Admit When You Are Wrong

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.James 5:16

The best way to end any arguments is if you know deep down your actions started it admit it and start the healing. How many marriages and friendships could have been saved if one person had been willing to be calm and rational and be truthful. 

Fighting and conflict is not a fruit of the spirit. The temptation to do wrong, act wrong and think wrong is always there because each of us is born with a sin nature.Even after you have asked Jesus’ to be Lord of your life you will occasionally be drawn into things you know are of the devil. 

Each of us have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory it says in Romans 3:23 but if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness it says in 1 John 1:9.The ‘flesh’ often gets in the way and tries to upstage the Holy Spirit so be on your guard and pray and read God’s  word daily as a preventive measure. Don’t beat yourself up if you have hurt someone or guilted them but ask God to truly help you not do it again.

PRAYER: Lord I know it breaks your heart to see your children hurt each other with words or actions. Forgive me when I have done this and help those I hurt be able to accept forgiveness and restore the relationship. Help me end 2020 with a forgiving heart. In Jesus’ name.Amen.

The 24 Hour Rule

 

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

In this instant society where often you may get impatient waiting for anything it is hard to sometimes wait before you email or text or post on social media. Loose lips sink ships was the saying in the US Navy well in this case loose fingers ruin relationships.

I have to admit I suffer from this malady but am working on it with the help of my longtime special friend Kim.When in doubt don’t press send.

In the new year many make resolutions of things they hope to change in their life. Lose weight, find a job, listen better, talk less, zip line, go to the Holy Land, get rid of fear, and on it goes. Why not add holding your tongue as it speaks through your fingers for 24 hours cause more than likely not acting on impulse will save lots of misunderstandings. 

PRAYER: Father you blessed me with a mind sometimes too overactive. Help me have self control when it comes to communicating on devices. Help me be able to wait a day if there is any doubt I should not send something. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Wrestling Match Continues

 

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:12

Earth is not our real home so as long as we breathe air there is a battle between evil and good. This is not something to frighten you but you need to be aware and therefore be armed and prepared.

What is in your ‘war room’? Arm yourself daily with the word of God which is the sword of the Spirit. You can read about what you need to prepare yourself in Ephesians 6. 

You may have grown up ‘churched’ yet unprepared for warfare. The enemy loves churches whose attendees don’t know the Bible and also loves people who know they need to have a quiet time yet watch TV news in the morning instead. Where are you on this spectrum my friend?

PRAYER:Lord God I need you and your word daily to strengthen me for daily wrestling matches with demonic forces. Help people get serious about this battle in 2021. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Peace On Earth. Really?

 

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.John 14:27

Peace on earth good will to men you hear mostly this time of year. Sure it would be great to have everyone singing Kum by Ya but the Bible says there will be wars. 

Peace can’t occur without God’s word first and foremost and morality. Morality can’t be achieved apart from knowing God. So you see the dilemma. 

A savior, Jesus, was born. He came to save the world but many rejected him then and still do now. You can have an inner peace even when chaos is all around you by staying in the word of God, keeping the news off, and prayer. Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with you by starting each day with the right frame of mind regardless of what faces you. 

PRAYER: Lord help me be an instrument of peace in the world around me in my little corner of influence. Help me plant seeds of hope, joy, and gladness and not entertain despair or fear. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Admit When You Are Wrong

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.James 5:16

The best way to end any arguments is if you know deep down your actions started it admit it and start the healing. How many marriages and friendships could have been saved if one person had been willing to be calm and rational and be truthful. 

Fighting and conflict is not a fruit of the spirit. The temptation to do wrong, act wrong and think wrong is always there because each of us is born with a sin nature.Even after you have asked Jesus’ to be Lord of your life you will occasionally be drawn into things you know are of the devil. 

Each of us have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory it says in Romans 3:23 but if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from ALL unrighteousness it says in 1 John 1:9.The ‘flesh’ often gets in the way and tries to upstage the Holy Spirit so be on your guard and pray and read God’s  word daily as a preventive measure. Don’t beat yourself up if you have hurt someone or guilted them but ask God to truly help you not do it again.

PRAYER: Lord I know it breaks your heart to see your children hurt each other with words or actions. Forgive me when I have done this and help those I hurt be able to accept forgiveness and restore the relationship. In Jesus’ name.Amen.

Do You Have Hatred In Your Heart?

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.1 John 4:8-9

Have you ever uttered the words “I can’t stand them” or “I hate them”? Wow hate is a pretty impactful word. Did God hate? I  don’t think so. 

I mean really do you actually hate? Probably should maybe think about praying for the person you have such strong negative feelings about. Every person whether they act god fearing or not was still created in His image so keep that in mind before calling someone a moron, an idiot, stupid, or some other less than endearing title. 

As this year comes to a close in a few days have you made any resolutions?Perhaps try to pray for your enemies this could even include people in the political arena that have been intentionally hurting others or who you may not understand. Many people are lost without a savior. Try lifting up those you would rather have nothing to do with and repent of any ugly talk about them. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus this election season has been rough and is still not over. Help me to remember to pray for those trying to destroy America or those who have been  deceived. Help me to remember everyone is made in the image of God and to pray for their salvation. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Ho, Ho, Ho! Merry Christmas!

 

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us;And the government will rest on His shoulders;And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Wind the clock back 365 days to 2019 and no one could predict this year and all the changes that occurred.This Christmas is no doubt lonely for most and looks much different than normal. Creativity has been ushered in and many do a Zoom Christmas.

On this day that is supposed to be celebrating Jesus’ birth many don’t even really think about Him or why a celebration is occurring. What’s with the gifts, the tree, the blown up reindeer on the front lawn, the Christmas cookies, the stockings, the lights on neighborhood homes, the Red Kettle campaign, and Santa? Where is the babe in a manger wrapped in swaddling clothes? 

Can you pause this day to give thanks to God for the gift of His Son Jesus’ who came to take the sins of the world? Can your celebration include the Christmas story from Luke 2 and maybe some carols? Christmas is meaningful family time but your family time should not forget the real reason for this season. 

PRAYER: Father I admit I get all caught up in the details of a secular Christmas and often times don’t even pause on this day to do devotions or sit and have a quiet time. Help me make this Christmas different by interjecting the real purpose of this most Holy day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

No Need For A Tizzy When God Is In Control

 

He says, "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

I have a friend who used to say "Simmer down now" simply meaning be cool, relax, take a breath, or chill. You have prayed about something you feel confident of the outcome maybe too conifdent and when things don’t occur on your time table you may become a little flustered. “I thought I heard from God I don't get it.” Remember God’s timing. 

So take a break and don't get all worked up into a tizzied frenzy. It won't help. During times like these you need to just be still and wait on God and expect miracles and things to happen. Going crazy isn’t going to help. 

To stay focused on God you need to meditate on His word daily not on daily news. Do things to stay centered and peaceful. Before reacting take a breath and say a prayer. God is in control. 

PRAYER: At times when my faith is being tested is when I need to lean in and believe your promises and not feed my mind on fear and negativity. Strengthen me Lord. I need you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

F.O.M.O.

And I saw that all toil and all achievement spring from one person's envy of another. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.Ecclesiastes 4:4

Fear Of Missing Out or FOMO is a real issue in these days of social media that can create emotional and family problems as well as wreck friendships. I applaud those I know who have chosen to delete their accounts. 

This is really a psychological disorder which I feel is created in part by allowing the enemy to control your thoughts. The things in life that are really important don’t center around self and checking on others but instead on helping each other and sharing God’s love. 

Fear of missing out is straight out of Satan’s playbook to get your center off the Lord and onto personalities. It is a fine line to walk.See if friendships can survive without this media. Why not take up a new hobby to keep your mind off this or find some place you can volunteer. Many churches have 21 days of prayer and fasting to start off the new year so why not consider giving social media a rest.

PRAYER: Lord forgive me when I have acted less than mature when it comes to social media. If and when I utilize it let my words be view and let them bring glory to you. Guard my heart from hurt surrounding this. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Our Miracle Working God Has Not Closed Up Shop

 

That people may see and know, may consider and understand that the hand of the Lord has done this." (Isaiah 41:20)

Are you aware that our God is still a miracle working God and a God who shows up when all hope is lost? 

You have to sincerely have faith and know that you know that God can do what he says. Restore relationships, make wrongs right, heal, and set free. Don’t lose hope and give up praying as that is exactly what enemy is counting on. 

God has a way of getting our attention in many ways. Have you talked to Him today and shared your heart.? When things get tough don’t go cry and bury your face in a pillow but press on. What are trusting Him for today? 

PRAYER: Lord sometimes when things don’t go like I expect I wonder where is God, doesn’t he care or what is he trying to teach me.Forgive me for not having more faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Goliaths In Your Life....But God

 

The LORD is my light and my salvation- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life- of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

Most everyone knows the account of David versus Goliath found in 1 Samuel 17. What giants are looming in your life?

Just like Saul saw the giant and feared, not David who was full of faith and courage. The enemy wants you to doubt, be frightened, imagine things as being beyond hope and impossible. You may feel that way about 2020.

My friend God has not abandoned you. It is easy to get sucked into negative thinking but you can be an overcomer with the power of the Holy Spirit.  Learn to develop a mindset of faith by keeping your mind on things above. 

PRAYER: Lord I trust you with the ‘giants’ in my life that seem overwhelming at times. Help me run with faith and courage even when those around me don’t understand. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Still Standing?

 

"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. ”Ephesians 6:13

So are you standing? Have you ever heard the saying “if you don’t stand for something you will fall for anything” and that is oh so true as we are in a huge political battle right now. It is also true when you have deeply held beliefs from the Bible someone tries to trample on. 

Do you stand strong when challenged or cave in to opposition? The Bible is your defense on most issues of deeply held beliefs when you are accused wrongly of not having compassion or being hate filled. 

Spiritual armor is so very essential to put on each day. Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against demonic evil forces trying to steal our Godly heritage.Be on your knees crying out to God and don’t just think he is your Sunday friend. Get strong so you will be able to stand in the coming battles.

PRAYER: Today Lord I take a deep breath and say thank you for your Word which guides me daily. Use me to be a beacon to someone walking in spiritual darkness. Angels of light as Satan is called have tricked many people. I pray for the ability to stand for the truth always. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Do You Lack Strong Faith?

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1, NIV)

What are you needing to have more faith about and trust God more for? Faith is a tall order and takes an immense amount of patience. 

Read the entire chapter of Hebrews 11 and ponder according to that chapter how your Faith stacks up. Diving into scripture on a daily basis helps your Faith grow stronger in addition to developing a more Christ centered less world centered mindset. 

Keep thinking positive and believing and don’t get angry or harbor resentment or fear in your heart as that shows a lack of faith. And just remember God’s timing is perfect. 

PRAYER: Lord I pray sometimes and believe and want to give you total control and release a situation to you but then I start to doubt. Help me Father to really stand strong and confident that you will come through. In Jesus’ name. Amen.  

Turn The Page On Yesterday

 

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.Isaiah 43:18

Each day you are given a fresh opportunity to begin again letting the past be over and renew yourself with new experiences and new right thinking. God gives us the chance to start over making up for junk you may just need to let go of to stay mentally healthy.

What is it today? Have you been letting your mind drift and focus on fears or mistakes in your past? There is nothing that can be changed so it is wasted energy. Instead why not start a new day looking forward to how you can bring joy to someone else.

It is easy to have self pity or self saturation but why not think of something kind to do for a friend, family member, neighbor or stranger. This time of year brings on many emotions and for a good majority it stirs up sadness. Meditate on good things and blessings God has given you and stay in the present. 

PRAYER: Father God forgive me when I get stuck living in yesterday and trying to change things because it is over and I need future and present focus. Today give me creative ideas and renewed energy to bring joy to another.In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wilderness Experienced?

 

A voice of one calling: "In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.Isaiah 40:3

My youngest son, when in college, was in a program called ‘Wilderness Medicine’ which trains medical professionals who are also experienced outdoor wilderness guides to treat emergencies in the wilderness.  The wilderness I am referring too though is more of a ‘wilderness’ time in your spiritual life where you feel wiped out, scared, mad at God perhaps, and lonely. 

These type of ‘wilderness’ experiences are where believers grow if they in fact do not cave in to doubt, abandon prayer, lose hope, and end up lethargic, lukewarm, or on the dark side of life. My friend you have no doubt been there with junk in your life and maybe wonder “why God”. At times like this many abandon their faith even though deep down they know that is the wrong path to take. 

God uses these rough places in life to grow your faith. In order to grow and not be buried by weeds and choking briars of life it is essential you talk to God in prayer daily. He has not abandoned you and loves you. 

PRAYER:Many right now may feel Covid is there wilderness experience and just don’t know how to cope. I know Lord I need you every day to thrive and not cave in to fear or become hopeless. Strengthen my weakness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Praying For You!

 

Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17

This seems to be a common statement in Christian circles saying “I’m praying for you”, when someone shares a concern in their life but then do you really? I have been guilty of it. It is similar to when asked the general question “How are you doing” and the pat answer is usually “great” when in fact you are not. 

When it comes to prayer I find that if someone asks you whether on the phone or in person to pray do it right then if they are comfortable with that. That way you gave your word so you do then and there on the spot. This might actually be a good testimony to not being ashamed of prayers in public and can be an example of how easy it is to simply ‘talk’ to God. 

What are you in need of today? Everyone needs prayer covering although some have given up on prayer due to being angry at God for what they perceived was being ignored by God in prayer. Get your own life right and repent of anything holding you back to a fulfilling relationship with the Lord then start the habit of just talking to God and sharing your heart. 

PRAYER: Help me not cherish sin in my heart for then I know my prayers are not heard. Help me Lord to help others who don’t know how to do sincere prayer instead of just rote memory. May I never feel superior like I have all the answers and some sort of hotline to God, and keep me humble. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Stop Judging

 

 "Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God;" Romans 14:10
> 
> Are you guilty of forming opinions of others before even knowing anything about them? Let’s say you hear about single mom with ten kids and form some opinion maybe not worthy of sharing with others. Or a guy begging money on the street corner wondering if he is legit or not. The grumpy neighbor you pass who doesn’t smile or say hi. 

Basically you have not walked in another’s shoes and until you have it is best to not be trying to cast them into some mold. Would you want people doing that to you?
> 
> God is the only judge. Try to look at all people as made in the image of God. You don’t even know what someone has gone through or what their story is. Seems like Christmas brings out all sorts of sad stories when in actuality you should not wait until Christmas to care. Think about that. Just try to be kind as you have no clue what is happening behind the scenes, only God knows the heart. 

PRAYER: Forgive me Lord when I have passed judgment on another before knowing about them. That is wrong and hurtful. Teach me to love like you do Lord not just at Christmas but all year round. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Wow,I Need My Oxygen!

 

“The Spirit of God has made me, And the breath of the Almighty gives me life."Job 33:4

If you are asthmatic or know someone who is you are aware of the scary feeling of when you are gasping for air cause you can’t breathe. That is sort of how it seems these days with all the restrictions that have been imposed upon us like “help me I can’t breathe!”

The times we are living in are certainly ones unexpected and for the record book. So much anger, confusion, fear, paranoia, division. It has rocked many a person’s world for sure. 

When you get the feeling of being overwhelmed by it all first stop, take a deep breath and try to relax. Do it again. Then breathe in peace and breathe out stress. Then say a prayer of thanks to your Heavenly Father for all he has blessed you with. A song by secular artist Bob Marley says “and every little things gonna be alright” and indeed it will. 

PRAYER: Oh how I love you Lord. Your ways are not our ways and you have a plan sometimes we have no clue about. Help me Father completely trust what my eyes can’t see because you are working. In Jesus’ name.Amen. 
> 

Turn Off The Noise And Be Aware Of God

“Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts” 1 Thessalonians 2:4 NLT

It is rather difficult to have a good time alone with the Lord with the noise of this world everywhere. It is necessary if you expect to remain spiritually ‘fit’ to make it happen, somehow, someway. Many things in the modern world try to get your attention and even with vastly different schedules due to quarantines you may find yourself still not scheduling a quiet time. 

Many may have never grown up practicing spiritual disciplines but just like physical exercise to stay in shape you need to study and meditate on the Word of God as well. Being born in America does not mean you are automatically a Christian and neither does going to a certain church. 

This is the time you need to be leaning in and hearing from God. Just sit and be still. No radio, TV, or any other distraction. While you sit there lift your hands in the air and just start saying thanks to God. Many times if you just don’t feel like it you have to move beyond feelings and just do it. Read Psalms starting in Chapter 1 and just ask God to speak to you through His word. 

PRAYER: Often times I confess I let the world drown you out and push you away. I start listening to the world instead of the Word. I know the truth sets me free. Help me to get up each day and get going and not allow the enemy to make excuses to keep me away. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Restore My Soul Lord

 

He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way.Psalm 25:9

Do you feel believers often look to man for things they should be totally depending on God for?Sometimes patience in our earthly waiting for an answer to a prayer or a change in a situation that seems hopeless may be just what God wants to happen. You rely totally on Yahweh, the Great I Am. 

You need to cry out Abba Father do not leave me or forsake me and help me be calm while I wait. Perhaps this is a humanly impossible situation you are waiting for and God wants you to lean on Him and totally cry out to Him and trust him. Oh Lord I trust you so let me be still and listen for your still small voice. 

What is on your heart today that you feel God has forgotten about something you felt for sure He would take care of? Keep praying, believing, crying out to Him night and day stay in the Word of God and be sure to humble yourself and repent as those are necessary. 

PRAYER: Jesus I need you. Our world needs you Evil is surrounding us and threatening to choke us Lord but I know you have a plan to intervene. Help me not be haughty in my own efforts but totally believe you are going to work things out. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Hang On, Keep Smiling!

 

"In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that theproof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”1 Peter1:6-7

2020 has been an uncomfortable, confusing,  unforgettable, challenging year. I guess if nothing else you learned to not take anything for granted even buying toilet paper at the grocery store. Will lessons you learned during this time of loss of much of our freedoms stick with you and will you work harder to insure freedom in the future? 

Anxiety is easy. Nervous breakdowns as well. Family members have to be tolerant and patient with each other as this continues. Fear has been evident everywhere. Anger may be an emotion you deal with being shut off from friends and family.

Keep waking up each day giving thanks for your blessings and asking God to protect you and those you love. Nobody could have predicted 2020 was going to be like it has been. 

PRAYER: I lift up those individuals having a really difficult time right now due to this hopefully temporary new way of life. Guard my heart so I don’t cave in to depression or a pity party. Help me do kind things from someone who may be alone at this time. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Note: www.unite714.com

Now For Some Positive News

 

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.Colossians 3:2

Jesus is Lord! God is still on the throne.You are a gift from God created by Him for a distinct purpose. God loves you. The sun came out today.The world God created is so unique and beautiful. Water is wonderful to drink and to play in. Having friends is a blessing. God answers prayer so keep at it. The Bible is truth. 

That is a sampling of good things that are positive to remind yourself about when you start to feel gloomy and let your mind dwell on negative. Whatever it is bothering you or whatever trial you are enduring don’t allow the enemy to drag you into a dark hole of despair. God is still at work. 

Today get up, pray, be kind to others. Ask forgiveness if you know you have been unkind or hurt someone with your words  or actions. Give thanks for the gift of life. Stay away from negativity or ugliness found on nightly news or many TV shows. Get your Bible and start reading Psalms. Learn to forgive and not hold grudges. Always be thankful and finally Smile! 

PRAYER: Every day I thank you Lord for gifts you have blessed me with mostly my family and friends. I am grateful to be in a country where I am not beheaded for reading the Bible so forgive me when I don’t. Give me a thirst for righteousness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Heavy Laden?

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

What has you weighed down today? Uncertainty of our times? Medical diagnosis? Betrayal by a or friend or family member? Loss of job? Fear of contracting coronavirus? 

When you have burdens on your heart you have to release them to the Lord. You can not expect your deep worry to solve anything other than getting you angry and sick. 

Worry is from Satan and peace and trust are from your Heavenly Father. Keep praying as it does help and focus on positive things even though it may be difficult.

PRAYER: The joy of the Lord is my strength and I know my fretfulness only glorifies Satan. I choose trust and courage over fear. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

It’ll Be Just A Second

 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.Proverbs 15:13

Probably you at one time or another have been on hold where after listening to elevator music the person comes back and says apologetically “It’ll be just a second” and off on hold you go again. 

You don’t want to get irate but come back and talk to me. It is time to chill, represent Christ and don’t get all mad and yell at this person. You have no clue what is going on at the other end. 

Relax and take a chill pill and enjoy the music and hopefully the individual will come back on and resolve your problem so your wait was not totally in vain. Regardless it is good time to develop the fruit of the spirit of patience and self control as you wait.

PRAYER:Father I need you to help me day to day to stay cool, calm, and collected around all type of situations and personality types. Give me your love for those I encounter. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Note: 

More verses to read on patience-

• 1 Corinthians 13:4
• James 5:8
• Philippians 4:6
• Romans 12:12
• Psalm 40:1
• Proverbs 14:29
• Romans 8:25
• Exodus 14:14
• Galatians 6:9
• Colossians 3:12
• Romans 15:5
• 2 Peter 3:8
• 2 Chronicles 15:7
• Hebrew 10:36
• John 13:7
• Ephesians 4:2

Looking Back 79 Years

 

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.John 15:13

In the history of the United States no single attack by a foreign power stands out like Sunday Dec 7, 1941 the attack on Pearl Harbor Navy Base. A day that will live in infamy they said. The memorial that sits above the sunken USS Arizona is not only a reminder but a memorial to sailors whose dead bodies still are entombed in the rusted ship after all these years. 

The price of freedom is great. There are a few survivors from that day but the attack caught everyone off guard on Ford Island in Hawaii. Never take freedom for granted. We are always one election away from losing true freedom. The blood of thousands was spilled that day.

When you get a chance first give thanks to God for freedom and for the courage of brave men and women who served both in time of war or peace. Those young people never know when a surprise attack like this will occur. Never take the United States for granted. We have a special country so let’s pray it stays that way. 

PRAYER: Lord root out those scoundrels and liars who are anti American and have been on a pursuit to turn us into a socialistic republic we would not recognize. Reveal the truth to many who are blinded by propaganda. Protect the integrity of our election and heal our land. In Jesus’ name. Amen.  

Need Some Courage And Peace?

 

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, NLT).

Is there anyone out there who says they have it all together and in need of no comfort, peace, and calmness? Pretty rare these days with all that is going on in our country. 

Everyone needs good friends to keep them motivated and we need human contact and these months of Covid have caused many to despair and lose hope. 

God can help you have courage to face whatever comes your way. When you wake up and would rather just go back to bed get a good Christian radio station on or an App that reads scripture to you. Demonic spirits are out there and they send deception, fear, doubt, and don’t want you to have peace. Say devil in Jesus name you have no power over me. Stand strong, pray, don’t doubt. 

PRAYER: How I love the word of God and I want to be strong each day Lord and defeat the lies of Satan. Help me to help another struggling too. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Are The Sirens Of The World Drowning Out The Truth?

 

 

I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.John 17:14-19

The times we are living in are no longer ‘Little House On The Prairie’ days. Gender confusion, little girls taught feminism, brainwashing even through cartoons, glorifying single parent families as if father's were not needed, no respect for law enforcement. What has happened?

There are two forces one good and one evil. The evil one is subtle and crafty to manipulate his subjects without them knowing it many times. He is the devil a liar from the get go. Sadly many people today beat his drum without realizing it by the things they accept as okay or normal. 

This world throws many ‘dangling carrots’ of temptation at you and you need to make sure you know the truth found in scripture so you can stay here on the right path and not get tripped up by the world being more important than God. Don’t let the screams of the world take you from The Lord. 

PRAYER: These are challenging times when so much that is wrong is being accepted as right. Help me not cave to lies and bad influences and give me strength to run this race to win. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

DISCLAIMER FOR 3 DEC 2020

 Apparently my devotion Stay In The Life Boat  on 3 December 2020 was misinterpreted as I was telling people to not wear a mask in this pandemic. For that I am sorry. I was not telling people to not wear a mask or ignore rules although someone close to me thought that is what I meant. I was simply trying to convey a message of peace amidst the storms swirling around us. Covid is real and people have died and I apologize if it seemed I was making light of that. My whole point in the message was stop feeding your mind with fear but apparently someone took it to mean i was saying ignore safety precautions. For that I am very sorry. 

Break Camp

 



Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19

 

Don’t ‘camp out’ in the valley of the shadow of death or in other words dwell on things that make you anxious or fearful. It is time to ‘break camp’ and choose to think on things that uplift or make you smile.

 

Pursue, run after, things that lift your spirits. If you get into a gloom and doom mindset the enemy loves it and hopes you remain there for when you are gloomy you can’t be very victorious for the kingdom of God. 

It is a choice so what do you choose? Focus on things above or dwell in the basement with thoughts that keep you imprisoned and unfruitful? 

PRAYER: When I start to have negative thinking it is time to break camp and not stay in a place that will drag me under. I choose to not listen to lies of Satan and choose joy. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

The Gift Of Life

 

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.” (Psalm 127:3-5 NIV)

Our family had a blessing in 2020 and that was the birth of a healthy baby girl our second grandchild born in Boise on 8-20-2020 at 2020 military time. 

Life is super precious and many wish they could have children whereas others selfishly cry “Choice” giving no real thought to the life, a beautiful child growing in the womb. 

Each of you have choices. The choice to live for Christ or treat him like a stranger. The choice to be kind to others to include strangers. The choice to be happy and not succumb to the negativity of this world. The choice to be like Christ and set an example for any who may be wandering. What is your choice today?

PRAYER: Oh Father forgive me for when I rush into my day and let the enemy control my thoughts, activities, and mind. I do choose to live for you above the chaos of this present world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Have You Given Up On Prayer?

 

"Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear." (Is. 65:24)

"Pray without ceasing..." (1 Thess. 5:17)

"...pray one for another, that ye may be healed...." (Ja. 5:16)

I know many people who don’t pray because they don’t believe in it or have had bad stuff happen in life even after a prayer, maybe numerous bad things,  so they unknowingly give the devil a foothold by not talking to their Heavenly Father anymore. 

Prayer should always be first thing not a last resort. Why do bad things still happen, I can’t tell you but I can say your life will be much more peaceful when you practice prayer. 

Prayer is not something to stress over but is a simple informal conversation with God/Jesus. Many parents can teach rote memory prayers like ‘God is Great’ and ‘Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep’ but the meat and maturity of prayer has to grow and take wings and become personal and individual. Where are you at in your prayer life or do you not have one? Why not start today and make conversational prayer a normal part of your day. 

PRAYER: Thanks Lord for helping me when I am down and gloomy. I know all I need to do is call on you and make my requests and give my prayers and praises and you hear. In Jesus’ name. Amen.