Devil’s Lies Suck You In

 

He must gently reprove those who oppose him, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth. Then they will come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, who has taken them captive to his will.2 Timothy 2:25-26

The devil is so crafty. Here at Halloween the devil takes people and gets them unknowingly dabbling in witchcraft and the occult. Seems otherwise sane people go nutty with celebrating fright. 

Why? To many it is one wonderfully fun day or even week as some places the partying seems to continue. Sure it is fun to dress up and be someone you are not but why the evil and the witchcraft? Many decorate with witches brooms and hats seemingly thinking they are a cartoon character but there are real witches. 

Friend don’t be ignorant  of the Devil’s schemes. Don’t try to be too much like the world or you may not be recognized as a believer anymore. That’s a scary thought. Wouldn’t it be great if people got as excited for a whole month about celebrating  Jesus? 

PRAYER: Lord God protect the little children participating in this day of all things creepy. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Look For Jesus Wherever You Go

The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. Zephaniah 3:17

Wherever you go in life look around you for signs of the Savior. Recently I was in a downtown coffee shop in Boise and looked over and saw a man reading the Bible not trying to hide it out of embarrassment but truly just reading. 

A few years ago I gave my great niece a ‘coffee table’ book I found at Barnes and Noble called ‘Where’s Jesus’ or something like that. It was similar to a ‘Where’s Waldo’ children’s picture book only in the conglomeration of people in the crowded drawings you were to find Jesus. Some pictures were of sporting events, restaurants, schools, bars, college dorms and so forth. Point being Jesus is everywhere and if he lived in your subdivision would probably not turn off his porch light on Halloween but would welcome the children with candy,love, and hugs. What do you think?

Wherever you go smile at people, be kind when it is unexpected, encourage others. Be like Jesus because if you are a believer he does live in you and you can be the light in another’s life. 

PRAYER: Lord thank you for where you gave me in life to shine for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Don’t Be A Carrier

 

A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends. Proverbs 16:28

When you hear the word carrier what comes to mind? I am referring not to a carrier of germs or a disease but carrier of gossip. 

Are you guilty of running off at the mouth or the keyboard with things you know you shouldn’t divulge to others? Maybe you have passed on something on social media before fact checking, regardless why is it necessary to even share things you shouldn’t and maybe hurt someone. 

Keep opinions to yourself. If you have trouble in this area God can help. It is tempting to say hey did you hear about so and so but were you given permission to share. People can be destroyed by loose lips and relationships can be broken. 

PRAYER: Father help me seek truth and wisdom and to not be guilty of hurting someone with words. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

What Are You Feeding Your Inner Man?

like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation,1Peter 2:2

Just like you feed your physical body food your inner man, your spirit, gets fed as well. Are you feeding it a steady diet of main stream media news? Are you feeding it on fears and rumors? Are you feeding it on worry? 

It is necessary to get spiritual nourishment to combat and defeat the lies of the enemy. So many people right now make a big joke over Halloween but this is the day evil seems to triumph. All things creepy and dead are celebrated. 

I choose to celebrate life, joy, the fruit of the womb meaning newborn babies, and also choose to trust God to rid the evil in the world and to pray for those even within the church who make a joke about it.  I pray for those who are misled and captivated by the culture. I pray for school administrators who allow evil in their buildings. Choose what you want to feed your mind and how much peace you want then go and start your day positive. 

PRAYER: Lord thank you for watching over me daily and thank you that there is no rule saying I have to clutter my mind with fear on the news. I choose peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Be The Miracle

 

He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move.Nothing will be impossible for you.”Matthew 17:20 NIV Bible Gateway

Is there someone you know that is hurting, lonely, just needs a hug or a friend? Often times when you get so caught up in your own life you may fail to realize many people you pass by daily are in need of genuine love and kindness in their life. 

There are skeptics that think there is no such thing as a miracle. Perhaps others who think a miracle means some big huge healing of a person near death which it is but us also the little things. 

A miracle for some could be an unexpected gift. Gifts bring joy. A greeting card mailed with a stamp not just a text is another way people can receive a miracle. Think of ways you could be the instrument of God’s miracle to someone’s life today.

PRAYER: I have had miracles happen in my life where things happen that could be explained no other way. Help me Lord be used to help bring a miracle to another’s life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.  

#BG2

Be Prayerful Not An Alarmist

 

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; in all your ways know him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

With the internet it seems everyone is an expert and some things other tell us to pass on as fact are best left to die in your inbox. Check things even if they seem they would make sense to be true.

Christian’s often jump the gun on believing every bad thing that is out there because hey Satan is controlling the world so why wouldn’t it be true.

Think, be still, be kind, be careful. This can go for those on the other side as well. There is so much stuff to bombard you with and Satan loves getting believers confused and loves to get others angry. Check your facts and in the meantime pray. Don’t be guilty of spreading rumors over social media.

PRAYER: Lord I want to have responsible calm communication. I know many threats are out there but give me wisdom to recognize truth and hype. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Birthdays

 

“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given to me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace” (Acts 20:24, NIV).

Birthdays are worth celebrating no matter what your age. Many people don’t like getting older as if that number hyper identifies you and in western culture puts you into a class society frowns upon, makes fun of, or does not respect. There aren’t too many commercials with senior citizens in them unless the ad company tries to make you look like a buffoon. 

Let me tell you each year of life is a gift from God. I will be 70 on Halloween October 31 and honestly I feel 40, no joke. It says in scripture gray hair is a crowning glory in Proverbs 16:31. Older people have much wisdom that has been gained through the years. I frankly don’t know where the time went as it seems like just yesterday I was having a surprise 40th birthday party back in Bettendorf, Iowa. 

Celebrate those in your family no matter what their age. Respect those elders who have been through WW2 and Korean War as their numbers are dwindling. If you have mobility give thanks. Help those who aren’t so fortunate. Keep running your race to win and don’t apologize for your age or be afraid to tell others. 

PRAYER:Lord I thank you for each year of life you gave blessed me with. I don’t understand why some die younger but I do know that our ultimate prize is Heaven and my job is to help point people there. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Breathe In Fall

 

Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God shines forth. Psalm 50:2

I love being outdoors and today it is exceptionally beautiful sun shining, perfect temperature, and beautiful fall colors. God paints a beautiful world for you to enjoy daily. 

Stop for a moment. Let go of political squabbles, fears of unknown, and whatever you may be harboring in your heart and set your spirit free to serve and love the Lord Jesus Christ.

Purpose each day to spend some time in scripture and happy thinking. Don’t allow fears of media and the world entrap you. Breathe in the beauty of fall and breathe out fear. 

PRAYER: Father guard my heart from evil and things that would take me away from you. Help me to focus on your glory and beauty. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Half Full Or Half Empty?

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8

Are you a positive person or one who has trouble seeing things in an uplifting encouraging light? Some folks see a half of glass of water and refer to it as half full while others say it is half empty. Which are you? 

It is easy in todays environment to became cynical and negative. If you get in a habit of negativity and complaining it is difficult to have to joy of Jesus. 

Which type of people do you prefer to be around those who can make good things out of a bad situation or the kind who always find fault and complain? If you occasionally slip up God is merciful just ask Him to restore your positivity. 

PRAYER: Lord today I choose to be a person who is approachable not angry or hateful. Let your love shine through me. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

The Least Of These

 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’Matthew 25:36-40

Have you ever had the experience where you saw what the world would classify as a vagrant walking down the street or sitting on a park bench? This person is one of God’s creatures. I just did a few days ago driving the streets of Boise. 

I know you have to exercise caution when approaching people who may seem mentally off but what would Jesus do? There are so many people with so many needs and your heart may feel like bursting from ‘compassion fatigue’ a thing I hear many in ministry deal with.

What would God have you to do? Not everyone is in a position to serve in this capacity because of raising a family or some other situation. But really the next time you encounter a person who looks like a bum would you have enough courage to ask if you could buy them lunch and walk with them to a place to eat? No doubt people would stare. This is something to ponder and give serious thought to.

PRAYER: Jesus there are all sorts of people outside my protective happy bubble who have real needs. Direct me to who you want me to help. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Halloween-Nine Days Away-Here We Go Again

 

Once, as we were going to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit of fortune-telling and who had brought her owners a great deal of money by predicting the future. She would follow Paul and us and shout, “These men are servants of the Most High God and are proclaiming to you a way of salvation!” She kept doing this for many days until Paul became annoyed, turned to her and told the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus the Messiah[c] to come out of her!” And it came out that very moment.Acts 16:16-18 NIV Bible Gateway

This holiday is not inherently evil although to young children and toddlers it is pitched like a big party. Merchants probably garner more money on this holiday than Christmas. Although I do not take part  except for a fall celebration and a scary dragon, I am mostly okay with it unless witches, devils,  and fortune tellers are involved. 

As I write this devotion a young lady is decorating the outside area of a coffee cafe with skulls, tombstones, caskets, and skeletons.  I love the harvest theme as it is pretty, not trying to scare people and not risking giving place to the devil. The thing is most folks who are having a good time probably could care less that Satan worshippers love this day. 

Satan is the god of this world and behind most of the confusion and evil you see today everything from bombing Israel to a pastor being too timid to speak up for righteousness in church. It is upsetting to me as my own grandchildren get exposed to this nonsense but all I can do is pray. Yes it can be fun in many ways and who wants to be a Debbie Downer but this is where the church needs to draw the line. I have God fearing friends that had confessed they once dressed their sons like devils. Do you have an appetite for evil or the kingdom of Heaven. I challenge you to try to find a movie now that is not borderline demonic. You have to decide which side of the fence you are on. Remember to be kind not holier than thou and also your main goal is to win people to Christ maybe by not judging them in regard to this holiday. 

PRAYERS: Lord thank you for the truth and the many churches that preach the truth. Help Christian parents take a stand and I pray for those not exposed to church that the Holy Spirit will blow a fresh wind on them. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

One Of Those Days

 

You are in a spiritual battle – be strong in the Lord! Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Ephesians 6:10

It doesn’t have to be Monday but could occur any day. You awaken and it seems like nothing is going right.

Even for a believer there are good days and mediocre days. Can you try to shine the light of Jesus on the not so good days too? Don’t take a break from smiling just because you may feel less than joyful. 

Usually it is wrong thinking that gets you into a rut. Waking up in a funk now and then seems hard to do as a believer but if you have allowed any negative thinking to seep in it is possible it could occur. 

My goal in my Christian life is to alleviate self pity, concern over what others think, comparison, and boasting. Tall order huh?How about you? Can you identify the source of negativity and boot it out? Keep on the full armor of God to protect from Satan’s arrows. 

PRAYER: Father I choose to pursue kindness and joy and a life of prayer even though at times it may get rough. Help me break any strongholds keeping me from living a victorious life centered on Christ. In Jesus’ name. Amen.  

What Causes Wandering Thoughts?

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 2 Corinthians 10:5

Your issue might be a recent diagnosis starting with the dreaded letter C or it might be feeling like second fiddle in the lives of extended family members. It may be you feel you don’t measure up or you feel untalented. You may feel left out and unappreciated. Friend every one of these things is pure plain stinking thinking. These thoughts are from the pit of hell! 

First don’t speak out negative thoughts especially if you are only making assumptions. Don’t assume you will keel over with an affliction. Speak words of life. It is a discipline daily to train your mind to ‘not go there’ and focus on things that uplift. Stay peaceful and not engaged in debates and controversies. Instead of checking social media check the word of God. 

Stop, think, then proceed without putting any thoughts into words. Don’t let fear or speculation rule you. Trust God. Pray. 

PRAYER: Often times my mind drifts and I have wrong thoughts. Help me to not listen to the voice of the enemy but the voice of my God in Heaven. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

There It Goes-The Poison Finger

 

Idle hands are the devil’s workshop; idle lips are his mouthpiece.Proverbs 16:27

There is much to be said about the tongue and running off at the mouth but little about communication in the form of writing and obviously not texting. The Navy had a saying “Loose lips sink ships” but even an unfettered tongue or texting finger can create problems with family and friends in this modern culture. 

 

Unthought out comments can backfire. Something said in haste can explode in your face when that was never your intention. If only I could get a grip on my mouth and my texting fingers. Ever feel this way? 

Being still is something to be learned. The 24 hour rule before texting or posting something. Stillness is a beautiful thing. Not being nosey, prying, talking all the time, or thinking things are your ‘right’. Being able to mess up and start again is what God is all about. 

PRAYER: Lord many things can be controlled but one of the trickiest is the tongue and fingers that communicate with others. Put a watch over my mouth so I don’t speak before thinking. Help me gain control of unnecessary texts as well. Give me strength to mind my own business. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

In Love With This World?

 

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.1 John 2:15-17

I know there are people that think that those of us who openly declare our love for the Lord are wacko religious nuts. That’s okay because they don’t understand yet. Even some denominations think the denominations who are too expressive, you know like hands in the air, speaking in tongues and so forth, need to be committed. That is what the enemy wants. 

Why worry what anyone else but God thinks. Wherever you are try to bloom for Jesus. Above all smile and show joy. Joy is perfect contentment even with storms of life raging around you. 

It is very true that this world is truly not our home. None of it. You can enjoy life but don’t let things in life become your idols. Don’t run away from God or your faith because “those Christian’s are mean and hateful” which also is the enemies big fat lie! Download the You Version Bible app and give more time to it than you do other media. Now go have a glorious day. 

PRAYER: Today and every day is a day you can rejoice. Help me Lord praise God in the storm. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

It's Okay To Do Nothing

 

In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.Psalm 4:8

Have you ever caught yourself in the trap of trying to prove your worth by how loaded your calendar is? Your value isn’t in all your busyness but somehow Satan tries to make you feel that way. 

As I wrote this I have a dryer full of clothes to fold and put away and a house to clean. I am choosing for now to be still on my living room sofa and feeling no guilt. 

I heard that the word ‘busy’ could be an acronym for ‘being under Satan’s yoke’. Hmm. Ponder that. Do you need to slow down? It is okay to schedule a nap so don’t feel bad. Now go rest and relax and think about Jesus! 

PRAYER: Lord help me learn to be still in both body and mind and not act like I am trying to set Guinness Book of world Record on busiest person. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

List Of Bad Stuff

Sometimes something useless happens on earth. Bad things happen to good people, and good things happen to bad people. I say that this is also useless. So I decided it was more important to enjoy life.Ecclesiastes 8:15-17

Ever feel like making a list of bad things going on to you or in your life? Call it your self pity list. Especially if it is a gloomy day outside it is easier to accomplish. 

Woe is me. My heart aches. So and so wants nothing to do with me. I am untalented. I feel lonely. And on and on it can go if you allow it to. 

How about a list of good stuff, the blessing list? I would say at the top of most everyone’s should be a great thank you that you are not living in a war torn nation such as our friends in Israel. Then the blessing of a roof over your head. Blessing of daily needs being met. Stop right now if you feel a negative thing pop into your head and say “I reject negativity in Jesus’ name” and move on. Don’t allow yourself to pick up the self pity flag which usually Satan is willing to hand over. Charge on and smile! 

PRAYER: I am grateful for friends and family even when I don’t see them as much as I wish I could. I am grateful for freedom. I am grateful for a Bible. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Don’t Be Gullible

 

The gullible believe anything they're told; the prudent sift and weigh every word.Proverbs 14:15

Do pop up ads entice you with offers sounding too good to be true? Have you caved in a few times to check them out? I have. 

The offer of eternal life is true! Satan offers counterfeits and blinds the minds of unbelievers and even has deceived those who once were living for God. What causes such a shift in thinking? 

John 10:10 says Satan comes to steal, kill, and destroy and he entices people with cunning lies and tricks or even false guilt. In the last days there will be seducing spirits trying to grab hold of family members and friends who have taken his bait. This world will pass away and all the things the culture has accepted and shoved down our throats will be no more. You must stand strong and be able to recognize the truth from a lie. Read the Bible in it will be all you need to know. 

PRAYER: Holy Father you are wonderful. Rescue those I love who are straddling Heaven and hell and help them see the Truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Fruits Of The Spirit

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NIV Bible Gateway

Have you taken inventory of your fruits of the spirit lately? Feeling jealous or angry? How about you feel less than kind? It is the carnal fleshly nature that wars against the fruits of the spirit. 

Practicing kindness, gentleness, and so forth helps you be able to cultivate these fruits. Perhaps you had a twinge of jealousy over something and you know it is wrong, so ask God to replace it with acceptance, joy, and love. The power of the Holy Spirit inside of you helps develop these fruits. If a person is not walking in the spirit then their fleshly ugly nature comes out. Which do you choose? 

PRAYER: Father forgive me when I have become aggravated over an innocent comment or jealous over some issue. These are not of you. Help me walk in the Spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#BGblogger

Nanna Nanna Boo Boo

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.Ephesians 4:31

Have you ever caught yourself pointing the finger at someone else for a fault, a sin, but yet you yourself are not a perfect little angel? If you are honest probably yes. Darn if Satan doesn’t get stuff in our minds then we end up looking like a fool and hurting someone.

Be careful acting like a smarty pants. God uses and works with those who are humble not those ready to stand and trip someone. 

Have you been hurt by someone and you just wanted so bad to let them have it? That feeling is not if God but of the carnal fleshly nature. The pride of life and the holier than thou attitudes are not fruits of the spirit. A gentle, kind, forgiving heart and also one is is able to mingle with sinners without caving to the freshly nature. 

PRAYER: I want to hear your voice Lord but when the world starts to take a higher place than you it is difficult. Grant me wisdom to seek a higher way. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Calm Down, Trust God Becky

 

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.Proverbs 3:5-6

So put your name in the title as well. Do you have days you just want to play God and interfere in the process of what you are trusting God for?  Probably yes is the answer. 

It is essential to really stop thinking about it and turn a corner. The enemy will bring fear, doubt, and confusion. Take control of your thoughts to the obedience of Christ.(2 Corinthians 10:5). 

Start singing praises to God. Staying joyful and hopeful is your assignment. Put a sign up in your mind for Satan that says ‘no parking’. No go trust God. 

PRAYER: Thanks for all your gifts Father. I pray and I believe therefore I stand on the promises and have hope. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Are You Dry And Wilted?

 

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.Psalm 1:1-3

I am not a ‘green thumb’ person and when someone gives me a plant it is likely to wilt and die barring some miracle. Even the product ‘miracle grow’ doesn’t seem to work for me. I try. I water things but some days forget. 

My most recent sadness came over a tiny miniature mum plant from my granddaughters for Mothers Day. “This has to be different” I said. But alas the tiny plant turned brown even after pruning and feeding it it was all a lost cause. I still replanted it hoping it would come back to life. 

Is your spiritual life like that? Do you ‘feed it’ when you think of it? Are other things more important than getting closer to the Lord? We are in perilous times and the god of this world(Satan) is having a hey day messing up people’s minds and even going after little ones. The only way to fight back is on your knees in prayer. 

PRAYER: Many dangers abound and many are confused and following Satan whether they believe it or not. The Father of lies is trying to capture America and give me strength to take a stand against this. Protect my extended family from being indoctrinated by the lies of the enemy. Help them be filled with the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Do You Give Everything And Everyone To God

 

Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.Matthew 16:24

There is a wonderful App by John Eldridge entitled ‘Pause’ where if you select the one minute version you hear his voice saying “Jesus I give everyone and everything to you Lord”. Do you?

When your mind is screaming and the clock is ticking can you really give everything to God? When you are perplexed by things not changing are you still able to say “Lord I trust you”? When you are tempted to jump in and orchestrate change can you give it all to Him? 

God knows your heart. He doesn’t like to see you in emotional pain but He is a God of perfect timing. His ways are not our ways. (Isaiah 55:8). 

PRAYER: Father you know my heart, you hear my prayers. You know what is best. Help me be still. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Are You Planted?

 

Those who are planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing, to declare that the LORD is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.

Psalm 92:13–15

Are you planted in the Lord’s garden or are you in the pile of weeds or wilted plants that need water? 

Think of what this Bible verse is saying, it is quite a word picture. It is only mere men who toss older people aside thinking they are of little value. I have noticed that and it is hurtful to see those ‘elders’ who have been the backbone of a strong America be ignored or not asked for input. 

Only by staying planted in the Lord’s garden will you flourish. You can practice the world’s counterfeit religion which calls Christian’s hateful for following God’s word or you can stay on track realizing Satan is the Prince of darkness controlling earthly passions now. Inside of each man and woman is a God shaped hole that won’t be complete until you allow Him total control of your life. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus  my heart aches for those who have bought the lies of Satan and who have little or no desire for your word and truth. Bring revival. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Meditate On God's Glory

They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty and I will meditate on your wonderful works.Ps 145:5

Each day is a gift from God. You wake up and look out on this glorious creation and wonder how anyone could think God doesn’t exist. 

God’s ways are higher than your ways. When you think nothing will change standby. God uses ‘suddenlys’. 

I challenge you instead of dwelling on the things you can do nothing about fix your eyes on the cross of Jesus Christ. Don’t try to jump ahead of God. To Him be the glory for ever and ever. 

PRAYER: Today I want to be still and just meditate on your goodness. Give me the ability to let the past go and learn from it. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

This Too Shall Pass

 

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NIV Bible Gateway

When you have bad junk happen hang on and know it won’t be long till it is over. Remember every trial in your life will help you go stronger. Sometimes challenges you go through may even be to help another.

I don’t know what issues are swirling in your life but I know His blessings are new every morning.

Different degrees of angst are associated with whatever it is you are dealing with. Try to clear your mind. Let yourself forgive if it involves another person. Get out your Bible and start reading the Psalms. Go for a walk, a hike, a run whatever exercise you prefer. Clear your mind and thus your heart. Keep talking to God.

PRAYER: I need to lean on you Lord and sometimes I try to do things on my own or figure things out. I know you are behind the scenes working. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Been Called Names?

 



Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.Psalm 41:9

You have to be tough skinned to take verbal abuse from others. Things like being called a bully, exasperating, stalker and other terms of endearment sometimes to your face sometimes in a text or heard by a third party. I am only sharing as certainly there must be others who have been crushed emotionally at the hands of a friend or family you used to hang out with and trust.

First everyone isn’t going to like you and you don’t need mean hurtful people in your life. Pray and ask God to bless them. Yes you heard me. Hate is not in a believers vocabulary. 

Next just move on not dwelling on the past or the pain and purpose to help others who maybe are wounded by words. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord to release people to you who have seemingly intentionally hurt me with words. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Don’t Dwell On Controversy

Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.
2 Timothy 2:23

There was a time not too long ago I used to get all wrought up in the latest conspiracy or controversy of the day. Mostly political in nature, I see them now as Satan’s way to get our mind off God. 

If you get an email trying to stir up a controversial subjects begging you to give your opinion and engage in this I suggest just move on and ignore that text or change the subject. 

God knows the future and He has things under control. Don’t make political talk an idol. Stop and think about who you trust more, God or the 5 o’clock news. 

PRAYER: Lord I seek your face daily and I pray for those people who may be captivated more by politics and division than to be running steadfast after you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Make Them Invisible To The Enemy Lord

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.Hebrews 11:1

Are you afraid to pray bold prayers by this meaning claiming good things not bad? Being negative is not a good companion in the prayer mode. Believe something and stand on faith. 

If you have never prayer walked try it. And if you don’t have a specific place you meet with God daily get one. 

Don’t be a worrier be a warrior for Christ and take authority speaking positive. Pray hedges of protection around your children and grandchildren and pray they will be invisible to the enemy. Don’t let a fretful spirit keep you defeated. 

PRAYER: Father there are times things don’t look like they can possibly change but I gave my prayers to you and I have hope. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Treasures Of This World

 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’“This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.” Luke 12:20-21

Money, fame, power, elaborate portfolio, possessions, ‘toys’, fancy houses seem to be a magnet for many. Granted if you have saved wisely not putting your family in jeopardy by being in debt then you feel you deserve it. Right? 

You have probably met people who sort of sneer at you when invited  to come to church. Or perhaps a ‘faith tradition’ they have been indoctrinated and educated in controls their life. 

Point is, you are not to judge others but those who were raised to go to church and love Jesus maybe need to save the date on their calendar. God is not legalistic He just wants you to love Him and finding a church home where you can fellowship with other believers is part of it. Maybe God is calling you to a new church tradition. Your riches can’t save you only God can. And you need to be ready as you never know when you will breathe your last breath. Make your life count for the kingdom. 

PRAYER: Today I thank you for a beautiful day you created. I thank you for freedom. I thank you for friends and neighbors. Use me to do your work Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Keep Training

 



All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.1 Corinthians 9:25-27 NLT Bible Gateway

I consider myself a runner although my newest friends don’t know that because I have not been disciplined like pre Covid days to get out and run a couple miles daily. Any thing you do requires training such as a friend who recently completed her 30th Triathalon. 

You can do things you want to and physical training, while important, is not as vital as spiritual training. The devil can try to confuse you to the point you don’t really know how to train spiritually or you start comparing what you do to others or get to a point it is not important. 

Brother and sister getting into God’s word even if just a snippet is crucial to growing in Christ. A favorite place to go daily and ‘train’ in my case a rocking chair next to my bedside table and a prayer closet I need to use more. Don’t become lazy or complacent. The devil is ready to trip you so don’t let him. 

PRAYER: I am grateful for my Bible and ask you to help me daily read it and hide the word in my heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#BG2