Daily Devotionals Day & Night

HAPPY WEDNESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this beautiful fall "hump day". I'm doing well, looking forward to a relaxing weekend. I've been so busy lately I haven't realized how much my housework has backed up. I only need to do some deep cleaning, so it isn't that serious, but I have my weekend open to work on that. I still haven't seen Tyler Perry's new movie, "I can do bad all by myself". I heard it was really good, so I'm going to see a matinee on Saturday for sure. Grandma continues to do well, she did some therapy yesterday, and was able to get up and walk the hallway a bit. I'm so happy about her progress, God is so good! I've found a publisher for my book, and am looking forward to being published by the end of the year, Praise God! I have a few challenges, but it's nothing that God can't handle. I need your prayers for that as well, because I need financial support, as well as the mental focus and tenacity. Procrastination is my middle name, and I'm working on breaking out of that, with God's help. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!

Today's scriptures are about our purification process. I think the refinement process is one of the most misunderstood parts of the Christian life. Most of us think being Christian’s means that we're not supposed to experience any heartache or pain. When we do go through trails and tribulation, we often blame God, or asked to be delivered from them. However, God isn’t a Genie that grants our every wish, He has a job for us to do, and He’ll do whatever it takes to see that through. He knew each of us from the creation of earth. He knows exactly what we lack, in addition to our strengths. He’s given us free will, so He knows that the devil will temp us in every way, and what we'll fall for. He refines us, to get us to better think the way Jesus thinks. All mankind have a sense of curiosity, and despite the fact that we're all given boundaries, we continually test our limits. This started at the beginning with Adam and Eve. God told them that they would "surely die" if they ate from that tree, but they did it anyway. Disobedience is expected because of our sinful nature, and God has to chastise us to make us righteous. He will never seriously hurt us, but He will allow us to touch the fire to make us truly understand that it's hot. Sometimes we won't learn from our mistakes until we're burned. The refinement process is like the purification of precious metals, such as gold or silver. The metal is found in the dirt, and it's often a lackluster and dull nugget. When this metal is put in fire, all of it's impurities are burned away, and it becomes bright, shinny, and pliable. There's a thin line between purifying the metal and destroying it. When we are saved, we're similar to that dirty nugget of gold. We have great value to the Kingdom of God; we just need to be cleaned up a bit. Jesus blood washes our Spirit, but we need to get our outside to match our inside. God puts us through the fire in order to mold us into the righteous beings we were created to be. If you're going through something painful right now, just know that God is allowing this for a reason, but He's always there to see you through it. If you prayed for deliverance, but are still going through, then God's intentions may not be to deliver you from it, so He'll be right there bring you through it. Be steadfast and true to the Lord, continuing to Praise Him every single day. No matter what you're going through, He's working to make you better. It's written in Hebrews 13:5: The Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Purification is the process of removing impurities from something, and in some cases things need to be added along the way. Remember to ask God for the lessons behind your pain, and He will reveal them to you, in hopes that you will grow from them. If you don't know Jesus as Lord, then you're still that dirty, dull gold nugget, waiting to be discovered and cleaned up. Jesus is waiting to hear from you, He's a prayer away. My favorite verse today is: I ... will refine them as silver is refined, ... they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, the Lord is my God. (Zechariah 13:9)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455105&dtype=Scripture
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I love you!

Daily Devotionals Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful fall day. I cannot believe that September is coming to a close already, because it seems like it just began. I've had a really full September, filled of ups and downs, and it's been like this for the last few years. I sometimes wonder about that. I know that all things work together for our good, so I'm relying on God to reveal the whys behind everything in due time. I saw my grandmother last night, and she's doing well, although she's exercising a little pain and discomfort. The doctors are still trying to get rid of the pneumonia, but she's breathing a little better. It's a bit touch in go, but she's in good hands. The holidays are coming up, so I hope she’ll be doing a lot better, and get her strength back so that she can travel with us. I've fallen off of my gym workouts because of my extremely busy schedule over the last few weeks, but I'll get back in there tonight, please pray for me. I know I'll have a little difficulty, but it hasn't been that long. You are always in my prayers, be blessed, and enjoy the rest of this Terrific Tuesday.

Today's scriptures are about Jesus’ example of His undying love for us. Did your parents ever sing the song “Jesus Loves Me” to you as a child? My mom sung that to us as young children, and we also sung it in Sunday school, and on the church field trips. Most of us were taught, "Jesus loves me this I know, for the bible tells me so..." However, do we truly understand how much Jesus loves us? He loves us so much that He was hung, bled, and died for our sins. I lose sight of His love a lot in my personal life, because I often get so overwhelmed with battling my flesh, worry, and anxiety, that I forget what was instilled in me from a very small child. Jesus loves me! He died to save me, despite my flaws. The Lord of Lord stands in intercession for us, with our Heavenly Father, to make sure that we have everything we’ll need to have life, and have it more abundantly. Jesus constantly prayed that we become one with Him, when He walked the earth. He loved us so much that He wanted us to experience the peace, love, and tranquility that He had come to give. Luke chapter 17 has an account of a prayer He said specifically for Himself, His disciples and all believers. In the prayers for all believers, in verses 24-26, He says: “Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” Until this day, He still wants what's best for us, and by His blood we can have it. When we accept Him as Savior, He's in us, and this is when our transformation to become one with He and God begin. We have confessed our belief in Jesus Christ, and He who sent Him. Thus we become Christians, and are to take on the attitude of Christ. Jesus was the least selfish man that you will ever know, because everything He did was to glorify our Father, and because of His love for us. Jesus' love plays a huge part in our transformation from Sinner to Saint. Through His Spirit that dwells in us He gives us step-by-step instructions on how to live a Righteous life. He taught us how to pray, and how to treat our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. When people see us, they should always be able to see that light. Jesus said we should always be kind to and pray for one another, as well as minister to the lost and misguided, to help them find there way. Losing all sense of self better allows us to become one with God. In every situation, when we ask ourselves "What would Jesus do", or stay in prayer seeking the right knowledge, guidance, and understanding, we figure it all out along the way. It becomes easier to accept the fact that Jesus loves us no matter what, just as we were taught as young children. We begin to be healed from sickness, depression, bad habits, and abuse to our bodies and others, etc., because Jesus' blood delivers us from it. If you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior then you may not get it after all. He's a simple prayer away, and if you need someone to pray with please let me know. My favorite verse today is: Christ ... suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps. (1 Peter 2:21)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455104&dtype=Scripture
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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, but absolutely exhausted, even though I had almost a full week off of work. However, it's been a really good week, ever since we picked my dad last Wednesday, it's been non-stop. He already has a new cell phone, and e-mail address. For those of you who would like to get in touch with him, his e-mail address is gfenwickjr@yahoo.com. He's doing well, getting acclimated with everything, but he's a very smart man, so it's not hard for him to catch on. We've already had two parties, one on the day he came home, and the other on Saturday, to celebrate my birthday and his homecoming. It was nice, good company, great food, and plenty of cake. Yesterday, we were able to share our testimony at Church, and that was awesome, some of our family members came by, and it was a very, very, nice service. I thank God for Reverend Laura and Pastor Russ it was a great day! For the most part we've been eating like crazy, so we both need to get back into the gym before we blow up. Overall, I'm getting to know my dad like never before, and that is priceless. My Grandmother is still in the hospital battling Pneumonia, so please keep her in your prayers, she’s doing well, just trying to rest and get rid of the infection, so she could go home. She's had so many people who love her stop by that the excitement tires her out. I'll stop by briefly tonight to check up on her, to make sure she's doing okay. Thank you for your continued prayers, and have a wonderful day; God bless!

Today's scriptures are about dominion over all things. Idols are powerful things, and we all have them at one time or another. It's written in Exodus 20:2-6: “I am the LORD your God... “You hall have no other gods before Me. “You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments. These verses of scripture sums up what I would say about today's scriptures. God is the Alpha and the Omega, the God above all Gods, and as Christians we're expected to put Him on the throne of our lives. However, sometimes we get caught up in the world's ways, and forget Who is really in control. Idols are not only carved statues, but they can be a number to things such as, your spouse, children, a beloved vehicle, or that rising career that you've worked so hard to achieve. Basically, anything that takes top priority over God's work is considered an idol. God's will always consist of something that will strengthen the kingdom of God. We must find a way to use our gifts and talents to work for Him. We ought to learn how to balance our earthly relationships with our relationship with God. We should make sure we're taking the time out to study and pray, as well as to worship with fellow Christians in some type of way. We all experience times in our life where we get "too busy" for God. Especially those of us who raise a family, work, and go to school. Not to mention trying to have a social life, and take time out for yourself. In today's society, it's so easy to go home and fall straight into bed at the end of the day, and not think twice about our study, prayer, and meditation time. However, this is a very dangerous thing, and we must do our best to stay centered with God, because the devil plays on that. He waits to attack when we lose that connection with God. I find that if I'm not constantly talking to God, then I feel lost. He's a very prevalent part of my life, and when I go two or three days without taking some time out just for Him I notice it. I get a little more irritable with people, overwhelmed with life, and just plain lose my peace. The moment I get back to Jesus, through prayer, the Word, and meditation, my peace is fully restored. I can now look at life through the eyes of a child of God, and not through the eyes of the flesh. I read this famous quote a few weeks ago for the first time, and it's so simple, but it makes so much sense, "Today is a gift, that's why it's called Present". Each day God allows us on His earth is a gift, and we must use each day to glorify Him. Please make it a habit to take some time out to spend with God today, whether it's before you start your day in the morning, before you end it at night, or both. No matter when you decide, just know that God yearns this closeness with us, as much as we should with Him. If you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, pray and ask Him to forgive you of your sins, and to come into your heart as Lord and Savior. He's waiting to hear from each of us, every day. My favorite verse today is: The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. (Proverbs 18:10)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455103&dtype=Scripture'
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I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY MONDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, praising God for another beautiful day! It's been while since I've written, but I've been on vacation, and kept busy over the last few days. I celebrated my 32nd birthday yesterday, and it was the most peaceful birthday I've ever had. I received the best present that I could ever have hoped for; my father will be released this week, Praise God! Thanks for all of your prayers and support, we couldn't have gotten through this without my Prayer Warriors. Last Wednesday was one of the most spectacular, yet surreal days of my life. We had church in the Courtroom, and God set everything up perfectly. We had the perfect Judge, and she was fair, and willing to listen to everything we had to say. Judge Beverly Woodard is one of the most honest and understanding Judges I've ever seen, and she made sure that Justice prevailed. By the end of the hearing there wasn't a dry eye in the courtroom, my father has truly touched a lot of people, right from where he needed to be for the last 23 years. Today's devotional is duly fitting, and it begins with Romans 8:28: We know that all things work together for good to them that love God. I want to give all honor and praise to God, because all of this worked for the good of all of us, and I never expected anything less. I will have a dinner party on Saturday celebrating my birth, and my dad's homecoming. This is just a small gathering, but we'll have a larger affair in the months to come. Also my Grandmother is back in the hospital, and she's been experiencing some anxiety, because of breathing. I need my prayer warriors once again, please continue to pray for her healing. Thank you for being there whenever I need you. Have a blessed day family!

Today's scriptures are about the evolution of God's perfect will for our lives. One of the most defining sermons I heard preached in my lifetime was one preached by Pastor Richard Pabasco, of New Song Community Church in Portland, OR, about life's different seasons. I had heard Romans 8:28 quoted numerous times, and I've also quoted it myself, but it never really hit me until that day. A woman once told me that I wasn't a victim, and I didn't quite understand what she meant by that until year later. In the past, I had been so used to being down and out, that I just expected life to that way at all times, and I had this sort of "why me" mentality, never taking time to realize that everything is working together for my good. Not to mention that I’ve reaped what I sowed, and I was in a deep refinement process. It wasn't until I heard Pastor Richard preach on Ecclesiastes chapter 3, that I understood that everything has its time. Whenever I feel like "why me", I always go back to that chapter of scripture. This also reminds me of my father's situation, because he had to be still for 23 years while waiting for this moment in his life. He usually writes letters to a group of people around the holidays a few times a year, and he's usually raising money for various Cancer research charities, and other worthy causes. About a month ago, he sent out a letter regarding the annual Cancer walk, and in that letter he also wrote about his upcoming hearing, as well as a few other things. He said he felt like all of the other times he went up for parole, or tried to get his sentence overturned, he knew it didn't happen because he wasn't ready. He knew that everything that happened to him in the past happened for a reason, no matter how rough it may have been. He had learned how to accept his circumstances and make the best of it. He was determined that no matter what was going on around him, he had to sit back and allow God to complete a work in him. Now, my dad is ready to move on to a new season, and complete new works for God. We tend to focus on the negative aspects of everything, instead seeing God in it. No matter the situation, if you're a child of God, He's always present, and working in the mist to make it all somehow work for our good. It's written in Isaiah 61:3: "To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.” My dad's situation taught me a lot, because no matter how much he went through, he accepted his punishment for the crime, but he always stayed positive. He never spoke a bad word about anyone, and always accepted his fate, until God told him otherwise. My dad isn't a hero, but he's a living breathing testimony of the forgiveness and saving grace of Jesus Christ. God forgave him by the blood of Jesus, and is moving him on to new season in his life. He does the same for each of us, everyday. This transition isn't going to be easy, but then again, it's all about strengthening the Kingdom of God. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior, then if you're reading this right now you're called, and this e-mail is meant for your good. However, God can't truly work in you like He wants because of sin. Take a few moments and ask Jesus to come into you life as your Lord and Savior, and that He forgive you of your sins. He's waiting to hear from you. Remember, no matter what is going on in your life, "Count it all joy!" My favorite verses today are: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. (James 1:2-4)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455096&dtype=Scripture
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I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying your day. I'm doing well, had a good day in court. I had the nicest Judge I've ever seen in my life, he was so laid back and fair to everyone. God is so good, because all I needed to do was show the Judge pictures of my working headlights and he dismissed the charges. In most traffic infractions, that is has to do with something malfunctioning on your vehicle, will be thrown out if you just show up in court and prove that the problem is fixed. Tomorrow's the big day, and I'm so excited! A lot is riding on this, my dad has a strong chance of being released, Praise God! We simply need to come together in prayer, and stand on Faith. There are so many opportunities for my Dad when he's released, and I’m praying that it’s in God’s will for dad to start a new chapter in his life. I believe with all of my heart that Judge Woodard will release him, but I'm still asking for your prayers. This is the end of my workweek; I took some time off to celebrate my birthday on Sunday. Don't forget, you still have time to get that present, and I'll keep you posted on Saturday's dinner party. Have a blessed and wonderful day, God willing, I'll have some good news for you tomorrow. Here's something beautiful that a friend sent me, it's a good meditation tool. http://www.greatdanepromilitary.com/Colors/index.htm

Today's scriptures are about deliverance from the penalties of sin. It's written in Mark 8:29: He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said to Him, “You are the Christ.” How many of us believe in our heart that Jesus is "the Christ"? What does that mean to you? We also know that Jesus is the one and only Son of God, who died on the Cross to save the lost children of God. The question to pose to yourself right now is are you saved? If you're answer is "saved from what?” then we have some work to do. Sin is something that has plagued mankind since Adam and Eve ate from the Tree of knowledge, at the beginning of the creation of the earth. Since then, sin has separated us from God, and just as God promised Eve in the Garden of Eden, sin will cause us to surely die (Gen 3:2). A few of my all time favorite verses are John 10:9-11: I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 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. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. The act of Adam and Eve's disobedience brought death, but the act of Jesus obedience brought light to all who believes in Him. Sin is defined: Deliberate disobedience to the known will of God. There is no man that is without sin, and we're all subjected to the penalties of each sin that we commit, whether big or small. A sin is a sin, there aren't any that are larger than the others. As children of God, we have a certain protocol to follow, and we’re not excused form the penalties of the “little white lies”, or of murder. God doesn't think like the world thinks, when we're disobedient towards Him we will pay a penalty, and if we're not covered by the blood of Jesus, that penalty is eternal death. Being under the burden of sin is a great hindrance to our Spiritual growth, and our ability to help strengthen the Kingdom of God. God has given us this awesome gift of deliverance, so that we can be free to follow His will. The only way we can be delivered from the penalties of sin is by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior. It starts by saying a prayer asking Jesus to come into your heart. In this process, you have to humble yourself, confess that you're a sinner, and repent. Repentance is just making a solid effort to avoid sin. Once you make this vital step in your life, you're free from the permanent penalty sin. The pure blood of the Lamb of God was shed to cover sin, and to bring our souls back to a state of Righteousness. From this point on, when we sin, all we need to do is go to God in prayer, confess that sin, ask for forgiveness, and repent. It’s so very important to receive that forgiveness, because a lot of times we punish ourselves far more severely than God punishes us, because of the false guilt the enemy often laid on us. We must take the time to get to know the God we serve, and become one with the Spirit of Christ that dwells inside of us. Deliverance from sin is free to all who ask in the Name of Jesus Christ, so what are you waiting for? Strife, heartache, pain, and restlessness, all come from unresolved sin on our souls. Take some time today and ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart for any sin, repent and be delivered. If you don't know Jesus as Lord, then say that prayer, and receive this free and wonderful privilege, by the Grace of God. My favorite verse today is: My brethren, ye ... are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. (Romans 7:4)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455090&dtype=Scripture
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I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY MONDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, had a wonderful, yet uneventful weekend. I got some much needed work done, but could've always done more. This is going to be a very exciting week for me. I have to go to Court tomorrow to fight a ticket I received for a blown headlight. The officer told me if I can come to court with proof that the light is fixed, then they'll most likely throw out the ticket. Please pray for me, because I need to save all of the money I could. I also spent some time finding transitional programs for my father, because it's very hard to for an ex-offender to get a job, especially in this economy. When the business is up and running fully, we'll be sure to participate in these types of programs, to help those people who's made mistakes in the past, but is rehabilitated and ready to work. I'm getting a little anxious about my Dad's hearing, yet confident in the fact that God answers our prayers, when we have faith, and faith is something I have a lot of. Please keep us in your prayers, and I will do the same, have a wonderful day!

Today's scriptures are about God our Comforter. Being comforted is something that each of us need at one time or another, in our lives. That's why we're a part of the body of Christ. God said when two or more come together, there He is also (Matt. 18:20). Part of the reason He said that is so we can give each other the support we need to get through everyday life. However, God offers us the greatest comfort of all, which can never be received from another human being. We should always take comfort in the fact that He is a Love.. The words Loving and Kindness have been combined and are often used in the New King James Version (NKJV) of the bible to describe God; in fact it could be found about 31 times. Jeremiah wrote in chapter 32:3: The LORD has appeared of old to me, saying:“ Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you. God promised thousands of years ago, that He would give us with everlasting love, and not only that, but lovingkindness, Hallelujah! Have you ever experienced lovingkindness from anyone on this earth? Is there anyone in your life who has never hurt or let you down? The fact that God has chosen us as His children should comfort us, because He will never let us down. He has predestined us for greatness, so He will make sure that we have everything we need to survive the wiles of everyday life. He takes time to comfort and reassure us when we doubt, heal us when we're sick, pick us up when we're down, give us strength through weariness, and bless us with anything that we ask that's within His will. He died for our sins to bring us close to Him, so that we can have the comfort in knowing that He will never leave nor forsake us. It's written in John 15:13: Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. God also gives us comfort through the saving Grace of Jesus Christ, and Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30: 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. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Through Jesus we have everlasting life! He has promised to give us rest, and help us carry our burdens, and to comfort us throughout our hard times. Jesus Lives! There is nothing or anything that believers will every have to worry about, as longs are we look to the Lord for the answers. Jesus said "He will give you rest", and although life isn't easy, He's always there to give us rest. When our lives are in total disarray, all we need to do is turn to the Lord for comfort. That's what He’s here for, and He’s waiting for us to come to Him. As of today, whenever something is heavy on heart, or you just feel like you've lost your peace, God will give you comfort, all you have to do is ask. Whenever you're down, mourning over a lost, or stressed about a big decision, turn to God and He will give you comfort. These are promises made by Him, and you'll find all the comfort you'll need in His word. If you don't know Jesus as Lord, then that comfort isn't offered to you, until you ask Him to come into your life, it's a simple and easy prayer. All you need to do next is go to Him, and ask, seek, and knock, and He will answer. My favorite verse today is: Thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. (Psalms 86:15)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455089&dtype=Scripture
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I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY FRIDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the end of another workweek. I'm doing well, TGIF! I'm looking forward to the weekend; I hope the weather gets a little better. It's been raining for the last few days, and it's time for some sunshine. It's technically still summer for the next 10 days. Wow, only 10 days left of summer, and it feels like the time has passed me by. The regular football season will started this week, Redskins vs. Giants this Sunday, can't wait, Let's Go Skins! I have to admit, I've grown to love football season (when the Redskins are playing). Considering that my brother plays now, my weekends will be filled with football for the next couple of months. I'm contemplating giving a dinner party for my birthday next weekend. I want do make something special for a select few special people in my life. I haven't decided, but I'll keep you posted. I'd like to take a moment to recognize the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and my heart and prayers goes out to the families. I could only imagine how this may still affect them 9 years later. Have a blessed and wonderful weekend, whatever you do, do it for the Lord!

Today's scriptures are about removing ourselves from the world, while still in it. How can we be in the world but not of it? The best way to learn how to do this is to follow the life of Jesus Christ. Jesus was God, but also a man who lived in the world but not of the world. He didn't sacrifice His beliefs to save His own life, let alone to please man. We have to live here day-by-day, work to earn a living to take care of family and ourselves. We must adhere to the laws of the earth, and raise our children with respect, love and the knowledge of God. It's written in John 16:33 that Jesus said: "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” Through Jesus we too have overcome the world, hallelujah! Do you know who you are, and the power you hold? We're not subjected to the mediocrity of a person who isn't saved, because the blood of Jesus covers us. One of my favorite verses is Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. This is one of the most quoted yet less believed scripture in the bible. Our faith in the God in Heaven is what separates us from the world. No matter what goes on in our life, we must always understand that through Christ we can do all things. There's so much negativity and strife going on in the world, that it's easy to get caught up into its way of thinking. God warns us not to follow the instructions of a worldly man, but seek first the Kingdom. When we get to know God, we should share the wisdom He's granted us with the people around us. 1 Peter 4:10-11 says: As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. Here's our answer, we should take on the mind and heart of Christ, and it's not that hard to do, because once we accept Him as Lord and Savior, He lives inside of us and gives us the Holy Spirit. All He can do is show us the way, but He can’t make us follow. A friend and I were talking yesterday, and he said to me “it's a scientific fact the negative and positive can't mix”. I totally agree, because negative forces run this world, but we’re filled with positive light. We must allow our light to shine without being influenced by the darkness that is here. Jesus constantly said "O ye of little Faith" to His followers, because He couldn’t understand how they could be walking with the Son of God, and see Him perform wonderful miracles, yet still question who He was. We do that to God all the, because we witness His grace in so many ways on a daily basis. People will always test you and question your faith, because we are peculiar people, so stay firm to your beliefs and live for the Lord at all times. Not just when it's convenient for you, but all times. As Pastor Stanley says, "obey God and leave the consequences to Him". Have Faith in God, and pursue all of your dreams and aspirations as if you have superhuman strength, because you do through Christ Jesus. God isn't asking us to be perfect, but He is asking us to try our best to be righteous, and realize that we’re Heirs to His Kingdom. Surround yourself with positive people, participate in positive activities, and find yourself a good Church home. You don't do these things because you have to, but do them because you want to separate yourself from the world. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior then you are of this world, confess and repent of your sins, and ask Jesus to be your Savior right now. Once you do this, you're delivered. My favorite verse today is: Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind. (Romans 12:2)

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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY THURSDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying this cool Friday-eve. I'm doing well, feeling a little better today, but not 100%. I'm grateful to be able to be here at work, and I know it could be worst. I just pray that I don't get anyone else sick, and am able to get back in the gym soon. I can't believe Thursday is coming to a close already this week has flown by. You know what this means? My birthday is quickly approaching! Just a few gift hints; I'm in terrible need of an IPod, and/or a Spa package at a local Day Spa. Restaurant gift certificates are always welcomed as well. My birthday isn't until next Sunday the 20th, so you still have time to order or go out and get something (just and FYI) . On a serious note, I'm very grateful to see another year, and am looking forward to the wisdom that comes along with age, God has been very good to me, and I'm looking forward to many more years of service. My cousin Calvin Jr. would've been celebrating his 18th birthday tomorrow, on September 11th, so please keep his family in your prayers, I’m sure he’s celebrating in Heaven. Happy Birthday Lil Calvin aka Doodyman, I love you!

Today's scriptures are about God's guidance of His chosen ones. Did you know that you were called to greatness? Well you are, and God has called you to be the best at whatever you've been placed here to do. This puts me in mind of Moses, and the great task he had to free all of the captive slaves of Israel. Moses wasn't a powerful man, he was a regular person like you and I, but God taught him His ways as he went along. For example, in Exodus chapter 14, God wanted Moses to take the Slaves across the Red sea, and Moses didn't have a raft, boat, kayak, or anything. All he had was God's word, and his rod (walking stick). Pharaoh came after the escaped slaves, and when they saw him coming, the people started to panic, and in Exodus 14:13-14: Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” This is something that we can learn a lot from. Go speaks to us all the time, and teaches us His ways. He gives us extraordinary things to do yet we get sidetracked because all we see are the consequences or sometimes danger that come with these things. We rarely look at the fact that the Lord is fighting for us, and we should be still and hold our peace. That's such valuable wisdom to hold on to. There are so many other valuable stories in the bible, of great and fearless leaders, that God had given great wisdom. He needs us to be meek and humble enough to seek and wait on His guidance, yet faithful enough to follow through with His commands. All week we've discussed listening to God, and seeking His wisdom first. He has the answer to every question we have, and will provide us with every tool we’ll need to do our job successfully. Moses asked God why they had to cross over the Red sea and He told him in 14:4, "so that the Egyptians may know that I am the LORD.” All Moses had to do in this case was follow God's instructions, so when God said, "Raise your Rod", Moses raised it, and the Lord did exactly what He said He would do. I was lead to read Roman 4 last night, and Paul wrote about another great man of the Old Testament, Abraham. God lead Abraham to do some pretty remarkable things as well, and Paul mentions it in detail throughout chapter 4. He wrote in verses 20-22: He (Abraham) did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. And therefore “it was accounted to him for righteousness.” I urge you to seek ye first the kingdom of God and all His righteousness, and allow Him to lead you on the paths to complete His will for your life. When you're called to do something, stop relying on your own abilities and understanding, and allow God to lead you each step of the way. If you're not doing what you know He's called you to do, then you're being disobedient, and you won't find peace until you heed His call. I promise you that you don't have to go at it alone, because you have the Trinity to help you through. God will never leave you nor forsake you, and if you don't believe me, try Him for yourself. Fear will keep us in bondage as long as well allow it to, so break free, and step out on God's promises for your life. Do you know Jesus for yourself? If your answer is no, then that's the first step to Spiritual growth. Jesus is the key that unlocks your bondage. Ask Him to be your Lord and Savior, and humble yourself. Pray and tell God that you're a sinner, and how much you need Him, then allow Him to lead, and you follow. I promise you won't regret it. My favorite verses today are: Good and upright is the Lord: therefore will he teach sinners in the way. The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. (Psalms 25:8-10)

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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY WEDNESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another "hump day". I'm doing well, but still feeling little aches and pains, and require your prayer. I'm working on resting, and drinking warm tea and Theraflu, that should fix me right up in no time. My niece Shamara's birthday is today, and she'll be turning 10 years old! I'm getting old, because I remember when she was born, and I was only 21 years old, but it seemed like only yesterday. It's funny how time flies, my goodness. She's such a wonderful young lady, and is growing up so fast, she's going to be tall like her Auntie. She wants to go Ice Skating for her birthday, so I'm going to attempt to take her this weekend. The problem is, none of us know how to ice skate, we could barely roller skate, and so this will be interesting to say the least. I'll dress in layers to try to cushion the blows, other than that, it should be fun. Have a wonderful day!

Today's scriptures are about the dangers of riches. In Matthew 19:23-24: Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” Are up familiar with these verses of scripture? As baby Spirit, I couldn't truly grasp the meaning of this scripture. However, as years passed, and I started to grow, I paid more attention to the few verses before these, which says the rich man came to Jesus and asked Him how he could be saved, and Jesus' answer to him was to sell everything he had and follow Him. The rich man went away very sad, because he wasn't prepared to part with his earthly wealth. Yesterday I also referenced 1 Timothy 6:10: For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. It doesn't say that money is evil, but the love of money is. God wants us to put Him first in our lives, but if we have everything that money could buy on this earth, we could misconstrue that with inner peace. Money can do some strange and destructive things to people, because we tend to think that we're larger than life. Reality TV shows are the new craze in America, so we see it all the time when we watch celebrities on these shows. Most of them can go anywhere and do anything they want, at any given moment; people worship them because of their fame. Think about the life of Michael Jackson. This talented man was blessed with a wonderful gift of music and dance, but the media drove him mad. He had so many pressures on him where he allegedly started to abuse drugs, which ultimately killed him, and he had virtually everything he could ever want. I'm not sure what really went on with Michael Jackson, or any one else who takes this tragic fate, but I do know that when we get large sums of money, we tend to depend less on God. It's written in the bible that God will bless the poor, and those who mourn, because they are more likely to turn to God, during trying times. Whereas, when a person has great financial resources, they're more likely to turn to the world when they're hurting. I can attest to that in my own personal life, because when things are going good for me, I have a little money in the bank, and all of my bills are paid, I tend to become lenient with my prayer time. I start to "have fun", and sometimes I've had too much fun where I missed out on my time with God. If I have extra money, when I get upset I could shop or take a vacation, instead of falling on my knees in prayer. If we're not careful, money can become an idol, and it's written in Exodus 20:5-6: “For I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments." From the outside looking in, being rich and/or famous seems like a glamorous life, but at the end of the day, everyone has his or her own problems. God requires our all, and cannot stand a double-minded person (James 4:8). We cannot worship two masters, it's either Him or the world, and if given an ultimatum to choose money or Him, which would you choose? I posed this question a few years ago, and at the time, I would honestly say that that would be a very hard decision. Now that I've grown in my walk, hands down, I would choose Jesus over anything or anyone on this earth. So let's straighten out this myth today, God loves ALL mankind; it doesn't matter if you're rich or poor. He's simply commanded us to "Love the Lord your God with all of your heart and Soul”, and you cannot do that if you allow the love of money to rule your life. There's nothing wrong with aspiring to have a fruitful and and abundant life, but if strengthening the Kingdom of God isn't first in everything you do, then there's a good chance those riches could evoke lots of evil in your life. If Jesus came to you today, and said give everything you own away to the poor and follow me, would you do it? If you are rich, take a moment and truly think about this. If you're not rich, but aspiring to be rich, then what would you do with your riches? If you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then you're very poor in Spirit, and you will not inherit the Kingdom of God. All you need to do is say a prayer to God, asking Jesus to come into your heart as Lord and Savior. After you do this, you will inherit the Kingdom of God, and you're rich in Spirit, for all Eternity, no matter what your bank account says. My favorite verses today are: Thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods and have need of nothing: and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore and repent. (Revelations 3:17-19)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455084&dtype=Scripture
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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, a little under the weather today, but I'll survive. My weekend was really nice, I had some people over on Sunday for a barbecue/dinner party, and it was nice. I played Spades for the first time in years, and we had fun. The card game made me want to get our Friday night card games going again. A few family members and I used to meet up at my Grandmother's house and play Tunk, and we'd always get some good food, and have good clean fun. I truly miss those days. Now that the summer is quickly coming to a close, and the kids are back in school, things will start to slow down a bit. Maybe we could get out card games back on track. It's also Football season, so Sunday dinners will come back into play. I wasn't looking forward to the fall, but it's inevitable, so I might as well get geared up for it. Have a wonderful day!

Today's scriptures are about balancing between our Spiritual and fleshly growth. What are you here for? Take a few moments and think about your life, you're goals, and what you want to accomplish before leaving this earth. God's main concern is our Spiritual growth, because we are His children, and He wants the best for us. We know that the flesh is temporary, and it will die one day, and we're left to live all of eternity in Heaven (if you're saved). We're all familiar with the Sermon on the Mount, and Jesus said 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 sermon is written to teach us how to properly live our lives, so when you get a moment read Matthew chapters 5 and 6. Jesus explains how to live a life pleasing to our Heavenly Father. There is a very thin line between living in this world and living of this world. We have to physically be in this world, and work toward making a good life for ourselves, and the people around us, but we mustn’t allow the world to get us caught up. Money is one of the most vital yet dangerous obsessions on this earth. It's written in 1 Timothy 6:10: For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. Money itself isn't evil, because we need it to survive, however, when we allow it to consume us, then we get ourselves into trouble. Some of us spend our entire lives trying to gain earthly riches, but spend very little time getting to know our Heavenly Father. When Jesus comes into our heart and we begin to grow in our Faith walk, we’re to take on His likeness. We begin to see people for who they really are, outside of the physical appearance or prestige. God's main concern is to grow us up in our Spirit, and in order to do that, we must be able to separate ourselves from the world's ways. We're such a trendy society; we tend to fashion our lives around what we see on television or in magazines. Especially in America; we're in debt trying to keep up with what everyone else is doing, when as children of God, we're to be trying to live our lives like Christ. Ask yourself an honest question, how much time do you spend on strengthening the Kingdom of God? Take a pen and paper and write down your average day, including hours at work, surfing the Internet, writing, or reading books (that don't have anything to do with Spiritual growth), etc. and compare that with the time you spend with God, studying His word, praying, and meditating, as well as time spent telling someone about the Gospel of Christ and His kingdom. I could almost guarantee the fraction of time that we spend with God is a very small part of our day. God should always be at the head of our life. In everything we do, we should ask ourselves is this going to please the Lord. If the answer is no, then we should refrain from doing it. There has to be a balance, because God knows our heart. Our outer appearance, education, or bank accounts don’t impress Him, it’s the work we do for His kingdom that makes all the difference in our position in Heaven. Being successful on earth isn’t a bad thing, however, what we do with and how we share our success makes all the difference in our Spiritual growth. If you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then God isn't in the picture of your life just yet. First say a prayer asking Jesus to come into your life as Lord and Savior, confess that you’re a sinner, and receive that precious gift. Then allow Him to transform you into that perfect balance between Him and the world. My favorite verse today is: The Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart. (1 Samuel 16:7)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455083&dtype=Scripture
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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, TGIF! Friday is my favorite day of the week, because it marks the beginning of your weekend. I call it "treat yourself Friday", because I always give myself a special treat, nothing fancy, a movie, or something really good for lunch or dinner (without counting calories or fat), or maybe a new dress (rarely). I'm not sure what it'll be today, but I know it'll be good. I believe that you should treat yourself at least once a week, my day is Friday, but yours doesn't have to be, the main thing is that you enjoy yourself. Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 says: I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives, and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor—it is the gift of God. I totally agree with this author, life's too short to just work, work, work, and never enjoy you. With that being said, have a wonderful weekend, and whatever you do, keep in mind that Jesus is always with you.



Today's scriptures are about being still. Being still, something that seems so simple, but in today's society, really isn't that simple at all. Yes we're chosen to help strengthen the kingdom of God, and that requires work on our parts, but we have to also allow ourselves to rest. Sometimes we can move so fast, that we get ahead of God, and start messing things up. Patience is a virtue, especially for the children of God, because it's written that He is a God of Patience. The inability to be still normally comes from a sense of unrest in our Spirits. We often busy ourselves with self fulfilling tasks to ether occupy our mind when trying to avoid dealing with stressful situations, or by trying to accomplish a goal that we have set for ourselves. When we receive the Spirit of Christ, we're supposed to follow the laws of the Spirit and not the rules of the flesh. When we start working mostly to fulfill our earthly desires, to please the flesh, our Spirit comes to a point of unrest. We each have to live by the fruit of the Spirit, which is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When we lose sight of these things, it's most likely time to be still. Our minds are very similar to computers, but we are not machines, God requires us to take some time out to rest, or reboot and start fresh. It took God six days to create the earth, and on the seventh day He rested. He commands us to take one day out of our week to rest and rejuvenate, because if we're constantly going, we're bound to miss something. This is also why we should meditate daily, because God is constantly working in our lives. He's with us every step of the way, and He often reveals important lessons we need to learn. He gives us vital information we need to complete His will, so if we don't give ourselves time to just be still and process these things, then we just my miss a valuable lesson. Have you ever been mentally and physically exhausted, and just felt like you can't go on another minute? This happens all of us, and God allows these moments in our lives, to bring us back to Him, as a warning sign, because He's trying to get our attention. There is no way that we can effectively listen to Him when our minds are all over the place, thinking about deadlines at work, school, children, which bills are due, getting the car repaired, etc. all at once. At the end of the day, it's important to just sit still, talk to our Heavenly Father, and then listen. When we meditate, we give ourselves time to listen to, and focus on God. I challenge you to try that tonight. It's the end of the week, and most of us we've endured the first week of school, along with work, paying bills, and now it's time to be still. I can promise you that after you cast your cares on the Lord through prayer, and then let your mind rest, you'll feel so much lighter and free. Then repeat these steps every night, because we're commanded to "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God"; so time with Him is the most important time of the day. If you feel like your mind and spirit is in a state of confusion right now, please be still, and give it to God. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior then most likely your Spirit is in unrest, and a quick, yet heartfelt prayer asking Jesus to be your Savior will open you up to the Fruits of the Spirit, try Him out, and enter into rest. My favorite verse today is: In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength. (Isaiah 30:15)



ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455079&dtype=Scripture

http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197

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I love you!

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, TGIF! Friday is my favorite day of the week, because it marks the beginning of your weekend. I call it "treat yourself Friday", because I always give myself a special treat, nothing fancy, a movie, or something really good for lunch or dinner (without counting calories or fat), or maybe a new dress (rarely). I'm not sure what it'll be today, but I know it'll be good. I believe that you should treat yourself at least once a week, my day is Friday, but yours doesn't have to be, the main thing is that you enjoy yourself. Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 says: I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives, and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor—it is the gift of God. I totally agree with this author, life's too short to just work, work, work, and never enjoy you. With that being said, have a wonderful weekend, and whatever you do, keep in mind that Jesus is always with you.

Today's scriptures are about being still. Being still, something that seems so simple, but in today's society, really isn't that simple at all. Yes we're chosen to help strengthen the kingdom of God, and that requires work on our parts, but we have to also allow ourselves to rest. Sometimes we can move so fast, that we get ahead of God, and start messing things up. Patience is a virtue, especially for the children of God, because it's written that He is a God of Patience. The inability to be still normally comes from a sense of unrest in our Spirits. We often busy ourselves with self fulfilling tasks to ether occupy our mind when trying to avoid dealing with stressful situations, or by trying to accomplish a goal that we have set for ourselves. When we receive the Spirit of Christ, we're supposed to follow the laws of the Spirit and not the rules of the flesh. When we start working mostly to fulfill our earthly desires, to please the flesh, our Spirit comes to a point of unrest. We each have to live by the fruit of the Spirit, which is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When we lose sight of these things, it's most likely time to be still. Our minds are very similar to computers, but we are not machines, God requires us to take some time out to rest, or reboot and start fresh. It took God six days to create the earth, and on the seventh day He rested. He commands us to take one day out of our week to rest and rejuvenate, because if we're constantly going, we're bound to miss something. This is also why we should meditate daily, because God is constantly working in our lives. He's with us every step of the way, and He often reveals important lessons we need to learn. He gives us vital information we need to complete His will, so if we don't give ourselves time to just be still and process these things, then we just my miss a valuable lesson. Have you ever been mentally and physically exhausted, and just felt like you can't go on another minute? This happens all of us, and God allows these moments in our lives, to bring us back to Him, as a warning sign, because He's trying to get our attention. There is no way that we can effectively listen to Him when our minds are all over the place, thinking about deadlines at work, school, children, which bills are due, getting the car repaired, etc. all at once. At the end of the day, it's important to just sit still, talk to our Heavenly Father, and then listen. When we meditate, we give ourselves time to listen to, and focus on God. I challenge you to try that tonight. It's the end of the week, and most of us we've endured the first week of school, along with work, paying bills, and now it's time to be still. I can promise you that after you cast your cares on the Lord through prayer, and then let your mind rest, you'll feel so much lighter and free. Then repeat these steps every night, because we're commanded to "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God"; so time with Him is the most important time of the day. If you feel like your mind and spirit is in a state of confusion right now, please be still, and give it to God. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior then most likely your Spirit is in unrest, and a quick, yet heartfelt prayer asking Jesus to be your Savior will open you up to the Fruits of the Spirit, try Him out, and enter into rest. My favorite verse today is: In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength. (Isaiah 30:15)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455079&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY THURSDAY!



I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Friday-eve. I'm doing well, a little sleepy, but I'll survive. I'm looking forward to the weekend, and getting back into the kitchen. I haven't really cooked any "real food" since the menu tasting. I'm still finalizing my menu for Sunday, but I'm going to have some of the favorites like chicken empanadas and the stuffed burgers. I may even have some crab balls with the avocado relish, if I could find a great deal on crabmeat. Then we'll have the grilled chicken and spare ribs as usual, with the usual sides, such as macaroni salad, baked beans, grilled corn on the cob, and a few cold trays. Yummy! I'm getting excited just thinking about it, I can't wait until Sunday. I also want to wish all of the September babies a Happy Birthday. Have a wonderful day!



Today's scriptures are about the leaven of evil. What is Leaven? I see that word used a lot in the King James Version of the bible, and it's defined: An element, influence, or agent that works subtly to lighten, enliven, or modify a whole. I was first introduced to this word in Bake Shop class in Culinary School. Leaven is usually yeast or baking soda; something that is used to make your bread or pastries rise through fermentation. I noticed that you only need a tiny bit of leaven to make a huge loaf of bread. It may be the ingredient you'd use the least amount of in your recipe, but it has the largest impact. Today's scriptures are referring to evil as the leaven in the bread of life. I read somewhere that a pebble dropped in the ocean could start a Tsunami, and the flutter of the wings of a butterfly could start a tornado. That always stood out to me, because it's actually true, especially when it comes to evil. Where I grew up, something as small as a dirty look could end up getting a person killed. The devil uses the tactic of placing one small evil thing in our heart or mind, and if we allow that evil to fester, it could turn into a huge thing. I've seen relationships and marriages breakup over things that start off so very small, so it's very important for us to learn the ways of God, and put Him first in your relationships. As you grow in your faith walk, you'll start to easily see these evil things as they arise. In some cases you'll start to feel an evil presence around you, and in those cases you must go to God in prayer immediately. If you're trying to live a righteous life, you must separate yourself from any form of evil. For example, most drug addicts start off with just trying a little bit at first, just to have a little fun, and because all of their friends were doing it. That one time tryout turns into losing your job, home, and family. We hear all the time that the flesh is weak, but sometimes that reality doesn't hit home until we're trying to pick up the pieces, or are tired of suffering the large consequences of surrendering to the flesh. Knowing the warning signs, and removing ourselves from certain situations can help us avoid falling victim to evil. When you're trying to walk upright the devil is going to always find a way to push your buttons. He'll place people and things in our lives, to get us to stray. Studying the word of God, and establishing a consistent prayer life will help us better be able to heed the warnings from our Holy Spirit. Evil must be removed from the inside out. Start by confessing that you're a sinner, and asking Jesus to come into your heart as Lord and Savior. Next, forgive those who trespass against you (Mat. 6:12). Once you do those things, you will receive and keep the light of the Lord at all times. Attempt to refrain from sin, and remove yourself from situations that will cause anger, because that is the most common leaven used by the devil. Some things can't be avoided, but once you mature in your Spirit, and tap into that inner peace, you'll find that evil won't be so much of an issue. We'll always have that person who cuts us off in traffic, insults us, or makes some sort of prejudice judgment against us, but as children of God, we must stay focused on Him and completing His will. Never forget, that praying for those people will stop evil right in it's tracks. My favorite verses today are: Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. (1 Corinthians 5:6-8 NKJV)



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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY WEDNESDAY!



I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful hump day. I'm doing well, full and feeling light. I had a wonderful meatball sub from Subway, and some cookies. I found out years ago that everything in Subway is low fat, way before the Jared commercials, but I don't think people knew it back then. They even use low fat mayonnaise. Just a quick fact for you, so if you're looking for some fast food, that’s not too fattening, Subway is an awesome place. They also opened a Chick-fil-a in my neighborhood, and I had a sandwich from there for the first time, and it was awesome! Where have I been? My dad told me a few years ago that Chick-fil-a is owned is a Christian man, and that's why he refuses to do business on Sundays, to keep the Sabbath Holy. I like the fact that their menu is simple, and the chicken sandwich is basic, but it tastes very good. I heard a report on CNN that nothing on their menu is over 500 calories, as well. I'm working on making a lifestyle change, and not just dieting, so going to the gym, and making smarter choices, when it comes to food, is just the beginning. I now realize the value of taking care of yourself when you're young, so I have a lot of catching up to do. Have a wonderful day!



Today's scriptures are about courage through God given strength. When I turned on my radio this morning, on my way to work, it was tuned to 105.1. I never listen to that station, and am not sure how my radio was tuned to it. Apparently it’s a Christian broadcast station, and Pastor Jeremiah was on preaching about fear. It's very ironic that today's devotional scriptures are about having courage through fear. The main thing I learned, from the small part of the broadcast that I heard, is that we must stand on God's promises to give us courage in times of fear. The Bible is filled with strength. When we read scriptures like the ones we have today, it gives us courage to face our fears and over come them. Pastor Jeremiah also gave a suggestion to write down our favorite encouraging verses on index cards, such as Isaiah 34:4:“ Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God; He will come and save you.” Or, Matthew 10:29: And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. There are a number of different verses to choose from; you can search the keywords Fear or Courage on your favorite online bible resources, or your can look in the back of your bible, where there’s an index of sorts, which has popular subjects that people often need help with; I’m sure fear will be in the back of most of them. When you make these index cards you can keep them in your purse, wallet, pocket, posted on your wall at work or in your locker, or in the sun visor in your car. Whenever you are afraid, simply pull them out and meditate on God's promises, and they'll bring you courage at the time you need it the most. Courage is another way for us to show our love for, and faith in God. The feeling of fear is natural, even Jesus felt it, but we must rely on God to face our fears. Some Christians will tell you that you shouldn’t be afraid of anything, because you’re a child of God. That is true in some sense, but the feeling of fear is natural. We all get nervous, and fear one thing or another. Joyce Meyer teaches that the word fear is an acronym for False Evidence Appearing Real. The devil will present things in ways that will scare us, to prevent our growth and block our blessings. The feeling of fear is something that is out of our control, but allowing fear to rule our lives is something that is unacceptable for children of God, because we should have enough Faith in Him. He has given us everything we'll need to get through this life victoriously, and overcome any obstacle that may be put in our way. Fear could cripple and keep us in bondage our entire lives, if we let it. It's damaging to our Spiritual growth, because it could hinder us from completing God's will for our life. I want to leave you with this great benediction written in Hebrews 13:20-21: Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. If God commands you to do something, and you don't do it because of fear, then you've hindered yourself. He's given us everything we'll need to complete is will, and courage is at the top of that list. The next time you're afraid pray, and if you decide to make your scripture cards then have them, or the bible handy, so you could meditate on His awesome promises, and He will give you victory over anything and anyone you face. If you don't know Him as Lord and Savior, then those promises don't apply to you, and fear can and will rule your life. Pray and ask Jesus to come into your life, and allow Him to give you courage. My favorite verses today are: The trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. (James 1:3-4)



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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Tuesday. I'm doing well, looking forward to the weekend already. It seems like Tuesdays are the most uncelebrated day of the week. Every other day has significance, but there's nothing significant about Tuesday. We'll have to start our own Tuesday tradition.Thanks again for your prayers and/or presence. I love all of you, and each of you has touched my life in some way, thank you!

Today's scriptures are about Meekness. The word meek is defined in many different ways; we find it in Webster’s dictionary saying: enduring injury with patience and without resentment. As well as on Dictionary.com: humbly patient or docile, as under provocation from others. Some synonyms are lowly, modest, docile, mild, tame, submissive, and moderate just to name a few. You may be wondering why I am going through all of this. Well it's written in Matthew 5:5: Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. This being said, it's very important for us to know what the word Meek means, so we can do our best to take on that attitude, in order to please God. Now some my look at these definitions and synonyms and assume that being meek means to be weak. Well that isn’t the case at all. God merely wants to be solely dependent upon Him, and not submit or conform ourselves to the ways of the world. Jesus came to teach us the right ways to go, and He was by no means weak. He was very much a leader, yet very soft, humble, and caring. He picked and chose His battles, and He didn't allow anyone to take Him out of the will of God. No matter how He was beaten, taunted, teased, or tempted by the evil in this world, He never surrendered to it. He never allowed it to take Him out of His character. Down to His last breath, He was praying for the people who wronged Him. He never fought back, He submitted to the will of God at the time of His crucifixion, because that was what God had instructed Him to do. He was never afraid of anyone or anything. He was a man that walked around with great confidence and courage. There's the story in John 2:13-22, where Jesus came to a temple during His travels, and there were people there selling different merchandise, food, and animals, which was a disgrace, and disrespectful to His Father's house. It's written in verses 15-17: When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers’ money and overturned the tables. And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!” Then His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.” He was very passionate about God, His Heavenly Father, and He did everything in His power to strengthen His Kingdom. His passion made Him angry at times, but most importantly it made Him meek; slow to anger and quick to forgive. His love makes Him understanding and faithful to making sure that we're taken care of, because God has given Him authority over us. We're made in His likeness, and we have similar responsibilities, and as "Christians", we've made a covenant to be "Like-Christ". Being meek just means you're passionate about the love of God, which allows you to be soft, humble, and caring towards everyone you come in contact with. It allows you to depend wholeheartedly on God, and not attempt to fight your own battles. It helps you understand that you're not of this world, and nothing anyone can do or say can change that. With that wisdom you're meekness will come naturally, and will give you compassion for your neighbor, allowing you to keep that great commandment. Have you ever seen someone who smiles all the time, and when you look at them you can see a certain glow about them? These people hardly ever get upset, or lash out at others, and are almost always easy going and lighthearted. This is the epitome of meekness, which is what God requires of us, in order to effectively make an impact on the unbelievers or lost souls. No one wants to be angry or upset all the time. We all are seeking peace, and most of the time we seek it in the wrong places, but God is the only way. It's written that we should take on the minds of little children, and eagerly await His wisdom and love. Pick up the bible to learn how to be like Christ. However, if you don't know Him as your Savior you need to say that prayer asking Him come into your heart as the Lord of your life, and God will complete an awesome transformation in you. Never forget that humility comes before meekness. My favorite verse today is: Take my yoke upon you and learn O me, for I am meek and lowly in heart. (Matthew 11:29)

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