What Do You Have To Complain About?

A song of ascents. I lift up my eyes to the mountains- where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2

“Oh beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain. For purple mountain majesty above the fruited plain.” You may recognize those words as the lyrics from ‘America The Beautiful’ but regardless of what country you may reside in, you can discover God’s beauty in His creation. 

I am thankful to have been born in the land of the free because of the brave and others may not be so fortunate. Americans really are blessed and don’t have anything to complain about.  Liberty is a great gift that we should NEVER take for granted. Make a list of the things you are grateful for. Clean water. Food in abundance that is often wasted. Indoor plumbing. Entertainment. Clothing. Four seasons. A job even if lower wages than you would like. 

When you feel like whining about your plight there is always something good you can find. Even if you are in the midst of an immense trial God is still there. Hang on to the rope and keep thanking Him for His by blessings. 

PRAYER: I don’t want to be a complaining ungrateful sort of person. I choose daily to find something good to say thanks for even if things in my life may be a little crazy. You are there. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Show Me Your Papers

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20

Anyone who has ever travelled to a foreign land knows they can not enter without a Passport or Visa. You are born and have a birth certificate proving your nationality from a particular nation. What if you had to show your ‘heavenly passport’? Now there isn’t actually such a thing but could you prove you should be admitted? On the basis of what? 

You are a good person. You have outstanding morals. You never killed anyone. You love your parents. You obey the law. You respect your elders. You follow the Ten Commandments. All these are fine and good but do you love Jesus? Have you asked Jesus into your heart? How would someone know? 

Matthew 7:22-23 says the following “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!' Have you asked Jesus to be Lord of your life and do you live for Him daily? Are you teaching your children about Him? Are you reading and studying God’s word and not just getting spoon fed one hour on Sunday? Today if you hear hIs voice do not harden your heart. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus help me live in such a way that I lead people to you and not into worldly pursuits that overshadow you. Forgive me if I ever thought I could go it on my own.  Draw those back to you who I know who may have wandered away. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Battleground

He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous, Both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD. Proverbs 17:15

In my daily writing at times  it gets tougher and tougher to convey a message without stepping on toes. You see Satan has blinded the minds of many, some who are believers, and has them so saturated in worldly culture so much that they are desensitized to the truth and get offended when the truth is told. The only cure for this is the Holy Spirit to bring conviction.

We are in a fallen world that seems to get darker but God is still on the throne. When you point out a truth you are called a hater. Oh my goodness, Jesus please help us. What are we as believers in Christ to do? We are to keep loving, keep believing, keep hoping, and pray for those who are confused or misguided.

This is a battle between good and evil, God and the devil. Do not despair and lose hope. If you are praying for the eyes of someone to be open press on. Satan is roaring like a lion but we know who wins in the end.

PRAYER: Lord I know that are real enemies are not human ones but demonic forces at times that have taken men and women captive and blinded them. I pray for blinders to come off and the truth to come forth in a mighty way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

God It’s Me Again

Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and never give up. Luke 18:1

I have been  participating in my churches’ 21 Days Of Prayer in August each morning at 6 a.m.This hour is an indescribable hour of power as I like to call it. Many people probably can’t imagine praying 1 minute and here this goes on for an entire hour. The hour is actually too short. 

Are you a person of prayer? Would you call yourself a warrior or just a casual dinner prayer person? Maybe now is the time to get serious with God and call on Him more often. A change has to occur in the inside of your heart before the desire to be close to Him happens. It happened for me 19 March 1975. There were a couple of back sliding times after that but God never left me. I got stronger through many storms. 

Maybe you are tired of praying and praying and praying more and feel like answers just don’t come. Perhaps you are mad at God for taking your baby, a friend, a family member and just can’t move on beyond that. You have a prodigal and the breakthrough hasn’t happened. You are just plain tired and feel it is useless. The Lord wants to hear from you. Keep on pressing in and crying out to Him. It is only Satan who wants you to doubt and give up. God is at work. 

PRAYER: Lord God I thank you so much for hearing my prayers. At times it is difficult to understand why there is no change but there will be. I believe. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Popping A Cork Christian Style?

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because  human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. JAMES 1:19-20

Is there such a thing as righteous anger? Well I don’t know but I know yours truly has a weak moment every now and then and has to learn to not sweat the small stuff and remember that ‘this too shall pass’. Some things can really make your blood boil and that is what Satan wants. He wants upset Christians who don’t learn to take their morning ‘chill pill’. 

What problem or situation recently may have brought your anger level up a notch? Telemarketers? Rude store clerks? Long lines? Policy cancellation by accident? Forgot a bill? Many more things could be added to the list. 

You have probably heard the phrase “Christians are not perfect just forgiven” well that is true but take a breath before reacting or overreacting to things. Try to keep the fruit of the spirit of patience and peace growing in your life. Forgive yourself when you have messed up. And learn from your mistakes and ask forgiveness when appropriate. Now go enjoy your anger free day. 

PRAYER: Lord I have embarrassed myself at times getting bent out of shape about stuff that really didn’t matter. Help me slow down, think, and remember to pray first. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Live A Life Bigger Than Yourself

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a Holy temple in the LORD. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Ephesians 2:19-22

In the month of August my church,Church of  the Highlands, has been having 21 Days of Prayer. It could be watched at home online or in person. For several of the days I went in person and when you were there amongst other prayer warriors it took on such a greater deeper meaning to me.

As I walked with prayer cards in my hand reading others requests I could not help but cry at times. Sure at home I had no access to others prayer concerns so prayed for my family but there at church I read prayers from high school and college students,prisoners,children,and weekly church attenders. Some really choked me up.

You have to live beyond yourself and sure, pray for your needs and that of your family, but break away and have a heart for those lost, hurting, grieving,despairing, lonely and perhaps you will also get the chance to do more thanpray. Have a blessed day.

PRAYER: I am grateful I learned the value and necessity of prayer. I pray for those young married couples who do not pray as a couple to start doing it and not let Satan make them think it is unnecessary. I thank you for opportunities to live beyond  myself. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Learn To Fight!

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

I grew up in church and never really heard about spiritual warfare or by this I mean knowing that the devil was not a little man in a red suit with a pitch fork that even Christian families sometimes make light of by dressing their children like him at Halloween.😞 But instead he is a vicious conniving liar and deceiver who attacks believers and tries to disable them. Until you recognize this and start fighting you have no power over him. 

Satan is the master of evil that is going on in the world. The hatred, the anger, the lies, the division, the confusion is all straight from the pit of Hell. Don’t be deceived by him dear children. You are stronger than him and don’t have to fall into his trap. Satan has also blinded the minds of many people that they can not see the truth. 

To combat and fight this spirit of demons and evil first remember your fight is not against mere men but against spiritual forces controlled by Satan. He may have some of your family members believing lies and becoming lethargic. You can pray for them daily for the chains of darkness to leave them and for them to wake up to the truth. Bind demonic spirits from hurting them or captivating them. 1 John 4:4 says “Greater is He that is in you than he who is in the world.” 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus Satan cannot defeat means he has to take his filthy little hands off those in my family he has been lying to. I pray for spirits of darkness to be bound. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Branded

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

The US is funny. Not ha ha funny but odd in how labels and brands are important. My sister got me a brand name handbag and I did not want people thinking I was showing off so did not carry it for the longest time. A certain car, maybe jewelry, watch, athletic gear, shoes, coolers, so many things meant to show status just by a simple name.

Are you branded for Christ? By this I don’t mean are you wearing Christian tee shirts, cross necklaces, message bracelets, or even tattooed with a cross but are you by your actions displaying the fact you are a follower of Christ. Do you emulate his brand?
We live on a beef cattle farm and our cattle are not branded but have a tag in their ear showing they belong on Miller Green Acres Farm.

The best ‘brand’ ever brother and sister is to make sure you are living your brand at school, in the work place, at the coffee shop, while shopping, on vacation, everywhere! It may be tough sometimes but God wants you to shine your light and thus bring glory to Him. Do your actions  ‘brand’ you as a follower of Christ?

PRAYER: Help me never been ashamed to identify with your brand Lord even when I am outnumbered. Give me words to say when confronted about the reason of hope within me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Most people like to be in their comfort zone or in other words go places and be around people like yourself where you feel you fit in. As a believer you should step out of that comfort zone and engage in the world around you. This may not be as extreme as living in a third world country but maybe even in your own community going where things are different. 

There are needs everywhere though whether in your Holy huddle or in the streets of your community. Sometimes it is necessary to feel a little uncomfortable so you can reach out and help others. Of course stay safe but maybe venture somewhere you may meet an unexpected need. 

Pray for God to give you opportunities to be His hands and feet in a hurting world. You may be surprised what comes your way. And when it does don’t lose a blessing by announcing your good deeds to everyone. Let it be between you and Jesus. 

PRAYER: Bring opportunities my way Lord to share your love with another whether by an act of kindness, monetary help, or a good deed. Let me never hide the reason of hope that is in me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Let It Go...Again And Again

“Do not remember the former things,Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing,Now it shall spring forth;Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19

Do you have things in your life you need to just drop and move on? I know I do and the theme from the movie ‘Frozen’ has to be sung over and over. “Let it go, let it go, let it goooo.”

What is troubling you today? Are you able to proceed forward trusting God to handle things you have prayed about while you are still and silent? A discipline for certain. Stop digging up the past and start focusing on what God has ahead of you.

Today start the day like a brand new clean sheet of paper. Nothing. Is on it and only you can put something on it. Focus on positive and uplifting things and let your light shine. Brighter days are ahead if you can stop going backwards.

PRAYER:Each day has new adventures in store so help me Lord focus on being a person who doesn’t constantly think about mistakes and the past but know you have new things in store. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Record Book

Love does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:5
Okay everyone I know there are probably perfect people out there who never blame anyone for a wrong especially their spouse, right? Wrong!  It can be easy to be a list taker and keep account of how you were wronged. But in a healthy marriage it is not a good idea. 

Doesn’t the Bible clearly state to “not keep a record of wrongs”? Well if you do, and are festering with hate or the inability to forgive,  it is time to truly give your issue to God. Writing down this laundry list of faults is not good. 

Try to look at your spouse’s  good qualities that is what drew you together in the first place. Learn to overlook an offense or harmful word. If there are real issues, true counseling intervention may be necessary but realize God wants your marriage to glorify Him. So put down the paper and pen and give your issues to God. 

PRAYER: Father God the gift of marriage between a man and woman is wonderful. Help anyone married to be able to overlook stuff in order to move toward reconciliation. The enemy can not drive a wedge. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Are You In A Desert Place?

I cared for you in the wilderness, In the land of drought. Hosea 13:5

Why Lord, why me? Why him? Have you prayed or know people who have prayed and it does not turn out like they want it to so sort of give up on God and the whole ‘church’ thing. Mad at God. Oh my goodness does this make the devil jump for joy and throw a party with his demons. 

JAMES 1:3 says “because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” Think about it. You don’t learn lessons sometimes until you have made it out of the valley. Bad junk happening is all part of life but you won’t be there forever unless you choose to be. It is kind of like the story of the person who falls from a horse and does not want to ride again. They have to get back upon that horse and ride!! 

Where are you at today? What struggles are you encountering? Are you mad at God? Are you so adamant you just feel like throwing your Bible against a wall? Please don’t do that. Praise God even when there are tough times. Yes this even means an unexplained death. My friend God Loves you. Love Him back. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I admit when stuff goes wrong it is hard to keep looking up but I know I have to. Part of the problem sometimes lies within myself. Help me learn what you are trying to teach me through trials. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link below to worship God in a song pertaining to struggles of life. https://youtu.be/uHdcyue0bSw

On Cruise Control?

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

Do you ever feel that in your Christian walk you have set yourself on cruise control or in other words you are just gliding along letting others do the work and maybe have let things become humdrum? What is the cure for disengaging the ‘cruise control’ of your spiritual life?

Could be you just need a good Holy jolt to get you fired up again. Maybe you started comparing yourself to others. Perhaps you started to get ‘too busy’ for a daily time alone with God.  Maybe you let the modem culture affect your thinking too much. Time for a wake up call!

“Today if you hear His voice harden not your heart” it says in Hebrews 3:15. Stop what you are doing and engage with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

PRAYER: I never want to lose my direction Lord and I pray for those I know who have gotten off course or their walk with you may even just not exist anymore. Wake them up before they have a calamity and help them develop a passion for you again.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.

New Age Versus God

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. Philippians 2:9-10

I have been reading a very uplifting and  inspiring book but a couple of places in the book where  it would be appropriate to say “ask God” but instead the author used the phrase “ask the universe”, say what? I find this odd when people are afraid to acknowledge the creator or talk tons about angels but nothing where they name the name of Jesus. 

Mother Earth and Mother Nature are nice ways to maybe want to say ‘God’s creation’ but the person does not want to or maybe simply believes in the big bang and I say yes there was a Big Bang and that is God spoke and bang,  Earth was created, simple as that but too mind boggling for some. This world will try to capture children at a young age and trap them in secular humanism as it is called and that is why it is critical to train children using Holy Scriptures and not manuals promoting alternate truths. Train little ones to worship the creator not creation.

Jesus is Lord. God created the universe and loves all mankind even those who choose to try to abolish Him from society and all thinking. Without God nothing exists. If you are having trouble believing may I suggest a wonderful book which was made into a Hollywood Film ‘The Case For Christ’ by Lee Strobel atheist turned Christian. Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so.

PRAYER: Lord you created a awesome world. Help those who choose to diss you be turned to the truth found only in the Bible. Help use me as a light to share this truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Taking Thoughts Captive

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

Watching what you think is a true discipline. Not allowing your mind to wander into areas  it has no business in. You have to ‘capture’ your thoughts or in other words don’t allow wrong thinking to occupy your head. 

Yes it takes discipline and practice and the more you occupy it on uplifting things or profitable endeavors the less you will find yourself needing to rein it in. Keeping it focused on ‘things above’ meaning what is good, pure, perfect and wholesome. Not filling it with pornographic images, lewd jokes, bad movie or TV or reading trashy novels or gossip magazines and tabloids.  

Remember Jesus lives in you and knows what you are doing. Take time each day to pray and read scripture and run from evil. This will help you capture wrong thinking. 

PRAYER: Lord I want to think good things and not conjure up stuff or get involved in gossip or junk that doesn’t do a thing for the kingdom of God. Give me strength to acquire this discipline. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Rough Patches

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21

Life is not always perfect. Do you ever feel like you are being tested and wonder when it is going to end? Lack of employment, illness, medical bills, lawsuit, jail time, car wreck, failure on a school test, house foreclosure, late bills, no savings. Not making light of any of these but all things need to be kept in perspective. A resident of a slum or Third world nation may gladly assume some of our ‘problems’. 

Often times when you know people suffering it is hard to come up with the proper response or way to keep thee individual from losing hope and giving up on God entirely. It is as if God is a genie and why isn’t He pulling a rabbit out of His hat. God does not work that way. 

1 Peter 1:7 says “These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold--though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.” “But Lord I thought you loved me, I thought you cared. Why are you deserting me” is a good response. Believe it or not God is working even though the results aren’t evident now. Are you praising Him regardless or shaking your fist at Him. Check you heart and be patient. 

PRAYER: Lord I know you love me and you care for me but I also know you are working on me and my character as well. Forgive me for getting impatient or angry. Help me learn to praise you during the storms of life and look for the rainbow. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Click link for a awesome song of praise: https://youtu.be/uHdcyue0bSw

What A Day!

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3

Recently there was a supposed active shooter on a base in Ohio where my younger son was taking two weeks of Guard training. Needless to say since it was reported in the building I thought he was in, not only I but his wife, mother in law and a host of others were concerned. Until we got the all clear it was frightening.

Our minds can really make us go crazy. The ‘what if’s’ of life play a number on your peace. When you think an active shooter is near a family member it is a wee bit unsettling to say the least. You just have to try the best you can to be still. That seems to be my mantra lately, being still.

Good news is that all is well but for many people they do get worse case scenario news and have to pick up and move on albeit not an easy task. I hope I never have to face it but sadly have had many friends who have. You pick up the pieces and move on and don’t get mad at God. Today trust that God is with you and your family no matter what. If you have not trusted him as your savior do it today. No matter what life brings your way storms can make you stronger. We hate to hear that but hang on. God is good.

PRAYER: Your Word Lord I have hidden in my heart so no matter what happens I know you can get me through. Help me stand strong and calm in the face of calamity. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Full Time Ministry

As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit-just as it has taught you, remain in him.1 John 2:27

Pastor Jentezen Franklin recently asked the question to his congregation “how many people were in full time ministry” and the answer he was looking for was “everyone”. You may not consider yourself a ‘minister’ in the sense of leading a congregation but once you leave the church building you are in your ‘mission field’ therefore in full time ministry or you should be striving for that.

Each and every day believers enter a mission field. It may be your home with your children, your neighborhood, the market, your office, or wherever you are. Church attendance is not about punching a ticket or earning pins for attendance but way more. Each of us, once we have asked Jesus to be Lord of our life,  have a huge responsibility to be his ‘hands’ and ‘feet’ and a ‘light’ for Him wherever we are. You are not to be a secret service Christian on a covert operation.

Mark 8:38 reminds us to “not be ashamed”. Take time and read the entire verse. It is easy to serve God in a Holy huddle but what about when you lose your comfort zone? Are you doing your part in full time ministry?

PRAYER:I am grateful for opportunities that cross my path to serve you. Help me use what you have blessed me with to be your hands and feet. Forgive me if I have ever made it just about ‘feeding myself’ on Sunday. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Tongue Can Set A Forest On Fire

"So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!" James 3:5

My title may sound odd to you but it is from JAMES chapter 3 in the New Testament about the dangers of that little tongue in our mouths. With the fires spreading out in several western states you can see how it does not take much for homes, businesses, cars, and forests to just vanish and leave a pile of ashes in their wake. So too the destructive power of poorly chosen words. 

Rumors are so easy to spread. Speaking even a prayer concern, if you don’t have all the details, can lead to vicious rumors. It is so much easier to not talk or to ask yourself if what you are going to say is going to benefit anyone. With the internet comes another whole host of problems when emails, texts, tweets just fly with no thought at times. Words can destroy friendships, marriages, careers, and many other things. 

So today before you text, tweet,email, call, or communicate in any fashion if there is any doubt as to if it will cause trouble to the person receiving it better let it go. Sometimes a recipient can blindside us by taking a communication the wrong way. So many things to think about. Best thing is to remember to let your mouth sing the praises of God and be kind to people. Period. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord be careful with the words that come from my mouth. Help me to think more before speaking, emailing, texting, and just try to use my mouth for your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Airplane Mode

           "Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalm 46:10

I absolutely love flying. I am not a pilot myself, the only one in the family who is not but I take my share of commercial flights and enjoy every bit of it, mostly. When you are traveling in the air if you want to keep your cell phone on it has to be in ‘airplane mode’ so as to not interfere with signals and cause problems. Airplane mode basically keeps you from getting a cell signal.

I actually love the ‘airplane modes’ of life. By this I mean the time when the phone is silent, no television is blaring, maybe just sitting outside listening to birds sing or our cows moo. A break from the norm to be still. ‘Airplane mode’ moments are good for everyone.

Is it time for you to take an ‘airplane mode’ moment and break away from the blaring disruptions in life and sit and listen to God’s voice through His word? 

PRAYER: Lord I love it when I can just be still. Being able to sit alone and open the Bible and read and grow in you. Help me schedule these times regularly and not allow the tyranny of the urgent disrupt me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Click link for a wonderful song of worship to help you rest in God:

https://youtu.be/83RK0hB4xMA

You’ve Gotta Connect

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

I had been in a funk recently when out of the blue two things happened. First I got an actual letter in the mail from a friend in Arizona. Next I got a phone call from a lady wanting advice on writing. Those two simple gestures of human contact were so meaningful and snapped me out of my stupor. 

Many things can put you on the wrong ‘road’ and one huge thing is wrong thinking. You have heard the saying ‘an idle mind is the devil’s workshop’ well there is truth in that. It is necessary to intentionally not ‘go there’ when it comes to thoughts. Your mind must be disciplined. The enemy will try to captivate you through terrible bizarre thinking and you can’t let it happen. 

Make sure you are making time for one on one with friends and put down the devices when you are with them. Our new generation I fear is not going to know how to have interpersonal relationships beyond their cellphones. Make sure you make friend time a priority as well as family time. And put down the phone when you do. I am guilty of it too. Go somewhere and just sit and be still and let God fill your thoughts.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for your human angels you send to help us when we are lonely or down and out. Help me be that angel to someone as well. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Down In The Dumps....Been There, Done That, Got The Tee Shirt

“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

Ever had a few days where you were just in a funk and couldn’t get motivated? Perhaps you would have to force yourself due to your job or mothering children or even as a homemaker. 

First let me say the robber of joy is Satan. When you realize he is the main source of getting you into self pity or unmotivated then it is essential you wake up, stand up, and take charge in Jesus’ name over wrong thoughts or feelings before they consume you. Satan loves to disable believers. 

Focus your mind on positive thoughts. Let go of senseless worry. Stay off social media. Pray for others you know who are hurting right now. Go find someone to help. Get up and get going in the name of Jesus. Get some good praise music playing to get you motivated. Now go have a great day! 

PRAYER: I know I need to turn my eyes upon you Lord and I know my hope is in you. I choose to let go of wrong thoughts that drag me away from you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link below for a peppy song of worship. https://youtu.be/LH9ciVDDi18

Stop Feeding Mind On Garbage

Finally , brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. Philippians 4:8

Below is a list of some things to do if you are having trouble getting control of your thoughts.

Let things go

Don’t dwell in pit

Stay off social media

Be thankful for who God made you to be

Stay busy

Think on things ‘above’

Stay away from bad movies and TV

That was just a small sample of simple ways to stay away from the garbage pit. Our mind is like a sponge and when you are entrenched in things that bring about wrong thinking it is easy to get ‘stuck’ and believe me the devil likes you to be stuck. 

So whatever lifts your spirits and brings joy do more of and erase junk from your life that traps you and captivates you the wrong way. 

PRAYER: Oh Lord God I want my mind to be set on you and not caving in to the culture which typically is not edifying in the least. Help me find ways to be kind to others and shine your light wherever I go. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Bread Of Life

And how from your childhood you have had a knowledge of and been acquainted with the sacred Writings, which are able to instruct you and give you the understanding for salvation which comes through faith in Christ Jesus [through the leaning of the entire human personality on God in Christ Jesus in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness]. 2 Timothy 3:15

Reading the word of God is fundamental for all ages of human beings from infant through adult. There are those who may not have a clue what to read or where to begin because they were never taught as a child. Infancy and toddlerhood is a great time to start sowing seeds of Christ into the lives of your children by reading to them. Being a Christian is not inherited.

The Bible is the bread of life. When reciting the Lord’s Prayer often times a person may not realize what it even means but when it says “Give us this day our daily bread” that can be a two fold meaning of both actual food and then the ‘bread’ in the Word. Both types of ‘bread’ are needed.

Are you getting your ‘bread’ daily? If you are a mom or dad of little ones are you feeding them ‘the bread of life’ each day through Bible stories? Grandparents you too can feed your grandchildren God’s word as well. If you aren’t filling up on God’s word then the world will easily try to suck you into it’s culture and feed you a whole different kind of ‘bread’. Your ‘daily bread’ should be right there on your bedside table so you can easily ‘feed’ on it daily.

PRAYER: Father often times I get lazy about committing to regular quiet times and then every thing else squeezes out my time with you and my time in prayer. I need to make it happen. I choose to stop being a couch potato and lethargic when it comes to knowing you better. Help me stay strong and do what is right. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Good Vibes Only

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

One day in my travels I saw a unique sign on the front door of house that read ‘Good Vibes Only’ meaning I guess if you are in a foul mood go elsewhere. I thought it was a excellent way for the homeowner/occupants of the house to let those who entered know they wanted ‘happy’ to prevail if at all possible. No grumps in other words. 

Sometimes in life it is hard to remain joyful and happy. Things in life may have gone haywire and you are trying to “give thanks in all things” but it can be tough. But alas a gloomy outlook won’t help anyone least of all yourself. Confess positive affirmative things on a regular basis whether they are occurring or not. Stay in prayer. Don’t lose hope. The enemy tries to get weapons from his tool box like suicide, anger, divorce, hopelessness, but you just have to pause and push through and recognize stuff like this is not from God, I repeat,NOT from God but straight from the pit of hell. 

No matter what you are facing today give it to God. Try to think on something that makes you smile. Call a friend who is an encourager. Above all never stop praying.

PRAYER: Oh Lord many times in life unexplainable stuff happens and makes me feel there is no way out but there is a way out and I need to hang on. Thanks for the word of God which always brings hope. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Feeling Unimportant?

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8
Every once in a while I get a case of the blues. Have you been there? I think if you are honest we can say we all have been. It may not even be for something dire happening in your life but simply a down feeling. Usually this is a sign the enemy is creeping in trying to get your self worth scale to plummet to zero. One day I just wish I was carrying a brief case managing clients in an office. Crazy I know. 

Anyway when this feeling comes over you it is necessary to nip it in the bud and quickly. You can not be very effective for the kingdom of God if you are beating up on yourself. Any wrong thinking has to be cast off and your mind has to be renewed and this is done by getting into the word of God. 

God does not make junk. There will always be people who probably don’t like you no matter how much you try to get them to. You don’t have to have a job in a corporate office or a title to be special. God thinks you’re special. Whatever it is that has got you down today tell Satan out loud that you are a child of God and He made you special so take that devil! 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for my life. I thank you for those people you have placed in my life over the years some still there and some not. I thank you for each experience for from them comes wisdom and knowledge and strength. Help me be a shining light for you and keep my chin up. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Standing In The Gap

Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. Luke 18:1

What does it mean to stand in the gap for someone in prayer??  Through a ministry I have been a part of for over 22 years now, Moms in Prayer,  I first heard this term. The ladies in the ministry ‘stand in the gap’ in prayer for our children. The word gap could mean ‘God Answers Prayer’ it was said by one of their leaders in a new book being released 7 August.

The gap could be the chasm between the real world of daily problems and God’s provision  in the lives of those you are lifting up in prayer. At times you may feel God has abandoned you or the requests you have made to him on behalf of loved ones but He has not. He hears your prayers. Keep on praying even when you do not see results.

Stand in the gap on behalf of those you love. Cry out to God. Praise him when answers come and even when there is no evidence of an answer yet. Never lose hope.

PRAYER:Your word brings me comfort Lord and I love how I can apply it when I pray for my family members. I know you are working Lord so I will faithfully continue to stand in the gap. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

#startwithpraise

Love God's Word

Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105

The word of God, the best selling book of all time. But it is way more than a symbol, coffee table decoration, good luck charm, or book of nice moral readings. It is life! In this book we learn what we need to do to stay on the course that God has prepared for us.

If the Bible were not so powerful why do so many atheists liberal groups try to banish it from the public square, the military, the school house, and hotel rooms? I will tell you why! It has the power to change lives and whether they want to admit it or not they must know something is up with it or these folks would not try so hard to do away with it.

God’s word is powerful. This country was founded on it. Our currency proudly displays ‘In God We Trust.’ Satan has people in his court who are trying to destroy the fabric of this great land and one of the things they do is to go after scripture. Love the word. Read the word. Memorize the word. You never know when you won’t be able to find a copy. Don’t take it for granted.

PRAYER: I love to hide the word in my heart so I can call it up in my memory banks when I don’t have a copy of the Bible with me. Forgive me for ever just letting it sit and gather dust. I pray for all believers to make reading it daily a priority even if only a verse or two. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Don't Dwell There

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

Has something ever captivated your thoughts so much you can’t seem to shake it and let it go? Worry over a loved one. Fear of future. Feeling of rejection. Your imagination can go wild and conjure up all sorts of junk to drag you down. You have to take control.

Don’t dwell on negative thoughts. Negative thinking is irrational at best and can really keep you defeated in your walk with the Lord. Once you have prayed and trusted God believe He has the situation and is working it out and stop fretting. Stay occupied with something else.

Today get going with positive thinking as your mantra. Choose good thoughts. Feed your mind with scripture and don’t allow the enemy to pull you into his pit.

PRAYER: I know I need to let things go that I often dwell on. I know that will not do anything but drag me into an abyss of negativity. I choose to focus on things above. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Stop Throwing Rocks

When they 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

It is easy to find fault with others but maybe not see our own. Similar to this story in Bible about woman caught in act of adultery, and Jesus response. Who are you throwing stones at? 

We humans have a way of classifying sins. Such and such sin is really bad but say maybe the sin of  lying is minor. Ouch. All sin is sin, period. And some sin has been made legal by the laws of government but it is still sin in God’s eyes. You must be careful to stop pointing a finger at others remembering three are pointed right back at you. 

Pray for others instead of judging them. Mind your own business as meddling is never good. Let the Holy Spirit bring conviction. Ask God to even reveal sinful areas in your life you may not be aware of. Remember Romans 3:23 says “We all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory.” Don’t be a stone thrower. 

PRAYER:Bring to mind things in my own life Lord that maybe separate me from you, a bad thought or habit or a sin. Help me confess these and get right with you. If I need to forgive someone help me do that as well. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

GPS/God's Positioning System

Lord, you have examined me and know all about me.You know when I sit down and when I get up. You know my thoughts before I think them.You know where I go and where I lie down. You know everything I do. Psalm 139:1-3
I believe it was Pastor Kerry Shook who I heard talking recently about never being off God’s GPS. You can get lost or misdirected in your car by faulty directions from a manmade GPS but with God he always has you. That is a great word picture. 

The verses for today expound on this. Take time read the entire chapter. There is comfort in knowing God knew us even in our mother’s womb. There are no accidents. He has a plan and purpose for every soul whether they acknowledge Him or not.

Even now wherever you are sitting or standing God is watching you. Naysayers would blow that comment off but it is true. He is the Almighty after all. You are in His thoughts and He loves you immensely. Just think about that today as you go hither and thither doing things you have to do. God is right there and you are not lost. 

PRAYER: I am thankful for being on your GPS Lord and that you care about me even if I feel the world abandoned me. I choose to press forward and trust you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.