Welcome to God's Lemonade Stand

It is my hope that by reading this daily you will grow in your walk with Christ and knowledge of scriptures and be set free from any struggles in your life that are weighing you down. Be blessed to be a blessing.

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

If Jesus Were Waiting At The Airport



And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Titus 2:7
As I sat in a very busy terminal at LAX recently looking at passengers faces very few looked jovial. Delayed flights brought upset anxious expressions. 

I was thinking as comical as it may sound, if Jesus were waiting for a flight what would he be doing? Running to get coffee, buying a magazine, trying to get a better seat on the plane? No he would be shining light throughout the terminal as he sat and didn’t let small things upset him. 

You as a child of God have Christ living on the inside of you and are to be a representative of him. No secret service hidden believers in his world. Don’t take off your ‘Christian garment’ and chime in getting peeved with the others around you but set an example in love and try to change someone’s day for the better. 

PRAYER: Father help use me in the lives of those persons I may encounter on a daily basis whether my family, friends , or a total stranger. Help me show love to the unlovely. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Flying Through A Storm



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
It can be a little disconcerting flying in turbulent weather. Not to mention you are way up high bouncing around but it can be nerve wracking unless you trust in the Lord and just take a breath and relax.

Life has storms of another nature. Stuff that happens that challenges your peace. Unscheduled events in your calendar that throw a monkey wrench in your best laid plans. Sickness, bankruptcy, loss of job, destruction of home by a storm, flood, or fire, death, aging issues. How a person gets through life without Jesus is beyond me.

Today’s verse is the key to the storms of life and that is trust in the Lord. You can’t orchestrate things on your own. Having Jesus firmly seated on the throne of your life will help you so much better than the anxiety and fear the world offers. God is with you if you will ask Him to be.

PRAYER: I am so thankful for the perfect peace I can experience when life has storms and curve balls. I know you will see me through. I pray for those I know to learn to trust in and lean on you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, October 28, 2019

Refocus On What Really Matters


Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.James 4:14

If you are not careful you can be so overly consumed by this present world and its’ joys and sorrows you can begin to think this is what you are living for. As you can see by today’s scripture your life is a mere vapor. Here today, gone tomorrow. 

During these fleeting days, of which you have no idea how may you have on Earth, perhaps it is time to take a look at what you have deemed crucial and important in life and how they matter for eternity. Do you put too much trust and hope in this world, which will pass away, or are you a kingdom person?  

One day you will stand before the Lord and give account for your life. Keep that in mind. Those you choose to associate with either get you closer to God or further away from Him. Ponder that for a moment. Do you say yes to worldly cultural pleasures more than things of the Lord? Do you start your day talking to God or running off and not even giving Him a passing thought? Today perhaps it is time to refocus on the Kingdom of God. 

PRAYER: This world has many things to distract a believer and keep us consumed with things that don’t matter. Help me recognize any strongholds in my life that may be more important than you and to refocus my life on the kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Idol Worship


“Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:3

What is the first thing you do in the morning when you wake up? Pick up your cell phone and check your FB status? Watch the morning news? Read the paper? Take a walk? How about get God’s word hidden in your heart and talk to him before all that.

This culture is trying to remold those who are weak in their faith. Young people especially growing up in a culture that idolized selfies and cell phones. Look around you at those people glued to their phones. It is an idol. Anything you worship more than the Almighty is an idol. Ouch.

Maybe today is the day to examine what is truly important to you.  Do you care to get closer to God and know him better? It may require the discipline of putting your Bible on top of your cell phone and reading it prior to  getting online and into the culture that tries to reshape your thinking.

PRAYER: I need discipline in my life Lord. Often I don’t even give you a second thought and put this world before you. Convict my heart to put you first and help me see that things like my cell phone might just be an idol if I can’t live without looking at it constantly. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Carry On Little Soldier


For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12

Did you know each day you are in a battle for your very soul? Current events and things are swirling around you and as the culture changes you just shake your head. 

Do you realize we know the end of the story as it is in Revelation? The prophecy clock is ticking and some the current events happening are part of that clock. The thing is are you prepared for the battle raging around you in the heavenlies or more concerned with your Facebook status and daily life?  

Now is the time to take being a Christian and all it entails seriously. Are you living just for this day or are you preparing yourself and those you touch for a life in Heaven. Each and every day you have a choice to make. Love the culture and what others think about you more or love Jesus and do His work wherever you are. 

PRAYER: Oh I need you Lord each day and I need strength to not let this present world shape me but let your life through me shape the world around me. Guide me to say and do the right thing and cast off those things taking me away from the truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, October 25, 2019

Do Not Grow Weary


But  those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Do you ever become weary waiting for change to happen after you have prayed till you are practically blue in the face? Waiting is hard. Trying to figure things out on your own is hard. 

Today’s verse says those who ‘hope’ also meaning waiting. You have a positive hope because you trust in God’s sovereignty and His word and the promises contained in scripture. Sometimes the waiting may also be training you in a spiritual discipline. 

Don’t give up. Keep praying. Keep running your race to win. 

PRAYER: Oh Lord I seek you and know you hear my prayer. Help me to be still while you do your work and not ever doubt that all things are in control. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Deception Abounds...But God!


Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient.Ephesians 5:6

If you do not read the owners manual or instruction sheet for most things you will be clueless as to how to operate something. It is the same with our Maker, God. His instruction manual for life is the Holy Bible yet many even within churches don’t even pick it up. Oh the common verse like John 3:16 or Psalm 23 may be known but that is where it sadly ends. 

If you want to lead a victorious Christian life you have to have power from the most high. Satan would want to keep you ignorant and have you make excuses for why you are good enough or you don’t need to be ‘fed’ Bible verses. My friend your power to defeat the enemy is found within the pages of the Bible and if you fail to study it and apply it you will be like a lamp without an electric outlet, no light, no power. 

The choice is yours and yours alone. Listen to the enemy and spend no time trying to defeat the forces of darkness which surround you daily or purpose in your heart you will make time to read scripture daily and make it happen! 

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for freedom to worship you I have here in the United States. Help me never take this for granted as many countries are in bondage to deceiving spirits such as Communism and socialism that prevent this exercise of loving you openly. Forgive me if I have ever put you anything but first. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Acts 5:29 Moment



Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than human beings! Acts 5:29

There will come a time when Christians and those who don’t yet believe will hopefully have an Acts 5:29 moment declaring that yes God is who we will obey not the culture, not the news media, not the nay sayers, not those who don’t read and know the Bible but will obey God, period. 

Culture has tried to reshape mankind and many have caved into the lies, propaganda, re-education, bowing at the altar of news media and  false teaching. Now is the time to wake up and say “no more.I will believe God and not man.” Demonic spirits are real and they have influenced far too many who don’t even realize they have been taken captive. 

My friend we are in spiritual warfare. You are either for God and what He teaches or you are against Him. No middle ground. No compromise for this thing or that thing. God is the great ‘I Am’ and he can heal, restore, set you free from the lies and deceit of the enemy. Why not let Him? 

PRAYER: I am thankful for the Holy Spirit who brings conviction of sin. I ask that you protect those I love who are lost and being led astray to believe lies of the culture and therefore lies of the devil. Thank you that the blood of Jesus protects me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Not Responsible For Chipped Windshields


But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:26

Okay so you have no doubt seen the dump trucks in your community on the highway that have a message on the back stating “not responsible for chipped windshields” basically saying if you are tail gating and a rock flies out and cracks your vehicle windshield the dump truck company is not liable. Even if you are not actually on their bumper the stones still fly out and bounce down the highway and likely may hit you.  

Now I am using this catchy grabbing opener to relate to following after things in your life you know are not right or you know are separating you from God but you do them anyway justifying why you are totally ignoring God or that little voice in your head. Temptation often can be pretty great but you have a helper, the Holy Spirit able to help you escape the snares of the enemy. 

Your fleshly nature often tries to gain control and you have to tame it and run the other way. Satan tries to get you off course and make you justify why you are participating in some activity you know deep down is leading you away from God. Today listen to the voice of God. Don’t be trapped by the culture, snares of this present world, or things you know will lead you further into darkness. Run to Jesus. 

PRAYER: Thank you for the Holy Spirit my friend, helper, and comforter. I choose to listen to your voice and not get caught up following ‘too close’ to things that will destroy my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, October 21, 2019

Be A ‘Yet I’


Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything. 2 Corinthians 6:10

Wait what is this a commercial for coolers, ice chests, and coffee cups? Nope just a ‘yet I’ moment to ponder right from the scriptures. It is also not about the ‘Yeti’ said to live in Himalayan mountains but once again a ‘yet I’ moment from God’s Holy Word. 

Today’s verse speaks volumes for how you can be down on yourself, in despair, forlorn, sad, but in Jesus there is reason to rejoice because you can ‘yet rejoice immeasurably more’ if your focus stays on Him. 

In Christ every moment can be a ‘yet I’ moment because Jesus is Lord of your life. You run to Him and give Him your cares and concerns and then leave them there. So many want to take these cares back but don’t you want that ‘yet I’ moment in life? If so then know even though you are having a bad day in the flesh Jesus is a prayer away. 

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for I know even when the enemy tries to come against me and get me in the dumps over a myriad of things you are there. I praise you for the truth found in your word and the power I have through the word. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, October 20, 2019

First Things First

Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Revelation 2:4

Do you know there is some truth to the fact that people do first what is important to them? For instance, you spring out of bed to start a new day. Is Jesus on your to do list and is He first in your day? 

No guilt is intended from this devotion just a simple nudge to allow you to ponder the priorities of your life. Things seem important when they are new and you take care of them. Marriages, a car, being born again. Then something happens over time and things are taken for granted. 

When it comes to your walk with the Lord is it important to you to grow in Christ or is Sunday enough? You wouldn’t marry your spouse then never want to be with them or buy a new car and drive it through mud all the time. Let Jesus TRULY be first and wake up ready to spend time in His word. 

PRAYER: I choose Lord to make sure I don’t let my first love, you, be forgotten. Satan tries to tempt me with worldly pursuits to take me away from my time with you. I choose to put you first. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Moments



For his anger endures but a moment; in his favor is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. Psalm 30:5

There are all sorts of moments in our life. Joyful new parent moments, congratulatory moments, celebration moments, grieving moments, sadness moments, come to Jesus moments. Life is just full of moments each and every day.

What kind of moment are you having in your day right now? Whatever you do you need to live in the moment and not get entangled in the past or too caught up in the future.

Let each moment in your life matter.when you arise in the morning give the day to Jesus and don’t get sidetracked by moments that waste time and don’t matter. Order your day so all your moments matter.

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for life. Help me to be a good steward of my time you have entrusted me with. Help me guard my time so it is not wasted. Help me use my moments wisely. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, October 18, 2019

Pray And Believe


“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.  And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Mark 11:24-25

Prayer may seem like a tricky thing but it is not. It is simply talking to God. But it is not treating him like a cosmic genie or sorts. If you are not living for Him and have an unforgiving spirit towards someone that needs to be repented of. 

Expect and speak positive. Don’t pray then doubt. Believe what God says and shut out negativity. Study verses on prayer. God wants to hear from you all the time not just when you want something. Wake up daily and say “Hello God. I am here to say thank you for watching over me. Thanks for giving me peace.” And so forth.

So what is on your mind today? Have you spoken to your ‘Father’ about it? He is waiting to hear from you. Don’t be consumed with this world and its’ culture and forget about God. Run to Him. He is waiting. 

PRAYER: I pray for those whose heart has hardened towards you because they don’t understand this whole prayer thing and are maybe angry at you and refuse to pray. I ask that the enemy be bound from entering their thoughts and that you set them on a path to a fulfilling prayer life once again never doubting. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Divisive Traps



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. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:10-12

Do you know what spiritual warfare is? Simply put it is when Satan tries to plot to do his killing, stealing, destroying, and deceiving by capturing the minds and hearts of people to get them buying into lies and consequently hatred and divisiveness is the ultimate result. Just as today’s verse says the ‘little weasel’ is waging war on mankind and it has cranked up a notch here in the US lately through many politicians trying to recommend socialism or communism as the way to go. 

Division and confusion are the result when you don’t put on your armor. The sword of the spirit, which is the word of God, has to be used daily. Not just read to try to check a block but really studied so you are able to claim scriptures to take power and authority over the devil in the name of Jesus. 

This is not a joke. Evil happens when good men and women fall asleep and don’t care. Righteous leaders who love the Lord, the truth, and stand for life need to be elected more and more. In your heart if you know what is right and what the Bible says you have to vote accordingly and not be endeared to a party who stands for opposite of what the Bible says. Now is the time for believers to get serious about waging war with the enemy and don’t go about life as usual. 

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for your word which is my daily guide. I pray for those caught up in the squabbles on social media to be set free from believing every thing they read as we know the enemy and he tricks and he is a con man and fraud. I pray for revival in the nation’s media and for revival in the heart of those who are deceived by Satan. Thank you for America and those who fought and died to give us true freedom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Helping Others

 

Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:4

 We all get 'down' at times. The best cure for being in the dumps is to find someone to help.

Self pity is super dangerous and not the plan for a believer although most people have probably caught themselves in a pity party. I heard of a book a while back which I think the title was "Helping You is Helping Me" or something like that. It makes lots of sense. When we sit around and mope and feel sorry for ourselves saying "Whoa is me" there is always someone much worse off. We can become big whiners. 

If you are feeling a case of the blues go find someone to cheer up. Nursing home residents, volunteering, taking a friend to lunch, call your mom or dad if still living, or walk around a park and enjoy the scenery and pick up litter even though you don’t have to. Now go have a cheery day!

PRAYER: Oh Lord Jesus help me to stay in the word and in love with praising you then when I do I tend to stay more lifted up. Show me someone to help today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Click link for a wonderful worship song. http://youtu.be/cIvDCV4e318    

Note: if you are having deep seated issues or thoughts of suicide contact link below.https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Anger Battle


He who is slow to anger is better than a warrior, and he who controls his temper is greater than one who captures a city. Proverbs 16:31

Do you ever find yourself getting really really mad? Anger is a human emotion but not one that is a ‘fruit of the Spirit”. When you are angry it can lead to discord, fights, people getting hurt, misunderstanding, broken relationships, divorce, broken homes, getting fired and so forth. 

The opposite of anger is self control and peace. Try to identify what makes you upset. Perhaps just sit and confess to God that you need help and to help you get this emotion under control. 

People and situations can make us angry. Tailgaters, line jumpers, those who betray us, wounds from a family members saying hurtful words. Many things can lead to discord and strife. The goal is to give it to the Lord and ask Him to transform your feelings for those who make you mad into supernatural love. It can happen. Through this healing and deliverance can occur. 

PRAYER: I thank you for the gift of emotions and I know anger will get me nowhere good so help me relax and stay peaceful regardless. Give me the ability to forgive those who have caused my anger. Deliver those from darkness who seek to be in perpetual state of anger such as many in the media and politics today. Set them free and revive their hearts. In Jesus’ name. Amen.


Monday, October 14, 2019

Be A Giver...More Than Money

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."Luke 6:38

When you think about the word ‘giving’ what comes to mind? Christmas? Birthdays? Offering on Sunday? Giving is way more than all these. 

Do you share your time and resources? When you see a need do you try to meet it? If you are the recipient of a gift and have none to give in return does it make you uncomfortable? Are you able to be a ‘cheerful giver’ (2 Corinthians 9:7). Are you able to receive a gift without worrying about reciprocating? 

I have given you many things to think about in terms of giving. The main thing is not to give under compulsion or don’t go telling everyone when you have given. (Matthew 6:2). 
If you are aware of a need and have the ability to meet that need then do it.(1 John 3:17). 
All you have is God’s anyway and you are to be a good steward of it while on earth. Find a need and go bless someone. 

PRAYER: Lord I know all I have is from you. Thank you that you give mankind the ability to gain wealth and give us the ability to learn to share as well. Help me Lord to learn reaping good stuff leads to sowing good things. Help me learn to receive gifts and not apologize for not having one in return. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Sunday, October 13, 2019

Who Are You Standing In The Gap For?

I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”  Ezekiel 22:30

Standing in the gap is basically praying on behalf of someone or something to not be held captive by Satan and to be delivered and set free. It could be for your country, your school, your children, your town, something that you have concern over that needs super duper intervention from above. 

Life doesn’t just happen. Each day you are in a  battle between God and the devil. Satan loves to kill, steal, destroy, deceive, distract, manipulate, start arguments, create division and so forth. He is at work right now trying to divide the United States. The devil may be trying to steal your children or grandchildren by Re-educating their minds and appearing as an angel of light to trick them. 

Sister and brother we need to take up our positions and fight the enemy each and every day. The little weasel aka Satan,  can’t have your country, your children, your mind or anything. Oh he works overtime through many demonic traps to destroy and get rid of the word of God. Stand firm and take up the word of God to fight against him. 

PRAYER: Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I take up my battle positions to fight against the enemy and he has no authority or power over my nation the USA or my children. I pray you will keep me aware of the enemies tricks so I can take my position in the gap. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, October 12, 2019

Root Them Out

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Ephesians 4:31

How do you get rid of a bitter root in your life that is poisoning you and hindering your spiritual walk? Things such as anger, rage, jealousy, anxiety, that all take a toll of your peace and also can affect your health.

When you garden you need to get rid of bad roots that could spoil your crop and turn it into a mess of weeds. To do this you dig up those bad roots so they do not grow back. Similarly this process needs to be done in your spiritual life. 

Don’t keep rehashing something and let things fester as that leads to a no win situation. It is necessary for you to allow the Holy Spirit to transform you but you have to surrender and ask humbly saying “Help me. I don’t want to live this way. Show me how to let this go.” Each day start with prayer and a dose of God’s word and allow Him to transform you from the inside out.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for forgiving me and helping me get on the right path. Thank you for helping me let go of things that would lead to bitterness. I surrender my life to you and ask that you Lord help me recognize bad roots and dig them up. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, October 11, 2019

Let Hollywood Become Holy Wood?



You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. John  8:44

Years ago my maternal grandma gave me a poem called ‘The Bible and TV Guide’ and it went something like this “on the table side by side, the Holy Bible and TV guide. One is well worn and cherished with pride. No it’s not the Bible but the Tv Guide.”

Those under 40 probably are clueless as to what TV Guide is but it was a small magazine that listed all the shows on TV for the week and included some stories on celebrities as well. Households bought them at the grocery store normally. This catchy poem had more to it than those two lines but it drove home the point even back then when there were only 4 channels to choose from not hundreds, that our devotion should not be to Hollywood and what it puts out which back then was mild and family oriented, but instead Jesus and the word should take first place.

Perhaps all of us need to be praying for more godly men and women to rise up in film and TV making such as David White and PureFlix and The Kendrick Brothers, to change the course of what Hollywood is like. Pray for men and women of conviction to impact Hollywood and for we believers on the other hand to not make the TV guide more important  than the guide for our lives The Holy Bible. Believers need to be vigilant in prayers for the men and women who produce or act in what many are addicted to. Also realize Satan tries desperately to control everything and he has done a dandy job with Hollywood. But the end of the story has not happened so keep praying for revival in the hearts and minds of those creative people to have Jesus in their hearts.

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for the miracle of the television set and for motion pictures. Help my heart be drawn more to you Lord than the media that tries to distract and manipulate  me. Bring conviction on all believers that you should take first place before that big black screen in their living room. Draw Hollywood hearts to you as well. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, October 10, 2019

Works Of The Flesh


The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions. Galatians 5:19-20

What does the ‘works of the flesh’ mean? Besides the items listed in today’s verse it would also be relying on your own efforts to do things and not waiting on God. When you do you have turmoil, confusion, tension, and a lack of peace.

Works of the flesh are not of God. The enemy may make you fall into this trap by many seemingly innocent tricks but do not fall for his schemes. Bible teacher Joyce Meyer says “it is our energy trying to do God’s work”.

Are you playing on Satan’s playground and leaning in to works of your flesh or are you submitting yourself to God daily?

PRAYER:It is so easy to succumb to tricks of the enemy and he uses many methods that seem legit to trick those not discerning and grounded in the word. Help me Lord to stay alert to his schemes and protect my family as well. In Jesus’ name. 

Wednesday, October 9, 2019

It’s Coming...Hang On!


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

One of the biggest stressors for many people is the Christmas season. Merchants start putting up trees in July and August and it seems you have not quite finished the end of the school year and this ‘sacred holiday’ is upon you. Time to breathe in and relax. 

Christmas is supposed to be about the birth of our savior. The best celebrations are often ones kept simple but many things create turmoil,  mainly gift buying and family pressures and expectations. What is a person to do? First of all enjoy the rest of the year and take a breather. 

Today’s verse speaks of peace. Make it intentional to have peace. Don’t run yourself ragged with others expectations. Take time to rest. Never forget your time alone with God because after all who is the party for anyway? 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I need you every moment of every hour and sometimes more as the end of the year approaches. Every year I say I will do better then I get bogged down. Help me Lord to rest in you and not get into an expectation trap. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Prayer Conditioning


Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. Luke 18:1

There is air conditioning, physical conditioning, hair conditioning, and so forth so why not get ‘prayer conditioned’ as well? To do this you need to be in a habit of making prayer something you do automatically when a situation arises.

Questionable Facebook post? Pray first. Text message you are not sure about sending? Pray first. Job searching? Pray first. Home shopping? Pray first. Let prayer be your first response to anything.

When you wake up try to remember to just lie there in bed and say “thanks Lord for giving me another day. Guide my steps today.” So many people run to the phone for help instead of running to ‘the throne’ so the point is to be getting ‘conditioned’ to take your concerns to the Lord and after that  if you don’t have peace about something it is probably not a good idea. Pray first.

PRAYER: I pray for those people who may not pray cause they think it is worthless or why bother. I pray Satan does not take advantage of them due to this attitude. I pray Lord Jesus that you will help me to persevere in prayer and know you hear me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Monday, October 7, 2019

Who Are Your Friends?



 Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.Proverbs 13:20

Friends can make you or break you. Who you hang out with is vitally important. Sure you need to be able to minister to all sorts of people just don’t pick up and run with the wrong crowd. 

Parents of little ones,  now is the time to be making sure you are praying for who your children choose to hang out with since unless you homeschool you won’t really know. Prayer sets the ground work for godly friendships. 

You want to get with friends who do the right thing instead of those that lead you down a path of destruction that takes forever to recover from. You need to be the kind of friend others can trust to keep confidences and be full of integrity. Deep down the little voice convicts you of right and wrong so listen, that is the Holy Spirit. Now go show yourself friendly and make a new friend. 

PRAYER: Father I am super thankful for all my friends and the things I have learned when I have been hurt by friends. I pray for anyone who may be seeking to get away from a toxic friendship. I pray for those who have found themselves in trouble because of friends who led them down the wrong path. I pray you will let me be a friend to one who is lonely. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, October 6, 2019

Spiritual Heart Blockage


Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23

A person can suffer from a physical heart blockage that results in surgery, medication, or death. But were you aware your spiritual heart can be blocked too?

If you do a word search on the word ‘heart’ in the Bible you come up with many things telling you to keep a guard on your heart. Satan would love to capture your heart or even just a tiny portion of it because if he succeeds you then start compromising evil and things  you know deep down are not right for a child of God. For instance allowing the culture to shape you instead of God’s word.

 So how do you go about guarding your heart? First it needs a good dose of heartfelt scripture in it daily. Only through the word can you defeat the devil and send him packing. Next you need to be careful what things you allow into it such as types of movies you choose to watch, Tv shows, games you may play, books and magazines you read, music you listen to, basically anything that enters the ear gates or eye gates which gets into your soul and spirit. You will be tempted to compromise, make excuses, or blow it off by saying it is entertainment but alas you must be vigilant and aware of the enemies devices to capture your heart. Stand strong my friend!

PRAYER: Father God I come to you on behalf of those I know who may have been tricked into believing lies which have entered their heart and tried to get them on the enemies side. I pray for myself to be aware of Satan’s devices and not be led astray. I want you to have my entire heart pure and holy set apart for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Saturday, October 5, 2019

How Is Your Gossip Meter?



Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Colossians 4:6
Is there such a thing as innocent gossip? Of course the answer is NO. Some gossips are addicted to it and others I feel really think what they are saying is not bad or harmful but talking bad about anyone is never good especially if you call yourself a believer.

Have you found yourself there stuck in the middle of a situation where someone starts to speak poorly of another? I have many times. Sometimes it can even be in a Christian setting! Remember those people whose moms said to them “if you can’t say anything good then don’t say anything at all?” Well my friend that is what all of us need to strive for.

Gossip is a sin of the fleshly nature and not sure why we feel compelled to share things that won’t build a person up. Gossips spreads half truths, lies, hurt, causes irreparable damage and truly if we are a believer shouldn’t we be praying for who we are talking poorly of instead of harming them with putting them down in a round about way to others. Instead of talking down about someone’s past faults or things going on in their life why not stop and say a prayer for them and pray you can love them enough to not talk about them behind their backs.

PRAYER: It is so easy to get caught up into talking about why so and so do this or does that but frankly it is not my place. Lord Jesus convict my heart if I am ever tempted to speak poorly of another to stop then and there and sing your praises and lift them up in prayer instead. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friday, October 4, 2019

Snap Out of That Funk



Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

Many people might think that a believer never has any down time but is always peppy and perky for the Lord. I wish that were so and that is the ultimate goal but believers have to stay on guard because Satan loves to trip us up, get us in a funk, and disable us for the kingdom. 

When someone asks for prayer stop right there and pray don’t wait lest you forget. The Lord is a shield for us and that shield is the word of God. Sometimes if you get in a real mess and just don’t feel like praising God do it anyway. Turn on praise music. Lift your hands. Talk to the devil and tell him you are covered by the blood of Jesus and no weapon will harm you. 

“But wait Becky my husband has cancer, my child is a prodigal, I just lost my job. My best friend has disowned me. How on earth do you expect me to want to feel like praying with the mess I am in?” I hear you. Been there done that and got the tee shirt as the saying goes. Do it despite the set backs or else you may be in danger of falling away and getting sucked into wrong thinking and far away from God. It is all about faith, not feelings. Hang in there my friend and talk to God. 

PRAYER: I am thankful to live in a nation where I am able to pray freely even with many who are trying to stop religious freedom for Christians. Forgive me when I allow the enemy to mess with me when I have way more power through Christ than that measly little weasel. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, October 3, 2019

What Do You Do?

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

Recently I was in a coffee shop when I struck up a conversation with the gentleman next to me. He asked was I retired? Normally I freeze up starting to feel bad that I never was in a job long enough to retire but then on the other hand I was blessed to be a stay home mom to our two now grown sons so I just said what I did. 

Maybe you have had people ask you what you do and you may practically apologize if you are a stay home mom or even at home without children. Everyone has a purpose on this earth and especially if you are the watching over young babies and toddlers be thankful for getting to be the major impact in their lives. Nothing to apologize for in any way. 

Whatever you are doing do it well as a representative of the Lord. Let you light shine in your office, the public square, the college you attend, the church you go to, or there at home with your family especially those gifts from God. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for the place you have me now. Help me to embrace where I am and use opportunities to share your love with all around me as opportunity presents itself. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Wednesday, October 2, 2019

Inner Man/Woman Renewed Daily



Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.2 Corinthians 4:16
As you age many changes take place in your body mostly dreaded after you go beyond age 55 or so. You don’t really pay much attention at ages 20-40 when you have no noticeable age spots, arthritis,  and other signs then poof one day there they are. Billions of dollars are spent on hair color, neck and  facelifts, fade creams,  spot removal, lip injections, tummy tucks and why? So this vessel you reside in can stay as young looking as possible till you ‘check out’ so to speak.
Isn’t it nice to know that these temporary shells we reside in will one day be no more and replaced with a heavenly body? Sure God wants us to take care of our ‘temple’ and not abuse it with eating wrong foods thus getting overweight leading to health issues , or smoking which leads to cancer. Then there is alcohol and drug usage. Yes while here take care of your temple just don’t just obsess over it with cosmetic procedures. Embrace the age you are because many don’t make it to your age whether that is 18, 21, 35, 50, and so forth.
At every age God has a plan to use you if you are still here breathing on this Earth. All his creation young and old are vital for the kingdom of God. You are here to help other people too and that means being kind, respectful, helpful, understanding, and asking that the Lord use you each day in someone’s life you encounter. So don’t bemoan getting older but be thankful for what God has in store. To inwardly be renewed stay in the Word of God and let Him transform you from the inside out.
 PRAYER:Once we are born we begin to die. That is the plan all along and while I am here in their human body help me reach out and share your love with those I encounter. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, October 1, 2019

Like Sheep Without A Shepherd


When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:36
Hatred, evil, lying, and spreading false information are from the devil. When you look around at people say in the political world you just have to shake your head at times. Also those caught up in the world where they have accepted the culture’s ways above God’s ways. Having no remorse over the killing of innocent babies in the name of a ‘woman’s right to choose’. Definitely many lost wandering sheep out there wouldn’t you say? 

Yes mankind is like a sheep wandering around without a shepherd. Sheep are basically stupid animals and need to be guided by the shepherd to safety so they don’t get caught in barbed wire or fall off a cliff. Today’s verse let’s you know that God has compassion on all wandering souls. Even the ones who disavow any knowledge of Him or are far from Him he still loves and goes after. 

When you see or encounter those hateful souls out there don’t get mad but instead lift them up. In many cases they don’t know Jesus and have no desire to. They are overwhelmed in life with ugliness and sometimes feel there is no way out. Jesus is always the door to the way out to be lifted higher. Keep praying for those who wander. 

PRAYER: I pray for those people I know and don’t know who act ugly, mean, hateful, spiteful and need you in their lives. I pray for the God of truth to open their eyes to see you Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.