Don't Let Satan Control Your Emotions

"We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5

 I pride myself in being a pretty cheerful person but every now and then my mind may wander and get my moods in a funk and emotions messed up. I always feel this is the enemy messing with me as he knows that can be my weak area if only he can get me off course. You may have a similar problem. You convince yourself people don't like you or you conjure up scenarios of fear in your mind. That is why one of the best selling books by author and Bible teacher Joyce Meyer is 'Battlefield of the Mind'.

Satan knows if he can get into your thought life he can wage his war. To combat this it is necessary to have a steady diet of scripture, prayer, and meditating on good things. Don't let your mind drift somewhere. Tell Satan to get behind you and quote some Scripture to him. Prayer and praise are valuable tools as well.

Keep your mind on good things by not letting bad things enter your mind. This could mean changing what you watch on TV, read, or listen to. It is your mind, so you choose do you want it filled with things of this world or heavenly things. Not a hard decision I wouldn't think.

PRAYER: I need to make sure I am not daydreaming about wrong things and I need your help Lord to stay focused on positive uplifting thoughts. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Deliver Me From Myself

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.Ephesians 6:12

Oh my goodness to be perfect and never make mistakes or hurt anyone. Wouldn't that be wonderful? No words said by accident. No texts sent without thinking that can't be rescinded. No getting hurt feelings. But sadly stuff does happen. I often think 'if only I could get myself out of the way'. You know what though? Don't beat yourself up. Stuff happens. The enemy wants us to beat ourselves up because he is the accuser of the brethren. 

Give your troubles and concerns to the Lord and tell Him to guide you in your weak areas. Don't think you are the worst person but learn from your faults and screw ups. Get control over your thoughts, words, and emotions. Satan tries to take advantage of weaknesses in your life and exploit them. Don't allow him to! 

Start today and take self off the throne. If you have messed up talk to God in prayer. Go to the throne and not the phone the saying goes. Remember you are important to God and He is your best friend and knows your heart. 

PRAYER: Thank you for loving me Lord even when I mess up. Thank you for teaching me through my mistakes. Guide me and direct my thoughts to stay on you. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Password Required Again.....Geez!

But now, this is what the LORD says-- he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. Isaiah 43:1

Oh my goodness, the last couple weeks have been a roller coaster ride trying to not let the fact that Google disabled my account for two days to include my Christian writing blog. They said I had violated their user policy. I am not real clear exactly what they mean. Consequently I was threatened with never getting access to my writing I had done for six years ever again. Here I am wondering what I did that my free speech was violated. 

Anyway when talking to God we are never ever shut out. He loves us. He does not like His people mistreated. The day this event occurred I had just had a quiet time on casting all my care on the Lord. Wow, now here was my test. Was this order by Google trying to tell me I could not talk about Jesus anymore or say a certain word or was it something else? Anyway I am grateful to live in a nation where supposedly we do have First Amendment rights. 

Even though yours truly, the devotion writer,  is a bit perplexed and kind of being extra careful to not get shut down again,  I am grateful for the United States of America and the ability, I think, to share God's word with others. 

PRAYER: I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ or of telling the truth. Our world is mixed up Lord and good is called evil and now in some cases maybe we can not even talk about the evil. You are in control Lord. To you be the glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Are You Ready?

But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son,but only the Father.  Matthew 24:36

A friend of mine used to have a bumper sticker on her car that said 'R U E' and the E was the color red so meaning 'ready'. A great conversation starter for someone when they ask what it means and a fantastic time to be able to witness about life after death. So many naysayers think this Earth is all it is. There were those who mocked the recent 'blood moon' as being from 'end timers' or quacks. 

There are many signs of His coming today. But like today's verse states no one but God knows the day nor hour. We do have to be ready and to goof around and think it is never going to happen may cause you to be 'left behind' when the Lord does come back. Everyone has a choice to live for Jesus or to reject Him. Now this living for Jesus does not mean joining a church or being a certain denomination. It means being truly 'sold out' to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Here in the United States we used to acknowledge God and follow His ways in the government but years ago when we took prayer from the public schools, took down the Ten Commandments, made abortion legal and now allow same sex couples to marry we went against what God's word says. Also when our President cuddles up to terrorist nations but ridicules the nation of Israel look out. That is not a good thing. 

Stop and take a look at your life. Are you sure if today was the day when Jesus came back you would be with Him? Your heart has to be right with the Lord and you have to ask Him into your heart. Don't delay because you may not have another chance. Also be sure to repent of your sins and ask God to renew your mind. He loves you my friend and He wants you to be in Heaven too. 

PRAYER: Father there are so many lies Satan is spreading not only in the United States but throughout the world. We know you are on the throne and are not going anywhere. We need not fear when terror comes because you have the final word. I pray for those who have not asked you into their hearts to do so and to also repent. I ask you keep my own heart from being led astray and those in my family as well. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Pray First And Always

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

 Are you believing for something in your life? Maybe in the natural people may say it is impossible. Perhaps you are faced with a seemingly difficult stressful situation. What is your normal response when under pressure? The answer should not be "freak out" but it should be to pray and keep praying. Nay sayers, maybe some even close to you, may say it is useless or there is no hope.

No matter what situation you are up against the natural man wants to fret, worry, stress, and lose control. The godly man chooses to think it through and let God be the guide. When letting the natural man be in control ultimately Satan is the winner as he has you not trusting God and not believing in miracles.I don't know about you, but I want to let God help me control my emotions under pressure. Humanly it is easy to just lose it under certain circumstances but why not practice crying out to God when you feel like doing otherwise.

PRAYER: I love you Lord and thank you for the perfect peace that I experience when I go to you in prayer. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Note: Today is the last day of 21 Days of Prayer from Church of the Highlands, Birmingham, AL.

 To view it go to http://21days.churchofthehighlands.com/service/

Ticks And Other Pests

But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear. Isaiah 59:2

When you go to the woods or are around pets and their sleeping areas, it is necessary to be on the lookout for ticks. One surprised me recently as I was doing computer work. I quickly got rid of it and checked myself for more.

This incident made me think of sin and how it 'sucks' the life right out of us. There are two choices,  the first being follow the world and popular culture or to follow God. Everyone has sin and there is no worst sin category even though some like to think there must be. Sin is doing something you know displeases God and separates you from Him. Besides the word of God, only your heart can convict you. Satan is at his best deceiving many to think they are politically correct. The question is are they God correct?

Do you choose the worlds' ways which often lead to destruction or do you choose the narrow pathway to God?

PRAYER: Keep me from being blinded by the deceit, schemes, and trickery of Satan. He is working all over trying to pervert the truth. Help me and those in my family keep our eyes open to truth. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Wishing and Hoping

And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:5

Back in the 60's there was a catchy tune called 'Wishing and Hoping' that played on top 40's radio stations. I loved listening and singing along. Wishing and hoping are a good thing to do and we should never lose hope, ever. 

To hope is to know that God has a plan and He has not forgotten you or your loved ones. When you are in the waiting room of hoping for a miracle or a change in something keep on your knees in prayer and also pick up your Bible and study verses on hope. Keep it alive always.

What is it you are wishing and hoping for today? Have you talked to God yet today? Take some time right where you are and pray and ask God to give you the strength and patience you need as you trust Him with the areas in life you are waiting for change. He has a plan.

PRAYER: Thanks Lord for being our hope in a world of confusion and lies. Thanks that I know you hear  my prayers. I trust you to work in your time to take care of a situation in my life. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

No More Mourning

  

"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 21:4

Death is not a fun thing for we humans here left behind. We grieve the unexplainable loss of babies, children, teens, young mothers and any death at all for that matter. No one likes to say goodbye and know they can not longer humanly talk with their loved ones. War takes soldiers. Old age takes our grandparents. So many things happen in life to have it cut short. The thing is for the believer it is not a sad thing but is a 'home going'.  Once they have left earth they are present with the Lord.(See 2 Corinthians 5:8). 

Only God knows a person's heart. Once a person has asked Jesus into their heart they will be in heaven with Him when their time on this earth is over. Children and babies will be there with Him as they have not reached the age of asking Christ to be Lord of their life. Heaven will be glorious and no man could even begin to describe how awesome it is. Even Hollywood can not fathom how wonderful it is.

Just imagine what awaits you in the heavenly kingdom and don't fear death unless that is that you don't know Jesus as savior. Now is the time to make sure He is Lord of your life. 

PRAYER: I look forward to your heavenly kingdom when I leave this temporary home. While I am here use me Lord for your purposes to spread your love and joy to others. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Nothing Is Impossible With God

Jesus looked at them and said "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

There is no hope. But God. We are at the point of no return. But God. How will we get through this? But God. God sees the big picture and His ways are better than our ways or what we wish could happen. Breakthrough's and miracles still happen. Yes, seemingly bad things can happen to good people still and I do not know why that is. I do not that God loves you and He does work things out good or bad. Only believe. 

What is it you are facing or dealing with? A bad medical diagnosis? A painful divorce? Loss of a child? Maybe you are pretty mad at God for not making every thing just peachy for you. Keep on praying and keep on standing strong in your faith. Our enemy Satan loves to capitalize on Christians going through problems. Sometimes the bad junk has a way of opening the door to good things ahead. As we patiently endure and stay grounded in Christ He can do the impossible. 

My friend keep pressing on and knowing God has you in the palm of His hand. 

PRAYER: Lord show me how to minister to those enduring difficult situations in their life. Help me to not give up on prayer as I know you hear us. Strengthen us for the battles ahead. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Love, Be Kind, Forgive

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 1 John 4:8

I used to have a hard time telling my friends I loved them. Not sure why but now it is done easily. It is simple to love when love is returned but difficult to do when you know the other person may not like you. Also it sometimes is hard to love an individual who is a tyrant, bully,  or just plain evil and mean. But the Bible tells us to love. 

An exercise in love would be to pray for your enemies and those who do evil and even curse you. It tells us that in Matthew 5:44. It is hard as I well know. Somehow when you do this you feel better. Maybe a hard relationship at work. Perhaps tension in a relationship married or otherwise. God has a way of setting you free when you are able to love, show kindness, and forgive. 

Whether you feel like it or not in your quiet time think of those people hard to love or those you need to forgive and release to God. 

PRAYER: Thank you for the power to love through you and in turn share kindness. It is hard so give me your strength. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Prayer Warriors

How could one man chase a thousand,or two put ten thousand to flight,unless their Rock had sold them,unless the Lord had given them up?Deuteronomy 32:30

Happy 239th Birthday America! Many sacrifices were made to get to the point of having this many years as a free democracy. Freedom is always under fire and presently under fire by some of our own leaders elected to serve the people. Power and control can become intoxicating such as in Germany with Hitler, many were mesmerized, yet blinded, to evil in their midst. This is why it is vital to not take freedom for granted and to stay on your knees praying for God to watch over us and this life we cherish and hold dear.

Our founding Fathers were men of prayer. Our First President George Washington, was a man of prayer. When I say prayer I mean to God our Heavenly Father. It is He who has blessed this great nation because we followed Him and revered Him. Lately we see Christians being scorned even by those in Washington. Deeply held convictions often times are under jeopardy because the laws the government forces upon us. It brings joy to my heart when I hear of many newly elected true believers who are not ashamed to profess their belief in the halls of Congress.

Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against evil spiritually dark forces trying to destroy this great land. This evil loves to deceive and trick. Be on your guard and stay in the word. Your 'war room' is the place you go pray. There you can do battle against the enemy and help reclaim this nation as 'One Nation Under God.' 

PRAYER: Today Lord I pray for the eyes of deceived people to wake up. I pray for all the freedoms we enjoy to stay intact. I pray for the power grabbers in our government to be reigned in. I pray for changed hearts. I pray for godly men and women to have high places of authority. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Link to 'War Room' movie:

Warroomthemovie.com coming 28 August to a theater near you. 

Click link for a familiar song of worship:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0ywDLpfBHg&sns=em

Sunrise, Sunset.

"But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." Matthew 24:36

When visiting the grave of a young friend recently I walked around and looked at a few other  graves. On one the tombstone read "Sunrise" for the birthdate and "Sunset" for the date of death. That is fitting as when we are born it is a new beginning and when we pass on the sun has set on our life. 

Are you making good use of the time in between sunrise and sunset? No one knows the time they will die. It could be today, tomorrow, or years from now. Live each day well and make it count for the kingdom. The earth we live on is so very temporary. We are supposed to be here to serve and glorify God. We do this as a mother, a father, a sibling,a co worker, a friend,an employee, and as a total stranger. Our light is to shine forth in the darkness of this present age to shine Christ's love to others. 

Are you living for the Lord in this present age or just here occupying space? When I say "living for the Lord" I do not mean just attending church but truly making Him Lord of your life. Give it some thought. What changes do you need to make to really give God the time He deserves everyday? 

PRAYER: At times Lord I have gotten consumed in my own little world and forget to even give you any quality time. Help me arrange my schedule so I never shut you out. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Lonely Epidemic

24 A man who has friends must show himself friendly,  and there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

You don't have to go far to see lonely people. Some loneliness is visible and some is not. It is not just found in large cities like New York. The elderly, the poor, even the very rich and successful. It is caused by a host of things too involved for a short devotion. Question is, what to do if you are lonely or to help lonely people. 

We have probably all seen those who fit in this category and we ourselves if honest have been there at one time or another. Some loneliness is brought on by self pity. It could be someone sitting alone in a park, a coffee shop, a restaurant. We just never know. Don't be afraid to smile and say hello. If you have some free time visit a nursing home as I guarantee you there are lonely in there. If prison ministry is your calling many there are lonely.

Today whatever you are doing stop and think about someone who needs their spirit lifted. Maybe a friend or family member you could call. Write a letter to a friend or send a card. Be creative. Showing God's love is the best cure for loneliness. 

PRAYER: I need to be aware of those around me who may need a hug or a smile. Help me learn to put down my electronic devices and tune in to people for a change. In Jesus' name.Amen.

The Tax Man Cometh!!

Give to everyone what you owe them. If you owe taxes pay taxes, if revenue, then revenue, if respect, then respect.Romans 13:7

The dreaded day has arrived. Before the stroke of midnight tonight for those of you in the United States, you’d better make sure your 2015 income taxes are postmarked or filed electronically. Some of those in government who vote for unnecessary taxes may not be wise God fearing people but we still are to pay our taxes. We have a voice to speak up against unfair and unjust confiscation of our private bank accounts, but until something changes, we are still to pay or go to jail.Many in public office do support immoral things or wasteful spending and this trail goes all the way to the occupant of the Oval Office.

As a servant of the Lord we are to follow rules and regulations and set an example. If something is evil we have a responsibility to speak out in love to get things changed. As Christians we need to vote for God fearing men and women who will lead us according to the Constitution, the scriptures, and not lord over us like subjects of a king.　

Today be thankful for money to be able to pay what is due. In the meantime make sure your voice is heard when it comes to unjust actions by a tyrannical government trying to control us way too much.　


PRAYER: Lord I thank you so very much for all you have blessed me with. I am honest therefore I pay taxes. Help me in whatever I do to shine for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

You're There!!

The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God. They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green, to declare that the Lord is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him. Psalm 92:12-15

I have many friends who are ten, twenty, even thirty years younger than me. Where does the time go? One day you are playing with toddlers and the next they are off on their own with professional jobs and families. Time truly does fly. As I age, I can tend to put myself down or think I do not have a chance working again and such negative thinking like that. There is good news! As we get older we have wisdom and experience, not just age spots and wrinkles. If you are pushing forty or older, do not dread it  but embrace life. Do not think life is just for younger folks even though television and magazine ads tend to glorify youth. 

Congratulations, you are there my friend. Do not mope around wanting to turn back the clock. The future is great and it can be bright. All of life prepares you for the next stage. We are not to stay continually in grade school. As a Christian also growth is important and moving beyond the pacifier stage. Our life can truly be wonderful and enriched if only we embrace all it has to offer. Maintain positive thinking and a can do attitude. Do not just talk about what could have been or all the joints you need to replace. 

Start today and think of the possibilities your life has to offer and what you as a person can offer to others. If you catch yourself thinking wrong thoughts just re read the Bible verse above and stay focused on Jesus. 

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for all the years of life you have blessed me with and the experiences and friendships during this journey. Help me as I seek to stay positive and motivated for all the days yet ahead. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Be Yourself And Relax

Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. Proverbs 12:25

Many women this time of year can get themselves worked into a frenzy if not careful, myself included. I purpose in my heart each Christmas season to not try to compare myself with what people think we need to do this time of year. I tried one new thing to take pressure off several years ago and that was to send New Years cards instead of the traditional Christmas card. It took an immense amount of stress off of me. Many do not send cards at all and that is fine as well. 

If you are catching yourself starting to cave to all the craziness that can start this time of year  with office parties, mandatories gatherings, work, shopping, baking,  entertaining, and decorating, stop for a moment and breathe. Make this your Mary and Martha moment. You remember the story in Luke 10:38-42 where Jesus was coming to visit and Martha was all hyper and distracted and her sister Mary simply enjoyed the time with Jesus and did not worry about dust bunnies and cooking. That is my modern translation. 

Make it a point to try to carve out some time to sit and be still. Give your cares, concerns, and even your shopping list to the Lord. Do not forget why we are celebrating and keep things in perspective. This is not a big party time but this is a party for the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. 

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for being able to celebrate your birth. Every year I end up in a tizzy of sorts and intend to not let that happen with your help. Help me be still and know that you are God as it says in Psalm 46:10. In Jesus' name. Amen.

How's My Driving?

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you;and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

On my travels down the interstate I often see semi-trucks displaying a placard on the back which reads "How's My Driving?Call 000-000-000". This is a way the trucking company can keep tabs on their drivers to insure they are being courteous drivers and obeying posted traffic laws. There was a time I actually called a number when a truck was speeding.What if we believers had a sign on our back that said "How is my 'walk'" and it provided a number for those who came in contact with us daily to report if we were being less than a Christian?Do you suppose a sign would change our behavior? Each of us should be aware we are examples for the Lord. You represent Him. Just because Sunday may be behind you does not mean your Christian life is packed up until the following week. Our job is to witness for Him daily.

Are you doing your part to be a good representative for the Lord or is someone going to have to report you? Obviously no one is really going to call and it is between you and Jesus how you behave but why not purpose in your heart you will live each day as if you could be turned in?

PRAYER: Guide my steps daily Lord as I seek to do and say only that which builds up the kingdom. This means at work and at home and everywhere else. I want to shine for you  and forgive me when I have not been a faithful representative. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Code of Conduct

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel. Philippians 1:27

I served in the United States Army and we had a Uniformed Code Of Military Justice known as the UCMJ and a Code of Conduct to abide by. Military members are under strict discipline and must adhere to certain standards of conduct in order to protect this nation from enemies both foreign and domestic.

Life has a Code of Conduct too and that is called The Holy Bible.  If we read it and do what it says we can stay out of trouble. The problem is too many do their own thing and go their own way.  If you adhere to the guidelines set up by our Heavenly Father life will be much better. Testing the waters and getting involved in a sinful existence only takes you away from God and closer to Satan. Many do not want to hear that name but he is not a Halloween character in a little red suit but is roaming the earth with his demons seeking to destroy, deceive, kill, and steal. He is a master liar and loves to weave a web of deceit and captures many people to go right along with his cunning schemes.

Don't be fooled. Open you Bible and read it daily. Know what is right and wrong and stay on the path that is narrow as broad is the path that leads to destruction. 

PRAYER: Lord I love you word and it is my desire to know it and follow you. Help me be alert to the enemy schemes and avoid them. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Epicenter

'Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'Isaiah 41:10

Recently in the city of Dallas Ebola struck. Widespread panic set in primarily caused by the news media. Guess what? I also was in Dallas this month and was not a bit worried about it. If you constantly feed your mind on fearful topics naturally you will start to be afraid. I started to read the free daily paper at my hotel then threw it away. All it was doing was inciting fear in article after article.

You may not be scared you will contract Ebola but there may be something else that you allow to consume your life. Fear paralyzes people. Don't allow yourself to fall victim to this. Fear can stop you in your tracks. News flash, fear is not from God. God offers peace. The enemy is the one who loves to scare us. In order to stay peaceful and unafraid feed your mind on good things and do not dwell on those issues that make you a nail biter.

Concerning being in Dallas, I was there in the epicenter of the Ebola concern in the US and I was there with the Moms in Prayer ministry for their 30th birthday celebration. Women from 44 countries flew in. No one was fearing dying of Ebola. This event was planned over two years ago and God knew that 1300 praying women would be here in the center of it all. Faith over fear wins every time.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I choose to separate myself from those things that incite fear in me. When I start to be afraid I will turn to you and your word not the newspaper. Help me have discipline to be peaceful. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Don't Base Your Worth On 'Likes'

The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness." Jeremiah 31:3

Wow 113 likes! That must be some person or quite a post. If you are all tied up in your worth based on Facebook then you need to know that 'likes' don't make you better or worse and you should not base your life on them. Forget about it and charge on. I was stuck on it for a time being then thought to myself how stupid it was for me to be checking this status as the only one who truly matters whether they like me is Jesus. My worth is not based on if someone likes a Facebook post or not. That type of living can be superficial at best. Let's say someone has 16 likes and you have none. There you go comparing then getting feelings hurt. Over what? Something really in the big scheme of things that matters little if at all. Or maybe you could have lots of likes and start feeling popular and superior.

The one person you should trying to be impressing already loves you no matter what. That is our Lord Jesus Christ. Even when we slam the door in His face and ignore Him He still is there loving you unconditionally. He does not need Facebook to communicate this love to you. You are very special to Him and are fearfully and wonderfully made. Your life has meaning and a purpose and He does 'LIKE' you and lots!

So next time you catch yourself looking to see which of your Facebook friends 'likes' something you posted, just remember that Jesus likes you yes He does, for my Bible tells me so.

PRAYER: Lord I need self control to not always be going checking my status on Facebook. Every time I am tempted too help me maybe pick up the Bible and read it instead. It holds much more value than my 'likes'. In Jesus' name.AMEN.