Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Out with the Old and in with the New
"Drop the last year into the silent limbo of the past. Let it go, for it was imperfect, and thank God that it can go. “~Brooks Atkinson
Scripture:
Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19 (New King James Version)
As we draw near to the end of another year, many of us find ourselves rejoicing that the year is coming to a close and we hold expectations of better things to come in the New Year. There are many things that we are glad to leave behind as many of us have suffered through some things. The year 2009 was another year fraught with all kinds of losses; jobs, homes, friends and family. But it was also a year filled with blessings as well.
I for one had a year filled with blessings. There were a lot of “firsts” for me. I published my first novel, went on my first cruise and witnessed the election of our first African American President. My year was full of ups and downs. However, I thank God that I am here to see the dawning of another year, a new century.
There have been many occasions in my past when I didn’t think I would make it to the next year. I realize that because of some situations that I found myself in, I am blessed that I did. It is only by the grace of God that I can say that and it is only by God’s grace that I am still here.
There is one very important thing that I have come to realize as well and that is; we do not have to wait until January 1st each year to begin again. God in his illustrious wisdom freely gives us fresh grace and mercy with the dawning of each new day.
Yes, New Years day ushers in a new year, but the Grace of God gives us a brand new day to begin again.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Dear Lord, we come once again, entering into Your gates with songs of praise on our tongues, lifting up Holy hands in adoration to You. We bow down before the throne of grace, the throne that is Yours alone, because we know that You are the one and only Living God. Father, as we begin another day, another week, another month, a new year; we pray that Your presence in our lives be magnified not only for our well-being, but so others may see You working in our lives. Father God, I ask that if I have sinned against You in thought or action, that You would forgive me. Help me Lord, to be mindful of those around me. Lord, I pray for a spirit that can recognize when my prayers, my thought, or my actions become selfish. Lord, may I reach out to someone else today. Someone who may have a need that I can meet. If I can speak a kind word, or do a good deed for someone else today, help me to grab the moment. Father, I pray that You would use me to bless someone else today in Your name. Help me to see that the world around me is much bigger that myself or my family. I am a member of the Body of Christ. As a member, it is my responsibility to watch and care for the rest of my body. Lord, help me to see the joy in life through Your eyes. Not through the eyes of the world. Keep us all Lord in perfect peace as You continue to bless our families, friends, co-workers and brothers and sisters in Christ. We love You Lord with all that we are and all that You are to us. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19 (New King James Version)
As we draw near to the end of another year, many of us find ourselves rejoicing that the year is coming to a close and we hold expectations of better things to come in the New Year. There are many things that we are glad to leave behind as many of us have suffered through some things. The year 2009 was another year fraught with all kinds of losses; jobs, homes, friends and family. But it was also a year filled with blessings as well.
I for one had a year filled with blessings. There were a lot of “firsts” for me. I published my first novel, went on my first cruise and witnessed the election of our first African American President. My year was full of ups and downs. However, I thank God that I am here to see the dawning of another year, a new century.
There have been many occasions in my past when I didn’t think I would make it to the next year. I realize that because of some situations that I found myself in, I am blessed that I did. It is only by the grace of God that I can say that and it is only by God’s grace that I am still here.
There is one very important thing that I have come to realize as well and that is; we do not have to wait until January 1st each year to begin again. God in his illustrious wisdom freely gives us fresh grace and mercy with the dawning of each new day.
Yes, New Years day ushers in a new year, but the Grace of God gives us a brand new day to begin again.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Dear Lord, we come once again, entering into Your gates with songs of praise on our tongues, lifting up Holy hands in adoration to You. We bow down before the throne of grace, the throne that is Yours alone, because we know that You are the one and only Living God. Father, as we begin another day, another week, another month, a new year; we pray that Your presence in our lives be magnified not only for our well-being, but so others may see You working in our lives. Father God, I ask that if I have sinned against You in thought or action, that You would forgive me. Help me Lord, to be mindful of those around me. Lord, I pray for a spirit that can recognize when my prayers, my thought, or my actions become selfish. Lord, may I reach out to someone else today. Someone who may have a need that I can meet. If I can speak a kind word, or do a good deed for someone else today, help me to grab the moment. Father, I pray that You would use me to bless someone else today in Your name. Help me to see that the world around me is much bigger that myself or my family. I am a member of the Body of Christ. As a member, it is my responsibility to watch and care for the rest of my body. Lord, help me to see the joy in life through Your eyes. Not through the eyes of the world. Keep us all Lord in perfect peace as You continue to bless our families, friends, co-workers and brothers and sisters in Christ. We love You Lord with all that we are and all that You are to us. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Giving Up
There's an important difference between giving up and letting go. ~ Jessica Hatchigan
Scripture:
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:13-14 (New Living Translation)
As we prepare to leave one year and enter into the next, it is not unusual to hear people talking making New Year’s resolutions and about giving something up. Giving up implies that you are letting go of something that you really don’t want to. The oxford dictionary describes giving up as admitting defeat.
The above quote caught my interest because I never really thought about the term “giving up.” As I contemplated these words, I realized that I never really considered that in giving something up, I would be admitting failure. I would rather like to think that in giving something up, I am saying that is has no more relevance in my life.
As I played with these words I realized that there was more power in stating that I am letting go rather than giving up. “I am letting go of those bad habits, bad relationships, unhealthy lifestyles, toxic friendships, etc.” These words sound so much more powerful. To me, letting go simply means that I am willingly releasing those things in my life that are not good for me. Letting go means that in opening my arms and my life and allowing those things that I have so venomously held onto to fall away, I can now be open to receive something new and better.
The word of God states that when we let go of those things in our past that have held us back and press on to a higher calling in Christ Jesus, there is a heavenly prize that awaits us; our heavenly Father.
So today my brothers and sisters, I challenge you not to give up but rather to let go.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul. Father, when I pause to reflect on the words to this song, I am reminded, that no matter what comes my way, as long as I trust and depend on You, it is well with my soul. When situations around me become too much to bear, I must stop and say; It is well with my soul. It is well because, You are still in control. It is well, because as long as I lean and trust in Your word, all things are possible. I am the head and not the tail. I am above and not below. I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me. Thank You Father for daily reminders that teach me to be still and listen to Your still small voice. Thank You Lord, for all of my blessings. Thank You, for new beginnings. But most of all, thank You for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:13-14 (New Living Translation)
As we prepare to leave one year and enter into the next, it is not unusual to hear people talking making New Year’s resolutions and about giving something up. Giving up implies that you are letting go of something that you really don’t want to. The oxford dictionary describes giving up as admitting defeat.
The above quote caught my interest because I never really thought about the term “giving up.” As I contemplated these words, I realized that I never really considered that in giving something up, I would be admitting failure. I would rather like to think that in giving something up, I am saying that is has no more relevance in my life.
As I played with these words I realized that there was more power in stating that I am letting go rather than giving up. “I am letting go of those bad habits, bad relationships, unhealthy lifestyles, toxic friendships, etc.” These words sound so much more powerful. To me, letting go simply means that I am willingly releasing those things in my life that are not good for me. Letting go means that in opening my arms and my life and allowing those things that I have so venomously held onto to fall away, I can now be open to receive something new and better.
The word of God states that when we let go of those things in our past that have held us back and press on to a higher calling in Christ Jesus, there is a heavenly prize that awaits us; our heavenly Father.
So today my brothers and sisters, I challenge you not to give up but rather to let go.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul. Father, when I pause to reflect on the words to this song, I am reminded, that no matter what comes my way, as long as I trust and depend on You, it is well with my soul. When situations around me become too much to bear, I must stop and say; It is well with my soul. It is well because, You are still in control. It is well, because as long as I lean and trust in Your word, all things are possible. I am the head and not the tail. I am above and not below. I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me. Thank You Father for daily reminders that teach me to be still and listen to Your still small voice. Thank You Lord, for all of my blessings. Thank You, for new beginnings. But most of all, thank You for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Monday, December 21, 2009
God 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.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
It's His Birthday, Not Yours
Whatever else be lost among the years, Let us keep Christmas still a shining thing: Whatever doubts assail us, or what fears, let us hold close one day, remembering its poignant meaning for the hearts of men. Let us get back our childlike faith again." Grace Noll Crowell
Scripture:
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! John 1:29
Recently, a very good friend of mine sent me a story called the "Birthday Party". As I read the story, it really hit me. What started out as a celebration for the birth of our Lord and Savior has turned in to one big celebration where for the most part, he is not invited.
It's so very sad to realize that Santa Claus gets more glory than our Lord and Savior. It very sad to realize that he can go into the schools, into the courthouse and just about everywhere else, but Jesus can't.
It's so very sad to realize that we Christians who celebrate Christmas buy gifts for our loved ones with nary a thought to those less fortunate then ourselves. A few years ago, I along with several other friends pooled our resources and went out and prepared gift baskets and bought toys for a women’s shelter.
Some of us also took our children along so that they could see just how blessed we truly are. I tell this story not to glorify what we did, but to challenge you this Christmas season.
It is our duty and responsibility to do something for others who are less fortunate than us. It is our duty to give back just a portion that has been given to us.
Besides, we already received the best gift anyone could ever give us. Our Lord, Our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, help us to always be mindful of those who are less fortunate than ourselves. We recognize that life is a struggle, but as long as You are with us, we can make it through. You have said in Your word that the righteous will not be forsaken or their children begging bread. We thank You Lord that we do not have to beg for bread. But Lord we recognize that there are children out there whose bellies and empty. We realize that there are women out there who are too scared to leave their situations. We realize that there are men out there who got lost along the way and don't know what it's like to be a child in the kingdom of God. Have mercy on them today, Lord Jesus. I pray that someone's heart would be touched as they read these words. I pray that Your saints would go out and do a good work in Your name. I pray that Your saints would realize just how awesome and powerful Your word is. Thank You Lord. Bless Your name. Thank You for loving me despite the world around me. Bless his holy name, saints of God. And all the saints submit this prayer in the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! John 1:29
Recently, a very good friend of mine sent me a story called the "Birthday Party". As I read the story, it really hit me. What started out as a celebration for the birth of our Lord and Savior has turned in to one big celebration where for the most part, he is not invited.
It's so very sad to realize that Santa Claus gets more glory than our Lord and Savior. It very sad to realize that he can go into the schools, into the courthouse and just about everywhere else, but Jesus can't.
It's so very sad to realize that we Christians who celebrate Christmas buy gifts for our loved ones with nary a thought to those less fortunate then ourselves. A few years ago, I along with several other friends pooled our resources and went out and prepared gift baskets and bought toys for a women’s shelter.
Some of us also took our children along so that they could see just how blessed we truly are. I tell this story not to glorify what we did, but to challenge you this Christmas season.
It is our duty and responsibility to do something for others who are less fortunate than us. It is our duty to give back just a portion that has been given to us.
Besides, we already received the best gift anyone could ever give us. Our Lord, Our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, help us to always be mindful of those who are less fortunate than ourselves. We recognize that life is a struggle, but as long as You are with us, we can make it through. You have said in Your word that the righteous will not be forsaken or their children begging bread. We thank You Lord that we do not have to beg for bread. But Lord we recognize that there are children out there whose bellies and empty. We realize that there are women out there who are too scared to leave their situations. We realize that there are men out there who got lost along the way and don't know what it's like to be a child in the kingdom of God. Have mercy on them today, Lord Jesus. I pray that someone's heart would be touched as they read these words. I pray that Your saints would go out and do a good work in Your name. I pray that Your saints would realize just how awesome and powerful Your word is. Thank You Lord. Bless Your name. Thank You for loving me despite the world around me. Bless his holy name, saints of God. And all the saints submit this prayer in the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Giving Your Soul a Rise
Each Warrior wants to leave the mark of his will, his signature, on important acts he touches. This is not the voice of ego but of the human spirit, rising up and declaring that it has something to contribute to the solution of the hardest problems, no matter how vexing! ~ Pat Riley
Scripture:
He shall say: "Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be terrified or give way to panic before them. For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory. Deuteronomy 20:3-5 (New International Version)
Today I want to talk about warriors. Warriors are those people who go out and confront situations that exist that will not be easy to overcome. They will be met opposition, naysayers and people just waiting for them to fail. Yes, even those who are closest to them will often try to sabotage their efforts by interjecting a spirit of doubt. Yet, these warriors will fight against the odds and continue into battle to fight the good fight of faith.
I happen to have been blessed with several friends who are warriors. Angela and Cynthia battled cancer. Rhonda went back to school to get her masters and is now an assistant principle. I know several warriors who are single parents whose children didn’t become statistics or fall through the cracks. I know several children who didn’t have their fathers in their lives who still have achieved great success. Elissa, started a publishing company and helped eleven other authors achieve their dreams. Saints of God, you too can be a warrior.
The word of God reminds us that no matter what giants may be against us, the Lord our God is with us. Just as David had mustard seed faith as he faced Goliath, so should we all. The giants of depression, fear, poverty, and loneliness don’t stand a chance when God is on your side. That mountainous goal you have before you can be achieved when you lift up the shield of faith and the sword of the spirit, the word of God.
The word of God can give your soul a rise, when you put on the whole armor of God and always remember, you too can be a warrior!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, as we face another day, we come kneeling before the throne of grace to say thank you Lord. Thank you for one more day. Father, many of your children are under a multitude of attacks during this holiest of seasons. Father, we ask that you would keep us safe and secure in your arms. Lord, someone cannot put into words the heaviness of the burdens they must carry. Have Mercy Lord. Some mother or father is grieving this morning because they cannot save their child. Have mercy Lord. Someone feels so overwhelmed that they cannot function right now. Have mercy. We come pleading the blood of Jesus over these situations. We come thanking you Lord, for loving us anyhow. Lord, give us eyes to see and ears to hear your word and the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Father, help us to be diligent and aware of the tricks of he who seeks to destroy us. Help us to remember to put on the whole armor of God as we enter into another day fought with he who wants our souls. Our souls that have been bought with a price. That price was Jesus. Wonderful Counselor. Jesus, Prince of Peace. Jesus, my Rock and my Strength. Jesus, who is my redeemer. Thank you Lord, for Jesus Christ, my intercessor. Jesus, who allows us to come to the throne of grace with our prayers and petitions. Thank you Jesus, Amen.
Scripture:
He shall say: "Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be terrified or give way to panic before them. For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory. Deuteronomy 20:3-5 (New International Version)
Today I want to talk about warriors. Warriors are those people who go out and confront situations that exist that will not be easy to overcome. They will be met opposition, naysayers and people just waiting for them to fail. Yes, even those who are closest to them will often try to sabotage their efforts by interjecting a spirit of doubt. Yet, these warriors will fight against the odds and continue into battle to fight the good fight of faith.
I happen to have been blessed with several friends who are warriors. Angela and Cynthia battled cancer. Rhonda went back to school to get her masters and is now an assistant principle. I know several warriors who are single parents whose children didn’t become statistics or fall through the cracks. I know several children who didn’t have their fathers in their lives who still have achieved great success. Elissa, started a publishing company and helped eleven other authors achieve their dreams. Saints of God, you too can be a warrior.
The word of God reminds us that no matter what giants may be against us, the Lord our God is with us. Just as David had mustard seed faith as he faced Goliath, so should we all. The giants of depression, fear, poverty, and loneliness don’t stand a chance when God is on your side. That mountainous goal you have before you can be achieved when you lift up the shield of faith and the sword of the spirit, the word of God.
The word of God can give your soul a rise, when you put on the whole armor of God and always remember, you too can be a warrior!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, as we face another day, we come kneeling before the throne of grace to say thank you Lord. Thank you for one more day. Father, many of your children are under a multitude of attacks during this holiest of seasons. Father, we ask that you would keep us safe and secure in your arms. Lord, someone cannot put into words the heaviness of the burdens they must carry. Have Mercy Lord. Some mother or father is grieving this morning because they cannot save their child. Have mercy Lord. Someone feels so overwhelmed that they cannot function right now. Have mercy. We come pleading the blood of Jesus over these situations. We come thanking you Lord, for loving us anyhow. Lord, give us eyes to see and ears to hear your word and the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Father, help us to be diligent and aware of the tricks of he who seeks to destroy us. Help us to remember to put on the whole armor of God as we enter into another day fought with he who wants our souls. Our souls that have been bought with a price. That price was Jesus. Wonderful Counselor. Jesus, Prince of Peace. Jesus, my Rock and my Strength. Jesus, who is my redeemer. Thank you Lord, for Jesus Christ, my intercessor. Jesus, who allows us to come to the throne of grace with our prayers and petitions. Thank you Jesus, Amen.
Monday, December 14, 2009
When Your Soul Feels Empty
Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering you own imperfections but instantly set about remedying them - every day begin the task anew. ~ Saint Francis de Sales
Scripture:
On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified. John 7:37-39 (New International Version)
Depression is never easy, but it's especially hard during the holidays. The holiday season for most people is a fun time of the year filled with parties, celebrations, and social gatherings with family and friends. But for many people, it is a time filled with sadness, self-reflection, loneliness, and anxiety. And unfortunately, with our faltering economy and massive layoffs, this year is even worse.
We have allowed one of the holiest times of the year to become one of the most commercialized times as well. Christmas has become a celebration of gifts, not God. And nativity scenes are brought under fire and in many cases removed for fear of being sued. Far too often we look to those materialistic things of this world to fill the void in our empty souls. We find ourselves wandering about in the desert like the children of Israel unable to find our way home.
However, I want you to know, there is something that can make you feel whole again; the undeniable, indisputable, everlasting word of God. When we begin to feel our souls being emptied out by the world around us, all we have to do is go before the throne of grace and drink from a fountain that never runs dry.
"If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come before the throne of grace to intercede for one another. We come asking for blessings and breakthroughs, not for ourselves but for our family members, friends, co-workers, on-line family members and brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, we don't know the needs of Your children, but You do Lord. We ask that You would lift and bind the spirits of depression, despair, loneliness, anger, resentment, hurt, poverty and all others that are not of You. Lord, we ask that You would bless us and deliver us as only You can. Place Your hedge of protection securely around every person and all families that are represented here today. Allow this season of Your son to be filled with blessings and joy that have been given with the birth of Your son, Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified. John 7:37-39 (New International Version)
Depression is never easy, but it's especially hard during the holidays. The holiday season for most people is a fun time of the year filled with parties, celebrations, and social gatherings with family and friends. But for many people, it is a time filled with sadness, self-reflection, loneliness, and anxiety. And unfortunately, with our faltering economy and massive layoffs, this year is even worse.
We have allowed one of the holiest times of the year to become one of the most commercialized times as well. Christmas has become a celebration of gifts, not God. And nativity scenes are brought under fire and in many cases removed for fear of being sued. Far too often we look to those materialistic things of this world to fill the void in our empty souls. We find ourselves wandering about in the desert like the children of Israel unable to find our way home.
However, I want you to know, there is something that can make you feel whole again; the undeniable, indisputable, everlasting word of God. When we begin to feel our souls being emptied out by the world around us, all we have to do is go before the throne of grace and drink from a fountain that never runs dry.
"If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come before the throne of grace to intercede for one another. We come asking for blessings and breakthroughs, not for ourselves but for our family members, friends, co-workers, on-line family members and brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, we don't know the needs of Your children, but You do Lord. We ask that You would lift and bind the spirits of depression, despair, loneliness, anger, resentment, hurt, poverty and all others that are not of You. Lord, we ask that You would bless us and deliver us as only You can. Place Your hedge of protection securely around every person and all families that are represented here today. Allow this season of Your son to be filled with blessings and joy that have been given with the birth of Your son, Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Experiencing Life
Remember, Life is a series of experiences, each one of which makes us bigger, even though sometimes it is hard to realize this. For the world was built to develop character, and we must learn that the setbacks and grieves which we endure help us in our marching onward. ~ Henry Ford
Scripture:
Then maidens will dance and be glad, young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. Jeremiah 31:13
I often use real life experiences when I write my devotionals. I like to contrast my life and the lives of those around me to the word of God. I do this because I believe that when others can see the manifestation of God in today’s world, they will walk away saying, “I get it!
I would like to believe that in everything we do, there is a lesson to be learned. I know that is usually the case for me. Even our failures and disappointments can be a learning experience if we allow it.
In the bible, Jesus often used parables to tell a story. The reason that he did this was so that those around him would receive what he had to say. Now I am not comparing myself to Jesus, but I too use parables to get my point across. I often get responses to these devotionals from readers telling me just how much my message touched their lives. These messages are truly humbling to me.
You see, I would like to believe that much of what I go through is not in vain and that others can learn from my past mistakes. I would like to believe that some of the things that I write about cause others to evaluate their lives and their relationship with God. I would like to believe that my messages are making a difference in someone else’s life. I would like to believe that others can be comforted and uplifted in my written word.
Remember, your life experiences are but an opportunity for God to step in and show out!
May God richly bless each and every one of you during this Holy Season!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, sometimes it seems that life is full of grief and sorrow. We look around and see only death and destruction. We see our brothers and sisters forsaken by the powers that be. In the midst of riches, we see the poverty. In a country of abundance, many suffer from hunger. We see arrogance instead of humility. But even in the midst of the darkness that surrounds us, we can still see the light. Jesus Christ, the light of the world. Father God, we come before the throne of grace once again, seeking Your face, Your grace and mercy. Lord, we seek the comfort of Your loving arms. Lord, help us to always remember that this world will one day pass away. You are not of this world and neither are Your saints. Your Son was sent to save a dying world; we come thanking You for saving us. We realize that weeping will endure for a night, but joy will come in the morning. Thank You Father, for that promise. Now Lord, we ask that You would empower us to help a dying world. Magnify Your light that is within us. Strengthen us so that we may look outside of ourselves and reach out to help others. May Your light so shine within us that others may see it and be drawn to You. Comfort our grieving, strengthen or weak, heal our sick, give us new hope where there is none and unspeakable joy. The joy of the Lord. The joy that the world can't give nor can the world take it away. Thank You Lord, for second chance. I know that I didn't get it all right yesterday, but I thank You for another chance today. I love the Lord, he heard my cry. Thank You for wiping away my tears and giving me new hope in Christ Jesus, it is in His name we pray, amen.
Scripture:
Then maidens will dance and be glad, young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. Jeremiah 31:13
I often use real life experiences when I write my devotionals. I like to contrast my life and the lives of those around me to the word of God. I do this because I believe that when others can see the manifestation of God in today’s world, they will walk away saying, “I get it!
I would like to believe that in everything we do, there is a lesson to be learned. I know that is usually the case for me. Even our failures and disappointments can be a learning experience if we allow it.
In the bible, Jesus often used parables to tell a story. The reason that he did this was so that those around him would receive what he had to say. Now I am not comparing myself to Jesus, but I too use parables to get my point across. I often get responses to these devotionals from readers telling me just how much my message touched their lives. These messages are truly humbling to me.
You see, I would like to believe that much of what I go through is not in vain and that others can learn from my past mistakes. I would like to believe that some of the things that I write about cause others to evaluate their lives and their relationship with God. I would like to believe that my messages are making a difference in someone else’s life. I would like to believe that others can be comforted and uplifted in my written word.
Remember, your life experiences are but an opportunity for God to step in and show out!
May God richly bless each and every one of you during this Holy Season!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, sometimes it seems that life is full of grief and sorrow. We look around and see only death and destruction. We see our brothers and sisters forsaken by the powers that be. In the midst of riches, we see the poverty. In a country of abundance, many suffer from hunger. We see arrogance instead of humility. But even in the midst of the darkness that surrounds us, we can still see the light. Jesus Christ, the light of the world. Father God, we come before the throne of grace once again, seeking Your face, Your grace and mercy. Lord, we seek the comfort of Your loving arms. Lord, help us to always remember that this world will one day pass away. You are not of this world and neither are Your saints. Your Son was sent to save a dying world; we come thanking You for saving us. We realize that weeping will endure for a night, but joy will come in the morning. Thank You Father, for that promise. Now Lord, we ask that You would empower us to help a dying world. Magnify Your light that is within us. Strengthen us so that we may look outside of ourselves and reach out to help others. May Your light so shine within us that others may see it and be drawn to You. Comfort our grieving, strengthen or weak, heal our sick, give us new hope where there is none and unspeakable joy. The joy of the Lord. The joy that the world can't give nor can the world take it away. Thank You Lord, for second chance. I know that I didn't get it all right yesterday, but I thank You for another chance today. I love the Lord, he heard my cry. Thank You for wiping away my tears and giving me new hope in Christ Jesus, it is in His name we pray, amen.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
It's All in Divine Order
Remember, Whenever I feel that I am confused or that my life is in disorder, I remember these words from the book of Proverbs: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart ... In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths."These simple words reaffirm what I know in my heart is true: He is always with me, enfolding me in love and assuring me that all is in divine order. Divine order is His plan for me. Relying on my Higher Power calms my thoughts. I feel secure because I know that He will lead me to the people and events which will contribute to my spiritual growth and fulfillment. All is in divine order because He is the order that supports and surrounds me. ~ unknown
Scripture:
for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Philippians 2:13 (New International Version)
Saints of God, so often we give pause and reflect on the direction our lives are headed in. We seem to be moving right along through life, when something or someone happens to derail us from our chosen course. Well Saints of God, I am here to tell you; “It’s all in Divine Order.”
The job or career that you have chosen hasn’t worked out the way you thought it would. The house you wanted so much to buy was bought by someone else. The man or woman that you thought you were going to marry marries someone else. The dreams and goals that you had in life seem to have fallen by the wayside. I just want to tell you, “It’s all in Divine Order.”
So often the things that we want in life aren’t the things that God wants for us. The path that we ourselves have chosen isn’t necessarily the road that God wants us to travel. Even the person we thought we would spend the rest of our lives with, aren’t inevitably the person we are supposed to be yoked with.
Too often we go through life trying to do everything on our own without seeking a word from God. We set our sights on things that may turn out to be detrimental to our overall well being. We even fall in love with people who we will give our all to, but who themselves aren’t capable of loving us the way God wants them to love us.
I say all this to say, that no matter what obstacles are in your way. It doesn’t matter if your heart has been broken, that you lost your job, or that you are not at the place in your life you think you should be. “It’s all in Divine Order.
Sometimes things have to be the way they are because your plan for your life isn’t God’s plan for your life. Learn to be still, listen for His still small voice, and realize;
That’s it’s All in Divine Order!
Be blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come once again with praises on our tongues and humility in our hearts, seeking Your face, Your grace and Your mercy. Lord, forgive us for doubting You when the things in our lives are not going according to our plans. We realize that everything that we want isn’t necessarily what You want for us. Help us to recognize the bad choices that we have made in our lives, correct them accept them and move on. Help us Father, to find our way. Lord, we pray ask for a spirit of discernment so that we can recognize when our will is not inline with Yours. Help us to remember to always seek you in everything that we do, before we make life altering choices and to be still in the midst of our storms. Thank you Father, for reminding us that You have provided the way out of darkness and into the light. Your Word and Your Son, Jesus Christ. Our Redeemer. It is in His name that we humbly submit our prayers. Amen.
Scripture:
for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Philippians 2:13 (New International Version)
Saints of God, so often we give pause and reflect on the direction our lives are headed in. We seem to be moving right along through life, when something or someone happens to derail us from our chosen course. Well Saints of God, I am here to tell you; “It’s all in Divine Order.”
The job or career that you have chosen hasn’t worked out the way you thought it would. The house you wanted so much to buy was bought by someone else. The man or woman that you thought you were going to marry marries someone else. The dreams and goals that you had in life seem to have fallen by the wayside. I just want to tell you, “It’s all in Divine Order.”
So often the things that we want in life aren’t the things that God wants for us. The path that we ourselves have chosen isn’t necessarily the road that God wants us to travel. Even the person we thought we would spend the rest of our lives with, aren’t inevitably the person we are supposed to be yoked with.
Too often we go through life trying to do everything on our own without seeking a word from God. We set our sights on things that may turn out to be detrimental to our overall well being. We even fall in love with people who we will give our all to, but who themselves aren’t capable of loving us the way God wants them to love us.
I say all this to say, that no matter what obstacles are in your way. It doesn’t matter if your heart has been broken, that you lost your job, or that you are not at the place in your life you think you should be. “It’s all in Divine Order.
Sometimes things have to be the way they are because your plan for your life isn’t God’s plan for your life. Learn to be still, listen for His still small voice, and realize;
That’s it’s All in Divine Order!
Be blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come once again with praises on our tongues and humility in our hearts, seeking Your face, Your grace and Your mercy. Lord, forgive us for doubting You when the things in our lives are not going according to our plans. We realize that everything that we want isn’t necessarily what You want for us. Help us to recognize the bad choices that we have made in our lives, correct them accept them and move on. Help us Father, to find our way. Lord, we pray ask for a spirit of discernment so that we can recognize when our will is not inline with Yours. Help us to remember to always seek you in everything that we do, before we make life altering choices and to be still in the midst of our storms. Thank you Father, for reminding us that You have provided the way out of darkness and into the light. Your Word and Your Son, Jesus Christ. Our Redeemer. It is in His name that we humbly submit our prayers. Amen.
Monday, December 07, 2009
Lending a Helping Hand
Remember, if you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one. ~Mother Teresa
Scripture:
And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ Matthew 25:40
A few years ago, a very dear friend suffered a very tragic event in her life. This single mother of three had to recover from a fire in her home that destroyed her children’s bedroom. All of her children’s possessions were either destroyed in the fire or had to be thrown out because of water and smoke damage. Now, my friend and her children are trying to live in what’s left of her house; the front living area.
This strong woman not only had to put up a brave front for her children, she must also go to work to continue to provide for them, protect what’s left of her belongings from those who would try to prey on her misfortune and try to replace the things that were lost.
What’s interesting about her situation is that she still maintained a positive attitude. She candidly told me “that sometimes you have to pick which battles to fight in this world. She is not willing to fight the battle of self-pity. She is just happy that her children are alright.”
This particular woman is one of those people who believe in helping others. She too is a writer who had done a lot to promote literacy in the metropolitan Detroit Area. She is the epitome of the “Virtuous Woman.” Personally, I love her spirit.
Now I am also a single mother who knows what it’s like to lose things. Sometimes, you struggle just to survive and then “life happens.” You get knocked down and must struggle to get back up again. The one thing that you have to keep in mind when life knocks you down is to remember what’s important and decide which battles you are willing to fight.
However, it doesn’t hurt to have a friend who is willing to help you get back up again.
Be Blessed
PRAYER:
Father, we come this once again to give thanks to the Lord. We give thanks to our Father for all that he had done. We thank You because You love us in spite of. Your grace and mercy abound. You forgive us when we ask. You feed us when we are hungry, You protect and guide us. Thank You. Lord, I pray that You would find favor in something that I do today. Help me to see a need in someone else’s life other than my own. Lord, someone I meet today may not know you the way I do. Help me to reach out to someone else and lead them to You. Father, bless my home, my job, my co-workers and my brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep all families safe from all hurt harm and danger. Where there is strife, speak peace into those situations. Where there is a need, may it be filled. Grant us the desires of our hearts, O'Lord, according to Thy tender Mercies. Continue to touch the lives of our prayers lists. Heal, strengthen, bless, deliver and protect. Grant us greater faith, strength, and compassion. Lord, we love you and uplift the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Scripture:
And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ Matthew 25:40
A few years ago, a very dear friend suffered a very tragic event in her life. This single mother of three had to recover from a fire in her home that destroyed her children’s bedroom. All of her children’s possessions were either destroyed in the fire or had to be thrown out because of water and smoke damage. Now, my friend and her children are trying to live in what’s left of her house; the front living area.
This strong woman not only had to put up a brave front for her children, she must also go to work to continue to provide for them, protect what’s left of her belongings from those who would try to prey on her misfortune and try to replace the things that were lost.
What’s interesting about her situation is that she still maintained a positive attitude. She candidly told me “that sometimes you have to pick which battles to fight in this world. She is not willing to fight the battle of self-pity. She is just happy that her children are alright.”
This particular woman is one of those people who believe in helping others. She too is a writer who had done a lot to promote literacy in the metropolitan Detroit Area. She is the epitome of the “Virtuous Woman.” Personally, I love her spirit.
Now I am also a single mother who knows what it’s like to lose things. Sometimes, you struggle just to survive and then “life happens.” You get knocked down and must struggle to get back up again. The one thing that you have to keep in mind when life knocks you down is to remember what’s important and decide which battles you are willing to fight.
However, it doesn’t hurt to have a friend who is willing to help you get back up again.
Be Blessed
PRAYER:
Father, we come this once again to give thanks to the Lord. We give thanks to our Father for all that he had done. We thank You because You love us in spite of. Your grace and mercy abound. You forgive us when we ask. You feed us when we are hungry, You protect and guide us. Thank You. Lord, I pray that You would find favor in something that I do today. Help me to see a need in someone else’s life other than my own. Lord, someone I meet today may not know you the way I do. Help me to reach out to someone else and lead them to You. Father, bless my home, my job, my co-workers and my brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep all families safe from all hurt harm and danger. Where there is strife, speak peace into those situations. Where there is a need, may it be filled. Grant us the desires of our hearts, O'Lord, according to Thy tender Mercies. Continue to touch the lives of our prayers lists. Heal, strengthen, bless, deliver and protect. Grant us greater faith, strength, and compassion. Lord, we love you and uplift the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sunday, December 06, 2009
The Audicity to Believe!
Success is the child of audacity. ~ Benjamin Disraeli
Scripture:
Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. 2 Corinthians 3:4-5 (New International Version)
Audacity - Daring spirit, resolution, or confidence.
We often look at successful people and sometimes wish we could do what they do. We see the rich and famous and wonder; how do they do it? We admire many great people for what they have accomplished. Many started from nothing and made something of themselves. Do you ever wonder how they do it? They had the audacity to believe they could accomplish there goals.
Audacity is defined as having a daring spirit, a resolve or confidence in your abilities and in yourself. It is the ability to commit all that you are and all that you have to accomplish your goals. All we have to do is look around us and we see people who have the audacity to believe that “yes they can!
President Barack Oboma, a black man with humble beginnings had the audacity to believe that one day, he could become president. Michael Jordan had the audacity to believe that he could be a great basketball player. Dr. Benjamin Carson believed that he could leave the projects of Detroit and become a great surgeon. All Susan Boyle wanted was a chance to sing and as a result, she became the number one female vocalist whose debut album continues to break records around the world.
The above scripture was taken from a letter that Paul wrote to the church at Corinth. There were many problems facing the church after the death of Christ Jesus. Paul, his most diligent and dedicated disciple wrote a series of letters to address the issues that the people were facing. He boldly stated that no matter what they were faced with, having confidence in God, would get them through.
He gave them the same audacity to hope that had been given to him through Christ Jesus.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I place all my trust in You, hoping for all things from Your goodness. You make a root flourish beneath the soil; You can make fruitful the darkness in which I find myself today. I adore You in all Your purposes even without knowing them; Your will be done, not mine. May I be patient! It is so difficult to realize these trials, heartbreaking as they are, can be turned into blessings. Lord, give me peace of mind, peace of heart, and peace of soul, as I offer You my thoughts, my words, and my action, and yes, Lord my sufferings. May they all be for Your greater glory, O God. You are my creator and protector, and the ultimate end of my existence. I believe in You, strengthen my faith. My hopes are in You, may they live and grow. I love You, teach me to love You even more. Fill my heart with thanks for Your goodness, love of my neighbor, charity towards my enemies, and distrust of worldly wisdom. Make me prudent in my undertakings today, patient in affliction, and humble in good fortune. Lord Jesus, You have said, "Learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart." With confidence in Your loving heart which offers rest to weary souls, I come to You in this my time of special need. In Your unfailing love, read the prayer that is written on my heart, and grant the grace that I ask of You, in accordance with Your holy will. Grant that I may be attentive to my prayers, and ever mindful of Your presence, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Scripture:
Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. 2 Corinthians 3:4-5 (New International Version)
Audacity - Daring spirit, resolution, or confidence.
We often look at successful people and sometimes wish we could do what they do. We see the rich and famous and wonder; how do they do it? We admire many great people for what they have accomplished. Many started from nothing and made something of themselves. Do you ever wonder how they do it? They had the audacity to believe they could accomplish there goals.
Audacity is defined as having a daring spirit, a resolve or confidence in your abilities and in yourself. It is the ability to commit all that you are and all that you have to accomplish your goals. All we have to do is look around us and we see people who have the audacity to believe that “yes they can!
President Barack Oboma, a black man with humble beginnings had the audacity to believe that one day, he could become president. Michael Jordan had the audacity to believe that he could be a great basketball player. Dr. Benjamin Carson believed that he could leave the projects of Detroit and become a great surgeon. All Susan Boyle wanted was a chance to sing and as a result, she became the number one female vocalist whose debut album continues to break records around the world.
The above scripture was taken from a letter that Paul wrote to the church at Corinth. There were many problems facing the church after the death of Christ Jesus. Paul, his most diligent and dedicated disciple wrote a series of letters to address the issues that the people were facing. He boldly stated that no matter what they were faced with, having confidence in God, would get them through.
He gave them the same audacity to hope that had been given to him through Christ Jesus.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I place all my trust in You, hoping for all things from Your goodness. You make a root flourish beneath the soil; You can make fruitful the darkness in which I find myself today. I adore You in all Your purposes even without knowing them; Your will be done, not mine. May I be patient! It is so difficult to realize these trials, heartbreaking as they are, can be turned into blessings. Lord, give me peace of mind, peace of heart, and peace of soul, as I offer You my thoughts, my words, and my action, and yes, Lord my sufferings. May they all be for Your greater glory, O God. You are my creator and protector, and the ultimate end of my existence. I believe in You, strengthen my faith. My hopes are in You, may they live and grow. I love You, teach me to love You even more. Fill my heart with thanks for Your goodness, love of my neighbor, charity towards my enemies, and distrust of worldly wisdom. Make me prudent in my undertakings today, patient in affliction, and humble in good fortune. Lord Jesus, You have said, "Learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart." With confidence in Your loving heart which offers rest to weary souls, I come to You in this my time of special need. In Your unfailing love, read the prayer that is written on my heart, and grant the grace that I ask of You, in accordance with Your holy will. Grant that I may be attentive to my prayers, and ever mindful of Your presence, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Developing Self-discipline
Self-discipline is when your conscience tells you to do something and you don't talk back. ~ W.K. Hope
Scripture:
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 (New International Version)
Self-discipline refers to the training that one gives one's self to accomplish a certain task or to adopt a particular pattern of behaviour, even though one would really rather be doing something else. For example, denying oneself of an extravagant pleasure in order to accomplish a more demanding charitable deed. Thus, self-discipline is the assertion of willpower over more base desires, and is usually understood to be a synonym of 'self control'.
As a writer, I am often asked; how do you find time to write? My standard answer is that I make time. I have disciplined myself to make time to do what it is I need to do to accomplish my dreams. Writing is important to me and when we realize those things in our lives that matter most to us, we will do whatever is necessary to accomplish them.
I have also realized that being a Christian also takes self-discipline. It is so easy to take for granted our relationship with God. We can always find time to do everything else in our lives so why do we find it so hard to spend time with God?
When things are going well in our lives, we tend to want to put God on the back burner. Then we things start going awry, we panic because we have neglected to keep Him in the forefront of all that we do. When we make it a habit to do those things in our lives that are important, we learn to listen to our conscience and not talk back.
When we get in the habit of having a daily talk with God, He will become all the conscious you need.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, help us to guard our minds this and every day. When we grow weak and tired, allow a small wind, Your breath of life, to gently caress our faces, letting us know that You are right there with us. When we grow weary and almost faint, let the bread of life and the living waters, Your word, revitalize us. Father, even in our storms, we must always remember to stop and give You thanks. Even when life is assailing us, we must stop and praise Your name. Even when it seems like we don't have the strength to go a step further, we must muster the strength to uplift and exalt Your most holy name. My Lord, help us always to be mindful and protect our thoughts from the one who seeks to destroy us. Help us to remember to always guard our hearts and minds from those things that are not of You. Father, continue to be with those who are in the hospital, who are ill, who are grieving, who are faced with the challenges of the world. Father God I say a special prayer for my friends who are mothers. Strengthen them and give them what they need to protect their greatest gifts, their children. Lord, we realize that satan is out to destroy our families. We come standing in the gap and standing on Your word. We claim our children in the name of Jesus. We plead the blood of the Lamb over our babies and we refuse to give up on them. We ask and pray these things in the name of Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 (New International Version)
Self-discipline refers to the training that one gives one's self to accomplish a certain task or to adopt a particular pattern of behaviour, even though one would really rather be doing something else. For example, denying oneself of an extravagant pleasure in order to accomplish a more demanding charitable deed. Thus, self-discipline is the assertion of willpower over more base desires, and is usually understood to be a synonym of 'self control'.
As a writer, I am often asked; how do you find time to write? My standard answer is that I make time. I have disciplined myself to make time to do what it is I need to do to accomplish my dreams. Writing is important to me and when we realize those things in our lives that matter most to us, we will do whatever is necessary to accomplish them.
I have also realized that being a Christian also takes self-discipline. It is so easy to take for granted our relationship with God. We can always find time to do everything else in our lives so why do we find it so hard to spend time with God?
When things are going well in our lives, we tend to want to put God on the back burner. Then we things start going awry, we panic because we have neglected to keep Him in the forefront of all that we do. When we make it a habit to do those things in our lives that are important, we learn to listen to our conscience and not talk back.
When we get in the habit of having a daily talk with God, He will become all the conscious you need.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, help us to guard our minds this and every day. When we grow weak and tired, allow a small wind, Your breath of life, to gently caress our faces, letting us know that You are right there with us. When we grow weary and almost faint, let the bread of life and the living waters, Your word, revitalize us. Father, even in our storms, we must always remember to stop and give You thanks. Even when life is assailing us, we must stop and praise Your name. Even when it seems like we don't have the strength to go a step further, we must muster the strength to uplift and exalt Your most holy name. My Lord, help us always to be mindful and protect our thoughts from the one who seeks to destroy us. Help us to remember to always guard our hearts and minds from those things that are not of You. Father, continue to be with those who are in the hospital, who are ill, who are grieving, who are faced with the challenges of the world. Father God I say a special prayer for my friends who are mothers. Strengthen them and give them what they need to protect their greatest gifts, their children. Lord, we realize that satan is out to destroy our families. We come standing in the gap and standing on Your word. We claim our children in the name of Jesus. We plead the blood of the Lamb over our babies and we refuse to give up on them. We ask and pray these things in the name of Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
It Ain't Over Yet!
A vision is not just a picture of what could be; it is an appeal to our better selves, a call to become something more. ~ Rosabeth Moss Kanter
Scripture:
Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. For the director of music. On my stringed instruments. ~ Habakkuk 3:17-19 (New International Version)
Recently I had dinner with a friend who attended an outstanding teacher’s awards ceremony. He told us the story of one particular teacher who motivated his students with one simple word; YET. If one of his students approached him and said they couldn’t do something, his response was always the same, he added the word YET. Think about the word, yet.
Yet is a simple word with a simple meaning, “Up to now.” To put in into context; “I can’t do it, up to now; I don’t understand it, up to now; it hasn’t happened, up to now. In other words even if you don’t get it, understand it, hasn’t happened doesn’t mean it can’t or won’t. It simply means that you haven’t reached that goal, had that vision or breakthrough “up to now.!”
This wonderful educator keeps his student motivated by challenging them with the knowledge that even thought it hasn’t happened yet, their breakthrough is still at hand. And so it is with our daily walk. If those things that you need and desire haven’t happened doesn’t mean they won’t. It just means it hasn’t happened YET.
Each and every one of us must remember that when we trust in something greater then ourselves; when we trust in God, that job, financial breakthrough, marriage, children or whatever else you may be waiting for simply means that you just don’t have it YET!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we lift Your name on high. I will bless the Lord at all times and his praises shall continuously be in my mouth. From every mountain high and every valley low, we will uplift the name of God. We will sing songs of praise all the day long. Though he slay me, I will have hope in Him. Even when my enemies are camped all around, yet I will give Him the glory for my impending victory. Lord we sing songs of praise even when we can't speak. We say Glory, glory hallelujah, praise be to God, even when the tears begin to fall. Even as I lay on my bed of affliction, when friends and family have turned against me, when there seems to be no hope for my situation or circumstances I will shout from the mountain tops; HALLELUJAH, ANYHOW! PRAISE BE TO GOD, GLORY! GLORY! GLORY! BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD! amen.
Scripture:
Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. For the director of music. On my stringed instruments. ~ Habakkuk 3:17-19 (New International Version)
Recently I had dinner with a friend who attended an outstanding teacher’s awards ceremony. He told us the story of one particular teacher who motivated his students with one simple word; YET. If one of his students approached him and said they couldn’t do something, his response was always the same, he added the word YET. Think about the word, yet.
Yet is a simple word with a simple meaning, “Up to now.” To put in into context; “I can’t do it, up to now; I don’t understand it, up to now; it hasn’t happened, up to now. In other words even if you don’t get it, understand it, hasn’t happened doesn’t mean it can’t or won’t. It simply means that you haven’t reached that goal, had that vision or breakthrough “up to now.!”
This wonderful educator keeps his student motivated by challenging them with the knowledge that even thought it hasn’t happened yet, their breakthrough is still at hand. And so it is with our daily walk. If those things that you need and desire haven’t happened doesn’t mean they won’t. It just means it hasn’t happened YET.
Each and every one of us must remember that when we trust in something greater then ourselves; when we trust in God, that job, financial breakthrough, marriage, children or whatever else you may be waiting for simply means that you just don’t have it YET!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we lift Your name on high. I will bless the Lord at all times and his praises shall continuously be in my mouth. From every mountain high and every valley low, we will uplift the name of God. We will sing songs of praise all the day long. Though he slay me, I will have hope in Him. Even when my enemies are camped all around, yet I will give Him the glory for my impending victory. Lord we sing songs of praise even when we can't speak. We say Glory, glory hallelujah, praise be to God, even when the tears begin to fall. Even as I lay on my bed of affliction, when friends and family have turned against me, when there seems to be no hope for my situation or circumstances I will shout from the mountain tops; HALLELUJAH, ANYHOW! PRAISE BE TO GOD, GLORY! GLORY! GLORY! BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD! amen.
