Monday, July 30, 2007
You Too Can be a Hero
Remember, a hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” ~ Christopher Reeves
Scripture:
O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:19-21 (New International Version)
Hero is from the Greek language and in mythology and folklore, a hero were characters that in the face of danger and adversity, from a position of weakness displayed courage and the will for self-sacrifice. That is, heroism, for some greater good, originally of martial courage or excellence but extended to more general moral excellence.
I am not much of a TV person but last year there was one program that captivated me. It was called “Heroes.” It was about a group of people who discovered that had extraordinary powers and overcame adversities to save the world.
Many of the “Heroes” had dark secrets, were unsure of the powers, had questionable pasts or were too afraid to reveal their “secret” fearing how others would judge them. Now if you took away their powers, they were just ordinary people just like you and me. It was the gifts that they discovered they had that made them “Heroes.”
Did you know that you have extraordinary gifts too? You might be a person who has the gift of compassion and are willing to help others around you. Maybe you have the gift of mentoring; reaching out to help a lost child find their way in life. Or maybe, you have the gift friendship. You are there to help a friend in need. Be it listening to them, helping them out in some way or just lending a shoulder to cry on. Maybe you have discovered your gift yet. Not because it doesn’t exist, but rather because you haven’t looked inside yourself to discover what it is.
A Hero isn’t defined simply as having supernatural powers, but rather having the strength to overcome, do and give in supernatural ways. You may not even realize that you are someone else’s hero, and just like the TV heroes, maybe you are unsure of your strength, your ability or your power.
There is a Hero inside of you. All you have to do is find him.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I declare and stand on Your word that says I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me. I have been commissioned to do great things in the name of the Lord. I claim my gifts today and pledge to use them for the furthering of the kingdom. Lord, I am weak, but You are strong. I can move mountains in your name. Help me to build a mountain of compassion, of friendship and of caring for those who are in need. May I pause today to help someone else besides myself and build roads that lead home to You. Father, help me to discover my inner power so that I can be an angel that helps someone else through this journey called life. May I always remember to share a portion of what has been given to me, even if its just the gift of time. Thank You Father for my blessings. Thank You Lord for Your word that guides me each and everyday. I love You Lord, and I submit this prayer in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:19-21 (New International Version)
Hero is from the Greek language and in mythology and folklore, a hero were characters that in the face of danger and adversity, from a position of weakness displayed courage and the will for self-sacrifice. That is, heroism, for some greater good, originally of martial courage or excellence but extended to more general moral excellence.
I am not much of a TV person but last year there was one program that captivated me. It was called “Heroes.” It was about a group of people who discovered that had extraordinary powers and overcame adversities to save the world.
Many of the “Heroes” had dark secrets, were unsure of the powers, had questionable pasts or were too afraid to reveal their “secret” fearing how others would judge them. Now if you took away their powers, they were just ordinary people just like you and me. It was the gifts that they discovered they had that made them “Heroes.”
Did you know that you have extraordinary gifts too? You might be a person who has the gift of compassion and are willing to help others around you. Maybe you have the gift of mentoring; reaching out to help a lost child find their way in life. Or maybe, you have the gift friendship. You are there to help a friend in need. Be it listening to them, helping them out in some way or just lending a shoulder to cry on. Maybe you have discovered your gift yet. Not because it doesn’t exist, but rather because you haven’t looked inside yourself to discover what it is.
A Hero isn’t defined simply as having supernatural powers, but rather having the strength to overcome, do and give in supernatural ways. You may not even realize that you are someone else’s hero, and just like the TV heroes, maybe you are unsure of your strength, your ability or your power.
There is a Hero inside of you. All you have to do is find him.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I declare and stand on Your word that says I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me. I have been commissioned to do great things in the name of the Lord. I claim my gifts today and pledge to use them for the furthering of the kingdom. Lord, I am weak, but You are strong. I can move mountains in your name. Help me to build a mountain of compassion, of friendship and of caring for those who are in need. May I pause today to help someone else besides myself and build roads that lead home to You. Father, help me to discover my inner power so that I can be an angel that helps someone else through this journey called life. May I always remember to share a portion of what has been given to me, even if its just the gift of time. Thank You Father for my blessings. Thank You Lord for Your word that guides me each and everyday. I love You Lord, and I submit this prayer in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Yes, He Understands!
Remember, Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air, but only for one second without hope” ~ Unknown
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’s not 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 is contrary to God's word. That’s 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 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 always 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.
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’s not 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 is contrary to God's word. That’s 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 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 always 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.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
We're a Winner
Remember, “A winner is someone who recognizes his God-given talents, works his tail off to develop them into skills, and uses these skills to accomplish his goals.” ~ Larry Bird
Scripture:
He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You give me your shield of victory; you stoop down to make me great. You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn. 2 Samuel 22:35-37 (New International Version)
Have I ever mentioned that our God has a sense of humor? I say this because tonight as I was preparing to write this message, I was listening to my mp3 player. Last night I spent some time updating my song list, adding new songs and removing others. So I really had no idea what order my songs were in. Now understand I listen to a very wide variety of music, including Gospel, R&B, old school, and jazz.
As I sat down at my computer to begin writing, an old school song by the Impressions called We’re a Winner, began to play. Some of the lyrics are; We're a winner And never let anybody say Boy, you can't make it 'Cause a feeble mind is in your way No more tears do we cry And we have finally dried our eyes And we're movin' on up (movin' on up) Lawd have mercy We're movin' on up (movin' on up).
The next song up on the play list was, I believe, by John. P. Kee. Those lyrics say; He shall supply my need, oh/ I believe, I believe, I believe/He shall supply my need, oh/ I believe; I believe just what He said. Bridge 1: By faith I believe it/By faith I receive it/By faith I can have it/By faith I can share it/ I believe just what he said. He worked it out for me/I believe, I believe, I believe/He worked it out for me/I believe, I believe just what He said. Bridge 2: By faith I will know it/By faith I will show it/By faith I will bare it/And now I declare it/ I believe just what he said.
Now if you have been following my messages you know that for the past couple of days, I have been having my own personal pity party. Now I won’t rehash my misery but what I will say is after reading today’s quote and scripture and then hearing these two songs, I am convicted.
I am convicted because I sit down each and everyday and write messages that are supposed to encourage others on their Christian walk. But then, here I am wallowing in my own self-pity when God has already told me that I am a Winner and that if I Believe, by I will know it and now I declare it;
I believe just what He said!
Be Blessed
PRAYER:
Our Father, our God, our Creator. Lord, we come once again, entering into Your courtyard uplifting and exalting the holiest of Names. Jesus, Prince of Peace. Jesus, Wonderful Counselor. Jesus, my strength and my Redeemer. Lord, we lift Your name on high. We start each day singing songs of praise and worshiping You. Lord, as we begin again, we thank You for fresh grace and mercy that comes with the dawning of the day. We thank You for Your hedge of protection that was securely around us and our loved ones. We thank You for the gift of life that we received from the death and resurrection of Your only begotten son, Christ Jesus. Lord, each and every saint that is represented here will be challenged by life this week. We come asking that You would magnify the fruit of the spirit in the lives of each of us. We come asking that Your power and Your presence be magnified in our lives. Lord, help us to be diligent in not only our actions but also in the words that we speak. We speak life into our situations. We speak victory and breakthroughs into our situations. We speak deliverance and freedom from bondages. Walk with us, talk to us Lord, guide us in all we do and say. I love the Lord, for He heard my cry and showed mercy to me and my household. Thank You Lord. Amen.
Scripture:
He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You give me your shield of victory; you stoop down to make me great. You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn. 2 Samuel 22:35-37 (New International Version)
Have I ever mentioned that our God has a sense of humor? I say this because tonight as I was preparing to write this message, I was listening to my mp3 player. Last night I spent some time updating my song list, adding new songs and removing others. So I really had no idea what order my songs were in. Now understand I listen to a very wide variety of music, including Gospel, R&B, old school, and jazz.
As I sat down at my computer to begin writing, an old school song by the Impressions called We’re a Winner, began to play. Some of the lyrics are; We're a winner And never let anybody say Boy, you can't make it 'Cause a feeble mind is in your way No more tears do we cry And we have finally dried our eyes And we're movin' on up (movin' on up) Lawd have mercy We're movin' on up (movin' on up).
The next song up on the play list was, I believe, by John. P. Kee. Those lyrics say; He shall supply my need, oh/ I believe, I believe, I believe/He shall supply my need, oh/ I believe; I believe just what He said. Bridge 1: By faith I believe it/By faith I receive it/By faith I can have it/By faith I can share it/ I believe just what he said. He worked it out for me/I believe, I believe, I believe/He worked it out for me/I believe, I believe just what He said. Bridge 2: By faith I will know it/By faith I will show it/By faith I will bare it/And now I declare it/ I believe just what he said.
Now if you have been following my messages you know that for the past couple of days, I have been having my own personal pity party. Now I won’t rehash my misery but what I will say is after reading today’s quote and scripture and then hearing these two songs, I am convicted.
I am convicted because I sit down each and everyday and write messages that are supposed to encourage others on their Christian walk. But then, here I am wallowing in my own self-pity when God has already told me that I am a Winner and that if I Believe, by I will know it and now I declare it;
I believe just what He said!
Be Blessed
PRAYER:
Our Father, our God, our Creator. Lord, we come once again, entering into Your courtyard uplifting and exalting the holiest of Names. Jesus, Prince of Peace. Jesus, Wonderful Counselor. Jesus, my strength and my Redeemer. Lord, we lift Your name on high. We start each day singing songs of praise and worshiping You. Lord, as we begin again, we thank You for fresh grace and mercy that comes with the dawning of the day. We thank You for Your hedge of protection that was securely around us and our loved ones. We thank You for the gift of life that we received from the death and resurrection of Your only begotten son, Christ Jesus. Lord, each and every saint that is represented here will be challenged by life this week. We come asking that You would magnify the fruit of the spirit in the lives of each of us. We come asking that Your power and Your presence be magnified in our lives. Lord, help us to be diligent in not only our actions but also in the words that we speak. We speak life into our situations. We speak victory and breakthroughs into our situations. We speak deliverance and freedom from bondages. Walk with us, talk to us Lord, guide us in all we do and say. I love the Lord, for He heard my cry and showed mercy to me and my household. Thank You Lord. Amen.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Dealing with Rejection
Remember, “Do not waste yourself in rejection; do not bark against the bad, but chant the beauty of the good” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Scripture:
For the LORD will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance. ~ Psalm 94:14 (New International Version)
Today I had to learn a very important lesson about rejection. As many of you may know, I desire to become a writer. Not just any old kind of writer, but a Christian write who has a very powerful story to tell.
Well, today another one of my manuscripts was rejected by an agent. Now this was not the first time one of my stories was rejected, but for some reason, I took this rejection very hard. The rejection came from a very good literary agent who I have great respect for. Secretly, deep down I already knew that she was going to reject it. However, it didn’t lesson the pain I felt.
The reality of my situation today was the fact that it was actually the third rejection that I had received for three different types of submissions over the past three weeks. It caused me to question my writing ability. Sure, I have published other pieces, but the story that was rejected today was very personal to me. I had put so much of me into it, that it felt as though I was being rejected right along with my manuscript.
Two very close and dear friends who also happen to be my editors called to comfort me and offer their input and support. As they counseled me through my dilemma I began to see the rejection in a totally new light. The first lesson was that it was nothing personal and the second lesson was that my rejection wasn’t necessarily a rejection of my talent, but rather one person’s opinion of one particular story.
So saints, my lesson for today is this. Everyone will not see what you see in the creation of your work. When I say creation of work, I am not just talking about writing, painting, or things of that sort. Everything that we do in life is our creation. When you go to work everyday and do a job, that’s a creation. When you instill values and morals in your children, that’s a creation. When you share the word of God, that’s a creation.
Everything that we do in life is a manifestation of our creativity. Sometimes we create a beautiful masterpiece that is appreciated by others, but then there will also be times when no one but you will be able to see the beauty of your work. The point is that we never stop creating.
Rejection is a part of life. Accepting it and moving on is the real secret.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I come to You with a heavy heart. Today, I felt that that I was being rejected and began to question my talents and abilities. I forgot that my talents were a gift from You. I failed to realize that there will be those who cannot see and appreciate my gifts. But then I remembered, that the world didn’t give me my gift, You did. Thank You Father for the gift of Your written word. Lord, help me to remember that my gift isn’t for my own personal gain, but rather it is to be used for the furthering of Your kingdom. If my written word touch just one person, then I know that I am doing what I am supposed to be doing, spreading the good news of the Gospel. Lord, someone besides me needs to be reminded that not everyone will accept us. Just as Jesus Christ was not accepted by everyone. Lord, continue to guide and direct us on this earthly journey. Help us always to remember that as long as You are at the forefront of everything that we do. It is then that we must realize that as long as You are leading and directing our paths, we can do anything but fail. Thank You Father for this reminder. Thank You Lord for Your son, Jesus Christ. It is in Him name that we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
For the LORD will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance. ~ Psalm 94:14 (New International Version)
Today I had to learn a very important lesson about rejection. As many of you may know, I desire to become a writer. Not just any old kind of writer, but a Christian write who has a very powerful story to tell.
Well, today another one of my manuscripts was rejected by an agent. Now this was not the first time one of my stories was rejected, but for some reason, I took this rejection very hard. The rejection came from a very good literary agent who I have great respect for. Secretly, deep down I already knew that she was going to reject it. However, it didn’t lesson the pain I felt.
The reality of my situation today was the fact that it was actually the third rejection that I had received for three different types of submissions over the past three weeks. It caused me to question my writing ability. Sure, I have published other pieces, but the story that was rejected today was very personal to me. I had put so much of me into it, that it felt as though I was being rejected right along with my manuscript.
Two very close and dear friends who also happen to be my editors called to comfort me and offer their input and support. As they counseled me through my dilemma I began to see the rejection in a totally new light. The first lesson was that it was nothing personal and the second lesson was that my rejection wasn’t necessarily a rejection of my talent, but rather one person’s opinion of one particular story.
So saints, my lesson for today is this. Everyone will not see what you see in the creation of your work. When I say creation of work, I am not just talking about writing, painting, or things of that sort. Everything that we do in life is our creation. When you go to work everyday and do a job, that’s a creation. When you instill values and morals in your children, that’s a creation. When you share the word of God, that’s a creation.
Everything that we do in life is a manifestation of our creativity. Sometimes we create a beautiful masterpiece that is appreciated by others, but then there will also be times when no one but you will be able to see the beauty of your work. The point is that we never stop creating.
Rejection is a part of life. Accepting it and moving on is the real secret.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I come to You with a heavy heart. Today, I felt that that I was being rejected and began to question my talents and abilities. I forgot that my talents were a gift from You. I failed to realize that there will be those who cannot see and appreciate my gifts. But then I remembered, that the world didn’t give me my gift, You did. Thank You Father for the gift of Your written word. Lord, help me to remember that my gift isn’t for my own personal gain, but rather it is to be used for the furthering of Your kingdom. If my written word touch just one person, then I know that I am doing what I am supposed to be doing, spreading the good news of the Gospel. Lord, someone besides me needs to be reminded that not everyone will accept us. Just as Jesus Christ was not accepted by everyone. Lord, continue to guide and direct us on this earthly journey. Help us always to remember that as long as You are at the forefront of everything that we do. It is then that we must realize that as long as You are leading and directing our paths, we can do anything but fail. Thank You Father for this reminder. Thank You Lord for Your son, Jesus Christ. It is in Him name that we pray. Amen.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
The Victory Can be Yours
Remember, there are victories of the soul and spirit. Sometimes, even if you lose, you win. ~ Elie Weisel
Scripture:
For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory." Deuteronomy 20:4 (New International Version)
There are times when we feel as though we are fighting a battle that can’t be won. We become punch drunk from all the blows that life sends our way. We arise each and everyday to fight the good fight of faith. At the end of the day, we are delirious from all the hits that we have taken. We often ask ourselves, why. It would be easier to just give up and let the chips fall where they may.
Personally, I have a number of issues in my life that I often become frustrated about. There are certain aspects of my life that I want to change, but no matter how much I try, they don’t seem to be changing. I set certain goals, only for those goals to fall by the wayside. I become angry and depressed when the things I strive for never seem to manifest. I try and I try, praying along the way, all to no avail.
Yet, I refuse to give up. You see, I had an epiphany this morning. Life isn’t always about what I want. It’s more about what God wants for me. The things that I want for myself aren’t necessarily what’s best for me. I can’t always see it at the time, but God sees and knows all.
I found the above quote very interesting for a number of reasons. One, even when it appears that I have lost a battle, what I see isn’t necessarily what God sees. Sometimes we fight so hard to hang to a person or situation that we fail to see just how toxic it can be to us. Sometimes we strive to arrive at a place without realizing that God is not in that place. Sometimes by achieving what we think we want, we may be causing ourselves and the ones we love irrevocable harm.
So my brothers and sisters remember this; even when it appears we have lost the battle, the victory can still be ours.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes it seems as though I am fighting a never ending battle. Some days are filled with stress and strife. Sometimes, I become weary from the war that wages around me. I realize that sometimes it is I who has caused the war from within. Lord, help me to be strong and resist temptation. Help me to develop patience, perseverance and peace within. Father, as I pause to spend time with You, I ask that you would quiet the conflict that rages within me. When I am faced with trials and tribulations help me to be still and remain calm and turn control over to the Holy Spirit. It's Your spirit Lord, that dwells in me. It that same spirit that can give me rest if I would just succumb to it. Its in that spirit I can find peace, joy and contentment. It's in that Spirit that I can find the answer to the questions that plague me. Father, sometimes it seems as though satan’s entire army has come against me. But Your word tells me that no army can defeat me with the Lord on my side. Thank You Father. I know that as long as I follow You, I am on the right path. I also realize that as long as I follow You, satan will be there trying to discourage me. I rebuke the devil in the name of Jesus. I call upon the name of the Lord, and I will surrender my will to his and allow the Lord to fight my battles. Thank You Father for the power and authority that has been given to me through Christ Jesus. Lord, bless my family, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep me nearer God to Thee. Glory to God; Praise the name of the Lord. Hallelujah, Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory." Deuteronomy 20:4 (New International Version)
There are times when we feel as though we are fighting a battle that can’t be won. We become punch drunk from all the blows that life sends our way. We arise each and everyday to fight the good fight of faith. At the end of the day, we are delirious from all the hits that we have taken. We often ask ourselves, why. It would be easier to just give up and let the chips fall where they may.
Personally, I have a number of issues in my life that I often become frustrated about. There are certain aspects of my life that I want to change, but no matter how much I try, they don’t seem to be changing. I set certain goals, only for those goals to fall by the wayside. I become angry and depressed when the things I strive for never seem to manifest. I try and I try, praying along the way, all to no avail.
Yet, I refuse to give up. You see, I had an epiphany this morning. Life isn’t always about what I want. It’s more about what God wants for me. The things that I want for myself aren’t necessarily what’s best for me. I can’t always see it at the time, but God sees and knows all.
I found the above quote very interesting for a number of reasons. One, even when it appears that I have lost a battle, what I see isn’t necessarily what God sees. Sometimes we fight so hard to hang to a person or situation that we fail to see just how toxic it can be to us. Sometimes we strive to arrive at a place without realizing that God is not in that place. Sometimes by achieving what we think we want, we may be causing ourselves and the ones we love irrevocable harm.
So my brothers and sisters remember this; even when it appears we have lost the battle, the victory can still be ours.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes it seems as though I am fighting a never ending battle. Some days are filled with stress and strife. Sometimes, I become weary from the war that wages around me. I realize that sometimes it is I who has caused the war from within. Lord, help me to be strong and resist temptation. Help me to develop patience, perseverance and peace within. Father, as I pause to spend time with You, I ask that you would quiet the conflict that rages within me. When I am faced with trials and tribulations help me to be still and remain calm and turn control over to the Holy Spirit. It's Your spirit Lord, that dwells in me. It that same spirit that can give me rest if I would just succumb to it. Its in that spirit I can find peace, joy and contentment. It's in that Spirit that I can find the answer to the questions that plague me. Father, sometimes it seems as though satan’s entire army has come against me. But Your word tells me that no army can defeat me with the Lord on my side. Thank You Father. I know that as long as I follow You, I am on the right path. I also realize that as long as I follow You, satan will be there trying to discourage me. I rebuke the devil in the name of Jesus. I call upon the name of the Lord, and I will surrender my will to his and allow the Lord to fight my battles. Thank You Father for the power and authority that has been given to me through Christ Jesus. Lord, bless my family, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep me nearer God to Thee. Glory to God; Praise the name of the Lord. Hallelujah, Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Your Happiness Is Not an Option
Remember, when one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us. ~ Helen Keller
Scripture:
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (New International Version)
Have you ever run into people who are always angry at the world around them? They complain about everything; their job, their spouse, their finances? You say it’s a beautiful day and they will say it’s too hot. You like your boss, they hate them. I mean, nothing and no one pleases them. You see them coming and just want to run the other way? Are you one of those people? Are you the type of person who tends NOT to see the good in anything?
I realized a long time ago that it was not up to anyone else to make me happy. The choice is mine. Every day you have a choice: Will it be a good day or a bad one? It really IS up to you. You can't control the external circumstances of your life; the bad news, the interruptions, the unexpected problems, various quandaries, etc., but you can control your response to them.
Earlier this evening, I spoke with a friend who has been diagnosed with cancer. Now this friend had been told by her doctors that she didn’t have very long to live. Rather than take to heart what the doctors said, her attitude is this; “I don’t care what the doctors say, I choose life.”
You see, my friend has made a choice. Her choice is to fight back and live. My friend has such a beautiful spirit and she has always blessed me with it. Even when faced with her own mortality, she told me about how she uses her time at chemotherapy to testify to others who are there for the same treatment that she is. Rather than speak death and despair into her situation, she gives others hope by being a living testimony. To her, dying is not an option.
Remember, the power for happiness is in our hands, and no one else's.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, there were times this past week that I became weak. Forgive me. I doubted Your word and Your promises. Forgive me. I allowed satan to deceive me with his lies. Forgive me. I wanted to give up, but You wouldn't let me. Thank You Father for keeping me once again. Lord, I come boldly before Your throne of grace. Your word says that You give strength to the weary, so I ask that You would strengthen those who may be weary. Bless us Lord with Your presence, that our hearts might be encouraged. Help us to remember Your faithfulness and Your love that we might stand in faith against the issues that face us. I bind the schemes of the enemy to tear me down, and I rebuke the spirits that have been assigned to harass me. I ask You Lord to minister fresh strength and joy to me. I agree with Your word, that says, Your plans for me are to give me hope and a future. Father, bless my sister and cover her in the blood of the lamb. The blood that heals, strengthens and protects Your saints. I ask that You would bless all of Your saints reading this prayer. Let it be so Lord Jesus, according to Your will. I pray in Your mighty name, Amen
Scripture:
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (New International Version)
Have you ever run into people who are always angry at the world around them? They complain about everything; their job, their spouse, their finances? You say it’s a beautiful day and they will say it’s too hot. You like your boss, they hate them. I mean, nothing and no one pleases them. You see them coming and just want to run the other way? Are you one of those people? Are you the type of person who tends NOT to see the good in anything?
I realized a long time ago that it was not up to anyone else to make me happy. The choice is mine. Every day you have a choice: Will it be a good day or a bad one? It really IS up to you. You can't control the external circumstances of your life; the bad news, the interruptions, the unexpected problems, various quandaries, etc., but you can control your response to them.
Earlier this evening, I spoke with a friend who has been diagnosed with cancer. Now this friend had been told by her doctors that she didn’t have very long to live. Rather than take to heart what the doctors said, her attitude is this; “I don’t care what the doctors say, I choose life.”
You see, my friend has made a choice. Her choice is to fight back and live. My friend has such a beautiful spirit and she has always blessed me with it. Even when faced with her own mortality, she told me about how she uses her time at chemotherapy to testify to others who are there for the same treatment that she is. Rather than speak death and despair into her situation, she gives others hope by being a living testimony. To her, dying is not an option.
Remember, the power for happiness is in our hands, and no one else's.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, there were times this past week that I became weak. Forgive me. I doubted Your word and Your promises. Forgive me. I allowed satan to deceive me with his lies. Forgive me. I wanted to give up, but You wouldn't let me. Thank You Father for keeping me once again. Lord, I come boldly before Your throne of grace. Your word says that You give strength to the weary, so I ask that You would strengthen those who may be weary. Bless us Lord with Your presence, that our hearts might be encouraged. Help us to remember Your faithfulness and Your love that we might stand in faith against the issues that face us. I bind the schemes of the enemy to tear me down, and I rebuke the spirits that have been assigned to harass me. I ask You Lord to minister fresh strength and joy to me. I agree with Your word, that says, Your plans for me are to give me hope and a future. Father, bless my sister and cover her in the blood of the lamb. The blood that heals, strengthens and protects Your saints. I ask that You would bless all of Your saints reading this prayer. Let it be so Lord Jesus, according to Your will. I pray in Your mighty name, Amen
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Jesus Sees Your Struggle
Remember, “Where there is no struggle, there is no strength.” ~ Oprah Winfrey
Scripture:
He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, Mark 6:48-51 (NIV).
Just about everyone that I know is going through, or has gone through some type of storm. Sometimes the storms are of a financial nature. Or they may be storms in their relationships, in their homes, on their jobs, or in their bodies. Sometimes the storms may even be in their relationship with God.
No matter who you are, what you do for a living, your standing in the community, your marital status, you will go through a storm. It is inevitable. Since everyone has to go through the storm, the best thing we can do about it is learn from it. Only you can choose what you will learn from your personal storm.
Storms have the ability to show us what our weaknesses and needs are. Maybe the lesson is humility. Maybe the lesson is learning that we are not all that we think we are. Storms have a way of bringing us closer to God.
Sometimes when we are shaken up and tossed about, then and only then will we reach out for God’s unchanging hand.
Prayer:
Lord, as I am going through my own personal storm, I come to the realization that You see my struggles. You are there even when I can’t see You. You watch over me and are just waiting for me to call to You. Lord, forgive for panicking and becoming afraid when my storms begin to toss me about. Lord, You have said that all I have to do is call on the name of Jesus. He is always there to rescue me from the storms of life. I know that I must go through my storms because it is necessary for me to recognize and worship You. The storms reveal all that is hidden within and around me. Lord, I choose to learn from my storms, no matter what the lesson may be. I accept every storm in my life because without them, I would forget that I need You each and everyday. I understand that the storms are sometimes necessary for me to see what You are doing in my life. As I recall the words to the song, “His Eye in on the Sparrow”, I remember that Your word that tells me “do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?” So I must learn that even in my storms, that I have no worry for You see my struggles. Thank you Lord for reminding me that You would never leave me nor forsake me. I come blessing and uplifting the name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus. It is in His precious name that I submit my prayers. Amen.
Scripture:
He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, Mark 6:48-51 (NIV).
Just about everyone that I know is going through, or has gone through some type of storm. Sometimes the storms are of a financial nature. Or they may be storms in their relationships, in their homes, on their jobs, or in their bodies. Sometimes the storms may even be in their relationship with God.
No matter who you are, what you do for a living, your standing in the community, your marital status, you will go through a storm. It is inevitable. Since everyone has to go through the storm, the best thing we can do about it is learn from it. Only you can choose what you will learn from your personal storm.
Storms have the ability to show us what our weaknesses and needs are. Maybe the lesson is humility. Maybe the lesson is learning that we are not all that we think we are. Storms have a way of bringing us closer to God.
Sometimes when we are shaken up and tossed about, then and only then will we reach out for God’s unchanging hand.
Prayer:
Lord, as I am going through my own personal storm, I come to the realization that You see my struggles. You are there even when I can’t see You. You watch over me and are just waiting for me to call to You. Lord, forgive for panicking and becoming afraid when my storms begin to toss me about. Lord, You have said that all I have to do is call on the name of Jesus. He is always there to rescue me from the storms of life. I know that I must go through my storms because it is necessary for me to recognize and worship You. The storms reveal all that is hidden within and around me. Lord, I choose to learn from my storms, no matter what the lesson may be. I accept every storm in my life because without them, I would forget that I need You each and everyday. I understand that the storms are sometimes necessary for me to see what You are doing in my life. As I recall the words to the song, “His Eye in on the Sparrow”, I remember that Your word that tells me “do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?” So I must learn that even in my storms, that I have no worry for You see my struggles. Thank you Lord for reminding me that You would never leave me nor forsake me. I come blessing and uplifting the name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus. It is in His precious name that I submit my prayers. Amen.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Displaying An Act of Kindness
Remember, Kindness has converted more sinners than zeal, eloquence, or learning. ~ Frederick W. Faber
Scripture:
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12 (New International Version)
Recently after picking up my youngest son from our neighborhood Boys and Girls Club, I dropped him off at the local McDonald’s while I ran into a nearby grocery store. My son Joseph had asked for a few dollars to get something to eat to tide him over until I could go home and prepare dinner. When I finished making my purchases and exited from the store, I saw my son standing by my car.
I was a little surprised to see him so soon and asked had he gotten his burger? He response was, “yes, but I gave it to a homeless man who was sitting inside the restaurant. He looked hungry so I gave him my burger.” I was pleasantly shocked.
You see, on several different occasions my son had been with me when people asked us for money. I have always tried to make it a habit to give them something. Usually, I give the money to my son to give to the person asking. He once asked why I gave our money away.
I explained to my son that most homeless people aren’t homeless by choice. Something happened in their lives that created their current condition. I further explained that yes, many of them where on drugs or alcoholics, but that it is not our place to judge them. We don’t know what caused them to turn to drugs or alcohol, and maybe, just maybe by showing them some compassion, it might just give them a little bit of hope to try to change things.
Now some people would call us foolish, stating that they were just going to buy more drugs or alcohol. My position is this, maybe they won’t. How can we expect anyone to change if they don’t see any hope around them?
My baby boy is learning how to be compassionate. He saw a man in need and gave all that he had.
Isn’t that a great lesson for all of our children to learn?
Be Blessed.
Prayer:
I complained I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet. Lord, so often we complain about how difficult our lives are without realizing just how blessed we are. We complain about our jobs, without thinking about the man or woman who wished they had one. We complain about are spouses, but give nary a thought to the man or woman who cries out every night for mate. We complain about our children, without giving thought to the woman who can never bear her own. Lord, forgive me for my complaints. Thank You Lord, for all of my many blessings. I thank You for my job, my children, my home, my family and my friends. Thank You Father for the roof that has been provided over my head. Thank You Lord, for the food on my table. Thank You Father for all the little things that I so often take for granted. Thank You Lord, for my children, who are a gift from You. Thank You Lord, for the compassion that You show to me, a sinner who was destined for hell. But You saw me and reached out to me. For that I am grateful. I give thanks to You oh great Jehovah, for giving me the eternal gift of life through Your Son, Jesus Christ. It is in His name that we submit this prayer. Amen.
Scripture:
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12 (New International Version)
Recently after picking up my youngest son from our neighborhood Boys and Girls Club, I dropped him off at the local McDonald’s while I ran into a nearby grocery store. My son Joseph had asked for a few dollars to get something to eat to tide him over until I could go home and prepare dinner. When I finished making my purchases and exited from the store, I saw my son standing by my car.
I was a little surprised to see him so soon and asked had he gotten his burger? He response was, “yes, but I gave it to a homeless man who was sitting inside the restaurant. He looked hungry so I gave him my burger.” I was pleasantly shocked.
You see, on several different occasions my son had been with me when people asked us for money. I have always tried to make it a habit to give them something. Usually, I give the money to my son to give to the person asking. He once asked why I gave our money away.
I explained to my son that most homeless people aren’t homeless by choice. Something happened in their lives that created their current condition. I further explained that yes, many of them where on drugs or alcoholics, but that it is not our place to judge them. We don’t know what caused them to turn to drugs or alcohol, and maybe, just maybe by showing them some compassion, it might just give them a little bit of hope to try to change things.
Now some people would call us foolish, stating that they were just going to buy more drugs or alcohol. My position is this, maybe they won’t. How can we expect anyone to change if they don’t see any hope around them?
My baby boy is learning how to be compassionate. He saw a man in need and gave all that he had.
Isn’t that a great lesson for all of our children to learn?
Be Blessed.
Prayer:
I complained I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet. Lord, so often we complain about how difficult our lives are without realizing just how blessed we are. We complain about our jobs, without thinking about the man or woman who wished they had one. We complain about are spouses, but give nary a thought to the man or woman who cries out every night for mate. We complain about our children, without giving thought to the woman who can never bear her own. Lord, forgive me for my complaints. Thank You Lord, for all of my many blessings. I thank You for my job, my children, my home, my family and my friends. Thank You Father for the roof that has been provided over my head. Thank You Lord, for the food on my table. Thank You Father for all the little things that I so often take for granted. Thank You Lord, for my children, who are a gift from You. Thank You Lord, for the compassion that You show to me, a sinner who was destined for hell. But You saw me and reached out to me. For that I am grateful. I give thanks to You oh great Jehovah, for giving me the eternal gift of life through Your Son, Jesus Christ. It is in His name that we submit this prayer. Amen.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Let Your Inner Light Shine
Remember, People are like stained glass windows: they sparkle and shine when the sun's out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is light within. ~ Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
Scripture:
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:15-16 (New International Version)
When things in our lives are going along smoothly, it’s very easy for us to put on a happy face. The bills are paid, the children are doing well, and our spouses are everything that we ever dreamed they could be. We smile, are nice to everyone and all is right with the world.
However, when things aren’t going along as planned, it’s much harder for us to put on a happy front. I mean, how can I smile when the bills are due and I don’t have the money to pay them? How can I be happy when my children are being disobedient and unruly? How can I stop the tears from flowing when my relationship is in trouble?
Now I don’t know about you, but rarely is everything in my life going in the same direction at the same time. In other words, I am faced with some sort of adversity almost on a daily basis. When I wake up in the morning, trust me, I can find something to become upset about. I just choose not too.
You see, I realized sometime ago we make choices in this world that will determine our moods and our mindset for the day. If I get up with an attitude instead of gratitude, and say I am going to have a bad day, then I will. Have a bad day that is.
When I awaken with gratitude in my heart, on my mind and on my tongue, even the negative things in my world won’t keep me down. I choose a spirit of happiness each day and live my life accordingly. Some of my friends even jokingly call me their Job because I continue to praise God even in the midst of my storms.
The quote I used for today essentially says that anyone can be pretty and full of life if the right light is shining in their lives, but what happens when the outer light is no longer present? Do you have the inner light of the Holy Spirit in you that still shines even when the clouds come out?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, in the name of Jesus, we come before the throne of grace, humbling ourselves before You Lord, giving You all honor, praise and glory. Father God, as we draw closer to the end of another week, we come to give thanks for all that You have done in our lives, but also for the things that You are about to do. Father, Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Your word have I hidden in my heart so that I may not sin against thee. Lord, I come lifting my shield of faith and my sword of the spirit, which is the word of God. I believe that I can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens me. I believe that You are doing a new thing in my life. I believe that my breakthrough, my miracle, my healing is at hand. I believe that I am and can do everything that Your word tells me because You Lord, are God alone and You cannot lie. My shield of faith reminds me that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. My faith and hope comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Lord, we know and realize that You are still sovereign and that all things work for the good of those who love You and who have been called according to Your purpose. Thank You Lord, for my faith. Thank You Lord, for my blessings. Thank You Lord, for my Redeemer, Christ Jesus, it is in His name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:15-16 (New International Version)
When things in our lives are going along smoothly, it’s very easy for us to put on a happy face. The bills are paid, the children are doing well, and our spouses are everything that we ever dreamed they could be. We smile, are nice to everyone and all is right with the world.
However, when things aren’t going along as planned, it’s much harder for us to put on a happy front. I mean, how can I smile when the bills are due and I don’t have the money to pay them? How can I be happy when my children are being disobedient and unruly? How can I stop the tears from flowing when my relationship is in trouble?
Now I don’t know about you, but rarely is everything in my life going in the same direction at the same time. In other words, I am faced with some sort of adversity almost on a daily basis. When I wake up in the morning, trust me, I can find something to become upset about. I just choose not too.
You see, I realized sometime ago we make choices in this world that will determine our moods and our mindset for the day. If I get up with an attitude instead of gratitude, and say I am going to have a bad day, then I will. Have a bad day that is.
When I awaken with gratitude in my heart, on my mind and on my tongue, even the negative things in my world won’t keep me down. I choose a spirit of happiness each day and live my life accordingly. Some of my friends even jokingly call me their Job because I continue to praise God even in the midst of my storms.
The quote I used for today essentially says that anyone can be pretty and full of life if the right light is shining in their lives, but what happens when the outer light is no longer present? Do you have the inner light of the Holy Spirit in you that still shines even when the clouds come out?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, in the name of Jesus, we come before the throne of grace, humbling ourselves before You Lord, giving You all honor, praise and glory. Father God, as we draw closer to the end of another week, we come to give thanks for all that You have done in our lives, but also for the things that You are about to do. Father, Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Your word have I hidden in my heart so that I may not sin against thee. Lord, I come lifting my shield of faith and my sword of the spirit, which is the word of God. I believe that I can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens me. I believe that You are doing a new thing in my life. I believe that my breakthrough, my miracle, my healing is at hand. I believe that I am and can do everything that Your word tells me because You Lord, are God alone and You cannot lie. My shield of faith reminds me that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. My faith and hope comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Lord, we know and realize that You are still sovereign and that all things work for the good of those who love You and who have been called according to Your purpose. Thank You Lord, for my faith. Thank You Lord, for my blessings. Thank You Lord, for my Redeemer, Christ Jesus, it is in His name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
In Remembrance
Remember, to live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die." ~ Thomas Campbell
and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." 1 Corinthians 11:24 (New International Version)
The fourth of July is a day when the America’s gather together in celebration of its independence from England. It is also a day when we call to remembrance all those who died in war to help insure that America remains free.
Some of us celebrate by attending parades, watching fireworks and gathering together with family and friends to enjoy the fruits of our labors. We eat, drink and make merry. Unfortunately, many of us don’t know why. We do what we do out of tradition; the tradition of celebrations that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Unfortunately, the same holds true for many of the traditions we celebrate in the church, including the Lord’s Supper. Many who came up in the church traditionally observe the celebration of the Lord’s Supper because that’s what we have been taught to do. We eat the bread and drink the wine, in celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But do we truly understand the significance of what we are doing?
The bread that we break and eat as a part of the ceremony is representative of the body of Christ. The message of the bread is one of us being set free from or delivered out of our sin through Christ’s death on the cross. The body of Christ was broken for our sins. The wine is representative if the Blood of Christ. The blood of Christ was shed to wash away our sins. We practice this ceremony to remind us that Jesus Christ was broken and bled so that we could be reconciled to the kingdom of God.
So even though we practice certain ceremonies, celebrate with various holidays, we must always remember that it is not only out of tradition that we do these things, but they have a much deeper meaning. They represent our freedom; freedom from tyranny and freedom from sin and eternal death.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come kneeling before the mercy seat asking for Your favor. Lord, we ask that You would continue to cover us and hide us under the wings of Your salvation. Dear Lord, we ask that You would touch the hearts and minds of all Your Saints. So that we may always remember to whom we belong. We thank You Father for keeping us safe from all hurt, harm and danger yet another day. Father God we thank You for fresh grace and mercy. We thank You for watching over our loved ones. We thank You most of all for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, whose body was broken and whose blood was shed so that we could be reconciled unto the Kingdom of God. Thank You Lord for He who was sacrificed so that I could be saved. It is in His name we pray, Amen.
and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." 1 Corinthians 11:24 (New International Version)
The fourth of July is a day when the America’s gather together in celebration of its independence from England. It is also a day when we call to remembrance all those who died in war to help insure that America remains free.
Some of us celebrate by attending parades, watching fireworks and gathering together with family and friends to enjoy the fruits of our labors. We eat, drink and make merry. Unfortunately, many of us don’t know why. We do what we do out of tradition; the tradition of celebrations that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Unfortunately, the same holds true for many of the traditions we celebrate in the church, including the Lord’s Supper. Many who came up in the church traditionally observe the celebration of the Lord’s Supper because that’s what we have been taught to do. We eat the bread and drink the wine, in celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But do we truly understand the significance of what we are doing?
The bread that we break and eat as a part of the ceremony is representative of the body of Christ. The message of the bread is one of us being set free from or delivered out of our sin through Christ’s death on the cross. The body of Christ was broken for our sins. The wine is representative if the Blood of Christ. The blood of Christ was shed to wash away our sins. We practice this ceremony to remind us that Jesus Christ was broken and bled so that we could be reconciled to the kingdom of God.
So even though we practice certain ceremonies, celebrate with various holidays, we must always remember that it is not only out of tradition that we do these things, but they have a much deeper meaning. They represent our freedom; freedom from tyranny and freedom from sin and eternal death.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come kneeling before the mercy seat asking for Your favor. Lord, we ask that You would continue to cover us and hide us under the wings of Your salvation. Dear Lord, we ask that You would touch the hearts and minds of all Your Saints. So that we may always remember to whom we belong. We thank You Father for keeping us safe from all hurt, harm and danger yet another day. Father God we thank You for fresh grace and mercy. We thank You for watching over our loved ones. We thank You most of all for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, whose body was broken and whose blood was shed so that we could be reconciled unto the Kingdom of God. Thank You Lord for He who was sacrificed so that I could be saved. It is in His name we pray, Amen.
