What Are You Enslaved To?

Now the LORD is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the LORD is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17

Do any of these hold you captive:Fear, burdens, disappointments, rejection, others opinions of you? Many can be enslaved without actually being behind bars.

Right now the enslavement for many is the paralyzing fear of catching Covid 19. Some are so fearful they can’t hardly live a semi normal life as they look for germs around every corner. Don’t get me wrong, I know all about pre existing conditions and age factors but my age is not causing me to be fearful and I am in the ‘zone’. I have peace from God. This doesn’t mean I ignore warnings and don’t do anything but simply that I have perfect peace. 

My friend you have to be able to laugh. I was misinterpreted on a Facebook post early on for making light of this ‘shut in time’ comparing it to a ‘snow day’ simply meaning it was super quiet outside not that I thought we should all go out and play. After that she took offense and I was unfriended. Offense is a tool the enemy uses, even with Christians, to cause division. Talk to God, stay off social media and spend time in prayer and thanksgiving and give your burdens to the Lord. 

PRAYER: Oh Lord I pray for those who are suffering from Covid 19 but I also pray for fearful people to give their concerns to you, turn off bad news, and trust God. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Note: click link for a song of worship to help burdens be lighter.https://youtu.be/DaRRDfSlYr0

Recycled America

And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.Matthew 24:14

Nobody ever could have imagined the scenario we are slowly emerging from here in America and other places in the world where a virus originating on foreign soil makes its’ way into the safe harbor of these United States and starts to do major damage.Was it intentional? Some say yes. Never the less it has happened and there are differing opinions of course. Adjustments have been needed at least for the time being. 

 It is similar to being  put in the spin cycle on your washing machine and spun around then out you come a little wrinkled until you get fluffed up again. A recycling of sorts. This emergence period hopefully is a time you can appreciate the beauty of freedom. You can look at the Red, White, and Blue of our US flag and truly appreciate those who fought to defend liberty. 

So in this recycling  have you learned anything new? Will you change the way you have done things? Do you appreciate what you maybe took for granted much more? Did you pray and stay close to God? It is a wake up call for many. The church rose to the occasion and held unique services online, on zoom, in parking lots, even preaching fro a rooftop at Victory in Tulsa. The enemy can not keep us down. So look for good ways to reach out and let the new recycled you live a life worthy of honor and bring glory to God.

PRAYER: Father God I thank you for my health. I thank you for friends. I thank you for communication. I thank you for hearing my prayer. Thank you for protecting me and my family and showing us new ways to adapt. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Lilies of the Field

“So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, hoe they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” Matthew 6:28-29

“Trust me, trust me” The Lord says. “I know that Lord but I am having a hard time being still, please help me” you utter back in a feeble attempt to remain focused and peaceful.

What are you waiting for friend? You prayed right? Many times perhaps and others even joined in agreement with you. What is going on and what is God trying to teach me? “Get your mind off yourself” you mumble under your breath.

I am not sure what you may be going through today, what you are trusting God for or maybe you may be having one of those days the enemy tries to sideline you and take your focus off of the King of Kings but stop where you are right now and stand up and say “I can do this Lord. Thanks for having my back. Forgive my doubting and worry.” Now charge on in faith and go have a wonderful day knowing the Lord has a plan.

PRAYER: It is easy to get in a slump when I am having one of those days Lord and to start caving into doubt and starting to have a lack of faith. Forgive me Lord and I choose to stay focused. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Worry, Fear, Oh My!

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

Are you fearful about our current situation scared of ending up in the hospital or on a respirator because you focus on worst case scenarios? Guess what, fear and worry are tools of the enemy. God is for you friend remember that. Stop entertaining ‘what if’s’. 

Do you believe good stuff can come out of a bad situation? Well it can and will. If all you do is watch nightly news or continue to run to your computer news feeds before anything else, of course your stomach will be in knots. You can not read bad things and it not affect you. 

Purpose today you can give up a need to know the morning news every day. Leave it off! Instead of reading news feeds start subscribing to daily devotions and read scriptures and pray to get your day started. Don’t dwell on the coronavirus or you will do nothing else but be scared. 

PRAYER: Father help me to be a joyful witness in this time of doom and gloom. Use me to bring gladness instead of heaviness. Help me separate from people who are pessimists and try to drag me along with them. Help my speech reflect the glory of God and not the cares of the world. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

What’s Good About It?

“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

Is this Covid 19 lockdown a blessing or a curse? Depends on how you look at it. 

I engaged a couple on our town track in conversation, 6 feet apart of course, and was at first just going to say hello and keep walking passing them but then I decided once they said “nothing good is happening out of this time of quarantine“ that I would slow my pace and chit chat. Turns out they had just moved from Nashville so I guess I could say I was a welcome wagon ambassador of sorts. 

Friend you never know when God is calling you to impact or make a footprint for the kingdom in someone’s life. Had I sped ahead I would not have had this chance to plant a seed of hope in their hearts. I hope I did. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus it is easy to lose hope when you find yourself immersed in a negative hopeless world. Use me Lord to share joy and peace for those whose lives are impacted more by this time of being closed off. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

God Is Up To Something

“But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14

What is going on in our world? Is this a shaking of sorts to get our attention?When we have no time for God, for people, for love then voila, all sense of control is lost and natural man wanders around trying to figure it out. 

Unfortunately due to many people having tons of time and being cooped up without employment they may relegate to surfing the internet and possibly believing all they see. God is doing something my friend and he is going to show up in a big way. It is not something to be scared of. 

My prayer is many will come to seek Jesus during this time. Also my prayer is for Americans to realize just how good they have had it, spoiled in a way. God wants to hear from you. He hates being ignored and sometimes allows things to bring us to our knees. So what do you think? 

PRAYER: Oh God in Heaven I cry out to you. Forgive me for my complacency of not making any time in my busy schedule for you. Oh Lord teach me to be still and to be humble to let go of my desire to control. Use me as your instrument to sow peace during this confusing time. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

In Despair?

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Everyone has been in despair and this junk happening now with a new normal for now certainly only adds to possible despair and sadness. 

You could be in despair over all sorts of stuff. Loss of income, sickness, not being able to have human contact, family things going on in addition to the chaos surrounding this pandemic scare.

I have to admit I have had some rough moments and it is necessary to really get control of your thinking. Think on all the good things you are blessed with and how God is working even when you may not feel it. Don’t stop praying. Press on! 

PRAYER: Oh Lord thank you for the gift of friends who are only a call away. Help me Lord not entertain self pity which is an endless pit and goes nowhere. Instead show me people who need a touch from you now and help me act. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link and take time to listen to this song of worship:

https://youtu.be/n4XWfwLHeLM

Keep Climbing And Smiling

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

Years ago I worked for Delta Air Lines and their motto then was ‘Good Goes Around’ and now in 2020 it is ‘Keep Climbing’ and I thought I would borrow it to encourage you today. 

When the going gets tough you have to get even tougher. When you face large obstacles you can choose to quit or press on and charge ahead. ‘Take that hill’ the infantry 

commander might say. The point being quitting is never supposed to be an option. With God’s help you can forge ahead.

What do you feel like giving up on now? Life? Family? Friend? Job? Marriage? You know feelings of defeat and discouragement are real emotions but they  originate with  Satan and He would love to use the anxiety of coronavirus to make you react in a stupid way. Stop now and pray. Tell God what is bothering you. Get rid of any wrong thinking that has creeped in. Purpose to run hard and fast to the cross of Christ!

 PRAYER: Dear Jesus I love you and I thank you for good times and not so good ones as they teach me I need you every hour and I can not do life without you. Forgive me for any wrong thinking and give me strength to charge ahead with a renewed hope. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Honesty The Best Policy



The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. Proverbs 11:3

Veering off course from Covid craziness for a bit let me talk about honesty and integrity. When you receive too much change do you keep it or give it back? Easy answer for honorable people. How about when it is in reverse and bank could have kept money you forgot to count and put on deposit slip but they didn’t. Always do the right thing.

Cheating never is a good route to take, and while we are on the subject neither is lying, fraud, ‘white’ lies, speeding which is breaking laws, and stealing even things like the use of company copier for private use like your Sunday school lesson.

Set yourself apart from others by taking the ‘high road’ and being honorable in what you say and do with people looking or not.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for parents who guided me to do the right thing. I pray for the less fortunate who had parents who really didn’t care like the parents who toss litter from a car window thus setting a poor example. Use me as a mentor or example to those in my circle of influence. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Socially Distanced From The Door To Heaven?

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For  everything in the world-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:15-17

This shut in time and mandatory shelter in place for many has helped them get projects done, clean clutter, and ponder life in general. For those who never had a relationship with Jesus before either it has drawn them closer to thinking about it or created an angry divide.

No one could have fathomed this era of our lifetime except the Almighty. Perhaps He is using it to get your attention, ever think about that? None of this took God by surprise. Everything you thought you could control you really couldn’t and hopefully you are able to admit that.

There is more to knowing God than knowing ‘about’ him like from Sunday school, confirmation classes, or other forms of ‘religious’ practices. Revival in your heart is what is needed. Maybe that will mean breaking away from what you are used to like denominational adoration more than Jesus adoration. It is my prayer during this time of stillness you can truly be still and think about what God may be trying to accomplish during this time.

PRAYER: Lord God there was a time I was an ‘infant’ and thought I knew  you but really I had only a denominational knowledge and no real passion. I pray for people during this time of confinement at home to ponder what it means to love God and seek Him with their whole heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Unsubscribing And Settling Down

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.Psalm 51:10

Our mobile devices can be a blessing as well as a curse. The bombardment of all kinds of mail, some good and some not so good, can make a person weary. You have to break away not only from the device every now and then, yes, to include Candy Crush Saga lovers, but you have to push away the distractions that take time for more important things like human contact. 

During the last 3 months of house confinement due to the pandemic hopefully you took the time to do things like house projects, organizing, getting rid of stuff, and the all important family time. This time of purging and recreating life in a new mode for now could also include purging files both paper and electronic. Somehow it gives a person a sense of freedom to be able to break away from unnecessary clutter of any type. 

As life slowly returns to normal, maybe with a few changes for now, just ponder what things you have gained from this time and how you might do some things differently. Even though an email from a group may contain valuable info it is not mandatory you read and engage every one of them. Settle down, unsubscribe, kick back and give thanks. 

PRAYER:Father thanks for my life. Thanks for the things I have learned during this highly unorthodox time. I want to be a blessing to others so use me Lord to help another break away from things dragging them down. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Understanding, Figuring It All Out

As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things. Ecclesiastes 11:5

My husband made the comment recently he felt like he was stuck on a sandbar with nothing happening primarily over the selling of our farm and seeming lack of interest in all things farm. It is discouraging but when we and others prayed and believe God has this, He does. The discouragement monster often rears its’ ugly head.

Have you been there? Maybe you are there now? You feel trapped, stuck, can’t see how things will change and really don’t know what to do? Covid 19 lock in certainly added fuel to the already blazing fire. God has not abandoned you friend.

Don’t second guess your prayers or why things are happening a certain way. Many unusual situations are occurring now due to a strange time in our normally happy go lucky lives and after a while it becomes tiring. All I can say is continue praying and don’t allow Satan to throw you curve balls and cause you to give up or have doubts. Run your race to win!

PRAYER: Father I thank you first for the gift of life and all the blessings in my life especially my family. I thank you for freedom, for money to spend, and for having an abundance compared to many other nations. I am grateful and will wait for your timing on prayers. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Trying To Figure Stuff Out

Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways!Romans 11:33 NLT

Here in America our problems are what my younger son calls ‘First World Problems’ compared to the rest of the world. For instance, oh no Covid 19 caused me to have gray roots, or I can’t worship inside my church. 

Sometimes you may try to reason and figure out why things happen and why a certain prayer has not been answered yet or why God isn’t working faster. Whoops then you could end up being angry or doubting God.Trying to figure out the ways of the Almighty not recommended yet many do it.

Whatever it is you are trying to understand and wonder what is going on stop wasting brain cells on it and trust in God’s plan and your prayers. Continue to keep your mind focused on ‘things above’ and keep distractions that cause you emotional turmoil away. Pray and press in to God. 

PRAYER: Father forgive me for the times I wanted to control the outcome of something or tell you what to do. Also for the times I complained about my puny problems in the big scheme of things they aren’t that awful. I trust you and wait for your timing which is perfect. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Power of Words Revisited

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

Words can heal or words can destroy. Words can cheer up or they can make someone sad. Words can show kindness or they can wound. Words can share joy or invoke sorrow.

Nowadays words come from so many sources due to social media and the instantaneous deliverance of them through the ‘air’. You may have felt a knot in your stomach when you texted something private to the wrong person. Just have to slow down and then own up to it as no way to get it back. Let’s say you hear gossip about you and we probably all have. That stabs us in the gut. A range of emotions and damage control go into motion.

Words range from praise, teaching, loving, gossip, hatred, lies, rumors, and so much more. The words come from our mouth which the Bible talks about the tongue not being able to be tamed. Oh friend it is so very crucial if you are a follower of Christ that you try to get a grip on this area and when in doubt to wait 24 hours to see if you would still say what you did. Ask God to reign over your tongue, lips, and vocal cords.

PRAYER:Lord Jesus help me to be careful what I say or text. Help me be careful and think before communicating and make sure stuff is going to the right person. Help me never be guilty of telling rumors or gossip. Help me Lord to use you as my filter of sorts. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Peace Be With You



The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; Lamentations 3:22

I have been to churches in the past where it has been recited “peace be with you” and the response “and also with you” and in my opinion this is something to keep in mind daily as we go about the day. Big issues, small issues, regardless. Stay peaceful.  

No matter what the circumstance or issue don’t try to overthink things as it can make you miserable. Keep your focus on things ‘above’ and do not allow the flesh and the world’s problems to get you in a tizzy. You were made for peace and if you are a follower of Christ, as salt and light. Don’t try to look into the future but pray and let your focus be on the present. 

What is weighing on you heart today? Maybe it is time to take a prayer walk and simply talk to God. Try to maintain the joy of the Lord. Cast off junk you have no business entertaining in your thoughts that will only give you ulcers, gray hairs, and drag you down. See if you can maintain this on a daily basis. Keep being positive no matter what is swirling around you. Don’t speculate but instead meditate on the word of God. Now go have a blessed and profitable day!

PRAYER: I am so grateful for peace. When I get caught up in wanting to cave in to anxiety and fear help me remember Lord you are with me and your angels watch over me and my family. I thank you that you can use me better for the kingdom when I stay peaceful. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Heart And Mouth Disease

For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. (Matthew 12:34 NIV)

There are many verses in the Bible about what comes out of your mouth is usually what is in your heart. In other words what you are feeling and thinking can come from a heart of love or a heart of hate, a heart of joy or a heart full of bitterness. 

So how do you keep your heart pure? First by focusing on things ‘above’ and feed your mind on God’s word each and every day, and don’t neglect getting fed on Sunday as well in order to get a good dose of Jesus’ for the week ahead. 

You usually will act like what you take into your ears and eyes. So you have a steady diet of nothing but secular TV you won’t have much room in your heart for ‘things above’.  It has to be a priority to study God’s word. The more you read the more you will be transformed. So what do you say? 

PRAYER: I want to do what is necessary to have good thinking and a pure heart. A heart overflowing with peace and joy. I pray for anyone I know who needs to get infused with the Holy Spirit to return joy and love to their hearts. Help me never think I have ‘arrived’ but continually press in to learning more. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Turn Off The News!



“The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace,Because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3

By turning off the news you are not ignoring reality but you are choosing to get rid of distracting  stuff that is happening and therefore cleansing your mind of mostly doomsday and fear scenarios. How can a person maintain peace if he or she is on pins and needles worried about dying? 

All this nonstop needing to know things in our world today is really not that good for your emotional or spiritual health. Instead of tanking up daily on a need to know why not fill up with the Word of God! Satan sure wants you to not read the Bible. Don’t let him be the victor but you take control with the help of the Holy Spirit and intentionally think good things. 

This may be a challenge for those whose normal life is waking up, getting the morning paper, and turning on the news. Try keeping the TV off. Start with prayer. If weather permits sit outside where it is quiet and just talk to God. Leave your mobile devices in the house. Why do you need to be constantly available anyway? Give it a rest and see if you aren’t rested as well. 

PRAYER: I know Satan is the one behind disease and sickness and fear. I choose this day to keep my eyes focused on you and discipline my mind as well to be peaceful. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Financial Wellness Versus Spiritual Wellness

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 1 Timothy 6:17

Is it my imagination or does money seem to concern a majority of the Western society? During the Covid 19 an essential business apparently in my state was buying lottery tickets. Kind of like the dream of instant riches with no labor involved. 

In our Capitalistic society everyone has a chance to succeed. Some it may take longer. Those who are successful financially should not trust in their money cause as we saw at the beginning of this Coronavirus the stock market plummeted and thus many persons nest egg.  

My friend don’t be fearful of the loss of money but believe in God who is bigger and greater than all your problems in life. Work hard, save wisely, by all means tithe and be a giver but at the end of the day Jesus is your only hope. 

PRAYER: Almighty God creator of the universe, thank you for all my financial blessings and the things I learn when money goes away. Help me to always be a giver no matter what financial state I am in. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Pray....How Long?

“Pray without ceasing.” 1Thessalonians 5:17

On Thursday 7 May the United States observed The National Day of Prayer. For those uncomfortable with prayer it is hard to imagine being excited about prayer or wanting to do it all day. Many have never really been taught that prayer is just talking to God. 

I pray for God to revive his people and that mankind can be consumed with the passionate love of Jesus. To go beyond ‘religion’ and have a personal relationship with Jesus and be infused with the Holy Spirit. 

Today and every day not just on National Day of Prayer we lift up our President and those in government. Prayer goes out for revival in our nation and for supernatural deliverance from the power of darkness that has permeated America. We lift up our service members who defend our freedom and shield them and their families while they are separated. Let the power of Christ sweep over our land and heal divisions. 

PRAYER: I am grateful I get to pray not have to pray. Pray should not be forced but should come from a joyful heart that sincerely loves the Lord. I pray for those who may not feel this kind of love to cone to know Him and be set free. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Time Out Chair

Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:7-8

Many parents use the ‘time out chair’ for disciplining their children. I think God has sort of put we adults in our own time out chair of sorts to help us learn things during this very strange uncomfortable Covid 19 lock in. 

Back in late 2019 when this strange new virus descended on America I had not heard much about it and to think something like the bubonic plague was hitting our otherwise safe nation was hard to grasp. To imagine it could disrupt life as we know it was unfathomable. Being ordered to stay inside and closing non essential places was difficult for freedom loving healthy people. 

I am sure you can attest to this past 8 weeks of confinement you have probably adapted and gained something from it.  In other words the bad partly became good. Gratitude for freedom is one thing for sure. Getting to go for a haircut. Eating out and going to a favorite movie. Just not being able to be in church in person and hugging friends was a big adjustment. But the end is near. States are starting to open up and people are getting on their feet again. So your time out is about to conclude. Draw from it and carry away a host of new ideas to do life a bit differently. 

PRAYER: Sometimes during this closed in time I felt like screaming.  I am grateful for having freedom and being in a prosperous nation with good health care teams. As we come out of our time out help people be drawn closer to you and help us take away good things to help others. In Jesus’ name.Amen.

Note: I want to thank Marilyn Merkel for giving me the idea for this title whether she knows it or not. 

Life Is STILL Good

This is the day the Lord has made we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24


Back in 1994 when the Jacobs brothers had $78 to their name and started the idea of their character ‘Jake’ to spread optimism they sold their then handmade tee shirts  from back of the van they lived in. Thus the company ‘Life is Good’ was eventually a household name. 

Did you realize here in 2020 you can still spread optimism and who knows maybe there will spring up another profitable company out of hard times. Life is STILL good, very good, don’t ever forget that. Sometimes it takes being down to get set free and lifted up. 

Whatever you are experiencing emotionally, physically, financially or spiritually talk to God. Praying isn’t a big fancy formal practice but simple conversation although many aren’t used to that. Try it. He is your friend. Pour out your heart to him. Make a daily time alone with God a priority before anything else. Know that these times we are in will pass. Hang on my friend. Life will be good again! 

PRAYER: Father God I thank you for hearing my prayers. Thanks for this beautiful earth. Thanks for freedom. Thanks that you work through doctors, scientists, nurses, and researchers to help eradicate Covid 19. I praise you for what you are doing. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

How Is Your Hope Meter?

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” 1 Peter 1:3

With our current very abnormal existing situation in the US and around the world sometimes this lack of control creates the inability to hope and trust. Maybe you feel disjointed in a way and just don’t have the energy to keep pushing through this. You have to. This is going to make you stronger. 

Number one, God is still on the throne. Number two, he hears your prayers. Number three, this is a very small issue in the big scheme of things. 

Are you able to get up daily full of hope regardless of the situation? Are you bemoaning your ‘plight’ or are you figuring out ways to be joyful and hopeful through this unusual time? Don’t let go of the rope! 

PRAYER: Another day of living in a current new normal. Help me Lord not worry about the future and if this condition is going to be forever but help me lean in to you and trust that you have a plan for a great and glorious outcome. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Don't Be Socially Distanced From God

Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. James 4:8

It would be an understatement to say the past almost three months now has been so out of the ordinary for freedom loving people. To be told by the government and medical community we had to act a certain way and also where we could and could not go was a little unnerving. Some accepted it with no questions but others who yearn for their freedom were wound tight. 

During this time there have been good  things occur. Families bonding at home, communicating more, playing games, discovering things. But for others the loss of income was a bit much when you could not understand why it had to happen in the first place. Never the less we are told now to stay socially distanced from those strangers and friends we dearly love and want to hug so bad. Why? I am not scared. Hugging is good for the soul. Wash your hands too was repeated over and over and over. Enough already. 

At the time this occurred new ways of doing things had to happen and so business owners, school system heads,  and pastors of churches had to do things a bit different. During this social distancing you never want to be distanced from God. This is s time to press in and get to know Him better. I am quite sure many who never even attended a church in person before this have done so now online. What have you done to get closer to the Almighty during this shut in time?

PRAYER; Father I am sorry when there have been days I have gotten angry over what is going on. Help me instead find ways to reach out to those that are alone during this or find creative ways to love my neighbors. I want to know you better and help me not get distracted from digging into your word on a daily basis. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Classic Jesus

And many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. Matthew 24:11-12

For those of us who never grew up with technology sometimes certain things can be challenging. Even on 'blogger’ they changed things up to the point sometimes it is difficult to find the way to post the blog. But here is a button at the bottom of the screen that says 'return to classic blogger'. Whew thank goodness this baby boomer says. 

Reminded me of how people can grow up in a certain denomination afraid of change and maybe it is their way or the highway and it could be all along it is more of a denominational love than it is a love for Jesus. I even heard someone say once in reference to the King James Bible "if it was good enough for Jesus it is good enough for me", say what? 

Basically maybe there are those of you who need to go beyond 'classic Jesus' and dive into the word and hear his voice. Don't let his voice be drowned out by grandmas' religion, growing up a certain way, or the devotion to a denomination of man made rules.Seek to really know and go beyond the classic Jesus. Don't let your love for Jesus grow cold because you don't want to seek Him with your whole heart. This may mean changing churches. Whatever it is do you truly feel in love with the savior to the point you want to lift your arms in the air and sing his praises? That is probably how we will be doing it in Heaven I would think. 

PRAYER: Many man made things can seem good but indeed don't really follow Jesus 100%. Convict those needing a change in their walk with the Lord it may be time to find a church where they can grow and go beyond what they think it means to be a Christian. Many times many people may think it is just being an American. Draw me closer to you . In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Practice What You Preach

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12

"Okay so I caved in, what of it?" Has this happened to you  where you know what to do and how to walk as a believer and you daily soak up the word so your heart does not run on empty for the day but yet stuff happens to put things to the test and voila you are tested. It happens. It will continue to happen. That is how God grows us. 

Are you faithful in prayer? I mean really. Do you tell someone you will pray then totally forget it and blow it off whether by accident or what? Does saying, "I will pray for you" become just a phrase that casually slips out of your mouth of do you in fact pray?Do you have and maintain hope amidst hard life situations even when it seems the outcome may not be what humanly you desire for now. What about being afflicted? 

Yes it can be tough to understand why certain things are happening and the tendency would be to blame God. Why are we in the midst of a global pandemic? Even though God does not cause it He can use it. Why? Why do bad things happen to good people? You know this life is very temporary and for those who asked Jesus into their hearts and live for Him a glorious home in Heaven awaits. Know that you are growing stronger through having to be patient so hang in there. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus Forgive me when I whine and complain about my 'plight' knowing I really have it pretty good. Help me be faithful in prayer and talk to you throughout the day. Strengthen me to do your kingdom work. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

           #nationaldayofprayer2020   #Nationaldayofprayer

Running Of The Bulls

“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matthew 6:34

Now I have a bucket list but doing the running of the bulls in Spain is not on it.  This annual event which I think is just men running anyway reminded me of what it might be like when the confines of 'Shelter in Place' are lifted and you and I can finally go somewhere other than the gas station, restaurant drive thru line, or grocery store. I say Yippee! This scenario of bulls running was so appropriate as I thought of a stampede of joyful citizens ready to get out of their cages. 

Are you ready? There are still many so fearful that they can not fathom letting possible cooties float through society unchecked. But we in the United States are a free citizenry for the most part and staying in place for some has been a challenge.Granted many things have been learned during this time and I must admit it was not all that bad but I for one was ready to fly the coop. Release the kraken as they say!

But the time has come to test the freedom waters again and trust God to lead you and direct you. Fear is never the way to go it is the plan of the enemy to stifle you and keep you bound up and sick at heart. Go forth from this day forward and be a Christian witness to the world and use common sense learned during this time but go ahead and enjoy your life and share your joy with others. 

PRAYER: Lord God I am so grateful for the Covid 19 losing it's grip on society. I still pray for those researchers looking for a vaccine and a cure. But in the meantime freedom is what we are used to and I pray for those I may know who are too scared to do anything for fear of dying or ending up sick. The worse that can happen is you end up in Heaven, But Lord God I know you have a plan and you will watch over your creation when we use wisdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Distracted By Sin

"Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;” Hebrews 11:25
Many things can draw you into sinful behavior. The enemy often times makes sin appear attractive, modern, deceptive, and innocent. Even at times making it seem legal and accepted by society therefore okay. But anyone who is a student of the Bible knows first that ALL have sinned and fallen short of God's glory as it says in Romans 3:23. It is when a person knows he is doing wrong and continues, that problems ensue. 

Satan wants you and I to take the bait and compromise what we know to be right to trick us that what we are engaging in is not that bad.  Also never get into a self righteous attitude that so and so's sin is worse than yours. There is not some hierarchy of sin in the kingdom of God. Never get to the point you feel smug and think you have it made or you could just stumble into the pit, and the enemy lays out lots of traps for us. 

The Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 serve as a guideline for living a virtuous moral Christian life. Follow them and you are pretty much in the right mindset.  A person who is being led by the Holy Spirit knows and is convicted of sin in his or her life. I don't need to list all the things here as you probably have somewhat of an idea. Each and every day ask for God to protect you from the tricks of the enemy and to convict you of any wrong thing you may be engaging in. Like the children's song "Be careful little eyes what you see" there is so much we adults can still gain from that. 

PRAYER: Father forgive me if I have ever acted in a haughty or self righteous manner like sin is far from me because the enemy is always spreading traps for believers and nonbelievers alike. I pray for my family members to recognize good from evil and run far and fast from anything that could take them away from fellowship with you. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Slipped Again...It’s Ok

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.1 Timothy 6:17

If you are blessed enough to have money invested in the stock market you probably have felt like singing the ‘blues’ these past couple months. Putting fear into the heart of mankind is a sure way to get the Wall Street in a panic. But God is way bigger than the New York Stock Exchange, who do you trust?

Instead of focusing on earthly news reports that has nothing to do with your walk with the Lord or future in Heaven why not seriously make a point to act like a child of God and know He is going to take care of you. He is your security. You don’t need to trust in man made things at all. God has your back.

Fear paralyzes people and makes them do things they otherwise would not. Guess who the author of fear is? Satan. He kills joy, steals peace, creates terror and panic. If you are feeling overwhelmed get back to the word of God which should be your only source during these strange times.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I admit to freaking out when I noticed all our savings in 401k taking a nose dive but then I realize you are the one I needed to trust in not the almighty bank or stocks. You are my provider. Thanks for peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Children Can Disappoint

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Ephesians 1:3

As I walked a trail recently I observed an interaction between a toddler child having a mini tantrum  to her father. He was calm and dealt with this best he could in public but it made me think of our Heavenly Father. You spout off too sometimes and God doesn’t say “that’s it you are no longer my child” but loves you unconditionally. He is full of grace. 

Just think of the father child relationship. Some reading may have been wounded by fathers or had absentee dads or maybe never knew who your father even was. Fathers are so important in the development of a child’s well being and if you are a dad don’t take this role or responsibility lightly. 

Even though children may have their ‘moments’ in their development they sure are a huge blessing. Those who are blessed to be parents will attest to this I am sure. Even though times of discipline are bound to occur you as a believer are disciplined by your Heavenly Father in order to grow up to be fit for the kingdom. Your abba Father daddy loves you. 

PRAYER: I am grateful for things I learned when I was disciplined by my parents. I pray for those reading this today who may have been hurt by parents or a parent was not there when they needed them. Heal wounds and be their daddy. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

I Am Essential...So Are You!

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.Matthew 19:29-31

Many new words have been added to our vocabulary during this current crisis. Social distancing, respiratory particles, shelter in place and essential people. Aren’t we all essential? In God’s eyes yes we are. 

Every person has worth and value in the kingdom of God. He has gifted each of you. Your purpose is not just to be born and suck up air and occupy space but to contribute. 

In a crisis there are all sorts of ways to be valuable but you can be essential with or without a pandemic in progress. Every body has a reason for being created. Do you know what yours is yet? 

PRAYER: I thank you that I was born. I want to use my gifts for the kingdom. Help me not feel like what I do is not essential as it is in the big scheme of things. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

The Fiery Furnace Is Ablaze...Ouch

“I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” Jeremiah 32:27

Most everyone probably knows about the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendego being thrown into a fiery furnace yet not harmed as God protected them. It is found in Daniel chapter 3. They refused to bow down to the king of Babylon so their punishment was the fire. No one expected to see not one hair on their bodies even harmed. 

Do you feel you are in a fiery furnace of sorts now with this lockdown, stay in place, Covid 19 thing? Granted you are not in a burning pit with flames surrounding you but it may seem you are being consumed with unreasonable restrictions. Maybe you wonder  what’s next and when can you have your freedom back. 

God has you and He has this situation. This is a good time to get closer to the Lord and not bemoan you’re temporary inconveniences. There is an end coming to this so your furnace will be extinguished sooner or later. Don’t get angry at God but trust Him in this confusion. 

PRAYER: This is not the same thing as the three guys in the furnace who refused to deny God so potentially faced their death but this is a big trial. Help me Lord succeed in keeping myself sane, stable, and secure in you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.