Angry? Why?

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. JAMES 1:19-20

Lots of anger is going on in America now because of a man elected to Make America Great Again. The anger does not help but hurts. Riots, outbursts, vulgarity, cursing. Even reports of a shadow government trying to destroy this man and destroy our democracy.  How does a believer respond? You respond in love and don't get ugly yourself.

 I am not trying to be political but making a point about any kind of anger. Anger destroys families. Anger causes fights. Anger kills. Anger divides. Anger is a tool of the enemy Satan and does nothing to build up a believer or the cause of Christ.

Step back a moment and reflect on the goodness of God. Pray for those people who may be creating discord in this nation. We know God has a plan. If you are angry might I suggest to sit down and read the book of John and pray for a transformed heart.

PRAYER:Lord I know being angry, holding grudges, having bad feelings about someone is not your will. Lord Jesus transform the hearts and minds of those who would want to cause revolt in this great nation. Help peace reign. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a wonderful song of Praise:

https://youtu.be/cEFGr1S8SkA

Seek Higher Ground

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ,set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2

In a flood or a tsunami the advice is given to get to higher ground to avoid impending calamity. Wise advice getting out of the path of torrential flood waters. But in your life too it is wise advice to seek 'higher ground' as well. Look up, choose the high road as a good friend of mine once told me.

It is easy to get trapped if you choose to remain and grovel in dangerous situations or things that do nothing to build people up. When it comes to politics for instance,  you can choose to be ugly and mean and say hateful things or you can choose to go higher and be kind, pray, and trust God.

Whatever you do ask yourself am I seeking things higher or am I stuck in the mire?

PRAYER: I want to do things Lord that lift up and not tear down. Use me in the world around me to help people look higher. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a song of worship:
https://youtu.be/N5m17Ubn54E

Who Or What Is Your Focus On?

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:33-34

What is it that you think about the most during your day? How do you spend your spare time? What things in life are important to you? These series of questions are not meant to condemn or judge you but to make you think about just what you are focusing on?

As a believer hopefully one of your answers was the things of the Lord? It is essential to grow up in Christ to spend time in His word. It is way more than a Sunday ritual at church. If you have not done so already why not try scheduling Jesus into your day. Now some of you may think they sounds silly but don't you make schedules for other important things?

I challenge you to get into the word of God and try making it a regular habit. Usually that takes a period of 21 days. If you find Bible boring start with a Bible study book or start reading the book of John or The Psalms. Ask God to reveal to you things in His word. Now go make that schedule!

PRAYER: Lord you are good and you are patient. I know it makes you sad to have your 'children' not want to be with you. Help me develop a plan to draw closer to you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

The Boll Weevil

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Both our sons were born in LA, Lower Alabama, and lived in Enterprise for a short time after birth. In this small town outside Fort Rucker Army installation, is a statue in the center of the town to an insect. Yes an insect, the boll weevil. Why would a town in Alabama spend the money to celebrate with a statue to a bug? 

The story goes that the primary crop in that part of the state had been cotton but one year there was a Boll weevil infestation that destroyed the cotton crop. In order for the town and farmers to stay afloat financially they chose a new crop to grow. Peanuts. This proved to be even better for the region and a blessing from God in the long run bringing in very good revenue. 

Do you sometimes wonder why bad things happen at first because you can not see the big picture? I am sure the folks in Enterprise were devastated and had no idea what to do. Sometimes just hanging on through the turmoil is what is necessary. Trials will come in life but our God is way bigger than them. Even boll weevils. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord look for the good when bad things happen and help me keep my cool. I know you will never fail me nor fore sake me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Note: Further info on this bit of unknown history to friends who do not live in Alabama.Recent years has the weevil been brought under control. Weevils first entered the United States from Mexico in 1892. They reached Mobile County in 1910 and had infested the entire state by 1916. Alabama's economy was almost entirely based in agriculture, with cotton being the primary cash crop, when the weevil struck. By following George Washington Carver's advice, Coffee County, in contrast to the rest of the state, rebounded economically in 1917 with the largest peanut harvest in the nation.In 1919, Enterprise city councilman Roscoe Owen "Bon" Fleming proposed a commemoration of the pest for turning Enterprise's economy around, and on December 11 of that year the city dedicated a statue to the boll weevil in the middle of Main Street. The actual bug part was added in 1949.(Copied from encyclopediaofalabama.org).

Spiritual Burnout

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21

Have you left your first love? I am talking about Jesus. Maybe many who have,  aren't even reading this as even 1 minute with Jesus is too much trouble. There could be those who listen to the sermons about putting Jesus first and may think they are, just by being in church or being in a certain denomination.

There is a verse in Revelation that says "if we are lukewarm, he will spit us from his mouth". ( See Revelation 3:16).   Now how about that for a word picture? If you hang out with the wrong crowd they can drag you down to the gutter with them and try to make you think like them, even if they go against what you know  to be right. Maybe you need a new church home that is on fire for the Lord not one that is constantly telling you how bad you are. Love is where it is at and it is God's job to judge not ours.

Wherever you are at on your spiritual journey know that God is there for you. He understands and loves you. He forgives and forgets even when man can not. Allow Him to light your spiritual fire today.

PRAYER: I love you Lord and I don't want to listen to the world and its' ways as this world is not my real home. Help me not allow Satan to get me to turn away and believe lies. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a song of hope and encouragement: https://youtu.be/JiD0_Krgbo4

Come As You Are

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

You all probably have heard the phrase "come as you are" meaning no need to get fancy and dressed up, just show up. Jesus invites us to come as we are as well. He chose the most unlikely characters to be his disciples. If you are addicted, messed up, pierced, tattooed, broken, sinful, a criminal, prostitute, liar, rebellious, homosexual, thief, gossiper, judgmental, he says simply "Come". No matter your outward appearance or the condition of your heart. 

Jesus is the one who loves us unconditionally. Now he does not want you to remain in your sin but he is not sitting there condemning. Remember what he said to the woman caught in adultery? (See John 8:1-11). "Go and sin no more" period, end of story. 

Church is a place for broken souls not people who have it all together. If you haven't been in a while find you a church that loves you warts and all. Don't let Satan lie to you and make you feel you will not fit in. If you have been away for a while might I suggest a non denominational church. Also might I suggest reading the book of John in the New Testament. Now go and know Jesus loves you and wants you to love Him. 

PRAYER: I am so thankful for your love for me. I know you want me in worship whether I have nice clothes or a suit. Help me not be judgmental of others but love them unconditionally. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Not Just About Me

As it is written: "For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." Romans 8:36

Me, me, me. It is all about me. Our selfie culture would certainly lead people to think that. Look at me! You know there are other people out there besides yourself. It is certainly a challenge for parents today to raise selfless children or those who think of others more than themselves. 

The world is made up of all sorts of people. Many hurt and have no friends. Sometimes in our little cocoon of sorts it becomes easy to insulate yourself from the real world. I am not talking about the world according to the media but the actual world of ups and downs and hurt and pain. Sometimes getting out of your comfort zone and helping another is just what the doctor ordered so to speak. 

What can you do today to reach beyond yourself?

PRAYER: Lord help me look around my world to see how I might have a positive impact on another's life. They might even be in my own family or circle of influence. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Beyond Easter

From that time on Jesus began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and that He must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. Matthew 16:21

So Easter 2017 is behind us. Christ is risen, He is risen indeed! But now what? The Easter lilies are wilting, the cute dresses are hung back in the closet, the candy is being consumed, but what next? You continue the Easter journey, that's what.

Realize there is way more to a relationship with Jesus than just Easter Sunday. Jesus died for all of us no matter how messed up we are or no matter how much you reject or deny Him. He doesn't wish any to perish but man has a free will and thus sometimes just doesn't want anything to do with what some call being 'religious'. I tell people I am not religious but I just love Jesus. Being religious is too much of a chore. 

So if you are reading this today and want to know more about letting Jesus be Lord of your life I would be happy to tell you. Give him first place, not your leftovers. 

PRAYER: I am grateful that you love me warts and all Jesus even sometimes when I hardly give you the time of day. I pray for those people who totally reject you to have a change of heart. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Your Frame Of Mind

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5

Many times if you can just change your environment or outlook on life you will develop a better, cheerier disposition and overall well being. Your mindset is important and at Weight Watchers meetings it is one of the keys to learn  positive thinking and thus help you with your goals. Also the recent running of the Boston Marathon on April 17 is a good example of athletes who need to develop a mindset to get them to the finish line. 

You can choose to succumb to wrong attitude and feelings and live in the past or you can choose to press on to new goals and new dreams learning from your past failures or setbacks. No matter what it is that makes you want to throw in the towel and just quit stay the course. A relationship, a weight loss program, a job hunt, an illness,  waiting for the answer to prayer, the return of a prodigal child, keep going. Recently I heard the report of a family reconciliation after about 7 years of not speaking. Wow, God is good. 

Spring time is a great time to begin practicing new ways of thinking. As you look at budding trees and flowers, baby ducklings being born and other signs of newness,  know that you too can experience this sense of being alive again. 

PRAYER: Oh how I love you Lord. I thank you for seeing me tough situations and helping me learn through them. In Jesus' name. Amen.

So You Say You Love All People....

And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us. 1 John 3:23

....But then all of a sudden you make a comment that stereotypes a group of people of a certain race or country or people group. Whoops. As TV character Steve Erkel would jokingly say "Did I do that?" It really is no joke. We all have probably been guilty of it sometimes innocently. 

Jesus said to love. Now love doesn't mean we necessarily agree with someone or what they are doing or the lifestyle they live but it means to love. PERIOD. No gossip, no crude jokes, no jokes, no ugliness, just prayer. Can you do that? 

We were all made different and unique. Sometimes you may do something that rubs someone the wrong way or you know is wrong. Poking fun at handicapped people or those who look funny or the poor is not what Jesus would have you do. It is time to examine yourself and what comes out of your mouth and get on board saying only that which builds up people and not tears them down. Can you do that? 

PRAYER: Father I thank you that you convict me when I have said something less than pleasing to you or something that hurts my witness as your follower. Help me TRULY love one another. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Sent from my iPhone

Stop Fretting...,Can You?

"Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? "And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life? " Matthew 6:26-27

Why do we humans feel we have to worry so much? Mastering the art of letting God give you His perfect rest is what all of us need to try to do. One thing I do is to keep the news off and also not conjure up 'what if' scenarios in my mind. It is a discipline but you have to focus on above. 

Did you know who loves it when you worry? Satan! He can get your focus off God and His promises and onto all sorts of things to bring you concern. Are you going to allow this in your life or are you going to instead pray and know God's ways are beyond our understanding? Why not choose to live your life in freedom and cast off wrong thoughts that may come your way and take captive every thought as it says in 2 Corinthians 10:5. 

PRAYER: I am guilty many times of allowing things to make me fearful. I want to be able to cast off that stronghold of worry that can so easily grip me. I choose to look up and trust you Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Be Still...Without Your Phone

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;I will be exalted among the nations,I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm46:10

Can you be without your electronic devices for a day? Maybe more than a day? Our world is so wrapped up in being connected, chatting, texting, tweeting, that it is hard to imagine putting down these little devices and just being still. Even as I sit here on my 'device' writing I look around at many people staring at their small screens. 

Let me present you with a challenge. Unless you absolutely have to be connected due to work or a medical emergency I challenge you to go a day without your phone. Get outside if you can. Go to a park or hiking trail.Ride your bicycle. Take a walk.  If you are home turn off the radio, the television, and stay disconnected. It is quite refreshing. Why is it necessary to constantly be needing to know everything? 

If you are a parent I feel it is crucial to teach children how to just be still. Learn to rest. Learn to be creative in your mind and think without technological devices clamoring for your time and attention. Play a board game with your family. Talk. Read a book without your E reader. Challenge your self to spend one on one face to face time with a friend. Now go and be tech free for a day. 

PRAYER: This world can be noisy and busy. Help me Lord to discipline myself to sit at your feet and hear your voice without electronic devices vying for my attention. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Bloom!

Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Ephesians 4:15-16

Spring is an exciting time of year. A time of fresh starts, new beginnings, gardens, flowers, freshness in the air.  I used to live in the dessert Southwest, which I loved,  and spring time was glorious with cactus blooms and other wild flowers.

Wherever you are in life you are to bloom where you are planted. Flourish for the body of Christ, even if you don't necessarily feel like it. Just as plants sprout new growth and blooms in springtime, you as a believer are to sprout and bloom for the kingdom of God. You need to stay rooted and grounded in good 'soil' by studying and reading God's word daily. Just like having plants that need water and fertilizer to do well, you as a believer need a daily dose of Jesus to do well.

Start your day today but pulling out the weeds or the bad stuff in your life that is hindering you from being all you can be for the kingdom.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I want to be a glorious crop in the garden of believers. I know weeds will come and I will not allow them to stay. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Patience...An Ongoing Discipline

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. Colossians 3:12-14

Many of you may have short fuses when it comes to being patient. Recently I had my patience tested nearly the entire day. Mine started off with backed up traffic. Next was a very abnormally long car service appointment that nearly caused me to miss another  engagement I had planned. Finally  a very long wait at a local coffee shop. I remembered I was a witness for Jesus and thus stayed cool. Getting upset never solves anything.  

If you are unable to get a grasp on this fruit of the spirit your life could be pretty miserable. Patience is needed in so many areas of life. Waiting on news about a job. Waiting  in the doctor's office. Waiting for a medical diagnosis. Waiting in line at grocery store. Waiting in line at an amusement park for a popular ride. Waiting in line for tickets to some major event. Waiting for TV to come back on after storm disrupts service. You can probably add some other familiar scenarios. 

Lack of patience can cause fights, chaos, confusion, anger and so many emotions that do not really reflect good upon Christ. Whatever you may be facing that takes patience try to be still and realize that this too shall pass. Learn to hold your tongue and answer everyone as if you were speaking to Jesus himself. Realize your health and your life will be better off because of it. 

PRAYER: I find it so easy to get upset when things don't go at a quick pace. Help me Lord to be still and know that learning patience is a good trait to develop. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Think About Easter

He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee. Luke 24:6

What does Easter mean to you? Is it Jesus and the miracle of Jesus raising from the dead or is it Easter bunnies, new dresses, an annual church visit, lots of food, family celebration, Easter Egg hunts and baby chicks? Most people reading I would venture to say know what Easter is all about.  

This is the day Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. To me this holiday is way more fun than Christmas. Sure you can celebrate in fun ways but if you have children I urge you to put the Easter bunny costume away and see about celebrating a unique way that insures they know what this special day is all about. Too many times Christians cave in and secularism takes over in their lives too. 

Hallelujah, Jesus has risen just as He said. Now go share this good news. Don't be shy about trying to let others know about the reason of hope that is in you. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. Pray for those people who may be coming to church for the first time today as they feel it is 'the thing to do' on this day. 

PRAYER: Today I pray for pastors and priests who will be delivering the Easter messages throughout the world. I pray for ears to hear and hearts to be receptive. I pray for revival in the hearts of man. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a classic Easter worship song from several years ago:

https://youtu.be/Li8Ld8KWTbA

The Tax Man Cometh!

And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's. Matthew 22:20-21

Here we are again on the brink of what I call national IRS day or giving to Caesar what is Caesar's. Maybe indeed it is our patriotic duty of sorts to obey the law and file our taxes. Many taxes are unnecessary or may support immoral things, but until the laws are changed you must abide by them. Never mind that in the past there have been infamous lawmakers who have skipped paying taxes. Do the right thing and insure you do your civic duty to pay what you owe. 

Speaking of money, hopefully it is in your heart to be generous to the Lord as well.  Not under compulsion but because in your heart you know it is the right thing to do. God loves cheerful givers.  If you have a sour attitude about sharing with ministries or your church then ask God to change your heart of stone and give you a compassionate generous heart. Don't give to get noticed but because you want to. In secrecy is best. 

Be thankful for what God has blessed you with. Be thankful for the ability to earn enough to pay taxes. Pray for the things supported by taxes which are not right to be repealed. Now go and have a blessed day. 

PRAYER: I am grateful to live in a free nation. Some do not have this privilege. I pray for those who make our laws to be led with honesty and integrity and if anyone is doing otherwise may he or she not stay in office long. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Hope For A Hurting World

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end;they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

Each of us is subject to good days and bad days. It is just part of life. When going through things try to imagine someone who may have a worse off situation. Jesus on the cross for instance. Now that is the ultimate. It is hard to understand why this day is called 'Good Friday' when it was the day our Lord was bludgeoned to death and nailed to a cross.

Jesus gave His life willingly so we might be saved and have life. Beaten, bruised, whipped, spat upon, kicked, scorned, you name it he endured it. Wow, for you and me! He died for the worst of the worse yet how many people give him hardly a passing thought? Sure some grew up in the church but you don't inherit heaven just because gramps and granny and your parents took you to church. You have to ask Him into your heart. Being a certain denomination doesn't guarantee you a place in the heavenly kingdom either.

So this weekend do more than make an appearance in church, eat ham,and hunt for eggs. Search your heart and make sure you are right with the Lord. Have you truly asked Him to be your Lord and savior? If not do it today. Don't make Easter just a religious ritual.

PRAYER: I can't even imagine what you endured for us Lord. I am ashamed that at times I don't even give you any time during my day or maybe five minutes. Every thing else becomes more important. Forgive me Lord and help me prioritize each day so you have a key place in it. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Inside Your Bubble

"For by the grace given me I say to every one of you:  Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you" Romans 12:3

Many reading this probably lead fairly comfortable normal lives and we see the pain and suffering on the nightly news or other sources. When we are in our bubble of sorts it is easy to separate ourselves and think someone gifted in helping different people groups would be just the ticket. So we go on day in and day out not really caring or knowing what to do. 

Street people, prisoners, prostitutes, druggies, elderly, homeless, widows and widowers, runaways, terminally ill, orphans,  the unsaved, beggars, the poor. Has God touched your heart for any of these people groups? I am as guilty as the other guy. It takes courage, prayer,  and action to make a difference. Not just on special service days to make you feel good but even when no one else knows.

Easter is upon us. What a nice time to reflect on ways you can escape your bubble and stop making excuses and be the answer to prayer for someone. Pray over this why don't you then take action. 

PRAYER: So many people have so many needs. Many just need a friend to listen to them. Perhaps even there is a family member you have been estranged from where it is time to mend the rift and move on. Let God direct you. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Hump Day!

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. Psalm 28:7

Yay, it is Wednesday and for those of you with a full time job on Monday through Friday this day is almost like a celebration. You are halfway through and can soon celebrate on Friday. Doesn't take much to help us celebrate. 

I was in Party City recently and you can buy all sorts of things to help create a festive atmosphere for your celebrations. Does it really take streamers, boa's, funny hats, face paint, and tutu's to make you smile? Sure those things are nice and so is Wednesday,  but where is the real source of your joy and happiness? Hopefully your answered Jesus!

Today before you rush our the door or hurry and read this and skip on over to Facebook stop and spend some time in prayer and read a few scriptures. Start in the  book of John in the New Testament. Then go about your day knowing every day is a day to celebrate. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for your creation. I thank you for loving me. I know many those do not acknowledge you or call those who do a little weird so I pray for them. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Don't Be Fooled!

 "Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things comes the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not therefore partakers with them. For you were sometimes darkness, but now you are light in the Lord: walk as children of light For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth." Ephesians 5:6-9

It does not take a rocket scientist, of which many live here in my area, to know things are crazy in America.   Many people have been deceived to believe lies and are saying very hateful things to Christians who stand up for the truth in the Word of God. The politically charged climate is just what our enemy Satan loves. He gets folks all up in arms and at each other's throats when in fact our battle is against him and his demons. A house divided can not stand which is actually in scripture in Mark 3:25.

If you love Jesus and claim to follow Him, do you really? Think about that for a moment. Is Jesus more important or proving your point? Only the Holy Spirit can convict and change a person. You on the other hand can pray. Our great United States of America was an experiment in freedom. Believers need to take the responsibility seriously to pray for our leaders.

Pray for a renewal of minds captivated by the enemies lies. Pray for those who oppose you. Pray for revival in America. But first let it begin with you.

PRAYER: Oh Lord I thank you for the United States and what it stands for. I thank you for the Bible which is often neglected even by those claiming to know you. Bring a great revival in this land and in my heart. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Some People Just Won't Smile

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Recently I was doing a book signing and a man passed my table and proclaims "you are just too cheery for me" and I continued to smile. Occasionally when I am and out and about I try to make people smile and sometimes it is just not possible. It could be this person is going through something very painful, so I am not the one to pass judgment.

Are you hurting today? Do you feel no one cares? Often times trying to focus on 'above' and seek a merry heart is just what the doctor ordered so to speak. It is easy to be grumpy, angry, and bitter so if you are dealing with these emotions why not challenge yourself to try to be joyful. It might involve being kind to another person. Try maybe paying for the person behind you in the drive through and see if that lifts your spirit.

Make it a habit in your life to keep looking up to Jesus and talk to Him. Tell Him if you are angry or hurting. If you have never made the decision to ask Jesus to be Lord of your life why not ask Him in today?

PRAYER: I am grateful for your love, mercy, forgiveness, and understanding. I know at times I may feel 'down' but help me resist the temptation to be a grump. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Hiding In The Cracks

But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:14

Spring time is here in my part of the country and thus the time for spiders. Ugh, I can't stand them. One thing they do is blend in with the carpet or hide in the cracks so you can't see them. Sin is like a spider in that it can hide and be subtle and then pounce on you when you least suspect it.

Today our world has mastered the art of denying that some sin is in fact just that, sin. If God says something is wrong in the Bible then in fact making legislation to make it right or normal does not make it moral or right. Sin is sin and all of us are guilty of it at one time or another. Don't get all Holy and think because you don't do 'such and such' then you are better than those who do. Our righteousness is like filthy rags it says in Isaiah 64:6 in scripture. 

Be on your guard my friend because Satan roams around and tries to trip you up. Quote scripture at him, he hates that. Know that if you walk in the Spirit you can not fulfill the desires of the fleshly nature. Stay strong. 

PRAYER: I am so thankful Lord for you setting us free from the penalty of sin. I know Lord this world is indeed not our home and is unfriendly to believers in many countries. I choose to obey your word and pray for those I know being deceived by the enemy. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Birthdays And Bad Days

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12

Now the older you get,  a birthday may seem like a bad day,  but that is only because society makes older people feel worthless and washed up when in fact the older you get the more you have to contribute. My title today was borrowed from advertising on a Pro Flower website. Birthdays are occasions to celebrate but there is a time to mourn too.

We are born and we die. Dying is a part of life. Good days and bad days will happen. You can not allow the bad days to define you but must rise to the top and grow from tough situations. Nothing bad is ever fun.

It is way more fun to celebrate another year of life than it is to get bad news but be prepared rocky roads always come. Stay strong in the Lord and rejoice always in good and bad and don't give the devil an opportunity to drag you down.

PRAYER: Lord you are good and your mercies endure every day and are new every morning. Thanks for getting me through the tough moments of life. Also thank you for my birthdays. In Jesus' name. Amen.

The Cat's Tail

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

I recently was reading through a new book which was released 1 April entitled 'Unshaken' by Sally Burke and Cyndie Claypool De Neve and in the midst of trying to stay unshaken I had a little minor issue which at the time almost caused a meltdown. Well then I looked at my cat. Here he sits peacefully with no tail wagging or the instances he just can not calm down the tail is swishing back and forth.

How many of you may be like that cat? You may be sitting still on the outside but unlike the cat whose tail gives away his inner self, you could be stewing on the inside. You can't release your fear, worries, concerns. Maybe you say you do but truly can not let them go. The enemy loves to make us fret. And does it help to fret? The answer is a hearty NO. 

Today start your day anew by releasing your fears to the Lord. Those things you can do nothing about. God loves you and he wants you to be at peace. Don't let the enemy keep you having fits all the time. Give it to God period!

PRAYER: I praise you Lord for who you are. I praise you because you have my back so to speak. I know it shows a lack of faith when I pray then don't let things go. I choose to have peace. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Take Off Your Mask

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

Do you ever just want to be yourself and be transparent and let friends know where you are at emotionally? I know it is easy to hide behind a mask that everything is okay but let's be honest and face the facts. Things aren't always okay. Every person needs to be able to let their guard down with someone you can trust. 

I remember a few years back when something was going on in my life and Satan fed me lies to not share it even with prayers sister so I kept this burden to myself for over a year. You don't want to do that. Contrary to what the lies the enemy may feed you, everyone has an issue at sometime in their life if they a truly honest. 

Don't worry so much about what someone is going to think about you because they probably aren't going to think anything. As a matter of fact the person you share it with may be relieved to know you are real. Go to God daily and share your  burdens with Him. And if someone says to you "how are you doing today" answer something like,"with   God's grace I  will be fine." 

PRAYER: I am so grateful you are my 24/7 go to God who loves me warts and all. I know things I go through will strengthen me but help me Lord as I go through valley's to keep looking up. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Be Yourself

For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. John 12:43

Are you the kind of person who worries what people think or what they might say? I know I have done that in the past and a friend bought me a sign that says"be yourself, everyone else is taken" which is so very true.  Each of us is unique and has a distinct and different purpose. 

You are not to love the praise of men more than God. Alas in this OCD social media world it is easy to get caught up on your 'likes' which does not matter in the first place. If you suffer from this syndrome of checking Facebook so much to get affirmation perhaps it is time to get on your knees and ask for deliverance from this need to know everything and be liked. Maybe set your schedule up and don't run to Facebook all the time. Go grab your Bible instead and read about the love God has for you and how He made you special. 

It does not matter who likes you or does not like you. You are only to please the One who created you in the first place. Take note of the time you have to have your devices with you to gain self esteem and try something. Leave your phone at home one day. Enjoy talking to friends in person and enjoying the beauty of nature. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord to discipline myself to not spend more than 30 minutes a day on my electronic devices. Give me the strength to run to the word instead of the TV or phone. I know my life will be better if I can break the social media addiction. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Who Is 'They'?

"But if they will confess their sins and the sins of their ancestors—their unfaithfulness and their hostility toward me, which made me hostile toward them so that I sent them into the land of their enemies—then when their uncircumcised hearts are humbled and they pay for their sin, I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land. Leviticus 26:40-42

All of us have probably heard people say things like 'they say' and wonder who exactly is the 'they' everyone mentions so often. The elusive 'they crowd'. 

I guess the 'they' in the verses above could refer to us or to those who complained and rejected God's teaching and were exiled to the desert. Perhaps in modern day those who give lip service only or make up their own rules or own 'Bible' to suit their life. Dangerous territory. 

Are you part of the crowd who turns your back on what you know to be true because our modern times make up the rules and don't normally use Bible as their guide? Hopefully not. Each of us is to confess our sins and humble yourselves and pray. Don't be afraid to say you need God in your life. Be sure to pray against any generational curses in your family too either known or unknown. Get your heart right with God! 

PRAYER: I love you Lord and I don't want to be part of the 'they' crowd. Forgive me for any known or unknown sins and I break any family curses or generational sins as well. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God's Hospital....The Church

And when Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of a physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners. Mark 2:17

I have written in the past about God's 'waiting room' which most of us have been in at one time or another while we wait for an answer to prayer. Waiting rooms are not fun but they are necessary. All of us need to admit we are not perfect people. Don't compare yourself to some one else or your your family to another family. 

The church is God's hospital of sorts. You go there to get well. You go there to get filled with the word and get hope. The enemy may try many ways to get people to think church is unimportant. Maybe the problem is you need to find a dynamic growing church where you can find a body of believers you can relate to. Don't let Satan try to get you into the excuse mode or think it is not necessary. 

That church 'hospital' can meet many of your needs to include the need to open up and relate to others and share your hurts and become transparent. In an ideal situation this body of believers becomes your family. Do you have that family in your life? 

PRAYER: I am ever grateful Lord for the body of believers who are there to lift me up when I am down. The church truly is a hospital and we all need it's care. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Keeping Your Eyes On Jesus

Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

When you feel like complaining, focus on Jesus.

   When you get bad news, focus on Jesus.

   When life throws you an unexpected curve ball, focus on Jesus.

   When you feel all hope is lost, focus on Jesus. 

   When stuck in traffic, focus on Jesus.

   When you feel alone, focus on Jesus.

   When you feel like no one cares, focus on Jesus. 

   When you start to sink into self pity, focus on Jesus. 

   When someone tells lies about you, focus on Jesus. 

   When someone walks out on you, focus on Jesus. 

   When you get a not so cheery medical diagnosis, focus on Jesus.

   When you don't know which way to turn, focus on Jesus. 

Whatever it is you are going through you don't have to go through it alone. It is true what  you often here, tomorrow is another day and yes the sun will come out tomorrow.

Satan's job is to keep you fearful, agitated, angry, hopeless, doubting, and deceived. Your job is to let your mind gravitate to focusing on uplifting and encouraging things not digging a huge hole of pity. Jesus came that you might have and enjoy life and have it more abundantly. The best is yet to come. Press on. 

PRAYER: You are Lord of all creation and when I go through things I know you are only a prayer away. I choose to look up and not live a defeated life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

No Fooling Around, Seriously!

And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.2 Corinthians 11:14

Welcome to the day where people get by with lying or joking in the name of pulling pranks on their fellow man then innocently proclaiming,"April Fools". Unsure of the origin of this particular holiday, if you can call it that, but one thing is for sure, good and evil are  no joke. 

Proverbs 14:12 says "There is a way that seems right to a man, but it's end is the way of death." Now that is a Bible verse that is not fooling around. This world we live in is not our real home, that is if you claim to be a believer. We are here for such a short time and during that time should be making an impact for the kingdom. 

There is a right and wrong way according to scripture and many make make laws and seemingly feel justified in their actions but still things have to be weighed by the word of God.  Don't let this world it's trappings fool you. Delight in the Lord, not the things that are so very temporary. 

PRAYER: Lord help me be able to discern good from evil even when it is hard tell the difference. Give me eyes to see and ears to hear the truth and walk in it. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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