Welcome to God's Lemonade Stand

It is my hope that by reading this daily you will grow in your walk with Christ and knowledge of scriptures and be set free from any struggles in your life that are weighing you down. Be blessed to be a blessing.

Saturday, March 31, 2018

Hearing God’s Voice

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18
To many the Bible may seem like a foreign language. There may be no real desire in reading it nor do some people see a need to read it. When I say this I am not talking always about atheists but some even who are ‘church goers’. 
Just going to church doesn’t make you born again and a Christian. In fact many who claim to know Jesus don’t have a heart knowledge of him or a real passion for him. It is at this point I say that consider maybe you have not really developed a personal relationship with Him. You can have that if you truly desire it. 

Once you ask Jesus to be Lord of your life and really start to seek Him,  scripture will indeed be important and start to come alive to you. Don’t judge others but pray for them. Be a light in the world around you for those who may not know Jesus. Be prepared to tell others about Him. 

PRAYER: Oh Lord Jesus I remember when I was blind to the real word of God and what it held for me then one day I came alive and wanted more. I pray that for those I know who may be spiritually dead that their hearts will desire more. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for a song of worship to go along with this devotion. 

Friday, March 30, 2018

What Is Good About Good Friday?

Now it was about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. Then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’” Having said this, He breathed His last. Luke 23:44-46
Have you ever wondered how the day Jesus was brutally executed came to be known as ‘Good Friday’? I have pondered this myself and really don’t have an answer except that maybe it was good in that He knew what was in store three days later. 

The whole idea of Jesus knowing and preparing to be hung on a cross as an innocent man is just mind boggling. Those who hated Him truly hated Him just as today there are many skeptics and God haters running amuck on planet Earth. Guess what? Jesus loves each one of them and cares for them. How is that possible? It is supernatural and you can be the same way and able to love if you allow the Holy Spirit to transform you.

So as you prepare to think about this day and what occurred over 2018 years ago think about the immense love your savior has for you. Don’t be sad. Be happy that He arose three days later and is wanting a personal relationship with you. Give him your concerns. Cry out to Him. If you ever have a bad day think about this day as his ultimate bad day then stop whining. 

PRAYER: Lord your love for mankind is immense and unfathomable. Help me do my part to help to shine your love on those around me who are hurting. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Thursday, March 29, 2018

How Is Your Root System?

Pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the LORD's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ. Ephesians 3:16-18

In order to have good crops and plants there needs to be a sturdy healthy root system. If any diseases get into the soil and are not dealt with the crops could succumb. Also water is vital and nutrients to help the roots get established and strong.

Your life in Christ is like a root system as well. Your roots should go down deep into spiritual soil so you can withstand the attacks and storms of life that are certain to come your way. The more you immerse yourself daily in the truths in the word of God the less you are apt to fall prey to the devil’s schemes to dig you out of God’s soil and out you on a compost heap of sorts.

How are your roots today? Are you able to weather storms such as death, sickness, abandonment, rejection, or do you cave in and get mad blaming God?

PRAYER: I choose to stay focused and positive and not allow this world and its’ pollution and lies to kill off my spiritual root system. I choose to daily stay connected to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Flourishing Or Wilting?

The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, Psalm 92:12-14

I am not a very good gardener and some close to me can attest to that. I need plants that need minimal care in order to survive. If I was like that in my spiritual life I would wilt and die spiritually speaking. Thankfully I have my ‘fertilizer’ to apply daily to keep growing in Christ. 

The fertilizer I am speaking of is the Bible, God’s word. It is not to be applied sparingly but you are to give yourself a good dose daily in order to combat the world’s weeds that try to choke out its’ truth. The enemy rules the carnal nature and tries to trip us up on a regular basis. Lies and evil are commonly accepted nowadays because of how Satan has deceived many. Don’t fall prey and become a wilted plant in God’s garden. 

Today get into the book of Psalms. Try reading it out loud. Ask God to reveal His truths to you. Say out loud, “Satan get behind me you have no place in my life or any of my families life!” Get rid of detractors in your life that will attempt to get you back into the devils patch of noxious weeds. Keep applying ‘God’s plant food’ daily that being the word of God!

PRAYER: I love your word and there are times I just get off course and forget my priorities that being daily time with you reading and praying and soaking in your truth. I choose this day to make you a priority. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, March 27, 2018

You’re Not Worried?

Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. Psalm 55:22

In the Hollywood movie Bridge of Spies the Russian Spy who was going to be released in a prisoner exchange for an American Pilot held captive was asked when he was about to be released “Are you worried?”to which his response was “would it help?” Indeed that is a very wise answer. The answer of course is NO it does not help, never has and never will. 

I got a chuckle from that reply because you and I both know that worrying is good for nothing except ulcers, high blood pressure,insomnia, and wrong thinking. Why is it so hard to pray then let God be in charge? You have to focus on things to bring peace not fear. Even if a bad thing happens that is not the end of the story. Life goes on. 

Try to not strike out on your own to figure things out. I have done that and truly it will make you sick. Guess who wins then? Satan. Tell Satan he is not going to cause you fear because you trust in God. 

PRAYER: Oh to stop worrying how glorious indeed that would be. Pass one test and another pops up. I choose to break this stronghold of worry and not let the enemy have control of me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, March 26, 2018

Leave It At The Cross


"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." - Matthew 11:28
Lay it down and leave it! I am referring to problems causing fretting in your life. Maybe past failures.  Stop worrying. Believe. Trust God. Preaching to myself here as well.
One of the neatest things I have experienced was being able to go forward to a wooden cross at a retreat and pin my concerns to the cross. The point is to abide in Jesus and leave them at the cross. Let Jesus have them. Don’t take them back. Too many of us do that.

Jesus died on the cross for the sins of the world. The cross symbolizes all He did for us. Can you give Him your problems and let them go? Ask God to empower you to break the worry and fear stronghold keeping you from leaving it all at the cross.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father it is so easy to fall back into old bad habits of fear, worry, and doubt. You care about me and those I am praying for more than I do. Help me remember that. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, March 25, 2018

Earthly Possessions

“Don’t collect for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal.” Matthew 6:19

What to grab when you need to evacuate be it from a fire, tornado, mudslide, or tsunami that is the question. With tornado’s and severe storms in our ‘tornado alley’ farm recently we were faced with that question. What about my stuff?

When life and death are in question you certainly don’t go after all your earthly possessions. So we got three metal lock boxes, checkbooks, address book, laptops, Bible, devotion book, a couple of pictures, wallet, purse and oh yes much to his dismay, our cat, and down into the concrete hole we went. What is truly important to you?  All the things you think you need to be happy can’t be taken with you if only you have seconds to decide. Ponder what is really important for a few moments. 

The answer never is material but what is important would be relationships and just life in general. Rust consumes, fires burn and leave ashes behind, and you can’t drag the contents of your home into Heaven. Think about what you value in life. Be thankful for what your blessings are and never take them for granted. 

PRAYER: I am so grateful for the blessings of good health, family, and life in general. I am thankful for freedom, for my Bible, and for friends. Help me be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, March 24, 2018

Being Offended

Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.Proverbs 19:11

Is it just me or do you find generally people are ultra sensitive to innocent comments these days? I know I have had to remove things from Facebook that offended people. Just have to be so careful. 

Today the world seems so touchy and angry and it is up to believers to sow seeds of peace, kindness, joy, love and to teach others how important it is to forgive. When a person is offended they give glory to Satan and the demons of darkness. Hate abounds so it is necessary to show the world an example of grace and love. 

Behind all this offense as I mentioned is our enemy Satan whose job is to divide, destroy, agitate, separate, confuse. Who are you going to glorify? 

PRAYER: Father God help me to break any stronghold of offense that may be in my life and let go of my ‘right’ to be angry. Help me further sow seeds of kindness wherever I go. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, March 23, 2018

What Are You Seeking After?


"If you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God." Colossians 3:1
Many people answering the above question would say fame, fortune, a promotion, a home in a gated community, a fancy car, and things like that. When speaking of ‘seeking’ in the Christian sense I refer to seeking after the Lord. Is Jesus part of the equation in your everyday life?

It saddens me so much to see how many people are wandering and looking for purpose in life or look at God as a cosmic being and think maybe those of us who seek Him are a little fanatical. Guilty as charged. Satan will make people think crazy stuff to keep them away from God.

Do you want to seek God or are the enticements of the world dragging you away? Maybe you say you believe in God but it ends there. Why? The further you drag yourself into other activities the easier it is to leave God on the shelf. Today pick up your Bible and start reading the Psalms. Try to start my making Sunday truly a day set aside to honor Him. Find a dynamic church preaching the word and then go from there.

PRAYER: Father I lift up people whose hearts are cold or far from you. I lift up others who maybe have not found a church home and need one. I ask you to keep me seeking you with my whole heart and never let me put other things before you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.



Thursday, March 22, 2018

Gentiles Eat Pork Chops

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us. Ephesians 3:20

Yesterday my title was a cute saying for the acronym ‘GEPC’ for a nifty way to remember the order of four books of the Bible containing oodles of direction for your life. The books are Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians. Today I highlighted a verse from Ephesians which I have used many times to help share hope. 

These four books written by the apostle Paul tell who the real Jesus is not a condemning mad one preached by many churches. Not an unapproachable one as many think. Not an ultra religious person or life that sounds boring to many. 

We all NEED Jesus not just at Easter and Christmas and we need him every single day. Satan has tricked and lied to many and is keeping people from living a full abundant life because of thinking they don’t like or need church. It is more than church my friend. Read these four short books and see for yourself. 

PRAYER: I hate Satan and how he has deceived people and drawn them away from Jesus who used to be their first love. I pray for blinders to be lifted off the eyes of many who once loved and had a passion for you and opened for the first time by many who never walked with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for powerful song of worship:

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

General Electric Power Company(GEPC)


I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Four of my favorite books in the entire Bible found in the New Testament are Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians(GEPC). If you want to get a ton of advice and wisdom and a few scriptures for your memory bank sit down and read them! You can do a book a day as they are short.

The verse highlighted today talks about being crucified with Christ or in other words to die to your self or your own desires. Put Christ first.

I challenge you to take a week and do a study on these four books. There are no begats, genealogy lineage, or stuff to confuse you. No theological degree required. Just simple truths on how to live life. Go for it! 

PRAYER: Thank you for your word, the Bible, which is how you communicate with people who believe in you. I will not allow the enemy to keep me from soaking in its’ truths. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, March 20, 2018

The Hand🤚


"I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. Galatians 2:20
Easter brings thoughts of warmer weather, bunnies, flowers, eggs but the real reason for this season is often forgotten and overlooked similar to Christmas. Well meaning parents hold Easter egg hunts, buy brand new outfits for church, and do the the secular Easter but where is Jesus? Easter is about an innocent man, 1 cross, and 3 nails and a horrible death by crucifixion. And of course coming back to life after three days dead in a sealed tomb. 
Recently when I injured my left hand I looked up the anatomy of the human hand online and was flabbergasted by just how intricate it is. God is truly amazing in His  human creation and all of creation. I think of the minor pain I endured compared to that of my savior Jesus Christ who literally was born to die so that we sinners might have life. Spikes were driven through his hands and feet as he hung there between two thieves just waiting to die.  People worry about dying today but imagine if you knew crucifixion was your fate.

As we approach Easter Sunday stop and think what this day means. Maybe hide eggs with a scripture verse or two sprinkled in. Teach the next generation about Jesus not about bunny rabbits. Remember He died so all of us, good or bad, could live.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for loving me even when I don’t deserve it and for forgiving my sins past, present, and future. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
 Click link for a powerful song of worship:https://youtu.be/ZvB-SfVRzOg

Monday, March 19, 2018

Reboot/Restart


See, I am doing a new thing, Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?I am making a way in the wilderness  and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:19
Often when your mobile device, tablet, or laptop mess up it is necessary to turn it off and back on again to somehow miraculously make things better. The terminology used in the tech world is to reboot. Sometimes in life you may need a reboot or restart of sorts as well.

The enemy, Satan, is a master of making you feel all hope is loss or you may as well give up. After all he is the great destroyer and likes nothing more than to mess with your mind. That is why it is necessary to fix your mind on “things above” as it says in Philippians 4:8. Everyone has messed up or failed at one time or another but you pick yourself back up, restart and get moving again! Keep thriving and keep striving. 

No matter where you are today please stay positive and hopeful. Get around people who lift you up not tear you down. Pray for those who have hurt you or said ugly things. And above all never lose hope for new tomorrows. God has great things in store!

PRAYER: There are times in life I have needed a reboot of sorts. It might be in an exceptionally sad time after a loss of some sort or I just can’t seem to get things going. You are there Lord and there is always hope for tomorrow.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NOTE: On this day back in 1975 I rededicated my life to Christ along with my sister at The Living Word Christian Center in Charleston, WVA.

Sunday, March 18, 2018

You Know Me!


I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me. Proverbs 8:17

Recently when I went to a favorite place to get coffee the girl at the counter said “Well I haven’t seen you in awhile” in a happy tone of voice. It made me feel sort of special to be missed and was good customer service on her part. I am still smiling. 

In the 1946 classic movie “It’s A Wonderful Life” the late Jimmy Stewart’s character George Bailey, when given his life back by God after enduring a time when he was not born, he was so excited that the first person he saw was a policeman named Bert and Stewart’s character said “Bert you know me!” He was excited to be back and have friends who knew and loved him so nothing else mattered even the threat of jail time. (See the movie if you have not).

God knows you. Do you know Him? Do you want to know Him? He is the best friend you will ever have. He loves you warts and all, no conditions. That is how love is supposed to be. The beauty of having friends and people who know you is wonderful. Imagine how if you acknowledge God daily that you love him and want to spend daily time with Him how He feels. He will proclaim “you know me”!

PRAYER: Oh Lord Jesus how I love you and long to spend time with you. Sometimes I mess up and just leave you waiting while everything else gets in the way. Forgive me Lord. I want to truly put you first and stop saying it. I pray for those close to me to likewise want to know you better. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Click link below for a song of worship to go along with this devotion.
https://youtu.be/2JEuql1zdzg

Saturday, March 17, 2018

Jesus Madness!





At night my soul longs for You, Indeed, my spirit within me seeks You diligently; For when the earth experiences Your judgments The inhabitants of the world learn righteousness. Isaiah 26:9

One of the definitions of the word mad is “very enthusiastic about someone or something” as in the month of March with NCAA Men’s Basketball. Great to be crazy over basketball but are you mad about Jesus with the same measure of enthusiasm?

When you are “mad” about something you are super excited and want nothing more than to do a certain activity or hang out with certain people you adore. The same should be true for loving Jesus yet even many well meaning believers don’t ‘get it’ and sermon after sermon about spending time do not register. The Holy Spirit has to bring conviction. Seemingly that one hour on Sunday is sufficient. How much time do you spend doing other things? 

Don’t know where or how to begin? Get a Bible and start in Psalms in the Old Testament. Next start on the book of John in New Testament. Before you know it you start a daily habit that makes you different inside and out. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I love you and am ashamed of myself when I start my day flipping on news or something else before giving you any time. I pray for those who struggle with this to be able to make you a TRUE priority. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, March 16, 2018

Check Yourself

But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. – Ephesians 5:3

Only you can be the honest one here in saying if you are toying with sexual immorality or even remotely feeding a desire for it. Let me give you some possible examples of where you could be dabbling in it without possibly being aware.

Movies with high sexual content such as the Fifty Shades series. Reading what some call trashy novels which in fact can put wrong thinking into your head. For my male readers out there you may not frequent ‘gentlemen’s clubs’ but how about the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition which comes out each February. Then there would be looking at someone of the opposite sex in a lustful manner and the Bible calls this committing adultery in your heart as it says in Matthew 5:28. Maybe guys getting stirred up over professional team cheerleaders who often dance like they are in a strip club. Television shows that end up taking the viewer into the bedroom. Also teens', the lyrics to songs could lead you into wrong thinking as well as teen girls dressing scantily causing teen boys and men  to lust. Guess that is enough examples.

Each of you has to mind your mind and keep it pure. If Christ lives in you, you should not want to also have lewd thoughts in there. You have probably heard the saying garbage in and garbage out referring to your mind. Discipline your thoughts to godliness by staying away from things that would make your mind end up in the gutter. 

PRAYER: I truly want to have a sexually pure mind and it seems the enemy wants to try to drag everyone down into a cesspool or degradation. Help me not judge others but work on keeping my mind pure. I pray for young moms to guide their children in the proper direction as well. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, March 15, 2018

Out Of Touch


The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6

How many of you encounter those who you know spend more time immersed in ungodly culture than in the Word of God? These could be well meaning misled people but for sure we as a believer are to have very little love and attachment to the things of this world yet how much time is spent getting close to Jesus as compared to talk shows, news, Facebook stalking, and the like. What you  spend time on is what kind of person you become and you can even be misled by the popular culture. It is easy to get caught up in a morning show, newspaper and other things but do you give equal time to scripture? Not trying to guilt you but to make you think.

Why is it so hard to make time for God? You hear the sermons on spending time with God and have good intentions but leave it at the church door until the following Sunday. What can be done to change this and truly make a schedule change allowing God to control it not the whim of the moment?Maybe you don’t even think you need to go to church. There are plenty of ‘religious’ churches out there that can bore the life out of you so find one that is alive and teaching God’s word. Get plugged in. Find somewhere you get excited about going to even if it means driving a few miles.

I suggest what works for me is to start reading Proverbs,Psalms, or the book of John. You can get lots of good stuff in these three books. The Bible is filled with tons of good things to help you manage your life and control your sin nature which is always there in the background. Now go on and dive into God’s word and stay in touch. 

PRAYER: Lord I love you and I love your word. I want those I know to love you is their whole being but sometimes other stuff gets in the way. Holy Spirit please convict people we all know of their need for you beyond just church membership. In Jesus’ name. Amen.




Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Welcome Home __________!

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

When a believer dies and passes from this temporary dwelling place on to  his or her Heavenly home there will be a a celebration in Heaven. In addition God will probably say “Welcome Home___________” and add your name.  In 2 Peter 3:9 it says “The LORD is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 

There are many people who probably think church membership is enough to get them into Heaven. Perhaps some denominations feel their way is the only way. You and I are called to repent of our sins and believe but with this should come a desire to spend time with the Lord. You do this by reading the Bible and praying. I also speculate there are those persons who feel that just being good and nice is their ticket to Heaven. 

Do you know that if you were to breathe your last breath today you would instantly be in Heaven? Think about that. No doubting but assurance. Heaven is not inherited but each person has to ask Jesus to come into their heart. Have you done so today?



PRAYER: Lord I thank you that I know this is only my temporary dwelling place and there awaits a glorious home in Heaven. Help me be able to share this with others and also I lift up those people who make fun of your word and your kingdom that they should come to repentance. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

F.A.T.


Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you. 1 Samuel 12:24
During the recent funeral of Billy Graham his brother Reverend Ned Graham used the acronym above for believers that we need to be faithful, available, and teachable. He did not expound on it so I will do so. 

First, faithful to be a follower of Christ. Next, available to go wherever God may send you to minister and serve. Finally, to be teachable and not think you have all the answers. Just tell yourself to be F.A.T. and see where and what God has for you. Don’t go hide like Jonah did  and get thrown overboard but be ready to answer the call. If God has a plan He finds you even if you try to hide.

Pray for courage to answer the call. Don’t equate busyness with being a great servant but rather a willing heart to do what He calls you to do. 



PRAYER: I realize answering your call does not mean packing up and moving around the world but then again it may. Help me not to be so busy that I can’t hear your voice. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, March 12, 2018

Straight Outta Romans

The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 1 Timothy 4:1

Our society today is in a downfall when culture is listened to and referred to more than God’s word, and sometimes by Christians. It is shameful what is being approved as normal and accepted in society. We who dare speak up are threatened with loss of our First Amendment right to free speech and called hateful. But this is in the Bible.

Take some time and read Romans chapter 1 in the New Testament. All sorts of vile things are going on there and being sanctioned and approved. The ability to distinguish between right and wrong and good and evil should not be a Democrat thing or a Republican thing but a God thing. Killing babies in the womb oh my goodness. How can anyone think this is okay? If you do, I beg you to search your heart today. The sacred bond of marriage is from the Bible not about marrying whoever you love. I have people close to me confused about this issue yet I love and press on. 

There are many who truly are lost and don’t know the Lord and others who Satan has deceived and made to believe lies. Only the Holy Spirit brings conviction. Keep praying my friend and keep being a light in the darkness. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for helping me not despair or lose hope when I see the way the culture has shifted. This is what happens when Satan’s lies are believed but it is so sad when he grabs hold of a family member or friend and pulls them in. I will keep praying and keep sharing the truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, March 11, 2018

Is Your Light Shining?


In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16

If you have a light and hide it under a blanket it is useless for illuminating the space around it. Christians are called to be a ‘light’ yet how many of us are afraid to really shine? 

The Bible tells us in Mark 8:38 to “be not ashamed” yet in a Holy huddle it may be easy to shine but as a Lone Ranger a bit intimidating. Of course Satan does not want you to shine and he will get you concerned over what will people think and stuff like that. You need to be prepared to be able to share the reason for Hope that is in you. Don’t lead two lives but be conformed to the image of Christ and shine all over the place. 

Are you prepared today to shine for Jesus even when you emotionally or mentally may not feel up to it? Wherever you are today whether in a chemo infusion room, court, car pool, scene of a rear end collision, check out stand with slow clerk, on the phone with a telemarketer, remember to let Jesus love shine out of you no matter what you may be going through. Others will notice. 

PRAYER: I want to shine for you Lord but have to admit sometimes it is hard. I allow Satan to put garbage in my mind and then start getting fearful or just don’t feel like it. Give me strength to break through my feelings. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, March 10, 2018

Jesus IS The Answer!


Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
With the recent passing of evangelist Billy Graham, all of America, and the world, was focused on God whether they wanted to be or not. Billy preached for over 6 decades with the simple message of people need Jesus and at the revivals worldwide offered the opportunity to ask Jesus into your heart. 

Many,  if not all the problems our world faces today could be solved if only Jesus were part of the equation. The hatred, angry Facebook posts, murder of children in the womb, breakdown of the traditional family, living in sin, school shootings, lying, adultery, and much more. You take away prayer and try to get rid of the Bible and look out! Why are so many people not getting it? Because they don’t have Jesus in their heart and think the world holds the key to the problems. 

Satan wants to see America destroyed because of what we were founded on. He has confused the minds of many lots of times through higher educational institutions who many times claim to know more than God or parents. Also Satan uses the news media to trick people into believing certain things. Revival is needed. God is working though His people and His heart breaks for the evil and lies being perpetuated in our great land sometimes even sanctioned to appear ‘right’ due to being made a law. Brother and sister be in fervent prayer for those you may know being led astray and pray for a heart change for those in government trying to resist the elected government and create chaos. Above all pray for revival and awakening in this great nation. 

PRAYER: I know the truth sets people free and it is so easy to get led astray by the enemy if the word of God is not opened, read, and studied. Help me Lord be alert to evil spirits trying to tear apart our great land and pray for those who seek to undermine our President to come to know the truth and truth set them free.  Help people break away from Republican or Democrat and seek the truth in God’s word only!  In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, March 9, 2018

Where Is Your Dwelling Place?


Whoever  dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1
Think about that question for a moment. Where, in fact, do you ‘dwell’? You may answer your home, or wherever you hang out most. But for the purpose of this writing my question to you is, “do you dwell in the shadow of the Almighty?”

What does it mean to dwell anyway? I would say are you in His presence daily and desire to be? Do you make it a habit to live for Jesus and cast your concerns and burdens upon Him? If you go on to read the entire Chapter 91 which many use as a safety prayer of sorts you will see that God indeed should be the one who is your dwelling place. Sure you ‘dwell’ in an Earthly home built by man, but indeed if you are a Christian your ultimate dwelling is under the shadow of ‘God’s wings’ where in other words He ‘has’ you if you let Him have you.

So does that sort of make you think where in fact you do dwell? Do you stay under His wings or get out with no concern of where you ‘dwell’? Let Him be your dwelling place from now on.

PRAYER: Father in Heaven I know if I stay under your wings you are my protection from the storms of life. I choose to do this. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, March 8, 2018

Delete That!

But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Colossians 3:8

Ever try to delete things from your mobile device only to find them still there later and the time wasted you were supposedly deleting? Bad habits and sin can keep popping up too. That is not a good thing. You know you are wrong and want to stop but there you go again repeating something you know is dragging you down hill. 

It could be judging others. Maybe it is coveting others possessions or not being happy with what God has blessed you with. Perhaps it viewing movies you know to be questionable and thus putting stuff in your mind and heart that have no business there. You catch yourself saying “I can’t stand her” when you know you are commanded to love. This is a partial list but the idea is these things need a big deletion.

No one is perfect and everyone slips up. Don’t let Satan lie to you to make you feel it is okay because in your heart you know it is not. Suggestion would be to make a daily habit of feeding on the word of God and purge wrong junk from your life. God can help you if you really want to. 

PRAYER: I can’t do anything with out your help Lord because the sinful nature wants to drag me into wrong thinking and behavior. I choose to run from this stronghold. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

The Great One

And they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, you and your household."Acts 16:31

Recently Billy Graham went to be with his Heavenly Father. He was a humble servant yet known the world over. He would probably not like all the hoopla surrounding his death because He would say that is not me in that pine coffin because I am in Heaven. He would reject the title of great, reverend, doctor because he was simply Billy.

Somehow we humans get hung up on worshipping and idolizing other humans. Fame is so fleeting yet what Mr. Graham had was an anointing from God to preach the gospel around the world. A simple message millions responded to. His message was straight from the word of God with no man made rules mankind often adds to it.

Do you know Jesus? Do you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that if you breathed your last breath today you would be ushered into the Heavenly kingdom? Religion won’t save you. A denomination won’t save you. Baptism alone won’t save you but it is simple repentance and believing in the Lord Jesus Christ. If you have not done that why not get on your knees and right now ask Jesus to be Lord of your life.

PRAYER: I am grateful for the blessing of humans like Billy Graham and pray His message continues that being the simple truth of salvation and repenting of your sins. I pray many come to know you Lord. So many don’t think hell is real but it is. Help me to share your news with as many as I can. I pray for those who don’t know you to come to a saving knowledge of you today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, March 6, 2018

Take Captive Wrong Thinking



"The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.” Luke 6:45

I know the drill. I am a former airline industry employee and am aware of the joys as well as pitfalls of standby travel. On a recent day I let it get the better of me. All sorts of wrong thoughts were popping into my head as I tried to ‘figure things out’ and not just sit patiently to find out if a standby seat was available for me on the airline my son works for. I allowed outside factors to control me and not my trust in God. I was literally beating myself up for not planning better. But that was never the problem. 

The issue here is trust and patience as well as being still. I have waited at airport before the entire day to get a seat or to be told try again tomorrow. It is maddening but you can’t let it get you in a slump like where I was headed if I didn’t recognize it and snap out of it. 

Worry, doubt, fear, inferiority complex, all these begin in your mind and can captivate you if you allow them too. When you control your thoughts intentionally, your day is much better. The more you think negative thoughts the more you become sad and depressed. It is necessary to get a handle on wrong thinking before it destroys you. 

PRAYER: I am indeed grateful for the ability to get your power to break strongholds in my life that attempt to consume me. No weapon formed against me will prosper. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Monday, March 5, 2018

The Forgotten Savior


Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons. 1 Timothy 4:1

What causes people to turn their backs on Jesus and fall out of love with Him? Maybe they were not that in love with Him in first place or use lame excuses like blaming him for so and so dying and not  stepping in and preventing it. Perhaps they were just church members or baptized as a baby and no real relationship ever developed. It breaks my heart. Maybe they  found the wrong group of friends who led them away into more exciting things to do on Sunday and why on Earth would they waste a sunny weekend morning in church?

The only one who can lead a person to falling in love or back in love with Jesus is the Holy Spirit. What you love you do lots. If you love Jesus then naturally you would want to get to know Him better and that is through His word. Finding a dynamic church home that you like so much you look forward to Sunday is another thing. Like I said, only the Holy Spirit convicts. Not nagging wives, meddling mothers, or pushy friends. Deep down if a person ever had a real relationship that spark is there but the enemy tried to extinguish it.

If you know of a person like I have described be still and keep praying. Those type of people probably aren’t interested in devotions so won’t see things like this. Keep praying for them to answer that knock on their hearts door. Keep praying for conviction to be brought upon them. Pray that what breaks Jesus’ heart breaks theirs. More importantly keep loving and don’t lose hope!

PRAYER: Oh Father my heart aches for many people with adult children who walk away from their first love or people who never really loved you in the first place. Religion leads people astray but a relationship with you is what is important. I pray for patience for anyone waiting on someone to get excited about you again! In Jesus’ name.Amen. 

Click link for a song pf worship to go along with today's devotion:

Sunday, March 4, 2018

Oscar Who?



I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. Psalm 101:3

I love movies and tonight are the  Academy Awards. The movies that typically win are ones where Hollywood wants to push their idea of normal or their agenda or at least that has been the case the past few years. The whole event often turns in to a conservative Christian bashing so I really almost hate to watch as I don’t care for political agendas masquerading as the Oscars. Two wonderful historical films are nominated for which I hope don’t get ignored that being 'The Darkest Hour' and 'Dunkirk'. 

Just because society says something is good or award winning doesn’t mean anything. A person needs to use discretion in what they choose to put into their minds. An Oscar doesn’t necessarily mean worth viewing especially if values or morals are being compromised. Lately many films attempt to desensitize people to sin. Unless you stay grounded in God’s word you may believe a lie. 

Don’t follow the worlds ways but choose God’s ways. God’s way brings life and truth. The worlds' ways lead you astray and keep you away from things of God. Don’t purposely watch things you know would not please the Lord. Now go enjoy a good movie. There are many fine ones who never get an Oscar nod. 

PRAYER: Lord help me use discernment in the movies I view and not just watch stuff that deals with things I know are against God’s word. I pray for writers and others who create films to come to know you. I am thankful for good directors and writers who produce things to build up. I am also thankful for Pure Flix, Affirm Films, and The Kendrick Brothers for their quality filmmaking.  In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Saturday, March 3, 2018

State of Mind


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 10:5
There is a melody that’s says “I’m in a New York state of mind.” Your state of mind is rather important and what you fill your mind with even more so. Garbage in, garbage out the saying goes. 
Allowing violent video games, lewd movies and TV, inappropriate reading material can all lead to a depraved mind. The mind and heart go hand in hand and if you want a joyful heart your mind needs a good diet and a good portion of that should be Jesus. How many well meaning Christians are spiritually starving themselves. If talk shows, the newspaper, secular TV take up most of your day what do you suppose your mind is going to be like?
Now is the time to step back and take inventory of what you allow to enter your mind. Parents you are responsible to do the same for your children. Put God’s word into the hearts of those little ones even when they are lying in a crib. If you don’t fill their mind someone else will. Be careful to watch over your own as well. 
PRAYER: My mind is a powerful tool and I need to treat it with respect. Help me fill it with truth and your word and learn to recognize the lies of the enemy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, March 2, 2018

Strife


How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! Psalm 133:1

Lately I have heard of many friends estranged from family members. Bitterness, strife,and hatred abound. The family  is important and many factors go into making a healthy functional one but let the enemy get a foothold he destroys the family. Siblings angry and refusing to reconcile. A parent who disowns their own flesh and blood. Just meanness when Satan gets his way. This is never what God wanted.

It could be a host of factors contributing to this breakdown but the underlying cause is the great divider and destroyer Satan. He destroys marriages, breaks up friendships, drives wedges in family relations. Until you realize this and want to do something it will remain the same. 

Every relationship and every person is redeemable. God Loves even jerks, believe it or not. Maybe you are reading this and have no issues but know of others who do. Lift them up to Jesus to be healed, restored, and  set free. Going through life bitter and full of strife was never God’s Plan. Forgive those who have hurt you even if you feel they are unworthy. No one is unworthy in God’s eyes. Don’t wish evil on others but ask God to heal and set them free. Then pray for your own heart to be healed. 

PRAYER: You desire unity and peace in relationships. I pray for those I know who are at odds with a family member. I pray for the family unit to be healed and restored as you intended it in the first place. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, March 1, 2018

Upgraded

And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.Matthew 23:12

First class treatment sure is nice. You should never feel entitled to it but when it does occur you feel special. It might be a first class seat on an airplane which is most common upgrade people relate to. The rental car companies occasionally may upgrade to a nicer snazzier vehicle for no extra charge and that too is special. Your hotel room may be upgraded to a suite from a studio. The feeling of luxury is what it is about.

Jesus never got upgraded yet He never complained. A humble servant born in a cattle stall lying in hay. Imagine the complaints today if a woman doesn’t get a private room at the hospital for her babies delivery. Oh my goodness feathers would fly. Be content in whatever circumstances you are in and if you surprisingly find yourself getting upgraded or promoted give God the glory. It is He who helps you find favor with those around you.

As you go about your day look for ways you can be an upgrade in a person’s life around you. Pay for the person behind you in the drive through is one idea that comes to mind. Be willing and ready to answer the call to upgrade those around you and not always think about yourself.

PRAYER:Thank you for upgrades in my life. Use me Lord to help another be upgraded. Show me creative ways to bless others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.