HAPPY MONDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek. I’m doing great, because this will be a short week for most of us, as we celebrate Thanksgiving. This is a time of family, fun, and fellowship, and I'm surely looking forward to it. How's your "thankful" list coming along? Last week I challenged you to start making a list of the things you're most grateful for. We're supposed to write at least 2 a night, so I have about 16 items on my list so far, some days I write more than others. This is a very enlightening exercise, because it helps me stay focused. Sometimes it takes writing something down to truly grasp it. If you have a family who traditionally sit around the dinner table on Thanksgiving and tell what you're most thankful for, then you can bring your list, and read your top few. I'm looking forward to the four-day weekend; I think I may add that one to my list as well. I'm looking forward to one full day of rest. I don't want to leave the house, work on anything, but simply relax and watch movies. Until then, I'll stay on my regular grind, and I'm thankful for that as well. I pray you enjoy the rest of your day. Be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about dwelling in the Lord. It doesn't take much to trust the Lord with all of your heart and soul, but it maybe one of the hardest things we'll ever do. Although God has given us every reason to trust Him, we still don't. Despite all of the times God has come through when I needed Him, I still worry and have fears and anxieties, or forget to go to Him for all things. However, everyday my trust is gets stronger. Worry, fear, and anxiety are the direct opposite of trusting God. Dwelling in Him is the only way to build trust, and keep the ultimate commandment to "Love God with all of your heart". Dwell is defined: a) to live or stay as a permanent resident; reside. b) to live or continue in a given condition or state. God wants us to live in Him forever, without wavering, and with our every being. It's written: One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple. (Psalms 27:4) The Psalmist David knew what it was to dwell in the Lord, because He followed God's will for His life, and sought Him with every part of himself. He was living proof that you don't have to be perfect to dwell in the Lord. David made plenty of mistakes, but he never lost Faith in God. God was so pleased with David that He promised to make his son ruler of Israel after he passed away. David's son Solomon was one of the most wise, powerful, and wealthy men who reigned over Israel. As Solomon got older, God became displeased with him, because was mixed up with the wrong people, and ended up worshipping false gods. God said: “[Solomon] have not walked in My ways to do what is right in My eyes and keep My statutes and My judgments, as did his father David. However I will not take the whole kingdom out of his hand, because I have made him ruler all the days of his life for the sake of My servant David, whom I chose because he kept My commandments and My statutes." (1 King 11:33-34) We can learn a lot from both David and Solomon, because they both sinned against the Lord, however, through them we see the affects of staying with God no matter what, opposed to following the world's ways. When we dwell in God we secure our safety, wisdom, growth, and build trust in God, and in ourselves. If we don't live our life in God, then we’ll never be able to live on purpose. God spoke that phrase into my Spirit last week, and I believe dwelling in the Lord is the same as living life on purpose. A lot of us fall into the monotony of life and miss the fact that we're here for a purpose. When we get stuck in a rut, or a tedious routine that isn't making a difference for the Kingdom of God, then we're not living on "purpose". Everyday we're to dwell in the Lord, ask Him what we could do for Him, and follow His commands. Seek His wisdom, and through that wisdom, He'll show us our purpose in life. Then we live on purpose, without fear, or limits, because God is sovereign. He cannot tell a lie, and has proven Himself in your life over and over again. Do not be afraid to dwell in Him, because He's real, and He never changes. The only thing that God requires of you, so can dwell in Him is that you’re covered in the blood of Jesus, which in turn makes you righteous. Righteousness through Jesus Christ is a free gift, and accepting that gift, is the first step to living on purpose. Trusting God with all of your heart, always and forever, is all you need to do to dwell in Him and He in you. My favorite verse today is: He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalms 91:1)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455159&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter2.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5569835
I love you
Monday, November 23, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY FRIDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the end of another workweek. I'm doing well, a little tired, but in good Spirits. I'm looking forward to another beautiful weekend. I have a lot of cooking and cleaning to do, to get ready for the holiday week. I'm not sure what I'll do next week, but I'm looking forward to having four straight days off. I love this time of the year, because it's all about food and family, my two most favorite things. However, this is also the most stressful time to the year for some. Especially during this recession, because a lot of people are struggling to make ends meet. I always stress how important it is to pray for our nation right now. There are some very, very disturbing things going on in our world, and during this time, people resort to some wicked things for survival or out of greed. Be careful, and know that God will grant your every need, and prayer works, I'm a living witness. I am praying for all of you, and please pray for me. Have a wonderful weekend, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about Jesus being with us in dark times. Dark times are inevitable, we all will face them at one time or another, and God will be there for us every step of the way. There is a famous painting called "footsteps in the sand", which depicts a man walking down the beach on wet sand, and there's second set of footsteps right next to him. That painting has a lot of meaning, because it symbolizes God's presence in our life. During trials, we’re often overcome with stress, grief, anger, and/or sadness, and those emotions can become debilitating. If we don't pray without ceasing, they will overcome us and cause us to fall into depression. In the past, when I became sad or upset my first response was to call one of my friends and "vent", and in most cases we would go out and get at "drink", to hopes of masking the pain. When I got angry, I would fly off the handle and yell and scream, and act totally irrational. The problem with these types of emotional responses is they aren’t pleasing to God. When we live our lives based on circumstance, it's impossible to please God. Jesus gives us peace, and when we call on God, in His Name, He will resurrect, or change any situation we face. God is always with us, He never sleeps nor slumbers, and He doesn't take breaks or day off. However, there are times when He steps back, and allow us to endure certain hardships to teach us lessons. This reminds me of the story of Lazarus in John 11. Jesus heard that His good friend Lazarus was sick, and He was asked to come and heal him. He and His disciples started their journey to Judea two days later. This journey was strange for His disciples because people were trying to kill Jesus in Judea. Jesus said to them in verses 9-10: “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” Jesus had the light inside of Him, He knew that God was going to light His path, so there was no need to be afraid. He knew He had a job to do, and He wasn't going to let death threats stop Him. He told His disciples that Lazarus "sleeps", but they had no idea what He meant by it. Then Jesus said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless let us go to him.” (vs. 14-15) He was going no matter what, to perform His greatest miracle of all times, in order to quiet the doubts of even His disciples. When they arrived, Martha was upset, because Lazarus had already been buried for four days. Now Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met Him, but Mary was sitting in the house. Now Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.” (vs. 20-22) Although Martha was upset she never doubted Jesus. Jesus said to her , “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” She said to Him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” (vs. 25-26) This same Christ, who while in the flesh was able to resurrect someone from the dead, lives in us. We have His protection, coverage, and strength. We're to abide in Him as He abides in us, and live life on purpose. I know sometimes the things God tell us to do may seem strange, but we must follow with full assurance that He'll be with us every step. As long as Jesus lives in us our Spirit will never die. No matter what we face in this life, Jesus will bring light to our situations, and He'll resurrect some seemingly "dead" situations, and stimulate stagnant ones. All we need to do is walk with Him, because He's already with us. Sin will darken our path, but repentance will revive that light, so we can clearly see the way in which we should go. Without Jesus all of this is impossible. Pray and ask Him to come in your life, and the same Jesus who resurrected Lazarus will do the same for you. He'll never leave nor forsake us! My favorite verse today is: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. (Psalms 23:4)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455156&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5569835&ct=7613815
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the end of another workweek. I'm doing well, a little tired, but in good Spirits. I'm looking forward to another beautiful weekend. I have a lot of cooking and cleaning to do, to get ready for the holiday week. I'm not sure what I'll do next week, but I'm looking forward to having four straight days off. I love this time of the year, because it's all about food and family, my two most favorite things. However, this is also the most stressful time to the year for some. Especially during this recession, because a lot of people are struggling to make ends meet. I always stress how important it is to pray for our nation right now. There are some very, very disturbing things going on in our world, and during this time, people resort to some wicked things for survival or out of greed. Be careful, and know that God will grant your every need, and prayer works, I'm a living witness. I am praying for all of you, and please pray for me. Have a wonderful weekend, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about Jesus being with us in dark times. Dark times are inevitable, we all will face them at one time or another, and God will be there for us every step of the way. There is a famous painting called "footsteps in the sand", which depicts a man walking down the beach on wet sand, and there's second set of footsteps right next to him. That painting has a lot of meaning, because it symbolizes God's presence in our life. During trials, we’re often overcome with stress, grief, anger, and/or sadness, and those emotions can become debilitating. If we don't pray without ceasing, they will overcome us and cause us to fall into depression. In the past, when I became sad or upset my first response was to call one of my friends and "vent", and in most cases we would go out and get at "drink", to hopes of masking the pain. When I got angry, I would fly off the handle and yell and scream, and act totally irrational. The problem with these types of emotional responses is they aren’t pleasing to God. When we live our lives based on circumstance, it's impossible to please God. Jesus gives us peace, and when we call on God, in His Name, He will resurrect, or change any situation we face. God is always with us, He never sleeps nor slumbers, and He doesn't take breaks or day off. However, there are times when He steps back, and allow us to endure certain hardships to teach us lessons. This reminds me of the story of Lazarus in John 11. Jesus heard that His good friend Lazarus was sick, and He was asked to come and heal him. He and His disciples started their journey to Judea two days later. This journey was strange for His disciples because people were trying to kill Jesus in Judea. Jesus said to them in verses 9-10: “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” Jesus had the light inside of Him, He knew that God was going to light His path, so there was no need to be afraid. He knew He had a job to do, and He wasn't going to let death threats stop Him. He told His disciples that Lazarus "sleeps", but they had no idea what He meant by it. Then Jesus said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless let us go to him.” (vs. 14-15) He was going no matter what, to perform His greatest miracle of all times, in order to quiet the doubts of even His disciples. When they arrived, Martha was upset, because Lazarus had already been buried for four days. Now Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met Him, but Mary was sitting in the house. Now Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.” (vs. 20-22) Although Martha was upset she never doubted Jesus. Jesus said to her , “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” She said to Him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” (vs. 25-26) This same Christ, who while in the flesh was able to resurrect someone from the dead, lives in us. We have His protection, coverage, and strength. We're to abide in Him as He abides in us, and live life on purpose. I know sometimes the things God tell us to do may seem strange, but we must follow with full assurance that He'll be with us every step. As long as Jesus lives in us our Spirit will never die. No matter what we face in this life, Jesus will bring light to our situations, and He'll resurrect some seemingly "dead" situations, and stimulate stagnant ones. All we need to do is walk with Him, because He's already with us. Sin will darken our path, but repentance will revive that light, so we can clearly see the way in which we should go. Without Jesus all of this is impossible. Pray and ask Him to come in your life, and the same Jesus who resurrected Lazarus will do the same for you. He'll never leave nor forsake us! My favorite verse today is: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. (Psalms 23:4)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455156&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5569835&ct=7613815
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
I love you!
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 warmer weather. I'm grateful that it's almost the end of November, and we've yet to experience any majorly cold weather. Today it was in the mid 60's, which is awesome. I pray our winter is just as mild. It was a very busy day at work, so I guess people are trying to get us much done as possible, before they get a few days off next week. It's great because the day went by faster, but not so great, because my job can be mentally stressful. It takes more energy to solve a technical issue, when dealing with someone who is less than "technically savvy", over the phone. Needless to say it could be a headache, however, my job is very cool and laid back, my co-workers are like family, and we have a small close-knit group, it's very refreshing. I had a wonderful time at the dedication concert at Gonzaga; those are some talented young men. It made me wanted to pick up my instrument again. I need to acquire more classical music, it’s very soothing. Have a wonderful evening, and be blessed family!
Today’s scriptures are about being aware of “fake people”. This may not be a term that a lot of you are used to, but where I come from, we call people who try to be something they aren’t fake. God teaches us how to recognize those people by their fruit. If you’re anything like me, you like to give people the benefit of the doubt. I’m a very optimistic person, and I believe in forgiveness and second chances, because where would I be if God hadn’t done the same for me. However, people are who they are, and we should take them in that way. People do change, but to protect yourself from being hurt, or lead astray, you must be very careful about the ones you allow to get close to you. Have you ever heard the saying, “If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, then it’s a duck”? We often perceive the “ducks” in our life as turkeys, because that’s what we want them to be. The harsh reality is, if you know someone who’s a professional manipulator, liar, and thief, then that’s who they are, and you must be leery of that person, because you’ll most likely become their victim. The Holy Spirit will always warn us about people who are filled with evil, and you’ll know them by the feeling you get when they’re around. This is different from passing judgment on someone, but it’s more observing them, and taking heed to that gut feeling. Jesus said: “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves”. (Matthew 10:16) How do we balance the two? We must listen to our Holy Spirit. We must also put on the armor of God. Wisdom and meekness are only acquired when sought. It’s written: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8) The enemy will use who and what he could to tempt us, so we must pay attention to details and signs. When we meet new people, we’ll get either an affirmation or reservation about them. We call them “vibes”, and I’ve gotten really good vibes from people, and some really bad ones. There are many factors which determine when and how we’ll heed the Holy Spirit’s warnings, and the biggest is the flesh. Humans are obsessed with vanity. It’s a known fact that good looking people are more likely to be forgiven, or pardoned, for their wrong doing. We must be able to look past the outer appearance, and charm of a person, and really allow our Spirit to lead. As we grow in our Faith walk, our decrement becomes stronger, and we’ll immediately know most of the bad people that cross are path. At times we’ll work on the world’s views, or fall into the “hero” complex, and allow these people into our lives. Its okay to show compassion, sympathy and empathy, and it’s necessary to pray for those who touch the soft spots of our heart, but it’s more important to step back and allow God to work. Because you’re a child of God, He won’t allow just anyone into your life to do you harm. However you could, it’s always your choice to make. Watch for the warning signs, and be strong enough to tell yourself “I am not God, and I cannot change this person”. In most cases, that’s a very difficult thing to do, but it’s always necessary. I challenge you to dig deep and clean house. Is there a person in your life that’s draining your energy? Do you feel a dark presence when they’re around? When you think of them do you sigh? If this is true about anyone in your life, then you need to separate yourself and pray for them. God is the only one you have to please. It’s so hard to stay on the straight and narrow path, and some people in our life make it even harder. Recognize them for who they are, and make the right decision for you. Jesus is the only permanent, necessary fixture in your life. If you don’t know Him, get to know Him today. If you need someone to pray with, please let me know. My favorite verse today is: Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. (1 John 3:7)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455155&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter2.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5569835
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Friday eve. I'm doing well, enjoying the warmer weather. I'm grateful that it's almost the end of November, and we've yet to experience any majorly cold weather. Today it was in the mid 60's, which is awesome. I pray our winter is just as mild. It was a very busy day at work, so I guess people are trying to get us much done as possible, before they get a few days off next week. It's great because the day went by faster, but not so great, because my job can be mentally stressful. It takes more energy to solve a technical issue, when dealing with someone who is less than "technically savvy", over the phone. Needless to say it could be a headache, however, my job is very cool and laid back, my co-workers are like family, and we have a small close-knit group, it's very refreshing. I had a wonderful time at the dedication concert at Gonzaga; those are some talented young men. It made me wanted to pick up my instrument again. I need to acquire more classical music, it’s very soothing. Have a wonderful evening, and be blessed family!
Today’s scriptures are about being aware of “fake people”. This may not be a term that a lot of you are used to, but where I come from, we call people who try to be something they aren’t fake. God teaches us how to recognize those people by their fruit. If you’re anything like me, you like to give people the benefit of the doubt. I’m a very optimistic person, and I believe in forgiveness and second chances, because where would I be if God hadn’t done the same for me. However, people are who they are, and we should take them in that way. People do change, but to protect yourself from being hurt, or lead astray, you must be very careful about the ones you allow to get close to you. Have you ever heard the saying, “If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, then it’s a duck”? We often perceive the “ducks” in our life as turkeys, because that’s what we want them to be. The harsh reality is, if you know someone who’s a professional manipulator, liar, and thief, then that’s who they are, and you must be leery of that person, because you’ll most likely become their victim. The Holy Spirit will always warn us about people who are filled with evil, and you’ll know them by the feeling you get when they’re around. This is different from passing judgment on someone, but it’s more observing them, and taking heed to that gut feeling. Jesus said: “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves”. (Matthew 10:16) How do we balance the two? We must listen to our Holy Spirit. We must also put on the armor of God. Wisdom and meekness are only acquired when sought. It’s written: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8) The enemy will use who and what he could to tempt us, so we must pay attention to details and signs. When we meet new people, we’ll get either an affirmation or reservation about them. We call them “vibes”, and I’ve gotten really good vibes from people, and some really bad ones. There are many factors which determine when and how we’ll heed the Holy Spirit’s warnings, and the biggest is the flesh. Humans are obsessed with vanity. It’s a known fact that good looking people are more likely to be forgiven, or pardoned, for their wrong doing. We must be able to look past the outer appearance, and charm of a person, and really allow our Spirit to lead. As we grow in our Faith walk, our decrement becomes stronger, and we’ll immediately know most of the bad people that cross are path. At times we’ll work on the world’s views, or fall into the “hero” complex, and allow these people into our lives. Its okay to show compassion, sympathy and empathy, and it’s necessary to pray for those who touch the soft spots of our heart, but it’s more important to step back and allow God to work. Because you’re a child of God, He won’t allow just anyone into your life to do you harm. However you could, it’s always your choice to make. Watch for the warning signs, and be strong enough to tell yourself “I am not God, and I cannot change this person”. In most cases, that’s a very difficult thing to do, but it’s always necessary. I challenge you to dig deep and clean house. Is there a person in your life that’s draining your energy? Do you feel a dark presence when they’re around? When you think of them do you sigh? If this is true about anyone in your life, then you need to separate yourself and pray for them. God is the only one you have to please. It’s so hard to stay on the straight and narrow path, and some people in our life make it even harder. Recognize them for who they are, and make the right decision for you. Jesus is the only permanent, necessary fixture in your life. If you don’t know Him, get to know Him today. If you need someone to pray with, please let me know. My favorite verse today is: Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. (1 John 3:7)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455155&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter2.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5569835
I love you!
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another hump day. I'm doing well, and am in good Spirits, because God is good. I had one of those mornings where I woke up on the wrong side of the bed. I had to completely get back in the bed, say a prayer, and get back up on the right side. Have you ever had to do that? I felt so much better after I cast my cares upon the Lord, so I am testifying that it works. I know that may sound crazy, but we often don't think like that. I've heard some people say they're usually in a bad mood in the morning, until they have coffee or eat breakfast. Although we should start our day with prayer, it's not always common. I'm not a morning person, and I don't think I'll ever be, so I'm definitely glad I've finally taken heed to this revelation. This got me thinking, and I want to challenge all of you, for the remainder of the month keep a piece of paper next to your bed, and before you go to sleep, write at least two (2) things that you're thankful for. On December 1st go over that list, and tell me how it makes you feel. This may shape your attitude to better appreciate your blessings, and give back to those in need this holiday season. I'm going to do it,starting tonight! Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about our God given strength to endure life's temptations. Once we're saved, we receive an overall protection from the Lord. Have you ever seen commercials for Travelers Insurance Company? In these commercials this guy walks around with this giant red umbrella, and he uses it in different ways to protect his “clients”. There were times he used it as a parachute, boat, shade from the sun, and protection from storms. These commercials always remind me of God's protection of us. We're covered by the blood of Jesus, and given God's full protection, to help us overcome all struggles in life. God created us and He knows our strengths and weaknesses. As we enter into this covenant with Jesus, we're to start off as babes in the Spirit. It's written: Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. (1 Peter 2:1-3) We're to earnestly submit to the Lord for His protection, and to purposely lay down our bad habits and ways of life. As we grow, He'll pardon some of our sins, because we're still learning His ways. He won't allow us to be tempted and tried past what we could endure. In everything there are repercussions, but when God has a job for you to complete, you will complete it. The enemy will do his best to cause you to sin. He’ll be there every step of the way, with temptations that are hard for the flesh to resist. In those times, we must pray and look to our Holy Spirit for guidance. We must immediately separate ourselves from situations that may cause us to be weak. Repentance is all that’s required for God to step in and rescue us. The bible teaches that God will always and forever love us unconditionally, but it also teaches common sense, and self accountability, just as we learned from the ladder verse, which clearly says "Lay aside..." There are times when we sin, and honestly don't know any better. In these situations, when we go to God and repent, He'll overlook it. At the same time, if we're doing the same things over and over again with no intentions on changing, He’ll allow us to be tempted to a breaking point. Nevertheless, He’ll help us rebuild when we come to Him. Wisdom is precious, there's as beneficial as real life lessons, and maturity, that could only be learned by trials and tribulations. God allows us to suffer to build character and humbleness. He needs us to have a contrite heart, before He could shape and mold us into the person we're meant to be. We're meant to be leaders; Kings and Queens of this land. We're meant to stand above all things, and achieve great righteousness. There's nothing God wants more, than for us to live to our fullest potential, but we cannot do that when we don't allow Him to lead. Jesus prayed for our strength and endurance, and God gives Him whatever He asks. Rejoice in knowing that God is your strength when you feel like you can't go on. Rejoice in the fact that tests and trials were designed to teach us how to endure. Rejoice in the fact that God has our back no matter what, and we're always being blessed, even when it seems like we aren't. Don't forget to trust Jesus with your life, and God will be there to supply your every need. If you don't know Jesus, then get to know Him today. My favorite verse today is: Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. (Luke 22:31:32)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455154&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=5569835&ct=7613821
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another hump day. I'm doing well, and am in good Spirits, because God is good. I had one of those mornings where I woke up on the wrong side of the bed. I had to completely get back in the bed, say a prayer, and get back up on the right side. Have you ever had to do that? I felt so much better after I cast my cares upon the Lord, so I am testifying that it works. I know that may sound crazy, but we often don't think like that. I've heard some people say they're usually in a bad mood in the morning, until they have coffee or eat breakfast. Although we should start our day with prayer, it's not always common. I'm not a morning person, and I don't think I'll ever be, so I'm definitely glad I've finally taken heed to this revelation. This got me thinking, and I want to challenge all of you, for the remainder of the month keep a piece of paper next to your bed, and before you go to sleep, write at least two (2) things that you're thankful for. On December 1st go over that list, and tell me how it makes you feel. This may shape your attitude to better appreciate your blessings, and give back to those in need this holiday season. I'm going to do it,starting tonight! Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about our God given strength to endure life's temptations. Once we're saved, we receive an overall protection from the Lord. Have you ever seen commercials for Travelers Insurance Company? In these commercials this guy walks around with this giant red umbrella, and he uses it in different ways to protect his “clients”. There were times he used it as a parachute, boat, shade from the sun, and protection from storms. These commercials always remind me of God's protection of us. We're covered by the blood of Jesus, and given God's full protection, to help us overcome all struggles in life. God created us and He knows our strengths and weaknesses. As we enter into this covenant with Jesus, we're to start off as babes in the Spirit. It's written: Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. (1 Peter 2:1-3) We're to earnestly submit to the Lord for His protection, and to purposely lay down our bad habits and ways of life. As we grow, He'll pardon some of our sins, because we're still learning His ways. He won't allow us to be tempted and tried past what we could endure. In everything there are repercussions, but when God has a job for you to complete, you will complete it. The enemy will do his best to cause you to sin. He’ll be there every step of the way, with temptations that are hard for the flesh to resist. In those times, we must pray and look to our Holy Spirit for guidance. We must immediately separate ourselves from situations that may cause us to be weak. Repentance is all that’s required for God to step in and rescue us. The bible teaches that God will always and forever love us unconditionally, but it also teaches common sense, and self accountability, just as we learned from the ladder verse, which clearly says "Lay aside..." There are times when we sin, and honestly don't know any better. In these situations, when we go to God and repent, He'll overlook it. At the same time, if we're doing the same things over and over again with no intentions on changing, He’ll allow us to be tempted to a breaking point. Nevertheless, He’ll help us rebuild when we come to Him. Wisdom is precious, there's as beneficial as real life lessons, and maturity, that could only be learned by trials and tribulations. God allows us to suffer to build character and humbleness. He needs us to have a contrite heart, before He could shape and mold us into the person we're meant to be. We're meant to be leaders; Kings and Queens of this land. We're meant to stand above all things, and achieve great righteousness. There's nothing God wants more, than for us to live to our fullest potential, but we cannot do that when we don't allow Him to lead. Jesus prayed for our strength and endurance, and God gives Him whatever He asks. Rejoice in knowing that God is your strength when you feel like you can't go on. Rejoice in the fact that tests and trials were designed to teach us how to endure. Rejoice in the fact that God has our back no matter what, and we're always being blessed, even when it seems like we aren't. Don't forget to trust Jesus with your life, and God will be there to supply your every need. If you don't know Jesus, then get to know Him today. My favorite verse today is: Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. (Luke 22:31:32)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455154&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=5569835&ct=7613821
I love you!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this terrific Tuesday. I'm doing well, looking forward to an awesome weekend, and it's still early in the week. It's coming close to Thanksgiving, which is a little over one week away. Can you believe it? We're having a big Thanksgiving dinner at my church, and I'm looking forward to food and fellowship. Most importantly, I get to have some fried turkey, and I've only had it once before. Please know that I'll be in the gym really heavy this week, and next week to get prepared. Turkey, Honey Baked Ham, Turducken, all types of sides, and cranberry sauce, yummy! I love food, so I guess that's why I'm a Chef. It seems I'm always rushing against time lately. Please pray for my catering company to get off of the ground; because I feel like I'm losing it, my dishes are hit or miss now, because I don't practice enough. Hopefully I get to redeem myself this Thanksgiving season, I'll try some new dishes and post the recipes for you. Are you ready for the holidays? I'm very excited! Please make sure that you don't miss the meaning of this very special holiday, it's not really all about the turkey. Take sometime and think about what you're most thankful for, and make sure you tell God all about it. Have a wonderful day, be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about understanding the Wisdom of God. How powerful do you think we would be if we fully understood all of the thoughts of God? I don't know how many times I've cried out, "God why me?" I'm sure all of us have experienced that at one time or another, and in some cases God will reveal the reasons behind the storms, and in other cases we'll never know until we reach Heaven. I often say that God is above anything on this earth, and there is no greater god than He. We don't have the ability to understand the enormity of God, and it's only by His Spirit that we’ll ever be able to receive His allotted wisdom. It's almost like an epiphany when He reveals the truth and light to us. Have you ever been studying a subject in school that you just couldn't grasp, then one day, after studying and tutoring, you finally get it? We have those moments with God more often then not. Times when it seems like He’s not listening, or we’re missing that connection, then all of a sudden He shows up with this strong force that confirms His love for us. It's not until we seek His knowledge will we be able to dig deeper into who He is. Jesus taught in ways that forced us to use wisdom and our Holy Spirit to understand God’s will. He taught in Parables, and it's written: And the disciples came and said to Him, “Why do You speak to them in parables?” He answered and said to them, “Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. (Matthew 13:10-13) What does Jesus mean by all of this? If you look at it in the eyes of the world, it'll make your head spin. However, if you look at it through the Holy Spirit, you'll know exactly what it means. God reveals things to each of us differently, so it may be saying one thing to you, but something totally different to me. I believe that Jesus spoke to us in parables to force us to get in tuned with our Spirit. He wanted us to dig deeper, and seek the knowledge from our heart, and not our head. The knowledge will only come to those who are worthy of receiving, and you'll know by your fruits. When you get some time, continue reading the remainder of chapter 13. Although it may be said that you will never know everything that God knows you still have to constantly seek the answers. God will grant wisdom to whoever asks. As part of our ultimate commandment, "Love the Lord God with all of your heart", we must take the time get to know Him. However, you cannot communicate with God under the burden of sin. The only way to be separated from sin is through Jesus Christ, who in turn anoints you with His Holy Spirit. God is Spirit and we are flesh, so we must communicate through the Holy Spirit. Jesus said this to Peter before He was crucified: I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you. (John 16:12-15) If you don’t understand, then stop what you're doing and say a prayer, first asking Jesus to be your Savior, then asking the Holy Spirit to grant you the wisdom to understand, and stay focused with a pure heart. My favorite verse today is: We ... do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. (Colossians 1:9)
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this terrific Tuesday. I'm doing well, looking forward to an awesome weekend, and it's still early in the week. It's coming close to Thanksgiving, which is a little over one week away. Can you believe it? We're having a big Thanksgiving dinner at my church, and I'm looking forward to food and fellowship. Most importantly, I get to have some fried turkey, and I've only had it once before. Please know that I'll be in the gym really heavy this week, and next week to get prepared. Turkey, Honey Baked Ham, Turducken, all types of sides, and cranberry sauce, yummy! I love food, so I guess that's why I'm a Chef. It seems I'm always rushing against time lately. Please pray for my catering company to get off of the ground; because I feel like I'm losing it, my dishes are hit or miss now, because I don't practice enough. Hopefully I get to redeem myself this Thanksgiving season, I'll try some new dishes and post the recipes for you. Are you ready for the holidays? I'm very excited! Please make sure that you don't miss the meaning of this very special holiday, it's not really all about the turkey. Take sometime and think about what you're most thankful for, and make sure you tell God all about it. Have a wonderful day, be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about understanding the Wisdom of God. How powerful do you think we would be if we fully understood all of the thoughts of God? I don't know how many times I've cried out, "God why me?" I'm sure all of us have experienced that at one time or another, and in some cases God will reveal the reasons behind the storms, and in other cases we'll never know until we reach Heaven. I often say that God is above anything on this earth, and there is no greater god than He. We don't have the ability to understand the enormity of God, and it's only by His Spirit that we’ll ever be able to receive His allotted wisdom. It's almost like an epiphany when He reveals the truth and light to us. Have you ever been studying a subject in school that you just couldn't grasp, then one day, after studying and tutoring, you finally get it? We have those moments with God more often then not. Times when it seems like He’s not listening, or we’re missing that connection, then all of a sudden He shows up with this strong force that confirms His love for us. It's not until we seek His knowledge will we be able to dig deeper into who He is. Jesus taught in ways that forced us to use wisdom and our Holy Spirit to understand God’s will. He taught in Parables, and it's written: And the disciples came and said to Him, “Why do You speak to them in parables?” He answered and said to them, “Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. (Matthew 13:10-13) What does Jesus mean by all of this? If you look at it in the eyes of the world, it'll make your head spin. However, if you look at it through the Holy Spirit, you'll know exactly what it means. God reveals things to each of us differently, so it may be saying one thing to you, but something totally different to me. I believe that Jesus spoke to us in parables to force us to get in tuned with our Spirit. He wanted us to dig deeper, and seek the knowledge from our heart, and not our head. The knowledge will only come to those who are worthy of receiving, and you'll know by your fruits. When you get some time, continue reading the remainder of chapter 13. Although it may be said that you will never know everything that God knows you still have to constantly seek the answers. God will grant wisdom to whoever asks. As part of our ultimate commandment, "Love the Lord God with all of your heart", we must take the time get to know Him. However, you cannot communicate with God under the burden of sin. The only way to be separated from sin is through Jesus Christ, who in turn anoints you with His Holy Spirit. God is Spirit and we are flesh, so we must communicate through the Holy Spirit. Jesus said this to Peter before He was crucified: I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you. (John 16:12-15) If you don’t understand, then stop what you're doing and say a prayer, first asking Jesus to be your Savior, then asking the Holy Spirit to grant you the wisdom to understand, and stay focused with a pure heart. My favorite verse today is: We ... do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. (Colossians 1:9)
I love you!
Monday, November 16, 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, enjoying the beautiful weather. Yesterday's it was almost 75°F and sunny. The rain was dominating the region for the last few days, but we were rewarded at the end. I've been hearing really good reviews about the movie "Precious"; I read the novel it was based upon "Push", so I could imagine how good the movie is. It's hard to imagine that children endure such cruel treatment, and most of the people who saw it were deeply saddened, and some were disturbed. It truly brings abuse, neglect, incest, and illiteracy to light, just to name a few. Some say it's based upon a true story, and we really need to pray for our children. I appreciate the writers and producers for bringing this story to life; it makes people take a long hard look at their surroundings. This will either make you drop to you knees and thank God that you didn't have to endure such treatment, or it'll make you do your best to change your circumstances. Please continue to pray for our world, and most of all our children. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about the truth through God's Word. I try to convey, in every devotional, the importance of reading and understanding the Word of God. This is the only way we'll know what He expects of, as well as promise, us in this life. We must study the Word of God, as if our life depended on it, because it does. There is no better way to gain wisdom then to read the Holy Bible daily. This book was written, translated, and simplified through the Spirit of God Himself. There is a lot of controversy surrounding the book and it's validity, yet it's proven time and time again as truth. I was watching the previews of a new documentary called “Religulous”, and in it Bill Maher travels to numerous religious destinations, and interviews various people with Religious backgrounds, to try to seek out some truth. I have not seen this film, but I am interested in seeing it. In the previews the Interviewer is trying to get people to confirm their Faith, by answering conflicting questions. There are some people who believe that the Holy Bible is the full truth, some who only believe in the teachings of Jesus, and then there are people that say the book wasn't correctly translated, because it was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and some in Latin. It’s said that the English version may not be true, because it was translated man, and changed to say what that writer wanted to say. God is the creator, and is greater than anyone or anything on this earth, and He gave His word, the Holy Bible as a handbook to life. It was originally written by Him through man, as well as translated and updated by Him through man. There will always be people who doubt the Word of God, and try to discredit it, and the only way you'll know for yourself is by seeking the wisdom it takes to better understand it. God could only be understood on a Spiritual level hence the reason we're baptized with the Holy Spirit when we're saved. The Bible is God's living Word, as it's written: For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12) There is no Law written that's above it, and the only way to live the abundant life that God has intended us to live is by seeking Him. I was reading Psalms 69, written by King David, and he starts off humbling himself to God, and repents. King David wrote this Psalm to make his case to God, as well as teach those of us who will follow in His footsteps. One of my favorites verses in this Psalm is: The humble shall see this and be glad; and you who seek God, your hearts shall live. Out of this truth David gave something to encourage and guide us. Without the Holy Spirit, it's merely impossible to get out of the Word what God intended for us. He gives us all of these real life stories, that teaches us from the experience of other followers. He gives us an account of the punishments, as well as the rewards (pros and cons), of following or disobeying His commandments. We receive a glimpse of Heaven and a preview of hell; everything we need to gain the right knowledge and understanding is found there. The only way to rise above the hatred, pain, and evil that plague the earth is to fill yourself with God's promises of love, life, and salvation. The only way to get to a point of Peace that surpasses all understanding is by seeking the truth through His word. I write everyday in hopes to rely these important points, salvation is free to all who asks through the blood of Jesus Christ, confess and repent for sins often, and study and meditate on God's Word to stay on the path of Righteousness. If you don't take anything else out of this, I pray you get those three major points. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior, seek Him now and everything else will fall into place, but don't solely take my word for it, seek the truth for yourself. My favorite verses today are: My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. (Job 23:11-12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455152&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=5569835&ct=7613849
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek. I'm doing well, enjoying the beautiful weather. Yesterday's it was almost 75°F and sunny. The rain was dominating the region for the last few days, but we were rewarded at the end. I've been hearing really good reviews about the movie "Precious"; I read the novel it was based upon "Push", so I could imagine how good the movie is. It's hard to imagine that children endure such cruel treatment, and most of the people who saw it were deeply saddened, and some were disturbed. It truly brings abuse, neglect, incest, and illiteracy to light, just to name a few. Some say it's based upon a true story, and we really need to pray for our children. I appreciate the writers and producers for bringing this story to life; it makes people take a long hard look at their surroundings. This will either make you drop to you knees and thank God that you didn't have to endure such treatment, or it'll make you do your best to change your circumstances. Please continue to pray for our world, and most of all our children. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about the truth through God's Word. I try to convey, in every devotional, the importance of reading and understanding the Word of God. This is the only way we'll know what He expects of, as well as promise, us in this life. We must study the Word of God, as if our life depended on it, because it does. There is no better way to gain wisdom then to read the Holy Bible daily. This book was written, translated, and simplified through the Spirit of God Himself. There is a lot of controversy surrounding the book and it's validity, yet it's proven time and time again as truth. I was watching the previews of a new documentary called “Religulous”, and in it Bill Maher travels to numerous religious destinations, and interviews various people with Religious backgrounds, to try to seek out some truth. I have not seen this film, but I am interested in seeing it. In the previews the Interviewer is trying to get people to confirm their Faith, by answering conflicting questions. There are some people who believe that the Holy Bible is the full truth, some who only believe in the teachings of Jesus, and then there are people that say the book wasn't correctly translated, because it was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and some in Latin. It’s said that the English version may not be true, because it was translated man, and changed to say what that writer wanted to say. God is the creator, and is greater than anyone or anything on this earth, and He gave His word, the Holy Bible as a handbook to life. It was originally written by Him through man, as well as translated and updated by Him through man. There will always be people who doubt the Word of God, and try to discredit it, and the only way you'll know for yourself is by seeking the wisdom it takes to better understand it. God could only be understood on a Spiritual level hence the reason we're baptized with the Holy Spirit when we're saved. The Bible is God's living Word, as it's written: For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12) There is no Law written that's above it, and the only way to live the abundant life that God has intended us to live is by seeking Him. I was reading Psalms 69, written by King David, and he starts off humbling himself to God, and repents. King David wrote this Psalm to make his case to God, as well as teach those of us who will follow in His footsteps. One of my favorites verses in this Psalm is: The humble shall see this and be glad; and you who seek God, your hearts shall live. Out of this truth David gave something to encourage and guide us. Without the Holy Spirit, it's merely impossible to get out of the Word what God intended for us. He gives us all of these real life stories, that teaches us from the experience of other followers. He gives us an account of the punishments, as well as the rewards (pros and cons), of following or disobeying His commandments. We receive a glimpse of Heaven and a preview of hell; everything we need to gain the right knowledge and understanding is found there. The only way to rise above the hatred, pain, and evil that plague the earth is to fill yourself with God's promises of love, life, and salvation. The only way to get to a point of Peace that surpasses all understanding is by seeking the truth through His word. I write everyday in hopes to rely these important points, salvation is free to all who asks through the blood of Jesus Christ, confess and repent for sins often, and study and meditate on God's Word to stay on the path of Righteousness. If you don't take anything else out of this, I pray you get those three major points. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior, seek Him now and everything else will fall into place, but don't solely take my word for it, seek the truth for yourself. My favorite verses today are: My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. (Job 23:11-12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455152&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=5569835&ct=7613849
I love you!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY FRIDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying the end of another workweek. I'm doing well, TGIF! I'm so happy the weekend is here. They postponed the game tonight, I'm guessing because of the rain. It'll be held tomorrow at Bishop McNamara at 2pm. I'm so grateful, because it's supposed to be a little warmer, and sunny. It also gives the boys one more day to get prepared. A lot of people have already written them off, but I think they'll put up a good fight. I have a leadership meeting at church tomorrow, and we're discussing the option of starting an After School program, I think we've found a good opportunity. Please pray that we could all come up with one main goal, and are able to help the children, and parents. My niece Jazmine's birthday is tomorrow as well, Happy Birthday Jazzy Mama! I can't wait to see her, let's see if she could go skating, I don't know yet, because I haven’t discussed it with my sister. I’m always making plans without permission, but that’s what Aunties do. Enjoy your weekend, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about Jesus’ sacrifice for the Church. There is always going to be a question of why God does the things that He does, but it's written that He won't be fully revealed to us until we reach Heaven (Deut 29:29, 1 John 3:2). The main question is why does God require a blood sacrifice in order to forgive sins? That question has been in my heart all week, but I wasn't able to come up with a concrete answer. The next step was to "seek ye first", so I started researching the function of blood, to see if I could find its significance. Overall, blood has a number of functions in the human body, such as helping cleans and remove toxins, transport nutrients, regulate body temperature, works a sealant when the skins is punctured, and balances our pH, just to name of few. It most import to our survival. Without it none of our organs could function, nor will our heart beat. Now knowing the importance of blood, and the fact that it's naturally a cleanser, it's easier to see why it would be significant in the forgiveness of sins. God didn't require just any blood for atonement of sin, He required pure healthy blood as a sacrifice, and that's why Jesus was born. Jesus was created to take away the sins of the "Church", which is comprised of all mankind. The church isn't a building; it's you and me. Jesus was without sin, and very valuable to the world. Receiving salvation through Him, allows us to be covered with his Righteous blood. It cleanses us, keeps us connected to God, protects us from the wiles of the devil, heals us when we’re hurt, and blesses us with the nutrient of Holy Spirit. Before Jesus came to this earth, there was word of the Messiah coming as Lord and Savior, and throughout His entire life He had a immense responsibility, and knew that He would have to die. Because He was in the flesh, He had the opportunity to choose whether He wanted to continue on the path He was brought here to walk. He unselfishly carried our each command that God had given Him. He came to save everyone who's lost, and love us no matter how much we may fall. It's up to us to be open to Him and receive His love. He's there, and will come to anyone who earnestly asks. I'm going to leave you with this today, so it's not coming from me, but from His Living Word: This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. (1 John 1:5-10) Jesus gave His entire life for us, not just the act of being tortured and killed, but also His service. He made sure we have every tool we need to have a wonderful life. It's up to us to take our Salvation and allow it to cleanse our church, and be ready to receive all the miracles offered through Faith in Him. He loves us like no other could; just look at what He's done for us. Please pray and invite Him into your life, repent for your sins, and watch the doors start to open. My favorite verse today is: Walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour. (Ephesians 5:2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455149&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=5569835&ct=7613823
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying the end of another workweek. I'm doing well, TGIF! I'm so happy the weekend is here. They postponed the game tonight, I'm guessing because of the rain. It'll be held tomorrow at Bishop McNamara at 2pm. I'm so grateful, because it's supposed to be a little warmer, and sunny. It also gives the boys one more day to get prepared. A lot of people have already written them off, but I think they'll put up a good fight. I have a leadership meeting at church tomorrow, and we're discussing the option of starting an After School program, I think we've found a good opportunity. Please pray that we could all come up with one main goal, and are able to help the children, and parents. My niece Jazmine's birthday is tomorrow as well, Happy Birthday Jazzy Mama! I can't wait to see her, let's see if she could go skating, I don't know yet, because I haven’t discussed it with my sister. I’m always making plans without permission, but that’s what Aunties do. Enjoy your weekend, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about Jesus’ sacrifice for the Church. There is always going to be a question of why God does the things that He does, but it's written that He won't be fully revealed to us until we reach Heaven (Deut 29:29, 1 John 3:2). The main question is why does God require a blood sacrifice in order to forgive sins? That question has been in my heart all week, but I wasn't able to come up with a concrete answer. The next step was to "seek ye first", so I started researching the function of blood, to see if I could find its significance. Overall, blood has a number of functions in the human body, such as helping cleans and remove toxins, transport nutrients, regulate body temperature, works a sealant when the skins is punctured, and balances our pH, just to name of few. It most import to our survival. Without it none of our organs could function, nor will our heart beat. Now knowing the importance of blood, and the fact that it's naturally a cleanser, it's easier to see why it would be significant in the forgiveness of sins. God didn't require just any blood for atonement of sin, He required pure healthy blood as a sacrifice, and that's why Jesus was born. Jesus was created to take away the sins of the "Church", which is comprised of all mankind. The church isn't a building; it's you and me. Jesus was without sin, and very valuable to the world. Receiving salvation through Him, allows us to be covered with his Righteous blood. It cleanses us, keeps us connected to God, protects us from the wiles of the devil, heals us when we’re hurt, and blesses us with the nutrient of Holy Spirit. Before Jesus came to this earth, there was word of the Messiah coming as Lord and Savior, and throughout His entire life He had a immense responsibility, and knew that He would have to die. Because He was in the flesh, He had the opportunity to choose whether He wanted to continue on the path He was brought here to walk. He unselfishly carried our each command that God had given Him. He came to save everyone who's lost, and love us no matter how much we may fall. It's up to us to be open to Him and receive His love. He's there, and will come to anyone who earnestly asks. I'm going to leave you with this today, so it's not coming from me, but from His Living Word: This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. (1 John 1:5-10) Jesus gave His entire life for us, not just the act of being tortured and killed, but also His service. He made sure we have every tool we need to have a wonderful life. It's up to us to take our Salvation and allow it to cleanse our church, and be ready to receive all the miracles offered through Faith in Him. He loves us like no other could; just look at what He's done for us. Please pray and invite Him into your life, repent for your sins, and watch the doors start to open. My favorite verse today is: Walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour. (Ephesians 5:2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455149&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=5569835&ct=7613823
I love you!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another rainy day. It's a perfect day for being lazy, lying on the couch watching a movie; I wish I had the day off. I pray the rain will stop for the game tomorrow night. There's nothing like sitting on some metal bleachers in the cold rain for 2-3 hours. Gonzaga will face DeMatha under the "Friday Night Lights", at the PG Sports and Learning Complex, at 7pm. This is going to be an interesting game because DeMatha is undefeated for the season. They have a huge team, but I think Gonzaga could take them; it's a classic story of the underdog coming out victorious. Let's hope the boys play with heart and have fun, but most importantly everyone stays safe, so please keep them in prayer. You can see highlights, and different information on the season at http://www.dcsportsfan.com/Sports/Football/default.aspx. I'm happy the game isn't on Saturday, so I'm looking forward to a peaceful weekend. Grandma is still in the hospital, but doing well, please continue to keep her in your prayers. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about Repentance. When we think of ways we should conduct ourselves as Christians, words like righteous, humble, meek, grateful, thankful, and contrite come to mind. Repentance is defined: a.) To feel remorse, contrition, or self-reproach for what one has done or failed to do; be contrite. b.) To make a change for the better as a result of remorse or contrition for one's sins. Growing up in the church the Pastor said if you sin, ask for forgiveness in Jesus' Name, and you will be forgiven. I remember hearing the word repent, but I never knew what it meant, until years later. Confessing, asking for forgiveness, and repenting are all necessary to be forgiven for our sins. Confessing the fact that you’re a sinner shows your meekness before God. Remember when you got in trouble as a kid, and your mom said "if you only tell the truth..."? Surely our punishment was less severe if we confessed our wrongdoing. Asking for forgiveness is a humbling act, because we're acknowledging that we fell short, and need God’s help. Lastly, repentance is the most important step, because we're telling God, “I know I did this bad thing, I feel horrible about it, and I will try my best not to do it again”. It's a commitment to change your ways, because Jesus said, "You are forgiven, but go and sin no more". Going back to the execution of the DC Sniper yesterday, I asked a few people how they felt about it, and read a few articles about the reaction of people around the area. The most common reaction was that people thought Mr. Mohammed deserved to die, because he didn't feel any remorse about his actions. Could you now see why repentance is so important, because we’re dealing with God? How could we, with a clear conscience go out Saturday, party and drink all night, then get up Sunday morning and ask for forgiveness then head out to church? You could do that, and be forgiven, but not if you plan to go out and do the same thing next weekend. Please don't get caught up in thinking that fornication, drunkenness, fear, lying etc. is okay because everybody is doing it, and the flesh is weak. If you find yourself thinking that you're better then John Mohammed, or any other murderer, thief, liar or cheater, then you're wrong, because a sinner is a sinner. Jesus said, "He who is without sin cast the first stone". The good news is the blood of Jesus Christ has redeemed us, Hallelujah! God will forgive anyone who asks, in Jesus' Name, but do so humbly. It's written in Luke 15:7: I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. God hates sin, but He understands that it happens. The Holy Spirit lives in our heart, and He convicts us whenever we sin. If we're in tune with Him, then we'll automatically feel bad when we sin, but it's up to us to move toward righteousness. I don't want you to be discouraged, because we all sin, but repentance is the key to being forgiven, and moving on to a better life. Sin is the reason we're stuck in the wilderness, so when we start to understand that Righteousness come from the Lord, and not from how many checks you write to charity, or hours you volunteer at the church. Jesus Christ is the Key to moving on to brighter days, and living in abundance. Sin is the only reason we disconnect from God, but the simple act of confessing and repenting cleans us white as snow. Salvation is free, and it's a simple prayer away. Conversations with God are necessary, to build a wonderful physical and Spiritual life! Repentance is necessary to keep that relationship at its peak. My favorite verses today are: Mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of my head: therefore my heart faileth me. Be pleased, O Lord, to deliver me: O Lord, make haste to help me. Turn thou to thy God: keep mercy and judgment, and wait on thy God continually. (Psalms 40:12-13)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455148&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=5569835&ct=7613837
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another rainy day. It's a perfect day for being lazy, lying on the couch watching a movie; I wish I had the day off. I pray the rain will stop for the game tomorrow night. There's nothing like sitting on some metal bleachers in the cold rain for 2-3 hours. Gonzaga will face DeMatha under the "Friday Night Lights", at the PG Sports and Learning Complex, at 7pm. This is going to be an interesting game because DeMatha is undefeated for the season. They have a huge team, but I think Gonzaga could take them; it's a classic story of the underdog coming out victorious. Let's hope the boys play with heart and have fun, but most importantly everyone stays safe, so please keep them in prayer. You can see highlights, and different information on the season at http://www.dcsportsfan.com/Sports/Football/default.aspx. I'm happy the game isn't on Saturday, so I'm looking forward to a peaceful weekend. Grandma is still in the hospital, but doing well, please continue to keep her in your prayers. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about Repentance. When we think of ways we should conduct ourselves as Christians, words like righteous, humble, meek, grateful, thankful, and contrite come to mind. Repentance is defined: a.) To feel remorse, contrition, or self-reproach for what one has done or failed to do; be contrite. b.) To make a change for the better as a result of remorse or contrition for one's sins. Growing up in the church the Pastor said if you sin, ask for forgiveness in Jesus' Name, and you will be forgiven. I remember hearing the word repent, but I never knew what it meant, until years later. Confessing, asking for forgiveness, and repenting are all necessary to be forgiven for our sins. Confessing the fact that you’re a sinner shows your meekness before God. Remember when you got in trouble as a kid, and your mom said "if you only tell the truth..."? Surely our punishment was less severe if we confessed our wrongdoing. Asking for forgiveness is a humbling act, because we're acknowledging that we fell short, and need God’s help. Lastly, repentance is the most important step, because we're telling God, “I know I did this bad thing, I feel horrible about it, and I will try my best not to do it again”. It's a commitment to change your ways, because Jesus said, "You are forgiven, but go and sin no more". Going back to the execution of the DC Sniper yesterday, I asked a few people how they felt about it, and read a few articles about the reaction of people around the area. The most common reaction was that people thought Mr. Mohammed deserved to die, because he didn't feel any remorse about his actions. Could you now see why repentance is so important, because we’re dealing with God? How could we, with a clear conscience go out Saturday, party and drink all night, then get up Sunday morning and ask for forgiveness then head out to church? You could do that, and be forgiven, but not if you plan to go out and do the same thing next weekend. Please don't get caught up in thinking that fornication, drunkenness, fear, lying etc. is okay because everybody is doing it, and the flesh is weak. If you find yourself thinking that you're better then John Mohammed, or any other murderer, thief, liar or cheater, then you're wrong, because a sinner is a sinner. Jesus said, "He who is without sin cast the first stone". The good news is the blood of Jesus Christ has redeemed us, Hallelujah! God will forgive anyone who asks, in Jesus' Name, but do so humbly. It's written in Luke 15:7: I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. God hates sin, but He understands that it happens. The Holy Spirit lives in our heart, and He convicts us whenever we sin. If we're in tune with Him, then we'll automatically feel bad when we sin, but it's up to us to move toward righteousness. I don't want you to be discouraged, because we all sin, but repentance is the key to being forgiven, and moving on to a better life. Sin is the reason we're stuck in the wilderness, so when we start to understand that Righteousness come from the Lord, and not from how many checks you write to charity, or hours you volunteer at the church. Jesus Christ is the Key to moving on to brighter days, and living in abundance. Sin is the only reason we disconnect from God, but the simple act of confessing and repenting cleans us white as snow. Salvation is free, and it's a simple prayer away. Conversations with God are necessary, to build a wonderful physical and Spiritual life! Repentance is necessary to keep that relationship at its peak. My favorite verses today are: Mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of my head: therefore my heart faileth me. Be pleased, O Lord, to deliver me: O Lord, make haste to help me. Turn thou to thy God: keep mercy and judgment, and wait on thy God continually. (Psalms 40:12-13)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455148&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=5569835&ct=7613837
I love you!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this rainy hump day. I'm doing well, a little tired, but overall feeling pretty good. I’m in a bit of a sullen mood today, after hearing the news of the John Mohammed’s execution. I know the punishment fit the crime, but I can't help but feel sad for the lost of yet another life. I agree with his ex-wife when she said that someone should've listened to her, and offered some help when she complained about the abuse and her fears of him. There are more harsh punishments for theft and robbery, then domestic abuse. Our system needs to be overhauled, and we need to spend more time being proactive when women and their families complain about domestic violence. It's something that I'm really passionate about, and I pray that she will be able to build a strong campaign, and make some real changes in the lives of the victims, as well as bring light to mental illnesses of the offenders. Please pray for his family, and the family of the victims, because everyone is mourning. Have a wonderful evening, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about God's guidance. We're all created for a reason, God laid out a plan for our lives. How do you determine what God's will is for your life? He promised to lead us every step of the way. He's given us The Holy Spirit as our Helper and personal guide through life, a GPS of sorts. However, with any tool, we must learn how to properly use it, before it'll be any use to us. With our Holy Spirit, we must learn to listen to His quiet still voice, because if we're not careful we'll miss the warning signs. On earth, we have leadership in place that's called the Government, but it's up to us to follow that leadership. If we don't follow what’s set in place, then our Country would in disarray and chaos. We elect Government Officials because we think that they could lead us in the right direction. God is our Spiritual "Government", and wants us to have the best out of life, and has laid the paths that we should follow to get it. When we're stuck in the darkness of sin, it's hard to stay on the road of righteousness and follow His lead. In a lot of cases we hear the warning signs, but choose to ignore them. I'm personally learning how to wholly follow His lead. I still stray, even at this level in my Faith walk, but I'm learning how to "listen to God" more everyday. At one time, my prayer life consisted of reciting my wish list, as if He was Santa Claus, but I had a hard time listening to His answers. As I learned more about Him, and started to spend more time studying and meditating, I learned how to recognize the "gut-feelings', and discern between the good and bad voices in my head. I'm starting to learn from those "I told you so moments" as well. For example, I had a business meeting recently, and before this meeting, I had a horrible gut feeling. However, this meeting was an opportunity to do some great things for the Kingdom of God. The closer I got to the place of the meeting, my Holy Spirit started actively yelling don't do it, but in my excitement, I convinced myself that it was "the right thing to do". After all I wasn't sinning against God, I was actually doing something that He told me to do. I was following His leadership, but I had slightly moved ahead of Him. Now, I'm about to face some legal issues, because I followed what “I” wanted. I temporarily stopped following God's leadership. Here's my warning to you, "Everything that glitters isn't gold". When the enemy knows you're about to hit a major breakthrough for God, he'll do whatever it takes to get you off of the path. It is so important to seek God in prayer and through His Word, but it's equally important to intently listen, meditate and look for His guidance. Heed the warning signs, because when God leads you, everything will work out perfectly. He doesn't work on the world's system, so everything may not make sense at that moment, but trust and believe that He will never steer you wrong. He expects us to take some wrong turns, so He equipped us with our "Spiritual GPS" to help us get back on the right path, as well as forgiveness by the blood of the Lamb. Pray and ask for wisdom and discernment, because those are the two most important things needed to adequately follow God's leadership. Some of our mistakes are costly, but it's nothing that He can't handle. Proverbs 2 teaches us the "Value of Wisdom", take a few moments to read it, and apply it to your life. Search for God in all things, and He will show up. Pray without ceasing, and He will answer your prayer. Walk as if He's walking right next to you, because He is. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior, then you're traveling through life without a Spiritual GPS, and that’s very, very dangerous. We so often run into tough times and say to ourselves "If I had only listened..." God speaks to us in so many different ways, but when we don't "abide in Him and He in us" we will miss each one. Say a prayer inviting Jesus into your life, and then get to know God on a personal basis. My favorite verse today is: Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face. (Psalms 5:8)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455147&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=5569835&ct=7613819
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this rainy hump day. I'm doing well, a little tired, but overall feeling pretty good. I’m in a bit of a sullen mood today, after hearing the news of the John Mohammed’s execution. I know the punishment fit the crime, but I can't help but feel sad for the lost of yet another life. I agree with his ex-wife when she said that someone should've listened to her, and offered some help when she complained about the abuse and her fears of him. There are more harsh punishments for theft and robbery, then domestic abuse. Our system needs to be overhauled, and we need to spend more time being proactive when women and their families complain about domestic violence. It's something that I'm really passionate about, and I pray that she will be able to build a strong campaign, and make some real changes in the lives of the victims, as well as bring light to mental illnesses of the offenders. Please pray for his family, and the family of the victims, because everyone is mourning. Have a wonderful evening, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about God's guidance. We're all created for a reason, God laid out a plan for our lives. How do you determine what God's will is for your life? He promised to lead us every step of the way. He's given us The Holy Spirit as our Helper and personal guide through life, a GPS of sorts. However, with any tool, we must learn how to properly use it, before it'll be any use to us. With our Holy Spirit, we must learn to listen to His quiet still voice, because if we're not careful we'll miss the warning signs. On earth, we have leadership in place that's called the Government, but it's up to us to follow that leadership. If we don't follow what’s set in place, then our Country would in disarray and chaos. We elect Government Officials because we think that they could lead us in the right direction. God is our Spiritual "Government", and wants us to have the best out of life, and has laid the paths that we should follow to get it. When we're stuck in the darkness of sin, it's hard to stay on the road of righteousness and follow His lead. In a lot of cases we hear the warning signs, but choose to ignore them. I'm personally learning how to wholly follow His lead. I still stray, even at this level in my Faith walk, but I'm learning how to "listen to God" more everyday. At one time, my prayer life consisted of reciting my wish list, as if He was Santa Claus, but I had a hard time listening to His answers. As I learned more about Him, and started to spend more time studying and meditating, I learned how to recognize the "gut-feelings', and discern between the good and bad voices in my head. I'm starting to learn from those "I told you so moments" as well. For example, I had a business meeting recently, and before this meeting, I had a horrible gut feeling. However, this meeting was an opportunity to do some great things for the Kingdom of God. The closer I got to the place of the meeting, my Holy Spirit started actively yelling don't do it, but in my excitement, I convinced myself that it was "the right thing to do". After all I wasn't sinning against God, I was actually doing something that He told me to do. I was following His leadership, but I had slightly moved ahead of Him. Now, I'm about to face some legal issues, because I followed what “I” wanted. I temporarily stopped following God's leadership. Here's my warning to you, "Everything that glitters isn't gold". When the enemy knows you're about to hit a major breakthrough for God, he'll do whatever it takes to get you off of the path. It is so important to seek God in prayer and through His Word, but it's equally important to intently listen, meditate and look for His guidance. Heed the warning signs, because when God leads you, everything will work out perfectly. He doesn't work on the world's system, so everything may not make sense at that moment, but trust and believe that He will never steer you wrong. He expects us to take some wrong turns, so He equipped us with our "Spiritual GPS" to help us get back on the right path, as well as forgiveness by the blood of the Lamb. Pray and ask for wisdom and discernment, because those are the two most important things needed to adequately follow God's leadership. Some of our mistakes are costly, but it's nothing that He can't handle. Proverbs 2 teaches us the "Value of Wisdom", take a few moments to read it, and apply it to your life. Search for God in all things, and He will show up. Pray without ceasing, and He will answer your prayer. Walk as if He's walking right next to you, because He is. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior, then you're traveling through life without a Spiritual GPS, and that’s very, very dangerous. We so often run into tough times and say to ourselves "If I had only listened..." God speaks to us in so many different ways, but when we don't "abide in Him and He in us" we will miss each one. Say a prayer inviting Jesus into your life, and then get to know God on a personal basis. My favorite verse today is: Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face. (Psalms 5:8)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455147&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=5569835&ct=7613819
I love you!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful terrific Tuesday! I could get used to this weather year around. Last year we had a really cold winter, and I'm sure most of you remember those heating bills. I pray we don't have to go through that again this year. Tomorrow we celebrate Veterans Day, so take a moment and pray for our Veterans. I'm grateful for the men and women who serve our country. I thank those of you who dedicated your life to protecting our freedom. My dad was drafted close to the end of the Vietnam War, so he's a veteran. My cousin Myshakia currently serves in the Navy, and I have close friends that serve in the US Army as well. I want all of you who serve, or have served, in the military to know that I thank God for you. My Grandmother is doing well; please continue to keep her in your prayers. She said most of her pain has subsided; she's just having difficulty breathing. Thanks for your prayers, have a blessed and wonderful day family!
Today's scriptures are about our faithful works. We serve a God who never sleeps nor slumbers, and spend all of His time working on our behalf. We’re made in His likeness, so He expects the same from us. Jesus and His disciples walked the earth, working tirelessly to spread the gospel of salvation. They taught the Word and Love of God, without any regard for themselves. They sacrificed all of their earthly possessions and most often their lives. They went into lands where Christianity was forbidden, in an undeniable effort to save the lost. Most of us may be familiar with this: And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “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 (Matthew 28:18-20) This commandment is meant for each of us, because we are "Disciples of Christ". What does this mean to you? We don't spend much time thinking about the well being of our fellow brothers and sisters, because of our selfishness. I was the same way for years. I went to church every Sunday, paid my tithes, and contributed to friends are family members who were in need when possible. I gave change to the homeless guy whenever I had it, and I was considered polite and kind. How many of you could say that about yourself? Do you think that's okay? Take some time to read about the journey of Jesus and His disciples. They were never limited to the aforementioned things, yet so many of us are. God commanded us to work to strengthen His Kingdom. I honestly didn't learn that until a few years ago when I started to write the devotionals. This was a start, but it isn't enough. God started instilling all of these different ideas and passions in my heart, and they all revolved around one common goal, showing His love to the "Church". Now He's led me to Fairfax Christian Church, where all of my ideas and passions are slowly turning into reality. I've recently signed on to be a Deacon and am working on starting an after school program. All of this took years to develop because God was creating a new person within me. I share this with you to help you see that we're all works in progress, so we must be open to God's master plan. Lose all sense of self, and submit to God with the "Thy will be done" attitude. It's also very important to work on yourself to grow and mature into a better person, but God intended us to do way more than that. This reminds me of when we go over the safety instructions on an Airplane right before we take off. The flight attendants’ say, in the case of an emergency and oxygen is needed, we're to put on our own mask first, before we attempt to help anyone else. This is done because we cannot adequately help anyone, until we're properly equipped ourselves. In order to get to the point of Discipleship, we must go through that refinement process we're always talking about. Completing God's will isn't always easy; it often requires sacrifice of our time, money, and resources. The enemy never stops working to bring down the Kingdom, so we can’t stop working to build it up. God will provide our every need, as long as we have Faith (James 2:26). When we're on His path, there's no need to worry about where our help will come from. Remember Jesus asked, "If God clothed the lilies of the field how much more would He do for you?" (Matthew 6:25-30). The start of service starts with Jesus Christ. In order to walk and talk like Jesus, we must know Him. If you haven't, accept Him as Lord and Savior, and you'll see a world of possibilities open up for you, then it's up to you to diligently follow His lead. My favorites verses today are: I beseech you, ... brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:1-2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455146&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=5569835&ct=7613853
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful terrific Tuesday! I could get used to this weather year around. Last year we had a really cold winter, and I'm sure most of you remember those heating bills. I pray we don't have to go through that again this year. Tomorrow we celebrate Veterans Day, so take a moment and pray for our Veterans. I'm grateful for the men and women who serve our country. I thank those of you who dedicated your life to protecting our freedom. My dad was drafted close to the end of the Vietnam War, so he's a veteran. My cousin Myshakia currently serves in the Navy, and I have close friends that serve in the US Army as well. I want all of you who serve, or have served, in the military to know that I thank God for you. My Grandmother is doing well; please continue to keep her in your prayers. She said most of her pain has subsided; she's just having difficulty breathing. Thanks for your prayers, have a blessed and wonderful day family!
Today's scriptures are about our faithful works. We serve a God who never sleeps nor slumbers, and spend all of His time working on our behalf. We’re made in His likeness, so He expects the same from us. Jesus and His disciples walked the earth, working tirelessly to spread the gospel of salvation. They taught the Word and Love of God, without any regard for themselves. They sacrificed all of their earthly possessions and most often their lives. They went into lands where Christianity was forbidden, in an undeniable effort to save the lost. Most of us may be familiar with this: And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “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 (Matthew 28:18-20) This commandment is meant for each of us, because we are "Disciples of Christ". What does this mean to you? We don't spend much time thinking about the well being of our fellow brothers and sisters, because of our selfishness. I was the same way for years. I went to church every Sunday, paid my tithes, and contributed to friends are family members who were in need when possible. I gave change to the homeless guy whenever I had it, and I was considered polite and kind. How many of you could say that about yourself? Do you think that's okay? Take some time to read about the journey of Jesus and His disciples. They were never limited to the aforementioned things, yet so many of us are. God commanded us to work to strengthen His Kingdom. I honestly didn't learn that until a few years ago when I started to write the devotionals. This was a start, but it isn't enough. God started instilling all of these different ideas and passions in my heart, and they all revolved around one common goal, showing His love to the "Church". Now He's led me to Fairfax Christian Church, where all of my ideas and passions are slowly turning into reality. I've recently signed on to be a Deacon and am working on starting an after school program. All of this took years to develop because God was creating a new person within me. I share this with you to help you see that we're all works in progress, so we must be open to God's master plan. Lose all sense of self, and submit to God with the "Thy will be done" attitude. It's also very important to work on yourself to grow and mature into a better person, but God intended us to do way more than that. This reminds me of when we go over the safety instructions on an Airplane right before we take off. The flight attendants’ say, in the case of an emergency and oxygen is needed, we're to put on our own mask first, before we attempt to help anyone else. This is done because we cannot adequately help anyone, until we're properly equipped ourselves. In order to get to the point of Discipleship, we must go through that refinement process we're always talking about. Completing God's will isn't always easy; it often requires sacrifice of our time, money, and resources. The enemy never stops working to bring down the Kingdom, so we can’t stop working to build it up. God will provide our every need, as long as we have Faith (James 2:26). When we're on His path, there's no need to worry about where our help will come from. Remember Jesus asked, "If God clothed the lilies of the field how much more would He do for you?" (Matthew 6:25-30). The start of service starts with Jesus Christ. In order to walk and talk like Jesus, we must know Him. If you haven't, accept Him as Lord and Savior, and you'll see a world of possibilities open up for you, then it's up to you to diligently follow His lead. My favorites verses today are: I beseech you, ... brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:1-2)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455146&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=5569835&ct=7613853
I love you!
Monday, November 9, 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 another wonderful week. I had a great weekend, and really enjoyed the football game on Saturday. The Gonzaga Eagles beat St. Johns 35-36, and it was a nail-biter. We were on our feet most of the 4th quarter. The first playoff game this weekend, I'm not sure whom they'll be playing yet, but I'll keep you updated. Yesterday was such a beautiful day; I got my dad and brother out on the basketball court. We had such a good time, they are so lucky I've been having knee issues, or I would've blown both of them out of the water (probably not, but I would've a little done better). I made some stuffed Tilapia, which was part of a lovely Sunday dinner. Needless to say, I'm a little tired after the weekend, but it was worth it. I saw my Grandmother over the weekend, she wasn't feeling well, please continue to keep her in your prayers, she’s back in the hospital, but is doing well. The Reverend at my church was diagnosed with Pneumonia over six months ago, and is still affected by it, so it could be a long process to get it out of the lungs. Please pray for Rev. Laura as well. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed!
Today's scriptures are about God as Jesus. There is only one true God, but He was broken into the Holy Trinity, God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Each of these branches does a different job, yet they're all God. There was a time when God came to earth in human form, and called Himself Jesus. He came to accomplish a number of different things, from teaching us how to live righteously with a humbled heart of a servant, to dying on the cross as sacrifice for our sins. Jesus was more than just a man; He was the Lamb of God. He followed His will, and was obedient in every way. From the manner in which He spoke, to the way in which He loved, He was the radiant essence of the All-powerful God. He used that power to heal, feed, uplift, and strengthen His followers. He was the most selfless human being to ever walk the earth. We all know that the flesh is weak, and is all about instant gratification, so it allows us to be tempted every second of the day. Jesus wasn't exempt from those trails and tribulations, yet He overcame them all. He got overwhelmed at times, especially right before His crucifixion, so much so that even He, The Son of Man, had to seek strength through prayer. On that night, He and two of His disciples went away to pray: Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” ...He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.” He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” He came back and found His disciples sleeping and He told them: Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” ...Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” A third time, He came back and they were sleeping: So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. (Full story Matthew 26:36-46) We all face trying time in life, but Jesus is our Savior, and has made sure that we could overcome them. We must follow His example and pray without ceasing, especially when faced with troubling times. Jesus, being in the flesh and of the Spirit, knew what lied ahead. His flesh wanted to delivered from this horrendous act, but His Spirit was willing take it on, so God’s Will would be done. It's okay to be afraid, and get weary, but it's not okay to succumb to our weaknesses and fear, because God is in control, and we must be obedient until death. Jesus lives in our Heart, and He was God in the flesh. If we have a Helper in the Holy Spirit who is God, Salvation through Jesus Christ who is also God, then how much power do we really have? Freedom from sin is equivalent to raw Spiritual power to overcome the world. Are you using all of your power? Don't suffer in your flesh alone, but endure and overcome it with the power of Jesus Christ. Salvation is the first step, say your prayers now, don’t be caught sleeping. My favorite verses today are: Who made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name. (Philippians 2:7-9)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455145&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter2.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5569835
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 another wonderful week. I had a great weekend, and really enjoyed the football game on Saturday. The Gonzaga Eagles beat St. Johns 35-36, and it was a nail-biter. We were on our feet most of the 4th quarter. The first playoff game this weekend, I'm not sure whom they'll be playing yet, but I'll keep you updated. Yesterday was such a beautiful day; I got my dad and brother out on the basketball court. We had such a good time, they are so lucky I've been having knee issues, or I would've blown both of them out of the water (probably not, but I would've a little done better). I made some stuffed Tilapia, which was part of a lovely Sunday dinner. Needless to say, I'm a little tired after the weekend, but it was worth it. I saw my Grandmother over the weekend, she wasn't feeling well, please continue to keep her in your prayers, she’s back in the hospital, but is doing well. The Reverend at my church was diagnosed with Pneumonia over six months ago, and is still affected by it, so it could be a long process to get it out of the lungs. Please pray for Rev. Laura as well. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed!
Today's scriptures are about God as Jesus. There is only one true God, but He was broken into the Holy Trinity, God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Each of these branches does a different job, yet they're all God. There was a time when God came to earth in human form, and called Himself Jesus. He came to accomplish a number of different things, from teaching us how to live righteously with a humbled heart of a servant, to dying on the cross as sacrifice for our sins. Jesus was more than just a man; He was the Lamb of God. He followed His will, and was obedient in every way. From the manner in which He spoke, to the way in which He loved, He was the radiant essence of the All-powerful God. He used that power to heal, feed, uplift, and strengthen His followers. He was the most selfless human being to ever walk the earth. We all know that the flesh is weak, and is all about instant gratification, so it allows us to be tempted every second of the day. Jesus wasn't exempt from those trails and tribulations, yet He overcame them all. He got overwhelmed at times, especially right before His crucifixion, so much so that even He, The Son of Man, had to seek strength through prayer. On that night, He and two of His disciples went away to pray: Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” ...He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.” He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” He came back and found His disciples sleeping and He told them: Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” ...Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” A third time, He came back and they were sleeping: So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. (Full story Matthew 26:36-46) We all face trying time in life, but Jesus is our Savior, and has made sure that we could overcome them. We must follow His example and pray without ceasing, especially when faced with troubling times. Jesus, being in the flesh and of the Spirit, knew what lied ahead. His flesh wanted to delivered from this horrendous act, but His Spirit was willing take it on, so God’s Will would be done. It's okay to be afraid, and get weary, but it's not okay to succumb to our weaknesses and fear, because God is in control, and we must be obedient until death. Jesus lives in our Heart, and He was God in the flesh. If we have a Helper in the Holy Spirit who is God, Salvation through Jesus Christ who is also God, then how much power do we really have? Freedom from sin is equivalent to raw Spiritual power to overcome the world. Are you using all of your power? Don't suffer in your flesh alone, but endure and overcome it with the power of Jesus Christ. Salvation is the first step, say your prayers now, don’t be caught sleeping. My favorite verses today are: Who made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name. (Philippians 2:7-9)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455145&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter2.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5569835
I love you!
Friday, November 6, 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 great, TGIF!! Celebrating the beginning of the weekend, and the beginning of a new era. I've been wanted to go Roller Skating, when was the last time you did that? My Aunt is having her daughter’s birthday party at the skating rink, I think I'm more excited then the kids. I went two years ago for my niece's birthday and had a good time, once I was able to keep my balance. It's fun, and a very good source of exercise. It's funny how when we were children things seemed so easy, but as we get older (and out of shape), we go into these things thinking they're going to be the same, but the next morning we realize we were wrong. I had that experience with bike riding, and skating, it's not as easy as it was when I was a younger. Have a wonderful weekend, the weather is supposed to be nice with plenty of sunshine, go out and enjoy it while you can. Don't forget the big game is tomorrow at Montgomery Blair High School 3:00pm. It's going to be a big one, so come early and enjoy the festivities. Be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about our Eternal life through Christ. Do you know Jesus, and have you earnestly received Him as your personal Lord and Savior? If your answer is no, then what will happen to you when you die? Do you believe in Heaven and Hell? Death is inevitable for all of us, and since we have a Spirit living inside of our body, what happens to our Spirit? Some people can answer that question with full assurance, and some people honestly don't know the answer. Maybe you joined a church with your parents when you were younger, and think you're saved but you really aren't sure. Maybe you joined a church during alter call but never prayed and asked Jesus to come into your heart. Maybe you did say that prayer years ago, but have sinned so much that you aren't sure if you’re still saved. These are very common questions we ask ourselves. If you aren't sure of your Salvation, then take a few moments to pray: Father God, I stand before you with a humble heart, I am a sinner, please forgive me of my sins and allow Jesus to come into my Heart as Lord and Savior. Thank You for Your many wonderful blessings, and Your Saving grace, in Jesus' Name I pray, Amen. This is all you need to enter into the Kingdom of God, Jesus said, "go and sin no more". We all know the most quoted verse 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 life. Another important verse is John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." Jesus holds the only key to Heaven! He said: “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 (Matthew 28:18-20). If you believe that Jesus died on the cross for your sins, and was resurrected on the third day then He'll be with you forever. He's in Heaven with God, and He'll come back to receive all who believe in Him, in due time. We won't know the day or the hour of His return, so it's important to make sure that the blood seals your Salvation. There are so many people that say, "I'm a sinner and I don't know if God will take me this way". I've also heard, “I'll wait until I get my life right, before I get saved". If we were all perfect then there is no need for Jesus. He said come as you are, and He will change your life for the better. Once you're Saved, the only way to lose that Salvation is through unbelief in Jesus' Holy Spirit (Matthew 12:32-32). Everything else will be forgiven as soon as you confess and ask. If Jesus returns tomorrow we will be resurrected and taken to Heaven to live all Eternity in peaceful bliss. If he doesn't come tomorrow, don't worry He will. Maybe not in our lifetime, so when we physically die, our Spirit will go to Heaven; it's written "absent from the body present with the Lord". Nobody really like to talk about death, but it's a reality that we all shall face, and it's our duty as Christians to make sure everyone is prepared for it. Paul said: For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. (2 Cor. 5:1) When you're life is right with God, you're properly equipped to face anything in life, or death. My favorite verses today are: God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. (1 John 2:11-12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455142&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=5569835&ct=7613829
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the end of another workweek (for most). I'm doing great, TGIF!! Celebrating the beginning of the weekend, and the beginning of a new era. I've been wanted to go Roller Skating, when was the last time you did that? My Aunt is having her daughter’s birthday party at the skating rink, I think I'm more excited then the kids. I went two years ago for my niece's birthday and had a good time, once I was able to keep my balance. It's fun, and a very good source of exercise. It's funny how when we were children things seemed so easy, but as we get older (and out of shape), we go into these things thinking they're going to be the same, but the next morning we realize we were wrong. I had that experience with bike riding, and skating, it's not as easy as it was when I was a younger. Have a wonderful weekend, the weather is supposed to be nice with plenty of sunshine, go out and enjoy it while you can. Don't forget the big game is tomorrow at Montgomery Blair High School 3:00pm. It's going to be a big one, so come early and enjoy the festivities. Be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about our Eternal life through Christ. Do you know Jesus, and have you earnestly received Him as your personal Lord and Savior? If your answer is no, then what will happen to you when you die? Do you believe in Heaven and Hell? Death is inevitable for all of us, and since we have a Spirit living inside of our body, what happens to our Spirit? Some people can answer that question with full assurance, and some people honestly don't know the answer. Maybe you joined a church with your parents when you were younger, and think you're saved but you really aren't sure. Maybe you joined a church during alter call but never prayed and asked Jesus to come into your heart. Maybe you did say that prayer years ago, but have sinned so much that you aren't sure if you’re still saved. These are very common questions we ask ourselves. If you aren't sure of your Salvation, then take a few moments to pray: Father God, I stand before you with a humble heart, I am a sinner, please forgive me of my sins and allow Jesus to come into my Heart as Lord and Savior. Thank You for Your many wonderful blessings, and Your Saving grace, in Jesus' Name I pray, Amen. This is all you need to enter into the Kingdom of God, Jesus said, "go and sin no more". We all know the most quoted verse 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 life. Another important verse is John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." Jesus holds the only key to Heaven! He said: “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 (Matthew 28:18-20). If you believe that Jesus died on the cross for your sins, and was resurrected on the third day then He'll be with you forever. He's in Heaven with God, and He'll come back to receive all who believe in Him, in due time. We won't know the day or the hour of His return, so it's important to make sure that the blood seals your Salvation. There are so many people that say, "I'm a sinner and I don't know if God will take me this way". I've also heard, “I'll wait until I get my life right, before I get saved". If we were all perfect then there is no need for Jesus. He said come as you are, and He will change your life for the better. Once you're Saved, the only way to lose that Salvation is through unbelief in Jesus' Holy Spirit (Matthew 12:32-32). Everything else will be forgiven as soon as you confess and ask. If Jesus returns tomorrow we will be resurrected and taken to Heaven to live all Eternity in peaceful bliss. If he doesn't come tomorrow, don't worry He will. Maybe not in our lifetime, so when we physically die, our Spirit will go to Heaven; it's written "absent from the body present with the Lord". Nobody really like to talk about death, but it's a reality that we all shall face, and it's our duty as Christians to make sure everyone is prepared for it. Paul said: For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. (2 Cor. 5:1) When you're life is right with God, you're properly equipped to face anything in life, or death. My favorite verses today are: God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. (1 John 2:11-12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455142&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=5569835&ct=7613829
I love you!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this beautiful Friday eve. The week is quickly coming to a close, and I'm so grateful. Saturday is the last regular season football game for the Gonazaga Eagles. I missed the last two, so I'm looking forward to this one. It's another rivalry game against St. John's. Both teams hold the same record, so this will be the deciding factor for which will make the playoffs. They're not playing at either team's home filed, because of the large crowd, and so they could meet on neutral turf. This sounds serious, and I hope the best team (Gonzaga) wins. It's been a great season, and I'm grateful that the boys are still healthy, and there aren't any serious injuries. Please continue to keep them in your prayers. Next up, Basketball season! I'm very excited about that, because it’s my game. I plan on starting a Non-profit organization in the future, which will offer after school programs for teens and young adults, and hopefully we'll be able to have a basketball team. Please pray for that project, I know it may be far off, but it’s been a passion of mine for years. Have a blessed and wonderful day, be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about God's anointment. I wanted to share two definitions of the word Anointed: a.) To choose by or as if by divine intervention. b.) To apply oil, ointment, or a similar substance to. God choose each of us from the creation of the world, and when we accept Jesus as our Savior we're anointed with the Holy Spirit. There are several stories in the bible of people being anointed with oil, and that was a done as a form of consecration, or sanctification. People had this oil that was prayed over and blessed by God, and when anointed with it, they’re “set apart as sacred”. In the Old Testament days, people had to be anointed with “Holy” oil, to have extra protection. In most cases God spoke to someone and told them who or what to anoint and when. For example, when Soldiers were going off to war, some would be anointed during or after prayer, for protection and strength. Now that we have the blood of Jesus, we're anointed with the Holy Spirit, and He protects, guides, and strengthens us every day. The Lord Jesus covers us, and our salvation is sealed, and could never be broken. It's written: Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Do you know the power you hold, because of the anointment of the Spirit? We no longer have boundaries, but could do all things through Christ. We've been given awesome power to complete all tasks set before us, with confidence, joy, and peace. When we're under the protection of the Lord nothing could come near us without His say. Ignorance is very prevalent in the Christian community, because we barely understand our anointing. We're great men and woman of God, and He's given us authority to rise above anything or anyone that means us harm. In John 12 there's a story about when Mary anointed the feet of Jesus with a jar of very costly oil. Judas was upset with her, because he thought that the oil could've been sold and the money used to feed the poor. Jesus says verses 7-8: “Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always." Mary knew the importance of anointing Jesus, and without her knowing she did a great thing, and it showed her appreciation and love for Him. To be chosen by God is a precious gift, and no matter what we've done in the past, if we understand that Jesus died for our sins but now lives, and we believe it with our whole heart, we're covered forever. God anointed us with a very costly sacrifice to prepare us for physical death, which will ensure that our Spirits rise, and live forever in Heaven. There is nothing more to worry about, if you're saved you've been. You 're ready to face the world with no fear, shame, or regrets, because you are saved and sanctified with the Holy Spirit. Get to know Jesus for yourself, but if you don't know Him pray right now. If you're afraid, pray. If you're scared and lonely pray. If you're heartbroken and hungry pray. In all things pray, through Him you have all authority. My favorite verses today are: He which ... hath anointed us, is God; who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455141&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=5569835&ct=7613839
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this beautiful Friday eve. The week is quickly coming to a close, and I'm so grateful. Saturday is the last regular season football game for the Gonazaga Eagles. I missed the last two, so I'm looking forward to this one. It's another rivalry game against St. John's. Both teams hold the same record, so this will be the deciding factor for which will make the playoffs. They're not playing at either team's home filed, because of the large crowd, and so they could meet on neutral turf. This sounds serious, and I hope the best team (Gonzaga) wins. It's been a great season, and I'm grateful that the boys are still healthy, and there aren't any serious injuries. Please continue to keep them in your prayers. Next up, Basketball season! I'm very excited about that, because it’s my game. I plan on starting a Non-profit organization in the future, which will offer after school programs for teens and young adults, and hopefully we'll be able to have a basketball team. Please pray for that project, I know it may be far off, but it’s been a passion of mine for years. Have a blessed and wonderful day, be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about God's anointment. I wanted to share two definitions of the word Anointed: a.) To choose by or as if by divine intervention. b.) To apply oil, ointment, or a similar substance to. God choose each of us from the creation of the world, and when we accept Jesus as our Savior we're anointed with the Holy Spirit. There are several stories in the bible of people being anointed with oil, and that was a done as a form of consecration, or sanctification. People had this oil that was prayed over and blessed by God, and when anointed with it, they’re “set apart as sacred”. In the Old Testament days, people had to be anointed with “Holy” oil, to have extra protection. In most cases God spoke to someone and told them who or what to anoint and when. For example, when Soldiers were going off to war, some would be anointed during or after prayer, for protection and strength. Now that we have the blood of Jesus, we're anointed with the Holy Spirit, and He protects, guides, and strengthens us every day. The Lord Jesus covers us, and our salvation is sealed, and could never be broken. It's written: Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Do you know the power you hold, because of the anointment of the Spirit? We no longer have boundaries, but could do all things through Christ. We've been given awesome power to complete all tasks set before us, with confidence, joy, and peace. When we're under the protection of the Lord nothing could come near us without His say. Ignorance is very prevalent in the Christian community, because we barely understand our anointing. We're great men and woman of God, and He's given us authority to rise above anything or anyone that means us harm. In John 12 there's a story about when Mary anointed the feet of Jesus with a jar of very costly oil. Judas was upset with her, because he thought that the oil could've been sold and the money used to feed the poor. Jesus says verses 7-8: “Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always." Mary knew the importance of anointing Jesus, and without her knowing she did a great thing, and it showed her appreciation and love for Him. To be chosen by God is a precious gift, and no matter what we've done in the past, if we understand that Jesus died for our sins but now lives, and we believe it with our whole heart, we're covered forever. God anointed us with a very costly sacrifice to prepare us for physical death, which will ensure that our Spirits rise, and live forever in Heaven. There is nothing more to worry about, if you're saved you've been. You 're ready to face the world with no fear, shame, or regrets, because you are saved and sanctified with the Holy Spirit. Get to know Jesus for yourself, but if you don't know Him pray right now. If you're afraid, pray. If you're scared and lonely pray. If you're heartbroken and hungry pray. In all things pray, through Him you have all authority. My favorite verses today are: He which ... hath anointed us, is God; who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455141&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=5569835&ct=7613839
I love you!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful "hump day". I'm doing great! I was feeling a little under the weather earlier today, but I think it's only allergies. With all the fuss about the Swine flu, and the differences between the flu and a cold, every time I get the sniffles or a headache, I always become a little concerned. I've had my Flu shot, but I don't think I'll get the Swine Flu vaccine this year. I wash my hands often, keep my Purell handy, take my vitamins, and pray without ceasing, so I think I have all points covered. Nothing is new under the sun, and similar "Plagues" or "Pandemics" are written about in the bible. It's just another sign to get your life right, to insure that you're under the eternal protection of God. I'm grateful we're halfway through the week, and it's the start of a new month, God is good. One more month to a new year, and new beginnings, this has been a wonderful year for me, and I see it only getting better. Have a wonderful day, and been blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about expecting temptations and trials. Walking with Jesus entails a lot more than blessings and sunshine, but requires us to live a certain type of lifestyle. Temptations and trails are to be expected, because we live in the mist of Spiritual warfare. It's written in a Revelation, revealed through a dream: And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer. So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him (Rev. 12:7-9). Satan's main objective is to get us out of the will of God. He has a legion of demons working for him, and they will stop at nothing to keep us bound by sin, heartache, pain, worry, anxiety, and fear. As children of God, and joint heirs to His Kingdom, our jobs are to stay strong. Have you ever heard the song "Soldier in the Army of the Lord"? That's exactly what we are, and we're given Victory by the blood of Jesus Christ. Here's what Jesus said: “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:18-20) By the blood of Jesus, we've already won, Hallelujah! The enemy will never be as powerful as God, and doesn't reign over His children. God allow us to be tempted to test our strength in certain areas, in most cases to prepare us for the road ahead. When we're going through trials, it's import to keep our focus on God, and not our current circumstance, because there's always a benefit at the end. When those seasons come we shouldn't be shocked and react irrationally, but get on our knees and pray and ask for the Strength to be endure. All the while, we should be rejoicing and thanking God for the blessing to come. Job is one of the most profound books in the bible in my opinion. I’ve studied parts of it, and I've also heard many sermons preached on his life. Job was a man who loved God, lived a righteous life, and did His best not to sin. He prayed, fasted, offered sacrifices, paid his tithes, gave offerings, raised God fearing children, etc. Anything you could do the magnify God, Job did. God allowed Job to be tempted by Satan, and Job lost every earthly possession and loved one he had, as well as his health. Through all of this pain and suffering, Job never stopped loving and praising God. He never stopped doing all of the things he was doing before. He came close to giving up, as any of us would, but he never did. You could only imagine how much God blessed Job when the suffering came to an end. We often think that life is supposed to be good all the time, and the minute we hit a "speed bump", instead of slowing down and acknowledging God and learning from our trials, we want to speed through them. This behavior could cause more harm than good. Marvin Gaye said it best in the song entitled "Trouble Man", There are only three things that's for certain, taxes, death, and trouble. That song has a lot of Faith in it, although he never mentions God. Marvin is saying no matter what type of life he's had or trails he’ll face, he's still going to make it. That's where God wants us to be. No matter what may fall in your path, hold on your Faith and allow God to get you through it. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior then you're on the wrong side of the war. Please take a moment and get your relationship right with God, by saying one simple prayer asking Jesus to be a part of your life. If you need a prayer partner please contact me, because I want to see you in Heaven. My favorite verses today are: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:12,13)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455140&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter2.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5569835
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful "hump day". I'm doing great! I was feeling a little under the weather earlier today, but I think it's only allergies. With all the fuss about the Swine flu, and the differences between the flu and a cold, every time I get the sniffles or a headache, I always become a little concerned. I've had my Flu shot, but I don't think I'll get the Swine Flu vaccine this year. I wash my hands often, keep my Purell handy, take my vitamins, and pray without ceasing, so I think I have all points covered. Nothing is new under the sun, and similar "Plagues" or "Pandemics" are written about in the bible. It's just another sign to get your life right, to insure that you're under the eternal protection of God. I'm grateful we're halfway through the week, and it's the start of a new month, God is good. One more month to a new year, and new beginnings, this has been a wonderful year for me, and I see it only getting better. Have a wonderful day, and been blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about expecting temptations and trials. Walking with Jesus entails a lot more than blessings and sunshine, but requires us to live a certain type of lifestyle. Temptations and trails are to be expected, because we live in the mist of Spiritual warfare. It's written in a Revelation, revealed through a dream: And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer. So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him (Rev. 12:7-9). Satan's main objective is to get us out of the will of God. He has a legion of demons working for him, and they will stop at nothing to keep us bound by sin, heartache, pain, worry, anxiety, and fear. As children of God, and joint heirs to His Kingdom, our jobs are to stay strong. Have you ever heard the song "Soldier in the Army of the Lord"? That's exactly what we are, and we're given Victory by the blood of Jesus Christ. Here's what Jesus said: “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:18-20) By the blood of Jesus, we've already won, Hallelujah! The enemy will never be as powerful as God, and doesn't reign over His children. God allow us to be tempted to test our strength in certain areas, in most cases to prepare us for the road ahead. When we're going through trials, it's import to keep our focus on God, and not our current circumstance, because there's always a benefit at the end. When those seasons come we shouldn't be shocked and react irrationally, but get on our knees and pray and ask for the Strength to be endure. All the while, we should be rejoicing and thanking God for the blessing to come. Job is one of the most profound books in the bible in my opinion. I’ve studied parts of it, and I've also heard many sermons preached on his life. Job was a man who loved God, lived a righteous life, and did His best not to sin. He prayed, fasted, offered sacrifices, paid his tithes, gave offerings, raised God fearing children, etc. Anything you could do the magnify God, Job did. God allowed Job to be tempted by Satan, and Job lost every earthly possession and loved one he had, as well as his health. Through all of this pain and suffering, Job never stopped loving and praising God. He never stopped doing all of the things he was doing before. He came close to giving up, as any of us would, but he never did. You could only imagine how much God blessed Job when the suffering came to an end. We often think that life is supposed to be good all the time, and the minute we hit a "speed bump", instead of slowing down and acknowledging God and learning from our trials, we want to speed through them. This behavior could cause more harm than good. Marvin Gaye said it best in the song entitled "Trouble Man", There are only three things that's for certain, taxes, death, and trouble. That song has a lot of Faith in it, although he never mentions God. Marvin is saying no matter what type of life he's had or trails he’ll face, he's still going to make it. That's where God wants us to be. No matter what may fall in your path, hold on your Faith and allow God to get you through it. If you don't know Jesus as your Savior then you're on the wrong side of the war. Please take a moment and get your relationship right with God, by saying one simple prayer asking Jesus to be a part of your life. If you need a prayer partner please contact me, because I want to see you in Heaven. My favorite verses today are: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:12,13)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455140&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter2.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5569835
I love you!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful day. It's terrific Tuesday and there's a lot going on in the world, such as new music and movies, and it’s Election Day. Today we're responsible for electing a new Governor in the Common Wealth of Virginia. I have to confess I haven't been following the coverage on this race, and if I were to vote today, I wouldn't know which person to choose. I'm not into politics as much as I should be, so I could’ve use some help today. I pray that the best person wins. Time is steadily flying, and they’ve started putting up Christmas decorations here in Bethesda. The thanksgiving displays are up in the stores as well. It's the perfect time to pick up can foods, cake mixes, stuffing, etc. I'm making 2 turduckins this year, and am looking forward to it. I'll be sure I post the recipe on my website by the end of the week, just in case you want to try it. Do you have any new or unusual Thanksgiving recipes please share? If so, you can post them on the forum on my website www.divinecuisineepc.com or send them to me, and I'll post them. It's always good to step outside of the box a little bit. Enjoy the rest of your day, and be blessed family!
Today’s scriptures are about the consequences of following the Lord. The natural order of life is, if you do well you're rewarded, and if you do bad you're punished. This has been the case since the beginning of time, and is standard all over the world. Somehow we think the rules don't apply in our Faith walk. Yesterday we learned that we should follow the paths laid before us by Jesus, and how beneficial it would be to study His ways. Jesus was the only sinless human being that walked this earth. If we want to know how we could walk in righteousness and avoid sin, we should study Him. The bible is full of God’s promises to reward the righteous, such as: Blessed are those who keep justice, and he who does righteousness at all times! (Psalms 106:3) Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart! (119:2) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6) “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” (Luke 11:28) Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. (Revelations 22:14) Do you notice the trend in these five verses? They all say "blessed are those who...” and this indicates that our blessing, or lack thereof, are direct results of our actions. Forgiveness of sins is guaranteed to those of us who are saved, but what's the difference between being forgiven of sins, and being punished for them? When we sin, all we need to do is confess and ask for forgiveness, and those things are washed away. However being forgiven of those sins doesn't pardon us from its punishment, especially if we have no intentions on repenting. For example, "Thou Shalt Not Steal" is of the Ten Commandments, but let’s say that you work as a cashier at a department store, and someone gave you to much money one day. You really needed that $5 or $10, so you slip it in your pocket. Your Holy Spirit convicts you, and when you get home you confess and ask forgiveness. In the back of your mind you're thinking, "I wish someone would do that again, that came right in handy". It does happen again and you do the same thing, but this time you get caught and lose your job. Is it God's fault that you lost your job? Some people would get angry with God because they're not looking at their actions, but they're looking at their circumstance. However, had you done the right thing and given the money back, then God would've blessed you ten fold. Did you know we are often tested in situations similar to these? If we're following in Jesus’ footsteps then we're to actively turn away from all evil. Temptations are going come at us every minute of everyday, but we always have a choice. We'll be compensated for each choice that we make whether good or bad. If we choose to help a person in need and expect nothing in return, we'll receive blessings. However, if we lie, cheat, and steal, we'll be punished. It's just as simple as reaping what we sow. Just know that you are a precious child of God, and your every action reflects Christ. Take care to represent Him well, and truly take on your role as being like Christ (Christian). To get to know Jesus say a prayer confessing your sins, and asking Him to be Lord of your life. If you've already done that, but realize you need help getting back on the right path, pray and tell Him just that, He's been waiting to hear from you. Make righteousness a way of life. My favorite verse today is: The way of the Lord is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. (Proverbs 10:29)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455139&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=5569835&ct=7613841
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful day. It's terrific Tuesday and there's a lot going on in the world, such as new music and movies, and it’s Election Day. Today we're responsible for electing a new Governor in the Common Wealth of Virginia. I have to confess I haven't been following the coverage on this race, and if I were to vote today, I wouldn't know which person to choose. I'm not into politics as much as I should be, so I could’ve use some help today. I pray that the best person wins. Time is steadily flying, and they’ve started putting up Christmas decorations here in Bethesda. The thanksgiving displays are up in the stores as well. It's the perfect time to pick up can foods, cake mixes, stuffing, etc. I'm making 2 turduckins this year, and am looking forward to it. I'll be sure I post the recipe on my website by the end of the week, just in case you want to try it. Do you have any new or unusual Thanksgiving recipes please share? If so, you can post them on the forum on my website www.divinecuisineepc.com or send them to me, and I'll post them. It's always good to step outside of the box a little bit. Enjoy the rest of your day, and be blessed family!
Today’s scriptures are about the consequences of following the Lord. The natural order of life is, if you do well you're rewarded, and if you do bad you're punished. This has been the case since the beginning of time, and is standard all over the world. Somehow we think the rules don't apply in our Faith walk. Yesterday we learned that we should follow the paths laid before us by Jesus, and how beneficial it would be to study His ways. Jesus was the only sinless human being that walked this earth. If we want to know how we could walk in righteousness and avoid sin, we should study Him. The bible is full of God’s promises to reward the righteous, such as: Blessed are those who keep justice, and he who does righteousness at all times! (Psalms 106:3) Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart! (119:2) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6) “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” (Luke 11:28) Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. (Revelations 22:14) Do you notice the trend in these five verses? They all say "blessed are those who...” and this indicates that our blessing, or lack thereof, are direct results of our actions. Forgiveness of sins is guaranteed to those of us who are saved, but what's the difference between being forgiven of sins, and being punished for them? When we sin, all we need to do is confess and ask for forgiveness, and those things are washed away. However being forgiven of those sins doesn't pardon us from its punishment, especially if we have no intentions on repenting. For example, "Thou Shalt Not Steal" is of the Ten Commandments, but let’s say that you work as a cashier at a department store, and someone gave you to much money one day. You really needed that $5 or $10, so you slip it in your pocket. Your Holy Spirit convicts you, and when you get home you confess and ask forgiveness. In the back of your mind you're thinking, "I wish someone would do that again, that came right in handy". It does happen again and you do the same thing, but this time you get caught and lose your job. Is it God's fault that you lost your job? Some people would get angry with God because they're not looking at their actions, but they're looking at their circumstance. However, had you done the right thing and given the money back, then God would've blessed you ten fold. Did you know we are often tested in situations similar to these? If we're following in Jesus’ footsteps then we're to actively turn away from all evil. Temptations are going come at us every minute of everyday, but we always have a choice. We'll be compensated for each choice that we make whether good or bad. If we choose to help a person in need and expect nothing in return, we'll receive blessings. However, if we lie, cheat, and steal, we'll be punished. It's just as simple as reaping what we sow. Just know that you are a precious child of God, and your every action reflects Christ. Take care to represent Him well, and truly take on your role as being like Christ (Christian). To get to know Jesus say a prayer confessing your sins, and asking Him to be Lord of your life. If you've already done that, but realize you need help getting back on the right path, pray and tell Him just that, He's been waiting to hear from you. Make righteousness a way of life. My favorite verse today is: The way of the Lord is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. (Proverbs 10:29)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455139&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=5569835&ct=7613841
I love you!
Monday, November 2, 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, praising God for another day; He's so good to us! I had a wonderful weekend with family and fellowship. Sunday we visited The National Church of God in Oxon Hill, MD, for family and friends day. It was really nice, we enjoyed the music drama, dance and sermon. If you live in the area and are looking for a good Church home, check them out one Sunday. Be sure to keep up with your vitamin, fruits and vegetable intake, and prayer to stay healthy. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about following in the paths laid by Jesus. God has created us to be leaders, but some of us are still followers. Individuals who are leaders still have to learn from those who came before us, and Jesus is the perfect teacher. To be considered a good teacher others must be able to learn from your every step. Jesus led by example, and did everything He taught us to do. He preached about the importance of prayer, meditation, and fasting. He demonstrated His fearlessness on the cross, because He taught that fear wasn’t one of ways of God. He demonstrated His unconditional love for His fellow man by praying for, feeding, and healing His followers. A wise man once said, "Give a man a fish and he'll eat for a day, but teach a man to fish and he'll eat for a lifetime". Jesus was truly that type of teacher. He forced us to think and apply the right principles to our life through the Holy Spirit. We'll find parables like the Prodigal Son, the Rich Man, the lost sheep, the Vinedressers, etc in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, that’s meant to teach on a Spiritual level using everyday scenarios. Although these gospels only cover a short span of Jesus' life, it gives us exactly what we need to live the life of a Righteous leader. Jesus said: “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest." (Luke 10:2) Look around you, there's a lot of work to do, and when we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior we became His Disciples. Disciple is defined: One who embraces and assists in spreading the teachings of another. The decision to follow Christ is the first step in becoming a righteous leader. Then embracing His teachings, by studying the word, building a sound prayer life, and making meditation a vital part of our life. Finally, we must go out and make disciples of all Nations (Matthew 28:19). The keys to becoming a true Disciple or follower of Jesus, is losing all aspects of self, fear, and discontinue following the teachings of foolish men. Paul wrote: God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? (1 Corinthians 1:9-10,20) As leaders, we're teaching as well as showing one simple truth, the Cross (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). We must spread the good news that Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected on the third day, and He did this to save all mankind. We're also responsible for showing God's life through our own life, fashioning ourselves to Righteousness, because we teach more by our actions then words. We must spread God's love by being open and understanding to all, and doing what we could to help the lost find their way. A good leader knows the ways of Jesus Christ, and tries his or her best to follow Him. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior then you're a slave to the flesh. You can be free of that, and evolve into a leader in His Kingdom by a simple prayer. Ask Jesus to be the Lord of your life, and then follow His lead. My favorite verse today is: Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. (Philippians 4:8)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455138&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=5569835&ct=7613847
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek. I'm doing well, praising God for another day; He's so good to us! I had a wonderful weekend with family and fellowship. Sunday we visited The National Church of God in Oxon Hill, MD, for family and friends day. It was really nice, we enjoyed the music drama, dance and sermon. If you live in the area and are looking for a good Church home, check them out one Sunday. Be sure to keep up with your vitamin, fruits and vegetable intake, and prayer to stay healthy. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about following in the paths laid by Jesus. God has created us to be leaders, but some of us are still followers. Individuals who are leaders still have to learn from those who came before us, and Jesus is the perfect teacher. To be considered a good teacher others must be able to learn from your every step. Jesus led by example, and did everything He taught us to do. He preached about the importance of prayer, meditation, and fasting. He demonstrated His fearlessness on the cross, because He taught that fear wasn’t one of ways of God. He demonstrated His unconditional love for His fellow man by praying for, feeding, and healing His followers. A wise man once said, "Give a man a fish and he'll eat for a day, but teach a man to fish and he'll eat for a lifetime". Jesus was truly that type of teacher. He forced us to think and apply the right principles to our life through the Holy Spirit. We'll find parables like the Prodigal Son, the Rich Man, the lost sheep, the Vinedressers, etc in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, that’s meant to teach on a Spiritual level using everyday scenarios. Although these gospels only cover a short span of Jesus' life, it gives us exactly what we need to live the life of a Righteous leader. Jesus said: “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest." (Luke 10:2) Look around you, there's a lot of work to do, and when we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior we became His Disciples. Disciple is defined: One who embraces and assists in spreading the teachings of another. The decision to follow Christ is the first step in becoming a righteous leader. Then embracing His teachings, by studying the word, building a sound prayer life, and making meditation a vital part of our life. Finally, we must go out and make disciples of all Nations (Matthew 28:19). The keys to becoming a true Disciple or follower of Jesus, is losing all aspects of self, fear, and discontinue following the teachings of foolish men. Paul wrote: God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? (1 Corinthians 1:9-10,20) As leaders, we're teaching as well as showing one simple truth, the Cross (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). We must spread the good news that Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected on the third day, and He did this to save all mankind. We're also responsible for showing God's life through our own life, fashioning ourselves to Righteousness, because we teach more by our actions then words. We must spread God's love by being open and understanding to all, and doing what we could to help the lost find their way. A good leader knows the ways of Jesus Christ, and tries his or her best to follow Him. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior then you're a slave to the flesh. You can be free of that, and evolve into a leader in His Kingdom by a simple prayer. Ask Jesus to be the Lord of your life, and then follow His lead. My favorite verse today is: Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. (Philippians 4:8)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455138&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=5569835&ct=7613847
I love you!
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