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.

Friday, June 30, 2017

Hurt Feelings....It Happens


And to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:19
I often wonder if Jesus had His feelings hurt when He was rejected. His rejections were big ones not petty ones like some of you go through here on Earth. Being left out, being ignored, being unfriended on Facebook, being blocked on Facebook, divorce, being talked down to by someone, breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend, lies are spread about you, someone close says hurtful words. Rejection hurts and you kind of have to blow it off and not dwell on it. 
Maybe some of the rejection helps you to reassess your life and make changes. It is not always bad. But it still hurts, take it from someone who has been 'tossed under the bus' a few times and by people close to me. Ouch. For sure you have to learn to move on and let it go. If you don't you can build up resentment and bitterness and turn into a very harsh person. Some deeply wounded people may need to seek professional counseling.
Rejection can be a form of demonic bondage you need to be released from. A stronghold that needs to be broken. Wherever you are today know that Jesus and God never rejects you. Come to Him just as you are. He forgives, heals, extends grace and let's you have new beginnings. Just let Him. 
PRAYER: I have been angry after rejections Lord and I know that is not good as a believer and it does not help me stir up feelings of love for sure. Help me move on, in Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, June 29, 2017

No Connection

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God. Colossians 1:9-10


I am sure glad I have a 24/7 connection to God and can communicate and get through to him anytime. No waiting on a connection, signal or the power to come back on in order to do so. People now days who live off the grid, and there are getting to be more than you could imagine, have ways to connect to what is important. God is for sure important.

Even though you have this 'all access back stage pass' to our Heavenly Father, how many of us take Him for granted and just call on Him in crisis? Ouch. Maybe your experience growing up in church was cold and impersonal and no one encouraged you to get into the word of God and spend time with Him daily. It is only when you make an effort to do this that you truly become more like Him, and that is your goal correct?

Being a Christian is not boring. It is exciting. If you are bored maybe it is time to see if you ever truly did ask Jesus to be Lord of your life and not just sign up to be a member of thus and such church. Not pointing the finger but simply asking you to examine your heart and if you don't want to spend any time with Jesus ever then maybe something needs to be fixed.

PRAYER: My prayer today Lord is to pray for those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus to examine their hearts. I pray to Lord that my love for you does not grow cold. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for song of praise:

Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Monsters Within Us



Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

As much as you might try to tame it the jealousy monster inside of you sometimes it rears its' ugly head. Jealous of a persons' status or title. Perhaps jealous someone got promoted over you. Maybe it is jealousy between siblings feeling like their parents are favoring one child over another. It could be jealous that one grandparent gets to see the grand baby more than them. Perhaps you are jealous of another person's freedom. Maybe you are jealous of another's lifestyle and possessions. I am sure you could add to the list. 

The bottom line is simple. Stop it! All that stuff is not from the Lord. He didn't create you to be like that. It is the enemy, Satan, who attempts to divide and conquer and jealousy is one of his key tools. Don't allow it in your life. If you struggle with it now confess it to God and ask Him to create in you a different heart that isn't like that. It clouds your thinking and makes you say things you don't mean. 

Be grateful for where you are in life and what you have. Get rid of all those earthly sand bags weighing you down and keeping you from enjoying the life Christ intended you to. When you feel jealous stop right there and pray and ask God to break that stronghold in your life. 

PRAYER: Oh Father I don't like the feeling of being jealous. It creates anger, hatred, division and it simply not your choice for me. I ask you to help me rebuke the attempts by Satan to make me slip onto that mode. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Friends In The Junk Folder


But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! Matthew
 5:44

Friends are very important. Close intimate friends are even better. But to have a trusted friend betray you or stab you in the back is hurtful. If I could take a show of hands from readers I wonder how many of you would raise your hand that this scenario has happened to you. You are placed in the 'junk folder' of sorts.

You can't dwell on stuff like rejection or it can eat away at you. You can't try to figure it out. You can't beg the person to come back in your life. You just simply have to trust God and pray and try to keep the hurt from eating away at you and robbing you of the joy of living. 

Satan is the one who causes division and he uses people to do his dirty work. Sometimes these people are aware and captivated by evil and at times they may be unaware. Being kind, loving, and forgiving is the way to achieve victory over this painful experience.

PRAYER: Father I hope I have never been guilty of hurting someone or being mean or ugly to them. Relationships are hard and they take work. Help me kind and loving to the friends you have placed in my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, June 26, 2017

Get Rid Of Time Wasters


So, then, be careful how you live. Do not be unwise but wise, making the best use of your time because the times are evil.Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:15-17

As I sat recently at a coffee shop doing what I always do, writing, it amazes me how much junk mail comes not only in your snail mail box at home but on email. It takes forever it seems to wade through it and purge it releasing it to a junk folder. How much 'junk' is there in your life that needs to be put in a junk folder of sorts? Time wasters, energy suckers, good causes but over obligations?

Americans in particular are guilty of always being busy and almost feeling guilty if you are not. Why? I once heard an acronym for busy and that was 'Being Under Satan's Yoke'. Now that's an eye opener for sure. Young parents out there, start your child off right teaching him the value of work and responsibility but of also learning to be still. During this still time perhaps model getting closer to Christ. You may drag kids to soccer, dance, figure skating lessons, judo, and a host of other things but do you do the most important things parent can do and that is teaching them the value of being still.

Each of us reading this today should take stock of your schedule. Is it necessary to volunteer for every committee. What about be in every club that comes along? Or do you feel you have to do every social thing that comes down the pike? Sit back, take a breath, and learn to say no and learn to get quiet with God.

PRAYER: Help me Lord as I seek to say no to even important things and to make sure you then my family have quality and quantity time. Help me have courage to say no to things that may clutter my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, June 25, 2017

Time Wasters


If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:1-4
In this technological generation you find yourself in you must be intentional to use your time wisely. As I sat down to write one day the massive amount of junk email that had to be waded through just to get to the writing was phenomenal and a bit frustrating. Oh to sit by a babbling brook and listen to birds.
You have to decide what in your life is truly important and what to say no to. You know you can let the phone ring and don't have to answer every text. You can actually leave your mobile device at home if you are not in a career field that demands you be on call 24/7. So much can be whittled away to allow you to have more peace, less stress, less pressure, but it has to be intentional. Some of you reading this may chuckle and say "This lady has no idea what I face at work daily" and indeed that would be correct. But it is your choice how you choose to start and finish your day.

I would suggest to you that this world is not your home. Some of you were once in church and maybe really on fire for the Lord but something happened and you became cold to things of the Lord. That is between you and God.  But daily as you flit from one thing to the other does Christ even pass in your thoughts? Try to make time EACH day to sit down alone somewhere with a Bible and notebook and spend time in the word. I challenge you to NOT wake up and go to Facebook or turn on the news. Before you know it there is no time for Jesus. Is He really important? Then do something about it.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I love it when I sit and ponder your greatness. I thank you for the word of God and the privilege I have to own it and read it. Draw those people to you who have become cold in their faith. Wake them up. Help them make time for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.



Saturday, June 24, 2017

Good Morning World!!


This is the day the Lord has made;We will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

Similar to how Air Force DJ, Sgt Adrian Cronauer kept the morale of the troops in Vietnam up by uttering a hearty "Good Morning Vietnam" out on the airwaves of Armed Forces Radio Network during the Vietnam War we as believers should wake up daily displaying a similar positive attitude particularly if you are not living in a persecuted nation such as many do.

It is easy to get in a slump over bad news on TV, a dismal medical diagnosis, a dissolved marriage, bad grades, disobedient or disrespectful children, being unemployed.  Morale is all about your attitude. Needless to say the service men and women serving their country in a very unpopular war needed a cheery funny person to listen to daily. Even though Sergeant Cronauer played by Robin Williams in the 1987 film, bucked the military rules to entertain the troops, his broadcasts brightened their otherwise awful day. 

Maybe just maybe your attitude could make or break someone's day. When life has you down look up to the King of Kings. This is a very temporary stopover with the ultimate destination being Heaven for those whose heart is right with Jesus. If you have not asked Jesus to be Lord of your life what are you waiting for. If you aren't feeling so cheery today stop and pray then read the Psalms. And oh yes, don't forget to give thanks.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus help me stay on top and stay cheerful no matter what life throws at me. I never know who may be going through a worse day than me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, June 23, 2017

Warning! Warning!




Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” John 14:23


There are all sorts of warning signs in life. Near where I live on Interstate 65 both South and North bound near Exit 1 are signs with flashing lights warning motorists to slow from 70 to 65 because of a couple bad curves in the road. Numerous roll overs and other accidents have occurred here and the guardrails have been replaced more times than I can number. 

Warning signs are in God's word the Bible yet how many choose to go their own way and think the Bible is one big joke? Even well meaning brothers and sisters in Christ who maybe once had a decent and strong walk with the Lord are now in a lethargic state  or sinful lifestyle and choose to just ignore the scriptures and give heed to another way of life. God is far from them. I know some of these people. Only the Holy Spirit can draw them back to Him and wake them from the stupor Satan has them in. But keep praying. 

Don't listen to the voices in the world because they will mostly 100% of the time be wrong and lead you astray. if you say you are a Christian and love God then act like it. If you know you are doing something displeasing to the Lord then stop it. Satan has deceived so many people. The world we live in today is unrecognizable from the one I was in as a child. God's word is not old fashioned. Read it and do what it says today. If you have left God run back to Him. He can and does forgive. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus my heart aches for those who know better yet choose to follow Satan and demonic stronghold spirits and have idols in their life choosing to put you on the back burner. These people know who they are.  I pray you will speak to their hearts and convict them drawing them back to you in a powerful way. In Jesus' name Amen. 

Thursday, June 22, 2017

What A Pain!


Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. James 1:20

Many things in life can tend to frustrate. My predicament as I write this sitting in the shade at an open air mall is that after purchasing a $5 iced beverage and was ready to cozy down in a comfortable chair at a nearby coffee shop, the WiFi would not connect. So I sit in about a 90 degree shade for about an hour picking up a free signal from a nearby store that works. I could have chosen to get angry and make a scene at the place I was or just go with the flow and chalk it up to experience and select a coffee shop with more dependable wi fi since I had writing to do. 

Do you let things aggravate you that should just be blown off? If you want to be a good witness for the Lord you make a choice. Stay cool or gripe and get angry. Literally in my case I had to stay cool so thus I found shade. But coolness means to just drop it before it escalates because there are more important things to get irritated over. 

Whatever you are facing today at home, work, or out in the marketplace try to just breathe and learn to let things go, and oh yes, smile. It always helps. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord as I seek to stay at peace in every kind of situation. When others try to get me upset help me just be still. I choose to learn to blow things off. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, June 21, 2017

Boots On The Ground





I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. Joshua 1:3

The term which is my title for today is usually a military term indicating fighting men and women are being deployed and 'boots are on the ground' but for my purposes I am referring to the practice or habit of prayer walking. 


I had never ever prayer walked until I moved to Alabama back in 1999 and it was through the ministry of  Moms in Touch International now called Moms In Prayer, that I learned this very valuable and crucial spiritual discipline. I was a member of a high school praying mom group at the time and before the school year began we would gather in the high school parking lot and break up into small groups of two or three ladies each. From there we would walk the outside of the campus and pray for anything pertaining to the school. The teachers, the administration, the curriculum, the activities, sports, for faith based clubs to be allowed and on and on. 


If you have never done a prayer walk you can even go alone. You are not out to draw attention to yourself and as a matter of fact, don't ! You have a specific reason for a prayer walk. I have done many prayer walks now in various places probably Washington, DC being my favorite place. You sort of get addicted to it which is a good thing! Walk around your city hall, county courthouse, school, abortion clinic, but be careful to not be on grounds marked no trespassing as that would defeat the purpose. Consider what you are walking around like a wall that needs to come down. Take scriptures ahead of time to read pertaining to your walk. Let the Holy Spirit guide you. Now those boots are made for walking and you are made for praying!

PRAYER: Lord there are so many needs in our nation and around the world. Thank you that you cover us with your protective wings. With sincere hearts let many go forth and walk where walls need to come down. In Jesus' name. Amen.


For more on prayer walking read the following:


Tuesday, June 20, 2017

Taming That Busy Side Of You



You will keep in perfect peace 
those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3
I am the self confessed 'Energizer Bunny' even given that name by a couple good friends. But even though I have an abundance of energy, thank the Lord, I still need to make times to not be busy. Busyness can be a real detriment to your life and your relationships. Do you feel you achieve some sort of status by being able to answer when asked "how are you" to answer "Busy"? Why? Time to maybe be able to say "at peace". 

Want to try to not gain status by telling everyone you are busy? Your worth should not be determined by your busyness. You should not be ashamed to tell others that you are just sitting reading a book or the Bible. Why on Earth do so many feel compelled that you are not worthy unless you are busy? It is time to get over that and try to work on some free time and not keeping the proverbial schedule full. 
Start today and your first thing on the agenda should be God and quiet time. If you are not doing this why aren't you? No desire or is your answer "too busy"? Granted there are things that have to be done but perhaps you may be bringing some of this schedule overloading on yourself. Ponder that for a while. Today is the day to stop and seek Jesus and then re-do that schedule. Give it a try. 


PRAYER: Help me really look at things I see as crucial and maybe take a step back and schedule some down time. For those with families I pray they teach this principle to their children as well.  In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, June 19, 2017

Tender Hearted?



For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel. Ezra 7:10
I don’t know about you, but I can get my feelings hurt easy. Guess God made me with a tender heart. I care about people. I care about those who are hurting. Do you possess a tender heart or is your heart cold and hard?

In the world we live in today it is evident by the hatred you see being spewed forth by those who don’t like the US President that many people are in need of a heart transplant. More people need to learn to soften their hearts and get down on their knees and pray. Hatred is a tool of wickedness and the devil. Tenderness is from God above.
Do you need a tender heart? The Holy Spirit can indeed transform you if you want Him too. Evil thinking and evil actions is straight from the pit of hell but a loving, kind, and forgiving heart is from the Lord. Which do you choose?
PRAYER: Father I want to always be tenderhearted. Forgive me for any times I have had a hard heart. Help those people I may know personally who are in need of a heart transplant in order to love more and hate less. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, June 18, 2017

Daddy



"And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord" Ephesians 6:4

This is a special day at least here in America. It is Father's Day. My dad went to be with Jesus back in 1992 but for those who still have dads it should be a celebration. Often times though it is not. Statistics prove the dad is just as important if not more for a stable well developed loving family. Society has many problems due to the absence of a father in the home. Many are in jail or deadbeat dads or were never around to begin with.

For those of you blessed by a good Father/child relationship be thankful. Women's lib would like to think men are not necessary but on the contrary how are babies born? Hmmm. The dad traditionally has been delegated even by God as the authority figure and bread winner. That does not mean he is superior but that is the role in the Biblical family. Someone has to be the final authority cause there can not be two captains of one ship.

If your dad is still alive be sure to call him today. If he is but you are estranged from him, forgive him. If he hurt you, forgive him and let it go. If you have deep issues go seek Christian counseling. If you are a dad be the best you can be. Be a godly dad who stays on his knees in prayer and reads the Bible. Your family needs a spiritual leader not just a paycheck.

PRAYER: Abba Father you are my daddy in Heaven. I thank you for daddies here on Earth that sacrifice so much for their families. Help dads everywhere come to take on the responsibility of the spiritual leader of the home. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Saturday, June 17, 2017

The Finish Line


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

I don't know how many of my readers are runners, bike riders, Boston Marathon runners(I know two)Olympians(I know one), Kentucky Derby jockeys,  NASCAR drivers , or American Ninja Warrior competitors but the finish line is the ultimate goal. Getting there takes stamina, training, dedication, and above all discipline. It is the prize even if you aren't the first one over it. In the times I have been in running competitions it sure is nice to see that finish line sign up ahead. 

Our race here on Earth is to obtain the ultimate prize of eternal life in Heaven. You just don't go to church on Sunday, join a church, even just be sprinkled as an infant or go to Confirmation classes. These are all fine but there has to be a real change in your heart and believe me you will know it when there is! Salvation entails much more than denominational rules and regulations. First understand Jesus does not wish for any to perish but for ALL to come to repentance. To repent means to turn away from and stop sinning and to confess and start a new life. 

Are you sold out to this race to win the Heavenly prize? Start in the book of John in the New Testament and read God's word daily. How can you expect to be close to Him and know Him if you never pick up the Bible. Pray for the Holy Spirit to enter your heart as well. Run the race to win and don't let Satan or what people think hold you back. 

PRAYER: I once was blind spiritually but now I see. Help me Lord to not put off the reading of your word. Help me stop putting myself and my fun ahead of you on Sunday. Give me a desire for growth in you. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Friday, June 16, 2017

Go Beyond Nice




Go Beyond Nice

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32

Have you ever found yourself in a difficult situation whether in a public place, at home, or on the highway where your human nature screams "get back at him" but your God nature says "be kind and go the extra mile"? I know I have. Sometimes I pass the test and other times I fail and am ashamed of myself. Letting a car in front of you who is trying to turn onto a busy road. Giving the table at Starbucks with the only outlet to another person(ouch). Picking up trash you did not toss on the ground or leave in the movie theater. Being kind when you are verbally attacked?  

You can choose to let things go or you can choose to have them escalate. You can choose to put things in your life that make you peaceful or subject yourself to things such as maybe the nightly news, that get you upset. Be careful what you 'feed' yourself for there lies part of the problem to wanting to be just like the 'world'. 

Christ wants us to be set apart, to be different. How can you effectively witness to anyone if you are being ugly and mean? Pretty difficult task I would think. So choose this day to start it off in God's word. You say He is first so prove it by spending time alone with Him daily. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord as I seek to be peaceful and kind and a good witness for you. Help me learn to turn the other cheek even when I don't feel like it. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, June 15, 2017

Wake Me Up When Jesus Comes Back


For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Do you ever feel this way as the title suggests? You are exhausted and just wish Jesus would hurry and return? I will be honest and say I have. But He is not finished with you or the world in general.

Every day wake up with hope and knowing God indeed has plans for you. Just because things aren't always going the way you think they should not make you think He has abandoned you. Often you can hear from God more when you are going through struggles and when stuff is going peachy then you may ignore your need for Him.

My friend cling to Him, run to Him, 24/7. He can and does help get you through the struggles of life if only you won't turn your back on Him.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for trials for in them as I look back I can see what I learned as a result. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Faulty Wiring



Faulty Wiring

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. Psalm 139:13

Each of you was created in God's image. You are His perfect creation. Don't be beating up on yourself or comparing yourself to someone else or to an image on TV or in the movies which is not real. Rejoice in who you are and how God designed you, no matter what. 
To stay positive on your self image you have to know and believe that God knit you together like the verse today says. No errors on His part and if there is 'worldly imperfection' God still uses all things and designed you for a purpose. In the toolbox of the enemy are many things to get you down on yourself and comparison is a huge one. Satan is not your friend so don't allow him to control your emotions and thoughts. 

Start getting up each day rejoicing for another day of life. Thank the Lord that you were born. Rejoice for your personality, your looks, your talents(yes you have some) and just go out into the day casting off any wrong thinking that enters your brain. God made you unique and you have no faulty wiring. 

PRAYER: You are Lord over all creation. You created me for a purpose. Help me rise up daily and defeat the enemies lies and rejoice in what plans you have in store for me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, June 13, 2017

How Do You Spend Your Free Time?


Can a maid forget her ornaments, or a bride her attire? Yet My people have forgotten Me days without number.Jeremiah 2:32
What do you do in your free time? Read fashion magazines, explore beauty tips, get on Facebook, read pop ups from Facebook, watch TV.  Have you ever considered the concept of tithing your time? I hope  that all Christians reading this are convicted without pressure about tithing your earnings to the Lord. Don't do it under compulsion as scripture instructs not to,  but I hope you want to. Anyway similarly to that money tithe how about your time?
Do you have quality and quantity time set up with Jesus daily? Not trying to guilt you, but to make you think about this. I have had days when I have neglected Jesus and I am a devotion writer! You have to make it intentional and on your to do list or it may not happen. Suggest instead of the concept of reading through the entire Bible which is admirable, I suggest a good Bible study from Christian book store or simply just open your Bible to the book of John or Psalms for instance and read. Pray that God would open your mind to what He wants to teach you. Set your radio to a Christian station. Stay off stations that feed your mind with garbage or anger you with one sided news. 
I challenge you to start today to find a way to make sure if you say Jesus is first in your life to make Him really first. Examine how your time is spent and maybe change some things up. 
PRAYER: Lord I am so grateful for having you as my Lord and savior. I remember a time when I went to church but that was all. I pray Lord that I do not allow mundane things to occupy my time and start spending more time. Give me the wisdom to know what to change. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Note: a great Bible study from Moody Publishers hot off the press last week by my friend Erica Wiggenhorn is The Unexplainable Church. A fifty day study in the last half of Acts. Why not order one from Amazon and dive into the word today? I highly get it Five Stars. Buy one and never neglect the word again.

Monday, June 12, 2017

ZEROF8TH


For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18
For those of you trying to figure out my title today it reads 'Zero Faith' and this was a vanity tag I recently saw on a car as I drove onto Redstone Arsenal in Alabama. It was not a soldier in the car but it made me so very sad so I said," that is another writing topic for sure!" I said a prayer for the individual and wondered if it meant what I thought it did and that was 'atheist'. 
A person has a right to believe or not believe how they want to but we as believers also have a right to try to keep people from eternal separation from God.  Once a text I sent to a friend did not reach my friend who no longer had that number but an atheist instead. I had sent a prayer request which started an interesting dialog with this person in a Colorado area code. 
You are probably around people each day who are either lukewarm Christians and think Sunday is all they have to do or in fact you may be sharing an office with someone who hates God or simply does not believe God exists. Satan is working to get many on his side and does it in cunning deceptive ways. Be in prayer daily and pray for those you may know who are marginal in their faith or reject God totally. 
PRAYER: Lord I pray today for anyone I may come in contact with today who does not know you as their savior or who simply rejects you outright. Put love in my heart and let me communicate your truths to those around me. In Jesus' name. Amen.



Sunday, June 11, 2017

Portion Control

“The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” Lamentations 3:24
All I need is Jesus, how about you? He knows what we need and we know we need Him. 
To get more and more of Jesus in your life don't worry about portion control but go all in and hunger and thirst for the word of God. 
Now the enemy does not want you to run hard after God. His idea is to distract you with things of this world and keep you so busy you don't even have time for a minimal portion each day. Make sure your daily schedule includes a major portion of Jesus.
PRAYER:Lord I need you every hour. I pray for those I know who don't really care to do more than Sunday and some not even that. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Saturday, June 10, 2017

Doctor's Orders

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:3-4

When you get really sick more than likely you head to your doctor. He or she will diagnose your illness and give you a treatment plan to follow in order to get well. Being a Christian requires you to follow the 'doctor's orders' as well this time meaning 'Doctor Jesus' as I will refer to Him for this writing. 

Sicknesses in this case would be spiritual strongholds that have a grip on your life and at times you may be unaware. The best way to defeat strongholds is with the word of God. The Bible does not do a person much good if it just sits on a coffee table or next to your bed and is never opened. Get a Bible that has references for subjects in the back so you can look up verses. Get the word of God planted in a your head so your life is God focused on not saturated with things of the world. 

Beware my friend as Satan throws many roadblocks into you wanting better spiritual health. You will find excuses, busyness, tired, complacent, lack of desire and a host of other things. Make up your mind you want to be healthy and whole for Christ and not a believer who just drifts from Sunday to Sundaywith no growth. Defeat the enemy, Read your Bible every day!

PRAYER: I want to take a dose of your healing medicine each and every day and to do this I know I have to plan my day to include quality time with you Lord. Give me wisdom in my daily priorities. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, June 9, 2017

An Ancestor?Not Just Yet!



A gray head is a crown of glory; It is found in the way of righteousness. Proverbs 16:31

The older you become the more sensitive you may become to how old you are and choose to even go so far as to hide it from others. Let's face it, if you continue to live you continue to get older and what is wrong with that? I got a chuckle recently when I was reading online about using coffee grounds in gardens and the writer of the article said "Our ancestors had it right- waste not want not" and I said "what just a minute, that was not ancestors that was my mom and now me." 

Get a grip. Your age is simply a number. Take care of yourself as you get older and get out and get exercise and try not to obsess about a simple number or year on the calendar. Guess what? Everyone is getting older. Tick tock, tick tock, on life goes. 

Do the best you can with your years God gives you. Try not to complain. Try to make an impact in the lives of the people you come in contact with. Above all be thankful for each and every day and try to not whine or make excuses too much. Let your life shine like a beacon of hope wherever you go. 

PRAYER: Thank you for each birthday I have been blessed with. Help me to bring joy, hope, and comfort to those in my path each and every day. Forgive me for complaining about my age for each year is a blessing. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, June 8, 2017

No Fear


So do not fear for I am with you. Do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and I will help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

In 1989 there was a tee shirt line introduced call 'No Fear' and basically it was perhaps a boastful way to show others you were not afraid to try stuff that may make others fear. The other night when I was returning on a trip from Tulsa via Charlotte there were extreme thunderstorms in the area bordering where we were flying back to, Huntsville, AL. To say I love to fly is an understatement but those storm clouds with lightening were intimidating especially when you were right up there in the sky with them.

God does not want you to be fearful. Now in saying this I am not telling you to become Nik Wallenda and walk a tight rope across the Grand Canyon, but instead to say He  does not want you to be anxious as you go about your life. Trust Him. Let words of faith and confidence come from your mouth instead of anxious words.

You have a choice and that is to walk in faith or to walk in fear. Which do you choose?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus it is easy to focus on things that make me get scared, upright, or anxious. My choice is to stay peaceful and trust you no matter what. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, June 7, 2017

For Goodness Sake


will not look with approval on anything that is vile.I hate what faithless people do;I will have no part in it.The perverse of heart shall be far from me;I will have nothing to do with what is evil.Psalm 101:3-4


You have heard the saying what is popular is not always right and what is right is not always popular? In a culture that is becoming extremely more desensitized and sexualized, even Christians are at times getting numb to what is good and wholesome. 

Popular movies sometimes should be left unseen especially if you are trying to keep your heart and mind pure. Don't purposely go to something you know ahead of time is wrong and an R rating should be a heads up to see what is wrong with it and at times PG 13. Parents be parents and have the guts to draw the line on bad entertainment choices. Now I am not a fan of a teen having his or her own TV in their room but don't intend to step on toes of some I know who have them. It is just allot easier to monitor entertainment choices on the family room TV. 

Ask yourself a question or two before you make entertainment choices. First is this good for me? Secondly, would I invite Jesus to go along? Now go make good choices. 

PRAYER: Temptations are all around us and the enemy tries to lure us into his trap throwing things at us I may feel are innocent when I know better. Give me the courage to recognize and walk away from evil. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for a review of the recently released R rated Baywatch which many teens may want to see. Be warned. 

Tuesday, June 6, 2017

Iron Bars


brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and theircontentions are like the bars of a castle. Proverbs 18:19

For any of you reading who have not been hurt or betrayed by a close friend it feels like jabbing a knife in your heart. One moment you are like a sister or brother sharing deep confidences and the next you are shut out, unfriended, blocked, ignored. It is very painful. It can happen to women or men. Women probably process the pain differently but never the less it is heart breaking.

Does this mean you should never get close to anyone for fear they will turn on you some day? Absolutely not. Relationships are what life is all about. It is difficult if not impossible to know the heart of man. And you certainly can't force someone to like or love you. You simply try to let it go and pray.

If you have a friend who has been hurt by betrayal and rejection at the hands of a friend or family member pray for them as it does take time and is hard to understand. If it happened to you, forgive. Maybe you are the one angry and blocking someone from your life who used to be close. Ask yourself why and try to mend the relationship. Anger and bitterness are not fruits of the spirit so try to root them out now before they grow deeper.

PRAYER: Thank you Father for the times people have hurt me cause it has forced me to learn forgiveness and love in a deeper way. Help me pray for those who oppose me, hate me, ridicule me, or shun me. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Monday, June 5, 2017

Be Yourself...Got That?


But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7
I had an author event and totally forgot to get my traditional manicure which I do when people will see my hands allot. Nail polish is not 'me' but I want to look nice for certain special occasions. But with one hour before event just said "Oh well". Alas, the trusty nail polish bottles beckoned me from my bathroom shelf. I did it myself. 
Do you get concerned about image? Teen girls are really susceptible to this but even adults can worry. Sure there are places you need to look good such as a job interview or going to work, but to obsess over a dress code of sorts otherwise even going into church is not necessary. 
A close friend who lives in Arizona got me the best sign which I hang where it is seen daily and it simply says "Be Yourself, Everyone Else Is Taken" and how true is that. This is not a license to be a slob and not take care of God's Holy temple, your body, but it does mean the world's idea of beauty and fitting in is wrong. Relax, enjoy your life.
PRAYER: Help me Lord as I seek to be a representative of the kingdom of God and not be so caught up in things of this world just to be cool. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, June 4, 2017

Entangled?


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

Are you trapped or entangled in something you know is not pleasing to God and is not only hurting you but may be also hurting others as well? Drug addiction, pornography, alcoholism, lying, cheating, stealing, abortion, adulterous relations, alternate lifestyles, premarital sex?

No one is perfect and Satan is roaming around like a lion, a vicious conniving predator,  trying purposely to devour you and destroy your life. Particularly if you love Jesus he often throws curve balls and temptations your way to try to destroy your life as well as your witness.

Maybe you are not involved with something in the list above but stuff from your past haunts you. Satan is a master of guilt and condemnation too. God can forgive, heal, and restore so let Him into your heart today.

PRAYER: Oh Lord you are so awesome. You loved me when I have been at my worst. You are waiting with open arms and always forgive. Restore and renew me. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Saturday, June 3, 2017

Struggling?


"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free. Luke 4:18

What is going on on your life? Do you feel trapped? Are you the victim of poor choices in life? Often times when people mess up, and all of us have at one time or another, they want to just escape and Satan puts ideas of worthlessness in their minds and thoughts.

If that is where you are my friend, stop what you are doing now and cry out to God. You are a special creation of God and He loves you very much.

Don't dwell or camp out on negative thoughts. Get your mind and heart renewed by reading the book of  John for starters. Don't sit around worrying and in self pity. Start now and get on the road to freedom in Christ.

PRAYER:Lord many people in the world hurt emotionally. Use me to comfort someone in my life who needs a dose of love. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Friday, June 2, 2017

Flip Phone, Big Phone, Tiny Phone, No Phone...Does It Matter?


But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."1 Samuel 16:7

Keeping appearances is important to many people. What purse they carry, what shoes they wear, what kind of makeup or toiletries they use, what vehicle they drive.  Why does this matter? We are simple man here by the grace of God to be used by Him yet too many, even in Christian circles, are caught up in image.

I for one have not been on an overseas mission trip but I can bet that is a sure cure for feeling you have to be somebody or fit an image. Don't try to please people so much.

 Instead of being so concerned about your friends, strangers, co workers, why not concern yourself with how your inner man is. Read your Bible. Pray. Get transformed from the inside out and live a more peaceful life.

PRAYER: Help me not let others try to mold me into an image that does nothing to bring glory to you Lord. I pray for teens especially who feel led by peer pressure. Give them the ability to be their own person. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, June 1, 2017

Off The Grid..Try It, You Might Like It


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

Who is it that made up the rule we have to be constantly plugged in? I reached a saturation point one day and regressed to the day before 24/7 connection. It was so refreshing. I feel our minds after a while need a rest from bings, tiny screens, phones ringing, texting, and status updates. It wore me down after a while and I felt like I wanted to be in Alaska totally off the grid or paddling a boat down a stream.

Our brains need time to rest and recuperate and a steady tech diet I feel can be unhealthy. That is why I always hate seeing small children already with their own devices. God help us.

Take a few days and turn off stuff if you can. Excuses are what if there is an emergency. I may miss something. Do yourself a favor and rest and gain peace and stillness in your life. This means that dreaded TV too. Grab those kids and grandkids and go do some fun creative non electrical things. Go to a park and just watch birds. Listen to a brook. Take a walk. Be still. God is in your midst and he loves it when you calm down enough to give him time and reflect.

PRAYER: Oh Lord you're beautiful. Your face is all I see. I am in awe of the wonder of your creation. From the tiny baby to the most impressive mountains. Thank you for all you give us. Help us sit still enough to appreciate it. In Jesus' name. Amen.