I Just Thought They Were A Bunch Of Numbers

“So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” King James Version (KJV)Isaiah 55:11

I was having a rather awkward conversation with a new neighbor recently when my ADHD self blurted out “do you know what the letters on my tag means?” It was so random, but out ,the words fell. She says “no I just thought it was random” and so after saying what they went she went on her way.

3 JHN 4 is 3 John 4 which says “I wish above all things that my children would walk in truth” which had been a favorite of mine since seeing it on a vehicle in Birmingham, Alabama on Mother’s Day of all times back in about 2009.

They may seem like randomly placed numbers and letters but they have meaning. They mean nothing to some people but others who know scripture they pop right out. There is so much truth and promises in the word of God. It is not just a historical book to put in your bookcase. It should be read daily and loved. There is so much power in that book to ward off attacks from the enemy. I pray that my brief encounter with this new neighbor didn’t end our conversation. And I pray others who see my tag will ask about it. Go now and have a blessed day and how about reading a few Psalms and Proverbs while you’re at it.

PRAYER: Your word is truth dear Lord. Let me be a good representative of you to those who are just churched or unchurched. Use me today to help someone even with kindness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sun and Water

 

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'" John 8:12, ESV

As spring is in full bloom I was pondering the blooming bushes and flowers popping up as the sun shone brightly. It made me think of how you need ‘the Son who is called the Light of the world’ and living water which is Jesus in order to have a fulfilled life. Sun and water are needed for plants and Son and living water needed for all humans. 

Easter is right around the corner and many people ‘find religion’ for this special day because deep down they know fellowship with others  and worshipping God is important. The pretty little girls dresses come out and toddler boys in suits and ties. Then there are the rabbits and the chicks. Satan has tried to hijack this solemn occasion probably the most important event besides Jesus’ birth. 

Easter is way more than egg hunts, candy, baby chicks, and rabbits. Not sure where all that originated from but why not just celebrate what it is,The Resurrection of our Lord and Savior. Don’t just check off two days to attend worship but make it a regular part of who you are. Find a church home that you feel comfortable in and not just a ‘religious’ one. Go seek out The Son! 

PRAYER: Lord I rejoice in you every day. I know many people don’t know you and many say they do but think church is silly. Father I pray for those whose love for you has grown cold. Touch them and help them find you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Looking for a church that is dynamic and shows the love of God. Check this site.  https://www.arcchurches.com/

No Middle Ground

 No Middle Ground 

“So,  because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth."Revelation 3:16 

Are you becoming conformed to this world or are you walking in step with the Lord daily? You can say things like you don’t need to read your Bible to be a Christian and while that may be somewhat true why wouldn’t you want to strengthen your mind against the attacks from the enemy. Seemingly you would have an insatiable thirst and hunger for God’s word. 

Becoming complacent about your faith is a dangerous place to be. Hanging around the wrong people can easily get you slipping into wrong thinking and behavior and swallowed up by the world. 

You were given life and put on this Earth for a distinct purpose no matter how you got here. Don’t fall for the enemies lies that a little sleeping around here, a little pornography there, justifying sins such as abortion. If you have fallen into the trap of confirming to this world get outta there fast. Some may not even realize as they are numb.If you don’t hunger for Christ and the fellowship of other believers you are only hurting yourself but if you have children you likewise are hurting them. Time to run into the arms of a savior. Not religion but a  true relationship where you want to spend time with Christ. 

PRAYER:Father I want to help people return to the Lord or get out of the dangers of this world without acting self righteous. I know we have all sinned. Help anyone I know who has stumbled into a pit to find their way out. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for a wonderful song of worship: https://youtu.be/jABSW-UuT1o

Have You Visited Your Prayer Closet?

 

“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Recently I read that the average person spends 9 hours on social media during a one week vacation and consequently misses out on many moments of their leisure time. This little device comes in handy yes but it is a huge relationship robber with people and God. 

In the movie ‘War Room’ there was a literal closet made into a prayer room. Your ‘closet’ may be a favorite chair, your back patio or a simple place you can go and be uninterrupted. Don’t be misled by the enemy but this time is vital. 

Is it important to you to have uninterrupted time with God talking to him? Do you prioritize it or let other things squeeze it out? Recently someone said to me “I don’t have to go to church and read my Bible to go to Heaven. God knows I love Him and I gave my life to Him.” If you don’t make time for God by finding a place to worship weekly it will be very easy to let the culture and world shape you. What is the priority in your life?

PRAYER: Lord help me to always put you first and to never make excuses for why I don’t pray or attend a worship service somewhere. Help those searching for you Lord to be led to a dynamic alive church fellowship where Jesus is Lord!

In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Sandpaper

Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.James 1:3

Do you ever use sandpaper for anything? Those people in construction use it to smooth edges of wood and to give the wood a good finish prepping it for stain or paint. 

When it comes to sand paper there are different grades of it depending on the job to be done. In your life have you ever felt like you were roughed up by sandpaper and are hurting or bleeding? 

God can use many things to get your attention and just because you go through a preparation period does not mean He does not love you or has forgotten about you. This sanding prepares you for your work ahead He is preparing. Think of yourself as a piece of fine furniture in the Master’s workshop. You are going to like the finished product. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord when I go through rough times to know you are there beside me and you care for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Don’t Worry Friend

 

"They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD. Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes."  Ps. 112:7-8 NIV

Why is it some folks just can’t let go of fear and worry? Mostly it is because you have to make your mind get out of the worry department which honors Satan and into the trust and peace department which glorifies God. 

You can’t be much of a witness when you are constantly fretting over the future especially now with wars, gender confusion, high gas prices, leaders who want their way, and so forth. You need to of course pray and lift up leaders too for them to be saved, but more importantly train your mind to stay fixed on things above. Believe me it is not easy when constantly being bombarded by news which is always negative. 

I challenge you to enrich your mind with a heaping helping of God’s word each and every day. Read Psalm 91 for starters. Then read Psalm 23. Relax and stop saying things like “Oh it’s just part of my personality” because it does not have to be. Lean in to God and truly cast your cares on Him. 

PRAYERS: Lord I thank you for being there for me at all times. It is not your desire I fret needlessly over things I have no control over but instead to believe things will work out for the good. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Expectations And Comparing Can Be Your Downfall

 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, Hebrews 12:1-2

One of the areas in my own life I have to continually work on is the area of comparing myself to others or expectations I may put on other people that don’t happen. Through these areas the mind has to be in control as your thought life must be tamed to win the battle. 

Comparison breeds jealousy, envy, pain, anger, hurt feelings, misunderstandings and can also cause bitterness. It is for sure not a fruit of the spirit and needs to be yanked up by its’ roots and destroyed before it destroys you and others you are inflicting it upon. 

Do you want to have peace? First stay off social media as it is breeding ground for false hopes and comparison. Next keep your mind on your own business. You don’t know what people are thinking or feeling so don’t sit and think you do. It is very destructive. Try to be happy and joyful and pray for the ones you compare yourself too or those whose minds you think you can read. Wasted energy to be indulging in this. Instead focus on how you can become better not bitter. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for helping me see my faults when it comes to these two areas. It causes much pain for no reason except to make the devil happy as he steals your peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Don’t Skip The Third Verse

 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.2 Timothy 3:16

A tradition in lots of mainline Protestant denominational churches when I was growing up would be the song leader would say to sing the song but only verses 1,2, and 4. Say what? The brilliant gifted man or woman of God who penned lyrics that obviously  meant lots so why was it skipped. Why omit the third stanza? 

If you cut and paste verses sometimes you lose the meaning. Actually some of the old hymns had more meaning when all four verses were sung. The only purpose I guess accomplished in deleting a verse would be to hurry up the service. 

Can you imagine any verses in the Bible being omitted such as the all familiar John 3:16? Every word and every verse is vital. False religions love to add to and omit key verses. Don’t allow yourself to be led astray. Know the truth found in the word and hide it in your heart. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord to cherish every word of God and every song written by gifted Christian songwriters. Help me never cut my own walk short or my own quiet time just so I can get over quicker. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Take Captive Every Thought

 

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to. 2 Corinthians 10:5(NIV, Bible Gateway) 

I don’t know about you but taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ is a constant challenge but not one that is not within reach. How many times have you maybe been thinking on things that simply were unproductive thoughts or things that you maybe imagined that were not factual?

That is why it is so vital to fill your mind with good true thoughts and not daydream and speculate on things you have  zero control over. Prayer is the key even though it sounds like such a simplistic answer it is true. Get deeply involved in talking to God on a daily basis. Tell him your areas of weakness, your hurts, your emotional pan, and your wishes. His time table is better than yours and He does love you. 

Each and every day you will face ‘thought control’ challenges and you can choose to dwell on them and end up in a pit. The answer seems to be from strangers to stay busy. It can be easier to have wrong stinking thinking if you aren’t in a full time job, or a full time parent, or full time grandparent. The challenge is to start the day with a good quiet time and stay busy. Don’t allow the enemy to cause you to become anxious by thinking things that are not even factual, I think you know what I mean. Stay off social media and stay in tune with God. 

PRAYER: Father I thank you for my mind and the creation of the human brain be no able to think and store so much information. Help me to only put good things in my mind and to avoid those things which cause me to think things that are not real and to maybe have emotional pain as a result. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

#Biblegatewayblogger

I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus Here So Leave Me Alone!

 I’m Trying To Be Like Jesus Here So Leave Me Alone! 

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Colossians 3:17

Sometimes God may have divinely appointed meet ups for you but they may may come at inconvenient times when you would rather not be interrupted. Have you been there and know what I mean? Jesus has many times he was interrupted when followers found out he was close by. 

Outwardly you may look okay but inside turmoil and confusion are brewing. Maybe you wanted to sit on a boulder and watch a nearby creek but interruptions came in the form of a passerby. You may be throwing a private pity party, I have had many of those. As my husband recently said, “You have it pretty good so why not think of people with real losses, hurts, pains and in need.” Ouch. 

So whatever it is you are dealing with my friend God does really know. The devil tries to taunt you and get you to act less than Christlike. People should always be put before self. Everyone does need some sort of solitude at times but to just ‘crawl in a hole’ and not want to be bothered is probably not healthy. Make friends and call on friends in time of pain or hurt. And Jesus is a prayer away. Make time to talk to him daily. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you that you are my savior and you care for not only me but for all people whether they love you or not. Give me strength, courage, determination to get through difficult situations. Also use me in the lives of others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Achy Breaky Heart

 

"He heals the broken-hearted, and bandages their wounds" Psalm 147:3 

No I am not referring to the Billy Ray Cyrus hit from years ago but the human heart in an emotional sense. Your heart may be breaking right now. 

Your heart can break due to a hurtful relationship with a loved one or a misunderstanding. It can break because of feeling left out. It can break because of unnecessary disputes. 

It is necessary to not dwell on the heartbreak issue but to instead pray about it. Sounds so trite and simple but broken hearts often take time and work to mend. Remember Jesus’ experienced a broken heart from rejection he received from many. He knows your pain. Keep praying for the situation and get counseling if needed. Never forget God loves you. 

PRAYER: Lord bring comfort to those dealing with a broken heart. Emotions are fragile and help me Lord to pray and trust you for healing. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

What Do You Fear?

“Man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” Deuteronomy 8:3

Much talk is going on about rising gas prices, rising food prices,shortages, war, ISIS attacks due to unvetted refugees being giving free reign in our country but yet God does not want you to fear my child. 

Have you made time for him yet today? I don’t know what you deal with at home or with key people in your life but the important thing is God knows and He is with you. You may have unfathomable emotional pain or be dealing with something and afraid to seek help but don’t add the ‘cares of this world’ on top of it all. 

When times are uncertain look to God as your source. Don’t get distracted and push him out by scheduling everything else but a quiet time. The enemy would love for that to happen. Your strength comes from hearing and reading the word of God. Let Him into your heart today. 

PRAYER: My heart aches at times but I know the Lord is with me. Help those people who are wounded emotionally get peace that only God can give. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Jesus’ Birthdsys

 



Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?John 3:3-5(KJV) 

46 years ago today, 19 March,  I rededicated my life to Christ and became ‘born again’ or as I affectionately call it my Jesus’ birthday! 

Milestones such as that are important. There is your actual physical birthday and then the birthday you knowingly and willingly accepted Jesus into your heart to be Lord of your life. My younger sons’ spiritual birthday in 2000 is the same as his first born daughters physical birthday 17 years later in 2017! 

Have you had this experience of knowing exactly when Jesus made a difference in your life or when the ‘lights came on’ so to speak? A religious ceremony is not what I am referring to but a time where you can actually remember Jesus coming into your heart and making you different, a new person in Christ. (See 2 Corinthians 5:17). Jesus is knocking at the door of your heart won’t you let Him on today? (See Revelation 3:20). 

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for making yourself truly known to me. I pray for those I know who have not received Christ as savior to ask him into their hearts today. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Put Jealousy In Your Back Pocket

 

Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Not sure if you ever have felt left out of anything but when you do a hint of jealousy may arise even though you don’t know ‘the whole story’. I am not sure where jealousy comes from but I do know it is freshly and carnal and not a fruit of the spirit. It can lead to broken relationships if not dealt with.

If you tend to lean towards having a jealous left out spirit then lean more into God. Ask him to take it away and help occupy your mind on another area instead of having self centered thoughts.

Maybe this trait hit you hard in Junior and senior high days but is still lingering. Satan knows your weak points and will keep poking at you to get you to cave. Trying to rejoice with those who rejoice(Romans 12:15) might help reduce the tendency to be jealous. Give it a try next time the jealousy monster tears it’s’ ugly head.

PRAYER: Father I thank you for the gift of friends. I thank you for what o have learned from fractured friendships along the way. I choose to not be resentful but instead to be prayerful as hard as it is because I want no part of a jealous spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

What Or Who Do You Love?

"And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” Ephesians 1:22-23

Your job? Football? Tik Tok? Movies? Television? God is supposed to be at the top of your list of what you love. Do you love the Lord and desire to do things that bring you closer to Him?

Do you truly love the Lord with all your heart or are you just breathing air and waiting to die? You do what you love and you hang out and seek to please those you love. Does this describe your relationship with Jesus?

Perhaps it is time to take inventory of what truly ‘rings your chimes’ so to speak. Is there something in your life above God?

PRAYER: Father I know at times I seem to think I am just here to work, do hobbies, eat and make friends but you have a way bigger purpose for my life. Help me discover my purpose and use me for your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Afraid?

 

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

Many times in the past I have written about not fixating on bad news and try to get away from constant news alerts which only cause stress and anxiety. Be thankful you are not in a war torn country and stay on your knees in prayer.

There is plenty to fear if you choose to allow it to disrupt your life. The fear is not one of fight or flight like a bear encounter in isolated woods like my husband and I faced in September 2018 in Homer, Alaska or is not the fear of dying in an airplane crash or being ejected from a roller coaster but fear of what is to come or what evil man can do to you.

You may say well I can’t help it that is my personality but in fact you can conquer fear. If you don’t it will soon defeat you. As a child of God you set an example for the rest of the world because you can have perfect peace. You have to do the ‘spiritual work’ to develop a peaceful mindset by memorizing scripture on peace. Make the rest of March your happy time!

PRAYER: Lord I come to you daily asking for strength to fight the enemy when he comes knocking at my door. I choose to seek peace and pursue it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

7 Missed Days

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

I tend to bounce around lots and not focus as good as I should and one area this is frustrating is following a daily quiet time plan. Recently I went to one plan and got the message I had missed seven days. Oh no what is wrong with me?

Perhaps you can identify with this in that there are so many good plans out there you either bounce around or just skip it entirely. Your enemy Satan loves to distract you and keep you from settling down and enjoying a quiet time with the Lord. 

Decide today what direction you need to go and don’t beat yourself up when you miss a day. Don’t just do this out of a legalistic habit but desire and hunger for it. God knows your heart and He loves a heart set apart for Him. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord each day as I start my quiet time to not let the ‘tyranny of the urgent’ disrupt me. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Getting Off Track

So let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16

Don’t beat yourself up if you had the best intentions to stay on a Bible reading plan and something happened. It almost becomes a chore instead of a joy so relax. 

At the beginning of a new year you may have decided to start a Bible reading plan or a time alone with God and each day is unique and sometimes things don’t come out as planned. Relax my friend. God knows your heart. He isn’t going to punish you for missing a day of your Lenten reading. 

Of course be alert to the enemies tricks to immobilize your growth in Christ but stay  watchful and hopeful and even on days when you don’t ‘feel’ spiritual make an effort to at least talk to God. 

PRAYER: Thanks Father for loving me even when I fall short of plans I had. Help me to keep running the race to be closer to you and shaking off any of the world’s garbage that hinders me. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Brain Fog? Press On!

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the LORD's people.Ephesians 6:18

Do you ever get up and have one of those days? Your heart is set on spending time with the Lord but everything else seems to get in the way. 

If you have small children or infants incorporate a fun learning time with many things available through children’s ministries. Put on lively spirit filled music to get the day started. If you need to get to work listen to scripture in your car instead of regular news or secular music. 

The sword of the spirit(the word of God) can help slash through that brain fog so you can see and feel the glorious light and warmth of the savior. Don’t focus on the world’s issues and get worried and fretful. Work on developing trust in the King of kings. 

PRAYER: I need you every day Lord but at times things get in the way of good quality time with you. There is no excuse. Forgive me Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Your Treasure

 

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

NIV Bible Gateway 

You must make time for God. Do you desire to do this? Do you want your life to impact the world around you?

If someone were to ask you what is the most important thing in your life how would you respond? Not all days will you feel like jumping for joy even though the joy of the Lord should always be your strength. 

Don’t be ruled by emotions or feelings as they are ever changing. Just where is your treasure being stored? 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for watching over me and providing for me even on days when I give you little time. I seek to walk with you daily. Keep my feet from stumbling. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Works Of The Flesh

 

“And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:11

We are in this world but we are not to be of this world. In other words people should be able to tell you are different, not holier than thou different but just a different demeanor. 

The flesh would cover such things as jealousy, homosexuality, adulterous behavior, sorcery, fortune telling, drunkenness, murder, hatred, and I am sure you can add a few more. There is always redemption and forgiveness because we all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. 

The enemy blinds the minds of people getting them to believe lies and get off the course God has for them. Stand firm my friend. Stay rooted and grounded. Don’t allow deception to drag you away from growing closer to God. 

PRAYER: Help me Lord to have ears to hear and a heart to show kindness and compassion. Thanks that there is always a way to freedom in Christ. I pray for anyone I know who might be believing a lie to guide them gently to the truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Saying Thank You Helps Clear The Blues

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.”Psalm 100:4

Ever catch yourself just feeling down and there is no apparent reason? You need to quick find a way to become joyful before Satan takes advantage of you. Don’t run to social media for  comfort as it usually does the opposite. 

Sure you can escape in a book, good movie, or games. But much better would be to start to think of things that bring joy to your life. Think of something good that happened just today for instance. Maybe it was a phone call, a card in the mail, a smile, a hug, a gift. Then think of the ways God has taken care of you. 

You have been set free and redeemed..give thanks. God is working in and through you….give thanks. You are where you are for a reason…give thanks. You have people who love you and enjoy being with you..give thanks. See you have a pretty good life so give thanks! 

PRAYER: Father I thank you for my life and thank you for helping me in times when I feel a little down. I choose to cast my burdens on you. I refuse to allow the lies of Satan to drag me down. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Are You Trusting God?

 

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not to your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5

Who do you trust? Who or what do you key guide you? 

It is easy to try to not think things through clearly and use your own judgments to figure things out. I just need to trust God and you do too. 

Keep praying, believing, and delight yourself in the Lord. The answers to all the issues in your life are found in the Bible. The devil would want you to think it is old fashioned,boring, confusing, and just a historical record. No way! It is alive and full of promises. Get in a church where the Bible comes alive to you and keep focusing on above. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you because you know my heart and you hear my prayers. Be with those who have trouble believing in you or trusting you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Rocking And Rushing

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.Matthew 11:28-30

Recently at the bustling Charlotte Douglas International Airport I observed two very contrasting  things. Either passengers were sitting in rocking chairs which are in several concourses during an extended layover or they were running like crazy to get to their gate. 

Kind of made me think about life in general, either we can learn to relax and rest or are constantly on the treadmill of life rushing to and fro. 

Sometimes rushing can’t be prevented but why not try with God’s help to not try to burn the candle at both ends so to speak. God desires his children to enjoy rest. 

PRAYER: I am grateful for ability to get around but help me also remember you desire rest for your children. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Stop Reading Junk Mail

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.Galatians 5:16

Junk mail everyone gets it much of it nowadays in the form of questionable internet pop up ads. You have to discipline yourself to not go off and start looking at them. 

Discipline is the key in the person’s life who claims to follow and love Christ. A life with Jesus in the center is not a boring life at all. The devil wants those not excited about church to think it is dull and boring. It may be boring in the wrong church. 

Stop today reading things that draw you away from Christ. God’s word is not junk mail and needs read and meditated upon daily in order to stand strong and ward off attacks of demonic spirits that may try to attack. My friend good news awaits you if you will only seek His face. 

PRAYER: Lord I need discipline in my life to stop reading and looking at things that do nothing for my spirit but only seek to distract me. Guide me to stay strong and resist evil. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Your Playlist

 

Above all else, guardyour heart, for everything you do flows from it.Proverbs 4:23 NIV Bible Gateway

If someone were to get your cell phone and looked at music you had downloaded what picture would it send of your personality and life? Or if someone looked at your bank statement where does most your money go. Think of those two things for a moment.

Those two areas of your life can tell a stranger much about where your heart and affections lie. Do you want a generous and a pure heart that is kind, then you can purpose to live that way.

Start now and think about what you let into your heart. Purity in means purity out. Kindness in, means love and generosity out. Check your playlist.

PRAYER: Lord it is my desire to be more like you in every way. Help me use caution in what I listen to or watch and give me discernment with my money as it all belongs to you anyway. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

#Biblegatewayblogger

Pondering The Savior

 

You are worried and troubled over so many things, but just one is needed. Mary has chosen the right thing, and it will not be taken away from her.”Luke 10:41-42

The season of Lent is upon us. You may not observe this sacred time but it is a time of reflection on God’s goodness and what He means to you. Lent starts 40 days prior to Easter. 

If you never have observed Lent why not start a new tradition. In your own prayer closet you and God can commune. You also can make it a time of sacrifice such as giving up something for 40 days that maybe keeps you from having time with him. Each person decides on his or her own what that should be. 

Truly make time to be still and give God time. Give Him your concerns and just talk and share your heart. 

PRAYER: Father thanks for abundant life you give me and forgive me when I rush through the day and don’t even give you any time. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Global Warning Not Global Warming

 





You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday. Psalm 91:5-6

Recently I heard a message from Pastor Creflo Dollar mentioning we need to be more concerned with world events and knowledge of the scriptures than being dominated in your thinking by Global warming and fear that is in the news on a 24-7 basis.

If you constantly soak up fearful scenarios more than God’s word very likely you will morph into an individual that doesn’t act like a follower at all. You can choose faith  talk or fear talk. 

Your mind is a precious gift from God so why not fill it with things that are uplifting, truthful, pure, and good. 

PRAYER: Father in Heaven your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. You provide for my daily needs and for that I give you thanks. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Are You Looking At The Waves?

 

“At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. Daniel 12:1 NIV Bible Gateway 

What are you scared of? Like crashing waves on a rocky seashore with their strength you wonder when you will have peace in your world.

Right now if you stay glued to the TV news you will be fearful. Wars, death, riots, all the stuff that gets the media high ratings based on fear. If you spent as much time in the word building your faith, fear could take a back seat.When trials come and they will, can you stand strong and stay faithful?

Keep resisting Satan through hurt, pain, trials even without the aid of your church family because sometimes people are isolated just them and the Holy Spirit. You fall into a ditch and you are able to get out with God's help. Stop looking at the waves because God is with you.

PRAYER: Father thank you for helping me when I am stuck in the mire. Thank you God for forgiving me and redeeming me and setting me free. Thank you for guiding my feet and keeping me from stumbling. I am not afraid because you are with me. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Don't Live In Fear

 

"They will not live in fear or dread of what may come, for their hearts are firm, ever secure in their faith." Psalm 112:7

Are you scared? Why? Rumor of war. Skyrocketing inflation. Pandemic. Death. 

The author of fear is definitely not God because his word says in 2 Timothy 1:7 that he did not give us a spirit of fear but if power, love, and a sound mind. Is your mind ‘sound’ and if not how do you achieve that? 

Number one, Christians should not fear, period. Read Psalms. Trust and faith are two things you rely on to get you through tough unsettling times. Exercise of your ‘spiritual muscles’ is vital. Can you release your fears to God then don’t go fishing for them again? 

PRAYER: Lord I come to you asking for your help in remaining steadfast through storms of life. Thanks that you are my anchor. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Oh No!! My Money!!

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philipians 4:19

In recent days with world events in chaos, the stock market has reacted on a negative way. Those diligently working hard for saving grimace as their portfolios plummet. 

My late parents and grandparents generations had to suffer through wars and the Great Depression. They didn’t lead a cushy little life like most today do. Sometimes when you are at rock bottom you have time to look up.

The trials and hardships made them stronger. You weather the storm and hang on till the sun shines again. The money is God’s anyway we are to only be good stewards of it. 

PRAYER: Father thanks so much that I basically grew up and had what I needed. Show me how to use what you blessed me with to help others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.