Archived Daily Devotionals

We can never judge the lives of others, because each person knows only their own pain and renunciation. It's one thing to feel that you are on the right path, but it's another to think that yours is the only path. ~ Pailo Coelho

Scripture:
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Mathews 7:1-2

Since September 11, 2001, I have heard people say some terrible things about Arabs living in the United States. Most recently, while waiting for my dentist, a woman who was also waiting struck up a conversation with me.

She said she wished that they would just take all of the Arab-American people living here in the United States and ship them back to the middle east and drop a bomb on them all. I was appalled at this statement for a number of reasons.

The first one being that I am a Christian and believe whole-heartedly in the credo, Love thy neighbor as thy self. Secondly, I am African-American and I am a descendant from a race of people who have been persecuted because of the color of our skin since the beginning of time. She like so many others has set judgment against a group of people based on the actions of a few. Since the beginning of time people have been judging one another based on the color of their skin, their ethnic background, and yes, even their spiritual beliefs.

Saints, I am not condoning the actions of those who are seeking to destroy us. But I am condoning tolerance. I for one have experienced good people and bad people of every race, gender, and faith.

My opinion of people is based on what’s on the inside. You see, when the Holy Spirit lives in you, others can't help but see him in your words and actions. It is not up to us to condemn or exalt anyone. Only God can judge the actions of others.

How will you be judged?

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, we come to You this day asking forgiveness for the words spoken against another because of what we think they are. Help us Lord, to see other as You see us. Help us Lord to look beyond a persons appearance and see into their hearts. Help us Lord, to show forgiveness towards those who have caused us such sorrow and heartache. Father we ask that You continue to cover our troops with Your wings of protection. Help us Lord to rebuke those who seek to destroy us. Teach us this day to have a forgiving spirit towards those who have misused us. Father, help us to see others in the same way You see us. With the eyes of Love. With a spirit of forgiveness, and with an open mind so that we may come to understand those who seem strange to us. Father, I am asking once again that You touch those saints who have asked for prayer for whatever situation they may be faced with. Father, our prayers are not complete until we tell You just how much we love You. We thank You Lord, for Your forgiveness of our sins and for looking beyond our faults. In the mighty name of Jesus we pray. Amen

Remember, The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart. ~ Elizabeth Foley

Scripture:
Jonathan said to David, "Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD, saying, 'The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.' " Then David left, and Jonathan went back to the town. 1 Samuel 20:42 (New International Version)

Recently, I reconnected with an old friend. She and I have been through a lot together as friends and as sisters in Christ. For some reason, we grew apart. The reasons for our lapse in friendship, really don’t matter, what matters is that we have found each other again.

The experience reminds me that during the course of our lives, we will connect with multitude of people whom we will develop friendships with. Some of those friendships will last a short time, while others will endure a lifetime.

Since becoming a Christian I have made some wonderful friends in the Body of Christ. I know that some friendships, will last for only a brief time, while others will endure throughout the years. Some of us with continue to grow in the word with one another, while others will fall off this road we travel together.

I thank God for each and every person that He has brought into my life. Both those who will remain in my life as well as those I may lose along the way. Friends are a precious gift, no matter how long they exist in our lives. I pray that God will continue to bless me with friends in the Body of Christ.

Thank You.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
What a friend we have in Jesus, all my sins and grief to bear. What a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer. You have created us to live in community, O God of love. Bless our friends who provide us with the grace and love of an extended family. Endow them with the riches of Your blessings; good health, sight, and mobility, that they may enjoy the wonders of Your creation and share their delight with others. Bless them with keen minds and compassionate hearts that they may create a better life for all. Guard them from injustice, oppression, and evil that they may know freedom and hope lifelong. In their waking and in their sleeping, in their laughter and in their tears, surround them with Your love until the end of their days; and bring them to eternal life in peace. Through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

Remember, forgiveness means letting go of the past. ~ Gerald Jampolsky

Scripture:
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19

Saints, why is it when something is going bad, we start thinking about all the bad that has happened in our past? Why is it that when we get upset with someone, we think about how they made us angry, in the past? Why is it that when we think we are failing, we think about all of the failures of our past?

Why is it that we often times remember the pain that old relationships have caused us when dealing with problems in our new relationships? Why is it that we can't forgive ourselves for our past and still beat ourselves up about mistakes that we made a long time ago?Saints, learn to leave the past where it belongs. In the past. Learn to forgive and move on. Learn to let go and move on. Learn to forgive yourselves for your past sins because God already forgave you the moment that you asked.

In today's word God speaks about letting go and seeing what he is doing in your lives right now! God's word speaks about how he is able to make a way in the desert and steams in the wasteland. In other words, he has the power to make a change in your lives no matter how desolate the situation seems to you if you would JUST LET IT GO AND LEAVE IT BEHIND!

But most of all, trust in him and look ahead and not behind.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
El Shaddai, You who are All Mighty, all Powerful, my Savior and Lord. Take control of my life. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be. Father, help me to let go of my past and walk into my blessings of today. Lord, help me to let go of my sins of yesterday and embrace the forgiveness that You have in Your heart for me. Lord, I am weak. I seek Your strength and ask that You would help me to be still and listen to Your word so that I may be able to gather a renewed strength and purpose even in the wilderness. Lord, I am like Elijah, in a desert situation but know that my help and my blessings are still being provided by You. Thank You Lord. Lord, help me to let go and let God. Use me today Lord to be a blessing to someone else. Touch me Lord, just to let me know that You are still walking with me. Have mercy Lord, our needs and our afflictions are too many to name, but we know that You know what those needs are and we ask that You would bless us according to Your tender mercies. Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus, in whose name we pray. Glory Hallelujah, Praise God, Amen.

Remember, be bold and mighty forces will come to your aid. ~Basil King

Scripture:
But Jonah ran away from the LORD and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the LORD. Then the LORD sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up. Jonah 1: 3-4 (New International Version)

Recently, I asked a friend, “Why am I compelled to do these messages?” Needless to say, my friend couldn’t answer my question but rather said, “I don’t know, but I thank God that you do.”

You see saints, often times it is very painful to write about some of the things that I do. I sometimes feel that it is a great weight that I carry. No matter how much I try to deviate from writing these messages, I often find myself sitting here with a new story to tell. I realize that I have been given a mission by God and as much as may want to rebel, God will not allow it.

So it is with each and every one of us. God has given each of us a mission. It is our responsibility to carry out that mission whether we want to or not. When we try to walk along a path that is not of God, He will allow things to happen to in our lives that will force us back on the right path. You may be in the wrong relationship, pursuing the wrong job, or maybe you have just ignored the word of God and are following the world instead of following Him.

Maybe just like Jonah, you have been given a directive by God but because you don’t want to do it, you try to run away from it. Maybe you are doing things in your life that God finds unacceptable. Or maybe, you have decided that you just don’t want to listen to what God is trying to tell you.

I just want to let you know, that if there is something that God wants you to do, He will wear you down until you do it. If you are not listening to his voice, I urge you to pay close attention because God can and will get your attention, by any means necessary.

Be blessed

Prayer:
Father God, I come before the throne of grace seeking Your face and Your favor. Lord, often times I hear Your voice and tremble. I tremble because I know that I am not doing your will but rather following my own. Forgive me Lord. I pray that You would forgive me for my mistakes of yesterday and I pray that You would find favor with me once again. Lord, I come standing in the gap for my family and friends. I pray for the family who lost a mother and the family who lost a young child. So many need so much. I ask that You would comfort those who are heartbroken, assure those who are at a lost, strengthen those who are weak. Lord, help us to realize just how blessed we are. We may not have all that we want, but you continue to supply all of our needs. Lord, we just want to thank You for all that You have done in our lives and for all that You are about to do. Keep us all in perfect peace and help us to keep our minds and our hearts set on our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In His name we pray. Amen.

You nourish your soul by fulfilling your destiny, by developing the potential that the soul represents. When you fulfill your soul's destiny, you will feel "right." Conversely, when you ignore your soul's destiny, when you get caught up in your own self-interests and forget to care for others, you will not feel "right." Instead, you will feel empty and unfulfilled. During these times, you are neglecting your soul--you are depriving it of nourishment. When I talk to people who feel this emptiness and lack of fulfillment, I recommend they find a source of balance in their lives. I suggest they find a way to "give back" to the world in order to feel a sense of completeness. ~ Rabbi Harold Kushner

Scripture:
"Therefore, accept one another, just as Christ also accepted us to the glory of God." - Romans 15:7

Saints, this past Sunday after church, I was full and satisfied. You see, I went to my father's table and was fed by the word of God. I started the day by going to my new members class, where my local Sheppard, reminded us, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

After class, I rushed home to pick up my sons and my nephew so we could all return for more nourishment. Upon our return, I discovered that the service had already started and that the Holy Spirit was being uplifted and magnified in the sanctuary. I was ready to sip from the fountain that never runs dry.

Our guest pastor, an awesome man of God who provided plate after plate, after plate, of the most succulent morsels, just kept right on feeding my spirit. I along with so many others were so full as we drew near the end of the service, that we could barely make it out to our cars afterward.

Have you ever had so much to eat all you could do was keep on smiling all day? Did you get up the next morning with that same stupid smile plastered on you face at the thought of what wonderful things you feasted on the day before? Well saints, this morning, I did. And that how it should be with the word of God. A word that fill you so, that every time you think about it, a smile that lights up the world appears on your face.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
My soul is full of unspeakable joy at the thought of Your precious word. Father, we give thanks for our pastors this morning, who constantly remind us to seek the word of God. We thank You Lord, for Your word, that becomes manifest in our lives. We thank You Lord, for the Holy Spirit, that guides and directs us, in the word. We thank You Lord, for the word, that became flesh and dwelt among us. Lord, come this morning with a word hidden in our hearts and praises on our lips to uplift and magnify You this morning. We come Lord, thanking You for our brothers and sisters in Christ, who speak Your word into existence, and who have come to stand in the gap once again for one another. Lord, touch every family that is represented here today. We ask for a special covering of the blood, for those saints whose names are listed below. Every time we stop and think how wonderful You are, we say thank You. Every time we think about our blessings, we say thank You. Every time we think about Your word, We say; Thank You Lord, for Your word that keeps on blessing me. Father, we give You all honor, praise, and glory, in the name of Jesus, we submit our prayers. Amen.

A broken bone can heal, but the wound a word opens can fester forever. ~ Jessamyn West

Scripture:
But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. John 8:6-7

Saint, how many of you gossip? How many of you talk about one another? How many of you pass judgment against someone because they do not belief what you belief? How many of you listen to the gossip of others just because you find it interesting?

Far too often we, and yes I did say we, find ourselves looking at others and judging others by what we believe to be true. Too often we rush to hear what others are talking about because we become curious. Too often, we want to look down on the unsaved because they are not living by the word of God and so we believe we are better than them and have the right to say what we want.

We must remember that it is only by the grace of God that you and I are who we are. It is only by God's grace and mercy that we know his word. It is only because of God that we have what we have.

Don't give satan any glory by tearing your brothers and sister down with your judgments. Don't allow satan to come between you and God through gossip. Remember, don't judge, lest you be judged.

And remember, when you are pointing your finger at someone else, there are four more pointing back at you.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. - 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Lord, Lord, forgive us for our wicked tongues. Lord, keep us so that we may not sin against one another with words. Father, we know that there is power in the tongues of Your saints. So today Lord, we Your saints of God will bless not only You, but we will continuously bless our brothers and sisters in Christ. Father, we are approached with idle gossip about someone, rather than join in on the conversation, help us to lift that person up in praise and spirit. Lord, keep us from being judgmental against one another and to show the love of Jesus Christ in everything that we do and say. We love You Lord. We Bless Your holy name. Cover Your saints today with the blood of salvation. Keep us Lord, so that we may not sin against one another. We ask these and all things in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Remember, It is the still, small voice that the soul heeds, not the deafening blasts of doom. ~ William Dean Howells

Scripture:
Then He said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the LORD.” And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice. So it was, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him, and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 1 Kings 19:11-13 (New King James Version)

The prophet Elijah had a personal relationship with God. God often spoke to Elijah and commanded him to do great things in His name. In the above passage, Elijah was running from Jezebel, after he had torn down her altars and killed her prophets in the name of the Lord. He then fled to the wilderness and went into hiding, fearing for his life.

Our all knowing God already knew what Elijah was running from, but asked him anyway, what was he doing. It was during this meeting that God, told him to find Elisha who became his servant and would one day, take his place.

The Lord, our God, is capable of many great things. So often when we are seeking him, we look for the “Big” sign. We want him to perform great miracles for us that we, ourselves can see. There are several instances in the bible that tell of him speaking in a booming, loud voice. However, sometimes, He just whispers the answer to our problem.

We must learn not to look for the “Big” sign, but rather to listen for His still small voice.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, may we always hide Your word in our hearts. Father, may we learn to be still, listen and hear Your still small voice. Father God, help us to learn to be obedient to Your word. Your word, which is the same today, yesterday, and forever word. Your Word, that spoke the world into existence. Your Word, that sooths our souls when nothing else can. We come thanking You today for Your word. We come thanking You today, for Your hedge of protection. We come giving You our love and adoration for all that You do for us and our loved ones. But most of all we thank You for the greatest gift that could ever be given. The gift of Your son, Jesus Christ. Lord, we just want to say thank You for Your word. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Remember, Prayer is not asking for what you think you want, but asking to be changed in ways you can't imagine. ~Kathleen Norris

Scripture:
What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures James 4:1-3

Saints, what is it you really want? When asked that question, some don't hesitate to say riches. Others would say a spouse, some say peace. And others still would say health. But what do you really want? How much do you really examine those things that you seek after.

"I want riches", until I saw riches couldn't buy happiness. "I want a spouse", until I saw that my spouse didn't treat me the way God wanted them to. "I want to work for myself", until I realized that I was a horrible employee and wanted to fire me.

You see, we all want something. Sometimes even we don't really know what it is we truly want. We just know that something is missing. Personally, I want a better relationship with God. You see, when you have a relationship with God, he will guide and direct you and tell you what you need. Not only that, "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

So the next time you feel as though something is missing and you don't know what it is; try God, he can and will supply all that you need.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, in the name of Jesus, I come before You. Spirit of Truth, Who comes from the Father, it is You Who guides me into all truth. According to 3 John 2, it is God’s will that I prosper in every way and that my body keeps well, even as my soul keeps well and prospers. One thing I ask of You, Lord, one thing will I seek after, inquire for and require, that I may dwell in Your presence all the days of my life, to behold and gaze upon Your beauty. Father, You have said, I will not in any way fail You nor give You up nor leave You without support. So I take comfort and am encouraged and confidently and boldly say that the Lord is my Helper. In the name of Jesus, I am strong and very courageous, that I may do according to all Your Word. I turn not from it to the right hand or to the left that I may prosper wherever I go. The Word of God shall not depart out of my mouth, but I shall meditate on it day and night. I hear therefore and am watchful to keep the instructions, the laws and precepts of my Lord God, that it may be well with me and that I may increase exceedingly, as the Lord God has promised me, in a land flowing with milk and honey. The Lord my God is one Lord — the only Lord. And I shall love the Lord my God with all my mind and heart. Jesus, You said that when I do this I will live — enjoy active, blessed, endless life in the Kingdom of God. Therefore, I will not worry or be anxious about what I am going to eat, or what I am going to have to drink or what I am going to have to wear. My heavenly Father knows that I need them all. But I purpose in my heart to seek for, aim at and strive after, first of all Your Kingdom, Lord, and Your righteousness. Now thanks be to You, Father for all of Your magnificent blessings. We come thanking You not only for what You have done, but also for what You are about to do in our lives. We love You Lord, we Thank You Lord. Blessed is the name of the Lord. Praise be to God, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen. Praise God. Amen.

Remember, "It's not enough to be busy. The question is what are we Busy about?" ~ Henry David Thoreau, author

Scripture:
So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.” And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them. Luke 2:48-50 (New King James Version)

So often, our days are filled with stuff to do. For me last weekend was full of shopping, cooking, cleaning, doing laundry and attending a funeral. I always have a multitude of things to do with nary an opportunity to just rest. Much of what I do is by choice.

My family and friends often wonder why I spend so much time on the computer. They don’t understand my NEED to write. You see, I make it a point to write something every day. I commit to doing these devotionals five out of seven days a week.

A friend pointed out to me just this evening, that so often I try to downplay the power of these messages or the fact that I just do them as something to do. In part she is right. But on the other hand, she doesn’t realize that I cannot let more than a day go by without writing one. You see, I realize and recognize that I have been given a responsibility. That responsibility is to be about my Father business. The business of spreading the good news of the Gospel.

What most of you don’t realize is that I know that these devotionals are a gift for me from my heavenly Father. So often I am writing them for myself as much as I am writing them for you. I will let you in on a little secret too. I often find myself arguing with God about what I WON”T write about. But for some strange reason, He always seems to win. No matter how painful a message may be to me.

I have been given a charge, a responsibility and it is my duty to share the Word of God with as many people as I can. Some folks are very receptive and yet others will sometimes look at me as though I have a problem.

But you know what? It is a problem I gladly accept with open arms!

Be Blessed

PRAYER:
Lord, may the trials that I must endure, help me to develop a more Christ like character. I know that often times I complain about the things that adversely affect my life. I do not always appreciate that even in the times of suffering; You are always there to sustain me. Father, forgive me when I complain about the heaviness of my cross. Father God, our stay here is short and we accept the fact that one day, there will be no more suffering, and for that fact, we thank You. Lord, I pray that I would develop a more selfless character and cheerfully go about doing Your work. I pray that something that I do or say on this journey would cause someone who is lost, to seek Your face. Now Lord, I ask that You would continue to Bless Your saints who find encouragement in Your daily word. Lord, we thank You for all that You do for us and for keeping us yet again. Bless You Father. Thank You now and forevermore, in the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

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.

The garden is a mirror of the heart. ~ Unknown

Scripture:
I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. John 15:1

Saints, whether you realize it or not, spring is fast approaching. As we turn our thoughts towards spring, we start thinking about our yards and our gardens. Many of you have probably already started thinking about what type of seeds you will be planting this year. Some may choose to plant only flowers. Others may choose to plant only vegetable and some still will plant both.

As I reflect back to biblical times, I have noticed that the garden was very important to all. You see the lands in which they resided where often barren and would sometimes lack water. So they had to be very diligent in what they grew because they knew their very lives depended on their crops. Unlike us, if their gardens failed, they couldn’t just run out to the corner store to get something for dinner.

The same holds true today in our own gardens. What you decide to plant has a distinct bearing on your well-being. You see, I am not talking about your flower garden or your vegetable garden. I am talking about your spiritual garden. Whatever a man soweth, so shall he reap. What seeds are being planted in your spiritual garden? I pray that you plant seeds of love, seeds of hope, seeds of forgiveness, but most of all, seeds of faith.

You see, when we start our gardens at just the right time, give them the love, care, nurturing, and attention that all gardens need, we can grow a bountiful crop that can and will last until our next planting season.

Be blessed

Prayer:
Oh kind and gracious and merciful Father, we come this day as humbly as we know how. We lift up our eyes unto the heavens from which all of our blessings flow. Father, we know that we are not worthy of fresh grace, but You give it to us anyway. We know that somewhere along the way we have sinned, but You forgave us anyway. We know that sometimes we disappoint You, but You love us anyway. Thank You Father that You love and forgive me despite me. Father we come standing in the gap for our fellow saints, for our family members, and for our friends. So many need so much, but we know that there is nothing too hard for God. Continue to touch, bless, anoint and heal those saints among us who are afflicted. Keep us all just a little closer to You this day and give us the wisdom to choose the right seeds for our gardens. Now Lord we pause to praise You. We give thanks to You this day, we magnify and uplift Your most holy name. We ask and pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you. ~ Robert Fulghum

Scripture:
In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness Titus 2:7

Recently, I had a conversation with a friend who is trying to find her faith. She expressed concern about being a Christian because of things that she had observed both at home from those in her family who professed to be Christians and the behavior of those she had observed from the church.

Now, I won't get into a long conversation about some of the things that she said she saw or heard, but what I will talk about what our duties are as Christians. I will preface this conversation with this, I know that none of us is perfect and I know that there are still many things that I may do or say that go against the word of God, but what I will say it that I am trying.

I am trying to get right. I am trying to walk right. I am trying to lead by example. A very important lesson that I learned a long time ago is this, be careful of what you do and say, because you never know who is watching.

When we do certain things in the name of the Lord, we can harm just as much as we help. How can you say that you love the Lord, and then hold a grudge that borders on hatred for some one? We go to church on Sunday and then think we can do or say anything we want to Monday through Saturday.

When you profess to be a child of God, you must begin to act like it. If we do things that our contrary to the word of God, what kind of impression is that leaving on our children, our unsaved spouses, our young sisters and brothers.

How can you expect that your children become saved when they see all the wrong you do? Do they see sleeping with someone other than their father or mother? Do they see you or smell you getting high? Do they see you drunk or high? Do they see you lie, cheat, steal, gossip, ......

Be careful Saints of God, little eyes and minds are watching.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Lord, help me to be strong and live the life that You want for me. Father, forgive me if I have said or done something that has turned someone away from You. Help me Lord, to do what is right in Your sight and in the sight of those who may be watching me. Father we come asking that You would continue to bless us. Keep us Lord, so that we may not sin against thee or against anyone else. Keep me from all hurt harm and danger. Continue to bless our prayer list and the families of every saint that is represented here. in the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Remember, It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get back up. ~ Vince Lombardi

Scripture:
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. Ephesians 6:16

Saints, have you ever been going along with your life and everything is going just right? Then suddenly, you find yourself flat on your back because something so devastating has just happened?

Recently, that very thing just happened to me. Without getting into a lot of detail, I found myself flat on my back and wallowing in self-pity. I stayed there for a couple of days too. You see, I had forgotten that satan will knock you down when you become to comfortable in your Christian walk and forget to put on your daily armor.

So last night, I got up out of the mud, put on my armor and had a little talk with my Father. And you know what he told me? He reminded me that he has not failed me yet. He told me that maybe I had gotten a little cocky and didn't lean on him first. He told me, that what satan means for evil, he will turn to good.

Saints of God remember that sometimes satan will knock you down, but God can pick you up! Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning!

But the most important thing of all to remember is;THAT I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST JESUS, WHO STRENGHTENS ME!

Be Blessed

Prayer:
I will Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto mine own understanding. In all our ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Lord, we come before the throne of grace once again asking that You would forgive us in our unbelief. We come asking that You who are rock and our salvation, would help us to starve our fears and doubts and feed our faith. Lord, I personally ask for forgiveness and direction for myself. I know that sometimes, we take You for granted and in doing so, leave ourselves open to attack. Lord, we stand before You again, putting on the whole armor of God. The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, wielding our shield of faith, and the sword of the spirit, and placing upon our heads, the helmet of salvation. Lord, let us always be diligent against attack from he who seeks to destroy us. Continue to bless our brothers and sisters in Christ. Continue to anoint our leaders. Help us always to be able to call upon the name of the Lord in our times of distress. Thank You Lord, for You faithfulness. Thank You Lord, for Your covering. Thank You Lord, that You pick us up, when we have been knocked down. We will the name of the Lord at all times, and his praises shall continuously be in our mouths. Praise his name saints of God. Glory Hallelujah, thank You Jesus, in who’s name we pray, Amen.

Remember, Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant. ~ Robert Louis Stevenson

Scripture:
I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good to them, and I will inspire them to fear me, so that they will never turn away from me. I will rejoice in doing them good and will assuredly plant them in this land with all my heart and soul. "This is what the LORD says: As I have brought all this great calamity on this people, so I will give them all the prosperity I have promised them. Jeremiah 32:40-42

Have you ever wondered why is it that sometimes when you try to do good it seems as though your efforts are in vain? Your good deeds either go unnoticed, unappreciated or even scorned? Have there have been times when you have grown weary in your well doing?

Well saints of God, I just want to remind you that what we do for others can never be measured in what we get in return. What we do in the name of Jesus is not for our own edification but for His. We do what we do not for personal gain or glory but for HIS edification.

The word of God tells us that our reward will not be given here on earth but our treasures lay in heaven.

So remember:
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

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. Father God, we ask that when we grow tired from doing good and when our efforts are received with scorn, that we would be reminded that what we do is not about us, but rather, all about You. 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 lion 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, Amen.

Remember, Prayer and praise are to the Christian as the two wings are to the bird. Don't expect the bird to fly if one wing is broken. Even so the Christian needs both prayer and praise." - J. Wesley Adcock

Scripture:
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35

Saints, how many of you start your day with prayer? Do you take a moment before the world around you starts to become hectic to just praise him? Do you take just a moment to thank him for watching over you and your loved ones as you slept through the night? Do you Bless his holy name before you start your morning ritual?

I urge you to take a moment each and every morning to have a little talk with God. Tell him all about your troubles. Praise him, thank him, give him adoration. Ask him to continue to guide you throughout the day, directing your path, watch over you and your loved ones. Ask him to continue to protect you as you journey through your day. Ask him for peace and joy.

Try it. You will be surprised how much better you day can be!

Be blessed

Prayer:
This is another day, O Lord. We know not what it will bring forth, but make us ready for whatever it may be. Lord, we just want to thank You for watching over us as we slept and slumbered last night. We thank You that as we start a new day, You have given us fresh grace and mercy to take with us along the way. Fill our hearts with the peace of God. A peace that passes all understanding. Magnify Your presence in our lives O'Lord. Help us to develop more Christ like attributes. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Father, we ask that Your angels would continue to be with us as we journey through this day. Continue to protect, heal, comfort, touch, bless, and anoint our friends and families who have asked for prayer as well as those reading this prayer, right now. We bless Your holy name Father. We adore You, we love You, we lift Your name on high. Thank You Lord, for new beginnings. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Anytime you suffer a setback or disappointment, put your head down and plow ahead. ~ Les Brown

Scripture:
Then the LORD replied: Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. For the revelation awaits an appointed time it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay. "See, he is puffed up; his desires are not upright—but the righteous will live by his faith. Habakkuk 2:2-4 (New International Version)

This past week has been full of setbacks for me. The engine in my car locked up. My computer broke down and my youngest son got a failing report from school. Each incident upset me, but I persevered. I still managed to get to work and get my son to school. I managed to fix my computer and I am forcing my son to deal with his failure.

I realize that sometimes setbacks happen as a means of distraction. They sometimes happen to deter you from your goals and plans. What some of you may or may not know is that my debut novel is due for release on April 1st. I have been overwhelmed with trying to promote it and planning my release party. My novel is very important to me because it is the accumulation of my dream. I have worked very hard to get here and I refuse to be deterred.

You see, often times we may be at the very edge of our breakthroughs and something happens to set us back. We become frustrated and thus lose sight of our goals. We lose the fortitude to push past the setback and that’s when doubts begin to manifest.

However, I see my setbacks for what they are; a trick of the devil to try to prevent me from stepping into my victory. My God has brought me too far for me to give up now.

You see, setbacks are only setups for the real victories!

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father God, I’ve come too far by faith to give up now. Satan has no victory here. I have been given the keys to the kingdom and I unlock the windows of heaven and allow Your blessings to rain down in my life. Lord, I am getting ready for my breakthrough and I know that I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me. Protect and guide me on this journey. Help each and every one reading this prayer to know those setbacks are just setups for Your power and Your presence to be manifested in our lives. Thank You for our victories. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

A broken bone can heal, but the wound a word opens can fester forever. ~ Jessamyn West

Scripture:
Leah conceived again and bore Jacob a sixth son. Then Leah said, "God has presented me with a precious gift. This time my husband will treat me with honor, because I have borne him six sons." So she named him Zebulun. Genesis 30:19-21

A few years ago, I received the soundtrack from the motion picture, "Madea’s Family Reunion." There was a song by Rachelle Farrell, entitled, "Wounds in the Way", that so enthralled me that I had to write an article about it. Since hearing this song, I wanted all of the lyrics to it. Well, I think I finally got them all, give or take a few.

In one stanza of the song, the words become both disturbing and enlightening, they say:"If they would have treated a little girl, a little boy when they were still just a baby, with some respect and human dignity, maybe there wouldn’t be so many failed relationships, they might even had a ghost of a chance of just loving each other, body, mind and soul."

It causes me to ponder the question, as parents, what are we doing that will wound our own children?

You see I ask this question because we are constantly seeing the breakdown of the family unit. Even my children and I are one of those statistics being that I am a single parent raising my sons alone. As a matter of fact, the epidemic of the single-parent household in America, is staggering.

The reasons for this phenomenon are numerous and well as diverse, but ultimately, how each parent deals with the situation, does ultimately have an impact on the future of their own children. Our relationships both with the one another as parents and how we deal with others in dating or even re-marriage situations will leave a lasting impression with our children.

Jesus said for us to love one another with the Love of God. Now some of you may not want to hear this, but this includes the mother or father of your children. No matter what the differences are between the parents, we must show our children what love, understanding, compassion, responsibility and relationships are truly grounded in. The Love and forgiveness of our own Savior, Jesus Christ.

So remember, in order for us not to create, perpetrate, and inflict new wounds upon our children, we must learn not to pass along our own wounds to our children.

The Wounding, begins and ends with you.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Lord, help me to realize that my actions will ultimately have a lasting affect on my children. Do not allow my heart to be hardened against their mother/father so that my children can see the love of Christ manifested in every situation. Help me to remember that at one time, I did love my spouse/significant other and that I will hold on to those memories for the sake of my child. My child, who is a rare and precious gift from You. Lord, I ask that You would touch the minds and hearts of all parents so that each of us commits to being the responsible parent that You would have us to be. Teach me forgiveness Lord, for things that have happened in the past and even if their mother/father doesn’t live up to their responsibility, I will. For I have the Love of Christ deep down in my heart. Thank You Father, for loving me even when I don’t feel loved by anyone else. Thank You Lord, for keeping me and being my ever present help in the time of trouble. I love You Lord, with all that I am, and I commit this day, to share the love of Christ with my own children, to love and serve the Lord even more than I do. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Remember, “God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way.” ~ Unknown

Scripture:
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6-7

As I rode to work this morning, I observed the situation around me. There were accidents on the highways, dirt and debris strewn about because of the falling rain, and people running for cover.

Saints, I am reminded that rain is a necessary process in the cycle of life. You see, spring is coming and the rain is needed to wash away the debris of winter and prepare the ground for the coming planting season.

Sometimes though, we can get a little too much rain. The rain may come in torrents, washing away those things that are freshly planted or the old foliage whose roots are no longer strong enough to hold it in place.

How strong are your roots? Are you new to the faith and have not yet developed strong enough roots in Christ to hold you in place when the storms of life come along? Or are you so old and set in your spiritual life that you no longer gain the nourishment from the word that keeps your roots healthy enough to stay firmly planted in the rain?

So again I ask, Can You Stand the Rain?

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Our Father which art in Heaven, Hollowed it be thy name. May those things that You have predestined in our lives come to fruition according to thy will and thy tender mercies. Oh Lord, we are weak, but You are strong. Touch us Lord, strengthening us for the coming storms in our lives. Lord, some of us are in the midst of our storm even as we pray. Magnify Your presence in our lives that we may gain the fortitude to stand, be strong, and hold on even when it's seems that we may be washed away at any given moment. Hide us Lord, under the wings of Your protection when it begins to seem like our roots are not strong enough to withstand even one more drop of rain. May we always know when to seek Your guidance and protection in the midst of our personal storms. Now Lord, help us to remember that the rain and the storms don't last always. But that there is sunshine and joy in the coming morning. Father, continue to touch and bless Your saints this day. Extending just a little more grace for those who are need. Keep our troops safe and their families wrapped securely in the knowledge that You are with them even in the midst of the desert. Father God we give You praise, adoration, and all of our hearts this day. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Remember, “Grace is what God gives us when we don't deserve and mercy is when God doesn't give us what we do deserve. ~ unknown.

Scripture:
I love you, O LORD , my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call to the LORD , who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies. Psalm 18:1-3

Saints,
How many times have you found yourself so overwhelmed by life and didn't know what to do? How many times have you looked for an answer and couldn't find it? How often have you tried to talk to your friends or family about your situation and they just didn't have time or didn't seem to understand what your problem was?

Too often we seek solace and comfort in the wrong places. Too often we will turn to alcohol, drugs, or sex in our quest to find a little bit of peace, just for the moment. Well my brothers and sisters, I know a place where you can go where there is eternal peace. I know someone who always has time to talk about your problems. He even knows how to solve your problems, or at the very least find the answers to your questions.

It called the throne of grace, The altar of sacrificing, the mercy seat, the cross. It's at the feet of the master. On your face; in total submission, and in reverence to his will. It's called surrendering yourself, seeking his face, calling on his name.

Just have a little talk with God. Tell him all about your troubles. And then, leave your all at the altar.

He will make it better, bye and bye.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Lord, help me to hold out. Father, we come before the throne of grace, the altar of sacrificing, the mercy seat, asking that You would lend an ear to our prayers. Father God, we come lifting up the name of Jesus. We come asking for just one drop of Your grace and mercy. A drop to give us strength and comfort. A drop, to wash away our sins. A drop to heal our sick bodies and spirits. A drop that protects and comforts all in one. Lord, thank You for Your word. Your word that delivers new revelations each day. Your word that teaches and comforts. Your word that delivers. Keep us all wrapped in Your arms and under Your hedge of protection. Jesus, be a fence around us everyday. Lord, hear the cries of Your servants, let not our prayers be in vain. Bless each and everyone represented here today and every member of our respective families. We love You Lord, We bless Your Holy Name. In the name of Jesus, we pray, Amen