Are we tied to our things? Our collections? Special photos perhaps? Maybe a voice mail you are saving or a text from your children or significant other? What happens when these things are lost or destroyed? Do you fall apart or go on with life? Basically falling apart does not help as we have no control over the situation. Just as in the tornado's here in the Southeast on 27 April, families lost nearly everything. Not being willing to part with things or having to save every last thing may qualify you to not only be on 'Hoarders' TV show but really is not a good thing. It is best to downsize and simplify your life and have less chaos and confusion as a result of 'stuff'. It says in scripture in 1 Corinthians 14:33 that "God is not the author of confusion" and perhaps this could mean the confusion surrounding the tons of things we think we can not live without? Something to think about. The more we have the more headaches we incur usually. How many things do we really need and how many collections are important?
Let's say you buy something you can not afford anyway, then only use it maybe one time. A good example is a boat. If boating is not your 'passion' you probably are not going to use it that much. You may have wanted one cause it looked fun or maybe someone else had one you were trying to keep up with? Maybe you can not stand not having a certain article of clothing and you buy it and it really does not make you happier and just adds to clutter in your closet. You save things you think you can not do without. How many of us think we have to buy each movie we really like and how many times do you watch it? Thus the DVDs and old VHS tapes pile up.
Maybe a good trip to thrift store is in order. I recently threw out many VHS tapes I had made back in the 80's of shows I thought I would watch again. They were sitting in the attic in boxes waiting for my family to have to go through when I died some day. Why not rid yourself of 'sentimental things' you do not need now? "Wait it may be worth something" you say. I am not saying to trash your school yearbooks and photos or your valuable Barbie doll or GI Joe collection but to ask yourself what you really do not need to have.
Why do we feel compelled to save old magazines and newspapers for instance? Why do you have to save every book you ever read? Now is the time with the new year to get your life in order both on spiritual level and a level of organization. Be a good steward of things God has blessed you with and share things you have too much of. You know someone who needs a coat and you have way too many coats? Give it to them. I think the scriptures even say that. Hebrews 13:16 for instance says "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." So many things we just seemingly do not want to get rid of for whatever reason. I for one do not want to be a candidate to be on the show 'Hoarders' I mentioned in an earlier paragraph. Philippians 2:4 says "Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." Do you have something extra you can share with someone in need? Even something hard to give up perhaps? That would even be more of a sacrifice.
Start today to end the 'sentimental junk journey' and to see what valuable treasures you have that you could share with others. Do not give someone your old junk as you would not want old junk either. But if you have things still in good shape just sitting around go help someone. Call a charity to see if they need a donation. Do you have extra furniture? There may be a family who needs it who just can not afford things.
1 John 3:17 says"But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?"
Do what you can today to help simplify your life and to add to the life of another. You will both feel good.
PRAYER: Lord help me see what I have that I do not need that could help someone else out. Help me not be selfish if I know of someone who needs something and I have the means to help them. Give me a sharing heart. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Friday, January 6, 2012
DEALING WITH MEAN PEOPLE
We are told as Christians to love one another but in life along comes someone who treats you mean mostly on a verbal basis. It could be a friend, co-worker or the worse and most shocking of all, a family member. Being ugly to anyone is uncalled for and those who are victims need to learn to keep praying for these people as they are obviously dealing with deeper more hidden issues and are just using you as a person to take all their anger out on.Sort of 'target practice' or a verbal punching bag of sorts. Many of these people refuse to admit fault and think they are justified talking ugly. God is not pleased with any form of bad speech or bad behavior. If this is within the family, counseling needs to be sought. If it is among friends you can try to talk but sometimes the friend is unwilling to make amends and thinks they are totally justified. What happened to 'love one another'? Verbal abuse is never right to anyone. It needs to be dealt with and nipped in the bud. At work, a superior may mistreat a junior employee as being higher up in the chain so to speak. If it is severe, a grievance could be filed, but if it is just rudeness and ugliness you need to learn to bite your tongue and keep praying for this person. Hate is not the answer. Quitting is not the answer either. We too need to not be verbal abusee's, so to speak, to people such as phone workers. Treat all people with respsect.
James 1:26 states it pretty clearly when it says "If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless." Have you ever run into anyone who claims to know Christ but yet cusses and takes His name in vain? It is pretty disheartening. But that mouth seems to be hard to control for lots of people. That is still no excuse. If you are dealing with a 'mean person' in your life turn them over to God and ask Him to do a work in their hearts. Nothing we can do or say will help. In fact it may worsen things. It is better to do the soft answer turns away wrath routine. (See Proverbs 15:1). There is a saying that 'hurting people hurt people'. Once again no excuse but Matthew 5:44 says "But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,". In Luke 6:28 it says "bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." Very hard to do. Human nature wants to start an arguing match or gesturing behind their backs. This is not God's way. God wants you to show love and forgive these 'mean people' even when they do not ask for forgiveness. Forgive them in your heart. Proverbs 17:9 says "He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends."
Sometimes people talking ugly may not be reading God's word. They may claim to know God but only attend church on Sunday but live like they want the rest of the week. You may live with a person like this which would be hard to take. Nothing we can do to change that but it does say in Ephesians 4:29 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." If someone claims to know Christ they need to be starting to get into the word to practice some of these scriptures. Perhaps you are a person who can not stop saying ugly words or curses. You know it is wrong. Ask God to deliver you from this and start looking up verses on clean and pure speech. If someone in your life is doing it give them over to the Lord. Let the Holy Spirit convict their hearts. If you are the mean one you need to get a grip and go to the Lord and ask for His help.
So start today to ask God to help you love anyone in your life who is rubbing you the wrong way or being unkind to you. We do not know why people feel justified in swearing and mistreating others. Some of it could be something from their past they need to deal with. In the meantime as a Christian learn to do the right thing and just answer someone with kindness and show love. Proverbs 10:12 says "Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs." Even if you are angry that a telemarketer is bothering you, still be kind and realize that is someone's child on the other end. I have been a phone worker before and people can be nasty.
If you are a young couple reading this just starting off married life together purpose in your heart to never go to bed angry. Also make James 1:19 your marriage motto. I often write it on a newlyweds card and it says "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." If you have hurt someone ask forgiveness and if you are a victim of this just pray for the person to seek help and ask forgiveness. Only God can mend a hurt heart. He can do the changing. Remember the childhood song which said "Be careful little mouth what you say"? Well we all need to learn to do that. Start today. New year, new you.
PRAYER: Lord I want to represent you well here on Earth whether it is at home, out in the market place or at work. Things happen and people get angry. Help me to not say harsh words to others and if spoken to harshly help me respond with grace to these people who are like sandpaper. I know it breaks your heart to hear family members hurt other family members with unkind words in the one place they are supposed to show love. Father help anyone dealing with any of these struggles come to you and humble themselves Lord and ask forgiveness and seek your face. Help victims of harsh words learn to love regardless. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Note: I have included a song to lift your spirits today. Click on link and praise the Lord!
http://youtu.be/othYj8jWSwc
James 1:26 states it pretty clearly when it says "If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless." Have you ever run into anyone who claims to know Christ but yet cusses and takes His name in vain? It is pretty disheartening. But that mouth seems to be hard to control for lots of people. That is still no excuse. If you are dealing with a 'mean person' in your life turn them over to God and ask Him to do a work in their hearts. Nothing we can do or say will help. In fact it may worsen things. It is better to do the soft answer turns away wrath routine. (See Proverbs 15:1). There is a saying that 'hurting people hurt people'. Once again no excuse but Matthew 5:44 says "But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,". In Luke 6:28 it says "bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." Very hard to do. Human nature wants to start an arguing match or gesturing behind their backs. This is not God's way. God wants you to show love and forgive these 'mean people' even when they do not ask for forgiveness. Forgive them in your heart. Proverbs 17:9 says "He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends."
Sometimes people talking ugly may not be reading God's word. They may claim to know God but only attend church on Sunday but live like they want the rest of the week. You may live with a person like this which would be hard to take. Nothing we can do to change that but it does say in Ephesians 4:29 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." If someone claims to know Christ they need to be starting to get into the word to practice some of these scriptures. Perhaps you are a person who can not stop saying ugly words or curses. You know it is wrong. Ask God to deliver you from this and start looking up verses on clean and pure speech. If someone in your life is doing it give them over to the Lord. Let the Holy Spirit convict their hearts. If you are the mean one you need to get a grip and go to the Lord and ask for His help.
So start today to ask God to help you love anyone in your life who is rubbing you the wrong way or being unkind to you. We do not know why people feel justified in swearing and mistreating others. Some of it could be something from their past they need to deal with. In the meantime as a Christian learn to do the right thing and just answer someone with kindness and show love. Proverbs 10:12 says "Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs." Even if you are angry that a telemarketer is bothering you, still be kind and realize that is someone's child on the other end. I have been a phone worker before and people can be nasty.
If you are a young couple reading this just starting off married life together purpose in your heart to never go to bed angry. Also make James 1:19 your marriage motto. I often write it on a newlyweds card and it says "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." If you have hurt someone ask forgiveness and if you are a victim of this just pray for the person to seek help and ask forgiveness. Only God can mend a hurt heart. He can do the changing. Remember the childhood song which said "Be careful little mouth what you say"? Well we all need to learn to do that. Start today. New year, new you.
PRAYER: Lord I want to represent you well here on Earth whether it is at home, out in the market place or at work. Things happen and people get angry. Help me to not say harsh words to others and if spoken to harshly help me respond with grace to these people who are like sandpaper. I know it breaks your heart to hear family members hurt other family members with unkind words in the one place they are supposed to show love. Father help anyone dealing with any of these struggles come to you and humble themselves Lord and ask forgiveness and seek your face. Help victims of harsh words learn to love regardless. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Note: I have included a song to lift your spirits today. Click on link and praise the Lord!
http://youtu.be/othYj8jWSwc
Thursday, January 5, 2012
DECLARATIONS FOR 2012
This week I have been dealing lots with the New Year. With the New Year brings new hopes, new dreams, new opportunities. The chance to forget mistakes and move on to a new hopeful future. A time to change wrong attitudes and make amends with folks who may have been a thorn in your side, so to speak. A time for new challenges. It is always a wonderful chance to start change in a positive way. I was thinking we should make a list of declarations that we say out loud daily to start the year and the particular day on a positive note. Some I came up with are as follows:(Go ahead say them out loud if you are somewhere you can do this.) You can probably add to this list to make it a little more personal too. Here goes!
I will have a bright future.
I am not too old to try new things.
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.(Philippians 4:13)
I am the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.(2 Corinthians 5:21)
I will not be defeated.
I refuse to be cast down and depressed.
I will not believe the enemies lies.(John 8:44)
I am blessed.
I can be a blessing.
I have favor in Christ.
I have victory in Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57)
I am seated with God in the heavenlies. (Ephesians 2:6)
I will resist the devil and he has to flee. (James 4:7)
I am the head and not the tail.(Deuteronomy 28:13)
I will not give the devil a foothold. (Ephesians 4:27)
I will maintain peace no matter what.(John 14:27)
I have the joy of the Lord.(Psalm 28:7)
I will forgive people even when they have not asked to be forgiven.
I am a child of God and am special as God does not make junk.
I am set free from sins of my past.(Psalm 103:12)
I will not compare myself to others as you made me special and have a unique purpose for my life.
I know Lord you can open doors no man can shut.(Revelation 3:8)
I will not get sucked into the worlds ways of thinking(Romans 12:1-2)
I have hope in you.
Try starting your day each day reading a scripture from God's word and saying these things above out loud.Look up the verses above as well. The enemy seeks to destroy you and will do everything in his power to get you down on yourself and feeling like your life is not important. Whether you are highly educated or just a high school graduate God has a purpose and a plan for you on this earth. Go where he sends you with boldness and do not compare yourself to someone else no matter how easy it is to do. Do not think you are not important because you are ''just' this or 'just' that. And for those of you in high places as the world sees it who are in important places stay humble and stay grounded. Know God has you where you are to serve Him and 'plant seeds' for Him. Never start thinking you are better than people or look out. (See Isaiah 2:17).
So dear friends go out into your day and thank God for each and every day he has given you to make an impact on the corner of the world He has placed you in.
Ephesians 3:20 was a verse I had hanging on my apartment wall back when I was single living in California and it has always been a favorite. It says "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us". Go make a difference in your world today! You are special to God!
PRAYER: Lord thank you for another day of life. Thanks for a brand new year to try new things and share your love with those around me. Thank you for where you have me in life. Help me to not ever get down on myself and think I do not matter as I know that is a lie from Satan. To God be the Glory. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Note: Enjoy the praise and worship song I have attached by Rush of Fools. Click on link to listen.
http://youtu.be/b-oZbBS_OhM
I will have a bright future.
I am not too old to try new things.
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.(Philippians 4:13)
I am the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.(2 Corinthians 5:21)
I will not be defeated.
I refuse to be cast down and depressed.
I will not believe the enemies lies.(John 8:44)
I am blessed.
I can be a blessing.
I have favor in Christ.
I have victory in Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57)
I am seated with God in the heavenlies. (Ephesians 2:6)
I will resist the devil and he has to flee. (James 4:7)
I am the head and not the tail.(Deuteronomy 28:13)
I will not give the devil a foothold. (Ephesians 4:27)
I will maintain peace no matter what.(John 14:27)
I have the joy of the Lord.(Psalm 28:7)
I will forgive people even when they have not asked to be forgiven.
I am a child of God and am special as God does not make junk.
I am set free from sins of my past.(Psalm 103:12)
I will not compare myself to others as you made me special and have a unique purpose for my life.
I know Lord you can open doors no man can shut.(Revelation 3:8)
I will not get sucked into the worlds ways of thinking(Romans 12:1-2)
I have hope in you.
Try starting your day each day reading a scripture from God's word and saying these things above out loud.Look up the verses above as well. The enemy seeks to destroy you and will do everything in his power to get you down on yourself and feeling like your life is not important. Whether you are highly educated or just a high school graduate God has a purpose and a plan for you on this earth. Go where he sends you with boldness and do not compare yourself to someone else no matter how easy it is to do. Do not think you are not important because you are ''just' this or 'just' that. And for those of you in high places as the world sees it who are in important places stay humble and stay grounded. Know God has you where you are to serve Him and 'plant seeds' for Him. Never start thinking you are better than people or look out. (See Isaiah 2:17).
So dear friends go out into your day and thank God for each and every day he has given you to make an impact on the corner of the world He has placed you in.
Ephesians 3:20 was a verse I had hanging on my apartment wall back when I was single living in California and it has always been a favorite. It says "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us". Go make a difference in your world today! You are special to God!
PRAYER: Lord thank you for another day of life. Thanks for a brand new year to try new things and share your love with those around me. Thank you for where you have me in life. Help me to not ever get down on myself and think I do not matter as I know that is a lie from Satan. To God be the Glory. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Note: Enjoy the praise and worship song I have attached by Rush of Fools. Click on link to listen.
http://youtu.be/b-oZbBS_OhM
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
PIT STOPS FROM GOD
Has anything ever happened in your life and you get upset and wonder why God isn't answering your prayers? Sometimes He has a different plan than what your plan is and perhaps tells you in a round about way it is time to take a 'pit stop' for a while. For anyone who has watched a NASCAR race on TV you see the race cars can not continue forever. They have to eventually pull into the 'pit' so the crew can hurriedly check them out and get them on the road again. This 'servicing' is necessary to keep them running and operating at their peak performance. Sometimes things happen in life and we wonder why. Then on down the road we understand why. The answers are not always right before our face. Sometimes something seemingly bad turns out to be just what was needed to get you on the path God had for you.
Isaiah 55:18 says "for my thoughts are not your thoughts and neither are your ways my ways says the Lord." Jeremiah 29:11 is familiar to many and it says " for I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Proverbs 3:5-6 says " trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Matthew 6:33 tells us to " seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto us."
Are you putting God first? Do you start the day with prayer and reading His word? If we keep ignoring Him how do we expect to know the path He wants us to stay on?
Isaiah 43:19 says "behold I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up. Do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." What a wonderful verse for hope and promise.
Where are you at today? Do you believe God has a wonderful plan for your life if only you will trust Him and follow Him? Proverbs 16:9 says "God can plan His way but only God can order his steps". Whatever is happening in your life today whether good or bad trust God to get you through and look to him for guidance. Man can plan his way but God orders his steps.
PRAYER: Thank you Lord for guiding my steps and picking me up when I fall. Forgive me when I have gone my own way or been mad when things seemingly went sour. You know the 'big picture' and as the saying goes ' the end of the story is not written yet.' You have a plan for my life and help me not compare myself to someone else and want what they have. Thank you for where you have me in my life today. in Jesus name. Amen.
Isaiah 55:18 says "for my thoughts are not your thoughts and neither are your ways my ways says the Lord." Jeremiah 29:11 is familiar to many and it says " for I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Proverbs 3:5-6 says " trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Matthew 6:33 tells us to " seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto us."
Are you putting God first? Do you start the day with prayer and reading His word? If we keep ignoring Him how do we expect to know the path He wants us to stay on?
Isaiah 43:19 says "behold I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up. Do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." What a wonderful verse for hope and promise.
Where are you at today? Do you believe God has a wonderful plan for your life if only you will trust Him and follow Him? Proverbs 16:9 says "God can plan His way but only God can order his steps". Whatever is happening in your life today whether good or bad trust God to get you through and look to him for guidance. Man can plan his way but God orders his steps.
PRAYER: Thank you Lord for guiding my steps and picking me up when I fall. Forgive me when I have gone my own way or been mad when things seemingly went sour. You know the 'big picture' and as the saying goes ' the end of the story is not written yet.' You have a plan for my life and help me not compare myself to someone else and want what they have. Thank you for where you have me in my life today. in Jesus name. Amen.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
DISCIPLINES FOR 2012
We are now into the 3rd day of 2012. Parades are over and many are headed back to work after a long break. Time to get going and back to normal again as the saying goes. In your list of New Years resolutions did you include being disciplined? As mentioned in a previous devotion, many include weight loss on list of things to do for the new year but many do not follow through. Sounds doable but then when the 'rubber meets the road' the dedication and discipline are just not there. What do you do about that? First you make up your mind just how important being in shape and being healthy is. You can do something if it is really important enough to you but it takes Discipline. There is that nasty little word again. For those of us who have served in the military we know what discipline is, but a normal civilian can acquire this valuable trait as well with some dedication, desire and hard work.
Discipline is required to get up in the morning. Discipline is required to not spout off to people when you feel like saying something ugly. Discipline is required when completing your housework so you do not just go lay down somewhere and leave your home dirty. Discipline is required in looking for a job. You just can not give up. Discipline is required in getting an education. Sometimes things in life are hard and you have to stick with it to gain the reward. A doctor works hard in school for years before gaining the title 'medical doctor' which he can wear with pride. For marathon runners much discipline is needed to keep going when their body hurts and they feel like giving up.
The most important discipline you should be working on in 2012 is that of putting God first. I mean really first!! Not praying "Oh Lord I want you first in my life" then expecting a magic wand to be waved over you and 'voila', you are more spiritual. No, what is required is getting up and setting aside time to be alone with Jesus. Before the day is cluttered with all of its' busy activities make sure you put God in there. Pencil Him in on your 'to do' list and do not leave Him as an after thought. How many well meaning Christians do their Sunday thing going off to church and possibly Sunday school then the entire week goes by and the Bible is not picked up one single time? Does this describe you? When this happens you are giving the Devil a foothold and a grand opportunity to come into your mind and get you to believe lies and get you depressed and agitated. You must stay connected to the word of God and do it regularly.
Is reading the Bible important to you? I am not talking about getting on some rote plan where you read the Bible through in a year but really you were just reading and it did nothing for you. I am referring to studying God's word daily and applying it to your everyday life. You need Jesus every day so you can live victoriously above the junk our culture throws at you. 2 Timothy 2:15 says "Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth." Colossians 2:8 says "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ." You can study the world's ways or you can study God's ways. It is your choice.
What is more important to you watching the nightly news to 'stay informed' or reading God's word to 'stay informed'? Think about that one for a while. 1 John 2:17 says "The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever."
Do you want to be spiritually disciplined in 2012? Start now with a plan to get up daily and pray and read God's word. Do not start making excuses for why you can't. Start with a simple reading plan. Take whatever day it is today say the 3rd and read Psalm 3 and Proverbs 3 to start. Proverbs has 31 chapters so that is a perfect book to get started on at the first of each month. Make God a priority in 2012.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus I am committed to being better disciplined in 2012 in getting into the word of God. I know the only way to combat the enemies lies is to quote the word of God. I desire to know your word better and let it guide my life. Help me to resist making excuses as I seek to get closer to you. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Note: To help you on your spiritual journey I have included a link to a wonderful praise and worship song. Click on link and praise God!
http://youtu.be/ODatqyzberM
Discipline is required to get up in the morning. Discipline is required to not spout off to people when you feel like saying something ugly. Discipline is required when completing your housework so you do not just go lay down somewhere and leave your home dirty. Discipline is required in looking for a job. You just can not give up. Discipline is required in getting an education. Sometimes things in life are hard and you have to stick with it to gain the reward. A doctor works hard in school for years before gaining the title 'medical doctor' which he can wear with pride. For marathon runners much discipline is needed to keep going when their body hurts and they feel like giving up.
The most important discipline you should be working on in 2012 is that of putting God first. I mean really first!! Not praying "Oh Lord I want you first in my life" then expecting a magic wand to be waved over you and 'voila', you are more spiritual. No, what is required is getting up and setting aside time to be alone with Jesus. Before the day is cluttered with all of its' busy activities make sure you put God in there. Pencil Him in on your 'to do' list and do not leave Him as an after thought. How many well meaning Christians do their Sunday thing going off to church and possibly Sunday school then the entire week goes by and the Bible is not picked up one single time? Does this describe you? When this happens you are giving the Devil a foothold and a grand opportunity to come into your mind and get you to believe lies and get you depressed and agitated. You must stay connected to the word of God and do it regularly.
Is reading the Bible important to you? I am not talking about getting on some rote plan where you read the Bible through in a year but really you were just reading and it did nothing for you. I am referring to studying God's word daily and applying it to your everyday life. You need Jesus every day so you can live victoriously above the junk our culture throws at you. 2 Timothy 2:15 says "Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth." Colossians 2:8 says "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ." You can study the world's ways or you can study God's ways. It is your choice.
What is more important to you watching the nightly news to 'stay informed' or reading God's word to 'stay informed'? Think about that one for a while. 1 John 2:17 says "The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever."
Do you want to be spiritually disciplined in 2012? Start now with a plan to get up daily and pray and read God's word. Do not start making excuses for why you can't. Start with a simple reading plan. Take whatever day it is today say the 3rd and read Psalm 3 and Proverbs 3 to start. Proverbs has 31 chapters so that is a perfect book to get started on at the first of each month. Make God a priority in 2012.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus I am committed to being better disciplined in 2012 in getting into the word of God. I know the only way to combat the enemies lies is to quote the word of God. I desire to know your word better and let it guide my life. Help me to resist making excuses as I seek to get closer to you. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Note: To help you on your spiritual journey I have included a link to a wonderful praise and worship song. Click on link and praise God!
http://youtu.be/ODatqyzberM
Monday, January 2, 2012
IT'S 2012. TIME TO PUT THE PAST BEHIND YOU.
Time to move on and move forward. The 2nd day of 2012 is here. Has your list of resolutions been firmed up yet? Time to stop rehashing old problems and make up your mind to look forward and not backward. Looking back does not benefit anyone.This is a great opportunity to start fresh and new and get rid of 'weights' that were pressing down on you and keeping you from being all God wants you to be. You can not cling to the past and try to mull things over and over. You just have to let go and let God and what better time than a brand new year to get a brand new start! So as Nike says "Just Do It! " What is in your way? Start now thinking on good things and positive things and allowing God to have control of your thoughts.
Philippians 4:8 is one of my favorite verses and it is good to commit to memory. It says " Finally, brothers and sisters, 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."
If things did not go so well in 2012 in whatever area of your life give that over to God right now and commit yourself to daily getting up and praying and to keep praying. When you feel yourself going into a slump or pit cry out to God, "I need you Lord!" God is only a shout out away. Jeremiah 33:3 often called God's phone number says "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." God is there waiting for you to cry out to Him.
Look forward to 2012 with great anticipation for the new things God will do in your life. Give him your heart today if you have not already. Start looking forward and not dreading things in your life. God can restore the years to you the enemy has taken away.
PRAYER:Thank you Lord for a brand new year with new hopes and new dreams. Thank you for what you will do in my life this year. Thank you for loving me even when I have acted not so kind and loving. I purpose in my heart in 2012 to let you be Lord of my life and keep my focus ahead and not behind. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Philippians 4:8 is one of my favorite verses and it is good to commit to memory. It says " Finally, brothers and sisters, 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."
If things did not go so well in 2012 in whatever area of your life give that over to God right now and commit yourself to daily getting up and praying and to keep praying. When you feel yourself going into a slump or pit cry out to God, "I need you Lord!" God is only a shout out away. Jeremiah 33:3 often called God's phone number says "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." God is there waiting for you to cry out to Him.
Look forward to 2012 with great anticipation for the new things God will do in your life. Give him your heart today if you have not already. Start looking forward and not dreading things in your life. God can restore the years to you the enemy has taken away.
PRAYER:Thank you Lord for a brand new year with new hopes and new dreams. Thank you for what you will do in my life this year. Thank you for loving me even when I have acted not so kind and loving. I purpose in my heart in 2012 to let you be Lord of my life and keep my focus ahead and not behind. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
NEW YEAR MEANS NEW BEGINNINGS
Welcome to 2012. Where did the past year go? Now, tomorrow after the parades and football games are over, which help to usher in the New Year here in America, we get ready for new challenges. Time to sit down and make those resolutions. Or perhaps just a list of things you would like to try to achieve in the coming year is better and less threatening than a resolution. I make a goal list as I call it. What do you hope to achieve this year? Do you have a dream you want fulfilled? Mine personally is to get busy on a manuscript of God's Lemonade Stand and to stop putting it off. The New Year is an excellent time to start anew, so to speak. You can learn from your mistakes or shortcomings and charge on into a brand new year with brand new ideas. You sit back and regroup and think what you want to do differently or what new thing you want to try. Scuba diving, skydiving, college class, new hobby, new skill, marathon, deep sea fishing trip? You get the idea. It is fun to have this time once a year to rethink things.
Why not start 2012 out on the right foot by pursuing God full force if you have not already? Is God a hobby or is loving Jesus a lifestyle? This new year is a time for a spiritual renewal. Each time the new year rolls around one of the most popular resolutions is to lose weight and get in shape. For many the exercise equipment or gym membership goes unused because it sounded good but there was no serious commitment to it. Maybe it is time for a spiritual workout and to be truly committed to following Jesus.
Purpose in your heart to make this the year you get closer to God. Does that mean getting up a little earlier to have devotions or read the Bible? Perhaps so. Or maybe it means changing what you do when home meaning turn off the television and open the Bible. Maybe you need to stop reading movie star magazines and read the Bible? The enemy will get you distracted and make you feel reading the Bible is boring. Find a church where God's word is alive and you feel excited about wanting to go each week. Maybe this means changing churches. Just cause your momma and her momma and her momma before that went to a certain church does not mean it is the right one for you. Go where you can grow in Christ and get excited about loving Jesus.
Isaiah 43:19 says "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland". Many of us do need a new outlook on life and a new 'thing' when it comes to getting closer to the Lord. Staying busy in church activities does not mean you know and love the Lord. Ask yourself today where your heart is and if you have ever truly asked Jesus to be Lord of your life. If you have not, why not stop right now and ask Him into your heart. Maybe this is the year to decide to get into that Bible study or find a church to attend.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" Jesus wants to be Lord of your life .Why not start off 2012 with the sincere resolution to make not just physical fitness your goal but spiritual fitness as well?
Revelation 3:20 says "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me."
PRAYER: Lord I want to be closer to you and reorganize my life so I am not always putting you last in my day or not at all. Forgive me for that. I know Satan is a major stumbling block and will keep me from reading the word. Forgive me. I purpose in 2012 to put you first place in my life. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Click on link below and start off the New Year with a wonderful praise and worship song.
http://youtu.be/qqHxC7cIOtk
Why not start 2012 out on the right foot by pursuing God full force if you have not already? Is God a hobby or is loving Jesus a lifestyle? This new year is a time for a spiritual renewal. Each time the new year rolls around one of the most popular resolutions is to lose weight and get in shape. For many the exercise equipment or gym membership goes unused because it sounded good but there was no serious commitment to it. Maybe it is time for a spiritual workout and to be truly committed to following Jesus.
Purpose in your heart to make this the year you get closer to God. Does that mean getting up a little earlier to have devotions or read the Bible? Perhaps so. Or maybe it means changing what you do when home meaning turn off the television and open the Bible. Maybe you need to stop reading movie star magazines and read the Bible? The enemy will get you distracted and make you feel reading the Bible is boring. Find a church where God's word is alive and you feel excited about wanting to go each week. Maybe this means changing churches. Just cause your momma and her momma and her momma before that went to a certain church does not mean it is the right one for you. Go where you can grow in Christ and get excited about loving Jesus.
Isaiah 43:19 says "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland". Many of us do need a new outlook on life and a new 'thing' when it comes to getting closer to the Lord. Staying busy in church activities does not mean you know and love the Lord. Ask yourself today where your heart is and if you have ever truly asked Jesus to be Lord of your life. If you have not, why not stop right now and ask Him into your heart. Maybe this is the year to decide to get into that Bible study or find a church to attend.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" Jesus wants to be Lord of your life .Why not start off 2012 with the sincere resolution to make not just physical fitness your goal but spiritual fitness as well?
Revelation 3:20 says "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me."
PRAYER: Lord I want to be closer to you and reorganize my life so I am not always putting you last in my day or not at all. Forgive me for that. I know Satan is a major stumbling block and will keep me from reading the word. Forgive me. I purpose in 2012 to put you first place in my life. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Click on link below and start off the New Year with a wonderful praise and worship song.
http://youtu.be/qqHxC7cIOtk
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