Be On Guard

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion 

seeking someone to devour.1 Peter 5:8

If you knew you were going to be attacked or had the fear of an attack you would be in a fortified area such as military in a protected compound like they were in Afghanistan. Also you would likely have protective gear similar to what law enforcement wear donning helmets and protective vests. 

There is another kind of enemy and threat that daily you need to be on your guard for and that is Satan. He won’t come at you in a red suit with a pitchfork but his force has been around since the creation of the world and the fall of mankind. His goal is to destroy you, your life, your family, take away hope, and get you to doubt Gods power. In John 10:10 it says he comes to kill, steal, and destroy. 

Satan is a liar, deceiver, thief, robber, manipulator and loves to stir up trouble and confusion and keep you from focusing on the truth. I don’t know what battles you are facing but know that the enemy gets into your thought life if you allow him to and tries to get you too worked up and busy to spend time with God. Say out loud “I reject you Satan. I am covered with blood of Jesus!” Now go have a prayer time and start by praising Gods for his awesomeness. 

PRAYER:Lord I want you to always be first place in my life but when I wake up and allow the enemy to cause fear, worry, panic I am forgetting your power is in me to say enough. Help me run looking towards the cross. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link and listen to this powerful song of worship:

https://youtu.be/GsjJmk7tdk4

Just You And God

 

Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.Psalm 37:1-2

Since late 2019 our world has been turned upside down and just now things are starting to seemingly get sort of back to normal but not totally. The only normal is Jesus. What is/was normal anyway?

Evil is permeating the earth as in days of Sodom and Gomorrah but you dare mention it and you are shushed by those who seemingly know more than you do. Dark forces like to stir up trouble and create havoc so that is why I recommend to not engage those who intentionally are trying to get you embroiled in an argument. A news blackout occurs trying to only let the populace hear what they want you to hear and know. Stay alert. 

The followers of Christ are supposed to be loving, peaceful, kind, forgiving , full of grace and on their knees in prayer. Sometimes God may allow evil to wake up the sleeping giant. Pray for anyone you know who has been misled, lied to, deceived, given the ‘forbidden fruit’ so to speak. It may be someone very close to you. Keep your family hemmed in with prayer. Keep believing and stay constantly prayerful. 

PRAYER: Jesus I need you 24/7 even in my sleep. I lift up those I know being tricked and lied to and yet they can’t see it as Satan has them blinded. I pray for worldwide revival. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Stock Market Versus God’s Market

 

Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.Proverbs 23:5

I was almost complete  on a devotion on money when poof, the cyber space monster devoured it, so I am once again recreating what I can remember. My point was that many people tend to trust the Dow Jones Average over God. Who is in control and who does it all belong to? Not you but God. 

God gives the power to get wealth and when you are blessed with good fortune He wants you to not only remember to tithe, and do it cheerfully, but to share with those in need. People who hoard their wealth are miserable people. Kindness and joy come from sharing. 

And when you do share don’t try to get recognized for it or obviously you are doing it from a wrong heart attitude. Give from the heart not expecting your name to be called at a ceremony or etched in granite somewhere. Why does it even matter who knows.

PRAYER:Lord you have truly blessed me. I love when I can share or pay it forward and do it cause I feel like it not because I need a pat on back. Keep me generous and humble. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Hitting Rock Bottom

 The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. Proverbs 24:16

What does it take for some to completely 100% embrace grace, forgiveness, redemption, and healing? The devil is at work overtime lying and deceiving people some who were getting set free. The enemy sticks his foot out and trips them. 

This is warfare full out assault. When a person turns their backs on friends and family who were speaking truth and trying to help it is demonic warfare. A simple visit to a wrong friend posing as a right friend is all Satan needs to make a person who was falling continue to fall. 

Good news is the story is far from over. Whatever the issue is God hears the prayers of moms, friends, dads, prayer groups, and sometimes when God has a plan to really use the person to help thousands get set free from whatever is dragging them down the enemy works even harder to cause arguments and belittling of family and friends who were on the broken persons side. If this is describing a situation in your life or someone you know keep fighting and knowing Satan will not be victorious and your loved one will be hearing truth again. 

PRAYER: My heart aches when I hear of stories or even if it is my story of people who are misled and therefore mislead others sometimes claiming to have great Bible knowledge. Satan is attacking and I claim the blood of Jesus over all family members or any friends being deceived. Set them free. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Trying to Stop Worry

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done (Philippians 4:6 NLT).

Easier said than done to stop worrying. First no one is born a worrier. Sure we are born sinful but you are not designed to fret all the time. What kind of trust does that show you have in God to bring beauty out of ashes? 

Various seasons of life bring out different things to trust God for. Has anyone ever told you when you begin to speculate or fret that you need a hobby or a job because probably those people who are full time stay home moms or employed outside the home can’t waste company time on their own issues. 

Self discipline is what is needed. Getting your mind ‘camping’ in the right place and ‘breaking camp’ where the sludge of problems starts to affect your time with the Lord is what is a key ingredient in conquering this. Now go today and read the book of John chapter 1 pray and release your cares to the Father. 

PRAYER: This and every day are days you made for me to enjoy and help impact the world around me. It could be only a small thing like a smile or hug but Lord I trust you to work out things I have been carrying burdens for and know that only you can bring change. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Dissing Fellowship

“Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:25, ESV).

I have heard of those who say they can be a Christian without going to a church building and yes probably true but what about the all important fellowship and growth aspect? 

I know in my life I need contact with other like minded believers. No one says you have to kick any non believers under the bus but the Christ centered fellowship you have strengthens and enables you to build the right kind of friendships. 

Maybe you have not found a life giving church but instead one full of religion. Religion is all about rules and Jesus is about grace, love, and forgiveness. Especially if you have little children get them plugged into Kids Church before friends with no background in Christ lead them down the wrong path. 

PRAYER: Today when I hear you speaking to my heart I choose not to harden it. I choose to listen to the voice of truth and not the clamoring ungodly voices of this world. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Note: I have included a link for a church planting organization I  am very familiar with. If you don’t have a church to call home plug in your information for where you live to find a church near you to make a difference in your life. 

Www.arcchurches.com

Life In Christ

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10, NIV)

How do you feel right now? Do you have any issues weighing on your heart some so much that it is hard to stop dwelling on them.

First let me say that kind of thinking is not from God and Satan, who is called the thief, indeed is a robber of hopes, dreams, truth, family togetherness, and harmony. 

Have you felt shut out, lonely, confused? Sometimes so much you just don’t know which way to turn? Well good news is the thief is also the author of all confusion(1Corinthians 14:33) and he is jumping up and down when he can rob you of joy and peace. Think on things above and do not allow your thoughts to dwell on things only God can change. 

PRAYER: Father I need you in my life all the time and I know you want to hear from me. I get perplexed about things and sometimes want to act on my own without waiting on you. Help me be still. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

If My People…

  "And He said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” (Mark 7: 20-23) 

In todays scripture reading you get an idea of what is truly considered evil. Evil is not from God yet evil has seeped into our country under guise of political correctness and many fear speaking up. 

I intend for you to want to leave joyful and not down in the dumps after todays devotion so just remember who wins in the end. God! Don’t be hateful and get into a debate but instead pray the Holy Spirit reveals things to those who are lost in darkness. 

Love God, pray, read the word, listen to praise and worship music. Stay away from social media as much as possible and ask God to help you discern the truth from lies. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you that I can worship you freely and unashamedly and with boldness. Help me be kind to those who may not understand and help me rightly divide the word of truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link for a song of worship: 

https://youtu.be/Vt8k62M7oBI

Take Route 66

 

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.2 Timothy 2:15

I am not suggesting you go on a coast to coast road trip on the infamous Mother Road Route 66 but to dive into God’s word ,The Bible, which contains 66 books. The ‘route’ to knowing God. 

Many to include myself,  have not read through the entire Bible but it has so much within its’ pages. It is a book filled with parables, promises, prayers and a guide book for life. It is the same for the ages as God’s word never changes. 

The Bible is not scary and everyone should have a version they can understand. If your church offers Bible studies sign up for one. Satan wants you to be fearful and feel unqualified that is only so he can defeat you, for without the word you lack power. 

PRAYER: I stand on your promises daily Lord found in the word. My heart aches for those people who are churches but no nothing about how to use the Bible. Bring revival to our land and a huge hunger for the word. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Smackdown With The Devil

 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.James 4:7 NIV Bible Gateway

Seems like an odd title but I was in one of my funks one day and after witnessing a glorious sunset I came home and got down to business. I realized Satan was getting into my head causing me not to be glorifying and praising God. 

So I said “look here Satan I am a child of God and I intend to grow closer to Christ daily and refuse to allow this world to mold me or get me fearful.” Sometimes you have to just stop and realize you can’t run crippled through your day ignoring the word of God or its’ power. 

When you are in funny moods or find yourself slipping into what ifs or comparisons you need to get a grip and that grip should be on God’s word the Bible. Start in the book of John and just read. Truly it will bless you and do it daily and see if you can’t just smack down the devil too. 

PRAYER: Lord you are beautiful. You are amazing. You have compassion on me when I feel down but you are the glory and lifter of my head. I choose joy. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

#Biblegatewayblogger

Too Busy Not To Pray

 

But this is what the LORD says: “Yes, captives will be taken from warriors, and plunder retrieved from the fierce; I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save. Isaiah 49:25

You may go to church and even be in Christian fellowship but do you get down to the nitty gritty of spiritual warfare? By this I mean is there an issue in your life or that of a family member that maybe the enemy wants to keep you distracted so you become lethargic and too busy to really go to battle. 

I was reading through the book ‘A Woman’s Guide To Spiritual Warfare’ by Quin Sherrer and Ruth Ann Garlock and I had a light bulb moment. You may have good intentions about lifting up your child or family member before the Lord and telling the stinking enemy he can’t have him or her because they are called by God but you get so caught up with TV or other mundane stuff you don’t settle down and get seriously busy in warfare. 

Simply stayed you deal with good versus evil. God and the devil. Period. Our modern culture has practically rewritten God’s word. Do what you know is right, keep seriously praying and watch God work.

 

PRAYER: Lord thank you for reminders to me that I need to not give up and know that you are on the throne and on control. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

More Of Him, Less Of Me

“He must become greater; I must become less.”John 3:30

This is indeed a self centered culture we live in at least in the Western world. Selfies, Facebook, blowing our own horn. You have to be intentional to stay humble and get rid of things in your life weighing you down. 

Think about dressing for instance. Do you dress for yourself as it feels comfortable or to draw attention to yourself? This is in all areas of life. Really think on that. Is it time maybe to purposely donate a new pretty outfit to Goodwill? And when you do don’t let everyone know how good a person you are. Dress for Christ instead. (See Ephesians 4:22-32). 

Time to truly allow God to mold you into his image which also includes unconditional love, kindness, giving, humility to name a few character traits. Go in peace today. Smile. Maybe send a card or note to someone or make a long overdue phone call. Above all to be more like Him spend time with Him. 

PRAYER: This is a day you created Lord not for me to pursue the pleasures of this world but to set my sites on Heaven and how to make sure I can steer people to know Jesus. Help me stay away from self and turn to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Quicksand

And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.Mark 4:19

I love watching old Westerns and a thing that pops up occasionally is a person getting stuck in quicksand and almost dying. There also can be quicksand of sorts in your spiritual life if you allow the ‘cares of this present world’ to consume you.  

This world is NOT your final home. It is so easy to get caught up in the activities and day to day business of living life here and totally become oblivious to the fact when death comes, and it will, are you excited or scared? 

Decide right now you will not get stuck in the quicksand of worldliness that lures you away from your walk with the Lord. It says in scripture that you are like a vapor (James 4:14, New Testament) meaning poof you will be outta here someday. Start now making inroads to getting closer to the Lord and less in love with the things of the world. 

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the beauty of your creation and the talents and skills you blessed many with to create things to enjoy while on Earth. Help me not get caught up in forgetting to give you all the glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Need Pruned?

 

Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. John 15:2

I am not much of a gardener as many of my close friends know. The green thumb award goes to my husband who is an expert in this area with an Agriculture degree. I do know things don’t grow and bloom without pruning off old dead branches. 

Often in your life you may need to be spiritually pruned in order to grow into the person God wants to use. Being pruned is not pleasant but stuff has to come off of you so to speak to make you into the vessel God can use. 

What in your life is dragging you down and what area of your life could you use a little pruning and fertilizer(God’s word)? Ponder that and have a blessed day. 

PRAYER: Lord Jesus even though pruning hurts I know I have to experience it if there are things holding me back on my walk with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

VRYBLSD

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.Romans 5:8

I like it when I see a ‘message from God’ on a day I need a dose of cheer. In case you can’t decipher this it reads ‘Very Blessed’ and indeed God is good. This was a vanity auto tag I saw here in Idaho recently. I too have had several tags throughout the years with messages that hopefully blessed others.

Think about your own life and make a list of the ways you have been blessed by God. When you do this little exercise it helps curb the urge to gripe and bemoan your ‘plight’ in life. 

When you are having one of ‘those days’ where you might be slumping into the pity party mode which you know is not from ‘the Father above’ ,cast off that wrong way of thinking and cling to God and all He has done and is doing for you. 

PRAYER: I thank you Lord for your beautiful creation, sunrise and sunset and storms and rainbows. For stars and the moon. You indeed are awesome and you bless me so much. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Missing Piece

“But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth”. Exodus 9:16

If you are having one of those days where you have more of Satan in your head than God thus resulting in fear, sadness, guilt, and so forth , maybe try to think of yourself as the missing piece in someone’s life. 

By this I mean God has reasons for each life on this Earth and some have just not found Him yet or discovered their true purpose  but indeed every life is special to God. 

If you are having a day where you are second guessing decisions in your life know that every person you come across has been impacted by you and hopefully for the better. 

Today start your day in praise to God. Push anything negative out of your thoughts such as social media junk that adds no value to your daily life. Spend some time thinking of all those people who could use a hug or kind word and be proactive. 

PRAYER: I delight myself in you Lord and refuse to allow myself to sink into a pit of pity, destructive thinking, and fear. Guard and protect me from the evil that lurks around me. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Too Busy Not To Pray

 

But this is what the LORD says: “Yes, captives will be taken from warriors, and plunder retrieved from the fierce; I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save. Isaiah 49:25

You may go to church and even be in Christian fellowship but do you get down to the nitty gritty of spiritual warfare? By this I mean is there an issue in your life or that of a family member that maybe the enemy wants to keep you distracted so you become lethargic and too busy to really go to battle. 

I was reading through the book ‘A Woman’s Guide To Spiritual Warfare’ by Quin Sherrer and Ruth Ann Garlock and I had a light bulb moment. You may have good intentions about lifting up your child or family member before the Lord and telling the stinking enemy he can’t have him or her because they are called by God but you get so caught up with TV or other mundane stuff you don’t settle down and get seriously busy in warfare. 

Simply stayed you deal with good versus evil. God and the devil. Period. Our modern culture has practically rewritten God’s word. Do what you know is right, keep seriously praying and watch God work.

 

PRAYER: Lord thank you for reminders to me that I need to not give up and know that you are on the throne and on control. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Ponder On

 

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” James 5:16

Do you take time in your day to be still? No TV, no music, no checking your email and social media but a simple calmness to get yourself focused and centered. Not yoga but just time to pursue peace. 

When I was writing this I was  enjoying iced coffee after a hike and sitting just watching people. Also I was silently praying. Praying is something you can do anywhere and no requirement to close your eyes or speak in some dialect of an alien. Just talk. 

Today for me I am thankful for America and asking God to help us stay free amidst a very divided nation. God has the final say and he will only continue to let us be blessed if we are doing his will. Don’t neglect your time alone with Him each day. 

PRAYER: I love you Lord. Some may call me religious but I say no I just love you. Religion kills and you bring life. You are the God of a second chance. Help me treat people as I would want to be treated and keep me still. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

The Proprietary Blend Bible

 

All people are like grass and all their glory is like the flowers of the field, the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever.And this was the word that was preached to you.  1 Peter 5:24-25 NIV Bible Gateway 

There is that catchy word, proprietary  that seems to hook people of all ages on buying products due to their ‘special blend‘ no one else seems to have or knows about? Wonder if that would work with getting those who don’t ever pick up the Bible to actually gain interest? 

Of course I am being silly but actually trying to make a point about what ads, marketing, and words do to lure people to buy something that may or may not even work. The thing is the Bible is for real and has solutions to life’s issues and problems. Many nay sayers try to discredit it saying it is not for today but is a book of ancient stories. Nothing could be further from the truth. 

Satan does a dandy job spreading lies,deception, twisting scripture to make the Bible sound like a book of fables and  fairy tales. Everyone needs a Bible. I can recommend some good ones to you. Kind of funny but some churches only use the King James version when in fact to many it is one of the most difficult to understand. No special degree is required to pick it up and no title. It is for everyone. Start reading in the book of John and you can easily download the You Version Bible Ap for free from the App Store. 

PRAYER: Lord my heart aches for people who hate the word and would sooner see it burned than to open it up. It seems scary to others. I pray that anyone reading today who doesn’t understand or know their Bible pursues it and a relationship with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

#Biblegatewayblogger

Deeply Imbedded

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

Are you deeply imbedded in any thing? A sport, a hobby, a friendship, a ministry or are you involving yourself in addictive behavior that could tear you and those you love apart? 

Relationships are important. Family is the most important relationship of all. Satan wants nothing better than to divide families and he uses culture and politics to do it. 

My friend if you or someone you know is hurting due to division of this sort just keep on praying. You may be called ugly names but know for a person once captivated by darkness it is hard to see the light of God. Continue telling Satan who is boss and never quit. 

PRAYER: My heart yearns for peace and love and when ugliness rears it’s ugly head I know Satan is the culprit. I refuse to stop praying for freedom from lies and darkness for those captivated by it yet blinded. Give me strength. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Don't Neglect Your Prayer Closet

“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.”2 Chronicles 15:7

Your prayer time is so essential as I found out recently. You can do all the trusting and believing for a situation or person to change them find out horrific news and just fall into a puddle of your tears. 

Have you been there, then join the club. You have to press in and get serious in your warfare against Satan, don’t listen to naysayers as you know what God’s promises are. 

Your mind has to be focused on things of God. Stop looking at social media and getting sick at heart. Go to your prayer closet and spend some time with the Lord. Satan is the culprit who tries to derail strong believers from their purpose. You tell him that you are bought with the blood of Jesus and will not buy into his lies. Now go be strong. 

PRAYER: Father I need you every day every minute. I start looking at things of the world and get my eyes off the cross.I pray and believe so no matter I need to stay focused. I refuse to allow Satan to drag me down and get me fearful. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Click link and listen to powerful songs of worship that will help free your weary soul:

https://youtu.be/rJXIugwiN7Q

What Kind Of 'Fire' Are You Passing Through?

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. Isaiah 43:2

Cancer diagnoses, family issues, misunderstandings, prodigal children, divorce, death, and so much more are issues that could be swirling or raging in your life right now. I think social media causes many of the problems as people write posts that inflame people. 

If there was ever a time to turn to Christ it is now. Only the Holy Spirit can open eyes and set people free. Don’t be guilty of stirring up the flames and pray for those who are led astray by the prince of darkness who is really agitating so many these past two years. 

If ever revival is needed it is now. Stop posting controversial posts and instead post Jesus love. When you are out and about smile as many hurting people could use a happy face. Pray for anyone you know who has allowed demonic forces to captivate them. And be still God has this! 

PRAYER: Today is your day Lord as is every day of life. You want me to stay in the word and off social media. Give me strength to overlook insults and hateful comments and I lift up anyone I know who needs refreshed by the new life only Christ can give them. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Stalker? Who Me?

 

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1

Have you ever been called a name? Even by a person that really does not know you? I have and it hurt me cause I am a people person and was only trying to make a new friend. Maybe you were bullied as a child.

Not everyone wants to be your friend. Some have underlying issues and your personality may drive them crazy. Perhaps they want left alone and your text message sends them over the edge. Has it ever happened to you? If not be happy. Anyway back off and be still. Maybe the unconditional love of Jesus is not yet in their heart.

Concentrate on serving others and praying for others. Any type of rejection is hard on a person but you learn and grow and move forward. Three words come to mind. Let it go! Also don’t run for public office if you can’t take others who spread things about you or try to hurt you. Go now and know Jesus loves you and that is all that matters.

PRAYER: Father I only need to make one person happy and that is you. You loved me from the moment of conception. Heal wounded hearts of those who hurt others either knowingly or unknowingly and deliver them from anger. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Click link below and worship God:

https://youtu.be/DbMejWoW1XI

Being Open To The Voice Of God

Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps lit. Be like men who are waiting for their master when he returns from the wedding feast, so that they may immediately open the door to him when he comes and knocks. Luke 12:35-36

Do you need a day to just sit and pray? I know I do. What excuses do you make?

Don’t feel like it. Don’t want to run off and leave spouse behind. Got too many other things to do.

Maybe just maybe now is the time with our nation torn as it is to really ignite the spirit inside of you taking captive thoughts and feelings that are not from God. Also getting rid of excuses. Maybe zoning in on another person who could use prayer more than you thus releasing you from your endless pity parties. Make prayer a priority not an afterthought and see how things change.

PRAYER: Use me Lord to make a difference in another’s life. Help me to stop feeling sorry for myself and to really take time to hear your voice. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Who Are You In Partnership With?

“For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building.”1 Corinthians 3:9

A few weeks ago I heard a great message at my church on partnership. Anyway got me to thinking about who my partner really was.

Yes of course my husband is my partner but my Heavenly Father is my main partner. When you are in partnership with a person or group you follow the guidelines set up and seek to be a team player.

You can have ‘earthly’ partners at your job or school but ultimately you answer to the one true God who created Heaven and Earth and all that is in them.

PRAYER: Lord thank you for guiding me daily and lifting me up when I feel beat down. I am thankful to be a partner 100% with you and pray for those in these volatile times we live in who are angry and pray they come to a saving knowledge of Jesus’ Christ. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Note: I have attached several verses on spiritual partnership-

Bible Verses about Partnership

1 Corinthians 3:9, “For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building.”

Ecclesiastes 4:9, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil.”

2 Thessalonians 2:15, “So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter.”

Matthew 12:50, “For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”

1 Corinthians 1:10, “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.”

John 17:21, “That they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”

Ezekiel 37:17, “And join them one to another into one stick, that they may become one in your hand.”

Ephesians 4:1-6, “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, …”

Amos 3:3, “Do two walk together, unless they have agreed to meet?”

Ephesians 5:11, “Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.

Acts 2:47, “Praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.”

A Higher Power? The Man Upstairs?

Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants.Psalm 116:15

I don’t get on Facebook trolling very much and at times an upset person might say “Didn’t  you see it on Facebook?😂”and I say no. A couple days ago I was on and happened to learn of the untimely passing of a 58 year old friend and Army veteran who used to be in our small group back in Madison, Alabama.He died of a heart attack while out for a run. 

This got me to thinking about how some when asked “do you believe in God“ answer something like they believe in a higher power or being or the man upstairs. Fact is if you are faced with sudden death like my friend was do you know you will be in Heaven?Our friend was a firm outspoken believer and is in the presence of Jesus right now. 

Don’t go by what your denomination or religion says but do you truly beyond a shadow of a doubt know that if you took your last breath while much younger than you expect that the next moment you would be ushered into glory. 

PRAYER: Lord it pains my heart that so many play around with their salvation living only for this world and the fun they perceive they have. I pray for any I may know that need to have you in their heart. It is not just church or baptism but to truly be hungering for you and loving the thought of eternity more than this present world. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Lost Remotes And Other Blessings

 

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Whether it is age, being spaced out, just in too big of a hurry everyone loses things. Popular items are cell phone, portable phone, keys, glasses, add to the list. There is a joke I heard once that said “Why don’t women over 50 have babies?” Answer: “Because they would put them down and forget where.”

When you do misplace something did you first pray? Even though I wear a wristband that reads ‘Pray First’ often my emotions take over and I forget. Even though you might not instantly find the item you are basically releasing it and your minor stress over it to God. Let him have it.

When I said ‘Other Blessings’ in my title I simply mean sometimes it is a blessing in a way to get away from things that take us away from God. Think of that and go enjoy your day.

PRAYER: Father you are so good. You blessed me with the ability to think and to do things. Sometimes a hurried spirit causes me to misplace things. I choose calmness and peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Oh Say Can You See!

“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” Proverbs 11:14

These wonderful United States of America often referred to as an experiment in democracy and freedom, turns 246 years old today! Hard fought and often misunderstood this country is a country like none other founded with liberty and justice for all. 

This nation is shaped by the word of God from everything from selection of the Supreme Court to those in public office. This nation was formed when emigrants came from many European nations primarily Great Britain for freedom from tyranny and freedom of religion.

Little by little if we are not wise and careful ‘we the people’ can be overtaken by tyrants again. Stand firm, pray, reject lies, be grateful for the Founding Fathers and what they intended for this great nation. 

PRAYER: Each Independence Day I stop and reflect on the courage of many brave men and women who served in our military to maintain the freedoms we enjoy. Shield us from tyranny and lies and help anyone trying to ditch this wonderful democracy be silenced and dealt with. Help all come to a saving knowledge of Jesus’ because tyranny is from the devil. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

You Have To Apply It

Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.John 15:4

Whether it is makeup, ointment, weed killer, or skin lotion, it is necessary to pick up the container it is in and apply it if you expect to get results. Similarly the word of God, the Bible, has to be read and ‘applied’ to situations in life if you expect a victory or breakthrough.

There are days I have all the best intentions of doing the right thing and having a quality time alone with God then other stuff gets in the way and before I know it, it is time for lunch. Do you have similar intentions or sign up for a daily Bible study online and you are determined to stay on track and then a week goes by and you are behind?

First don’t beat yourself up. God knows your heart. Maybe what you need instead is a day to just sit and ponder reflecting on scripture you read. For instance reflect on todays verse and continue then reading the entire chapter. Think what it means. Then pray and go about your day looking for opportunities to serve him.

PRAYER: Lord I want to remain in you each day and have your thoughts be my thoughts. This takes discipline and dedication to growing to more like you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Shortcuts Not Always Wise

 

Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.Psalm 37:7

You get in a hurry and think you know a quicker way and end up lost. It can be driving, snow skiing, riding a bike, cooking, working on a project.

Shortcuts are not always what they are cracked up to be.Simply it is self getting in the way and using poor judgment. How many have tried to not meddle in something you are writing for an answer to prayer but alas impatience overtakes you and you end up messing up God’s plan in other words you tried for a shortcut.

Be still. Think. Pray. Don’t try to be in charge. Rest. Know that God and the Holy Spirit are the only ones who orchestrate any shortcuts the right way.

PRAYER: I am ever so grateful for all the blessings in my life Father and I need your help and guidance to be still and wait and not get ahead of your plan. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Comparison Is Poison

 

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”Hebrews 13:5

Everyone is on a different journey in life and when you hear stories about so and so’s good fortune and then start to feel bad that you can’t be like that person or couple look out. Stay off Facebook for one! 

Envy and comparing are not fruits of the spirit. Satan has a way of stirring up the pot in so many areas of life as he likes you to get upset, depressed, unhappy, unsatisfied, and so much more. Do you feel less than a person if you haven’t been to Hawaii or Europe when others are sharing their stories? Watch out. 

I decided I want to see my own US of A first. Maybe you were in the military and got stationed overseas. Our family remained stateside 28 years. Grateful for all the friends I met along the way

and experiences I had. When you start to wish for something watch out and start thanking God for the life He has provided you with. You’ve got Him right? So be happy. 

PRAYER: I am grateful Lord for how you have showered blessings on me and forgive me for ever being ungrateful or wishing for more just because someone else has it. I choose joy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.