Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY THURSDAY!

Today's scriptures are about Jesus, in whom salvation is possible. Last week we celebrated what most call "Holy Week". We're meant to reenact the last week of Jesus' life. Actually, the Lent season is meant to reenact/celebrate the last few months of Jesus' life, but Holy Week, is what salvation is all about. I think most of us celebrate Easter, and don't know the meaning of it, because it's a nationally celebrated holiday, so why not eat some ham, candy, and dye some eggs? How many of us really take into account that Jesus is the reason for the season? Easter is almost as commercialized as Christmas, which are two major celebratory days in the life of Jesus Christ--the day He was born, and the day He was resurrected. What does that mean to you personally? What does that mean to the world as a whole? For those of you who don't realize, Jesus is life! Jesus is forgiveness, salvation, healing, redemption, resurrection, and all things alike.

Palm Sunday marked that glorious day when Jesus entered Jerusalem, riding on a donkey--as it was prophesied years before--as the Messiah. Then we skip to Munday Thursday, where we celebrate the Last Supper, where Jesus washes His disciples feet, prophecy about the things to come, and prepare His followers for His death. Good Friday was the day that He was beaten, hung on the cross, and His side was pierced, for virtually no reason at all. He was an innocent lamb, who was slaughter for the life of His beloved. He loved us so much because He and God was one, and God loves us because we're His children. Jesus was part human, and He had a choice whether He wanted to live or die--God gave Him free will, just like each of us, but Jesus CHOSE to lay down His life, because if He hadn't He not only would've disobeyed God, but He would've let down the entire Human race. Besides, He knew that that pain and heartache that He had to endure was only temporary--it was only one day of suffering compared to an eternity of bliss. He understood, that that one day of suffering would also lead to an eternity of bliss for anyone who sought righteousness. He knew that God's will was the only thing worth living for, and not going through with what He was instructed to do, meant death and destruction for all mankind. On that Good Friday (or whatever day it was), Jesus chose us over Himself. Hallelujah!

Easter Sunday, in my opinion, is one of the most important days of the year! It's the day that Jesus' work was done, and He was resurrected from death. Rejoice and celebrate that Jesus is ALIVE! This was all a part of God's plan from the beginning of time, and so of course it went off without a hitch. Jesus had been allowing us to get to know who He was, and the power He held, throughout the entire Gospel. He once said: “Therefore My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father.” (John 10:17-18) So you see, Easter is such a glorious day, because by His God-given power, Jesus was able be resurrected and made whole, and now sits, very much alive, on a throne, at the right hand of the Father. He's there to offer Salvation to anyone who believes in Christmas, Palms Sunday, Munday Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter! He's there to make intercession for us, so that we can complete the will God has for our lives, just as He did thousands of years ago.

Jesus saves us from sin, death, hell, and most importantly He saves us from ourselves (our flesh). All we have to do is call on His Name, and anything we need is done, by faith. Before He left this earth, He gave us this great promise: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.” Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (John 14:1-6) Now this is the true definition of Salvation--there's nothing more to be said. Now I'll ask you once again--what does Easter mean to you?

If you don't know Jesus as Lord, you aren't saved. However, because of the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, you can be. First you must believe that He is who He says He is. Faith, confession of your sins, and inviting Jesus into you life as Lord and Savior, will ensure that Jesus has prepared a place for you in His Kingdom. He doesn't require anything but your faith and love, and once He gets that, He goes to work in you, to create a clean heart and a right spirit. I urge you to trust Him right now; take a few minutes to take the God Quiz today! My favorite verses today are: Through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: and by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. (Acts 13:38-39)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455677&dtype=Scripture

http://www.intouch.org/broadcast/today-on-radio

http://www.joycemeyer.org/OurMinistries/Broadcast/

I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

Today's scriptures are about maintaining a steadfast and meek spirit, while waiting on the Lord. In some way or another we all will pass from this life, and enter into what some call "the after life". Those of us who are believers will go on to live all eternity in the House of the Lord, enjoying eternal bliss. Therefore, our entire existence here on this earth should be spent preparing ourselves, and those around us, for this glorious trip. Our life is all about the life after death. Certainly, over the last few weeks, we've seen many natural disasters, bombings, religious and political gridlock on grand scales--this will only continue if we don't do something about the way that we're living. We have to start with ourselves, and then branch out to help others. It could be a bit difficult to maintain a spirit of meekness, if our focus is on the wrong things.

I read a devotional today, written by Dr. David Jeremiah, entitled "Meek not Weak", and ironically his message ties in well with our group of scriptures. He referenced the verse: But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear. (1 Peter 3:15) You notice that Peter first said "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts", which is key to taking on the Spirit of meekness, because when your heart is right with God, your Spirit will automatically be transformed. This transition starts from within! There's an old saying that you do things much better when "your heart is in it"--how many of us know that to be true? That especially goes for our personal walk with Christ. If we don't first sanctify and purify our heart with His love, then that's when meekness turns in to weakness.

Taking on the Spirit of meekness in Christ, actually makes us stronger. It allows a greater and deeper inner peace, and also leads to the steadfast spirit, which is required to serve God. We know that God is an on time God, but on who's time--certainly not ours. It takes much patience and perseverance to be a true servant of God--these things come directly from the heart. I for one may be the most impatient person you know--I want things yesterday! You can only imagine how God has to break that spirit in me. I pray for things five minutes before they're set to happen, and I expect an answer right away. Oh the anxiety I used to feel, when waiting on God to answer my prayers; I was a mess. I would sit and rock back and forth, chanting something like, "God I know you're listening, so please come now, I need this right now". God knew as well as I did (deep inside), that what I was praying for was either not that urgent, or it was already done, once I cast that care upon Him. Once I learned how to trust Him with all of my heart, I was able to build faith a bit larger than a mustard seed. I was able to humble myself, because now I understand that I'm serving the one and only true God. Even in turbulent times I'm able to stay meek, and not take my frustrations out on others. I'm even able to still keep God's commandments, and love Him, and my fellow brethren, with all of my heart.

Brother's and sisters, life is short! Remember when Paul reminded us that it's a race to the finish. It doesn't matter how fast you get there, it simply matters the condition of your heart and Spirit when you cross that finish line. I think what Paul preached to the Elders of Ephesus, is the epitome of a meek, humble and steadfast Spirit, and I thank God for him! He said: ...“You know how I lived the whole time I was with you, from the first day I came into the province of Asia. I served the Lord with great humility and with tears and in the midst of severe testing by the plots of my Jewish opponents. You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus. And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace." (Acts 20:18-24)

I want to leave you with this, during this Holy week, where we're celebrating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul knew what faced him, when he broke rules, by continuing to preach the Gospel Christ, but he did it anyway, because of His love for Jesus Christ. The Word of God helps us know and understand what His life, and ours, is all about. I'm quickly coming to the point in my faith walk, where I'm beginning to feel like Paul. I wouldn't be telling you the whole truth, if I said that I don't struggle a bit with it, but who doesn't? Even Jesus struggled with coming to terms with His own fate and destiny. So have you come to terms with your role in the Kingdom of God, and the great fate that God has for you? Jesus died so that we no longer have to spiritually suffer death, and now we have the opportunity to give Him something back. Surrender, love and cherish Him with all of your heart, all the days of your life! If you don't know Jesus as Lord, then you'll need to take a few minutes to take the God Quiz right now; it's detrimental to you eternity! My favorite verses today are: Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men. (Philippians 2:5-7)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455670&dtype=Scripture

http://www.intouch.org/broadcast/today-on-radio

http://www.joycemeyer.org/OurMinistries/Broadcast/

I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you enjoyed this “terrific Tuesday”! I’m doing well, excited about the fact that we’re about to enter into another Lenten season. Today is Fat Tuesday [or Mardi Gras in French], which falls the day before the beginning of the Lenten season, also known as Ash Wednesday. It’s said that today we're permitted to overindulge in the things we're committing to give up throughout our fasting period. My friend sent me this last year, and I wanted to share it with you again: Lent is a season of soul-searching and repentance. It is a season for reflection and taking stock. Lent originated in the very earliest days of the Church as a preparatory time for Easter, when the faithful rededicated themselves and when converts were instructed in the faith and prepared for baptism. By observing the forty days of Lent, the individual Christian imitates Jesus’ withdrawal into the wilderness for forty days. Are you ready to start your fasting process? Fasting doesn't necessarily mean you have to give up food, but something that's near and dear to you, which requires sacrifice on your part. I haven’t given it much thought, because it snuck up on me this year, so I’ll pray on it tonight. I’m so grateful for the love of Christ, and pledge to do my best to follow in His footsteps. Enjoy the remainder of your day, and be blessed family!

Today’s scriptures are about the mercy of God. Sin is the cause of the fall of any man who has and will walk this earth, but one. He was the son of God, and the Savior of all mankind— His Name is Jesus Christ. Because of the merciful heart of our Creator, God the Father, He sacrificed His Son, so that we can be free from sin—the downfall of men. When we’re covered with the blood of Jesus, we have the privilege, and the right, to go to God, in the Name of Jesus, and confess our sins, He’ll quickly forgive us. However, the penalty of sin is death, so we will reap the consequences of that sin, because we in fact went against God, but He’ll never be angry for long, and will always continue to love us, no matter what.

Yesterday I wrote about God loving us as a Bridegroom loves His bride, well today I want to talk about another facet of His love—how He loves us as a parent loves a child. There isn’t too much a child could do to their parents that will make them stop loving them. In some cases it’s a given, you love this child because you gave birth to them, and you have a permanent bond with them. You raise them, and teach them the ways of life, and offer them every opportunity to do the right things, but the child will sometimes fall short, because they’re human. This is how they grow, and learn from their mistakes. The parents also learn and grow from these experiences— there’s the times when the children stop becoming cute little babies, and start terrorizing the house. I’ve experienced the “terrible twos”, when the toddler just learns how to walk on their own, and sets out on their path of discovery. The time when your favorite lamp is broken, or the finger paint is all over your favorite shirt, you’re a bit angry at this precious little baby. What about adolescence and puberty, when so many other things start changing in them. They pick up a little sass, and start pushing the boundaries of the rules, and it takes everything for you not to kill them. God experiences times like these with us, within our Spiritual growth.

We expect most of these things when we become parents, but there are plenty other things that we don’t prepare for. When we live life one day at a time, and we punish the children when they do bad, and reward them when they do well, they’ll be fine. As well as do our best by setting good examples for them to follow, and teaching them the ways and love of God. Everything is a choice for them, and It hurts when they choose not to obey our rules, because we only put them in place to keep them from harm, and from experiencing the past hurts and disappointments we’ve had to face. However, when the fall, we’ll be angry for a moment, but we’ll still welcome them back with open arms, because we love them. We’ll do our best to make the hurt go away, but most importantly, we’ll be there for them whenever they need us.

Jesus said it best: If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish? Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” (Luke 11:11-13) God’s love goes deeper than anything we could ever imagine, so He will have mercy on us, more so than we could ever be merciful to our children. He created us for a purpose, and His main reason for granting us salvation through Christ, is so that we can stay in close fellowship with Him forever. He understands our weakness, and He wants us to understand that He’s there for us no matter what. He lives inside of us, so He knows what we’ve done, how we’ve done it, and even why we’ve done it. All He requires of us is a confession and repentance, and forgiveness is granted. What if you crashed your mom’s car and try to hide it, and when she finds out about it, you lie to her and say that you didn’t do it. Or, if you crash the car and immediately go to her and say, “mom I’m sorry, it was an accident, I was trying to follow the rules, but I somehow I became distracted, it won’t happen again”. Which scenario do you think would receive mercy and forgiveness quicker?

God already knew everything about us, before we were formed in our mother’s womb, so why try to hide anything from Him? I still struggle with times when I blatantly sin, and am so convicted the next day, that I find it hard to talk to God. I truly struggle with the enemy’s attacks of guilt and shame, so I confess and ask for forgiveness of that sin several times a day, because I’m convinced that God is just way too angry with me to even talk to me. However, that is far from the truth, God has an “Open heart” policy, where He eagerly awaits our prayer, so He could be gracious to us. He anointed us with His Holy Spirit, just so that we can quickly and easily repent, and come back into perfect fellowship with Him, through Christ. Please, don’t ever allow the enemy to place false shame or guilt in your heart, because God already has it in His heart to forgive you; He’s just waiting on you to ask. He’s a gracious, wonderful, and merciful God, and He’s that way to everyone to seeks Him, whether Saint or Sinner.

Nobody’s perfect, but does that give us an excuse not to try our best to make God proud? The most rewarding thing we could ever do for Him is to humble ourselves, and allow Him to be Lord of our life. I can testify that life is so much easier with Him. Some people may think its harder living righteously, however, when we turn to Jesus, we take His Yoke upon us, and He gives us rest for our souls. In all actuality, it may seem harder, but Jesus makes it so easy for us when we trust Him. If you don’t know Jesus as Lord, please take a moment to confess to God that you’re a sinner, and ask Him to renew you, by coming into your heart as Lord. The only thing standing between you and freedom is your willingness to just ask—once you ask, consider yourself a sanctified child of God, through Christ, and you never have to worry about that again. If you are saved, but don’t know where you stand with God, He’s been waiting on you to confess and repent, so that you can get to know each other better. For more information, take a few moments to take the God Quiz today. My favorite verses today are: Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger forever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea. (Micah 1:18-19)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455629&dtype=Scripture

http://www.intouch.org/broadcast/today-on-radio

http://www.joycemeyer.org/OurMinistries/Broadcast/

I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY MONDAY!

As of yesterday, we've officially entered into Holy Week. This week represents the last week of Jesus' life on earth. Yesterday, my Pastor preached about the hope that the death and resurrection of Christ brings to our life. I try to watch the movie “Passion of Christ” every year around this time, to get a sense of what Jesus’ death was really like. This helps keep me centered, because I know He suffered all of that pain for me. This is the last week of the Lenten season, and I hope you've grown closer to Christ, because that's one the most important reasons for this forty-day journey. Jesus taught us how to have a stronger and deeper faith, as well as a trusting and open relationship with God. His death on the cross, over 2,000 yeas ago made that possible, and it's time for some self-examination. Jesus gave up His life for us, what have you given up for Him? Through this week, walk with Christ as He faces the end, and the beginning of His life. Yesterday, we celebrated his entrance into Jerusalem, which is called Palm Sunday. Maundy Thursday we celebrate the His last supper (day before death), Friday is "Good Friday" (crucifixion day), and Sunday is Easter (resurrection day!). There are many different ways to celebrate, and it's different with each denomination. Just know that Jesus' passion was love for all mankind, and that includes you. Have a wonderful day, and be blessed family!

Today's scriptures are about receiving our Eternal resting place in Heaven. The one thing we can count on, upon our death, as believers of Christ, is a mansion in Heaven. Jesus said: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also." (John 14:1-3) From the beginning of the creation of the world, God has called us to be His children, and when we accepted His calling on our life, we were given a permanent place in Heaven. Through Christ we are all Heaven bound, and that's a reason to rejoice! By faith we can accomplish anything on this earth, because Jesus has already conquered death, so there's nothing else holding us back from victory. When we were old sinful beings, we had everything to fear, because sin was the weight around our neck, which caused us to drown in the world of deceit, lies, envy, malice, addiction, and any other evil we can think of. When Jesus died on the cross He took on all sin, once He was resurrected, He was renewed and restored. When we choose to believe in Christ, we receive “salvation”, which is the restoration and renewal of our Spirit, and includes the security of our Eternity. Paul wrote: In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, that we who first trusted in Christ should be to the praise of His glory. In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. (Eph. 1:11-14) We’re “joint heirs” of the Kingdom of God, so when Paul refers to our “inheritance”, he’s referring to the promise Jesus made long ago. As long as we believe, we’re going to receive our “purchased possession”. Jesus paid the price on the cross, and we’ve been signed, sealed, and delivered into the hands of God, by His blood. His Holy Word says that this is a “guarantee”, and cannot be removed. We’ve been redeemed, and when our time is up on this earth, we’re going to His glory. God loves us so much that He gave His one and only Son to die for our redemption. He loves us so much that He sacrificed Himself, so that we could live all eternity with Him in Heaven. He loves us so much that He’s forgiven every mistake we’ll ever make, and all He asks in return is our love. Heaven is far more beautiful than I could ever explain I’m sure, but as long as I’m with both God and Jesus, nothing else matters. Neither I, nor anyone else can offer you salvation, but I can show the way, through my Holy Spirit. The first step is to confess to God that you’re a sinner, and then ask Jesus to come into your life as Lord and Savior. As long as you believe that He lives, I look forward to seeing you in Heaven. Prayer, through Christ, is your only connection with God until you get Heaven, so do it earnestly, lovingly, and most importantly, often. My favorite verse today is: There is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:8)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455285&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943547

I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY WEDNESDAY!

I'm grateful for the Lent season, and happy I decided to follow this religious tradition. Being "in the wilderness" has allowed me to understand much. As well as challenged me to focus on the ways and teachings of Christ, and really strive to be like Him. Jesus was an extraordinary man (still is), who had all of the answers to living a peaceful life. In some cases He taught in parables, but this was meant to challenge us, and help us relate is teachings to "real life" experiences. Have you started reading the Gospels yet? I've started reading the book of Luke, and once I get started I can't put it down. The stories come alive, and I'm discovering so much more than I did before. The miracles and wonderful wisdom He shared, are awesome, so trust your Holy Spirit to guide you through this process. Get started tonight, if you haven't already, I promise you’ll will learn more each time you pick it up. Enjoy the rest of your day, and be blessed family!

Today's scriptures are about trust over logic. I talk about this subject with friends frequently, because it's important that we know that God doesn't always work according to the world’s logic. We’re led in ways we never thought possible, and we find ourselves questioning God, instead of trusting Him. He's equipped us with salvation through Jesus Christ, the Holy Bible, and step-by-step guidance by the Holy Spirit, so why the lack of trust? The real key to a life full of peace, joy, and happiness lies in three simple things, trust, love, and obeying God. The world works on the logical, and most people believe that everything is black and white, but what constitutes black and white? Logic is defined: reason or sound judgment, as in utterances or actions. It's acknowledged that we're in spiritual warfare, which consists of good versus evil. When we awake to see a new day, our main goal should be to follow the will of God, and create some good in the world. We can do that on many different scales, from something as small as smiling at someone who looks like they're having a bad day, or by stopping to help someone who appears stranded. It could go deeper with our professions, volunteer work, church affiliations, etc. Now logic says if we do good things we get good things in return. Even the bible says, "we reap what we sow", but what, how, and when, we should expect that good that we reaped, to be sown, remains a mystery to us. Isn't it logical that if we work our job eight hours a day, five days a week, the following week we should receive a pay check for forty hours of work? God doesn't totally work that way, He wants us to put our trust in Him, and work to store up our treasures in Heaven. He’s in control, so we must trust Him for everything, everyday, because our main commandment is to love Him. Trusting God to take care of our every need, without any tangible evidence of His existence, is a huge way to show Him love. Knowing in our heart of hearts that there is a God, and trusting Jesus Christ as our Savior, is what will get us into Heaven. No amount of good deeds, money, or power could do it. Let's look at the story of the Jesus and the rich young ruler: Now a certain ruler asked Him, saying, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother.’” And he said, “All these things I have kept from my youth.” So when Jesus heard these things, He said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when he heard this, he became very sorrowful, for he was very rich. (Luke 18:18-23) Now does this story sound logical to you? Do you think Jesus is literally saying you can't be rich and go to Heaven? Jesus was able to read this young man's heart, and so He knew that he would trust his money, more than he trusted God. Jesus simply challenged this man to make a decision, whether logical or not. Ultimately choosing God is all that matters. We do have moral rules to follow, so that's why Jesus named the Ten Commandments, but overall faith in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit is most important. It's written: “Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation”— because they said, “He has an unclean spirit.” (Mark 3:28-30). We're expected to make mistakes in life, so I urge you not to sweat the small stuff. Be diligent in learning the ways of Christ, growing in the wisdom of God, and making a conscious effort to change you sinner ways, but trust in God first, and He'll make sure you do the ladder. Trust Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and He'll spend the rest of your life proving His love to you, and He only asks that you do the same. My favorite verses today are: Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. (Psalm 62:8)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455259&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943547

I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray everything is going well with your Lent vows, and you're making it through the wilderness. Bear in mind that just as Jesus was tempted you'll be tempted, greater than ever before, so continue to keep your focus on the Lord. You're not of this world, so know that through Him, you have the strength to move mountains. Now is a good time to read the Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Reading these books of the bible, will give you a new outlook on Christianity, as well as bring you closer to Jesus. I challenge you to read each book before Easter, or at least one, I’m starting with Luke, but you can choose any one you’d like. This is the last week of Black History Month, have you been enlightened a bit so far? Here's today's quote, "Hate is too great a burden to bear. It injures the hater more than it injures the hated." (~Coretta Scott King) Enjoy the rest of your day, and be blessed family!

Today's scriptures are about the Blood of Jesus. I've previously written about the importance of blood in the body, and why Jesus’ shed blood is symbol of pure water used to cleanse sin. According to iwebb.carterbloodcare.org: Blood carries gases, nutrients and waste products throughout your body. Blood also fights infections, heals wounds and performs many other vital functions. There is no substitute for blood. It cannot be made or manufactured. The only source of providing blood to patients who need it is for caring individuals to give it. We have several organs in our body that we just cannot live without, but blood is the most vital part, because it's responsible for the cleansing process. The body generates waste automatically, so it's in need of a cleanser to keep everything functioning correctly. We're often called "the Body of Christ, because we function similarly too the human body. God created us to work together as a unit, yet we each have a unique function. Sin is inevitable for man, so we need that one element that's meant to keep us alive, clean, and functioning properly. Jesus is that element that was created for the sole purpose of Salvation of the human race. Sin brings death to the Soul, but He came to give life, and He's the one thing that we cannot "live" without. Before Jesus’ death, He had one last supper with His Disciples, and He explained to them what to do to remember, or give tribute to Him. Most Christian Churches practice a Holy Communion ceremony, some every service, some weekly, and others monthly. No matter how often you practice it, do it in remembrance of Christ's shed blood, that's meant to cleanse our soul from all unrighteousness. Paul wrote this to the church: For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. (1 Cor. 11:23-32) I know this seems like a lot of information all at once, but if you've never taken Holy Communion before, then now you know how necessary it is. Jesus' Blood purifies the mind, body, and soul, to give us Eternal life in Heaven, and an abundant life on earth, full of love, peace, joy, and happiness, no matter our circumstance or situation. He wanted us to physically have something to hold on to, to remind us of His unconditional love, and the great sacrifice that was made for us. It also makes us responsible to truly confront our sin, and make a vow to change our ways. If you don't know whom Christ is, or is bogged down by the burden of sin, examine your heart right now. Confess your sins, ask for forgiveness, and repent. The last steps of Salvation are to ask Jesus to come into your heat as Lord and Savoir, and eventually be baptized by water to commemorate this awesome covenant you've made with God. Allow Him to lead the way, follow with a clean heart, and watch the magic happen all the days of your life. My favorite verse today is: Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. (Hebrews 10:22)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455251&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943547

I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY WEDNESDAY!

Today marks the first day of Lent, so are you ready to endure your season of sacrifice, renewal, and evaluation? Growing up, I don't ever remember recognizing the Lent season at my church, so I thought it was more for the Catholic Church, but now that I know what it symbolizes, I'm going to take it more seriously. I wanted to share this quote that I found: Today we begin a 46–day journey (forty days not counting Sundays) to Easter, but the destination is meaningless to those who do not make the trip. (~Dr. Craddock) We have to make it a point to seek ye first the Kingdom of God every day of the year, but it doesn't hurt to participate in something this special, with other members of the church, because there's always strength in numbers. Enjoy the remainder of your day, and be sure to encourage someone. Today's Black History Month Quote is: "Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed." (~Booker T. Washington) Be blessed family!

Today's scriptures are about burnt offering, and the significance of its ashes. Today we're commemorating Ash Wednesday, which is “a day of repentance”, and it marks the beginning of Lent. According to a few Christianity websites, the ashes are produced from old Palm leaf Crosses leftover from last years Palm Sunday. The Palms are blessed, anointed with oil, and in some cases scented with incense, then burned. In most Church ceremonies the ashes (or paste) is used to draw a cross on the believer’s forehead, by the Minister, who recites: Remember (O man) that you are dust, and to dust you shall return" (Gen 3:19), "Repent, and believe the Gospel," or "Turn away from sin, and be faithful to the Gospel." (Mark 1:15) From the beginning of time a blood sacrifice was required to forgive sin (Gen 3:21). God gave Moses the Ten Commandments (the Divine Law), and He also gave Him the laws to be forgiven of sin. Sin could only be forgiven through offerings, and the instructions are found in the book of Leviticus. Chapter four explains the process of "Sin Offering. In a condensed version, a blemish free animal had to be sacrificed on the Alter of the Temple, and after the blood was poured, and the animal or part of the animal was burnt on the Alter. It's written that the animal was then carried out to a clean place and the ashes poured out and burned on wood with fire. The ashes remind us that we're all created from dust. The fire represents the purification of the unclean thing. Could you imagine going through all of that? I thank God for having mercy on us, and paying our sin debt in full. He so loved us that He gave us only begotten Son to die for us. Jesus became our sacrificial Lamb, and wiped away the penalties of sin once and for all. He surrendered because that was what God called Him to do, so He hung, bleed, and died on the cross for our transgressions. Before He went through this horrible ordeal John the Baptist baptized Him in water. After He went under the water and came back up the Heavens opened up and a voice said, "You are My Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Mark 1:9-11). It's written: Immediately the Spirit drove Him into the wilderness. And He was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered to Him. (Mark 1:12-13) Jesus had to take some time away from everything and everyone to center Himself with God, so that He could be prepared for what he was going to face. So far we’ve learned the process of sacrifices and why they had to be made. We know that we're born into a weak and sinful flesh, which is nothing but dust. We also know that we each are special, and our Spirit will live on through all eternity. The ashes remind us of our mortality, the fact that this life will end sooner or later, and that there is something bigger than earthly wealth and pleasure. God is righteous and clean, and only deals with clean things, so we have to make sure that we're striving for righteousness daily through Christ. Today we must go to God and repent of our sins, letting Him know that we're weak and we need the saving grace of Jesus Christ. We're to acknowledge our weaknesses, and the things that have a tight hold on us. Everyday we face reproach for Jesus' sakes. We're ridiculed and mocked by unbelievers, and tempted by the devil. When you've decided what or how you're fasting today, remember that it has to be a true sacrifice; something that you seemingly can't do without. Each time you feel like giving into temptation remember the ashes of our "Burnt Offering" Jesus Christ. He sacrificed His entire life for us, so we could sacrifice a few things for Him, for at least forty days. It's said that it only takes twenty-one days to form a new habit, so by Easter Sunday, you should have grown tremendously. Think of life beyond Lent, and how much you need to build a stronger relationship with God. An Imitation of Christ is what we're called to be, but "WE" are the only person who could take that step to get there. Salvation is free to all who believe that Jesus is the "only begotten Son of God", died on the Cross to atone for our sins, was resurrected on the third day, and now sits on a throne in Heaven at the right hand of God. If you believe these things, all you need to do now is confess that you're a sinner, ask Him to come into your heart as Lord and Savior, and accept Him. The next and most necessary step is to be baptized by water, to cleansed and renewed by Faith and obedience. Remember that prayer is a conversation with God. Talk to Him often, and about everything, and He's faithful and just to answer all of your prayers. A strong prayer life is necessary to get through the lent season, and life in general. My favorite verse today is: 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 4:13)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455245&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943547

I love you!

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this terrific Tuesday. Today is also known as Fat Tuesday, which falls the day before the beginning of the Lenten season, and Ash Wednesday. It’s said that today we're permitted to overindulge in the things we're committing to give up through our fasting period. My friend sent this to me earlier today, and I wanted to share it with you: Lent is a season of soul-searching and repentance. It is a season for reflection and taking stock. Lent originated in the very earliest days of the Church as a preparatory time for Easter, when the faithful rededicated themselves and when converts were instructed in the faith and prepared for baptism. By observing the forty days of Lent, the individual Christian imitates Jesus’ withdrawal into the wilderness for forty days. Are you ready to start your fasting process tomorrow? Fasting doesn't necessarily mean you have to give up food, but something that's near and dear to you, that will require sacrifice on your part. Last year I did pretty well with my menial sacrifice, but it kept me in constant contact with Jesus. This year I pledge to do something more meaningful, and put more time into my bible studies. I urge you to pray on this tonight, do your "soul searching", and remember that this is a serious vow you're making for Christ. Today's Black History month quote is: "God gives nothing to those who keep their arms crossed." (-African Proverb) Enjoy the remainder of your day, and be blessed family!

Today's scriptures are about the precious Jesus Christ. Jesus is often referred to as sweet smelling ointment. The word ointment is mentioned in at least twenty-nine different verses in the King James version of the bible, and in majority of those verses it was used to anoint someone special, or given as a special gift. In modern times we use ointments to help heal deep wounds, as well us help us look and feel better. Would you use those definitions to describe Jesus? Jesus is in fact precious in all senses of the word, and the gift of His presence in our life enhances the way that we're perceived to the world. Through the Lenten Season, during your times of prayer and meditation, you should read the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, and as a friend put it earlier, "See yourself walking with Jesus through these books". They will help you get to know Him on a personal level, and allow you to see how wonderful and precious He really is. I've read the book of Matthew twice, and the rest of the books once. The knowledge I gained from them allowed me to not only learn the character of Jesus Christ, but the ways of Gods, through parables, Jesus’ own life experiences, and through the life of those around Him. As we read, we’ll virtually experience His hardships, joys, pains, and most importantly we get to know both His human and Spiritual sides. Jesus is indeed meek in Spirit, loving, forgiving, caring, but straight to the point, and passionate about the Word of our Father in Heaven. He was always slow to anger and quick to forgive, and He kept God first in everything He did. We're to use His life as a blueprint of how to live pleasing to God, because that's the only thing that matters. As Christians, it's constantly drilled in our heads that we should strive to be like Christ, but I don't think most of us get it. All we have to do is look around, and we'll see a big difference in our way of life. The only reason this world is the way it is today is because we have lost sight of what's most important. Most Nations were built on Christian beliefs, and the law of God was included in every decision our ancestors made. In the United States, “In God we trust” is printed on the currency, and our Pledge of Allegiance says, "One Nation, under God", so our foundation was built on the blood of Jesus. When we lose sight of Him, we lose our way, and we can see that all around us. Things must change for the better, or times will get worst. We must first change within ourselves before we could change anyone else. Jesus said: Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matt. 11:28-30) These verses remind us of how sweet Jesus really is, and He's open to anyone who comes to Him. He's the sweet smelling ointment designed to heal our deep wounds, give us beauty for ashes, cleanse us from the inside out, and renew our souls. When we're anointed with the Spirit of Jesus Christ, and we take His yoke upon us everyday, there will be no mistake as to whom we are, because we'll shine brighter than everyone around us. Remember the old saying, "it's not what you do, but how you do it"? Make a commitment to live life for God, watch Him work in your life, and then touch the lives of the people around you. The key to real success is to revolve your life around Him. Only then will you be showered with peace, joy, happiness, continent, and everything you touch will be multiplied, revived, and renewed, by the Spirit that lives inside of you, for all eternity. I can only tell you about the life of Jesus Christ from my personal experiences, so it’s up to you to seek Him for yourself. When you do that, your Spirit will reveal exactly what you need to know, at this time in your life. I am here only to point you in the right direction. The precious Lamb of God loves you, and is waiting on you to answer His call. The first step is to invite Him as your Lord and Savior, and then you must initiate and maintain a relationship with Him. Believe me, He's seen and heard it all before, and yes He can and will heal you too. My favorite verse today is: Christ ... 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=2455244&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nl/newsletter.asp?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943547

I love you!