HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well; it's a beautiful day! I apologize for not sending the devotional yesterday; I rushed to the hospital to see my Grandmother, because she wasn't sounding very good on the phone. She's doing much better today. Please continue to pray for her healing. Today is my brother's 16th birthday, I can't believe he's 16 already. It's time to get a driver's license, so he could be my Chauffer, because I despise driving. Hey, isn't that what little brothers are for? Happy Birthday Demitrius, I pray you have a wonderful day! We have a holiday weekend coming up; Friday is Demitrius' birthday celebration, what's happening for the rest of the weekend, other than barbecues? I’m looking forward to getting some invites, I have a four day weekend, whew hoo! Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about being chastised by our Heavenly Father. There's a difference between suffering with Christ, and suffering without Him. I'd rather take the ladder. God is seen in most cases as a Father figure, and we are His children. He had our lives already mapped before the beginning of creation, and He intends for us to follow His will. Obedience is such a huge misnomer in today's society because no one has any structure. We see it in the news all the time. It's to a point where the lawmakers aren't even following the laws anymore. It has been like that for centuries, it's written in Ecclesiastes 1:9-10: That which has been is what will be, That which is done is what will be done, And there is nothing new under the sun. Is there anything of which it may be said, "See, this is new”? It has already been in ancient times before us. We think we are so new and innovative, but we're constantly reliving history. God created all things, yet we always think more of ourselves than we ought, and Paul warns us against that in Romans 12:3. Remember when our parents will tell us not to do something, and we'd ignore them? We thought we were so smart, but we'd sure enough get ourselves into trouble. Our children do it, we did it, and our parents did it with their parents. After we accepted Jesus as our Savior, we're constantly growing in our Faith walk, and we can't help but to test Him, because we’re living by Faith. I know I'm not the only one that heard a sermon in Church on Sunday, and it seemed like the Pastor was talking directly to me. The entire time I'm listening and shaking my head thinking of all the people this sermon could touch. I'm thinking, "I sure wish Sally was here, she could use this word". However, God is giving us this word as a warning. Monday morning we go out and do exactly what the Pastor said not to do, and things just starts spinning out of control. You know the saying, "if it isn’t one thing it's another"? Well this is how it feels, me lose our bankcard, get a flat tire, our dog runs away, the furnace breaks at our house, etc. We start thinking, "God what have I done so wrong?" He's constantly saying, “come listen to me my child”, but through all of this our Heavenly Daddy is spanking us? Every situation is different, and I don't believe in "bad luck", I believe that God is trying to get our attention. There's a lesson to learn behind all of this mess and confusion, we may not understand why at the time, but if we seek Him first, He'll reveal all of the answers to us, as an epiphany of sorts. Out of all these things, He's still watching over us, by not giving us more than we could handle, because He's not a cruel God. As we know, God is love, and it's written according to Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8: Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails... How could our Heavenly Father who suffers long, loves unconditionally, and forgives without a second thought, mean us any harm? He only wants what’s best for us, and you know how we are? Sometimes it takes a big boom to get our attention. Sometimes we need to be taught humility, to understand that God is always in control. What He says goes, and I advise you not to play around with Him. The more you know, the more you're held accountable for. Once we're saved, our heart starts to yearn for His word, and His wisdom, and as we go along, we're expected to follow His will. We're representatives of Christ, and God depends on us, and believe me, He's going to make sure that we do what we have to do. So my question to you is, do you want to do it the easy way, or the hard way? The only way to get things done right, is to do it right the first time. We could save ourselves so much heartache and pain if we try obedience. It's hard at first, because the flesh is weak, and temptation is so strong, however, "Greater is He who is in us, than He who is in the world". God will chastise us it’s unavoidable. He's slow to anger, yet quick to forgive, but He's also a jealous God that demands respect. His love overcomes anything we could possible go through, and He proved that by sending Jesus as an intercessor for us. He didn't do that in vain, so He'll do whatever it takes to keep us in His will. Be worried if you don't get chastised, that means He's put you up on a shelf, and that's not good. If you don't know Jesus, then you don't know God, you can't have one without the other. Jesus is a prayer away, and He's waiting to be gracious to you. My favorite verse today is: He maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole. (Job 5:18)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455013&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048079
I love you!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Friday eve. I'm doing well, a little tired, but happy, healthy, and free. I love having a sunroof on my truck, because the warm feeling of sun allows me feel God's presence even more. I saw the movie The Taking of Pelham 123 with Denzel and John Travolta; it was a really good movie. I love these guys together, because they're very good actors. They take their characters to another level, they did a great job, I was on the edge of my seat most of the movie. I can't wait to see Transformers next, because I loved the first movie. I've been posting my devotionals on some blogs, and have been on Twitter trying to get my name out there, and promote my business, and pending book. I just goggled myself "Angelic Chef" and "Divine Cuisine", and I'm all over Google. That's a wonderful thing; the Internet is a powerful tool that is capable of so many things. You could reach people all over the world, so make your voice count. You can spread the Gospel of Jesus, without leaving your home, Praise God! Have a wonderful day, and don't forget to Google me, I'm the AngelicChef.
Today's scriptures are about our transformation to the likeness of Christ. Being "Born again" entitles us to a lot of things. We have inherited the Kingdom of God, and have the power of the Almighty Jesus Christ, so when Jesus returns to take us to heaven, the rapture will begin. It is written in Matthew 25:13: “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming." The Rapture could happen today or 1,000 years from now, when our flesh is dead and gone, but all those who believe will be resurrected. We shall be perfect, no sickness or disease, no aches and pains, and no heartache. We all know that death is inevitable, so this should give us comfort in knowing that not only do we have the power of Christ here on earth, but we'll also be totally transformed when we reach heaven. Jesus was appointed Lord of all, and anyone who believes in Him will have eternal life. Philippians 3:20-21 says: For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself. When faced with adversity, this type of wisdom helps me truly accept and understand that "this too shall pass". Jesus is my Lord and Savior, and He'll have the last say. Money issues, relationship woes, body deformities, sickness, issues with our children, etc., all of these problems, that we give priority, are temporary. I heard a comedian ask, "Why do people say life is short, when life is the longest thing I'll ever do?” It was funny, but that always stuck with me, because life is in fact short, compared to Eternity. We're given a certain amount of time to complete a God given task, and our works determine our reward in Heaven. They determine the amount of jewels we'll receive in our crown (2 Tim 4:8). It's important that we use our time wisely, because it is a very valuable thing, and we should be careful not to waste it. We should use every opportunity we get to spread the Gospel of Christ and the love of God, just as Jesus did. He traveled high and low, climbed mountains and hiked valleys, to teach people the ways of God. He did that out of His love for us, so just imagine what He'll do for us when He returns to take us back home. We're afraid of death because we aren't confident in our Salvation. We're afraid of the after life, because we're not confident in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is why I always stress that Jesus' life is the perfect example to live by, because He's the ultimate Role Model. Everything that has happened to Him will happen to us, because we're joint Heirs to the Kingdom. We will die (hopefully not physically like He died), and those us who believed in Him will be resurrected (maybe not the way he was). However, take comfort in knowing that you will be in Heaven, for all eternity, in your mansion that Jesus prepared for you on the day you accepted Him as your Savior. No matter what you've done in the past, whether you've killed or raped someone, or if you've stolen, cheated, cursed, been a drunkard, etc., none of that matters, because by the grace of God you're righteous. We will be judged when we enter the Kingdom, but we won't be utterly cast down (Psalms 37:24). From the time we were born again, God took His time to mold and shape our Spirits into perfection, in order to prepare us for our eternity with Him. In the flesh we're sinners, but in our Spirit we're perfect children of God, adopted by the blood of Christ. It's written in Romans 8:15-17: For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. These promises are only made to the Children of God, so how do you become a child of God? It's very simple and easy, just pray to God confessing that you're a sinner, and asking Jesus to come into your heart and be your Lord and Savior. Accept Him, and when Jesus returns to receive the chosen few, you will be included. The fact that you're reading this right now means that you're chosen; please take heed, because tomorrow isn’t promised to you. My favorite verse today is: As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness. (Psalms 17:15)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455008&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048047
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Friday eve. I'm doing well, a little tired, but happy, healthy, and free. I love having a sunroof on my truck, because the warm feeling of sun allows me feel God's presence even more. I saw the movie The Taking of Pelham 123 with Denzel and John Travolta; it was a really good movie. I love these guys together, because they're very good actors. They take their characters to another level, they did a great job, I was on the edge of my seat most of the movie. I can't wait to see Transformers next, because I loved the first movie. I've been posting my devotionals on some blogs, and have been on Twitter trying to get my name out there, and promote my business, and pending book. I just goggled myself "Angelic Chef" and "Divine Cuisine", and I'm all over Google. That's a wonderful thing; the Internet is a powerful tool that is capable of so many things. You could reach people all over the world, so make your voice count. You can spread the Gospel of Jesus, without leaving your home, Praise God! Have a wonderful day, and don't forget to Google me, I'm the AngelicChef.
Today's scriptures are about our transformation to the likeness of Christ. Being "Born again" entitles us to a lot of things. We have inherited the Kingdom of God, and have the power of the Almighty Jesus Christ, so when Jesus returns to take us to heaven, the rapture will begin. It is written in Matthew 25:13: “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming." The Rapture could happen today or 1,000 years from now, when our flesh is dead and gone, but all those who believe will be resurrected. We shall be perfect, no sickness or disease, no aches and pains, and no heartache. We all know that death is inevitable, so this should give us comfort in knowing that not only do we have the power of Christ here on earth, but we'll also be totally transformed when we reach heaven. Jesus was appointed Lord of all, and anyone who believes in Him will have eternal life. Philippians 3:20-21 says: For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself. When faced with adversity, this type of wisdom helps me truly accept and understand that "this too shall pass". Jesus is my Lord and Savior, and He'll have the last say. Money issues, relationship woes, body deformities, sickness, issues with our children, etc., all of these problems, that we give priority, are temporary. I heard a comedian ask, "Why do people say life is short, when life is the longest thing I'll ever do?” It was funny, but that always stuck with me, because life is in fact short, compared to Eternity. We're given a certain amount of time to complete a God given task, and our works determine our reward in Heaven. They determine the amount of jewels we'll receive in our crown (2 Tim 4:8). It's important that we use our time wisely, because it is a very valuable thing, and we should be careful not to waste it. We should use every opportunity we get to spread the Gospel of Christ and the love of God, just as Jesus did. He traveled high and low, climbed mountains and hiked valleys, to teach people the ways of God. He did that out of His love for us, so just imagine what He'll do for us when He returns to take us back home. We're afraid of death because we aren't confident in our Salvation. We're afraid of the after life, because we're not confident in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is why I always stress that Jesus' life is the perfect example to live by, because He's the ultimate Role Model. Everything that has happened to Him will happen to us, because we're joint Heirs to the Kingdom. We will die (hopefully not physically like He died), and those us who believed in Him will be resurrected (maybe not the way he was). However, take comfort in knowing that you will be in Heaven, for all eternity, in your mansion that Jesus prepared for you on the day you accepted Him as your Savior. No matter what you've done in the past, whether you've killed or raped someone, or if you've stolen, cheated, cursed, been a drunkard, etc., none of that matters, because by the grace of God you're righteous. We will be judged when we enter the Kingdom, but we won't be utterly cast down (Psalms 37:24). From the time we were born again, God took His time to mold and shape our Spirits into perfection, in order to prepare us for our eternity with Him. In the flesh we're sinners, but in our Spirit we're perfect children of God, adopted by the blood of Christ. It's written in Romans 8:15-17: For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. These promises are only made to the Children of God, so how do you become a child of God? It's very simple and easy, just pray to God confessing that you're a sinner, and asking Jesus to come into your heart and be your Lord and Savior. Accept Him, and when Jesus returns to receive the chosen few, you will be included. The fact that you're reading this right now means that you're chosen; please take heed, because tomorrow isn’t promised to you. My favorite verse today is: As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness. (Psalms 17:15)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455008&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048047
I love you!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another hump day. I'm doing well; today has been a good day. I can't complain, just experiencing some allergy issues, but other than that, everything is great. Since I've been going to the gym, I've had more energy, and an overall better attitude. I'm anxious to start cooking professionally again, I miss being in the kitchen, don't forget, if you're in the DC area to spread the word, that Divine Cuisine is open and ready for business. I've had a few proposals since the tasting, but nothing concrete. I need to find a better way to market and advertise. The drive is there, the skill is there, but sharing that knowledge with the right people is the problem. Please continue to pray for the growth of Divine Cuisine, I'm ready to go, but am also patiently waiting on the Lord. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about being lead by God. Did you know you're predestined for greatness? Well you were created for a purpose, and God will make sure that you have everything He's promised to you, all you have to do is follow His lead. Yesterday we spoke about the Holy Spirit, our Helper, which aides us in our Faith walk. He's responsible for communicating with us, to let us know which ways to go in life. God instilled Himself in our hearts, to help us live the life He intends for us to live. He's given us the Holy Bible as a handbook, with stories of regular people who both followed His will, and ones who were blatantly disobedient, in hopes that we would learn from them. We don't always listen to Him, and I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t. You ever come to a fork in the road, and had to choose right or left, and you choose left, even though your Spirit was screaming at you to go right? As soon as you make that mistake and have to suffer the consequences, your first response is "Something told me to go the right instead of left, I should've listen to my gut". Well that "Something told me..." is God guiding you through life. There are some things that we have to suffer through as a refining process, but a lot of times we put ourselves through unnecessary heartache and pain, just by not listening to our "gut" (Spirit). Just as the children of Israel walked around that mountain for 40 years, because of their disobedience, He had to test them until He was sure that they would keep His commandments. God sent them a leader to show them exactly how to get to the promise land, but because they followed their fleshly wants and desires, instead of following God, they wasted 40 years (Deut. 8:2). He understands the type of temptations we're up against, this is why we have Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, to keep us in His will. Every step we take He has an input, even down to everyday things like household chores, or taking a walk after work. There are times when I'm in the kitchen cooking, and maybe I'm rushing, I may hear Him say "slow down before you cut yourself", or "Be careful your fire's up too high". I've learned to take heed to His voice, because when He says "slow down", and I respond "but God I have to get this done" and keep on moving, sure enough I cut myself, and lose more time than I would've if I'd just slowed down. He's always involved in our greater decisions like, who we should be date or marry, or what house or car we should buy, etc, but it's the little things that amount to the big things. God has an interest in every aspect of your lives because He loves us that much. As well as, He has a job for us to complete on earth, remember we're hear to help strengthen His kingdom. He never intended us to go at it alone, because we're human we have no power in the flesh, hence the reason He gave His Son for our redemption, and sent us a Helper through the Holy Spirit. Jesus said in Matthew 28:18-20: “…All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Why would God give us such a great task without leadership and guidance? Would you expect a 1st grader to do geometry? They cannot without being taught and lead step by step? Jesus is standing with us right now, waiting on us to take that next step, and He'll go with us, helping us jump the hurdles that will come our way. The Holy Spirit is in our heart interpreting God's words, and gives us His step-by-step instructions. Our only job is to learn how to discern between the voice of God, and the voice of the enemy, because he's working to make us stray from the path of righteousness, but “Greater is He who is in you, than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). You ever heard the saying "everything that looks good, isn't always good for you"? Well he's going to tempt you with some good-looking things, but be careful to listen for God's still small voice, and you could conquer the world. If you don't know Jesus then you must start there, confessing your sins, and asking Him to come into your heart as your Lord and Savior. Sin is our biggest hindrance in following God's leadership. If you feel like you're too far off of that Path, you couldn't be more wrong, God is waiting on you to fall back in step. Go to Him in prayer, confess and repent for your sins, ask Him for help, and follow His lead. He’s waiting on you. My favorite verse today is: Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness; ... make thy way straight before my face. (Psalms 5:8)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455007&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048047
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another hump day. I'm doing well; today has been a good day. I can't complain, just experiencing some allergy issues, but other than that, everything is great. Since I've been going to the gym, I've had more energy, and an overall better attitude. I'm anxious to start cooking professionally again, I miss being in the kitchen, don't forget, if you're in the DC area to spread the word, that Divine Cuisine is open and ready for business. I've had a few proposals since the tasting, but nothing concrete. I need to find a better way to market and advertise. The drive is there, the skill is there, but sharing that knowledge with the right people is the problem. Please continue to pray for the growth of Divine Cuisine, I'm ready to go, but am also patiently waiting on the Lord. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about being lead by God. Did you know you're predestined for greatness? Well you were created for a purpose, and God will make sure that you have everything He's promised to you, all you have to do is follow His lead. Yesterday we spoke about the Holy Spirit, our Helper, which aides us in our Faith walk. He's responsible for communicating with us, to let us know which ways to go in life. God instilled Himself in our hearts, to help us live the life He intends for us to live. He's given us the Holy Bible as a handbook, with stories of regular people who both followed His will, and ones who were blatantly disobedient, in hopes that we would learn from them. We don't always listen to Him, and I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t. You ever come to a fork in the road, and had to choose right or left, and you choose left, even though your Spirit was screaming at you to go right? As soon as you make that mistake and have to suffer the consequences, your first response is "Something told me to go the right instead of left, I should've listen to my gut". Well that "Something told me..." is God guiding you through life. There are some things that we have to suffer through as a refining process, but a lot of times we put ourselves through unnecessary heartache and pain, just by not listening to our "gut" (Spirit). Just as the children of Israel walked around that mountain for 40 years, because of their disobedience, He had to test them until He was sure that they would keep His commandments. God sent them a leader to show them exactly how to get to the promise land, but because they followed their fleshly wants and desires, instead of following God, they wasted 40 years (Deut. 8:2). He understands the type of temptations we're up against, this is why we have Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, to keep us in His will. Every step we take He has an input, even down to everyday things like household chores, or taking a walk after work. There are times when I'm in the kitchen cooking, and maybe I'm rushing, I may hear Him say "slow down before you cut yourself", or "Be careful your fire's up too high". I've learned to take heed to His voice, because when He says "slow down", and I respond "but God I have to get this done" and keep on moving, sure enough I cut myself, and lose more time than I would've if I'd just slowed down. He's always involved in our greater decisions like, who we should be date or marry, or what house or car we should buy, etc, but it's the little things that amount to the big things. God has an interest in every aspect of your lives because He loves us that much. As well as, He has a job for us to complete on earth, remember we're hear to help strengthen His kingdom. He never intended us to go at it alone, because we're human we have no power in the flesh, hence the reason He gave His Son for our redemption, and sent us a Helper through the Holy Spirit. Jesus said in Matthew 28:18-20: “…All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Why would God give us such a great task without leadership and guidance? Would you expect a 1st grader to do geometry? They cannot without being taught and lead step by step? Jesus is standing with us right now, waiting on us to take that next step, and He'll go with us, helping us jump the hurdles that will come our way. The Holy Spirit is in our heart interpreting God's words, and gives us His step-by-step instructions. Our only job is to learn how to discern between the voice of God, and the voice of the enemy, because he's working to make us stray from the path of righteousness, but “Greater is He who is in you, than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). You ever heard the saying "everything that looks good, isn't always good for you"? Well he's going to tempt you with some good-looking things, but be careful to listen for God's still small voice, and you could conquer the world. If you don't know Jesus then you must start there, confessing your sins, and asking Him to come into your heart as your Lord and Savior. Sin is our biggest hindrance in following God's leadership. If you feel like you're too far off of that Path, you couldn't be more wrong, God is waiting on you to fall back in step. Go to Him in prayer, confess and repent for your sins, ask Him for help, and follow His lead. He’s waiting on you. My favorite verse today is: Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness; ... make thy way straight before my face. (Psalms 5:8)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455007&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048047
I love you!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another hot summer day. I'm not complaining about the weather, it's very beautiful outside, however this morning I was dreading the winter months. I am never satisfied, I'm learning how to take things one day at a time, here I am fretting about winter, when we’re just in the second day of summer, Father forgive me. I am looking forward to the weekend; hopefully I'll make it down to see my father. I need to get some work done to my truck, please pray that it's nothing serious. I'm having an overall wonderful day, feeling a lot better than yesterday, I pray you have a wonderful day as well. I love you as God loves me!
Today's scriptures are about the Holy Spirit. I used to refer to the Holy Spirit as an "It", until I read Dr. Stanley's teaching on the Holy Spirit. I always realized that "He" is another part of God, a real being that lives in us, but I still referred to Him in that way. A lot of us tend to think of the Holy Spirit as a tool, instead of a part of the Holy Trinity, that’s equal to God the Father, and Jesus the Son. Some of us don't think of the Holy Spirit at all, or refer to Him as your conscience. Conscience is defined: The awareness of a moral or ethical aspect to one's conduct together with the urge to prefer right over wrong. Doesn't that sound familiar? That is partially who the Holy Spirit is, and part what He does. It's written in John 14:26: But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. The Holy Spirit is multifaceted, and He helps us through everyday life. Not only is He our conscience, but He also speaks to us from God, and speaks to God for us. Romans 8:26-27 says: Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. He comforts us when we're weak, and leads us when we're lost. He is a very important help in need, and it's because of the blood of Jesus that we're fortunate enough to have this very important Helper. I couldn't imagine my life without the Holy Spirit, because He saves me from a lot of heartache and pain. He's constantly speaking to me, almost like the warning lights in our car. We must be in tune with Him in order to read those signs, and take heed of them. There are times when I'm just stressed out, and feeling overwhelmed, and He's right there to help me. Have you ever felt too tired to pray? Have you ever felt like God isn't listening, or you lost your connection with Him? Some days I could feel the presence of God in everything I do, it's like He's walking next to me, with His arm around my shoulder, and that gives me warmth. Other times I feel cold like He's departed from me, you ever feel like that? I've read several Psalms and other books in the bible regarding that feeling, so I know I'm not the only one. When I feel that way, I get down on my knees, and cry out to my Holy Spirit and ask Him to talk to God for me. The Holy Spirit will talk to God through me, in unknown tongues, and I sometimes feel like I'm having this out of body experience, because I take on this entire new voice and language. I could tell that It's not just gibberish begin spoken, the Holy Spirit literally talks to God for me, and I always get up from my knees feeling light, fresh, and renewed. I feel like the things that were weighing so heavy on my heart had been personally delivered to God. He also writes these devotionals, some of it comes from me, but most of it comes from Him. There are times when I'm writing, and I'm thinking to myself "this makes no sense", but when I go back to proof read it makes perfect sense. Would you believe that as I'm teaching you, the Spirit is teaching me? I learn something new from each devotional I write, this is how I know it's the Spirit doing the work. I often recall things from the devotionals, as if I didn't write them, almost like when I proofread it's the first time I'm hearing it. When I study the Word at night, I'm often lead to scriptures that helps me in the next day's teachings, these are all works of the Holy Spirit. I am Saundra, a sinner, and a very imperfect person, but through Christ I am made righteous, and I have the Holy Spirit teaching, leading, and guiding me everyday, and so do you. Last night, and this morning, I was lead to read Proverbs 8, which teaches us the "Excellence of Wisdom", the Holy Spirit is wisdom. He's also referred to as a "Gentleman", the verse that confirms that for me is verse 17: I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me. God is a loving, kind, and graceful God, He's not into making us do anything we don't want to do, so the Helper is always there whenever we need Him, but He's not forced upon us. The Holy Spirit could help us heal the sick, uplift the grieved, teach the foolish, understand the word, love unconditionally, help the helpless, and He seals us with the complete Trinity, so we could follow God's will for our lives. Please be aware of Him for it's written in Ephesians 4:30: And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. If you've never accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then you don't have the Holy Spirit, so if you sometimes feel hollow inside, like something is missing, go to God and ask that Jesus come into your heart as your Lord and Savior, and confess your sins, and then the Holy Spirit is a guaranteed part of this awesome experience we call life. He's waiting on you. My favorite verse today is: The God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. (Romans 15:13)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455006&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048045
I love you!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY MONDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek. I'm doing well, had a good weekend, looking forward to a good week. I made the Tortellini with Crab and Gorgonzola cheese over the weekend, and it was wonderful. It's such an easy dish to make, and took me all of 20 minutes to do. Today is my Sister LaSheda's birthday, happy birthday sweetheart; my baby sister is growing up, the older she gets, means the older I get. My grandmother is doing well, she's looking good, and is up moving around, thank you for your prayers, I've planned a trip for us for the July 4th weekend, I pray she'll feel up to going. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about our death and resurrection in Christ. It is written that we should be “crucified with Christ” (Galatians 2:20), what does that mean to you? When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we die to sin, and receive eternal life in Christ. In that process we die to our old life, and lifestyle. In some cases it could be painful, because we're being refined. It could be very difficult to change a person’s ways. God has a lot of work to do, so we're going down with Christ, and then rose back up in Righteousness with Him. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all (Psalms 34:19). Think of Jesus' crucifixion, it was a lot of physical pain and suffering, but we rejoice in this act of great courage and strength, because it freed us from the penalties of sin. Jesus never complained, and lived a life full of peace. God is Who He is, and He never sugarcoats anything. As I read certain stories in the Old Testament, I see just how powerful and mighty He is, yet He's also merciful, kind, and very patient. We could see this in the sacrifice of His only begotten Son. This may seem like a heinous act, but the compassion behind it is the only thing we should be concerned with. The love of God is real, true, uplifting and comforting. The sacrifice of Jesus was necessary to free all mankind. Now He is the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, His hard work is done. Dr. Stanley wrote in his devotional today: The Lord’s ultimate purpose for each believer is that he or she will learn to think, act, and speak like Jesus (Rom. 8:29). This requires our old self to die, and our new self resurrected. We are the body of Christ, and He is one with us, as the Father is one with Him. We must commit to learning His ways, so we could complete God's will for our lives, with peace, joy, and happiness. We must have peace in knowing that God's Will shall be done, so it's easier for us to seek and follow Him. Jesus is the ultimate teacher and friend, and it’s because of Him that we're made new. Every new thing has to be created, there's a purpose for everything, and our rebirth in Christ happens at the right time, place, and season in our lives. Sin equals death, and before we find Jesus, we're dead to righteousness. We have no real connection with God, unless by the blood of Christ. I could say this everyday, and some people still don't get it. This is why we must constantly stay in the word, and exercise the Power of Christ that lives in us. If we don't live according to His word and His ways, then we sin, and when we sin something dies. Everything has its consequence, and we know that by our Earthly laws. If you break the law you're punished. Some crimes carry larger penalties than others, but they cost a price. Whether it's your freedom, time, or money, you will pay a penalty, and something is lost. Our main job is to learn the laws, and follow them. In John 3, Nicodemus was obviously curious about all that he'd heard and seen from Jesus and he went to Jesus inquiring about His role, starting in verse 2: This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus went on and questioned Jesus until he understood what He was talking about, because he just didn't get the phrase "born again". Jesus replied in verse 7-8: "Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” There are a lot of things that we cannot understand in the flesh, and that includes the word of God. Being "born again", is necessary to be able to understand, hear, see, and feel the Spirit. We cannot do anything without Jesus. Once we accept Him as our Lord and Savior, we experience a rebirth, and start off as newborn Spirits. It doesn't stop there; we then need to learn whom we are in Christ, and start to rebuild. If you don't know Jesus, I suggest you get to know Him as soon as you possible because Sin=death, but Christ=Life. My favorite verse today is: If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455005&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048043
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek. I'm doing well, had a good weekend, looking forward to a good week. I made the Tortellini with Crab and Gorgonzola cheese over the weekend, and it was wonderful. It's such an easy dish to make, and took me all of 20 minutes to do. Today is my Sister LaSheda's birthday, happy birthday sweetheart; my baby sister is growing up, the older she gets, means the older I get. My grandmother is doing well, she's looking good, and is up moving around, thank you for your prayers, I've planned a trip for us for the July 4th weekend, I pray she'll feel up to going. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about our death and resurrection in Christ. It is written that we should be “crucified with Christ” (Galatians 2:20), what does that mean to you? When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we die to sin, and receive eternal life in Christ. In that process we die to our old life, and lifestyle. In some cases it could be painful, because we're being refined. It could be very difficult to change a person’s ways. God has a lot of work to do, so we're going down with Christ, and then rose back up in Righteousness with Him. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all (Psalms 34:19). Think of Jesus' crucifixion, it was a lot of physical pain and suffering, but we rejoice in this act of great courage and strength, because it freed us from the penalties of sin. Jesus never complained, and lived a life full of peace. God is Who He is, and He never sugarcoats anything. As I read certain stories in the Old Testament, I see just how powerful and mighty He is, yet He's also merciful, kind, and very patient. We could see this in the sacrifice of His only begotten Son. This may seem like a heinous act, but the compassion behind it is the only thing we should be concerned with. The love of God is real, true, uplifting and comforting. The sacrifice of Jesus was necessary to free all mankind. Now He is the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, His hard work is done. Dr. Stanley wrote in his devotional today: The Lord’s ultimate purpose for each believer is that he or she will learn to think, act, and speak like Jesus (Rom. 8:29). This requires our old self to die, and our new self resurrected. We are the body of Christ, and He is one with us, as the Father is one with Him. We must commit to learning His ways, so we could complete God's will for our lives, with peace, joy, and happiness. We must have peace in knowing that God's Will shall be done, so it's easier for us to seek and follow Him. Jesus is the ultimate teacher and friend, and it’s because of Him that we're made new. Every new thing has to be created, there's a purpose for everything, and our rebirth in Christ happens at the right time, place, and season in our lives. Sin equals death, and before we find Jesus, we're dead to righteousness. We have no real connection with God, unless by the blood of Christ. I could say this everyday, and some people still don't get it. This is why we must constantly stay in the word, and exercise the Power of Christ that lives in us. If we don't live according to His word and His ways, then we sin, and when we sin something dies. Everything has its consequence, and we know that by our Earthly laws. If you break the law you're punished. Some crimes carry larger penalties than others, but they cost a price. Whether it's your freedom, time, or money, you will pay a penalty, and something is lost. Our main job is to learn the laws, and follow them. In John 3, Nicodemus was obviously curious about all that he'd heard and seen from Jesus and he went to Jesus inquiring about His role, starting in verse 2: This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus went on and questioned Jesus until he understood what He was talking about, because he just didn't get the phrase "born again". Jesus replied in verse 7-8: "Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” There are a lot of things that we cannot understand in the flesh, and that includes the word of God. Being "born again", is necessary to be able to understand, hear, see, and feel the Spirit. We cannot do anything without Jesus. Once we accept Him as our Lord and Savior, we experience a rebirth, and start off as newborn Spirits. It doesn't stop there; we then need to learn whom we are in Christ, and start to rebuild. If you don't know Jesus, I suggest you get to know Him as soon as you possible because Sin=death, but Christ=Life. My favorite verse today is: If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455005&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048043
I love you!
Friday, June 19, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY FRIDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the end of another workweek. I'm doing well, enjoying the sunshine. I'd like to wish all fathers a Happy Father's day, enjoy your day! I don’t think fathers are celebrated enough, and the ones that don’t take care of their children, are mentioned more than the ones that do. So I want us to celebrate all the good fathers on Sunday, and make them feel special. My big sister's birthday is Sunday the 21st, Happy birthday Ms. Monay! Also my co-worker David is celebrating a birthday Sunday as well. All of my sibling’s birthdays are in June, and I'm the only one in September. I like it that way, because I don't have to share a cake with anyone (lol). LaSheda's is the 22nd, and Demitrius is the 30th. Enjoy your weekend, I know there will be lots of barbecues and crabs, I pray the weather holds up. Whatever you do, do it for the Lord.
Today's scriptures are about Holiness. The word Holy is defined: Living according to a strict or highly moral religious or spiritual system; saintly. Being holy is a requirement to enter into the Kingdom of God. It's written in Acts 2:38-39: ...Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the LORD our God shall call. In these verses Peter gives us the answer to becoming Holy. The cleansing of our sins makes us Holy, and the blood of Jesus Christ does that. Once we accept Him, we receive the Holy Spirit, who is in our hearts to help us live a Holy lifestyle. Being saved isn't enough, because we have standards to live by. None of us are perfect, that's true, but we must try our best to live that way. When we say that prayer asking Jesus to come into our lives, we're entering into a covenant with Him. God immediately starts to "clean up" our Spirit. Some people appear to be converted to righteousness overnight. They stop all of there old bad habits, and throw themselves in the church. Some are lead to start their own ministries or counseling services right away. Spiritual growth is different for everyone, and some backslide or stray from the path of righteousness because of their own poor self-image. We tend to be our worst critics and over analyze our mistakes or failures. Mistakes and failures are what we learn from, and build upon, and they build our character. God is responsible for our growth, and the only thing we need to do is seek Him. We should try our best to learn who He is, and what He expects from us. Learn how to listen to His small still voice, and take heed to the Holy Spirit's guidance. After all He said in Leviticus 19:2: ...Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy. He didn't say "you might be...” or "you could be if...” but He said Ye Shall! God doesn't lie. As long as you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, He died on the cross for your sins, and He was resurrected on the third day, then you are a Holy child of God. He is working on you inside out, to ensure your actions and words will eventually reflect that fact. Always remember that you're representing Jesus Christ, and you must carry yourself as such. When people see you, they should be able to see the light in you, no matter what setting you're in. People who are filled with the Spirit have a certain glow about them, have you ever noticed that? Pastor Cooper, from my old church, had that glow, not only when he was in the pulpit preaching, but also anytime you saw Him. He always has this certain smile on His face that had peace written all over it. He has a certain meekness about him, which let you know that he is a Holy man. Do you think people could see that in you? If you saw a homeless person, what's your first thought? Do you think, "They are healthy they should just get a job” and walk pass them, or do you give them some change or something to eat? What do you think a Holy man would do, especially Jesus? If you're in the grocery store and someone bumps you with their cart, and doesn't say excuse me, how would you react? Would you argue with them and demand an apology, or do you brush it off and pray for them? A Holy person would do the ladder, however it's a growth process, so don't beat yourself up if you do the former, or react in a less than Holy way. We need to pray without ceasing, to promote our Spiritual growth. You'll notice that the more time you spend out of God's presence the more temptation you'll battle against, so you have to keep that communication open. Surround yourself with positive people, and positive influences such as Gospel music, and spiritual television programs. Speak highly of yourself, and your authority through Jesus Christ, and most importantly be a good role model for the people around you. You'd be surprised how much you could impact someone else’s life by walking in Holiness. Start off with the first and most important step, accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and then your transformation from sinner to Holiness will begin. My favorite verse today is: He hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should he holy and without blame before him in love. (Ephesians 1:4)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455002&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048039
I love you!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another Friday eve. I'm doing well, grateful to get an early start this morning. I'm starting to feel like I'm back in Portland, OR, with all of the rain. It's a lot better here, because we do get a few days in between with sunshine. The rain doesn't bother me much anyway, because I'm in the office all day. I'd like to ask for your continued prayers for my Grandmother, she's feeling better, and healing well, but the doctor may have found something else in her stomach, she's still waiting to hear from her doctor. I don't think it's too serious because they haven't admitted her back into the hospital. Thanks for all of your prayers. I'd like to wish my cousin Neitra a happy birthday, I pray you have a wonderful day! I pray for peace and blessings for all of you, have a wonderful day is well.
Today's scriptures are about entering into the Holy place of God. Take a few moments and think about who God is to you. We know that He's the Holy, righteous, merciful, Creator of all things. Now think about who you think you are. We know that we're children of God, born with a sinful nature, and live in the flesh, as mere mortal human beings. God is righteousness, and we are sin, the two cannot mix. When Jesus gave us His life on the cross, it created a veil for us. One definition for the word Veil is: something that conceals, separates, or screens like a curtain. We know in a traditional wedding the bride usually wears a veil over her head throughout the ceremony, and after saying their vows the groom lifts the veil and kiss the bride. The veil symbolizes a man's authority over a woman in this very sacred covenant. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 11:3: But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God (read the whole story in verses 1-16). Paul goes on to explain why a woman's head is covered during religious ceremonies. In the flesh we aren't worthy to be in God's presence, because of our sin. However, God could see our hearts through the veil that covers our sin. We could freely go to Him anytime or anywhere, with no restraints, as long as we come in Jesus' Name. We have the same power and authority as Jesus, so we could triumph over all of our enemies. It's written in Psalms 110:1: The LORD said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” If this applies to Jesus then it also applies to us, because we're joint heirs to the Kingdom of God. Yesterday we spoke about prayer, and today’s scriptures explains the reason why we have the authority to pray with confidence and Faith. Did you know that you’re always in the presence of God? It makes sense when we discuss it or read about it, but how many of us truly believe it? So many prayers go unanswered because of our lack of Faith. We have so much untapped power to change so many things, but we don't, because of ignorance. God has given us every opportunity to live a life full of peace, happiness, and joy, but we don't know how to exercise our Faith. The main reasons are fear, unresolved sin, guilt, shame, and other lies the enemy try to make us believe. The tools to overcome these things live right in our heart. We have all power through the blood of Jesus, and His blood washes us new! We could move mountains by Faith. I was reading the story in 1 Samuel 17, where David defeated Goliath, a giant that everyone else was afraid to challenge. David was a righteous man, who had been anointed by God, and he had faith in what God had promised him. He was confident that the God he knew and loved would give him the power to defeat this giant, without a doubt. Everyone else doubted him, but he went out, with no protective armor, a slingshot, 4 stones, and a lot of heart, and killed Goliath with one stone to the head. The key to David's victory was his faith, as you would find in verses 36-37, where he pleaded his case to King Saul before he went to battle: Your servant has killed both lion and bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, seeing he has defied the armies of the living God.” Moreover David said, “The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” How wonderful is this? David knew without doubt that God would be there for him, not only because of his past experiences, but because he knew in his heart that God is Lord of all things. David didn't even have the power of the blood of Jesus as we do, we could all be like David in today's world. Jesus said in Matthew 11:27-29: All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him. Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. From today on, don't let anything stop you from completing God's will for your life, and being happy. Money, relationships, children, jobs, cars, house, or any material thing shouldn't dictate your happiness. Although hardships and pain may seem like giants, none of these things have authority over us, because we're children of God! We have all Power through the mighty Name of Christ. Start acting like the King or Queen you are in the Kingdom of God. You could make powerful things happen through Faith. If you haven't accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you must start by saying that very important prayer. God is waiting to hear from you, are you ready to receive His power, and gain freedom through the blood of the Lamb? My favorite verse today is: Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455001&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048037
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another Friday eve. I'm doing well, grateful to get an early start this morning. I'm starting to feel like I'm back in Portland, OR, with all of the rain. It's a lot better here, because we do get a few days in between with sunshine. The rain doesn't bother me much anyway, because I'm in the office all day. I'd like to ask for your continued prayers for my Grandmother, she's feeling better, and healing well, but the doctor may have found something else in her stomach, she's still waiting to hear from her doctor. I don't think it's too serious because they haven't admitted her back into the hospital. Thanks for all of your prayers. I'd like to wish my cousin Neitra a happy birthday, I pray you have a wonderful day! I pray for peace and blessings for all of you, have a wonderful day is well.
Today's scriptures are about entering into the Holy place of God. Take a few moments and think about who God is to you. We know that He's the Holy, righteous, merciful, Creator of all things. Now think about who you think you are. We know that we're children of God, born with a sinful nature, and live in the flesh, as mere mortal human beings. God is righteousness, and we are sin, the two cannot mix. When Jesus gave us His life on the cross, it created a veil for us. One definition for the word Veil is: something that conceals, separates, or screens like a curtain. We know in a traditional wedding the bride usually wears a veil over her head throughout the ceremony, and after saying their vows the groom lifts the veil and kiss the bride. The veil symbolizes a man's authority over a woman in this very sacred covenant. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 11:3: But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God (read the whole story in verses 1-16). Paul goes on to explain why a woman's head is covered during religious ceremonies. In the flesh we aren't worthy to be in God's presence, because of our sin. However, God could see our hearts through the veil that covers our sin. We could freely go to Him anytime or anywhere, with no restraints, as long as we come in Jesus' Name. We have the same power and authority as Jesus, so we could triumph over all of our enemies. It's written in Psalms 110:1: The LORD said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” If this applies to Jesus then it also applies to us, because we're joint heirs to the Kingdom of God. Yesterday we spoke about prayer, and today’s scriptures explains the reason why we have the authority to pray with confidence and Faith. Did you know that you’re always in the presence of God? It makes sense when we discuss it or read about it, but how many of us truly believe it? So many prayers go unanswered because of our lack of Faith. We have so much untapped power to change so many things, but we don't, because of ignorance. God has given us every opportunity to live a life full of peace, happiness, and joy, but we don't know how to exercise our Faith. The main reasons are fear, unresolved sin, guilt, shame, and other lies the enemy try to make us believe. The tools to overcome these things live right in our heart. We have all power through the blood of Jesus, and His blood washes us new! We could move mountains by Faith. I was reading the story in 1 Samuel 17, where David defeated Goliath, a giant that everyone else was afraid to challenge. David was a righteous man, who had been anointed by God, and he had faith in what God had promised him. He was confident that the God he knew and loved would give him the power to defeat this giant, without a doubt. Everyone else doubted him, but he went out, with no protective armor, a slingshot, 4 stones, and a lot of heart, and killed Goliath with one stone to the head. The key to David's victory was his faith, as you would find in verses 36-37, where he pleaded his case to King Saul before he went to battle: Your servant has killed both lion and bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, seeing he has defied the armies of the living God.” Moreover David said, “The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” How wonderful is this? David knew without doubt that God would be there for him, not only because of his past experiences, but because he knew in his heart that God is Lord of all things. David didn't even have the power of the blood of Jesus as we do, we could all be like David in today's world. Jesus said in Matthew 11:27-29: All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him. Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. From today on, don't let anything stop you from completing God's will for your life, and being happy. Money, relationships, children, jobs, cars, house, or any material thing shouldn't dictate your happiness. Although hardships and pain may seem like giants, none of these things have authority over us, because we're children of God! We have all Power through the mighty Name of Christ. Start acting like the King or Queen you are in the Kingdom of God. You could make powerful things happen through Faith. If you haven't accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you must start by saying that very important prayer. God is waiting to hear from you, are you ready to receive His power, and gain freedom through the blood of the Lamb? My favorite verse today is: Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455001&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048037
I love you!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another hump day. I'm doing well, got a bit of a late start this morning, and I slept right through my alarm. My body just wouldn't respond, it demanded rest. I need to slow down, and give myself some time to relax. My routine is a bit hectic, but it's nothing that I can’t handle, with the proper rest and nourishment. Please keep me in your prayers. I'd like to wish Ms. Nettie a happy birthday, and anyone else celebrating a birthday today, enjoy your day. Everyone else, have an awesome day as well!
Today's scriptures are about prayer. We know that God is Omniscient, and knows everything past, present, and future. After all, He did create us. He could read our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. He knew our entire life since the creation. Now that we know all this, why do we still need to pray? Some wonder why if God knows everything, we still need to go to Him and ask for what we need. Prayer is more for us then it is for Him. Prayer keeps us connected to Him, and aware of His presence. It also keeps us obedient, because we must humble ourselves when we come to Him. Although we're sinners, we're made righteous by the blood of Jesus, and He wants us to talk to Him, without being shy. He's like a Father, Brother, and a Friend. We cannot hide anything from Him, and He even knows our deepest darkest secrets. He hears our voice, as well as our thoughts. It's to our benefit to be open and honest when we pray. Be specific because He is very specific with us. He said make our requests known through supplication and thanksgiving. For example, if you want a new car, go to God humbled, saying something like "Father, I need a new car and I know it's only by your grace that I'll receive it..." Also go to Him with thanksgiving saying something like, "I know I haven't received it yet, but I'm thanking you for my new car, and all of my blessings, past, present and future". When we start thanking Him for what we ask for, we show a tremendous amount of Faith. We should pray in this manner for everything, whether a new car, healing from a sickness or disease, or for our friends and family. We need to show Him that we're totally dependant upon Him. Even Jesus, who had all the power of God, prayed. He prayed often and for everything, mostly giving thanks for His blessings, and praying for others. Jesus prayed for strength when He faced hard times. He prayed with His followers as well as by Himself. He always made known the importance of prayer. Jesus teaches how to pray in the sermon of the mount Matthew 6:5-14, most of us have this prayer in memory, and some even recite it at church every Sunday. You find more prayers by Jesus in John 17, where He pray for Himself, His disciples, and He ends that prayer praying for us, verse 20 says: “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me." He prayed and asked that we become one with Him and God. Did you know that whatever we ask, through Faith, would be given to us? What more have been given to Jesus, the Son of God? Although these things were already set to happen, He still prayed on it. Although, through the grace of God, we're working hard toward a better life, and it's bound to happen, we still need to pray about it. We are one with God, by the blood of Jesus, and the way that we're reminded of this, is through prayer. When we talk to Him, it strengthens our relationship and our Faith. It helps us grow and gain wisdom. It exercises our Holy Spirit, because we're praying through Him. We don't know what we should be praying for, so God gave us the Holy Spirit to help us communicate. He’s given us everything we need to stay connected with Him. He created us for His purpose, but also gave us the option to choose Him. Remember the ultimate commandment “Love the Lord with all of your heart”? You know I will never let you forget. Love is an action, we must show and tell Him how much we love and depend on Him through prayer. With Faith, everything that we ask for, through the Spirit will be given to us, no matter how great or small. Start off with the most important prayer, asking Jesus to come into your heart as Lord, and confessing that you're a sinner. Once you do that, you'll receive the power of the Holy Spirit, and He will help you along in your Faith walk, and prayer life. God loves us more than we could ever imagine, so much so that He eagerly waits to hear from us. Don't forget what Paul taught us, always "Pray without Ceasing"; we need that ever-present bond with God. My favorite verses today are: I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live. (Psalms 116:1-2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455000&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048031
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another hump day. I'm doing well, got a bit of a late start this morning, and I slept right through my alarm. My body just wouldn't respond, it demanded rest. I need to slow down, and give myself some time to relax. My routine is a bit hectic, but it's nothing that I can’t handle, with the proper rest and nourishment. Please keep me in your prayers. I'd like to wish Ms. Nettie a happy birthday, and anyone else celebrating a birthday today, enjoy your day. Everyone else, have an awesome day as well!
Today's scriptures are about prayer. We know that God is Omniscient, and knows everything past, present, and future. After all, He did create us. He could read our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. He knew our entire life since the creation. Now that we know all this, why do we still need to pray? Some wonder why if God knows everything, we still need to go to Him and ask for what we need. Prayer is more for us then it is for Him. Prayer keeps us connected to Him, and aware of His presence. It also keeps us obedient, because we must humble ourselves when we come to Him. Although we're sinners, we're made righteous by the blood of Jesus, and He wants us to talk to Him, without being shy. He's like a Father, Brother, and a Friend. We cannot hide anything from Him, and He even knows our deepest darkest secrets. He hears our voice, as well as our thoughts. It's to our benefit to be open and honest when we pray. Be specific because He is very specific with us. He said make our requests known through supplication and thanksgiving. For example, if you want a new car, go to God humbled, saying something like "Father, I need a new car and I know it's only by your grace that I'll receive it..." Also go to Him with thanksgiving saying something like, "I know I haven't received it yet, but I'm thanking you for my new car, and all of my blessings, past, present and future". When we start thanking Him for what we ask for, we show a tremendous amount of Faith. We should pray in this manner for everything, whether a new car, healing from a sickness or disease, or for our friends and family. We need to show Him that we're totally dependant upon Him. Even Jesus, who had all the power of God, prayed. He prayed often and for everything, mostly giving thanks for His blessings, and praying for others. Jesus prayed for strength when He faced hard times. He prayed with His followers as well as by Himself. He always made known the importance of prayer. Jesus teaches how to pray in the sermon of the mount Matthew 6:5-14, most of us have this prayer in memory, and some even recite it at church every Sunday. You find more prayers by Jesus in John 17, where He pray for Himself, His disciples, and He ends that prayer praying for us, verse 20 says: “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me." He prayed and asked that we become one with Him and God. Did you know that whatever we ask, through Faith, would be given to us? What more have been given to Jesus, the Son of God? Although these things were already set to happen, He still prayed on it. Although, through the grace of God, we're working hard toward a better life, and it's bound to happen, we still need to pray about it. We are one with God, by the blood of Jesus, and the way that we're reminded of this, is through prayer. When we talk to Him, it strengthens our relationship and our Faith. It helps us grow and gain wisdom. It exercises our Holy Spirit, because we're praying through Him. We don't know what we should be praying for, so God gave us the Holy Spirit to help us communicate. He’s given us everything we need to stay connected with Him. He created us for His purpose, but also gave us the option to choose Him. Remember the ultimate commandment “Love the Lord with all of your heart”? You know I will never let you forget. Love is an action, we must show and tell Him how much we love and depend on Him through prayer. With Faith, everything that we ask for, through the Spirit will be given to us, no matter how great or small. Start off with the most important prayer, asking Jesus to come into your heart as Lord, and confessing that you're a sinner. Once you do that, you'll receive the power of the Holy Spirit, and He will help you along in your Faith walk, and prayer life. God loves us more than we could ever imagine, so much so that He eagerly waits to hear from us. Don't forget what Paul taught us, always "Pray without Ceasing"; we need that ever-present bond with God. My favorite verses today are: I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live. (Psalms 116:1-2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455000&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048031
I love you!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
Happy Tuesday!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful day. The weather was perfect today, not too hot or too cold. It was a little cloudy but an overall perfect late spring day. My grandmother is still doing well, she was in a little pain this morning, but that's to be expected. However, the blessing is that she's at home resting. I promised to cook her some Tortellini with crab and Gorgonzola cheese (recipe on my website www.divinecuisineepc.com). I can’t wait; I have all the ingredients at home already. I'm thinking about a Friday night card game, but we'll see. We usually do fish fry on Friday, and play some tunk, but we haven't done that in a while, I'll see if she'll be up to it. Keep those prayers coming, and thank you for the prayers you've sent up so far, it's written, "The prayers of a Righteous man availeth much"(James 5:16). Have a blessed day!
Today's scriptures are about walking in the ways of the Lord. We are representatives of Christ, and we should conduct ourselves in such a manner. I was recently thinking about my past, and some of the things I've done. I've been a Christian for most of my life, and I'm not sure how many people would've known it about 5 years ago. Jesus has always been in my heart, and the Holy Spirit has always been leading me, however I didn't always choose to follow. People close to me knew that I was a Christian, but the average person probably wouldn't have. It's important for us to take our roles as Christians seriously. None of us are perfect, but when we leave a room, we should leave a lasting impression on people. They should at least know that we love God, by our actions, mannerism, and outward praise. I've been on the Metro bus before, and heard teenagers sounding like they came right out of a bad rap video. They were loud and raunchy, and it made me wonder if I ever carried on like that. This type of behavior comes from a lack of discipline, and proper Spiritual teaching and influence. Our main focus is uplifting the kingdom of God, and we all know from Adam and Eve, that we have a very inquisitive nature. God told them what would happen if they ate from the tree of life, but they had to see for themselves. We could tell people about Jesus, and about how much God loves them, but they won't believe until they see Him for themselves, through us. They will watch our actions, and our way of life, and this will no doubt be a big part of their decision to follow God. It starts from within, we all know that God will bless the righteous, and our blessings not only affect us, but they act as testimonies for His love for us. It's important to openly praise and thank Him for every blessing. We shouldn’t worry about what other people think, live above the worldly ways, and be our own individuals for Christ. There are so many people that are depending on us for leadership. People who are lost are not happy that way, and they're looking for freedom. They'll either find false freedom through worldly lust, greed, and empty pleasure, or they'll find the only true freedom through the Lord Jesus Christ by watching and hearing us. Once people find out we're Christians we have an obligation to represent Christ well. Many in the world hated Jesus, so it's not that easy to fit Him into a conversation without controversy. On the other hand, we've been filled with the Spirit to help us in our walk, to be able to spread the Gospel of Christ (John 15:24-26). The saying "Action speaks louder than words” is a motto that we should live by. I don't expect to see my Pastor at the club on Saturday night, drunk on the dance floor. As well as you don't expect to see me in line at the grocery store, on my cell phone talking loud and using foul language, because that would be foolish behavior of any Christian. What messages will that send to the lost or baby Spirits? Living in this Modern society a lot of things are overlooked, because of the times that we're in. People think that fornication is okay because everyone is doing it. Marriage is taking lightly, because no one respects the covenant. Our children are corrupt because they're only going by what they see. The Government is too relaxed on FCC laws, and protecting our television and radio waves from filth. It's called "Freedom of Speech". These things are out of control, because of the "modern times", but we're key to changing the way our children are brought up. It all starts with us. We must work on strengthening our relationship with God; He's open to us anytime we have questions or concerns, because of the blood of Christ. We must walk in step with Christ. 1 John 1:7 says: But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. Once we're saved we're brought out of the darkness into his marvelous light, and for His sake, we must walk that way. If you don't know Jesus, but want to know Him, just pray and ask for forgiveness of your sins, and ask Him to come into your heart as your Savior. He'll start to renew you from the inside out. If you are a child of God, then act like one. Read Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John, and follow the life of Jesus for reference. No matter how modern the times are, Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. My favorite verses today are: Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. (Col 4:5-6)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454999&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048027
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful day. The weather was perfect today, not too hot or too cold. It was a little cloudy but an overall perfect late spring day. My grandmother is still doing well, she was in a little pain this morning, but that's to be expected. However, the blessing is that she's at home resting. I promised to cook her some Tortellini with crab and Gorgonzola cheese (recipe on my website www.divinecuisineepc.com). I can’t wait; I have all the ingredients at home already. I'm thinking about a Friday night card game, but we'll see. We usually do fish fry on Friday, and play some tunk, but we haven't done that in a while, I'll see if she'll be up to it. Keep those prayers coming, and thank you for the prayers you've sent up so far, it's written, "The prayers of a Righteous man availeth much"(James 5:16). Have a blessed day!
Today's scriptures are about walking in the ways of the Lord. We are representatives of Christ, and we should conduct ourselves in such a manner. I was recently thinking about my past, and some of the things I've done. I've been a Christian for most of my life, and I'm not sure how many people would've known it about 5 years ago. Jesus has always been in my heart, and the Holy Spirit has always been leading me, however I didn't always choose to follow. People close to me knew that I was a Christian, but the average person probably wouldn't have. It's important for us to take our roles as Christians seriously. None of us are perfect, but when we leave a room, we should leave a lasting impression on people. They should at least know that we love God, by our actions, mannerism, and outward praise. I've been on the Metro bus before, and heard teenagers sounding like they came right out of a bad rap video. They were loud and raunchy, and it made me wonder if I ever carried on like that. This type of behavior comes from a lack of discipline, and proper Spiritual teaching and influence. Our main focus is uplifting the kingdom of God, and we all know from Adam and Eve, that we have a very inquisitive nature. God told them what would happen if they ate from the tree of life, but they had to see for themselves. We could tell people about Jesus, and about how much God loves them, but they won't believe until they see Him for themselves, through us. They will watch our actions, and our way of life, and this will no doubt be a big part of their decision to follow God. It starts from within, we all know that God will bless the righteous, and our blessings not only affect us, but they act as testimonies for His love for us. It's important to openly praise and thank Him for every blessing. We shouldn’t worry about what other people think, live above the worldly ways, and be our own individuals for Christ. There are so many people that are depending on us for leadership. People who are lost are not happy that way, and they're looking for freedom. They'll either find false freedom through worldly lust, greed, and empty pleasure, or they'll find the only true freedom through the Lord Jesus Christ by watching and hearing us. Once people find out we're Christians we have an obligation to represent Christ well. Many in the world hated Jesus, so it's not that easy to fit Him into a conversation without controversy. On the other hand, we've been filled with the Spirit to help us in our walk, to be able to spread the Gospel of Christ (John 15:24-26). The saying "Action speaks louder than words” is a motto that we should live by. I don't expect to see my Pastor at the club on Saturday night, drunk on the dance floor. As well as you don't expect to see me in line at the grocery store, on my cell phone talking loud and using foul language, because that would be foolish behavior of any Christian. What messages will that send to the lost or baby Spirits? Living in this Modern society a lot of things are overlooked, because of the times that we're in. People think that fornication is okay because everyone is doing it. Marriage is taking lightly, because no one respects the covenant. Our children are corrupt because they're only going by what they see. The Government is too relaxed on FCC laws, and protecting our television and radio waves from filth. It's called "Freedom of Speech". These things are out of control, because of the "modern times", but we're key to changing the way our children are brought up. It all starts with us. We must work on strengthening our relationship with God; He's open to us anytime we have questions or concerns, because of the blood of Christ. We must walk in step with Christ. 1 John 1:7 says: But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. Once we're saved we're brought out of the darkness into his marvelous light, and for His sake, we must walk that way. If you don't know Jesus, but want to know Him, just pray and ask for forgiveness of your sins, and ask Him to come into your heart as your Savior. He'll start to renew you from the inside out. If you are a child of God, then act like one. Read Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John, and follow the life of Jesus for reference. No matter how modern the times are, Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. My favorite verses today are: Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. (Col 4:5-6)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454999&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048027
I love you!
Monday, June 15, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY MONDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek. I'm doing well, have a wonderful testimony to share. First, thanks for all of your prayers for my Grandmother; she's doing very well today. We found out she had the aneurysm near her kidneys on Thursday, and the doctor scheduled her for surgery Friday at noon. Love, and lots of prayers surrounded her, and she was anointed with oil. After all of that we knew that she was going to be okay. She finally headed into surgery around 2pm Friday, and came out successfully Friday night, at about 8pm. The aneurysm was millimeters away from her Kidneys, but no damage was done at all. They expected her to be in ICU for 4 days after the surgery, but she was sent to a regular room Saturday afternoon. She was discharged from the hospital today Praise God! She's happy, healthy, and healing wonderfully, by the mighty power of the Holy Spirit, through the blood of Jesus! Hallelujah! I ask that you continue to keep her in your prayers for a full recovery and healing for her breathing. I'm still praising God, because it was nothing but the blood that got her through this unharmed. Have a wonderful day, and keep believing in the power of prayer.
Today's scriptures are about the secrets of God. How many times have you heard, saw, or discovered something that you were better off not knowing? It has happened to me plenty of times, because I am a very nosey person. Well I would like to call myself "inquisitive", because I "Inquiring minds want to know". However, God is on another level, and He always knows what's best for us. Those things that are hidden are meant to be that way. We're growing in our Faith walk, and certain things will be revealed when we could handle them. Just as you wouldn't talk to a 5-year-old child about sex education, it's completely unwarranted at that age. Whereas if you talk to them about it at 12 years of age it better prepares them for the reality of it. There's an order to everything that God does, and we sometimes won't find out the answers to our questions until we reach heaven. Most times He'll reveal the answers when we're mature enough to handle them. Some people think we aren't supposed to question God, but I think we should in order to gain Wisdom. There are times when we're going through hardship, heartache, and pain, which are supposed to teach us lessons, but how would ever learn if we don't ask? We need to seek ye first the kingdom of God, eventually He'll give us all the answers. God knows us inside and out, and He knows how much we could endure. His main concern is our well being, peace and happiness, because we cannot adequately complete the tasks given to us, if we're in a bad place, mentally, physically, Spiritually or emotionally. Everything has its season, as we learn in Ecclesiastes chapter 3, and everything is planned out perfectly for us. We must keep our minds stayed on Him, in order to follow His perfect plan. Sometimes we'll miss our blessing, or go ahead of God on some things, and we end up making a mess of our situation. I'm the poster child for going ahead of God. I'm a very impatient person, I need things right now, and I've never been much of a planner. However, I'm learning, as I get older, that good things come to those who wait. I just came through a season where God had to constantly tell me to be "be still". I would start praying really fast, and running through my list of wants and desires, and God would simply say to me "Be Still". I would reply, "But God, you know I need to have this and that, in order to accomplish these things for you", and He'd still say, "Be Still". At that time I had been offered two very good opportunities, and they both were blessings. One of them was the logical choice, that would've caused me to be in a better mental, and financial situation, but God still said "Be Still". I came down to the wire, where I had to give an answer the next day, and God was still saying, "Be still". My goodness, that was a really hard time for me, because I'm used to making things happen. I always like to be in control, but after surrendering my life to God, I'm quickly learning, after numerous altercations with my Spirit, that God is definitely in charge. When it came time to give an answer I simply said, "God told me to be still". I knew what the world deemed better for me, and what I thought was better for me, but I also knew that God knows what's absolutely best for me. I've learned to question Him, with a humble and submissive attitude. I prayed, "God you know my situation, and I know you're in charge, but I need to know what I'm supposed to do now?” After a few more "be still" answers, He's slowly starting to reveal to me why I had to stay where I am. I'm so happy that I took heed to His warnings. We are all growing in Spirit, at different levels, and this is another reason why we shouldn't compare ourselves to others. Everything isn't meant for everybody. God is the creator of all things, and He knew our lives from the beginning of time. Who are you going to trust Him or the world? If you're a know-it-all like me, I urge you to slow down, and seek God's wisdom. As well as let some things go. I'm starting to understand that "If you go searching for something you just might find it", and some things aren't meant to be found, and could end up doing more harm than good. Trust in the Lord, after all He gave His son's life to be close to us, and He's always looking out for our best interest. If you have questions for Him, you have the right, by the blood of Jesus to ask. If you get your answer good, and if you don't, that's even better, because everything isn't meant for us to know, just trust Him. My favorite verses today are: Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me. Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child. (Psalms 131:1-2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454998&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048023
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek. I'm doing well, have a wonderful testimony to share. First, thanks for all of your prayers for my Grandmother; she's doing very well today. We found out she had the aneurysm near her kidneys on Thursday, and the doctor scheduled her for surgery Friday at noon. Love, and lots of prayers surrounded her, and she was anointed with oil. After all of that we knew that she was going to be okay. She finally headed into surgery around 2pm Friday, and came out successfully Friday night, at about 8pm. The aneurysm was millimeters away from her Kidneys, but no damage was done at all. They expected her to be in ICU for 4 days after the surgery, but she was sent to a regular room Saturday afternoon. She was discharged from the hospital today Praise God! She's happy, healthy, and healing wonderfully, by the mighty power of the Holy Spirit, through the blood of Jesus! Hallelujah! I ask that you continue to keep her in your prayers for a full recovery and healing for her breathing. I'm still praising God, because it was nothing but the blood that got her through this unharmed. Have a wonderful day, and keep believing in the power of prayer.
Today's scriptures are about the secrets of God. How many times have you heard, saw, or discovered something that you were better off not knowing? It has happened to me plenty of times, because I am a very nosey person. Well I would like to call myself "inquisitive", because I "Inquiring minds want to know". However, God is on another level, and He always knows what's best for us. Those things that are hidden are meant to be that way. We're growing in our Faith walk, and certain things will be revealed when we could handle them. Just as you wouldn't talk to a 5-year-old child about sex education, it's completely unwarranted at that age. Whereas if you talk to them about it at 12 years of age it better prepares them for the reality of it. There's an order to everything that God does, and we sometimes won't find out the answers to our questions until we reach heaven. Most times He'll reveal the answers when we're mature enough to handle them. Some people think we aren't supposed to question God, but I think we should in order to gain Wisdom. There are times when we're going through hardship, heartache, and pain, which are supposed to teach us lessons, but how would ever learn if we don't ask? We need to seek ye first the kingdom of God, eventually He'll give us all the answers. God knows us inside and out, and He knows how much we could endure. His main concern is our well being, peace and happiness, because we cannot adequately complete the tasks given to us, if we're in a bad place, mentally, physically, Spiritually or emotionally. Everything has its season, as we learn in Ecclesiastes chapter 3, and everything is planned out perfectly for us. We must keep our minds stayed on Him, in order to follow His perfect plan. Sometimes we'll miss our blessing, or go ahead of God on some things, and we end up making a mess of our situation. I'm the poster child for going ahead of God. I'm a very impatient person, I need things right now, and I've never been much of a planner. However, I'm learning, as I get older, that good things come to those who wait. I just came through a season where God had to constantly tell me to be "be still". I would start praying really fast, and running through my list of wants and desires, and God would simply say to me "Be Still". I would reply, "But God, you know I need to have this and that, in order to accomplish these things for you", and He'd still say, "Be Still". At that time I had been offered two very good opportunities, and they both were blessings. One of them was the logical choice, that would've caused me to be in a better mental, and financial situation, but God still said "Be Still". I came down to the wire, where I had to give an answer the next day, and God was still saying, "Be still". My goodness, that was a really hard time for me, because I'm used to making things happen. I always like to be in control, but after surrendering my life to God, I'm quickly learning, after numerous altercations with my Spirit, that God is definitely in charge. When it came time to give an answer I simply said, "God told me to be still". I knew what the world deemed better for me, and what I thought was better for me, but I also knew that God knows what's absolutely best for me. I've learned to question Him, with a humble and submissive attitude. I prayed, "God you know my situation, and I know you're in charge, but I need to know what I'm supposed to do now?” After a few more "be still" answers, He's slowly starting to reveal to me why I had to stay where I am. I'm so happy that I took heed to His warnings. We are all growing in Spirit, at different levels, and this is another reason why we shouldn't compare ourselves to others. Everything isn't meant for everybody. God is the creator of all things, and He knew our lives from the beginning of time. Who are you going to trust Him or the world? If you're a know-it-all like me, I urge you to slow down, and seek God's wisdom. As well as let some things go. I'm starting to understand that "If you go searching for something you just might find it", and some things aren't meant to be found, and could end up doing more harm than good. Trust in the Lord, after all He gave His son's life to be close to us, and He's always looking out for our best interest. If you have questions for Him, you have the right, by the blood of Jesus to ask. If you get your answer good, and if you don't, that's even better, because everything isn't meant for us to know, just trust Him. My favorite verses today are: Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me. Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child. (Psalms 131:1-2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454998&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048023
I love you!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
Happy Thursday!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Friday eve. I'm doing well, looking forward to the weekend. My grandmother is in the hospital please pray for her. She has an Aneurysm, and the doctors are trying to decide how to treat it, they're saying she may be too weak to operate, but that is the only option. I need you to join together with me in prayer, that she will come out of this healed. Thank you for your support.
Today's scriptures are about the compassion of God. The love of God is nurturing, kind, sweet, strong, and full. He accepts us for who we are in Christ. Jesus is living proof of His Grace, love and mercy. We're given a certain set of commandments to live by. We have the Ten Commandments that were written by Moses, found in the book of Exodus, in the Old Testament, which we still need to obey today. However, in the New Testament, these things are summed up in Gal 5:19-21: Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. When Jesus died on that Cross, those of us who has accepted Him as our Lord and Savior have been delivered from all penalties of sin, and will inherit the Kingdom of God. He is gracious enough to wipe our slate clean, because of the blood of Jesus. We know that because of our flesh, it's very hard to walk on the path of Righteousness without falling. God knows that as well, because He came to earth in Human form, in order to experience what we experience. He loves us so much that He wanted to get in tune with us. He understands our frailty and therefore has a lot of patience with us. No matter what we do, He'll always forgive us. He’ll never turn His back on His children, and is always waiting with open arms to receive us. Just as the father in the story of the prodigal son. He knows each of us individually, and because we're made righteous through Jesus Christ, we have the Spirit of Love instilled in us. All we need to do is keep the communication open with Him. We should reverence Him enough to come to Him with all of our needs and concerns, and even share our Joys through praise. I always use the parent/child analogies because He is our Heavenly Father. In most cases if something happens to a child, i.e. they're being picked on at school, they got in trouble with a teacher, or maybe something really bad happens like they're raped or molested by someone close to them, they won't share these incidents with anyone, not even their parents. When these incidents are brought to the parents attention, the first thing they'll ask is, "Why didn't you come to me and tell me?" The child will keep these things secret mostly out of feelings of shame, guilt, or fear, and most of the times they start to act out. We've seen it numerous times before on the News, in movies, or some of us have experienced it first hand. The child doesn't doubt the fact that their parents love them, and would do anything in the world to keep them safe, they only see the shame of what's happened to them, and often times blame themselves. I know this is a dreadful example, but this is how the enemy will make us feel regarding sin. God is a loving Father who only wants what's best for us. He wants us to have a healthy, happy life, filled with the fruits of the Spirit (Gal. 5). He knows that sin happens, and that's why He gave His son as atonement for our sins. No matter what the sin, from being jealous to murder, we're instantly forgiven when we come to Him humbled and ready to repent. He will never deny us when we cry out to Him; He always answers our prayers. He'll be there to strengthen and lift us up, and will never turn His back on us. Once we're forgiven we're forgiven, it's never brought up again. We have a number of scriptures to confirm that today. Don't let sin separate you from your loving Heavenly Father again. Go to Him right now and confess that you're a sinner, ask Him for forgiveness, and try not to sin again. We have inherited the right to do that anytime, for anything, when we accepted Jesus as our Savior. If you don't know Him, then I suggest you immediately say that prayer, because tomorrow isn't promised to you. My favorite verse today is: As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. (Psalms 103:12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454994&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047999
I love you
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Friday eve. I'm doing well, looking forward to the weekend. My grandmother is in the hospital please pray for her. She has an Aneurysm, and the doctors are trying to decide how to treat it, they're saying she may be too weak to operate, but that is the only option. I need you to join together with me in prayer, that she will come out of this healed. Thank you for your support.
Today's scriptures are about the compassion of God. The love of God is nurturing, kind, sweet, strong, and full. He accepts us for who we are in Christ. Jesus is living proof of His Grace, love and mercy. We're given a certain set of commandments to live by. We have the Ten Commandments that were written by Moses, found in the book of Exodus, in the Old Testament, which we still need to obey today. However, in the New Testament, these things are summed up in Gal 5:19-21: Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. When Jesus died on that Cross, those of us who has accepted Him as our Lord and Savior have been delivered from all penalties of sin, and will inherit the Kingdom of God. He is gracious enough to wipe our slate clean, because of the blood of Jesus. We know that because of our flesh, it's very hard to walk on the path of Righteousness without falling. God knows that as well, because He came to earth in Human form, in order to experience what we experience. He loves us so much that He wanted to get in tune with us. He understands our frailty and therefore has a lot of patience with us. No matter what we do, He'll always forgive us. He’ll never turn His back on His children, and is always waiting with open arms to receive us. Just as the father in the story of the prodigal son. He knows each of us individually, and because we're made righteous through Jesus Christ, we have the Spirit of Love instilled in us. All we need to do is keep the communication open with Him. We should reverence Him enough to come to Him with all of our needs and concerns, and even share our Joys through praise. I always use the parent/child analogies because He is our Heavenly Father. In most cases if something happens to a child, i.e. they're being picked on at school, they got in trouble with a teacher, or maybe something really bad happens like they're raped or molested by someone close to them, they won't share these incidents with anyone, not even their parents. When these incidents are brought to the parents attention, the first thing they'll ask is, "Why didn't you come to me and tell me?" The child will keep these things secret mostly out of feelings of shame, guilt, or fear, and most of the times they start to act out. We've seen it numerous times before on the News, in movies, or some of us have experienced it first hand. The child doesn't doubt the fact that their parents love them, and would do anything in the world to keep them safe, they only see the shame of what's happened to them, and often times blame themselves. I know this is a dreadful example, but this is how the enemy will make us feel regarding sin. God is a loving Father who only wants what's best for us. He wants us to have a healthy, happy life, filled with the fruits of the Spirit (Gal. 5). He knows that sin happens, and that's why He gave His son as atonement for our sins. No matter what the sin, from being jealous to murder, we're instantly forgiven when we come to Him humbled and ready to repent. He will never deny us when we cry out to Him; He always answers our prayers. He'll be there to strengthen and lift us up, and will never turn His back on us. Once we're forgiven we're forgiven, it's never brought up again. We have a number of scriptures to confirm that today. Don't let sin separate you from your loving Heavenly Father again. Go to Him right now and confess that you're a sinner, ask Him for forgiveness, and try not to sin again. We have inherited the right to do that anytime, for anything, when we accepted Jesus as our Savior. If you don't know Him, then I suggest you immediately say that prayer, because tomorrow isn't promised to you. My favorite verse today is: As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. (Psalms 103:12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454994&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047999
I love you
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY FRIDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Hump day. I'm doing well, a little tired, but I will survive. I was just thinking about all of the thunderstorms we've been having in the DC area, and remember how much rain I experienced while in Portland, OR. However, no matter how much it rained, there was never any thunder and lightening that I could remember. A friend and fellow student pointed that out to me, she's from Florida, so you know she’s experienced all types of storms. I'm praying for the family of the two little boys that were struck by lightening in Maryland last week, while playing baseball. One of the little boys died, the last I heard the other was in critical condition. It’s supposed to storm the rest of the week, so stay in if you can. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about our resurrection in Christ. Start to think about your life before you were saved, or shortly after. Have you noticed any change in your attitude, actions, or way of life? Have you noticed your Holy Spirit is becoming more vocal, and you're starting to feel ashamed or embarrassed about making the same old mistakes? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then you're starting to grow in your Faith walk. Before we were saved we were of the world, and ruled by the darkness. Some of us, depending on the way were raised and, our surroundings weren’t very nice people, inside and/or out. Once we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we began our resurrection. It's written: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). We die to our flesh, and are born again of the Spirit (1 Peter 1:22-25). We gradually grow in our Faith walk, and in most cases still live the life we used to live in the flesh, at the beginning. We're expected to make mistakes, as part of our growth process. God only gives us what we could handle, and makes sure that we have all that we need. When we do fall, just as a caring Father, He's there to pick us up. He gives us the nurturing guidance to keep us in His will. It's written in 1 Corinthians 3:1: And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ. Paul wrote this to let the Corinthians know that he understood where they were in their walk. He also went on to explain to them that He is not solely responsible for their growth. He said he's just the minister, all he could do is plant the seed, and someone else could water it, but God is responsible for the increase (vs. 7). When we're in the "babe" stage God feeds us with milk, because we're not able to digest solid food just yet. For example, if we ask for a million dollars, and are still so irresponsible that we can’t manage $100, do you think He’ll bless us with it? Of course He wouldn’t, because He knows that we could ultimately do damage to ourselves. Just as we won't give our 12-year-old child permission to drive a car, because they’re not mature enough to handle that type of responsibility, and are liable to kill themselves and/or others. If you're a Christian, then you should be able to look at your life just 5 years ago and see a difference in your maturity level. If you haven't, then there's something that is stunting your growth. We all grow at different paces, according to the will of God; so don't try to compare you with anyone else. Compare your old self with your new self. Personally, God has grown me up tremendously, when I started to seek Him. I've been saved ever since I could remember, however, I couldn't really see a difference in my growth until about 5 years ago, when I surrendered to Him. A part of that growth is maturity, but most of it is Spiritual. I know people my age and older that's still being bottle-fed, but I also know that they're exactly where God wants them to be, and so am I. If you are one of those people that feel like you aren't growing in your Faith walk, then at some point you're going to get tired and seek Him, and He'll welcome you with open arms, just as the story of the "Prodigal" or “Lost son" in Luke 15:11-32 (part of the opening verse). The young son asked the father for his inheritance so he could go out and experience life, and the father split up all of his money and possessions between his two sons. The young son when out and blew all of his money, and the older son saved his money and stayed home with the father to work. The young son came back home after working as a servant for a while, and the Father welcomed Him back home with open arms, and even gave him a big party. The older son was very upset about that, and didn't understand why he wasn't celebrated that way. The father told him, don't be angry just be happy that your bother is home and safe. Jesus said in verse 10: "Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” God knows your heart, and He knows where you are and where you came from. He loves you enough to give you all of the nourishment you need to grow, so don't allow the enemy to keep you down. You are a child of God, regardless of where you are in your Faith walk. He understands every stage you'll go through, as well as the stage you’re in, and He loves you either way. Jesus was sacrificed to bring you Home, so if you feel like the prodigal son, then come Home, He's waiting on you to humble yourself, ask for forgiveness, and accept Jesus as your Savior. Seek Him, and He'll do the rest. My favorite verse today is: Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (John 4:10)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454993&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047989
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Hump day. I'm doing well, a little tired, but I will survive. I was just thinking about all of the thunderstorms we've been having in the DC area, and remember how much rain I experienced while in Portland, OR. However, no matter how much it rained, there was never any thunder and lightening that I could remember. A friend and fellow student pointed that out to me, she's from Florida, so you know she’s experienced all types of storms. I'm praying for the family of the two little boys that were struck by lightening in Maryland last week, while playing baseball. One of the little boys died, the last I heard the other was in critical condition. It’s supposed to storm the rest of the week, so stay in if you can. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about our resurrection in Christ. Start to think about your life before you were saved, or shortly after. Have you noticed any change in your attitude, actions, or way of life? Have you noticed your Holy Spirit is becoming more vocal, and you're starting to feel ashamed or embarrassed about making the same old mistakes? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then you're starting to grow in your Faith walk. Before we were saved we were of the world, and ruled by the darkness. Some of us, depending on the way were raised and, our surroundings weren’t very nice people, inside and/or out. Once we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we began our resurrection. It's written: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). We die to our flesh, and are born again of the Spirit (1 Peter 1:22-25). We gradually grow in our Faith walk, and in most cases still live the life we used to live in the flesh, at the beginning. We're expected to make mistakes, as part of our growth process. God only gives us what we could handle, and makes sure that we have all that we need. When we do fall, just as a caring Father, He's there to pick us up. He gives us the nurturing guidance to keep us in His will. It's written in 1 Corinthians 3:1: And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ. Paul wrote this to let the Corinthians know that he understood where they were in their walk. He also went on to explain to them that He is not solely responsible for their growth. He said he's just the minister, all he could do is plant the seed, and someone else could water it, but God is responsible for the increase (vs. 7). When we're in the "babe" stage God feeds us with milk, because we're not able to digest solid food just yet. For example, if we ask for a million dollars, and are still so irresponsible that we can’t manage $100, do you think He’ll bless us with it? Of course He wouldn’t, because He knows that we could ultimately do damage to ourselves. Just as we won't give our 12-year-old child permission to drive a car, because they’re not mature enough to handle that type of responsibility, and are liable to kill themselves and/or others. If you're a Christian, then you should be able to look at your life just 5 years ago and see a difference in your maturity level. If you haven't, then there's something that is stunting your growth. We all grow at different paces, according to the will of God; so don't try to compare you with anyone else. Compare your old self with your new self. Personally, God has grown me up tremendously, when I started to seek Him. I've been saved ever since I could remember, however, I couldn't really see a difference in my growth until about 5 years ago, when I surrendered to Him. A part of that growth is maturity, but most of it is Spiritual. I know people my age and older that's still being bottle-fed, but I also know that they're exactly where God wants them to be, and so am I. If you are one of those people that feel like you aren't growing in your Faith walk, then at some point you're going to get tired and seek Him, and He'll welcome you with open arms, just as the story of the "Prodigal" or “Lost son" in Luke 15:11-32 (part of the opening verse). The young son asked the father for his inheritance so he could go out and experience life, and the father split up all of his money and possessions between his two sons. The young son when out and blew all of his money, and the older son saved his money and stayed home with the father to work. The young son came back home after working as a servant for a while, and the Father welcomed Him back home with open arms, and even gave him a big party. The older son was very upset about that, and didn't understand why he wasn't celebrated that way. The father told him, don't be angry just be happy that your bother is home and safe. Jesus said in verse 10: "Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” God knows your heart, and He knows where you are and where you came from. He loves you enough to give you all of the nourishment you need to grow, so don't allow the enemy to keep you down. You are a child of God, regardless of where you are in your Faith walk. He understands every stage you'll go through, as well as the stage you’re in, and He loves you either way. Jesus was sacrificed to bring you Home, so if you feel like the prodigal son, then come Home, He's waiting on you to humble yourself, ask for forgiveness, and accept Jesus as your Savior. Seek Him, and He'll do the rest. My favorite verse today is: Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (John 4:10)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454993&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047989
I love you!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well, feeling much better God is good. I got some rest, and woke up to a beautiful morning. I'm already looking forward to the weekend, and we're not even halfway through the week. I'm getting acclimated to my workouts at the gym, and learning how to get in and out. At one time, I was in there for 2 hours every night. I received an update about Pastor Laura, she's doing well, and responding to the treatment, thank you for your prayers, please continue to pray her quick recovery. Also pray for my Grandmother, she has her appetite back, and has come up with some elaborate menus over the next few weekends. I'm more than happy to cook for her, because she's willing to try new things. She’s a very picky eater, so for her to like everything that I've cooked for her so far, says a lot. Please pray for continued strength and recovery. Thanks for your prayers, have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about the Word of God. The Word is given to us in a few different ways. The most tangible way is the Holy Bible, which was divinely written by God through man. The bible is given to us as a handbook on life, as well as an autobiography from God. It teaches us His ways, through numerous stories written over thousands of years. It tells the story of how the Earth was created. We learned that Man was created from dirt, and that God breathed the breath of life into us. He's the great I AM, and a great Creator, Protector, Provider, and Friend, who promise to Love us forever. We could see His soft side through the forgiveness and mercy He we read about. We also learn His hard side, through the destruction of earth, and the punishment He's given to people who disobey Him. The bible is composed of several books that start at Genesis, where we learn the story of how we started, and it ends with the book of Revelations, where we learn how we'll end (and live again, reunited with Jesus in Heaven). God speaks to us through this book, and every time we pick it up to read it, we're lead by our Spirit, to stories that are meant to give us wisdom to be applied to our everyday lives. Whenever we read, we should always open our hearts, and ask the Holy Spirit to lead us to the spiritual fruit God is attempting to teach us. We could sometimes read the same verse of Scripture, and get a different meaning each time. It also helps us build our Faith in Him, because we're able to learn His character. We learn His likes and dislikes, and His commandments. We learn how to please and love Him, and began to understand His love for us. The bible is filled with wonderful promises that give us hope in our own lives. God doesn't lie, and He never changes, so although this book was written thousands of years ago, it doesn’t change either. We could still relate to most of the stories written, and apply the principles to our modern day life. Jesus was the word of God, brought to life. He was also a great teacher and innovator. He made it possible for each of us to hear the word of God. Before Christ, the word came from Prophets like Samuel and Daniel. God also spoke to people like Noah and Abraham, because He had specific jobs for them to do. Through the blood of Jesus a covenant was made, that allowed us to be Righteous enough to have a perfect relationship with God. We could now converse with Him, not only making our petitions known, but also listening intently for answers. He speaks to us in a small still voice, that we must be wise enough to hear. We could also learn how to listen to Him through the word, because we learn about His character. We learn the things He would and wouldn't do, and this allows us to discern between His and the enemy voices. His Word also gives us ammunition to fight against the attacks of the enemy, because we stand on His promises to get through life. It's written that His word is like a double-edged sword, because knowledge holds us accountable for our actions. You ever heard the saying, "God watches over fools and babes"? He gives us a little more leeway when we don't know any better, but when we blatantly sin against Him, having the wisdom to know better, then we're going to be punished to the fullest extent. All God wants is our love, trust, and fellowship. He's willing to take care of our every need, want, and desire, but we have to believe that He will. I've asked this numerous times, how could you trust someone you don't know? His word is the only way to get to know Him, and to learn how to follow His will for our life. Getting to know Him comes with the fruits of the Spirit, Joy, peace, happiness, love, etc. There are many versions of the bible, but they all end up saying the same thing. Seek His word, and you will find a treasure beyond anything you could imagine. Don't forget it also comes through studying the bible, prophets [and the people around us], and by the Holy Spirit. It will not mean anything to you, if you don't have Jesus in your heart, so that's the first step to Spiritual freedom, try Him out. There are numerous stories about Jesus, read the Gospels Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John to start. I promise once you receive Word, you too will become a vessel to share the Word of God with others. My favorite verse today is: The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword. (Hebrews 4:12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454992&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047985
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well, feeling much better God is good. I got some rest, and woke up to a beautiful morning. I'm already looking forward to the weekend, and we're not even halfway through the week. I'm getting acclimated to my workouts at the gym, and learning how to get in and out. At one time, I was in there for 2 hours every night. I received an update about Pastor Laura, she's doing well, and responding to the treatment, thank you for your prayers, please continue to pray her quick recovery. Also pray for my Grandmother, she has her appetite back, and has come up with some elaborate menus over the next few weekends. I'm more than happy to cook for her, because she's willing to try new things. She’s a very picky eater, so for her to like everything that I've cooked for her so far, says a lot. Please pray for continued strength and recovery. Thanks for your prayers, have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about the Word of God. The Word is given to us in a few different ways. The most tangible way is the Holy Bible, which was divinely written by God through man. The bible is given to us as a handbook on life, as well as an autobiography from God. It teaches us His ways, through numerous stories written over thousands of years. It tells the story of how the Earth was created. We learned that Man was created from dirt, and that God breathed the breath of life into us. He's the great I AM, and a great Creator, Protector, Provider, and Friend, who promise to Love us forever. We could see His soft side through the forgiveness and mercy He we read about. We also learn His hard side, through the destruction of earth, and the punishment He's given to people who disobey Him. The bible is composed of several books that start at Genesis, where we learn the story of how we started, and it ends with the book of Revelations, where we learn how we'll end (and live again, reunited with Jesus in Heaven). God speaks to us through this book, and every time we pick it up to read it, we're lead by our Spirit, to stories that are meant to give us wisdom to be applied to our everyday lives. Whenever we read, we should always open our hearts, and ask the Holy Spirit to lead us to the spiritual fruit God is attempting to teach us. We could sometimes read the same verse of Scripture, and get a different meaning each time. It also helps us build our Faith in Him, because we're able to learn His character. We learn His likes and dislikes, and His commandments. We learn how to please and love Him, and began to understand His love for us. The bible is filled with wonderful promises that give us hope in our own lives. God doesn't lie, and He never changes, so although this book was written thousands of years ago, it doesn’t change either. We could still relate to most of the stories written, and apply the principles to our modern day life. Jesus was the word of God, brought to life. He was also a great teacher and innovator. He made it possible for each of us to hear the word of God. Before Christ, the word came from Prophets like Samuel and Daniel. God also spoke to people like Noah and Abraham, because He had specific jobs for them to do. Through the blood of Jesus a covenant was made, that allowed us to be Righteous enough to have a perfect relationship with God. We could now converse with Him, not only making our petitions known, but also listening intently for answers. He speaks to us in a small still voice, that we must be wise enough to hear. We could also learn how to listen to Him through the word, because we learn about His character. We learn the things He would and wouldn't do, and this allows us to discern between His and the enemy voices. His Word also gives us ammunition to fight against the attacks of the enemy, because we stand on His promises to get through life. It's written that His word is like a double-edged sword, because knowledge holds us accountable for our actions. You ever heard the saying, "God watches over fools and babes"? He gives us a little more leeway when we don't know any better, but when we blatantly sin against Him, having the wisdom to know better, then we're going to be punished to the fullest extent. All God wants is our love, trust, and fellowship. He's willing to take care of our every need, want, and desire, but we have to believe that He will. I've asked this numerous times, how could you trust someone you don't know? His word is the only way to get to know Him, and to learn how to follow His will for our life. Getting to know Him comes with the fruits of the Spirit, Joy, peace, happiness, love, etc. There are many versions of the bible, but they all end up saying the same thing. Seek His word, and you will find a treasure beyond anything you could imagine. Don't forget it also comes through studying the bible, prophets [and the people around us], and by the Holy Spirit. It will not mean anything to you, if you don't have Jesus in your heart, so that's the first step to Spiritual freedom, try Him out. There are numerous stories about Jesus, read the Gospels Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John to start. I promise once you receive Word, you too will become a vessel to share the Word of God with others. My favorite verse today is: The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword. (Hebrews 4:12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454992&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047985
I love you!
Monday, June 8, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY MONDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, had a very busy weekend. I enjoyed catching up with friends we had a good time. It was a small group of about 10 of us, and I catered it. The food was awesome, and I made a record attempt to do everything in 5 hours, all by myself. That wasn't going to happen, and it left me with about 3 feet of dirty dishes to come home and clean, and about 50 Spring Rolls to finish rolling tonight. I came across this information about the Morning After H.I.V. treatment on Twitter today, has anyone heard about this? http://www.nytimes.com/1997/06/10/science/morning-after-treatment-for-hiv.html I think this is very important information to look into. I don't watch television, the only News I get is through random online articles, so I might be really late, but so many of our brothers and sisters are dying from this disease I wanted to share this information. Please be safe, the best way to avoid becoming infected is abstinence. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about our communication with God through prayer, supplication, and perseverance. These three words are very important in our relation with God. Prayer is our conversations with Him throughout the day. Supplication is when we humbly ask for the things we want and desire, in the Name of Jesus. Perseverance is when we expect, and patiently wait on an answer. Communication with God is very important to maintaining a relationship with Him, and growing in our Faith Walk. He knows our every want, need, and desire, without us even asking. However, part of this “free will” I keep talking about means He will rarely step in and change our situation unless we ask. Jesus lives inside of us, and we have inherited all of His power, by His name. Faith is the key to answered prayers; God won’t answer our prayers if we don't believe with our whole hearts that He will. Our righteousness is one of the stipulations to answered prayers, and another is Faith in the Name of Jesus Christ. Proverbs 15:27 says, The LORD is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous. All of us who are born again, by the Blood of Jesus, are automatically made Righteous, so we have the right to Ask, Seek, and Knock whenever we need to. When we're born again, we begin a transformation into perfection. God is molding us into the Righteous people He's created us to be. We're brought out of darkness into His marvelous light, and we can no longer blend with darkness. When we first become saved we're settled in our old ways, because we're still babes in our Faith Walk. The more we grow this becomes true for us: The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, But the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil (Proverbs 15:28). Our hearts won't let us be wicked and evil, it isn't possible, because we have the Holy Spirit indwelled in us, and we've taken on the Spirit of Jesus Christ. This is way God answers our every prayer, and makes sure that everything works together for our good. Jesus taught us about the power of Faith, and He also lead by example. We have stories of how Jesus went off on His own and prayed for hours. As well as stories of how His disciples performed many miracles by faith, and in His Name. God purposely use people to touch the lives of others. I am a living example, because He has grown me up tremendously, in a very short period of time. I know in my heart that anything I ask of Him will be provided. It's not always exactly what I want, or when I want it, however, it's always right on time. There are times when the enemy deters me, and try to make me think that I don't deserve God's love, peace, and blessings, but he is a liar, and doesn't deserve my attention. I've learned how to turn my attention from the world, and other people's ideas of "blessings", to understanding, accepting, and praising Him for my own. Take your title as a Christian seriously, and don't allow the world to define who or what you are. Being a Christian just means you're trying to be Righteous like Christ. It means that you recognize that the only way to the Father is through the Son Jesus Christ. You have the same authority as Jesus, by His Name. When you pray, pray with confidence, patience, and gratitude, in knowing that your prayers have already been answered. HALLELUJAH! God loves you, but do you love Him enough to believe in Him? I'm going to leave you with this: For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! (Matt. 7:8-11) Get to know this Wonderful, Gracious, Loving, Sweet, Tender, and Kind God, through a short prayer accepting Jesus as your Savior. He's waiting on you! My favorite verse today is: Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving. (Colossians 4:2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454991&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197 http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047979
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, had a very busy weekend. I enjoyed catching up with friends we had a good time. It was a small group of about 10 of us, and I catered it. The food was awesome, and I made a record attempt to do everything in 5 hours, all by myself. That wasn't going to happen, and it left me with about 3 feet of dirty dishes to come home and clean, and about 50 Spring Rolls to finish rolling tonight. I came across this information about the Morning After H.I.V. treatment on Twitter today, has anyone heard about this? http://www.nytimes.com/1997/06/10/science/morning-after-treatment-for-hiv.html I think this is very important information to look into. I don't watch television, the only News I get is through random online articles, so I might be really late, but so many of our brothers and sisters are dying from this disease I wanted to share this information. Please be safe, the best way to avoid becoming infected is abstinence. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about our communication with God through prayer, supplication, and perseverance. These three words are very important in our relation with God. Prayer is our conversations with Him throughout the day. Supplication is when we humbly ask for the things we want and desire, in the Name of Jesus. Perseverance is when we expect, and patiently wait on an answer. Communication with God is very important to maintaining a relationship with Him, and growing in our Faith Walk. He knows our every want, need, and desire, without us even asking. However, part of this “free will” I keep talking about means He will rarely step in and change our situation unless we ask. Jesus lives inside of us, and we have inherited all of His power, by His name. Faith is the key to answered prayers; God won’t answer our prayers if we don't believe with our whole hearts that He will. Our righteousness is one of the stipulations to answered prayers, and another is Faith in the Name of Jesus Christ. Proverbs 15:27 says, The LORD is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous. All of us who are born again, by the Blood of Jesus, are automatically made Righteous, so we have the right to Ask, Seek, and Knock whenever we need to. When we're born again, we begin a transformation into perfection. God is molding us into the Righteous people He's created us to be. We're brought out of darkness into His marvelous light, and we can no longer blend with darkness. When we first become saved we're settled in our old ways, because we're still babes in our Faith Walk. The more we grow this becomes true for us: The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, But the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil (Proverbs 15:28). Our hearts won't let us be wicked and evil, it isn't possible, because we have the Holy Spirit indwelled in us, and we've taken on the Spirit of Jesus Christ. This is way God answers our every prayer, and makes sure that everything works together for our good. Jesus taught us about the power of Faith, and He also lead by example. We have stories of how Jesus went off on His own and prayed for hours. As well as stories of how His disciples performed many miracles by faith, and in His Name. God purposely use people to touch the lives of others. I am a living example, because He has grown me up tremendously, in a very short period of time. I know in my heart that anything I ask of Him will be provided. It's not always exactly what I want, or when I want it, however, it's always right on time. There are times when the enemy deters me, and try to make me think that I don't deserve God's love, peace, and blessings, but he is a liar, and doesn't deserve my attention. I've learned how to turn my attention from the world, and other people's ideas of "blessings", to understanding, accepting, and praising Him for my own. Take your title as a Christian seriously, and don't allow the world to define who or what you are. Being a Christian just means you're trying to be Righteous like Christ. It means that you recognize that the only way to the Father is through the Son Jesus Christ. You have the same authority as Jesus, by His Name. When you pray, pray with confidence, patience, and gratitude, in knowing that your prayers have already been answered. HALLELUJAH! God loves you, but do you love Him enough to believe in Him? I'm going to leave you with this: For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! (Matt. 7:8-11) Get to know this Wonderful, Gracious, Loving, Sweet, Tender, and Kind God, through a short prayer accepting Jesus as your Savior. He's waiting on you! My favorite verse today is: Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving. (Colossians 4:2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454991&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197 http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047979
I love you!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY FRIDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the end of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, a little tired and worn out by the rain. I enjoyed the basketball banquet last night, it was interesting, but the food was really good. The Dubliner Restaurant is in the lobby of a hotel in northwest DC. I have my “mini class reunion” tomorrow I'm so excited! I haven't seen some of these people in over 13 years, so it's going to be really fun. I apologize for not sending the devotional yesterday, but I didn't have time to do it. I'd like to wish my cousin Lamont a happy birthday. I pray you have a wonderful weekend, and whatever you do, do it for the Lord.
Today's scriptures are about avoiding boasting and pride. One of my favorite verses of scripture is, " I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13) This verse has gotten me through some tough times, because it helps me realize where my strength comes from, and understand that I’m not alone in this fight called life. God has a way of putting us in situations where we have to depend solely no Him, and when we humble ourselves, we'll be delivered and/or strengthened. How many times have you prayed for something and received it, and given yourself the credit for it? We do it all the time, and that's a dangerous thing. We judge people, and totally forget to evaluate ourselves. We sometimes look down on others because of their situation or circumstance, completely forgetting that it's only by the grace of God that we're not in their situation. Pride is like a double-edged sword, because it could cause us to take on the wrong attitude. Pride is like a pebble that if dropped in the ocean, it could possibly cause a small wave or a tsunami. There's a difference between being proud of your accomplishments and growth, while giving God all of the honor and the glory, and just walking around with your nose turned up, with a super man (or woman) complex. What we must realize is without Christ we are nothing. God gives us all things, and it's by His grace that we even wake up in the morning, and it's important for us to understand that. He has created us for His purpose, and He takes time to grow us up, and mold us into righteous human beings. He expects us to share our testimonies with others, in hopes that it would touch someone’s life. In the flesh we are not worthy of the many wonderful blessings that He gives us everyday. However, through the blood of Christ, we've become worthy, and we must be sure to recognize His place in that. Mark 7:20-23 says: ...“What comes out of a man, that defiles a man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and defile a man.” These are the things we should be careful to avoid, and the best way to do that is through humbleness, meekness, and always giving God the honor and praise. When we start taking the praise and worship we put ourselves in the place of a god, and that plants and inferior spirit in us, and make us feel impervious. For example, in the food industry the Executive Chefs run big kitchens, and they have Sous Chefs, a large staff of cooks, and stewards, which makes their jobs much easier. The Executive Chef gets all of the praise, and granted they are running the operation, but he/she couldn't do it without the people around them. In some cases this will make them too proud, and they might start to treat the staff wrong, and overwork the Sous Chefs. Eventually they fall because of pride, and this is why a lot of restaurants or businesses fall, a failure to recognize, thank, and praise their help. This is an analogy of our lives, because we're in control of what we do on some levels, we have free will, we decide to choose right or wrong. God gives us a number of components to ensure we're taken care of, such as Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and a legion of Angels for protection. It's because of Him (them) that we're even breathing. Do you understand how many car accidents He's helped us avoid, or bad situations He's removed us from? Do you know how important it is when you're minutes away from having a car accident and you avoid it, to say “thank you Lord for saving me”, instead of saying, "I sure am a good driver". Or, when you receive a promotion at work, to say, "Thank you Lord for the strength you've given me to accomplish this", instead of saying, "I sure worked hard for this and I deserve it"? Having the right attitude in life strengthens our relationship with God, hence allowing us to fall right into His will, which equals, peace, joy, and happiness. Proverbs 29:23 sums up what I'm trying to say: A man’s pride will bring him low, But the humble in spirit will retain honor. Pleasing God is much more important than impressing man, so be careful not to brag, boast, or forget to acknowledge Him in your blessings. Jesus is the best thing that has ever happened to me, He's my ever-present help in my time of need. Every good thing that has come out of my life comes from God, and without Him I am nothing. I believe that in my heart, and because of it He's opened lots of doors for me, and the people around me that I'm a vessel to. Thank you Father for your love, mercy, and grace, I love you, in Jesus' Name, Amen. If you don't know Jesus for yourself, I suggest you get to know Him, and watch your life transform for the better. I say all the time that wealth, prestige, and pride will not get you into heaven, and surely won't guarantee your peace and happiness on earth, only Jesus could give you that. My favorite verse today is: By the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. (1 Corinthians 15:10)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454988&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047963
I love you!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful hump day. I'm doing well, excited about the outcome of the cooking demonstration with the kids this morning, grades Pre-K-1st grade. I love working with children, it's such a joy! This further confirms the fact that I need to teach. I think I'll enroll in school in fall, to get my teaching certificate/degree. I'm going to pray on it. The kids made fruit kebobs, chocolate chip cookies, and snails (with breadsticks and cheese). I'm looking forward to doing it again. Tomorrow is the Basketball banquet, I get to dress up, and I’m very excited. Today's my friend Nettie's birthday, Happy Birthday Nettie, and to all the people who are enjoying birthdays in June. Enjoy the rest of your day!
Today's scriptures are about soberly awaiting Jesus' return. We're temporarily on this earth, and we're warned to "Take Heed" that Jesus will return to take the righteous home, and we must eagerly await Him. We often take too much time worrying about the menial things of this life. You have people that are obsessed with making sure everything is in order. They keep themselves on tight budgets, or need an immaculately clean home. There are others that are reckless; they do whatever it takes to make a dollar, or to please the flesh and the people around them. We have some who are overworked and stressed out, to build intangible wealth. We've got to understand that life is way more than the physical, money, prestige, or the outer appearance. We have a lot of work to do for the Kingdom, and we must live everyday pleasing to God. At any moment the horns will sound, and Jesus will descend from heaven and start the rapture. Think about what you’ll be doing? Will you be caught in the act of sin, or will you be serving God? We're meant to enjoy life, have fun, and love hard, but there is an order to the way we do things. Do you praise God everyday? How many times do you mention Him in your daily conversations? Do you make it a point to tell someone about Jesus daily? Do you think you're a role model? In other words, do you think you're the type of person people could look up too? Nobody's perfect, and God doesn't expect us to be, however He does give us the tools to become Righteous. The most important tool is the blood of Jesus, which is an automatic cleanser of our sinful souls. Jesus is glue that holds us together, and mends our brokenness. The next most important tool is the Holy Bible, which gives us step-by-step instructions to life. He also gives us leaders, preachers, priest, pastors, and teachers, which are fed the word through the Holy Spirit. Then there are people like you and me, "The body of Christ". Just because we haven't been called to some type of leadership role, doesn't mean that we're not equipped with what it takes to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and help save souls. We mustn't sleep on the enemy, because his sole purpose is to separate us from fellowship with God. That's why we're urged everyday to seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and Keep our eyes stayed on the Lord. Life is an everyday journey, and it requires us to be alert and obedient. It requires us to learn new things, meet new people, and love with an open heart. This is the reason why we cannot see the future, because every step we take is an opportunity to gain and share wisdom. Jesus doesn’t even know when He's coming back, only God has that information, because everything has been preordained. He's so open, loving, and forgiving, that He knows we won't get anything done if we know what's coming. It's almost like telling a child you have a surprise for them, and you'll give it to them later. In that waiting period, that child is going to be the best child ever. Homework and choirs will be done on time, and you'll be showered with kisses and hugs; they're on their best behavior leading up to the revelation of that surprise, because they know you love them enough to give them something special. That's how I see our relationship with God; we have to go through some things before we received the ultimate reward. He doesn't tell us what the reward will be in most cases, but we know it's going to be Awesome! We know that everyday we're walking in Righteousness, God will fill us with the peace, Joy, and happiness, no matter what's going on around us. As well as reward us with our wants and desires. Jesus is in our hearts, and He knows us, so I'll leave you with Matthew 7:20-23: Therefore by their fruits you will know them. “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ I love you too much to leave you in the dark, please make your relationship right with God right now. Ask Jesus to come into your heart as your Savior, confessing and repenting of your sins, because you never know what the next hour will hold. My favorite verse today is: The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. (1 Thessalonians 5:2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454986&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047949
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful hump day. I'm doing well, excited about the outcome of the cooking demonstration with the kids this morning, grades Pre-K-1st grade. I love working with children, it's such a joy! This further confirms the fact that I need to teach. I think I'll enroll in school in fall, to get my teaching certificate/degree. I'm going to pray on it. The kids made fruit kebobs, chocolate chip cookies, and snails (with breadsticks and cheese). I'm looking forward to doing it again. Tomorrow is the Basketball banquet, I get to dress up, and I’m very excited. Today's my friend Nettie's birthday, Happy Birthday Nettie, and to all the people who are enjoying birthdays in June. Enjoy the rest of your day!
Today's scriptures are about soberly awaiting Jesus' return. We're temporarily on this earth, and we're warned to "Take Heed" that Jesus will return to take the righteous home, and we must eagerly await Him. We often take too much time worrying about the menial things of this life. You have people that are obsessed with making sure everything is in order. They keep themselves on tight budgets, or need an immaculately clean home. There are others that are reckless; they do whatever it takes to make a dollar, or to please the flesh and the people around them. We have some who are overworked and stressed out, to build intangible wealth. We've got to understand that life is way more than the physical, money, prestige, or the outer appearance. We have a lot of work to do for the Kingdom, and we must live everyday pleasing to God. At any moment the horns will sound, and Jesus will descend from heaven and start the rapture. Think about what you’ll be doing? Will you be caught in the act of sin, or will you be serving God? We're meant to enjoy life, have fun, and love hard, but there is an order to the way we do things. Do you praise God everyday? How many times do you mention Him in your daily conversations? Do you make it a point to tell someone about Jesus daily? Do you think you're a role model? In other words, do you think you're the type of person people could look up too? Nobody's perfect, and God doesn't expect us to be, however He does give us the tools to become Righteous. The most important tool is the blood of Jesus, which is an automatic cleanser of our sinful souls. Jesus is glue that holds us together, and mends our brokenness. The next most important tool is the Holy Bible, which gives us step-by-step instructions to life. He also gives us leaders, preachers, priest, pastors, and teachers, which are fed the word through the Holy Spirit. Then there are people like you and me, "The body of Christ". Just because we haven't been called to some type of leadership role, doesn't mean that we're not equipped with what it takes to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and help save souls. We mustn't sleep on the enemy, because his sole purpose is to separate us from fellowship with God. That's why we're urged everyday to seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and Keep our eyes stayed on the Lord. Life is an everyday journey, and it requires us to be alert and obedient. It requires us to learn new things, meet new people, and love with an open heart. This is the reason why we cannot see the future, because every step we take is an opportunity to gain and share wisdom. Jesus doesn’t even know when He's coming back, only God has that information, because everything has been preordained. He's so open, loving, and forgiving, that He knows we won't get anything done if we know what's coming. It's almost like telling a child you have a surprise for them, and you'll give it to them later. In that waiting period, that child is going to be the best child ever. Homework and choirs will be done on time, and you'll be showered with kisses and hugs; they're on their best behavior leading up to the revelation of that surprise, because they know you love them enough to give them something special. That's how I see our relationship with God; we have to go through some things before we received the ultimate reward. He doesn't tell us what the reward will be in most cases, but we know it's going to be Awesome! We know that everyday we're walking in Righteousness, God will fill us with the peace, Joy, and happiness, no matter what's going on around us. As well as reward us with our wants and desires. Jesus is in our hearts, and He knows us, so I'll leave you with Matthew 7:20-23: Therefore by their fruits you will know them. “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ I love you too much to leave you in the dark, please make your relationship right with God right now. Ask Jesus to come into your heart as your Savior, confessing and repenting of your sins, because you never know what the next hour will hold. My favorite verse today is: The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. (1 Thessalonians 5:2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454986&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047949
I love you!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well, a little sleepy, but that's how it usually is during the week. I'm grateful that I made it into work this morning, and am looking forward to another busy week. Tomorrow I get to go do a cooking demonstration at my little cousin's school, that's going to be fun. We're going to make some fruit kebobs, and bake some play snails, and chocolate chip cookies. My brother has his basketball banquet on Thursday, hopefully that’ll be fun. Right now, I'm having trouble holding my head up, 4 hours of sleep just isn't enough, I see people do it all the time, but I value my sleep too much. I'm working on it; God knows what's best. Please pray for my Pastor Laura Swett, she was taken to the hospital this morning and diagnosed with pneumonia. She’s supposed to be discharged by this evening, so please pray for her. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about girding our loins. I read this expression all the time in the bible, and never really knew what it meant. Reading through all of today's scriptures, I'm learning that it's all about staying prepared to work for God. Gird is defined: To prepare (oneself) for action. The loin is the region of the hips, groin, and lower abdomen (a very strong part of the body, sometimes known as the reproductive organ). When it is written to gird up your loins, it’s advising us to always have our mind and body in a position to react and produce. I always say that "I'll rest when I'm dead", in a joking manner, because that's a very popular saying. I’m learning today that this saying is somewhat true. The work of a Christian is never complete, because there are many lost souls, and God uses us to do His work. We're "servants of the Lord", which means that we should be constantly in motion strengthening the kingdom of God through service. When I read the book of Acts, I was astounded by the lives of Jesus' disciples. Even after He was resurrected, they kept working as hard, or even harder than did when they walked side by side with Him. We're to take on the attitude of a servant or a Disciple, because our time is limited and precious here on earth. We have all of eternity to rest in the House of the Lord, however the amount of good works we do here on earth will determine position in Heaven. If you look at the life of a prominent leader, especially in the Church, you’ll notice they wear many hats. They're constantly being pulled different ways, and they always take on their duties with joy and sentiment, because that’s what God called them to do. He’s constantly telling me to go here, do this, read that, study this, work on that, and the list goes on. I used to think that I was just being a busybody, but I'm learning that this is the work of a servant of the Lord. We have to completely rest on the Sabbath, but the other 6 days of the week are to be spent doing His work. There's so much we could do to help each other, and to build up ourselves. Whether it's a phone call to tell someone you love them, or a visit to a sick and shut in. Sometimes it may be going to help a friend move, or giving money to help someone out of a jam. All of these selfless acts, allows God to be shown through us. It's so important for us to stay connected with Him, so we could hear His voice clearly, as well on rely on His strength to get us through. When we read stories about the main bible characters like Paul, Job, Moses, John the Baptist, Samuel, or Peter, we'll find that these men were constantly moving. They were traveling across countries, freeing slaves, preaching the word, and helping people in need. Noah had to build a ship with is bear hands, that was large enough to fit his family, and two of every animal on the earth. He never complained because He knew the work of the Lord had to be done, and His reward would come. Most of us want to be influential at some point in our lives, we want wealth, prestige, and a better life for our family, and are willing to work hard to accomplish these goals. However, there are some people that don't know hard work, and think that success is going to knock on their door in the form of a lottery ticket, or through someone else’s hard work. It is written in Proverbs 13:4: The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made rich. When God calls us to work, He'll make sure we have all the tools to complete that job to perfection, and not what we see as perfect, but to His perfection. We must trust Him, and seek out His will, because just by our handbook to life [the bible] alone, we see examples of hard working men and women, who went on to accomplish great things for God. In the worlds eyes an excruciating death nailed to a cross, or being stoned to death isn't very glamorous, and doesn't seem like a reward, however, these men currently live in Eternal bliss, and are treated as kings in Heaven, and will continually be rewarded forever. Have peace in knowing the Jesus is in you, and its time to get busy. Some of you may feel like your life is at a total standstill, and that God hasn't moved you to do anything "great". What is greatness? It is completing God's will for our lives and strengthening the kingdom of Heaven, sometimes that starts with working on us. It's making someone smile, and loving our neighbor as we love ourselves. It's raising responsible and loving children, and leading a righteous life. Just be ye also ready, you are a key player, maybe God has you sitting on the bench so you’ll be completely rested and ready when your job is assigned, but rest assured that He does use you in many different ways. If you don't know who Jesus is, I urge you to get to know Him today. He's our example of how to live a life for others, but without Him we could do nothing, but with Him we could do all things! My Favorite verse today is: Gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 1:13)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454985&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047945
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well, a little sleepy, but that's how it usually is during the week. I'm grateful that I made it into work this morning, and am looking forward to another busy week. Tomorrow I get to go do a cooking demonstration at my little cousin's school, that's going to be fun. We're going to make some fruit kebobs, and bake some play snails, and chocolate chip cookies. My brother has his basketball banquet on Thursday, hopefully that’ll be fun. Right now, I'm having trouble holding my head up, 4 hours of sleep just isn't enough, I see people do it all the time, but I value my sleep too much. I'm working on it; God knows what's best. Please pray for my Pastor Laura Swett, she was taken to the hospital this morning and diagnosed with pneumonia. She’s supposed to be discharged by this evening, so please pray for her. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about girding our loins. I read this expression all the time in the bible, and never really knew what it meant. Reading through all of today's scriptures, I'm learning that it's all about staying prepared to work for God. Gird is defined: To prepare (oneself) for action. The loin is the region of the hips, groin, and lower abdomen (a very strong part of the body, sometimes known as the reproductive organ). When it is written to gird up your loins, it’s advising us to always have our mind and body in a position to react and produce. I always say that "I'll rest when I'm dead", in a joking manner, because that's a very popular saying. I’m learning today that this saying is somewhat true. The work of a Christian is never complete, because there are many lost souls, and God uses us to do His work. We're "servants of the Lord", which means that we should be constantly in motion strengthening the kingdom of God through service. When I read the book of Acts, I was astounded by the lives of Jesus' disciples. Even after He was resurrected, they kept working as hard, or even harder than did when they walked side by side with Him. We're to take on the attitude of a servant or a Disciple, because our time is limited and precious here on earth. We have all of eternity to rest in the House of the Lord, however the amount of good works we do here on earth will determine position in Heaven. If you look at the life of a prominent leader, especially in the Church, you’ll notice they wear many hats. They're constantly being pulled different ways, and they always take on their duties with joy and sentiment, because that’s what God called them to do. He’s constantly telling me to go here, do this, read that, study this, work on that, and the list goes on. I used to think that I was just being a busybody, but I'm learning that this is the work of a servant of the Lord. We have to completely rest on the Sabbath, but the other 6 days of the week are to be spent doing His work. There's so much we could do to help each other, and to build up ourselves. Whether it's a phone call to tell someone you love them, or a visit to a sick and shut in. Sometimes it may be going to help a friend move, or giving money to help someone out of a jam. All of these selfless acts, allows God to be shown through us. It's so important for us to stay connected with Him, so we could hear His voice clearly, as well on rely on His strength to get us through. When we read stories about the main bible characters like Paul, Job, Moses, John the Baptist, Samuel, or Peter, we'll find that these men were constantly moving. They were traveling across countries, freeing slaves, preaching the word, and helping people in need. Noah had to build a ship with is bear hands, that was large enough to fit his family, and two of every animal on the earth. He never complained because He knew the work of the Lord had to be done, and His reward would come. Most of us want to be influential at some point in our lives, we want wealth, prestige, and a better life for our family, and are willing to work hard to accomplish these goals. However, there are some people that don't know hard work, and think that success is going to knock on their door in the form of a lottery ticket, or through someone else’s hard work. It is written in Proverbs 13:4: The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made rich. When God calls us to work, He'll make sure we have all the tools to complete that job to perfection, and not what we see as perfect, but to His perfection. We must trust Him, and seek out His will, because just by our handbook to life [the bible] alone, we see examples of hard working men and women, who went on to accomplish great things for God. In the worlds eyes an excruciating death nailed to a cross, or being stoned to death isn't very glamorous, and doesn't seem like a reward, however, these men currently live in Eternal bliss, and are treated as kings in Heaven, and will continually be rewarded forever. Have peace in knowing the Jesus is in you, and its time to get busy. Some of you may feel like your life is at a total standstill, and that God hasn't moved you to do anything "great". What is greatness? It is completing God's will for our lives and strengthening the kingdom of Heaven, sometimes that starts with working on us. It's making someone smile, and loving our neighbor as we love ourselves. It's raising responsible and loving children, and leading a righteous life. Just be ye also ready, you are a key player, maybe God has you sitting on the bench so you’ll be completely rested and ready when your job is assigned, but rest assured that He does use you in many different ways. If you don't know who Jesus is, I urge you to get to know Him today. He's our example of how to live a life for others, but without Him we could do nothing, but with Him we could do all things! My Favorite verse today is: Gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 1:13)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2454985&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7047945
I love you!
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