Archived Daily Devotionals

Remember, Each day comes bearing its own gifts. Untie the ribbons. ~Ruth Ann Schabacker

Scripture:
I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. 1 Corinthians 7:7

Saints, has there ever been a time when you became jealous of someone else? Did they have something that you desired? Money, looks, prestige?

Do you ever wish that you had someone else’s talent? Maybe their husband or wife? Do you ever feel jealous because someone else who didn’t work as hard as you got the promotion or acknowledgement?

Sometimes, it will appear that life isn’t fair. We work so hard at our relationships, in our careers and raising our families and more times than not, it seems we just can’t get ahead. We look around at other people in our lives and they seem to be doing so much better than us, with little or no effort.

Well, today I am not going to sugar coat it. Everyone is not created equal. There are specific reasons for it all. Some by our own design and some are according to God’s plan.

God has a desire and a plan for each of our lives. It doesn’t always coincide with what we want, but rather, what God wants for us. God knows what we can handle and what we can’t.

Our gifts, both spiritually and in the natural, are all from Him. They are meted out according to his will. So remember, this, don’t be jealous of what others have accomplished or have gained in this world. God has a special gift, just for you.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father God, we come before the throne of grace to thank You for what You have given us. Lord, I know there are times when I feel that I deserve more, but I stop and realize that more isn’t always what’s best for me. I am reminded that I have so much because of You. I have the gift of eternal life through Your Son, Jesus Christ. As the seasons change and the nights become dark and cold, I am reminded just how blessed I truly am. I have a home, food, friends, and most of all, the gift of love. Love of family and friends. I have hope for tomorrow and I have the gift of salvation. I realize that the things of this world are just for a season. I will rejoice in my season, for I know that the harvest is near. Thank You Father, for my gifts. Thank You Lord, for my health, my strength and my life. Thank you most of all for Christ Jesus, it is in His name that we pray. Amen.

Remember, Treasure your relationships, not your possessions. ~ Anthony J. DeAngelo

Scripture:
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. Matthew 6:20-22

Recently a friend, sent me a story about a little girl who treasured a strand of dime store pearls. This little girl thought the pearls were wonderful and they where her most prized possession.

Well the story goes on to tell how her father, knowing how much this little girl loved these pearls, asked her if she loved him too. Of course her response was yes. But when he asked if he could have the pearls, the little girl would response, oh no, but you can have one of my other treasures. This went on for awhile, until one day with tears in her eyes, the little girl gave her daddy the cheap pearls.

Her father who loved her very much reached into his pocket and pulled out a real set of pearls that he been waiting to give his daughter when she was ready to give up the cheap ones that she treasured so deeply.

The moral of the story is this; How often do we covet something that only looks good? How often do we hold on to a relationship that only looks good to the world, but we know in our hearts, that it is not all it appears to be?How often do we say we love our heavenly Father, but are unwilling to give up those things in our lives, that are cheap, gaudy, and superficial? How often must He ask us do we love him enough to give up what we treasure the most to follow him?

How long does he have to wait to give you the purest treasure of all? His love.Be

Blessed

Prayer:
Father God, forgive us for loving things more than You. Forgive us not listening to Your cries. Forgive us Lord for not seeing our own selfishness. Father, help us to develop a discerning spirit that would help us to recognize those things in our lives that You yearn for us to give up. Help us to be still, be quiet, listen for Your voice that tells us how much You love us, when the world around us tries to tell us otherwise. Father, may we always seek You face, Your wisdom, and Your mercy. For we are weak and need Your strength. Thank You Lord, for the new revelations we discover in Your word each day. Continue to touch, bless, and anoint all who come seeking Your word today. Help each of us find that path that You have chosen for us. Order our steps Holy Spirit, so that we may always walks in right relation with You. Keep each and every family that is represented here safe under the wings of Your salvation. As we as these and all things in the name of Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Remember, the man of character, sensitive to the meaning of what he is doing, will know how to discover the ethical paths in the maze of possible behavior. ~ Earl Warren

Scripture:
since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them. Romans 2:15

Saints,
Have you ever found yourself in a position where you were tempted to do something wrong? Maybe you were tempted to lie about something, or cheat on a test, or maybe even take something that didn’t belong to you.

However, a voice deep down inside of you said, “No, you can’t do that.” Now some people say it’s their conscience talking to them. For the most part, they are right. The Merriam-Webster dictionary gives this definition of conscience: the sense or consciousness of the moral goodness or blameworthiness of one's own conduct, intentions, or character together with a feeling of obligation to do right or be good.

Most of us who have been taught the Word of God know that doing something wrong is a sin. It is taught to us time and time again, in the written word of God. We all know the Ten Commandment, you know, “the though shall nots.” They are so deeply ingrained in us that even when we don’t listen to that still small voice that speaks to us and do those things that we know we aren’t supposed to, we are convicted.

We are convicted because we KNOW the Word of God. We KNOW that there are consequences to our actions. We KNOW that sin is displeasing to God.

Once you have met God and studied His word, and you know the difference between right and wrong; you will be self-convicted. Saints of God, I just want you to know, that no matter what you may be going through, God’s Word has not changed. It is the same yesterday, today and forevermore.

So I urge you, listen to your conscience.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father God, I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Praise be to You, O Lord; teach me your decrees. Lord, I come before the throne of grace asking that You would forgive me for all the wrong I’ve done. O Lord, let us draw near to You with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. We worship you Lord, will all of our being. We thank You Father, for the absolution that has been given to us through the death and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ, it is in His name we pray. Amen.

Somehow, not only for Christmas but all the long year through, The joy that you give to others Is the joy that comes back to you. And the more you spend in blessing The poor and lonely and sad, The more of your heart's possessing Returns to you glad. ~ John Greenleaf Whittier

Scripture:
The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." Exodus 33:14

Saints, have you been busy this holiday season? Have you been running around to this place and that place? Attending holiday parties, taking the kids to rehearsals, attending their plays and concerts? We won't even talk about decorating, shopping and cooking.

This time of year finds us running from this place to that place, stretching the limits of our endurance. Trying to pack everything into our little 24 hour day. What should be a joyous time of year, turns into a race to see just how far we can go before we snap.!

So before we go another step further, let's remember just what this holy season is about. It's a time to reflect on God's love for us. It's a time when we should be in prayer and worship with and for one another, sharing God's love with each other. It's a time to truly teach our children what this season is all about. Not the gifts or the parties, or the plays.

But the true meaning of Christmas. CHRIST!

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, as we enter into Your gates with praise and thanksgiving on our tongues and in our hearts, we want to say thank You for this season. We thank You Lord, not for the material things that we see advertised, but to the spiritual gift that was given that cannot be bought. We thank You Lord, for loving us that much. We thank You Lord, for family, friends and fellowship. Lord, keep us during this season. Let us not lose sight of the reason for the season. Christ Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.

All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another. ~ Anatole Frances

Scripture:
Wait for the LORD ; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. Psalm 27:14

Recently, I had a conversation with a friend and he told me that he had interviewed for a job out of state and was expecting that he would be moving by the end of the month. However, he was starting to become a little nervous because he had not heard back from the company even though he had been assured that the job was his.I knew from earlier conversations that even though he was ready to move, he had quite a few loose ends to tie up before he could actually go.

As we talked I explained this to him and included that if in fact he had been notified and told that he would be moving right away, he would become doubly stressed in getting everything he needed to do done in time.

Sometimes even when we know that God is giving us our blessings or that our blessings are on the way, he will put us into a holding pattern because there may be other things that need to be done before we can truly accept them. He knows better than us that sometimes even when we think we are ready, there may still be things to do that can't be left undone.

So Saints I encourage you, to wait on the Lord, because your blessings are on the way.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Father, help us learn to wait on You and to be still and of good courage. We recognize that sometimes we get impatient and want what we want right now, but we also recognize that what we want right now isn't always what You want for us. Thank You Father for the wait. For we know that everything is done in Your perfect time and not ours. Father, we ask for new revelations of Your word today. We ask that Your presence be magnified in our lives. Help us Lord, to always keep You in everything that we do and say. Bless Your name Lord. Thank You for the victories that will be won today in Your name. We speak these things as though they were. Praise God Hallelujah, Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lamb of God in his name we pray. Amen.

Remember, We can only learn to know ourselves and do what we can -- namely, surrender our will and fulfill God's will in us.” ~ St. Teresa of Avila

Scripture:
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shate and with swelling thereof. Selah. Psalm 46:1-3

How often have you heard the phrase; I am too Blessed to be stressed? I am sure many of you have also used that phrase in response to the question; how are you doing today?

So often we speak the words and don't really believe what we are saying. We may start our day off on a pleasant note, then something happens to upset you. Rather than allowing God to handle the situation, we begin to worry. We worry about our bills, our spouses, our jobs, and the list just goes on and on.

God tells us time and time again, give me your worries, your cares, your concerns, your problems. And leave them with me. I got this! There is a gospel song that I sometimes listen to that is very special to me. It says; "God is the joy and the strength of my life. He removes all pain, misery and strife. He promised to keep me; never to leave, and he never ever comes short of his word." "GOD IS MY ALL AND ALL!"

Saints of God, we must learn to cast all of our burdens onto the Lord. He's Got This!

Be Blessed

Prayer:
When trouble comes, God help me to trust in You. Lord, sometimes we forget that You are our ever present help in the time of trouble. Thank You Lord for being there when we need You. Lord, when we begin to falter and start to worry about our problems, help us to remember to be still and pray to You. When the problems of life seem to overwhelm us, help us to remember You are right there with us. God help us to realize that weeping may endure for a night, and that sometimes it is necessary for trouble to assail us so that we can see You manifested in our lives. Lord, We ask for strength today. The strength to stand and fight the good fight of faith yet another day. Lord, grant us peace today. Your peace that passes all understanding. Lord, fill our hearts with Your love. Your love that is not our selfish definition, but the love of Christ Jesus, that strengthens us. Now Lord, we come together on one accord to pray for one another. For no matter how heavy our cross seems, we recognize that we are blessed beyond our own imaginations. Bless our brothers and sisters in Christ. Bless our loved ones who have not come to know You yet. But most of all, we Bless Your holy name. In Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.

There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altared. ~Nelson Mandela

Scripture:
The Spirit of the LORD will come upon you in power, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person. 1 Samuel 10:6 (New International Version)

I find myself at an age where I am constantly reviewing my past. I can honestly say, that I have not always known the Lord. I have done and said things that have caused myself and others heartache and pain. But you in retrospect, I also realize that since accepting Jesus Christ as my personal Savior, I know I have been changed.

You see, since establishing my own personal relationship with the Lord, there are things that I can no longer do, places I can no go and even some people I can no longer associate with. Now this may not hold true for all Christians, but it does for me.

You see, the quality of my life is more important than the things in my life. It’s more important to me to be a good mother, a good friend but most of all, a good Christian. I cannot in good conscience cause other people harm through my action or words. I find that I am more compassionate to the needs of others. I have realized that the world doesn’t revolve around me.

When you develop a relationship with the Master, He become just that; the Master and ruler of your life. Even when you think you might want to return to your old way of doing things, you find that there is something within you that speaks to your heart; your conscience.

If you don’t have that something within you, ask yourself, Have I really changed?

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Once far from God and dead in sin No light my heart could see But in God's Word the light I found Now Christ liveth in me. Father God, May I keep growing closer and closer to You. Thank You Lord for blessing me in so many ways. Father, we ask that You would give us perseverance, endurance, and the strength to always seek Your counsel and guidance. Lord, we realize that so often we take Your word for granted. Forgive us Lord, for neglecting Your word. Lord, feed us the words that nourishes not only our bodies but our spirits and our minds as well. Lord, we when pray, help us to think of the needs of others before we think of our own, Help us Lord, to seek Your living water. For without the living water from the fountain that never runs dry, we will wither and die. We give thanks to You Lord, for always listening to us, even when we have neglected You. Thank You Lord, for our brothers and sisters who come before the throne of grace on our behalf. Thank You Lord, that You manifest Your presence in our lives when we least expect it. Bless Your name. Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.

Learning is finding out what you already know. Doing is demonstrating that you know it. Richard Bach

Scripture:
And I will bring the blind by a way they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them. Isaiah 42:16

Saints, As a child, did you ever get lost? One day out shopping our out with family and friends, somehow you became separated from your parents? Parents, has one of your children ever gotten lost?

A few years ago, my youngest son became lost while out with some friends at the Detroit Auto show. I was not there but received a call on my cell phone to let me know that he had gotten lost but was safe.

When I arrived to pick my son up, as the police officer walked him to my car, I noticed that my son was not crying nor was he upset. As a matter of fact, he seemed to be taking the whole thing in stride.

As we rode home and I asked what happened, he told me how he had become separated and what he did. He was in a car and somehow, when the older boys had gotten out of the car they didn't notice that he was no longer with him. Since my son no longer could see his companions or their father, he did what he had been taught to do. He went up to someone who was working there and told them he was lost. They told my son he wasn't lost, the people he had come with were lost, because he knew where he was.

Saints of God, sometimes in our lives we too lose our way and become lost. Or so it seems to us. We too will need help to find our way home to our Father. The key is recognizing that we are lost and need help to find our way home. We recognize that wherever we may be in our journey doesn't look familiar to us. Or somehow we have become separated from those with whom we have made the journey with.

The key is identifying someone, one of God's angels, who can help us find our way home.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, sometimes as we journey through this life, we become lost. We find that we have somehow become separated from You. We look around us and nothing looks familiar, or we recognize that the things around us are not of You. We don't know how to find our way back to You because we don't know how we got to this place. But Lord, You have told us time and time again, that You are just a prayer away. Thank You Lord, for the power of prayer. Father, help us to recognize those times when we find ourselves in a far country, far away from Your grace and mercy. Help us Lord, to recognize Your angels who will help us to find our way home. Father, we thank You for Your under-Sheppards who You have given charge over us. Because there have been times when we didn't even recognize just how lost we have been, but You have sent them out to bring us back into the fold. Now Lord, we ask that You would continue to touch our brothers and sisters in Christ as well as our unsaved families members and friends. So many need so much. We don't know the need of each individual but we know You do. Bless us Lord in the area of our lives that we have need of. Father God, our hearts are overflowing with Your love. Thank You Lord, for that love. We come before the throne of grace once again, just to give You honor, glory and praise. Bless the name of the Lord. Glory to Your name Lord. Thank You for loving me enough to sacrifice Your only begotten son, Jesus Christ, it is in His name we pray, Amen.

Seasons change, friends move away, and life goes on from day to day. Flowers fade and streams go dry and many times we wonder why. Yet we can always be assured because God tells us in His Word, that unlike changes in the weather, love goes on and lasts ~ unknown.

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. However, there is something that I now realize. Since becoming a Christian, I have changed.

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 is not what I am supposed to accept. I realize that God didn't save me for me; God saved me for his edification.

I have 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 for 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.

Seasons change, friends move away, and life goes on from day to day. Flowers fade and streams go dry and many times we wonder why. Yet we can always be assured because God tells us in His Word, that unlike changes in the weather, love goes on and lasts ~ unknown.

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. However, there is something that I now realize. Since becoming a Christian, I have changed.

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 is not what I am supposed to accept. I realize that God didn't save me for me; God saved me for his edification.

I have 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 for 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.

"When you feel like giving up, remember why you held on for so long in the first place." ~ Unknown

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.

Do not fear the winds of adversity. Remember: A kite rises against the wind rather than with it. ~ Unknown

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)

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word adversity as a state, condition, or instance of serious or continued difficulty or adverse fortune. The powers that be describe it as an economic downturn. We here in Michigan recognize it as a way of life.

You see adversity in not new to us. We have been struggling with “adversity” for a number of years. Almost everyone I know here in my home state has been touched by it or we know someone else that has been touched by it. We live with adversity on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, it is just now that others across this great country are beginning to experience our world. Many people believe that we did it to ourselves. And that the financial crisis we are experiencing is born out of greed and our inability to budget our money. What they fail to realize is that when if one part of the body is crippled, the whole body is affected.

However, there is something else that I have noticed about our great state, the resurgence of the church. People have begun turning back to God. Gone are the excuses that we used to make about why we aren’t in church. “I worked too many hours this week, I’m tired.” “Why do I need to go to church? I’m already blessed.” Or one of my favorites; “What does it matter, I don’t need to go to church, I’m fine just the way things are.” Ever heard or used any of those excuses?

Saints of God, we are in a bad place when we think we don’t need God, or when we don’t take time for God. It’s ironic that when we are doing well, we feel as though we don’t need Him. But the moment things start going wrong, we are all up in church telling God all about our troubles and begging Him to help us.

Now the good thing about our God is that He will listen to us and even help us when we are sincere in our prayers. And sometimes the winds of adversity have to blow through our lives to get our attention and bring us back to the one who will supply all of our needs.

The above scripture says; “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.”

And remember; "Always seek out the seed of triumph in every adversity."

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father God, we come before the throne of grace with praise and thanksgiving on our tongues and in our hearts. We come asking Lord, for peace that passes all understanding. We come asking for strength to stand in the face of adversity. But most of all, we come asking with humbled hearts and minds, that You would hear our prayers and our petitions. Master, we need You to speak to the winds of adversity that are blowing against us, peace be still. We come asking that You hold on to our hands and the storms of life toss us about. We come asking that You would hide us under the wings of Your salvation as the roaring lions draws near in an effort to devour us. Lord, we ask that You would keep all of our families, friends, co-workers and brothers and sisters in perfect peace this and everyday. Bless us right now in the name of Jesus. Our prayers are not complete until we let You know just how much we love You. Our prayers on not complete until we sing songs of praise to You alone. Lord, we lift Your name on high, we give You all of our love, all of our praise and sing songs of praise all the day long. Thank You Lord for one more day. Bless You Lord. Hallelujah, Praise God thank You Jesus, Amen.

Remember, Whenever you see darkness, there is extraordinary opportunity for the light to burn brighter. ~ Bono

Scripture:
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12 (New International Version)

Have you ever met a person who seem to light up a room as they enter? You can’t quite put your finger on it, but something about them seems to make the world around them a brighter place. For some unexplained reason, just being around them makes you happy. There are certain people I have met that make me feel this way.

Once we begin to engage in conversation, I begin to understand why. The light of Jesus has been lit in their hearts. It really doesn’t matter what the conversation is about, it becomes obvious they are filled with the Holy Spirit by virtue of not what they do or say but by how they make me feel. I feel a sense of comfort.

That is how it’s supposed to be with Christians. You should be able to see one another, not by what they do or say, but by the light that emanates from within. The spirit of Christ that resides within their hearts.

I often pray for that same light to be lit within me. I pray that others can see the spirit of Christ in my spirit. I pray that the Holy Spirit indwells in my heart and that others can see and feel it. And when I am feeling down, I pray that He will reignite the fire, so that others will be drawn to it, not for my edification, but for His.

Does the light of Jesus Christ burn within your Spirit?

Be Blessed.

PRAYER:
My Father, My Lord, My Savior. We who have been reconciled into Your kingdom by the saving grace of Christ Jesus, come before You once again with praises and thanksgiving on our tongues. Lord, we come honoring You for the gift of fresh grace and mercy. Lord, You blessed me and kept me once again and I say thank You. Father, we come before You asking that You would magnify Your power and Your presence in our lives. Lord, we know that we don't always do what is right in Your eyes, but we thank You for forgiveness. We realize and recognize that sometimes we don't always act Christ like. Lord, we come asking that Your light that shines within us would be magnified so that others may see it and seek after it in the same way we did. Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless our loved ones, our family members and our brothers and sisters in Christ. Someone needs a miracle today, so we come claiming a miracle for someone else today, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

I asked God for strength that I might achieve. I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey. I asked for health that I might do greater things. I was given infirmity that I might do better things. I asked for riches that I might be happy. I was given poverty that I might be wise. I asked for power that I might have the praise of men. I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God. I asked for all things that I might enjoy life. I was given life that I might enjoy all things. I got nothing that I asked for, but everything I hoped for. Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered. I am, among all men, most richly blessed. ~ Unknown.

Scripture:
filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:11 (NIV)

Saints of God, so often when things are going wrong in our lives, we don’t want to praise God. All we want to do is tell God all about our troubles. Our prayers tend to become more selfish and self-centered.

We have no problem asking or telling God what we want. However, too often we fail to give God praise or thanks for the things that are going right in our lives. We forget the most important aspect of prayer, Praise and adoration.

The greatest commandment that was given to man tells us to “love the Lord, thy God will all thy heart and will all thy soul and with all thy mind.” Praise and worship is one way to show God just how much we love him and what he means to us.

When we learn to praise God in our bad times, we are opening the door so that He can show up. He becomes our light in darkness. He will give us the strength and the comfort that we need to make it through.

Remember, if you praise Him, He will come.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Lord, sometimes I try to pray and the words won't come. I toss and turn and feel nothing. My mind is dry, my heart is dull, and my soul longs for life. Hear my silent cry, my God, hear me. Breathe on us Lord renewing a right spirit within us. Even in our times of sorrow, we praise Your holy name. Lord, open our eyes and give us a discerning spirit, so that we may recognize the tricks of the evil one. Help us Lord to recognize the things and the people who are important in our lives. Not the material things that we tend to scramble after, but the greatest give ever given to us; Your son, Jesus Christ. Praise God! Keep us Lord. Hide us Lord, under the wings of Your salvation. Have mercy Lord, and help us to remember to put on the whole armor of God this and every day. We love You lord, and we praise Your name. In the name of Jesus, we pray, amen.

Remember, the gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials. ~ Chinese Proverb

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. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 1 Peter 1:6-8 (New International Version)

Did you know that diamonds are made of carbon, one of the softest materials on earth? But when carbon is under extreme pressure buried deep below more than 75 miles of rock and is in temperatures more than 2, 192° F, it changes in to a diamond. What starts out as an inert object deep in the bowls of the earth, is transformed into a rare and precious jewel by pressure.

I often liken our lives to diamonds. We start out as; apathetic, asleep, closed down, dead, dormant, down, dull, idle, immobile, impassive, impotent, inactive, inanimate, indolent, languid, languorous, lazy, leaden, listless, motionless, numb, on ice, paralyzed, passive, phlegmatic, powerless, quiescent, quiet, slack, sleepy, slothful, sluggard, sluggish, slumberous, static, still, stolid, torpid, unmoving, unresponsive, (I’m using the thesaurus tonight), individuals who are usually full of themselves with selfish motivations and no real concept of who we are without God.

As things begin to happen in our lives that put us under pressure, we too begin to change. We start searching for that someone or that something that will be the catalyst for our transformation. Those of us, who are lucky, will soon discover that the something or someone who will be the motivating factor for our change will be God.

However, it won’t stop there. As we grow in faith, so will our situations. God isn’t content with us just being a Christian. God wants us to be the best Christian we can be. So in an effort to force out any impurities that may still remain in our lives, he keeps the pressure on.

The pressure is not to break us, but rather to make is into a flawless diamond; a rare and precious jewel.

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 realized 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. It’s 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.

Remember, if you don't know where you are going, you might wind up someplace else. ~ Yogi Berra

Scripture:
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8

I know that many of you are going through difficult times right now. Life has somehow disappointed you and it seems as though you can't catch a break. Relationships and families are in trouble, some are out of work, and others our faced with what seems like insurmountable financial troubles.

There are those of you who are faced with sickness of mind, body, spirit and soul. Others have lost loved ones and there are even some who are disappointed because they can’t find a mate. Some of you are almost ready to give up!

The word of God tells us that no matter what we are going through, He is right there with us. Things may seem bad right now, but as long as God is walking with us, we are never alone.

Our father has said that he would never leave us or forsake us. All you have to do is take yourselves out of the situations and put him in it in your place. Know that he is always with us even when it seems like no one else is coming to your aid.

He will never let us go if we reach out to him.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, I stretch out my hand to thee and call on the name of Jesus! Have mercy Lord for we are weak and need You right here, right now. Abba, show favor towards Your children this day. Give us the strength and the courage to endure. We need You right now. Touch us right now. Bless us right now. In the magnificent name of Your son, we submit this prayer. Amen.

Remember, Adversity is another way to measure the greatness of individuals. I never had a crisis that didn't make me stronger. ~Lou Holtz

Scripture:
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 30:20-21 (New International Version)

Adversity can be described as a series of unfortunate events. Just when it seems that things are going right in your life, something can happen to change your perspective. It can be something as small as failing a test or something so overwhelming like death that just rocks your world.

Sometimes when we are confronted with adverse situations, we may want to throw up our hands in surrender. At other times, we just say “oh well” and keep on keeping on. And then there will come times, when you want to give up and give in. It is in those times when what we are made of, will surely be tested.

Whether you realize it or not, adversity in your lives is sometimes necessary for your spiritual development. There will be times when it becomes inevitable for us all to truly see just how strong the word of God is embedded in our everyday lives. Or, it may be a necessary process in order for us to move to the next level in our spiritual growth.

It is at those times that we must learn to depend on God even more than we already do. The reality of most individuals is that when things are going well in our lives, we become content with where we are. That is not where God necessarily wants us to be. Being a part of the Body of Christ is being willing to be stretched so that we become more like Him and less like the world.

It is at times like these, that we must learn to Stand strong in the face of Adversity.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father God, we come before the throne of grace with praise and thanksgiving on our tongues and in our hearts. We come asking Lord, for peace that passes all understanding. We come asking for strength to stand in the face of adversity. But most of all, we come asking with humbled hearts and minds, that You would hear our prayers and our petitions. Master, we need You to speak to the winds of adversity that are blowing against us, peace be still. We come asking that You hold on to our hands and the storms of life toss us about. We come asking that You would hide us under the wings of Your salvation as the roaring lions draws near in an effort to devour us. Lord, we ask that You would keep all of our families, friends, co-workers and brothers and sisters in perfect peace this and every day. Bless us right now in the name of Jesus. Our prayers are not complete until we let You know just how much we love You. Our prayers on not complete until we sing songs of praise to You alone. Lord, we lift Your name on high, we give You all of our love, all of our praise and sing songs of praise all the day long. Thank You Lord for one more day. Bless You Lord. Hallelujah, Praise God thank You Jesus, in his name we pray, Amen.

Remember, Whenever I feel that I am confused or that my life is in disorder, I remember these words from the book of Proverbs: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart ... In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths."These simple words reaffirm what I know in my heart is true: He is always with me, enfolding me in love and assuring me that all is in divine order. Divine order is His plan for me.Relying on my Higher Power calms my thoughts. I feel secure because I know that He will lead me to the people and events which will contribute to my spiritual growth and fulfillment. All is in divine order because He is the order that supports and surrounds me. ~ unknown

Scripture:
for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Philippians 2:13 (New International Version)

Saints of God, so often we give pause and reflect on the direction our lives are headed in. We seem to be moving right along through life, when something or someone happens to derail us from our chosen course. Well Saints of God, I am here to tell you; “It’s all in Divine Order.”

The job or career that you have chosen hasn’t worked out the way you thought it would. The house you wanted so much to buy was bought by someone else. The man or woman that you thought you were going to marry marries someone else. The dreams and goals that you had in life seem to have fallen by the wayside. I just want to tell you, “It’s all in Divine Order.”

So often the things that we want in life aren’t the things that God wants for us. The path that we ourselves have chosen isn’t necessarily the road that God wants us to travel. Even the person we thought we would spend the rest of our lives with, inevitably isn’t the person we are supposed to be yoked with.

Too often we go through life trying to do everything on our own without first seeking a word from God. We set our sights on things that may turn out to be detrimental to our overall well being. We even fall in love with people who we will give our all to, but who themselves aren’t capable of loving us the way God wants them to love us.

I say all this to say, that no matter what obstacles are in your way, God is still there. It doesn’t matter if your heart has been broken, that you lost your job, or that you are not at the place in your life you think you should be. “It’s all in Divine Order.

Sometimes things have to be the way they are because your plan for your life isn’t God’s plan for your life. Learn to be still, listen for His still small voice, and realize;

That’s it’s All in Divine Order!

Be blessed

Prayer:
Father God, we come once again with praises on our tongues and humility in our hearts, seeking Your face, Your grace and Your mercy. Lord, forgive us for doubting You when the things in our lives are not going according to our plans. We realize that everything that we want isn’t necessarily what You want for us. Help us to recognize the bad choices that we have made in our lives, correct them accept them and move on. Help us Father, to find our way. Lord, we pray ask for a spirit of discernment so that we can recognize when our will is not inline with Yours. Help us to remember to always seek you in everything that we do, before we make life altering choices and to be still in the midst of our storms. Thank you Father, for reminding us that You have provided the way out of darkness and into the light. Your Word and Your Son, Jesus Christ. Our Redeemer. It is in His name that we humbly submit our prayers. Amen.

A liar begins with making falsehood appear like truth, and ends with making truth itself appear like falsehood. ~ William Shenstone

Scripture:
You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. John 8:44

“You are not good enough. God doesn't Love you. If he did, he wouldn't have allowed that to happen to you. You can't do that. You are not smart enough. You don't belong here. Your wife/husband doesn't love you. They are just using you.”

Saints, have any of the above statements popped into your head at one time or another? Do you sometimes doubt that God loves you? Do you ever wonder does God really hear your prayers?

Well, today I just want you to know, that yes, God does hear your prayers, but so does satan. You see, satan is a liar and the truth is not in him. He will often time plant seeds of doubt in your mind in an attempt to turn you away from the word of God.

God has already told you, he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not allow negative thoughts or words to separate you from the love of God.

God Loves you and so do I.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, in the name of Jesus, we come before the throne of grace rebuking satan. We already know that You are with us this day and everyday. Lord, help us to be strong in the face of adversity. Place Your hedge of protection around all of Your Saints and their families today. When negative thoughts appear, we will rebuke them in the name of Jesus. When we begin to doubt Your word, help us to remember that You are with us always. Today, I will learn to starve my fears and doubts as I feed my faith. I will hide Your word in my heart so that I may draw strength from it when the time comes. Father, we Love You. We thank You. We humble ourselves before You, not only this day, but each day we are allowed to come before the throne of grace. Father, we ask this and all things in the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Remember, One of the best ways to remember that day and all the innocent lives that were lost is to recognize that we're still a community and we need to work together, get along together, stand on one another's shoulders, help and encourage each other. It's the silent ways of supporting people as well as the very loud ways that can be beneficial. ~ Kenny Anderson

Scripture:
I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong— that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith. Romans 1:11-12

Saints, how many times have you been in a situation and just wanted to give up? How often have you been on a mission or had a set goal but wanted to call it quits before you got there? Have you ever gotten mad at God because it seems as though he doesn't hear your prayers?

For the past couple of years, I have noticed that more and more saints are going through some trying times. Financially, the situations are so bad that people aren't trying to get ahead; they are just trying to catch up. There have been several couples that I know of who have divorced after being married for over twenty-years. Finding a full-time job that pays a decent wage is almost impossible if you don't already have one. I know that personally, even with over twenty-years of experience, and all of my credentials, it took me awhile to find another full-time permanent position.

Then we see death and destruction all around us, Man-made and Natural disasters. Here in Detroit, we have the distinction of being #1. We are number one in unemployment and housing foreclosures and now we have been ranked as the poorest city in America.Discouraging, isn't it? But there is one thing that God wants of you. That is to be and stay encouraged.

Since the beginning of time, God's people have been faced with adversity after adversity. Death and destruction. Persecution, war and famine aren't things that are new to the body of Christ.
Having, Keeping and maintaining your faith through it all is what God wants for us. We must always remember; this is not God's world. He has a better place for us. A place where there is no death and destruction. No famine. We don't have to worry about bills or anything else for that matter.

Remember; be encouraged, troubles don’t last always.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father God, when we awakened this morning, we realized just how blessed we were. We were able to open our eyes in a warm bed, with a roof over our heads and food in our cupboards. We were not cold and hungry as are the multitudes that lost homes, jobs and loved ones because of the devastation of natural disasters across the country. Lord, sometimes it takes a disastrous situation for us to realize just how blessed we are. For even in the midst of our trials and tribulations, we must always remember, that You kept us safe from all hurt, harm and danger last night. Thank You. Someone didn't wake up this morning, but we did. Thank You. Someone doesn't know where their loved one are, but we do. Thank You. Lord, You have said that many are the afflictions of the righteous. We don't claim to be righteous, but we are always striving to be all that You want us to be. Lord, thank You. Father, touch the hearts and minds of Your saints. May we always be there to encourage, love and support one another Just as You and Your Word encourages and supports us. Thank You Lord for loving me. Thank You Lord for keeping me. Thank You Lord for blessing me. But most of all, thank You Lord, for Your Son, Christ the King, in whose name we pray. Amen.

Remember, The will to persevere is often the difference between failure and success. ~ David Sarnoff

Scripture:
"And now, O Lord GOD, You are God, and Your words are true, and You have promised this goodness to Your servant. Now therefore, let it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue before You forever; for You, O Lord GOD, have spoken it, and with Your blessing let the house of Your servant be blessed forever." 2 Samuel 7:28-30

Today I want to talk about remaining faithful to God. So many times during our lives we set off down the road we think God wants us to travel. As we begin our journey, we are faced with all types of obstacles, roadblocks and setbacks.

We start walking down Life’s Highway and run into all kinds of potholes. Some of the potholes are called economic downturn, sickness, disease, wayward husband/child(ren), job lay-offs, backbiters and there are a whole multitude of others. Satan will put up roadblocks called sin, temptation, discouragement, depression and a whole list of negative spirits.

So often we jut want to give up and quit. Well today I am going to use an old friend as an example. You see, when she decided to go back to school a couple of years ago to get her Masters, she thought it was a pretty simple decision to make. Go register for classes, take the classes and graduate. What she has learned along the way is far more than what she had learned from her teachers.

You see, my friend has faced all kinds of discouraging situations. We won't go into all of them, but I know there where times when maybe she just wanted to throw up her hands and say "I QUIT!" But you know what she did instead? She remained faithful to what she was supposed to do. You see, my friend made a vow to remain faithful to God and continue her course. She has run her race and stayed faithful to God.

Now God has rewarded her with what he has promised. His Blessings.

And so it is with all of us Saints of God. Sometimes when we take the road that has been predetermined by God; we will run into all sorts of roadblocks. However, God has already given us the tools and the perseverance to go around, over, above and under all the things that will hinder us.

All you need is your roadmap (the bible) and your tour guide. Jesus.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Thank You Father for blessing us in spite of us. Thank You Lord for keeping us staid on course. Thank You Lord for remaining faithful to us and watching over us even when we don't realize it. Lord, we ask that You help each and every one of us remain faithful to You. We ask that You would give us eyes to see and ears to hear the deception of he who seeks to destroy us. Lord, we just want to thank You. We ask for the continued healing, deliverance, breakthroughs and blessings for all of our saints who are represented here in the body of Christ. We love and adore You Lord. You are Omni present, on time, all knowing and all seeing. You are Jehovah Jira, Jehovah Nissi Jehovah Shalom. Thank You father for being our banner and remaining faithful to us. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.