Give Me A Break!

 

Do not owe anyone anything, except to love one another, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.Romans 13:8

Doesn’t the title today wreak of a sarcastic comment someone may make when they are fed up with something or feel like they are mistreated?It certainly doesn’t reflect love. 

Do you feel you deserve a break from constant nagging, irritating people, rude clerks, little petty annoyances?  Instead of feeling like the high and lofty one and treating others with disrespect stop for a moment and simply give thanks.  

Today’s verse speaks of loving one another, period. Maybe it is time if you suffer from treating others poorly to first be aware of it and second to go and ask forgiveness or don’t do it in the first place. Why not try to end this month by being kind even when you would rather scream. 

PRAYER: Once again Lord our mouth which is a valuable asset can also turn into a weapon when it is used to degrade or demoralize others. Convict anyone reading if they need help in this area and help pray for those I may know who are unaware of this trait. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Relaxed Contentment

Surely the Lord God does nothing, Unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets.A lion has roared! Who will not fear? The Lord has spoken! Who can prophesy? Amos 3:1

I am writing this devotion on the anniversary of the horrific Islamic terror attack on America and was thinking how to many, especially survivors of the towers and family and friends left behind, it is always a fresh wound. But have you  become complacent once again even during Covid or are you vigilant and realizing it is not time to relax?

As Covid rules continue it has become a 2020 we will never forget. Take a step back and see how there has been a slow drift back to political correctness apparently not remembering what happened that day. We become like a frog on a stove in a pan of cold water and slowly the heat is turned up till the frog is cooked and dead.

Friend as a believer it is necessary to stay in the word and on your knees whether you feel like it or not. Find a good life giving Christian radio station to listen to during your day. Keep off the news and pray for the news media. Prayer walk wherever you can for your neighborhood, schools, city leaders, and even pray for misguided Anti-fa and Black Lives Matters protestors. God is on the throne. He does not want us to just live for ourselves but to stay engaged and prayerful.

 PRAYER: I am so glad I know God is still on the throne. Help those I know not forget the lessons of 9-11-2001 and stay vigilant pursuing freedom and democracy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Burden Carrier??

  

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

Hey friend how you doing in what I wish were the home stretch of Covid 19? It’s been tough, scary, sad, and confusing. 

Don’t be afraid to go to counseling. Don’t be afraid to confide in a trusted friend. These last few months for the Western world have been surreal for sure. Deaths have occurred but the freedom we have been used to us been partially removed. 

Good news! God is on the throne. He is Almighty, Sovereign, Invincible. There is nothing to fear. I recommend as I frequently 

do to keep the network news off which adds fuel to the already emotional fire. Newspapers too. The only headline you need to know is ‘God Loves You.’ Help others and therefore help yourself. 

PRAYER: I am so thankful that God has me and this Covid did not take Him by surprise. Thank you for carrying my burdens daily. I lift up anyone who is struggling to have peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

When You Are In A Hole Stop Digging

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Proverbs 18:21

I have my husband to thank for this title. Talking about not a physical hole but one maybe caused by your words. Stop, put the shovel down and give it to God.

Time to trust God and not your own self efforts to change things. Your words have you backed into a corner and the only thing left is for you to turn to God. 

What have you ended up in a hole over? Talking too much at wrong time. Not waiting for God’s timing. Thinking you alone can resolve a situation.Whatever it is time to be still, be calm, put down the phone, pick up a journal to record your thoughts , and read your Bible and pray. 

PRAYER: Lord I come to you for a renewed heart and the ability to turn off the flow from my mouth when it is only hurting me and digging me deeper. I trust you to be the healer and deliverer over things I have messed up. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Pipe In Some Christian Praise Songs To Riot Zones

 

I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done.Psalm 9:1

Music has power and Christian music even more power.  When watching the latest attack on our brave law enforcement officers in LA I was thinking what if we got some loud speakers and piped in some awesome praise and worship music and see if anyones'  heart would be changed or would anyone walk away, would anyone repent and give their lives to Jesus?

It is hard to be ugly with praise and worship going on. To silence evil you have to do good. Do you ever wonder if these rioters even have a concept of evil or if Satan has tricked them to get people on his side? 

My friend don’t stoop to ugliness too on social media but seriously lift up these hurting lost souls who need a savior. Ask God to intervene to guard those who protect us often at the expense of their own lives. 

PRAYER:I need you Lord each and every day. Surround me with peace to be able to pray for hurting people trying to hurt others. Help me Lord to pick up your word instead of the remote control. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for a song of praise.https://www.bing.com/search?q=above+all+power+song&form=EX0023&PC=APPL&shtp=GetUrl&shid=971e12d0-4da8-4240-80af-09d6d22e716d&shtk=QUJPVkUgQUxMIGJ5IE1pY2hhZWwgVyBTbWl0aCBMeXJpY3M%3D&shdk=VmlkZW8gY29weXJpZ2h0IFlvdXR1YmUgVXNlciBJRCBib2JmNzI0NTAu&shhk=cDXvnX%2BrYbCxL8TfZmYxemquImbuWZ5GwszI4a7u%2FZw%3D&shth=OSH.V%252BNGjjDMWIPcnlnmncOuJw

Ouch! Stop Those Ugly Words!

 

For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:37

Words can make or break a person and everyone has fallen short at one time or another in the way they talk. Cussing, name calling, lying, arguing, gossip, verbal abuse, bullying, ridicule are some negative forms of speech and praise, kindness, affirmations, love, and encouragement would be in the positive kind.

There is a verse in James that asks the question can salt and fresh water both come from same stream and then goes on to say neither should good and bad words flow from a believers mouth.(See James 3:10-12). Believers need to constantly be overflowing with the fruit of the Spirit and get into the Bible to fill your tank with good things. If your tank isn’t full of good things and you follow the ways of the world more than the ways of God naturally you may slip up.No one is perfect except God.

My friend if you have belittled someone or said words maybe your human side said deserved ill treatment then you need to muster up the courage to ask for forgiveness. Don’t use your mouth as a weapon but to sing praises to the most high God.

PRAYER: Father it is so hard to control my tongue at times abs so easy to get mad at someone who belittled me with their mouth either directly or through social media. Help my words by few and let them bring glory to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Start A Good Habit

 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverancethe race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1

What is it you at procrastinating about? Scheduling a daily quiet time.Exercise. Learning a new skill. Cooking healthier. Finding a life giving church home. Making friends. 

Every good habit takes about 21 days to have it locked in your brain. You have to commit and be intentional about what your goal is. Wishing it into existence won’t work.  Say it is knowing God better and committing to daily quiet time. The simple fact of going to church one hour doesn’t cut it for intimacy with the Savior. 

Start in the New Testament reading Matthew. A couple chapters a day. There are many online Bible studies available. The enemy will provide you with every excuse in the book to be lethargic. Do you want to know where to go in the Bible for comforting yourself and others? Then you have to study. 2020 has been a challenge but don’t allow that to be your quitting point but alas reach out and decide this is going to be a race you will definitely win! 

PRAYER: I choose this day to stop making excuses for things I need to do such as getting closer to God. Help me Lord as I seek to get rid of distractions keeping me from you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Just Be Still

 

Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.Ecclesiastes 5:2

Does your heart ache over some loss, broken promise, or hurt in your life? Perhaps an unmet expectation. You want to wave a magic wand and have everything be ok. 

Many times simply staying occupied with work and getting out to get exercise can alleviate the ‘mind games’ you may be enduring.Being still, being calm, pressing on and just intentionally letting things go and giving them to God. Get busy doing something. 

Many issues today stem from Covid quarantine and shutdown or just getting fixated on an issue and not being able to let it go. God wants you to rest. He wants the best for you. He does not want your mind in pain and anxiety. Whatever it is that is troubling you, your loving Heavenly Father wants you set free of unnecessary junk and worry. Talk to God in prayer. Don’t make any quick decisions or be hasty with your mouth or ‘texting’ fingers. Let God’s perfect peace envelope and comfort you. 

PRAYER: It’s me again Lord. Help me today and every day to not allow Satan to get me into a mind game trip and help me focus on things above and trust you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Salt And Light

“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:13-14

Did you know as a believer you are to be shining the light of Jesus and seasoning the world around you? If you light a candle and put it under a basket there will be no light similarly if you eat food without salt it does not taste very good but is bland. 

Are you shining the light of Jesus in your workplace, neighborhood, in a park or playground, on the phone to telemarketers, at a local business because you may be the only hope for some to have the love of Jesus shared with them. Your attitude speaks volumes so keep that in mind even while driving and being cut off. I used to tell my husband that being kind was part of the MO(marching orders) of a Christian and you never know when the person you were rude to might show up at the door of the church where you greet or park cars as that was what my husband and I did at our last church before moving recently. 

Are you ashamed of telling others you love Jesus? It is easy when you are in a Holy Huddle to name the name of Jesus but what about out on the highways and streets and in everyday life. Don’t be a secret service Christian. Now go shake some salt and shine some light wherever you are going today. 

PRAYER: I am very thankful to have a Bible and some have numerous Bibles. Help me not neglect picking it up and letting it impact my life and the lives of those I come into contact with by absorbing the truth in the Word of God. Forgive me if I have ever hidden the light you want shined. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Lawlessness

 

 In that in the latter days, “And because lawlessness shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.” Matthew 24:12

Doesn’t this just about hit the nail on the head for what is going on in many of our nation’s cities right now? Police are the targets of hate and violence even when they did not start a situation and simply for doing their jobs. Even the media won’t give the whole truth. What is going on? 

Satan is behind it all trying to kill, steal, destroy, divide, confuse, lie, and deceive. We the people of this great land need to pray for those being taken captive to do evil and who may not even realize it. Where the spirit of the Lord is there is freedom, love, joy, peace and so I pray for those who are brave and courageous and who don’t shout down rioters but simply stand and pray for them. Much prayer is happening in DC right now and will continue. 

Don’t fear my friend because evil in the last days is what the Bible says will occur but you believer rise up undaunted and stand firm. Lift up those being caught in Satan’s trap of lies and confusion. Pray for those who simply try to create violence that they could be filled with the Holy Spirit. Pray for those news outlets and social media companies who try to silence truth and pray for many of their employees to be released from the enemies grip and be free to be filled with Jesus. 

PRAYER: I am so thankful for the word of God and glad no dictator has taken it from us here in America like has happened in communists countries. Thanks for blessing me with Christian TV and radio and also the freedom to speak the truth most the time. Protect our country from slipping into Satan’s grip. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Read, Believe, Absorb

Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.John 15:4

 

Are you feeding on God's word daily? Do you ponder the word you read as to what it means and how it can affect your life? Perhaps journal your thoughts in a notebook?

 

The next time you feel like getting on social media and being ugly back to people, or spending oodles of time on Facebook for no real reason why not challenge yourself to pick up God's word and read Psalms. Through time alone with God daily you’re thinking and actions will change.

 

Starting the day with the word of God is  the better way to go than turning on a morning show or picking up the newspaper. I challenge you to resist the urge to say unnecessary unkind words even on Twitter or anything. Concentrate on who you can build up not who you can agitate. Read the Word. Believe the Word. Absorb the Word.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for my Bible. Often times I may treat it like a decoration and treat it like an unwanted guest. I pray for conviction for anyone who needs a Holy Spirit nudge you truly start putting getting to know God first. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

IOUJSUS

 

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death pin the flesh but made alive qin the spirit. 1 Peter 3:18

I love vanity tags and have fun trying to figure out what the message is they try to convey. Some are easy to decipher. Recently I parked next to a car with the tags that read same as my title.

Jesus really says we owe him nothing as He paid it all on the cross with the excruciating torture and death he suffered some might have eternal life. But if you can just stop during your day and think on what that death on the cross meant.

How many times have you had the opportunity to share Jesus with others but were afraid or too shy or didn’t know what to say? Perhaps your style is to reach out with acts of love and kindness knowing only through the love of Christ could come true genuine love. You do owe Jesus your love as many times he is ignored, turned into ‘religion’, and not even thanked in prayers during your day. What can you do to show Jesus you owe him one?

PRAYER: Lord you want nothing more than for us to love you and share your love to a hurting world. I pray that my actions lead people closer to you and give me opportunities to serve others in your name. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Blessings And Curses

 

Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.Proverbs 11:11

Are you intentionally praying blessings over your town or city? Rioters have purposely been creating havoc in our nations cities before the elections in November. How many out there have thought of prayer walking your communities? 

Evil will triumph if good people sit idly by. Don’t get caught up in this frenzy believing the false narratives that are being perpetuated on a daily basis but instead purpose to take a politics break and replace it with a prayer for politicians break. 

A nationwide event called ‘The Return’ is happening Saturday September 26 in our nations Capitol and people are coming from all over  to lift up the name of Jesus and banish the fear that many have bought into. This is a time to lift up the name of Jesus, worship, give thanks, pray for America, pray for false teachers to be revealed and many thousands to be set free. Are you scared? Why? Turn off the news please. Turn on worship and praise. Now go live and love.

PRAYER: Father God I thank you so very much for living in mostly a peaceful country. People sometimes have issues with each other but lately intentional chaos and riots have been occurring shutting down many cities. Help those who name the name of the Lord take up the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God and pray for those being used and misled to try to destroy America. Put your angels around those in authority to protect them. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Note: https://thereturn.org/

Individual Spiritual Journey

 

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

Have you ever caught yourself comparing your spiritual walk or gifts to another? Maybe you wonder why sister Suzy Q has so much zeal and seems so spiritual when you maybe feel lethargic and washed up. 

All of us have good days and bad days and indeed the devil will try to get you when you are in a spiritual slump. Even when you are feeling defeated, guess what!? God is still there and He understands. There is no magic formula to having a quiet time. 

Every day get up and just say a big thank you to the Lord for allowing you another day of life. Ask Him to use you today and show you what you need to know through scripture. Ask Him to give you His love for those you encounter today. Everyone has a different purpose in God’s kingdom. A person can be humanly famous but that doesn’t mean your gift is less important than theirs. Walk boldly knowing God has a distinct plan and He will use you to bring it to fruition. Tell Satan to take a hike and leave you alone. 

PRAYER: Each and every brother and sister in Christ has off days where they feel not very special and maybe are in a slump and can’t get going. Father empower me daily with strength I need for the battles I will encounter during my day. Help me to turn on praise music when I am starting to cave to discouragement. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Note: click link for a song of worship https://www.bing.com/search?q=blessed+be+the+name+of+the+lord&form=EX0023&PC=APPL&shtp=GetUrl&shid=cce69d84-7ad1-435f-8c3b-57a86098547d&shth=OSH.agkwgPqy7kcX%252By80L4bHjw

I Will Fear No Evil

 



Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21

Are you fearful? What is causing that feeling? Yes evil is all around but there is no reason you have to be afraid. 

When I say evil many don’t use this word regularly or if they do may think of ghosts, Halloween, devils. I am referring to simply the ugliness encountered in our world that is not from God. 

When you are in that valley that seems like you will never get out keep climbing and keep looking up. God is just there at the rim over the horizon.”But I can’t do this” and I say “yes you can”. Turn off everything distracting you and tune into God. Get your Bible out and read Psalms. Get up daily with a positive attitude, yes even during Covid craziness. This is the day the Lord has made so don’t let evil and fear make you not enjoy it. 

PRAYER: Every day presents new challenges. Help me Lord to run my race everyday with positivity and not let the darkness of this present world upset me.In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

In This Season For A Reason

 



“ For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14

Since the onslaught of the Coronavirus and mandatory shelter in place back in early March there has been much dialogue, many expert and non expert opinions and much confusion. A friend of mine reminded me we were in this season for a reason. 

What good can possibly come from no socializing, no in person church, familiess life a little better.

PRAYER:Thank you Lord for life and for those people you have given the gift of encouragement to that helps keep me lifted up. I chose to be always looking for signs and wonders and listen to your voice. In Jesus’ name.Amen. 

Moments From God

 

While God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.Hebrews 2:4

Have you ever had one of those days when all of a sudden seemingly out of no where is something that 'appears' as if from God? A cloud formation, a rainbow, a cross on the ground, a painted rock. Seemingly insignifiicant things but you know deep down it is the Holy Spirit speaking to you.

God speaks to you through so many ways. His word the Bible is the most evident obvious way but also through signs and wonders, even angelic encounters. Don’t be so busy in life that you can’t stop to sense God’s presence. Make time for him. 

Turn off noise, put down distractions, grab your Bible and just let God speak to you through his word. Let Christ’s word literally dwell in you. How does that happen? By wanting it to and by giving time with God first place in your life. Watch a Christian movie instead of all the secular stuff they call entertainment on TV. Do an online Bible study. Take a walk and just look at God’s creation. You can have moments with God. Be expectant. 

PRAYER: I am in awe of the way you work miracles and show signs and wonders even today. I pray for those struggling right now doting on things of the world more than you to encounter a touch of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Discard The Junk

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor [perpetual animosity, resentment, strife, fault-finding] and slander be put away from you, along with every kind of malice [all spitefulness, verbal abuse, malevolence]. Be kind and helpful to one another, tender-hearted [compassionate, understanding], forgiving one another [readily and freely], just as God in Christ also forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32 Amp #Biblegateway #Biblegatewayblogger

Many during the stay at home order in effect for Covid 19 in March had lots of unexpected free time on their hands so after a couple months clothing donation centers, such as Goodwill, were inundated with the fruits of this purge.

Free time created the opportunity to clean out the attic, the basement, and closets.Maybe this free time helped you with taking inventory of your spiritual life too, committing to do things differently such as discard ‘unnecessary mental baggage’ weighing you down. Perhaps you decided family had to come first.

During this shut in time, still continuing in some cities and states, you decided now was the time to let go of junk weighing you down and keeping you from a growing relationship with the Lord. Are you ready to discard junk keeping you from a closer walk with the Lord?

PRAYER:Father forgive me for hanging on to worldly clutter creating a divide between me and you. I choose to have joy and to purpose in my heart to rid myself of junk separating me from you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sometimes Your Just Need To Refresh And Reset

 

        Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.Psalm  51:2

Everything in life can’t be sugarcoated. Sometimes bad stuff is going to happen but these tough times ultimately make you stronger if you hang onto hope and stay connected to the Lord. 

Similarly to when your computer messes up and needs to rebooted or a page freezes and needs to be refreshed your life too needs renewal to keep you strong in your faith. Trying to do life on your own can be pretty trying.Not only do you need Jesus as Lord but you need connections which during our Covid year has been difficult to do. 

What is on your heart today?Ask God to give you strength to press on through sadness, fear, doubt, and know that sometimes you may need to step out and check on others to see how their joy meter is doing and to see if they need refreshing too. You might be the one to bring it to them. 

PRAYER: Thank you Father for the Bible, Christian radio, TV, friends near and far, and for knowing that you love me so much. Help me Lord to run my race to win and not fall into Satan’s ditches and pits. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Note:If you are without a church home or are not going to your church now due to shut in it is vital to stay connected so the enemuy can't get to you. Check out https://www.arcchurches.com  for a life giving church in your area. 

9-11-2001 So Long Ago

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:20

19 years ago the unthinkable occurred when two jumbo jets plowed fully fueled into the North and South towers of the then World Trade Center. Most of todays' high school students just heard about it but for those of us who were alive on that day it was surreal, scary, unbelievable and just outright terrorism  on our own shore.

For awhile America flags were sold out as Americans probably from both politcal parties banded together in unity against a foreign terrorism group who had inflitrated American for the sole purpose of destroying us. Political correctness run amuck contributed to this most horrible disaster. We vowed we will never forget but sadly so many have and once again our safety is in the balance. Also churches were packed as people prayed and turned back to God.

My purpose today is not to bash Muslims but to remember to pray and stand up for what is right and true. Don't be afraid to get involved in school boards, city councils, and even run for Mayor. So today are you true to the red, white and blue and want this to be the country of our Founding Fathers where we have freedom and live in relative safety in our democracy on our own shores? Many men and women gave their lives in battles and wars to secure this freedom and yet our Armed forces were even infiltrated by those out to get us. All of us need to pray. An election is coming up and you need to vote your values. Pray for our Muslim brothers and sisters to come to know Jesus' as saviour as well. I have friends in ministries that do just that. Overcome evil with good and Let God's light shine each and every day.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus help me be aware of dangers around me and keep my heart sensitive to things that are anti God and trying to destroy this great land. Help me stand up for what is right even if it means giving my own life. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

A Word From God

 

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

Have you ever noticed the same verse popping up lots wherever you seem to go, maybe you see it on a billboard, hear it on radio, heard it in church. Micah 6:8 is one of my favorite verses that has kept coming up lately so I decided to ponder on it for a while.The Holy Spirit speaking to me through this verse or so it seems. 

Are you walking justly or are you Christlike only when people see you? Do you love mercy or want to see people get what they deserve? Are you a humble servant or do you want others to notice what you do? Ouch. Are you taking up your cross every day realizing why you are here on this Earth? Are you 'just,merciful, and humble' on Facebook and other social media? Hmmm. 

One of the ways to do these things is to start your day thinking on 'things above' as it is written about in Phillipians 4:8. If you have never done this and you are able try to go have a DAWG day, or 'day alone with God' where you simply go to a safe place alone where you can pray out loud and maybe sing and just be alone distraction free and listen to the Lord. During this time you can journal your thoughts. Use the above verse to start off and journal your thoughts on it. Now go into this day and look for ways to be God's humble pliable servant.

PRAYER: Jesus is Lord and I need to act like it as many times I forget and rush into my day without my armor of God on. I ask for a nudge from the Holy Spirit each day to remember the blessings of my life and to focus on the good and not be letting the enemy use me for his purposes by my lack of self control. Guard my mind and heart Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Of All Comfort

Praise be to the God and Father of our LORD Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.2 Corinthians 1:3-6

Death is a part of life and grieving is the process to get through it. You are born but you are going to die. No one knows when or what age and so the point is to live life to the fullest and serve God and not worry about it.

Losing someone close is very very difficult especially if out of the clear blue with a heart attack, stroke, car accident, murder, suicide. Even if prepared, the 'homegoing' time is still unsettling. You can not sit around speculating about it and worrying and conjuring up scenarios in your head.

If you have been through the grief process then perhaps you would be able to bring a bit of comfort to those dealing with it and those dreaded anniversary dates of the death as well. Some deal with it by silence and not liking to remember it so sending a card is not a good idea but others want to know people have not forgotten their loved one. Is there someone who you can reach out to today who may be having a difficult time? God cares and he can help you be a comforter.

PRAYER:Dear Lord I pray for anyone reading this today whose grief is still fresh. I pray you bring comfort as only you can. I pray for people to reach out and comfort those who re hurting with a God hug. I pray for healing of wounded hearts. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NOTE: In memory of Robert Stevens, Madison, AL, husband of a dear Moms in Prayer sister Lamarr Stevens, who passed unexpectedly 1 September 2020.

3Clarissa Clark Reeves, Gary Roberts and 1 other

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Keep Marching Christian Soldiers

"Do not be discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's." (2 Chronicles 20:15)

I have been almost making a plea to brothers and sisters in Christ to turn off the news not to make believe it is not happening but because we are in a battle between good and evil and at times it is necessary to break free from constant reports being fed to you by media sources which often may be part of the problem. 

Pray for those people in media to be fair and honest and if they do not know Christ as savior to somehow have a Holy Spirit encounter. 2020 has been a very strange confusing year and top it off with violence for no reason and often times paid agitators then you know the only way to end it is to pray. Pray for our nation and if you are reading this from another country I urge you to keep America in your prayers, the last great bastion of freedom.

Only God can heal this great divide that is separating families and friends and causing innocent people to be attacked on some city streets. The people causing this are not walking with the Lord and don’t know His peace so lift them up.Pray for mayors and governors who are anti American to be removed from office and also for truth to set them free.Jesus is the only answer. 

PRAYER:Lord Jesus come into the hearts of those people in our nation perpetuating evil and violence. Guard the hearts of my friends and family who may be sucked into the narrative and chaos. Help me show love to those who may oppose me. In Jesus’ name.Amen.

Make This A Great Day!

 

Why should you be like a man astonished, like a mighty one who cannot save? Yet you O Lord are in our midst, and we are called by your name, do not leave us!Jeremiah 14:9 NKJV

How are you doing today so far? So many factors can make you answer in certain ways. You can make it good if you have the right attitude.

Keeping your mind focused on good things is the key ingredient to a good day. Starting to slump and have a pity party will end up with a very bad day. Everyone has both good and bad days, it is your attitude that matters. 

What is on your agenda for today? Work, school, babysitting, cleaning house, job hunting, shopping, dealing with Covid restrictions? Whatever it is, stop first and foremost and make yourself spend time alone with God. If I might suggest start reading in the book of Psalms chapter 1. Reading God's word helps renew your mind so do it daily. If you can wake up each day and just say "thanks Lord for another day of Life" you will be amazed at how your attitude may change for the better.

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for the gift of life. I thank you for having friends and family who love me. I pray for those today who may not be so fortunate and have the weight of the world bearing down upon them. Bring people across their path to help instill joy and make it a much happier day. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Living For Self And Staying On Vacation

And [Christ] died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. – 2 Corinthians 5:15

It is nice to stay in a comfort zone to let others be in charge and do the work and you can be a helper. Maybe you have stepped down from responsibility and just want to start coasting downhill from here on out but is that what God wants you to do?

You say it is not my giftedness, I don't have time, maybe God is calling someone else. I am too old and perhaps let a younger person do this.Whatever the excuse God can and will use you at any time and at any stage of life. Excuses are a dime a dozen and maybe you feel like you don't want to be in charge, again, but my friend God may be speaking to you to use your gift to reach others and not stay in a cozy comfort zone of peace and contentment. That is not what life is about. 

Are you making a difference in the life of someone, anyone? Maybe it is your family which is where you should have a huge impact but beyond those doors of the home does your life help change someone else's life for the better? Are you using the gifts God gave you as a stay home mom, play group coordinator, grandma, grandpa, teacher, nurse, doctor, counselor, day cay worker, military member, government employee you get the picture. God opens a door for you sometimes pretty clearly and maybe it is time to pray then step on through to help bring others to the Lord. 

PRAYER: Jesus you are my best friend. I often let the enemy keep me procrastinating and making excuses but help me to bloom where I am planted Lord and to listen to wise counsel of those you have placed in my life. Thanks for opportunities to make a difference in my neighborhood, at restaurants, on vacation, at the gym, in the park, at the grocery store .Yes even in pandemic there are ways to reach out. Open my eyes to what you want me to do and use me for your glory. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Setbacks Can Be Opportunities

 

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

Imagine you are freely coasting along in life whether during Covid or non Covid times and you get notified you are being laid off. You try to not overreact but your mind is going in a thousand directions. 

During the first few months of Coronavirus many people in the restaurant, fitness, hotel, assembly lines, and other service jobs were told to not come to work. Airlines were having trouble and normally bustling major airports started resembling ghost towns. Churches were not allowed to meet either so that was a huge challenge. 

Have you heard the saying “When God closes a door He opens a window” and many times that is truly the case. If you are going through a furlough, threat of a lay-off or total job loss and just are at wits end , try to hang in there knowing God has this. After it is all said and done and you look back there indeed could be that silver lining and that wonderful door that opened to even greater opportunities. Some may meet spouses during this time or gain ideas for new ways to do things thus using creativity you never knew you had. God will take care of you. Stay energized. Stay motivated. Stay away from negativity of any kind. Surround yourself with positive friends and family. Now go shine and anticipate good things!! 

PRAYER: I am so grateful for life, good health, freedom, and the ability to be able to cheer someone up having a bad day or week or month. Open my eyes to needs around me I can help fill and give me encouraging words for those struggling. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Blow It Off

 

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the LORD forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.Colossians 3:12-14

All of us occasionally get our feelings hurt. You are wrongly accused of something you had no part in. A person talks about you behind your back. You get blocked and unfriended on social media? Someone jumps to conclusions and blames you for something. 

As a dear friend of mine used to tell me,”blow it off” and for sure don’t fight back and try to prove your innocence or defend your character. The enemy works overtime to stoke fires of anger, discontent, gossip and loves feuds. Your emotions may get the best of you so hold your tongue and be still when people accuse you of things. 

Ask God to take away any upset feeling you may have toward any individual who wrongly blamed you for something. Forgive and let it go. Running your race to win means you have to give up wanting to nurse hurt feelings or argue and be strong in the Lord.Blow it off, pray, and let it go.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for the gift of emotions. Help me learn how to react when I am hurt by someone a stranger or someone close to me. Help me also keep a guard on my mouth so I don’t say something I would regret. In Jesus’ name.Amen. 

Kindness Pays Off

 

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.Ephesians 4:32

Oh if everyone could just take a chill pill and be nice to each  another. But in this world we have evil, tribulation, different personalities and thus things aren’t always ‘peachy’. 

There is a scripture that says to be kind to your enemies(see Matthew 5) and to overcome evil with good(Romans 12:21) and indeed all of us that name the name of Jesus should be trying to do that and to diffuse hate with love. This means ignoring the urge to share your point of view in an online political debate. There are no winners. The bigger person stays still and quiet and let’s God that take care of stuff. 

Why not delight yourself in the goodness and glory of the Lord and ask yourself if your actions, posts, and words draw people closer to Jesus or keep them away. 

PRAYER: It is so tempting to be ugly, condescending, judgmental, and hateful so I pray any brother or sister in Christ reading this might look to the Lord for strength to be still and not agitate or try to prove things to others. Help me Lord to try to bring people closer to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Rioters And Looters Need Jesus

 

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21

Oh how sad I  find it these past months in an America stoked by a false narrative of an unjust America. This junk is from Satan’s playbook and these young people trashing, looting, and burning cities need to find the peace that only Jesus can give. Their anger has gone to the boiling point as those who like this sort of chaos stand in the wings smiling.

America is a land of opportunity for all. As Edmund Burke had said, much more than 100 years ago: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil was that good men should do nothing.” The good men are those law abiding citizens and policemen who want to help. 

Let God arise and His enemies be scattered. The enemies would be those who are intentionally creating scenarios to cause this chaos. May God touch their hearts and souls for healing and positive change. May the Spirit of the Almighty God penetrate the toughest situations and bring a peaceful change. May the hearts of both men and women be able to hear and follow the voice of truth. 

PRAYER: Father I pray for the violence permeating several cities to be replaced with revival in the hearts of men. I pray workers are raised up to reach these anarchists wanting to simply destroy. I ask that a major move of the Holy Spirit come and bring restoration, deliverance, and healing. Keep my heart sensitive and open to the truth found only in your word. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Wrapped In Love

 

Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings, From the wicked that oppress me, from my deadly enemies, who compass me about.Psalm 17:8-9 As I lay in bed one morning wrapped in one of the many quilts my maternal grandma had made for me over the years prior to her death in 1999 I wondered if when she was making them if she prayed over her grandchildren or others whom she may give them to. It as if the Lord is giving me a big hug thinking about that.  You never know who came before you that lifted up prayers on your behalf. I know I have prayed many prayers for my children even when in the womb. They are now adults in their 30’s. Perhaps you said you did do this but they went astray and chose a way of life far from God. All I know is God hears your prayers and you are never to quit. Do you want to be wrapped in the secure loving arms of your Heavenly Father?  He loves you my friend no matter who you are, what you have done, what political affiliation you are, whether gay or straight, rich or poor, or even surprisingly what church you attend. He even loves those who are atheists and also those who hate him.  He wants everyone to come to know Him as their savior. He wants you to love Him as He loves you unconditionally. He wants you to love Him back. He wants you to be in Heaven with Him someday.Romans 10:9, 13  says If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved… [13] for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” What are you waiting for?  PRAYER: Thank you Lord for making salvation so simple yet so many denominations complicate so very much. I am thankful for being taught scripture at a young age and am thankful I live in a country where I can openly worship without persecution, for now. I lift up those in nations where they have to hide to worship you. Help me never neglect my time with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.