Thursday, June 29, 2006
Life In The Spirit
Scripture:
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. Romans 8: 1-8
Saints, forgive me if I am placing to much information in such a small space, but there are times when I am given a word to share, that requires me to elaborate a bit.
This past week, I have heard on more than one occasion about how we are trapped in bondage. Things, people, situations, and experiences bind us and keep us from truly seeking God's word. Our living our lives in the natural, going about our daily lives doing our own thing, and not seeking God or his council before we proceed on things, will put us in a trap.
The desires of our hearts, and our selfish nature will cause us to do what we want to do and not what God has directed us to do. We become slaves to the very things that we thought would bring us pleasure. Then and only then when we find ourselves caught up, strung out, and in a corner will we bow down and seek God's council.
Saints, don't allow your selfish nature to keep you from seeking God's word. Don't allow things or people to put you in a trap. Wake up and realize that when we seek God first, everything else will fall into place.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come this morning seeking Your face and Your council. Help us Lord to put You first in everything that we do. Allow us to live our lives and see things, not in the natural but in the Spirit. Help us Lord to seek You first before we make our decisions. Help us Lord to learn to stop, be still, and take our concerns about life to the alter of sacrificing. Lord, continue to be with the Saints, their families, our friends, and our co-workers this day. Continue to bless those who have come asking for intercessory prayer. We ask that You would continue to grant us fresh grace and mercy this day and forever more. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. Romans 8: 1-8
Saints, forgive me if I am placing to much information in such a small space, but there are times when I am given a word to share, that requires me to elaborate a bit.
This past week, I have heard on more than one occasion about how we are trapped in bondage. Things, people, situations, and experiences bind us and keep us from truly seeking God's word. Our living our lives in the natural, going about our daily lives doing our own thing, and not seeking God or his council before we proceed on things, will put us in a trap.
The desires of our hearts, and our selfish nature will cause us to do what we want to do and not what God has directed us to do. We become slaves to the very things that we thought would bring us pleasure. Then and only then when we find ourselves caught up, strung out, and in a corner will we bow down and seek God's council.
Saints, don't allow your selfish nature to keep you from seeking God's word. Don't allow things or people to put you in a trap. Wake up and realize that when we seek God first, everything else will fall into place.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come this morning seeking Your face and Your council. Help us Lord to put You first in everything that we do. Allow us to live our lives and see things, not in the natural but in the Spirit. Help us Lord to seek You first before we make our decisions. Help us Lord to learn to stop, be still, and take our concerns about life to the alter of sacrificing. Lord, continue to be with the Saints, their families, our friends, and our co-workers this day. Continue to bless those who have come asking for intercessory prayer. We ask that You would continue to grant us fresh grace and mercy this day and forever more. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
A Child's Tantrum
Scripture:
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children Ephesians 5:1
Saints,
I have often said that God gives us children so that we can see our relationship with him as our heavenly Father more clearly. You see, he is our parent and the way he sees and deals with us is often how we see and deal with our own children. So often something that my children might do or say really brings home how I think God sees us. Recently, I had one of those divine revelations in dealing with my own son, Joseph.
Joseph recently had a birthday. He turned nine years old on Tuesday. A big boy who had just told me the day before, that I didn't need to walk him to the front door of the school. He already knew where to go. Well, my big 4th grader really dealt me a blow on Tuesday.
You see, my financial situation has changed drastically and I had explained to Joseph that I wouldn't be able to do very much for his birthday. I had however managed to buy him a bike that I gave to him early because he hadn't made any friends in our new neighborhood yet. My ex-sister-in-law even took cupcakes to school for me so that he could have a little celebration with his classmates.
That evening I heard Joseph crying. When I asked him what was wrong, he said that no one had made his day special. He was sad because I couldn't give him a party or take him out to celebrate like I normally do. I was hurt, angry, sad, and mad all at the same time. You see, I had done what I could for my son given the situation. I still sacrificed so that I could buy him something for his birthday and I tried to explain to him beforehand why I couldn't do more.
How Joseph reacted to his birthday is how we so often react to God's blessings. You see, my brothers and sisters, we want God to recognize our requests. Sometimes his gifts or his blessings come early, late, or even in a different form. Sometimes his blessings aren't what we asked for but it's what God blessed us with at that time. Rather than be content with whatever blessing has come our way, we get angry and mad or even sad because our blessing wasn't what we thought it should be.
Saints, before you get angry and start crying like a child because you didn't get what you wanted, stop and think about what you did get from your Father. Health, strength, a right mind, food, shelter, clothing, and the greatest gift of all; SALVATION!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, forgive me for the not being grateful for my blessings. Forgive me Lord, for becoming angry when I don't get what I asked for when I ask for it. Forgive me Lord, for not thanking You for my gifts yesterday. The give of life. The gift of Love. The gift of the Holy Spirit and so much more. Lord, Sometimes we act as little children, refusing to grow up in our faith and pouting over things that we cannot understand. Lord, I want to grow in grace and grow in faith. Lord, I am sorry for not being a more mature Christian. I am sorry for not acknowledging how much You do for me. Lord, I just want to thank You. Because just like we forgive our children and get over their temper tantrums, You forgive me and overlook my faults. Thank Lord. Father, I ask that You continue to touch my brothers and sisters in Christ. Grant them the desires of their hearts. Bless them as only You can. Thank You Father, Bless You Father. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children Ephesians 5:1
Saints,
I have often said that God gives us children so that we can see our relationship with him as our heavenly Father more clearly. You see, he is our parent and the way he sees and deals with us is often how we see and deal with our own children. So often something that my children might do or say really brings home how I think God sees us. Recently, I had one of those divine revelations in dealing with my own son, Joseph.
Joseph recently had a birthday. He turned nine years old on Tuesday. A big boy who had just told me the day before, that I didn't need to walk him to the front door of the school. He already knew where to go. Well, my big 4th grader really dealt me a blow on Tuesday.
You see, my financial situation has changed drastically and I had explained to Joseph that I wouldn't be able to do very much for his birthday. I had however managed to buy him a bike that I gave to him early because he hadn't made any friends in our new neighborhood yet. My ex-sister-in-law even took cupcakes to school for me so that he could have a little celebration with his classmates.
That evening I heard Joseph crying. When I asked him what was wrong, he said that no one had made his day special. He was sad because I couldn't give him a party or take him out to celebrate like I normally do. I was hurt, angry, sad, and mad all at the same time. You see, I had done what I could for my son given the situation. I still sacrificed so that I could buy him something for his birthday and I tried to explain to him beforehand why I couldn't do more.
How Joseph reacted to his birthday is how we so often react to God's blessings. You see, my brothers and sisters, we want God to recognize our requests. Sometimes his gifts or his blessings come early, late, or even in a different form. Sometimes his blessings aren't what we asked for but it's what God blessed us with at that time. Rather than be content with whatever blessing has come our way, we get angry and mad or even sad because our blessing wasn't what we thought it should be.
Saints, before you get angry and start crying like a child because you didn't get what you wanted, stop and think about what you did get from your Father. Health, strength, a right mind, food, shelter, clothing, and the greatest gift of all; SALVATION!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, forgive me for the not being grateful for my blessings. Forgive me Lord, for becoming angry when I don't get what I asked for when I ask for it. Forgive me Lord, for not thanking You for my gifts yesterday. The give of life. The gift of Love. The gift of the Holy Spirit and so much more. Lord, Sometimes we act as little children, refusing to grow up in our faith and pouting over things that we cannot understand. Lord, I want to grow in grace and grow in faith. Lord, I am sorry for not being a more mature Christian. I am sorry for not acknowledging how much You do for me. Lord, I just want to thank You. Because just like we forgive our children and get over their temper tantrums, You forgive me and overlook my faults. Thank Lord. Father, I ask that You continue to touch my brothers and sisters in Christ. Grant them the desires of their hearts. Bless them as only You can. Thank You Father, Bless You Father. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
It's Getting Hot In Here
Scripture:
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith--of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire--may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7
Have you ever wondered why it seems that sometimes it's hard being a Christian? We accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior and then it seems like the more we love God and try to grow closer to him, life is constantly coming against you?
Well, I know I have. I look at my life, my sister's life and the lives of my saved brothers and sisters and see that each and every one of us is going through some rather difficult times. Situation after situation keeps happening. Jobs are being lost. Cars are being repossessed, houses are being lost, marriages are being torn apart and the money just can't seem to stretch far enough.
But then, God gave me a revelation. Stop depending on the world, the people of this world, the things of this world. Start looking at me instead! How many of you have noticed that the more you go through, the more you start to really study the word of God. You pray more and you look to him more. The more you go through, things and habits that you once had start falling away.
God says I put you in the furnace so that I can refine you like gold. I need to burn off all of those impurities. I know it's hot in there, but you are mine and those who are mine must be the best. Without spot or blemish. Free of sin, clean, A NEW CREATURE! So I just want each of you to know, that it may get so hot and uncomfortable. Life will get hard and things may not always work the way we want them to, but in the end, we can praise God and rejoice at the new creature that he has created.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus for my fiery furnace. Thank You Lord, for the impurities that You are removing from me. Father, we just ask that You continue to be with us as we go through. We just ask that You would take our hand and lead us on. Lord, we ask that You would help us to see those things in our lives that we have need to get rid of and give them to You willingly. Continue to bless Your saints. Be with those families who will be traveling this weekend and next week. Bring children safely home to the parents in preparation for the holidays. Thank You father for family and friends. Thank You Lord, for Your word. Thank You Lord, for Your son Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith--of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire--may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7
Have you ever wondered why it seems that sometimes it's hard being a Christian? We accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior and then it seems like the more we love God and try to grow closer to him, life is constantly coming against you?
Well, I know I have. I look at my life, my sister's life and the lives of my saved brothers and sisters and see that each and every one of us is going through some rather difficult times. Situation after situation keeps happening. Jobs are being lost. Cars are being repossessed, houses are being lost, marriages are being torn apart and the money just can't seem to stretch far enough.
But then, God gave me a revelation. Stop depending on the world, the people of this world, the things of this world. Start looking at me instead! How many of you have noticed that the more you go through, the more you start to really study the word of God. You pray more and you look to him more. The more you go through, things and habits that you once had start falling away.
God says I put you in the furnace so that I can refine you like gold. I need to burn off all of those impurities. I know it's hot in there, but you are mine and those who are mine must be the best. Without spot or blemish. Free of sin, clean, A NEW CREATURE! So I just want each of you to know, that it may get so hot and uncomfortable. Life will get hard and things may not always work the way we want them to, but in the end, we can praise God and rejoice at the new creature that he has created.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus for my fiery furnace. Thank You Lord, for the impurities that You are removing from me. Father, we just ask that You continue to be with us as we go through. We just ask that You would take our hand and lead us on. Lord, we ask that You would help us to see those things in our lives that we have need to get rid of and give them to You willingly. Continue to bless Your saints. Be with those families who will be traveling this weekend and next week. Bring children safely home to the parents in preparation for the holidays. Thank You father for family and friends. Thank You Lord, for Your word. Thank You Lord, for Your son Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.
Monday, June 26, 2006
What Do You Really Want?
Scripture:
What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures James 4:1-3
Saints, what is it you really want? When asked that question, some don't hesitate to say riches. Others would say a spouse, some say peace. And others still would say health. But what do you really want? How much do you really examine those things that you seek after.
"I want riches", until I saw riches couldn't buy happiness. "I want a spouse", until I saw that my spouse didn't treat me the way God wanted them to. "I want to work for myself", until I realized that I was a horrible employee and wanted to fire me.
You see, we all want something. Sometimes even we don't really know what it is we truly want. We just know that something is missing. Personally, I want a better relationship with God. You see, when you have a relationship with God, he will guide and direct you and tell you what you need. Not only that, "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
So the next time you feel as though something is missing and you don't know what it is, try God, he can and will supply all that you need.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, in the name of Jesus, I come before You. Spirit of Truth, Who comes from the Father, it is You Who guides me into all truth. According to 3 John 2, it is God’s will that I prosper in every way and that my body keeps well, even as my soul keeps well and prospers. One thing I ask of You, Lord, one thing will I seek after, inquire for and require, that I may dwell in Your presence all the days of my life, to behold and gaze upon Your beauty. Father, You have said, I will not in any way fail You nor give You up nor leave You without support. So I take comfort and am encouraged and confidently and boldly say that the Lord is my Helper. In the name of Jesus, I am strong and very courageous, that I may do according to all Your Word. I turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that I may prosper wherever I go. The Word of God shall not depart out of my mouth, but I shall meditate on it day and night. I hear therefore and am watchful to keep the instructions, the laws and precepts of my Lord God, that it may be well with me and that I may increase exceedingly, as the Lord God has promised me, in a land flowing with milk and honey. The Lord my God is one Lord — the only Lord. And I shall love the Lord my God with all my mind and heart. Jesus, You said that when I do this I will live — enjoy active, blessed, endless life in the Kingdom of God. Therefore, I will not worry or be anxious about what I am going to eat, or what I am going to have to drink or what I am going to have to wear. My heavenly Father knows that I need them all. But I purpose in my heart to seek for, aim at and strive after, first of all Your Kingdom, Lord, and Your righteousness. Now thanks be to You, Father for all of Your magnificent blessings. We come thanking You not only for what You have done, but also for what You are about to do in our lives. We love You Lord, we Thank You Lord. Blessed is the name of the Lord. Praise be to God, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen. Praise God. Amen.
What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures James 4:1-3
Saints, what is it you really want? When asked that question, some don't hesitate to say riches. Others would say a spouse, some say peace. And others still would say health. But what do you really want? How much do you really examine those things that you seek after.
"I want riches", until I saw riches couldn't buy happiness. "I want a spouse", until I saw that my spouse didn't treat me the way God wanted them to. "I want to work for myself", until I realized that I was a horrible employee and wanted to fire me.
You see, we all want something. Sometimes even we don't really know what it is we truly want. We just know that something is missing. Personally, I want a better relationship with God. You see, when you have a relationship with God, he will guide and direct you and tell you what you need. Not only that, "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
So the next time you feel as though something is missing and you don't know what it is, try God, he can and will supply all that you need.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, in the name of Jesus, I come before You. Spirit of Truth, Who comes from the Father, it is You Who guides me into all truth. According to 3 John 2, it is God’s will that I prosper in every way and that my body keeps well, even as my soul keeps well and prospers. One thing I ask of You, Lord, one thing will I seek after, inquire for and require, that I may dwell in Your presence all the days of my life, to behold and gaze upon Your beauty. Father, You have said, I will not in any way fail You nor give You up nor leave You without support. So I take comfort and am encouraged and confidently and boldly say that the Lord is my Helper. In the name of Jesus, I am strong and very courageous, that I may do according to all Your Word. I turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that I may prosper wherever I go. The Word of God shall not depart out of my mouth, but I shall meditate on it day and night. I hear therefore and am watchful to keep the instructions, the laws and precepts of my Lord God, that it may be well with me and that I may increase exceedingly, as the Lord God has promised me, in a land flowing with milk and honey. The Lord my God is one Lord — the only Lord. And I shall love the Lord my God with all my mind and heart. Jesus, You said that when I do this I will live — enjoy active, blessed, endless life in the Kingdom of God. Therefore, I will not worry or be anxious about what I am going to eat, or what I am going to have to drink or what I am going to have to wear. My heavenly Father knows that I need them all. But I purpose in my heart to seek for, aim at and strive after, first of all Your Kingdom, Lord, and Your righteousness. Now thanks be to You, Father for all of Your magnificent blessings. We come thanking You not only for what You have done, but also for what You are about to do in our lives. We love You Lord, we Thank You Lord. Blessed is the name of the Lord. Praise be to God, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen. Praise God. Amen.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Be Encouraged
Scripture:
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. Psalm 34:18-20
Periodically we will all be faced trials and tribulations. From time to time it will seem as though God doesn't hear or just won't answer our prayers. Then, there are times when we are just plain old tired of fighting against this world.
Recently, I was reminded of a situation that the Prophet Elijah went through. Elijah was a prophet who did great things in the name of God. (See 1 Kings). One day Elijah was sent out to destroy the prophets of Baal. He killed all 450 prophets. When Jezebel heard what he had done she vowed to have him killed as well. Elijah, a great Prophet of the Living God, who had done great things in the name of God, just the day before, became scared and ran away to hide.
This Prophet, one of God's chosen, became scared of one woman. Even though God had manifested himself in Elijah's life and used Elijah to do many things in his name, Elijah ran. Even though Elijah knew God for himself and had seen his power first hand, he felt helpless at the threat of one queen Jezebel.
I use this story because it reminded me that even those who have been on the battlefield for the Lord and have been used by God will become tired. I am reminded of not only Elijah, but of King David and of Job as well. But you know what saints of God? Even in their moments of darkness God was still there. Even when it seemed that there was little or no hope, God was still there. Even when it seemed that they couldn't go on another day, God was still there.
So Saints of God, remember, God is still there! He will never leave us nor forsake us! He hasn't failed us yet!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come to You seeking strength, guidance and a little more patience. Father, forgive us when we feel weak in our faith. Forgive us when we seem to give up and give out. Lord, we know that You are not a God of confusion. You have told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Thank You Lord for that word. Father, hide us under Your wings of salvation. Cover us in the blood. Keep us nearer God to thee. Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless our brothers and sisters. Those who are saved and those who have yet to get to know You for themselves. Lord, we pray for financial breakthroughs today. So many need so much, have mercy Lord. Breath on us Lord, cover us Lord, Have mercy on us Lord. We love You Father God and we are thankful for what we do have. We praise, uplift and bless Your holy name. As we submit our prayers and petitions in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. Psalm 34:18-20
Periodically we will all be faced trials and tribulations. From time to time it will seem as though God doesn't hear or just won't answer our prayers. Then, there are times when we are just plain old tired of fighting against this world.
Recently, I was reminded of a situation that the Prophet Elijah went through. Elijah was a prophet who did great things in the name of God. (See 1 Kings). One day Elijah was sent out to destroy the prophets of Baal. He killed all 450 prophets. When Jezebel heard what he had done she vowed to have him killed as well. Elijah, a great Prophet of the Living God, who had done great things in the name of God, just the day before, became scared and ran away to hide.
This Prophet, one of God's chosen, became scared of one woman. Even though God had manifested himself in Elijah's life and used Elijah to do many things in his name, Elijah ran. Even though Elijah knew God for himself and had seen his power first hand, he felt helpless at the threat of one queen Jezebel.
I use this story because it reminded me that even those who have been on the battlefield for the Lord and have been used by God will become tired. I am reminded of not only Elijah, but of King David and of Job as well. But you know what saints of God? Even in their moments of darkness God was still there. Even when it seemed that there was little or no hope, God was still there. Even when it seemed that they couldn't go on another day, God was still there.
So Saints of God, remember, God is still there! He will never leave us nor forsake us! He hasn't failed us yet!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come to You seeking strength, guidance and a little more patience. Father, forgive us when we feel weak in our faith. Forgive us when we seem to give up and give out. Lord, we know that You are not a God of confusion. You have told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Thank You Lord for that word. Father, hide us under Your wings of salvation. Cover us in the blood. Keep us nearer God to thee. Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless our brothers and sisters. Those who are saved and those who have yet to get to know You for themselves. Lord, we pray for financial breakthroughs today. So many need so much, have mercy Lord. Breath on us Lord, cover us Lord, Have mercy on us Lord. We love You Father God and we are thankful for what we do have. We praise, uplift and bless Your holy name. As we submit our prayers and petitions in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Do You Have A Song?
Scripture:
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
I love gospel music. Gospel music has a way of putting into words, feelings and situations that you may be going through. Gospel music has a way of putting God's word into songs that minister to our very souls. Gospel music has a way of touching your very heart as though God himself is having a personal conversation with only you.
Recently, at the suggestion of a very good friend, I bought a cd collection that featured a number of todays most popular songs. It's a four cd collection that has a title for each cd. For example, they are "Meditation and Strength", "Praise Party", "Trial and Triumph" and "Restoration and Praise".
Driving to work recently and listening to these awesome God inspired messages in song, there was one song in particular that really touched my spirit. It is called, "I Believe" by Marvin Sapp. Reverend Sapp is an ordained minister out of Grand Rapids, Michigan who used to sing with the group Commissioned. Reverend Sapp is known for interjecting mini sermons into his song performances.
This particular song speaks about the promises of God. It says "I believe in your promises. I believe what you said is true. I believe what you promised me. I believe that you'll come through. As is in his style of singing, he begins to preach.
The words that he spoke during this particular song talked about the increased attacks on your life by satan. Reverend Sapp said "the devil is trying to discourage you. He has peeped into your future and sees what God has is store for you". Saints, how many of you feel that song may be talking about you? I know I had a personal connection with it. Again, my God was ministering to me through music.
The point that I am trying to make is this; when there is a situation going on in your life and you have prayed about it, never be surprised on how God can answer you. Even in song. During those times when you may not be able to open up your bible and read, there are other ways to receive the word of God. Music is just one.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come this morning thanking You once again for Your word. Your message and direction, delivered in the reading and the hearing of Your word. Your word, delivered in song and praise. Your word, that You pass along from one saint to another. Thank You father for the gift of Your word. Lord, we come thanking You, not for anything one thing, but for life itself. We thank You for watching over us once again. We thank You for proving all of our needs. We thank You for family and fellowship. Lord, we thank You most of all for Your son, Jesus Christ. Now Lord, continue to keep us in perfect peace, full of Your joy, covered in Your grace and mercy and full of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
I love gospel music. Gospel music has a way of putting into words, feelings and situations that you may be going through. Gospel music has a way of putting God's word into songs that minister to our very souls. Gospel music has a way of touching your very heart as though God himself is having a personal conversation with only you.
Recently, at the suggestion of a very good friend, I bought a cd collection that featured a number of todays most popular songs. It's a four cd collection that has a title for each cd. For example, they are "Meditation and Strength", "Praise Party", "Trial and Triumph" and "Restoration and Praise".
Driving to work recently and listening to these awesome God inspired messages in song, there was one song in particular that really touched my spirit. It is called, "I Believe" by Marvin Sapp. Reverend Sapp is an ordained minister out of Grand Rapids, Michigan who used to sing with the group Commissioned. Reverend Sapp is known for interjecting mini sermons into his song performances.
This particular song speaks about the promises of God. It says "I believe in your promises. I believe what you said is true. I believe what you promised me. I believe that you'll come through. As is in his style of singing, he begins to preach.
The words that he spoke during this particular song talked about the increased attacks on your life by satan. Reverend Sapp said "the devil is trying to discourage you. He has peeped into your future and sees what God has is store for you". Saints, how many of you feel that song may be talking about you? I know I had a personal connection with it. Again, my God was ministering to me through music.
The point that I am trying to make is this; when there is a situation going on in your life and you have prayed about it, never be surprised on how God can answer you. Even in song. During those times when you may not be able to open up your bible and read, there are other ways to receive the word of God. Music is just one.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come this morning thanking You once again for Your word. Your message and direction, delivered in the reading and the hearing of Your word. Your word, delivered in song and praise. Your word, that You pass along from one saint to another. Thank You father for the gift of Your word. Lord, we come thanking You, not for anything one thing, but for life itself. We thank You for watching over us once again. We thank You for proving all of our needs. We thank You for family and fellowship. Lord, we thank You most of all for Your son, Jesus Christ. Now Lord, continue to keep us in perfect peace, full of Your joy, covered in Your grace and mercy and full of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
The Power of A Smile
Scripture:
Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 1 Peter 3:8
Have you ever paid attention to what a smile can get you? Recently an old friend and I were reminiscing about our old place of employment and how we missed some of the people we used to work with. We continued on to say how some people were thought to be a bit contrite and some to be cantankerous but we didn't see them that way. You want to know why?
We smiled at the so called difficult ones. We asked about their day. We asked if they felt good or not. We talked to them and didn't pass judgment. We accepted them for who they were. We were genuinely concerned.
You see, sometimes others who seem to be having a bad day just need a smile and to know that someone else cares. Sometimes, others may be feeling lonely and just need to know that they are not alone. Sometimes, they may feel that the world has treated them so badly that they need to treat everyone else just as bad.
Sometimes they just need to know that there is joy and love in life and the sun does shine in their lives too. Sometimes that smile, that hug, that kind word may be the first smile or hug they have received all week. That act of kindness that you show them may be the first one that anyone has shone them for a very long time.
Remember Saints of God, it is your job, your responsibility to show the world God's love.
What better way to introduce Jesus to others than with your smile.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father I stretch my hand to thee. Father without You life would have no meaning. Lord we come today to pour an abundance of praise upon You. Father guide our hearts, minds and souls today. Let our words and actions be to the glory of You Lord. Lord I want to personally thank You for the healing that has and will continue to come with my husband. Father I thank You for continuing to bless me with leaders who have an understanding heart. Lord I thank You for just placing so many praying saints in my life. Lord I thank You for this family that You have put together, Lord God. What a wonderful blessing. Father I just have overflowing praises for You this day O'Lord for You make it worthwhile. Lord continue to let our frowns be smiles to place happiness in someone else's life. Now, Lord we ask that You continue to heal our prayer list. Father touch the saints, in the areas they need comfort or attention. Lord we ask that You continue to take control of life situations like bills, stressful jobs, and family troubles. Lord we love You and magnify Your name. In the name of Jesus Christ, we humbly submit this prayer. Amen.
Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 1 Peter 3:8
Have you ever paid attention to what a smile can get you? Recently an old friend and I were reminiscing about our old place of employment and how we missed some of the people we used to work with. We continued on to say how some people were thought to be a bit contrite and some to be cantankerous but we didn't see them that way. You want to know why?
We smiled at the so called difficult ones. We asked about their day. We asked if they felt good or not. We talked to them and didn't pass judgment. We accepted them for who they were. We were genuinely concerned.
You see, sometimes others who seem to be having a bad day just need a smile and to know that someone else cares. Sometimes, others may be feeling lonely and just need to know that they are not alone. Sometimes, they may feel that the world has treated them so badly that they need to treat everyone else just as bad.
Sometimes they just need to know that there is joy and love in life and the sun does shine in their lives too. Sometimes that smile, that hug, that kind word may be the first smile or hug they have received all week. That act of kindness that you show them may be the first one that anyone has shone them for a very long time.
Remember Saints of God, it is your job, your responsibility to show the world God's love.
What better way to introduce Jesus to others than with your smile.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father I stretch my hand to thee. Father without You life would have no meaning. Lord we come today to pour an abundance of praise upon You. Father guide our hearts, minds and souls today. Let our words and actions be to the glory of You Lord. Lord I want to personally thank You for the healing that has and will continue to come with my husband. Father I thank You for continuing to bless me with leaders who have an understanding heart. Lord I thank You for just placing so many praying saints in my life. Lord I thank You for this family that You have put together, Lord God. What a wonderful blessing. Father I just have overflowing praises for You this day O'Lord for You make it worthwhile. Lord continue to let our frowns be smiles to place happiness in someone else's life. Now, Lord we ask that You continue to heal our prayer list. Father touch the saints, in the areas they need comfort or attention. Lord we ask that You continue to take control of life situations like bills, stressful jobs, and family troubles. Lord we love You and magnify Your name. In the name of Jesus Christ, we humbly submit this prayer. Amen.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Moving From Hope to Faith
Scripture:
Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope (faith) is in the Lord his God. Psalm 146:5
Saints, how often to you say; I hope that I get; I hope I can; I hope that happens? Now, how often do you say I have faith that I will get; I have faith that I will; I have faith that this will happen?
Too often we believe that if we hope hard enough for something that it will come to pass. God's word says that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. If ye have the faith of a mustard seed and say to the mountain, be ye removed......
Saints, if you believe that God can do anything but fail. If you believe he is that he says he is. If you believe that you have been given all power through Christ Jesus, then learn to move from hope and into faith.
Faith means being grasped by a power that is greater than we are, a power that shakes us and turns us, and transforms and heals us. Surrender to the power of faith. - Paul Tillich
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus, that faith is not an emotion that I need to work up inside of me. Instead, it is a gift You give to me as I commit myself to You. Help each of us to grow in faith. Father, sometimes we become discouraged because things do not happen the way we hoped that they would. Help us to learn to be patient and not count on hope but to stand on our faith and know that in Your time, the things that You want for our lives will come to pass. Father, You have said that if we have the faith of a mustard seed and say to that mountain, that thing that stand in our way, be it sickness, poverty, bills, wayward children, cheating spouses, it will be cast into the sea. Father, we come believing that You will grant us the desires of our hearts according to thy tender mercies and through the blood of Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope (faith) is in the Lord his God. Psalm 146:5
Saints, how often to you say; I hope that I get; I hope I can; I hope that happens? Now, how often do you say I have faith that I will get; I have faith that I will; I have faith that this will happen?
Too often we believe that if we hope hard enough for something that it will come to pass. God's word says that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. If ye have the faith of a mustard seed and say to the mountain, be ye removed......
Saints, if you believe that God can do anything but fail. If you believe he is that he says he is. If you believe that you have been given all power through Christ Jesus, then learn to move from hope and into faith.
Faith means being grasped by a power that is greater than we are, a power that shakes us and turns us, and transforms and heals us. Surrender to the power of faith. - Paul Tillich
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus, that faith is not an emotion that I need to work up inside of me. Instead, it is a gift You give to me as I commit myself to You. Help each of us to grow in faith. Father, sometimes we become discouraged because things do not happen the way we hoped that they would. Help us to learn to be patient and not count on hope but to stand on our faith and know that in Your time, the things that You want for our lives will come to pass. Father, You have said that if we have the faith of a mustard seed and say to that mountain, that thing that stand in our way, be it sickness, poverty, bills, wayward children, cheating spouses, it will be cast into the sea. Father, we come believing that You will grant us the desires of our hearts according to thy tender mercies and through the blood of Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Near the Cross
Scripture:
Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. John 19:25
Saints, have you ever wondered why the Cross of Jesus is so important? We sing about being near the cross. We wear a cross as a symbol of being saved. We pray about drawing near the cross.
The cross of Jesus represents God's love, sacrifice and forgiveness for us. The cross of Jesus gives a point of reference for seeking comfort and strength. The cross of Jesus is a reminder to us of the magnitude of just how much God wanted to save a sinful and dying world.
The cross of Jesus is our reminder of just how much God loved us. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Aren't you glad for the Cross?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come rejoicing and thanking You for the Cross of Jesus. We give thanks O'Lord, for the love and sacrifice that You made so that we might be redeemed. Lord, when we stop and think about what our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus had to endure, when we think about his pain and suffering, all we can say is, thank You Jesus. When we think about the heartbreak You had to endure at the loss of Your only begotten son, we say thank You Lord. Father, let not Your sacrifice be in vain. We come kneeling at the foot of the cross in total surrender, praying that You would empower us, give us the courage and the strength to endure our own crosses. Help us Lord, to be mindful of what price You paid so that we could be reconciled to the kingdom of God. Continue to keep us near the cross. Continue to speak to our hearts and minds. Lord, allow Your power and Your word to be manifested in our lives. Thank You Lord. Thank You Jesus. In His name we pray. Amen.
Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. John 19:25
Saints, have you ever wondered why the Cross of Jesus is so important? We sing about being near the cross. We wear a cross as a symbol of being saved. We pray about drawing near the cross.
The cross of Jesus represents God's love, sacrifice and forgiveness for us. The cross of Jesus gives a point of reference for seeking comfort and strength. The cross of Jesus is a reminder to us of the magnitude of just how much God wanted to save a sinful and dying world.
The cross of Jesus is our reminder of just how much God loved us. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Aren't you glad for the Cross?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come rejoicing and thanking You for the Cross of Jesus. We give thanks O'Lord, for the love and sacrifice that You made so that we might be redeemed. Lord, when we stop and think about what our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus had to endure, when we think about his pain and suffering, all we can say is, thank You Jesus. When we think about the heartbreak You had to endure at the loss of Your only begotten son, we say thank You Lord. Father, let not Your sacrifice be in vain. We come kneeling at the foot of the cross in total surrender, praying that You would empower us, give us the courage and the strength to endure our own crosses. Help us Lord, to be mindful of what price You paid so that we could be reconciled to the kingdom of God. Continue to keep us near the cross. Continue to speak to our hearts and minds. Lord, allow Your power and Your word to be manifested in our lives. Thank You Lord. Thank You Jesus. In His name we pray. Amen.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Don't Be A Bag Lady
Scripture:
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24
Saints,
How many of you are following Christ? If you are a follower of Christ, are you keeping up? What I mean by that is, are there other things in your life that are preventing you from truly following the word of God?
It has been said that each of us has our OWN cross to carry. But how many of you are trying to carry your cross and a whole lot of other baggage along with it? Do you realize that the excess baggage may be weighing you down? What many of us often fail to realize is that so often we allow our past hurts, our sins, negative relationships, negative situations, and negative people to climb into the bags that we carry with us each and every day.
We allow circumstance and situations to become a weight that we put in the bags that we call our lives. We allow fear and doubt to become like a rock around our necks. We allow our lack of faith to become a heavy object that we place in the bags of our lives that we continue to carry.
I believe that Erykah Badu, who wrote the song “Bag Lady”, knew what Jesus meant he said :
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Mathew 11:28
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come to You this day in humble submission. We ask Lord, that You would help us to realize and recognize to put down those things that are weighing us down and preventing us from truly following Your word. Lord, we come this day placing our all on the alter. We come sacrificing ourselves as in the days of old. We have nothing to truly give You, but ourselves. Help us to become a living sacrifice. Allow something that we may do or say this day to encourage someone to seek Your face and Your word. Help us Lord to walk just a little closer to thee. Father, we come thanking You that You have given us this new day with new opportunities to draw nearer to thee. We give You praise, honor, and glory. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24
Saints,
How many of you are following Christ? If you are a follower of Christ, are you keeping up? What I mean by that is, are there other things in your life that are preventing you from truly following the word of God?
It has been said that each of us has our OWN cross to carry. But how many of you are trying to carry your cross and a whole lot of other baggage along with it? Do you realize that the excess baggage may be weighing you down? What many of us often fail to realize is that so often we allow our past hurts, our sins, negative relationships, negative situations, and negative people to climb into the bags that we carry with us each and every day.
We allow circumstance and situations to become a weight that we put in the bags that we call our lives. We allow fear and doubt to become like a rock around our necks. We allow our lack of faith to become a heavy object that we place in the bags of our lives that we continue to carry.
I believe that Erykah Badu, who wrote the song “Bag Lady”, knew what Jesus meant he said :
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Mathew 11:28
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come to You this day in humble submission. We ask Lord, that You would help us to realize and recognize to put down those things that are weighing us down and preventing us from truly following Your word. Lord, we come this day placing our all on the alter. We come sacrificing ourselves as in the days of old. We have nothing to truly give You, but ourselves. Help us to become a living sacrifice. Allow something that we may do or say this day to encourage someone to seek Your face and Your word. Help us Lord to walk just a little closer to thee. Father, we come thanking You that You have given us this new day with new opportunities to draw nearer to thee. We give You praise, honor, and glory. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
When We Forget About God
Scripture:
Praise the LORD . Give thanks to the LORD , for he is good; his love endures forever. Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the LORD or fully declare his praise? Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right. Remember me, O LORD , when you show favor to your people, come to my aid when you save them, that I may enjoy the prosperity of your chosen ones, that I may share in the joy of your nation and join your inheritance in giving praise. Psalm 106:1-5
Saints, I know that most of you are saved, sanctified and filled with the Holy Spirit. I know that most of you put God first in all that you do and say. I know that most of you don't get upset, flustered or anxious because God is always right next to you helping you to make it through your situation. I know that most of you have no complaints because you have already turned them over to God. Or do you?
Saints of God, each and every one of us has at some point in our lives felt hopelessness, despair, anxiety, scared and all alone. Everyone of us has felt that we couldn't handle whatever our situation was at that time. Everyone of us has felt so far away from God that we couldn't even remember who it was we were supposed to be calling on.
Periodically, I have to remind myself to stop worrying about a situation. Sometimes I have to remember that when I turn my problems over to God and LEAVE them at the alter, not to turn right around and pick them back up. Sometimes I have to reach deep down inside of myself and remember to call on the name of Jesus. Every now and then, I have to force myself to get down on my knees and pray; even when I don't feel like it. Every now and then I have to ask God to forgive me for not trusting him in the middle of my situation.
Every now and then I have to ask God to forgive me for forgetting about him, especially when I know that he has not forgotten about me.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, You are the creator of all things. You called forth the planets with a word, and established the stars with the sound of Your voice. You have authority over all the resources of the universe, and You have promised to meet all of our needs. We come before Your throne of provision right now. You know our needs, and the challenges that we are faced with. Lord, we ask that You would release a mighty blessing upon us and demonstrate Your enormous generosity, by providing above and beyond all that they could hope or imagine right now. Guard our hearts from anxiety and fear. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and cause faith to rise up within us. Enable us to stand firm in the midst of uncertainty, and bring forth a mighty victory. Help us to establish another testimony of Your goodness, that those who hear of it might glorify Your name. No weapon formed against us can prosper because not only have You given us our whole armor, we come pleading the blood of Jesus over our situations and into our circumstances. We rebuke satan and ask that You would not only give us a spirit of discernment but that You would help us to see things with our spiritual eyes. Continue to bless each family that is represented here. Bless Rhonda and strengthen her for this, the final leg of her educational race. Prosper all who have come seeking Your face. Grant us fresh grace and mercy, as we pause to give You all praise, honor and glory. We pray in Jesus mighty name, Amen!
Praise the LORD . Give thanks to the LORD , for he is good; his love endures forever. Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the LORD or fully declare his praise? Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right. Remember me, O LORD , when you show favor to your people, come to my aid when you save them, that I may enjoy the prosperity of your chosen ones, that I may share in the joy of your nation and join your inheritance in giving praise. Psalm 106:1-5
Saints, I know that most of you are saved, sanctified and filled with the Holy Spirit. I know that most of you put God first in all that you do and say. I know that most of you don't get upset, flustered or anxious because God is always right next to you helping you to make it through your situation. I know that most of you have no complaints because you have already turned them over to God. Or do you?
Saints of God, each and every one of us has at some point in our lives felt hopelessness, despair, anxiety, scared and all alone. Everyone of us has felt that we couldn't handle whatever our situation was at that time. Everyone of us has felt so far away from God that we couldn't even remember who it was we were supposed to be calling on.
Periodically, I have to remind myself to stop worrying about a situation. Sometimes I have to remember that when I turn my problems over to God and LEAVE them at the alter, not to turn right around and pick them back up. Sometimes I have to reach deep down inside of myself and remember to call on the name of Jesus. Every now and then, I have to force myself to get down on my knees and pray; even when I don't feel like it. Every now and then I have to ask God to forgive me for not trusting him in the middle of my situation.
Every now and then I have to ask God to forgive me for forgetting about him, especially when I know that he has not forgotten about me.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, You are the creator of all things. You called forth the planets with a word, and established the stars with the sound of Your voice. You have authority over all the resources of the universe, and You have promised to meet all of our needs. We come before Your throne of provision right now. You know our needs, and the challenges that we are faced with. Lord, we ask that You would release a mighty blessing upon us and demonstrate Your enormous generosity, by providing above and beyond all that they could hope or imagine right now. Guard our hearts from anxiety and fear. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and cause faith to rise up within us. Enable us to stand firm in the midst of uncertainty, and bring forth a mighty victory. Help us to establish another testimony of Your goodness, that those who hear of it might glorify Your name. No weapon formed against us can prosper because not only have You given us our whole armor, we come pleading the blood of Jesus over our situations and into our circumstances. We rebuke satan and ask that You would not only give us a spirit of discernment but that You would help us to see things with our spiritual eyes. Continue to bless each family that is represented here. Bless Rhonda and strengthen her for this, the final leg of her educational race. Prosper all who have come seeking Your face. Grant us fresh grace and mercy, as we pause to give You all praise, honor and glory. We pray in Jesus mighty name, Amen!
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
He's An On Time God
Scripture:
But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
Saints, how many of you become worried and discouraged sometimes? How many of you feel punch drunk from all of the hits that life throws at you? How many of you have been knocked down to you knees of flat on your back by things thrown your way? How many of you feel that you have reached the end of your rope?
So often others try to tell us that what we feel is wrong. It's not. They will say, we don't trust God. We do. They tell us we have no faith. we do, some days a little more than others.
Saints, I just want you to know that everyone will get a little discouraged from time to time. There will be times when each of us will cry tears of sorrow. Every last single one of us will be knocked down by life and have doubts about our situations. Some of the greatest people in the bible experienced their own doubts. Moses, Abraham, Peter, and even Mary, mother of Jesus.
But, each and every one of them learned to listen to the voice of God. Each and every one of them, learned to wait on God. Each and every one of them allowed themselves to be led by God. Each and everyone of them learned that he is an on time God! Yes he is!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come before the throne of grace once again to intercede for one another. We come asking for blessings and breakthroughs, not for ourselves but for our family members, friends, co-workers, on-line family members and brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, we don't know the needs of Your children, but You do Lord. We ask that You would lift and bind the spirits of depression, despair, loneliness, anger, resentment, hurt, poverty and all others that are not of You. Lord, we ask that You would bless us and deliver us as only You can. Place Your hedge of protection securely around every person and all families that are represented here today. Allow this day to be filled with blessings and joy that have been given with the birth of Your son, Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
Saints, how many of you become worried and discouraged sometimes? How many of you feel punch drunk from all of the hits that life throws at you? How many of you have been knocked down to you knees of flat on your back by things thrown your way? How many of you feel that you have reached the end of your rope?
So often others try to tell us that what we feel is wrong. It's not. They will say, we don't trust God. We do. They tell us we have no faith. we do, some days a little more than others.
Saints, I just want you to know that everyone will get a little discouraged from time to time. There will be times when each of us will cry tears of sorrow. Every last single one of us will be knocked down by life and have doubts about our situations. Some of the greatest people in the bible experienced their own doubts. Moses, Abraham, Peter, and even Mary, mother of Jesus.
But, each and every one of them learned to listen to the voice of God. Each and every one of them, learned to wait on God. Each and every one of them allowed themselves to be led by God. Each and everyone of them learned that he is an on time God! Yes he is!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come before the throne of grace once again to intercede for one another. We come asking for blessings and breakthroughs, not for ourselves but for our family members, friends, co-workers, on-line family members and brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, we don't know the needs of Your children, but You do Lord. We ask that You would lift and bind the spirits of depression, despair, loneliness, anger, resentment, hurt, poverty and all others that are not of You. Lord, we ask that You would bless us and deliver us as only You can. Place Your hedge of protection securely around every person and all families that are represented here today. Allow this day to be filled with blessings and joy that have been given with the birth of Your son, Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
Monday, June 12, 2006
God Has Not Given Us A Spirit of Fear
Scripture:
The LORD is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
A few years ago, I worked with someone who is an avowed atheist. Since the very beginning, I knew this woman did not like me. As time passed, I realize that this woman doesn't just not like me, she Hates Me! She did and said things to me that civilized human beings just do not do and say. And since the very beginning, she did all types of things to try to get me fired.
As time went on, the attacks become more frequent and much more brutal. And I truly believe that I had an illness that was caused in part by the stress she had created for me. It had gotten so bad, that when she was in the room with me, the very air that I breathed felt like poison to me.
This woman's actions had me totally perplexed. You see, I had always treated her with nothing but respect and tried to overlook her hostility towards me. I turned the other cheek. I returned good for every bad and evil thing she had done and said to me. (Most of the time, anyway.) The more I overlooked her treatment of me, the angrier and nastier she seemed to get.
Just before I got ill and while I was at home mulling the situation over, not one, not two, but three of my Christian sisters spoke the same thing to me. Each of them told me the same thing; I was in a battle not with this woman, but in a spiritual battle with satan. You see, by shear admission of her unbelief and sometimes hostility towards God, she had opened herself up to be used as a tool of satan.
Those who know me know that by my very nature, I have a peaceful spirit and only want peace around me. I will do whatever is necessary to keep that peace. Add to that fact that I wear my Christianity on my chest, like a badge of honor and can always be found with Christian literature on my desk, around my desk, on my computer, and worst of all, spewing from my mouth and in my actions.
I have not a problem telling others about my God and how wonderful he is to me and how good he can be to them. Each of my sisters has told me, that by my very nature, I anger this woman and her evil spirits with my very presence.
The woman had begun to intimidate me! She had moved me from my comfort zone. I was giving her the power to move me from under the wings of God's protection. While discussing the situation with one of my Christian sisters, she began to speak these words into my spirit. God had not given you a spirit of fear.
Later that evening, I began to pull out my weapons. I pulled out my bible, my prayer books, and got down on my knees to pray about it. I called on my prayer warriors, and sought their prayers and support. I began to reflect on what was happening.
God once again said "I HAVE NOT GIVEN YOU A SPIRIT OF FEAR! NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU CAN PROSPER! REBUKE THOSE EVIL SPIRITS THAT ASSAIL YOU! YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE VICTORY THROUGH THE BLOOD OF MY SON! TAKE THAT BLOOD, PLEAD IT IN YOUR SITUATION, ON YOUR JOB, AND OVER THIS WOMAN! I HAVE NOT TOLD YOU TO MOVE FROM THAT JOB! THAT WOMAN HAS NO POWER OVER YOU!
Saints, I am here to tell you, if you can relate to what I have said, read the above paragraph. Start pulling out your spiritual artillery, start pleading the blood of Jesus in your situation, and most of all, have a little talk with God. Tell him all about your troubles.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus, confessing that intimidation has caused me to stumble. I ask Your forgiveness for thinking of myself as the problem. You have already given me the power to overcome my circumstances. The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Lord, You said that You would never leave me or forsake me. Therefore, I can say without any doubt or fear that You are my helper, and I am not afraid of anything that mere man can do to me. Greater is he that is in me than he that is in the world. If God is for me, who can be against me? I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me and I rebuke satan and his evil minions. Father, thank You for new revelations each day. Thank You for placing the saints in my life, who will catch me when I stumble and almost fall. Thank You for Your word, that reminds me each and everyday to whom I truly belong. I love You Lord. I praise and uplift Your most Holy Name. Praise God. Amen.
The LORD is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
A few years ago, I worked with someone who is an avowed atheist. Since the very beginning, I knew this woman did not like me. As time passed, I realize that this woman doesn't just not like me, she Hates Me! She did and said things to me that civilized human beings just do not do and say. And since the very beginning, she did all types of things to try to get me fired.
As time went on, the attacks become more frequent and much more brutal. And I truly believe that I had an illness that was caused in part by the stress she had created for me. It had gotten so bad, that when she was in the room with me, the very air that I breathed felt like poison to me.
This woman's actions had me totally perplexed. You see, I had always treated her with nothing but respect and tried to overlook her hostility towards me. I turned the other cheek. I returned good for every bad and evil thing she had done and said to me. (Most of the time, anyway.) The more I overlooked her treatment of me, the angrier and nastier she seemed to get.
Just before I got ill and while I was at home mulling the situation over, not one, not two, but three of my Christian sisters spoke the same thing to me. Each of them told me the same thing; I was in a battle not with this woman, but in a spiritual battle with satan. You see, by shear admission of her unbelief and sometimes hostility towards God, she had opened herself up to be used as a tool of satan.
Those who know me know that by my very nature, I have a peaceful spirit and only want peace around me. I will do whatever is necessary to keep that peace. Add to that fact that I wear my Christianity on my chest, like a badge of honor and can always be found with Christian literature on my desk, around my desk, on my computer, and worst of all, spewing from my mouth and in my actions.
I have not a problem telling others about my God and how wonderful he is to me and how good he can be to them. Each of my sisters has told me, that by my very nature, I anger this woman and her evil spirits with my very presence.
The woman had begun to intimidate me! She had moved me from my comfort zone. I was giving her the power to move me from under the wings of God's protection. While discussing the situation with one of my Christian sisters, she began to speak these words into my spirit. God had not given you a spirit of fear.
Later that evening, I began to pull out my weapons. I pulled out my bible, my prayer books, and got down on my knees to pray about it. I called on my prayer warriors, and sought their prayers and support. I began to reflect on what was happening.
God once again said "I HAVE NOT GIVEN YOU A SPIRIT OF FEAR! NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU CAN PROSPER! REBUKE THOSE EVIL SPIRITS THAT ASSAIL YOU! YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE VICTORY THROUGH THE BLOOD OF MY SON! TAKE THAT BLOOD, PLEAD IT IN YOUR SITUATION, ON YOUR JOB, AND OVER THIS WOMAN! I HAVE NOT TOLD YOU TO MOVE FROM THAT JOB! THAT WOMAN HAS NO POWER OVER YOU!
Saints, I am here to tell you, if you can relate to what I have said, read the above paragraph. Start pulling out your spiritual artillery, start pleading the blood of Jesus in your situation, and most of all, have a little talk with God. Tell him all about your troubles.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus, confessing that intimidation has caused me to stumble. I ask Your forgiveness for thinking of myself as the problem. You have already given me the power to overcome my circumstances. The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Lord, You said that You would never leave me or forsake me. Therefore, I can say without any doubt or fear that You are my helper, and I am not afraid of anything that mere man can do to me. Greater is he that is in me than he that is in the world. If God is for me, who can be against me? I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me and I rebuke satan and his evil minions. Father, thank You for new revelations each day. Thank You for placing the saints in my life, who will catch me when I stumble and almost fall. Thank You for Your word, that reminds me each and everyday to whom I truly belong. I love You Lord. I praise and uplift Your most Holy Name. Praise God. Amen.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Have You Changed?
Scripture:
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
Over the past few years I have noticed a lot of changes in my life. Some are huge changes and some, not so huge. I find myself looking at people and things around me differently.
Things I used to accept as a normal part of life are no longer acceptable. People whom I thought where friends, have stopped calling. Things that many people in the world do and say, I find that I can no longer do. Sometimes even members of my own family ask me, "when did I become so holy?”
Well saints of God, it's not that I became so holy, it's because I became a member of the body of Christ. It's because my eyes have been opened and I see sin for what it is, SIN. Something that is not pleasing to God.
The world would have us to believe that sex outside of marriage is okay. That disrespecting women, our parents, our elders, is okay. The world would have us to believe that it's okay to do and say what we want and too bad if you don't like it cause I'm going to do what I want, when I want, how I want, no matter who I hurt. The world would have us believe, If it feels good, do it and it doesn't matter cause no want has to know.
But I want you all to know that God Knows.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we humbly come before the throne of grace to give You the glory, the honor and the praise. Thank You Lord, for keeping us one more day. Father, we thank You for Your word. Your word, that teaches us, keeps us, renews us and guides us. We come thanking You for the family of God. You have blessed us, O God, with the gift of friendship, the bonding of persons in a circle of love. We thank You for such a blessing: for friends who love us, who share our sorrows, who laugh with us in celebration, who bear our pain, who need us as we need them, who weep as we weep, who hold us when words fail, and who give us the freedom to be ourselves. Bless our friends with health, wholeness, life, and love. Lord, so many of our loved ones have been stricken with cancer. We come asking for an extra portion of Your grace and mercy this morning. Touch them now Lord Jesus. Strengthen them, comfort them, but most of all heal their bodies and their spirits. We thank You right now for our breakthroughs that are on the way. We thank You right now for our blessings that our on the way. We love You Lord. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
Over the past few years I have noticed a lot of changes in my life. Some are huge changes and some, not so huge. I find myself looking at people and things around me differently.
Things I used to accept as a normal part of life are no longer acceptable. People whom I thought where friends, have stopped calling. Things that many people in the world do and say, I find that I can no longer do. Sometimes even members of my own family ask me, "when did I become so holy?”
Well saints of God, it's not that I became so holy, it's because I became a member of the body of Christ. It's because my eyes have been opened and I see sin for what it is, SIN. Something that is not pleasing to God.
The world would have us to believe that sex outside of marriage is okay. That disrespecting women, our parents, our elders, is okay. The world would have us to believe that it's okay to do and say what we want and too bad if you don't like it cause I'm going to do what I want, when I want, how I want, no matter who I hurt. The world would have us believe, If it feels good, do it and it doesn't matter cause no want has to know.
But I want you all to know that God Knows.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we humbly come before the throne of grace to give You the glory, the honor and the praise. Thank You Lord, for keeping us one more day. Father, we thank You for Your word. Your word, that teaches us, keeps us, renews us and guides us. We come thanking You for the family of God. You have blessed us, O God, with the gift of friendship, the bonding of persons in a circle of love. We thank You for such a blessing: for friends who love us, who share our sorrows, who laugh with us in celebration, who bear our pain, who need us as we need them, who weep as we weep, who hold us when words fail, and who give us the freedom to be ourselves. Bless our friends with health, wholeness, life, and love. Lord, so many of our loved ones have been stricken with cancer. We come asking for an extra portion of Your grace and mercy this morning. Touch them now Lord Jesus. Strengthen them, comfort them, but most of all heal their bodies and their spirits. We thank You right now for our breakthroughs that are on the way. We thank You right now for our blessings that our on the way. We love You Lord. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Yes, He Understands
Scripture:
I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD ; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. Psalm 27:13-15
Saints, Do you sometimes feel like giving up? Every once in a while do you feel that your best just ain't good enough? Do you sometimes cry out to the Lord and ask him does he see, does he care what you're going through?
Sometimes it seems that you are doing everything that you are supposed to as a child of God. You pray, you fast, your serve and you tithe but life keeps coming against you. You take one step forward and get knocked two steps back. You get one problem resolved then three more problems pop up?
Well there is something that I have come to realize in these past couple of years. It ain't always about you! When you decide to commit your life to God and truly live and serve him, he will mold and shape your life to suit him, not you!
So often we don't realize how much we have conformed to the world until we see our lives through God's eyes. We are bombarded with sin and evil almost each and every moment of each and every day. Almost everything that we see and hear are contrary to God's word. That's is why we must constantly study and stay in the word of God.
So often denying yourselves, denying your flesh, denying what you want and doing what God wants can be painful. But remember, He knows how much we can bear. In the time of trouble he promised He'd always be there. he understands, he is the Lord he sees and yes he understands.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
My forever faithful Father, my Rock, my Strength, my redeemer, Lord, we come blessing You this morning and praising You for all that You have done. Father God, sometimes life gets hard. When we think that one storm is about to end, another one begins. Lord, we realize that being a Christian is not easy. We understand that weeping may endure for a night, but Lord, sometimes it feels like it's night all the time. Father God, I thank You for understanding me. I thank You for preparing me. Lord, I thank You for the desire in my heart to follow after Christ Jesus. Lord, sometimes my flesh is weak and I just want to give up, but I thank You for not giving up on me. I thank You for preparing me for whatever path You have chosen me to follow as long as I know that the path leads home to You and to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD ; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. Psalm 27:13-15
Saints, Do you sometimes feel like giving up? Every once in a while do you feel that your best just ain't good enough? Do you sometimes cry out to the Lord and ask him does he see, does he care what you're going through?
Sometimes it seems that you are doing everything that you are supposed to as a child of God. You pray, you fast, your serve and you tithe but life keeps coming against you. You take one step forward and get knocked two steps back. You get one problem resolved then three more problems pop up?
Well there is something that I have come to realize in these past couple of years. It ain't always about you! When you decide to commit your life to God and truly live and serve him, he will mold and shape your life to suit him, not you!
So often we don't realize how much we have conformed to the world until we see our lives through God's eyes. We are bombarded with sin and evil almost each and every moment of each and every day. Almost everything that we see and hear are contrary to God's word. That's is why we must constantly study and stay in the word of God.
So often denying yourselves, denying your flesh, denying what you want and doing what God wants can be painful. But remember, He knows how much we can bear. In the time of trouble he promised He'd always be there. he understands, he is the Lord he sees and yes he understands.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
My forever faithful Father, my Rock, my Strength, my redeemer, Lord, we come blessing You this morning and praising You for all that You have done. Father God, sometimes life gets hard. When we think that one storm is about to end, another one begins. Lord, we realize that being a Christian is not easy. We understand that weeping may endure for a night, but Lord, sometimes it feels like it's night all the time. Father God, I thank You for understanding me. I thank You for preparing me. Lord, I thank You for the desire in my heart to follow after Christ Jesus. Lord, sometimes my flesh is weak and I just want to give up, but I thank You for not giving up on me. I thank You for preparing me for whatever path You have chosen me to follow as long as I know that the path leads home to You and to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Your Change is On The Way
Scripture:
As you come to him, the living Stone–rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him– you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame. 1 Peter 2:4-6
Saints, How many of you have been going through some things for what seems like a long time? How many of you are in a valley experience with no mountain-top in sight? How many of you feel that no matter how much you pray, fast and sacrifice, God doesn't seem to hear your prayers?
Well I don't know about you, but I raised my hand at each question. But as Rhonda and I talked on the phone on my way to work this morning, something we both realized has happened. We have both changed over the years since we first met.
Things that would have sent me into a tailspin don't anymore. Instead of breaking down and crying about everything, I pray instead. Instead of talking about what others are doing to me, I talk about what God is doing in my life.
Now don't get me wrong. I still become sad and frustrated over things. I still worry about certain things, my children for example, but I have learned to depend on God more and more.
I realize that over these past few years, I have changed a lot of things about myself and how I am living. I realize that everything that the world accepts isn't what I am supposed to accept. I realize that God didn't save me for me; God save me for his edification. I realized that God is still in control and if I just be step back, be still and know that he is God, Changing ain't that hard.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, as a new day begins, so does fresh grace and mercy. Thank You Father for a new beginning and new revelations. Lord, we come before the throne of grace once again, humbling our hearts, our minds and our spirits to pay homage to You. We bow our heads and lift our hands to glorify the name of the Lord. When we stop to think about Your goodness and Your mercies, we say thank You Lord that You remember me, a sinner who is not worthy. Father, we don't know what this day may bring, but the one thing that we do know is that You are with us always. During times of sadness, joy, despair, peace and even in the midst of the storm Your goodness and mercy are at our side. Lord, satan would have us believe that things in our lives will never change. We rebuke satan and his lies, in the name of Jesus. I am a new creature in Christ Jesus. I can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens me. I am the head and not the tail, I am above and not below. Victory is mine, in the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
As you come to him, the living Stone–rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him– you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame. 1 Peter 2:4-6
Saints, How many of you have been going through some things for what seems like a long time? How many of you are in a valley experience with no mountain-top in sight? How many of you feel that no matter how much you pray, fast and sacrifice, God doesn't seem to hear your prayers?
Well I don't know about you, but I raised my hand at each question. But as Rhonda and I talked on the phone on my way to work this morning, something we both realized has happened. We have both changed over the years since we first met.
Things that would have sent me into a tailspin don't anymore. Instead of breaking down and crying about everything, I pray instead. Instead of talking about what others are doing to me, I talk about what God is doing in my life.
Now don't get me wrong. I still become sad and frustrated over things. I still worry about certain things, my children for example, but I have learned to depend on God more and more.
I realize that over these past few years, I have changed a lot of things about myself and how I am living. I realize that everything that the world accepts isn't what I am supposed to accept. I realize that God didn't save me for me; God save me for his edification. I realized that God is still in control and if I just be step back, be still and know that he is God, Changing ain't that hard.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, as a new day begins, so does fresh grace and mercy. Thank You Father for a new beginning and new revelations. Lord, we come before the throne of grace once again, humbling our hearts, our minds and our spirits to pay homage to You. We bow our heads and lift our hands to glorify the name of the Lord. When we stop to think about Your goodness and Your mercies, we say thank You Lord that You remember me, a sinner who is not worthy. Father, we don't know what this day may bring, but the one thing that we do know is that You are with us always. During times of sadness, joy, despair, peace and even in the midst of the storm Your goodness and mercy are at our side. Lord, satan would have us believe that things in our lives will never change. We rebuke satan and his lies, in the name of Jesus. I am a new creature in Christ Jesus. I can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens me. I am the head and not the tail, I am above and not below. Victory is mine, in the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
What Do You Want From God?
Scripture:
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:26-28
Saints, what is it that you want from God? Do you ever really stop and think about what would make you happy? Is it money, prestige, health? What is it? Is it a better job? A better mate?
Sometimes, we feel as though that something may be missing in our lives and wonder that if things were different, we would be better off. Sometimes, we think if we had certain things, our lives would be much easier.
I come this morning to let you know that all you really need, is God. My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. All we really need to do is learn that we can find what we truly need by seeking first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. Everything else will come.
Be Blessed
PRAYER:
I humble myself under Your mighty hand that in due time You may exalt me. I cast the whole of my cares, all my anxieties, all my worries, all my concerns, once and for all on You. You care for me affectionately and care about me watchfully. You sustain me. You will never allow the consistently righteous to be moved made to slip, fall, or fail! I resist the temptation to be anxious about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving continue to make my wants and the wants of others known to God. Whatever I ask for in prayer, I believe that it is granted to me, and I will receive it. Amen.
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:26-28
Saints, what is it that you want from God? Do you ever really stop and think about what would make you happy? Is it money, prestige, health? What is it? Is it a better job? A better mate?
Sometimes, we feel as though that something may be missing in our lives and wonder that if things were different, we would be better off. Sometimes, we think if we had certain things, our lives would be much easier.
I come this morning to let you know that all you really need, is God. My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. All we really need to do is learn that we can find what we truly need by seeking first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. Everything else will come.
Be Blessed
PRAYER:
I humble myself under Your mighty hand that in due time You may exalt me. I cast the whole of my cares, all my anxieties, all my worries, all my concerns, once and for all on You. You care for me affectionately and care about me watchfully. You sustain me. You will never allow the consistently righteous to be moved made to slip, fall, or fail! I resist the temptation to be anxious about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving continue to make my wants and the wants of others known to God. Whatever I ask for in prayer, I believe that it is granted to me, and I will receive it. Amen.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Don't Fail This Test
Scripture:
Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
2 Corinthians 13:5
How many of you know that every day we have a test? Everyday life, can be a test. We are often tested to see what we know. Sometimes we are tested to see if we will do the right thing. If you are a parent, your children will often test your patience. Your boss, your skills, and sometimes, your mate will test your love for them.
In the book of Exodus, the children of Israel were tested by God to see if they could follow his instructions. He provided Manna for their nourishment. They were told to go out and gather only what was needed for the day. Now being that men will be men, some gathered more than was needed and tried to save some for later. But the next day, the Manna that was saved was full of maggots and smelled.
Even though the Israelites had seen God perform great miracles and supply all that was needed, some still couldn't pass the test. Sometimes, we forget what we have learned. When it comes time for our test, we barely get a passing grade.
Sometimes we forget how important our tests can be. Our tests are the things that increase our knowledge and our faith. Our tests are life’s lessons. We have been given all of the answers for our test. All we have to do is read our Basis Instructions Before Leaving Earth.
And remember, there is no Testimony without the test.
Prayer:
Father, we come this morning to thank You for all of our blessings. We thank You Lord, for supplying all of our needs. We thank You for the book of life that teaches us and guides us in all that we do. Thank You father for all that we are and all that You are to us. Praise God. Amen.
Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
2 Corinthians 13:5
How many of you know that every day we have a test? Everyday life, can be a test. We are often tested to see what we know. Sometimes we are tested to see if we will do the right thing. If you are a parent, your children will often test your patience. Your boss, your skills, and sometimes, your mate will test your love for them.
In the book of Exodus, the children of Israel were tested by God to see if they could follow his instructions. He provided Manna for their nourishment. They were told to go out and gather only what was needed for the day. Now being that men will be men, some gathered more than was needed and tried to save some for later. But the next day, the Manna that was saved was full of maggots and smelled.
Even though the Israelites had seen God perform great miracles and supply all that was needed, some still couldn't pass the test. Sometimes, we forget what we have learned. When it comes time for our test, we barely get a passing grade.
Sometimes we forget how important our tests can be. Our tests are the things that increase our knowledge and our faith. Our tests are life’s lessons. We have been given all of the answers for our test. All we have to do is read our Basis Instructions Before Leaving Earth.
And remember, there is no Testimony without the test.
Prayer:
Father, we come this morning to thank You for all of our blessings. We thank You Lord, for supplying all of our needs. We thank You for the book of life that teaches us and guides us in all that we do. Thank You father for all that we are and all that You are to us. Praise God. Amen.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Standing in the Gap
Scripture:
So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. Ezekiel 22:30
Today I want to talk about standing in the gap for someone else. Sometimes things happen in life that for whatever reason, we cannot handle on our own. We have to call on others to stand in our stead or stand in the gap on our behalf.
James 5:14 says; Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. There are times when even your pastor or church leader will say; Pray for me.
Even with the prayer list that I do everyday, it is because our brothers and sisters realize that they need help in praying with or for someone or a situation. Our word for the day says that the Lord looked around at a corrupt world. He saw how neighbor treated neighbor and was not pleased. He looked for someone to stand up for his brothers and sisters and couldn't find any. He saw how those who had mistreated those who had not. He became angry at what he saw and because he couldn't find anyone to stand up for the people and all the wrong they had done he would pour out his wrath and consume the people with his fiery anger for all the wrong they had done.
But you know what? Today we have someone who stands in the gap for us even when we are wrong. He is Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We who are in the body of Christ know and realize that we are not in this thing alone. We have fresh grace and mercy because Jesus Christ, died and was raised from the dead, so that he would always be there to stand in the gap for sinners like you and me. Thank God for he who stands for you and for me!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come this morning to thank You for loving us enough that You sacrificed Your only begotten son who stands in the gap and intercedes on our behalf. We thank You for the gift of eternal life that has been given to us through the shedding of his blood. Thank You Lord, for the only perfect gift, Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. Ezekiel 22:30
Today I want to talk about standing in the gap for someone else. Sometimes things happen in life that for whatever reason, we cannot handle on our own. We have to call on others to stand in our stead or stand in the gap on our behalf.
James 5:14 says; Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. There are times when even your pastor or church leader will say; Pray for me.
Even with the prayer list that I do everyday, it is because our brothers and sisters realize that they need help in praying with or for someone or a situation. Our word for the day says that the Lord looked around at a corrupt world. He saw how neighbor treated neighbor and was not pleased. He looked for someone to stand up for his brothers and sisters and couldn't find any. He saw how those who had mistreated those who had not. He became angry at what he saw and because he couldn't find anyone to stand up for the people and all the wrong they had done he would pour out his wrath and consume the people with his fiery anger for all the wrong they had done.
But you know what? Today we have someone who stands in the gap for us even when we are wrong. He is Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We who are in the body of Christ know and realize that we are not in this thing alone. We have fresh grace and mercy because Jesus Christ, died and was raised from the dead, so that he would always be there to stand in the gap for sinners like you and me. Thank God for he who stands for you and for me!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come this morning to thank You for loving us enough that You sacrificed Your only begotten son who stands in the gap and intercedes on our behalf. We thank You for the gift of eternal life that has been given to us through the shedding of his blood. Thank You Lord, for the only perfect gift, Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Letting Go of Your Past
Scripture:
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19
Saints of God, how many are you are stuck in the past? How often to you talk about what you used to have? How things used to be? How you used to look.
I used to be twenty-one. So what. I used to be a size 5. So what. I used to party and hang
out a lot. I used to have a whole lot of things. I used to be a sinner on the road leading to hell.
There are a whole lot of I used to's in my life. But I try not to dwell on them. Now, I won't lie. Every now and then there are aspects of my old life that I sometimes miss. I won't get into them, but sometimes it's only natural that we do miss those things in our past that brought us a sense of comfort.
But I also realize that God is a changing force in my life. I thank him that I am not all that I used to be. I thank him for allowing me to see that I was on a road leading straight to the gates of hell. I thank him for loving me enough that he didn't give up on me. I thank God for having compassion for me; and hurling my iniquities into the depths of the sea. I thank him for doing a NEW THING in my life.
Be blessed
PRAYER:
Father, You are the Supreme Authority. You are a God of order. I thank You for being the head of my life. Father, we realize that sometimes change is hard. Changing our way of life, even as the world around us changes, isn't always easy. But we realize and recognize that it is for Your edification, that we who have accepted Jesus Christ as our personal savior must change. Old things must pass away. You are preparing us for what lies ahead, not behind. We thank You for that change. Lord, help us to recognize when we are judging those around us based on their past. We know that You can and that You do, change the hearts of those who diligently seek You. I know that I am not all that You want me to be, but I pray that I would walk just a little bit closer to You each day. Thank You Father, for Your word and for the fellowship that I share with my brothers and sisters in Christ. We love You Lord and thank You for not only what You have done, but what You are about to do. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19
Saints of God, how many are you are stuck in the past? How often to you talk about what you used to have? How things used to be? How you used to look.
I used to be twenty-one. So what. I used to be a size 5. So what. I used to party and hang
out a lot. I used to have a whole lot of things. I used to be a sinner on the road leading to hell.
There are a whole lot of I used to's in my life. But I try not to dwell on them. Now, I won't lie. Every now and then there are aspects of my old life that I sometimes miss. I won't get into them, but sometimes it's only natural that we do miss those things in our past that brought us a sense of comfort.
But I also realize that God is a changing force in my life. I thank him that I am not all that I used to be. I thank him for allowing me to see that I was on a road leading straight to the gates of hell. I thank him for loving me enough that he didn't give up on me. I thank God for having compassion for me; and hurling my iniquities into the depths of the sea. I thank him for doing a NEW THING in my life.
Be blessed
PRAYER:
Father, You are the Supreme Authority. You are a God of order. I thank You for being the head of my life. Father, we realize that sometimes change is hard. Changing our way of life, even as the world around us changes, isn't always easy. But we realize and recognize that it is for Your edification, that we who have accepted Jesus Christ as our personal savior must change. Old things must pass away. You are preparing us for what lies ahead, not behind. We thank You for that change. Lord, help us to recognize when we are judging those around us based on their past. We know that You can and that You do, change the hearts of those who diligently seek You. I know that I am not all that You want me to be, but I pray that I would walk just a little bit closer to You each day. Thank You Father, for Your word and for the fellowship that I share with my brothers and sisters in Christ. We love You Lord and thank You for not only what You have done, but what You are about to do. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
