temporary. Often what is popular is not right and what is right is not popular. 
You have a choice. Live for this world and its' fleeting pleasures or live in this world for Christ making an impact on the culture around you. 
PRAYER: Help me recognize good and evil and keep me on the path of truth and righteousness. Help me be kind to those who oppose the way I have taken. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Kicked By An Elephant?


Do everything without grumbling or arguing. Philippians 2:14 
A family friend is a missionary surgeon serving in the country of Bangladesh. We get updates on what their ministry is doing in this far off nation. Recently he mentioned a person coming to the hospital after being kicked by an elephant in their front yard. This may sound funny to some but it is deadly serious. 
The point of his update concerning the elephant was how we in the United States lately seem to be caught up in anger against our fellow man concerning politics and in the big scheme of things which is worse? Being kicked by an elephant could ruin anyone's day. There are so many more things that are important than piddly arguments and putting down our fellow man. 
Keep everything in proper perspective and try to remember to do all things without complaining and griping. Be thankful no matter where life has you. Your day could be worse. You could be kicked by an elephant. 
PRAYER: Each day you have new things in store for us. In life good stuff happens and so does no so good stuff. I choose to keep the proper perspective on life and not let things bring me down, this includes bad jobs, being laid off, not being able to find work, and oh yes that occasional elephant kick. In Jesus' name. Amen.