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.

Wednesday, January 31, 2018

Get Rich Quick.....Really?


Then said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions." Luke 12:15

“You don’t happen to have $5000 do you angel?” were words uttered by actor Jimmy Stewart’s character George Bailey in the movie “It’s A Wonderful Life” when he attempted to commit suicide over needing money. Somehow money is the ultimate prize. People want more and more and seem never satisfied and society says you have ‘arrived’ when you obtain a 6 figure salary.

Desperate people do all sorts of things. Rob, steal, commit suicide, gamble, anything to gain more money. Your life does not consist in how much you obtain but in what you do with what God has blessed you with. Be content and help others if you have means to do so.

Today stop and say thanks. Don’t covet others things because you have no idea what their life is like. To get wealthy too many have shattered families on the way or have gotten away from God.  Be happy and be sure to share.

PRAYER: Thanks for my many blessings you  provide for me Lord. Help me never be jealous of others but to say thanks for what I have. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, January 30, 2018

Lottery Fever


Cast
 but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle. Proverbs 23:25

Get rich quick. Sounds like a great plan right? I live in a state where the Lottery is legal and in the recent mega millions jackpot, lines were long at gas stations hoping for that winning ticket. The one number that would put a person on Easy Street, right? Wrong. 

The lottery is gambling. I have heard of stories of people spending hundreds to try to relieve their financial woes. First,  man is supposed to work for his or her wages. Often times coveting what others have or feeling money will solve every problem gets people to play weekly. To some it is an innocent pastime. If you are hooked on this habit ask yourself why and would it really solve everything. 

“Where your treasure is there will your heart be also” it says in Matthew 6:21. Where is your treasure? Who do you trust for your source of happiness and joy? Today’s verse indicates riches can fly away, often times causing more trouble in life. If you are addicted to this habit ask God to help you trust Him for what you need and don’t stop for a lottery ticket ever again. Give it a try. 

PRAYER: Lord I can confess it can be tempting to want to wins millions but then I say why. You Lord are my source. It is through you I live and have the ability to earn wages or be a helpmate at home for the wage earner. Thank you for blessing me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, January 29, 2018

Well Done!


Many will say to me on that day, 'LORD, LORD, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' Matthew 7:22-23

Believers are not supposed to be doing a ministry of works to get saved but should want to do good. If Jesus were standing in front of you now do you think he would be happy with how you are sharing his love or think things need a bit of tweaking? Is your heart sold out for Him or are you simply going through the motions and punching in each week with no real devotion more out of habit?

Each of us has no clue when we will breathe our last breath here on Earth that is why you should know without a doubt you are entering Heaven. Seek Him first in your day. Ask Him into your heart if you have not done so. And don’t simply do works to earn brownie points because God doesn’t operate on brownie point system. Your denomination doesn’t save you. You being born into a ‘religious’ family won’t save you. Baptism alone won’t save you.
Knowing Jesus and believing in Him and calling upon his name will.

Will God say “well done” when you take your last breath? Something to think about.

PRAYER: Lord I want to serve you and do the best I can. Use me in your kingdom and help me have open doors and recognize them. Forgive me when I allow this world and its’ distractions to squeeze you out. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, January 28, 2018

Don’t Get Too Comfortable Down Here


For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come. Hebrews 13:14
There is an old gospel song that says something like “This world is not my home I’m just a passing through, my treasure is all laid up somewhere beyond the blue.” Think about that for a moment. Do you treat Earth like this is your final destination? Did you know if you name the of Christ you are simply a traveler passing through it while here serving in the very important capacity of a ‘ambassador’. 
There is far more greater and better things awaiting those who have given their life to Christ. You think Niagara Falls and The Grand Canyon are something! You have not seen anything yet. Scripture tells us we can not even begin to imagine what it will be like. (1 Corinthians 2:9) 
So enjoy life down here and the days the Lord blesses you with but don’t get too attached that you dread leaving. The thing is make sure you know beyond a shadow of a doubt where your eternal destination will be. Live for Jesus and give him your heart today. 
PRAYER: Father I thank you for creating this beautiful planet we call home. Everything is gorgeous but I await my final home in Your Heavenly kingdom someday. Help me to lead others there. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, January 27, 2018

Don’t Stay In Vegas!! Run.


But if you will not do so, behold, you have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out. Numbers 32:23

There is a familiar saying “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” but alas my friend that is sorely an untruth. Guilt, shame, and a host of problems follow those who sneak around and commit sin knowingly.

As today’s verse indicates there is not a way of hiding from your sin. Sooner or later it will catch up to you. If you feel yourself slipping towards doing something you know you will regret later, change your environment and run as hard and fast away from the temptation. Many sins have consequences for years and some far beyond just the mental challenges.

So it is your choice. Stay away from places or people  you know will cause you to stumble. And stumble you will and take many down with you in the process. Don’t do it. Run.

PRAYER: I am indeed thankful for that little voice inside my head called out conscience which is the Holy Spirit speaking to me. I choose to listen to it and I choose to not put myself in places where I know my spirit will be compromised whether it is Vegas, a bad movie, wrong TV habits, and a host of other things. I choose purity and honesty. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, January 26, 2018

Are You A Lover?



If  I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.1 Corinthians 13:1
So are you a lover or a hater? By this I mean when you love do you love unconditionally? Read today’s verse over. How does it speak to you? The word love means just that, love, no conditions. Not if someone loves you back or acts a certain way. Sometimes this type of love is difficult but if Jesus did it then so should you be able to. 

Is there someone in your life you find difficult to love? Why? Do you need heart surgery or in other words a transformed renewed heart in order to love like Jesus’ loved. Yes there are difficult people in this world. There are those you may not agree with but ask God to give you the supernatural ability to love people regardless of their beliefs or love back to you. Yes it is a tall order but can be done. 

Today let go of nay resentment you may be harboring and truly ask God to help you love like he loves. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus there have been people in my life who hurt me but it is not my job to hurt them or be ugly but to love. Also there are those who I may think deserve certain things but I know that is not a loving attitude. Forgive me and set me free from feeling this way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, January 25, 2018

What A Day!



Therefore  do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34

The title above can be a good or bad statement in that you might utter “What a day” meaning you are certainly glad it is over because nothing seemingly went right or utter “What a day” that it was a simply marvelous day and could be no better. Where are you at today?

Each day has new things that happen. It is how you face things and what attitude you have that matters.  If you know God is there with you and is able to see you through everything then you should be able to rejoice in each and every day.

One thing to remember to do every day is to spend time with the Lord. This does not have to be in your  living room at home but can be in your local coffee shop as I have witnessed many times or sitting on a park bench. The thing is that reading the Bible helps keep things in perspective and helps you look at life through a different lens. Are you able to do this? Start reading the book of John and go from there. Then after a while see if you don’t wake up and say “This is going to be a terrific day” and mean it! 

PRAYER: Thank you for each new day and what it holds in store. I choose to have a positive attitude no matter what. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Wednesday, January 24, 2018

Move To The Next Level


I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. 1 Corinthians 3:2

Mostly everything in life requires you to advance ‘next level’. Video game play, sports training, education, parenthood. You name it and it is necessary to move to next level in order to achieve your goals.  A baby can’t crawl forever. Eventually they proceed to pull themselves up and walk. A figure skater advances through stages in order to achieve some of the fancier and more difficult jumps. In school a student studies to advance their education as no one stays in kindergarten. 

Your Christian walk is a training ground  of sorts too. It is great to memorize John 3:16 as a child and sing Jesus’ Loves Me but you need to go beyond that to be a mature believer. Many are quite content staying a babe in Christ. Not sure why. There is more to being a Christian than Sunday school attendance pins and church attendance. It is a matter of your heart. Your heart directs the course of your life.

Whatever you love you make time for. Whoever you love you make time for. It is my hope one of the things you make time for is Jesus.

PRAYER: I don’t want to stay a little tiny baby in Christ but I want and need solid food to help me grow and learn more about resisting the enemy. In 2018 I want to grow up more and thus eat ‘solid food’. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, January 23, 2018

Fast And Pray



"Even now," declares the LORD, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning." Joel 2:12
This time of year many churches emphasize fasting and praying. Fasting can be from food, sweets, coffee, sugar, social media, or television to name a few. Fasting is something that when you do it it is not to be announced to everyone. (See Matthew 6:16). 

Fasting is done to get closer to God or perhaps for a certain reason or against a stronghold. (See Matthew 17:20-21). You can fast on behalf of another's problem too. Alcoholism, addictions,  breaking a stronghold, pornography, wrong thinking, healing, for National healing and revival.(See 2 Chronicles 7:14). You may be able to come up with many more to add to the list. 

Have you considered a fast? It's a way to get serious about what you are praying for. It shows total devotion to God. But don't announce it just do it. Pray and see if this is what God wants you to do. 

PRAYER: I know fasting is a way to get serious before you Lord and it is not reserved for a certain time of year. Give me direction and humility as I decide on this discipline. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Monday, January 22, 2018

Take Captive


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. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

What you think about is extremely important. You may have heard the old saying "an idle mind is the devils' workshop" and to some extent that is true. If you sit around daydreaming with no real purpose you can get yourself into trouble. The verse for today talks about 'taking captive' every thought or in other words let your thought life reflect Christ in you. 

In saying this you also need to be proactive in not having a wandering mind and thinking and imagining things that are not true. Take your thoughts captive is just what it means. Capture them and don't allow wrong thinking. You probably have an idea what wrong thinking is. Tame your mind to focus on 'things above' and not get it caught up in others affairs.

Satan will infiltrate your thoughts in an instant that is why you need to keep God's word in your heart and mind and recognize wrong thinking. Tell Satan to leave you and your thinking alone. Capture those wrong thoughts and cast them away. Jealous thoughts, evil thoughts, lustful thoughts, covetous thoughts. You can do it and God can help. 

PRAYER: Oh Father you are my redeemer. I don't want my mind in the pit of darkness and wrong thinking. I choose to capture wrong thoughts and fill them with heavenly thinking. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Sunday, January 21, 2018

No Excuses....Just Do It!


Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.Proverbs 12:24

Is there something you are putting off doing you know you need to? Exercise, quiet time, breaking bad habits, calling your parents, stopping the gossip habit, getting a better job, getting away from wrong influences? Excuses are way too easy and convenient. You have to make up your mind to do something and do it. Period.

What do you need to get going on? A chore you have been dreading like cleaning the attic? Perhaps writing thank you notes for gifts? Getting outside for exercise daily? Calling a friend you haven't spoken to in a while? Forgiving someone? Scheduling time alone daily with God? Maybe not talking judgmentally of others?

Today make this the day of no more excuses. You know there are things tugging at your heart and now is the time to change direction and purpose to stop the excuses and make a plan. What do you say? Ready, set, go!

PRAYER: Lord I know I have made excuses when it comes to starting a project or getting healthy. Help me stop that now and get motivated to make positive changes. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Saturday, January 20, 2018

Strongholds


And  that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.2 Timothy 2:26

A stronghold is just what the word implies. Something that has a 'strong hold' on you to the point it is dragging you down and influencing you. Satan is a master of creating strongholds in  a believers life. Convincing you that wrong is right and right is wrong is a good example. 

Our world has developed a secular worldview where if you saturate yourself too much with liberal news media you will start to believe the lies. For instance, transgenderism, I am sorry, is not right. But yet society says it is okay and our last President even allowed tax payer dollars for a convicted felon in military prison to change his gender. Something just isn't right. Don't start getting sucked into the belief it is. 

There is right and wrong. Good and evil. It has been that way since the beginning of time. Saying something is wrong does not make you hateful although our present world tries to make the righteous truth believers haters. Strongholds have captivated many and maybe some close to you. Don't argue with them but lift them up to the One who can break strongholds and set the prisoners free. 

PRAYER: Oh Lord there are all sorts of strongholds people can get caught up in. Lord help me focus on you and your word so I am not tempted to believe the lies of Satan and get enticed. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Friday, January 19, 2018

Get Up, Get Out, Get Moving!


I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Pastor Paul Daugherty of Victory Christian Church Tulsa had these three action statements in a recent sermon. They make a lot of sense if you are stuck on something in your life. Maybe you need motivation for a task ahead of you. Don't just sit there vegetating but make yourself take action. God can help you.

Face life head on. Stand up. Pray. Get motivated and then hop to it! Don't get stuck in self pity or regrets of the past. Live for now. Don't sit around stewing over something. Seek God and keep seeking Him!

The past doesn't have to define you. There is hope for your future. You just have to believe and keep pressing on and know God is your strength.

PRAYER:Lord I thank you that through you I can charge ahead and have Victory in my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, January 18, 2018

DeClutter Your Life


Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27

Too much stuff can eventually drive a person bonkers. This could be too much paper junk mail. Too much electronic junk mail. Too many unworn clothes in your closet. Too many boxes in your attic or storage. Just clutter in general. When you get rid of it your mind can feel more peaceful.

Some personalities can tend to be all over the place or if not careful a person can just have plain too much activity in their life. If that occurs it is necessary to declutter your calendar as well. You can’t act like Superman or Superwoman forever for eventually your mind needs a rest.

Sitting and just being still is a great discipline. No TV, no mobile device, no reading material, no music playing. Just let your mind and heart rest. While you do this try to have a good scripture verse to meditate upon.

As you approach the end of the first month of 2018 make sure you learn the value of resting and being peaceful.
PRAYER: Oh the beauty of nature. The gentle wind or the sound of ocean waves. The chirping of a bird. You are there Lord in  all of it. Lord help me learn to declutter my life and be still. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Drop It!


The righteous shall move onward and forward; those with pure hearts shall become stronger and stronger. Job 17:9

I was recently watching Pastor Steven Furtick of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina talk about being offended. So many people today are offended. The main tool of the devil is to lie and divide.

His point during the short message was how it is so important to not dwell on misunderstandings, disappointments, unmet expectations, but instead to learn to drop things and move on. It is when you continually harbor things in your heart against a spouse or a friend that a huge wall of resentment goes up. Guess what, Satan is overjoyed because he is creating this division which if not dealt with an break up marriages and destroy friendships. 

Do not dwell on past hurts but learn to move ahead and seek reconciliation and to always be willing to forgive. Above all do not give the devil a foothold. Stop Him in his tracks but moving on. 

PRAYER: I know Lord it is necessary not  to harbor past resentments and hurts as they only are wall builders and dividers. I choose to love and move on,regardless. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Addicted To Devices



For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 1 John 2:16

I am getting to the point I want to scream when I watch people in malls and other places glued to their electronic devices mostly their phone. It looks like a  defibrillator where it has to be with them 24-7 or they will die. Zombie like creatures walking through malls looking down. I fear for the younger generation that communication skills will be lost as well as socialization.

I ask you in 2018 to take a look at your usage of this device and be honest with yourself. Usually the first part of the year is a time when many churches promote 21 Days Of Prayer and Fasting and what better time than to seriously look at the time you, your spouse, or your children are glued to this device. Maybe take a mobile device ‘fast’ or set a limit for the amount of time you clutch it like a best friend. Too much social media also is not a good thing. It is not real first of all and can create problems and in some cases could lead to divorce or suicide.

If you want a healthy addiction why not get addicted to Jesus. Make Him really first place in your life. I feel many say he is first simply because they go to church or are American. Let Him guide and control your life. He can help you break through any stronghold that is choking out time alone with Him. Let Him in today.

PRAYER: Father I thank you for the talented people who have invented many devices to communicate but help me not let them control my life and help me never put them before my family or friends. Give me self control. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, January 15, 2018

Three C’s



I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. Philippians 4:11

No this is not the name of a singing group or restaurant. The three C’s here refer to ‘complaining’, ‘comparison’  and ‘ contentment’ all  of which are key components concerning the enjoyment of your life. If you become trapped in the comparison mode in life you will never be happy. Complaining is never a good thing. Comparing your life to another’s was never God’s Plan. The other C,  Contentment, was. 

Stop trying to be someone you are not. Thank God daily for the blessings in your life and if you stop complaining you will find there are many. When you start to bemoan your ‘plight‘ in life just remember there is probably someone who would love what you have. If things aren’t ‘peachy’ just keep praying.

Get up each day in 2018 and write down one thing you are thankful for. Start a jar of thankfulness and fill it throughout 2018 then when you start to regress into a less than jolly state of mind get it out and read them. Indeed God is Good and his love for you is endless. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for where I am and who I am. Help me not to seep into self pity over my life as I know that only glorifies Satan. I love you Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, January 14, 2018

Little Seed Planter


I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 1 Corinthians 3:6
What are you doing to plant seeds for the kingdom of God? Basically that is what a believer is supposed to be doing. These seeds can be a simple kindness, good words, encouragement, smiling, helping, putting others first, volunteering at a pro life center or as a Bible study leader, sharing a Bible verse with your Facebook page friends. Also things like leaving a Christian book or magazine on a plane or doctor’s waiting room. Be creative. 
You don’t have any clue what seeds you have already planted which have taken root have taken root but you probably will in Heaven one day. Continue to give to the Lord’s work. Some seeds can even be in the form of a financial gift. When you do this don’t announce it from the rooftop but do it cause you want to not to impress others. 
In 2018 start to ask God what seeds he wants you to sow. Ask Him to open doors for you to be a ‘planter’ then get at it! 
PRAYER: Oh Lord I love planting seeds and it is a huge honor as well as responsibility to do it well and daily if possible. These seeds can even be with my own family. Help me get ideas on how to plant. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, January 13, 2018

Celebrate Football Or Jesus?


Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Revelation 2:4

Football season in the United States is just about over. Why is it people can be ‘fanatical’ about their team but not Jesus? First you can and should be a number one fan of Jesus before football or any other recreational activity or hobby. What do you spend most of your time talking about? Are you the least bit excited to know Jesus’ better or fall back in love with Him? Maybe you were there once but something drew you away. 

I realize this devotion may in fact be ‘preaching to the choir’ because those who care little about things of the spirit won’t even bother reading this. That makes me sad. It is the Holy Spirit’s job to bring conviction not a nagging friend, spouse, or parent. Take a look at your own devotion to Christ. Is there a fire in your belly? Do you schedule quiet time? Is church a priority? 

I challenge all readers in 2018 to really really put the Lord Jesus Christ first. First in your day. First in your thoughts. First in your passions. First in your marriage. First in your parenting or grand parenting. First on Sunday before running out to other things vying for your attention. Give Him your all and be a number one fan! 

PRAYER: Father I lift up those people who I know who don’t really love you like they used to or so it appears. I pray for all readers to give God first place in their daily life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, January 12, 2018

New Year, New You



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

The theme of newness and starting anew is prevalent the first month in January as you embark on yet another chance to get a fresh start or a do over in life. You know there are things you need to leave behind that drag you down and cause wrong thinking. You also probably know there are things you need to start incorporating into your daily life. 

One of the things that probably could use tweaking in many lives is spending time alone with God. The first part of the year is a great time to have a DAWG day which stands for ‘day alone with God’ and for those in warmer climates this may be easier than for people where it is 20 degrees or lower. This is a day or half day where you go somewhere other than your home where distractions abound, and take a notebook, a Bible, a pen, thermos of coffee and just spend time with Jesus. Put your mobile device away or turn it off so as not to distract.  Local parks are good but stay safe by all means. 

During this time where you get alone try singing praises to God. Write your thoughts about your day. Have sincere meaningful prayer time. Don’t allow other things to distract you. Make a list of things burdening you that need to be let go. The idea is to be alone with God not thinking about everything else. Why not try to schedule your DAWG day as soon as possible. 

PRAYER: Lord I love you and I want you to increase in my life. I don’t want to just give you lip service. I need time to ponder areas in my life that need adjustments made. Help me make this a priority. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, January 11, 2018

"Surely This Was The Son Of God"

When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, "Surely he was the Son of God!" Matthew 27:34
What does it take for people to believe in Jesus and then once believing to spend time with him? As the verse above indicates when Jesus was dying a horrible death on the cross once the  earthquakes and other events occurred, one of the guards uttered these words in my title.  Why does it take catastrophe to get unbelievers to believe? 

You may know friends or family who have a casual relationship with the Lord and by this I mean they say they believe and nothing more. That hurts my heart so much but only the Holy Spirit can bring change. Or others have completely turned away from Him and live to please their flesh. That too breaks my heart. So many are mad at God cause he did not heal a family member or friend.

The real enemy is Satan who has lied to our loved ones and made them complacent believers. They don’t need church. They don’t need to spend time alone with the Lord.
Don’t allow this to happen to you. Stay in the word. Get in a strong church where you can’t wait for Sunday to come. And continue to pray for the eyes of the spiritually blind to re open. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for being in a free country where I am allowed to worship you. I pray for those close to me who have lost that love that it may return in a big way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Parents: Saturday mornings tune in to Superbook on CTN a great show teaching Biblical truth to children (and to adults who watch it with them. Why waste brain cells on secular cartoons? )

https://www.bing.com/search?q=superbook+tv+show&form=APIPH1&PC=APPL

Wednesday, January 10, 2018

Clothe Yourselves



Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh. Romans 13:13-14

Each day you get up and get dressed unless you are a member of a nudist colony. Depending on the weather you select what garments to put on.

You may give a big amount of time to trying to look good for others. How much time do you give to looking good for God and his kingdom?

Have you dressed for Christ today? The verse today talks about not gratifying the flesh.  Are you headed out angry, hateful, jealous, conceited, self centered or is your life filled with the love of Christ? Will those you encounter today be able to see a difference in your ‘outfit’?

PRAYER: Lord I want to dress for you every day not in the physical sense although that is important but internally I want to shine for you wherever I go. I don’t want the burdens of the flesh hanging on and dragging me down. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Help Is On The Way!


Cast all your anxiety on Him for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
What are you going through today? Maybe nothing and if so praise be to God but I am here to tell you Help is on the way from your Heavenly Father. You cry out to God and He is merciful and full of compassion. But you don’t have to continually fret and keep crying out for the same thing cause He has it and wants you to rest. 
Do you believe God has your back? Even when you have waited years for a breakthrough do you think prayers have fallen on deaf ears? No way! God’s plans and ways are higher and greater than what we could imagine. 
How can you have God’s perfect peace if you can’t trust Him totally to handle your situation. Think about that. He is the Master Planner and has a perfect plan if only you could give Him the controls. 
PRAYER: I love it when I can give you the controls, or the wheel so to speak. The only way to true peace is letting you have it totally and then living life in peace. Help me as I seek to do that. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, January 8, 2018

Purge The Junk Folder



Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17

If you use email I am quite certain the infamous ‘junk folder’ looms over you daily like a black eye. Piles of paper is enough to drive you bonkers but now electronic junk mail! Made me think of the ‘junk folder’ in your spiritual life that may greatly need to be cleaned out. 

Wrong thinking. Bad habits. Putting other things before Jesus. Lack of forgiveness. Too much ‘electronics’ time over people time. Being still and waiting on God. Taking self off the throne. Letting go of the past. 

A new year is a great time to purpose in your heart that you will move ahead and make changes. At this time of year more people go to church and gym memberships increase. Weight loss programs advertise on TV. Change is in the air. It is a turning point of sorts to begin anew. Why not decide today what stuff in your junk folder of life you can purge and do it. 

PRAYER: No matter what comes my way good or bad in life you are there Lord. As I embark upon a new year give me new direction in making necessary changes to improve my spiritual walk. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, January 7, 2018

Resisting Pop Ups In 2018


Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2

You don’t have to suffer from ADHD to  be distracted by things in life these days. Anyone who uses a computer will attest to the fact that pop ups come to get you off track. For instance, you order something on line then off and on after that little pop ups happen to get you to buy more or look at another ad. If you succumb you waste valuable time and sometimes money.

Take an honest look at your own life. What ‘pop ups’ are getting you off course daily or weekly? Do you spend more time with a mobile device than your loved ones? Ouch. Do you allow television to be the center of your existence to the detriment of family conversation? Does something ‘pressing’ rob you of time alone with God daily?

This being the first month of the year is a great time to evaluate your life and really get at issues that are factors in robbing you of relationship time and time with our Saviour. 

PRAYER: Forgive me Lord. I have allowed the world to suck your life right out of me at times. Help me stay disciplined to keep on track with you in 2018 and beyond. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, January 6, 2018

Hoity-Toity About Sin



When the people kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." John 8:7

Have you ever caught yourself being snobbish or self righteous when it comes to sin? I am not ashamed to say I have. It is easy to start thinking you are better than others because you don’t do such and such or do this or that. That is a very wrong attitude to possess. Be honest with yourself and examine your heart to see if thoughts like that ever enter in. This could even transfer over to your thinking your church or denomination is the only way to Heaven. Ouch.

Today’s verse is from the familiar account of the woman caught in the act of adultery where onlookers were prepared to stone her to death. Jesus utters these word in the verse above, “let he who is without sin cast the first stone” and obviously none of us without sin. If you say you are then you just told a lie. Another ouch.

Pray and ask God to help you not be a spiritual snob. It is easy to slip into that mode if you don’t watch out and believe me Satan is jumping in his little red boots when you get like that as you are easily lead to think more highly of yourself than others. Watch out and keep yourself from thinking you are better than others. Pray for those you don’t agree with or have problems with and learn to let things go.

PRAYER: I do not want to be a spiritual snob thinking I am without fault and have all the answers. It is only with your help Lord that I live and move and exist. I thank you for using me in the lives of those I come in contact with. Help me not blow it by being a snob.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, January 5, 2018

Mr./Mrs. Cellophane


God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21
Do you ever feel invisible, left out, an after thought? Many times feelings like that are conjured up by wrong thinking but at times if you experience them they feel very real. Could result from an attack of self pity. Regardless of the cause you need to deal with them before they destroy you.

If you have ever felt unimportant it is the enemy making you feel that way. God created you and you are important and made for a purpose. Each person is unique in God's eyes. Things in your past might factor in but you can not keep using that for an excuse.

Next time you slump into feeling that what you do or say does not matter stop right then and there recognizing this as an attack from Satan who tries to destroy your self esteem. Press on and keep your head lifted high for all God has for you. You are somebody!


PRAYER: I know the enemy tries to get into my brain at times and destroy my self worth. I reject those attempts in Your name and will charge ahead for all you have for me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thursday, January 4, 2018

Manger Or Tree: Thoughts For 2018


This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in clothes and lying in a manger. Luke 2:12

One thought that struck me during this past Christmas was the often asked question "Did you get your tree yet?". Made me think that no one asks "Have you put up your manger scene yet". 

Since you have a whole year to work and plan next years' celebration of Jesus' birth maybe consider a table top manger scene or better yet a scene for your front yard. This would be a superb way to get energized for the true meaning of this very Holy season. One of my favorite ornaments is Santa with his hat off kneeling beside baby Jesus. To me that speaks volumes.

Let Christmas and the feeling of its' true meaning last all year. Instead of bemoaning the commercialism of the season try to do something to energize others to celebrate Jesus!

PRAYER: Lord I am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate your birth. Help me maintain that excitement all throughout this year! In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

The Party's Over


Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Ephesians 4:31

Each year after Christmas a variety of emotions can be experienced. After the joy of the merriment of this time of year emotions can sink to an all time low. Unmet expectations, unappreciated gifts, sadness of memories of loved ones missing their first Christmas since passing, huge credit card bills from buying too much, saying goodbye to Family who visited and a host of other things. 

Christmas is indeed for one reason and one reason only and that is to celebrate the birth of Jesus. When the world takes it in a different direction proper feelings can be lost. To stay joyful do these things:

Read your Bible each morning. 
Pray.
Say or do something nice to someone each day. 
Be kind. 
Donate money to a worthy charity. 
Write an actual letter to a friend or family member!
Find a dynamic church to attend if not presently attending. 
Go out to lunch with a friend. 
Treat a friend to something unexpected. 
Get organized. 
Give away stuff you don’t need. 
Make resolutions and keep them. 
Smile!

If you follow the plan above you shouldn’t be singing the blues after Christmas but should remember that this day we just celebrated was to restore hope that Jesus is the only reason for this season!

PRAYER: I thank you Lord that we have freedom to celebrate you. Help me not get in a slump because you are not about green and red and trees and lights but about joy. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Tuesday, January 2, 2018

Love Heals



If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:3

The season of the year where everyone is as most loving as they are ever going to be just ended. I am of course referring  to Christmas. For whatever reason this time of year brings out the best in most people. I would like to think it is because it is due to the celebration of the birth of Jesus’ not Santa Claus. 

Love indeed is a good feeling and something all of us should attempt to make present in our every day lives.  It is easy to love when all around you people are being nice and kind but what about when times are less than jolly? What about when people close to you treat you mean or you encounter ugliness in everyday life. Then can you love? 

As a new year is kicked off now is the time to decide you will love REGARDLESS of the situation and seek for healing of broken relationships in your life. A tall order for some but how do you expect God to bless you if you can't show love to those around you? 

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for a chance each day to be nice to someone. Help me to treat those with kindness who do not show love to me and forgive even when a person has not asked to be forgiven. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 


Monday, January 1, 2018

Stay On The Tracks


          Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

Late in 2017 a brand new Amtrak train on  it’s maiden run derailed over an interstate highway overpass in Washington state causing death and destruction. I am uncertain how the accident was caused but in life we can ‘jump the tracks’ if we don’t follow God’s plan for us. When you choose to do your own thing disregarding what you know to be truth, look out. 

Just as today’s verse points out, leaning to your own understanding is never a good thing. When you allow your mind to try to figure things out instead of going to the throne room of God so to speak then you will not experience peace. Letting God really be the ‘conductor’ of your train is the best solution.

Satan is the great deceiver and he is beyond the confusion and turmoil you feel when you don’t go to God then let Him carry your burdens. When you try to take the controls the result can not be good. Today Choose to keep your mind focused on ‘things above’. Happy 2018! 

PRAYER: Oh Lord how I love you. I know you hear me when I pray and sometimes I don’t pray enough. I trust you to work in the lives of those I have prayed for. I thank you that I don’t have to carry my own burdens. In Jesus’ name. Amen.