Behind Closed Doors

 

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

Our enemy Satan is very subtle. He works in the shadows to deceive people and plants lie after lie using often unsuspecting human subjects to trick us and take us off course. His mission is to kill, steal, and destroy according to John 10:10. He is not interested in the truth and will try to get even believers caught up and so busy they have little time to study the Bible. It is by reading and the study of God's word we have the weapons to defeat him. 

We can become so interested in doing 'good' that we forget to devour God's word. Sunday worship time is super but it does a person little good if there is no life change and no desire to go beyond that one hour on Sunday. It is the Holy Spirit's job to convict others, not ours, so if you live with a person like this, shhhh,not your job. 

Make sure you are not ignorant of the enemies schemes. Many people get uncomfortable talking about the enemy but he is puny, tricky, and REAL, but God is bigger and more powerful. Run to Him today!

PRAYER: I want to not get caught up in religion and forget to have a relationship with you Lord. I choose to resist the enemy and let him hear me praising you. I will run to you and flee Satan's traps. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

You Believe That Stuff?

For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18

Why are we on Earth? Why were we created?  It was to glorify God. Everything we say and do should draw people from all walks of life closer to the savior. 

If you are experiencing a down moment in your life, God uses all things for His purposes. He does not cause the tragedy to occur, but can work through things to bring you closer to the Lord. Deaths of a loved one seem to be one of the biggest event that lead people to turn their back on God.  Why God why? Babies die, teens are killed in accidents, thirty something's die from cancer, and on it goes. With life comes death. No one knows when or how. We are to live life to the fullest and not sit around worrying, fearing, or pondering our demise or that of a person close to us. 

Don't turn your back on God and don't neglect His word. Many people who claim God is first place in their life would have a hard time proving that if they were arrested for being a Christian and had to go to court to prove it. How would they know? Because you go to church one hour on Sunday? Try again. 

Today do not harden your heart. If you are far from Him it is you who made it that way.

PRAYER: Lord God I love your word. Forgive me for the days I neglect it and rush into my day without you. I choose today and every day to read my Bible. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link below for a song of worship:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GTSzT-3V05Y

DO WE ALL LIE?

The answer according to the host of The Nat Geo Channel "Brain Games" show is yes. But what he failed to mention in his explanation is we are born with a sin nature. He could perform series of tests to prove his theory but never once mentioned what the Bible says about lying.

Unfortunately many high up U.S. government officials have been caught in blatant lies even though they took an oath to be honest. The laying of the hand on the Holy Bible to some means very little or nothing at all. Lying becomes so common place it is okay and socially acceptable. The thing is it is WRONG for anyone who says they are a Christian to purposely lie. It is far better to tell the truth then to have to make up stories over and over. In Numbers 32:23 it is said, "be sure your sins will find you out" and truly they will. An oath or vow becomes meaningless if all you do is lie.

Lying is not only a mouth problem but a heart problem. God can deliver you from a lying tongue. A "white lie" is also still a LIE. I have heard government officials say they "misspoke". Ah yes that sounds so much more acceptable than admitting they lied. No harm done, right? Wrong! A "half truth" is another buzz word for not saying LIE.

What does the word of God say about lying?
Psalm 40:4 'Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.'
Psalms 63:11 '..the mouth of them that speaks lies shall be stopped.'
Proverbs 12:22 'Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but they that deal truly, are His delight.'
Proverbs 19:9 'A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaks lies shall perish.'
Proverbs 6:16-19 'These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.'

There are many more scriptures on lying and liars. Basically don't do it! Satan is the father of lies it says in John 8:44. Satan is so deceitful and can and does trick believers. Be on your guard and keep grounded in the word of God. Do not be taken captive by lying spirits that try to deceive you and bring you down.

PRAYER: Lord I know the enemy Satan is roaming around trying to deceive many. He is a cunning trickster for sure but I will not abandon the truth found in God's word. Forgive me for any lies I have ever told. It pleases you to have total truth. That is what my goal is with your help. Even when it is hard help me tell the truth. In Jesus' name. Amen.

BACK TO SCHOOL

 It is that time of year in many parts of the country and perhaps the world. Children of all ages prepare for school. It is exciting for children to see friends again and meet new teachers.

We as Christians should be going to "spiritual school" every day and by that I mean reading and studying God's word. Don't make it a chore or obligation that you think is required to get into heaven, as it is not. Do it because you want to be closer to Christ. There is no way possible you can learn about the character of Christ unless you get into the Bible. Someone once said the word Bible could be turned into an acronym meaning " Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth". Pretty good example of what it truly is!

I can imagine Satan loves it when the different denominations try to claim they are the "one" or the best. He probably also loves when a church goer identifies themselves by their particular denomination and not just say "I am a Christian". Another good one that keeps some away from the truth is when they are captivated by a denomination just because they were raised that way and may not even be growing in Christ but simply punching their weekly ticket for attendance. Christians are those who have asked Jesus into their hearts and follow His commands not just a person who goes to some particular church.

In John 14:6(NIV) it says 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'

Just as students in classrooms around the world strive to please their parents and learn what they need to succeed in life and in their future, by being "spiritually" trained we prepare ourselves to face hardships that will come on Earth and help us become more like Him. 2 Timothy 2:15(KJV) tells us to 'Study to show thyself approved unto God,a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of Truth.'

There are many false religions and counterfeits out there to attempt to lure believers away from the truth. There are many dead churches too.

If you have a loved one that has learned the truth as a child but perhaps strayed from the path he or she was taught, you can gain comfort from several verses one of which is Proverbs 22:6(NIV) which many may be familiar with. It says 'Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.' There are deceptive spirits out there. Also in 2 Timothy 3:15(KJV) says 'And that from a child thou has known the Holy Scriptures which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Jesus Christ.'

2 Timothy 3:5-7(NKJV) gives us a warning. 'Having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts,always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.'

Too many people are just "religious" and cling to a denomination and not to Jesus. Just because their granddaddy and his granddaddy went to a certain church so do they. Perhaps they just go through the motions and quite frankly feel bored. It is okay to change denominations as there will not be separate churches in heaven. If you are not getting fed the word of God and getting excited about Jesus and growing in Christ where you attend perhaps it is time to change churches. It is not about a denomination but about Christ.

Do you want to be a good spiritual student and get excited about learning His word. If you have not done so already ask Him into your heart today. Then go be a student for Jesus!!

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I want to be a "student" of the word and not be one who has to cram for tests some day. I know Lord you are sad when I treat my Bible like a table decoration but do not use it as a spiritual tool daily. Give me wisdom Lord about what church I should attend and keep me away from those who would not follow the truth. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click link for a powerful worship song.

http://youtu.be/kGVazfjJPLo

NO SUBSTITUTES

There are some things you can not substitute in life but need the real thing.
You might be able to get by with artificial sweetener, recycled paper, used furniture, fake marble countertops, or a school teacher standing in for the actual teacher but when it comes to being a Christian there is no substitute for the Word of God, the Bible.

I love watching Christian television stations and there are several good ministers of the gospel who preach and teach over the airwaves. Most all of them will tell you to not substitute your "TV Bible time" for an actual getting alone with God time. This takes discipline because there is some real good teaching out there I enjoy watching. What is needed is to make a habit of getting alone with you,God, your Bible and a journal to write down thoughts. I enjoy doing this on my back porch or maybe up in a park somewhere.

Coca Cola advertises as "The Real Thing" and The Bible is the real thing too. Revelation 22:19(HCSB) says '

And if anyone takes away from the words of this prophetic book, God will take away his share of the tree of life and the holy city, written in this book.' There is a church that claims to have "another testament of Jesus Christ". My friend, there is only one word of God not to be added to or taken away from. There truly is no substitute for the truth and promises found within its' pages. Satan would love to extinguish it and have it vanish from the Earth because through it we are saved and have eternal life in heaven. Lately the enemy is at work trying to get people to believe lies about marriage. It is like in the Garden of Eden when Satan appeared as a cunning serpent and deceived Adam and Eve. There the downfall of man all began. The truth of God was exchanged for lies straight from the enemy and the pit of a fiery hell. 1 Corinthians 16:13(NIV) says 'Be on your guard. Stand firm in your faith. Be courageous. Be strong.' 1 Peter 5:8(NLT) is a great verse to end with and it says ' Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.' Don't be led astray and fooled. Stay in the Bible and the truth will indeed set you free to recognize Jesus as Lord. PRAYER:Lord you indeed are the real thing. You are my hope and I trust no one else. It is only through you Lord that we are saved and have eternal life. I know the enemy is lying to millions of people and trying to get them to believe lies. Protect me and my family from ever being tricked by his schemes. In Jesus' name'. Amen.

SIN IS SIN

Lately in our nation more sin has been legitimized and Christianity has

been shoved back. We who believe strongly in moral Biblical issues are called hateful and bigots. No one hates anyone but we are speaking out against objectionable things which are sins in the Bible. A rapid onset of worldliness and desensitization which has been going on for years now has the highest court in the land calling Christians awful things. It will get worse so batten down the hatches. Our Founding Fathers would be so sad and disappointed in how our courts and leaders have become. No more do they appear to be using God's word as their moral compass. We have the Bible which is not to be rewritten just to please someone who wants to make what they are doing lawful. I am sad to say we are slowly becoming a lawless society when leaders do what they want and not what people want. Do not worry readers, I am not getting political on you but we who l know, read, and study God's word know it is TRUTH. It is not changed just because we feel it is outdated.

Don't quit standing up for truth and righteous. Galatians 6:9(NIV) says 'Let us not be weary in doing good for in the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.' 1 Peter 4:12-14(NIV) says 'Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.'

Hebrews 11:25(NIV) says 'He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.' There indeed is earthly pleasure in some sins but deep inside of each person there is a conviction or a conscious of knowing what is right and wrong. Recently those who spoke up in support of the Biblical definition of marriage were ridiculed simply for believing what the Bible says. This is going to happen more and more as we get closer to Jesus' return.

Thomas Jefferson once said 'When the people fear the government there is tyranny and when the government fears the people there is liberty.' Many fine Americans have tried to speak out and do it without any hatred yet are silenced. Especially when it comes to the area of morals. We all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory it says in Romans 3:23 but we do not just go make laws so we have no consequences for our sins. There is a consequence to all disobedience toward God that is or repented.

Today as a believer our challenge is to stay deeply rooted in God's word and to keep loving, not hating. God is the ultimate authority and has the last say so take heart.

PRAYER: Today Lord I choose you over being lawless. I commit to pray for not only my life but for those I know who are believing lies from the pit of hell. I pray Lord for our country. I pray that as we approach the 4th of July freedom will continue to ring. In Jesus' name.Amen.

KEEP THE FAITH

Have you ever felt we are in the center of a culture war and the
Christian side is losing? That is what our enemy wants us to think. We
are truly in a battle of good and evil but if you read the end of the
Bible you know the "good guy" wins.

God is supreme. He will not be mocked by a corrupt government. He will
not be "redefined" as His word is yesterday, today, yes, forever
unchanging. He will not be ruled "unconstitutional" as He is God. Many
may try to ignore Him trying to defend their way of life but He is
still here and He represents truth and forgiveness for those who
repent of their sins.

I drive home the point allot in my writings of how important it is to
know the word of God for in it lies truth and the answers to many of
life's issues. God is so much bigger and powerful than puny mere men
who try to legislate Him away.

When we ignore him doing our own thing and listen to the lies of the
enemy, Satan, he is sad.

A good Bible verse for this modern "do my own thing" era is found in
the book of Romans chapter 12 verse two and it says simply 'Do not
conform anymore to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the
renewing of your mind then you will be able to test and approve what
God's will is.His good, perfect, and pleasing will.' In other words
you have to be a non conformist to things you know are not right. This
does not mean start fights but this means to speak up in love and do
not allow God's word to be mocked.

Galatians 6:7(NIV) says 'Do not be deceived. God can not be mocked for
whatever a mans sows that will he reap.'

Whose voice are you listening to today?

PRAYER: Today I pray for a soft pliable heart so that I do not become
desensitized to sins around me or in my own life. Keep my eyes opened
to your truth. Give me Holy boldness to speak the truth in love. In
Jesus' name, Amen.

Click on link for a powerful song.
http://youtu.be/MpWozyQ2QH4

SNOW CONES ARE DECEIVING AND OTHER TRICKS

Last week I was  blessed to spend an entire week in Tulsa with my sister and her family and had a wonderful time. One of the things we did was to go to a very popular hang out that had all sorts of flavors of snow cones. I have been extra careful in the past year watching what calories I put in my mouth but somehow these tiny cups of ice with a squirt or two of flavor on top of them hardly seemed like anything. Wow was I surprised when I looked up the calories later in my fitness ap.Yikes, who would've thought they were so many calories!

Sin is kind of like that snow cone. It may look good and appealing and you may feel like it will not harm you or it is only a "little sin" but to God sin is sin. Sinful things can come wrapped in beautiful packages too in order to captivate and lure you off the course God has set for you. 

2 Corinthians 7:14(NIV) says 'And no wonder for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light'. When you celebrate Halloween you are masquerading in a costume as someone or something else. You are hidden. Well Satan hides himself in many foolish pleasures as he is after your very soul. He wants you to be consumed with the world and not God. He tries to trap and ensnare you. You are tempted to lie, cheat, steal, go someplace you would never tell your own mom, or engage in risky behavior. The devil loves it when you do. He is evil and God is good.

Romans 12:2(NIV) is a good memory verse to help you stay in tune with God. It says '

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.' Are you living and walking with Jesus or caught up in things that would bring shame upon his name? Are you trapped in a lifestyle or have done something you think you can never escape from? First of all God is waiting for you to confess your sins to Him. He wants you to be doing things for His kingdom, not Satan's. 1 John 1:9(NIV) says 'If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and purify  us from all unrighteousness.'  Can you do that today? PRAYER: Thank you Lord that I have forgiveness from you. No matter what I did in my past you have forgotten it. Keep me on the right path of life. Convict me of my sins. The devil tries to distract me and I will resist and rebuke him. In Jesus' name. Amen.

BE FRUITFUL AND MULTIPLY

This is a command of God found in Genesis 1:27-28(NIV) which plainly says the following. 'So God created mankind in his own image,  in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

Marriage is between  a woman and man, and that was God's plan all along. Two men or two women can not "be fruitful and multiply". It is impossible. Today our  world has gone crazy trying to pervert the gospel of Christ to make it okay for those loving the same sex person to be married. Opposing this plan, Christians are called hateful. It is not about hate but it is about what the Bible clearly states. Many fine Christians have even bought into this lie and some of them struggle with same sex attraction as well. 

We need to be on our knees in prayer for the lives of our children. We need to pray seducing  spirits do not hold them captive or lead them astray. The devil is at  work overtime to destroy and pervert the message of Jesus Christ. Lamentations 2:19 (NIV) says 'Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at every street corner.'

Turning our backs on God by not opening up and speaking out against things that are contrary to His teaching is wrong. We need to do it in love. Many may oppose you because they have bought into the lie of Satan. Today the culture of America has endorsed and made legal killing babies in the womb and is now attempting to legalize same sex marriage. The more we see it on the news and start getting our minds saturated with the lies of the enemy the more we buy into this false teaching and start thinking "people should get to do what they want" so leave them alone. Let them be happy. 

If you "walk with God" you can not rewrite scriptures to help your "sin" be okay. The word of God never changes. Modern society buzz words are "equality" and "tolerance". Christians who speak up are called hateful. So are we to just roll over and be brainwashed by our society giving no thought to people mocking God? The answer of course is a resounding NO.

I will end with Psalm 1:1-3(NIV) which says 'Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.'

PRAYER: Lord I want to know the truth and I thank you it is found in the uncompromising unchangeable word of God. Help me be gentle in sharing with others who may be believing a lie from Satan. Help me remember to pray, not condemn, those caught up in this lifestyle and being lied to by Satan. In Jesus' name. Amen.

BEWARE OF FALSE TEACHERS

What exactly is a false teacher and how do we protect ourselves from them?  My opinion is they are people in known cults who try to deceive and lead you away from the truth instead of to it. They are people who do not worship Jesus Christ but maybe some other god. You start believing lies and do not care to read the Bible to uncover the lies and find the truth.

They are wolves in sheep's  clothing. We know the enemy is out to destroy our lives and steal our soul. He wants nothing to do with the truth. The word of God is truth and if a certain church tries to twist scripture or not use scripture at all, beware. Many in cult churches may be so captivated they are even unaware of it being cult like. Bowing to a false god or a man instead of Jesus is wrong. If a person is not actively proclaiming the word of truth then you need to be careful. 

2 Peter 2:1-3 says 'But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.' 

Galatians 1:6-9 says the following 'I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!' Know your Bible so you won't be led astray to seducing spirits of the anti Christ. 

Some people try to say ministers on TV are false teachers but I beg to differ there. I watch  several good Bible teachers each morning on Christian TV and sometimes even get an idea for my blog from something they may have said. Being on TV does not automatically equate to being a false prophet. Some false prophets may be in local pulpits around the country.  Having a seminary degree does not automatically mean someone is right about everything. Do not be deceived. Study the word of God for yourself.

Matthew 7:15(NIV) says '

"Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.'  Think about that for a moment if you will. You can be tricked if something seems good but once you are sucked in to a cult movement it may be hard to leave. Colossians 2:8(ESV) says 'See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy  and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.' KNOW the truth. Read your Bible. PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you that your word is truth. I thank you for opening my eyes to sin in this world and protecting me from cults or false teaching. Help me use wisdom in discernment in what I believe. In Jesus' name. Amen.

ARE YOU A VICTIM?

 Victims often times come in all shapes, colors, sizes and ages. There are victims of crimes such as ID theft, robbery,  or are you Satan's victim of trickery, lies, and deceit?  He is a master of tricking his victims into making lies seem like the truth. He works through all sorts of his subjects on earth too in order to get his job done which is to deceive and bring down the Christian and make us fearful and weak.

It stands to reason that weakness and fear don't originate with God. Immoral lifestyles are not from God. Taking the life of innocent pre born baby  is not of God. Anger is not from God. Stealing is not from God. Lying is not from God. So basically things that are good, pure, true and right are from God. When you cave into a lie of Satan, and many "church" people have, then you open yourself up to all sorts of problems. Marriage of two people of the same sex is not from God. The modern world we live in tends to cave into too many issues in society to "tolerate" things. The brother and sister in Christ then is  criminalized, demonized, and victimized by standing up for the truth and the word of God. We are called hateful because we disagree and stand up for the truth.  Who said anything about hating anyone?

In order to not become a victim of Satan it is necessary, yes essential, to read your BIble and study it almost on a daily basis. Satan will keep you busy with other less important things causing you  to try to squeeze out that quiet time you need with the Lord in order to mature in Christ and defeat the enemy.

In the Army, of which I have been a part, you don't just go to battle, but you practice ahead of time by doing emergency deployment readiness exercises so when that time comes you are ready and know what to do. Similarly, we "soldiers" of the Lord need to stay in our training camp in order to defeat the onslaught of attacks daily from Satan.

The Bible says in 2 Timothy 2:15(KJV) to 'study to shew thyself approved a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.'  Do you study your Bible or do you just occasionally pick it up and even worse, just allow the minister or priest to soon feed you from it on Sunday?  That is not enough to be prepared for battle with the enemy and ending up being his victim.  A weight lifter can not get strong unless he or she actually goes to the gym and works out with weights. Similarly a Christian can not become "strong in the Lord" if he or she has little knowledge of how to defeat the enemy with the word of God.

You can take authority in the name of Jesus from bad stuff in your life by claiming the word of God but you have to know where to find the scripture verse dealing with certain things. Maybe the Bible seems boring to you and you have no clue where to begin. As I have suggested before, try beginning in the book of John in the New Testament and read parts of it daily. Romans also in the New Testament is another good chapter to give you strength.

Revelation 3:16(NIV) reminds us that 'So because you are lukewarm and not hot or cold I will spit you out of my mouth.' Wow now that is quite a "word picture" wouldn't you say? I do not know about you but lukewarm stuff is not very pleasing. If we take a bath we want the water to be hot. If you order a cup of coffee it is nice if it is steaming. You get the point.

So why not start today and do not become a victim of Satan's tricks, schemes, and lies. He is only out to destroy you.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you that I have a Bible and sometimes neglect to open it up and study it. Other things get in the way and my priorities get messed up. I desire to get to know you better Lord and I will not allow Satan to make excuses why I should not read the word of God daily. In Jesus' name Amen.

GROUND HOG WRONG BUT GOD ALWAYS RIGHT

Isn't it funny how in February many people rely on a groundhog to predict the weather future? The animal "tea leaves" of sort for meteorologists and others fascinated in predictions. Guess what? This year people wanted to sue "Punxsutawney Phil" for making a mistake.

We can place our trust in so many things other than God. Fortune tellers, Farmers' Almanac, and horoscopes and anything but the Bible. Only God knows the true future. No human can tell you exactly what is going to happen.

Proverbs 27:1(NIV) reminds us 'Do not boast about tomorrow for we do not know what a day will bring.' We need to trust God who holds the future.

Similarly one day Jesus will return and no one can predict that although many have tried. Mark 13:32(NIV) says 'But about the day or the hour no one knows , not even the angels in heaven nor the Son but only the Father.'

Who do you believe?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you that you know all things and we need not fear as you have things under control. Help me trust in your wisdom found in the Bible and not predictions made by man. In Jesus' name. Amen.

COPY CAT

 When you were a child did you ever play that game where you copied
everything someone did? It can get very annoying having someone do
this.

There is one person who we are supposed to copy and that is Jesus! 1
Corinthians 4:16(NIV) says 'Therefore I urge you to imitate me.' You
may be able to recall a few years ago when the "What Would Jesus Do"
campaign came about otherwise called "WWJD". A very catchy way to
remind ourselves that if we name Jesus' name we are to be imitating
Him.

Ask yourself a simple question each day and that is 'Is what I am
doing setting an example for Christ and drawing people to Him or
turning them away and causing doubts?' If you claim to know Him then
you should want to be like Him and set a good example.

Psalm19:14(ESV) says 'Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of
my heart be acceptable in your sight O Lord my Rock and my redeemer.'

PRAYER: I choose this day to be a good "copy cat" of you Lord. I want
my life to reflect yours and stay on the path you have set before me.
Help me and give me strength and courage to do this. In Jesus' name.
Amen.

STOP LYING

You may say "I do not lie"  but it was pointed out in a sermon I heard recently that all of us probably lie when asked "how are you" and we flippantly in a robotic manner answer "fine". Are you really fine? If we are not why do we say that? Maybe because we do not want to unload our problems on whoever it is. Sometimes you may be really fine and say "If I were any better I'd be twins". I actually have said that before. That gets a look too, but in the case, when  I said it, I meant it!  I feel like most of us do not want to share what is happening. Wouldn't the person who asked the question be shocked if we replied "well I am glad you asked. My dog died. My toilet is backed up. I have overdue bills I can not pay. I just flunked a class I was taking." There may be times when we say something partially truthful but most the time most folks probably just reply "fine'. It is probably more of a habit and you do not mean to actually lie.

In Proverbs 6:16-19 it elaborates on what the Lord hates and it says "There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers." Get that! He hates a lying tongue, not the liar just the lie!

Lying in general is not a good thing. The Bible says not to do it. Seems many in high up places of Government have lied to us lots. That is between them and God. But what does the Bible say? Why do people think they can lie and pay no consequence? In the Christian life it is a no no. How many out there have ever been guilty of having your children say "I'm not home" when the phone rings? Shame on you, for that is a lie too. You are teaching your children to lie when you do that.

In general it is not good to EVER lie. At times we may stretch the truth or do what the world calls a 'white lie' but is any lying really right? We probably all have lied. If you are ever in court you have to take an oath to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help you God. When you tell one lie you have to keep up lying to cover up for the other one. It is best just to be honest. What about when someone asks "Do I look fat"? Then what do you do? Do you hurt their feelings or say that is not a fair question to ask?When you fill out a job application you have to sign that the information is correct and you give your word by your signature. Here it is tax time and how many have lied a little bit when it came to taxes? I sure would not mess with the IRS. It is better to always be honest.

Here is a good example of lying. You say you are a believer and go to church and love the Lord. 1 John 2:4 says "Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him." Are you guilty of this? In John 8:32 it says "The truth will set us free" but also in John 8:44 it says "You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies." Do you want to be like Christ or the devil? Proverbs 12:22 says "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight."  

Colossians 3:9 says "Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices." If someone asks you a question, be truthful with them. It is best to be honest and truthful. Proverbs 13:5 says "The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace." When you accept Christ you are a new creation and old things and old habits are to pass away, this includes lying. Ephesians 4:25 says "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body." Put it off. Stop it. Do not spread falsehoods by gossiping. Gossiping easily ends up in lies as people start adding their own spin to a story. If you say you will keep a confidence do not share something with someone as then you have lied to the friend you promised. "Do not lie" is one of the Ten Commandments as well. Seems like today's world feels it is okay to not be 100% truthful. God is watching at all times so why not be sure to tell the truth.

We have all made mistakes and we can all be forgiven. Just ask God. He is ready to forgive you and help you have the ability to tell the truth.

PRAYER: Lord I want to be honest and truthful and share your love with others. Help me be full of integrity and never tell any kind of lie. Forgive me for when I have lied in the past. If my lies have caused hurt or pain help me go and ask forgiveness then seek restoration. Lord I know it pleases you when I am truthful and I intend to do that with your help.I want a reputation for being a person people can trust and I want to always be truthful. Help me do this.  In Jesus Name. Amen.

Click on link to enjoy and be blessed by a song of victory and freedom.
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CONFESS AND REPENT

When we have done something wrong or sinful, in our time of prayer we need to confess that to God or else our line of communication for prayers will become muddled and disconnected.

Confess means to say you did something wrong and repent is a turning away and running from that sin. Get away from what is dragging you down and keeping you from a closer walk with Jesus. Inside of everyone is a little voice, the Holy Spirit, convicting us of what is wrong. Some choose to go their own way foolishly ignoring that conviction of sin. Scripture says "there is a way that seems right to a man but in the end is death."( Proverbs 14:12).

Psalm 66:18 tells us "If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened". This verse speaks loud and clear. If you are hanging on to some sin, and cherishing it, then the prayers  you utter may be falling on deaf ears. You can not sin willfully and expect God to just say "Well okay".

We all have sinned. (See Romans 3:23). Sin is sin, period! Do not start feeling you are better because your sin "is not as bad as his sin". Watch out having a haughty attitude like that. Pray that you not be led into temptation in the first place. (Mark 14:38). We all will mess up sometime in our lives and God is there ready to listen to your prayers and your cry for forgiveness. Proverbs 28:13 says "Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy." Here once again we see that if we are intentionally hiding sin then we lose communication with God.

 Running the race to win includes running away from things that so easily beset us as scripture says in Hebrews 12:1. Turn away, ask God to forgive you, then if necessary do a lifestyle change or a friend change to get away from what is pulling you down. 1 Corinthians 15:33 says "wicked friends lead to evil."

It is hard in the world we live in as we are bombarded by so much and even our own government, which was originally set up using the Bible as a guide, has turned its back on some sins and made them acceptable and penalizes those who do not agree or accept them. I am referring to same sex marriage and abortion. God will not continue to bring his blessings on this land unless we turn away from sin and turn back to Him. Many within the church turn a deaf ear to sins they feel are 'okay'.

2 Chronicles 7:14 says "if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven will forgive their sin and heal their land."

It is time in our personal life that we ask God to give us strength to stay on his path and turn away from influences that tear us away from Him.

 PRAYER: Lord I am sorry when I do things I know does not please you. Even things as simple as gossip, small 'white lies', judging others, holding resentment or anger in my heart, are all not pleasing to you. I choose this day to stay on the path of godliness and I pray for those in my family not listening to you to recognize it and run from evil. Help me be a good witness for you and be alert to sin. In Jesus Name.Amen.

Click on link and worship the Lord in song.
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THE TO-DO LIST

You get up in the morning and most likely if not going to a job still have many jobs to perform  and have a 'to do' list to follow. Does this 'to do' list include  having a quiet time with God and praying? If not why not? If you want to grow in Christ and not just be a 'Sunday Christian'  or a church member then you need to make some sort of effort to get to know the Lord. Being a Christian and following Christ is not just about being 'religious' as some think, nor is it about going to church. It is about knowing the Lord and wanting to spend time with Him. You should not plan your day without also writing down 'start the day with the Lord.'

Did you know scripture tells us to "Search the scriptures" (see John 5:39) and also to"teach them to our children?" Deuteronomy 6:6-8 tells us "These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates". When you do not make time in your day for growing close to the Lord that means you are allowing the cultures thoughts into your mind instead of God's word. Many today are believing lies and justifying sin primarily because they either choose to not believe the Bible or because they listen to the worldly secular news more than the truth in God's word. Be careful as Satan can deceive you and take you captive. 2 Corinthians 2:11 says "so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes." Satan can get you to believe lies and water down God's word. Do not allow that to happen!

What changes do you need to make in your daily schedule to allow Christ to have first place in your schedule? If you do not desire his word perhaps your love for him has grown cold.  Do not allow the worlds way of thinking to squeeze out the truth of God. 2 Timothy 3:15 says "and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus." Parents have a big responsibility to not just feed and clothe their newborn, but to be reading God's word to them even as they lie in the cradle. 

"Thy word is a lamp unto my path and a light unto my path".(Psalm 119:105). Right now take a moment and write down your schedule for the day and make sure you put 'Read the Bible' and 'Pray' on there. If you do not know where to begin why not start with the book of John or Psalms. Desire Gods' word more than gold. In Psalm 19:9-10 it says "The fear of the Lord is pure,enduring forever.The ordinances of the Lord are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold;they are sweeter than honey,than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned." Another good verse is Psalm 119:72 which says "The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold." Do you find God's word more precious than anything? It has everything you need to get you through each and every day if only you would make time to put Him in your day.

Deuteronomy 6:5 commands us to "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." Do you? Really? Then let Him know by making him first priority and spending time in the word each day. If you love a person you want to be with them. Likewise if you love the Lord you want to get to know Him by reading the Bible. Start today and put God first!

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the Bible. I am grateful to live in a country where I can read it freely without being arrested. Help me to not take it for granted and to find it and dust it off and start learning how to defeat the enemy. Give me the desire to do this and do it daily I will resist the devil and he has to flee according to James 4:7. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link this wonderful day the Lord has made and be blessed.
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ARE YOU SAYING WHAT GOD SAYS YOU ARE?

Do you ever get down on life and on yourself? You have to think and say positive things to counter the lies of the enemy. Satan is our enemy and he will mess with your mind to bring wrong thoughts into it. The only way to get rid of these wrong thoughts and condemnation of the enemy who seeks to destroy you is to counter attack these lies with positive confessions from God's word about who you are.

Say out loud the following:
I am the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.(2 Corinthians 5:21)
I am the head and not the tail.(Deuteronomy 28:13)
I am an overcomer.(Revelation 12:11)
I am forgiven.(Colossians 3:13)
I am set free.(John 8:36)
I am a child of the King(Ephesians 2:19)
I will fear no evil as God is with me.(Psalm 23:4)
I am loved by God.(1 John 4:7-8)
I am not afraid what mere man can do to me.(Psalm 118:6)
I am created by you for a special purpose.(Jeremiah 29:11)
I am your sheep and  you are my shepherd.(John 10:4)
I am a conqueror because of you Lord.(Romans 8:37)
I am made in your image.(Genesis 1:27)
I can overcome strongholds with your help. (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)
I am blessed.(Philippians 4:19)
I am redeemed.(Psalm 107:2)
I am God's friend.(John 15:15)
Also say "I will not allow others to bring me down or steal my joy."

Jeremiah 23:29 says "Is not my word like fire," declares the LORD, "and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?" Philippians 4:7-8 says "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Make a deliberate effort to be focused on good and truth.


The accuser of the brethren is Satan. (See Revelation 12:10). Even well meaning people will not act Christlike at times and the saying goes 'hurting people hurt people." It is really important to stop and think before just always blurting out something. Our mouth can get us into trouble. Why not turn your mouth into a positive tool and speak these positive confessions above out loud to get your day started? Start being on God's side and work together against the enemy.

2 Corinthians 5:10 says "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." In other words you have to purposely decide to get rid of negative thoughts and things that drag you down. The enemy is the one who wants to see you defeated and pitiful. Things like that are not from God. Get up this day and take control of your thoughts by planting good things in your head.

PRAYER: Father I thank you for being Lord of my life. I want to think on good things and not things that bring me doubts and fears. Help me Lord to keep my focus on your and resist attempts from the devil to get me off course. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Worship God by clicking on the following link:
http://youtu.be/HUGZAHztq_s

THE BIG BLACK BOOK

Are you scared of the Bible? Do you rarely, if ever, even open it up? Were you baptized as a child and given a Bible but think it is some historic book and have no desire to read it? Is the only Bible you own the big huge coffee table kind? I mean that is better than none at all but is not exactly 'user friendly'.  I heard once that a Bible falling apart was owned by someone who was not. Not saying this to say those who read the Bible more are perfect, but they have a handle on how to get through the trials of life more than say someone who never opens it up at all. The 'coffee table' Bible is a nice decoration, family heirloom and a great dust catcher, but the Bible is not supposed to be a decoration but a well used 'tool' of sorts.

2 Timothy 2:15 says "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who doesn't need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth."  Some versions say study instead of be diligent. If you get a new phone and do not open the instruction manual that comes with it you likely will be unfamiliar with how it operates. Likewise if you do not open the Bible you will not know how to gain victory over attacks from the enemy, Satan, or even recognize them as attacks. The enemy would like to keep it that way and keep you disinterested in the Bible as he knows when you read it you will start to have wisdom, knowledge and power to defeat him. He will do all in his power to distract you, make you too busy, or keep you thinking it is the preacher, rabbi or priests'  job to know it and share it with you, but it is not necessary for you to pick it up and read it. Says who? 

Acts 17:11 says " these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." That is what we have to do if we expect to grow in Christ.  You have to search the scriptures. Matthew 5:6 says " Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,  for they will be filled." What does it mean to hunger? Think about being physically hungry. No one really who is reading this has probably ever been at the point of starvation like the children we see in pictures from Third World countries with swelled bellies and ribs sticking out but we know what it feels like to miss a meal and want something to eat. Do you feel that way when you do not get to read the Bible? Do you miss it? Maybe you do not even know how to read it or where to start. Start in Proverbs in the Old Testament. It has 31 chapters so take one month which normally has 31 days and read a chapter a day. After that start reading the book of John. Pray for God to teach you as you read and clear your mind of distractions.

Many through the years have tried to get rid of the Bible as they know the power that is in it. It is the book of truth. No lies are within its' pages. It is our guidebook for life. The acronym I once heard was B.I.B.L.E. or 'Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth'. John 17:17 says "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth." Psalm 119:11 says "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you".  To hide the word of God in your heart you have to read and memorize some of it.

Psalm 37:4 says "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart."  To delight means you are thrilled to be around something or someone. You are delighted or very happy.To delight yourself in the Lord you have to spend time with Him and you spend time with Him by opening up the word to get to know Him better. Psalm 1:1-3 says "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers." There is that word again. Delight! So do you want to be delighted in Jesus? Have you truly asked Him to be Lord of your life? Maybe if you are not hungry for God's word  you  have not accepted Him into your heart. You can do that today.

Say "Lord Jesus I need you. I ask to be forgiven of my sins and I want to live for you and serve you. Come in to my heart right now Jesus.I want you to be Lord of my life.Amen." Find a good church that uses the Bible and teaches the uncompromising word of God. It is not about church membership but about a relationship with Jesus and getting to know him through the Holy Bible. The more you read scripture and hide God's word in your heart the more you will become like Him.

PRAYER: I want to thirst for your word Lord. I do not want to put the newspaper, magazines or novels before the Bible. I want the Bible to be first priority in my life and in my day. Forgive me when I have gone for days and not read it at all. I know when I do this I am giving the enemy, Satan, an opportunity to fill my mind with untruths and get me off the path of truth. I want to start today Lord to begin each day with reading the Bible. Guide me and direct me and keep distractions from me as I seek to do this.  In Jesus Name. Amen.

NOTE: enjoy a wonderful worship song as you start your weekend. Be blessed to be a blessing. Click on link below.
http://youtu.be/hGr8as7pPBE

GET RID OF THE DARK SIDE

Do you have bad stuff in your life like worry, pity parties, stress, reasoning,confusion or maybe things you know deep down inside are not right and would not please God? Perhaps you have been listening to the wrong 'voices' who have put anti God things in your brain and you have not counter attacked them with God's word. You can not continue to dwell on bad stuff and expect to walk victoriously. Many believers can even be led astray if they do not listen to the truth. They will start to believe lies from the enemy and think they are true. You will not be able to convince them otherwise. Satan can send strong delusional forces to make people believe what is good is evil and what is evil is good. It is happening today in the United States. Psalm 12:8 says "The wicked freely strut about when what is vile is honored among men." Sounds like today in America right?

Galatians 5:7 says "You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth?" It is easy to be led astray and start believing lies if you are not staying in the word of God. How can you expect to know the truth and know what God has for you unless you open up the Bible? Many times parents who have raised their children for the Lord are very sad when they go off to a liberal institution of higher learning and in many cases are subjected to anti Christian teaching for the first time. Unless the child's walk and faith in God  is strong they could, in fact, get led off the path. Proverbs 22:6 assures worried parents that "Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it."

2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 says "and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie ,and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness."

Stand firm in what you know to be true. Do not question God. Do you really want to take a chance on heaven or hell? Many mock the fact that someone even like myself would write so much about the Lord. What are you some sort of fanatic? What is a fanatic you may say? I heard someone once say "It is someone who loves Jesus more than you do." You can lead your intellectual life here on earth and conveniently go to church each Sunday because it is 'the thing to do in most social circles' but if you are not changed from your experience or really can not wait til you can leave church then maybe you need to get closer to the Lord.

Isaiah 5 :20 says "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter." John 16:33 says ""I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Now you yourself may not be deceived by a dark spirit who wants you to believe Satan lies and 'diss God' but you in fact may be caught up in excessive worry, compulsions, fear, anxiety, jumping to conclusions, impulsiveness and a host of other things that control you because you let them. When these type things come up you need to counter attack them by speaking the truth in God's word out loud. Say things like "I over come you Satan by the word of God and the power of God's testimony" (See  Revelation 12:11). Speaking the word of God out loud helps to defeat the lies of the enemy.

First start off and admit to God you need Him to take control of your life, all of it!! Our thoughts have to be controlled by the word of God. You either want to walk with Jesus and believe his truth or you can be like the world today that says 'truth is relative' which is a lie from the enemy. Pray to have God's eyes for those around you .Get involved in someones  life and stay focused on God and the Bible and you will be less likely to be drug down into a pit of despair.

PRAYER: Lord I know your truth will set me free. I know that negativity and confusion is not from you. I know you are the author of peace and all good things not turmoil, chaos and lies. Lord help me open my eyes and heart to the truth. Block any wrong teaching that I am exposed to and help me recognize it as such. Deliver me from lying tongues who choose to lead me astray. In Jesus Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:Read Romans Chapter 1


Note: Click on link to listen to The Motions by artist Matthew West. Turn up your speakers.
http://youtu.be/qaHmiFaX_pk

LIAR LIAR PANTS ON FIRE!

The Bible has much to say about lying. We seem to live in a time when lying, even by government officials, is common place. This should not be the case. If only people followed the Ten Commandments, but as you know they are outlawed in most places. It is sad to me that this very important area of life is not held up even by our own national leaders.

I will go over some of the verses in God's word about the issue of lying. First of all, if we had not taken the Ten Commandments out of schools we would have a standard of right and wrong and young people would grow up and know it is wrong to lie.Parents can still teach their children what is right and wrong. Thankfully that has not been outlawed yet. Anti Christian forces have gotten their way and have taken away references to God that have shaped this country and the integrity of its' people. Even the ivy league schools up in the Northeastern US were founded on Biblical principles but now all of them have gotten so far away from their roots. This is what happens when we allow sin to seep in and do not speak up. We need to pray for an awakening of Godly principles to infiltrate those institutions who put God on the back burner.

Proverbs 16:13 says "The king is pleased with words from righteous lips; he loves those who speak honestly." Proverbs 6:16-19 says "There are six things the Lord hates,seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers."

Notice those in court today who have to place their hand on the Bible and swear to tell the truth so help them God. Well we know this does not happen in many cases. In the military service a similar oath is taken. An oath is to be a promise but so many today take promises lightly take for instance how many marriage vows are broken and shattered lives are left in the wake.

Honesty and truthfulness need to make a comeback for the sake of mankind. Proverbs 26:28 says "A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin." If one lie is told another lie has to be told to make up for the first lie. There is no such thing as a 'little white lie'. Be honest 100% or you are telling lies. There is no way around it. Americans who are raised using God's standard, the Bible, know the truth will set us free. (See John 8:31-32). Today in our nation we are infiltrated by many who lie routinely and see nothing wrong with it and in the case of those using the Qur'an feel justified in their lying to the infidel, which are you and me if we follow Jesus. Lying is wrong.  End of story. If you are a follower of Christ or live in this country and take an oath you are to follow the oath and be truthful. Satan is out there though seeking to defeat the Christian and the truth.

Exodus 20:16 is the Ten Commandment that says "Thou shalt not lie". Lying is wrong. Dishonesty is terribly wrong .But if you grow up and do not have a standard for what is right and wrong then of course anything goes and what does a little lie hurt anyway? Psalm 120:2 says "Save me, O LORD, from lying lips and from deceitful tongues." For anyone who has ever been hurt by a lie you know how important this verse is. Lying has sent innocent men and women to jail. Lying has hurt reputations. Lying has broken up couples. Lying has caused people to lose their jobs. Lying has ruined friendships. Lying has made marriages end in divorce. The devil is the father of lies. John 8:44 says "You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies."

Psalm 31:18 says "Let their lying lips be silenced, for with pride and contempt they speak arrogantly against the righteous." If you have anyone in your life who spreads falsehoods about you just pray about them. God will deal with them. Psalm 109:2 says "for wicked and deceitful men have opened their mouths against me; they have spoken against me with lying tongues." God is the judge in the end and the truth will always come out. Proverbs 12:22 says "The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful."

Today make it a point to be truthful in all you say and do. Truthfulness extends to business dealings, doing taxes, being honest with those you work with and for, and your friends. A lie is just that, a lie.

PRAYER: Father if I have ever lied I ask your forgiveness. If my mouth has ever hurt anyone for that too I ask for forgiveness. Help me to seek to always say what is true. To never stretch the truth or say what I think people want to hear. I want to be honest in my speech and character.We pray for those who want to hurt us with their lies too. May you deal with them in your own way Lord . In Jesus Name. Amen. 


(Assignment today is to read Psalm 5.)