Showing posts with label Power. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Power. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this beautiful "terrific Tuesday". I'm doing well, feeling a lot better today, and it was truly a beautiful morning. I was listening to Dr. Stanley’s teaching series on the "Desires of Your Heart", and it has me thinking about my future, and the things I want out of life. I guess as I'm approaching another birthday, it feels like I need to do some prioritizing and organizing, but its hard being a "grown-up" sometimes. I remember being a teenager, or in my early twenties, when things like this didn't really cross my mind, because I was too busy having fun, partying, and exploring. Now I'm entering the best years of my life, and I want to be sure that my desires match up with God's will for my life. It's written: Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalms 37:4) I wanted to share this challenge with you, so let's take some time to think about what we desire most out of life, then the second thing, third, etc., and then ask yourself why. Are your desires and reasons falling within the Law of God? Will you make a difference for His Kingdom? Be sure to answer these questions honestly, because no one will benefit from this but you. You can listen to these shows by going to the Audio Archives, part 1 aired yesterday and part 2 is today. Enjoy the remainder of your day family, and be blessed!

Today's scriptures are about the symmetry of Jesus and God. As I was reading the scriptures and the word symmetry rang in my Spirit. This is the perfect word to describe the connection between God and Jesus. I looked it up and found several definitions, and the one I thought would be most fitting to the message I'm attempting to communicate today is: beauty based on or characterized by such excellence of proportion. I chose this one because in my opinion Jesus and God being one and the same, yet two totally different entities, is the epitome of "excellence of proportion". I read further and saw the mathematic definition, and I thought this one was fitting as well: a rotation or translation of a plane figure that leaves the figure unchanged although its position may be altered. This is absolutely awesome! The Holy Trinity of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit fits this definition, because we receive God at all of these different angles, yet He’s still the one Almighty God. He came as the Son, the Savior and Lord of all, and lived a life as a human being, just as you and I. Once the Son died and was resurrected, He came as the Holy Spirit, and lives in the heart of each believer, but no matter how you rotate or translated it, God remains “unchanged although His position is altered”.
It's written: “If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.” Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves. (John 14:7-11) Jesus shared the fact that He and the Father are one with His followers often, yet they still didn't understand what He was saying. I'm sure many people still don’t get it, but Jesus assures us that if we're looking for God, we have seen God through Him. They go hand and hand, and we can't have one without the other, because they’re symmetrical.
What does this mean for us? Jesus goes on to say: ...I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. (John 14:20) From the beginning, God created man in His own image, so it was only logical that He came back as man, to dwell amongst us, and show Himself to us. He gave us a living example of what we were created to do, and how we’re to conduct ourselves. As Jesus, God taught us His ways, and showed His love to everyone around Him. He was faithful, kind, selfless, wise, and caring; all the things that we're meant to be. He now dwells inside of us, to give us the power to overcome the flesh, and the darkness of the world. We have that power by the blood of Jesus, and we can ask anything in His name, by faith, and it shall be done. Jesus once said, that with enough faith, we could tell a mountain to be cast into the sea, and it shall be done (Matt 11:20-24). We have inherited the Kingdom of God, so we're royalty. The enemy no longer has dominion over our lives, and we're free to live in peace.
God coming as the Son also gave us tangible evidence of His existence. As if the miracles Jesus preformed wasn't enough proof, the love He showed to everyone He came in contact with, showed us the softer side of God. Jesus never judged anyone, and He offers everyone a second chance at life. He dedicated His time to mentoring, and teaching anyone who wanted to listen. He healed anyone who trusted Him enough, and believe that He could. He lived His life to please His Father in Heaven, and defended His good Name. These lessons are priceless, because although we have moral laws to abide by, we aren't really equipped to with the Spiritual foundation, because those things are often shown and given to us. How could one know love, if he hasn't truly experienced it? God created us in such a way that we'd have to depend on Him for everything in life, so without Him, we're not operating at our maximum ability. He came as Jesus to make us complete and whole, and we now have the ability to live in love, and above the world.
I'm so grateful for Jesus Christ, because through Him I am not only saved, but I could fellowship with my Heavenly Father, without the hindrance of sin. What a mighty God we serve! He has made that possible for everyone. If you don't know Jesus as Lord, then you have no idea what you're missing. You no longer have to feel empty inside, simply accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and learn whom He is. He and the Father are one, and you have a chance to become a part of their symmetry. My favorite verses today are: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature. (Colossians 1:14-15)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455405&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/broadcast/today-on-radio
http://www.intouch.org/magazine/daily-devotional
I love you!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Daily Devotional Day & Night

Happy Friday!

Today's scripture's are about having the boldness of Christ. As we read stories about Jesus, we could get a great sense of His confidence in Himself, because of His relationship with God. He was a great example of how we should live everyday. He gives us the power necessary to overcome any obstacle we may face. In His Name we could ask for anything we need or desire, within the laws of God, and by Faith it shall be given to us. When we stay in tuned with the Holy Spirit, He'll give us clear guidance as to what we should ask for, and how to be prepared to receive them. Did you know that when you invited Jesus into your life as Lord and Savior you inherited His power? We are no longer under the power of the enemy or the flesh, because we are Children of God! We should walk in confidence in knowing that the almighty Lord is in complete control of our life. As my airplane was taking off on last Friday, I realized how much I don't like flying, because the concept of it is beyond my comprehension. However, I know that planes were created to better get us where we need to go, and I will fly through my fear of the unknown, because I know that God will take care of me. I work late hours, and after work I go to the gym, and run errands sometimes. Most people would be afraid, because as we know predators usually lurk at night, but I'm not afraid because I've asked God to watch over me, and He does. I listen to my Holy Spirit, and He will give me the guidance I need to stay safe. I can honesty say that there aren't a lot of things I fear, because I know I’m protected by the Blood of the Lamb. I do have some fears, doubts, and insecurities, but they are usually brought on by guilt, or lies from the enemy, and the world’s ways of thinking. According to the world, especially in the United States, our credit score, assets, education, outer appearance, and prestige measure us. Who are you, if you lack any of these things? God knows where you've been, where you are, and where you're headed, and in order for you to know these things you must boldly ask for the answers. Some people say that we shouldn't question God, but if we don't seek answers to the questions or reservations we have, how would learn where we need to be? Isn't it refreshing to be able to say, “this is where I went wrong, and I know not to do that anymore”? Mistakes are a part of life, and are meant to help us grow, but they could only hinder us if we don't stand up with confidence in the fact that we’ve been forgiven. The Lord said to Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” Then said I (Jeremiah): “Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.” But the LORD said to me: “ Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ For you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, for I am with you to deliver you,” says the LORD. (Jer. 1:6-8) How many times have God told you to do something and you answered Him with, "but God I can't do this"? I can't begin to tell many times I've said that. God made these promises not only to Jeremiah, but also to all of us. We all have the power of prophecy through the Holy Spirit, and we've been chosen to do great things. We have something that Jeremiah didn't have, and that's the power of the blood of Jesus. God knew us before we were formed in the womb, and predestined us to complete a task, and nothing could stop us from getting there, not even us. Our hesitations could cause us to stay in the wilderness, but we'll eventually reach our promised land. As of today drop all fear, and pick up the power of Jesus Christ, and you don't have to look far for it, because you've had it all along. Boldly accept your inheritance, and live like a true child of God. If you don't know Jesus, then you should be very afraid. Get to know Him now, and live like the Kings and Queens you were created to be, with grace, poise, and prominence. My favorite verse today is: Ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (Romans 8:15)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455184&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!

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

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

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455086&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=5408289&ct=7318187

I love you!

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY THURSDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another Friday eve. I'm doing well, grateful to get an early start this morning. I'm starting to feel like I'm back in Portland, OR, with all of the rain. It's a lot better here, because we do get a few days in between with sunshine. The rain doesn't bother me much anyway, because I'm in the office all day. I'd like to ask for your continued prayers for my Grandmother, she's feeling better, and healing well, but the doctor may have found something else in her stomach, she's still waiting to hear from her doctor. I don't think it's too serious because they haven't admitted her back into the hospital. Thanks for all of your prayers. I'd like to wish my cousin Neitra a happy birthday, I pray you have a wonderful day! I pray for peace and blessings for all of you, have a wonderful day is well.

Today's scriptures are about entering into the Holy place of God. Take a few moments and think about who God is to you. We know that He's the Holy, righteous, merciful, Creator of all things. Now think about who you think you are. We know that we're children of God, born with a sinful nature, and live in the flesh, as mere mortal human beings. God is righteousness, and we are sin, the two cannot mix. When Jesus gave us His life on the cross, it created a veil for us. One definition for the word Veil is: something that conceals, separates, or screens like a curtain. We know in a traditional wedding the bride usually wears a veil over her head throughout the ceremony, and after saying their vows the groom lifts the veil and kiss the bride. The veil symbolizes a man's authority over a woman in this very sacred covenant. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 11:3: But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God (read the whole story in verses 1-16). Paul goes on to explain why a woman's head is covered during religious ceremonies. In the flesh we aren't worthy to be in God's presence, because of our sin. However, God could see our hearts through the veil that covers our sin. We could freely go to Him anytime or anywhere, with no restraints, as long as we come in Jesus' Name. We have the same power and authority as Jesus, so we could triumph over all of our enemies. It's written in Psalms 110:1: The LORD said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” If this applies to Jesus then it also applies to us, because we're joint heirs to the Kingdom of God. Yesterday we spoke about prayer, and today’s scriptures explains the reason why we have the authority to pray with confidence and Faith. Did you know that you’re always in the presence of God? It makes sense when we discuss it or read about it, but how many of us truly believe it? So many prayers go unanswered because of our lack of Faith. We have so much untapped power to change so many things, but we don't, because of ignorance. God has given us every opportunity to live a life full of peace, happiness, and joy, but we don't know how to exercise our Faith. The main reasons are fear, unresolved sin, guilt, shame, and other lies the enemy try to make us believe. The tools to overcome these things live right in our heart. We have all power through the blood of Jesus, and His blood washes us new! We could move mountains by Faith. I was reading the story in 1 Samuel 17, where David defeated Goliath, a giant that everyone else was afraid to challenge. David was a righteous man, who had been anointed by God, and he had faith in what God had promised him. He was confident that the God he knew and loved would give him the power to defeat this giant, without a doubt. Everyone else doubted him, but he went out, with no protective armor, a slingshot, 4 stones, and a lot of heart, and killed Goliath with one stone to the head. The key to David's victory was his faith, as you would find in verses 36-37, where he pleaded his case to King Saul before he went to battle: Your servant has killed both lion and bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, seeing he has defied the armies of the living God.” Moreover David said, “The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” How wonderful is this? David knew without doubt that God would be there for him, not only because of his past experiences, but because he knew in his heart that God is Lord of all things. David didn't even have the power of the blood of Jesus as we do, we could all be like David in today's world. Jesus said in Matthew 11:27-29: All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him. Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. From today on, don't let anything stop you from completing God's will for your life, and being happy. Money, relationships, children, jobs, cars, house, or any material thing shouldn't dictate your happiness. Although hardships and pain may seem like giants, none of these things have authority over us, because we're children of God! We have all Power through the mighty Name of Christ. Start acting like the King or Queen you are in the Kingdom of God. You could make powerful things happen through Faith. If you haven't accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you must start by saying that very important prayer. God is waiting to hear from you, are you ready to receive His power, and gain freedom through the blood of the Lamb? My favorite verse today is: Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455001&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=5200573&ct=7048037

I love you!