Thursday, April 30, 2009
You Too Can be a Hero!
Remember, a hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” ~ Christopher Reeves
Scripture:
O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:19-21 (New International Version)
Hero is from the Greek language and in mythology and folklore, a hero were characters that in the face of danger and adversity, from a position of weakness displayed courage and the will for self-sacrifice. That is, heroism, for some greater good, originally of martial courage or excellence but extended to more general moral excellence.
I am not much of a TV person but for the pasts few years there was one program that captivated me. It was called “Heroes.” It was about a group of people who discovered that had extraordinary powers and overcame adversities to save the world.
Many of the “Heroes” had dark secrets, were unsure of the powers, had questionable pasts or were too afraid to reveal their “secret” fearing how others would judge them. Now if you took away their powers, they were just ordinary people just like you and me. It was the gifts that they discovered they had that made them “Heroes.”
Did you know that you have extraordinary gifts too? You might be a person who has the gift of compassion and are willing to help others around you. Maybe you have the gift of mentoring; reaching out to help a lost child find their way in life. Or maybe, you have the gift friendship. You are there to help a friend in need. Be it listening to them, helping them out in some way or just lending a shoulder to cry on. Maybe you have discovered your gift yet. Not because it doesn’t exist, but rather because you haven’t looked inside yourself to discover what it is.
A Hero isn’t defined simply as having supernatural powers, but rather having the strength to overcome, do and give in supernatural ways. You may not even realize that you are someone else’s hero, and just like the TV heroes, maybe you are unsure of your strength, your ability or your power.
There is a Hero inside of you. All you have to do is find him.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I declare and stand on Your word that says I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me. I have been commissioned to do great things in the name of the Lord. I claim my gifts today and pledge to use them for the furthering of the kingdom. Lord, I am weak, but You are strong. I can move mountains in your name. Help me to build a mountain of compassion, of friendship and of caring for those who are in need. May I pause today to help someone else besides myself and build roads that lead home to You. Father, help me to discover my inner power so that I can be an angel that helps someone else through this journey called life. May I always remember to share a portion of what has been given to me, even if its just the gift of time. Thank You Father for my blessings. Thank You Lord for Your word that guides me each and everyday. I love You Lord, and I submit this prayer in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:19-21 (New International Version)
Hero is from the Greek language and in mythology and folklore, a hero were characters that in the face of danger and adversity, from a position of weakness displayed courage and the will for self-sacrifice. That is, heroism, for some greater good, originally of martial courage or excellence but extended to more general moral excellence.
I am not much of a TV person but for the pasts few years there was one program that captivated me. It was called “Heroes.” It was about a group of people who discovered that had extraordinary powers and overcame adversities to save the world.
Many of the “Heroes” had dark secrets, were unsure of the powers, had questionable pasts or were too afraid to reveal their “secret” fearing how others would judge them. Now if you took away their powers, they were just ordinary people just like you and me. It was the gifts that they discovered they had that made them “Heroes.”
Did you know that you have extraordinary gifts too? You might be a person who has the gift of compassion and are willing to help others around you. Maybe you have the gift of mentoring; reaching out to help a lost child find their way in life. Or maybe, you have the gift friendship. You are there to help a friend in need. Be it listening to them, helping them out in some way or just lending a shoulder to cry on. Maybe you have discovered your gift yet. Not because it doesn’t exist, but rather because you haven’t looked inside yourself to discover what it is.
A Hero isn’t defined simply as having supernatural powers, but rather having the strength to overcome, do and give in supernatural ways. You may not even realize that you are someone else’s hero, and just like the TV heroes, maybe you are unsure of your strength, your ability or your power.
There is a Hero inside of you. All you have to do is find him.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I declare and stand on Your word that says I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me. I have been commissioned to do great things in the name of the Lord. I claim my gifts today and pledge to use them for the furthering of the kingdom. Lord, I am weak, but You are strong. I can move mountains in your name. Help me to build a mountain of compassion, of friendship and of caring for those who are in need. May I pause today to help someone else besides myself and build roads that lead home to You. Father, help me to discover my inner power so that I can be an angel that helps someone else through this journey called life. May I always remember to share a portion of what has been given to me, even if its just the gift of time. Thank You Father for my blessings. Thank You Lord for Your word that guides me each and everyday. I love You Lord, and I submit this prayer in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Going Through to Get To!
Remember, Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it. ~Michael Jordan
Scripture:
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. Philippians 1:29-30 (New International Version)
Recently, I had a conversation with a friend who just discovered some life altering news. As we talked about this new revelation, through her tears she asked, Why am I always going through?As I tried to comfort my friend, I tried to explain to her going through something, is just a journey. It is a journey of our souls from one place to the other.
Today I am here to tell you that even as you are going through, God is there with you. Even in your times of trouble, he still grants you peace. Even as we walk through the valleys of sickness, depression, financial difficulties, death, and disaster, God will never leave us nor forsake us.
Understand that each and everyone will have to go through something. Sometimes it’s because of things that we have done, the choices that we have made, or even just because it's necessary.
Sometimes God allows us to go through some thing for our own good. Maybe it's to protect us. Maybe it's to help us see just how blessed we are. Maybe it's to help us grow. There is one very important thing that I have learned about going through the valley of trials and tribulations and that is, none of us will stay in the valley.
It's just a journey to the other side!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
God bless those of us who are battling those inner demons of depression, loneliness, unworthiness, and hopelessness. Shine Your warm Heavenly Light down upon all of us, Lord, guide us to find peace, happiness, and contentment in our lives and within ourselves. The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. 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. Heavenly Father, in my present need, help me to believe that You are aware of my anxiety and will do what is best for me. Give me the strength to trust You and put my present and my future in Your hands. We pray, O God of hope, for all families whose lives are torn and disrupted by drugs and alcohol. Enable them to identify the illness. Strengthen them to seek help. Bless them with the power of Your love, which imparts transformation and wholeness to those who trust in Your name. Grant that as they walk this tortured road, they may journey together and bound close in the bond of love. Lord, we thank You for this day. for life and one more day to love, for neighbors, family, and friends. One more person to love and by whom be loved, for Your grace and one more experience of Your presence, for Your promise: to be with us, to be our God, and to give salvation. For these, and all blessings, we give You thanks, eternal, loving God, through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. Philippians 1:29-30 (New International Version)
Recently, I had a conversation with a friend who just discovered some life altering news. As we talked about this new revelation, through her tears she asked, Why am I always going through?As I tried to comfort my friend, I tried to explain to her going through something, is just a journey. It is a journey of our souls from one place to the other.
Today I am here to tell you that even as you are going through, God is there with you. Even in your times of trouble, he still grants you peace. Even as we walk through the valleys of sickness, depression, financial difficulties, death, and disaster, God will never leave us nor forsake us.
Understand that each and everyone will have to go through something. Sometimes it’s because of things that we have done, the choices that we have made, or even just because it's necessary.
Sometimes God allows us to go through some thing for our own good. Maybe it's to protect us. Maybe it's to help us see just how blessed we are. Maybe it's to help us grow. There is one very important thing that I have learned about going through the valley of trials and tribulations and that is, none of us will stay in the valley.
It's just a journey to the other side!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
God bless those of us who are battling those inner demons of depression, loneliness, unworthiness, and hopelessness. Shine Your warm Heavenly Light down upon all of us, Lord, guide us to find peace, happiness, and contentment in our lives and within ourselves. The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. 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. Heavenly Father, in my present need, help me to believe that You are aware of my anxiety and will do what is best for me. Give me the strength to trust You and put my present and my future in Your hands. We pray, O God of hope, for all families whose lives are torn and disrupted by drugs and alcohol. Enable them to identify the illness. Strengthen them to seek help. Bless them with the power of Your love, which imparts transformation and wholeness to those who trust in Your name. Grant that as they walk this tortured road, they may journey together and bound close in the bond of love. Lord, we thank You for this day. for life and one more day to love, for neighbors, family, and friends. One more person to love and by whom be loved, for Your grace and one more experience of Your presence, for Your promise: to be with us, to be our God, and to give salvation. For these, and all blessings, we give You thanks, eternal, loving God, through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Living Your Dream!
Remember, to dream of the person you would like to be is to waste the person you are. ~ Anonymous
Scripture:
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 (New International Version)
Now that I have reached the age of fifty, I often find myself wondering if I am at the place in my life where I should be. It’s no secret that I have a failed marriage, struggle financially and have made countless mistakes. Yes, I have done foolish things, made bad choices and done things that I regret.
However, I also realize that I have overcome a great many things. There are things in my life that have changed as I have grown in the body of Christ. I would love to say that I am more like Christ. Alas, all I can say is I am trying to become more like Him. I know that there He is still working on me and I accept that.
The point is that yes, we all will come to a point in our lives where we will question ourselves. We wonder if we could have been different. We may even have a few regrets about some of the choices that we have made.
However, each of must learn to celebrate who we are right now. Not what we shoulda, coulda been. But embrace who you are right now. If it had not been for many of the things that we had to go through, we would never learn to accept what we have become, Heirs to the King.
So I tell you embrace who you are and remember we are all living our dream. The dream of being one with Christ.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I come before the throne of grace, humbling myself and asking for forgiveness. Lord, I pray that you would forgive me for all the wrong I’ve done. Forgive me allowing negative thoughts and feelings to enter into my spirit. Help me always to rejoice in where I am and not where I think I should have been. For, I am right where I am supposed to be, safe in Your arms. Lord, I ask that Your word would continue to be a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Help me to remember to always to keep Your word hidden in my heart that I might not sin against you. Father, I pray for all of my brothers and sisters who are reading this prayer with me and who have asked for prayer. Lord, I don’t know their needs, but you do. I pray that You would grant them the desires of their hearts according to Your tender mercies in Christ Jesus. It is in His name that we submit our prayers and petitions. Glory to God. Amen.
Scripture:
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 (New International Version)
Now that I have reached the age of fifty, I often find myself wondering if I am at the place in my life where I should be. It’s no secret that I have a failed marriage, struggle financially and have made countless mistakes. Yes, I have done foolish things, made bad choices and done things that I regret.
However, I also realize that I have overcome a great many things. There are things in my life that have changed as I have grown in the body of Christ. I would love to say that I am more like Christ. Alas, all I can say is I am trying to become more like Him. I know that there He is still working on me and I accept that.
The point is that yes, we all will come to a point in our lives where we will question ourselves. We wonder if we could have been different. We may even have a few regrets about some of the choices that we have made.
However, each of must learn to celebrate who we are right now. Not what we shoulda, coulda been. But embrace who you are right now. If it had not been for many of the things that we had to go through, we would never learn to accept what we have become, Heirs to the King.
So I tell you embrace who you are and remember we are all living our dream. The dream of being one with Christ.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I come before the throne of grace, humbling myself and asking for forgiveness. Lord, I pray that you would forgive me for all the wrong I’ve done. Forgive me allowing negative thoughts and feelings to enter into my spirit. Help me always to rejoice in where I am and not where I think I should have been. For, I am right where I am supposed to be, safe in Your arms. Lord, I ask that Your word would continue to be a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Help me to remember to always to keep Your word hidden in my heart that I might not sin against you. Father, I pray for all of my brothers and sisters who are reading this prayer with me and who have asked for prayer. Lord, I don’t know their needs, but you do. I pray that You would grant them the desires of their hearts according to Your tender mercies in Christ Jesus. It is in His name that we submit our prayers and petitions. Glory to God. Amen.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Do You Have a Song?
Music is what feelings sound like. ~ unknown
Scripture:
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
I love gospel music. Gospel music has a way of putting into words, feelings and situations that you may be going through. Gospel music has a way of putting God's word into songs that minister to our very souls. Gospel music has a way of touching your very heart as though God himself is having a personal conversation with only you.
A few years ago, at the suggestion of a very good friend, I bought a cd collection that featured a number of today’s most popular songs. It's a four cd collection that has a title for each cd. For example, they are "Meditation and Strength", "Praise Party", "Trial and Triumph" and "Restoration and Praise."
Driving to work recently and listening to these awesome God inspired messages in song, there was one song in particular that really touched my spirit. It is called, "I Believe" by Marvin Sapp. Reverend Sapp is an ordained minister out of Grand Rapids, Michigan who used to sing with the group Commissioned. Reverend Sapp is known for interjecting mini sermons into his song performances.
This particular song speaks about the promises of God. It says "I believe in your promises. I believe what you said is true. I believe what you promised me. I believe that you'll come through. As is in his style of singing, he begins to preach.The words that he spoke during this particular song talked about the increased attacks on your life by satan. Reverend Sapp said "the devil is trying to discourage you. He has peeped into your future and sees what God has is store for you."
Saints, how many of you feel that song may be talking about you? I know I had a personal connection with it. Again, my God was ministering to me through music.
The point that I am trying to make is this; when there is a situation going on in your life and you have prayed about it, never be surprised on how God can answer you. Even in song.
During those times when you may not be able to open up your bible and read, there are other ways to receive the word of God. Music is just one.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come giving thanks to You once again for Your word. Your message and direction, delivered in the reading and the hearing of Your word. Your word, delivered in song and praise. Your word, that You pass along from one saint to another. Thank You father for the gift of Your word. Lord, we come thanking You, not for anything one thing, but for life itself. We thank You for watching over us once again. We thank You for proving all of our needs. We thank You for family and fellowship. Lord, we thank You most of all for Your son, Jesus Christ. Now Lord, continue to keep us in perfect peace, full of Your joy, covered in Your grace and mercy and full of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Scripture:
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
I love gospel music. Gospel music has a way of putting into words, feelings and situations that you may be going through. Gospel music has a way of putting God's word into songs that minister to our very souls. Gospel music has a way of touching your very heart as though God himself is having a personal conversation with only you.
A few years ago, at the suggestion of a very good friend, I bought a cd collection that featured a number of today’s most popular songs. It's a four cd collection that has a title for each cd. For example, they are "Meditation and Strength", "Praise Party", "Trial and Triumph" and "Restoration and Praise."
Driving to work recently and listening to these awesome God inspired messages in song, there was one song in particular that really touched my spirit. It is called, "I Believe" by Marvin Sapp. Reverend Sapp is an ordained minister out of Grand Rapids, Michigan who used to sing with the group Commissioned. Reverend Sapp is known for interjecting mini sermons into his song performances.
This particular song speaks about the promises of God. It says "I believe in your promises. I believe what you said is true. I believe what you promised me. I believe that you'll come through. As is in his style of singing, he begins to preach.The words that he spoke during this particular song talked about the increased attacks on your life by satan. Reverend Sapp said "the devil is trying to discourage you. He has peeped into your future and sees what God has is store for you."
Saints, how many of you feel that song may be talking about you? I know I had a personal connection with it. Again, my God was ministering to me through music.
The point that I am trying to make is this; when there is a situation going on in your life and you have prayed about it, never be surprised on how God can answer you. Even in song.
During those times when you may not be able to open up your bible and read, there are other ways to receive the word of God. Music is just one.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come giving thanks to You once again for Your word. Your message and direction, delivered in the reading and the hearing of Your word. Your word, delivered in song and praise. Your word, that You pass along from one saint to another. Thank You father for the gift of Your word. Lord, we come thanking You, not for anything one thing, but for life itself. We thank You for watching over us once again. We thank You for proving all of our needs. We thank You for family and fellowship. Lord, we thank You most of all for Your son, Jesus Christ. Now Lord, continue to keep us in perfect peace, full of Your joy, covered in Your grace and mercy and full of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Walking by Faith
Remember, the important thing is to learn a lesson every time you lose. ~John McEnroe
Scripture:
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues. 1 Corinthians 12: 27-28
Saints, many think that because a person is walking by faith that problems do not occur in his/her life. Many believe that ministers, counselors, lecturers, writers or other religious workers aren't challenged or have valley experiences. It is assumed that every thing in their lives always runs smoothly. NOT TRUE.
Walking with Jesus and practicing the principles He taught, usually assist believers to stand in the face of adversity, to rise above situations, go around, under or through them. These people allow God to guide, direct and rule in their lives. Even then there are times when the going gets rough.
Remember that these people are people just like us. They have feelings, they have tempers, they have little idiosyncrasies that irk them. They too need prayers of protection. They too, need to go to the altar, they too run low on fuel sometimes. That is okay.
Pray for your Pastor today. Pray for your Sunday School teacher, Pray for your assistant pastor. Pray for your Bible Study teacher.
Pray for all of those who are working on God's behalf, every day.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father we come today with empty hearts and open arms. We come today to just praise You just one more time. Father we come so that we may exalt Your name to the highest. Father we thank You for the Agape Love that has been given to us. Father we ask that You touch the lives of al Your Pastors, Teachers and other religious workers. Father we ask that You touch everyone that need You today. Father touch those who are in the courtroom today. Touch those who are in the Dr. office today. Father touch those who are incarcerated today. Father touch those who have a substance abuse problem Lord. Father we just ask that Your spirit would just fall down on us. Father we ask these and many other blessings in Your precious son Jesus' name. Amen.
Scripture:
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues. 1 Corinthians 12: 27-28
Saints, many think that because a person is walking by faith that problems do not occur in his/her life. Many believe that ministers, counselors, lecturers, writers or other religious workers aren't challenged or have valley experiences. It is assumed that every thing in their lives always runs smoothly. NOT TRUE.
Walking with Jesus and practicing the principles He taught, usually assist believers to stand in the face of adversity, to rise above situations, go around, under or through them. These people allow God to guide, direct and rule in their lives. Even then there are times when the going gets rough.
Remember that these people are people just like us. They have feelings, they have tempers, they have little idiosyncrasies that irk them. They too need prayers of protection. They too, need to go to the altar, they too run low on fuel sometimes. That is okay.
Pray for your Pastor today. Pray for your Sunday School teacher, Pray for your assistant pastor. Pray for your Bible Study teacher.
Pray for all of those who are working on God's behalf, every day.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father we come today with empty hearts and open arms. We come today to just praise You just one more time. Father we come so that we may exalt Your name to the highest. Father we thank You for the Agape Love that has been given to us. Father we ask that You touch the lives of al Your Pastors, Teachers and other religious workers. Father we ask that You touch everyone that need You today. Father touch those who are in the courtroom today. Touch those who are in the Dr. office today. Father touch those who are incarcerated today. Father touch those who have a substance abuse problem Lord. Father we just ask that Your spirit would just fall down on us. Father we ask these and many other blessings in Your precious son Jesus' name. Amen.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Your Blessing in on the Way
Remember, When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place. ~ C.S. Lewis
Scripture:
“Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments; Deuteronomy 7:9
Saints,
How many of you have been praying for something to happen and it hasn't happened yet? How many of you are wondering when your breakthrough will come? How many of you are wondering how long will you have to be in the valley?
The one thing that I have learned since becoming a Christian is this, no matter how bad we want something, how much we pray about it, how much we beg and ask God to change something, it's not going to happen unless and until God says it's time.
Sometimes the things that we have to go through are necessary before we can see the manifestation of God's blessings. You see saints, when we have to go through something sometimes that is the only way God can get our attention. Sometimes we have to go through to prepare us for what God has in store for us. Sometimes we have to go through so that God can show up and show out!
No matter what we have to go through always remember, the Lord is still blessing you right now!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, sometimes it seems like You don't hear our prayers. But we know Lord, that You hear our cries. Father, forgive us for our impatience. Father, we know that even when we aren't faithful to You, You are still faithful to us. Thank You Lord, that You see beyond our weaknesses and bless us anyhow. Lord, teach us patience. Father I come asking that You would touch, bless heal and anoint our prayer list. Many of our sick and afflicted have been going through for quite sometime. Help us to remain prayerful, even when we can't see You working in our lives. Father, we know our breakthroughs are at hand, because You have already given us the victory through Your son, Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
“Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments; Deuteronomy 7:9
Saints,
How many of you have been praying for something to happen and it hasn't happened yet? How many of you are wondering when your breakthrough will come? How many of you are wondering how long will you have to be in the valley?
The one thing that I have learned since becoming a Christian is this, no matter how bad we want something, how much we pray about it, how much we beg and ask God to change something, it's not going to happen unless and until God says it's time.
Sometimes the things that we have to go through are necessary before we can see the manifestation of God's blessings. You see saints, when we have to go through something sometimes that is the only way God can get our attention. Sometimes we have to go through to prepare us for what God has in store for us. Sometimes we have to go through so that God can show up and show out!
No matter what we have to go through always remember, the Lord is still blessing you right now!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, sometimes it seems like You don't hear our prayers. But we know Lord, that You hear our cries. Father, forgive us for our impatience. Father, we know that even when we aren't faithful to You, You are still faithful to us. Thank You Lord, that You see beyond our weaknesses and bless us anyhow. Lord, teach us patience. Father I come asking that You would touch, bless heal and anoint our prayer list. Many of our sick and afflicted have been going through for quite sometime. Help us to remain prayerful, even when we can't see You working in our lives. Father, we know our breakthroughs are at hand, because You have already given us the victory through Your son, Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Are You Enjoy?
One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon-instead of enjoying the roses blooming outside our windows today. ~ Dale Carnegie
Scripture:
Praise be to the LORD, for he has heard my cry for mercy. The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. The LORD is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one. Psalm 28:6-8
Saints, how many of you are in Joy? Webster’s dictionary defines joy the following way: a state of happiness or felicity; a source or cause of delight; the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires.
So again I ask; how many of you are in joy? Are you in a state of Happiness or delight? Do you feel successful and blessed by good fortune? Does the prospect of possessing what you desire bring a smile to your face?
As I have gotten older and wiser, one of the things that I have learned along the way is that to a great extent, we control our own joy. What I mean by that is that whatever mood we set for ourselves is the mood that we will carry with us that day or during that period of time.
So what if you don't have all that you want. God said he would provide all that you need. So what if your marriage didn't work out. God said he would never leave your nor forsake you. So what if your bills are due and you don't have the money to pay them all.
My God said he shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
The joy of the Lord is my strength. God is the joy and the strength of my life. I count it all joy when trials and tribulation come against me for I know that the testing of my faith produces patience. Father, we come before the throne of grace with great joy in our hearts. The kind of joy that can only come from You. The kind of joy that the world can't take away. Lord, even when my life is full of strife and confusion, I can still find joy in my life because of You. I find joy in the simple things. The dawning of a new day, the sun on my face, the song of the birds who awaken me early in the morning. I found joy this morning as I looked down on the sleeping face of my Young son. I find joy in the memory of loved ones who have gone on to glory to be with You. I find joy in the fact that one day, I shall behold Your glorious face. I find my greatest joy in the revelation of Your great love for me. Thank You Lord for this joy that is deep down in my soul. Thank You Lord, for a second chance to rejoice and be glad today, tomorrow, and forever more. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
Praise be to the LORD, for he has heard my cry for mercy. The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. The LORD is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one. Psalm 28:6-8
Saints, how many of you are in Joy? Webster’s dictionary defines joy the following way: a state of happiness or felicity; a source or cause of delight; the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires.
So again I ask; how many of you are in joy? Are you in a state of Happiness or delight? Do you feel successful and blessed by good fortune? Does the prospect of possessing what you desire bring a smile to your face?
As I have gotten older and wiser, one of the things that I have learned along the way is that to a great extent, we control our own joy. What I mean by that is that whatever mood we set for ourselves is the mood that we will carry with us that day or during that period of time.
So what if you don't have all that you want. God said he would provide all that you need. So what if your marriage didn't work out. God said he would never leave your nor forsake you. So what if your bills are due and you don't have the money to pay them all.
My God said he shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
The joy of the Lord is my strength. God is the joy and the strength of my life. I count it all joy when trials and tribulation come against me for I know that the testing of my faith produces patience. Father, we come before the throne of grace with great joy in our hearts. The kind of joy that can only come from You. The kind of joy that the world can't take away. Lord, even when my life is full of strife and confusion, I can still find joy in my life because of You. I find joy in the simple things. The dawning of a new day, the sun on my face, the song of the birds who awaken me early in the morning. I found joy this morning as I looked down on the sleeping face of my Young son. I find joy in the memory of loved ones who have gone on to glory to be with You. I find joy in the fact that one day, I shall behold Your glorious face. I find my greatest joy in the revelation of Your great love for me. Thank You Lord for this joy that is deep down in my soul. Thank You Lord, for a second chance to rejoice and be glad today, tomorrow, and forever more. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Trapped in Bondage
Remember, Bondage is subjection to external influences and internal negative thoughts and attitudes. ~ W. Clement Stone
Scripture:
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. Romans 8: 1-8
This past week, I have heard on more than one occasion about how we are trapped in bondage. Things, people, situations, and experiences bind us and keep us from truly seeking God's word; Living our lives in the natural, going about our daily lives doing our own thing, and not seeking God or his council before we proceed with things, will put us in a trap.
The desires of our hearts and our selfish nature will cause us to do what we want to do and not what God has directed us to do. We become slaves to the very things that we thought would bring us pleasure. It’s not until we find ourselves caught up, strung out, and in a corner, will we bow down and seek God's council.
Saints, don't allow your selfish nature to keep you from seeking God's word. Don't allow things or people to put you in a trap.
Wake up and realize that when we seek God first, everything else will fall into place.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come once again seeking Your face and Your council. Help us Lord to put You first in everything that we do. Allow us to live our lives and see things, not in the natural but in the Spirit. Help us Lord to seek You first before we make our decisions. Help us Lord to learn to stop, be still, and take our concerns about life to the altar of sacrificing. Lord, continue to be with the Saints, their families, our friends, and our co-workers this day. Continue to bless those who have come asking for intercessory prayer. We ask that You would continue to grant us fresh grace and mercy this day and forever more. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. Romans 8: 1-8
This past week, I have heard on more than one occasion about how we are trapped in bondage. Things, people, situations, and experiences bind us and keep us from truly seeking God's word; Living our lives in the natural, going about our daily lives doing our own thing, and not seeking God or his council before we proceed with things, will put us in a trap.
The desires of our hearts and our selfish nature will cause us to do what we want to do and not what God has directed us to do. We become slaves to the very things that we thought would bring us pleasure. It’s not until we find ourselves caught up, strung out, and in a corner, will we bow down and seek God's council.
Saints, don't allow your selfish nature to keep you from seeking God's word. Don't allow things or people to put you in a trap.
Wake up and realize that when we seek God first, everything else will fall into place.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come once again seeking Your face and Your council. Help us Lord to put You first in everything that we do. Allow us to live our lives and see things, not in the natural but in the Spirit. Help us Lord to seek You first before we make our decisions. Help us Lord to learn to stop, be still, and take our concerns about life to the altar of sacrificing. Lord, continue to be with the Saints, their families, our friends, and our co-workers this day. Continue to bless those who have come asking for intercessory prayer. We ask that You would continue to grant us fresh grace and mercy this day and forever more. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Understanding of a Child
Remember, Yearn to understand first and to be understood second. ~ Beca Lewis Allen
Scripture:
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you. Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, Proverbs 2:10-12
As a mother of two boys, I am constantly being asked, why? “Why are you short, why does the rain fall? Why is the sky blue?” I’m sure you get the picture. As my children have aged over the years, the questions have gotten a little more serious. “Why don’t certain people like us? Why did they shoot that man? Why are people so cruel?”
Both of my boys have gained a certain amount of knowledge by asking questions, observing others, attending school, and attending church. Recently, my youngest son has started asking me some pretty serious questions about God. One question in particular took me by surprise. He asked, “Why did God let His Son die?
At first, I wasn’t quite prepared to answer his question for fear of giving him the wrong answer. Then I realized that he was really old enough to understand the truth about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, for the first time. I explained as best I could that the world had gotten so bad, that God wanted and needed to get rid of sin once and for all.
I told him that in the past, men would sacrifice an animal as a way to atone for their sins. It was man’s way of telling God he was sorry. The problem was, that man was saying he was sorry but not really meaning it. Kinda like he told me he was sorry, without meaning it when I made him say it.
God realized that men had said he was sorry far too often without meaning it and so their sacrifices didn’t hold the same meanings that they were originally meant for. God didn’t let His son die, He allowed Him to be given as a sacrifice so that all men could say they were sorry and mean it.
Why did God let His Son die? To save you and me!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
My forever faithful Father, my Rock, my Strength, my redeemer, Lord, I thank You for allowing Your Son to die, so that my sons can have the gift of eternal life. Thank You Lord, for realizing that I am too weak to do this all by myself. I know that there is nothing that I could ever do or say to gain access to the throne on my own and that it was Your Love for me, Your gift that grants me access. Father God, I thank You for the knowledge that comes with the reading of Your word. I thank You for the death and resurrection of Your only begotten Son. Given with all sincerity and total unselfishness. Thank You Lord, for second change. Continue to cover Your saints in the Blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, it is in His Name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you. Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, Proverbs 2:10-12
As a mother of two boys, I am constantly being asked, why? “Why are you short, why does the rain fall? Why is the sky blue?” I’m sure you get the picture. As my children have aged over the years, the questions have gotten a little more serious. “Why don’t certain people like us? Why did they shoot that man? Why are people so cruel?”
Both of my boys have gained a certain amount of knowledge by asking questions, observing others, attending school, and attending church. Recently, my youngest son has started asking me some pretty serious questions about God. One question in particular took me by surprise. He asked, “Why did God let His Son die?
At first, I wasn’t quite prepared to answer his question for fear of giving him the wrong answer. Then I realized that he was really old enough to understand the truth about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, for the first time. I explained as best I could that the world had gotten so bad, that God wanted and needed to get rid of sin once and for all.
I told him that in the past, men would sacrifice an animal as a way to atone for their sins. It was man’s way of telling God he was sorry. The problem was, that man was saying he was sorry but not really meaning it. Kinda like he told me he was sorry, without meaning it when I made him say it.
God realized that men had said he was sorry far too often without meaning it and so their sacrifices didn’t hold the same meanings that they were originally meant for. God didn’t let His son die, He allowed Him to be given as a sacrifice so that all men could say they were sorry and mean it.
Why did God let His Son die? To save you and me!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
My forever faithful Father, my Rock, my Strength, my redeemer, Lord, I thank You for allowing Your Son to die, so that my sons can have the gift of eternal life. Thank You Lord, for realizing that I am too weak to do this all by myself. I know that there is nothing that I could ever do or say to gain access to the throne on my own and that it was Your Love for me, Your gift that grants me access. Father God, I thank You for the knowledge that comes with the reading of Your word. I thank You for the death and resurrection of Your only begotten Son. Given with all sincerity and total unselfishness. Thank You Lord, for second change. Continue to cover Your saints in the Blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, it is in His Name we pray. Amen.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Hold On
Remember, to succeed you need to find something to hold on to, something to motivate you, something to inspire you. ~ Tony Dorsett
Scripture:
And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, "Master, Master, we are perishing!" Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water. And they ceased, and there was a calm. But He said to them, "Where is your faith?" And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, "Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!" Luke 8:24-25
This year has really been a challenge to not only me but to so many of you as well. Some of us have lost jobs, lost loved ones, lost homes and cars. Our faith is challenged almost on a daily basis.
It seems as though we are walking in perpetual darkness. There are actually days when there doesn't seem to be any hope for our situations. We haven't found the job that we want. We are forced to move out of a house we have lived in for many years. We miss our mother, our father, our sister, our friend. We have to depend on others to get us around because we don't have a car.
We cry at night because the burdens become too heavy for us. We can't tell others about our problems because maybe they won't understand and even if they do, could they or would they even help?
Saints of God, Hold on! Our storms won't last forever. It is a part of our journey through this life. Hold On! A change is coming. Hold On! We are on our way to the Other side! HOLD ON! Jesus is on board this ship! HOLD ON!
Even the winds and the rains, of our individual storms will obey His will, if we just HOLD ON TO GOD'S UNCHANGING HAND!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come before the throne of grace to praise and uplift Your name once again. We enter into Your courtyard, lifting up our hands in total praise, honor and submission. We surrender our will to You alone. Lord, we humble ourselves before the throne of grace, in reverence to You. Father, thank You for yet another day. Father God, today, right here, right now, I ask that You speak to the storms in the lives of my brothers and sisters. Peace. Be Still. I ask O'Lord, that You would cover them with the wings of Your salvation. I Plead the Blood of Jesus over every saint reading this prayer right now. Father, we come touching and agreeing and on one accord that You would tend to the individual needs of Your saints. Lord, so many are under attack by him who seeks to destroy us. We ask Lord, that You would touch each and every saint as well as each household represented here. Touch, Bless, Anoint, and most of all cover Your saints with the Holy Spirit right here, right now. In the name of Jesus we submit our prayers, Amen.
Scripture:
And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, "Master, Master, we are perishing!" Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water. And they ceased, and there was a calm. But He said to them, "Where is your faith?" And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, "Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!" Luke 8:24-25
This year has really been a challenge to not only me but to so many of you as well. Some of us have lost jobs, lost loved ones, lost homes and cars. Our faith is challenged almost on a daily basis.
It seems as though we are walking in perpetual darkness. There are actually days when there doesn't seem to be any hope for our situations. We haven't found the job that we want. We are forced to move out of a house we have lived in for many years. We miss our mother, our father, our sister, our friend. We have to depend on others to get us around because we don't have a car.
We cry at night because the burdens become too heavy for us. We can't tell others about our problems because maybe they won't understand and even if they do, could they or would they even help?
Saints of God, Hold on! Our storms won't last forever. It is a part of our journey through this life. Hold On! A change is coming. Hold On! We are on our way to the Other side! HOLD ON! Jesus is on board this ship! HOLD ON!
Even the winds and the rains, of our individual storms will obey His will, if we just HOLD ON TO GOD'S UNCHANGING HAND!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come before the throne of grace to praise and uplift Your name once again. We enter into Your courtyard, lifting up our hands in total praise, honor and submission. We surrender our will to You alone. Lord, we humble ourselves before the throne of grace, in reverence to You. Father, thank You for yet another day. Father God, today, right here, right now, I ask that You speak to the storms in the lives of my brothers and sisters. Peace. Be Still. I ask O'Lord, that You would cover them with the wings of Your salvation. I Plead the Blood of Jesus over every saint reading this prayer right now. Father, we come touching and agreeing and on one accord that You would tend to the individual needs of Your saints. Lord, so many are under attack by him who seeks to destroy us. We ask Lord, that You would touch each and every saint as well as each household represented here. Touch, Bless, Anoint, and most of all cover Your saints with the Holy Spirit right here, right now. In the name of Jesus we submit our prayers, Amen.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Moving From Hope to Faith
Remember, Faith means being grasped by a power that is greater than we are, a power that shakes us and turns us, and transforms and heals us. Surrender to the power of faith. - Paul Tillich
Scripture:
Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope (faith) is in the Lord his God. Psalm 146:5
Saints, how often to you say; I hope that I get; I hope I can; I hope that happens? Now, how often do you say I have faith that I will get; I have faith that I will; I have faith that this will happen?
Too often we believe that if we hope hard enough for something that it will come to pass. God's word says that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. If ye have the faith of a mustard seed and say to the mountain, be ye removed......
Saints, if you believe that God can do anything but fail. If you believe he is that he says he is. If you believe that you have been given all power through Christ Jesus, then learn to move from hope and into faith.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus, that faith is not an emotion that I need to work up inside of me. Instead, it is a gift You give to me as I commit myself to You. Help each of us to grow in faith. Father, sometimes we become discouraged because things do not happen the way we hoped that they would. Help us to learn to be patient and not count on hope but to stand on our faith and know that in Your time, the things that You want for our lives will come to pass. Father, You have said that if we have the faith of a mustard seed and say to that mountain, that thing that stand in our way, be it sickness, poverty, bills, wayward children, cheating spouses, it will be cast into the sea. Father, we come believing that You will grant us the desires of our hearts according to thy tender mercies and through the blood of Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope (faith) is in the Lord his God. Psalm 146:5
Saints, how often to you say; I hope that I get; I hope I can; I hope that happens? Now, how often do you say I have faith that I will get; I have faith that I will; I have faith that this will happen?
Too often we believe that if we hope hard enough for something that it will come to pass. God's word says that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. If ye have the faith of a mustard seed and say to the mountain, be ye removed......
Saints, if you believe that God can do anything but fail. If you believe he is that he says he is. If you believe that you have been given all power through Christ Jesus, then learn to move from hope and into faith.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus, that faith is not an emotion that I need to work up inside of me. Instead, it is a gift You give to me as I commit myself to You. Help each of us to grow in faith. Father, sometimes we become discouraged because things do not happen the way we hoped that they would. Help us to learn to be patient and not count on hope but to stand on our faith and know that in Your time, the things that You want for our lives will come to pass. Father, You have said that if we have the faith of a mustard seed and say to that mountain, that thing that stand in our way, be it sickness, poverty, bills, wayward children, cheating spouses, it will be cast into the sea. Father, we come believing that You will grant us the desires of our hearts according to thy tender mercies and through the blood of Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Fear Not!
Remember, each time we face our fear, we gain strength, courage, and confidence in the doing. ~ Unknown
Scripture:
Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Deuteronomy 31:6
A few years ago, my youngest son came into my room and said he was scared. I asked, why was he scared. His reply was, “because we are at war.” He was afraid that people were fighting in the streets right there in our neighborhood.
Make no mistake, we are at war. But the war we are engaged in didn't just start yesterday. We have been at war for quite some time. We have been at war since we decided to follow the word of God.
The attacks have increased not because a bomb was launched, but because we are living in perilous times. Our strength and resolve are being tested each and everyday when we get up and commit to serving God anew.
I have noticed that our troops are faltering. They are becoming war weary and disheartened. Why, I ask myself. As I reflect on that question, I have to say because we have become tired. Our strength is starting to fade and we are allowing the enemy to enter into our camps.
Saints, today I urge you today to gather new strength. To supplicate yourselves with the Word of God. To join together in fellowship and draw strength from one another. Even if you feel you don't have the strength to pray for yourselves, pray for one another, your brothers and sisters in Christ.
The Lord our God has said, he is with us always, even until the end of time. He will never leave us nor forsake us.
Put on you armor today saints and go forth and fight the Good Fight of Faith!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come before the throne of grace weary from the multitude of battles we are fighting. Help us Lord to recognize when we are under attack. Help us to gather strength from one another. The strength to stand on Your word. The strength to stand in the gap for one another. The strength to recognize that even when we falter, You are with us always. Lord, we ask that You place Your hedge of protection around our troops that have been deployed to fight for our country. Keep them save in Your arms. Lord, we thank You for this day and for our trials and tribulations for without them, we would not know just how awesome You are. We love You Lord. We praise and uplift Your most holy name. As we ask these and all things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Deuteronomy 31:6
A few years ago, my youngest son came into my room and said he was scared. I asked, why was he scared. His reply was, “because we are at war.” He was afraid that people were fighting in the streets right there in our neighborhood.
Make no mistake, we are at war. But the war we are engaged in didn't just start yesterday. We have been at war for quite some time. We have been at war since we decided to follow the word of God.
The attacks have increased not because a bomb was launched, but because we are living in perilous times. Our strength and resolve are being tested each and everyday when we get up and commit to serving God anew.
I have noticed that our troops are faltering. They are becoming war weary and disheartened. Why, I ask myself. As I reflect on that question, I have to say because we have become tired. Our strength is starting to fade and we are allowing the enemy to enter into our camps.
Saints, today I urge you today to gather new strength. To supplicate yourselves with the Word of God. To join together in fellowship and draw strength from one another. Even if you feel you don't have the strength to pray for yourselves, pray for one another, your brothers and sisters in Christ.
The Lord our God has said, he is with us always, even until the end of time. He will never leave us nor forsake us.
Put on you armor today saints and go forth and fight the Good Fight of Faith!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come before the throne of grace weary from the multitude of battles we are fighting. Help us Lord to recognize when we are under attack. Help us to gather strength from one another. The strength to stand on Your word. The strength to stand in the gap for one another. The strength to recognize that even when we falter, You are with us always. Lord, we ask that You place Your hedge of protection around our troops that have been deployed to fight for our country. Keep them save in Your arms. Lord, we thank You for this day and for our trials and tribulations for without them, we would not know just how awesome You are. We love You Lord. We praise and uplift Your most holy name. As we ask these and all things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Living In a Ball of Confusion
Sometimes in our confusion, we see not the world as it is, but the world though eyes blurred by the mind.
Scripture:
He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire. "Be still, and know that I am God; Psalm 46:9-10
How many of you are familiar with a song called "Ball of Confusion", by the Temptations? It was a song from the seventies; for those of you too young to remember, that talked about the condition of our world. Wrong kinds of conditions.
Some of the lyrics talked about war, drugs, hate, segregation, and a multitude of other situations. "Round and around and around we go where the world's headed, nobody knows." Many of the same problems and situations still exist today.
As some of you know, I like to write. A very interesting tool that I use is called "the reverse dictionary lookup. What you do, is type in a phrase or concept that you are trying to find a word for. I typed in ball of confusion, and interestingly, some of the words that came back were; mess, interference, bewilderment, turmoil, mayhem, upset, and the list went on and on.
Sometimes we find that our lives are caught in a ball of confusion. There is confusion all around us. We find that our lives are a mess, we are lost and bewildered. We live tumultuous lives; there is mayhem all around us. We are constantly upset, and the band played on.
Saints, when there is confusion all around us, we can't hear the word of God. When there is turmoil and mayhem all around us, we tend to take our minds off God. When we are bewildered and upset, we can't be in tune to what God is trying to tell us.
Saints of God, when you find yourself caught in a ball of confusion, find yourself a quiet place. Even if you have to go hide in a closet. Tell satan to "shut up and get out of my way. Focus on the word of God, not on your problems. Concentrate on the Promises of God. Turn those very same problems over to God. He has said, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." "we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. "The LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.
And finally he say; ""I am the LORD , the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come before Your throne of grace seeking peace. We come kneeling before You today, seeking the restoration of our quiet time with You. Lord, so much is going on around me that I need to just stop and spend some time with You. Lord, I will keep my mind and my eyes staid on You today. I will leave my problems, my situations, all of the confusion and the mess of my life, on the altar of sacrificing. I will not listen to the negative words that are spoken in my life today. I will seek only Your love, Your comfort, Your strength and Your joy. These are the things that You have already given me if I would just take a moment to find them in Your word. Your word which is the master plan for our lives. Your word that has all of the answers that we seek. Lord, I also have to stop and admit that much of the confusion around me I have allowed to happen. I have made wrong decisions and choices that have blocked me and prevented me from being in right relationship with You. Forgive me Lord, for my wrong choices. Deliver me Lord, from bad situations. Hold my hand Lord, as I find my way back to You. Thank You Lord, for being there when I need. You. Thank You for blessing and keeping me. Thank You for Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire. "Be still, and know that I am God; Psalm 46:9-10
How many of you are familiar with a song called "Ball of Confusion", by the Temptations? It was a song from the seventies; for those of you too young to remember, that talked about the condition of our world. Wrong kinds of conditions.
Some of the lyrics talked about war, drugs, hate, segregation, and a multitude of other situations. "Round and around and around we go where the world's headed, nobody knows." Many of the same problems and situations still exist today.
As some of you know, I like to write. A very interesting tool that I use is called "the reverse dictionary lookup. What you do, is type in a phrase or concept that you are trying to find a word for. I typed in ball of confusion, and interestingly, some of the words that came back were; mess, interference, bewilderment, turmoil, mayhem, upset, and the list went on and on.
Sometimes we find that our lives are caught in a ball of confusion. There is confusion all around us. We find that our lives are a mess, we are lost and bewildered. We live tumultuous lives; there is mayhem all around us. We are constantly upset, and the band played on.
Saints, when there is confusion all around us, we can't hear the word of God. When there is turmoil and mayhem all around us, we tend to take our minds off God. When we are bewildered and upset, we can't be in tune to what God is trying to tell us.
Saints of God, when you find yourself caught in a ball of confusion, find yourself a quiet place. Even if you have to go hide in a closet. Tell satan to "shut up and get out of my way. Focus on the word of God, not on your problems. Concentrate on the Promises of God. Turn those very same problems over to God. He has said, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." "we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. "The LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.
And finally he say; ""I am the LORD , the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come before Your throne of grace seeking peace. We come kneeling before You today, seeking the restoration of our quiet time with You. Lord, so much is going on around me that I need to just stop and spend some time with You. Lord, I will keep my mind and my eyes staid on You today. I will leave my problems, my situations, all of the confusion and the mess of my life, on the altar of sacrificing. I will not listen to the negative words that are spoken in my life today. I will seek only Your love, Your comfort, Your strength and Your joy. These are the things that You have already given me if I would just take a moment to find them in Your word. Your word which is the master plan for our lives. Your word that has all of the answers that we seek. Lord, I also have to stop and admit that much of the confusion around me I have allowed to happen. I have made wrong decisions and choices that have blocked me and prevented me from being in right relationship with You. Forgive me Lord, for my wrong choices. Deliver me Lord, from bad situations. Hold my hand Lord, as I find my way back to You. Thank You Lord, for being there when I need. You. Thank You for blessing and keeping me. Thank You for Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sunday, April 05, 2009
That's Love!
Remember, the ultimate lesson all of us have to learn is unconditional love, which includes not only others but ourselves as well. ~ Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
Scripture:
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. John 3:16-18
A few years ago when my youngest son Joseph was seven years old, we went to see and illustrated sermon called “The Whip, The Hammer, and The Cross.” It was the story of Jesus Christ as presented by Greater Grace Temple, a local church here in Detroit. Now I have gone to see several gospel plays, but I must say this was not a play.
The dynamic Bishop Ellis brought a totally new dimension to the telling of this story by combining a theatrical production and church service! He not only told the story of the reason why Jesus came, to reconcile us sinners to God, but also how jealously and persecution that led to his death. It bought home the realization of what Jesus knowingly and willingly did; So that every sinner would have a chance to enter into the kingdom of Heaven.
He also very pointedly told how so many of us are willing to cast aside his works for popular opinion. He told of how the Jews praised and exalted him one day and called for his crucifixion the next. How on that infamous Psalm’s Sunday, when They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" Blessed is the King of Israel!" Then a few days later condemned him to die on the cross as a blasphemer.
Without going into much more detail, my son Joseph, who has been in church since day one, left the service asking why, and wanting to be baptized! Praise God! (As Baptist, our children have to confess Jesus Christ for themselves. We do not believe in having them Baptized until they accept Jesus Christ as their own personal Savior).
Saints, my son as a mere babe in the word, recognized how much Jesus loved him. He wanted to join the Kingdom of God. What about you? Do you know how much he loves you?
Do you realize the price that Jesus paid so that you and I can have a chance to enter into his Kingdom?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Our heavenly Father, we come giving thanks that You loved us that much to sacrifice Your only begotten son. We thank You Lord, that You have given us the keys to the kingdom that was bought with the price of the blood of Your precious Son. Jesus, we thank You that You loved us enough to go to the cross to save a sinner such as me. Father, if we had ten thousand tongues, we could never offer up enough thanks and praise for what You have done, so that we might be saved. Oh, how precious is the Blood of the Lamb. Lord, in our living, let not the shedding of Your blood have been in vain. Father God, Holy Spirit, Precious Jesus, our love and gratitude to You can never be enough to pay the cost for Your gifts. Thank You Lord. Continue to be with those saints who need You today. Continue to be with our troops who are still far away from the safety of home. Thank You Lord, as we ask these things in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. John 3:16-18
A few years ago when my youngest son Joseph was seven years old, we went to see and illustrated sermon called “The Whip, The Hammer, and The Cross.” It was the story of Jesus Christ as presented by Greater Grace Temple, a local church here in Detroit. Now I have gone to see several gospel plays, but I must say this was not a play.
The dynamic Bishop Ellis brought a totally new dimension to the telling of this story by combining a theatrical production and church service! He not only told the story of the reason why Jesus came, to reconcile us sinners to God, but also how jealously and persecution that led to his death. It bought home the realization of what Jesus knowingly and willingly did; So that every sinner would have a chance to enter into the kingdom of Heaven.
He also very pointedly told how so many of us are willing to cast aside his works for popular opinion. He told of how the Jews praised and exalted him one day and called for his crucifixion the next. How on that infamous Psalm’s Sunday, when They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" Blessed is the King of Israel!" Then a few days later condemned him to die on the cross as a blasphemer.
Without going into much more detail, my son Joseph, who has been in church since day one, left the service asking why, and wanting to be baptized! Praise God! (As Baptist, our children have to confess Jesus Christ for themselves. We do not believe in having them Baptized until they accept Jesus Christ as their own personal Savior).
Saints, my son as a mere babe in the word, recognized how much Jesus loved him. He wanted to join the Kingdom of God. What about you? Do you know how much he loves you?
Do you realize the price that Jesus paid so that you and I can have a chance to enter into his Kingdom?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Our heavenly Father, we come giving thanks that You loved us that much to sacrifice Your only begotten son. We thank You Lord, that You have given us the keys to the kingdom that was bought with the price of the blood of Your precious Son. Jesus, we thank You that You loved us enough to go to the cross to save a sinner such as me. Father, if we had ten thousand tongues, we could never offer up enough thanks and praise for what You have done, so that we might be saved. Oh, how precious is the Blood of the Lamb. Lord, in our living, let not the shedding of Your blood have been in vain. Father God, Holy Spirit, Precious Jesus, our love and gratitude to You can never be enough to pay the cost for Your gifts. Thank You Lord. Continue to be with those saints who need You today. Continue to be with our troops who are still far away from the safety of home. Thank You Lord, as we ask these things in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Hold On And Don't Let Go!
Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal. ~ Pamela Vault Starr
Scripture:
"He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. 2 Samuel 22:17-18
I used to wonder why some people settle for mediocrity. As I look around me at people in this world, I often wonder what causes a person to lose their hopes and their dreams? I often ponder how and why would someone give up the spark within themselves that pushes them on to do great things.
Personally, I reflect back on the life of my maternal grandmother, Madea. Growing up, my grandmother was the epitome of the strong black woman. She was the center of my family’s world. She worked hard and loved even harder. She fought for the things she believed in, especially her family. Then one day, she just stopped fighting.
Now I don’t know what happened to cause this change. Maybe it was having to bury two daughters, one being my mother; and her own mother. All within a few years of each other. Maybe it was losing “Auntie, the woman who had taken my grandmother and great-grandmother in when they had no place else to go. Maybe it was the realization that her grandchildren, whom she cherished had grown up and moved on.
Whatever the reason(s), it was evident that my grandmother had just given up on life, put away her dreams and decided to die. Yes, it took three long years for it to happen, but happen it did.
I often wondered how this strong and powerful woman could just give up her life so easily. Then I grew up and saw first hand how the things that happen to us can throw us for a loop and just make you tired. Tired of fighting, tired of loving, tired of living.
Too often I see people who have lost hope and don’t have anything to hold on to, lose their grip on life and just let go. Too often the things of this world will beat you down, leaving you bruised and confused, unable to stand the blows of the evil one.
For those of you who may be going through something, I come to tell you; hold on and don’t let go. To those of you who are feeling beat down by life, I come to tell you; there is shelter from the rain. For those of you who feel like all hope is gone; I come to let you know that there is still hope for a dying world. There is comfort for your weary soul. It can be found in the loving arms of Jesus.
So Hold On, Be Strong, and Don’t Let Go!
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.
Scripture:
"He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. 2 Samuel 22:17-18
I used to wonder why some people settle for mediocrity. As I look around me at people in this world, I often wonder what causes a person to lose their hopes and their dreams? I often ponder how and why would someone give up the spark within themselves that pushes them on to do great things.
Personally, I reflect back on the life of my maternal grandmother, Madea. Growing up, my grandmother was the epitome of the strong black woman. She was the center of my family’s world. She worked hard and loved even harder. She fought for the things she believed in, especially her family. Then one day, she just stopped fighting.
Now I don’t know what happened to cause this change. Maybe it was having to bury two daughters, one being my mother; and her own mother. All within a few years of each other. Maybe it was losing “Auntie, the woman who had taken my grandmother and great-grandmother in when they had no place else to go. Maybe it was the realization that her grandchildren, whom she cherished had grown up and moved on.
Whatever the reason(s), it was evident that my grandmother had just given up on life, put away her dreams and decided to die. Yes, it took three long years for it to happen, but happen it did.
I often wondered how this strong and powerful woman could just give up her life so easily. Then I grew up and saw first hand how the things that happen to us can throw us for a loop and just make you tired. Tired of fighting, tired of loving, tired of living.
Too often I see people who have lost hope and don’t have anything to hold on to, lose their grip on life and just let go. Too often the things of this world will beat you down, leaving you bruised and confused, unable to stand the blows of the evil one.
For those of you who may be going through something, I come to tell you; hold on and don’t let go. To those of you who are feeling beat down by life, I come to tell you; there is shelter from the rain. For those of you who feel like all hope is gone; I come to let you know that there is still hope for a dying world. There is comfort for your weary soul. It can be found in the loving arms of Jesus.
So Hold On, Be Strong, and Don’t Let Go!
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.
