Storms of life will come and problems will arise but God is way bigger than any situation you find yourself in. Maybe at the time when you are going through something you feel in despair but God uses all these things to grow you up in Him. God is your best friend. When your earthly friends have run out on you or betrayed you God is still God and He has gone no where. He loves, He listens, He cares. God forgives when man can not. God redeems and restores. God wraps you in His loving arms and says "Child I am here. Come to me." Matthew 11:28 says "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Jeremiah 31:25 says "I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint." Psalm 145:14 says "The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down".
Isaiah 43:2 says "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." You will have to control what comes into your mind. The enemy Satan is there to try to take you out and get you down in the dumps and hopeless. There is always hope with God. But you have to purpose to not think bad thought and dwell on problems of life. You have to think on what God has in store for you and the Hope that is in Him. Deuteronomy 31:6 says "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Satan will put negative thoughts in your mind and get you to feel like giving up. God does not want you to give up. He is mighty to save and can get you out of the pit you are in. He has a plan for your life and will lift you up and out of your pit. Some bad things happen due to wrong choices but others you have no control over. regardless God cares for you and He will lift you up and make you victorious in Him.
In Genesis 28:15 it says " I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." Keep your mind on Jesus. He does not want you to try to get out of your pit alone. He is there to help you and be your friend when all your other friends have run out on you. Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Psalm 147:3 reminds us "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Do not let the enemy lie to you and make you feel there is no hope for you.
When the storms of life are pressing in on you look to Jesus. Do not look to drugs or alcohol or run away and feel like this is it. There is always a way out and up with God. Satan will be the one trying to get you to feel hopeless but God is the author of hope. Run to Him. He is mighty to save.
John 14:27 says "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Believe God and not the enemy. You are worthy and God is good and He has a plan for you.
PRAYER: Lord I know you care for me no matter what is going on in my life. I know Lord that your hand is on me and you are watching over me.Father help me as I struggle to get out of my pit to hang on to you. I reject the lies of the enemy. I am covered by the blood of Jesus. Thank you Lord for your promises to never leave me nor forsake me. I will put my hope in you and from this day forth reject the lies of the enemy who is out to take me down. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Note: I always like to include an appropriate worship and praise song to help lift your spirits. I hope you take the time to grab a cup of coffee and sit and worship God.Click on link.I have included two today.
http://youtu.be/sR8rlTIU8_Y (Mighty to Save)
http://youtu.be/LF4dLOTQNqk (My Glorious)
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
LETTING GO OF YOUR RIGHT TO GET BACK
Has someone hurt you and you feel you have every right in the world to get back at them or be angry? Number one, getting back and getting even is never a characteristic of a Christlike person. No matter how ugly the other person was to you or what they did you have to choose to love, choose to forgive and choose to move on and let it go. To continually dwell on a wrong done to you will only cause division and it only brings glory to one individual only and that is Satan! Is that what you want? Or do you want to give up your 'right' for hurting someone cause they hurt you?
Matthew 5:44 says " Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." This is a hard thing to do on the human level but it is what God tells us we have to do. Proverbs 19:11 says "a man's wisdom gives him patience. It is to his glory to overlook an offense." When someone does us wrong our human nature just really wants to snub them and let them have it. To continually fuel the fire,so to speak, will not bring an end to the conflict. It is the 'bigger person' who is able to walk away and let it go. The agitator will maybe be bothered that you are not lowering yourself to their level and continuing to get upset. But it does not show the love God wants us to show. It does not matter who is wrong and who is right.
When people get mad at each other if they could only stop and realize who their real enemy is maybe things would be patched up much sooner. John 10:10 says " the thief (Satan) comes to kill, steal and destroy. I came that they might have life and have it more abundantly." Luke 6:28 says to "bless those who curse you and pray for those who mistreat you." Satan is the great divider. He divides friendships, marriages and even co workers. If you name the name of Christ you need to be getting the power to overcome junk like this from God. Even if the person you are in conflict with claims to know the Lord but is not acting like it, it is not your place to be the 'Holy Spirit' and try to correct them. That job, in fact, is for the Holy Spirit to bring conviction and it may take time. You need to keep on keeping on being kind and be patient. Above all keep praying(See Luke 18:1).
1 Thessalonians 5:15 says "make sure nobody pays back wrong for wrong but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else." Romans 12:20 says "if your enemy is hungry, feed him, if he is thirsty, give him a drink. In doing this you will heap burning coals on his head."
So no matter what conflict, you have to choose to love, forget, and forgive no matter how hard it is and you need to learn to be silent to squelch anymore little arguments rising up. Just remember what it says in Proverbs 15:1 and that is "a gentle answer turns away wrath but harsh word stirs up anger."
PRAYER: Lord your desire is for spouses and friends to live in peace with one another and also for us to be lights out in the world for your kingdom. Should any conflicts arise Lord help me to be calm and gentle and look to you for my source of strength. In Jesus name. Amen.
Matthew 5:44 says " Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." This is a hard thing to do on the human level but it is what God tells us we have to do. Proverbs 19:11 says "a man's wisdom gives him patience. It is to his glory to overlook an offense." When someone does us wrong our human nature just really wants to snub them and let them have it. To continually fuel the fire,so to speak, will not bring an end to the conflict. It is the 'bigger person' who is able to walk away and let it go. The agitator will maybe be bothered that you are not lowering yourself to their level and continuing to get upset. But it does not show the love God wants us to show. It does not matter who is wrong and who is right.
When people get mad at each other if they could only stop and realize who their real enemy is maybe things would be patched up much sooner. John 10:10 says " the thief (Satan) comes to kill, steal and destroy. I came that they might have life and have it more abundantly." Luke 6:28 says to "bless those who curse you and pray for those who mistreat you." Satan is the great divider. He divides friendships, marriages and even co workers. If you name the name of Christ you need to be getting the power to overcome junk like this from God. Even if the person you are in conflict with claims to know the Lord but is not acting like it, it is not your place to be the 'Holy Spirit' and try to correct them. That job, in fact, is for the Holy Spirit to bring conviction and it may take time. You need to keep on keeping on being kind and be patient. Above all keep praying(See Luke 18:1).
1 Thessalonians 5:15 says "make sure nobody pays back wrong for wrong but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else." Romans 12:20 says "if your enemy is hungry, feed him, if he is thirsty, give him a drink. In doing this you will heap burning coals on his head."
So no matter what conflict, you have to choose to love, forget, and forgive no matter how hard it is and you need to learn to be silent to squelch anymore little arguments rising up. Just remember what it says in Proverbs 15:1 and that is "a gentle answer turns away wrath but harsh word stirs up anger."
PRAYER: Lord your desire is for spouses and friends to live in peace with one another and also for us to be lights out in the world for your kingdom. Should any conflicts arise Lord help me to be calm and gentle and look to you for my source of strength. In Jesus name. Amen.
Monday, December 5, 2011
THE BIBLE ON THE TABLE
Do you have a Bible? Most of us do but where is your Bible? Is it hidden under a stack of books or magazines? Is it on the table next to your bed but with dust all over it? For a Bible to be effective to its' owners it has to be picked up regularly, such as in every day, and read and studied. Too many people, to include Christians rush off into their busy day not ever giving much thought to taking the time to use this valuable tool to fight off the enemy. They go out into their world and are not equipped to handle the struggles that may face them that day. There is little or no desire on the part of many who name the name of Jesus to study God's word. I am not talking about just listening to the preacher,priest or rabbi on Sunday but about as an individual desiring the Bible.
If you fall into this category what is preventing you from wanting to read God's word? Do you feel it is too hard or too complicated? Think again. It is for everyone of an educational level. Satan does not want you to read it so he will think of lies to put in your head to keep you from picking it up for within it's pages is great power to overcome life's problems.
In 2 Timothy 2:15 it says "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." In my devotions I mention reading the Bible a great deal because it is of the utmost importance to ward off attacks of Satan. You can talk out loud and say "Get thee behind me Satan." Some may find that a bit strange if you have never done it but try it!(See Luke 4:8).
Psalm 119:24 says "Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors." The word has the power to uplift, heal and transform and is the best counseling tool ever! Psalm 119:16 says "I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word." Do you delight and take pleasure in God's word? If you find the Bible boring maybe it is time to ask yourself if you sincerely ever have asked Jesus to come and live inside of you and occupy your heart. Matthew 5:6 says "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled."
When a baby is born it is hungry and most the times needs it's mothers milk. The word of God should be like that for you when you ask Jesus into your life. You should crave it.1 Peter 2:2 says "Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." It makes no sense that if you loved the Lord you would not want to know more about Him. When you love your girlfriend or boyfriend you want to know as much about them as possible. Likewise when you say you love Jesus how do you get to know Him except to spend time in prayer and opening up the Bible.
1 Corinthians 3:2 says "I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready." Do you want to continually be fed like a little baby? Think about that. What if you never grew up and had to eat baby food the rest of your life? You would never grow and mature like you were supposed to.
Hebrews 4:12 reminds us "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." It has power to transform you so let it.
In 2 Corinthians 5:17 it says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" Have you asked Jesus to be Lord of your life? I did not say, "Have you joined a church" but have you said "Jesus come into my heart and transform me and I want to live for you and serve you. I want to know that when I die I will be in heaven with you." I did not say "Have you been baptized" but have you asked Jesus to come into your heart? When you ask the Lord into your heart you will desire to get into the word. But the enemy will try all in his power to come take away your new found joy and during your life will try to get you off track and back in his court.
Right now why not ask the Jesus to be Lord of your life then this Christmas season you can truly say "Happy Birthday Jesus". I am your new child.
PRAYER: Lord I want to know you better. Forgive me when I have neglected reading your word and have given other things such as the newspaper or a magazine a higher priority. Help me to organize my day so I make sure there is plenty of time in it to read my Bible. In Jesus Name. Amen.
.
Note: Begin today by reading the book of John in the New testament. Start with Chapter 1 and try to read a chapter a day.
I just love sharing good praise music. Click on link and worship the Lord.
http://youtu.be/6MahLRJFkC8
If you fall into this category what is preventing you from wanting to read God's word? Do you feel it is too hard or too complicated? Think again. It is for everyone of an educational level. Satan does not want you to read it so he will think of lies to put in your head to keep you from picking it up for within it's pages is great power to overcome life's problems.
In 2 Timothy 2:15 it says "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." In my devotions I mention reading the Bible a great deal because it is of the utmost importance to ward off attacks of Satan. You can talk out loud and say "Get thee behind me Satan." Some may find that a bit strange if you have never done it but try it!(See Luke 4:8).
Psalm 119:24 says "Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors." The word has the power to uplift, heal and transform and is the best counseling tool ever! Psalm 119:16 says "I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word." Do you delight and take pleasure in God's word? If you find the Bible boring maybe it is time to ask yourself if you sincerely ever have asked Jesus to come and live inside of you and occupy your heart. Matthew 5:6 says "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled."
When a baby is born it is hungry and most the times needs it's mothers milk. The word of God should be like that for you when you ask Jesus into your life. You should crave it.1 Peter 2:2 says "Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." It makes no sense that if you loved the Lord you would not want to know more about Him. When you love your girlfriend or boyfriend you want to know as much about them as possible. Likewise when you say you love Jesus how do you get to know Him except to spend time in prayer and opening up the Bible.
1 Corinthians 3:2 says "I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready." Do you want to continually be fed like a little baby? Think about that. What if you never grew up and had to eat baby food the rest of your life? You would never grow and mature like you were supposed to.
Hebrews 4:12 reminds us "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." It has power to transform you so let it.
In 2 Corinthians 5:17 it says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" Have you asked Jesus to be Lord of your life? I did not say, "Have you joined a church" but have you said "Jesus come into my heart and transform me and I want to live for you and serve you. I want to know that when I die I will be in heaven with you." I did not say "Have you been baptized" but have you asked Jesus to come into your heart? When you ask the Lord into your heart you will desire to get into the word. But the enemy will try all in his power to come take away your new found joy and during your life will try to get you off track and back in his court.
Right now why not ask the Jesus to be Lord of your life then this Christmas season you can truly say "Happy Birthday Jesus". I am your new child.
PRAYER: Lord I want to know you better. Forgive me when I have neglected reading your word and have given other things such as the newspaper or a magazine a higher priority. Help me to organize my day so I make sure there is plenty of time in it to read my Bible. In Jesus Name. Amen.
.
Note: Begin today by reading the book of John in the New testament. Start with Chapter 1 and try to read a chapter a day.
I just love sharing good praise music. Click on link and worship the Lord.
http://youtu.be/6MahLRJFkC8
Sunday, December 4, 2011
MAINTENANCE
As I was running on a favorite trail recently on nearby Redstone Arsenal I noted some pieces of outdoor exercise 'stations' were in need of some repair and it made me think of how important maintenance is to all parts of life. If you do not maintain your car by regular checkups and watching for warning lights to come on then your car may break down. If you do not exercise, eat right, and go for regular doctor visits then you are in danger of having a body that is useless ,tired, sick and sluggish. In your home if you do not fix broken things, dust, do laundry and clean your house you may qualify for an episode of 'Hoarders'.
Similarly our spiritual life needs regular maintenance to keep it functioning and in tune. Many well meaning people who call themselves Christians forget this important aspect of saying they believe in Jesus. You can not expect to be a doctor if you just lay on top of your medical school books but you need diligent study to get you through a grueling course of study to earn and proudly wear the title of Medical Doctor.
In your walk as a believer do you say you love Jesus but then hardly even crack open your Bible to get to know him? Be honest. You have to make this a spiritual discipline or spiritual maintenance of sorts. Just entering the door of church on Saturday or Sunday for one hour is not enough likewise is it enough to just drive around in your car and listen to your favorite Christian radio station. Although that is good for feeding your spirit it will not get you to know the Lord better. The Bible says in 2 Timothy 2:15 "study to show thyself approved..". Likewise we as believers are His ambassadors to non believers and how can you be a good ambassador without study? If I were to work at the Tennessee or Alabama Welcome Center on nearby I-65 and a passing tourist asked me a question about the state and I did not know the answer, that would show I did not care to study and be a good ambassador for the state and I would represent them poorly. (See 2 Corinthians 5:20).
Does your spiritual life need a tune up? Maybe it is time to make it a priority to put God on your daily schedule just like you would put brushing your teeth or working out. Do not neglect Him. The way you get strong in the Lord and combat the attacks of the enemy is to regularly study and mediate on God's word. Is it time to get your spiritual life into the heavenly body shop?
PRAYER: Lord I am tired of being a wimpy uniformed ho hum believer. I know the enemy will attempt to get me distracted and wants me to not read the a Bible, but help me stop making excuses and start regularly spending quality time with you. Satan will try to put obstacles in my path. Help me recognize those and charge on to get to know you better. In Jesus name. Amen
Click on link for a wonderful worship song
http://youtu.be/IdJBYyNsQd0
Similarly our spiritual life needs regular maintenance to keep it functioning and in tune. Many well meaning people who call themselves Christians forget this important aspect of saying they believe in Jesus. You can not expect to be a doctor if you just lay on top of your medical school books but you need diligent study to get you through a grueling course of study to earn and proudly wear the title of Medical Doctor.
In your walk as a believer do you say you love Jesus but then hardly even crack open your Bible to get to know him? Be honest. You have to make this a spiritual discipline or spiritual maintenance of sorts. Just entering the door of church on Saturday or Sunday for one hour is not enough likewise is it enough to just drive around in your car and listen to your favorite Christian radio station. Although that is good for feeding your spirit it will not get you to know the Lord better. The Bible says in 2 Timothy 2:15 "study to show thyself approved..". Likewise we as believers are His ambassadors to non believers and how can you be a good ambassador without study? If I were to work at the Tennessee or Alabama Welcome Center on nearby I-65 and a passing tourist asked me a question about the state and I did not know the answer, that would show I did not care to study and be a good ambassador for the state and I would represent them poorly. (See 2 Corinthians 5:20).
Does your spiritual life need a tune up? Maybe it is time to make it a priority to put God on your daily schedule just like you would put brushing your teeth or working out. Do not neglect Him. The way you get strong in the Lord and combat the attacks of the enemy is to regularly study and mediate on God's word. Is it time to get your spiritual life into the heavenly body shop?
PRAYER: Lord I am tired of being a wimpy uniformed ho hum believer. I know the enemy will attempt to get me distracted and wants me to not read the a Bible, but help me stop making excuses and start regularly spending quality time with you. Satan will try to put obstacles in my path. Help me recognize those and charge on to get to know you better. In Jesus name. Amen
Click on link for a wonderful worship song
http://youtu.be/IdJBYyNsQd0
Saturday, December 3, 2011
A MOUTH LIKE CHRIST
The Bible speaks tons on the dangers of what we say. That little 'hole in our face' can sure get us into a lot of trouble. Blah,blah, blah. If we are not careful we can really be misunderstood or hurt someone. Words can make us or break us.This is one of the areas in the Bible that is written about over and over again. How many of us have said something then right after it popped out of your mouth you wish you could take it back? Or what you say is misunderstood? With the invention of email and texting it is easy to just jibber jabber away and not really think what we are saying. Basically it is important to really try to think before you speak.
James 3:1-12 is about the dangers of the tongue. I will copy it here for you to read. "Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water."
As in previous devotions with this topic it is important to remember that words can hurt or they can heal. They can build up or they can tear down. They can encourage or discourage. They can be kind and loving or like daggers shooting at an enemy camp. What kind of words flow out of your mouth on a daily basis? Also we need to deal with the issue of cursing or taking the Lords name in vain. Deep down in your heart you know it is not right to cuss. I always say if Jesus were in the room would you talk the way you do? Well guess what? He is in the room because he is with you always. Matthew 28:20 says "and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Gossip is another danger of the tongue. Even prayer chains can turn into gossip if you are not careful. We need to learn to not repeat things and to keep a confidence shared with us.
Husbands and wives should speak to each other the same as if they were still courting each other. If they did then there were be alot less divorces in the world. The tongue needs to show love, kindness, respect and favor to the spouse. Make sure if you do slip and are hurtful or rude you say you are sorry. Make it a habit to pray together as a couple even if engaged or boyfriend and girlfriend. It sets the stage for putting Christ in the center and keeping things focused on 'things above'. Matthew 18:20 says "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." It is a good habit to develop. If Christ is part of your life He should be part of all your life. If you are truly living for Him and getting into His word on a daily basis, the less and less the tongue may be a problem. At least you will be convicted when you say something you know was not right and can ask for forgiveness.
One of my favorite verses is Proverbs 10:19 which says "Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut." One version says to 'turn off the flow'. Think of that word picture!
Why not start today to use your mouth for prayer, praise, compliments, encouragement, and just speaking something nice to someone. Maybe even use it to say you are sorry to someone you have hurt. You will feel better and so will the recipient.
PRAYER: Lord I know it is so easy to just talk without thinking at times. I want to do better. I want to be known for being kind and loving to friends and family and not meddling, hurtful, gossipy, complaining and rude. Help me to be loving and kind with the words I say to everyone I come into contact with. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Note: Enjoy a worship song I have included on link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JK_6osCH74
James 3:1-12 is about the dangers of the tongue. I will copy it here for you to read. "Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water."
As in previous devotions with this topic it is important to remember that words can hurt or they can heal. They can build up or they can tear down. They can encourage or discourage. They can be kind and loving or like daggers shooting at an enemy camp. What kind of words flow out of your mouth on a daily basis? Also we need to deal with the issue of cursing or taking the Lords name in vain. Deep down in your heart you know it is not right to cuss. I always say if Jesus were in the room would you talk the way you do? Well guess what? He is in the room because he is with you always. Matthew 28:20 says "and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Gossip is another danger of the tongue. Even prayer chains can turn into gossip if you are not careful. We need to learn to not repeat things and to keep a confidence shared with us.
Husbands and wives should speak to each other the same as if they were still courting each other. If they did then there were be alot less divorces in the world. The tongue needs to show love, kindness, respect and favor to the spouse. Make sure if you do slip and are hurtful or rude you say you are sorry. Make it a habit to pray together as a couple even if engaged or boyfriend and girlfriend. It sets the stage for putting Christ in the center and keeping things focused on 'things above'. Matthew 18:20 says "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." It is a good habit to develop. If Christ is part of your life He should be part of all your life. If you are truly living for Him and getting into His word on a daily basis, the less and less the tongue may be a problem. At least you will be convicted when you say something you know was not right and can ask for forgiveness.
One of my favorite verses is Proverbs 10:19 which says "Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut." One version says to 'turn off the flow'. Think of that word picture!
Why not start today to use your mouth for prayer, praise, compliments, encouragement, and just speaking something nice to someone. Maybe even use it to say you are sorry to someone you have hurt. You will feel better and so will the recipient.
PRAYER: Lord I know it is so easy to just talk without thinking at times. I want to do better. I want to be known for being kind and loving to friends and family and not meddling, hurtful, gossipy, complaining and rude. Help me to be loving and kind with the words I say to everyone I come into contact with. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Note: Enjoy a worship song I have included on link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?
Friday, December 2, 2011
BORN A SINNER
We are all born with a sin nature. Ever since Adam and Eve were deceived by the serpent in the Garden of Eden man has struggled with sin. The world we live in lately has ridiculed many who speak out against sin. But sin is sin is sin. There are not degrees of sin. Adultery and divorce are just as wrong as murder according to God. Lying is a sin.(See Revelation 21:8). Today seemingly political figures get by with lying as it nothing is wrong with it. But God says it is wrong. Adultery is wrong and even looking on a woman lustfully is wrong the same as actually committing adultery. (See Matthew 5:28). Homosexuality is condemned in scripture(See Leviticus 18:22) but psychology has tried to attribute this to a 'gay gene' which never has been proven. Sex outside of marriage is wrong.(See Hebrews 13:4). It is intended for the special bond only a man and woman should share after they say "I do". The good news is if you have messed up, and we all have, that God can forgive and he does forget. Just like the woman caught in the act of adultery he says "go and sin no more".(See John 8:11). Psalm 103:12 says "as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us."
People can leave the sin of homosexual lifestyle just like they can decide to not look at pornography or lie anymore. You still will maybe struggle but with God's help you can be victorious.1 Corinthians 6:11 says "And such were some of you". Also remember like it says in John 8:7 "let he who is without sin cast the first stone" because we all have sin and your sin, no matter what it is, is not less than someone else's. Certain sins have greater consequences like emotional toll, pregnancy, jail time, sexually transmitted diseases but they are no worse in God's eyes. "All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory" it says in Romans 3:23. Luke 18:11 is an account of the self righteous Pharisee and it says "the Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself and said, "God I thank you that I am not like other men-robbers, evil doers, adulterers-or even like this tax collector." Wow he was pretty 'holier than thou' huh?
The world excuses sin. We have become desensitized and even some churches will not say things are wrong for fear of 'stepping on toes' so to speak. For instance, it is definitely wrong to kill an unborn baby in the womb but in the name of a 'women's right to choose' or 'life of the mother', millions of babies have died since 1973. Even the woman who originally started this movement which went to Supreme Court and was declared a 'right', has since asked forgiveness and is one of the many trying to get the law overturned. Her name is Norma McCorvey, aka Jane Roe, and in 1995 she became pro life. Why do people think it is okay to murder a defenseless baby yet jail people for harming a pet? We indeed are in a messed up world where Satan is trying to gain control. And to think today our own President feels it is okay to kill babies in the womb because of choice. This is a baby with a heartbeat who deserves to live!
In 1 Peter 5:8 it says "The enemy Satan prowls around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may destroy." Satanic forces have been successful in removing the Ten Commandments and abolishing prayer in schools and have tried to eradicate Christian influence in many other places. The way people know what is right and wrong is clearly in scripture and if the Bible is not read or made illegal then how will people know? Satan would win. Christians have to keep being 'salt and light' in a world of darkness.
Trouble is that too many of us have listened to the world and started believing the worlds lies being sucked into the modern humanistic culture. We have become desensitized. What is evil is being called good and good evil. (See Isaiah 5:20). Romans 12:1-2 says to "not be conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind. "But wait this is the 21st century! How on earth could we be expected to go by the old fashioned rules in the Bible?" First of all Gods' commandments are made to protect us just like a parents rules are made to protect their children from harm. If we go outside the boundaries God has set then pain and agony and mental torment result.
Yes we are all born with a sin nature but the good news is God is here to redeem us and set us free if only we ask Him.
PRAYER: Lord I want to live for you and serve you. I want to stay on the path you have for me and resist the attempts of the enemy to get me to cave in to my sin nature. I want to be Christlike in what I say and do. Give me a Christian worldview and help me resist the enemy so he has to flee. Protect those in my family who may be believing the enemies lies and help them see the truth. In Jesus name. Amen.
Note: Do you need to be set free today? Listen to the following praise and worship song and be blessed. Click on link.
http://youtu.be/38EVco7eba0
Included below is a link to Norma McCorveys pro life web site.
http://www.leaderu.com/norma/
People can leave the sin of homosexual lifestyle just like they can decide to not look at pornography or lie anymore. You still will maybe struggle but with God's help you can be victorious.1 Corinthians 6:11 says "And such were some of you". Also remember like it says in John 8:7 "let he who is without sin cast the first stone" because we all have sin and your sin, no matter what it is, is not less than someone else's. Certain sins have greater consequences like emotional toll, pregnancy, jail time, sexually transmitted diseases but they are no worse in God's eyes. "All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory" it says in Romans 3:23. Luke 18:11 is an account of the self righteous Pharisee and it says "the Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself and said, "God I thank you that I am not like other men-robbers, evil doers, adulterers-or even like this tax collector." Wow he was pretty 'holier than thou' huh?
The world excuses sin. We have become desensitized and even some churches will not say things are wrong for fear of 'stepping on toes' so to speak. For instance, it is definitely wrong to kill an unborn baby in the womb but in the name of a 'women's right to choose' or 'life of the mother', millions of babies have died since 1973. Even the woman who originally started this movement which went to Supreme Court and was declared a 'right', has since asked forgiveness and is one of the many trying to get the law overturned. Her name is Norma McCorvey, aka Jane Roe, and in 1995 she became pro life. Why do people think it is okay to murder a defenseless baby yet jail people for harming a pet? We indeed are in a messed up world where Satan is trying to gain control. And to think today our own President feels it is okay to kill babies in the womb because of choice. This is a baby with a heartbeat who deserves to live!
In 1 Peter 5:8 it says "The enemy Satan prowls around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may destroy." Satanic forces have been successful in removing the Ten Commandments and abolishing prayer in schools and have tried to eradicate Christian influence in many other places. The way people know what is right and wrong is clearly in scripture and if the Bible is not read or made illegal then how will people know? Satan would win. Christians have to keep being 'salt and light' in a world of darkness.
Trouble is that too many of us have listened to the world and started believing the worlds lies being sucked into the modern humanistic culture. We have become desensitized. What is evil is being called good and good evil. (See Isaiah 5:20). Romans 12:1-2 says to "not be conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind. "But wait this is the 21st century! How on earth could we be expected to go by the old fashioned rules in the Bible?" First of all Gods' commandments are made to protect us just like a parents rules are made to protect their children from harm. If we go outside the boundaries God has set then pain and agony and mental torment result.
Yes we are all born with a sin nature but the good news is God is here to redeem us and set us free if only we ask Him.
PRAYER: Lord I want to live for you and serve you. I want to stay on the path you have for me and resist the attempts of the enemy to get me to cave in to my sin nature. I want to be Christlike in what I say and do. Give me a Christian worldview and help me resist the enemy so he has to flee. Protect those in my family who may be believing the enemies lies and help them see the truth. In Jesus name. Amen.
Note: Do you need to be set free today? Listen to the following praise and worship song and be blessed. Click on link.
http://youtu.be/38EVco7eba0
Included below is a link to Norma McCorveys pro life web site.
http://www.leaderu.com/norma/
Thursday, December 1, 2011
FEAR OF THE WORLD
This world we live in can sure strike fear in the heart of man. You hear of companies going bankrupt and you fear you will lose your job or something has happened at work and there may be a 'reorganization' thus causing you to be let go. A disease has broken out and you wonder if you may get it. The list could go on. The television news media sure is no friend to maintaining a peaceful gossip free life. Turn on any morning show and let the fear and gossip and speculation begin. 2 Timothy 1:7 says "for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." When you start to fear think on that verse.
Part of training ourselves in godliness is to purposely make an effort to think on good things. If you want to start worrying then most certainly keep watching the nightly news and there will be more than enough to concern yourself with. We as believers have to rise above the garbage the world throws at us,much of which is untrue anyway. Philippians 4:8 says "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 on these things."
If you do what it says in Matthew 6:33 and "seek first the kingdom of God.." then perhaps it would alleviate some of the tension created by useless worries and concerns. 1 Peter 5:7 tells us to "cast all our cares on Him, for He cares for us." A spiritual discipline would be to cut things out of your life which are dragging you into the muck and mire of fretfulness. This takes practice and rearranging things we do. Turn to God for He is your hope and strength.
It is a deliberate choice. Decide to get up in the morning and maybe do not pick up the paper first or flip on the TV but turn instead to the promises in God's word and see if that does not help you get out of the chasm of doubts and concerns that may be dragging you down. Try delighting yourself in the Lord. If a situation in your life has you unable to concentrate on anything else just pray and realize God is walking with you and He will see you through. John 14:27 says "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Today choose to have peace and not confusion and fear.
PRAYER: Lord I choose this day to think on good things. Worrying about things does not help matters so I chooses this day to think happy and positive thoughts and resist attempts of the enemy to make me think thoughts to put alarm in my heart. I thank you for your word which gives us hope. In Jesus name. Amen.
Note: Just wanted to tell my email readers that I also post this on my Facebook page in blog format and it also goes to Google Blogspot. If you want to see what it looks like in a different format check out this link.
http://www.godslemonadestand.blogspot.com/
Part of training ourselves in godliness is to purposely make an effort to think on good things. If you want to start worrying then most certainly keep watching the nightly news and there will be more than enough to concern yourself with. We as believers have to rise above the garbage the world throws at us,much of which is untrue anyway. Philippians 4:8 says "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 on these things."
If you do what it says in Matthew 6:33 and "seek first the kingdom of God.." then perhaps it would alleviate some of the tension created by useless worries and concerns. 1 Peter 5:7 tells us to "cast all our cares on Him, for He cares for us." A spiritual discipline would be to cut things out of your life which are dragging you into the muck and mire of fretfulness. This takes practice and rearranging things we do. Turn to God for He is your hope and strength.
It is a deliberate choice. Decide to get up in the morning and maybe do not pick up the paper first or flip on the TV but turn instead to the promises in God's word and see if that does not help you get out of the chasm of doubts and concerns that may be dragging you down. Try delighting yourself in the Lord. If a situation in your life has you unable to concentrate on anything else just pray and realize God is walking with you and He will see you through. John 14:27 says "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Today choose to have peace and not confusion and fear.
PRAYER: Lord I choose this day to think on good things. Worrying about things does not help matters so I chooses this day to think happy and positive thoughts and resist attempts of the enemy to make me think thoughts to put alarm in my heart. I thank you for your word which gives us hope. In Jesus name. Amen.
Note: Just wanted to tell my email readers that I also post this on my Facebook page in blog format and it also goes to Google Blogspot. If you want to see what it looks like in a different format check out this link.
http://www.godslemonadestand.blogspot.com/
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