Life In Christ

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10, NIV)

How do you feel right now? Do you have any issues weighing on your heart some so much that it is hard to stop dwelling on them.

First let me say that kind of thinking is not from God and Satan, who is called the thief, indeed is a robber of hopes, dreams, truth, family togetherness, and harmony. 

Have you felt shut out, lonely, confused? Sometimes so much you just don’t know which way to turn? The thief is also the author of all confusion(1Corinthians 14:33) and he is jumping up and down when he can rob you of joy and peace. Think on things above and do not allow your thoughts to dwell on things only God can change. 

PRAYER: Father I need you in my life all the time and I know you want to hear from me. I get perplexed about things and sometimes want to act on my own without waiting on you. Help me be still. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Dissing Fellowship

 

“Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:25, ESV).

I have heard of those who say they can be a Christian without going to a church building and yes probably true but what about the all important fellowship and growth aspect? 

I know in my life I need contact with other like minded believers. No one says you have to kick any non believers under the bus but the Christ centered fellowship you have strengthens and enables you to build the right kind of friendships. 

Maybe you have not found a life giving church but instead one full of religion. Religion is all about rules and Jesus is about grace, love, and forgiveness. Especially if you have little children get them plugged into Kids Church before friends with no background in Christ lead them down the wrong path. 

PRAYER: Today when I hear you speaking to my heart I choose not to harden it. I choose to listen to the voice of truth and not the clamoring ungodly voices of this world. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Note: I have included a link for a church planting organization I  am very familiar with. If you don’t have a church to call home plug in your information for where you live to find a church near you to make a difference in your life. 

Www.arcchurches.com

Trying To Stop Worry

 

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done (Philippians 4:6 NLT).

Easier said than done to stop worrying. First no one is born a worrier. Sure we are born sinful but you are not designed to fret all the time. What kind of trust does that show you have in God to bring beauty out of ashes? 

Various seasons of life bring out different things to trust God for. Has anyone ever told you when you begin to speculate or fret that you need a hobby or a job because probably those people who are full time stay home moms or employed outside the home can’t waste company time on their own issues. 

Self discipline is what is needed. Getting your mind ‘camping’ in the right place and ‘breaking camp’ where the sludge of problems starts to affect your time with the Lord is what is a key ingredient in conquering this. Now go today and read the book of John chapter 1 pray and release your cares to the Father. 

PRAYER: This and every day are days you made for me to enjoy and help impact the world around me. It could be only a small thing like a smile or hug but Lord I trust you to work out things I have been carrying burdens for and know that only you can bring change. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Do You Feel Merry And Bright?

 

 "These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full."John 15:11

Not every body enjoys this time of year. You may feel backed into a corner with non stop social functions, baking, card sending and seeing how many friends you can squeeze in. Also if you recently lost a loved one it can be tough. 

Joy is something internal and you sing joy to the world but do you feel joyful or depleted and worn out? Have expectations of Christmases past made you feel overwhelmed and burdened? 

Jesus doesn’t want his birthday to be forgotten but it seems the world does a good job of maybe giving a little taste but mostly it is lights and Santa’s. Purpose in your heart that you will be merry and bright. Ask yourself what are all the parties all about and let yourself learn to relax and sip a cup of Christmas tea and maybe treat a stranger to coffee or something. 

PRAYER: Your love for me is overwhelming Lord and now it is time for your birthday. I am grateful for what you have done for us. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Is Your Mind Cluttered?

 

 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. Philippians 4:8 NLT Bible Gateway

If it were only possible to stop letting worry, fear, doubt, anger, out of your mind then your day would be more joyful. To get a start on this pick up your Bible. Start reading in the book of John in the New Testament.

You can make a choice to stop dwelling on the wrong things that are dragging you down. Instead of getting involved in social media purpose in your heart that you will give it a rest. Make knowing God better a priority. 

Don’t let others bad vibes drag you into a pit. Choose to stay lifted up. 

PRAYER: I ask for help to stay peaceful no matter what is going on around me. I give you any wrong thinking and ask for help to renew my mind. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Ten Commandments

 

You shall have no other gods before me.Exodus 20:3 NIV Bible Gateway

The Ten Commandments were given to mankind for us to have a guide of knowing what was right and wrong in God’s eyes. So the other 9 are right there in chapter 20 take a peek. 

How many commandments do you know? Years ago they were displayed in public school classrooms and were a great moral guide for all who read them, problems on school campuses were not as bad back then either. 

The simple solution to many of life’s problems could be handled if these commandments were followed. Teach them to your children and grandchildren. You are wise when they guide and direct you. 

PRAYER: Lord the laws found in the commandments apply whether they are in New Testament or not. Thank you for these guides to help me stay on right track. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

God: “I’ve Got Them, Stay Out Of It”

 

I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me? Jeremiah 32:27

Are you praying for a friend or family member and it seems things are not moving along quite fast enough? My title today I heard on a message from Pastor Steven Furtick. 

You may try to hurry things along by interjecting man-made things but stop it right now.You say you are trusting God so trust Him. Don't let your emotions control you but be still. 

Believe me it is not easy but you will set things back if you try to play Holy Spirit Junior. Just be still. 

PRAYER: Help me as I seek to follow your time table for my prayers. In Jesus' name. Amen.