Thursday, July 30, 2009
God's Promise
Remember, the only difference between stumbling blocks and steppingstones is the way in which we use them. ~ Unknown
Scripture:
So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done. Matthew 21:21 (New King James Version)
Saints, I don’t know if you are anything like me, but periodically, I will begin to doubt my purpose and abilities. You see, I have gone through some things that cause me to question if I have “the right stuff”. Do I have the right job skills, parenting skills and life skills?
When I lost my job, I began to doubt in my abilities to do the work. When my children do things that are contrary to how I have attempted to raise them, I will doubt whether or not I am a good parent. And sometimes when it comes to making the right decisions on how to live, I begin to question whether or not I am making right choices.
As I lay in bed late one night, doubting and questioning everything I have ever done since High School, I heard a voice say, “I have not given you a spirit of fear and you doubt you have fear. You fear because you are listening to the lies of the devil and the devil is a liar”.
You see Saints of God; my God reminded me that he has already given me everything that I need to make it in this world. He reminded me that he has given me all power and authority in Christ Jesus. He has given me access to the throne of grace.
Brothers and sisters, each of us will have doubts about our lives, but the word of God has already assured us that if we just trust in the Lord, this too shall pass.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, with Your blood, You wiped away my sins leaving me promises to enjoy in faith until You come back to claim me as Your own. It takes patience to live in faith, and I confess that sometimes my patience runs thin. I wonder why You don’t act in ways that I can see and understand. Why is there so much evil and suffering in this world that discourage both the faithful and the unfaithful? I don’t understand. Help me to realize that my understanding is not necessary for the completion of Your plan. You understand everything; all I need to do is have faith. In the meantime, keep me free from wavering, Lord. Your faithfulness is perfect, and Your will be done. Lord, I thank you for Your word that speaks to my soul when I am weary. I thank You father, for I know and realize that there is no testimony without a test. I thank You Lord, for even when I am weak, You are still strong. Lord, we bless Your name and submit our prayer in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done. Matthew 21:21 (New King James Version)
Saints, I don’t know if you are anything like me, but periodically, I will begin to doubt my purpose and abilities. You see, I have gone through some things that cause me to question if I have “the right stuff”. Do I have the right job skills, parenting skills and life skills?
When I lost my job, I began to doubt in my abilities to do the work. When my children do things that are contrary to how I have attempted to raise them, I will doubt whether or not I am a good parent. And sometimes when it comes to making the right decisions on how to live, I begin to question whether or not I am making right choices.
As I lay in bed late one night, doubting and questioning everything I have ever done since High School, I heard a voice say, “I have not given you a spirit of fear and you doubt you have fear. You fear because you are listening to the lies of the devil and the devil is a liar”.
You see Saints of God; my God reminded me that he has already given me everything that I need to make it in this world. He reminded me that he has given me all power and authority in Christ Jesus. He has given me access to the throne of grace.
Brothers and sisters, each of us will have doubts about our lives, but the word of God has already assured us that if we just trust in the Lord, this too shall pass.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, with Your blood, You wiped away my sins leaving me promises to enjoy in faith until You come back to claim me as Your own. It takes patience to live in faith, and I confess that sometimes my patience runs thin. I wonder why You don’t act in ways that I can see and understand. Why is there so much evil and suffering in this world that discourage both the faithful and the unfaithful? I don’t understand. Help me to realize that my understanding is not necessary for the completion of Your plan. You understand everything; all I need to do is have faith. In the meantime, keep me free from wavering, Lord. Your faithfulness is perfect, and Your will be done. Lord, I thank you for Your word that speaks to my soul when I am weary. I thank You father, for I know and realize that there is no testimony without a test. I thank You Lord, for even when I am weak, You are still strong. Lord, we bless Your name and submit our prayer in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
A Woman of Noble Character
Remember, Fame is a vapor, popularity an accident, riches take wing, and only character endures. ~ Horace Greeley
Scripture:
And now, my daughter, don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character. Ruth 3:11 (New International Version)
As a mother, I always try to set a good example for my children by doing what is right. As a woman, I try to set a good example for all the younger women who may be watching me as they are trying to learn about life. As a writer, I try to maintain my integrity by adhering and deferring to the word of God in my written word. As a Christian, I try to do what’s right because God is always watching.
Too often some people would rather do the wrong thing for what they feel are the right reasons. For example, I recently read an article about a mother who gave her son a gun so that he could “handle his business.” Or how about the women who walk around scantily clad just to attract the attention of the opposite sex. Or, how about the writer who will write an expose` that they know is not true and will ultimately harm those they are writing about, just so that their book will sell. And last but definitely not least, the person who calls himself a Christian to the world, but does things behind closed doors that they know are wrong but because know one can see them, believe it’s okay.
So often we will conform to the things of this world because we want attention; we want to be accepted; or we just want to do whatever we want to do because we can. Too often we are willing to compromise who we are for all the wrong reasons and are unwilling to accept that there are consequences to all of our actions.
Personally, I would rather pass on the riches, the fame and all the hype and simply just want to be remember as a woman of character.What do you want to be remembered for?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, sometimes we allow the things of this world to influence who we are. Sometimes as we journey through this life, we become lost. We find that we have somehow become separated from You. We look around us and nothing looks familiar, or we recognize that the things around us are not of You. We don't know how to find our way back to You because we don't know how we got to this place. But Lord, You have told us time and time again, that You are just a prayer away. Thank You Lord, for the power of prayer. Father, help us to recognize those times when we find ourselves in a far country, far away from Your grace and mercy. Help us Lord, to recognize Your angels who will help us to find our way home. Father, we thank You for Your under-Shepards who You have given charge over us. Because there have been times when we didn't even recognize just how lost we have been, but You have sent them out to bring us back into the fold. Now Lord, we ask that You would continue to touch our brothers and sisters in Christ as well as our unsaved families members and friends. So many need so much. We don't know the need of each individual but we know You do. Bless us Lord in the area of our lives that we have need of. Father God, our hearts are overflowing with Your love. Thank You Lord, for that love. We come before the throne of grace once again, just to give You honor, glory and praise. Bless the name of the Lord. Glory to Your name Lord. Thank You for loving me enough to sacrifice Your only begotten son, Jesus Christ, it is in His name we pray, Amen.
Scripture:
And now, my daughter, don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character. Ruth 3:11 (New International Version)
As a mother, I always try to set a good example for my children by doing what is right. As a woman, I try to set a good example for all the younger women who may be watching me as they are trying to learn about life. As a writer, I try to maintain my integrity by adhering and deferring to the word of God in my written word. As a Christian, I try to do what’s right because God is always watching.
Too often some people would rather do the wrong thing for what they feel are the right reasons. For example, I recently read an article about a mother who gave her son a gun so that he could “handle his business.” Or how about the women who walk around scantily clad just to attract the attention of the opposite sex. Or, how about the writer who will write an expose` that they know is not true and will ultimately harm those they are writing about, just so that their book will sell. And last but definitely not least, the person who calls himself a Christian to the world, but does things behind closed doors that they know are wrong but because know one can see them, believe it’s okay.
So often we will conform to the things of this world because we want attention; we want to be accepted; or we just want to do whatever we want to do because we can. Too often we are willing to compromise who we are for all the wrong reasons and are unwilling to accept that there are consequences to all of our actions.
Personally, I would rather pass on the riches, the fame and all the hype and simply just want to be remember as a woman of character.What do you want to be remembered for?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, sometimes we allow the things of this world to influence who we are. Sometimes as we journey through this life, we become lost. We find that we have somehow become separated from You. We look around us and nothing looks familiar, or we recognize that the things around us are not of You. We don't know how to find our way back to You because we don't know how we got to this place. But Lord, You have told us time and time again, that You are just a prayer away. Thank You Lord, for the power of prayer. Father, help us to recognize those times when we find ourselves in a far country, far away from Your grace and mercy. Help us Lord, to recognize Your angels who will help us to find our way home. Father, we thank You for Your under-Shepards who You have given charge over us. Because there have been times when we didn't even recognize just how lost we have been, but You have sent them out to bring us back into the fold. Now Lord, we ask that You would continue to touch our brothers and sisters in Christ as well as our unsaved families members and friends. So many need so much. We don't know the need of each individual but we know You do. Bless us Lord in the area of our lives that we have need of. Father God, our hearts are overflowing with Your love. Thank You Lord, for that love. We come before the throne of grace once again, just to give You honor, glory and praise. Bless the name of the Lord. Glory to Your name Lord. Thank You for loving me enough to sacrifice Your only begotten son, Jesus Christ, it is in His name we pray, Amen.
Monday, July 27, 2009
People only see what they want to see
Don`t believe what your eyes are telling you. All they show is limitation. Look with your understanding, find out what you already know, and you`ll see the way to fly. ~ Richard Bach
Scripture:
For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere: "He has blinded their eyes and deadened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn—and I would heal them. John 12:39-41 (New International Version)
The world we live in today causes one to ponder, what does the future hold? We look around us and see heartache and sadness at every turn. There is not one among us who has either been touched or knows of someone else who is struggling to make it through another day. The economy is spiraling downward at a rate that is out of control.
Those who are in power say they understand and they know the answers to what must be done, but I ask you; do they? Do they live in the same world that you and I live in? Do they see and comprehend the same things that we do? It begs the question, are they living on the same edge of financial devastation that many are experience on a daily basis?
Now I myself have a job. However, a few short years ago that was not the case. When I lost a very lucrative job, I lost my home, my car and that all powerful credit rating. Yes, I found employment but years later I am still struggling day by day to make it through. I am trying to follow my dream, but even though I haven’t lost heart, I become discouraged knowing that I am still in the midst of my struggle.
As I read the above scripture it prompts me to wonder; do they really know? Do they really see? Or have they become so blinded by that almighty dollar that they fail to see the human face that struggles to carry the burdens of family and survival on their backs. “I Got Mine so You Better Get Yours.”
Saints of God, look up to heaven from whom all blessings flow and not towards man. Open your eyes and your hearts to the world around you and let us not forget that by looking at the world around us, with eyes of compassion and never forgetting from whom and where we came are the only things that will allow us to heal as a country.
And remember that it would be better to have eyes that cannot see; ears that cannot hear; lips that cannot speak, than a heart that cannot love or to lack a spirit of compassion.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come before You to receive mercy and grace. With the help of the Holy Spirit we purpose to amend our ways by obeying Your voice, O Lord, my God. We take off the old man and put on the new, ordering our conduct according to Your standard of holiness. May we be holy just as You are holy, and may we be moved by compassion just as You are, Lord Jesus. Even when are in the midst of the valley, help us always to remember to help someone else. Let us not be concerned with ourselves that we do not see when others may need our help. May we always remember to reach out and touch the lives of others around us. Lord, we pray that something that we do or say today would cause someone else to seek your face. Now Lord, our prayers are not complete until we have given you honor and glory. We pause each and every day just to say thank you Lord. We Love you Lord. Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come! We humbly submit our prayers and petitions in the Holy Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere: "He has blinded their eyes and deadened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn—and I would heal them. John 12:39-41 (New International Version)
The world we live in today causes one to ponder, what does the future hold? We look around us and see heartache and sadness at every turn. There is not one among us who has either been touched or knows of someone else who is struggling to make it through another day. The economy is spiraling downward at a rate that is out of control.
Those who are in power say they understand and they know the answers to what must be done, but I ask you; do they? Do they live in the same world that you and I live in? Do they see and comprehend the same things that we do? It begs the question, are they living on the same edge of financial devastation that many are experience on a daily basis?
Now I myself have a job. However, a few short years ago that was not the case. When I lost a very lucrative job, I lost my home, my car and that all powerful credit rating. Yes, I found employment but years later I am still struggling day by day to make it through. I am trying to follow my dream, but even though I haven’t lost heart, I become discouraged knowing that I am still in the midst of my struggle.
As I read the above scripture it prompts me to wonder; do they really know? Do they really see? Or have they become so blinded by that almighty dollar that they fail to see the human face that struggles to carry the burdens of family and survival on their backs. “I Got Mine so You Better Get Yours.”
Saints of God, look up to heaven from whom all blessings flow and not towards man. Open your eyes and your hearts to the world around you and let us not forget that by looking at the world around us, with eyes of compassion and never forgetting from whom and where we came are the only things that will allow us to heal as a country.
And remember that it would be better to have eyes that cannot see; ears that cannot hear; lips that cannot speak, than a heart that cannot love or to lack a spirit of compassion.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come before You to receive mercy and grace. With the help of the Holy Spirit we purpose to amend our ways by obeying Your voice, O Lord, my God. We take off the old man and put on the new, ordering our conduct according to Your standard of holiness. May we be holy just as You are holy, and may we be moved by compassion just as You are, Lord Jesus. Even when are in the midst of the valley, help us always to remember to help someone else. Let us not be concerned with ourselves that we do not see when others may need our help. May we always remember to reach out and touch the lives of others around us. Lord, we pray that something that we do or say today would cause someone else to seek your face. Now Lord, our prayers are not complete until we have given you honor and glory. We pause each and every day just to say thank you Lord. We Love you Lord. Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come! We humbly submit our prayers and petitions in the Holy Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Be Encouraged
"When you feel like giving up, remember why you held on for so long in the first place." ~ Unknown
Scripture:
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. Psalm 34:18-20
Periodically we will all be faced trials and tribulations. From time to time it will seem as though God doesn't hear or just won't answer our prayers. Then, there are times when we are just plain old tired of fighting against this world.
Recently, I was reminded of a situation that the Prophet Elijah went through. Elijah was a prophet who did great things in the name of God. (See 1 Kings). One day Elijah was sent out to destroy the prophets of Baal. He killed all 450 prophets. When Jezebel heard what he had done she vowed to have him killed as well. Elijah, a great Prophet of the Living God, who had done great things in the name of God, just the day before, became scared and ran away to hide.
This Prophet, one of God's chosen, became scared of one woman. Even though God had manifested himself in Elijah's life and used Elijah to do many things in his name, Elijah ran. Even though Elijah knew God for himself and had seen his power first hand, he felt helpless at the threat of one queen Jezebel.
I use this story because it reminded me that even those who have been on the battlefield for the Lord and have been used by God will become tired. I am reminded of not only Elijah, but of King David and of Job as well. But you know what saints of God? Even in their moments of darkness God was still there. Even when it seemed that there was little or no hope, God was still there. Even when it seemed that they couldn't go on another day, God was still there.
So Saints of God, remember, God is still there! He will never leave us nor forsake us! He hasn't failed us yet!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come to You seeking strength, guidance and a little more patience. Father, forgive us when we feel weak in our faith. Forgive us when we seem to give up and give out. Lord, we know that You are not a God of confusion. You have told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Thank You Lord for that word. Father, hide us under Your wings of salvation. Cover us in the blood. Keep us nearer God to thee. Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless our brothers and sisters. Those who are saved and those who have yet to get to know You for themselves. Lord, we pray for financial breakthroughs today. So many need so much, have mercy Lord. Breath on us Lord, cover us Lord, Have mercy on us Lord. We love You Father God and we are thankful for what we do have. We praise, uplift and bless Your holy name. As we submit our prayers and petitions in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
Scripture:
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. Psalm 34:18-20
Periodically we will all be faced trials and tribulations. From time to time it will seem as though God doesn't hear or just won't answer our prayers. Then, there are times when we are just plain old tired of fighting against this world.
Recently, I was reminded of a situation that the Prophet Elijah went through. Elijah was a prophet who did great things in the name of God. (See 1 Kings). One day Elijah was sent out to destroy the prophets of Baal. He killed all 450 prophets. When Jezebel heard what he had done she vowed to have him killed as well. Elijah, a great Prophet of the Living God, who had done great things in the name of God, just the day before, became scared and ran away to hide.
This Prophet, one of God's chosen, became scared of one woman. Even though God had manifested himself in Elijah's life and used Elijah to do many things in his name, Elijah ran. Even though Elijah knew God for himself and had seen his power first hand, he felt helpless at the threat of one queen Jezebel.
I use this story because it reminded me that even those who have been on the battlefield for the Lord and have been used by God will become tired. I am reminded of not only Elijah, but of King David and of Job as well. But you know what saints of God? Even in their moments of darkness God was still there. Even when it seemed that there was little or no hope, God was still there. Even when it seemed that they couldn't go on another day, God was still there.
So Saints of God, remember, God is still there! He will never leave us nor forsake us! He hasn't failed us yet!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come to You seeking strength, guidance and a little more patience. Father, forgive us when we feel weak in our faith. Forgive us when we seem to give up and give out. Lord, we know that You are not a God of confusion. You have told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Thank You Lord for that word. Father, hide us under Your wings of salvation. Cover us in the blood. Keep us nearer God to thee. Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless our brothers and sisters. Those who are saved and those who have yet to get to know You for themselves. Lord, we pray for financial breakthroughs today. So many need so much, have mercy Lord. Breath on us Lord, cover us Lord, Have mercy on us Lord. We love You Father God and we are thankful for what we do have. We praise, uplift and bless Your holy name. As we submit our prayers and petitions in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Take a Stand
Remember, Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are stiffened. ~ -Billy Graham
Scripture:
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6 (New International Version)
So often in our quest to be accepted by the world, we begin to accept what the world accepts. Stop it! Take A Stand! We will go against everything we know to be true, to satisfy this intense search for acceptance by man and by the world. Don’t do it! Take a Stand!
Over the course of time, because we put our own needs and desires before what God wants for us, we are creating a problem that continues to perpetuate itself in each and every new relationship that we form. We are creating and establishing new generational curses for our descendants. We are crippling our children just to satisfy our own personal selfishness. We lose just a little bit more of our salvation with each new generation; because we have become so far removed from what God intended for our lives to be about.
Too often those things that others in this world accept as their reality destroy our choices and our belief system. Sex and not love is exploited everywhere. Things that we should find insulting and demeaning to us as women, are just overlooked for the sake of free speech.
Things that should only be shared between a husband and his wife are shared with the whole world watching including our children. In our quest to become more informed and more technologically advanced, we leave out a very important ingredient. Morality.
Even our children who are raised in the church must begin their battles earlier and earlier in life as they are faced with issues that an adult, let alone a child should have to face. How do you explain to your little one who looks up to those in authority not to trust anyone, including those in the church, in their own family, in their schools, and even the police, for fear of what might happen.
How do we explain to our daughters and sons that sex does not equal love and it’s not about self gratification but more importantly that they learn to give love through their actions and concern for others. How do we tell them that being a parent means more than creating a child and then being unable to give that child the emotional support that it needs. That it is not about the clothes on their backs, but the content of ones character that defines who they really are.
How do we explain to our children that life is just a fleeting moment but eternity is forever?
If we won’t take a Stand, who will?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, I come once again asking that You would forgive me of my sins. I have done things that I know were not acceptable to You, unaware that others were watching and learning from me. Forgive me Lord, for leading others astray. Father, teach me to walk in Your word, to be a living testimony to You and not to the sins of this world. Father, may the things that I do and say be acceptable in Your sight. May others see Your light shining in me. Teach me Lord to hide Your word in my heart. Father, we come asking that You would continue to bless Your saints. Breath on us Lord, cleansing us, renewing Your power and Your strength within us and healing us. Bless Your name Lord. We thank You Lord as we ask and submit our prayers in the Blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Scripture:
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6 (New International Version)
So often in our quest to be accepted by the world, we begin to accept what the world accepts. Stop it! Take A Stand! We will go against everything we know to be true, to satisfy this intense search for acceptance by man and by the world. Don’t do it! Take a Stand!
Over the course of time, because we put our own needs and desires before what God wants for us, we are creating a problem that continues to perpetuate itself in each and every new relationship that we form. We are creating and establishing new generational curses for our descendants. We are crippling our children just to satisfy our own personal selfishness. We lose just a little bit more of our salvation with each new generation; because we have become so far removed from what God intended for our lives to be about.
Too often those things that others in this world accept as their reality destroy our choices and our belief system. Sex and not love is exploited everywhere. Things that we should find insulting and demeaning to us as women, are just overlooked for the sake of free speech.
Things that should only be shared between a husband and his wife are shared with the whole world watching including our children. In our quest to become more informed and more technologically advanced, we leave out a very important ingredient. Morality.
Even our children who are raised in the church must begin their battles earlier and earlier in life as they are faced with issues that an adult, let alone a child should have to face. How do you explain to your little one who looks up to those in authority not to trust anyone, including those in the church, in their own family, in their schools, and even the police, for fear of what might happen.
How do we explain to our daughters and sons that sex does not equal love and it’s not about self gratification but more importantly that they learn to give love through their actions and concern for others. How do we tell them that being a parent means more than creating a child and then being unable to give that child the emotional support that it needs. That it is not about the clothes on their backs, but the content of ones character that defines who they really are.
How do we explain to our children that life is just a fleeting moment but eternity is forever?
If we won’t take a Stand, who will?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, I come once again asking that You would forgive me of my sins. I have done things that I know were not acceptable to You, unaware that others were watching and learning from me. Forgive me Lord, for leading others astray. Father, teach me to walk in Your word, to be a living testimony to You and not to the sins of this world. Father, may the things that I do and say be acceptable in Your sight. May others see Your light shining in me. Teach me Lord to hide Your word in my heart. Father, we come asking that You would continue to bless Your saints. Breath on us Lord, cleansing us, renewing Your power and Your strength within us and healing us. Bless Your name Lord. We thank You Lord as we ask and submit our prayers in the Blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Wednesday, July 22, 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-one, 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.
I am so excited! Today, I am living my dream. My novel "Serving Justice" has been nominated for the 2009 African American Literary Awards Show in the category of Romance. My very first literary nomination. Yippee for me. Please, please, please. click on the link and vote for me everyday. As many times as possible. Tell your family, friends and their family and friends. Get out and vote! Please visit http://www.literaryawardshow.com/voting.html and vote!
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-one, 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.
I am so excited! Today, I am living my dream. My novel "Serving Justice" has been nominated for the 2009 African American Literary Awards Show in the category of Romance. My very first literary nomination. Yippee for me. Please, please, please. click on the link and vote for me everyday. As many times as possible. Tell your family, friends and their family and friends. Get out and vote! Please visit http://www.literaryawardshow.com/voting.html and vote!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
The Death of Innocence
There's no tragedy in life like the death of a child. Things never get back to the way they were. ~ Dwight David Eisenhower
Scripture:
Now, O women, hear the word of the LORD; open your ears to the words of his mouth. Teach your daughters how to wail; teach one another a lament. Death has climbed in through our windows and has entered our fortresses; it has cut off the children from the streets and the young men from the public squares. Jeremiah 9:20-22 (New International Version)
A few months ago, I watched as three young children and their great-aunt perished in a fire. It was a tragedy that touched my entire neighborhood. The death of innocence always has a way of doing that. These babies had gone to bed earlier in the evening never realizing that their lives would be snuffed out by flames that could not be extinguished.
The real tragedy in this whole situation was that a mother had to watch as her babies were trapped in a room where they could be seen through a window, but that no one could reach. Fire crews rushed to the scene but were ill prepared for the battle that raged before them. Five houses engulfed by flames and all they had was the equivalent of a water gun to fight the flames of destruction. This was a senseless and horrific tragedy that possibly could have been avoided if the proper help had arrived in time.
This situation reminds us all that death awaits us at any given moment. We too could be trapped in a room where we are seen by all, awaiting help to arrive and rescue us from certain death. However, the difference is that our help is already here. We don’t have to perish in the flames like those children. Jesus is here to rescue us, if we let him.
Jesus sees us as we fight against the flames that threaten to destroy our lives, the fires that threaten to engulf our very existence. He is waiting to break down those things in our lives that have us trapped.
He will be that fourth man in the fire with us if we ask.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I come before the throne of grace with a heavy heart and spirit. My eyes are red and swollen from the tears that have been shed in the name of innocence. Lord, I know that the babies that died during this tragedy are safe in your arms. I weep for those who have been left behind who have yet to call on your name. I weep for those we are caught up in this sin sick world. I weep for those who do not know of Your Love, Your Grace and Your Mercy. I weep for those who do not realize that You are just a prayer away. Lord, I ask that You would comfort the families that lost loved ones as well as those who lost there homes. Keep them all safe in the bosom of Your arms. Let us cry for innocence lost and for those who have yet to ask You to come into their hearts. Now Lord, I thank You for sparing me and my household. Father God, I just want to thank You for fresh grace and mercy. But most of all, I thank You for Your son Jesus Christ. It is His name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Now, O women, hear the word of the LORD; open your ears to the words of his mouth. Teach your daughters how to wail; teach one another a lament. Death has climbed in through our windows and has entered our fortresses; it has cut off the children from the streets and the young men from the public squares. Jeremiah 9:20-22 (New International Version)
A few months ago, I watched as three young children and their great-aunt perished in a fire. It was a tragedy that touched my entire neighborhood. The death of innocence always has a way of doing that. These babies had gone to bed earlier in the evening never realizing that their lives would be snuffed out by flames that could not be extinguished.
The real tragedy in this whole situation was that a mother had to watch as her babies were trapped in a room where they could be seen through a window, but that no one could reach. Fire crews rushed to the scene but were ill prepared for the battle that raged before them. Five houses engulfed by flames and all they had was the equivalent of a water gun to fight the flames of destruction. This was a senseless and horrific tragedy that possibly could have been avoided if the proper help had arrived in time.
This situation reminds us all that death awaits us at any given moment. We too could be trapped in a room where we are seen by all, awaiting help to arrive and rescue us from certain death. However, the difference is that our help is already here. We don’t have to perish in the flames like those children. Jesus is here to rescue us, if we let him.
Jesus sees us as we fight against the flames that threaten to destroy our lives, the fires that threaten to engulf our very existence. He is waiting to break down those things in our lives that have us trapped.
He will be that fourth man in the fire with us if we ask.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I come before the throne of grace with a heavy heart and spirit. My eyes are red and swollen from the tears that have been shed in the name of innocence. Lord, I know that the babies that died during this tragedy are safe in your arms. I weep for those who have been left behind who have yet to call on your name. I weep for those we are caught up in this sin sick world. I weep for those who do not know of Your Love, Your Grace and Your Mercy. I weep for those who do not realize that You are just a prayer away. Lord, I ask that You would comfort the families that lost loved ones as well as those who lost there homes. Keep them all safe in the bosom of Your arms. Let us cry for innocence lost and for those who have yet to ask You to come into their hearts. Now Lord, I thank You for sparing me and my household. Father God, I just want to thank You for fresh grace and mercy. But most of all, I thank You for Your son Jesus Christ. It is His name we pray. Amen.
Monday, July 20, 2009
No Weapon
Remember, The most powerful weapon on earth is the human soul on fire. ~ Marshal Ferdinand Foch
Scripture:
No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their righteousness is from Me," Says the LORD. Isaiah 54:17
Saints, I have been talking about being under attack for a large portion of this year. This reason for this is because I myself along with so many of my brothers and sisters is Christ, seem to be overwhelmed with trials and tribulations; one right after another.
There have been times that I have wondered why I along with so many others seem to always be going through something. Does this sound like any of you? Many of my sisters and brothers are unemployed and it seems like it's taking so much longer to find new jobs. Cancer is rampant among those we know. We are losing babies to catastrophic illnesses and even those we believed to be Christians, are committing suicide. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined that being a Christian would be so hard.
But there is a truth about being a Christian I want to share with you. You see, before you got saved and joined the family of God, life didn't seem so hard. That's because satan wasn't worried about you because he already had you. He wanted you to remain comfortable in being and living in sin. Once you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, it made him mad.
You see, as long as you were in the world, he didn't have to worry about you. When he lost you and you became a new creature in Christ Jesus, he has to get you back, so that's one of the reasons that the attacks against us increase. He lies to us, he tries to discourage us in our Christian walk. He wants us to doubt the promises of God. And you know what? Sometimes, every now and then, it seems like he may be winning.
But you know what Saints of God? God has said in his word; NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST US SHALL PROSPER! That it His promise to us. We must learn to lean on our faith, walk by faith, grow in faith, see it and believe it IN FAITH. God cannot lie. He has already told us; he would never leave us nor forsake us, If we remain faithful to him!!
I for one am standing on God's word. I am holding on to his promise! I will not let go of his unchanging hand! What about you?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
The LORD IS my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; HE LEADS me beside the still waters. HE RESTORES my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For YOU ARE WITH ME; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. YOU PREPARE a table before me in the presence of my enemies; YOU ANOINT my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I WILL DWELL in the house of the LORD, Forever and ever, Amen.
Scripture:
No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their righteousness is from Me," Says the LORD. Isaiah 54:17
Saints, I have been talking about being under attack for a large portion of this year. This reason for this is because I myself along with so many of my brothers and sisters is Christ, seem to be overwhelmed with trials and tribulations; one right after another.
There have been times that I have wondered why I along with so many others seem to always be going through something. Does this sound like any of you? Many of my sisters and brothers are unemployed and it seems like it's taking so much longer to find new jobs. Cancer is rampant among those we know. We are losing babies to catastrophic illnesses and even those we believed to be Christians, are committing suicide. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined that being a Christian would be so hard.
But there is a truth about being a Christian I want to share with you. You see, before you got saved and joined the family of God, life didn't seem so hard. That's because satan wasn't worried about you because he already had you. He wanted you to remain comfortable in being and living in sin. Once you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, it made him mad.
You see, as long as you were in the world, he didn't have to worry about you. When he lost you and you became a new creature in Christ Jesus, he has to get you back, so that's one of the reasons that the attacks against us increase. He lies to us, he tries to discourage us in our Christian walk. He wants us to doubt the promises of God. And you know what? Sometimes, every now and then, it seems like he may be winning.
But you know what Saints of God? God has said in his word; NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST US SHALL PROSPER! That it His promise to us. We must learn to lean on our faith, walk by faith, grow in faith, see it and believe it IN FAITH. God cannot lie. He has already told us; he would never leave us nor forsake us, If we remain faithful to him!!
I for one am standing on God's word. I am holding on to his promise! I will not let go of his unchanging hand! What about you?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
The LORD IS my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; HE LEADS me beside the still waters. HE RESTORES my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For YOU ARE WITH ME; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. YOU PREPARE a table before me in the presence of my enemies; YOU ANOINT my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I WILL DWELL in the house of the LORD, Forever and ever, Amen.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Look Up!
I try to avoid looking forward or backward, and try to keep looking upward. ~ Charlotte Bronte
Scripture:
I lift up my eyes to you, to you whose throne is in heaven. As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he shows us his mercy. Psalm 123:1-2 (New International Version)
We are often faced with situations where we cannot see a way out. We look to family and friends for help, but they too are unable to help. We go to the authorities, the church, and anyone else who might listen. Still, we can’t get out. It is not until we humble ourselves and seek our answers from the only one who can truly help, God.
When we try to find a way out of a hopeless situation, often times we only make that situation worse. We rob Peter to pay Paul. We borrow money we don’t have. Far too often we barter our very souls away.
Right now my family is going through a very difficult time. We are nearing a very sad and heartbreaking anniversary. My youngest sister has been missing for a year and we are no closer to finding her then when we began. We are still can’t get any help or answers. The only thing that keeps us going is prayer.
In order for us to keep a semblance of sanity and courage, we must rely on our faith. In order to keep the devil at bay, we pray. In order for us to be able to go on when we arise in the morning we start the day in fellowship with God.
Now I know that some of you may be faced with your own difficult situations. I just want to say to you, be encouraged. No matter how hopeless your situation may be, God is still in control. When life knocks you flat on your back, look up.
Sometimes satan will knock you down, but God can pick you up!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Therefore I say unto You, What things soever ye desire when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Lord, we come before You believing that You are the one and only true God. Lord, we thank You for remaining faithful to us. Father we give thanks to You alone for loving us and watching over us. Father, help us always to put You first in all we do and say. Teach us Lord, how to remain faithful in spite of our circumstances. Help us Lord to remain prayerful and diligent in our service to You. Thank You Lord for blessing us. Thank You Lord for new grace and mercy. Thank You Lord, for the Blood, the blood that washes away my sins. The blood that protects, heals, and sanctifies. Thank You Lord, for loving a sinner like me. May the prayers of my brothers and sisters be heard by You alone. May You touch the hearts and minds of all who have come before the throne of grace today. May we always give thanks to You first. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
I lift up my eyes to you, to you whose throne is in heaven. As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he shows us his mercy. Psalm 123:1-2 (New International Version)
We are often faced with situations where we cannot see a way out. We look to family and friends for help, but they too are unable to help. We go to the authorities, the church, and anyone else who might listen. Still, we can’t get out. It is not until we humble ourselves and seek our answers from the only one who can truly help, God.
When we try to find a way out of a hopeless situation, often times we only make that situation worse. We rob Peter to pay Paul. We borrow money we don’t have. Far too often we barter our very souls away.
Right now my family is going through a very difficult time. We are nearing a very sad and heartbreaking anniversary. My youngest sister has been missing for a year and we are no closer to finding her then when we began. We are still can’t get any help or answers. The only thing that keeps us going is prayer.
In order for us to keep a semblance of sanity and courage, we must rely on our faith. In order to keep the devil at bay, we pray. In order for us to be able to go on when we arise in the morning we start the day in fellowship with God.
Now I know that some of you may be faced with your own difficult situations. I just want to say to you, be encouraged. No matter how hopeless your situation may be, God is still in control. When life knocks you flat on your back, look up.
Sometimes satan will knock you down, but God can pick you up!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Therefore I say unto You, What things soever ye desire when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Lord, we come before You believing that You are the one and only true God. Lord, we thank You for remaining faithful to us. Father we give thanks to You alone for loving us and watching over us. Father, help us always to put You first in all we do and say. Teach us Lord, how to remain faithful in spite of our circumstances. Help us Lord to remain prayerful and diligent in our service to You. Thank You Lord for blessing us. Thank You Lord for new grace and mercy. Thank You Lord, for the Blood, the blood that washes away my sins. The blood that protects, heals, and sanctifies. Thank You Lord, for loving a sinner like me. May the prayers of my brothers and sisters be heard by You alone. May You touch the hearts and minds of all who have come before the throne of grace today. May we always give thanks to You first. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
God's Rare and Precious Jewels
Remember, the gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials. ~ Chinese Proverb
Scripture:
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 1 Peter 1:6-8 (New International Version)
Did you know that diamonds are made of carbon, one of the softest materials on earth? But when carbon is under extreme pressure buried deep below more than 75 miles of rock and is in temperatures more than 2, 192° F, it changes in to a diamond. What starts out as an inert object deep in the bowls of the earth, is transformed into a rare and precious jewel by pressure.
I often liken our lives to diamonds. We start out as; apathetic, asleep, closed down, dead, dormant, down, dull, idle, immobile, impassive, impotent, inactive, inanimate, indolent, languid, languorous, lazy, leaden, listless, motionless, numb, on ice, paralyzed, passive, phlegmatic, powerless, quiescent, quiet, slack, sleepy, slothful, sluggard, sluggish, slumberous, static, still, stolid, torpid, unmoving, unresponsive, (I’m using the thesaurus tonight), individuals who are usually full of themselves with selfish motivations and no real concept of who we are without God.
As things begin to happen in our lives that put us under pressure, we too begin to change. We start searching for that someone or that something that will be the catalyst for our transformation. Those of us, who are lucky, will soon discover that the something or someone who will be the motivating factor for our change will be God.
However, it won’t stop there. As we grow in faith, so will our situations. God isn’t content with us just being a Christian. God wants us to be the best Christian we can be. So in an effort to force out any impurities that may still remain in our lives, he keeps the pressure on.
The pressure is not to break us, but rather to make is into a flawless diamond; a rare and precious jewel.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes it seems as though I am fighting a never ending battle. Some days are filled with stress and strife. Sometimes, I become weary from the war that wages around me. I realized that sometimes it is I who has caused the war from within. Lord, help me to be strong and resist temptation. Help me to develop patience, perseverance and peace within. Father, as I pause to spend time with You, I ask that you would quiet the conflict that rages within me. When I am faced with trials and tribulations help me to be still and remain calm and turn control over to the Holy Spirit. It's Your spirit Lord, that dwells in me. It that same spirit that can give me rest if I would just succumb to it. It’s in that spirit I can find peace, joy and contentment. It's in that Spirit that I can find the answer to the questions that plague me. Father, sometimes it seems as though satan’s entire army has come against me. But Your word tells me that no army can defeat me with the Lord on my side. Thank You Father. I know that as long as I follow You, I am on the right path. I also realize that as long as I follow You, satan will be there trying to discourage me. I rebuke the devil in the name of Jesus. I call upon the name of the Lord, and I will surrender my will to his and allow the Lord to fight my battles. Thank You Father for the power and authority that has been given to me through Christ Jesus. Lord, bless my family, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep me nearer God to Thee. Glory to God, Praise the name of the Lord. Hallelujah, Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 1 Peter 1:6-8 (New International Version)
Did you know that diamonds are made of carbon, one of the softest materials on earth? But when carbon is under extreme pressure buried deep below more than 75 miles of rock and is in temperatures more than 2, 192° F, it changes in to a diamond. What starts out as an inert object deep in the bowls of the earth, is transformed into a rare and precious jewel by pressure.
I often liken our lives to diamonds. We start out as; apathetic, asleep, closed down, dead, dormant, down, dull, idle, immobile, impassive, impotent, inactive, inanimate, indolent, languid, languorous, lazy, leaden, listless, motionless, numb, on ice, paralyzed, passive, phlegmatic, powerless, quiescent, quiet, slack, sleepy, slothful, sluggard, sluggish, slumberous, static, still, stolid, torpid, unmoving, unresponsive, (I’m using the thesaurus tonight), individuals who are usually full of themselves with selfish motivations and no real concept of who we are without God.
As things begin to happen in our lives that put us under pressure, we too begin to change. We start searching for that someone or that something that will be the catalyst for our transformation. Those of us, who are lucky, will soon discover that the something or someone who will be the motivating factor for our change will be God.
However, it won’t stop there. As we grow in faith, so will our situations. God isn’t content with us just being a Christian. God wants us to be the best Christian we can be. So in an effort to force out any impurities that may still remain in our lives, he keeps the pressure on.
The pressure is not to break us, but rather to make is into a flawless diamond; a rare and precious jewel.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes it seems as though I am fighting a never ending battle. Some days are filled with stress and strife. Sometimes, I become weary from the war that wages around me. I realized that sometimes it is I who has caused the war from within. Lord, help me to be strong and resist temptation. Help me to develop patience, perseverance and peace within. Father, as I pause to spend time with You, I ask that you would quiet the conflict that rages within me. When I am faced with trials and tribulations help me to be still and remain calm and turn control over to the Holy Spirit. It's Your spirit Lord, that dwells in me. It that same spirit that can give me rest if I would just succumb to it. It’s in that spirit I can find peace, joy and contentment. It's in that Spirit that I can find the answer to the questions that plague me. Father, sometimes it seems as though satan’s entire army has come against me. But Your word tells me that no army can defeat me with the Lord on my side. Thank You Father. I know that as long as I follow You, I am on the right path. I also realize that as long as I follow You, satan will be there trying to discourage me. I rebuke the devil in the name of Jesus. I call upon the name of the Lord, and I will surrender my will to his and allow the Lord to fight my battles. Thank You Father for the power and authority that has been given to me through Christ Jesus. Lord, bless my family, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep me nearer God to Thee. Glory to God, Praise the name of the Lord. Hallelujah, Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Beat Up and Blessed all in the Same Day!
Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don’t unravel. ~ Unknown
Scripture:
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31 (New International Version)
Today was one of those days. You know the kind I’m speaking of. The kind of day when nothing seems to be going right and it seems as if you are being hit with everything in sight, including the kitchen sink. It seems as though everything that I touch lately, falls apart.
It seems as if I am at odds with everyone, including my loved ones. It’s as if they are purposely trying to get on my nerves and under my skin. Even the man I work for is trying to push me to my limit. I was at a point today when I just wanted to say, to heck with all of you! And then, I get a call on my cell phone after hours about a work issue that was the cherry on top of the cake. Enough! I just want to jump in the tub and say; Calgon, take me away.
Then three very important things manifested in my life before I sat down to write this message. The first one was an email that was titled, when the day is rough and it contained a link to a Kim Burrell video entitled; “The Lord will Make a Way somehow. The second item was the above quote which simply said’ Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don’t unravel.” Finally, I had a conversation with a very good friend who also happens to be a minister. He has somewhat of an idea of the many obstacles that have been put in my way this past month. After I filled him in on my evening phone call, he reminded me of a conversation we had just last week.
“Jackie, you have already said you are on the very edge of a huge breakthrough and as a result, satan IS throwing everything at you, including the kitchen sink. Instead of focusing on those things in your life that are going on right now, focus on the blessings and the doors of opportunity that God has opened up for you. You have told me about so many great things that are already taking place in your life as well as some major opportunities that God has already been working out on your behalf. So even in the midst of your failures and fights, he continues to bless you and you are allowing satan to block your view."
I was humbled and convicted because instead of looking at my blessings, I was complaining about my failures. So saints of God I just want to remind you, instead of feeling sorry about the things that are going wrong in your life, remember all of the things that are going right.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, I once was blind but now I see. We come before you as the blind did in days of old. Asking Lord, that you would restore our sight. Help us Lord to find the path that you have chosen for us. Help us Lord, to develop greater faith. Help us Lord, to see the world through the eyes of Jesus. Father, we come surrendering our lives to you. Help us to learn to lean on you. Help us Lord to learn that its not always, about what we see but truly, about what you are teaching us. Teach us Lord to lean upon you; to depend upon you and not the things of this world. Lord, help us to realize that our circumstances do not define us, You do. You have already told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Bless us Lord. Keep us Lord. Restore our sight once again. So that we may lift our eyes towards heaven and see your divine vision for us. Father, we come praising and uplifting your name once again. As we ask and pray this and all things in the name of Jesus.
Scripture:
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31 (New International Version)
Today was one of those days. You know the kind I’m speaking of. The kind of day when nothing seems to be going right and it seems as if you are being hit with everything in sight, including the kitchen sink. It seems as though everything that I touch lately, falls apart.
It seems as if I am at odds with everyone, including my loved ones. It’s as if they are purposely trying to get on my nerves and under my skin. Even the man I work for is trying to push me to my limit. I was at a point today when I just wanted to say, to heck with all of you! And then, I get a call on my cell phone after hours about a work issue that was the cherry on top of the cake. Enough! I just want to jump in the tub and say; Calgon, take me away.
Then three very important things manifested in my life before I sat down to write this message. The first one was an email that was titled, when the day is rough and it contained a link to a Kim Burrell video entitled; “The Lord will Make a Way somehow. The second item was the above quote which simply said’ Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don’t unravel.” Finally, I had a conversation with a very good friend who also happens to be a minister. He has somewhat of an idea of the many obstacles that have been put in my way this past month. After I filled him in on my evening phone call, he reminded me of a conversation we had just last week.
“Jackie, you have already said you are on the very edge of a huge breakthrough and as a result, satan IS throwing everything at you, including the kitchen sink. Instead of focusing on those things in your life that are going on right now, focus on the blessings and the doors of opportunity that God has opened up for you. You have told me about so many great things that are already taking place in your life as well as some major opportunities that God has already been working out on your behalf. So even in the midst of your failures and fights, he continues to bless you and you are allowing satan to block your view."
I was humbled and convicted because instead of looking at my blessings, I was complaining about my failures. So saints of God I just want to remind you, instead of feeling sorry about the things that are going wrong in your life, remember all of the things that are going right.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, I once was blind but now I see. We come before you as the blind did in days of old. Asking Lord, that you would restore our sight. Help us Lord to find the path that you have chosen for us. Help us Lord, to develop greater faith. Help us Lord, to see the world through the eyes of Jesus. Father, we come surrendering our lives to you. Help us to learn to lean on you. Help us Lord to learn that its not always, about what we see but truly, about what you are teaching us. Teach us Lord to lean upon you; to depend upon you and not the things of this world. Lord, help us to realize that our circumstances do not define us, You do. You have already told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Bless us Lord. Keep us Lord. Restore our sight once again. So that we may lift our eyes towards heaven and see your divine vision for us. Father, we come praising and uplifting your name once again. As we ask and pray this and all things in the name of Jesus.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Listening to the Voice of God
Remember, Coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous. ~Unknown
Scripture: "The Steps of a Good Man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighted in his way-- Psalms 37:22-24
Saints, do you truly listen to the voice of God? What I mean by that is do you hear Him when He tells you what to do and how to do it? Do you even recognize when it is His voice speaking to you?
How many times have you been in a situation and asked yourself, what am I going to do? How many times have you just spoken a question and the answer just seemed to come to you? How many times have you been caught up in a situation and just didn't know how you where going to get out of it? And suddenly, the problem or the situation seemed to remedy itself.
How many of you study the Word of God on a regular basis? How many of you have heard the statement hide the word of God in your heart? Now this last statement may sound a little strange to you, but there is a reason for this line of questioning.
You see, the word of God serves several functions. It is our roadmap to how to live a Holy life. It is our conscience so that we do not sin. It is our strength and comforter in a time of need. The word of God is our sword to fight against the evil one who seeks to destroy us. It is God himself. "In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word was God."
Saints, each and every one of us needs to learn the word of God. His voice will never lead us astray His word will never return unto us void. He word is our light in times darkness.
He will never fail us.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, may we always hide Your word in our hearts. Father, may we learn to listen and hear Your 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.
Scripture: "The Steps of a Good Man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighted in his way-- Psalms 37:22-24
Saints, do you truly listen to the voice of God? What I mean by that is do you hear Him when He tells you what to do and how to do it? Do you even recognize when it is His voice speaking to you?
How many times have you been in a situation and asked yourself, what am I going to do? How many times have you just spoken a question and the answer just seemed to come to you? How many times have you been caught up in a situation and just didn't know how you where going to get out of it? And suddenly, the problem or the situation seemed to remedy itself.
How many of you study the Word of God on a regular basis? How many of you have heard the statement hide the word of God in your heart? Now this last statement may sound a little strange to you, but there is a reason for this line of questioning.
You see, the word of God serves several functions. It is our roadmap to how to live a Holy life. It is our conscience so that we do not sin. It is our strength and comforter in a time of need. The word of God is our sword to fight against the evil one who seeks to destroy us. It is God himself. "In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word was God."
Saints, each and every one of us needs to learn the word of God. His voice will never lead us astray His word will never return unto us void. He word is our light in times darkness.
He will never fail us.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, may we always hide Your word in our hearts. Father, may we learn to listen and hear Your 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.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Blocking Your Own Blessings
We can only learn to know ourselves and do what we can / namely, surrender our will and fulfill God's will in us. ~ St. Teresa of Avila
Scripture:
Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men. Matthew 16:23 (New International Version)
As we go through life, there are many things we may want or desire. We see someone and want to make them our mate. We desire big cars, fancy houses and a multitude of other riches. We want fame, fortune and success. However, I ask; how many of us seek God first before we go after the desires of our hearts?
Personally, I know there were a lot of things that I went after in my life without consulting God about it first. For example, when I met my ex-husband, I decided after our first date that he would be the man I married. Sadly, my marriage didn’t work out. I had made a life altering decision without going to God and seeking His guidance first.
Now this doesn’t mean that my ex was a bad man or even a bad husband. He just wasn’t meant to be my husband and if I had truly listened to what God was trying to tell me about that particular relationship, we never would have gotten married. I wanted what I wanted and I wanted to marry him. However, we didn’t want the same things in a marriage and that’s what led to the demise of my family.
I share this story with you today as a reminder that when we are seeking certain things in a relationship, in order for anything that we do to succeed, we must first take it to God and He will direct our paths.
God cannot bless our unions, our jobs, and our prosperity if those things are outside of his will. He cannot bless us as only He can when He sees us making wrong choices. God has given each and every one of us, free will. And as a result, we must learn to live our lives with His will for us in mind.
Satan is always trying to make our lives difficult by filling our hearts with lust for the wrong things. He is constantly putting up road blocks and distractions in our lives in his effort to keep us from the kingdom of God. Far too often we fall into his traps and as a result, will block our own blessings.
Remember, God cannot bless you if there is something else in the way.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, there are times when I realize that I have a selfish spirit. I want what I want. Sometimes, I will do whatever it takes to get what I want. Lord, I come asking that You would help me to overcome my spirit of selfishness. Help me to develop a more Christ like spirit. Father help me to see my life through Your eyes. Help me to recognize my sins and faults and to work on my negative attitudes. Lord, help me to see when I am blocking my own blessings. Father, if there is something that I can do or something that I can to say to help someone else, help me to see it. When I am doing or saying something that is not pleasing to you, help me to know it. Father, I ask that You would order my steps this day as I surrender my will to Yours. Lead me, guide me, bless me. Use me Lord, for Your edification. Continue to bless my brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, I give You all of my heart, All the praise, All the honor and glory, in the name of Jesus.
Scripture:
Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men. Matthew 16:23 (New International Version)
As we go through life, there are many things we may want or desire. We see someone and want to make them our mate. We desire big cars, fancy houses and a multitude of other riches. We want fame, fortune and success. However, I ask; how many of us seek God first before we go after the desires of our hearts?
Personally, I know there were a lot of things that I went after in my life without consulting God about it first. For example, when I met my ex-husband, I decided after our first date that he would be the man I married. Sadly, my marriage didn’t work out. I had made a life altering decision without going to God and seeking His guidance first.
Now this doesn’t mean that my ex was a bad man or even a bad husband. He just wasn’t meant to be my husband and if I had truly listened to what God was trying to tell me about that particular relationship, we never would have gotten married. I wanted what I wanted and I wanted to marry him. However, we didn’t want the same things in a marriage and that’s what led to the demise of my family.
I share this story with you today as a reminder that when we are seeking certain things in a relationship, in order for anything that we do to succeed, we must first take it to God and He will direct our paths.
God cannot bless our unions, our jobs, and our prosperity if those things are outside of his will. He cannot bless us as only He can when He sees us making wrong choices. God has given each and every one of us, free will. And as a result, we must learn to live our lives with His will for us in mind.
Satan is always trying to make our lives difficult by filling our hearts with lust for the wrong things. He is constantly putting up road blocks and distractions in our lives in his effort to keep us from the kingdom of God. Far too often we fall into his traps and as a result, will block our own blessings.
Remember, God cannot bless you if there is something else in the way.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, there are times when I realize that I have a selfish spirit. I want what I want. Sometimes, I will do whatever it takes to get what I want. Lord, I come asking that You would help me to overcome my spirit of selfishness. Help me to develop a more Christ like spirit. Father help me to see my life through Your eyes. Help me to recognize my sins and faults and to work on my negative attitudes. Lord, help me to see when I am blocking my own blessings. Father, if there is something that I can do or something that I can to say to help someone else, help me to see it. When I am doing or saying something that is not pleasing to you, help me to know it. Father, I ask that You would order my steps this day as I surrender my will to Yours. Lead me, guide me, bless me. Use me Lord, for Your edification. Continue to bless my brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, I give You all of my heart, All the praise, All the honor and glory, in the name of Jesus.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Don't Be Afraid!
Remember, courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear. ~ Ambrose Redmoon
Scripture:
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6
Saints, have you ever been in a situation and didn't know how you would get out of it? As you looked around at your circumstances you just couldn't understand how did you get here and how would you get out.
I talk to many people about their circumstances. Some are having problems with the marriages. Some are struggling financially, and some just feel like life is overwhelming them and they just don't know what to do.
God's word tells us not to fear our circumstances. That no matter what we come up against, No Matter What the Outcome! He will be with us always. It doesn't matter how you got where you are. Learn to depend on God for your strength, but most of all, for your guidance.
He will never leave you, nor forsake you, but most of all; he will never lead you wrong.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, I don't know how I got here, but I know that You can lead me home. Lord, I realize that I cannot always see what You have in store for me. I just ask that lead me and guide me as I seek my way home. Lord, we ask that You would continue to cover Your children. Help us Lord, to always seek Your guidance in everything that we do. Father, we ask that You would touch, bless, and anoint those saints reading this prayer right now, our family member, friends, and soldiers who are away fighting for freedom. Bless us now Lord Jesus with the power of the Holy Spirit. We Love You Lord, with all that we are. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6
Saints, have you ever been in a situation and didn't know how you would get out of it? As you looked around at your circumstances you just couldn't understand how did you get here and how would you get out.
I talk to many people about their circumstances. Some are having problems with the marriages. Some are struggling financially, and some just feel like life is overwhelming them and they just don't know what to do.
God's word tells us not to fear our circumstances. That no matter what we come up against, No Matter What the Outcome! He will be with us always. It doesn't matter how you got where you are. Learn to depend on God for your strength, but most of all, for your guidance.
He will never leave you, nor forsake you, but most of all; he will never lead you wrong.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, I don't know how I got here, but I know that You can lead me home. Lord, I realize that I cannot always see what You have in store for me. I just ask that lead me and guide me as I seek my way home. Lord, we ask that You would continue to cover Your children. Help us Lord, to always seek Your guidance in everything that we do. Father, we ask that You would touch, bless, and anoint those saints reading this prayer right now, our family member, friends, and soldiers who are away fighting for freedom. Bless us now Lord Jesus with the power of the Holy Spirit. We Love You Lord, with all that we are. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
In Between Blessings
It's not so much that we're afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it's that place in between that we fear . . . . It's like being between trapezes. It's Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothing to hold on to. ~ Marilyn Ferguson
Scripture:
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8 (New International Version)
First of all, let me publicly acknowledge that today’s title and message were inspired by my Pastor, Pastor Larry Smith of New ST. Mark Baptist church. As I sat listening to the man of God, I was taught what it means to be in between blessings. In between blessings are periods of time when one thing has ended and you are waiting on something else to begin where difficulties may occur.
The ending might be a job, a marriage, a relationship or simply a season in your life. What Pastor Smith pointed out was that while we are in between, we must hold on to our hope and our faith. He cited several examples in the bible where different people held out hope and held fast to their faith while they waited for their breakthrough or miracle.
Sarah in the book of Genesis who thought she was too old to bear children; the woman in the book of Mark who had the issue of blood. And what about the lame man who was at the pool of Bethesda for 38 years who never gave up hope that one day, if he could just make it into the pool, he too would be healed. The list goes on and on. These are but a few examples of what it means to hold on to hope and to hold on to your faith.
The quote that I used to day is actually an oxymoron in relationship to today’s message. The line that states being in between is like being between trapezes, there is nothing to hold on to. Personally, I beg to differ. Today’s scripture states that no matter where we travel, what we are going through or where we are, God is right there in the midst with us. He will never leave us nor forsake us.
In other words, things may look bad now, but hold on to your faith. Romans 15:13 tells us; “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 11:1 reiterates; “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
And most of all remember, On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand. Hold on to His unchanging hand.
Be blessed
Prayer:
I will lift up my eyes to the hills from whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel. Shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore. Lord, we come before the throne of grace thanking You for our miracles. Father we come into covenant agreement and standing in the gap for our brothers and sisters who may be weak. Touch them Lord Jesus. Magnifying Your power and Your presence in their lives. Father, our city and our world is full of stress and strife. Allow Your power and Your spirit to rain down on us this day. Father many of our brothers and sisters may be faced with losing jobs. Have mercy Lord. Lord, and as we have to go through our valleys, to GET to the other side, be by our sides. Keeping us in perfect peace. Lord, use us and allow us to bless someone else this day. We love You Lord. We praise and uplift Your name. We give You all honor, all praise, and all the glory to You alone. Hallelujah, anyhow. Hallelujah in spite of. Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Praise God, Amen.
Scripture:
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8 (New International Version)
First of all, let me publicly acknowledge that today’s title and message were inspired by my Pastor, Pastor Larry Smith of New ST. Mark Baptist church. As I sat listening to the man of God, I was taught what it means to be in between blessings. In between blessings are periods of time when one thing has ended and you are waiting on something else to begin where difficulties may occur.
The ending might be a job, a marriage, a relationship or simply a season in your life. What Pastor Smith pointed out was that while we are in between, we must hold on to our hope and our faith. He cited several examples in the bible where different people held out hope and held fast to their faith while they waited for their breakthrough or miracle.
Sarah in the book of Genesis who thought she was too old to bear children; the woman in the book of Mark who had the issue of blood. And what about the lame man who was at the pool of Bethesda for 38 years who never gave up hope that one day, if he could just make it into the pool, he too would be healed. The list goes on and on. These are but a few examples of what it means to hold on to hope and to hold on to your faith.
The quote that I used to day is actually an oxymoron in relationship to today’s message. The line that states being in between is like being between trapezes, there is nothing to hold on to. Personally, I beg to differ. Today’s scripture states that no matter where we travel, what we are going through or where we are, God is right there in the midst with us. He will never leave us nor forsake us.
In other words, things may look bad now, but hold on to your faith. Romans 15:13 tells us; “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 11:1 reiterates; “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
And most of all remember, On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand. Hold on to His unchanging hand.
Be blessed
Prayer:
I will lift up my eyes to the hills from whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel. Shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore. Lord, we come before the throne of grace thanking You for our miracles. Father we come into covenant agreement and standing in the gap for our brothers and sisters who may be weak. Touch them Lord Jesus. Magnifying Your power and Your presence in their lives. Father, our city and our world is full of stress and strife. Allow Your power and Your spirit to rain down on us this day. Father many of our brothers and sisters may be faced with losing jobs. Have mercy Lord. Lord, and as we have to go through our valleys, to GET to the other side, be by our sides. Keeping us in perfect peace. Lord, use us and allow us to bless someone else this day. We love You Lord. We praise and uplift Your name. We give You all honor, all praise, and all the glory to You alone. Hallelujah, anyhow. Hallelujah in spite of. Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Praise God, Amen.
Monday, July 06, 2009
Let it Go!
Some people think it's holding on that makes one strong; sometimes it's letting go. ~ Sylvia Robinson
Scripture:
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. Revelation 3:19-21
Not long ago, I received a message from a very good friend of mine that was written by Bishop T.D. Jakes. I have read the message titled "Let it Go", several times. In this very inspiring message, Bishop Jakes talks about letting go of people who are not good for you, past pains and hurts that you may still carry, and a multitude of excess baggage that may be holding you back.
We as believers often times will prevent ourselves from receiving our blessings, our salvation, our deliverance, because we cannot "Let it Go.” We do not go before the mercy seat and ask God to forgive us for our past mistakes; we allow the world to tell us how we feel, how we should think, and what to believe. We allow the sins of our past to continue to be our sins of today.
God has given us the keys to the kingdom. He has given us a plan, a blueprint, a way out of the valley of the shadow of death. He is standing at your door right now. He is letting you know that he is only a prayer away. All you have to do is open up the door and let him in.
Won't you let him in today and let out those things that are preventing your from gaining entrance into his kingdom?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come kneeling before the mercy seat, asking that You would forgive us of our sins and transgressions. Father, we know that there is nothing that we could ever do on our own to deserve Your goodness and Your mercy, but we come asking anyhow. Help us to look at our lives through Your eyes. Give us the courage and the strength to let go of those people and those things that may be holding us back from You. Help us to realize that everything that we desire isn't always what You desire for us. Father, we hear You knocking at the doors of our hearts this day. We ask You to magnify Your presence and Your power within us. Help us Lord, to be submissive to Your will and Your word, not only today, but each and everyday. Continue to touch those who have come asking for intercessory prayer. Touch the lives and the families of everyone reading this message today. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. Revelation 3:19-21
Not long ago, I received a message from a very good friend of mine that was written by Bishop T.D. Jakes. I have read the message titled "Let it Go", several times. In this very inspiring message, Bishop Jakes talks about letting go of people who are not good for you, past pains and hurts that you may still carry, and a multitude of excess baggage that may be holding you back.
We as believers often times will prevent ourselves from receiving our blessings, our salvation, our deliverance, because we cannot "Let it Go.” We do not go before the mercy seat and ask God to forgive us for our past mistakes; we allow the world to tell us how we feel, how we should think, and what to believe. We allow the sins of our past to continue to be our sins of today.
God has given us the keys to the kingdom. He has given us a plan, a blueprint, a way out of the valley of the shadow of death. He is standing at your door right now. He is letting you know that he is only a prayer away. All you have to do is open up the door and let him in.
Won't you let him in today and let out those things that are preventing your from gaining entrance into his kingdom?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come kneeling before the mercy seat, asking that You would forgive us of our sins and transgressions. Father, we know that there is nothing that we could ever do on our own to deserve Your goodness and Your mercy, but we come asking anyhow. Help us to look at our lives through Your eyes. Give us the courage and the strength to let go of those people and those things that may be holding us back from You. Help us to realize that everything that we desire isn't always what You desire for us. Father, we hear You knocking at the doors of our hearts this day. We ask You to magnify Your presence and Your power within us. Help us Lord, to be submissive to Your will and Your word, not only today, but each and everyday. Continue to touch those who have come asking for intercessory prayer. Touch the lives and the families of everyone reading this message today. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Sunday, July 05, 2009
There is Value in the Valley
As you walk through the valley of the unknown, you will find the footprints of Jesus both in front of you and beside you. ~ Charles Stanley
Scripture:
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, (Or through the darkest valley) I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:3-5 (New International Version)
A few years ago, I had the pleasure of reading a wonderful book by Iyanla Vanzant, titled, “There is Value in the Value.” It was a very motivational book about how going through a valley has its benefits. Now the dictionary defines a valley as; A broad area of low-lying land situated between hills or mountains and usually having a river or stream flowing along its bottom.
Many Christians will talk about a valley experience. A valley experience can mean that you are at a low point in your life. A valley experience could be the loss of a job, loss of loved one, financial difficulties, Strife in your relationships, or a wayward spouse or child. A valley experience can even be a life threatening illness. Each and everyone one of us will at some point in our lives, go through a valley experience.
However, as Ms. Vanzant so eloquently reminds us, there is value in the valley. What this means is that sometimes, being in a valley can actually benefit us. Going through a valley is just a journey from one point to another. While we may not actually enjoy the journey, there are many things that can be learned along the way.
For example, if we take the time and look around our valley, we often see things in our lives more clearly. Maybe that relationship we fought so hard to keep wasn’t really the type of relationship God wanted us to be in. Maybe the job that we lost actually prevented us from spending time with our loved ones and actually stressed us out to the point that we couldn’t really enjoy the prosperity that it brought. And as strange as it may sound, sometimes we create our own financial difficulties by not trusting God with our finances and seeking possessions that don’t necessarily bring us happiness.
Whatever valley you may be in right now, take the time and learn from it. It may be a lesson in humility and obedience. When you are at a low point in your life, always remember to look up.
Learn to appreciate all of your blessings in the valley.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
I love the Lord. He heard my cry. And even as I walk through the valleys of life, He is with me always. Goodness and mercy are at my side. He covers and protects me in the blood of the Lamb. Thank You Lord. Father we come asking that You would give us the strength, the peace and the patience to make it through whatever valley we may go through this day. We come asking that even as we find ourselves in the valley, we know that we are never alone. Lord, as I look around me and see others in the valley with me, may something that I do or say; encourage them to stay their course. Father, I ask that You would touch my brothers and sisters who find themselves in that valley. Lord, let them know that they too are never alone. Thank You Father for allowing us to come before Your throne of grace one more time. Thank You Father, for listening to us, one more time. Thank You Lord, for blessing us, one more time. Praise His name, saints of God. Lord, we lift Your name on high. We sing songs of praise even in the valley low. We will sing songs of praise, when we reach our mountain top. Thank You Lord, Bless You Lord. Hallelujah, praise God. Amen.
Scripture:
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, (Or through the darkest valley) I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:3-5 (New International Version)
A few years ago, I had the pleasure of reading a wonderful book by Iyanla Vanzant, titled, “There is Value in the Value.” It was a very motivational book about how going through a valley has its benefits. Now the dictionary defines a valley as; A broad area of low-lying land situated between hills or mountains and usually having a river or stream flowing along its bottom.
Many Christians will talk about a valley experience. A valley experience can mean that you are at a low point in your life. A valley experience could be the loss of a job, loss of loved one, financial difficulties, Strife in your relationships, or a wayward spouse or child. A valley experience can even be a life threatening illness. Each and everyone one of us will at some point in our lives, go through a valley experience.
However, as Ms. Vanzant so eloquently reminds us, there is value in the valley. What this means is that sometimes, being in a valley can actually benefit us. Going through a valley is just a journey from one point to another. While we may not actually enjoy the journey, there are many things that can be learned along the way.
For example, if we take the time and look around our valley, we often see things in our lives more clearly. Maybe that relationship we fought so hard to keep wasn’t really the type of relationship God wanted us to be in. Maybe the job that we lost actually prevented us from spending time with our loved ones and actually stressed us out to the point that we couldn’t really enjoy the prosperity that it brought. And as strange as it may sound, sometimes we create our own financial difficulties by not trusting God with our finances and seeking possessions that don’t necessarily bring us happiness.
Whatever valley you may be in right now, take the time and learn from it. It may be a lesson in humility and obedience. When you are at a low point in your life, always remember to look up.
Learn to appreciate all of your blessings in the valley.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
I love the Lord. He heard my cry. And even as I walk through the valleys of life, He is with me always. Goodness and mercy are at my side. He covers and protects me in the blood of the Lamb. Thank You Lord. Father we come asking that You would give us the strength, the peace and the patience to make it through whatever valley we may go through this day. We come asking that even as we find ourselves in the valley, we know that we are never alone. Lord, as I look around me and see others in the valley with me, may something that I do or say; encourage them to stay their course. Father, I ask that You would touch my brothers and sisters who find themselves in that valley. Lord, let them know that they too are never alone. Thank You Father for allowing us to come before Your throne of grace one more time. Thank You Father, for listening to us, one more time. Thank You Lord, for blessing us, one more time. Praise His name, saints of God. Lord, we lift Your name on high. We sing songs of praise even in the valley low. We will sing songs of praise, when we reach our mountain top. Thank You Lord, Bless You Lord. Hallelujah, praise God. Amen.
