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.

Thursday, May 31, 2018

Easy Does It...Stay Cool



Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

In the 1960’s classic musical West Side Story, the two gangs,  the Jets and the Sharks, sang a little song reminding them to ‘stay cool’ but even if you are not in an impending gang fight,  it is necessary to remain cool in other situations too as it is easier to overcome stress if you do.

For instance a couple months ago I did not have a paper copy of an airline boarding pass and accidentally deleted it off my phone. This was quickly  remedied by the ticker counter agents. I could have come unglued and gotten hyper as I have done previous times something like this happened but chose to just take a breath. 

Do you need to practice keeping your cool when something goes in a different direction than you had hoped? 


PRAYER: Thank you I can call on you at any time and you can help me be still and stay collected. Help me not get wound too tight when stuff doesn’t go as planned. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Wake Up Little Soldier



Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.2 Timothy 2:3

As Christians did you know you considered a 'soldier in the Army of Christ?'. A soldier in the military endures difficult and rigorous training in order to get in shape for possible battles. This training includes strict discipline and regulations. If a soldier expects to succeed they abide and follow along.

A soldier of the cross of Christ too needs to stay disciplined in reading, studying, and knowing God’s Word in order to fight the battles from the enemy of our souls, Satan. You as a military soldier are serious about what you do and this new training regime becomes a lifestyle. The Christian soldier should take their training seriously as well.

Are you prepared for spiritual conflict? Do you consider yourself equipped with God’s armor to avoid the fiery darts of the evil one. Perhaps it is time to take soldiering seriously.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus this battle is real but I am ready and able with your help to stand strong in the face of the attack’s of the enemy on me and my family. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

Can You Be Still?


"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth." Psalm 46:10
Stillness is a trait you should want to develop. It seems like rushing to and fro and being busy is a badge of honor. The question is asked “ How are you?”  The common reply usually being “fine” or “busy”. Too busy for things that matter normally like exercising your body to stay healthy and exercising your spirit to stay strong in the Lord. Maybe too busy to even sit for a minute to read this small devotion. 

Some may ask “but how do I intentionally slow down” and my answer would be “find a way before you wind up sick in the hospital for neglecting what matters.” You can not run on empty spiritually and expect to last long nor can you neglect working out the ‘temple of God’, your body long without paying the consequences so you need to prioritize what you are rushing to do and ask yourself what can be eliminated. Time for some serious pondering.

Maybe you mean well and you know that you need a quiet time daily and a trip to the gym. How to accomplish it is the issue. Even if you can get out in nature and walk it will help relax your mind and be a great time to carry on a conversation with the Lord. So the ball is in your court. Stop committing to everything you don’t need to and insure you stop to ‘be still’ for what matters most. 

PRAYER: The tyranny of the urgent is upon most of us. I know busyness is not your game plan Lord. Help me as I seek to break the stronghold of unnecessary things that take me away from things that matter which are you, my family, and staying healthy. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Monday, May 28, 2018

Remembering The Fallen Of America

For the greatest love of all is a love that sacrifices all. And this great love is demonstrated when a person sacrifices his life for his friends. – John 15:13 

The official Memorial Day is May 30th not today but since it falls on the newly adopted Monday holiday calendar I chose to write about the war dead on this day. Memorial Day is often used by everyone for remembering their family members who have passed on to eternity but the real purpose of this day was to remember those who gave their lives defending this nation. Arlington National Cemetery as well as other national cemeteries and even public cemeteries have ceremonies to reflect upon what this day means. 

The men and women of the Armed Forces when they commit to serving after taking the oath to defend this country against all enemies both foreign and domestic never know if they will lose their life ever in peacetime operations or combat. You as a soldier, sailor, airmen, or Marine don’t really think about it. I know I did not but I as a female could have in fact been placed in situations where I could have lost my life serving my country. 

Even though as a nation often this day is a blur unless you intentionally set aside the time to observe it pause and think about those immense sacrifices made in peace and war time by Americans  who paid the ultimate price with their lives. If you have small children or grandchildren around on this day take them to the local cemetery to show them graves of the fallen soldiers. As a veteran, all are entitled to burial in a national cemetery if they choose even though maybe not dying in combat but as you reflect think about WW1, WW2, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Desert Storm, Afghanistan and many other conflicts and thank the Lord for the freedom you enjoy because of these brave patriots. 

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for the gift of freedom. Many nations are in bondage to tyrants, dictators, and those who do not allow freedom to worship you. I praise God for the gift of a Bible and this freedom on account of those who stood and some died defending this.  I pray for those on active duty now to stay safe. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 


NOTE from Americas Library.Gov on the first Memorial Day:
The First Official Memorial Day
May 30, 1868 

 In 1868, Commander in Chief John A. Logan of the grand Army of the Republic issued what was called General Order Number 11, designating May 30 as a memorial day. He declared it to be "for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land.


The first national celebration of Memorial Day (originally Decoration Day) took place May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery.

Sunday, May 27, 2018

Self Pity...Stop It Now!!


A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22

There was a day I was taking a walk on a nearby military base and having a huge bout of self pity. Me the Lemonade lady was really struggling. Alas I knew it was an attack from the enemy and spiritual warfare.

As I continued my self pity stroll I passed a field full of camouflage painted military equipment and soon my thoughts went to Afghanistan and the military who were serving there. This wake up call of sorts snapped me from my funk as I said to my self “look at these pieces of equipment and think of the troops over there operating them."

Do you need a wake up call to get you out of a ‘whoa is me’ mentality? Satan tries to get your thoughts on all the wrong things and it is important to recognize it as warfare.

PRAYER: Lord I am blessed and have no reason to get stuck in self pity. Help me stay out of that pit and praise you instead. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Saturday, May 26, 2018

Burnout, Boredom, Midlife Crisis


"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30
When you start feeling bored, burned out, and tired it not only is time for a vacation but time to recharge and reflect with God. Feelings like this are not from God but all people are susceptible to them. Sometimes these feelings could cause you to make terrible mistakes and use poor judgment.

Try to take time to get away. Get a couple days off. Go somewhere and leave responsibilities behind if you can. Take time to pray, read God’s Word, and reflect on joys and blessings in your life. This isn’t the time to make life altering decisions. Satan loves it when believers find themselves like this. If married include your spouse and talk and listen to each other respecting the others opinions.

After a time of recharging your battery and seeking God you should have a different outlook on things. Maybe for some it is the time to pull back or retire. For others you just needed time to reflect and think without daily pressure. Whatever it is let God into it. 
PRAYER: Thank you so much for my life and all its blessings. Bad stuff happens and situations that make me want to run away or give up. I know you desire me to pause, reflect, and charge on. Guide my steps and give me your wisdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 




Friday, May 25, 2018

God Has It Figured Out...Relax

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Have you ever tried to play God? You know, trying to figure things out, doing the ‘what if’ game. Often you can waste so much energy trying to figure stuff out when in fact God has it and He has you. Expending energy and brain cells trying to figure it out is useless so don’t do it. 

What makes you do this? Well for me it is cause I am anxious for an answer to a prayer and wish it could be rushed up a bit. Settling down and waiting on God and His plan after you have prayed is the route to take. Sometimes depending on the situation this is extremely hard to do and requires immense discipline. 

Do your best and trust God for the rest is something I heard which makes a good deal of sense. Don’t keep asking why, when, how but be still and wait then be amazed! 

PRAYER: Father sometimes it is so hard to not worry but what good does it do. It is also hard to be quiet and not mess up your work with my needless words. Help me be still. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Thursday, May 24, 2018

Be An Eagle


But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Picture an eagle soaring on the heights. Majestic, strong, beautiful, fearless. How would you like to be like that eagle and soar on heights and have victory?

No matter what you are facing today you can do it with the demeanor of an eagle. Soar on new heights. Be fearless. Be strong.

Do you have hope today? Are you able to wait and trust and do it calmly? Do you have an expectant heart? Jesus loves you this I know for the Bible tells me so.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus the illustration of the eagle is how I want to be. Soaring above my problems so that they look tiny. You are mighty and in control and I trust in you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Who And What Do You Believe?


"But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, with men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

In the famous Nicholas Sparks 2004 Hollywood movie ‘The Notebook’ , James Garner’s  character Noah Calhoun says to his nursing home doctor “Science only goes so far, then comes God.” He was referring to comments the young doctor made about medical science saying his wife, who had Alzheimer’s,  would never recognize him again. Garners character chose to believe in miracles.  

Who and what do you believe? Do you believe science more than God? God can use science and God made science. But God is still God and miracles have not stopped. As you know in the film which is a fictitious secular film but could happen, Allie, played by actress Gena Rowland, Garner’s wife in the film, did recognize and remember him. 

Do you discount God’s intervention in things that may seem impossible? Do you trust scientific theories over Biblical truths? Just giving you some food for thought. Never discount God’s intervention. His ways are beyond our ways. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus often human ‘experts’ like to discount or try to disprove things that are Biblical and possible. I pray for those people who are confused and want to believe but are having doubts. Clear their minds and direct them to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Stop And Breathe


Better one handful with tranquillity
 than two handfuls with toil 
and chasing after the wind.Ecclesiastes 4:6

I love this verse above and to me I feel it means better to do less, have less, and worry about details and perfection less, and simply enjoy peace and the moment. Instead of scurrying to and fro, pause and breathe. 

Do you sometimes find yourself on a treadmill of sorts because of things you perceive you ‘have’ to do? It is easy to get caught up in sheer busyness when in fact God wants you to practice the discipline of resting and hearing from Him. Kind of hard to hear God’s voice when the world’s obligations squeeze it out. 

Don’t be a victim. Enjoy friends and family but also don’t sweat the dust bunnies or cobwebs. Hotdogs work just fine for an impromptu drop in. You will be relaxed and so will others. 

PRAYER: Oh Lord I yearn for you like a person in a dry parched land. I need you to help me relax, settle down, and stress less. Guide me in what I choose to commit to. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Monday, May 21, 2018

The Comparison Trap

For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10Do you ever catch yourself comparing your life to someone else’s? I will be honest and say I have done this. It is not something I am proud of. Perhaps  you try to justify your existence if you don’t do ‘too much’ to others who may think your life must not count if you don’t have a title. Comparing is a tool of the enemy, period.  
Satan wants to get you discontent with your life as you know it. A bigger house, a different job, a fancier car. You can go on and on and never be satisfied. You can also get in the mode of comparing gifts you may receive and end up feeling bad when you discover your gift maybe not as great as another person. I am telling you folks this stuff is from the pit of hell and needs to be stopped. Comparing can lead to jealousy, feeling of being left out, saying something your regret later.
Right now if this inflicts your life stop and do the following exercise either mentally or written down. List all the wonderful ways God has blessed you. When you catch a wrong thought slipping into your mind causing discontentment right then and there stop and rebuke the thought in Jesus name and start replacing wrong thinking with thoughts that build up. Say “I am the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. I am the head and not the tail.”  Now go and thank God for how He made you and how he is blessing you daily. 

PRAYER: Forgive me Lord when I slip in to the poisoning of my mind by comparing myself to others. Help me to remember to be myself because everyone else is taken and to give you any bitterness and jealousy before it steals my joy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, May 20, 2018

WWJD

Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2

What would Jesus do when cut off in traffic?May seem comical to imagine Jesus driving a car. But  if your spouse forgets a special occasion? If a friend hurts you? When you have unmet expectations? Do you apply ‘What Would Jesus Do’ or sink into self pity? 

The simple answer is, he would be Jesus. Do you act like Jesus when you get hurt feelings or do you give glory to the enemy by pouting and saying something you regret later? Try to stay focused on ‘things above’ and not your own self interests and concentrate on blessings. That will ‘burn’ Satan up no pun intended. 

What do you need to let go of? Are you praising God in your quiet time? Are you fixated on hurt and pain or on joy and hope? Stop now and release any wrong feelings to God, pray, and be still. Don’t nurse wrong thinking. 

PRAYER: Oh Lord you’re beautiful. Your face is all I seek. I choose now to get rid of stinking thinking and when it comes to praise you instead. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, May 19, 2018

No You Don’t Devil!!


Be sober-minded, be alert. Your adversary the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking at for anyone he can devour. 1 Peter 5:8

Darkness, defeat, and despair do not have to prevail. Beat the devil at his tricks, schemes, and lies. A couple days ago I was crafting a similar devotion and upon its’ completion it vanished into thin air. No amount of searching recovered it. Spiritual warfare was in full swing. I chose to breathe in and relax. 

Even though I can not recreate word for word what I wrote and I felt it had a powerful message, I knew how Satan was probably trying to not let others read what I wrote. In some ways I feel I was writing to myself to help me learn things so perhaps that was the intent all along? 

Sometimes in life things happen and you may perceive them as really awful at the time or try human reasoning to figure them out, but behind the scenes is Almighty God who always works things out. Are there issues in your life or that of a loved one that keep you on your knees? Don’t run away from God but run to him. Even in your darkest hour He is there. Don’t hate Him, hate the devil! 

PRAYER: Oh Lord I choose this day to not let this world and culture shape me or my thinking. I choose this day to trust you are working in the lives of those I pray for. I choose the path of peace.  In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Friday, May 18, 2018

Jesus Had Long Hair


"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” Matthew 7:11

People can sure be judgmental. Recently I heard of someone who forbade her child to associate with a stellar young adult only because he had long hair and her assumption was he did drugs. This young man was a straight A student who happened to like long hair. First that is mean and second it is a stereotype. It sure is easy to cast stones isn’t it? 

Having long hair is not a sin. That’s why I said Jesus had long locks. He didn’t smoke pot. Humans can be so mean in their treatment and response to people who look different. Some ‘religious people’ probably condemn jeans on a preacher or a band instead of an organ. 

Each of us needs to mind our own business and leave judging to God. I sincerely pray that those who have this raunchy judging attitude can be set free for it is not a spirit of love at all. Do your part, love and don’t judge. 

PRAYER: Lord in the past I may have been guilty of a judgment call or stereotyping and for that I ask sincere forgiveness. Help me show love to all people no matter how different they may look and leave the judging to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, May 17, 2018

14 Day Detox

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

Those in the diet industry are very crafty with their marketing. They could probably  get eskimos to buy ice. There is one which is called a detox or a cleanse which makes it sound that after 14 Days pounds will just melt off. Wrong. 

How about a detox program from this world you live in? Try purging morning shows, wrong reading material, bad TV or movies, grocery store tabloids, social media addiction, texting instead of talking, the morning newspaper, or in other words anything that puts wrong thoughts or the lies of the world into your head. 

If you can start today and if you are tempted to watch a morning show which normally is mindless chatter instead turn to a Christian station if you are blessed to have them. I have 8. Fill your mind with God’s word not others opinions or hateful comments. Discipline your mind for 14 Days and see if you can’t start feeling better. 

PRAYER: I choose to think on things that build up and not gossip, rumors, hate filled news, movie star news, or things of the flesh. I want my mind to be controlled by the Spirit not the flesh. Let the detox begin. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Poof....No Instant Result


Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. Ephesians 6:11

Our instant society is often wanting instant answers and solutions as well. A young housewife with several children has medical issues, marital issues, and financial problems may question where God is and why isn’t he helping. That is a tough one to answer but if you fit any of these categories press in because the story is not over. 

In the midst of struggles Satan shows up with thoughts of suicide,  playing the lottery, quitting prayer, anger, rage, drinking, doubt, running away, drugs, and abnormal fears,  but stop right there and praise God in the storm. Yes you heard me right!  Lift up your hands and thank him now for how he is working then fasten your seatbelt  and hang on. Don’t quit on God as He won’t quit on you. 

Just because you don’t see change doesn’t mean God isn’t at work. You have to trust Him. He knows the big picture! 

PRAYER: It is hard at times to understand why certain things happen. A child dies, a teen is killed in a wreck, a young mom is diagnosed with a horrible disease. Why? Help me keep focused on you and not problems for the ultimate goal is eternal life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Click link for a powerful message in song:

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Obstacle Detected

He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30

I am blessed to drive a vehicle with many safety features added, one of which is a dashboard light that comes on should a driver cut me off or something else is in my path. With a bright  red dashboard light it silently screams ‘obstacle detected’. Maybe there are obstacles you could have in your life that maybe keep you from being on the best journey with Christ you could be. 

Obstacles could be bad habits, laziness, idols, wasting time, wrong relationships, lies, and you add to the list. What obstacles are in your path keeping you from loving God more or spending more time with Him or even wanting to? 

Examine your heart and determine if you really feel you truly ‘want’ Jesus or is it like being in a club or the socially acceptable thing to do. Does Jesus occupy first place in your heart? 

PRAYER: I don’t want this world to shape me or to shape my family. I want to be in the world but not of it. I ask you help me as I seek to cut out stuff keeping me from seeking you more. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, May 14, 2018

All You Need


My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
Psalm 73:26

What do you need to be content? A new car? Perhaps a different job? A different house or totally new state to live in? Really all you need is God. Period. 

God should and wants to be your main need. Your primary desire. Your portion. Is He that to you? Be honest. If everything you had materially were swiftly taken from you would God be enough or would you get mad at Him? By your daily actions would others be able to tell He was enough? I am just meaning to give you some things to think upon. 

What do you need to do to insure God is enough? If things suddenly go haywire don’t freak out but hang on to the ‘rope’ God throws you and stay immersed in His love and care. 

PRAYER: My desire is to know you more Lord and to fully trust you and let issues swirling around me go. I need you to do this. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, May 13, 2018

Mom You Are Special



Charm  is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Proverbs 31:30

Today is Mother’s Day. Happy for some and bittersweet for others. It is no question mother’s don’t just birth babies but play a huge role in their upbringing and development. This is a job not to be taken lightly. (Don’t worry  dad’s, I will focus on you on Father’s Day as you are equally important). 

If your mom is alive be sure to call her today, even if she is hard of hearing or my not know who you are due to failing memory. If you are blessed to be together say a big thank you. My mom is 93 and was a wonderful mom who I love much. And have fond memories with. If you had a mom not so stellar try to focus on good and attempt to forgive those who did bad stuff. Don’t harbor resentment and grudges. 

I give a shout out to my daughter in law on this her first Mother’s Day and for the gift of a precious 6 month old granddaughter. The best gift Moms could give their children is to be vigilant in prayer. Don’t let the world and culture shape them. Give them to God early on and stay on your knees as they grow up and beyond. Happy Mother’s Day!

PRAYER: The gift of life is amazing. The forming of God’s beautiful creation in the womb and the blessing of childbirth itself. I pray for those this day who have lost children or who have guilt over abortions. I pray for healing to occur among those whose moms abandoned them.  Let joy take over where there was hurt. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, May 12, 2018

Make Your Bed


The lazy do not roast any game, but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt. Proverbs 12:27

Get up and get moving. Laziness is quite easy to slip into and sometimes it is okay to just sit and rest but don’t do it all the time! The first step in good discipline to getting up and not having a lazy day is to start by making your bed. Yes making your bed. I know I instilled this in my children early on because it is a good way to train to be disciplined and to work. Don’t expect maid service in other words. 

Do a word search in the Bible on the word lazy or laziness and you will find many interesting verses.  Things like “if you don’t work you don’t eat”(2 Thessalonians 3:10). “Look at the ants” found in Proverbs 6:6. Being lazy or slothful causes people to even get to a point they don’t take care of their physical body and end up with many health ailments that could put their life in jeopardy. 

Not being lazy doesn’t mean to go to the other extreme and do everything in sight and volunteer for every project  because we are indeed supposed to have down time not just all the time. Make yourself get up out of your chair and walk every hour for at least five minutes. Don’t allow the enemy to put you in a lethargic stupor. Get up and go seize the day!

PRAYER: Oh Lord I thank you for having a comfortable bed to sleep in at night with cushy comforters and big pillows but help me not stay there but to get up and make a difference in the world around me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, May 11, 2018

Getting Skinny, Getting Young, Getting A Rebuild

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5
While in a large medical office waiting room,  seeing three different televisions on three separate channels,  I noticed the theme of commercials and TV shows on the three sets.  First a celebrity advertising a product to eliminate crepe like skin. Next another actress touting a particular weight loss product where she had shed 50 pounds. Finally HGTV where a  show was on and people apparently not satisfied with the home they had so were doing a total rebuild.
The world we spend time in while we await our heavenly dwelling can certainly make you dissatisfied with your body, your skin, your clothes, your car, your job or lack of job, the house you live in and need I say more. Maybe a trip to a third world nation would be in order to make people appreciate how blessed indeed we are. There is a motivational speaker named Nick Vujicic born without limbs. He had hard moments initially but now teaches others worldwide how to be grateful. He is married to a awesome woman and they’re blessed with beautiful children. He is not whining about having no legs or arms in fact can make jokes about it.  

Do you find yourself complaining about stuff and not appreciating what you have? Even owning a Bible is illegal in some nations yet how many who own one or many, don’t even bother to pick it up and study it? It is time maybe to start getting up daily and thanking God for who you are, where you are and all the rest. Stop comparing yourself to everyone else. Don’t look at others but look to God. 

PRAYER: I don’t say it enough Lord but I choose to listen to you and not the lies of this world. I don’t have to fit a Wall Street image to be happy or look like someone else. I choose to be me. Period. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 


Thursday, May 10, 2018

Don't Be A Fault Finder



 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. “Matthew 7:1-2

 It is so easy to point the finger at other people isn’t it? Want to break that habit? It really is not good for anyone to do but much less a person who claims to follow Jesus. Talking about being being fat, lazy, stupid, idiots, dressed funny, ugly car, funny hair, and on and on it goes.

When you catch yourself slipping into the critical judgmental mode stop right then. Cease from nursing thoughts that are not right. Try an exercise right now. Wherever you are stop and glance around at people and try saying to yourself “God Loves you, God Loves you, etc” for every person in the place you are unless of course you are in an arena at a sold out event. LOL? Here is a real stretch. Apply this to politicians you may not see eye to eye with and see how can can change your heart for them.

Replace mean ugly thinking with God thinking. Maybe you were raised in a critical home. My friend it is time now to reverse that trend and be set free from it. You can do this!

 PRAYER: Oh Lord I want to look at all people through your eyes. You don’t hate, condemn, and judge but you reach out and love. Help love flow out of me to others so they wonder what’s up and then maybe I can tell them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Misunderstood? Shush Little Mouth!


My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. JAMES 1:19

You open your mouth, you text, you tweet, you email and the receiver of your message totally takes what you wrote wrong and gets very upset or disappointed with you. Sometimes it is even a relationship breaker. Does this sound familiar to any one? 

Words can be either be healing or destructive. Speaking is an area you have to almost walk on egg shells at times and sincerely think through what you are going to say if you have doubt to how the receiving individual will react to it. Sometimes you may speak in a totally innocent manner meaning no harm,  and the person who is on other end totally explodes at you. Then it is between you, them, and God to work things out so a friendship is not ruined. 

It is no doubt the enemy comes to destroy relationships and he uses our words to assist in the manner. Some people may be hurting deep down and perhaps misunderstood what you were trying to communicate. Give your burden in this area to the Lord and let Him touch the other person’s heart to be understanding and loving. 

PRAYER: I hate it when misunderstandings occur because of words taken the wrong way. I will not allow Satan to work on me in this area and rebuke him by the blood of Jesus. I ask any broken hearts from words misunderstood to be mended. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Connectivity Issues?

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3
Most all of you have probably experience connectivity issues either on your phone, computer or maybe even satellite television. To say the least,  it is quite annoying especially if you are working on things and can’t connect to complete your work. 

Good news for you! There is NEVER a connectivity issue with God. 24/7 around the clock you can pray and talk to God. No fancy words are needed. No theological degree. No church membership. Just you and God.

What is burdening you today? Are you mad at God for something you think He could have prevented or not getting an answer to prayer by your time table? God Loves you. No matter how much you ignore Him, go your own way, live a life that displeases Him He is still there for you. Don’t turn your back on Him, and get reconnected today.

PRAYER: I thank you Lord that I can pray to you whenever I want  and wherever I am. Thanks for being there. I pray for those who need to reconnect to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, May 7, 2018

Rancid


For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.2 Corinthians 2:15
Do you know what rancid means? Spoiled, stinking, rotten. You as a believer never want to even closely resemble something rancid. It is all in the way you treat others and how you act in general. 
Do you have the aroma of a delightful follower of Christ attracting people to you? When I lived in Arizona for three years each citrus season when the orange blossomed, the blooms smelled absolutely wonderful! I loved it so much I tried to find a similar scent in a spray can but none did this natural fragrance justice. The four trees in our yard were a true blessing I hated have to leave. 
As you go through life day to day ask God to help you shine for Him and be the kind of person people are drawn to because of Christ in you. 
PRAYER: Oh Lord I want to be more like you every day and I can’t just wish that into existence but I know it requires me to do my part by reading your word daily and learning to reflect you to those I come in contact with. Break any stronghold in my life keeping me from spending time with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, May 6, 2018

Your Daily Dose


All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 2 Timothy 3:16
When I began my writing journey in 2009 my devotions were entitled ‘Daily Dose Of God’s Blessing’ until the Holy Spirit prompted me to change it to today’s title. A dose is like when you take medicine and need to not to forget it due to a doctors prescribed instructions. 
A dose of God’s word would mean you would not forget to get up daily and read the Bible or ‘take your dose’ of God’s medicine to keep you strong and healthy. So many are weak and sickly spiritually not following ‘Dr Jesus’ orders to get well by feeding on the word of God. 
Where are you today? Are you taking your dose of medicine each day or are you weak limping along spiritually? 
PRAYER: Lord I pray for those who need to start taking their spiritual medicine each day and I pray that I never get lazy taking my daily dose. In Jesus’ name. Amen.


Saturday, May 5, 2018

Don't Be A Know It All


Do you see a person wise in their own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for them. Proverbs 26:12

Hardly anyone likes to be around someone who thinks they know it all or feels their opinion is the one and only. This person could be one who constantly brags and feels they don’t need to be told what to do, period.

Today’s verse speaks of that individual. A person should want wisdom from above and not think they can not learn from others. This person is conceited,arrogant,and feels they just don’t need advice. I certainly hope no one reading this fits into this category. It is not necessary toot your own horn. A foolish person will destroy himself if he or she does not do a course correction and learn wisdom and humility from God.

Stay on the path of truth and righteousness and seek wisdom from God above who will direct your steps and keep you from being a know it all.

PRAYER: Help me Lord to lean in to you and away from the path of destruction where I feel I don’t need advice. I choose to have your wisdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.


Friday, May 4, 2018

Despising God’s Word...Not A Wise Thing

Whoever  scorns instruction will pay for it, but whoever respects a command is rewarded. Proverbs 13:13

Why is the Bible so hard for some people to accept? Of course atheists hate it and would do anything to get rid of it but why? Even within the Christian community many don’t even pick it up at all to read it almost as if it is too sacred or more of a decoration than a useful tool. That is what the word of God is. A useful tool for life and full of wisdom and truth. 

The word holds the key to life and going away from it and making your own rules is not a good thing. Such as the recent gender confusion issues out in California. God made them male and female, period. Why is it so hard for people to accept truth? This writing is not meant to cause debate, but brother and sister the word is true, today, yesterday, and forever. 

Are you teaching the word to your children as it is your job and not the churches to do that? Are you feeding on the word daily? Can you imagine if you did not feed yourself you would shrivel up or if your plants did not get water they would die. Don’t despise God’s teaching. Ask God to help you daily to make time for it.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for my Bible. Help me not neglect it. Help me realize it is a tool to help me be more like you. I pray for those I know who need to hide the word in their heart but are not doing so. May the Holy Spirit draw them closer. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, May 3, 2018

Leave It At The Cross

For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14

Lay it down and leave it. Stop worrying. Believe. Trust God. These all sound well and good but how on Earth can you truly let things go? By focusing on something else, something positive. 

I have been to retreats and in prayer groups where symbolically we will write down our concerns and either put them on a cross with a thumbtack leaving them there as a symbol of letting God have them or better yet build a fire in a fire pit and burn them. This means to let them go. Satan is a master of recall and wants you to hang on to stuff because he knows you will be burdened and not able to fully trust God if you are fretting. 

Keep in mind all the worry in the world does not change a thing. But when you come to Jesus in confidence and give him your concerns or cast them on Him as  1 Peter 5:7 says, then ask God to help you let go. Worry is a tool in the enemies arsenal to keep you wrought up and defeated. Don’t allow this to happen. Trust God and be at peace. 

PRAYER: Lord I love you and I love the word. Help me not just let my Bible gather dust but use it to defeat Satan and stay at peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, May 2, 2018

Distractions In Progress

For God is not a God of disorder but of peace-as in all the congregations of the LORD's people. 1 Corinthians 14:33

There is no question about it, but this world you and I live in is full of distractions to get you off the course God has planned for you. For instance, too much social media. Why does it matter? I am guilty of this and working on it. Trying to decide what truly is important all along insuring God is not put on the sidelines of your life.

Make a list of the ways you are distracted daily. How do you deal with these interruptions that take you away from what is important? You need to purpose in your heart how you will make sure time with God is not on the chopping block as I know it is for many believers. Somehow the idea that it is not needed or essential to being a believer has infiltrated minds of certain people.  Your mindset needs to be changed if you feel this way.

Stop letting this world tell you what is important such as watching the news, reading the paper, getting caught up in mindless TV and talk shows. Deep down you need a daily time with the Lord. If you have a baby or small children, include them as it is a command in Deuteronomy 11:18-19 which says “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Right now today decide you will stop distractions leading you away from Jesus.

PRAYER: I need self control to say no to distractions and yes to what is crucial and vital in my life. I choose right now to not allow the enemy to lead me away from you Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, May 1, 2018

Fight The Darkness


For 
our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in 
the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12

There is light and darkness, good and evil. When you slip and find yourself having wrong attitudes, bad thinking, jealously, comparison, anger, resentment, or a host of other feelings you are slipping towards the darkness. Your job is not to allow Satan to hold you captive to wrong thoughts and attitudes so what do you do when this comes upon you? 

Recognize first the enemy wants you to be ‘down’, discouraged, upset, fearful, angry, jealous, discontent, burdened, and all the rest in between. If you have wrong thoughts for instance that make you feel bitter or jealous those are not of God. If you get angry at your spouse for hurting you that is not from God. You get the picture? 

To combat this darkness you have to do all you can to not ‘camp’ there and instead shine the light. The enemy would love for you to open your mouth irresponsibly and then end up regretting what came out of it. Instead, take a breath, pray, be calm, and then read some scriptures. Might I suggest Ephesians, Psalms, or 1 Corinthians 13. Now today  why not purpose in your heart you will shine light in to dark places wherever you go.

PRAYER: Lord I love you and occasionally I find myself slipping into the dark and feeling wrong thoughts. I cast these off right now. I thank you for setting me free to be a light. In Jesus’ name. Amen.