HAPPY MONDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, grateful for anther day. Fall is quickly approaching; it was really gray outside this morning, and a little cool with the temperature being about 65°F. It felt like the first day of school, and I believe that a lot of schools started today. School means the summer is coming to a close, and I haven't been in any water, or had any barbecue all summer, which means I have to barbecue this weekend. I'm looking forward to cooking for the family. My brother's game was good, although it was really, really hot on Saturday afternoon. I felt like I was sitting in a skillet while on those metal bleachers. I got about two shades darker, but on the bright side, they beat the game 55-20, and Demitrius played well. The next game is Friday night, and I'm looking forward to it. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about the gifts salvation. What do you consider a gift? The word is defined: Something that is bestowed voluntarily and without compensation. We usually give wonderful gifts to the people we love, such as jewelry, clothing, household appliances, cash, or small trinkets or a greeting card. We do this to show how much we care about them, because after all, love is an action. Normally, when we give gifts they're warranted, such as a birthday big accomplishment, or just a thank you for a previous gift received. No matter what the gift is or what it's for, it's a wonderful gesture that we do out of the kindness of our hearts, and we do it unselfishly, with no expectations of reciprocation, just gratitude and thanks. God is the ultimate gift giver, and the most valuable, and important gift He's given us is Salvation, by the blood of Jesus Christ. He gave His only Son, as a spotless lamb, to be sacrificed for the sin of all mankind. This gift is free to anyone who asks, which is given by His grace. Along with salvation come freedom, light, and abundant life, for everyone who believes. It's written in Luke 11:10-13: For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish? Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” Even knowing this, there are so many people who live in darkness. There are people who see the work of God first hand, and still choose to doubt Him. There people who are lost, meaning they've never confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior, and others who have, but don't trust Him to keep all of His promises. That lack of trust usually comes from the enemy, through from fear, anxiety, the past hurts and pains they've experienced, or saw someone close to them experienced. The devil plays on those weaknesses, and continually attempts to get you separated from God, by making you believe all of these lies. We then should study our bibles, and read our devotionals daily, to refresh and renew our relationship with God. His gifts are given freely to all who ask and receive them. Being open to receive His gifts is also sometimes hard, and some of us don't notice when God is trying to give us an awesome gift. Sometimes we sabotage our blessings simply because we think we're not worthy of them, or we don't realize what we had until it's gone. Nobody's perfect, not me, not your pastor at Church, and not even the Pope. We all have and will sin. We tend to judge and condemn ourselves the worst, when God forgives us when we initially ask for forgiveness. His grace is a gift that keeps on giving, and it's written in Isaiah 30:18: Therefore the LORD will wait, that He may be gracious to you; And therefore He will be exalted, that He may have mercy on you. For the LORD is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him. He has an enormous amount of love for us, so much so, that no matter how much we sin against Him, He'll always forgive us. No matter how much we stumble and fall, He'll be right there to pick us up. If you don't know Him, then accept the first and most important gift that He offers, which is to make you one of His children through Salvation in Jesus Christ. It's a simple prayer confessing the fact that you're a sinner, and you then make a covenant with Him by repenting. This let's Him know that you'll try your best to be righteous. Then He'll shower you with gifts of love, peace, joy, and happiness, and those priceless gifts are automatic bonuses that come with our Salvation. My favorite verse today is: For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. (Romans 5:15)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455075&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=5336537&ct=7301725
I love you!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
Daily devotional Day & Night
HAPPY FRIDAY!
Today's scriptures are about our victory over the devil, through Jesus Christ. One of my favorite verses in the bible is John 10:10 says: The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. The devil is a thief, that loves confusion and strife, and he’ll do whatever it takes to keep us in it, especially if we’re confessed children of God. It’s said that he’s a fallen Angel, who has a vendetta of sorts, against God. He though that he could be more powerful, so he was kicked out of heaven. Now, he has demons, just as God has Angels that wreaks havoc on the earth. It’s written in 1 John 4:4: You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. We see evil all around us, just turn on the News, and it’s evident that Satan does exist, however, God is grater than anything he could attempt to do to those of us who are covered by the blood of Jesus. The bible always says something like, “God will bless those who believe in Christ, His children, or is followers, etc.” The key is to believe that He is the one true God, and believe in the life, death, and resurrection of His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:13: Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. The armor consists of the breastplate of righteousness, shod of peace for your feet, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. God is always waiting on us to call on His name, and Jesus is waiting to make intercession for our sins (Heb. 7:25). At the same time, it’s up to us to be righteous, stay peaceful, have faith, and study the Word of God. As baby Spirits, the devil hits us the hardest, by seemingly making everything crumble around us. He even uses the people closest to us to bring us down. He’s attempting to make us lose faith in God, and keep us in the darkness, because then He could use us to do his dirty work as well. How many times have you asked God, “why me?” or thought, “why does bad things happen to good people”? All of the answers lie in His word, and He’ll answer anytime we call on Him. This helps build our faith, and allows us to trust His protection. I remember when I first rededicated my life to God, I struggled with giving up my bad habits, and so I would always wonder why it’s so hard doing the right thing. There’s evil all around us, so when we’re starting out in our walk, it seems easier to just surrender to the temptations, and do what everyone else around us is doing with seemingly no consequences. When we hold on, put on our armor, and fight through the temptations with Jesus’ help, we’ll win every time. There are huge, even deadly consequences that come with giving in to the temptation, but by choosing God we have the victory. Jesus said in Matthew 7:13-14: Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. Salvation is a free gift to everyone, but the truth is, not many people accept that gift. It’s up to us to do something about that, it’s why we’re here. If you haven’t accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then you’re serving darkness, and you cannot serve both darkness and light, you have to make a choice. God doesn’t like a double-minded man. I urge you to say that prayer today, He’s waiting with deliverance, and bring you into His marvelous light. My favorite verses today are: That through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. (Hebrews 2:14-15)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455072&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=5336537&ct=7301717
I love you!
Today's scriptures are about our victory over the devil, through Jesus Christ. One of my favorite verses in the bible is John 10:10 says: The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. The devil is a thief, that loves confusion and strife, and he’ll do whatever it takes to keep us in it, especially if we’re confessed children of God. It’s said that he’s a fallen Angel, who has a vendetta of sorts, against God. He though that he could be more powerful, so he was kicked out of heaven. Now, he has demons, just as God has Angels that wreaks havoc on the earth. It’s written in 1 John 4:4: You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. We see evil all around us, just turn on the News, and it’s evident that Satan does exist, however, God is grater than anything he could attempt to do to those of us who are covered by the blood of Jesus. The bible always says something like, “God will bless those who believe in Christ, His children, or is followers, etc.” The key is to believe that He is the one true God, and believe in the life, death, and resurrection of His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:13: Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. The armor consists of the breastplate of righteousness, shod of peace for your feet, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. God is always waiting on us to call on His name, and Jesus is waiting to make intercession for our sins (Heb. 7:25). At the same time, it’s up to us to be righteous, stay peaceful, have faith, and study the Word of God. As baby Spirits, the devil hits us the hardest, by seemingly making everything crumble around us. He even uses the people closest to us to bring us down. He’s attempting to make us lose faith in God, and keep us in the darkness, because then He could use us to do his dirty work as well. How many times have you asked God, “why me?” or thought, “why does bad things happen to good people”? All of the answers lie in His word, and He’ll answer anytime we call on Him. This helps build our faith, and allows us to trust His protection. I remember when I first rededicated my life to God, I struggled with giving up my bad habits, and so I would always wonder why it’s so hard doing the right thing. There’s evil all around us, so when we’re starting out in our walk, it seems easier to just surrender to the temptations, and do what everyone else around us is doing with seemingly no consequences. When we hold on, put on our armor, and fight through the temptations with Jesus’ help, we’ll win every time. There are huge, even deadly consequences that come with giving in to the temptation, but by choosing God we have the victory. Jesus said in Matthew 7:13-14: Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. Salvation is a free gift to everyone, but the truth is, not many people accept that gift. It’s up to us to do something about that, it’s why we’re here. If you haven’t accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then you’re serving darkness, and you cannot serve both darkness and light, you have to make a choice. God doesn’t like a double-minded man. I urge you to say that prayer today, He’s waiting with deliverance, and bring you into His marvelous light. My favorite verses today are: That through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. (Hebrews 2:14-15)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455072&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=5336537&ct=7301717
I love you!
Thursday, August 27, 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 another weekend. This week flew by, and we're still working the kinks out for my brother's school schedule. It's hard for him to break out of the lax of the summer months, but he’ll get used to it. When I was in school, we almost always resumed the day after Labor Day, so this is an early start for school. At the same time, he was out of school the second or third week of May, a month before the other kids did in June, so it balances out. This new routine also causes a shift in my schedule, so we both have little adjustments to make. It's all worth it, and we get a three-day weekend next week. Please pray that he gets off on a good start. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about the light that leads us on the right paths. When God was creating the earth, He already knew you and I, and what He had planned for us to do. It's written in Romans 8:28-30: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. Because we’re Children of God, we're given a certain path to follow, in order to complete our predestined will. If He has a job for us He'll make sure we’re able to do it, by providing everything we need. We live in a world ruled by darkness, so God's light is the only way we can get through our earthly life on the right path. We will hear clear instructions from Him, through the Holy Spirit, with all the details. How many times have you had impure thoughts and that voice in the back of your mind (the Holy Spirit) said, "Don't do it"? I can't tell you how many times I've avoided accidents, or received blessings, because I was at the right place at the right time. I used to always say, "something told me to come this way today". The something, or rather someone, was God guiding me all along. We live in such a fast world, where we could be juggling ten different things at one time, and it gets hard to slow down and focus on God. When I tell people my daily itinerary they're usually in awe, because I'm always busy, as are most of you. At the same time, I always find away to give God His time, some days more than others. Sometimes, if we don't stay focused on God, and give ourselves time to escape the darkness, we start to lose our way. Daily bible study, prayer and meditation time is the only way to keep God’s light shinning bright in our life. Jesus said in Matthew 6:22-23: “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!" He warns us to be careful of the worldly things we're focusing on, because the darkness can swallow us up, and we lose our way. When we lose our way, we stumble and fall. This is when we start to experience the most heartache and pain, so it's imperative to stay focused on God's light. He's instilled it inside of us, and gave us a handbook with full instructions, and examples of how we should live, as well as examples of how we shouldn't live. He's given us Salvation through Jesus Christ, all we have to do is slow down, accept His wonderful love, grace, and mercy, and use His light for guidance. I can promise you that if you follow the Will of God, everything else is will fall right into place. He's using you to be a blessing to others as well, so allow His light to shine through. If you don't know Christ as your Savior, then you're stuck in the darkness. Jesus said in John 8:23-24: “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” All you need to do to receive the light is to believe in Him. Pray to God, asking Jesus to come into your heart as your Savior, and confess that you're a sinner, and watch the light shine as bright as the sunshine, to keep you on the path to complete God's will for your life. My favorite verse today is: I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (John 8:12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455071&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=5336537&ct=7301713
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 another weekend. This week flew by, and we're still working the kinks out for my brother's school schedule. It's hard for him to break out of the lax of the summer months, but he’ll get used to it. When I was in school, we almost always resumed the day after Labor Day, so this is an early start for school. At the same time, he was out of school the second or third week of May, a month before the other kids did in June, so it balances out. This new routine also causes a shift in my schedule, so we both have little adjustments to make. It's all worth it, and we get a three-day weekend next week. Please pray that he gets off on a good start. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about the light that leads us on the right paths. When God was creating the earth, He already knew you and I, and what He had planned for us to do. It's written in Romans 8:28-30: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. Because we’re Children of God, we're given a certain path to follow, in order to complete our predestined will. If He has a job for us He'll make sure we’re able to do it, by providing everything we need. We live in a world ruled by darkness, so God's light is the only way we can get through our earthly life on the right path. We will hear clear instructions from Him, through the Holy Spirit, with all the details. How many times have you had impure thoughts and that voice in the back of your mind (the Holy Spirit) said, "Don't do it"? I can't tell you how many times I've avoided accidents, or received blessings, because I was at the right place at the right time. I used to always say, "something told me to come this way today". The something, or rather someone, was God guiding me all along. We live in such a fast world, where we could be juggling ten different things at one time, and it gets hard to slow down and focus on God. When I tell people my daily itinerary they're usually in awe, because I'm always busy, as are most of you. At the same time, I always find away to give God His time, some days more than others. Sometimes, if we don't stay focused on God, and give ourselves time to escape the darkness, we start to lose our way. Daily bible study, prayer and meditation time is the only way to keep God’s light shinning bright in our life. Jesus said in Matthew 6:22-23: “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!" He warns us to be careful of the worldly things we're focusing on, because the darkness can swallow us up, and we lose our way. When we lose our way, we stumble and fall. This is when we start to experience the most heartache and pain, so it's imperative to stay focused on God's light. He's instilled it inside of us, and gave us a handbook with full instructions, and examples of how we should live, as well as examples of how we shouldn't live. He's given us Salvation through Jesus Christ, all we have to do is slow down, accept His wonderful love, grace, and mercy, and use His light for guidance. I can promise you that if you follow the Will of God, everything else is will fall right into place. He's using you to be a blessing to others as well, so allow His light to shine through. If you don't know Christ as your Savior, then you're stuck in the darkness. Jesus said in John 8:23-24: “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” All you need to do to receive the light is to believe in Him. Pray to God, asking Jesus to come into your heart as your Savior, and confess that you're a sinner, and watch the light shine as bright as the sunshine, to keep you on the path to complete God's will for your life. My favorite verse today is: I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (John 8:12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455071&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=5336537&ct=7301713
I love you!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another warm hump day. I'm doing well, feeling much better than yesterday. I wanted to take a moment and thank my crazy co-workers, because no matter what's going on in my life, they always seem to make me laugh and smile all day long. The saying that “Laughter is the best medicine” is so true. God is always right on time, and He always places us in the right spot at that right time. It's so important to be grateful for everything and everyone in your life, because it all works together for you good, no matter what it seems like at the time. How many times have you given praise to God today? Have a blessed and wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about achieving the required Holiness to communicate with God. We've learned that God is Holy, and we must been clean and righteous to fellowship with Him. When God approached Moses to have him free the slaves, God made it clear, that He was Holy, and certain measures had to be taken to be in His presence. The story is written in Exodus 3:2-5: And the Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. So he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed. Then Moses said, “I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush does not burn.” So when the LORD saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.” Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.” Moses was known as a righteous man, and he pleased God from birth. He wasn't perfect, or without sin, but overall he loved the Lord. Moses isn't at all that different from you and I. If anything we have an advantage because of our Savior Jesus Christ. The blood of Jesus cleanses our soul, and makes us Holy and acceptable in the sight of the Lord. He doesn't have to use burning bushes to speak to us anymore, because we have the Holy Spirit that constantly guides us everyday. He could speak directly too us, when our minds and hearts are stayed on Him. Jesus did His part by laying His life down, now it's up to us to accept the gift He came to give, and renew our mind and body, while God works on our Spirit. It's written in Romans 12:1-2: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. As children of God we are righteous, however, we still bear the burden of sin. We must be aware of our sinful ways. At the time of sin, we must confess, ask for forgiveness, and repent, to ensure that our fellowship with God is in no way interrupted. When we call on God, and He answers, we must remove our shoes and come into His presence. He will give us step-by-step instructions, but we must prepare ourselves to receive His word. When raising our children, we try our best to teach them morals, respect, and the proper way to conduct themselves in life. We teach them responsibility, and the basic skills they'll need to survive, as well as become successful, productive human beings. We lead by example, take them to church, and send them to good schools, to attempt to instill in them knowledge and the love of Jesus Christ. However, once they're at a certain age, we have little control over what they do, and all we can do is pray that they take everything we've taught them, and are decent human beings. God does the same for us, He's given us salvation through the death and resurrection of His Son, He's given us His Living Word, and He's given us the Holy Spirit to help us along the way. Most importantly He's given us free will, to allow us to chose the ways in which we want to live. When we are saved, we're given a light to lead us on the right paths, but that doesn't mean we have to take those paths. We learn today that we can only be in the presence of the Holy God, when we're in turn holy. Do you ever wonder why your prayers seem as though they aren't being answered, or why God seems so distant from you? Well, take some time out to pray, and ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart, and repent for your un-confessed sins. Ask for Jesus' help, and wait and listen for His reply. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, you aren't Holy, and you cannot go to God for anything but Salvation. He's waiting patiently to hear that prayer from you. Allow Jesus to help you remove your shoes, and step into Righteousness. My favorite verse today is: God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455070&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=5336537&ct=7301671
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another warm hump day. I'm doing well, feeling much better than yesterday. I wanted to take a moment and thank my crazy co-workers, because no matter what's going on in my life, they always seem to make me laugh and smile all day long. The saying that “Laughter is the best medicine” is so true. God is always right on time, and He always places us in the right spot at that right time. It's so important to be grateful for everything and everyone in your life, because it all works together for you good, no matter what it seems like at the time. How many times have you given praise to God today? Have a blessed and wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about achieving the required Holiness to communicate with God. We've learned that God is Holy, and we must been clean and righteous to fellowship with Him. When God approached Moses to have him free the slaves, God made it clear, that He was Holy, and certain measures had to be taken to be in His presence. The story is written in Exodus 3:2-5: And the Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. So he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed. Then Moses said, “I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush does not burn.” So when the LORD saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.” Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.” Moses was known as a righteous man, and he pleased God from birth. He wasn't perfect, or without sin, but overall he loved the Lord. Moses isn't at all that different from you and I. If anything we have an advantage because of our Savior Jesus Christ. The blood of Jesus cleanses our soul, and makes us Holy and acceptable in the sight of the Lord. He doesn't have to use burning bushes to speak to us anymore, because we have the Holy Spirit that constantly guides us everyday. He could speak directly too us, when our minds and hearts are stayed on Him. Jesus did His part by laying His life down, now it's up to us to accept the gift He came to give, and renew our mind and body, while God works on our Spirit. It's written in Romans 12:1-2: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. As children of God we are righteous, however, we still bear the burden of sin. We must be aware of our sinful ways. At the time of sin, we must confess, ask for forgiveness, and repent, to ensure that our fellowship with God is in no way interrupted. When we call on God, and He answers, we must remove our shoes and come into His presence. He will give us step-by-step instructions, but we must prepare ourselves to receive His word. When raising our children, we try our best to teach them morals, respect, and the proper way to conduct themselves in life. We teach them responsibility, and the basic skills they'll need to survive, as well as become successful, productive human beings. We lead by example, take them to church, and send them to good schools, to attempt to instill in them knowledge and the love of Jesus Christ. However, once they're at a certain age, we have little control over what they do, and all we can do is pray that they take everything we've taught them, and are decent human beings. God does the same for us, He's given us salvation through the death and resurrection of His Son, He's given us His Living Word, and He's given us the Holy Spirit to help us along the way. Most importantly He's given us free will, to allow us to chose the ways in which we want to live. When we are saved, we're given a light to lead us on the right paths, but that doesn't mean we have to take those paths. We learn today that we can only be in the presence of the Holy God, when we're in turn holy. Do you ever wonder why your prayers seem as though they aren't being answered, or why God seems so distant from you? Well, take some time out to pray, and ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart, and repent for your un-confessed sins. Ask for Jesus' help, and wait and listen for His reply. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, you aren't Holy, and you cannot go to God for anything but Salvation. He's waiting patiently to hear that prayer from you. Allow Jesus to help you remove your shoes, and step into Righteousness. My favorite verse today is: God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455070&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=5336537&ct=7301671
I love you!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night Post Number 100!
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well, just feeling a little bit under the weather. I decided to take the day to rest up, to ensure that I stay healthy. School has already started for my brother, and along with that comes football season. I was watching a movie the other night called The Express, and it was really good. It's the story of the first black man to win the Heisman Trophy, among other things, Mr. Ernie Davis. That movie was a inspiration to me because it helped me greater understand the value of life, and how we could each make a lasting impression on the world, just by being the best at what we do. It also taught me to cherish each day as if it's my last. Check out the movie, I think it'll be a wonderful inspiration to you as well. Be blessed family, and have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about salvation. The overall reason for the crucifixion of Jesus was to offer Salvation to all who are lost. The main question about Salvation is what are we being saved from? The number one answer to that question is that we're being saved from the penalties of sin. As we know, we’re not delivered from the act of sin, but the penalties of those actions, which is death. Sin however, can be detrimental to the quality of our lives, hence one of the main reasons why we still experience heartache, pain, and sorrow. We needed to be saved from the evil which accompanies sin as well. We come from the dust (Gen. 2:7), and were made in the likeness of God, but yet and still we've fallen short of His glory, because of the act of sin. We're mere mortals, who make constant mistakes, and because of God's grace and mercy, we've been given a chance to be redeemed through the blood of Jesus. We were born in sin, and continue to sin every day of our lives, but Jesus allows us to overcome it, and transforms us into righteousness again and again. We should die to ourselves daily, as we learned from Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:31: I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. Personally, I die daily because I know my flesh is weak. When we're slaves to our flesh, we make costly mistakes, and we often lose our way. However, because of Salvation through Christ we not only gain Eternal life, but we gain resuscitation from those mistakes. We're renewed daily, when we have Christ in or hearts. We're saved from the fire, as well as from ourselves. We're given a new chance to become the righteous Saints we were created to be. When God blew breath into Adam's nostrils, He gave us awesome strength and life through His love. When we're going through sorrow and pain, we can and will be delivered from it, by the blood of Jesus. When we’re in times of despair and hopelessness, all we need to do is call His Name, and He will bring us through them. There will be days when we feel like the world is coming to an end, nevertheless God promised to let us out of those times of misery, and place us on higher Ground. King David often felt like things were crashing down around him, but God delivered him, because of the promises He had made to him. David wrote several songs of praise (Psalms) to God, and we should take David’s lead, and always offer our thanks and praise, because He’s always there right on time. David wrote in 2 Samuel 22:2-3: “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; The God of my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, My stronghold and my refuge; My Savior, You save me from violence.” God made a covenant with David personally, but through Jesus we're saved from All things evil, all we have to do is ask to be delivered. We're heirs to the throne of Christ, and because God promised to make His enemies His footstool, that’s also true for us. Hard times will come and go, but we have someone that lives inside of us, that is much greater than anything we could face on this earth. He offers us salvation, from all things, and most importantly, we're saved from Eternal death. But, until we enter our final resting place, we'll need help on our everyday journey, so the blood of Jesus will wash us new. Yes we'll fall into pits in our lifetime, but God will always lift us out of them, stronger than when we went in. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then you have a permanent pit that awaits you. Salvation is free to all, so take a moment to pray and ask God to save you, through Jesus Christ, and watch and learn as all types of doors are opened to you. The choice is yours. My favorite verses today are: He brought me up ... out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God. (Psalms 40:2-3)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455069&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=5336537&ct=7301679
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well, just feeling a little bit under the weather. I decided to take the day to rest up, to ensure that I stay healthy. School has already started for my brother, and along with that comes football season. I was watching a movie the other night called The Express, and it was really good. It's the story of the first black man to win the Heisman Trophy, among other things, Mr. Ernie Davis. That movie was a inspiration to me because it helped me greater understand the value of life, and how we could each make a lasting impression on the world, just by being the best at what we do. It also taught me to cherish each day as if it's my last. Check out the movie, I think it'll be a wonderful inspiration to you as well. Be blessed family, and have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about salvation. The overall reason for the crucifixion of Jesus was to offer Salvation to all who are lost. The main question about Salvation is what are we being saved from? The number one answer to that question is that we're being saved from the penalties of sin. As we know, we’re not delivered from the act of sin, but the penalties of those actions, which is death. Sin however, can be detrimental to the quality of our lives, hence one of the main reasons why we still experience heartache, pain, and sorrow. We needed to be saved from the evil which accompanies sin as well. We come from the dust (Gen. 2:7), and were made in the likeness of God, but yet and still we've fallen short of His glory, because of the act of sin. We're mere mortals, who make constant mistakes, and because of God's grace and mercy, we've been given a chance to be redeemed through the blood of Jesus. We were born in sin, and continue to sin every day of our lives, but Jesus allows us to overcome it, and transforms us into righteousness again and again. We should die to ourselves daily, as we learned from Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:31: I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. Personally, I die daily because I know my flesh is weak. When we're slaves to our flesh, we make costly mistakes, and we often lose our way. However, because of Salvation through Christ we not only gain Eternal life, but we gain resuscitation from those mistakes. We're renewed daily, when we have Christ in or hearts. We're saved from the fire, as well as from ourselves. We're given a new chance to become the righteous Saints we were created to be. When God blew breath into Adam's nostrils, He gave us awesome strength and life through His love. When we're going through sorrow and pain, we can and will be delivered from it, by the blood of Jesus. When we’re in times of despair and hopelessness, all we need to do is call His Name, and He will bring us through them. There will be days when we feel like the world is coming to an end, nevertheless God promised to let us out of those times of misery, and place us on higher Ground. King David often felt like things were crashing down around him, but God delivered him, because of the promises He had made to him. David wrote several songs of praise (Psalms) to God, and we should take David’s lead, and always offer our thanks and praise, because He’s always there right on time. David wrote in 2 Samuel 22:2-3: “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; The God of my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, My stronghold and my refuge; My Savior, You save me from violence.” God made a covenant with David personally, but through Jesus we're saved from All things evil, all we have to do is ask to be delivered. We're heirs to the throne of Christ, and because God promised to make His enemies His footstool, that’s also true for us. Hard times will come and go, but we have someone that lives inside of us, that is much greater than anything we could face on this earth. He offers us salvation, from all things, and most importantly, we're saved from Eternal death. But, until we enter our final resting place, we'll need help on our everyday journey, so the blood of Jesus will wash us new. Yes we'll fall into pits in our lifetime, but God will always lift us out of them, stronger than when we went in. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then you have a permanent pit that awaits you. Salvation is free to all, so take a moment to pray and ask God to save you, through Jesus Christ, and watch and learn as all types of doors are opened to you. The choice is yours. My favorite verses today are: He brought me up ... out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God. (Psalms 40:2-3)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455069&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=5336537&ct=7301679
I love you!
Monday, August 24, 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, a little sleepy, but blessed and highly favored. I had a wonderful weekend, spent some much needed quality time with my mom, and it was good to hang out with her. I noticed I inherited a lot of her good traits, which is very refreshing. She's celebrating her birthday today, when I look at her I'm truly amazed, because she makes me believe that 50 is the new 30. She's 52 years old today, but doesn't look a day over 32, and it's amazing; I hope I inherited those particular genes from her as well. Today is also my Uncle Keith's birthday, as well as my Step-Uncle Donald, we're in the special time of the Virgos, so I start celebrating my birthday from here, all the way up to 21st of September, it's truly a special time for special people. Have an amazing day!
Today's scriptures are about the Lord's comfort and understanding of our sorrows. God is love, subsequently Jesus was so loving and caring, that He gave His all to save mankind. Not only by the simple act of laying down His life, but He came as our teacher as well. He did this because He empathized with us. He experienced sorrow on a number of occasions, because He had to witness suffering and pain to the people He loved dearly. He had to go through it, to teach us how to endure it, and that He did. When we look at His life, He never stopped for sorrow. The only time He did stop, was to take time out to pray and meditate in the presence of God. The most valuable lesson we are to learn is to take all of our sorrows, hurts, and pains to God. He's the only one who could give us rest, and help ease some of what ails us. The word Sorrow is defined: Mental suffering or pain caused by injury, loss, or despair. It's mentioned in about 105 different verses in the New King James Version of the bible, and the very first account is when God punished Eve for her deceit in Genesis 3:16: To the woman He said: “I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; In pain you shall bring forth children; Your desire shall be for your husband, And he shall rule over you.” The very last account of the word is Revelations 21:4: "And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” How ironic is that? Sorrow started with Adam and Eve, and it ends with the ultimate redemption of mankind; our reintroduction to the new Garden of Eden, Heaven. Hallelujah! This great transition is possible because of the tremendous sorrow God had for us, and He didn't want us to suffer anymore. We paid for thousands of years with death, and now He has reintroduced life to all who believe in Him. We experience so much sorrow in this life, but it's always met with redemption when we trust in Him. He's always promised a rainbow at the end of a storm, and I could personally attest to that. The love of God has been very prevalent in my life, yet so has numerous years of Sorrow. Sorrow is something that each of us, who sin, could pretty much expect, because with sin comes death. All sorrow isn't meant as direct consequence for our actions, but it's also allowed to make us stronger, by forcing us to die to our self, and be reborn to the ways of Jesus Christ. Jesus had great sorrow for us because He knew the truth, and what we're capable of, but He had to sit back and allow us to make our own mistakes, in hopes that we would learn from the pain we endure. This reminds me of the story written about the rich man, who wanted to be saved. He was told that he had to sell all of his belongings, and give everything away and follow Jesus to be saved. He went away very sad, because he wasn't willing to part with His material belongings. Luke 18-24 says: And when Jesus saw that he became very sorrowful, He said, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” It seems as though our greatest sorrows come when we're attempting to hold on to some earthy possession or relationship that God is clearly trying to deliver us from. We experience the most pain in our lives when we're living in disobedience. Nothing can make us stay on that narrow path to righteousness, because it’s our free choice. We'll continue to go through sorrow until we succumb to the lessons, which are necessary to learn. Sorrow is a very much human and spiritual feat, which each of us will experience several times over in our earthly life, until we reach the Kingdom of Heaven. It's a very natural emotion to have, and shouldn't be ignored. God is trying to tell you something, and that's one of the best times to go to Him for the answers. One of the things He promises us is that Joy comes in the morning (Psalms 30:5), Always give yourself time to go through it, but know that as a child of God, you're naturally filled with joy, happiness and peace, so when you notice that you're in periods of sorrow, seek peace from the one true Peacemaker, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He's a simple prayer away, so if you don't know Him, now's the chance to get to know Him, because He's the only way out. He's standing willing and able to deliver you, because He knows first hand what you're going through. My favorite verse today is: When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. (Psalms 142:3)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455068&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=5336537&ct=7301673
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek. I'm doing well, a little sleepy, but blessed and highly favored. I had a wonderful weekend, spent some much needed quality time with my mom, and it was good to hang out with her. I noticed I inherited a lot of her good traits, which is very refreshing. She's celebrating her birthday today, when I look at her I'm truly amazed, because she makes me believe that 50 is the new 30. She's 52 years old today, but doesn't look a day over 32, and it's amazing; I hope I inherited those particular genes from her as well. Today is also my Uncle Keith's birthday, as well as my Step-Uncle Donald, we're in the special time of the Virgos, so I start celebrating my birthday from here, all the way up to 21st of September, it's truly a special time for special people. Have an amazing day!
Today's scriptures are about the Lord's comfort and understanding of our sorrows. God is love, subsequently Jesus was so loving and caring, that He gave His all to save mankind. Not only by the simple act of laying down His life, but He came as our teacher as well. He did this because He empathized with us. He experienced sorrow on a number of occasions, because He had to witness suffering and pain to the people He loved dearly. He had to go through it, to teach us how to endure it, and that He did. When we look at His life, He never stopped for sorrow. The only time He did stop, was to take time out to pray and meditate in the presence of God. The most valuable lesson we are to learn is to take all of our sorrows, hurts, and pains to God. He's the only one who could give us rest, and help ease some of what ails us. The word Sorrow is defined: Mental suffering or pain caused by injury, loss, or despair. It's mentioned in about 105 different verses in the New King James Version of the bible, and the very first account is when God punished Eve for her deceit in Genesis 3:16: To the woman He said: “I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; In pain you shall bring forth children; Your desire shall be for your husband, And he shall rule over you.” The very last account of the word is Revelations 21:4: "And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” How ironic is that? Sorrow started with Adam and Eve, and it ends with the ultimate redemption of mankind; our reintroduction to the new Garden of Eden, Heaven. Hallelujah! This great transition is possible because of the tremendous sorrow God had for us, and He didn't want us to suffer anymore. We paid for thousands of years with death, and now He has reintroduced life to all who believe in Him. We experience so much sorrow in this life, but it's always met with redemption when we trust in Him. He's always promised a rainbow at the end of a storm, and I could personally attest to that. The love of God has been very prevalent in my life, yet so has numerous years of Sorrow. Sorrow is something that each of us, who sin, could pretty much expect, because with sin comes death. All sorrow isn't meant as direct consequence for our actions, but it's also allowed to make us stronger, by forcing us to die to our self, and be reborn to the ways of Jesus Christ. Jesus had great sorrow for us because He knew the truth, and what we're capable of, but He had to sit back and allow us to make our own mistakes, in hopes that we would learn from the pain we endure. This reminds me of the story written about the rich man, who wanted to be saved. He was told that he had to sell all of his belongings, and give everything away and follow Jesus to be saved. He went away very sad, because he wasn't willing to part with His material belongings. Luke 18-24 says: And when Jesus saw that he became very sorrowful, He said, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” It seems as though our greatest sorrows come when we're attempting to hold on to some earthy possession or relationship that God is clearly trying to deliver us from. We experience the most pain in our lives when we're living in disobedience. Nothing can make us stay on that narrow path to righteousness, because it’s our free choice. We'll continue to go through sorrow until we succumb to the lessons, which are necessary to learn. Sorrow is a very much human and spiritual feat, which each of us will experience several times over in our earthly life, until we reach the Kingdom of Heaven. It's a very natural emotion to have, and shouldn't be ignored. God is trying to tell you something, and that's one of the best times to go to Him for the answers. One of the things He promises us is that Joy comes in the morning (Psalms 30:5), Always give yourself time to go through it, but know that as a child of God, you're naturally filled with joy, happiness and peace, so when you notice that you're in periods of sorrow, seek peace from the one true Peacemaker, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He's a simple prayer away, so if you don't know Him, now's the chance to get to know Him, because He's the only way out. He's standing willing and able to deliver you, because He knows first hand what you're going through. My favorite verse today is: When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. (Psalms 142:3)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455068&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=5336537&ct=7301673
I love you!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying another hot Friday eve. I'm doing well, looking forward to the weekend. My Mom's birthday is Monday, so we're going to celebrate this weekend. I was hoping to make it out to the beach, because I haven't been in any water this entire summer, but I'm not sure if we'll make it. Either way, I'm grateful to have my mom here another year, and am fortunate to be able to celebrate her, along with family. Please pray for her, my sisters, and myself, that we're able to come together and have a good time. Have a wonderful day, and wonderful weekend.
Today's scriptures are about the fact that God cannot tell a lie. The Holy Bible is filled with many of God's promises, and stories of how Faithful He's been to all of mankind, yet we still doubt His word. God isn't man, and is 100% righteous, therefore He doesn't have the capability to lie. In any regard, what reason does He have to lie? We learned this week that He's the Alpha and the Omega; the Creator of All things, and has all power and authority over everything and everyone on earth and in Heaven. Why would He lie about anything? A lack of Faith in Him is for the most part, not believing in His promises to us. He promised that "we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us" (Phil. 4:13), yet we go through life with fear and doubt in our abilities and ourselves. He tells us that He is our ever-present help in our time of need (Heb. 4:16), yet we go on and try to face our problems alone, and end up doing more harm to ourselves than good. We all know that God so loved the WORLD that He gave His only son so that we could have life (John 3:16), but we still walk around in the shadow of death (Ps. 23:4). When we pick up the bible, it opens our eyes to so many wonderful truths about the God we serve. When we fellowship with one another, we learn about all of the wonderful miracles He's performed in the lives us others, through the sharing of our testimonies. At the same time we still don't believe that it could happen to us. I don't know how many times I've been afraid or reluctant to ask God for something that I wanted because of my own insecurities. For example, I've always loved to cook, and I would look at the food network, or even visit a nice restaurant, and study the Chef's work. I would be thinking to myself "I would love to do this, but its very hard work and I could never do it", and would push it out of my mind. All the while my Spirit is heightening my passion to create and cook, and I accepted it, but never pursued it. As those urges got stronger, God finally put me in an tough enough situation where I was forced to find out what one of my true callings were, and I finally prayed on it. As soon as I prayed and asked for His guidance and strength, He lead me to go to culinary school and I graduated with honors. I tell you all of this to say that the enemy gets us so wrapped up in F.E.A.R. (False Evidence Appearing Real), that we start to doubt the power of God, when in all actuality, God didn't lie to us, we just never asked for His help. I always drill the three major principles in growing in your Faith Walk, Ask, Seek, and Knock; I cannot stress that enough. The proof is in His words, His actions, and His wonderful love through His blessings. We are children of God, and He loves us as much as He loved His Son Jesus Christ. When Jesus walked this earth, the major thing that set Him apart from every other person around Him, was His tremendous Faith in God. He had tremendous Faith because He remained close to God at all times. He constantly prayed and asked for guidance, strength, as well as prayed for the people around Him and all mankind. Just as most of the major people written about in the bible, who most often kept their relationships with God their number one priority, and He never lied to any of them. He's the same yesterday, today, and forever, which means all the promises He made to them thousands of years ago, still stands for us today. The only thing you need to do is to clarify your relationship with Him. Take some time to reflect on the way some of God's promises has worked in your life, and thank Him for them. Continue to strengthen your wisdom and faith by studying His word daily, even if it's reading one verse or 5 chapters of the bible. Pray and meditate daily, even if it's for 5 minutes or 1 hour. The first step is establishing a relationship with Jesus Christ, because it is written that no man can come to the Father, unless by the son. A relationship with Jesus can be established right now, by saying one simple prayer. If you need help with that prayer feel free to let me know, I'm hear to serve God, and He promised to take care the rest. My favorite verse today is: God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent. (Numbers 23:19)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455064&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=5336537&ct=7301683
I Love you!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying another hot Friday eve. I'm doing well, looking forward to the weekend. My Mom's birthday is Monday, so we're going to celebrate this weekend. I was hoping to make it out to the beach, because I haven't been in any water this entire summer, but I'm not sure if we'll make it. Either way, I'm grateful to have my mom here another year, and am fortunate to be able to celebrate her, along with family. Please pray for her, my sisters, and myself, that we're able to come together and have a good time. Have a wonderful day, and wonderful weekend.
Today's scriptures are about the fact that God cannot tell a lie. The Holy Bible is filled with many of God's promises, and stories of how Faithful He's been to all of mankind, yet we still doubt His word. God isn't man, and is 100% righteous, therefore He doesn't have the capability to lie. In any regard, what reason does He have to lie? We learned this week that He's the Alpha and the Omega; the Creator of All things, and has all power and authority over everything and everyone on earth and in Heaven. Why would He lie about anything? A lack of Faith in Him is for the most part, not believing in His promises to us. He promised that "we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us" (Phil. 4:13), yet we go through life with fear and doubt in our abilities and ourselves. He tells us that He is our ever-present help in our time of need (Heb. 4:16), yet we go on and try to face our problems alone, and end up doing more harm to ourselves than good. We all know that God so loved the WORLD that He gave His only son so that we could have life (John 3:16), but we still walk around in the shadow of death (Ps. 23:4). When we pick up the bible, it opens our eyes to so many wonderful truths about the God we serve. When we fellowship with one another, we learn about all of the wonderful miracles He's performed in the lives us others, through the sharing of our testimonies. At the same time we still don't believe that it could happen to us. I don't know how many times I've been afraid or reluctant to ask God for something that I wanted because of my own insecurities. For example, I've always loved to cook, and I would look at the food network, or even visit a nice restaurant, and study the Chef's work. I would be thinking to myself "I would love to do this, but its very hard work and I could never do it", and would push it out of my mind. All the while my Spirit is heightening my passion to create and cook, and I accepted it, but never pursued it. As those urges got stronger, God finally put me in an tough enough situation where I was forced to find out what one of my true callings were, and I finally prayed on it. As soon as I prayed and asked for His guidance and strength, He lead me to go to culinary school and I graduated with honors. I tell you all of this to say that the enemy gets us so wrapped up in F.E.A.R. (False Evidence Appearing Real), that we start to doubt the power of God, when in all actuality, God didn't lie to us, we just never asked for His help. I always drill the three major principles in growing in your Faith Walk, Ask, Seek, and Knock; I cannot stress that enough. The proof is in His words, His actions, and His wonderful love through His blessings. We are children of God, and He loves us as much as He loved His Son Jesus Christ. When Jesus walked this earth, the major thing that set Him apart from every other person around Him, was His tremendous Faith in God. He had tremendous Faith because He remained close to God at all times. He constantly prayed and asked for guidance, strength, as well as prayed for the people around Him and all mankind. Just as most of the major people written about in the bible, who most often kept their relationships with God their number one priority, and He never lied to any of them. He's the same yesterday, today, and forever, which means all the promises He made to them thousands of years ago, still stands for us today. The only thing you need to do is to clarify your relationship with Him. Take some time to reflect on the way some of God's promises has worked in your life, and thank Him for them. Continue to strengthen your wisdom and faith by studying His word daily, even if it's reading one verse or 5 chapters of the bible. Pray and meditate daily, even if it's for 5 minutes or 1 hour. The first step is establishing a relationship with Jesus Christ, because it is written that no man can come to the Father, unless by the son. A relationship with Jesus can be established right now, by saying one simple prayer. If you need help with that prayer feel free to let me know, I'm hear to serve God, and He promised to take care the rest. My favorite verse today is: God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent. (Numbers 23:19)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455064&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=5336537&ct=7301683
I Love you!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
Today's scriptures are about walking in ways pleasing to God. Dr. Stanley quotes this awesome phrase, "Obey God, and leave the consequences to Him". The first time I heard him say that, I missed the point, then one day I heard it and it hit me. That's a wonderful outlook have on life. God gives us free will, yet requires us to be obedient to Him. Nonetheless, some of the things He puts before us, doesn't quite seem right at that moment and time, but His will is His will. Our love is what pleases Him the most, and obedience is a huge way to show that love. Christ has paid our sin debt in full, now we belong to Him (John 10:29). He has called us to salivation, and once we answer, we've taken on the great responsibility to walk in righteousness. We represent God, through Christ, and when on this earth, we're to conduct ourselves as Holy. Holiness shines from the inside out, so it requires us to work on our hearts first. Jesus is the only way to instill that light in our hearts, and then He starts to permeate through us. We have the great, yet awesome responsibility to conduct ourselves as if we're in the presence of God at all times, because we are. When it comes to the Omnipresent God that we serve, there isn't any "behind closed doors. The only way we'll be able to be conformed into the Holy persons we're meant to be, is by keeping that communication with Him. We're all imperfect human beings, so our righteousness comes solely from the Holy Spirit within us. God never chose us because of how good we are, but because He knew where we would be. Walking in Holiness requires us to share our Joys and concerns, as well as sharing the victories as they come along. It also requires a never ending fellowship with God, and never being ashamed of His presence in our life. Paul wrote, in his second letter to Timothy, how important it is not to be ashamed to God, shortly before his death. It's written in the Woman's Devotional Bible (NIV), " This letter represents the advice of someone who knows he is at the end of his life. Paul knows that His work is done, so he goes on to challenge Timothy to have a more effective ministry and encourages him to persevere in his walk with God". Paul writes in 2 Timothy 1:8-12: Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, to which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day. Paul was an awesome asset to the Church of Christ, because he was able to move on, and keep his faith, no matter what his circumstances; he was another great example of how to walk in Holiness. He was never said to be perfect, nor was he without sin. It's well known what and who Paul was, before He found Jesus, but at the end of His life, those things aren't prevalent in His impact on strengthening the Kingdom of God. Once God called him, he did his best to walk in righteousness. He made sure to use his past and present experiences, which gave him great wisdom, to warn and teach his fellow brothers and sisters. Paul still continues to teach all of us, thousands of years after his death, as did so many other biblical figures. If you examined your life right now, do you think you're making a difference in anyone's life? It doesn't have to be on the scale of Paul, but walking in Holiness means you're a great example of the Love of God in some shape, form, or fashion. Paul made his mark, and it's time for us to make ours. We're each given a gift, and again being righteous means walking in the will of God, and using those gifts to the best of our ability. Not all of us can be a Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham Lincoln, or Barack Obama, but we are extraordinary in our own special way, so continue to make your mark on the world, by allowing Jesus to shine through you. All of these aforementioned people have made their share of mistakes just like us, but they went on to continue to follow God's will for them, and walked in righteousness. God expects the same of us, because we are capable of doing great things, by just be being who we've been called to be. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then you aren't walking in righteousness, because you're still in darkness. The only way to receive the light is by accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior, it's your first and most important calling. Prayer will always connect, and keep you connected to God, through Jesus, which makes you Holy. My favorite verses today are: Ye were sometime darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. (Ephesians 5:8-11).
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455063&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=5336537&ct=7301687
I love you!
Today's scriptures are about walking in ways pleasing to God. Dr. Stanley quotes this awesome phrase, "Obey God, and leave the consequences to Him". The first time I heard him say that, I missed the point, then one day I heard it and it hit me. That's a wonderful outlook have on life. God gives us free will, yet requires us to be obedient to Him. Nonetheless, some of the things He puts before us, doesn't quite seem right at that moment and time, but His will is His will. Our love is what pleases Him the most, and obedience is a huge way to show that love. Christ has paid our sin debt in full, now we belong to Him (John 10:29). He has called us to salivation, and once we answer, we've taken on the great responsibility to walk in righteousness. We represent God, through Christ, and when on this earth, we're to conduct ourselves as Holy. Holiness shines from the inside out, so it requires us to work on our hearts first. Jesus is the only way to instill that light in our hearts, and then He starts to permeate through us. We have the great, yet awesome responsibility to conduct ourselves as if we're in the presence of God at all times, because we are. When it comes to the Omnipresent God that we serve, there isn't any "behind closed doors. The only way we'll be able to be conformed into the Holy persons we're meant to be, is by keeping that communication with Him. We're all imperfect human beings, so our righteousness comes solely from the Holy Spirit within us. God never chose us because of how good we are, but because He knew where we would be. Walking in Holiness requires us to share our Joys and concerns, as well as sharing the victories as they come along. It also requires a never ending fellowship with God, and never being ashamed of His presence in our life. Paul wrote, in his second letter to Timothy, how important it is not to be ashamed to God, shortly before his death. It's written in the Woman's Devotional Bible (NIV), " This letter represents the advice of someone who knows he is at the end of his life. Paul knows that His work is done, so he goes on to challenge Timothy to have a more effective ministry and encourages him to persevere in his walk with God". Paul writes in 2 Timothy 1:8-12: Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, to which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day. Paul was an awesome asset to the Church of Christ, because he was able to move on, and keep his faith, no matter what his circumstances; he was another great example of how to walk in Holiness. He was never said to be perfect, nor was he without sin. It's well known what and who Paul was, before He found Jesus, but at the end of His life, those things aren't prevalent in His impact on strengthening the Kingdom of God. Once God called him, he did his best to walk in righteousness. He made sure to use his past and present experiences, which gave him great wisdom, to warn and teach his fellow brothers and sisters. Paul still continues to teach all of us, thousands of years after his death, as did so many other biblical figures. If you examined your life right now, do you think you're making a difference in anyone's life? It doesn't have to be on the scale of Paul, but walking in Holiness means you're a great example of the Love of God in some shape, form, or fashion. Paul made his mark, and it's time for us to make ours. We're each given a gift, and again being righteous means walking in the will of God, and using those gifts to the best of our ability. Not all of us can be a Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham Lincoln, or Barack Obama, but we are extraordinary in our own special way, so continue to make your mark on the world, by allowing Jesus to shine through you. All of these aforementioned people have made their share of mistakes just like us, but they went on to continue to follow God's will for them, and walked in righteousness. God expects the same of us, because we are capable of doing great things, by just be being who we've been called to be. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then you aren't walking in righteousness, because you're still in darkness. The only way to receive the light is by accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior, it's your first and most important calling. Prayer will always connect, and keep you connected to God, through Jesus, which makes you Holy. My favorite verses today are: Ye were sometime darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. (Ephesians 5:8-11).
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455063&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=5336537&ct=7301687
I love you!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another hot and humid day. I pray I don't get sick, because the weather inside our office building is so cold, you can almost see your breath. Then I go outside to warm up a little bit, and you can almost see the heat in the air. You know how you have that clear haze coming off of fire? That's how the air looks here in the DC area; it's scorching hot. I've been working on getting my birthday trip planned for next month, and I have a decision to make. I was supposed to leave on the 17th, but my dad's hearing has been moved to the 16th. Being as though he'll be released that day (claiming it in the Name of Jesus), I don't want to get on a plane and leave the very next day. Although, I'll only be gone for 5 days, I don't know if I'd want to do that. Now had he been released on the 10th as originally planned, it would’ve given us an entire week to get him settled in. I know God has a reason for everything, and I know He'll give me the answer I'm looking for soon. Please keep us in your prayers, and look forward to sending the evite to the welcome home party the following week. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about comparing God. It's written that we were created in God's image, but that's where are similarities stop. God is the creator of all things, and He has more power than our minds are equipped to understand. It’s written in Exodus 3:13-15 that when God sent Moses to free the slaves, Moses asked Him, “when they ask who sent me what should I say?” Verse 14 goes on to say: And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” God is so powerful, that giving just one name isn't going to help describe Him. He's the Alpha and the Omega, and He's described using words that have the prefix Omni, which means ALL. He's Omnipresent, Omniscient, and Omnipotent, and this is the God we serve. This is the God that offers to give us everything we need, and all we have to do is ask. He has all power, knows all things, and is everywhere at once. Can you imagine ever having that type of power? Well don't beat yourself up about it, because you never will. God created the earth in six days, and then created us to be His companions and to rule over it, so we’re not as important as we think we are. God loves each of us unconditionally, because He created us just for that purpose. The most important thing we have to remember is that God is in control. Some of us take on the "god" complex, and think we're in control, and we can do and say whatever we want, and continue to live normal lives. Paul warns us in Romans 12:3: For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. When we start stepping ahead of what He has planned out for us, we tend to overstep our boundaries, because we're then comparing ourselves to God. Especially when we get a little bit of money and earthly power, we tend to think that we don't need God anymore. Hence the reason it's written that the love of money is the root of all evil. Our stay here on earth is very temporary, so the money and prestige will only last but so long. God has ways of proving Himself to us, and bringing us right back down to where we're supposed to be, because He's God of ALL things. There's not one in Heaven or on earth who could ever be compared to God, not even Jesus or the Holy Spirit. Although Jesus was God in the flesh, He's still a different entity. In the flesh, Jesus prayed to God for guidance and strength, just as He taught us to do. Who do you know that could split themselves up into three powerful units, which work together at totally different things? Although the Holy Spirit is God in the Spirit, He’s still a different part of Him, and is designed to do a different job. Although He gives us a lot of power from God, He still can't be compared to God. Then we have different religions, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, Daoism, etc. They all worship different forms of gods, but none of their gods can be compared to the one true God. I can't speak too much on these different religions because I've never studied them, but I do know in my heart that there is one true God. My brother went to a Jesuit middle school, and is now in a Jesuit high school, and each year they take religion class. While these schools promote the love of one true God, they still teach these young men about every other religion, so they won't get tripped up when faced with them outside of school. I believe the best way to defeat your opponent is by studying their moves, so you'll better know how to defend yourself against their offense, and vice versa. I asked my brother how he felt about learning these different religions, and if he has ever considered changing what He believes in? He said that none of these religions could compare to the history of Christianity, and the creation of the earth. Although they're interesting, the one true God always stood out higher than any other. When you get to the point of your Faith walk when you get curious about what you believe, God encourages us to make ourselves more wise individuals, so all we have to do is to seek the right knowledge and understanding. He wants us to love Him with all of our hearts, and it's hard to do that if we doubt who He is, but it's a natural process. This is why our Faith gives us so much power, because God knows the evils we face on earth. It means a lot to Him, that we trust and believe in Him, although we've never seen Him. He's given us all of the tools we'll need to learn more about Him, and fill our hearts with His great love and understanding. Although God is the most powerful being in all of earth and heaven, He still gives us the freedom to choose, and He still wants our love. That's the type of Father He is. He has the power to destroy earth in the blink of an eye, but instead He chose to give us a chance to make it right. He's taken care of Sin through His son Jesus Christ, so we would no longer have to be apart from Him. He's created a life for us after we die, so that we could live on forever with Him. There is no one or nothing that can compare, and if you don't believe me, try Him out. Ask Jesus to come into your heart as Lord and Savior, and He'll slowly start to reveal Himself to you. My favorite verses today are: Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit. (1 Corinthians 2:9-10)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455062&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=5336537&ct=7241235
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another hot and humid day. I pray I don't get sick, because the weather inside our office building is so cold, you can almost see your breath. Then I go outside to warm up a little bit, and you can almost see the heat in the air. You know how you have that clear haze coming off of fire? That's how the air looks here in the DC area; it's scorching hot. I've been working on getting my birthday trip planned for next month, and I have a decision to make. I was supposed to leave on the 17th, but my dad's hearing has been moved to the 16th. Being as though he'll be released that day (claiming it in the Name of Jesus), I don't want to get on a plane and leave the very next day. Although, I'll only be gone for 5 days, I don't know if I'd want to do that. Now had he been released on the 10th as originally planned, it would’ve given us an entire week to get him settled in. I know God has a reason for everything, and I know He'll give me the answer I'm looking for soon. Please keep us in your prayers, and look forward to sending the evite to the welcome home party the following week. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about comparing God. It's written that we were created in God's image, but that's where are similarities stop. God is the creator of all things, and He has more power than our minds are equipped to understand. It’s written in Exodus 3:13-15 that when God sent Moses to free the slaves, Moses asked Him, “when they ask who sent me what should I say?” Verse 14 goes on to say: And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” God is so powerful, that giving just one name isn't going to help describe Him. He's the Alpha and the Omega, and He's described using words that have the prefix Omni, which means ALL. He's Omnipresent, Omniscient, and Omnipotent, and this is the God we serve. This is the God that offers to give us everything we need, and all we have to do is ask. He has all power, knows all things, and is everywhere at once. Can you imagine ever having that type of power? Well don't beat yourself up about it, because you never will. God created the earth in six days, and then created us to be His companions and to rule over it, so we’re not as important as we think we are. God loves each of us unconditionally, because He created us just for that purpose. The most important thing we have to remember is that God is in control. Some of us take on the "god" complex, and think we're in control, and we can do and say whatever we want, and continue to live normal lives. Paul warns us in Romans 12:3: For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. When we start stepping ahead of what He has planned out for us, we tend to overstep our boundaries, because we're then comparing ourselves to God. Especially when we get a little bit of money and earthly power, we tend to think that we don't need God anymore. Hence the reason it's written that the love of money is the root of all evil. Our stay here on earth is very temporary, so the money and prestige will only last but so long. God has ways of proving Himself to us, and bringing us right back down to where we're supposed to be, because He's God of ALL things. There's not one in Heaven or on earth who could ever be compared to God, not even Jesus or the Holy Spirit. Although Jesus was God in the flesh, He's still a different entity. In the flesh, Jesus prayed to God for guidance and strength, just as He taught us to do. Who do you know that could split themselves up into three powerful units, which work together at totally different things? Although the Holy Spirit is God in the Spirit, He’s still a different part of Him, and is designed to do a different job. Although He gives us a lot of power from God, He still can't be compared to God. Then we have different religions, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, Daoism, etc. They all worship different forms of gods, but none of their gods can be compared to the one true God. I can't speak too much on these different religions because I've never studied them, but I do know in my heart that there is one true God. My brother went to a Jesuit middle school, and is now in a Jesuit high school, and each year they take religion class. While these schools promote the love of one true God, they still teach these young men about every other religion, so they won't get tripped up when faced with them outside of school. I believe the best way to defeat your opponent is by studying their moves, so you'll better know how to defend yourself against their offense, and vice versa. I asked my brother how he felt about learning these different religions, and if he has ever considered changing what He believes in? He said that none of these religions could compare to the history of Christianity, and the creation of the earth. Although they're interesting, the one true God always stood out higher than any other. When you get to the point of your Faith walk when you get curious about what you believe, God encourages us to make ourselves more wise individuals, so all we have to do is to seek the right knowledge and understanding. He wants us to love Him with all of our hearts, and it's hard to do that if we doubt who He is, but it's a natural process. This is why our Faith gives us so much power, because God knows the evils we face on earth. It means a lot to Him, that we trust and believe in Him, although we've never seen Him. He's given us all of the tools we'll need to learn more about Him, and fill our hearts with His great love and understanding. Although God is the most powerful being in all of earth and heaven, He still gives us the freedom to choose, and He still wants our love. That's the type of Father He is. He has the power to destroy earth in the blink of an eye, but instead He chose to give us a chance to make it right. He's taken care of Sin through His son Jesus Christ, so we would no longer have to be apart from Him. He's created a life for us after we die, so that we could live on forever with Him. There is no one or nothing that can compare, and if you don't believe me, try Him out. Ask Jesus to come into your heart as Lord and Savior, and He'll slowly start to reveal Himself to you. My favorite verses today are: Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit. (1 Corinthians 2:9-10)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455062&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=5336537&ct=7241235
I love you!
Monday, August 17, 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, looking forward to my 3-day weekend already. I had a wonderful weekend, despite the fact that I had to work. I did see two movies, and GI Joe was a great movie, it had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. However, District 9 not so much, it was painful to sit through 2 hours of it. I had a pretty productive weekend, and I cooked a quick meal yesterday, it's been awhile since I've had time to cook, so I'm very excited about that. It's been a very busy Monday in the office, so I'm ready to go home and sleep. I finally joined Fairfax Christian Church yesterday; I had been attending regularly for almost a year, but I wasn't sure if I was a member or not, but I heard the alter call yesterday, and eagerly joined. My church is a Disciples of Christ denomination, and they believe in using your God-given gifts and talents to strengthen the Church, so I'm looking forward to getting involved. I hope you had a wonderful weekend as well, and have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about praying for each other. The second "great commandment" as Jesus tells us in Matthew 22:39, is 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself". After Jesus paid the sin debt in full, when we break one of the Ten Commandments of the Old Testament, we're easily forgiven, and life moves on. For the most part we all know that it's not right to steal, kill, or talk about our neighbors, etc. Most of us were taught morals, so after Christ the greatest commandments are to love God and love each other. Love is something that isn't easily done, because it requires us to give more of ourselves, while leaving the consequences up to God. Love is an action, so how do we love our neighbors as ourselves? As we learn today, we need to pray for them. Help them when they're in need, and bear their burdens to the best of our ability. Jesus didn't say love our family members, and friends, but He said love everyone. As God's children, we have the authority send up a petition to God, on behalf of anyone, through Christ. Then, we must have Faith in knowing that God will answer our prayers. There's a popular gospel song written by Dorothy Norwood entitled, "Somebody Prayed for me", and it starts: Somebody prayed for me, had me on their mind, they took the time and prayed for me. I’m so glad they prayed, I’m so glad they prayed for me... It goes on to say my mother, grandmother, and pastor prayed for me, and I'm so glad they did. I know for a fact that I survived my darkest times, because somebody prayed for me, and I'm so grateful. Prayer is our personal connection to God, and what better way to serve the kingdom then by prayer? When we grow in our Faith walk, we start to become more sensitive to the needs of others, and God's love starts to grow inside of us, so we naturally want to help everyone. However, we know that we aren't God, and we can't do everything for everyone. In most situations all we can do is pray for them. When we're driving down the street and we see someone in pain, handicapped, angry, or a person who's just been in an accident, a prayer could make all the difference for those people. When we know that friend is going through a tough time, we should pray for them. When someone is treating us badly, we must pray for him or her, because evil people has had evil seeds sown in them. In most cases people who intentionally try to hurt, use, or mistreat us, have had the same things done to them in the past, and they need love to help them escape the hurt and pain that they're going through. When we look at it from the eyes of a victor and not a victim, we'll be able to see through the tough guy facade, and see the pain. This is when I personally feel remorse instead of anger, and immediately pray for that person. When Jesus was being tortured and killed, He prayed for the people who did Him harm, saying "Father forgive them for they know not what they do". Most of the time, we go through trials and tribulations because we don't know any better, and the only way we learn how to avoid some of our pitfalls, is by studying the word, learning from our mistakes, and through prayer. When we're lost we often don't know how to pray, so we know that most often than not, it's the prayers of someone else that helps brings us to the love of God. God often uses us in the lives of people who are going through something similar to what we've either gone through, or is going through. At the time you're needed in their life to help them through it, or in most cases you help each other. It's written in James 1:2-6: My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. Praying with confidence in knowing that God will stand on all of His promises is the only way to get the right answers. That's how we heal the sick and help others solve problems, because we ask God with unwavering Faith. We should also pray for the wisdom to help someone in need, or the strength to forgive those who have wronged us. It's the only way we as the body of Christ could survive and grow in strength in numbers. We have to stick together and love one another in order to complete the will set forth for us, so in the future when I ask for you to pray for me, I really need you to pray for me. Please don't think that you're not worthy to pray for someone else, because you're not "Holy" enough, that's another lie the devil has fed you. Just know, as long as you pray with Faith, God will answer all of your prayers. We all have to answer for our own sins in this life, but the prayer of a Righteous man always help us through it. When Paul said, "pray without ceasing", he meant praying for yourself and anyone who else who needs it. My challenge for you today is to pray for at least five people each day. When you start to pray for others your problem seems minimal, and God will continue to bless you, because you're being obedient, by loving your neighbor as you love yourself. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then the only prayer God can hear from you is you asking Jesus to come into your life as Lord and Savior. Once you do that, you too will be come righteous, and you can talk to God about anything and anyone you’d like. My favorite verses today are: The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. (James 5:16-17)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455061&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=5336537&ct=7301671
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek. I'm doing well, looking forward to my 3-day weekend already. I had a wonderful weekend, despite the fact that I had to work. I did see two movies, and GI Joe was a great movie, it had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. However, District 9 not so much, it was painful to sit through 2 hours of it. I had a pretty productive weekend, and I cooked a quick meal yesterday, it's been awhile since I've had time to cook, so I'm very excited about that. It's been a very busy Monday in the office, so I'm ready to go home and sleep. I finally joined Fairfax Christian Church yesterday; I had been attending regularly for almost a year, but I wasn't sure if I was a member or not, but I heard the alter call yesterday, and eagerly joined. My church is a Disciples of Christ denomination, and they believe in using your God-given gifts and talents to strengthen the Church, so I'm looking forward to getting involved. I hope you had a wonderful weekend as well, and have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about praying for each other. The second "great commandment" as Jesus tells us in Matthew 22:39, is 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself". After Jesus paid the sin debt in full, when we break one of the Ten Commandments of the Old Testament, we're easily forgiven, and life moves on. For the most part we all know that it's not right to steal, kill, or talk about our neighbors, etc. Most of us were taught morals, so after Christ the greatest commandments are to love God and love each other. Love is something that isn't easily done, because it requires us to give more of ourselves, while leaving the consequences up to God. Love is an action, so how do we love our neighbors as ourselves? As we learn today, we need to pray for them. Help them when they're in need, and bear their burdens to the best of our ability. Jesus didn't say love our family members, and friends, but He said love everyone. As God's children, we have the authority send up a petition to God, on behalf of anyone, through Christ. Then, we must have Faith in knowing that God will answer our prayers. There's a popular gospel song written by Dorothy Norwood entitled, "Somebody Prayed for me", and it starts: Somebody prayed for me, had me on their mind, they took the time and prayed for me. I’m so glad they prayed, I’m so glad they prayed for me... It goes on to say my mother, grandmother, and pastor prayed for me, and I'm so glad they did. I know for a fact that I survived my darkest times, because somebody prayed for me, and I'm so grateful. Prayer is our personal connection to God, and what better way to serve the kingdom then by prayer? When we grow in our Faith walk, we start to become more sensitive to the needs of others, and God's love starts to grow inside of us, so we naturally want to help everyone. However, we know that we aren't God, and we can't do everything for everyone. In most situations all we can do is pray for them. When we're driving down the street and we see someone in pain, handicapped, angry, or a person who's just been in an accident, a prayer could make all the difference for those people. When we know that friend is going through a tough time, we should pray for them. When someone is treating us badly, we must pray for him or her, because evil people has had evil seeds sown in them. In most cases people who intentionally try to hurt, use, or mistreat us, have had the same things done to them in the past, and they need love to help them escape the hurt and pain that they're going through. When we look at it from the eyes of a victor and not a victim, we'll be able to see through the tough guy facade, and see the pain. This is when I personally feel remorse instead of anger, and immediately pray for that person. When Jesus was being tortured and killed, He prayed for the people who did Him harm, saying "Father forgive them for they know not what they do". Most of the time, we go through trials and tribulations because we don't know any better, and the only way we learn how to avoid some of our pitfalls, is by studying the word, learning from our mistakes, and through prayer. When we're lost we often don't know how to pray, so we know that most often than not, it's the prayers of someone else that helps brings us to the love of God. God often uses us in the lives of people who are going through something similar to what we've either gone through, or is going through. At the time you're needed in their life to help them through it, or in most cases you help each other. It's written in James 1:2-6: My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. Praying with confidence in knowing that God will stand on all of His promises is the only way to get the right answers. That's how we heal the sick and help others solve problems, because we ask God with unwavering Faith. We should also pray for the wisdom to help someone in need, or the strength to forgive those who have wronged us. It's the only way we as the body of Christ could survive and grow in strength in numbers. We have to stick together and love one another in order to complete the will set forth for us, so in the future when I ask for you to pray for me, I really need you to pray for me. Please don't think that you're not worthy to pray for someone else, because you're not "Holy" enough, that's another lie the devil has fed you. Just know, as long as you pray with Faith, God will answer all of your prayers. We all have to answer for our own sins in this life, but the prayer of a Righteous man always help us through it. When Paul said, "pray without ceasing", he meant praying for yourself and anyone who else who needs it. My challenge for you today is to pray for at least five people each day. When you start to pray for others your problem seems minimal, and God will continue to bless you, because you're being obedient, by loving your neighbor as you love yourself. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then the only prayer God can hear from you is you asking Jesus to come into your life as Lord and Savior. Once you do that, you too will be come righteous, and you can talk to God about anything and anyone you’d like. My favorite verses today are: The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. (James 5:16-17)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455061&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=5336537&ct=7301671
I love you!
Friday, August 14, 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, just a little tired. It feels like it's been a fight to get out of bed this entire week, I'm not resting enough as usual. Not having to be to work until 11am helps a lot, but if I don't get in bed before 2am, then that really doesn't matter. I find myself being busy with nothing really. Time is very valuable, and I'm starting to see why the bible says let us run with endurance the race that is set before us (Heb 12:1). It's really like we're competing against time, and we have little time to complete great the tasks set for our lives. That's deep, so I'm going to save that for another devotional. No big plans for the weekend, just hope to get down to see my dad on Sunday, and work tomorrow. I love working on Saturday, because that means I'll have a 3-day weekend next week, right in time for my mother's birthday. We're going to have a nice time. I pray you have a wonderful weekend, and whatever you do, do it for the Lord.
Today's scriptures are about being joyful about God given strength. I was watching the news last night (which I rarely do), and there was a story about a woman who was in a really bad car accident. She was stuck in her car in the middle of an intersection after the crash, and some people she didn't know came and freed her and her friend from the mangled vehicle. The car caught fire and was on the verge of exploding, and these strangers put their own lives in danger to save her. All she kept saying, while laying in that hospital bed was I couldn’t believe I'm still alive. Then she asked, "I wonder why it had to happen to me?" There are so many things that we go through in this life that leaves us asking, why me. At the same time, God always delivers us from these seemingly hopeless situations, and there's usually a blessing behind it, and that's what brings us joy. This woman, who's a mother of five, can go on to live another day for her children, thanks to the grace and mercy of God. She did suffer two broken legs, and a broken hip, but she's also alive and receiving the treatment she deserves, and I'm sure there will be a bright light at the end of the tunnel for her, thanks to God. These are the times we should sing God's praises, because of the overwhelming joy we feel in our hearts. When we start to grow in our Faith walk, we start to lose all sense of our selfishness, and that's an awesome thing. When we learn and experience the love of God, that love helps us overcome the temporary trials we face here on earth. It also allows us to see the more of the positive, and the focus on the bigger picture. We learn in Isaiah 61:3 that God's consoles those who mourn, and give us "Beauty for Ashes". When we hear the word mourn, we usually think of something we go through when a person close to us dies. But we mourn over anything we lose, that means something too us. That could be a relationship, a home, a job, or something material we care for dearly. We must allow ourselves that time to mourn, but God says He'll take those ashes and turn them into something beautiful, Hallelujah! Jesus said He came so we could have a more abundant life, and that's pertaining to our Spirit. This young lady who was in the accident, joy came from the fact that she was still alive to spend another day with her children. She realized just how precious life is; sure she lost the new job she was about to start, and she has a lot of physical therapy to go through to become healthy again, but God has given her the strength to endure it. All we have to do, through our mourning periods, is trust in God to give us exactly what we need to survive. He never said life would be easy, but He did promise that if we trust in Him, He’d supply our every need. I often smile when I'm watching my young nieces playing, because it seems like they don't have a care in the world. When they're walking down the street, they sometimes start to skip, with a huge smile on their faces, because life is just that beautiful to them. They trust their parents or caregivers to take care of them, and they're okay with that. When I'm watching them play I miss my youth, because I wish I could be that way again. However, the Love of God offers us that type of Joy in our Spirits, because He's promised that if we ask it shall be given to us, knock and the door shall be opened, and seek and we shall find (Matt 7:7). I don't know how many times Paul said "Cast your cares on the Lord", and when we do that, it's showing God that we trust in Him to give us the strength to get through them. However, when we give them to Him we cannot take them back. We're often very self-reliant, and tend to try to take on our problems by ourselves, especially if we've sinned against God, because we're too afraid to face Him. Jesus already paid the penalty for our sin, so stop allowing the devil to throw that lie at you. Repent and keep on moving, with the strength of God. God will never lie, and will never break a promise that’s in His living word, which is the Holy Bible. He promises to give us the strength to endure the race of life, and there's no reason to doubt it. He loves us, and when you love someone you do what you can to make him or her happy, so how much more will God do for us? I've been reading the stories of David, Daniel, Ruth, Naomi, Paul, and countless others in the bible, and the one thing I noticed last night is, whenever they had a problem they prayed. Those verses always start off saying “He (or she) went to God...” and they end "And God Answered and said..." God always answered their prayers, and majority of the time He gave them what they asked. He's given us everything we need to live a life full of Peace, Joy, and Happiness, no matter what is going in our lives, and it's up to us to always share that joy with others. Sing His praises no matter where you go, and always give God the glory. Allow people to see how He is working in your life, because you never know whose life you could touch in a good way. The book of Psalms are mostly songs of praise written for the Lord, and it's the largest book in the bible, so that tells us how important sharing our joy through praise really is. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then some of God's promises don't apply to you yet, but they all are offered to anyone who stands in need of salvation. Don't wait another day; it needs to happen right now! If you need a prayer partner please let me know. My favorite verse today is: The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. (Psalms 28:7)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455058&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=5336537&ct=7241301
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying the end of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, just a little tired. It feels like it's been a fight to get out of bed this entire week, I'm not resting enough as usual. Not having to be to work until 11am helps a lot, but if I don't get in bed before 2am, then that really doesn't matter. I find myself being busy with nothing really. Time is very valuable, and I'm starting to see why the bible says let us run with endurance the race that is set before us (Heb 12:1). It's really like we're competing against time, and we have little time to complete great the tasks set for our lives. That's deep, so I'm going to save that for another devotional. No big plans for the weekend, just hope to get down to see my dad on Sunday, and work tomorrow. I love working on Saturday, because that means I'll have a 3-day weekend next week, right in time for my mother's birthday. We're going to have a nice time. I pray you have a wonderful weekend, and whatever you do, do it for the Lord.
Today's scriptures are about being joyful about God given strength. I was watching the news last night (which I rarely do), and there was a story about a woman who was in a really bad car accident. She was stuck in her car in the middle of an intersection after the crash, and some people she didn't know came and freed her and her friend from the mangled vehicle. The car caught fire and was on the verge of exploding, and these strangers put their own lives in danger to save her. All she kept saying, while laying in that hospital bed was I couldn’t believe I'm still alive. Then she asked, "I wonder why it had to happen to me?" There are so many things that we go through in this life that leaves us asking, why me. At the same time, God always delivers us from these seemingly hopeless situations, and there's usually a blessing behind it, and that's what brings us joy. This woman, who's a mother of five, can go on to live another day for her children, thanks to the grace and mercy of God. She did suffer two broken legs, and a broken hip, but she's also alive and receiving the treatment she deserves, and I'm sure there will be a bright light at the end of the tunnel for her, thanks to God. These are the times we should sing God's praises, because of the overwhelming joy we feel in our hearts. When we start to grow in our Faith walk, we start to lose all sense of our selfishness, and that's an awesome thing. When we learn and experience the love of God, that love helps us overcome the temporary trials we face here on earth. It also allows us to see the more of the positive, and the focus on the bigger picture. We learn in Isaiah 61:3 that God's consoles those who mourn, and give us "Beauty for Ashes". When we hear the word mourn, we usually think of something we go through when a person close to us dies. But we mourn over anything we lose, that means something too us. That could be a relationship, a home, a job, or something material we care for dearly. We must allow ourselves that time to mourn, but God says He'll take those ashes and turn them into something beautiful, Hallelujah! Jesus said He came so we could have a more abundant life, and that's pertaining to our Spirit. This young lady who was in the accident, joy came from the fact that she was still alive to spend another day with her children. She realized just how precious life is; sure she lost the new job she was about to start, and she has a lot of physical therapy to go through to become healthy again, but God has given her the strength to endure it. All we have to do, through our mourning periods, is trust in God to give us exactly what we need to survive. He never said life would be easy, but He did promise that if we trust in Him, He’d supply our every need. I often smile when I'm watching my young nieces playing, because it seems like they don't have a care in the world. When they're walking down the street, they sometimes start to skip, with a huge smile on their faces, because life is just that beautiful to them. They trust their parents or caregivers to take care of them, and they're okay with that. When I'm watching them play I miss my youth, because I wish I could be that way again. However, the Love of God offers us that type of Joy in our Spirits, because He's promised that if we ask it shall be given to us, knock and the door shall be opened, and seek and we shall find (Matt 7:7). I don't know how many times Paul said "Cast your cares on the Lord", and when we do that, it's showing God that we trust in Him to give us the strength to get through them. However, when we give them to Him we cannot take them back. We're often very self-reliant, and tend to try to take on our problems by ourselves, especially if we've sinned against God, because we're too afraid to face Him. Jesus already paid the penalty for our sin, so stop allowing the devil to throw that lie at you. Repent and keep on moving, with the strength of God. God will never lie, and will never break a promise that’s in His living word, which is the Holy Bible. He promises to give us the strength to endure the race of life, and there's no reason to doubt it. He loves us, and when you love someone you do what you can to make him or her happy, so how much more will God do for us? I've been reading the stories of David, Daniel, Ruth, Naomi, Paul, and countless others in the bible, and the one thing I noticed last night is, whenever they had a problem they prayed. Those verses always start off saying “He (or she) went to God...” and they end "And God Answered and said..." God always answered their prayers, and majority of the time He gave them what they asked. He's given us everything we need to live a life full of Peace, Joy, and Happiness, no matter what is going in our lives, and it's up to us to always share that joy with others. Sing His praises no matter where you go, and always give God the glory. Allow people to see how He is working in your life, because you never know whose life you could touch in a good way. The book of Psalms are mostly songs of praise written for the Lord, and it's the largest book in the bible, so that tells us how important sharing our joy through praise really is. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then some of God's promises don't apply to you yet, but they all are offered to anyone who stands in need of salvation. Don't wait another day; it needs to happen right now! If you need a prayer partner please let me know. My favorite verse today is: The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. (Psalms 28:7)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455058&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=5336537&ct=7241301
I love you!
Thursday, August 13, 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, enjoying the beautiful weather. Lately, it's been so hot and humid, where there's a little haze in the air. Today it's still hot, but not a lot of humidity, and there are beautiful clear skies. I must be solar powered, because I can't function properly without the Sunshine. I received a letter from my Dad's Lawyer's office yesterday saying that the hearing has been moved to September 16, 2009 at 9am. This is how the court system works, they reschedule often, but thank God it's only 6 days later, so if you've already scheduled time off, make sure you change the dates. Again, we're looking to fill the courtroom with people, to show that he has support when he comes home, so I pray that they don't change the date again. Please continue to pray for his release. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about Heaven. When you think of Heaven what comes to mind? There are so many movies, television shows, and songs that depict images of what we think Heaven looks like, but the truth is no one really knows. There are several verses in the bible that describes heaven, for example Jesus said in Matthew 14:2: In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. Then there are the Revelations, where there are accounts of people who have seen visions of Heaven. The most important thing we need to know about Heaven is not how it looks, because we know if God and Jesus is there it's bound to be glorious, but the transformation we'll go through when get there. John described what he experienced in Revelations 21:2-4: Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” From this we learn that Heaven is setup as a "New City, while Jesus said, in the ladder verses, that He's going to prepare a mansion for us, so we know that there will be a new order of doing things. Although we'll be setup in eternal bliss, we'll each still have our jobs to do. We work for God here, to help strengthen the Kingdom of God, and it's very important we take that seriously, because it reflects in our lifestyle in Heaven. Eternity is way longer than the average 70-90 years we're supposed to live here on earth. It's written in Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This is where our personal relationship with Jesus comes in. It's wonderful to go to church, and listen to different teachings on God, but it's just as necessary to strengthen our personal relationships with Him, by spending time alone with Him, studying His word, and praying without ceasing. The devil came to steal, kill, and destroy, and he proves that time and time again. He was successful in destroying "man's" personal connection with God with Eve in the Garden of Eden, but God is more powerful than anything and anyone, so He sent His Son as redemption for our sins. When we believe in Jesus Christ our names are permanently written in the Lambs Book of Life, and we don't have to worry any more. Jesus has called each of us to Salvation, and all we have to do is answer and accept Him as Lord. Jesus said in John 10:27-29: My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. The devil will tell you that you're "too bad" to be saved right now and he'll keep lying to you as long as you listen. The fact still remains that there is a Heaven and there is a Hell. The only way to enter into the bliss of Heaven is to believe that Jesus died for our sins on the cross, was buried in a tomb but resurrected on the third day, and now sits on a throne in Heaven awaiting His return to receive us. I know that's a farfetched story, but if you believe that Columbus discovered America, then why don't you believe this? Jesus is real because I feel His presence every day. Heaven is a free gift to all, so if you aren't sure that you're going just say that simple prayer right now, and don't forget that time waits for no man. Then start working to spread the Gospel, which translates "The Good News", I'm sure you want to see your brothers and sisters in Heaven. As we learned a few days ago physical death is the only thing that we cannot avoid in this life, but Spiritual death is something that we can, and Jesus is the only way. Heaven doesn't discriminate between race, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, intelligence, or prominence, because "God so loved the world". My Favorite verse today is: An inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. (1 Peter 1:4)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455057&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=5336537&ct=7241267
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Friday eve. I'm doing well, enjoying the beautiful weather. Lately, it's been so hot and humid, where there's a little haze in the air. Today it's still hot, but not a lot of humidity, and there are beautiful clear skies. I must be solar powered, because I can't function properly without the Sunshine. I received a letter from my Dad's Lawyer's office yesterday saying that the hearing has been moved to September 16, 2009 at 9am. This is how the court system works, they reschedule often, but thank God it's only 6 days later, so if you've already scheduled time off, make sure you change the dates. Again, we're looking to fill the courtroom with people, to show that he has support when he comes home, so I pray that they don't change the date again. Please continue to pray for his release. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about Heaven. When you think of Heaven what comes to mind? There are so many movies, television shows, and songs that depict images of what we think Heaven looks like, but the truth is no one really knows. There are several verses in the bible that describes heaven, for example Jesus said in Matthew 14:2: In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. Then there are the Revelations, where there are accounts of people who have seen visions of Heaven. The most important thing we need to know about Heaven is not how it looks, because we know if God and Jesus is there it's bound to be glorious, but the transformation we'll go through when get there. John described what he experienced in Revelations 21:2-4: Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” From this we learn that Heaven is setup as a "New City, while Jesus said, in the ladder verses, that He's going to prepare a mansion for us, so we know that there will be a new order of doing things. Although we'll be setup in eternal bliss, we'll each still have our jobs to do. We work for God here, to help strengthen the Kingdom of God, and it's very important we take that seriously, because it reflects in our lifestyle in Heaven. Eternity is way longer than the average 70-90 years we're supposed to live here on earth. It's written in Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This is where our personal relationship with Jesus comes in. It's wonderful to go to church, and listen to different teachings on God, but it's just as necessary to strengthen our personal relationships with Him, by spending time alone with Him, studying His word, and praying without ceasing. The devil came to steal, kill, and destroy, and he proves that time and time again. He was successful in destroying "man's" personal connection with God with Eve in the Garden of Eden, but God is more powerful than anything and anyone, so He sent His Son as redemption for our sins. When we believe in Jesus Christ our names are permanently written in the Lambs Book of Life, and we don't have to worry any more. Jesus has called each of us to Salvation, and all we have to do is answer and accept Him as Lord. Jesus said in John 10:27-29: My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. The devil will tell you that you're "too bad" to be saved right now and he'll keep lying to you as long as you listen. The fact still remains that there is a Heaven and there is a Hell. The only way to enter into the bliss of Heaven is to believe that Jesus died for our sins on the cross, was buried in a tomb but resurrected on the third day, and now sits on a throne in Heaven awaiting His return to receive us. I know that's a farfetched story, but if you believe that Columbus discovered America, then why don't you believe this? Jesus is real because I feel His presence every day. Heaven is a free gift to all, so if you aren't sure that you're going just say that simple prayer right now, and don't forget that time waits for no man. Then start working to spread the Gospel, which translates "The Good News", I'm sure you want to see your brothers and sisters in Heaven. As we learned a few days ago physical death is the only thing that we cannot avoid in this life, but Spiritual death is something that we can, and Jesus is the only way. Heaven doesn't discriminate between race, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, intelligence, or prominence, because "God so loved the world". My Favorite verse today is: An inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. (1 Peter 1:4)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455057&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=5336537&ct=7241267
I love you!
Wednesday, August 12, 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, a little groggy (the usual for Wednesday). I had a long night; I got caught up on the Internet. I keep hearing this entire buzz about the Housewives of Atlanta, and I decided to watch an episode, and it was very interesting, to say the least. I also caught an episode of the Househusbands of Hollywood, which was very interesting to watch as well. I admire some of these men, because it's hard to allow your wife to have that much control, while they take care of the home. I'm a little impartial to that, but that's just me. It was good to see these men recognize how hard it was being a full time parent and husband. I just imagine the woman and men who are single parents, and have to do it all themselves, that has to be very hard. God has a reason for everything, and He gives us strength when we're going through the hard times, and as long as we stand on that simple promise, we'll be just fine. I'm not sure when these shows come on television, because I watched them online, at a website called Hulu, I love being able to do that, but I sometimes get caught up watching episode after episode, and before I know it, 5 hours have passed, so beware. Have a wonderful day, and keeps the prayers coming.
Today's scriptures are about our temporary punishments. God loves us enough pain to chastise us when we sin against Him, to help teach us discipline, and guide us through life. We have the awesome responsibility to live righteously, according to the example of Jesus Christ. When we stray off of the path laid out for us, we put ourselves in danger of seriously hurting ourselves. To avoid that, God allows us to experience some pain and heartache, to make us aware of the consequences of our actions, in opposed to us utterly destroying our lives. Let's look at today's world, we have so many deadly diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Cancer, Hepatitis, and Diabetes, and most of these things could be avoided if we follow God’s guide to living a Righteous life. However, when we become reckless with our bodies by not eating right, committing adultery and fornicating, etc, we sometimes pay the ultimate price for those things. He tries to help us avoid them, because He only wants what's best for us, but again, He allows us to choose our own way. He lays out our core values, and they all can be easily found in the bible, yet we sometimes choose to ignore them. As we're growing in our Faith walk, He allow us to test the waters, and gives us a slap on the wrist, but as we grow older and more mature in our Spirit, we're subjected to a more severe punishment, because we know better. I don't know how many times I've done things, and as I'm doing them my Spirit says to me, "You know better Saundra", and I go ahead and do them anyway. I feel the percussions right away, and sometimes later on down the line. Even so, I'm at a point in my Faith walk where I'm not surprised, I go through my punishment, totally reliant upon God. I thank Him for the lessons I'm to learn, I listen to my Spirit for the answers and guidance, and I repent. I’ve been in some painful moments, when I just felt like the pain would never end. At that time, I couldn't do anything other than cry out to the Lord for help. It was almost as if I was crippled, and the only One who could heal me was God. I learned to surrender to God, and I was given strength and Peace that surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:7). God equips us with everything we need to avoid sin, because He understands the temptation we have to face. He's a God of longsuffering, forgiveness, and understanding, so He allows us to move past our indiscretions, and helps us rebuild from them. It's written in 1 Corinthians 10:12-13: Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. We cannot go through a peaceful life without Him. He goes through such lengths to keep us in His will. If you're going through life sinning, and doing whatever you want to do, with seemingly no repercussions, you should worry. God expects us to fear Him, because we respect His power and leadership in our lives. I've been reading the story of King David and King Saul, in 1st and 2nd Samuel, and these men were chosen by God to lead a nation of people, and when they messed up, they paid for it dearly. There are several accounts of King David locking himself in his room, or traveling to the mountaintops to weep and repent. He even wrote several Psalms to document His anguish, so that others could learn from his mistake. God allowed David to go through all of that, to teach all of us lessons. Just think, Saul and David didn't have Jesus as their Savior, and wasn't able to be easily forgiven for their transgressions, and we have both Jesus and the Holy Spirit to help us through ours. Praise God! We can either live our lives the hard way or the uncomplicated way. The hard way is keep ignoring His warnings, and keep going through refinement. However, it’s very uncomplicated to "seek ye first the Kingdom of God", and that's a foolproof method to getting through life with little stress (notice I didn't say no stress), and maximum peace. Ask yourself a few simple questions, and answer them honestly: How much heartache and pain could you have avoided if you'd just listened to the warnings from your Spirit? How much money could you have saved, had you done it right the first time? How many times have you told yourself "I told you so", when it could've been avoided? We all make stupid mistakes, and complain when we're dealing with the repercussions, but God understands that. Just as parents understand when children do things wrong. Yes we punish them, but that punishment fits the crime, and it's only temporary. After they go through it, all is forgiven, and we move on. Our children could do nothing to make us stop loving them, because our jobs are to care for them, and raise them in a certain manner. What our children does, ultimately reflects on the way we raise them. At the same time, what we do reflects on God, because He calls us His children. The next time you're experiencing heartache and pain, take some time to go to God in prayer, and ask Him what you should be learning from it. Be aware of your emotions and Holy Spirit, and listen and look out for His response, because you will be given an answer. In the meantime repentance is necessary to move past the pain. If you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then you're living this life on your own, and mark my word, life will get harder inside, especially if God has a calling on your life. All He wants from you is Love, and He'll help you through the rest. He's waiting to hear from you right now! My favorite verse today is: For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee. (Isaiah 54:10)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455056&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=5336537&ct=7241253
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another Hump day. I'm doing well, a little groggy (the usual for Wednesday). I had a long night; I got caught up on the Internet. I keep hearing this entire buzz about the Housewives of Atlanta, and I decided to watch an episode, and it was very interesting, to say the least. I also caught an episode of the Househusbands of Hollywood, which was very interesting to watch as well. I admire some of these men, because it's hard to allow your wife to have that much control, while they take care of the home. I'm a little impartial to that, but that's just me. It was good to see these men recognize how hard it was being a full time parent and husband. I just imagine the woman and men who are single parents, and have to do it all themselves, that has to be very hard. God has a reason for everything, and He gives us strength when we're going through the hard times, and as long as we stand on that simple promise, we'll be just fine. I'm not sure when these shows come on television, because I watched them online, at a website called Hulu, I love being able to do that, but I sometimes get caught up watching episode after episode, and before I know it, 5 hours have passed, so beware. Have a wonderful day, and keeps the prayers coming.
Today's scriptures are about our temporary punishments. God loves us enough pain to chastise us when we sin against Him, to help teach us discipline, and guide us through life. We have the awesome responsibility to live righteously, according to the example of Jesus Christ. When we stray off of the path laid out for us, we put ourselves in danger of seriously hurting ourselves. To avoid that, God allows us to experience some pain and heartache, to make us aware of the consequences of our actions, in opposed to us utterly destroying our lives. Let's look at today's world, we have so many deadly diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Cancer, Hepatitis, and Diabetes, and most of these things could be avoided if we follow God’s guide to living a Righteous life. However, when we become reckless with our bodies by not eating right, committing adultery and fornicating, etc, we sometimes pay the ultimate price for those things. He tries to help us avoid them, because He only wants what's best for us, but again, He allows us to choose our own way. He lays out our core values, and they all can be easily found in the bible, yet we sometimes choose to ignore them. As we're growing in our Faith walk, He allow us to test the waters, and gives us a slap on the wrist, but as we grow older and more mature in our Spirit, we're subjected to a more severe punishment, because we know better. I don't know how many times I've done things, and as I'm doing them my Spirit says to me, "You know better Saundra", and I go ahead and do them anyway. I feel the percussions right away, and sometimes later on down the line. Even so, I'm at a point in my Faith walk where I'm not surprised, I go through my punishment, totally reliant upon God. I thank Him for the lessons I'm to learn, I listen to my Spirit for the answers and guidance, and I repent. I’ve been in some painful moments, when I just felt like the pain would never end. At that time, I couldn't do anything other than cry out to the Lord for help. It was almost as if I was crippled, and the only One who could heal me was God. I learned to surrender to God, and I was given strength and Peace that surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:7). God equips us with everything we need to avoid sin, because He understands the temptation we have to face. He's a God of longsuffering, forgiveness, and understanding, so He allows us to move past our indiscretions, and helps us rebuild from them. It's written in 1 Corinthians 10:12-13: Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. We cannot go through a peaceful life without Him. He goes through such lengths to keep us in His will. If you're going through life sinning, and doing whatever you want to do, with seemingly no repercussions, you should worry. God expects us to fear Him, because we respect His power and leadership in our lives. I've been reading the story of King David and King Saul, in 1st and 2nd Samuel, and these men were chosen by God to lead a nation of people, and when they messed up, they paid for it dearly. There are several accounts of King David locking himself in his room, or traveling to the mountaintops to weep and repent. He even wrote several Psalms to document His anguish, so that others could learn from his mistake. God allowed David to go through all of that, to teach all of us lessons. Just think, Saul and David didn't have Jesus as their Savior, and wasn't able to be easily forgiven for their transgressions, and we have both Jesus and the Holy Spirit to help us through ours. Praise God! We can either live our lives the hard way or the uncomplicated way. The hard way is keep ignoring His warnings, and keep going through refinement. However, it’s very uncomplicated to "seek ye first the Kingdom of God", and that's a foolproof method to getting through life with little stress (notice I didn't say no stress), and maximum peace. Ask yourself a few simple questions, and answer them honestly: How much heartache and pain could you have avoided if you'd just listened to the warnings from your Spirit? How much money could you have saved, had you done it right the first time? How many times have you told yourself "I told you so", when it could've been avoided? We all make stupid mistakes, and complain when we're dealing with the repercussions, but God understands that. Just as parents understand when children do things wrong. Yes we punish them, but that punishment fits the crime, and it's only temporary. After they go through it, all is forgiven, and we move on. Our children could do nothing to make us stop loving them, because our jobs are to care for them, and raise them in a certain manner. What our children does, ultimately reflects on the way we raise them. At the same time, what we do reflects on God, because He calls us His children. The next time you're experiencing heartache and pain, take some time to go to God in prayer, and ask Him what you should be learning from it. Be aware of your emotions and Holy Spirit, and listen and look out for His response, because you will be given an answer. In the meantime repentance is necessary to move past the pain. If you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then you're living this life on your own, and mark my word, life will get harder inside, especially if God has a calling on your life. All He wants from you is Love, and He'll help you through the rest. He's waiting to hear from you right now! My favorite verse today is: For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee. (Isaiah 54:10)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455056&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=5336537&ct=7241253
I love you!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well, and am looking forward to the weekend again, although this is a 6-day workweek for me. Things are starting to slow down a little more, but I've created a habit of getting started with the devotionals late. I have to break this habit and get back into the swing of getting it out earlier. Everyone is getting the kids ready to go back to school. The fall is quickly approaching, and I'm a little sad, I like to hold on to the spring and summer months. I don't do the cold weather too well, but I couldn't imagine life without the season changes. I get to see the glory of God, in the different ways nature evolve to fit the weather it's awesome. I guess I'll have to get ready to bundle up. A friend just sent me this link to send our troops thank you cards for their service. It’s free and an awesome gift. Please take the 10 seconds and send one, I just did it, and it was quick and easy. http://www.letssaythanks.com/Home1280.html Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about escaping death. What does it mean to escape death? We're all mere mortal human beings, and the one thing that's certain is that we will all one day die. Every one of us has to do it, and some will go sooner than others. Our flesh will surely die but our Spirits will live on forever. God created man for companionship, and after He created Adam and Eve, He set them up in a beautiful garden, with everything they would ever need to be happy. It's written in Gen 3:1-5: Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, “Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden’?” And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’” Then the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” At this time, what did Adam or Eve know about death? Neither of them had experienced anything like it, but the enemy was out to destroy mankind from the beginning. Now when Adam and Eve ate the fruit they didn't physically die, but there Spiritual connection with God died, and so did every human being after them, up until we received our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. When Jesus conquered death, by His resurrection from the dead, it was the turning point for all mankind. He gave us life, and we live because Jesus lives forever! Let's go back to the most popular, yet most relevant scripture to the Christian, John 3:16: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting. All we have to do is believe in Him, and our Spirits will go on to live forever. That's a reason to rejoice and shout right now! Hallelujah! Jesus said in John 6:48-50: I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die. My Pastor preached about “surviving your wilderness” last weekend. This story is found in Exodus 16, after Moses freed the slaves and led them out to the wilderness, they traveled several days without food or water. They started to complain to Moses, telling him if they had stayed with Pharaoh at least they would have plenty of food. They thought Moses had lead them out there to die, because they was scared, tired, and hungry. God needed them to believe and trust in, and rely on Him, so He told Moses to tell them that in the morning He send them bread and meat. Sure enough, He rained manna from the skies, and sent a flock of quail for the meat. They sat around and roasted quail and made bread out of the manna, and ate well for years. In John 6:48 when Jesus says, "I am the bread of life", He wants us to understand that He's our Savior, and whoever believes in Him and follow God’s will, He'll make sure we have whatever we need forever. Not just for the time we spend in the flesh on earth, as the people with Moses, but forever. Heaven and Hell are real, and Jesus saves us from the fire of hell, and provides a land flowing with "Milk and Honey", and our own personalized mansion (John 14:2). We've inherited Heaven and earth through Him, and where we're going there will be no more pain or crying, and nothing but peace and happiness forever. Death just means we lose something, and the wages of sin is death. When we sin, something will die, maybe not physically but spiritually or materially, and Jesus has come to redeem us from all types of death. We learned yesterday that God leads us away from evil things, so as we grow in our Faith walk sin shouldn’t consume us either. Physical death is the only thing that we can be sure of; we don't know how or when we'll go, but we do know that we will. If you've accepted Jesus as your Savior you have nothing to fear, because absent from the body, means that you're present with the Lord (2 Cor. 5:6-8). However, if you don't know Jesus as your Savior then you need to worry, because your fate is uncertain. I strongly urge you to say that prayer right now, and be assured that through Jesus, you'll have everlasting life. My favorite verse today is: He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD shall wipe away the tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it. (Isaiah 25:8)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455055&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=5336537&ct=7241217
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well, and am looking forward to the weekend again, although this is a 6-day workweek for me. Things are starting to slow down a little more, but I've created a habit of getting started with the devotionals late. I have to break this habit and get back into the swing of getting it out earlier. Everyone is getting the kids ready to go back to school. The fall is quickly approaching, and I'm a little sad, I like to hold on to the spring and summer months. I don't do the cold weather too well, but I couldn't imagine life without the season changes. I get to see the glory of God, in the different ways nature evolve to fit the weather it's awesome. I guess I'll have to get ready to bundle up. A friend just sent me this link to send our troops thank you cards for their service. It’s free and an awesome gift. Please take the 10 seconds and send one, I just did it, and it was quick and easy. http://www.letssaythanks.com/Home1280.html Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about escaping death. What does it mean to escape death? We're all mere mortal human beings, and the one thing that's certain is that we will all one day die. Every one of us has to do it, and some will go sooner than others. Our flesh will surely die but our Spirits will live on forever. God created man for companionship, and after He created Adam and Eve, He set them up in a beautiful garden, with everything they would ever need to be happy. It's written in Gen 3:1-5: Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, “Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden’?” And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’” Then the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” At this time, what did Adam or Eve know about death? Neither of them had experienced anything like it, but the enemy was out to destroy mankind from the beginning. Now when Adam and Eve ate the fruit they didn't physically die, but there Spiritual connection with God died, and so did every human being after them, up until we received our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. When Jesus conquered death, by His resurrection from the dead, it was the turning point for all mankind. He gave us life, and we live because Jesus lives forever! Let's go back to the most popular, yet most relevant scripture to the Christian, John 3:16: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting. All we have to do is believe in Him, and our Spirits will go on to live forever. That's a reason to rejoice and shout right now! Hallelujah! Jesus said in John 6:48-50: I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die. My Pastor preached about “surviving your wilderness” last weekend. This story is found in Exodus 16, after Moses freed the slaves and led them out to the wilderness, they traveled several days without food or water. They started to complain to Moses, telling him if they had stayed with Pharaoh at least they would have plenty of food. They thought Moses had lead them out there to die, because they was scared, tired, and hungry. God needed them to believe and trust in, and rely on Him, so He told Moses to tell them that in the morning He send them bread and meat. Sure enough, He rained manna from the skies, and sent a flock of quail for the meat. They sat around and roasted quail and made bread out of the manna, and ate well for years. In John 6:48 when Jesus says, "I am the bread of life", He wants us to understand that He's our Savior, and whoever believes in Him and follow God’s will, He'll make sure we have whatever we need forever. Not just for the time we spend in the flesh on earth, as the people with Moses, but forever. Heaven and Hell are real, and Jesus saves us from the fire of hell, and provides a land flowing with "Milk and Honey", and our own personalized mansion (John 14:2). We've inherited Heaven and earth through Him, and where we're going there will be no more pain or crying, and nothing but peace and happiness forever. Death just means we lose something, and the wages of sin is death. When we sin, something will die, maybe not physically but spiritually or materially, and Jesus has come to redeem us from all types of death. We learned yesterday that God leads us away from evil things, so as we grow in our Faith walk sin shouldn’t consume us either. Physical death is the only thing that we can be sure of; we don't know how or when we'll go, but we do know that we will. If you've accepted Jesus as your Savior you have nothing to fear, because absent from the body, means that you're present with the Lord (2 Cor. 5:6-8). However, if you don't know Jesus as your Savior then you need to worry, because your fate is uncertain. I strongly urge you to say that prayer right now, and be assured that through Jesus, you'll have everlasting life. My favorite verse today is: He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD shall wipe away the tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it. (Isaiah 25:8)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455055&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=5336537&ct=7241217
I love you!
Monday, August 10, 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). The weekend goes way too fast, but I enjoyed every minute of it. However, last night was a little rough. I got a ticket for one of my headlights going out, and I had just got the headlight fixed, I showed the officer the receipt and told him I'd get it corrected and he still gave me a ticket. So now I have to take time off from work to go to court, and show the receipt to the Judge. He told me the ticket would most likely be dropped, and I'm thinking, if this case will most likely be dismissed, what's the point of wasting Tax Payers dollars on this? But hey, he was just doing his job I guess. He could've let me go with just a warning after I showed him the receipt, but I'll see him in court. On top of this, the power went out in my entire neighborhood, on one of the hottest nights of the year, it wasn’t so bad, and I had cold hotdogs for dinner and went to bed. On a lighter note, the Concert and Cabaret was really nice on Saturday. I had an awesome time. I'm looking forward to this long week, I have a good feeling about it, and something good is going to happen. It's been a very slow summer for catering jobs; so if you know anyone that may need a caterer, that's in the area, please forward my info www.divinecuisineepc.com. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about how God separates us from evil. As children of God, we're referred to as the salt of the earth. I vaguely remember hearing a Sermon that Dr. Stanley preached on this subject, and it struck a cord in me because of my culinary background. I thought the way he explained it was very good, because it's interesting that God choose to use something as important, and potentially hazardous, as salt to describe us. Salt is used to enhance the flavor of our food. The right amount could perfectly enhance the flavor of food, but too little won't make any impact, and too much will destroy the taste, and could potentially get us sick. We were put here to enhance the quality of life of the earth. God's Spirit lives inside of us, which makes us shine brightly, so that people can see Him in us. We're to enhance everywhere we go, and make things better. God shapes and molds us into the people fitting to be called His children, so He slowly prunes the evil from our lives. I've been saved ever since I was a little girl, and I've always had that little voice in the back of my head telling me "No don't do it", and a lot of times I choose to ignore it, and do my own things, but I always suffered the consequences of my actions, and felt a lot of remorse for the things I done. However, I was never all "bad", I always had a good heart and conscience, and now that I look back on life, I know it was God's guidance that got me through it. Then all of a sudden, about 5 years ago, God started this awesome transformation in my life; I got tired of trying to live on my own, so I surrendered to His calling, and allowed Him to work. All of sudden my attitude towards life changed, and He did this complete transformation, that brightened up my life. People noticed the internal glow about me. I noticed that people stopped using bad language when I was in their presence, or if I walked up on someone telling a dirty joke, they would immediately stop, and change the subject. People comment on my Faith, and I often wonder how they even know I’m a Christian. I surrender to being the salt and a light, which God needed to use, to shine brightly in the presences of others. Because of that transformation, I inadvertently praise God, and people notice it. I use personal accounts of my life in the devotionals because I don't have anything other than my life, and story's from the Bible to write about, and our trials and victories are meant to salt the earth. It's meant to share with others, to enhance their lives, you never know who can relate to your story, because as it's written in Ecclesiastes 1:9: 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. "Everything is the same under the sun". We're all Disciples because of Jesus Christ, and God uses us to do important work for Him. Most of the time He's using us, and we don't even know. That's why it's important for us to be aware of our surroundings, because we never know who's watching, and how our behavior can effect the kingdom of God. We all have our bad days, especially me, so God is working on that. I try to listen to my Holy Spirit, because we have a tight relationship, and He's quick to tell me when I'm doing something stupid. Especially when I get angry with someone for making a mistake, He immediately asks me, "Saundra are you perfect?” and that conviction sets in. I always feel bad when I talk about people, or think impure thoughts, because I'm more sensitive to the changes God is trying to make in my life. Does that mean I don't do those things? No, it means that I'm aware, and I make a conscious effort not to. I acknowledge the work God is doing in my life, but we know He doesn't force us to choose Him. Nonetheless, in the end, He's in control, and He still loves us enough to continually guide us through life. If you've accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, then that light is in you. It may dim a little because of sin, but it's still there. I urge you to take some time and get to know God for yourself, because He needs you. You were put here to enhance the quality of life for the lost. That's a huge task, and no matter how imperfect we are, He still chose us. All we need to do is surrender every aspect of our lives to Him, and He'll do the rest. It's written in Isaiah 64:8: But now, O LORD, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand. We're not expected to do it alone because as Jesus says in Matthew 26:41: "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” He came so that we could have a second chance at a meaningful, peaceful, and abundant life. You've been predestined to be the light of the world, isn't that Awesome? I'm honored and privileged that God loves me so much, that He choose me to be special. If you're reading this right now He chooses you as well. Jesus said in John 6:37: All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out. Nothing you have done could separate you from the love of Jesus, so don't spend another day allowing fear, sin, or evil block your blessings, you belong to Jesus and He has you covered. My favorite verse today is: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is heaven. (Matthew 5:16)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455054&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=5336537&ct=7241243
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek (for most). The weekend goes way too fast, but I enjoyed every minute of it. However, last night was a little rough. I got a ticket for one of my headlights going out, and I had just got the headlight fixed, I showed the officer the receipt and told him I'd get it corrected and he still gave me a ticket. So now I have to take time off from work to go to court, and show the receipt to the Judge. He told me the ticket would most likely be dropped, and I'm thinking, if this case will most likely be dismissed, what's the point of wasting Tax Payers dollars on this? But hey, he was just doing his job I guess. He could've let me go with just a warning after I showed him the receipt, but I'll see him in court. On top of this, the power went out in my entire neighborhood, on one of the hottest nights of the year, it wasn’t so bad, and I had cold hotdogs for dinner and went to bed. On a lighter note, the Concert and Cabaret was really nice on Saturday. I had an awesome time. I'm looking forward to this long week, I have a good feeling about it, and something good is going to happen. It's been a very slow summer for catering jobs; so if you know anyone that may need a caterer, that's in the area, please forward my info www.divinecuisineepc.com. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about how God separates us from evil. As children of God, we're referred to as the salt of the earth. I vaguely remember hearing a Sermon that Dr. Stanley preached on this subject, and it struck a cord in me because of my culinary background. I thought the way he explained it was very good, because it's interesting that God choose to use something as important, and potentially hazardous, as salt to describe us. Salt is used to enhance the flavor of our food. The right amount could perfectly enhance the flavor of food, but too little won't make any impact, and too much will destroy the taste, and could potentially get us sick. We were put here to enhance the quality of life of the earth. God's Spirit lives inside of us, which makes us shine brightly, so that people can see Him in us. We're to enhance everywhere we go, and make things better. God shapes and molds us into the people fitting to be called His children, so He slowly prunes the evil from our lives. I've been saved ever since I was a little girl, and I've always had that little voice in the back of my head telling me "No don't do it", and a lot of times I choose to ignore it, and do my own things, but I always suffered the consequences of my actions, and felt a lot of remorse for the things I done. However, I was never all "bad", I always had a good heart and conscience, and now that I look back on life, I know it was God's guidance that got me through it. Then all of a sudden, about 5 years ago, God started this awesome transformation in my life; I got tired of trying to live on my own, so I surrendered to His calling, and allowed Him to work. All of sudden my attitude towards life changed, and He did this complete transformation, that brightened up my life. People noticed the internal glow about me. I noticed that people stopped using bad language when I was in their presence, or if I walked up on someone telling a dirty joke, they would immediately stop, and change the subject. People comment on my Faith, and I often wonder how they even know I’m a Christian. I surrender to being the salt and a light, which God needed to use, to shine brightly in the presences of others. Because of that transformation, I inadvertently praise God, and people notice it. I use personal accounts of my life in the devotionals because I don't have anything other than my life, and story's from the Bible to write about, and our trials and victories are meant to salt the earth. It's meant to share with others, to enhance their lives, you never know who can relate to your story, because as it's written in Ecclesiastes 1:9: 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. "Everything is the same under the sun". We're all Disciples because of Jesus Christ, and God uses us to do important work for Him. Most of the time He's using us, and we don't even know. That's why it's important for us to be aware of our surroundings, because we never know who's watching, and how our behavior can effect the kingdom of God. We all have our bad days, especially me, so God is working on that. I try to listen to my Holy Spirit, because we have a tight relationship, and He's quick to tell me when I'm doing something stupid. Especially when I get angry with someone for making a mistake, He immediately asks me, "Saundra are you perfect?” and that conviction sets in. I always feel bad when I talk about people, or think impure thoughts, because I'm more sensitive to the changes God is trying to make in my life. Does that mean I don't do those things? No, it means that I'm aware, and I make a conscious effort not to. I acknowledge the work God is doing in my life, but we know He doesn't force us to choose Him. Nonetheless, in the end, He's in control, and He still loves us enough to continually guide us through life. If you've accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, then that light is in you. It may dim a little because of sin, but it's still there. I urge you to take some time and get to know God for yourself, because He needs you. You were put here to enhance the quality of life for the lost. That's a huge task, and no matter how imperfect we are, He still chose us. All we need to do is surrender every aspect of our lives to Him, and He'll do the rest. It's written in Isaiah 64:8: But now, O LORD, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand. We're not expected to do it alone because as Jesus says in Matthew 26:41: "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” He came so that we could have a second chance at a meaningful, peaceful, and abundant life. You've been predestined to be the light of the world, isn't that Awesome? I'm honored and privileged that God loves me so much, that He choose me to be special. If you're reading this right now He chooses you as well. Jesus said in John 6:37: All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out. Nothing you have done could separate you from the love of Jesus, so don't spend another day allowing fear, sin, or evil block your blessings, you belong to Jesus and He has you covered. My favorite verse today is: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is heaven. (Matthew 5:16)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455054&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=5336537&ct=7241243
I love you!
Friday, August 7, 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, looking forward to the weekend. I have a packed Saturday, and hopefully Sunday I'll get to rest a bit. I look forward to seeing those of you who can make it, at the Cabaret tomorrow night, at St. Martin Church in NW, Washington, DC. Let me know if you'll need information about tickets. It's a memorial celebrating my Uncle Elroy's birthday; he passed away in May from cancer. We're trying to raise money for a good cause, and it'll be nice to have family and friends together. Whatever you do this weekend, do it for the Lord. You're all in my prayers, and I thank you for yours as well.
Today's scriptures are about asking, from the gift of the Holy Spirit. Each of us, who have accepted Jesus as I Lord and Savior, was blessed with another part of God, the Holy Spirit. I read one of Dr. Stanley's devotionals about the Holy Spirit, and he said, "A lot of us refer to the Holy Spirit as a it, when the Spirit is actually a He". I thought intently about that, and realized that I always refer to my Holy Spirit as an "it". The Holy Spirit is actually an equal part of the Holy Trinity of God: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus lives, so does the Spirit, and He doesn't get the recognition He deserves. He's our Spiritual eyes and ears, and plays a major part in our everyday life. He's there every step of the way, and God has given Himself to us freely, to ensure that we'll never be left alone, to fend for ourselves again. God created Heaven and Earth, Jesus paid the penalties for our sins, and the Holy Spirit is our Helper. When Jesus was resurrected the Trinity become complete, and He said in Matthew 28:18-28:...“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. We often hear that Jesus lives in our heart always, and He does as the Spirit. He made sure that we know, when we confirm our Salvation through baptism, that we should acknowledge the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God gives us everything we ask for, that is in His will. I remember when I was a "baby Spirit", I would always ask myself, How do we know what’s in His? The Holy Spirit is our connection to God. We know that sin and righteousness cannot mix, so because we are in the flesh (sinful), and God is a Spirit (Righteousness), the connection with Him was lost. The Holy Spirit is the only way to communicate with God. When we enter into a relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, we're blessed with the gift of the Holy Spirit, whom loves us enough to help us grow in our Faith Walk. He's that voice we hear that tells us right from wrong, and He's always been there. There are numerous accounts of God revealing Himself to certain righteous people before Christ, but now, we have His guidance in all of us. The Spirit speaks to us as clearly as God spoke to Noah when building the arch (Gen. 6:13-22). God gave him precise measurements, and instructions to do things exactly the way He wanted them done. If we learn how to be still and listen to our Spirit, we'll have precise directions on everything, because of the Grace of God. It's written in Isaiah 30:18-21: Therefore the LORD will wait, that He may be gracious to you; And therefore He will be exalted, that He may have mercy on you. For the LORD is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him. For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem; you shall weep no more. He will be very gracious to you at the sound of your cry; when He hears it, He will answer you. And though the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore, but your eyes shall see your teachers. Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “ This is the way, walk in it,” whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left. God loved each of us at the beginning of the world, and He’ll give us anything that we want and need, that will help us through this Journey called life, and the Holy Spirit is an example of that. We grow through the different seasons of our lives, and to ensure that we grow in a way pleasing to the God, He’s here to lead the way. We must give Him quiet time each day, to reflect on our lives, and our purpose. Personally, my mind runs about 100mph, I'm always trying to plan or figure something out. My relationship with God is just as intense. When Paul said we should pray without ceasing, I sometimes take that literally, and just as I'm guilty of not listen when I'm having a conversation with some people, I'm equally as guilty when it comes to God. I find myself going on and on, and never stopping to take time to listen to my Spirit. Those are the times when my Spirit gets filled with strife and I'm forced to bow down on my knees, and focus solely on Him. There are times, when my I'm so stressed, I could feel this unrest in my Soul, and I then take some time out to listen. That's not a good thing, and that's why it's so important to take that time everyday to allow the Holy Spirit to help us confess our sins, and pray for all of the things we need to make it through another day. When your Soul feels in a state of unrest, allow the Holy Spirit to pray for you. He and God have their own language, which is referred to as Speaking in Tongues, and we each have the ability to do it. This is where the Holy Spirit searches our heart, and tells God exactly what He needs to know. Sometimes we're so distracted or distressed we forgo certain things that we may need. We're commanded to Love God with all of our hearts, and part of the action of love is to fellowship with Him, by following His will, and asking for and accepting help along the way. Loneliness is a thing of the past when you become a Christian, because you always have the Trinity at your beck and call, and the Holy Spirit our helper and comforter, was given so we'll feel God in a personal and intimate way. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then you don't have the Holy Spirit, but God is waiting for you to ask, and you'll receive ALL of Him, along with eternal peace. My favorite verses today are: When ... the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (John 16:13-14)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455051&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=5336537&ct=7241235
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying the end of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, looking forward to the weekend. I have a packed Saturday, and hopefully Sunday I'll get to rest a bit. I look forward to seeing those of you who can make it, at the Cabaret tomorrow night, at St. Martin Church in NW, Washington, DC. Let me know if you'll need information about tickets. It's a memorial celebrating my Uncle Elroy's birthday; he passed away in May from cancer. We're trying to raise money for a good cause, and it'll be nice to have family and friends together. Whatever you do this weekend, do it for the Lord. You're all in my prayers, and I thank you for yours as well.
Today's scriptures are about asking, from the gift of the Holy Spirit. Each of us, who have accepted Jesus as I Lord and Savior, was blessed with another part of God, the Holy Spirit. I read one of Dr. Stanley's devotionals about the Holy Spirit, and he said, "A lot of us refer to the Holy Spirit as a it, when the Spirit is actually a He". I thought intently about that, and realized that I always refer to my Holy Spirit as an "it". The Holy Spirit is actually an equal part of the Holy Trinity of God: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus lives, so does the Spirit, and He doesn't get the recognition He deserves. He's our Spiritual eyes and ears, and plays a major part in our everyday life. He's there every step of the way, and God has given Himself to us freely, to ensure that we'll never be left alone, to fend for ourselves again. God created Heaven and Earth, Jesus paid the penalties for our sins, and the Holy Spirit is our Helper. When Jesus was resurrected the Trinity become complete, and He said in Matthew 28:18-28:...“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. We often hear that Jesus lives in our heart always, and He does as the Spirit. He made sure that we know, when we confirm our Salvation through baptism, that we should acknowledge the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God gives us everything we ask for, that is in His will. I remember when I was a "baby Spirit", I would always ask myself, How do we know what’s in His? The Holy Spirit is our connection to God. We know that sin and righteousness cannot mix, so because we are in the flesh (sinful), and God is a Spirit (Righteousness), the connection with Him was lost. The Holy Spirit is the only way to communicate with God. When we enter into a relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, we're blessed with the gift of the Holy Spirit, whom loves us enough to help us grow in our Faith Walk. He's that voice we hear that tells us right from wrong, and He's always been there. There are numerous accounts of God revealing Himself to certain righteous people before Christ, but now, we have His guidance in all of us. The Spirit speaks to us as clearly as God spoke to Noah when building the arch (Gen. 6:13-22). God gave him precise measurements, and instructions to do things exactly the way He wanted them done. If we learn how to be still and listen to our Spirit, we'll have precise directions on everything, because of the Grace of God. It's written in Isaiah 30:18-21: Therefore the LORD will wait, that He may be gracious to you; And therefore He will be exalted, that He may have mercy on you. For the LORD is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him. For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem; you shall weep no more. He will be very gracious to you at the sound of your cry; when He hears it, He will answer you. And though the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your teachers will not be moved into a corner anymore, but your eyes shall see your teachers. Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “ This is the way, walk in it,” whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left. God loved each of us at the beginning of the world, and He’ll give us anything that we want and need, that will help us through this Journey called life, and the Holy Spirit is an example of that. We grow through the different seasons of our lives, and to ensure that we grow in a way pleasing to the God, He’s here to lead the way. We must give Him quiet time each day, to reflect on our lives, and our purpose. Personally, my mind runs about 100mph, I'm always trying to plan or figure something out. My relationship with God is just as intense. When Paul said we should pray without ceasing, I sometimes take that literally, and just as I'm guilty of not listen when I'm having a conversation with some people, I'm equally as guilty when it comes to God. I find myself going on and on, and never stopping to take time to listen to my Spirit. Those are the times when my Spirit gets filled with strife and I'm forced to bow down on my knees, and focus solely on Him. There are times, when my I'm so stressed, I could feel this unrest in my Soul, and I then take some time out to listen. That's not a good thing, and that's why it's so important to take that time everyday to allow the Holy Spirit to help us confess our sins, and pray for all of the things we need to make it through another day. When your Soul feels in a state of unrest, allow the Holy Spirit to pray for you. He and God have their own language, which is referred to as Speaking in Tongues, and we each have the ability to do it. This is where the Holy Spirit searches our heart, and tells God exactly what He needs to know. Sometimes we're so distracted or distressed we forgo certain things that we may need. We're commanded to Love God with all of our hearts, and part of the action of love is to fellowship with Him, by following His will, and asking for and accepting help along the way. Loneliness is a thing of the past when you become a Christian, because you always have the Trinity at your beck and call, and the Holy Spirit our helper and comforter, was given so we'll feel God in a personal and intimate way. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then you don't have the Holy Spirit, but God is waiting for you to ask, and you'll receive ALL of Him, along with eternal peace. My favorite verses today are: When ... the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (John 16:13-14)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455051&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=5336537&ct=7241235
I love you!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
I pray all is well with you, and you're enjoying another glorious Friday eve. I'm doing well, looking forward to the weekend, because it's been the longest short week ever. I did get some good news last night, my Father has been granted a hearing for Thursday, September 10, 2009 at 9am. Praise God! This is the day we've been waiting for, and I thank you for your continued prayers, and I ask that you to keep praying that the Judge rules in his favor, and allow him to come home. I spoke with him recently, and he said he feels like this is his time, and I feel the same. He's been away for 24 years, and it's time for him to move to the next step, educating people about the love of God. His lawyer is asking that we pack the Court Room, so the Judge could see the overwhelming support that he has. I'm asking that those of you, who can make the necessary arrangements, be there at 9am sharp. If you can't be there physically, send up your prayers, this will be a glorious day! Have a wonderful day.
Today's scriptures are about the Lord's corrections. One of the most quoted scriptures are "all things work together for our good", along with others like John 3:16 "for God so love the world...” etc. Putting a verse of scripture in memory doesn't necessarily mean we be live by it. When we read the bible, and memorize scripture, it is meant to feed our soul the fruits of wisdom, which in turn strengthens our Spirit. We don't always live by the word because we're an experimental, rebellious nation, which strive on self-sufficiency and pleasing the flesh. God, being our Heavenly father must correct our behavior by chastising or correcting us. The word correct is defined: To punish for the purpose of improving or reforming. When we were born again, God promised to work on perfecting us, and bringing us to full perfection when we reach Heaven. Jesus says: The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. We know that Jesus came so that we could have an abundant life, but sin hinders our growth. Hence the reason God has to correct us; so that we could live our life the way Jesus intended it to be. It's written in Hebrews 12:1-3: We are surrounded by a great cloud of people whose lives tell us what faith means. So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back. Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect. He suffered death on the cross. But he accepted the shame as if it were nothing because of the joy that God put before him. And now he is sitting at the right side of God's throne. Think about Jesus' example. He held on while wicked people were doing evil things to him. So do not get tired and stop trying. Praise God! Sometimes giving up is easier than trying to do the right thing. The flesh seems so much more appealing because of that instant gratification. We are a very impatient people, especially in today's age. We want things now, now, now, and as fast as possible. Everything we invent is always faster, and easier then the model before, such as cars, computers, food, etc. Nobody ever slows down and smells the roses anymore, and we serve a God that constantly reminds us to be patient. It's written that we should run with patience the race we call life, because if we're moving too fast, we're bound to miss something important, or mess things up. When rushing, more often than not, we make mistakes, which sometimes take longer to correct, had we taken our time to begin with. Jesus walks with us side by side in our Faith walk, and through the Holy Spirit, guides us on the right path. When we start to get ahead of Him, we start to stray off that path, and this is where the correction process happens. It's in our nature to want to move ahead quickly, but it's not always practical, and could cause unnecessary hurt and pain. Therefore we’re reminded often to seek God first. We must learn to look upon the Lord, and understand that when we go through rough times, we're being taught life lessons. We're given a chance to learn from our mistakes, and we're often forced to slow down, in order to gain the necessary wisdom, which will not only help us, but also become a testimony to help others. Yes, when we're going through it, it seems like it'll be the end of the world. Almost like the pain will never ends, and we will surely die. Not only are we put through the fire to correct us, but so we could better depend on God to get us through it. God wants our close fellowship, and He's able to greater show His love to us when we humble ourselves, and come to Him for the answers. It's written in Matthew 11:28-29: 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. It is possible for us to be going through heartache and pain, and still have peace, and it isn't a secret. My good friend told me once "God isn't a secret, yet we treat Him that way". I thought long and hard about that, and it's true. God offers His love to everyone, and it’s free because of His grace! As Christians, we have our own little groups that we confine ourselves too, and often look down our noses to anyone who isn't "like us". We allow pride and arrogance to rule our lives, and that's the exact opposite of who Jesus is, and who we're supposed to be. That's God's ultimate goal in our chastisement and correction. We have a job to do, and it needs to be done daily. Sin and Righteousness cannot mix, and once Jesus is in our hearts we're righteous, and God will do what it takes to have our entire life transformed to reflect it. If and when you're going though rough periods in life, always look for the lessons in them, because that is the point of it all. If you don't know Jesus, then you're suffering will lead to more suffering, until you see the light. You can start getting know Him right now, just ask Jesus to come into your heart as your Savior, and He has you covered. Having Him don't guarantee a stress free life, it simply gives us peace while running the race. My favorite verse today is: Now no chastening for the present, seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. (Hebrews 12:11)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455050&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=5336537&ct=7241229
I love you!
I pray all is well with you, and you're enjoying another glorious Friday eve. I'm doing well, looking forward to the weekend, because it's been the longest short week ever. I did get some good news last night, my Father has been granted a hearing for Thursday, September 10, 2009 at 9am. Praise God! This is the day we've been waiting for, and I thank you for your continued prayers, and I ask that you to keep praying that the Judge rules in his favor, and allow him to come home. I spoke with him recently, and he said he feels like this is his time, and I feel the same. He's been away for 24 years, and it's time for him to move to the next step, educating people about the love of God. His lawyer is asking that we pack the Court Room, so the Judge could see the overwhelming support that he has. I'm asking that those of you, who can make the necessary arrangements, be there at 9am sharp. If you can't be there physically, send up your prayers, this will be a glorious day! Have a wonderful day.
Today's scriptures are about the Lord's corrections. One of the most quoted scriptures are "all things work together for our good", along with others like John 3:16 "for God so love the world...” etc. Putting a verse of scripture in memory doesn't necessarily mean we be live by it. When we read the bible, and memorize scripture, it is meant to feed our soul the fruits of wisdom, which in turn strengthens our Spirit. We don't always live by the word because we're an experimental, rebellious nation, which strive on self-sufficiency and pleasing the flesh. God, being our Heavenly father must correct our behavior by chastising or correcting us. The word correct is defined: To punish for the purpose of improving or reforming. When we were born again, God promised to work on perfecting us, and bringing us to full perfection when we reach Heaven. Jesus says: The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. We know that Jesus came so that we could have an abundant life, but sin hinders our growth. Hence the reason God has to correct us; so that we could live our life the way Jesus intended it to be. It's written in Hebrews 12:1-3: We are surrounded by a great cloud of people whose lives tell us what faith means. So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back. Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect. He suffered death on the cross. But he accepted the shame as if it were nothing because of the joy that God put before him. And now he is sitting at the right side of God's throne. Think about Jesus' example. He held on while wicked people were doing evil things to him. So do not get tired and stop trying. Praise God! Sometimes giving up is easier than trying to do the right thing. The flesh seems so much more appealing because of that instant gratification. We are a very impatient people, especially in today's age. We want things now, now, now, and as fast as possible. Everything we invent is always faster, and easier then the model before, such as cars, computers, food, etc. Nobody ever slows down and smells the roses anymore, and we serve a God that constantly reminds us to be patient. It's written that we should run with patience the race we call life, because if we're moving too fast, we're bound to miss something important, or mess things up. When rushing, more often than not, we make mistakes, which sometimes take longer to correct, had we taken our time to begin with. Jesus walks with us side by side in our Faith walk, and through the Holy Spirit, guides us on the right path. When we start to get ahead of Him, we start to stray off that path, and this is where the correction process happens. It's in our nature to want to move ahead quickly, but it's not always practical, and could cause unnecessary hurt and pain. Therefore we’re reminded often to seek God first. We must learn to look upon the Lord, and understand that when we go through rough times, we're being taught life lessons. We're given a chance to learn from our mistakes, and we're often forced to slow down, in order to gain the necessary wisdom, which will not only help us, but also become a testimony to help others. Yes, when we're going through it, it seems like it'll be the end of the world. Almost like the pain will never ends, and we will surely die. Not only are we put through the fire to correct us, but so we could better depend on God to get us through it. God wants our close fellowship, and He's able to greater show His love to us when we humble ourselves, and come to Him for the answers. It's written in Matthew 11:28-29: 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. It is possible for us to be going through heartache and pain, and still have peace, and it isn't a secret. My good friend told me once "God isn't a secret, yet we treat Him that way". I thought long and hard about that, and it's true. God offers His love to everyone, and it’s free because of His grace! As Christians, we have our own little groups that we confine ourselves too, and often look down our noses to anyone who isn't "like us". We allow pride and arrogance to rule our lives, and that's the exact opposite of who Jesus is, and who we're supposed to be. That's God's ultimate goal in our chastisement and correction. We have a job to do, and it needs to be done daily. Sin and Righteousness cannot mix, and once Jesus is in our hearts we're righteous, and God will do what it takes to have our entire life transformed to reflect it. If and when you're going though rough periods in life, always look for the lessons in them, because that is the point of it all. If you don't know Jesus, then you're suffering will lead to more suffering, until you see the light. You can start getting know Him right now, just ask Jesus to come into your heart as your Savior, and He has you covered. Having Him don't guarantee a stress free life, it simply gives us peace while running the race. My favorite verse today is: Now no chastening for the present, seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. (Hebrews 12:11)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455050&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=5336537&ct=7241229
I love you!
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