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.

Saturday, April 30, 2022

Don’t Be Ashamed Ever!

 

If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels."Mark 8:38

Recently I met up with a new friend I had never met before and not wanting to come off too preachy I left my ‘Immeasurably More Ephesians 3:20’ bracelet at home. I still had on my ‘Pray First’ wrist band though. But what possessed me to hide my light under a basket so to speak?

It was the enemy. I wear that bracelet all the time and if someone asks me about it I give them one to share the ministry. Right from the get go my new friend mentions prayer and I was so mad at myself for allowing Satan to lie and manipulate me. 

Be yourself is what I always say then here I cower embarrassed to share this ministry. I did eventually share the ministry and put a bracelet on her. Turns out we had many things in common to include writing. Why should I care what people think but it was tricky as it was my son and his friend who arranged this meet up for two ladies who both had not had much contact with anyone. They thought we would hit it off. We did.I learned a valuable lesson and that is shine for Jesus brightly whoever you are with. Satan is the loser in this encounter. 

PRAYER: Thankyou Lord for the ability to witness to those who may or may not know Christ. Forgive me for acting afraid as I miss opportunities to share when I do hide my bracelet. Give me courage. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Want a bracelet of your own contact www.Hopelifters.com

Friday, April 29, 2022

The Rest Of The Week

 


Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ Matthew 7:21-23
Are you a ticket puncher in that Sunday you were taught to go to church so you go out of habit. Check that block off as your ‘spiritual duty’ is filled for the week. Not really. 

Sunday starts on Saturday and continues after Sunday. My heart aches for those people who could care less if they made it to church. In their mind they are good enough, haven’t committed any crimes so surely God has a place for them in Heaven. Many people really think this way and sadly it is not accurate. Some think they don’t need to be in a building to show God they love him. 

Worshipping the Lord is something you desire to do when you truly love the Lord. Maybe you have been mad at God over something not even his fault or perhaps doing fun things on Sunday is more a priority and deep down you know you need to be back in church. No one is stopping you except Satan. He doesn’t want you in a dynamic church cause you might actually want to return and start hungering for Christ. 

PRAYER: I pray for anyone who knows they need a life with Christ. Maybe they can’t find their Bible and don’t even know how to begin reading it. Lead many to find you and be set free Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Thursday, April 28, 2022

Devil Shut Up!

 


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

Guess where negative thinking comes from? It certainly is not from God. 

Recently I talked to a friend who thought God was disappointed in her. I told her no way but that God loved her and she was making an impact in peoples lives. I further said that when that type negative thinking came up it was from Satan and to tell him to shut up! Quote scripture to him. 

You have to take up the armor of God daily to ward off attacks of the enemy who hates scriptures being thrown at him. Tell Satan you are a child of God and covered by blood of Jesus and no weapon in his puny arsenal will hurt you. Tell him you are redeemed. Go and enjoy life now! 

PRAYER: Lord I need you 24-7 and thank you for being there. When the enemy tries to lie to me I choose to tell him he has no authority over me. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click here for a song of worship: 

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

The Pursuit Of The Almighty

 


“We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”2 Corinthians 5:8

Do you love the Lord or do you love a denomination or a church building?Simple question which some are baffled by. Just ponder that for a few moments. 

Heaven is not going to be broken down into sections by denomination. Many who expect we die and poof just go there will be sadly surprised. Do you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that when you breathe your last breath you will be instantly in His kingdom? 

Are you making pursuit of the Savior a daily occurrence and by this I mean do you hunger and thirst for His word? If not why not? Christians should want to read the Bible as there is where truth and power come from. Take a few moments and let God hear from you. Yes talk to Him, that is what prayer is. Have a beautiful day and know God loves you. 

PRAYER: Your words being life and I pray for anyone I know who is lost and confused or stuck in a denomination that brings no life, joy, and truth to them to be led to a church that does. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for dynamic worship song:

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

Then Comes Monday

 But you, O man of God, flee from these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.1 Timothy 6:11


So on Sunday you either worshipped somewhere to Jesus or worshipped elsewhere in an activity. Many punch a ticket so to speak that Sunday church is over for another week. Ah but is it? 

It is never supposed to be over but to be a part of your life the other 6 days. You should have a devotion book to read followed by scripture maybe some praise and worship music. I have included a powerful song of worship at end of this devotion. 

The problem for many is they have made a commitment to religion or a denomination but not to Jesus and God. It just becomes something you do but not a way of life for you. In other words you may be ‘religious’ but don’t really love or know Jesus. I was there once so I know. Let each day be just as important in your walk with the Lord. 

PRAYER: Lord I come to you on behalf of many who never really made a commitment to follow you daily. Many are fooled by teachings that don’t look me up with God’s word. I pray for those who need courage to find a life giving church that loves God and loves people. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link and listen to powerful song of praise. If you can shut your eyes and lift your arms up like you are truly worshipping the Lord. 

Monday, April 25, 2022

The Cure

 


“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

When you get prescribed medicine you are intended to take it to treat symptoms and to get well. There was a time I ran out of an allergy medicine and I itched like crazy and was sneezing. Upon receiving it I was a brand new person.

Did you know the Bible is your spiritual medicine to help you grow in Christ yet how many ignore it, let it gather dust, and have little joy in studying it? There are so many dynamic apps to assist you in hungering and thirsting for Christ and good morning and evening devotion books to guide you as well. 

Don’t just be a Christian in name only with no power to defeat the enemy. Dive into the word, get planted in a spirit filled church and you will be lifted up above your enemies. 

PRAYER: Lord I love you and I need you in my life Daily all through the day. Help my thoughts be on things above. If there is any wickedness in me direct me to lay it at the foot of the cross. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Sunday, April 24, 2022

Baseball, Golf, Horse Races, NASCAR, The 500, When Is There Time For Jesus?

 

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.Luke 12:34

At the beginning  of the year after football there was the Olympics, then Stanley Cup, next came March Madness, then the start of baseball season. When is there time to give Jesus time? Many sports at non professional level often require children and teens to play on Sunday. It is as if the only time anyone recognizes it is Christmas and Easter. 

Can sports become an idol or are they already an idol in your life. If you spend a good portion of your waking time when not at work centered on sporting events there may a chance you have placed it very high on the priority list. Does it ever happen the same time as church? Then what? 

What I love to see is when a professional athlete is not ashamed to acknowledge Jesus as their savior. Kurt Warner depicted in the recent movie ‘American Underdog’ had a faith in the Almighty. Tim Tebow as well and many many others. Scottie Scheffler this years Masters champion is a believer. So refreshing to see good role models after all those who disrespect America and God. Follow the Lord not a sports hero or too many events putting God in second place. 

PRAYER: Lord I am grateful for the talented individuals gifted with abilities in so many sports. Help me never to idolize them or to occupy the Sabbath just watching TV. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Saturday, April 23, 2022

No Middle Ground

 


As Jesus says, “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” (Matthew 12.30)

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. 

Becoming complacent about your faith is a dangerous place to be and if not careful you could easily be sucked in to what you just got out of. Temptations are the devil’s specialty. Satan is not going to present himself and his deception as a horrible evil person but instead is subtle as the Bible refers to him as an ‘angel of light’. 

It is the Holy Spirit that draws people to Him and convicts of sin. No amount of nagging or making suggestions will change a heart. Prayer and more prayer mixed with love and patience. Just keep praying. 

PRAYER: I am thankful for the Holy Spirit which brings people to draw closer to god and to conviction of sin. Praying for anyone today who needs to draw closer to you and throw off any sins holding them back. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 





Friday, April 22, 2022

Good Intentions



So teach us to number our days,That we may present to You a heart of wisdom.Psalm 90:2


Recently I sat down and started unsubscribing to all sorts of things I didn’t really have time for or need. Many devotions and Christian sites may be good but you can’t do them all. I was becoming scattered. I wanted to be free from social media sites and constant notifications. It was robbing me of peace. 


Have you been there, done that, got the tee shirt too? Even learning to say no to a seemingly good ministry opportunity because, like I said, you can’t be everyone to every body. Saying no is important too. 


I recommend a ‘Day Alone With God‘ where you get away from your house and go to a park, stay safe though, and talk to God, journal and read your Bible. Those with jobs and children at home might have to be creative in this. Time to relax, refresh, restore is critical to you walk with Christ. How about you? What distractions do you need to let go of?


PRAYER: Lord give me the ability to say no to seemingly good things and wisdom is deciding which things to choose to keep in my life. Help me as I seek to keep you Lord first in my life. In Jesus’ name.Amen.

Thursday, April 21, 2022

Take A Step Back

 


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 NIV Bible Gateway 

Do you receive too many emails to the point you feel like screaming? Even good ones from ministries? You are one person and can’t do everything. It also robs you of quality time with your loved ones and friends. 

Why not start unsubscribing to maybe 90% of stuff you get. First you will gain more family time and less neck pain from looking down at your phone.Next you will garner good information from those you choose to keep. Try to do away with things that rob you of peace and create tension in your family. 

Can you do this? Grab a good book and sit outside if it is a nice day. Leave your device alone. When you don’t you will find it is hard to escape from like it has this mysterious draw to it. Get away and take a walk without your phone. Yes I know the device might have your Bible app and other good things but you need a technology break. Those under 35 who didn’t grow up without computers probably can’t imagine this. Do it and see if you aren’t better off. 

PRAYER: Father you are above all things. I need to have peace and enjoy nature without taking electronics with me all the time. Help me Lord to seek you more than I seek technology. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegatewayblogger

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Troubled?



Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out my hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me. Psalm 138:7


What do you dwell on most, your blessings or your problems and troubles? You know it is the enemy who wants you focused on bad stuff because if you do, it disables your ability to praise and worship God. 


It is super easy to sink into a pit of fretting, speculating, fearing but none of those is listed as the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians chapter 5. Don’t waste time focusing on the news but instead turn on some praise and worship music. Many people have an echo device so say “Alexa turn on K Love” or “turn on Highlands worship”.


You never know what is going through a person’s mind and sometimes just a simple smile will brighten someone’s day. Recently at the local  VA I observed while a lady gave another lady a bunch of flowers. Doesn’t take much to make someone’s happy. So do your part to push away troubled minds. Smile and be positive. 


PRAYER: You are my peace Lord Jesus and I thank you for always being only a prayer away. I choose to resist the enemy who attempts to disable my ability to praise and be joyful. Give me strength. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tuesday, April 19, 2022

Trust God Or Fear Man

 


"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." Psalm 20:7

When you see trouble swirling all around you, things in the news that cause you concern is your natural reaction to fear tyrants and dictators or to put your full trust in God? 

Many in America have become complacent. There are politicians trying to play God passing bills to allow children to change their gender or two of same sex to marry. Some public schools want to take charge of our children’s minds by shaping them to think sin is ok. This is not pleasing to God and as in the times of Noah how long do you suppose God will not let the world know He is the creator. He isn’t happy that his creation just tosses newborn or pre-born infants into the garbage and seemingly animals have more value. 

My friend now is the time to return to the Lord if you have wandered away for awhile. I know of young people mesmerized by the lures and bait of the culture there isn’t much time for the Lord in their day or their week or their life. Only the Holy Spirit can bring conviction. Praying many decide to follow Jesus before it is too late. 

PRAYER: I need you Lord to get through the lies and tricks of this world we live in. Help anyone who is lost recognize evil and run from it. Give me a voice to speak out against unrighteousness. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Monday, April 18, 2022

That’s Radical!



Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago. Isaiah 25:1

Have you ever heard someone describe a minister or a place of worship as radical? Sometimes I think that is Satan’s tool to get people from checking it out. Something to think about. 

What we need is revival and need it bad. With revival comes heartfelt prayer, speaking in prayer languages, raising arms in the air almost as of Jesus were in the room with you. 

Don’t you imagine when you meet the King of Kings face to face in Heaven there will be singing hallelujahs not worrying or caring what others think? That is a tool from the enemy to keep you from fully and deeply worshipping the Lord. Enjoy every day and worship the Lord! 

PRAYER: Lord I remember before I was touched by the Holy Spirit not understanding what dynamic worship was all about. Father I pray for any one who is far from God to make room in their heart for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link and worship God:

Sunday, April 17, 2022

The Big Event

The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! John 1:21 ESV Bible Gateway


Today is the big day we remember the most important event ever that being the Resurrection of Jesus after being dead 3 days. Pretty awesome. 

Somehow the Easter message got skewed in that in typing out the word Easter a chick comes up on my device. Why not a cross? It is a day we celebrate and rejoice in the Resurrection of Jesus. Why can’t people call it like it is?

It is not about a bunny it  is about a sacrificial 🐑 lamb that took away the sins of the world. He knew what awaited Him. Some of his followers denied Him. Imagine His pain, there is no way you can. Today make this day more about Him than hunting eggs. 

PRAYER: Lord I am in awe of your majesty and the miracles you performed and are still happening today. I thank you for allowing me to live and move and enjoy your creation. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Saturday, April 16, 2022

What Does The Cross Mean To You?



Then he said to them all: "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. Luke 9:23


Many people have cross necklaces or cross on a chain or rope. Does the cross indicate that the individual is a follower of Christ? How about a cross tattoo? 


Do you realize what the cross means? It is so simple to wear one, draw one, hang one on the wall but the meaning of the cross is death and sacrifice. Think about it for a moment. Jesus was beat, spit on, scorned, betrayed, whipped, you name it then had to drag his heavy cross through the streets while some cried and many mocked.  


Finally the cross was laid on ground and soldiers hammered nails(like railroad spikes) into his hands and feet, three of them. Then up they lifted the cross and placed him between two thieves who deserved death, not Jesus. He died for you and for me. He died for those who don’t even love Him. He died for even those people today trying to be god themselves. Take a moment and listen to the song I have attached. Tomorrow is a big day! 


PRAYER: I need you Lord. Forgive me for times I even turned my back on you. I pray for many people today who have not made you Lord of their life. I pray for those people who try to play God by changing the truth into a lie. Help me be kind to those who I don’t agree with for kindness leads to repentance. (Romans 2:4). In Jesus’ name. Amen. 


Friday, April 15, 2022

What Waves?


You rule the swelling of the sea;
When its waves rise, You still them.Psalm 89:9

Do you ever feel like your problems are like huge waves crashing onto a rocky shore? I heard once that If you don’t like the waves learn to surf? Hmm. 

The tumult of strong ocean waves shows God’s majestic power. The force behind them and underneath them is amazing.

Just as God calms the stormy seas He alone can calm whatever it is you are dealing with in your life. Are you ready to sit and trust Him. He is ready to hear from you. 

PRAYER:I am so grateful that when I experience your creation which is all around us I know you listen to little ole me too because all your creation is important to you. Thanks for hearing my prayer. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thursday, April 14, 2022

A Friend Indeed

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.1 Thessalonians 5:11


Recently I sat down and was sort of ashamed at myself for not responding to comments people had left me on my devotions. These kind souls who say something have no idea how that encourages me to press on. I have received some on days when I needed  a lift. 


How about you? Do you have those moments in your life when a letter or card or call or visit from a friend happens right when you need a lift. You can be a 'lifter' for others by just smiling, opening a door at a store, saying hello even if the person does not respond back. 


Don't let the world of social media be where you think you will be lifted up. Try as best you can to not go diving into everyone's business but when the urge hits you get your Bible and start reading the book of John. Coming out of the strange locked down world of Covid is a challenge to many. Be a part of those people who want to help get the world turning again. 


PRAYER: Father, I am thankful for friends. I realize there are many who don't have many friends such as  those in prison, nursing homes, orphanages, and so forth. Back in the day there were pen pals where you could write to a person an actual letter that they probably kept and cheered them up. Give me creative ideas for ways to be a blessing to someone who needs it. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

Stop Second Guessing Yourself

 


Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition ([a]definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.Philippians 4:6 AMP Bible Gateway 

Ok something bad just happened and you start fretting about what if’s and getting concerned over the situation. But on the other hand you are a believer and quote scripture and believe everything will work out for the good so you have to let stuff go. 

Am I talking to anyone other than myself? Fretting only leads to further anxiety, speculation, worry, and attempt at control. God is in control so let Him be in control. 

The next time you feel like manipulating a situation you know that is not what God would want just be still and pray. Let God work! 

PRAYER: Father help me gain confidence after I have prayed and trusted you to stand firm never wavering. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegatewayblogger

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Are You Distracted?


I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:1-2

When that question is asked it doesn’t mean do you have ADD but do normal ‘cares of the world’ keep you away from time alone with God? 

One of the biggest distractors is that pesky mobile device. I lived without for most of my life and it is hard for todays youth to imagine that. Once that little thing is in your clutches it is like your personal defibrillator seemingly keeping you alive. And as my husband often says “Your index finger gets you into a lot of trouble” and indeed it can. 

Also don’t constantly give in to the world continually checking social media. As my son said, “it is not real”. See if you can go to lunch with a friend without your phone. When you are with another person it is only a polite thing to do not
interrupting them. Don’t allow the ‘god of this world’ aka Satan to get you off track. He is the great distractor. You can fight him with the word of God and yes many fine ministries have Apps and there is a Bible App but try a paper Bible too and don’t be afraid to underline passages that speak to you. Now go have a blessed day! 

PRAYER: Father help me learn to control the use of that tiny device called a cell phone which is a major distractor in life sometimes even contributing to divorces, auto accidents, destroyed friendships. Help me limit my time and give me a hunger for your word. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Monday, April 11, 2022

The Two That Left



 “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.Matthew 6:24

Whether it was during an altar call or during the service at church what prompts people to get up and just leave? Beating the line at a restaurant or first out of parking lot? Let’s call them the two that got away. 

Every soul is important to God. But you can’t have one foot in the kingdom and the other in hell. It does not work that way. God wants people wholly devoted to serving Him and living for the Lord. I am not saying the people that leave early don’t love God but pointing this illustration out so you can determine how in love with the Lord you are. 

 Many well meaning people serve two Masters so to speak in that this world lures them and they still know they need Jesus. Maybe they are clueless where to begin.  If this sounds like you spend some time talking to God and keep noise off and the cell phone off so you can also hear from him. Keep a balance in your life and trust God will help you make a decision. It may mean a whole new denomination you never know. Give him the keys to your heart today. 

 PRAYER:Father I thank you for giving me wisdom and helping me resist the temptation to just do my own thing. Give those people who are wandering without a church home the ability to discern what they should do next. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, April 10, 2022

Birth Pangs



And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will mislead many. You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end.For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs. Matthew 24:4-8 (NASB)

Every birth mother out there can attest to what birth pangs are and how they feel. A very few don’t go through them but most do. 

Today many think we are approaching the end times. There are signs but no one knows the exact time so don’t fall for it if a date and time is given. All the things going on now, listed partly in verse above, are just the beginning of birth pangs or labor. Be still and trust God. 

There is no reason to fear if you know the truth found in the Word. Certainly don’t be led astray. Get into the word and study it. Take a peek at Ezekiel 38 in Old Testament. 

Above all do not be afraid. If you believe in Jesus and received him into your heart and are living for Him, stand  firm. As Easter approaches many ‘Lilly’ Christians come to churches nationwide. That is a good thing because at least they know there is something special about Easter. Pray for these people who see a need to go to church on Easter that thousands will be touched and return. 

PRAYER: I am excited about the return of Christ and there is no need to fear. I pray for those who blatantly reject the Bible and seemingly laugh in the face of morality. What is being called right is wrong and vice versa. Oh Father bring a revival. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Saturday, April 9, 2022

Misled, Misinformed, Lied To

A false witness will not go unpunished, and a liar will be destroyed. Proverbs 19:9


Seemingly everyone lies. Telling half truths, white lies, deceiving someone. It is wrong, it is not looked upon favorably by God and even says in scripture liars end up in the lake of fire. Ouch. 


Politicians seem to be great at lying at least some of them. Spinning words on bills to make them sound acceptable has been going on for years now. Not to worry unless people repent there is not hope for them. No one should wish Hell upon anyone. 


Pray for the truth to come forth in all areas. Pray for revival in our nation. Pray for the ability to forgive your enemies. Pray that you are not led astray and are wise in catching wrong information. Pray for the devil to stop destroying our nation by deceiving many. Guess what, God loves you and he can set the biggest sinners free. 


PRAYER: Lord Jesus help me be honest in all that I do. Help me to guard my mouth so I am not guilty of any lies. In Jesus’ name.Amen.

Friday, April 8, 2022

Pruning Done Yet?

 


Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing (John 15:5 NIV).

It is that time of year again to enjoy the beautiful plants, trees, and bushes if you pruned them in the off season. You have to prune things till they almost look ugly for the beautiful blooms to occur. 

You are pruned by God sometimes and it hurts and you don’t understand what He has in store for you but he gets rid of stuff that is holding you back in order for you to shine for him. 

Just like a bush has to be pruned back to make it more beautiful or an apple tree so it will bear luscious fruit, you too are pruned for God’s purposes and so you can be used by him. Just thank Him for where you are now. 

PRAYER: I am grateful for even the bumps and pits in my life for they brought me to where I am today. I choose to look ahead for what God has in store. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Thursday, April 7, 2022

Young People Sold Out To Jesus

 


“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Joel 2:28

 

Recently when I was doing my writing in a  local coffee shop two young men who were probably about 30 sat down and you could tell by their conversation they were discussing church. It was so refreshing. No bad words. No judgmental gossip. I could not help listening. I almost wanted to get up and pat them both on the back. 

It is so encouraging when our youth get fired up for Christ. Unashamed in public to pray, discuss the Bible, wear Christian tee shirts. I believe it is the young people which will help bring revival and next great awakening. It is refreshing to witness young people raising their arms in praise to God. 

There is more to loving Jesus and being excited about your relationship with him than baptism or church membership or even confirmation or Sunday school. Many outstanding youth ministries are available to guide young people to a true relationship with the living Savior. 

PRAYER: I love you Lord and I thank you for ministering your love and truth to thousands of our youth. The youth are the future. With all the falsehood circulating in the world it is refreshing to know that there are those who are unashamed. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Note: Duck Dynasty celebrity Sadie Robertson Huff, is living for Christ and has devotionals for teens and young women. #sadierobertsonhuff

Wednesday, April 6, 2022

Check Your Sources

 


My dear friends, don’t believe everything you hear. Carefully weigh and examine what people tell you. Not everyone who talks about God comes from God. There are a lot of lying preachers loose in the world.1 John 4:1 MSG Bible Gateway 

Rumor mills are still alive and well and sometimes just like a spam text they are meant to destroy ministries or people and not be factual but emotions run high and you hear something but don’t fully check it out and that is what the devil loves.

The devil is sure in all the chaos going on in our world today. Guess what? He loses in the end. But don’t believe everything you hear and don’t go posting stuff to social media and further spread untruth. Our nationwide media has really gone overboard not telling the truth these past few years trying to promote a false narrative. 

Do yourself a favor. Read the Bible. Stay away from things you know spread rumors one would be pop up news on computer or tabloids. Get your truth from the source. The B I B L E! 

PRAYER: Oh Lord so many people have been hurt by gossip and rumors. Churches have split, ministries destroyed, reputations hurt and the list goes on. Help me make certain I am not doing this spreading and be sensitive to others around me. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegateway blogger 

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Celebrities? Bah Humbug!

 


You shall not make for yourselves idols, nor shall you set up for yourselves an image or a sacred pillar, nor shall you place a figured stone in your land to bow down to it; for I am the Lord your God.Leviticus 26:1

Recently The Academy Awards were broadcast but even though years ago my sister and I were glued to the TV I have not watched them in years. The red carpet event shows scantily clad female stars and probably this year there seemingly is always left wing political banter about gender identity, abortion, green new deal. Christian films don’t seem to matter to the Academy. 

I for one would like to see a Christian academy awards. Maybe that is included in the Dove awards I am not sure. But many humble born again notables are a refreshing change from the Hollywood that tries to shape culture and try to tell us what to think. Disney used to be a safe bet but now woke execs feel like they need to throw in same sex couples for the little ones enjoyment and brain washing. Not much is Biblical in Hollywood. 

Why not start praying for some of these celebrities who have lost their way and try to shape the culture. This world with its’ movies, TV, books and so forth will one day pass away. Pray for Christian’s in the film industry and there are some, to not accept roles that compromise their values. Continue to pray and don’t quit. And support faith based movies. Go and make a difference for Christ. 

PRAYER:Lord I pray for those lost depraved souls who find humor in ugliness and vulgarity.  I pray you will bring forth more and more faith based movies and actors who put you first. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Note: check this out.https://mastermedia.org/

Monday, April 4, 2022

Who Needs A Kind Word?


Pleasant words are a honeycomb: sweet to the taste and health to the body (Proverbs 16:24)
You may be having a hard day. Perhaps you woke up with stinking thinking and tumbled into a cave of self pity. It is easy to do. The enemy loves to cause us to ignore the good stuff in our lives and instead wants you focusing on things that only sink you further into despair.
Don’t allow that to happen. Wake up and say “this is the day the Lord has made I WILL rejoice and be glad in it!” It takes discipline to train your mind to stay tuned into positive thinking. Hanging around positive people certainly helps. If you find yourself in a "whoa is me" conversation with anyone try to turn it around into a positive without starting a squabble. Never be critical of the people.
I don’t know anyone who couldn’t use a kind word every now and then because you certainly have no idea what people are going through. I like to paint small river stones with positive messages on them maybe just the word ‘hope’ or ‘Forgive’ or ‘Jesus loves you’. I place these on the edges of sidewalks, window sills, hiking trails, anywhere people frequent. I call them Rocks of Hope. Now go share something encouraging!
PRAYER: Lord I thank you for rescuing me from a pit or two in my life so help me likewise to help others downtrodden be rescued. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Sunday, April 3, 2022

March Madness In April



For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. (Psalm 139:13,15)

For fans of college hoops the past month has been a dream for you and now it comes down to four teams. They call it March Madness. I can think of other kinds of madness in March and one would be those trying to fight against pro life laws. It is a March for Life month. 

Life is special. So many are hardened against life and many bogus facts go out not telling the truth. God created life and He doesn’t want it to die in the womb with a heartbeat.I went to my first on site March for Life in the Nation’s Capitol in 2009. The friend I stayed with asked me what I was coming for. I told her and her reply was “I think there are more important things to march for” and after leaving never heard from her again. 

Those with hard hearts need to be prayed for and only the Holy Spirit can change their hardened heart. Keep praying and keep standing for truth.

PRAYER: Lord thank you for the gift of common sense. Also for the gift of life. Your creation is awesome. Help those who don’t understand saving babies be touched by Holy Spirit. This kind of madness does not belong anywhere. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Saturday, April 2, 2022

Reflect And Let Go



Brothers and sisters, I do not consider that I have made it my own yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies aheadPhilippians 3:13 AMP,Bible Gateway

The past is the past. You may have done good things or stupid sinful things. The point is it is behind you and God’s
Mercy and grace cover you are you ready to move on?

If you keep dwelling on the ‘what if’s’ of life or get stuck daydreaming of things that could have been stop. That is the enemy trying to get you to stumble into a hole and to not be grateful for how God is working in you now. 

You can have either good or bad memories but you need to keep moving forward. No doubt the  past probably taught you lots of things and in turn you grow and are shaped into a perfect vessel to be used for the kingdom. Keep looking ahead. 

PRAYER:Lord I thank you for watching over me even in times I didn’t deserve it. Thanks for being my savior. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for powerful worship song:


#Biblegatewayblogger

Friday, April 1, 2022

No Fooling

A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.Proverbs 18:2


This is the day people like  to play jokes on others with the statement ‘April Fools’. Not sure where it originated from but get ready it may happen to you. 

The Bible speaks many times about not being foolish.  Do a word search in scripture on ‘fool’ and you will see quite a few. A fool is a person who acts unwisely or is silly according to the dictionary. 

There is a verse that says “a companion of fools will suffer ruin” found in Proverbs 13:20. Friends can make you or break you and if you hang out with foolish people then you are warned in scripture. So this day may be a day of pranks but beware to be a fool is not a good thing. Purpose in your heart you do not intend to be a fool and will be wise to be careful who you choose for friends. 

PRAYER: Lord thank you for warning us in scripture on what to avoid to stay on the right path. Our world is so upside down today and we need your wisdom to guide us to truth. Give me a listening ear to heed good sound teaching and stay away from fools. In Jesus’ name. Amen.