He's Coming

 He said to them, "It is not for you to know the times or the dates the Father has set by His own authority." Acts 1:7

For years mankind has tried unsuccessfully to predict the end of the world and the coming of Jesus. Any one who knows anything about the word of God can tell you that no one knows or has a clue to His return. Right now with all the events going on in the Middle East many think we are very near. No one knows.

In the meantime we should be living our lives trying to win others to Christ and going about our daily business. Always be ready for He will return at a time you do not expect. Life will continue and prophecy will be fulfilled but still no one knows. We do know He promised He is coming back and He is, so be ready.

Do you know if you were to breathe your last breath on Earth you are going to heaven? If not why not ask Him to be your Lord and savior today. Don't be left behind.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I look forward some day to being with you in heaven for eternity but in the meantime I need to press on down here and do the work you have set for me to do. In Jesus' name. Amen.

One Boss

 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:5

 How many church denominations are there in the Christian faith and why can't we all just get along? When we arrive in heaven some day we all will be one, finally! I am not sure how there ended up being so many differences within the Christian faith but thank goodness there will not be sections dividing us in heaven. We all basically are serving the same God, Jesus Christ. There is only one of Him. He is not Catholic, Baptist, Presbyterian, Lutheran and a host of others. So we have one boss so to speak, no disrespect intended.

On Earth we need to be learning to work together towards the common goal of defeating Satan and standing strong in the Lord. Satan is delighted when he can get one denomination feeling superior to others and then not even worrying about fighting spiritual warfare.  Also if the enemy can get us complacent and thinking we should not go to church as it is hypocritical then he wins again. Don't let him. My recommendation is to find a good non denominational church, and many exist in larger communities, and go and check them out. Now denominational readers do not get mad at me. Sometimes people need to go where they feel they are not being judged by a certain "religion".

No one church is better than the other. Our mission is to serve God, love God, get into the Bible, and run from Satan as he is the one causing all the division in the first place.

 PRAYER: I love you Lord and am thankful for the Christian church in the world. I thank you for being able to worship freely, at least here in America. Help me shine your love to helpless others to know you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wow! Wow! Wow!

However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” the things God has prepared for those who love him— 1 Corinthians 2:9

Who doesn't ooh and ah at a beautiful humongous mansion? Perhaps those who live in them? As I drove through Brentwood, TN on the outskirts of Nashville recently I passed by gorgeous homes where I could not stop saying to myself "Wow, wow, wow"! It is not that I am ungrateful for my own home ,because indeed I am blessed, but these stunning 10,000 square foot plus homes looked  almost like miniature hotels.

Each of us living in the United States is blessed to live pretty adequately compared to most of the world. Even those in homeless camps have tents that are pretty nice. To covet someone's else's property is not what God desires. As I gazed at these beautiful homes my thoughts drifted to our heavenly kingdom that awaits us once we breathe our last breath on Earth. The time we spend on Earth is so very short in the big scheme of things. In James 4:14 we are told "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." We are to live well and seek God while we are on Earth. Not everyone will enter this heavenly kingdom. Those who reject Him need to accept Christ so they do not miss out. You never know when your last day will be so be ready.

Are you imagining what your mansion in heaven will be like? God has glorious things in store for those who know and love Him. 

PRAYER: Thank you dear Lord for the blessings I enjoy here on Earth. Thank you for my home and the other possessions you have blessed me with. Help me never put possessions before you. In Jesus name.Amen. 

Click link to worship God in song. 

http://youtu.be/K_OB7d-B1Vw

End Times

Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. Matthew 24:12

Ungratefulness, unholiness, being led astray, strange weather patterns, wars and rumors of wars, and complacency  about sin are just a few of the signs of the return of our Lord. There is nothing to fear if you are a believer and following Jesus. The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 4:16 that  "the Lord Himself will come down with a loud command". Many may see this as frightening. Others anticipate it with joy and hope to see it in their lifetime. 

There have always been those people trying to predict the end of the world, doom and gloom. Many signs point to the fact we are getting closer but it says in Matthew 24:36 that "But about that day no one knows not even the angels  in heaven or the Son, but only the Father." Predicting the apocalypse sells many books and makes a great movie, but it can also create a  tremendous panic.

Do not be afraid my friend. Fear and worry about an event that has not even happened is wasted energy. Instead make sure you are ready for His return. Be loving, caring, kind, and be ready. Have you asked Jesus to be the Lord of your life? If not why not do it  today. 

PRAYER: Lord oh Lord how majestic is your name in all the Earth. I fear no terror. I know you are coming back one day and look forward to that. Help those who do not know you to be ready. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Graduation Day

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

This time of year more than any other, graduations are taking place everywhere from kindergarten level to doctorate level. Thrilled parents and other family and friends excitedly gather in auditoriums or outdoor venues to honor those who achieve this milestone in their lives.

One day for believers the ultimate graduation day will come and that is passing from death unto life everlasting in heaven with God. Wow, that is something no one can imagine but can look forward to without fear.  Can't you just imagine the excitement in heaven when a sinner repents or a believer comes home to be with the Lord. What a day of rejoicing it will be indeed!

PRAYER: I am so excited for my graduation day into your heavenly kingdom. Help me continue to run the race to win. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Note: A song I truly love called 'I Can Only Imagine'. Click link below.
Check out this video on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xwzItqYmII&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Beyond This World

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. For the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. And there was no longer any sea.I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. Prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying. Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. For the old order of things has passed away. Revelation 21:1-4   

Death is going to come to everyone. As much as Hollywood movies such as 'Forever Young' try to depict  freezing people until a cure is found for their disease we  all will die. Death isn't to be feared. It should be feared if a person hasn't  asked Jesus into their hearts.

Grieving hurts. The loss of a baby, a child, or a teen especially is difficult. God loves you my friend. Do not turn your back on Him. There is joy to come in His kingdom. 

PRAYER: Lord losing friends and family to death is hard but help me rejoice when they go home to meet you in the clouds. I look forward to heaven when it is my time. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

OUR PRECIOUS FRIENDS

Yesterday morning upon awakening I checked my text messages and received one from son Matt letting me know one of my dear friends had died Sunday from multiple myloma. I had only found out she was sick on November 10th. This precious friend I had not seen since 1996 when our family visited them in Colorado. Now she is with Jesus and she was not even 60 yet. Just goes to show you how brief life is. Treasure your friends. Tell them you love them. If you are close make time for them. Keep in touch by letters and cards, not just email forwards.Pick up the phone and call. Ask forgiveness if you hurt them.

This particular friend Luana, I knew when our children were all pre schoolers back in Ilinois She too was a military wife. We shared many happy times over General Foods International Coffee "celebrating the moments of our lives". After 1990 we did not stay in touch as well as the military moved both of our families but I always held a fond place in my heart for her. Their family was always one of the 'special ones' to us though. I am saddened as they deal with unexpected grief but rejoicing she is in heaven.

No one likes to say goodbye forever to a loved one or friend. It hurts. Grief hurts. But for the believer there is joy in knowing we will be reunited in heaven one day. None of us expects to die young but sometimes it does happen. God has a way of healing hurts and wounds we feel but sometimes it takes time.

Matthew 5:4(NIV) says 'Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted."

Romans 8:18(NIV) says 'For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.'

Phillipians 1:22-24(ESV) says 'But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.'

Psalm 116:15(NIV) says 'Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants.'

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I pray for those who are hurting from the recent death of a family member or friend. I pray for friends to surround those hurting and be there with a hug and a prayer. In Jesus' name. Amen.


Click on link for song in Luana Killam memory.

http://youtu.be/Ped1jYLFtkA

PAYDAY

Today for many people it is payday, the middle of the month and  time to collect your wages for your work for the past 15 days.  There is a real payday coming not based on getting wages for work but getting a crown of life after you have been on this earth, lived for Christ , and enter God's heavenly kingdom. 

This "payday" will be more than we can imagine. Better than the best bonus check you could receive. Better than the ultimate bonus. Even better than a millionaire's riches. No one can even imagine what this day or the heavenly kingdom will be like.

1 Corinthians 2:9(ASV) says 'but as it is written, Things which eye saw not, and ear heard not, And which entered not into the heart of man, Whatsoever things God prepared for them that love him.'  As vivid as the imagination is of Hollywood movie script writers, producers, directors and everyone else responsible for creating unbelievable scenes for motion pictures, well this verse attests to the fact that not even in their minds could they ever dream up what awaits those who have trusted Jesus and asked them into their hearts prior to their death.

Matthew 7:21-23(NIV) says ''Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'

Romans 10:13(NIV) says 'All those who call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.' Are you ready for your "spiritual payday?"

PRAYER: Today and every day Lord I want to be doing things that will draw me closer to you and not take me away from you. I realize the enemy Satan is our there with his bag of tricks and lies trying to deceive me and my loved ones. Keep me alert to the tricks of the enemy. I look forward to my heavenly payday when my time on this earth is over. In Jesus' name. Amen.

BE PREPARED

 Shock is the only word I can use to describe the feeling I had when I heard a man a few years younger than me, apparently in good health, died Sunday, November 3rd. This was a man who lived here in the Huntsville area but whom I never got the pleasure of meeting. He had a heart and a passion like me, for God and country. He also shared my devotions with many of his friends who I also have never met. My husband and I kept saying we needed to stop by and say hello but never did. Now we can't. We have to wait till we get into heaven someday.

Jason was an encourager. He said kind things about my writing and this meant lots coming from a stranger who I felt like I knew. We just never know when God is going to call us home. No more tears, no more pain, no more heartaches of this world down here. Jason is free of that now even though dying in your fifties is way too young or so it seems.

As friends and family we are left behind with the whys. Why him? Why now? Family and friends can be comforted with memories.

If you were to die today from sickness, car wreck, accident, stroke, heart attack, choking on food at lunch, or many other things are you sure you would be with Jesus in heaven? You can be sure. Say this simple prayer "Jesus I love you. Forgive me for the things I have done wrong. Forgive me for ignoring you and going my own way. I want to know I will be in heaven with you for eternity. Come into my heart today and save me. " That's it. Pretty simple.

Psalm 116:15(NIV) says 'Precious in the site of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.'

PRAYER: Lord Jesus be with the many people who have recently lost a loved one or friend. Death hurts. We are never ready to let people go especially when they are so young and promising. Lord comfort the families of not only Jason but others going through grief and pain right now. In Jesus' name. Amen.


IN MEMORY OF JASON KLONOWSKI, HARVEST, AL

Note: I wrote this Monday, November 4 upon being informed
he was found dead. The death since then has been ruled a homicide.
Please keep friends and family in your prayers.

I LOVE CELEBRATING

 Life is worth celebrating. All kinds of occasions. Births, baptism, graduation, weddings, anniversaries, and yes birthdays no matter how "young" you are. Today I am celebrating a milestone birthday. I was born in 1953 so do the math. I am not ashamed. Life is a celebration. God has blessed me with sixty beautiful years. And you know what they say "60 is the new 40".

Do you like to celebrate? Parties are fun. Getting together with friends and family and enjoying good food and good times. Gifts are nice too. But did you know what the greatest gift of all is? It was the birth of Jesus Christ. 'God so loved the world that He gave us His only son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but should have eternal life.' (John 3:16)

It is going to be one tremendous celebration for Christians when we arrive in heaven. Also when one sinner repents it says "the angels rejoice". Luke 15:10(NIV) says 'In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

I have been to the funeral of Christians who chose to not make it into a sad affair, but instead to turn it into a celebration of a life well lived. It is really a neat thing to see family and friends gathered to celebrate the life of the believer who has now entered heaven. We down here are left with memories and feel a great loss, but sooner or later all of us are going to die. No matter how much some people want to try to stay here, perhaps try to be frozen like in the movie "Forever Young" we have to face it. Death will come to all of us.

Are you ready to meet Jesus if today were the last day you would spend on earth? On Halloween death is sort of mocked and made light of. Death is real. Hell is real. There are not a bunch of zombies running around trying to spook people. Joking and dressing up may be fun on this day but making sure you know Jesus is vitally important. It is my hope when each of you die your families will be able to celebrate the fact you most assuredly have gone on to meet Jesus and have one gigantic homegoing party!!

PRAYER: Thanks Lord for the promise of heaven and eternal life. Help me to be a witness to those who do not know you and share your love with them. Even as we joke about scaring people on Halloween let us not forget that hell is not a joking matter. It is real and is forever. Help me to take that seriously and help others who do not know you come into a relationship with you Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link to enjoy a song of Celebration.

http://youtu.be/XV15GBkgJgs

HEAVEN

 

What is heaven and are you going to go there when you leave this earth some day? How do you know?

 

Many denominations teach many things, but it is the Bible that is our guidebook before leaving this Earth. Heaven is going to be wonderful. So many people assume just because they are a good person that that is all that is necessary to get the keys to get into heaven so to speak.

In 2 Corinthians 5:1-5(NIV) says 'For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling,because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.'

Hollywood may try to depict what their idea is of heaven but it says both Psalm 31:19 and 1 Corinthians 2:9 that basically no one can imagine what God has prepared for those that love Him. Read both verses.

People may say "I am a good person. I go to church. I help people" but the Bible says in Matthew7:21-23(NKJV) 'Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’

Be sure you are ready. It is not just one denomination that will get in. There will also no doubt be surprises. We are so good at judging righteousness but God is the only judge. Our job is to pray.

 

 When you build a building such as your home there is always a cornerstone. I know when we built the home we are in now we had never built a home before so we dedicated this home to the Lord and placed the scripture from Joshua 24:15 which basically says "as for me and my house we will serve the Lord" and that is a way to remember who blessed us enough to be able to have this home and it is all His anyway. We are only on Earth for a very short while in the big scheme of things. Our home down here is dedicated to God but it is only temporary.

 

Several years ago my minister said something to the effect in 100 years from now no one would really know you. Even if you are famous sometimes people still will not recognize a name. You may have great grandchildren seeing pictures and things like that but everyone who knew you is basically going to be gone too. Hopefully we will be reunited with most in our heavenly kingdom.

Do you know Him and are you certain if you were to die you would be in the wonderful heavenly kingdom? If not say a simple prayer. "Lord Jesus I need you. I ask you to forgive me for ignoring you and doing my own thing. Forgive me for my sins. I want to live a life pleasing to you. I ask you into my heart right who's. Amen."

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for your word, The Bible, for in it I learn about what to do to have eternal life and be with you in heaven. Help me realize my time here on this earth is so fleeting and to live like I will be I eternity tomorrow for I never know. Help me to do my part to share Jesus with family and friends that think church membership or getting baptized is all they need. Father forgive me when I myself have turned my back on the truth. Deliver me into your heavenly kingdom when it is my time. In Jesus' name. Amen.

 

Click on link below and praise the Lord in song.

http://youtu.be/_YFGzY_8li8

Note: Strange but true story...today I had already completed this devotion and as I always do was ready to post it this morning. I could not find it in the folder on my computer where I keep my writing, I looked and looked but in the meantime stayed calm. I look at it as spiritual warfare as this one was talking about getting into heaven and of course Satan does not want people to hear about that. Some would say " oh yeah sure. It is just a coincidence." I was able to find a rough draft so rebuilt it from there. To God be The Glory!

LIVING IN PARADISE IS GREAT

 

My son and daughter in law live in a beautiful state dubbed by their license plates as "Vacationland". It is fun to get to live where everybody just dreams they will get to visit someday. Not that all states and countries don't have their high points, but to really live and experience these "dream areas" 24/7 is quite another thing. Sure you have to go to work to make money to enjoy them but it is worth it. I have lived in one such area on the coast of Central California for a little over two years and indeed it was a blessing. This place had a view from my second story apartment window of the coastline of California. It was beautiful.

As beautiful and fun that some places are in the world the best place yet is going to be heaven the real paradise. Scripture says in 1 Corinthians 2:9(NAS) that 'but just as it is written, "Things whicheye has not seen and ear has not heard, and which have not entered the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him.'

As much as I get excited about the oceans, the sea shore, mountains or for some folks perhaps Disney Land does it for them, multiply that by the biggest number ever and we can not even begin to imagine what heaven is going to be like.

Streets of gold? Waterfalls? Perfect weather? No hatred? Peace? Pristine beaches? These are just some ideas. That verse says there is "no way" we can even comprehend it. John 14:1-4(NIV) says '“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going thereto prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”

It is going to be a super place! Remember more than we can even imagine. Does that excite you? If it does why do you suppose so many people are afraid of death? Maybe they are not fully prepared to meet God upon their death. Perhaps people have an idea we will be sitting around playing harps and it will be boring. Friend it will not be boring. If you are not sure where you are going upon your death maybe it is time right now to ask Jesus to come into your heart and take control and be Lord of your life from this time forward. No one knows when they will breathe their last breath. Why not be sure?

PRAYER: Lord I am excited about what heaven will be like. As much as my mind can try to imagine you have said there is no way I possibly can. Oh lord I pray for my friends who are not sure about their salvation. Joining a church does not guarantee admission to the heavenly kingdom nor does just showing up at church for one hour each week. Lord Jesus today help me spread your love to others and be prepared to show others just how neat heaven will be. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for an awesome praise song to go along with this devotion.

http://youtu.be/0xwzItqYmII

LOOK STRAIGHT AHEAD

What happens when you are walking and you do not keep your eyes straight ahead? Just watch people fixated on a "communication device" also know as Smart phones to see what occurs. If the person does not occasionally look up they may run into people or might fall down. Your focus needs to be "straight ahead" in order that you can see obstacles in your path.

Life is like that too. You have to stay focused straight ahead and on your goals and your dreams. Do not allow nay sayers to tell you you can not do something. Do not allow Satan to lie to you and tell you there is no hope for you or for a loved one because there is always hope.

Keeping focused straight ahead, and not behind, is the key. The Bible has something to say about this as well. It tells us in Proverbs 4:24-27(NIV) 'Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.' Focus ahead, straight ahead. Do not let Satan cause you to take another path, look back, or look down. 2 Peter 3:13(KJV) says 'But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.' Read the entire chapter to get this verse in it's proper context but basically earth one day will be destroyed and believers need to be looking ahead to heaven with great anticipation.
1 Corinthians 9:24(NIV) says '

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.' Winners look up and straight ahead. They do not fix their gaze anywhere but upon the prize. What are you looking ahead too? Maybe it is a raise at work. Perhaps the birth of a baby. A marriage and life together with the one you love. Whatever it is hopefully a life lived for Jesus is in the equation. Run your race of life straight ahead to win the heavenly prize. PRAYER: Dear Father I thank you that I have much to look forward to. Sometimes I may have become distracted and seemingly acted like something was more important than the heavenly prize. Help me Lord keep looking up and helping others to keep looking straight ahead as well. In Jesus' name. Amen.

GRADUATION DAY

This is the time of year that lots of graduations are occurring. High school, college, graduate school, medical school and even kindergarten and eighth grades often times have graduations. It is a special time families look forward to almost as much as the individual graduating! Receptions, open houses, and parties are held in honor of the graduate.

Another even more "special graduation" awaits the believer who has accepted Jesus Christ into their heart as Lord and savior and that is our "graduation" into the heavenly kingdom. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 2:9(NIV) that '

However, as it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived" -- the things God has prepared for those who love him' or in other words as there is no way a human can possibly conceive of what awaits those who have asked Jesus into their hearts. In Isaiah 65:17(NIV) it says 'see I will create new heaven and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered nor will they come to mind.' In our mere human minds we often wonder if "papa or mama are looking down on us" but apparently they are overcome by the beauty and grandeur of the heavenly kingdom it sounds like by this verse. Are you ready for heaven? There have been stories told of believers who have died and miraculously been brought back to life after getting a glimpse of heaven and wished they could have stayed. We friends and family members want our loved ones to live, and rightfully so, but it sounds like by these stories that they are much better off in the splendor that awaits us with Jesus. Everything down here is so temporary. Heaven is forever. It is eternity. I did not ask if you were a church member or have been baptized. In Matthew 7:21-23(NIV) it says 'Not everyone who says to me "Lord, Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day "Lord Lord did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?" and I will tell them plainly "I never knew you. Away from me you evil doers."' I am not saying this to scare anyone but to truly search your heart. There is not one special denomination that has all the answers. Many people do lots of good "church things" but their heart really is not right with the Lord. James 1:12(NIV) says 'Blessed is the one who has persevered under trial for having stood the test that person will receive the crown of life that is promised to those who love him. ' Many denominations think their way is the only way to heaven. I have news for you. There will no doubt be many surprises in heaven. We human "judges" think we have all the answers and even wonder at someone's death if they "got in". It is not our job to do that. We simply pray. I remember many years ago hearing a friend relate to me how this elderly woman had said to her mom that she did not think it was "fair" for someone to have a "death bed conversion" when she had served Jesus almost all her life. Say what? Like I said, there will be surprises in heaven. Murderers, thieves, rapists, those who committed suicide, and all sorts of people we humans like to say "probably did not get in". If they asked God to forgive them and asked them into their heart they are redeemed and set free. We all have sinned. There is not a big chart classifying which is "the ultimate worst one". We humans do that, not God. 1 Corinthians 6:11(NIV) says 'And such were some of you but you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.' Have you asked Jesus into your heart? Are you ready for your "heavenly graduation day"? In Hebrews 3:15(ESV) 'As it is said "Today if you hear His voice harden not your hearts as you did in the rebellion."' Do you hear God's voice? Do you want to? If only you could stop and make time for Him today. If you are not sure you have asked Him into your heart it is a simple prayer. "Lord Jesus forgive me for doing my own thing. Forgive me Lord for shutting you out. I want you to come in and live in my heart today." Next find a growing dynamic church where you can grow in Christ and one that shows love and forgiveness. Finally get into your Bible each day and get to know Jesus better. You can not "know" friends without spending time with them. Same with Jesus. It is not just one hour on Sunday. Get ready to graduate!! PRAYER: Today Lord I thank you for being my Lord and savior. Forgive me if I have made judgments on where another person stood or whether or not they would go to heaven because of something they had done. I do not know their heart. I want to know you better and I know that Satan does not want me to. I choose this day to live for you. In Jesus' name.Amen. Click on link for an awesome praise song. http://youtu.be/9La_4svq8JI

FOUR CROSSES

 

Recently I was driving on a five mile stretch of highway in the nearby countryside close to New Market, Alabama and on this short road there were four "memory" crosses within two miles of each other with a name of a loved one who had tragically died in a vehicular accident. I am not sure if those of you living outside Alabama and Tennessee have these homemade crosses on the roadside but they make you stop and think about your life and about your habits in your car while driving. No doubt these deaths left a huge hole in the hearts of at least four families and possibly more.

Life is very short. Recently one of my favorite actresses from my childhood passed away as a result of Multiple Sclerosis. Having your life is a true gift from God and we are never promised tomorrow. Whatever you do live like it may be your last day. An accident could cut your life shorter than you expected. Perhaps an illness. Also some will just peacefully die in their sleep. A stroke is what caused the death recently of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher at the age of 87.

The Bible says we are here today and gone tomorrow. James 4:14(NIV) says '

Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.' Our real mission on this earth as a follower of Jesus Christ is to try to help share His love with others so they might come to know Him. Satan works around the clock with his demons twisting the truth, deceiving,hurting, killing and stealing. In order to get Satan out of your life, why not try getting up daily and first thank God for another day He blessed you with ask Him in pray to help impact the world he has placed you in. You are not here for yourself. Get into His word to hear the truth. Read the Bible daily. It is more than a bookend or coffee table decoration.

I heard somewhere that a Bible that is falling apart if owned by someone who is not. The Bible is to be used. Yes you can even write in it. It is a study manual and guidebook for your life on Earth. How can you have power to defeat Satan if you do nothing but look at it?
Proverbs 27:1(NIV) tell us 'Do not boast about tomorrow for you do not know what tomorrow will bring forth.' That is such a true statement. In Psalm 90:10(NIV) '

Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.' Enjoy your life and do not sit around wondering how long you will live or how you will die.

Isaiah 57:21(NIV) says '

The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil.' Hopefully all reading this will be around to read them over and over again for many more days. Do you know for certain that if you died today you would be with Jesus? If not why not ask Him in to your heart today. Then open up that "instruction" manual called The Bible and study to be ready.

PRAYER: Lord you are good and your mercies are new every morning. You give me so many wonderful blessings and benefits. It is hard to fathom just how much you truly love me. I want to live like tomorrow may never come. Give me your strength to do this. In Jesus'name.Amen.

Click on link for wonderful song:
http://youtu.be/UGFazR4iCbo

Note:Yesterday, due to technical difficulties, some of you may not have received this blog. If you were one of those and want to read it you can also go to www.godslemonadestand.blogspot.com and there you will find all my blogs for the past 3 years as well. Thanks. Be blessed to be a blessing!

WEEPING MAY LAST FOR A NIGHT....

 ....But joy comes  in the morning. Death is part of life but no one is really ready for it especially if it comes too early such as in the case of a baby,child, or teenager. In the past couple weeks a young lady I worked with a few years ago died at the age of 28. A friend of mine lost a work colleague who was in her thirties. Just a couple days ago my daughter in laws' 98 year old great grandma also passed away. No matter what the age or how it happens it is sad and leaves a hole in your life. It takes time to heal wounds and get beyond it and death anniversaries are particularly difficult. In the area I live in when someone dies in a vehicular accident at times some family or friends place a roadside cross with the name of the victim on the cross. This is a way to remember them and perhaps helps with the healing.

 For the believer there is hope of seeing your loved ones and friends in heaven some day. They are in a better place. Now do not go up to some one grieving and quote Romans 8:28 which many are familiar with. It says " All things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose." Perhaps later on that is okay but it is not necessary to say anything. Just give a hug.

Psalm 116:15 is a good verse for this time and it says "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." A dear friend of mine died at the very young age of 44 several years ago and in her obituary in the newspaper it had the following verse from Philippians 1:21-24. It reads "For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.If I am to go on living in the body this will mean fruitful labor  for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know.I am torn between the two. I desire to depart and be with Christ which is better by far but is is more necessary for you that I remain in the body."


Many times the person is sick and getting up there in years and it is still hard to say goodbye. Once in heaven all the pain, sadness, sickness will end and your loved one will be seeing Jesus face to face in a glorious place. There have been accounts of those people who have died and been brought back to life and have spoken of the peacefulness they felt as they were entering heaven and on occasion some said they wished they could have stayed.

2 Corinthians 4:17 says " For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."   We are on this earth such a short time compared to eternity.James 4:14 says "How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? For your life is like the morning fog. It is here a little while then it is gone."

 I have heard this acronym for the word Bible which is good and useful. Bible could mean Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth. Are you reading your instruction manual now? You never know when God will call you home. Be ready.

1 Corinthians 7:31 says "Those who use the things of the world should not become attached to them. For this world as we know it will soon pass away."  If you were to die today do you know for sure you will go to heaven? If not say this simple prayer. "Lord Jesus I want you to be Lord of my life. Come into my heart today and transform me. I want to live for you and serve you. Forgive me for my sins. Come into my heart now."

PRAYER: Lord I know life is short compared to eternity. Help me make the best use of each day living for you and serving you and help me not be scared to die. Thank you Lord for being my Saviour. Comfort those who have recently lost a loved one. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link to be comforted in song
http://youtu.be/LJTQPZuvAKo
Reference for title: Psalm 30:5

PARADISE

When you hear the word 'paradise' what  comes to mind? Perhaps a beach or some other exotic location? Heaven is oftentimes is  referred to as 'paradise'.

In Luke 23:43 when Jesus was hanging on the cross between two common criminals he said "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."  Paradise. Just daydream on it for awhile. No more chaos, no more wars, no more confusion, no more misunderstandings, no more striving but just total beauty and peace! Revelation 2:7 says "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God." In Revelation 21:4 it says "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." Just imagine how wonderful.

For now he has an assignment for we Christians here on this earth before we go to that wonderful place. Are you working for the Lord's kingdom where he has placed you or do you just coast along in life doing your own thing? Say "Lord use me to fulfill your plan and purpose." 1 Corinthians 2:9 says "However, as it is written:“What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” the things God has prepared for those who love him." Just imagine. As much as people in Hollywood's movie industry can dream up the unthinkable in fantastic motion pictures sets they will NEVER be able to dream up anything close to what God has prepared for those who love Him! Do you love Him? I mean REALLY love HIM? Do you look forward to His paradise some day. No one knows when we will be called home. Some leave earth early and some at a very old age. The key is being ready? Are you ready? Do you know if you were to die right now you would be with Jesus in paradise?

2 Peter 3:9 says "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." When men and women reject God and His word they pay the consequences but it does not have to be that way. You can turn from evil and get on the path to walking with the Lord today. It is your choice. Why chance it? Does your life reflect the goodness of God? If you are in question why not get things right today. Revelation 3:16 sort of says it all "So, because you are lukewarm--neither hot nor cold--I am about to spit you out of my mouth." Are you a lukewarm believer or do not believe at all? Do you think what you are doing or how you are living is good enough? Lukewarm water is just so so  and so are lukewarm Christians. Are you one of them? 

Time to make sure today that you will be in that wonderful paradise someday. You can say this prayer "Father God I need you. I confess I have been living my own way and ignoring your words. Forgive me. I want you to come into my life and set me free and make me clean and whole. In Jesus Name."

A Christian life does not mean everything is easy and without challenges. You might have more challenges. But God is there to help you through.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for being my saviour and Lord. Thank you for this beautiful world we experience now and the wonderful paradise to come once we die and enter our heavenly rest. Forgive me for the times I have not put you first place in my life. In Jesus Name. Amen. 

Click on link for worshipping the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/pMNwgYWhwx8

NO FOOLING. JESUS IS LORD!

Welcome to April Fool's Day! The wonderful day we can pull little pranks on people and then say "April Fools"! Not sure how this day came to be celebrated but you have to be prepared for all sorts of jokers on this day. For me, when I was in the Army, I was notified by a clerk in the generals office at Ft Campbell, Kentucky that I was on the promotion list on April 1!! Now I did not see this in writing and I guess I did not have much confidence in myself as I said, "not funny, April Fools right?" Well it was  not until 6 hours later til I called my branch in Washington DC that I confirmed, in fact, I would go up one rank.  Not a good day to not have 'official paperwork' to look at.

We can joke all we want in life but there is no fooling around with God. When you do not accept Him as Saviour and follow Him it will be no joke where you spend eternity. Eternal life is not something to joke around about.


Do you know if you were to die right now where you would spend eternity? No one knows when they will take their last breath. You know there is a saying that "there are no atheists in foxholes" meaning in times of war when your life could be snuffed out at any moment not too many want to gamble with the 'here after'.  The Freedom from Religion group and Atheists can try to say God does not exit or try to shut Him out of our lives but God is not going anywhere. It is HIS world after all.

Church membership does not save you or guarantee you admission. Baptism alone does not save you. Being a certain denomination does not save you as some denominations claim they are the only way to heaven.  Being a good person will not save you.

John 15:5 says "I am the vine and you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit, for without me you can do nothing."  Pretty clear I would say. But the enemy is out the trying to trick people in to believing they do not need God or they are good enough. Satan is a liar and a deceiver who is out to destroy Christians and he is working hard pretty hard in America to remove God. God is not going anywhere, have no fear. Unless you stay in the word of God you will not know the truth. The word is TRUTH. Do not let them enemy lie to you and try to get you to edit the scriptures to fit the lifestyle you want to live.

Say this prayer if you are not sure Jesus is Lord of your life. " Lord Jesus I need you in my life. I confess my sins to you. Forgive me for when I did not listen to you and went my own way. I want to live for you and serve you. Come into my life today and take control of my life. "  Remember the Bible reminds us there is "none righteous no not one" (Romans 3:10) and in Romans 3:23 that "all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory"? When you ask Jesus to come into your life "old things are passed away and behold all things became new" it says in  2 Corinthians 5:17. Once you do have Jesus living on the inside of you, your life should start to show evidence of the 'fruits of the Spirit' in your life. Galatians 5:22-24 says " But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires."

There is no fooling around with eternal life. Do the right thing and ask Jesus to come into your life today and take the controls.

PRAYER: Father many mock your name and joke about heaven. Many make light of the devil making him into a comic strip character instead of the evil sinister character he actually is. Lord help my eyes stay open always to the truth in your word. Take the blinders off anyone in my family who is being deceived by the enemy as well. In Jesus name. Amen.


Note: Today I am including a song by a Christian band called Rush of Fools since it is April Fools Day. Be blessed!
http://youtu.be/iN_DMuahD5o

LIFE COMES TO THIS....DEATH

This past Saturday, pop icon Whitney Houston, was laid to rest after an untimely death at an early age, which stunned her many fans. Throngs of her adoring fans stood with signs, pictures, balloons, and flowers outside the  Baptist church in Newark, New Jersey where her funeral was held.

Famous people seem to get a better break at funerals. Lots of folks there, many news stories at no charge to them, and non stop talk of the wonderful life they led. Everyone seems to be great  at the end so it seems.

The indisputable fact of life is we all will die. Many people live like there is no consequence and atheists laugh off the after life or heaven and hell. Guess what? You will either go to heaven or you will go to hell whether you believe the Bible or not. Period. End of story. Why chance it? Your life could end today in a head on crash, a heart attack, a stroke, an unexpected illness, or a myriad of other things. No one knows when. Young people die, babies die, celebrities die in their forties like Miss Houston, and people die late in life. Nobody can predict it. This could be your last day on earth. We are all valuable to God whether we are a platinum album singer, bank president, business leader, politician, teacher, homeless man  or factory worker. There is not some social class to get into heaven. It boils down to have you asked Jesus into your life.

Do you know if you were to take your last breath you would spend eternity in heaven?  I did not say "are you a good person" or "are you a church member" or "have you worked on lots of church committees" or "have you gone to Sunday School class" or "are you baptized"  but do you know Jesus as your saviour and has your life been lived for Him? Does your life reflect Him?

Is your life ready for a 'Home Going' to heaven? Are you sure? We can not assume just because we were in church every Sunday that is what is required. People who have rejected Jesus during their life will not be with Him in heaven but it is never too late to ask Him into your heart.

1 Timothy 2:4 says "who wants everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth." Ezekiel 18:23 says "do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked declares the Sovereign Lord. Rather am I not pleased when they turn from their wicked ways and live?" James 4:13-15 says "Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”

Psalm 90:12 tells us "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Do not live like death will never come because believe me it will and it may catch you off guard. But guess what, once you are dead you can not decide to accept Christ. Ecclesiastes 7:2 says "It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart."


 I can not imagine someone not wanting to be sure they are going to heaven. In Romans 3:23 it says "All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory." Acts 3:19 says "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord". Repent means to turn away from. When you know something is wrong do not keep doing it. Ask God to help you. He is ready to save. Give your heart to Him today.

PRAYER: Father I know my days are numbered here on this earth. Help me to make a difference for the kingdom of God during the short time I am here. Help me to not get caught up in the craziness and sinfulness of the world but to be set apart for the work of Christ and let me leave an imprint for you when I leave this earth. In Jesus Name. Amen.


Click on link to worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/iB-yX5p0p4I

LIFE IS SHORT

One month ago a friend's 58 year old husband died unexpectedly. We just never know when it is 'our time'. We live as if we will go on forever. Many people live like there are no tomorrows. Luke 12:20 says "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?' The Bible says in James 4:14 "Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away." Picture that! A vapor, like steam, that just floats away. What are you doing in this life to make a difference and are you leaving a legacy that others will be able to see you loved the Lord? Death is a part of life. We all seem to expect we will live to be 80 or 90 but we do not know. Live fully and make each day count!

My friend Barb went to be with the Lord back in the early 90's at the young age of 44 after a short bout with cancer. In her obituary it had this verse from Philippians 1:22-24 and it says "Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. I am pressured by both. I have the desire to depart and be with Christ—which is far better but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you." She left a true legacy.

The minute you are born you begin to die. It is true. One day we will all stand before God. Atheists do not think so but as the 60's TV character Gomer Pyle used to say "Surprise, Surprise, Surprise!" It is true.  2 Corinthians 4:16 says "Therefore we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being renewed day by day." There is a heaven and there is a hell.

Psalm 39:6 says "Man is a mere phantom as he goes to and fro: He bustles about, but only in vain; he heaps up wealth, not knowing who will get it." We build big homes, buy all the fancy things we think we need to be happy, but in the end none of it goes with us to the cemetery. As I heard once, there are no U Hauls following the hearse to the graveyard. What are you doing to leave a lasting legacy? If you are a parent are you instilling God's word into the hearts of your children?

Who are you building your foundation on?  Do you know if you died today you would go to heaven?  Hell is for those who reject Jesus Christ. The lake of fire is a real place. It is a place where God is not there and you will be in constant torment separated from God forever. There is hope and there is forgiveness. 2 Peter 3:9 says "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."

Do you know if you died today you would go to heaven? I mean do you really know? Church membership is not the key to heaven. Being in a certain denomination is not the way to eternal life. Simply being baptized as a baby is not enough. You have to ask Jesus to be Lord of you life and live for Him. Say "Jesus come into my life. Forgive me for not living for you. I want to live for you and serve you Lord. Come into my heart today and save me." You can pray that prayer now and let Jesus be Lord of your life.

John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." Jesus does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked but he wants all men to repent and turn to Him. Ezekiel 33:11 says "Say to them, 'As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, O house of Israel?"  Jesus died so that all men might have eternal life.

Where are you today? Do not take a chance. We do not know when we will breathe our last breath. Turn to Jesus today. He is waiting and wants to be Lord of your life. Proverbs 27:1 says "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth".
Start living like today may be your last. If you do not have the assurance you will enter heaven upon your death why not say that prayer today?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for preparing a wonderful place for us after our time here on Earth is over. Father help those skeptics who can not seem to grasp that hell is real. Some reading this may not believe or we may know of someone who claims there is no God. Forgive those people and turn their hearts to you Lord. Help me Lord keep my heart turned to you and live for the kingdom of God each and every day. In Jesus Name. Amen.


Click on link to enjoy a wonderful praise song.
http://youtu.be/5wWDhl_nICc

Book suggestion:
First of course is the Bible but after that is "I Don't Have Enough Faith to be An Atheist" .