Battlefield Prayer For 2023

Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.Psalm 42:11

How has your 2022 been? Are you ready to move past hurts, fears,lies, grudges? Even if another person involved in your issue is not being kind are you able to fight this battle on your knees? 

It is necessary to go beyond harsh words and comparisons and to grab hold of God’s love for you. You may want to try to manage your outcomes but that my friend is up to God. 

Your journey in life is still in God’s hands. Tomorrow when 2023 rolls in make it a time to start out with a positive attitude and make sure in order to stay positive look up on Bible Gateway the verses for hope and try to memorize some. Your year will start out good if you start fresh. 

PRAYER: Lord yours is the power, the glory, forever and ever. Even though I am one person in a sea of millions I know you care for me. Guide my thoughts and steps to stay centered on you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Don’t Carry Baggage Into 2023

 



Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.Psalm 51:10

 

Each year is a new start. Many churches like to start the new year out with fasting and prayer. It is a new beginning of sorts. Old wounds can be healed. You can make decisions of what you need to let go of that is causing heartache and pain.

Besides the emotional baggage you need to purge is clutter in your home or office that is bringing you down every time you look at it. Before I moved here to Idaho I sadly threw away 4 formals and bridesmaid dresses my dear mom had made for me in high school and also 24 years worth of Moms in Prayer folders. It hurts to do stuff like that but sometimes is necessary to move on in your life. 

Start today and make a plan and purpose in your heart you will not allow rejection and pain of past relationships to bring you down. Pray for those who hurt you or mistreated you, don’t try to friend them on Facebook. Stop chasing the past. Learn,grow, and press on for what awaits in 2023! 

PRAYER:I choose to run my race in 2023 looking forward not backward. Help me stay on course. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Something About Christmas

 





I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.John 15:11 NIV Bible Gateway

Phone calls, opening gifts, cards, memories, sharing with others, parties, open houses, family but for many in prison, homeless, no money to buy things, away from home with military so there are many sides to this most special day ever. 

Hopefully your day was special and for any who hard times due to recent death of spouse or child I pray God brought you comfort. For those of you who were ‘secret Santa’s’ blessing people anonymously way to go I know there are some out there. Still not too late to pay it forward at a restaurant, coffee shop, or even buy gas or groceries if spirit leads you. 

Look for ways to still bring a ‘Merry belated Christmas’ to someone. A shut in, someone sick, you get the idea. At times it is easy to get so busy you forget others maybe having a hard time. Do your best to be ‘Jesus’ to someone. 

PRAYER: Help me practice kindness around the clock Lord and give without ever expecting in return. I am grateful for the joy this season brings but comfort any who may be hurting. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegatewayblogger

Better Not Bitter

Brothers I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead. Philippians 3:13

In a couple days we welcome a brand new year 2023,  and with that always comes resolutions and new hopes for the future. It is a good time to let the past go and start fresh. 

You could start by letting go of any hurts or disagreements that may lead to a root of bitterness. The enemy probably hates New Year’s because of all the positivity being exhibited. People are ready to make themselves better and not be bitter! 

Whoever you might need to forgive why not start the new year right by doing just that. If you are harboring resentment let it go. Try to start the new year with a fresh attitude. 

PRAYER: Father I thank you for a chance at the start of each new year to have a fresh new beginning. Convict me of anything I need to set straight. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Hitting Rock Bottom

For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance with their own desires, and they will turn their ears away from the truth and will turn aside to myths.2 Timothy 4:3-4

Sometimes it may take hitting rock bottom in your life to finally see the light. God may be pursuing you but you have ignored Him wanting to do things your way. 

You can’t keep kicking God under the bus and trying to do things with your new “edited” Bible. Satan is pulling all the stops out to confuse people even some Christians. The truth found in God’s word will bring freedom. 

To know good and evil you have to have a knowledge of the scriptures and a hunger to read them. The Bible is the best selling book of all time that is why Satan is on a mission to deceive not just through false teaching and religions but through changing the truth of God into a lie. Don’t be misled, God is not mocked. 

PRAYER: My heart aches for thousands who are deceived through Satan’s cunning tricks to take them away from God’s truth. The Bible is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Help anyone struggling with this be led to truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Friends

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.Revelation 3:20

Aren’t friends great? Seasons of life happen and different kinds of friendships develop. At Christmas you may remember friends by sending cards or giving gifts. 

Jesus is your friend if you want him to be. He wants you to ask Him to be your friend. He doesn’t force himself on anyone. 

Do you need a faithful friend? Call on Jesus. Talk to him by praying or just carrying on a conversation. He hears you. If you want to accept him in your heart just ask him. 

PRAYER: Lord I pray for anyone today who needs prayers for friends and pray for the right kind of friends to lead them to you Lord and not away from you. I pray for ‘real’ friends beyond social media and I pray in the new year for those who need a special one on one friendship in their life. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Joy To The World

“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”Psalm 16:11

Do you feel joyful? The ‘world’ tells us you need to be joyful if you are a Christian on this day. Indeed there is much to be joyful for but today especially it is the day we celebrate Jesus’ birth. Not sure where all the other ‘trappings’ of jolly elves, reindeer, and so forth came from but I guess if it might just a tiny bit make say an agnostic or atheist think of the Savior it isn’t that bad.

Joy is a feeling of great pleasure and happiness. A birth of a baby in a manger in Bethlehem, just ponder on that a moment. Think of the carols you hear. Born to be savior of even those who rejected him. Born to give hope to a lost and broken world. Born to help even those who don’t pay any attention to the words of God in the Bible.

Today you may not feel joyful but take a moment and talk to God. You may feel rejected. You may feel lost and lonely. You may feel confused. My friend this is exactly why Jesus’ was born so you could be free and reach out to Him. I pray you have a joyous day today and are able to grasp just how wide, deep, and high the love of Christ is for you. Happy Birthday Jesus!

PRAYER: Thanks for each day of life whether good or bad. Help me Lord to share love with others and to be able to accept gifts graciously on this day and every day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Click link for a song of praise on this wonderful day:

https://youtu.be/tC3SwhJsLqU

Dismount The Treadmill

 

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.Luke 2:14 KJV Bible Gateway

Meaning no disrespect to our savior and Lord who I love with all my heart, but on this day of anticipation it is also a day to wind down, go have a latte, dismount the treadmill of lists, and breathe again. Anyone identify?

Each year when Christmas rolls around it stirs a variety of emotions and man made anxiety producers. Lists,gifts, baking, cards, festivals, programs and so forth. Christmas Eve is a time of reflecting and winding down a bit.

For many this day causes memories and reflections some happy some sad. The birth of a savior. Today as you may be preparing to attend Candlelight services this evening try to pause and reflect on Jesus.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for your love for me by dying a horrible death on a cross but first we reflect on your miracle birth in a manger and all that surrounds that.Help this day be filled with joy and peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Your Mindset

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV Bible Gateway

Your  mind is a wonderful gift from God if you take care of it by exercising it and putting good thoughts into it. As Bible teacher Joyce Meyer says “the mind is a battlefield” and by this she means you need to discipline your ‘thinker’ or what you choose to think about. 

Many scriptures in God’s word talk about your mind. One of my favorites is the verse above. You can control what you think and what you choose to allow into your thoughts. It helps to screen media choices too because things can get into your mind and try to shape you in many ways. 

So your assignment is to start right thinking. Don’t think of people in a negative light but pray for people you don’t understand or don’t see eye to eye with. Be careful what you think. 

PRAYER: Thank you Lord that you gave me a mind and how powerful it is. Help me not allow garbage to infiltrate and poison my thinking. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Get Up, Get Out, Get Going

 

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,2 Timothy 3:16

Do you sometimes have a difficult time getting going each day? Now if you work full time or have a baby to care for,  probably not,  but for those out there who do what do you do to get yourself firmly planted in God’s kingdom where you are so the world can’t toss you a curve ball.

Start with a daily plan or routine of sorts. Keep media off and grab your Bible and turn to the Psalms for starters. There is a lot of good stuff in there. The Bible may be confusing to many but you have to get the version that fits you.Don’t allow Satan to plant seeds of doubt like it is an old boring book not pertinent for today. 

Today and every day get up and say Good morning Lord. Turn on praise and worship music by saying “Alexa play praise and worship music” then enjoy time with the lord. Have a blessed day. 

PRAYER: This is another day you have provided for me to do the work you set out for me to do. To ignore the devil and his deception and to find something good to do to help another. Open doors you want me to walk through. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Pray, Not Say

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”Proverbs 3:5-6

It is easy when you pray to want to sort of rush things along by opening your mouth and making comments to maybe speed things up. As hard as it is please wait.

Recently I had a great answer to prayer that had I jumped in and tried to control may have backfired and I may have been digging myself out of a hole for months to make up for me trying to play Holy Spirit Junior. Be patient as hard as it is.

Keep praying, keep trusting, keep believing, keep reading the word of God. Never doubt God heard your prayers.

PRAYER: Father thank you for your goodness. Thank you for hearing me when I pray. Thank you that you want the best for your children. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Devil’s Den

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.Romans 6:23 NIV Bible Gateway

You have probably seen businesses called Devil’s Den like I did recently or Lion’s Den which in effect are thumbing their nose and making a joke of sin. It breaks my heart to know of all the lost and broken people trapped and hurting and they don’t even realize it. Similarly at the post office near me there is a Marilyn Monroe stamp poster on the wall and I gazed up and sadly thought what a broken individual she was in her short life. 

Before you get too high and mighty realize we have all sinned. In John 8:7 when the woman caught in adultery was going to be stoned Jesus says “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone at her.”Ponder that for a moment. 

Pray for people that you know who may need to know Jesus. Also pray for your self that you won’t enter into temptation. 

PRAYER: Our world presents so many temptations to fall into the devil’s lap and get misled and deceived. I pray that you will make me aware of possible stumbling blocks so I am careful and stay on the path God intended. I pray for those caught in sin to cry out to Jesus. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

It’s Down Today

 



Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. James 1:2-3 NIV Bible Gateway

Darn don’t you hate blank screen, error messages and so forth. Back in the ‘olden days’ the only real error message I recall is “The trouble is not in your set” which popped up on our families whopping 3 channel TV set. 

Whatever todays’ generation is called, mine was baby boomers, they have the unfortunate upbringing of expecting everything instantly and if they have to wait, oh my goodness. Do you get upset if you get messages like my title? I had settled into one of my favorite coffee shops only to be told the WiFi was ‘down’ the horrible word. Oh well time to be joyful and kind and move on regardless. 

Can you have peace when things are not going as expected? There are many tests in life and I believe they are good testing ground for all sorts of things. When you ask Jesus to be Lord of your life there is no promise of no troubles and as a matter of fact if you did not have trouble how would you get stronger spiritual muscles. Ponder that and have a good day. 

PRAYER:Lord I thank you for the little and big things that come my way to help me develop and grow spiritual muscles. If I never had a challenge I would be weak. I pray for strength to make it through each and every trial that comes my way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Chilling Is Good!

 

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”Psalm 46:10

Do you like waiting or do you feel like you have to fill up every second of your day in some grand way? Westerners have a hard time sitting down for ‘a cup of Christmas tea’ as there is so much to get done. 

Why does every minute need to be filled with activity? It is almost as if some of us get accustomed to filling up our calendar leaving no room to just sit. Try it sometime. As I wrote this a few days ago I was sitting waiting for friends to see a Christmas movie in the theater parking lot, with iced latte and the heater running. 

If you are raising children this is a good skill for them to learn. Calming your spirit so you don’t blow a fuse when things don’t go your way. Letting God’s perfect peace just wash over you. As you are in this stillness talk to God and say some prayers. Now go and rest. 

PRAYERS:I am grateful for a calendar but I know you Lord don’t operate by calendars and schedules. Anyone who needs time alone with you today, or the rest of the month, give them the ability to say no to too much Christmas activity. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Peace In Scary Times

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you because he trusts in you.Isaiah 26:3 ESV Bible Gateway 

Right now I know of people having major life challenges. Cancer scares, abusive relationships, prodigal children, divorce, denied insurance for life saving treatments, and the list goes on. What do you say and how do you comfort those with major challenges on their plates? 

Grab hold of God’s peace and don’t let go. Many people are angry with God as they feel He did the bad thing to their loved one and that is so wrong. If you have a challenge or trial today hang on my friend. 

No one is promised perfect sailing through life. It is through challenges you grow. Read the book of James in the New Testament. Stand firm, stay in prayer, and ask God for supernatural peace. 

PRAYER: I am ever so grateful for the word of God which can transform a person from being agitated to being in love with Jesus. Help those who are suffering lean on you and trust you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegatewayblogger

No More Guardrails

 

You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth?Galatians 5:7(NIV) Bible Gateway

Remove God from your life or from America there are no more moral guardrails to help you. When you turn your back on God he may just let you have your own way and do life without him for a time being. It could mean plummeting down until you realize just how bad you need Him. 

When you get to the point you think you know more than God by your attitude and behavior then it is time to throw off things dragging you down or lies from the enemy. Don’t allow Satan to pull you away from the truth you know. 

I may be speaking to someone directly today or you may have been there once but now are praying hard for another person hard to reach because of shutting down the truth. Be patient. Keep standing on the truth found in the word. 

PRAYING: Many times I have thought I may have been wiser than God or ignored his guidance and temptation to sin took over. The good news is I was redeemed. I pray for others who are shattered by knowingly ignoring what they know to be right. Help anyone reading this who needs to break strongholds of the enemy and to not break through guardrails. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegatewayblogger

Crash, Bang, Boom!

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”Psalm 34:18

I was in the middle of a devotion on the mind with 41% power left on my Ipad when whoosh, the screen went black. Have you had days like that where it seems like you are being tested to see if you will pop a cork. 

Alas I am back pecking the keyboard once again and thinking about this season of the year, of course Jesus is the reason for this season. You may have expectations and live in a fantasy world of what you would like to see this Christmas. 

Remember this time of year it seems pain is accentuated and so is poverty. Know that wherever you are and whatever you are enduring now you can call out to God and have peace. Think of a way you can bless someone else and go do it.

PRAYER: Father I need you 24-7 and look to you for my peace and comfort. People will disappoint us but you are mighty and a stronghold in times of trouble. I choose to guard my heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Not Of This World

 

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

You as a believer are in this world but not of this world meaning you are set apart and different and are not to blend in with the darkness but are to shine for Jesus. The present culture tries to entice you into doing things that frankly would be hard to justify using the Bible as your guide. You have to set a standard of conduct.

 

Saying all this doesn’t mean to isolate yourself from those people who are not living for Christ because they need to hear the truth and who is going to share it unless a believer infiltrates the ranks so to speak. Jesus mingled with sinners. And all of us are sinners.

Many people think they aren’t ‘that bad’ but if you are lusting after the flesh, caught up in sexual sin or perversion of any kind, bowing at the altar of money such as a with a gambling addiction, telling half truths aka lying, into porn of any kind, then maybe it is time for a ‘come to Jesus’ moment to ask Him to help you break strongholds that have taken you captive. He is only a prayer away. 

PRAYER: Everyone is born with a conscience that guides them to stay on a right path and a holy path but at times temptations of the flesh lure them away. Keep me Lord from stumbling and help me not neglect my daily quiet time and study of your word. Draw me each day to the foot of the cross. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

How Do You Speak?

 

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.Psalm 19:14

Are you kind, helpful, encouraging, welcoming or are you hateful,bitter, dishonorable, swear and so forth. You are known by the words you speak. 

There are many references to speech in God’s word, the Bible. If you read and apply these scriptures eventually it will come naturally. Just do a word search. 

What if someone is verbally abusive to you, or bitter, or calls you names what then? Don’t fight back. Be kind. Be loving. That will drive someone being mean nuts. Pray that your words stay pure and uplifting. If you claim to be a follower of Jesus’, there is no excuse for being ugly verbally or otherwise. 

PRAYER: Father I pray for anyone who is being verbally abusive to be convicted of the way they hurt others. Help me Lord not to lash back when someone is mean or hurtful to me. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Fog Of Battle

 

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

During spiritual warfare you may find yourself in a ‘fog’ of sorts where you just feel tired, lost, confused, impatient, and even misunderstood by those close to you.

Spiritual warfare is when you are pressing in to defeat the lies of Satan in your own life or the life of a loved one. It can be tiring, intense, scary, and you can feel really alone at times. Perhaps you are having war with the enemy telling him to get his  stinking hands off your loved one and you just feel like quitting mainly as you may not be seeing results right away. Or perhaps you saw the results then Satan comes back with a vengeance so you keep warring and claiming scripture to not allow the devil territory that is God’s. 

You like me may have grown up in a denomination that never even mentioned the devil and believe me Satan loves churches like this who are asleep and not arming their members to do battle to defeat the enemy. Now is the time to realize this Warfare is important in order to break chains that are wrongly influencing people you love. Be sure in your Warfare to pray for leaders too many who are ‘playing God’ to institute laws against the word of God. Get into the word, study it to know it becoming familiar with scriptures to help get you out of the fog. 

PRAYER: Today and every day I give to you Lord. I refuse to bow to this culture and its’ manipulation of our citizens. I pray for protection over the minds of many who are sucked in and following the world and not the Bible. Strengthen them to run their race to defeat the lies of Satan. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Christmas Joy?

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”Romans 14:17

Often this season of ‘peace on earth good will to men’ is riddled with anxiety, unmet expectations, sorrow, grief, and not the ‘ho ho ho Merry Christmas’ that seems to always be captured in the life of small children. Oh to be childlike again and get rid of issues that seem to be accentuated this time of year.

Often times it is the ‘culture’ or ‘this present world’ we live in that causes these feelings. But that is what they are simply feelings. Well in the case of those who had a significant other pass away in this past year it will bring heartache that they are sharing this alone. In time that ache may become less but it is still there and still real.

Just remember what this holiday is about. It is about a baby born in a barn who would become our savior. This miracle birth would set people free. The Saint Nicholas thing of giving gifts anonymously seems to be the main event and everyone in their own mind has to make the decision of who and what you will be celebrating this Christmas. Don’t worship Santa, don’t worship angels but let the King of Kings have first place not only on December 25 but every day thereafter. If you have not made Him Lord of your life private message me and I can tell you how.

PRAYER:Father in Heaven I look forward each year to Christmas celebration but I do have a hard time getting ‘into it’ at first. Thank you for helping me overcome that to help not only myself but others I encounter or those who would be in my home have the joy of your presence. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Time Out

But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer. (Luke 5:16 NLT)

You and I may be in different seasons of life. If you are in your 20’s it could be a career thing. In the 30’s and 40’s raising children. In the 50’s the empty nest and then 60’s and up looking back and praying you will impact your grandchildren. 

Drawing away into the wilderness to pray could be as simple as a quiet undisturbed picnic table at a local park. It might mean a comfortable log on a hiking trail. The point being is that it is important to get your mind clear and focused. These times alone help you rest from the frenzied pace of life. 

Many may be experiencing winter in your part of the world now so it could be a challenge to find a place of retreat in an indoor area. Maybe just sitting in your car or somewhere quiet without many people. I know this time of year you may deal with the clamor of all things Christmas and to be honest it can get wearisome. God doesn’t want you to be frazzled and weary so take a chill pill meaning a God break throughout your day. A great App to install is simply entitled Pause and it helps you get focused and also one called 60/60. Take time every day to meet with God. Make him your first priority. 

PRAYER: I am grateful to live where I do and to have the ability to drive my car to go somewhere to get away. I pray for those who may not be so blessed who are in assisted care facilities or just shut in at home. I pray for ‘visiting angels’ to remember those who can’t get out. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Too Busy For Jesus?

Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. Luke 10:38-42 

I am not so sure that Jesus delights in all the scurrying about and stress people bring on themselves by trying to have the perfect Christmas celebration. Now if a person thrives in this atmosphere fine but it is easy to lose site of why you are doing it all anyway if not careful. 

Cookie baking, gingerbread house building, erecting and decorating several trees throughout your home, buying perfect gifts, sending cards, attending concerts and plays, planning meals, taking trips, doing a special activity like going to look at lights or going ice skating. The point is this is all very nice to want to have a nice season and build memories but are you forgetting about the Christ child, the babe in a manger? 

The Christmas Carol ‘Away in a manger’ has the lyrics ‘no crib for a bed’ and later mentions his bed being hay. No Purple mattress or plush well decorated nursery and the scandal around his teenage mother Mary having a baby and not married also swirled about.  But you know the rest of the story. This was God’s plan and design for His son to be born like this to a humble carpenter and his wife Mary. The baby that would change the world. It is time to celebrate but to also ponder how we got from a simple manger and shepherds and wise men to where we are today. Enjoy this time but think often of why you do what you do. 

PRAYER: This is always a happy joyful time of year but for many who get focused on earthly celebrations and gifts it can be painful. Help our focus stay on the Christ child. Father during this season help me shine my light for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for a hymn for this time of year:

https://youtu.be/O_pae1ZfxWw

Are You Headed To A Dead End?

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.Psalm 32:8

Is your life on a dead end street because maybe you are not following the map which is God’s guide book the Bible. Left to your own way your life would be a mess but God gives a guidance to help us not run into dead ends. 

Many things you do may seem right in your own eyes because the world and culture support you and become your cheerleader of sorts. You might even feel content that society cheers you as they indoctrinate the masses to call good evil and evil good. 

The only way to not end up on that dead end street in life is to follow Jesus. Deep down you know what is right and wrong but if you choose your way and your rights over what you know God says look out. Don’t stick up your nose at the Almighty. Stay on the path that leads to life and godliness. 

PRAYER: Father so many temptations are thrown at me daily. Help me not gloat when I do what is right as I see others morally falling and headed to a dead end. There is no actual dead end with you. I pray for any one who needs to do a U Turn to have strength to break bad strongholds and hear and heed your voice. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

NVRQWIT

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 me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.Acts 20:24

I saw this personalized tag recently and with this being Pearl Harbor day what a time to share about how the military personnel are taught to never quit and never surrender. During the surprise attack of Pearl Harbor Naval Base in Hawaii by the Japanese this courage and bravery came into play as the US entered into World War 2. 

Thousands of sailors perished that day which President Franklin D Roosevelt called a Day that will live in infamy. Don’t quit, don’t make excuses, don’t compromise freedom. Stand strong. Let what these sailors died for not be in vain. 

On this day we pause to remember this the first attack on our Homeland the second being 911 at the World Trade Center. Our honor as a nation is to stand strong against enemies both foreign and domestic. When I took my oath as a soldier I promised to defend against enemies both foreign and domestic. Keep your spiritual armor on as well (see Ephesians 6:10-18) to be able to fight against wickedness and evil in high places. Go onto the battlefield daily as a soldier of the Lord. 

PRAYER: Father thank you for freedom. Thanks to those brave individuals throughout our nations history who answered the call to serve and defend this nation in order to stay free from tyranny and evil. Help me do my part to help with freedom. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Blocks In Your Life

 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV Bible gateway 

In your mind you can block certain things. I sometimes get writers block where my creative juices sort of freeze up. You can block relationship building due to fear. You can block Faith prayers due to fear of ‘what if’ nothing happens. There are mind blocks, stumbling blocks, road blocks. 

Are you setting up limitations in your life because of things you learned such as everyone gets married by 40 or You can’t try something new in retirement. If you are over 70 you shouldn’t ride a bike or try new things. 

God can use your life no matter what your age and can break through a wrong belief and wrong thinking system. God can use you and no matter your age you are vital in His kingdom. Break free from things blocking you and preventing you from being all God meant you to be. 

PRAYER: Lord thank you for setting me free from wrong thinking or fear and thank you for helping me keep moving forward no matter what my age or what people think. The only thing that matters is what you think. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Note: My idea for this devotion came from Pastor Steven Furtick message.

Circle Of Your Impact

 

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.Romans 12:12

You never know whose life you may touch or impact. Oh sure you naturally hope to impact your children and grandchildren but who else did you cross paths with whose life was changed.? You may never know til Heaven.

Each and every day is an opportunity to show the love of Christ with people you encounter. A hair dresser, checkout clerk at a store, TSA agent, neighbor, receptionist at doctor or auto place you get the idea. These ‘chance’ encounters can help plant seeds for the kingdom.

It is not necessary to be a well known Christian to impact the works around you. Every day are oodles of chances to let others know Gods love for them.

PRAYER: Each day I have a new chance to operate for the kingdom as your special ‘agent’ sent forth to share hope and joy. Use me to make a difference. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

So Many Prayers.....One Big God

 

My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;

a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.Psalm 51:17(NIV)Bible Gateway

Lost and lonely people are everywhere in our world. Many people mock God and attempt to cheapen the power of prayer.

First off God is not a genie in a bottle just granting wishes but He hears and delights in showering blessings on those who have a broken and contrite heart. I know of people personally who say they have taken a break from ‘church’ but they may as well say God because ultimately this is a comment where a person rejects God and listens to the father of lies Satan who then takes the individual down a winding confusing path that appears to be wiser than God.

The Bible says to keep praying. Period. You have probably been there as I know I certainly have where you grow weary of waiting for breakthrough and at times give up entirely. Press on my friend. Believe me I know how it feels. Maybe you feel as if no one around you understands what is going on and how deep your hurt is but God does know. Hang in there!

PRAYER: Lord you are beautiful your face is all I seek. I know I need to keep looking up no matter how hopeless it may seem. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Working Out Your Problems

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NIV Bible Gateway

This time of year seems to accentuate and bring to the forefront pain, separation, need, and hurt. When it seems the world is jolly,  deep down you may have immense hurt and real things troubling you and because it is Christmas the pain goes away? I don’t think so. 

Pain and hurt sometimes is the catalyst to getting on the road to healing. When you are at a low point you naturally tend to look up. 

You can face problems with God’s hope. There is always something to hope for. Only the enemy likes to keep you stuck and depressed not imagining how you can ever be free and joyful again. But you can and will. Keep believing. 

PRAYER:Father I love your word and I love to have time to be still and think. I will not allow strongholds to incapacitate me and get me feeling gloomy. I choose to rise up! In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

 

Who Or What Are You Going To Believe?

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.2 Timothy 1:7

After over 2 years of steadily great health taking immunity daily somehow I came into contact somewhere with Covid germs that got me. After a few days I started acting irrational, thinking what was going to happen to me. I allowed the things I heard in the world to temporarily control me. 

This Incapacitating fear was coming from Satan. You can choose to be fearful or peaceful. The ‘what if syndrome’ can make you spin out of control if you allow it to. You can choose peace and trust or you can wind up sick from worry. 

Choose to be reasonable and know the truth from God. He gives us power, love, and a sound mind. Talk out loud and repeat todays verse and don’t let fears make your heart ultimately fail. Fear doesn’t have to control your life. Rejoice your victory is in Jesus! 

PRAYER: Father I don’t want to be fearful but want your perfect peace. Help me relax and give my cares to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Thankful? You Betcha!

 

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. Hebrews 13:15

I was right in the middle of watching a sermon with Dr. Charles Stanley on thankfulness when my right hand starting hurting like crazy out of nowhere. Eventually  it subsided but right in the middle of a message on being thankful. Go figure. 

Things like that get our attention sometimes. It may take pain to wake you up and make you grateful. I coast through  life very grateful for an abundance of energy I am blessed with at my age. When I got sick recently I for sure was praising God for the blessings he has given me. What about you, what are you thankful for?

Sometimes you don’t realize how wonderful someone or something is until they are gone. This past Thanksgiving was filled with memories from my family as I am sure it was yours as well. Stop and think about just how blessed you really are. See if you can’t continue to be grateful as if every day were Thanksgiving. 

PRAYER: Thanks so much for all your abundance to me Lord. I have no business complaining when I stop and think of everything. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Trust God With Your Pain

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.1 Peter 5:10

The pain I am referring to is emotional pain that is a result of changes in life that you can’t understand. Recently I woke up and felt like I couldn’t even get out of bed. My husband said “Are you depressed” and yes I guess I was. 

How do overcome discouragement? You may not feel up to diving into the word of God but why not talk to Alexa or your Echo dot and say “Alexa play K Love radio” and hear praise music to lift your spirits. 

A huge way to get out of the doldrums is to look for ways to help others. Make it happen. Cook a meal. Ring a Salvation Army bell. Buy gifts for a needy family. Write a note to a friend or neighbor and mail it, yes with a stamp. Make God lift you up and set your feet to dancing! 

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for creating sunshine to brighten the world and lift my spirits. Shine on me so in turn I can shine in another’s life. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Canyons Of Love

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.Ephesians 3:16-19 NIV Bible Gateway

I live out west and there are some pretty spectacular and impressive gorges and canyons out here such as the all familiar Grand Canyon not to discount the ‘Grand Canyon of the East‘ Walls of Jericho in my former state of Alabama.

Now imagine gazing over the edge of these massive landmarks made by God and thinking how deep God’s love for you is. His love for you would spill over the canyon edge.

As you look at the natural beauty of God’s creation you know He just has it right for you as well. No one can even fathom the amount of love God has for you. You can be mean, ugly, hateful, disrespectful, and yet He still loves you. Shouldn’t we as his creation likewise be able to treat each other kind? If you want to experience this kind of love cry out to God to set you free from the mundane, the rituals, the meanness, the anger and come and fill you to overflowing with the Holy Spirit.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for your immense love for me that even when I don’t deserve it you give it unconditionally. Help me to learn to live in this way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

No RGRTS

 No RGRTS

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

Once again I challenge you with my title missing some key letters. Saw this on a car license after church and it simply reads ‘no regrets’. 

Do you have regrets in your life? Probably a pretty common occurrence to wish you had done something different or said something different. But with Jesus your slate is wiped clean and you can redeem yourself from mistakes you did maybe intentionally or unintentionally. 

Maybe the goal is to get to a point in life where you know you are secure in Christ and truly don’t regret things because you learned from them and are forgiven. 

PRAYER: I need you in my life Lord to stay on the right path. I cast off wrong thinking and lies of the enemy that seek to destroy my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Forgiveness Takes Practice And Prayer

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32

Are you angry and hurt about something. Bitterness can quickly crop up and somehow you might feel you are entitled to be bitter. 

To restore a relationship you have to be ready to let things go and move on and forget the past. If you don’t you will not be able to completely forgive. 

I have mentioned the movie entitled ‘Redeeming Love’ for an excellent example of restoration, redemption, and forgiveness. Sometimes things take time and patience to work out. Stand firm, pray, believe and let God work. 

PRAYER: Thanks Lord for giving opportunities to restore relationships after deep hurts and wounds. My life is in your hands. Help those today who need to let things go and bring restoration to a relationship. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Bully Pulpit

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Recently I got caught up in the election and all that surrounds it and got on my spiritual high horse which is never a good thing when trying to minister to lost souls so for that I say sorry. The old me is back to share God's love and kindness to a hurting bunch of people in our world. 

I don't know what pain you are going through in your life but sometimes you may feel isolated and alone like no one really understands or cares. God cares. He loves you. 

Can you be an encourager, to someone? A handwritten note mailed with a stamp can lift spirits. An actual phone call. Surprise gift. A meal. Flowers. A cookie bouquet. Whatever is on your heart, do it. You may not know what is bothering a person but God does. Be His instrument to share love.

PRAYER: Father help me to shine your light to a hurting confused world.  Use me to bring joy and not sorrow and let me find a way to heal someones' internal heart wounds. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Confused?

 

“Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things comes the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.” Ephesians 5:6

With the media and social media it is sometimes very difficult to discern fact from fiction, truth from lies. The one source of truth is at most people’s fingertips and that is the Bible. Yet it suffers from neglect and misinterpretation.

You were fashioned by God in your mother’s womb and He did not make a mistake about what gender you were but yet today there is a movement afoot and spreading even into elementary schools to teach children other than the truth. Wouldn’t you say we are at war with the devil? The devil hates God, hates his creation, and loves to spread confusion.

Why not start each and every day not diving into half truths found in the news but why not instead get rid of confusion by seeking God in a quiet place. Talk to him, pray on your knees next to your bed. Lift up this nation and even pray for those people who are Satan’s minions maybe some really need freedom found only in Christ. Pray hard for revival.

PRAYER: This is the day you have made and I choose to rejoice and be glad in it no matter what is going on around me. Give me the ability to stand against strongholds of the enemy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Is There Thanksgiving In Your Heart?

"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." Colossians 4:2

The big day is here once again. A day of eating too much. A day to gather with family and friends. A day to grieve a loss too close to this holiday. A day of football and parades. But most importantly a day to remember just what Thanksgiving is and why we celebrate it.

Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621 between the surviving Pilgrims of the Mayflower and Wampanoag Indians. 

How will you celebrate this historic day in our countries founding? Today whatever you are doing take time to think what you are truly thankful for. Friends, family, food, Faith, and forgiveness. Now go and be blessed to be a blessing. 

PRAYER: Thanks for a day set aside to thank you Lord for many blessings of this great land established for religious freedom. I choose to stay thankful. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Are You Scattered?

 

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. John 14:1

Do you find it hard to decide on things and for purposes of this devotion I will hone in on deciding what to do for your morning quiet time? Or maybe you have heard of someone who prayed a certain scripture over their children or grandchildren each day and said “that’s doable” but do nothing.

It is easy as there are so many great Christian  books to read you may find yourself with a shelf full and maybe only a couple of them partially read. Any of this sound familiar? Right now I am sitting here with my Bible, two journals, and two books on prayer. Whew. So is it possible that Satan can use what you mean for good to be so confusing to you that you stop all together? 

Satan does toy with believers putting all kinds of stuff on them and author of confusion is a huge one. Apps, journals, podcasts, and maybe a good Christian TV show. All fine in and of themselves but do you have a plan? Today stop and be at peace, and ask God to direct your steps. Turn off all confusion and outside clamor and focus on God. Tell Him how mighty and wonderful He is. He will guide you. 

PRAYER:Lord I thank you for being in a country where I am blessed to be able to have access to the word of God and many other things. I want to give you praise for guiding me and opening and closing doors I need in my life. In Jesus’ name.Amen. 

God’s Special Blessings

 

“‘“The Lord bless you and keep you the Lord make his face shine on you  and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

When you hear the word blessing what comes to mind? For me it is the blessing of children and grandchildren. I have been part of a ministry of prayer for children and schools and beyond since 1996 called Moms in Prayer. I have included a link at the end of this devotion. 

So today just happens to be son Matthew’s 40th birthday. I am very proud to call Him my son and friend. If you take today’s verse you can pray it over your children simply by adding their name in the appropriate spot in the scripture. The Lord Bless ________ and keep _______the Lord make his face to shine upon ________and be gracious to ________the Lord turn his face toward _________ and give _________peace. It is a powerful way to pray. 

No matter what is going on in your children’s life hang on because he hears the prayers of faithful mom prayer warriors. I say a very happy birthday today to Matthew Lee Miller, American Airlines First Officer 737 and he knows he is loved and prayed for. 

PRAYER: Thank for the gift of children and grandchildren. Many yearn for both but it never happens so in those cases sooth aching hearts. Help moms out there and dads who make be experiencing heart ache now and bring freedom and reunion to those praying for it. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Www.momsinprayer.com

Hide In The Shadows

 

Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.Isaiah 60:1 NIV Bible Gateway 

I put a cardboard box in our bedroom for our cat Moses and he loves it. He is in there now and likes to turn his back on me and stare at the inside of box. Now my box would eliminate me from a home tour show but that’s okay. 

Do you ever feel like my cat where you want to curl up and hide? First know that all kinds of emotions can swirl about you but you have to be aware too that the enemy doesn’t want you to get up and get going. He wants to squish you and keep your praise and prayers inside you and not spoken out. 

Get up, get out, and get going! Say to Alexa or your Echo Dot if you have one “Alexa play KLove radio” and start your day. Say thanks to the Lord for another day. Ask him to steer you away from things that cause disruption or anxiety. Just start giving thanks. Breathe in God and breathe out anxiety. Now go seize the day!

PRAYER: Lord I love you and I thank you for guiding me each day. Often I bounce through my day and try to be in charge but I give that up now. You have heard my prayers and I ask you to keep me patient and out of your way while you work. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Peace On Earth? Far From It!

 

And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.Luke 2:7

Beginning in late October the frenzy of Thanksgiving and Christmas begins, actually in August if you want to count merchants who already have decorations out. I don’t know about you but all the chaotic activity takes away from the true meaning of Christmas that being the birth of our savior Jesus Christ. 

Jesus doesn’t get much mention. He is drowned about by office parties, movies, decorating, bazaars, lights, craft fairs, cookie baking, gingerbread houses, concerts and all those nice activities we think must be squeezed in an already chaotic schedule to make it special. 

How about trying to make Christmas really about Him. I’d say this might be hard for some who like the idea of snowmen and reindeer way better than getting too ‘religious’. Nothing has to be done so relax. Go donate to the Salvation Army red kettle campaign and keep it up the other 11 months. Find some family who needs help. Make it bigger than about red and green. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus this coming December 25 I want to celebrate you not 10000 other things that have little to do with a babe in a manger. Direct my heart to be filled with the joy this season brings. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Don’t Be Afraid

 

In God, whose word I praise; In God I have put my trust; I shall not fear. What can mere man do to me?Psalm 56:4AMP Bible Gateway 

What are you afraid of? If you still are watching news then that is one huge mistake as practically all of it is doom and gloom and can conjure up fear in your heart if not careful. 

Make the choice to stay peaceful which requires you to stop constantly looking at social media or news. I mean really do those avenues improve your life? Mostly they are stress producers. 

To not be afraid you have to recognize that God is with you. Spend time each day with him whether or be on a devotion app, reading Bible, or simply a prayer time. Don’t beat yourself up if you feel you are not doing it ‘right’ but press in. Stay peaceful and stay prayerful. 

PRAYER: I rejoice Lord because my hope is in you. Some days I don’t know what to pray but I can simply utter your name. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

           #Biblegatewayblogger 

Saying No To Fleshly Desires

Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.Galatians 5:19-21

The world we live in is becoming more worldly and less godly and God fearing. Once you allow the world to mold you it becomes more difficult to recognize sin and call right wrong and wrong right. 

Look around and see what depravity is occurring now and you know that the Lord loves us but has warned us. God is a God of a second chance and His desire is for all his children to walk in truth and cast off works of darkness. 

Exercise your senses to godliness daily by reading the Bible. Don’t know how or where to start then start with the book of John in the NewTestament. Satan is trying to capture people through deception and that is why Biblical truth is so important. For instance just because a law is passed in the Senate doesn’t mean it is godly and right and each of us needs to be aware of how Satan tries to destroy freedom through trickery. Now go today not fearful or depressed but joyous as your hope is in the Lord.

PRAYER:Father I pray for those who are being deceived to hear the truth and let the truth bring freedom and peace. I pray for mean spirited people who want to destroy freedom to come to know you. And Lord I pray for all to know the real enemy is Satan and He has no authority unless we don’t speak up and pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.