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.

Monday, July 31, 2017

Change Your Thinking


Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2

Get the enemy and the customs of this fallen world out of your thoughts. How do you do that you might ask? Well initially and most importantly is to spend time alone with Jesus. Just you and Him and your Bible. Your thinking and mind are transformed the more time you focus on reading the word. 

The world's way is self centered, angry, lustful, confused, selfish, jealous, hateful, non Christian, and go ahead and add to my list. I am not saying there is nothing good in this world but primarily the content of ads creates lust and greed. Television  and movies try to desensitize us to sin by showing us junk over and over till we don't care. The nightly news is skewed and just doomsday. If you feed on a diet like this no wonder your mind gets messed up. 

I urge each person reading to ask God to fill you with love, joy, peace, kindness, mercy,
but to do this you need to be different and set apart from what deep down you know is wrong. Are you ready for the challenge? I hope so!
PRAYER: It is so easy to get sucked into the stronghold of wrong thoughts. The only way I see to get strength on this area is to stay in the word daily and reject the ideas this world throws at us. Give me your strength Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, July 30, 2017

Your Words



The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21

What kind of words come out of your mouth? Praise, anger, bitterness, selfishness, love, gossip, hatred? Your words say allot about the kind of person you are and what is truly in your heart. You can't use the 'devil made me do it' excuse all the time. It worked for the late comedian Flip Wilson in the 70's but is just that, an excuse. 

Yes Satan is alive and well and tries to do all he can to mess with believers as with non believers or complacent Christians he is pretty much controlling as they don't give any time to God. Does your mouth cause you trouble? Do you spend time with the Lord on a daily basis?  The more we have a daily quiet time and read the word probably the less mean words will tend to flow from your mouth. 

Before you say something, write something, call someone, text, or email stop and ponder and ask if it is necessary and will it tear down or build up. Now go have good speech why don't you? 

PRAYER: I have messed up with my mouth more times than I care to remember. I know you created me to serve you and do good not evil. Help my mouth not be a tool for evil. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, July 29, 2017

What Is Your Why?


“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails” Proverbs 19:21

Why do you do the things you do? The job, the hobbies, the trips. I heard this question asked in the movie 'Collateral Beauty' which I for one never understood but then heard Pastor Craig Groeschell of Life Church during their 'At The Movies' series ask this question. Why do you get up each morning? What motivates you? 

A job, a family, someone who depends on you? No matter what life throws at you it is necessary to keep going. You may feel like rolling up in a gigantic ball and hiding but if others depend on you that is not an option. 

God has a plan for each of us so never think you are unwanted or unnecessary. Don't give up. Don't listen to the lies of Satan which come when you start getting down on yourself or feel worthless. Run to God when you feel low. Pick up the Bible and read the Psalms. You should definitely feel full of joy then.

PRAYER: I want to say thanks for having me be born Lord Jesus. No one is an accident and every one has value in your eyes. I pray for those who may not feel that way to experience the joy of the Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, July 28, 2017

Interference


Do everything without grumbling or arguing, Philippians 2:14

My ideas for my writing come from very unique sources at times, this one being no exception. It is as if God is saying, "people need to hear more on this and you need to learn more Becky" so on it goes. My issue today was distinct interference with a mainstream wifi source at a major coffee shop I frequent letting my phone connect but not my iPad. Frustrating but not the end of the world. 

What minor interferences do you experience in your daily living? Plumbing issues, broken air conditioner in very hot weather, dead car battery, lost keys, can't find your glasses. Have I hit one of yours yet? The point being is this too shall pass and it is not that big a deal in the long run. Sometimes it is necessary to relax, take a breath, and just give thanks. Yes you heard me right, give thanks! 

Give thanks to God for all the good you do have and for so many blessings. When you become agitated the best solution is in fact to praise God for the good in your life and see if you don't feel better. 

PRAYER: I am indeed grateful for so many blessings you have bestowed on me I don't even deserve at times. Give me the ability to relax when things go haywire. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Underestimating Sin


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

When a tornado or hurricane strikes often times people underestimate the power and danger of the wind and consequently put themselves in harms way. Some appear to be mesmerized and caught up in the impending danger. You as a believer may underestimate the power of one little sin as well and become awe struck by it. 

Our world today is becoming more and more desensitized to wrong, sin, and evil. Satan is working overtime to confuse the masses. Sins affects can have far reaching consequences for years to come. If you feel in your heart something is not right that is your conscience letting you know to get up and run from evil. 

Is there some sin you are 'toying' with that you should be confessing and running away from? 

PRAYER: Help me break any strongholds of the enemy in my life before the enemy has me in his clutches. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, July 25, 2017

Refueling Station


Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation. 1 Peter 2:2
There are refueling stations for cars, boats, airplanes, our bodies, and a host of other things that need what it takes to keep them going. Christians need refueling stations as well. Those come in several forms.

The Bible, devotions, worship music, time with Christian friends, Bible study, church, small groups, mission work all serve to help you recharge and refuel. If you neglect your refueling then you run out of 'juice' so to speak and become sort of a weak believer. How can your body, for instance,  go on day to day without the nourishment it needs to stay active and alert. It would be impossible. So too your spiritual body needs to be fed. 

Are you taking the time to refuel and recharge on a daily basis? If not what needs to be done to incorporate the spiritual filling station into your daily routine? 

PRAYER: I know Satan loves to get believers to stay so busy they have no time for you Lord. I recognize this and plan to do something to change that. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, July 24, 2017

Lust Of The Flesh


How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. Psalm 119:9

Lust and purity are not just issues for young people, but no matter what your age Satan throws out bait to entice you to come  over to his side. A little lie here, a little temptation there. A raunchy movie here, a graphic novel there. The normalizing of things that used to be considered perverse is another way Satan has trapped many. 

Don't be fooled. Stand strong. Stay in the word. If friends are dragging you into a pit of destruction, pull yourself out and get some new friends. Don't compromise what you know deep down to be the truth. Stay away from things you know God sees as wrong. Pornography even what I call 'light' porn of a certain well known ladies undergarment store, cursing or movies that curse, dressing to entice the opposite sex, cheating, trying to get rich quick, are all tools the enemy can use on believing Christians to make you stumble. 

Don't allow this world and its' temptations to get you to fall. If you messed up confess it because God is a God of grace and mercy. Run from all that is even remotely evil and seek the truth and pursue righteousness. 

PRAYER: Lord I love you. So much is out in the world to get me sucked in. Help me resist it strong in my faith. Help me remember to pray for those in my family who may be taking a wrong path. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, July 23, 2017

The Waiting Game



But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23

Waiting is never fun. It is not something any of you probably do but it is part of life. I got the idea for this topic as I waited 20 minutes for a simple coffee drink as other customers who came in after me with larger orders came and went. I stayed cool. Finally I spoke up and had I not I would never have been served. 

What do you wait on? Traffic lights, food orders, birth of a baby or grand baby, paycheck, news of a new job, medical report, internet connection, a table at a restaurant. To be patient is a fruit of the spirit mentioned in today's verse. It is of utmost importance to develop this quality in your life. If you are raising children you do them a disservice by giving in to their every desire because patience is something as adults that will make or break a person.

Is there an area of your life you need to develop patience in? Maybe many areas. Take a breath, be still, and realize this too shall pass. Getting impatient leads to quarrels and other not so good things. Stay cool and wait. 

PRAYER: Lord I confess to you that many times I can get a little perturbed at waiting but I know it is necessary to do to stay at peace and to grow in life. Thank you for the opportunities you give me to practice being patient. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, July 22, 2017

Mouth Check

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED 21 July 2017 

May the words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14
Wouldn't it be great if we all were perfect in the use of our words? There would be no arguments, no divorce, no anger, no misunderstandings among friends. You get the idea. That mouth of ours can get us into a heap of trouble. If yours doesn't or hasn't please let me know and I will submit your name to Ripley's Believe It Or Not! 
Lies, gossip, backbiting, yelling, arguing, blaming, cursing, disrespect, hurtful words all proceed from that little 'hole in your face' and somehow it has to be tamed. But alas James chapter 3 reminds us "no man can tame the tongue" but we can sure try! 
Your assignment, and I hope you choose to accept it, is to use your mouth for praise, love, compliments, encouragement, truth, kindness, and praising the Lord. If you can make a habit to do this daily your outlook on life and love for others should increase. Now go have a blessed day.
PRAYER: I always hate it Lord when I say something I regret or send an email or text and wish I could take it back. Help me be mindful or the words I use. If I have hurt someone help me go to them for forgiveness. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Relief From The Heat

ORIGINALLY RELEASED 21 JULY 2017

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. Psalm 91:4
Depending on what part of the world you live in, the temperature can vary a good deal. Personally I prefer winter and fall. Here where I live, right now it is hot and humid. I still get out to exercise but have to find shade to stay cool. I got to thinking how Jesus is like your shade or umbrella of sorts from the 'heat of life' that can come on you occasionally. 
A big shade tree is a welcome sight on a hot day if you are outside and just want to sit where it is cool. Let Jesus be that shade tree. Rest with Him each and every day. You have to be more or less intentional to have this 'shade tree time' with Jesus. Everything else is so important such as Facebook, the news, the newspaper, so where is spending time with God and resting under His shade tree before you head out the door?
You hear the sermons probably that say 'make Jesus first' but He is not really first if you only make time for him one hour a week. Some of you may live with someone who goes to church but little more than that. Say nothing and let the Holy Spirit do the convicting. You may have adult children who have lost their passion for the Lord. Once again let the Holy Spirit convict them and just keep praying they will want to sit under 'Jesus' shade tree' again really soon. 
PRAYER: Lord Jesus it is so easy to say you are first place but them following it up with action is where I often fall short. I know Satan loves it when I forget my 'Jesus time' so nudge me daily Lord to spend time with you. Also I pray for family members who could care less about a relationship with you that you will light that flame again. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Love Always Wins!



      Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.    1 John 4:8

Right now going on in the nation I live in , the great United States of America, are people still mad at the results of the election resisting the government and being very hateful. You don't hear about it as much but there are pockets of dissenters out there as well as a shadow government trying to bring disruption. You either love or you hate. No in between. 

God is a God of love. No matter if someone spat on Jesus He would turn the other cheek. He did not cause trouble when people mocked Him, spoke evil of Him, or even when He was going to be crucified. He warned us there would be trials and tribulation in the world. He also told us to Rejoice!  

Is there someone you are having trouble loving who maybe hurt you with actions or words? You know what you need to do don't you? Show love back regardless and give the situation to God. Pray for those who you may have trouble loving. And pray for our leaders. Now go show some love! 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus give me a heart to love ALL people even those who humanly I may not agree with or don't understand. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, July 19, 2017

Gone


The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 1 Peter 4:7
Do you realize one day this Earth will be no more? One day you will be no more as well. You are born, you die. During this time you choose to accept or reject Jesus and His teaching. You can live for the temporary which is very fleeting or you can choose things of eternal value. 
Your 'religion' won't save you. Church membership won't save you. Being a certain denomination won't save you. Baptism won't save you. Going to church on Sunday won't save you. Being righteous won't save you. Believing in the Lord Jesus Christ and calling on his name is what you need to do. 
Satan will muddle the truth and in the times we are living in allot of lies are being made to seem like truth and much that is sinful is being accepted as normal. Only the Holy Spirit can draw people unto Him and convict their hearts. Don't despair but continue to pray for many to come to know the Lord and if your 'walk' with Him is not so great maybe it is time to get back into the word. Someday it will be too late and no one knows when that day is. Be ready. 
PRAYER: I thank you Lord for each and every day you give me on this Earth. Help me to remember that I am here to make a difference and not live to just please myself. Help me remember to pray daily for those I know to come to know you as their savior and get serious about their 'walk' if they aren't already. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Catching Any Fish?



For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.”Luke 5:9-10

A few weeks ago in church our pastor was talking about going fishing for men. Just as the familiar verse above indicates we need to go fishing for souls. Not an in your face type of fishing but by being available to share the reason of hope in you.

Once you accept Christ you need to step up to the plate, or get in the boat, in this case and do your part for the kingdom of God. God uses us to spread His word and draw men and women to Him. Your smile, your kindness, your willingness to go beyond the call to help.

Go get your tackle box ready and be prepared when you may be asked. Don't ever be ashamed or afraid to share the Gospel with those you may come in contact with.

PRAYER: The world around us is hurting, confused, scared and in many cases hopeless. Use me Lord to plant seeds of love and hope and share Jesus with others. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, July 17, 2017

Words,Words,And More Words


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

Every day you engage in conversation with people. Your family, your friends, telemarketers, co workers, merchants, waiters, neighbors, mailman, UPS driver, folks at the gym, and you can add more to your list I am sure. What you say can make you or break you. Words are so vital and thinking before speaking as well.

How many problems have been caused by miscommunication, a misspoken word, a misunderstanding? From my experience, many. Do a search in the Bible for the word 'words' and many things pop up. If you only could think before you randomly communicate many problems could be avoided.

Why not try this week to purposefully use your mouth to say kind, uplifting, encouraging, and praiseworthy things. Try to be alert to any negativity that creeps in. And certainly beware of gossip or saying cruel things. Make it a point to use your mouth to praise God and build up others, not tear them down. Oh yes and remember to also say 'I forgive you' to those you need to.

PRAYER: I have said things in the past that has been hurtful or misunderstood. Help me Lord to choose my words wisely and to make a point to be positive and kind. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, July 16, 2017

Bread Of Life



But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

Dads and moms out there are you focusing on Jesus first in your home or is He not even a passing thought? Jesus is in fact the 'bread of life' yet to many He is not even part of the equation. I realize that in writing I am preaching to the choir so to speak and only the Holy Spirit can do the conviction and drawing men and women to Him.

Be intentional. Get to a growing church you hate to miss. Make it a priority. If you have family or friends who seem to be lethargic when it comes to things of the Lord just continue to lift them up in prayer and do not stop or lose hope. 

The world we live in is certainly not 'Christ centered' and it is necessary to stay on your knees in prayer and get serious about falling in love with Jesus. Is Jesus what you are feasting on daily. Don't starve yourself. Get your 'bread of life' today. 

PRAYER: Each day Lord I know you yearn for me to take time to stop and spend time with you. So may things cry out for my attention. I choose to start my day with the bread of life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, July 15, 2017

Tethered To Jesus


For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions,2 Timothy 4:3
I live in the area where space exploration is king. The Marshall Space Flight Center where they build the International Space Station is about 25 miles away.
A tether for a space walking astronaut is extremely important. As depicted in the Hollywood movie ‘Gravity’, if things go wrong it can have devastating consequences. For Christians Jesus is that tether that keeps us connected and not floating away into sin. The tether keeps us grounded and connected to the Holy Spirit.
Are you tethered so you won’t float away into sin?
PRAYER: Lord I thank you for being my ever present tether and keeping me grounded. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, July 14, 2017

Take Your Medicine



A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:2
You have heard it said, "Laughter is the best medicine" and actually that truth is right off the pages of scripture. Getting a good belly laugh not only can cheer a person up emotionally but physically as well. 
Being downcast and gloomy only serves to drive you into a pit of despair. If you get this way go find something to make you smile. Satan loves to get people sad. When you are sad you tend to have self pity. Self pity is not from God. 
Don't watch things that make your fearful or anxious. Get on some clean comedy and smile awhile. The nightly news is not your choice for smiles so keep it off. Buy a joke book with clean humor. Stay away from pessimistic people. Keep looking up and go get well. 
PRAYER: I thank you for creating the gift of laughter, not at crude degrading humor but at decent funny moments in life. I choose to focus on what makes me smile and run from gloom. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, July 13, 2017

A Life Of Victory


But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57

Do you feel victorious or defeated? Simple question. Do you feel passionate about your walk with the Lord or is it becoming dull? Maybe it is time for you to check where your affections really lie and get them realigned so you can have a victorious life.

A person can claim to know the Lord but then could care less about spending time with Him in prayer and quiet time or even setting aside the Sabbath for worship. Your life feels defeated in the sense you just don't feel any power over this 'world' and how it can drag you down and try to conform you to its' mold. Maybe you aren't aware it has drug you down, now that is scary. 

Are you living more for this temporal world or are you seeking things above and a life Of Victory? A question each of you have to honestly answer for yourself. 

PRAYER: You are the potter Lord and I am the clay. Help me recognize when I am getting too sucked into a wrong belief system or way of thinking. In Jesus' name. Amen.




Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Keep Your Eyes On The Cross!

(NOTE: This was Sunday July 9, 2017 devotion I forgot to put on blogger.)

For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do-this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. Romans 7:18-20

Temptation to do wrong is everywhere. It would be easy to get off the righteous path with all the junk screaming at us from every direction. R rated movies, horrible tv in prime time, brain washing going on in schools and colleges, believing lies. You just have to make up your mind who and what you are going to listen to. Hopefully it is the voice of truth.

What is truth? The Bible is truth. In it you learn how to live. Through its' pages you learn to love and to forgive. You can use it for all decisions of life. You learn what is sin. If you don't regularly have a quiet time I urge you to do the most important thing and schedule one daily. The enemy will distract you with all sorts of things and help you make excuses as well. What is more important, Facebook or His book? Not intending to guilt you but make you think. Which one has eternal value?

Today get started and start the day with truth so you will recognize lies and evil and be able to counteract them with God's word.

PRAYER: Thank you Father for your word. Many nations are not able to freely read the word without fear of death or persecution. Help me not just let my Bible be a dust catcher. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a song of praise to speak to your heart:
https://youtu.be/KwsvqVmFV6Y

Fervent Prayer....Are You Doing It?


So Peter was kept in the prison, but prayer for him was being made fervently by the church to God. Acts 12:4

What does it mean to fervently pray? I would say it is to be steadfast, serious, focused, and intentional. Not just thinking to yourself, "I have to pray so let's get on with it" but to set time aside for the purpose on interceding in a serious manner. Get on your knees or better yet, your face, before the Almighty God. 

You may need to set aside a couple hours or even a day for serious prayer.  I was introduced to the concept of a DAWG Day or 'Day Alone With God' through the ministry of Moms in Prayer International(formerly Moms in Touch) and try to do this every few months. It has to be scheduled just as you would schedule a lunch with a friend. 

Are you serious about seeing breakthrough in someone's life you have been praying for? If so you need to keep on praying, don't stop, and believe for a turn around. Through the prayer discipline God is working on you as well as working on the person you are 'lifting' up to Him. So how about it? Want to be fervent?

PRAYER: As I rush through my day forgive me for not being intentional about prayer or thinking it is someone else's job to pray. I know I can even talk to you in prayer anytime so prompt me to get started and get serious. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Melting Pot

They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved. 2 Peter 2:19

I am blessed to have friends from the following countries who immigrated here legally. Hungary, Germany, India, Vietnam, South Korea, France, Mexico, China, England, Africa, Spain and through the ministry of Moms in Prayer International and attending their events have met many from so many other nations as well to include Israel, Moldova, Egypt, Uganda. 

America is indeed the land of the free and home of the brave. So many want to come here and come the right way and for the right purposes. We have been known for religious freedom, freedom of speech, the land of opportunity where everyone has a chance. A few times tyranny has reared it's ugly head but 'We The People' stood firm and did what was necessary to stay free. 

God has blessed this nation because we have honored Him and His word. If we start getting high and mighty and go against His word that blessing may not continue. When we say "God bless America" we have to remember to be keeping his word and doing things that please Him. Stay in the word because the truth will set you free. 

PRAYER: I love you Lord and am thankful to have been born in the United States of America. Thank you for the freedom we enjoy. Help each of us be vigilant to recognize evil and corruption and not become slaves to them. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, July 10, 2017

Look Up


"At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Luke 21:27-28

When I was in the Army there was a Jody call we sang while marching or running that said something like "What's The Use Of Looking Down, Ain't No Discharge On The Ground. Sound Off, One two and so on." Indeed you miss stuff when constantly looking down. 

Today  much time is wasted looking down at the 'tiny screen'. Parents I challenge you to take phones away while on trips and engage the family in road games. When walking don't look down at your phone but look at nature. If you drive and look down a bad accident may occur.

So many may think this short life is all there is and just live for now and self. God's plan is much greater and expansive. Get in the habit of looking forward to the coming of the Lord. If you are scared maybe your relationship with God needs some work. Where are you at today? Are you prepared for the coming of the Lord? Keep looking up!

PRAYER: Father I pray for people who just live for now and think nothing of Heaven. I pray that you will use me to help share with others just how they don't need to fear death. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, July 8, 2017

Be Sure Your Sin Will Find You Out


"But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out." Numbers 32:23

Ever since the original sin in the Garden of Eden mankind has been sinning and trying to make excuses, cover it up,  or hide it. On the nightly news a pretty regular feature are video clips from a hidden camera at the local big box stores catching a criminal leaving after misuse of a credit card that was not theirs or outright shoplifting. Then there are the mug shots of most wanted. It could be a hit and run accident. Somehow people feel they will escape. You can run but you can't hide.

Maybe you have been in a situation where you fled or wanted to flee. Human nature wants to escape. The little voice inside of us may say, "don't do that" but you still do. Then guilt ensues, fear, worry, and other emotions. When you do wrong you eventually have to face it. It is better to not do wrong in the first place. It could be as innocent as a teenager sneaking around behind their parents' back or lying to cover up things. Lying too is a sin. 

Stand firm and stay in the word. Know that your mistakes can be redeemed and some will have greater consequences such as jail time. Know what is right and run from wrong. Know that your enemy puts many temptations and obstacles in your path and perpetuates many lies to get you to go his way and not God's way. 

PRAYER: Lord forgive me when I have allowed the enemy to make me get off your path. Help me recognize evil and wrong and stay far from it. Help me admit when I am wrong. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Friday, July 7, 2017

Notes In The Bible



"A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” Proverbs 13:22(NKJV)

I have a good friend in Arizona whose mom recently went to Heaven and she was going through her Bible and found all sorts of treasures and little notes that made her heart very glad. At a time she was mourning these 'treasures' brought her great joy. 

If you were to die today is there any sort of spiritual legacy left behind in your Bible or Bibles? Your Bible is meant to be used not just as a coffee table ornament or dust catcher. It is packed full of wisdom to get your through life. There is more to life than just waking up, going to work, hanging with friends and having fun on weekends. Is Jesus part of your life and how big a part? Ponder that for a moment. 

Only the Holy Spirit can draw you. I remember when the 'lights came on' for me back on 19 March 1975 and I became born again. At that point in time I thirsted for God's word. Things happened along the way but thankfully I am on track now. If you don't have a thirst for Jesus why not? If you were to die today would a spiritual legacy be left for your family and children to make them smile? 


PRAYER: How I love you Lord and my heart aches for those who have no relationship with you other than saying they are a Christian. I pray for those I know and am close to to fall in love with you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, July 6, 2017

Blowing Stuff Off


Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32

There are many things in life that can get your 'feathers ruffled' so to speak. Many of them aren't worth getting angry over. One example is in this day of people looking for electric outlets such as in airports and coffee shops, occasionally you run into a 'plug hog'. If you do you could kindly ask "may I use one of those since you have two" or let it go. This is one example of a minor irritation.
You have to choose your battles and many things that happen are very small in the big scheme of things. For instance, on the day I noticed my car got keyed I was surprisingly not that upset. I felt sorry for the person who stooped to such a low level to vandalize my vehicle.
Staying  peaceful when your human nature would rather you explode and cause a scene, not only is it better for your over all well being, but for your walk with the Lord. When you name the name of Jesus people are watching you. Got a Christian sticker on the car? Slow down. Wearing a Christian tee shirt? Smile and be polite. Going to court to sue? Reconsider.  You get the picture. So now go out today with joy and peace and love life!

PRAYER: Most gracious Lord thank you that through you I can have true peace. Help me let go of minor irritations and seek things that are 'above'. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Babble On

He must become greater; I must become less." John 3:30

I am sure many of you have heard of the Tower of Babel in the Old Testament(See Genesis 11) about when mankind got too high and mighty and thought they did not need God. He therefore confused their languages so they could not try to become greater than God. I was thinking of that recently as I said something to a family at a table next to me at a local establishment and was looked at with perplexed stares. I realized they spoke Chinese or a similar dialect. I just smiled. We are a world of different languages now mostly English being the universal one. 

God is pretty clear that we are not to exalt ourselves over Him. Many instances in scripture speak of that fact. My verse for today is simple in that it says God must be greater. That is a tall order in the selfie obsessed society we live in. Dying to self is a foreign concept to many. It's all about me, me, me!

When you 'babble on' in your day to day comings and goings do you ever even think of talking about the wonderful works of the Lord or stop to ponder His greatness. Many are caught up in babbling about their activities, their achievements, their jobs, and a host of other things not that that is bad but the point being is God gave you a voice. Do you ever stop and praise Him with it? 

PRAYER: Lord I say I love you and say you are first but then do I follow through with my actions? Forgive me for being a Christian in name only. Help me use the voice you gave me to lift your name on high! In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click on link below for a song of praise and thanksgiving:


Sent from my iPad

Tuesday, July 4, 2017

Freedom


Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17
I absolutely love the 4th of July and things I have done on this special holiday with family and friends are seared in my memory. What a glorious time to think about what freedom is and what it means to you. As a military veteran this holiday is all about the feeling I get when I see The American flag.
Freedom is a gift from God. God never intended us to live in tyranny being dominated by our fellow man but to enjoy the free gifts and wonderful democracy He has blessed us with. There are readers from other nations some of which are free and some of which are ruled under a strong fist. My heart goes out to those who are dominated by evil rulers. If we in the US are not vigilant it could happen to us and it just about did under what is known as soft tyranny. 
Satan prowls around like a roaring lion and Satan does not like freedom. He does not like it when we love God. He does not like it when we resist him full of faith. We are not ignorant of his devices. Look at North Korea and the evil domination they are under. Brother and sisters in the US stand firm to defend your liberty and the freedoms we have from God. 
PRAYER: I am so thankful for freedom and for being a citizen of these United States. I am thankful this country was founded to uphold Biblical principles even though there have been many who have tried to remove you from our country. I pray for those whose hearts are filled with evil and hate, trying to destroy liberty. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday, July 3, 2017

Is Your Mind Set? What On?


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

Today I want you to think about what you think about. You may have goals you want to accomplish or stuff you need to be disciplined to do in your daily life. Part of that could be exercise to keep the temple of God, aka your body, in shape. Maybe it is a daily time alone with God. Too much gets in the way and usually Bible reading and prayer take a back seat. Perhaps a task around your home you need to finish. Whatever it is it is necessary in order to gain success to 'set your mind' kind of like how Jello is watery until it 'sets up' under refrigeration. 

An undisciplined mind is on the road for trouble. You have to stay focused. You intentionally have to not let wrong thoughts into your head. It may mean turning off TV. Putting down certain reading material. Choosing different friends. Whatever you need to do the goal is to set your mind on things above or on Christ. Kind of hard to do if your Bible is either gathering dust or worse yet, you don't own one or can't find the one you do own. There are many good Bibles and versions out there. I personally like the Life Application Bible in NEw International Version.

Maybe it is time to take a serious look at your schedule and decide you will intentionally focus your mind on good and positive things and get back to loving the Lord or start loving Him if you never really did. 

PRAYER: I love you Lord. I don't like to get wrong junk in my head and I know I need to be on constantly aware of the things I think on. I choose to start feeding my mind daily with scripture and not allow the enemy to keep me from it. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, July 2, 2017

Cold Shoulder




Cold Shoulder 

But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Luke 6:27-28
I get the titles for my devotions from the oddest, most unlikely sources and this one is not an exception. On a recent visit for physical therapy on my left shoulder I got to experience the ice machine for the first time. I think it is called 'In The Game' or something like that. It was marvelous. It is the only 'cold shoulder' you should ever want. 
Generally speaking you have no right as a believer to give the proverbial 'cold shoulder' to anyone, that's right, anyone. You don't have to agree with everyone but you should still love them and pray for them and pray for open doors to minister. 

Many people may rub you the wrong way or be ugly or hateful but ask The Holy Spirit to help you love them. Maybe they are having a hard time with you as well. Let your smile and love radiate throughout your world to Muslims and other Godless religions, shave heads, tattoo queens, body pierced people, prisoners, homosexuals, the homeless person on a park bench, the pregnant unmarried teen,  or the foreigner. Don't get all high and mighty. Find ways to reach out if you can either emotionally, physically, or financially. But don't forget to tell them who you work for! JESUS!

PRAYER: Oh Lord I have been at fault at looking at others and judging them. That is totally wrong and goes against everything you stand for. Help me show unconditional love to others. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a song to go along with this devotion:

Saturday, July 1, 2017

The Whole World In His Hands


“Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you." Jeremiah 32:17

As a child I grew up singing 'He's Got The Whole World In His Hands' but often as hardened adults we forget that tune and medley and forget what it means. I was in DC the day of the baseball field shooting on 14 June 17 and on the way home from the airport that evening was praying on the phone with the Capitol Hill Prayer Partners 24/7 free conference  call line.
Not sure who on the line mentioned this but indeed God does have the whole world in His hands from the little bitty baby to the housewife and her family and everyone in between. That day the prayer was God had these shooting victims in His hand as well. 

It made me think about prayers for those I frequently lift up in prayer mainly in my family and I visualized God's big powerful hand holding each of them and  not letting them fall. Even though people may not acknowledge Him, or be angry at Him,  or falling into purposeful sin, have hatred for politicians, are angry all the time, God still loves them and has not dropped them, so you don't either!

Keep praying my friend!

PRAYER: I know Lord you have my back so to speak and I know you have the backs of those I pray for. This doesn't mean everything happens like I want it to or on my timetable but you make a way. In Jesus' name. Amen.

NOTE: I urge you to call the free conference call line any time day or night to lift up this country, its' states, and its' leaders in prayer. The line has a moderator who guides the prayer at top of each hour. Sometimes there is singing or the blowing of the Shofar. It is so uplifting. The number is 712-770-4340. Once connected after the prompt enter 543555# and then mute your phone by pressing *6. That is all there is to it. I hope you will at least try it once. It is great to put on speaker phone while you are driving. To God Be The Glory!