HAPPY TUESDAY!
God is so good, and I’m finally getting to a point in my faith walk, where I’m learning to completely listen to Him. The thing that I was missing was to see Him in everything. Nothing is by chance, and there are plenty of times where we say, “Oh, it’s a coincidence that I was just thinking about this, and here it is”, some people call that Déjà vu, which is French for already seen. However, I know its God, because He speaks to us in so many different ways. We must slow down and intently listen for His voice, and watch for signs and visions.
Today, a friend and I were discussing Job chapter 7, and I wrote a rather large e-mail about how I interpreted Jobs frustration, and how it was necessary for him to go to God and voice his aggravation. After I’d proof read the e-mail, I thought, this looks like a sermon, or could be today’s devotional, but I sent it, and thought nothing more of it. Then, after I was done with my work, I attempted to access bible.com to get the scriptures for today, and the website was down. As well as, two other friends contacted me, and in both conversations we ended up discussing great loss, and how much it affects and weighs us down, and it brought me right back to my earlier discussion about Job 7. Do you think all of this is coincidence or Déjà vu? Well I doubt it very seriously, so I’m going to share my discussion with you, in an unfamiliar format, but hopefully it helps answer some questions you may have.
Read Job 7
I often feel like Job felt in this chapter of scripture; he was truly fed up! From the way I read it, Job got to a "wait a minute!" point in his life. I'm sure He was thinking, "I've done nothing but try my best to do right, so why am I being punished like this?"... I think we all have or will get to points like these in our Faith walk. God allows us to be tested and tried for some of the same reasons He tested Job, and just like Job, it's okay to question Him. It's okay to ask God, "What's going on?" because that's a sign of our love for Him. We should always come to Him seeking wisdom, and wanting to learn life's lessons.
I was touched most by verses 17-19: "What is man that you make so much of him, that you give him so much attention, that you examine him every morning and test him every moment? Will you never look away from me, or let me alone even for an instant?" I can remember times when I felt exactly like this, but we need God's attention, because even His affliction is meant to work together for our good. So we should be grateful that he examines us every morning, and test us every moment, but it's the times where it feels like He isn't there that we should worry. It's all refinement, and allows us to build up our trust in Him, helps us rely on Him to sustain us, and show us a new way to righteousness. Remember, we just learned yesterday, that Jesus said we should take up our cross “daily”, and follow Him.
I found a few of my answer in the following chapters: “Behold, this is the joy of His way, And out of the earth others will grow. Behold, God will not cast away the blameless, Nor will He uphold the evildoers. He will yet fill your mouth with laughing, and your lips with rejoicing. Those who hate you will be clothed with shame, and the dwelling place of the wicked will come to nothing.” (Job 8:19-22) Trouble don't last always, and when you feel like you're down and can't get back up, know that God can and will use your situation to help others grow. Rejoice through your sorrow, because eventually He'll fill your mouth with laughing. Eventually you'll see the light, but as always, when going through trials you never foresee the end, until God gives reveals the small light at the end of the tunnel.
In my opinion, Job couldn't hold it anymore, and he couldn't take the pain, nor rejoice in it any longer. He needed answers, so instead of him turning his back on God, and surrendering to the enemy's attacks, he confronted God about it. I admire him for that, and ultimately learned that when I'm stressed out, instead of doing evil or succumbing to evil, it's best to just make my supplications known to God. He'd rather us do that, than the alternative. The answers aren’t found in drugs, alcohol, sex, empty relationships, food, violence, or any of the like.
If you don’t know Jesus as Lord and Savior, that’s the only place to start. See, unlike Job, we have the saving grace of Jesus Christ to see us through. With Jesus comes God’s Holy Spirit, so we can stay connected with Him at all times. I urge you to start building a bond with God through Christ, and allow Him to fill you with so much joy, that when you are being tested you’ll have the strength to get you through, still praising God! Pray and ask Jesus to be Lord of your life today!
ENJOY! http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=job%207-10&version=NKJV
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!
Showing posts with label devotinal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label devotinal. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
Today's scriptures are about the strength of redemption through Christ Jesus. Knowing that you're being redeemed is a powerful thing. It takes a lot of pressure off of you, and allows you to have peace and serenity. To know that there's a God in Heaven, who's working within you, to make you strong, and is willing to be strong for you, is alleviating. It took a strong Man to make that walk to Calvary, take stripes for something He didn't do, and to endure being nailed to the cross. I thank God for that Man, we know as Jesus Christ, because without Him I would have no redemption. I can assure you that without Him, I wouldn't have the strength to endure working, scraping, and pulling to survive this life, and the mistakes I've made. The beauty of God’s love is the fact that Jesus endured for everyone else's mistakes. The beauty of salvation is that we're blessed with everlasting strength through Jesus Christ. The flesh is weak and frail, and it easily buckles under the pressures and temptation of life. I can testify that when I didn't have a proper relationship with God, I was very weak. I lived a life that I never wanted to live, and I compromised, because I wasn't strong enough to stand up to the enemy. I done things I never wanted to do, because I didn't have the strength to love myself, and endure the life I'd been given. There are so many people who conform to the evil ways of the world, simply because they aren't strong enough to endure. The good news is that you don't have to endure it on your own. Jesus is our Redeemer, and strength, but He's waiting on us to ask, seek, and choose Him. He's waiting on us to surrender to His calling on our life. God is amazing! There's nothing bad about Him, as the world would have you believe. He's more than fair, loves us unconditionally, and has laid out a life for us meant to make us strong servants. When life starts to get me down I try to sit back and evaluate the things going on. When I get exhausted and feel like I just cannot take another step, I try to gauge what I've been working so hard for. I ask myself if what I'm doing will glorify God. After I do all of that, I always end-up praying to God saying, "Lord I need your help, I can't do this on my own, give me strength", and He always redeems me. I've always admitted to being a dreamer, but those dreams help me aspire to achieve greatness, however I have to learn how to balance my dreams with reality. Reality is that without Christ I'm nothing, and can do nothing. Reality is that I can only go as far as He'll allow me, because I must follow His will for my life. Every day's a different journey, but I have to walk with Him, and when I do, I can cover way more ground, and accomplish so much more. Peter warned us to "submit to God and resist the devil", which is the key to staying strengthened all the days of our life. It's written: Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 5:6-11) No human being is exempt from suffering, that's just the way of an imperfect world. Isn't it great to know that you are redeemed by Christ? Allow Him to be Lord of your life every day, and your strength will continue to be renewed. Take the God Quiz today! My favorite verses today are: He is able ... to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him. (Hebrews 7:25)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455302&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!
Today's scriptures are about the strength of redemption through Christ Jesus. Knowing that you're being redeemed is a powerful thing. It takes a lot of pressure off of you, and allows you to have peace and serenity. To know that there's a God in Heaven, who's working within you, to make you strong, and is willing to be strong for you, is alleviating. It took a strong Man to make that walk to Calvary, take stripes for something He didn't do, and to endure being nailed to the cross. I thank God for that Man, we know as Jesus Christ, because without Him I would have no redemption. I can assure you that without Him, I wouldn't have the strength to endure working, scraping, and pulling to survive this life, and the mistakes I've made. The beauty of God’s love is the fact that Jesus endured for everyone else's mistakes. The beauty of salvation is that we're blessed with everlasting strength through Jesus Christ. The flesh is weak and frail, and it easily buckles under the pressures and temptation of life. I can testify that when I didn't have a proper relationship with God, I was very weak. I lived a life that I never wanted to live, and I compromised, because I wasn't strong enough to stand up to the enemy. I done things I never wanted to do, because I didn't have the strength to love myself, and endure the life I'd been given. There are so many people who conform to the evil ways of the world, simply because they aren't strong enough to endure. The good news is that you don't have to endure it on your own. Jesus is our Redeemer, and strength, but He's waiting on us to ask, seek, and choose Him. He's waiting on us to surrender to His calling on our life. God is amazing! There's nothing bad about Him, as the world would have you believe. He's more than fair, loves us unconditionally, and has laid out a life for us meant to make us strong servants. When life starts to get me down I try to sit back and evaluate the things going on. When I get exhausted and feel like I just cannot take another step, I try to gauge what I've been working so hard for. I ask myself if what I'm doing will glorify God. After I do all of that, I always end-up praying to God saying, "Lord I need your help, I can't do this on my own, give me strength", and He always redeems me. I've always admitted to being a dreamer, but those dreams help me aspire to achieve greatness, however I have to learn how to balance my dreams with reality. Reality is that without Christ I'm nothing, and can do nothing. Reality is that I can only go as far as He'll allow me, because I must follow His will for my life. Every day's a different journey, but I have to walk with Him, and when I do, I can cover way more ground, and accomplish so much more. Peter warned us to "submit to God and resist the devil", which is the key to staying strengthened all the days of our life. It's written: Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 5:6-11) No human being is exempt from suffering, that's just the way of an imperfect world. Isn't it great to know that you are redeemed by Christ? Allow Him to be Lord of your life every day, and your strength will continue to be renewed. Take the God Quiz today! My favorite verses today are: He is able ... to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him. (Hebrews 7:25)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455302&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!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
Today's scriptures are about yearning to escape the weakness of the flesh, and to thirst for Christ. Have you ever thirsted for anything in life? I'm not speaking of food or drink, but about yearning, or wanting something so badly, that you could taste it. We all have, I'm sure. We’re naturally inquisitive, but would you say that you thirst for the Lord? When Jesus initially enters our heart, at the point of Salvation, a change begins to happen. In some people it happens rapidly, but most will notice small subtle changes. In any event, you’ll get a certain yearning for the knowledge of the Lord. All of a sudden you start to shed old habits, and lose your craving for worldly things. As you begin to feed your appetite for the wisdom and knowledge of God, you'll begin to want more. Through this growth process, you'll have the enemy at one hand, attempting to contradict everything you learn, in hopes of turning you away from the path of righteousness. This is called the Spiritual warfare. That's the battle of good versus evil, which sounds like something from a fictional movie, but it’s real. The enemy will tempt you in every way you could imagine, and will especially attack your weaknesses, causing you to second guess even your Salvation. At the same time, your Spirit, which has been made Holy, by the blood of Christ, will thirst for Jesus. You’ll get to the point where you want to be "right", and do and say the "right" things. When the Holy Spirit takes control, all you’ll want to be is a "good and faithful servant", and God's sees that. It's written: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. (Matt. 5:6) Spiritual warfare doesn't get easier, it only becomes harder as we grow, but I have good News for you, God simply continues to make us stronger. He'll turn our weaknesses into strengths, and those things that once kept us in bondage, will give us the power to help free others. We go through hardships, trials, and tribulation in life, to strengthen our faith in God, help us understand the consequences of our actions, as well as to provide testimony for other lost sheep. There will be times where we'll get to a point, where the pain is so bad, that we have no other option but to drop on our knees and cry out to God, but that's all a part of life. The best thing about rain is the rainbow, and the best thing about pain is the joy of our deliverance. I want nothing more than to be a perfect person, and to live a perfect life. I wish I had enough money, power, and resources to heal the world of all of the hunger and pain. Most importantly, I wish that I didn't make so many foolish mistakes, but the truth is, that will never happen, because I'm just an imperfect human being, who's "a work in progress". Conviction is a wonderful thing, but at the time we're going through it, it doesn't feel very good. However, to know that we serve a God who is so loving, kind, and forgiving, that it doesn't matter if we fall short, offers peace through freedom! Did you know that you're free? Jesus has freed you from the penalties of sin, and has given you strength your never knew you had. It's written: Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Cor. 12:10) When you thirst, "seek ye first the Kingdom of God", and He'll give you the water of Life. It's written: And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. (John 6:35) It's natural to get overwhelmed with life, it happens to all of us, but Jesus said "come to me", so allow the fact that He'll always be there, give you the courage you need to overcome, and triumph over all that ails you. Through Christ, you never have to thirst again. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior, than I want you to know that you've been chosen, and until you heed His call on your life, your thirst and hunger will get deeper and stronger, and He's the only one who could fulfill you. My favorite verse today is: Our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 3:20)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455274&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!
Today's scriptures are about yearning to escape the weakness of the flesh, and to thirst for Christ. Have you ever thirsted for anything in life? I'm not speaking of food or drink, but about yearning, or wanting something so badly, that you could taste it. We all have, I'm sure. We’re naturally inquisitive, but would you say that you thirst for the Lord? When Jesus initially enters our heart, at the point of Salvation, a change begins to happen. In some people it happens rapidly, but most will notice small subtle changes. In any event, you’ll get a certain yearning for the knowledge of the Lord. All of a sudden you start to shed old habits, and lose your craving for worldly things. As you begin to feed your appetite for the wisdom and knowledge of God, you'll begin to want more. Through this growth process, you'll have the enemy at one hand, attempting to contradict everything you learn, in hopes of turning you away from the path of righteousness. This is called the Spiritual warfare. That's the battle of good versus evil, which sounds like something from a fictional movie, but it’s real. The enemy will tempt you in every way you could imagine, and will especially attack your weaknesses, causing you to second guess even your Salvation. At the same time, your Spirit, which has been made Holy, by the blood of Christ, will thirst for Jesus. You’ll get to the point where you want to be "right", and do and say the "right" things. When the Holy Spirit takes control, all you’ll want to be is a "good and faithful servant", and God's sees that. It's written: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. (Matt. 5:6) Spiritual warfare doesn't get easier, it only becomes harder as we grow, but I have good News for you, God simply continues to make us stronger. He'll turn our weaknesses into strengths, and those things that once kept us in bondage, will give us the power to help free others. We go through hardships, trials, and tribulation in life, to strengthen our faith in God, help us understand the consequences of our actions, as well as to provide testimony for other lost sheep. There will be times where we'll get to a point, where the pain is so bad, that we have no other option but to drop on our knees and cry out to God, but that's all a part of life. The best thing about rain is the rainbow, and the best thing about pain is the joy of our deliverance. I want nothing more than to be a perfect person, and to live a perfect life. I wish I had enough money, power, and resources to heal the world of all of the hunger and pain. Most importantly, I wish that I didn't make so many foolish mistakes, but the truth is, that will never happen, because I'm just an imperfect human being, who's "a work in progress". Conviction is a wonderful thing, but at the time we're going through it, it doesn't feel very good. However, to know that we serve a God who is so loving, kind, and forgiving, that it doesn't matter if we fall short, offers peace through freedom! Did you know that you're free? Jesus has freed you from the penalties of sin, and has given you strength your never knew you had. It's written: Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Cor. 12:10) When you thirst, "seek ye first the Kingdom of God", and He'll give you the water of Life. It's written: And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. (John 6:35) It's natural to get overwhelmed with life, it happens to all of us, but Jesus said "come to me", so allow the fact that He'll always be there, give you the courage you need to overcome, and triumph over all that ails you. Through Christ, you never have to thirst again. If you don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior, than I want you to know that you've been chosen, and until you heed His call on your life, your thirst and hunger will get deeper and stronger, and He's the only one who could fulfill you. My favorite verse today is: Our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 3:20)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455274&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, February 26, 2010
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY FRIDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying the end of another workweek (for most). Today is close to the end of Black History month, or at least the last day I’ll share a quote with you, on this subject, for a while. I'm grateful for this month because I truly get to learn more about the people who came before me, and dedicate some special time to them. Hopefully I will become an important part of history, and my children, and their children, will be celebrating me long after I leave this earth. I'm sure most people strive to leave a legacy, and make a difference, if only to a few people. If you don't feel that way, then you should think about a positive way to create your own legacy. I'm not speaking about finding a cure for cancer, or coming up with some awesome invention, but just being known as a loving, caring, and giving person, because that's who you are in Christ Jesus. Enjoy this last quote: "We should emphasize not Negro History, but the Negro in history. What we need is not a history of selected races or nations, but the history of the world void of national bias, race hate, and religious prejudice." (~Carter Woodson) Have a wonderful weekend, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about self-examination. How often do you conduct self-examinations? Is it daily, monthly, or right around the New Year, when you're preparing your New Year's Resolution? I'm sure you remember your major joys and pains, whether physically, mentally, or spiritually. In no doubt could you keep up with the new fashion, and latest trends of super stars. You may post your opinions concerning certain things on Facebook or Twitter, about what's in the News, or whoever's in the spotlight. We judge and condemn people all the time, especially "Christians". I think the greatest thing we fail at today is examining ourselves. Most of us know the bible story regarding the woman who was about to be stoned to death, by her people, because she was caught committing adultery (John 8). They brought her to Jesus and asked what He thought about this, and it's written: This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear. So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. (John 8:6-8) This passage of scripture is so widely referenced because Jesus is explaining to us exactly how we should think in life. Before we judge anyone for the wrong they've done, we must first examine ourselves. Nobody knows exactly what Jesus wrote on the ground, but I bet is was something like self-examination, or forgiveness. I shared a story with a friend the other day regarding my time in Hawaii. Long story short, the person I was renting from suddenly asked us to leave her house in less than a week, with no apparent explanation. When asked why, she literally said, it doesn't matter why I just want you to go. I was so shocked, angry, and upset with her, I didn't know what to do. Thanks to God, this happened about one week before I was discussing leaving the Island, and I was blessed with another place to stay, until I found a flight back to the mainland. The last thing I remember this woman saying to me was, "you are not a victim". Those words sunk deep in my Spirit, because she was right! I won’t ever forget that. I think those words hit me so hard because I was in fact living my life as a victim. I had this "why me" mentality, when in truth everything that happened in my life was in direct result of something I'd done. I had to quickly turn my attitude from "why me" to "why not me". Now, whenever something goes wrong in my life, or before I make a big decision, I try to immediately examine my past actions, and ask the hard question, "why is this happening this way?" or “how do I want this to happen?” In life we will encounter hurts and pains that are out of our control, like the death of a loved one, or maybe a freak accident, but even those things have purpose, and are working together for our good. Our scriptures start out with a verse from the book of Lamentations, which according to the Women’s Devotional Bible (NIV) is "the book that consists solely of laments". The word lament is defined: an expression of grief or sorrow. Throughout this book, the author examines everything, attempting to come up with a reason for all the strife that's going on in their nation. It's written: Why should any living man complain when punished for his sins? Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD. Let us lift up our hearts and our hands to God in heaven...(Lam. 3:39-40 NIV) Jeremiah had the answers to life right here. God requires us to confess of our sins, so we could take ownership for them. We're also expected to repent, to show Him that we're sincere, when asking for forgiveness. To keep our relationship strong and growing with God, we must make a commitment to examining ourselves daily. Thankfully, we have the Saving grace of Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit to help us live righteously. The only thing we have to do is humble ourselves, and talk to God. When we have Jesus in our heart, we can ask for anything in His Name, with faith, and it will be granted, including forgiveness. If He isn't in your heart then your examination need to start there. If you need someone to pray with, please let me know. My favorite verse today is: Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. (Psalms 51:6)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455254&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!
I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying the end of another workweek (for most). Today is close to the end of Black History month, or at least the last day I’ll share a quote with you, on this subject, for a while. I'm grateful for this month because I truly get to learn more about the people who came before me, and dedicate some special time to them. Hopefully I will become an important part of history, and my children, and their children, will be celebrating me long after I leave this earth. I'm sure most people strive to leave a legacy, and make a difference, if only to a few people. If you don't feel that way, then you should think about a positive way to create your own legacy. I'm not speaking about finding a cure for cancer, or coming up with some awesome invention, but just being known as a loving, caring, and giving person, because that's who you are in Christ Jesus. Enjoy this last quote: "We should emphasize not Negro History, but the Negro in history. What we need is not a history of selected races or nations, but the history of the world void of national bias, race hate, and religious prejudice." (~Carter Woodson) Have a wonderful weekend, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about self-examination. How often do you conduct self-examinations? Is it daily, monthly, or right around the New Year, when you're preparing your New Year's Resolution? I'm sure you remember your major joys and pains, whether physically, mentally, or spiritually. In no doubt could you keep up with the new fashion, and latest trends of super stars. You may post your opinions concerning certain things on Facebook or Twitter, about what's in the News, or whoever's in the spotlight. We judge and condemn people all the time, especially "Christians". I think the greatest thing we fail at today is examining ourselves. Most of us know the bible story regarding the woman who was about to be stoned to death, by her people, because she was caught committing adultery (John 8). They brought her to Jesus and asked what He thought about this, and it's written: This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear. So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. (John 8:6-8) This passage of scripture is so widely referenced because Jesus is explaining to us exactly how we should think in life. Before we judge anyone for the wrong they've done, we must first examine ourselves. Nobody knows exactly what Jesus wrote on the ground, but I bet is was something like self-examination, or forgiveness. I shared a story with a friend the other day regarding my time in Hawaii. Long story short, the person I was renting from suddenly asked us to leave her house in less than a week, with no apparent explanation. When asked why, she literally said, it doesn't matter why I just want you to go. I was so shocked, angry, and upset with her, I didn't know what to do. Thanks to God, this happened about one week before I was discussing leaving the Island, and I was blessed with another place to stay, until I found a flight back to the mainland. The last thing I remember this woman saying to me was, "you are not a victim". Those words sunk deep in my Spirit, because she was right! I won’t ever forget that. I think those words hit me so hard because I was in fact living my life as a victim. I had this "why me" mentality, when in truth everything that happened in my life was in direct result of something I'd done. I had to quickly turn my attitude from "why me" to "why not me". Now, whenever something goes wrong in my life, or before I make a big decision, I try to immediately examine my past actions, and ask the hard question, "why is this happening this way?" or “how do I want this to happen?” In life we will encounter hurts and pains that are out of our control, like the death of a loved one, or maybe a freak accident, but even those things have purpose, and are working together for our good. Our scriptures start out with a verse from the book of Lamentations, which according to the Women’s Devotional Bible (NIV) is "the book that consists solely of laments". The word lament is defined: an expression of grief or sorrow. Throughout this book, the author examines everything, attempting to come up with a reason for all the strife that's going on in their nation. It's written: Why should any living man complain when punished for his sins? Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD. Let us lift up our hearts and our hands to God in heaven...(Lam. 3:39-40 NIV) Jeremiah had the answers to life right here. God requires us to confess of our sins, so we could take ownership for them. We're also expected to repent, to show Him that we're sincere, when asking for forgiveness. To keep our relationship strong and growing with God, we must make a commitment to examining ourselves daily. Thankfully, we have the Saving grace of Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit to help us live righteously. The only thing we have to do is humble ourselves, and talk to God. When we have Jesus in our heart, we can ask for anything in His Name, with faith, and it will be granted, including forgiveness. If He isn't in your heart then your examination need to start there. If you need someone to pray with, please let me know. My favorite verse today is: Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. (Psalms 51:6)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455254&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!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
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!
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!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
Today's scriptures are about the power in the Name of Jesus. A name identifies who we are, and where we come from. There's a lot of power in certain names, like Kennedy, Trump, King, Mandela, etc. When you hear these names, you think about important people in history. Then there are names like Kim, Rubinstein, O’Donnell, Gonzalez, or Muhammad, which helps us pinpoint a person's origin. It's important to seriously think about what we name our children, because certain names can hinder a person’s growth, or cause them to experience unnecessary mockery throughout their youth. These examples are to point out the significance in a name, because it is who you are. In most stories of the bible, God changed the names of His chosen people, like Saul to Paul, Sari to Sarah, Simon to Peter, etc. It’s written that when the Angel Gabriel told Joseph that Mary would have a son, he said, you will name Him Jesus (Matt. 1:21). God chose that Name for a reason. When we speak, or even think of the Name Jesus Christ, we should feel indescribable joy in our heart, because of Who He is, and what He's done for us. He saved all mankind from sin, and we can conquer all things, in His name. It's written: Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11) I’ve always felt that most devotionals are redundant, but as humans we need redundancy to form habit. How many times, in your Faith walk, have you been told to call on the Name of Jesus? Do you make that a practice in your everyday life? Our flesh comes from the dirt which makes it weak, but God breathed life into us, so our inner being is strong. Christ, Yahweh, Joshua, Emmanuel, are all Names given to Jesus. However, there is only one Son of God, who has baptized us with His Holy Spirit, when we made Him Lord of our life. Our every connection with God is through Him, so it’s important for us to call on His Name whenever we’re in need, or anytime we approach our Heavenly Father. It’s written: Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. (1 Cor. 6:9-11) We’ve all carried one or more of these titles at one time, or another, in life, but the Gospel of Christ frees all who believe from the penalties of sin, when we ask in His Name. This means that if you don’t know Jesus as Lord and Savior, then He’s still waiting on you to call on His Name, and invite Him to be Lord of your life. You simply have to live by these words: And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (Col. 3:17). I can only tell you these things by His Spirit, but don’t take my word alone, call on His Name, and He’ll personally show you the way to the abundant life He came to give. My favorite verses today are: Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come; and hath put all things under his feet. (Ephesians 1:21-22)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455217&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!
Today's scriptures are about the power in the Name of Jesus. A name identifies who we are, and where we come from. There's a lot of power in certain names, like Kennedy, Trump, King, Mandela, etc. When you hear these names, you think about important people in history. Then there are names like Kim, Rubinstein, O’Donnell, Gonzalez, or Muhammad, which helps us pinpoint a person's origin. It's important to seriously think about what we name our children, because certain names can hinder a person’s growth, or cause them to experience unnecessary mockery throughout their youth. These examples are to point out the significance in a name, because it is who you are. In most stories of the bible, God changed the names of His chosen people, like Saul to Paul, Sari to Sarah, Simon to Peter, etc. It’s written that when the Angel Gabriel told Joseph that Mary would have a son, he said, you will name Him Jesus (Matt. 1:21). God chose that Name for a reason. When we speak, or even think of the Name Jesus Christ, we should feel indescribable joy in our heart, because of Who He is, and what He's done for us. He saved all mankind from sin, and we can conquer all things, in His name. It's written: Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11) I’ve always felt that most devotionals are redundant, but as humans we need redundancy to form habit. How many times, in your Faith walk, have you been told to call on the Name of Jesus? Do you make that a practice in your everyday life? Our flesh comes from the dirt which makes it weak, but God breathed life into us, so our inner being is strong. Christ, Yahweh, Joshua, Emmanuel, are all Names given to Jesus. However, there is only one Son of God, who has baptized us with His Holy Spirit, when we made Him Lord of our life. Our every connection with God is through Him, so it’s important for us to call on His Name whenever we’re in need, or anytime we approach our Heavenly Father. It’s written: Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. (1 Cor. 6:9-11) We’ve all carried one or more of these titles at one time, or another, in life, but the Gospel of Christ frees all who believe from the penalties of sin, when we ask in His Name. This means that if you don’t know Jesus as Lord and Savior, then He’s still waiting on you to call on His Name, and invite Him to be Lord of your life. You simply have to live by these words: And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (Col. 3:17). I can only tell you these things by His Spirit, but don’t take my word alone, call on His Name, and He’ll personally show you the way to the abundant life He came to give. My favorite verses today are: Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come; and hath put all things under his feet. (Ephesians 1:21-22)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455217&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!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY MONDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this beautiful day! Most people have the day off, celebrating the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unfortunately, I wasn't one of those people, and that's what happens when you’re "essential personnel". I don't mind working, especially since I'm being paid for the holiday, and the hours I work. Today is a special day, because Dr. King did a lot of important work to change the ways of the United States of America. My Pastor preached on knowing your calling in life yesterday, and the scriptures we focused on where about when God first called Moses to free the slaves in Egypt (Exodus 3:1-10). This reminded me of what Dr. King must've gone through. I wonder how he reacted when God called him to be this huge Civil Rights Activist, and to ultimately give up his life for the full freedom of all Black Americans. I thank God for Dr. King, who knows where we would be, had he not answered that call on His life. Barack Obama wouldn't be President, and countless others wouldn’t have been able to step up and make a difference in our world today. All of this was in God’s perfect plan. Take a moment and reflect on the impact Dr. King has had on your life. America still has evident racial separation, because racism still heavily exists, but we've come a long way in the last 40 years, and I Thank God for it. I saw a copy of my dad's birth certificate a few months ago, and his Race was listed as Negro, and I was a taken aback by that. However, he was born in the 50's, so that's what we were considered, but what are we really considered now, Black, African American, Black American, or Negro? I'll say it loud, I'm Black and I'm Proud!” but more importantly I'm proud to be an American in 2010. Our President is giving a Speech tonight called 2010 and Beyond, here's some information that I received via e-mail: http://www.blackamericaweb.com/?q=promo/15544. Enjoy the rest of your day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about Jesus renewing our earthy being. We are original descendants of Adam and Eve, who were created from the earth (or dust). God gave Adam reign over every other living creature on the earth, but Adam ended up disobeying God. God warned Adam and Eve not to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, or "they would surely die". Of course they didn't physically die, but the Spiritual bond they had with the Lord did. God still cared for them deeply, but as it's written "the wages of sin is death". Adam was but a man from the dust, who was weak, and that one mistake changed his world, and the world of all mankind forever. God made sure He provided everything Adam needed so he could be fruitful and prosper. Throughout time, without that Spiritual connection with God, mankind slipped deeper and deeper into sin. They were ruled by the principalities of the world, and worshiped false gods. The amount of sacrifice required to atone for sin was great in numbers, and too many souls were lost. God then created another Man, who would spiritually reconstruct mankind, and renew our relationship with God once and for all. The Spirit of God came to earth, in the flesh, without sin, to be the ultimate sacrifice for Sin. This marked the rebirth of an entirely new generation of children of God, without the need of destroying the earth again There only had to be one last sacrifice, and through Him, life is given to any who ask. In God's eyes, our spirits are as clean as the Adam and Eve He created at the beginning of time. It’s His hope that no man shall perish, but all will have eternal life. We were created to fellowship with God, walk in His will, and follow the perfect plan He has for us. Our lives, and the lives of Adam and Jesus were all predestined from the beginning of time. God said He knew us even before we were formed in our mother's womb (Jer. 1:5). The enemy will lie to us and make us think that we're insignificant, worthless, and unlovable. He's very crafty and conniving, so it’s important for us to realize who we are, and where we come from. God gave us a handbook for life, which stood and evolved through the ages. The Holy Bible is written in different dialects, and versions, so that everyone can understand it. Adam was the beginning of the flesh, and Jesus was the beginning of the Spirit. We each are made up of Adam and Jesus, because we're weakened by flesh, but strengthened by the Spirit. It's written: Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (Romans 8:12-13, 20-21) Jesus has freed us from that bondage that was created through Adam, and He gives us hope for the future, and freedom from sin. If you don't know Him as Lord and Savior then you're missing everything that Jesus came to give us. Please know that we live by Faith and not by sight, so if you're waiting for a miraculous sign, or for someone else to prove to you that Jesus exists, then I suggest you do the research for yourself. If you're reading this right now, then God put you here for reason. God has invited us to a place that's more beautiful than Eden, and the only way to get there is through the Blood of Jesus, who some call "the second Adam", because He's reintroduced life to the world. My favorite verse today is: As by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. (Romans 5:19)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455215&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!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this beautiful day! Most people have the day off, celebrating the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unfortunately, I wasn't one of those people, and that's what happens when you’re "essential personnel". I don't mind working, especially since I'm being paid for the holiday, and the hours I work. Today is a special day, because Dr. King did a lot of important work to change the ways of the United States of America. My Pastor preached on knowing your calling in life yesterday, and the scriptures we focused on where about when God first called Moses to free the slaves in Egypt (Exodus 3:1-10). This reminded me of what Dr. King must've gone through. I wonder how he reacted when God called him to be this huge Civil Rights Activist, and to ultimately give up his life for the full freedom of all Black Americans. I thank God for Dr. King, who knows where we would be, had he not answered that call on His life. Barack Obama wouldn't be President, and countless others wouldn’t have been able to step up and make a difference in our world today. All of this was in God’s perfect plan. Take a moment and reflect on the impact Dr. King has had on your life. America still has evident racial separation, because racism still heavily exists, but we've come a long way in the last 40 years, and I Thank God for it. I saw a copy of my dad's birth certificate a few months ago, and his Race was listed as Negro, and I was a taken aback by that. However, he was born in the 50's, so that's what we were considered, but what are we really considered now, Black, African American, Black American, or Negro? I'll say it loud, I'm Black and I'm Proud!” but more importantly I'm proud to be an American in 2010. Our President is giving a Speech tonight called 2010 and Beyond, here's some information that I received via e-mail: http://www.blackamericaweb.com/?q=promo/15544. Enjoy the rest of your day, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about Jesus renewing our earthy being. We are original descendants of Adam and Eve, who were created from the earth (or dust). God gave Adam reign over every other living creature on the earth, but Adam ended up disobeying God. God warned Adam and Eve not to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, or "they would surely die". Of course they didn't physically die, but the Spiritual bond they had with the Lord did. God still cared for them deeply, but as it's written "the wages of sin is death". Adam was but a man from the dust, who was weak, and that one mistake changed his world, and the world of all mankind forever. God made sure He provided everything Adam needed so he could be fruitful and prosper. Throughout time, without that Spiritual connection with God, mankind slipped deeper and deeper into sin. They were ruled by the principalities of the world, and worshiped false gods. The amount of sacrifice required to atone for sin was great in numbers, and too many souls were lost. God then created another Man, who would spiritually reconstruct mankind, and renew our relationship with God once and for all. The Spirit of God came to earth, in the flesh, without sin, to be the ultimate sacrifice for Sin. This marked the rebirth of an entirely new generation of children of God, without the need of destroying the earth again There only had to be one last sacrifice, and through Him, life is given to any who ask. In God's eyes, our spirits are as clean as the Adam and Eve He created at the beginning of time. It’s His hope that no man shall perish, but all will have eternal life. We were created to fellowship with God, walk in His will, and follow the perfect plan He has for us. Our lives, and the lives of Adam and Jesus were all predestined from the beginning of time. God said He knew us even before we were formed in our mother's womb (Jer. 1:5). The enemy will lie to us and make us think that we're insignificant, worthless, and unlovable. He's very crafty and conniving, so it’s important for us to realize who we are, and where we come from. God gave us a handbook for life, which stood and evolved through the ages. The Holy Bible is written in different dialects, and versions, so that everyone can understand it. Adam was the beginning of the flesh, and Jesus was the beginning of the Spirit. We each are made up of Adam and Jesus, because we're weakened by flesh, but strengthened by the Spirit. It's written: Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (Romans 8:12-13, 20-21) Jesus has freed us from that bondage that was created through Adam, and He gives us hope for the future, and freedom from sin. If you don't know Him as Lord and Savior then you're missing everything that Jesus came to give us. Please know that we live by Faith and not by sight, so if you're waiting for a miraculous sign, or for someone else to prove to you that Jesus exists, then I suggest you do the research for yourself. If you're reading this right now, then God put you here for reason. God has invited us to a place that's more beautiful than Eden, and the only way to get there is through the Blood of Jesus, who some call "the second Adam", because He's reintroduced life to the world. My favorite verse today is: As by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. (Romans 5:19)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455215&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!
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