HAPPY FRIDAY!
Today’s scriptures are about focusing on the unseen things of God. We often base our emotions on the tangible and/or logical things that are currently happening in our life, whereas God works completely different from the world. When we lose sight of the fact that we’re chosen children of God, then we allow our emotions and mindset to be dictated by the things going on around us. In order to combat getting emotional about everything that happens in my life, I have to constantly go back to this verse, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Rom. 8:28) God instructs us to focus on the things from above—the things unseen—because He’s working everything else out. We’ve been placed here for a purpose, so there’s no reason for us to doubt that He’s going to give us everything that’s been promised to us in Christ. We must simply keep the faith, and focus on Him.
I remember a time when I would worry so much that my hair would fall out. I would literally worry myself sick, because I didn’t know how I was going to survive day by day. Every moment of my day revolved around planning out how I was going to make it to the next day. I worried about what to eat, what I’d wear to work, how I was going to pay the bills before the deadlines, or if my car would start for me the next day. You name it, I was thinking about it. My mind was running so much that I had no peace. It made me physically and mentally ill for a long time. It wasn’t until I realized that I would never be in control of everything that happens in my life that I decided to let go. I wanted to be in control of my destiny, but I didn’t know how. It wasn’t until I learned how to stop focusing so much on myself and my problems, and more on God and what He had in store for me that I begin learn how to let go. Life is going to happen exactly the way it’s meant to happen.
The book, Be Anxious for Nothing, by Joyce Meyers, was the eye opening moment for me. She had to write, at least 50 to 100 times, “Cast your cares on the Lord…” in this book. Out of all of the wonderful tools given, to live a righteous life, the one I remember the most was to “Cast your cares on the Lord”, because that was something I struggled with, and that’s why I found myself stagnant in my life in general. I allowed fear to run my life, and I felt like a hamster on its exercise wheel—I was running and running, but never got anywhere. If I couldn’t see it, then I didn’t believe it. My faith was very poor, and because of the way I was living my life, I didn’t believe that I was worthy of the types of blessings that everyone else around me was receiving. It took me a lot of years of prayer, meditation, and counseling to figure that one out. However, when I started to focus on God, He started showing me where my life could, and would go. I begin to slowly, yet gradually, cast my cares upon the Lord. When I started trusting Him for everything in my life, in opposed to the things I thought that I couldn’t handle on my own, He started to multiply everything that I put my hands on.
You may be confused as to what the “unseen” things are—don’t worry you aren’t the only one. Faith is the backbone of our relationship with Christ, because no man living or breathing has ever physically seen Him. However, we trust and believe that He’s real. We believe in His word, because He’s proven it true, in our lives and the lives of so many around us. We must stay focused on that, because a lot of times, things aren’t always what they appear to be. We must try to look at everything through the eyes of Christ, and He’ll show us exactly what we need to see. Nothing is ever as bad as it seems when you’re faithful to God, because even in the midst of the storms He’s working a miracle. You have to be sure to tell yourself that every day, especially in times of tribulation. If you have to literally say to yourself, “God is working this out” or “let go and let God”, when you find yourself in a panicked state of mind, then do it, and say it as many times as it takes for you to be convinced.
Jesus makes it possible for us to live above the world, because He’s already conquered everything that we could possibly face. When reading the stories of His life, you’ll see that His every step was strategically planned out, and He lived the most peaceful and productive life of any human being. He understood that life was more than material things, and earthly wealth and prestige, but it was about the things that was unseen—the Kingdom of Heaven. He’s made sure that we can live by faith and not by sight, and I for one am so grateful for that privilege. Before you’ll be able to live above the world, you have to make sure that you’ve accepted Jesus as Lord. Take a few moments to take the God Quiz today. My favorite verses today are: For our light affliction which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory: while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455625&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/broadcast/today-on-radio
http://www.joycemeyer.org/OurMinistries/Broadcast/
I love you!
Showing posts with label light. Show all posts
Showing posts with label light. Show all posts
Friday, March 4, 2011
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
Today’s scriptures are about living as the light of the world. The “natural man”, also known as an “unbeliever”, is he who doesn’t know or believe in Jesus. Without Christ there is no light inside of you, you’re stuck in the darkness. The way to righteousness has never been a mystery, or some type of complicated puzzle. God has always laid it out for everyone—light overcomes darkness, you reap what you sow, sin equals death, yet repentance resuscitates life. All of these things have been made possible, by the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus said: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) God is light, and He commands light out of all things, so it’s only natural that His Son would be the light of the world.
We know that this world can be a very dark place, just look around you. Listen to today’s mainstream music, and take a look at our Social Networking websites, or the internet on a whole. These things aren’t censored, anyone could write, or post pictures or videos of, just about anything. Of course, majority of the content posted is negative, and promotes darkness. That’s why it’s up to us, as believers, to spread the light of Christ. When I first signed up for Twitter, I followed a lot of random people, just because I didn’t know how it worked, and login and read the tweets, my Spirit is sometimes heavily grieved. However, I don’t judge, nor do I un-follow those people, but I post something that will bring light, into a very dark place. I thank God for all of you who take the initiative and do that as well. Jesus said “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few” (Matt. 9:37), so we have a lot of work to do, the light spreading business is in high demand.
The Apostle Paul warned us: Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (Eph 6:11-13) The enemy was cast out of Heaven long ago, but he and his demons roam freely amongst the earth, Paul describes them as “rulers of darkness”, and there’s only one way to defeat darkness, which is… yes you guessed it… LIGHT! The great thing about being children of God is that He arms us with weapons to defeat the enemy. As soon as our feet hit the floor in the morning we must put on the Armor of God, which will not only protects us from the attacks of darkness, but will help us overcome and defeat it, by yielding the Word of God, which Paul refers to as our sword. As long as we walk in truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation, standing on the Word, our paths will always be lit.
I’m not going to deceive any of you, because even as believers we’ll have our dark moments. The enemy is so jealous of our relationship with God that he works overtime trying to keep us in the dark. However, we know that “Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world”, so he will never completely overtake us. As I grow in my faith walk, I’m tempted even more, and when I give into that temptation, and allow that sin to fester, the darkness spreads in me like cancer. I know that something isn’t right, so with the help of the Holy Spirit, I’m able to identify the wrong, and make it right through repentance. The more I grow in my Spirit, the more people notice the light. When we allow Jesus to lead, His light radiates in us. People can’t help but notice it in our eyes when we look at them or in our smile when we greet them. It’s like it’s coming out of our pores. However, in times of darkness, we will fade in with the rest of the world, and fall into the background. It’s important not to allow that to happen.
I want you to try it for yourself—when you awake in the morning, begin your day with God, if you don’t already. Pray, repent for your sins, read a few scriptures of the Bible or your devotional, and listen to your favorite gospel songs, or Christian broadcasts, as you prepare for your day. Once you’re out and about smile at everyone you see, especially those who look down or depressed. Sometimes, even say a warm “hello” or “good morning”, and watch their reaction. You’ll be surprised, most of the time it’s like a mirror, and you’ll be able to see the light that you just gave out, reflected right back on to you. Trust me I do it all the time, even when I don’t particularly feel like it, and that’s when it helps me the most. We’re here to spread Gods marvelous light! If you’re a believer but has strayed off of that path, or fallen into darkness, all isn’t lost. Jesus loves you just as much today as He did yesterday, He’s just waiting on you to repent, and that light will start shining bright again.
If you don’t know Jesus, you are considered a “natural man”, but that’s the way we all start out. Salvation is free to you, by the grace of God. When you accept Jesus as Lord, He promises to bring you out of darkness and into His light; all you have to do is trust Him as your Lord and Savior. If you want more information, please take the God Quiz right now. If you ever need someone to pray with, don’t hesitate to contact me. My favorite verse today is: God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:6)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455603&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/broadcast/today-on-radio
http://www.joycemeyer.org/OurMinistries/Broadcast/
I love you!
Friday, August 27, 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). We finally made through the week, and I'm drained, but I still feeling good. TGIF! I'm happy that I'm learning how to find the positive in everything, because that truly does change your entire outlook on life. I used to be that "I know but" type of person, who always chose to see the worst in things. Someone would say, "that's nice car" and I would say, "I know but it burns a lot of gas". I guess I still have a little bit of the "but" mentality in me, however God's helping me work on that, especially when it comes to myself. I guess in being a semi-perfectionist, I see things as, “that's good but it could be great”. That's a gift and a curse, because on one hand it helps me strive to do my best in everything, but on the other, it causes me sometimes set unreachable goals, and when I fail, I then become a procrastinator. How do you overcome that? There are several ways I'm sure, but I find answers in the Serenity prayer, "Lord grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference". Overcoming procrastination and being a perfectionist, is only possible by having the wisdom to know the difference between the things you can and cannot change. Accept and love who you are, because that's exactly who God created you to be, and continue to work on your own greatness, for you and God, and not because the world deems it important, special, or beautiful. Enjoy your weekend family, and be blessed!
Today's scriptures are about the light that leads us. Life is full of exhale moments. You know the times in life when something bothers you, or has you in bondage, and it seems like you're always holding your breath? When you finally overcome those things, or reach a solution to the problem, it's like you can finally exhale. Throughout my Christian faith walk, I've had moments when it felt like I just wasn't growing. It was like I was stuck on this emotional rollercoaster that was going nowhere fast. I was frustrated because the more I tried to do right, bad things would happen, which would lead me right back to doing wrong. It was a wilderness moment, and a time of refinement. Dr. Stanley said, in one of his teachings, people are too busy trying to change their life, or become a better person, before they surrender to God. He went on to say, “the truth is, we're incapable of doing that on your own”. After I heard Him say that, I exhaled. Once I found out that we're incapable of becoming righteous without Jesus, it gave me hope. It allowed me to let myself off the hook a bit, in order to focus more on learning the ways of God. At first, I was beating myself up, because I thought I should be, or do better, but I was doing the best that I could do on my own.
Jesus taught us, in the Sermon on the Mount to, “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." (Matt. 7:13-14) How do we learn how to stay on that narrow road, which leads to the narrow gate Jesus is referring too? We live in a dark world, which has great influence over the flesh, and it's very easy to sin; that gate is very wide. If we aren't purposely focusing on serving the Lord, we could easily stray from the righteous path. For example, how many Christian broadcast TV or radio stations are there, versus secular stations? Enticements are always at your fingertips, and when you're not committed to serving the Lord, you're more likely to succumb to the world.
The good news is you're not alone. God created us this way and He understands our weaknesses. He's given us salvation through Christ, which allows us to live life in abundance. Just because we live in a dark world, we aren’t necessarily of it. God has instilled a light within us, and He also lights out pathways. When we look to Him for guidance, we'll see everything so much clearer. We should pray before we make any decisions, big or small. Remember whenever we ask, He answers, so when we ask for guidance He'll show us the way. As soon as I awake in the morning, I first thank Him, and then ask Him to guide my path for the day; it’s become a habit. When I'm really confused, or faced with a big decision, I spend extra time in the prayer room. There are always times when the answers aren't really that clear. When that happens, we must spend quiet time with Him in prayer and meditation. In some cases we could fast, which helps us truly focus on Him. There are also times when we could speak in tongues, by asking the Holy Spirit to pray through us. Either way, God will show us the way, no matter what we're going through. There isn't anything too large, or too little, for Him to handle.
Do you notice a trend here? The bottom line is, life is what you make it, and you get out of it what you put in. Jesus told us to "Enter" by the narrow gate..., which requires us to take some steps. God isn't going to wave a magic wand and we’ll become this wise and powerful person. Yes we all have the light, but we have to learn how to seek it, and most importantly how to use it. Our Christian life is all about growth, remember we're once "babes in Christ”, and if we don't seek the knowledge and wisdom to grow from that point, then that's where we'll stay. I find myself straying off of the path of righteousness when I'm not into the Word of God everyday. If I go even a week without praying, reading my bible, and being surrounded by the Word in some type of way, I feel lost and in the dark. That will happen to any believer, whether you're a babe in your Faith walk, or you're a Minister who preaches in the pulpit. We're all still in the flesh, but the key to avoiding the gate that leads to destruction, is to live by the Spirit, for the Spirit, and in the Spirit.
Jesus said: "He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” (John 14:21) Jesus never asked us to be perfect and without sin, He only asked us to love Him, and surrender. Only then could He shape and mold us into the righteous children of God we were intended to be. Remember if you've accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, you've been chosen from the beginning of time. If you haven't chosen Jesus as Lord, then now is your time; God also chose you! If you're not sure what you believe, take some time to take the God Quiz today. My favorite verses today are: When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light. (Proverbs 6:22-23)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455436&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/broadcast/today-on-radio
http://www.intouch.org/magazine/daily-devotional
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the end of another workweek (for most). We finally made through the week, and I'm drained, but I still feeling good. TGIF! I'm happy that I'm learning how to find the positive in everything, because that truly does change your entire outlook on life. I used to be that "I know but" type of person, who always chose to see the worst in things. Someone would say, "that's nice car" and I would say, "I know but it burns a lot of gas". I guess I still have a little bit of the "but" mentality in me, however God's helping me work on that, especially when it comes to myself. I guess in being a semi-perfectionist, I see things as, “that's good but it could be great”. That's a gift and a curse, because on one hand it helps me strive to do my best in everything, but on the other, it causes me sometimes set unreachable goals, and when I fail, I then become a procrastinator. How do you overcome that? There are several ways I'm sure, but I find answers in the Serenity prayer, "Lord grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference". Overcoming procrastination and being a perfectionist, is only possible by having the wisdom to know the difference between the things you can and cannot change. Accept and love who you are, because that's exactly who God created you to be, and continue to work on your own greatness, for you and God, and not because the world deems it important, special, or beautiful. Enjoy your weekend family, and be blessed!
Today's scriptures are about the light that leads us. Life is full of exhale moments. You know the times in life when something bothers you, or has you in bondage, and it seems like you're always holding your breath? When you finally overcome those things, or reach a solution to the problem, it's like you can finally exhale. Throughout my Christian faith walk, I've had moments when it felt like I just wasn't growing. It was like I was stuck on this emotional rollercoaster that was going nowhere fast. I was frustrated because the more I tried to do right, bad things would happen, which would lead me right back to doing wrong. It was a wilderness moment, and a time of refinement. Dr. Stanley said, in one of his teachings, people are too busy trying to change their life, or become a better person, before they surrender to God. He went on to say, “the truth is, we're incapable of doing that on your own”. After I heard Him say that, I exhaled. Once I found out that we're incapable of becoming righteous without Jesus, it gave me hope. It allowed me to let myself off the hook a bit, in order to focus more on learning the ways of God. At first, I was beating myself up, because I thought I should be, or do better, but I was doing the best that I could do on my own.
Jesus taught us, in the Sermon on the Mount to, “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." (Matt. 7:13-14) How do we learn how to stay on that narrow road, which leads to the narrow gate Jesus is referring too? We live in a dark world, which has great influence over the flesh, and it's very easy to sin; that gate is very wide. If we aren't purposely focusing on serving the Lord, we could easily stray from the righteous path. For example, how many Christian broadcast TV or radio stations are there, versus secular stations? Enticements are always at your fingertips, and when you're not committed to serving the Lord, you're more likely to succumb to the world.
The good news is you're not alone. God created us this way and He understands our weaknesses. He's given us salvation through Christ, which allows us to live life in abundance. Just because we live in a dark world, we aren’t necessarily of it. God has instilled a light within us, and He also lights out pathways. When we look to Him for guidance, we'll see everything so much clearer. We should pray before we make any decisions, big or small. Remember whenever we ask, He answers, so when we ask for guidance He'll show us the way. As soon as I awake in the morning, I first thank Him, and then ask Him to guide my path for the day; it’s become a habit. When I'm really confused, or faced with a big decision, I spend extra time in the prayer room. There are always times when the answers aren't really that clear. When that happens, we must spend quiet time with Him in prayer and meditation. In some cases we could fast, which helps us truly focus on Him. There are also times when we could speak in tongues, by asking the Holy Spirit to pray through us. Either way, God will show us the way, no matter what we're going through. There isn't anything too large, or too little, for Him to handle.
Do you notice a trend here? The bottom line is, life is what you make it, and you get out of it what you put in. Jesus told us to "Enter" by the narrow gate..., which requires us to take some steps. God isn't going to wave a magic wand and we’ll become this wise and powerful person. Yes we all have the light, but we have to learn how to seek it, and most importantly how to use it. Our Christian life is all about growth, remember we're once "babes in Christ”, and if we don't seek the knowledge and wisdom to grow from that point, then that's where we'll stay. I find myself straying off of the path of righteousness when I'm not into the Word of God everyday. If I go even a week without praying, reading my bible, and being surrounded by the Word in some type of way, I feel lost and in the dark. That will happen to any believer, whether you're a babe in your Faith walk, or you're a Minister who preaches in the pulpit. We're all still in the flesh, but the key to avoiding the gate that leads to destruction, is to live by the Spirit, for the Spirit, and in the Spirit.
Jesus said: "He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” (John 14:21) Jesus never asked us to be perfect and without sin, He only asked us to love Him, and surrender. Only then could He shape and mold us into the righteous children of God we were intended to be. Remember if you've accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, you've been chosen from the beginning of time. If you haven't chosen Jesus as Lord, then now is your time; God also chose you! If you're not sure what you believe, take some time to take the God Quiz today. My favorite verses today are: When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light. (Proverbs 6:22-23)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455436&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/broadcast/today-on-radio
http://www.intouch.org/magazine/daily-devotional
I love you!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY FRIDAY!
Today's scriptures are about us belonging to Jesus. He’s the epitome of Love! We all have heard the Name of Jesus before, because most of us are "Christian", however who do YOU say that Jesus is? When I say that we should worship, praise, and honor our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ what does that mean to you? Did you know that you should be striving to be "like Christ" on a daily basis? I have one more question for you, why is it that we aren't, in most cases, doing what we need to do through Jesus, knowing who He is? Maybe we don't truly know who He is, and if that's the case, we must eagerly seek Him. We belong to Jesus, and through Him we have inherited many wonderful rewards, earthly and eternally. He is our Lord, Master, Messiah, Chief, Ruler, and much much more. He was a teacher full of wisdom, born to be the leader of all mankind, and through Him our relationship with God has come full circle. As soon as we become believers of Christ, we're instantly given Eternal Life in Heaven, His Holy Spirit to help us through everyday life on earth, and perpetual forgiveness of sin. Jesus said: If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor. (John 12:26) We all have choices in life, and our fate depends on them. It's written: For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matt. 22:14) How does it feel to know that if you have accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, you were not only called, but also chosen? Because of the fact that you not only answered that call, but also choose Him, your life is changed forever. It's a change that's made from the inside out. Jesus made promises that He will never break, and to know these things gives us power to overcome the wickedness of the world. Knowing who we really are through Christ allows us to take some of that power out of the hands of the enemy, who rules this earth, because we're not of this world. We own that power, and can use the Name of Jesus in ways that'll give us the ability to accomplish all of the things appointed to us in life. It's not until then will we be able to do exactly what we're meant to do. Jesus had to be that "grain of wheat that fell to the ground and died, to produce much more wheat" (John 12:24). He brought life back to us, and put light back in our heart. He gave His life for the future, and most importantly He gave us a chance to be redeemed to Righteousness, and for that "we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). How many of you believe this about yourself? Jesus took life very seriously, and He made it a point that we all know just how much He loved us, and how He honestly understood our plights as humans living in an evil world. He became the precious, spotless, and blameless Lamb of God. Allow this message to set you free! Most Christians live their life in bondage, because they're salves of sin, guilt, and shame, but Jesus has unchained you from that. He said it Himself: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.” (John 14:1-4) The only way to be ready receive your Crown of Glory, that Jesus has or will create for you, is to "follow Him". The first step is to say a prayer inviting Him into your heart as Lord and Savior, and confessing your sins. Once you've done that you truly have to learn the ways of Jesus, and of Our Father in Heaven. Pray often and without fail, have Faith far beyond sight, and Love with all of your heart. You'll find the answers to all of your questions through Him and Him alone. My favorite verses today are: I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them. (John 17:9-10)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455240&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 us belonging to Jesus. He’s the epitome of Love! We all have heard the Name of Jesus before, because most of us are "Christian", however who do YOU say that Jesus is? When I say that we should worship, praise, and honor our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ what does that mean to you? Did you know that you should be striving to be "like Christ" on a daily basis? I have one more question for you, why is it that we aren't, in most cases, doing what we need to do through Jesus, knowing who He is? Maybe we don't truly know who He is, and if that's the case, we must eagerly seek Him. We belong to Jesus, and through Him we have inherited many wonderful rewards, earthly and eternally. He is our Lord, Master, Messiah, Chief, Ruler, and much much more. He was a teacher full of wisdom, born to be the leader of all mankind, and through Him our relationship with God has come full circle. As soon as we become believers of Christ, we're instantly given Eternal Life in Heaven, His Holy Spirit to help us through everyday life on earth, and perpetual forgiveness of sin. Jesus said: If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor. (John 12:26) We all have choices in life, and our fate depends on them. It's written: For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matt. 22:14) How does it feel to know that if you have accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, you were not only called, but also chosen? Because of the fact that you not only answered that call, but also choose Him, your life is changed forever. It's a change that's made from the inside out. Jesus made promises that He will never break, and to know these things gives us power to overcome the wickedness of the world. Knowing who we really are through Christ allows us to take some of that power out of the hands of the enemy, who rules this earth, because we're not of this world. We own that power, and can use the Name of Jesus in ways that'll give us the ability to accomplish all of the things appointed to us in life. It's not until then will we be able to do exactly what we're meant to do. Jesus had to be that "grain of wheat that fell to the ground and died, to produce much more wheat" (John 12:24). He brought life back to us, and put light back in our heart. He gave His life for the future, and most importantly He gave us a chance to be redeemed to Righteousness, and for that "we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). How many of you believe this about yourself? Jesus took life very seriously, and He made it a point that we all know just how much He loved us, and how He honestly understood our plights as humans living in an evil world. He became the precious, spotless, and blameless Lamb of God. Allow this message to set you free! Most Christians live their life in bondage, because they're salves of sin, guilt, and shame, but Jesus has unchained you from that. He said it Himself: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.” (John 14:1-4) The only way to be ready receive your Crown of Glory, that Jesus has or will create for you, is to "follow Him". The first step is to say a prayer inviting Him into your heart as Lord and Savior, and confessing your sins. Once you've done that you truly have to learn the ways of Jesus, and of Our Father in Heaven. Pray often and without fail, have Faith far beyond sight, and Love with all of your heart. You'll find the answers to all of your questions through Him and Him alone. My favorite verses today are: I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them. (John 17:9-10)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455240&dtype=Scripture
http://www.intouch.org/site/pp.aspx?c=cnKBIPNuEoG&b=4943197
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I love you!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY TUESDAY!
Today's scriptures are about loving your neighbor. Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ this is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matt. 22:37-39) This was Jesus' answer when asked which was the greatest commandment of all time. Why do you think loving your neighbor as yourself would be a "great commandment"? I believe it's because we are used as vessels for God. How greater is it to show God, who is Love, then by loving everyone without reservations or biases? Loving others could be a very hard thing to do, especially with so much evil in this world. You know the saying, "It's a thin line between love and hate". That's a true statement when it comes to the flesh. People can push you so far where it's very easy to "hate" them, but is that a Godly reaction? What would Jesus have you do? We've read stories about Jesus getting angry at the money changes in the temple, and turning over tables. In those cases, He wasn’t mad at the people, but at their actions. He loves everyone no matter how He was or is hated. He prayed for all nations, and healed all types of people, despite their "religion", or background. He doesn’t judge by the enormity of our sin, or the lack thereof. He said He came to save the lost, and not minister to Himself, what's the point in that? Once we learn the ways of God, and live by them, we're expected to share our wisdom with anyone we could. Genuine Godly love is a love that knows no bounds, and it's a pleasure to have. For me, over the last couple years, His love has transformed my heart. Yes, I have a long way to go, and I still get angry, but I honestly pray for those who wish me harm. I've practically lost any vindictive ways I may have had, and I pity those who attempt to steal someone’s joy. I'm not sure how many of you have reached this point in your Faith walk, but it's the best feeling in the world. At the same time, when you start to compare your views, to the views of the world, you could start to feel like a "pushover" of sorts, and that’s just what the enemy wants. There are also people who are saved, Holy, and Sanctified, but it stops there. Some, who go to church every Sunday, read their bible everyday and could quote scripture as if they've committed the entire book to memory. Yet, they never commit to doing any work to strengthen the Kingdom of God. If you are that type of person, are you truly following the second great commandment to love your neighbor? We must treat people the way we would want to be treated. It’s written: Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness, “You shall not covet,' and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. (Romans 13:8-10) If you're living with evil, hatred, jealously, malice, or selfishness in your heart, then how can you truly love the way Jesus loves? The only ways to overcome these things is by taking on the fruits of the Spirit, and to actively love. Always think before you act and speak, and ask yourself "how would I feel if this was done to me?” If you don't know Jesus as your Savior then you have no idea how to truly love anyone else, because Love, who is Jesus Christ, don't live inside of you. Go to Him in prayer right now and ask Him to come into your heart, and then ask Him to teach you how to love. Wisdom is a free gift by grace. My favorite verses today are: Be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: not rendering evil for evil or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. (1 Peter 3:8-9)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455181&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 loving your neighbor. Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ this is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matt. 22:37-39) This was Jesus' answer when asked which was the greatest commandment of all time. Why do you think loving your neighbor as yourself would be a "great commandment"? I believe it's because we are used as vessels for God. How greater is it to show God, who is Love, then by loving everyone without reservations or biases? Loving others could be a very hard thing to do, especially with so much evil in this world. You know the saying, "It's a thin line between love and hate". That's a true statement when it comes to the flesh. People can push you so far where it's very easy to "hate" them, but is that a Godly reaction? What would Jesus have you do? We've read stories about Jesus getting angry at the money changes in the temple, and turning over tables. In those cases, He wasn’t mad at the people, but at their actions. He loves everyone no matter how He was or is hated. He prayed for all nations, and healed all types of people, despite their "religion", or background. He doesn’t judge by the enormity of our sin, or the lack thereof. He said He came to save the lost, and not minister to Himself, what's the point in that? Once we learn the ways of God, and live by them, we're expected to share our wisdom with anyone we could. Genuine Godly love is a love that knows no bounds, and it's a pleasure to have. For me, over the last couple years, His love has transformed my heart. Yes, I have a long way to go, and I still get angry, but I honestly pray for those who wish me harm. I've practically lost any vindictive ways I may have had, and I pity those who attempt to steal someone’s joy. I'm not sure how many of you have reached this point in your Faith walk, but it's the best feeling in the world. At the same time, when you start to compare your views, to the views of the world, you could start to feel like a "pushover" of sorts, and that’s just what the enemy wants. There are also people who are saved, Holy, and Sanctified, but it stops there. Some, who go to church every Sunday, read their bible everyday and could quote scripture as if they've committed the entire book to memory. Yet, they never commit to doing any work to strengthen the Kingdom of God. If you are that type of person, are you truly following the second great commandment to love your neighbor? We must treat people the way we would want to be treated. It’s written: Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness, “You shall not covet,' and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. (Romans 13:8-10) If you're living with evil, hatred, jealously, malice, or selfishness in your heart, then how can you truly love the way Jesus loves? The only ways to overcome these things is by taking on the fruits of the Spirit, and to actively love. Always think before you act and speak, and ask yourself "how would I feel if this was done to me?” If you don't know Jesus as your Savior then you have no idea how to truly love anyone else, because Love, who is Jesus Christ, don't live inside of you. Go to Him in prayer right now and ask Him to come into your heart, and then ask Him to teach you how to love. Wisdom is a free gift by grace. My favorite verses today are: Be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: not rendering evil for evil or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. (1 Peter 3:8-9)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455181&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, October 15, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're Friday eve. I'm doing well, but was just a little grouchy this morning. I'm sleepy, it's raining, and the traffic was a nightmare. It took me 45 minutes to travel 2.5 miles, because of a new construction project that has closed down several lanes. I don't think the will construction ever ends, they’re at one stretch of the highway or another, and it puts a lot of strain on commuters. I try to look at it like this, at least they're attempting to do something to try and alleviate the traffic situations, but it seems like it never stops. I try to grin and bear it, but this morning it got under my skin; what can you do about it. Please keep me in prayer for my meeting tomorrow, pray that I get exactly what I need to get the book done. I'm also looking forward to Saturday's program at Pilgrims Baptist Church, I hope to see you there, it starts at 9am. Have a wonderful weekend, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about relying on God for strength. Life happens. There's nothing we can do to avoid its ups and downs, but we do have God as our Rock. We should build our lives around Him, because He gives us a strong foundation. Life should have some type of structure, and that structure begins with a foundation. Where we build our foundation is what matters the most. Jesus said in Matthew 7:24-27: “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” My dad told me years ago that God must sit on the throne of our lives, and Jesus sits at His right hand. I had heard that in Church before, but I can still remember the visual I imagined when dad said it. I learned that we should always put God first in our lives and try to live like Jesus lived. It's because of Jesus that we can wear a Crown of righteousness, so the key to living a peaceful life is to do everything with God in mind. We're to ask Him for guidance to get through each day, and He should influence our every decision. This gives us strength to withstand the trails and tribulation we may face. Paul wrote in his letter to the Ephesians: Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. (Eph. 2:19-22) In saying this, he gave us the responsibility for living righteous, because so often we leave that type of life to people who are in leadership positions. We are fellow citizens of the household of God, and it’s us up to us to build upon that. We learn the ways of God from our leaders, but it's ultimately up to us to follow those ways as individual. The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10), "A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand.... (Psalms 91:1). We will face trails, and some of us will be hit harder than others, but trouble will come. I think of the story of Job; he was a righteous man, but when God allowed him to be tested, He stood firm on God's promise, and relied on Him to get through it. God gives us the strength that we need to endure, but when we lose sight of Him, we lose strength. The worst thing we could do is turn to the world, because we start to build a flimsy foundation, which is only temporary. If you're going through a storm right not, stand firm on God, because He's our rock. He offers protection, comfort, and deliverance, but we must look to Him to receive it. If you don't know Jesus, then you don't know God. God is the foundation, Jesus is the Chief Cornerstone, and so if you don’t have them, what do you really have? The prayer is simple, confess your sins, invite Jesus into your heart as Lord and Savior, and then receive His love. Once that's done, start to build on His Living Word. It may take some time, and sometimes you might need to tear some things down and start over, but no matter what falls around you, that foundation is still strong to support you in everything you do. My favorite verse today is: The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. (Psalms 28:7)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455120&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=5492525&ct=7532563
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're Friday eve. I'm doing well, but was just a little grouchy this morning. I'm sleepy, it's raining, and the traffic was a nightmare. It took me 45 minutes to travel 2.5 miles, because of a new construction project that has closed down several lanes. I don't think the will construction ever ends, they’re at one stretch of the highway or another, and it puts a lot of strain on commuters. I try to look at it like this, at least they're attempting to do something to try and alleviate the traffic situations, but it seems like it never stops. I try to grin and bear it, but this morning it got under my skin; what can you do about it. Please keep me in prayer for my meeting tomorrow, pray that I get exactly what I need to get the book done. I'm also looking forward to Saturday's program at Pilgrims Baptist Church, I hope to see you there, it starts at 9am. Have a wonderful weekend, and be blessed family!
Today's scriptures are about relying on God for strength. Life happens. There's nothing we can do to avoid its ups and downs, but we do have God as our Rock. We should build our lives around Him, because He gives us a strong foundation. Life should have some type of structure, and that structure begins with a foundation. Where we build our foundation is what matters the most. Jesus said in Matthew 7:24-27: “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” My dad told me years ago that God must sit on the throne of our lives, and Jesus sits at His right hand. I had heard that in Church before, but I can still remember the visual I imagined when dad said it. I learned that we should always put God first in our lives and try to live like Jesus lived. It's because of Jesus that we can wear a Crown of righteousness, so the key to living a peaceful life is to do everything with God in mind. We're to ask Him for guidance to get through each day, and He should influence our every decision. This gives us strength to withstand the trails and tribulation we may face. Paul wrote in his letter to the Ephesians: Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. (Eph. 2:19-22) In saying this, he gave us the responsibility for living righteous, because so often we leave that type of life to people who are in leadership positions. We are fellow citizens of the household of God, and it’s us up to us to build upon that. We learn the ways of God from our leaders, but it's ultimately up to us to follow those ways as individual. The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10), "A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand.... (Psalms 91:1). We will face trails, and some of us will be hit harder than others, but trouble will come. I think of the story of Job; he was a righteous man, but when God allowed him to be tested, He stood firm on God's promise, and relied on Him to get through it. God gives us the strength that we need to endure, but when we lose sight of Him, we lose strength. The worst thing we could do is turn to the world, because we start to build a flimsy foundation, which is only temporary. If you're going through a storm right not, stand firm on God, because He's our rock. He offers protection, comfort, and deliverance, but we must look to Him to receive it. If you don't know Jesus, then you don't know God. God is the foundation, Jesus is the Chief Cornerstone, and so if you don’t have them, what do you really have? The prayer is simple, confess your sins, invite Jesus into your heart as Lord and Savior, and then receive His love. Once that's done, start to build on His Living Word. It may take some time, and sometimes you might need to tear some things down and start over, but no matter what falls around you, that foundation is still strong to support you in everything you do. My favorite verse today is: The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. (Psalms 28:7)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455120&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=5492525&ct=7532563
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!
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, August 27, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY THURSDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Friday-eve. I'm doing well, looking forward to another weekend. This week flew by, and we're still working the kinks out for my brother's school schedule. It's hard for him to break out of the lax of the summer months, but he’ll get used to it. When I was in school, we almost always resumed the day after Labor Day, so this is an early start for school. At the same time, he was out of school the second or third week of May, a month before the other kids did in June, so it balances out. This new routine also causes a shift in my schedule, so we both have little adjustments to make. It's all worth it, and we get a three-day weekend next week. Please pray that he gets off on a good start. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about the light that leads us on the right paths. When God was creating the earth, He already knew you and I, and what He had planned for us to do. It's written in Romans 8:28-30: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. Because we’re Children of God, we're given a certain path to follow, in order to complete our predestined will. If He has a job for us He'll make sure we’re able to do it, by providing everything we need. We live in a world ruled by darkness, so God's light is the only way we can get through our earthly life on the right path. We will hear clear instructions from Him, through the Holy Spirit, with all the details. How many times have you had impure thoughts and that voice in the back of your mind (the Holy Spirit) said, "Don't do it"? I can't tell you how many times I've avoided accidents, or received blessings, because I was at the right place at the right time. I used to always say, "something told me to come this way today". The something, or rather someone, was God guiding me all along. We live in such a fast world, where we could be juggling ten different things at one time, and it gets hard to slow down and focus on God. When I tell people my daily itinerary they're usually in awe, because I'm always busy, as are most of you. At the same time, I always find away to give God His time, some days more than others. Sometimes, if we don't stay focused on God, and give ourselves time to escape the darkness, we start to lose our way. Daily bible study, prayer and meditation time is the only way to keep God’s light shinning bright in our life. Jesus said in Matthew 6:22-23: “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!" He warns us to be careful of the worldly things we're focusing on, because the darkness can swallow us up, and we lose our way. When we lose our way, we stumble and fall. This is when we start to experience the most heartache and pain, so it's imperative to stay focused on God's light. He's instilled it inside of us, and gave us a handbook with full instructions, and examples of how we should live, as well as examples of how we shouldn't live. He's given us Salvation through Jesus Christ, all we have to do is slow down, accept His wonderful love, grace, and mercy, and use His light for guidance. I can promise you that if you follow the Will of God, everything else is will fall right into place. He's using you to be a blessing to others as well, so allow His light to shine through. If you don't know Christ as your Savior, then you're stuck in the darkness. Jesus said in John 8:23-24: “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” All you need to do to receive the light is to believe in Him. Pray to God, asking Jesus to come into your heart as your Savior, and confess that you're a sinner, and watch the light shine as bright as the sunshine, to keep you on the path to complete God's will for your life. My favorite verse today is: I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (John 8:12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455071&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=5336537&ct=7301713
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying another beautiful Friday-eve. I'm doing well, looking forward to another weekend. This week flew by, and we're still working the kinks out for my brother's school schedule. It's hard for him to break out of the lax of the summer months, but he’ll get used to it. When I was in school, we almost always resumed the day after Labor Day, so this is an early start for school. At the same time, he was out of school the second or third week of May, a month before the other kids did in June, so it balances out. This new routine also causes a shift in my schedule, so we both have little adjustments to make. It's all worth it, and we get a three-day weekend next week. Please pray that he gets off on a good start. Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about the light that leads us on the right paths. When God was creating the earth, He already knew you and I, and what He had planned for us to do. It's written in Romans 8:28-30: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. Because we’re Children of God, we're given a certain path to follow, in order to complete our predestined will. If He has a job for us He'll make sure we’re able to do it, by providing everything we need. We live in a world ruled by darkness, so God's light is the only way we can get through our earthly life on the right path. We will hear clear instructions from Him, through the Holy Spirit, with all the details. How many times have you had impure thoughts and that voice in the back of your mind (the Holy Spirit) said, "Don't do it"? I can't tell you how many times I've avoided accidents, or received blessings, because I was at the right place at the right time. I used to always say, "something told me to come this way today". The something, or rather someone, was God guiding me all along. We live in such a fast world, where we could be juggling ten different things at one time, and it gets hard to slow down and focus on God. When I tell people my daily itinerary they're usually in awe, because I'm always busy, as are most of you. At the same time, I always find away to give God His time, some days more than others. Sometimes, if we don't stay focused on God, and give ourselves time to escape the darkness, we start to lose our way. Daily bible study, prayer and meditation time is the only way to keep God’s light shinning bright in our life. Jesus said in Matthew 6:22-23: “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!" He warns us to be careful of the worldly things we're focusing on, because the darkness can swallow us up, and we lose our way. When we lose our way, we stumble and fall. This is when we start to experience the most heartache and pain, so it's imperative to stay focused on God's light. He's instilled it inside of us, and gave us a handbook with full instructions, and examples of how we should live, as well as examples of how we shouldn't live. He's given us Salvation through Jesus Christ, all we have to do is slow down, accept His wonderful love, grace, and mercy, and use His light for guidance. I can promise you that if you follow the Will of God, everything else is will fall right into place. He's using you to be a blessing to others as well, so allow His light to shine through. If you don't know Christ as your Savior, then you're stuck in the darkness. Jesus said in John 8:23-24: “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” All you need to do to receive the light is to believe in Him. Pray to God, asking Jesus to come into your heart as your Savior, and confess that you're a sinner, and watch the light shine as bright as the sunshine, to keep you on the path to complete God's will for your life. My favorite verse today is: I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (John 8:12)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455071&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=5336537&ct=7301713
I love you!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Daily Devotional Day & Night
HAPPY MONDAY!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, had a wonderful weekend. I spent my entire weekend with family and friends. I actually spent the night with my sister, and we stayed up until 3am talking one night. It's been years since we've done that, and it was awesome. My sister and I are only 1 year apart in age, so we've always been close growing up, but when you're "grown up", you start to live your own life, and frankly "life happens". It felt good to have a flash back moment, and hang with the girls. I remember when my sister, our best friends, and I were all between 18-21, and we used to have our "Exhale" parties, where we'd get bottles of wine, and light candles all over the house, and just have girl talk. We should do that again, because it's always good to have our girl time. Thanks for letting me vent guys, I love all of you who welcome and enjoy my devotionals, and your support means a lot to me. Tomorrow is my uncle’s birthday, Happy birthday Uncle Calvin! Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about how God set us apart from the world. If you're a believer of Christ Jesus, then you've been set apart from the rest of the world. God's light has been instilled in us, and we're no longer slaves to the flesh. He gives us choices, and He'll never force us to choose Him. He has a perfect plan for our lives that allows us to overcome the world, yet we sometimes choose to do our own things. Being disobedient in some parts of our lives hinders us from growing at the rate that we should. The world is filled with sorrow, pain, and heartache, and we will experience some of that, when we choose to follow the world. Jesus has made intercession for us to bring us right back into God's will, so we’re no long subjected to the world’s ways. We're to help each other out as well, because all of us are a part of one body, and that's the Body of Christ. Jesus came so we could have life, and it have it more abundantly. We're different, and I love 1 Peter 2, verses 9-10 says: But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. We have been given a special ordinance to live a peaceful and happy life. Why then are so many Christians unhappy? I ask myself, and God, that all the times. I wonder why there's so much unhappiness within the Christian community, let alone in the world. I wonder why we suffer so much, and the one answer I keep getting is disobedience. Scripture says that we're a "peculiar people", and I'm wondering why the word sticks out to me so much. The word Peculiar has three different meanings, but my favorite is: Distinct from all others. Whether you know it or not, you're different. Once you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior you instantly receive the power of Jesus Christ, as well as the Helper who is the Holy Spirit. This overcomes our darkness, and God is gradually bringing us into His marvelous light. We still battle with our flesh, because our flesh is ruled by the world, but our Spirit belongs to God. We’re tempted on every angel, and God allows certain things to happen in our lives, as test and trails, as well as for refinement. Yet, He'll never give us more than we could handle, He won't allow us to get so far down, where we can't be brought out. He always gives us a way out of no way, but again it's our choice to follow. When we're around people, our light shines bright, for the world to see, and most of the time people are watching us, and we don't even realize it. That's why it's so important to be aware of our surroundings, and open to each other. There's a reason why we all make up of one body of Christ. We each have our roles to play in the strengthening the Kingdom, it is written in Romans 15:1-3: We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification. For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me.” We all have our weak points, and God always puts people in our lives that make up for our weaknesses. Our peace and happiness all boils down to our trust in God. We must trust God with our whole hearts before we could live in complete peace. He's instilled the light in us, and our sin is the only thing that hinders that light shinning to its full capacity. Nonetheless, sin is the least of our worries, because Jesus has already overcome that for us. Now we're the only ones standing our own way. Jesus said in Luke 8:16-17: “No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light." God didn't chose us to be a part of the body of Christ to keep us covered, that's not possible, so just know that you are an important vessel for Christ. Don't let anyone tell you (especially the devil) that God can't use you. No matter what the world says, or what type of sin you've committed, forgiveness of free, and the Peace that surpasses all understanding is very much attainable when you have Christ in your life. The only person that could cover your light is you. Be sure to know that you are a special, loved, child of God, and no matter what happens, He's using you for His purpose. Know that trouble don't last always, and forgiveness waits for you at the foot of the cross. If you haven't accepted Jesus as your Savior, then your heart is dark. If you're reading this right now, then you've been given the fuel to ignite the fire, and Jesus is the flame you need to get it started. He's a prayer away. My favorite verses today are: A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 5:14,16)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455033&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=5283727&ct=7162579
I love you!
I pray all is well with everyone, and you're enjoying the beginning of another workweek (for most). I'm doing well, had a wonderful weekend. I spent my entire weekend with family and friends. I actually spent the night with my sister, and we stayed up until 3am talking one night. It's been years since we've done that, and it was awesome. My sister and I are only 1 year apart in age, so we've always been close growing up, but when you're "grown up", you start to live your own life, and frankly "life happens". It felt good to have a flash back moment, and hang with the girls. I remember when my sister, our best friends, and I were all between 18-21, and we used to have our "Exhale" parties, where we'd get bottles of wine, and light candles all over the house, and just have girl talk. We should do that again, because it's always good to have our girl time. Thanks for letting me vent guys, I love all of you who welcome and enjoy my devotionals, and your support means a lot to me. Tomorrow is my uncle’s birthday, Happy birthday Uncle Calvin! Have a wonderful day!
Today's scriptures are about how God set us apart from the world. If you're a believer of Christ Jesus, then you've been set apart from the rest of the world. God's light has been instilled in us, and we're no longer slaves to the flesh. He gives us choices, and He'll never force us to choose Him. He has a perfect plan for our lives that allows us to overcome the world, yet we sometimes choose to do our own things. Being disobedient in some parts of our lives hinders us from growing at the rate that we should. The world is filled with sorrow, pain, and heartache, and we will experience some of that, when we choose to follow the world. Jesus has made intercession for us to bring us right back into God's will, so we’re no long subjected to the world’s ways. We're to help each other out as well, because all of us are a part of one body, and that's the Body of Christ. Jesus came so we could have life, and it have it more abundantly. We're different, and I love 1 Peter 2, verses 9-10 says: But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. We have been given a special ordinance to live a peaceful and happy life. Why then are so many Christians unhappy? I ask myself, and God, that all the times. I wonder why there's so much unhappiness within the Christian community, let alone in the world. I wonder why we suffer so much, and the one answer I keep getting is disobedience. Scripture says that we're a "peculiar people", and I'm wondering why the word sticks out to me so much. The word Peculiar has three different meanings, but my favorite is: Distinct from all others. Whether you know it or not, you're different. Once you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior you instantly receive the power of Jesus Christ, as well as the Helper who is the Holy Spirit. This overcomes our darkness, and God is gradually bringing us into His marvelous light. We still battle with our flesh, because our flesh is ruled by the world, but our Spirit belongs to God. We’re tempted on every angel, and God allows certain things to happen in our lives, as test and trails, as well as for refinement. Yet, He'll never give us more than we could handle, He won't allow us to get so far down, where we can't be brought out. He always gives us a way out of no way, but again it's our choice to follow. When we're around people, our light shines bright, for the world to see, and most of the time people are watching us, and we don't even realize it. That's why it's so important to be aware of our surroundings, and open to each other. There's a reason why we all make up of one body of Christ. We each have our roles to play in the strengthening the Kingdom, it is written in Romans 15:1-3: We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification. For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me.” We all have our weak points, and God always puts people in our lives that make up for our weaknesses. Our peace and happiness all boils down to our trust in God. We must trust God with our whole hearts before we could live in complete peace. He's instilled the light in us, and our sin is the only thing that hinders that light shinning to its full capacity. Nonetheless, sin is the least of our worries, because Jesus has already overcome that for us. Now we're the only ones standing our own way. Jesus said in Luke 8:16-17: “No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light." God didn't chose us to be a part of the body of Christ to keep us covered, that's not possible, so just know that you are an important vessel for Christ. Don't let anyone tell you (especially the devil) that God can't use you. No matter what the world says, or what type of sin you've committed, forgiveness of free, and the Peace that surpasses all understanding is very much attainable when you have Christ in your life. The only person that could cover your light is you. Be sure to know that you are a special, loved, child of God, and no matter what happens, He's using you for His purpose. Know that trouble don't last always, and forgiveness waits for you at the foot of the cross. If you haven't accepted Jesus as your Savior, then your heart is dark. If you're reading this right now, then you've been given the fuel to ignite the fire, and Jesus is the flame you need to get it started. He's a prayer away. My favorite verses today are: A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 5:14,16)
ENJOY! http://www.bible.com/scripture-detail.php?juli=2455033&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=5283727&ct=7162579
I love you!
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