Be A Servant At Every Level

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, Colossians 3:23 NIV Bible gateway

What does it mean to serve? Maybe to do something because you want to not because you have to. Even in paid employment you could act as a servant not expecting a bonus check. 

Your real boss is the Lord Jesus Christ. Everything you do should be done as if God writes your job performance or in other words with excellence. Serving makes you feel a part and not just consuming. Remember when Jesus’ washed the disciples feet, he was serving them as back then feet in sandals were dusty and dirty. Could you wash someone’s feet you did not know? Ponder that for a while. 

Check your attitude on serving and be willing to do even the most menial of tasks as every thing is important. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for opportunity to help serve others or to fill a spot when needed even if inconvenient. Help me not wait to find a task that needs done but to be always looking. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegatewayblogger

Ponder Yet Be Silent

Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Psalm 4:4

“Anger rests in the bosom of fools” it says in Ecclesiastes 7:9. Words and their usage is so vital to relationships.  Every person from a teacher, coach, parents, siblings, spouses,  pastors can build up someone or ridicule and belittle them leaving a scar for life. Who doesn’t remember being called a name by a school bully? 

God is almighty and his words are never hurtful but are used to teach, soothe, educate, and guide you to a relationship with him. An earthly father may have messed up using words that stung and still stick with you today. 

Today is the day of new beginnings choosing to forgive hurts that words caused and not to seek revenge. 

PRAYER: Use me Lord to speak kindness and encouragement to those around me even a stranger we might encounter during the day. Help me not be guilty of being hurtful with my words. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

For further teaching on your words and how they can hurt or help read the

Following verses Proverbs 15:23; Ephesians 4:31-32;Hebrews 13:14; Psalm 19:14.

Mouth Trouble

But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:36-37 NKJV Bible gateway

We all do it probably. Not stopping to think and blurting out something we wish could be taken back such as innocently telling my daughter in law I had trouble getting the top off Tide Pods as it was too adult proof not thinking now she may not think my home is safe for the grandchildren if I have Pods in the house.

It is so easy to just speak and give little thought to how it is received. It is clear words can make or break a relationship. They can bring comfort or turmoil. They can convey love or hatred.

God created us very unique and the mouth and the ability to verbalize is one of the best things ever. But don’t misuse your ability to speak by belittling, cursing, criticizing instead use it to lift others up and show gratitude and kindness. Think before you speak.

PRAYER: If only I could wind back the clock and erase mistakes I had made with words but that is impossible so instead help me stop and think before always rushing to speak and being misunderstood. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

#Biblegatewayblogger

Sunday Ritual Or Love Fest?

 

“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.” – John 4:23

There are so many churches scattered throughout America and the world. They don’t all worship God but some of the ones who do need less religion and more cheering for the King of Kings! 

Do you crave a relationship with Jesus? “Now Becky calm down” you might say. But truly do you wake up and get excited about starting your day with Jesus? Too many people may go through the motions but get nothing out of their church experience. 

I hope most reading this are in the ‘choir’ or already worship each Sunday but do you want more? Search your heart and find the answer. Are you simply going to church because the one you are attending is how you were raised? Are you excited about worship? Some things to ponder. 

PRAYER: Search me oh God and keep me on the path where I yearn for a closer relationship not just more religion. Use me to help spread joy and love to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for powerful song with a vital message: https://youtu.be/ZUg9qE_KjLg

Well Done!

The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’” (Matthew 25:21 NLT)

How are you making a difference in the world around you? Each believer has a certain giftedness to share with others. You start growing and stretching when you discover your gift and get out of your comfort zone to serve others. 

This could be welcoming people at church, teaching in kids church, volunteering in your community, writing letters to prisoners or shut ins, and add to the list. You truly grow in Christ when you don’t just exist to feed yourself. 

Wherever you go daily shine like a beacon of hope as many around you are hurting deep inside. You never know how smiling and being kind might touch another’s life. 

PRAYER: Lord help me daily to reach out and do something for the kingdom and then to not tell everyone. A secret service follower who gets blessed by just doing it. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Pray For The Chair

 





I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. Joshua 1:3

I am not sure if you have ever tried prayer walking but it is a wonderful way to have boots on the ground and connect with an area you want to lift in prayer. Could be walking a college campus, around a mayors office, around US Capitol, a high school. 

I got another idea about praying and that is to pray where you are,  say the hair stylist or barber shop, for other customers who may occupy the chair you are in. Recently found out a 26 year old girl who had been to same salon as me had died of drugs.

 It can be praying in grocery store, sitting on public transportation, riding in a cab or Uber. Many places and people need lifted up. Many people are hurting. Many don’t know Jesus. Many think church is for religious fanatics or went to one and was rejected. You my friend can help sooth troubled souls simply by your prayers. 

PRAYER: Lord use me to spread your love to others and nudge me to pray when I am out and about. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Honesty Best Policy

But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out. Numbers 32:23

You can run but you can’t hide is a saying you might hear referring to being sneaky, dishonest, cheating. Eventually the ugly deeds will be found out and your conscious will let you know as well. 

Basically if you see sinister persons seemingly getting away with something don’t trouble yourself over it as God will not let evil men cheat forever. 

Further Psalm 94:23 says “He will repay them for their sins and destroy them for their wickedness; the LORD our God will destroy them.” Crime just does not pay in the long run. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for your word which is my guide for righteousness and truth. I know it is demonic forces that infiltrate our world attempting to overthrow a democracy and freedom.Lord keep me safe from any tricks of Satan and I pray for those entangled in a web of sin. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

I’ve Got This!!….God

 


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

What is on your mind? Problems you think are too big for God? Really? 

The Bible says “Nothing is impossible for God, nothing!” (Luke 1:37) Restored marriage, deliverance from drug and alcohol abuse, prodigal child comes home, broken relationships mended, homosexual life healed, cancer and other diseases healed, and on it goes. 

Can you believe? Some things don’t happen over night they require a process but God may choose for some things to be instant to show his power and glory. Hang on, pray, connect with others who pray and keep standing strong never doubting the power of the Almighty God. 

PRAYER: Lord I want to pray and stand firm calling things as not as though they were according to Romans 4:17. I lift up those people who are worn out from battling Satan help them lean in and trust God. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

*Title credit from message on 19 Sep 21 Pastor Chris Hodges, Church of the Highlands.

What Is Happening Lord?

 

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; Matthew 5:44 Bible gateway

Twenty years ago most people who were over 10 probably remember what they were doing when the first of 4 commercial jets hit the World Trade Center. Shock, sadness, a feeling of this can’t be happening. You probably watched in disbelief as people jumped to their death from the upper floors of the 103rd story towers.

Sadly even though everyone appeared patriotic for maybe a year soon it wore off and life seems to start forgetting the lessons learned. Foreign enemies breached security and killed over 3000 people in the four separate attacks.

Love your neighbor but watch your back you may say to those who infiltrate our country only to try to transform it from how the founders intended to a country where more and more ‘enemies’ get in and are dangerous to our ideals as a Christian nation. Brother and sister today be thankful for freedom as many nations envy the America we used to have. Elections have consequences and morality and faith hold a nation together. Today take some time to reflect on freedom and pray for your enemies.

PRAYER: Father in these times we are in we want truth to be restored. Our country is bleeding from infiltration of Satan into almost every realm. Help us stay on our knees and pray for the lost to include leaders who seem anti American. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

#Biblegatewayblogger

Too Busy For God?

 

“You shall have no other gods before me.Exodus 20:3

Does your life get pretty busy even though you may have made a New Years resolution months ago to slow down and not allow it to happen? What usually gets put on back burner and forgotten? I’d venture to guess quiet times with God.

So how can you stop this recurring bad habit of letting God play second fiddle? Prioritize your day and even if schedules and morning craziness prevent it make sure you give it quality and quantity time.

I admit sometimes mornings get hectic but at least put on some worship music to set the tone in your home. If you have small children get them into this habit. Each day is way better when God is first!

PRAYER: Help me Lord to use the time you give me each day to your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Don’t Conceal Your Sin

 

Blessed and favored by God is the man who fears [sin and its consequence] at all times, But he who hardens his heart [and is determined to sin] will fall into disaster. Proverbs 28:14 AMP Bible Gateway

“You can run but you can’t hide.” Be sure your sin will find you out. (Numbers 32:23). You can try to conceal your sins but God is all knowing and eventual or everything will be revealed.

1 John 1:9 says “If you confess your sins He is faithful and just to forgive your sins and cleanse you from all unrighteousness.” Everyone has committed sin some what the world classifies as big ones and some not so bad, but it is still sin. Taking cookies or money from a cookie jar ring a bell with anyone?

Live a life to please God not to please the world. Do what is good and honorable in the sight of the Lord. When you commit sin confess it. Some sin requires a journey to recover from but can be done such as being imprisoned, leaving a homosexual lifestyle, stealing, vehicular homicide, abortion, but even telling a lie is sin so don’t be pointing fingers. God offers grace and mercy. Run to him today he is there to accept you and make you whiter than snow.

PRAYER: Forever God you are faithful. You love me even when I don’t deserve it. You love me when others condemn me. You love me when others forsake me. Thanks. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

#Biblegatewayblogger

Caught By A Thought

 

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

I was listening to Pastor Steven Furtick of Elevation Church in North Carolina doing a series on ‘thinking right’ he used the phrase which is my title today. It is pretty easy to be undisciplined in what you think. You can learn to control your mind and train it to think right. 

The enemy likes to torment you through thinking lies, evil thoughts, wrong thoughts, and lies. As a believer you have power to disable the enemy by the word of God and power of your testimony. 

He is called an accuser of the brethren taunting you with past failures. You don’t have to succumb to his lies but instead meditate on scripture and achieve peace. 

PRAYER: Lord I am not unaware of Satan’s tools of deception operating through my mind. I choose to cast off wrong thinking and rejoice in you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

God’s Blessings Are Everywhere

 

And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: "They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever." Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.2 Corinthians 9:8-10

It has been quite a tough year due to Covid fears, sicknesses, deaths, family and friend squabbles over vaccines and masks. I am ready for it to be over and done with aren’t you? I guarantee you first responders in hospitals are ready for its’ end.

Go outside and look up at the beautiful clouds, blues skies, stars and moon at night. Make a list of the many blessings you have every day you probably take for granted. It isn’t until something is on the verge of being taken away that you appreciate it. Health, freedom, life, family. Make your own list.

So do you possess the joy of the Lord or do you gripe about stuff that does not suit you? Try to be that joyful spirit filled person that can make someone’s day a bit better. You are here for a reason. Let God use you to help and bless others.

PRAYER: Holy Father thank you for each new day you give us and the relative calm we have in the United States. Turn those individuals around who want to destroy our freedom. Help them find you Lord. Help me to bless another person today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

God’s Specialty: The Impossible

 

“‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Mark 9:23

Did you know that God loves doing the impossible? When you think a situation is beyond hope or totally past turning around , voila that is when God does his best work. 

Nothing is impossible  or beyond the reach of our Father in Heaven. Delivering a nation out of tyranny, healing, freedom from addictions, coming out of homosexuality, being used by God even after having served time in prison. 

The miraculous is what He likes to do. Do you believe? If not say “Lord help my unbelief” and sincerely lean in to the promises in His word. 

PRAYER: I know Lord you do miracles big and small. You do them for your glory so there is no mistaking it is from your hand and power. Help me believe in miracles and testify to ones that already occurred . In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for a song of praise: https://youtu.be/De6gZZT1690

Are You Pointing Others To The Savior?

 

• He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked. 1 John 2:6

How excited are you about living for and loving Jesus? Do you act one way at church on Sunday and then totally different otherwise? Do you feel your ‘denomination’ is more important than totally surrendering in worship to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords? 

My friend we are living in a lost world where our present government is trying to make wrong right and right wrong. Believers and those who know their Bible know the truth. Do you know the truth? 

Some reading this today may feel disconnected to ‘church’ as it has ceased to become a priority and foundation for your life. Do you want to come back to the Lord, not to a denomination but to Christ himself? He is waiting if you will just call out to him. Find a church home that lifts up the name of Jesus and sings glory to his name and uses the Bible. Some day this world will end and also some day you will breathe your last breath. Will the kingdom of Heaven be your new destination? Are you sure or will He say “depart from me I never knew you”? 

PRAYER: Lord how the enemy has tricked many ‘church goers’ with hardened hearts into complacent spiritual lives. I pray for people I know and love who are in a stupor to wake up and discover the King of Kings in an authentic way. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link below for powerful worship song:

https://www.bing.com/videos/search?view=detail&mid=7B2E05D4ECEC9B86DE087B2E05D4ECEC9B86DE08&q=its my breath in my lungs song&shtp=GetUrl&shid=e635622d-03af-47b5-9793-53c7e5470a47&form=VDSHOT&shth=OVP.YNWrttOsca73YFZDy7AbGwHgFo

End Of Yourself But Beginning Of God

 

He must become greater; I must become less."John 3:30

Do you suppose you could begin thinking less of yourself and what you want and more of God? This is a pretty tall order for a selfie dominated culture.

When you get to the end of yourself and your wish list, there is Christian maturity and God, Jesus, and The Holy Spirit waiting for you! Three in one. The great I Am!

Can you think of ways you can make someone else’s life easier today? Do something unexpected. Stay off Facebook worship long enough that if you do post put something about Jesus, resisting the urge to brag on your good deeds. Rewards come in not telling everyone. God knows.

PRAYER: Today is your day Lord not mine. Each breath I take is a gift from you and you alone. You created mankind and said “It is good” and indeed it is. Forgive us when we mess up the perfect world and plan you had for us. Direct me in the path of someone who needs a gentle touch, some care, and help. Use me to meet a need then not tell anyone. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

God's Ways Are Not Our Ways

 

I remain confident of this: I will see the goodnessof the LORD in the land of the living. Psalm 27:13 Bible Gateway

Here it is 2021 amidst a debatable election and coronavirus our plate is pretty full. Guess what, God is at work, just you wait and see! 

Concentrate on following God and nothing else. Everything you do, do it as if you were working for the Lord yourself because you are. Embrace some of the pain because God has a plan. 

Similar to disruption in your own life when you hurt and wonder where God has gone. He is carrying you my friend you have to lean in and believe and trust. Don’t daily feed your mind with stuff causing you to doubt and fear but get up daily praising God and thanking Him that your best days are yet to come! 

PRAYER: Father thank you for trials and troubles for it is through them I learn to be closer to you. I choose to start each day praising you regardless of my situation, I know you are at work behind the scenes planning great things!! 

In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegatewayblogger

Put Fear In The Back Seat

 

He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.Psalm 103:12

Struggles are part of life. Sometimes you may have brought them on yourself with your disobedience to God and truth. But regardless God forgives, heals, sets free if only you would take Satan out of the drivers seat and make him sit behind you!

Fear is downright disabling. Some fear is not uncommon such as fear of storms, fire, heights, snakes, or spiders but to overwhelm yourself non stop with things you have no control over will wear you down.  Satan is the author of fear and torment. 

You may have fear brought on by past sin thinking God is going to get you. My friend if you sincerely repented of your sins they are gone washed whiter than snow. Today is the day to pick up the shield of faith and boldly run your race to win. 

PRAYER: Lord thank you for peace only from you when in fact I do my part and keep in the word and stop paying homage to Satan’s devices to short circuit my faith. Help me as I choose to guard my heart and be bold. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Positive Vibes Felt Here

When you are having ‘one of those days’ sponsored by demonic forces, you need to stop and start speaking and thinking positive encouraging thoughts. It is easy to slump into fear and hopelessness, tools of the enemy by the way.

Repeat things like Today is the day the Lord has made I will rejoice in it” and proceed sayings things like “my best days are ahead of me”, you get the idea.

You leave little room for doom and gloom when you sing praises and lift up the name of Jesus. Put on praise music. I have included a link at end of the prayer. Now go and no matter what lift up your praises and make Satan mad. He can’t stand positive saints of God!

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for prayer, Christian friends, family and others you put in my life to help lift me up when I get down. Likewise use me in another’s life to help them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

https://www.bing.com/videos/search?view=detail... up in his prssnce song&shtp=GetUrl&shid=4225897c-731d-4c26-8989-5b58786902df&shtk=Tm90aGluZyBFbHNlIChmZWF0LiBDb2R5IENhcm5lcykgLy8gVGhlIEJlbG9uZ2luZyBDbw%3D%3D&shdk=T2ZmaWNpYWwgTXVzaWMgVmlkZW8gZm9yIFwiTm90aGluZyBFbHNlXCIgZmVhdHVyaW5nIENvZHkgQ2FybmVzIGZyb20gVGhlIEJlbG9uZ2luZyBDbydzIG5ldyBhbGJ1bSwgJ0F3ZSArIFdvbmRlcicsIHJlY29yZGVkIGxpdmUgaW4gTmFzaHZpbGxlLCBUTi4gQ2hlY2sgb3V0IG91ciBuZXcgXCJIb3Nhbm5hIChBY291c3RpYylcIiB2aWRlbyBmZWF0dXJpbmcgS2FyaSBKb2JlIGhlcmU6IGh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnlvdXR1YmUuY29tL3dhdGNoP3Y9dmNWVS1hRE00ZDAgQXdlICsgV29uZGVyIGlzIGF2YWlsYWJsZSBub3chIENsaWNrIGhlcmUgdG8gZ2V0IHRoZSBhbGJ1bSBvbiB5b3VyIGZhdm9yaXRlIG11c2ljIC4uLg%3D%3D&shhk=3ZKra04qRi2K9kAi13406XJTp7VDWSnhx04Y6YNYYko%3D&form=VDSHOT&shth=OVP.xctCsHStKzcPkuZYChMLIQHgFo

Oh My Stupid Mouth

 

Set a guard over my mouth, LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips. Psalm 141:3

Have you ever been talking and rambling on only to end up having the conversation escalate and hurt someone close to you? It is so easy to just blurt things out and then regret it later. 

How many broken homes could have been prevented if only people would have chosen words differently and learned to humble themselves and ask forgiveness? How many foolish arguments could have been alleviated if you think before speaking. The tongue it mentions in James 3 is full of deadly poison. 

If you are guilty of hurting someone with your words you can work on getting set free from whatever it is causing the issue. Counseling sometimes can help but above all ask forgiveness and heal the breach. 

PRAYER:Father I am blessed to be able to speak but sometimes I hurt people and get mad at myself. Help me learn to be careful with my words and practice sowing joy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Loneliness Of Covid Lockdown

My son, pay attention to what I say;turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight,keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find themand health to one’s whole body.Proverbs 4:20-22 NIV Bible Gateway

Let’s face it folks, the disease of Covid has caused so much anxiety and a great deal of separation. Differing opinions contradict each other and add more fuel to the divisive fire of who is right and what protocols should we follow. Conspiracy theories loom and the internet doesn’t help to slow them down. Statistics have shown most deaths have been unvaccinated individuals. 

It is a real disease and has caused deaths, fear, arguments, anger, mask wars, vaccine wars, family separation, business closures, election turmoil, vacation cancellations, and so much more since making it’s entrance at the end of 2019. I remember back then someone asking me if I wasn’t afraid to fly because of Covid and honestly I had not heard of it yet.

This is not a medical post or a political post but a post to ask all believers to join me in praying for a miraculous end to this pandemic. Also for a way to restore family relationships that had been split due to either arguments or just fear of dying. Also pray for frontline workers such as my son a doctor in ER and his colleagues who fear daily they will carry it home to their wives and children. Let’s ask for a miracle folks. 

PRAYER: I am so grateful for the word of God and how reading it brings life and health to the body and restores thinking and lessens fear. I pray for any sick now to receive healing and pray for miracles that can only be from the hand of God. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegatewayblogger

Do You Hurt?

 

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope (Romans 5:3-4 NIV).

“Eat your greens they are good for you.” “This is going to hurt you more than it hurts me.” “No pain no gain.”

Don’t you just want to scream when you hear these statements?  

Guess what? A certain amount of suffering does develop character kind of like a stint in the military. But some suffering and pain is heart wrenching and unexplainable. 

Know that if you are a follower of Christ he loves you and is with you and he will strengthen you and help you to see the purpose in suffering. 

PRAYER: My heart aches for those hurt by suffering who don’t understand and get mad at God. All I know is there is hope. Help those suffering hang on to hope. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Peace In Any Situation Is Possible

 

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes." Ephesians 6:10-11

Let’s say you are a designated prayer warrior for a friend or family member going through what seems like an impossible never ending situation. Wrestling with Satan wears you down but not out because you know who the victor ultimately is. 

Spiritual warfare pure, plain, and simple. Pity those in churches who don’t arm their members with the knowledge of these battle plans. Satan lies, cheats, steals, deceives, destroys, separates, manipulates, tricks, kills, need I say more? 

The way to get victory is to not dwell on your problem but to replace fear with faith and trust. God has your back. Be bold in your prayers. Stand firm against the enemy who uses things to trick and confuse. Be a mighty warrior! 

PRAYER: Father it is when I feel under attack by the enemy that I need to press in more. Guard my heart from being taken captive by false teaching and I pray for those I know struggling to trust God. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

There's Something About Water

In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. Job 12:10

God created a beautiful earth for us to enjoy and one of the very best creations was water. Flowing streams, rushing rivers, babbling brooks, waterfalls, vast oceans with crashing waves, and trickling tributaries and don’t forget rain! 

On a day when you may need peace or need refreshing of your soul if you live near a body of water and it is safe to do so, perhaps you can go sit by it and ponder all that God has done for you. As I write this devotion that is exactly what I am doing. 

What area of your life do you need a breath of fresh air from God? Life is not without struggles and heartache and perhaps you are in the midst of something right now. Know that God loves you. I know that sounds so trite but He really does. Talk to Him, out loud if you can. Maybe find a person to show kindness to as it helps get your mind off your problems. Now go and enjoy your day. Rejoice! 

PRAYER: Lord forever you are faithful. You are so good to me. Thank you for your beautiful creation. Use me today Lord to bring joy to someone hurting. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Kindness Pays Huge Dividends!

Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?Romans 2:4

It pays to treat others with kindness even if they don’t acknowledge you. Some examples: walking through neighborhood saying hi three times to a young couple who ignored you. Treating gate agent at airport nice even if they are rude to you. Finally just smiling to see how many people smile back.

It is not hard to be kind but for whatever reason not everyone is the most gifted in this area. If you are poorly treated or ignored simply blow it off and pray for the people.

Make it your aim to be kind as you never know what someone is going through.

PRAYER: Forgive me Lord if I have been unkind to anyone and didn’t realize it. Help me Lord forgive those who hurt me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Don't Get Ahead Of God

 

Trust in the Lord with all your heartand lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Bible Gateway 

Do you ever try to manipulate situations and rush the Almighty? You prayed, you wait, you pray some more. The art of being still doesn’t seem to be in your marching orders. 

Depending on what you are waiting on for a breakthrough it can be tempting to do things your own way to speed things up and believe me it’s never a good idea. 

Each day make it a priority, similar to breathing, to not neglect time alone with God. If you are clueless on how to start just pick up your Bible and turn to the book of John in the New Testament. The more you read the more you will be transformed. 

PRAYER: Another day to wake up and give thanks regardless of feeling which are fleeting. I choose to be still and lean in and trust you with what is on my heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen. #Biblegatewayblogger

Follow Him

 

To every one of his disciples, he says, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me”.  Luke 9:23

What does it mean to be a radically saved follower of Jesus? To follow Christ you have to get rid of stuff that trips you up. Only you can decide what that is. 

Your life is a journey. Maybe you are a recovering alcoholic or addicted to drugs or pornography. Perhaps you were in an abusive  relationship or recovering from a divorce. Maybe you were captivated by a gay lifestyle because the devil manipulated you into believing lies. Whatever it is if you radically run towards Jesus you can have victory over the demons in your life. 
 

You first and  foremost have to be willing to see that Jesus loves you and he desires the best for you, and that includes freedom from things that take you away from him or try to justify sin. 

Are you ready to follow hard after Jesus? 

PRAYER: I am so very thankful that I can be set free totally from messes in my past. I refuse to entertain negative thinking and saturate my mind with things of the Lord. Thanks for forgiveness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Redeeming Social Media

 

 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13

Normally social media, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook,Pinterest,  You tube and the new conservative sites are all pretty addictive and major time wasters but they don’t have to be. 

You can limit your use with a timer, put on reminder alarms on Alexa. Let’s face it you probably know social media causes relationship problems both inside the home when all family members can’t do without their device, probably there have been divorces over it who knows.  

I like to put my devotions on social media but when I link to Twitter it is easy to start reading vicious Twitter comments with vulgarity about honestly nice people. So post then skidaddle out of there. No reading and getting caught up in the frenzy of news and gossip. Your life will be more peaceful and those you live with will thank you. 

PRAYER: Father thank you for modern technology and the way to stream church, prayer meetings, devotions, podcasts and really good things but help the younger generation those who never did not live without this technology to not become addicted and need therapy for FOMO(fear of missing out) and help all of us think before we post things if it builds up or tears down. Give me self control. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Help Lord!!

 

But I cry to you for help, LORD; in the morning my prayer comes before you.Psalm 88:13

Look around you beyond your little world and torment, sadness, evil, fear, judgment, and ugliness abounds. I don’t know about you but I am ready for a spiritual awakening and  revival in a big way. 

Demons and demonic spirits are quite real. Pity the churches who don’t warn their congregations otherwise. There is a battle raging good versus evil, God versus the devil. Many scoff at the notion of Satan and that is just what he wants. Don’t believe in demons yet get angry at God. 

Grab hold of truth which is found in scripture. Get serious about fighting demons I am not talking about the little girl spitting up pea soup in the 70’s movie The Exorcist but I am talking about not letting him lie to you and manipulate you which he has done sadly to many in America, and don’t hate your enemies but pray for them to be set free as that really aggravates the devil. 

PRAYER: Father set my spirit free from lies and deception from the devil. Help those people who think spiritual warfare is a joke find a new church home and become energized and empowered. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Keep Watch

 

"So you, too, must keep watch!  For you do not know the day or hour of My return."  (Matthew 25:13)  

No one can predict when Jesus’ will return. People have attempted to but the word of God clearly states we don’t know. There are many signs leading up to His coming. 

When Jesus’ returns what do you think he will find you doing? He is a loving savior but likes all mankind to want to follow him. 

Are you keeping watch? Are you daily reading scripture and looking up? You need to be ‘watchful’ and thankful until he comes again. And he WILL be back. 

PRAYER: Each day I get up and am thankful that I am alive. I realize I have a distinct purpose and thank you for that. Use me to help point others to Jesus’. In Jesus’ name. Amen