Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

Today’s scriptures are about freedom from fear. Who do you serve, and what do you believe in? I believe the spirit of fear comes from a lack of knowledge about the God we serve. Fear is an unavoidable feeling, but it isn’t something that should have any type of dominion over the life of a believer. Some of us are crippled by fear, and allow it to run our life. Even if you think you’re the meanest, roughest, toughest, or strongest human being in the world, you have, and still do, experience fear. That’s nothing to be ashamed of, but you must allow that fear to fuel you, in order to keep pressing forward, to complete the will of God.

To be afraid is normal, even Jesus was afraid a few times in His life, but He never allowed that feared to slow Him down. He knew He had a job to complete, but better yet, He knew the promises of God. He understood that God would never leave Him, and that everything that happened in His life was for the greater good of His Kingdom. As human beings, we can be more confident in everything we do, if we know we have a support system. We’re comforted by the fact that no matter what, someone has our back, and won’t allow anything bad to happen to us. We have God, the creator of all things, in our corner. There’s no reason to allow fear to stop us from doing what we have to do, to have a life full of abundance.

I have deep fears, which God is helping me overcome, and He has brought me a long way. I’m not ashamed to admit it, but I try not to allow those fears to run my life. I’m sure I’m not the only one who has a fear of rejection, or a fear of being judged by my peers. My biggest fear is the fear of failure, but I’m getting past that more and more everyday. There have been times when I was so afraid to fail, that I wouldn’t even try. This fear lies deep within, and it comes from a history of past failures, which so many of us suffer from. There are many of us that have deep fears, not only because of something that’s happened to us, but because of things that’s happened to a loved one, or a friend. We fear letting people get close to us because we’ve previously been hurt, but the only way to overcome these fears is to trust God with every aspect of our life. The past is what has made us into who we are today, but it doesn’t have to dictate our future.

God is available anytime we call on Him, and He’s given us the Holy Spirit to help us every step of the way. The Holy Spirit helps us discern between right and wrong, helps with our prayer life, as well as helps us stay on the path of righteousness, by convicting us of our sins to the point of repentance. In addition, we have Salvation through the Blood of Christ, who died just so that we wouldn’t have to fear. Before He left this earth He commanded us to: Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. (Matt 28:19-20) Jesus promised to be with us until the end of age, so there’s no need for us to fear anything or anyone, because He lives in our heart, every day of our life.

Through Christ, even our deepest darkest fears can be conquered; all we have to do is move forward with faith and assurance in the fact that we have sweet victory through Him. He’s faced it all, including mental and physical abuse, leading up to His physical death, but He pushed forward because of the God He served. Jesus knew that it wasn’t about Him, nor about His flesh, so He never feared. He walked by God’s promise that He loves those who keep His commandments, so there was no need to fear. I try to live each day only fearing God, because He holds my fate in His hands. I no longer fear the judgment of men, or ridicule from naysayers, because only God can judge me. I walk with my head held high, because as it’s written: No evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; for He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone. (Psalms 91:10-12). God offers to protect us, even down to preventing our foot from hitting against a stone, because that’s how much He loves us. Knowing this, what would we fear? All we have to do is walk with Him in righteousness and truth.

We serve the same God as Jesus, He never changes, and neither does His Word. He loves us unconditionally, and has promised to protect, lead, and guide us throughout this life. There are always going to be surface fears, but we must know, without doubt, that He always has our best interest in mind. When we confess Jesus as Lord we belong to Him, so all we have to do is trust Him to be there for us, and He will. If you don’t know Jesus as Lord, then it’s time for you to take that next step. Confess that you’re a sinner, and invite Jesus to be head of your life. This is a step that you never have to be afraid of. He’ll give you everything you’ve ever needed and more. If you’re ready, or maybe still have some doubts, take a few minutes to take the God Quiz today. My favorite verses today are: Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord. The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace. (Exodus 14:13-14)

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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

Today's scriptures are about being in Awe of the Lord. The Bible says that we should "fear" the Lord, and a lot of people can't really grasp that concept. We often wonder why we should fear someone who wants a close personal relationship with us. We also wonder how we could fear the same person we love with all our heart and soul, but it’s very possible. I've likened the fear we should have for God, to the fear we have of our earthly parents, in previous devotionals. I can honestly say that I fear my mom, and not because I think she'll ever hurt me in anyway, but I knew, from a child, that if I stepped out of line she would discipline me. I also feared that if I done something really bad, she'd be disappointed in me, and it would cause me to lose her trust, and I never wanted to see disappointment in her eyes. I’m amazed by her wisdom, and ability to teach me the things that are so important to growth process, and becoming a woman. Even today I seek her approval, and fear doing anything to hurt her.

The reason I choose the word "Awe" instead of fear is because it's a much stronger word. I remember listing to one of my CD’s, Live from Another Level, by Israel and New Breed, and Israel said something to the effect of: in these days kids [and some adults] use the word Awesome so nonchalantly, but the word Awe has a vast meaning, and should only be used when describing God. It's defined: an overwhelming feeling of reverence, admiration, fear, etc., produced by that which is grand, sublime, extremely powerful, or the like. The point Israel was trying to make was that a new style of shoes isn't awesome, nor is a trick on a motor bike, but the power and love of God is truly awesome. When we stand in Awe of Him, we understand that His power is insurmountable. He created the world and everything in it, including us, and He takes special care of His creations. He's made sure that the cycle of life continues to move, without fail, for every living and breathing creature. He has the ocean, winds, and earth under complete control. He even knows each person inside and out, because He's predestined our lives. Now that's Awesome!

What role does He play in your life? Do you stand in Awe of God? I believe that recognizing Him as an awesome part of your life, will no doubt strengthen your relationship. It'll strengthen your hunger and thirst for the knowledge of Him, and will keep you humbled enough to seek Him for all things. I remember being on an airplane flying over a town, from thirty thousand feet in the air, and noticing how tiny the homes were; all I could see was a speck of light coming from them. At that moment I said Lord you are Awesome! I realized how small a human being is in size, but how much we mean to God. How He makes it a point to be attentive in every way, and be open, waiting to have a conversation with us. From this plane, I imagined God's view of us from Heaven, and not just humans, but the entire earth. How He could easily see the snow topped mountains and its beauty, or an eagle spread its wings and swoop down below in magnificent grace. I thought, “Now that's awesome”!

When you experience the love of God, you begin to recognize, as well as understand His awesomeness. I thought of the story of Jacob, when he had this dream, while laying on a rock in a town he later named Bethel. He dreamt that He saw this stairway leading up to Heaven, and God was standing at the top. God promised Jacob that he and his people would inherit the very land He had been laying on. Could you imagine how that would feel, to actually see God, and to have Him personally make a promise to you of this magnitude? Now that is AWESOME! It's written: When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, "Surely the LORD is in this place, and I was not aware of it." He was afraid and said, "How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven." (Gen 28:16-17)

The scripture mentioned that Jacob was afraid, what do you think that means? If you saw God in clear sight, and He spoke to you, as described in the scripture, would you be afraid? I would be afraid of so many things, at first, but once I realized the enormity of this promise I would rejoice just as Jacob did. As I went on in life, I would be afraid that I wouldn't do God’s gifts justice, nor be able to give Him something back in return. I'd be afraid that I would fall short, and not live up to His expectations. I would fear going a day without appreciating His grace. Most importantly, I would do my best to live each day in Awe of Him.

When God first called me to surrender, I didn't know what to think, I just know, seemingly in a blink of an eye, my life just changed. My interests changed, and my yearning for the Lord became stronger. I all of a sudden wanted more out of life, but way more than I could get from a romantic relationship, money, or a great career, I wanted to do more for God. I loved more, praised more, and prayed more. This was years after I'd accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, which proves that God works at His own pace. If you feel lost and alone, as if He's just not listening, seek Him, and He'll reveal the answers to you. However, you must seek Him with Awe, because He is the Alpha and the Omega. Have faith that He's going to answer your every prayer, and reveal His will for your life.

If you don't know Jesus, then you can't truly get to know God. Jesus is our lifeline, our vine, and without Him we can’t produce fruit. Jesus is more proof of our Awesome God. If you don't know Jesus, or where you stand with God, then take a few moments and take the God Quiz right now. My favorite verse today is: Fear ye not me? saith the Lord: will ye not tremble at my presence, which have placed the sand for the bound of the sea by a perpetual decree, that it cannot pass it: and though the waves thereof toss themselves, yet can they not prevail; though they roar, yet can they not pass over it? (Jeremiah 5:22)

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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying this "terrific Tuesday". It's beginning to look a lot like fall, and I'm grateful for the cycle of life, and change of season. Each change helps me understand the magnificence of God, and His faithfulness. The fact that the seasons continue to change without fails helps us confirm the promises of the Lord. Life will continue as we know it, until the return of Jesus Christ. We can depend on God to be there for us, whenever we call on Him, because He's faithful and true. He's faithful enough to keep the seasons changing, so He's also faithful to keep His promises to me and you. I was a little under the weather yesterday, not sure if it's the cold or flu, but please keep me in your prayers. My body aches, and I'm a little weak, but other than that I'm fine. Thanks for your prayers, enjoy the remainder of your day, and be blessed family!

Today's scriptures are about the fear of our enemies. It's amazing that in this world we all have enemies, even if we've never done a bad thing to anyone, in our lifetime. The evil that lurks on this earth fuels the hatred in people, which causes a person to want to hurt another, without ever knowing them. When I think of terrorist or unnecessary wars, and how many innocent people fall victim to these senseless acts, it makes me sad. Then I think of the child in school, who may dress differently, or act differently than the other children, who quickly develops enemies, and is often tortured throughout school. This child developed enemies just because he was different. How do you think Jesus felt? Even He had enemies, and He was the Savior of all mankind. He only wanted to help, heal, and uplift others, yet He was tortured and killed by His enemies. How do we explain these horrible acts? There are lots of things that I can't explain, but the wisdom will be given by God, when the time is right. The only thing we can do is trust Him with our life.

A lot of times our enemies are brought on by the the works of the flesh, similar to Paul’s explanation of how to walk by the Spirit. Before he went into this, he said: You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. (Gal 5:13-15 NIV) The history of enemies starts with the story of the brothers Cain and Able, where one brother struck the other down, because of jealously. Years later, Jesus came, and He was ultimately killed because of jealously, and because some people didn't want to accept the fact that He was the Son of God. All He did was preach peace, love, prosperity, and hope; He never hated anyone, but he had lots of enemies. Jesus never allowed the naysayers to stop His ministry. He never allowed them to force Him into hiding, or to stop preaching the gospel. He knew that He had a job to do, and would complete it. There was nothing anyone could do about that, especially His enemies.

In life, we must also have the attitude of moving forward no matter what we're faced with. No matter if we're ridiculed, threatened, talked about, etc, because God has the final say. From the beginning of time, you've been predestined for a certain task, so when you stay focused on Him no one can take you off of your path. The blood of Christ offers us redemption, protection, as well as salvation. We cannot get this from any man on this earth. Just as it's written: Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God. Since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool, because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. (Heb.10:11-14 NIV) Did you know that this includes every believer?

Everyone has the potential to be an enemy as well, but when we follow God's commandment to love each other as we love ourselves, God will always change things around for our good. To face an enemy with the love of God is the only way to defeat them, with little effort on our part. Remember, the Word of God is our sword, and it's what we use to strike back. Love conquers all, and when we learn to use it against our enemies, it'll make our fight a lot easier. Remember light overcomes darkness, as love overcomes hate. To have fear of an enemy is to show less faith in God. When we allow Him to fight out battles, we have nothing to worry about. Think about David and Goliath; David had no fear, he just knew he had to avenge the Name of the Lord. He faced that Giant with faith, two stones, and a sling shot, and Goliath was defeated. When we have the confidence of David, we too can overcome any enemy in our life, big or small. Even the enemy we have on the inside of us.

Self-hatred is prevalent in this society, and is a big enemy. The hardest enemy to defeat is the one within us. I believe this enemy rears his head, when we fail to see ourselves the way God sees us. Remember that God sees you as His child, and there's nothing anyone can do our say that can change that, you’re free! Jesus is the key to that freedom that Paul wrote about in his letter to the Galatians. If you don't know Jesus as Lord, then you're a slave to the flesh, and have reason to fear all enemies, especially the one inside of you. To live with the covenant of the blood of Christ, is the only way to defeat the enemies and rise above them. Try not to worry about what people say or do to your flesh, just know that God is the key to life without fear. Enemies will come and go in this lifetime, but stay true to God, and He'll walk with you through the valley of the shadow of death, so that you can fear no evil. My favorite verse today is: When a man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him. (Proverbs 16:7)

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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY FRIDAY!

Today's scriptures are about living without boundaries and fears. I've always been a "risk taker", and I believe in trying anything (within reason) once, just to see how it goes. I think outside of the box, and welcome any challenge; it's just in my nature. There was a time in my life where I didn't take many chances, and was afraid of failure, or being judged by others. When I made the decision to surrender my life to Christ, I found that the fear that once controlled me, affected me less and less each day, because I used that energy to focus on the Lord. I have a very analytical mind, so reading the bible, seeing my prayers being answered, and watching God work in my life and in the life of other believers, helped me truly understand His love for me. He loves me unconditionally, so "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me" (Psalm 23:4). We walk amongst evil every day, and God is with us, so there's no need to fear.

There's a difference between fear and caution. God blessed us with a conscience and common sense from birth, to help us make sound decisions, so we each have the ability to to make good judgments. We know the warning signs of danger, and we shouldn't walk the line, or push limits. When we receive Jesus as Lord, we also receive the Holy Spirit, who better directs our paths, so we must follow His lead, and take caution not to test God. It's written: You shall not tempt the LORD your God as you tempted Him in Massah. You shall diligently keep the commandments of the LORD your God, His testimonies, and His statutes which He has commanded you. And you shall do what is right and good in the sight of the LORD, that it may be well with you..." (Deut. 6:16-18) Jesus quoted verse 16 to the devil, when he asked Him to throw Himself off of the top of a mountain, in order to prove that He was the Son of God (Matt 4:1-11). He could have flown off of that mountain top if He wanted to, but He didn't have a need to prove anything to anyone, especially the enemy, because He was secure in whom He was in God.


We are much stronger than we think, and through Christ, we can conquer the world. God has given us dominion over everything on this earth, and we've inherited the Kingdom of God. He's made provisions for us, and all we have to do is love Him, and trust Him to take care of us. There's nothing anyone could do or say that will change the will of God, not even the enemy. However fear is a crippling emotion, which prevents us from living life to our fullest. We give whatever we fear dominion over our life, and become a slave to it. It's almost like reverse worship, because we become so overwhelmed and consumed by it, that it becomes a part of our everyday life. Fear is the opposite of faith, because it keeps us in bondage, and we lose site of the fact that God is still in control. God will never give us more than we could bear, and He protects us with each step we take.


Take a few moments and think about your fears? Then, take a few moments to ask yourself why you fear those things. Do you understand how mighty God is? The truth is He's the only One we should ever fear, because as it's written in my favorite verses of today, “He has the power to take your life, and cast your soul into hell". At the same time, when He's respected, revered, and relied upon, He can lift you to heights you never thought you could go. Living a life in fear is the worst life you could possibly live. Be free in knowing that nothing can touch you without God's permission, He loves you, and has your best interest at heart, so He'll always protect you.


Your soul is more important than this temporary flesh, so lay fear down. We all have our time to perish, so don't prevent yourself from living that abundant life you deserve, because you're afraid to die. Don't stop doing the things you love, because you're afraid to be judged or talked about. Don't stop loving the person you love, because you're afraid to get hurt, be open to it, and enjoy it while you can. Nothing is for certain, and life is too short not to cherish each day, so live like there's no tomorrow. Remember God is counting on us to strengthen His kingdom, and there isn't much we could do if we allow fear to consume us. Fear is always going to be a part of life, and there's nothing wrong with that, but in the words of Joyce Meyer, "Do it Afraid", and come out in victory.


If you don't know Jesus as Lord, then I suggest you get to know Him today. Jesus is the only way to face and conquer your fears. He offers true deliverance from the world and everything in it. Also remember we're living to please Him, so the energy we spend on fear, should always be spent on Him. You'll find more clarity on living your life for Christ, by taking the God Quiz, do it right now. My favorite verses today are: Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell: yea, I say unto you, Fear him. (Luke 12:4-5)



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Daily Devotional Day & Night

HAPPY TUESDAY!

I pray all is well with everyone and you're enjoying this terrific Tuesday. I'm doing well, and feeling wonderful after a much needed vacation. I just came back from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and I had an awesome time. I experienced things that I've never experienced before, met people I never thought I'd meet, and conquered a few fears, including my fear of long distance traveling. It's amazing what God can, and has, done in my life, including filling me with love, and bringing people in my life who loves me unconditionally, it's a wonderful thing. I'm trying to get my bearings back, after a very long flight. I came back into the country yesterday, and have been on the move ever since. I wanted to say hello to everyone, and let you know that I still love you, and will resume the full devotional tomorrow. I'm still fighting off a little jet lag and trying to get my timing back in order [after trying to get used to a huge time difference], but God has given me the strength to endure all that comes my way. I'll share pictures as soon as I get a chance to upload and edit my album. Enjoy the remainder of your evening, and be blessed family!

I usually get my reference bible verses from www.bible.com , but the website is down for maintenance, which is perfect, because I wasn't going to do the full devotional tonight (God is good!). I want to share a Psalm with you, which was brought my spirit tonight, and I hope it blesses you as much as it's blessed me. God loves all of us, but those of us who reverence, love, and respect Him are nearest to His heart. He requires only two things from us, to love Him and to love each other. To love Him means to have Faith in Him, to have in Him is to trust Him, to trust Him is to keep His commandments. Those of us, who do our best to complete His will, by putting in the work that goes with Faith, receive His blessings in abundance. To have wisdom is to know what a blessing really is. It's not always good fortune, fame, a fancy house, nice cars, or a nice outer appearance, but it's just good old fashion love. When God loves you everything around you will be blessed, and each of us have received many wonderful blessings, we just have to open our eyes to see them.

I chose to give you this Psalm in the Amplified Version, because I think it exudes the message I'm trying to relay. Just know that love is reciprocated, and you get out of life what you put into it.

Psalm 128

A Song of Ascents.

BLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, to be envied) is everyone who fears, reveres, and worships the Lord, who walks in His ways and lives according to His commandments.

For you shall eat [the fruit] of the labor of your hands; happy (blessed, fortunate, enviable) shall you be, and it shall be well with you.

Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the innermost parts of your house; your children shall be like olive plants round about your table.

Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord.

May the Lord bless you out of Zion [His sanctuary], and may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life;

Yes, may you see your children's children. Peace be upon Israel!

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