Archived Daily Devotionals

Remember, Learn to pause ... or nothing worthwhile will catch up to you. ~ Doug King

Scripture:
I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. Psalm 40:1-3 (New International Version)

So often we find ourselves running through life, going from one place to another in search of something or someone that will fulfill us and make us happy. We start as children sprinting into our teenaged years. Looking for our next milestone, thirteen, sixteen, eighteen and then finally, twenty-one; expecting something miraculous to happen that will change our lives. We can’t wait until we are grown and on our own.

Then we find ourselves in search of love; looking for that special someone who will fulfill all of our fairytale dreams in the hopes of living happily ever after. In the meantime, we run towards the right education, job, car, neighborhood, and the world around us continues to churn, as we search for the things that are supposed to make us content.

Somewhere down life’s road, we begin to realize that neither people nor things can truly fulfill us or make us happy. So we often find that we have been running around in circles, searching, waiting, wondering, when will it happen for us.

We find ourselves so busy running after things, that we forget to just pause and appreciate where we are right now. I often reflect back on “The good old days” when life seemed to be less complicated and realize that I am the one who complicated it looking for that “something” to complete me. It wasn’t until I realized that the only thing that could truly complete me was God that I learned to pause and live in the moment.

So my friends, today I urge you to pause and let something good catch up to you.

Be blessed

Prayer:
Father, too often I found myself looking for that something or someone that I thought would make me happy. I looked high and low but couldn’t find it anywhere. It wasn’t until You found me that my life began to change. Thank You Lord, for finding me in the slimy pits of life. Thank You father for placing my feet on a solid rock, giving me a firm place to stand. Thank You Lord for reaching down and reaching out Your hand to me. Lord, thank You for loving me enough by giving me the gift of eternal life through Christ Jesus. Now Lord, I ask that You would continue to bless those who come seeking a word of encouragement. Speak to our heart Holy Spirit. Helping us to always be mindful to pause, and enjoy the moment in Christ Jesus. We love You Lord, we bless Your name. We give thanks, glory, honor and praise; in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Traveling is not just seeing the new; it is also leaving behind. Not just opening doors; also closing them behind you, never to return. But the place you have left forever is always there for you to see whenever you shut your eyes. ~ Jan Myrdal

Scripture:
The LORD said, "I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey—the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites. Exodus 3:7-8 (New International Version)

The decedents of Moses were a chosen people. They were chosen by God because Moses, whom they descended from, was a faithful follower of God who never questioned whatever it was God wanted him to do. Whatever, whenever and however God wanted it done, Moses was his man.

There are those of us who wish we could be more like Moses. Obedient to the point that we would never question anything God told us to do. However, I know I am not that faithful. I sometimes question what it is God wants me to do. What I do know is that God wants for me is to turn away from sin once and for all. Turning away or leaving sin is a lot harder than we want for it to be.

Personally I know that there are still some things that I do that are not pleasing to God. I still have a sinful nature and periodically, I find myself doing or saying things that I know are contrary to being a Christian. Especially when I find myself tempted by certain situations.

Just like the children of Israel, when the going gets tough, I sometimes think that where I came from has to be easier than where I find myself. I sometimes lack the necessary faith that God wants me to have and will look to my past to make it through to my future.

What I find interesting about the above quote was that it said even when I have left my past and shut the door behind me, all I have to do is close my eyes and I see my past right there in front of me. And so it is with our sins. All we have to do is think about our past sins, and there it is; right in front of my eyes.

So my question for you today is, even though you have left Egypt, is Egypt still in you?

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, sometimes I think it would be so easy to return to my wicked ways. Satan would have me to believe that my past has to be my present. But Your word tells me that the sins of my past are just that, in my past. Lord, help me always to look forward and not to look backwards. Hold my hand as I continue my journey out of Egypt and into the Promised Land. Crossing the wilderness is a journey; a journey into a land of milk and honey. I know that the road I travel is not an easy one, but it is the same one that Joshua traveled and I have the faith and the will to persevere. Thank you Father for the supplication of Your word that would give me the strength to get there. Thank You Father for the power of the Holy Spirit which resides in my heart so that I know that I am never alone. Thank You Lord for my comforter, Jesus Christ. It is in His most Holy name that we pray. Amen.

Remember, “Do not waste yourself in rejection; do not bark against the bad, but chant the beauty of the good” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Scripture:
For the LORD will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance. ~ Psalm 94:14 (New International Version)

A few years I had to learn a very important lesson about rejection. As many of you may know, I have always had the desire to become an a writer. Not just any old kind of writer, but a Christian writer who has a very powerful story to tell.

One of my manuscripts had been rejected by an agent. Now this was not the first time one of my stories was rejected, but for some reason, I took this rejection very hard. The rejection came from a literary agent who I have great respect for. Secretly, deep down I already knew that she was going to reject it. However, it didn’t lesson the pain I felt.

The reality of my situation was the fact that it was actually the third rejection that I had received for three different types of submissions over the course of three weeks. It caused me to question my writing ability. Sure, I have published other pieces, but the story that was rejected that day was very personal to me. I had put so much of me into it, that it felt as though I was being rejected right along with my manuscript.

Two very close and dear friends who also happen to be my editors called to comfort me and offer their input and support. As they counseled me through my dilemma I began to see the rejection in a totally new light. The first lesson was that it was nothing personal and the second lesson was that my rejection wasn’t necessarily a rejection of my talent, but rather one person’s opinion of one particular story.

So saints, my lesson for today is this. Everyone will not see what you see in the creation of your work. When I say creation of work, I am not just talking about writing, painting, or things of that sort. Everything that we do in life is our creation. When you go to work everyday and do a job, that’s a creation. When you instill values and morals in your children, that’s a creation. When you share the word of God, that’s a creation.

Everything that we do in life is a manifestation of our creativity. Sometimes we create a beautiful masterpiece that is appreciated by others, but then there will also be times when no one but you will be able to see the beauty of your work. The point is that we never stop creating.

Rejection is a part of life. Accepting it and moving on is the real secret.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father God, I come to You with a heavy heart. Today, I felt that that I was being rejected and began to question my talents and abilities. I forgot that my talents were a gift from You. I failed to realize that there will be those who cannot see and appreciate my gifts. But then I remembered, that the world didn’t give me my gift, You did. Thank You Father for the gift of Your written word. Lord, help me to remember that my gift isn’t for my own personal gain, but rather it is to be used for the furthering of Your kingdom. If my written word touches just one person, then I know that I am doing what I am supposed to be doing, spreading the good news of the Gospel. Lord, someone besides me needs to be reminded that not everyone will accept us. Just as Jesus Christ was not accepted by everyone. Lord, continue to guide and direct us on this earthly journey. Help us always to remember that as long as You are at the forefront of everything that we do. It is then that we must realize that as long as You are leading and directing our paths, we can do anything but fail. Thank You Father for this reminder. Thank You Lord for Your son, Jesus Christ. It is in Him name that we pray. Amen.

The truth of the matter is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it. ~ Gen. Norman Schwarzkoff

Scripture:
Because you obey the LORD your God, keeping all his commands that I am giving you today and doing what is right in his eyes. Deuteronomy 13:18 (New International Version)

How many of you ALWAYS do the right thing? Do you always tell the truth? Return money or anything else for that matter that is not yours? Have you ever told a lie? Do you always follow the word of God?

Have you ever judged someone else without knowing them? Ever felt jealous of a friend? Have you ever been in a group when they spoke ill of someone and you never bothered to defend them, even though you knew what was being said was a lie? Or better yet, spread a rumor about someone just so that you could feel as though you belonged?

If you are honest with yourself, you would have answered yes to at least one of the questions above. Yes, I have told a lie. Yes, I have gossiped about others and spread rumors so that I could fit in. And no, I do not always follow the word of God. I am not proud of these self-revelations but at least, I am honest.

Sometimes we will do things that we know are wrong because yes, sometimes it’s hard doing the right thing. We are so busy trying to get ahead or trying to fit in that we oftentimes will forgo doing what is right so that we can have our own way. However, this is not God’s way.

Two things happened this week that caused me to reflect on my own relationship with God. The first event was a question that was posed in one of my online groups. The question was, “How do you stay in tune with God? The second event was a question that was posed to me by another friend, “Why go to church?

To answer both questions was fairly easy. To stay in tune with God, you must fellowship with other Christians and study the word of God, daily. The reason for my answer is simple.

When we stay connected to other right minded Christians AND study the word of God, it’s a lot easier to “Do the Right Thing.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, You are the Supreme Authority. You are a God of order. I thank You for being the head of my life. Father, we realize that sometimes change is hard. Changing our way of life, even as the world around us changes, isn't always easy. But we realize and recognize that it is for Your edification, that we who have accepted Jesus Christ as our personal savior must change. Old things are past away. You are preparing us for what lies ahead, not behind. We thank You for that change. Lord, help us to recognize when we are judging those around us based on their past. We know that You can and that You do, change the hearts of those who diligently seek You. I know that I am not all that You want me to be, but I pray that I would walk just a little bit closer to You each day. Thank You Father, for Your word and for the fellowship that I share with my brothers and sisters in Christ. We love You Lord and thank You for not only what You have done, but what You are about to do. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone. ~G.B. Stern

Scripture:
May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the LORD grant all your requests. Psalm 20:4-5

Far too often we go through life and never tell those who care about us, thank you. We often take for granted the kind words and gestures that are offered to us each and every day. We take for granted the loving things that family and friend do and say on our behalf.

Did you thank your wife or mother today for something they recently did for you? Did you take the time to do something nice for the friend who allowed you to dump all of your problems in their lap? Did you have a kind word for your brother or sister who did something nice for you just because? Or, how about that coworker who picked up your slack when you fell behind? Did you share a holiday meal with someone who spent hours laboring in their kitchen so that those who gathered around the table could partake in all of your favorite dishes?

More often than not, we take for granted those angels around us who are always there who see our needs and just take it upon themselves to do for us and often times, they don’t even have to be asked. So is it with God’s grace and mercy.

God is that friend who is always there to supply all of our needs and so often we forget to say; thank you!

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Lord, we come before the throne of grace to thank You Lord. You blessed me once again, and I forgot to thank You. You blessed me with my home, my children, and so much more, and I forgot to thank You. You delivered me from the evil one and I didn't thank You. Forgive me Lord, for forgetting to let You know how much I appreciate everything You do for me. You know Lord, last week I asked for something that You gave me. Thank You. I asked You to watch over me and my loved ones and You did. Thank You. Lord, last night when I prayed, I asked that You would place Your hedge of protection around me and my loved ones and You did. Thank You. I asked You for prosperity, and You blessed me with my job, I just want to say thank You. Lord, maybe I don't have that job I wanted just yet, but You still fed me last night. Bless You Lord. I might have had to catch the bus this morning, but that's okay, I thank You for giving me bus fare. Lord, my blessings are too many to list right now, but I want You to know that I am grateful for each and every blessing that I have received. Not because I am worthy of Your favor, but because You love me. I thank You for just loving me. Bless Your name Lord. Praise the name of the Lord. I lift up Holy Hands and bow down my head in reverence to You alone. Thank You Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.

If you limit your choices only to what seems possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want, and all that is left is compromise. ~ Robert Fritz

Scripture:
To the discerning all of them are right; they are faultless to those who have knowledge. Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Proverbs 8:9-11 (New International Version)

As I look around me at the world today, I wonder, how did we get here? The world has literally gone crazy. People are losing their jobs. Fathers are killing babies. Mothers don’t protect their children the way they used to and those that have would deny those who have not.

It would be so easy to say, “that it’s not my fault. I wasn’t the one who caused these problems, somebody else did. I am not the one who took all the money and ran these companies into the ground. It’s not my problem, it’s theirs.”

Saints of God, whether you want to admit it or not, it is our problem and it is our fault. We are the ones who chose to live beyond our means. We are the ones who wanted more, more and more. We are the ones who wanted what we want and to hell with those who don’t want it as bad as I do.

We chose to ignore the warning signs that our economy was in danger. We chose to turn a blind eye to those who were less fortunate than ourselves. We wanted what we wanted when we wanted it and in essence, we chose silver and gold over knowledge and rubies instead of wisdom.

Now we are in a place that forces our hands and causes us to question our greed for the finer things in life that were bought on the precept of “buy it now and worry about paying for it later.”

Now that it is later, what will you choose? What is the right decision to make?

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father God, as I look at the world around me, my heart is heavy with grief. We choice silver and gold over the things that you taught us in Your word. We chose to turn a blind eye to those who were less fortunate than ourselves and now we find that we too have lost our way. Father God, forgive us for our sinful ways and desires. Help us O’Lord to return to your teachings and to putting our faith and our trust in You. Lord, help us to see the trappings of the devil for what they are, a way to cause havoc and cause us to turn away from You. Lord, I come before the throne of grace asking that You would once again take me down the path that You would have me to follow. Help us Lord, to thirst after Your Word instead of the way of the world. Lord, thank You for keeping me and my household safe from all hurt harm and danger. Your word tells says I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. Help me Father to return to a more righteous way of living. Now Lord, I ask that You would bless those who stand before You in need of a breakthrough. Touch that Father, that Mother who needs to know that the Holy Spirit is with us always, even in bad times and that He will never leave us or forsake us. It is in His most Holy Name that we submit this prayer. Amen.

Remember, Glory, built on selfish principles, is shame and guilt. ~ William Cowper

Scripture:
Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not just please ourselves. Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification. Romans 15:1-2

How often do you do something for someone else other than yourselves? I mean, do you ever do anything to help someone without expecting anything in return, not even a thank you?

I know that as a parent I often sacrifice things for my children. I will go without, just to make sure that they have. As a sister, I don't question my siblings when they want something. If I see a need, I don't ask, I just do. As a friend, when my phone rings and the voice on the other end says, "Jack I need..., I am there. When someone calls late in the midnight hour and just needs to talk, I listen. If you need one and I got two, it's yours.

As Christians we should have that same giving spirits when it comes to others. Now giving isn't always tangible. What I mean by that is every gift that we give doesn't always have to be something that you feel or touch. Sometimes the gifts of friendship, encouragement, love, respect, understanding, and even the gift of listening is more precious than silver and gold. Sometimes the gift of intercessory prayer is the best gift we could ever give.

I know that as a Christian the best gifts that I have ever received where grace and mercy. The gift of salvation ain't bad either. Let’s not forget the gift of forgiveness. How about the time when we got that gift called deliverance? And how about that time when we backslid and received the gift of reconciliation?

Saints, the list goes on and on. God gave us all power when he gave us his greatest gift, His son. "Jesus Christ". Isn't time you gave something back on his behalf?

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, I just want to thank You Lord for all You have done for me. Thank You for Your grace and mercy. Thank You for deliverance. Thank You for blessing me. Lord, my list of thanks is long and for that, I thank You. Lord, we come asking that something that we may do or say today, would bless someone else. Lord, give us the courage, strength and wisdom to reach out to someone else and help them instead of helping just ourselves. Father, if we have a spirit of selfishness, we ask that You would reveal it to us. If we have a spirit of envy or of covertness, please let us see them. Touch us now Lord Jesus, allowing Your power and Your spirit to be magnified within us. Empower us today Lord, to go forth and do a good work in Your name. Bless us now Father, so that we may be a blessing onto others. Father, we join together to pray for one another. We come together on one accord claiming victory, breakthroughs, deliverance, salvation and what ever else our brothers and sisters may have asked for. Thank You Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We plead the blood of Jesus over everything that You have given us dominion over, as we ask and pray this in His magnificent name. Amen.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So I urge you, listen to your conscience.

Be Blessed

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

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 you 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.

Remember, Yearn to understand first and to be understood second. ~ Beca Lewis Allen

Scripture:
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you. Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, Proverbs 2:10-12

As a mother of two boys, I am constantly being asked, why? “Why are you short, why does the rain fall? Why is the sky blue?” I’m sure you get the picture. As my children have aged over the years, the questions have gotten a little more serious. “Why don’t certain people like us? Why did they shoot that man? Why are people so cruel?”

Both of my boys have gained a certain amount of knowledge by asking questions, observing others, attending school, and attending church. Recently, my youngest son has started asking me some pretty serious questions about God. One question in particular took me by surprise. He asked, “Why did God let His Son die?

At first, I wasn’t quite prepared to answer his question for fear of giving him the wrong answer. Then I realized that he was really old enough to understand the truth about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, for the first time. I explained as best I could that the world had gotten so bad, that God wanted and needed to get rid of sin once and for all.

I told him that in the past, men would sacrifice an animal as a way to atone for their sins. It was man’s way of telling God he was sorry. The problem was, that man was saying he was sorry but not really meaning it. Kinda like he told me he was sorry, without meaning it when I made him say it.

God realized that men had said he was sorry far too often without meaning it and so their sacrifices didn’t hold the same meanings that they were originally meant for. God didn’t let His son die, He allowed Him to be given as a sacrifice so that all men could say they were sorry and mean it.

Why did God let His Son die? To save you and me!

Be Blessed

Prayer:
My forever faithful Father, my Rock, my Strength, my redeemer, Lord, I thank You for allowing Your Son to die, so that my sons can have the gift of eternal life. Thank You Lord, for realizing that I am too weak to do this all by myself. I know that there is nothing that I could ever do or say to gain access to the throne on my own and that it was Your Love for me, Your gift that grants me access. Father God, I thank You for the knowledge that comes with the reading of Your word. I thank You for the death and resurrection of Your only begotten Son. Given with all sincerity and total unselfishness. Thank You Lord, for second change. Continue to cover Your saints in the Blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, it is in His Name we pray. Amen.

I do not understand the mystery of grace--only that it meets us where we are, but does not leave us where it found us. ~Anne LaMott

Scripture:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God Ephesians 2:8

Saints, So many of us often make the mistake of thinking that we are all of that and a bag of chips. For those of you, who may not understand this very popular saying, let me explain.

When we do certain things, obtain certain goals, or purchase our dream house or car, we think that we have done it all by ourselves. Some of us think that it was our intelligence, good looks, attitude, or hard work that got us that position in the church or that promotion on the job. It was going that extra mile that made you look good to your superiors and that’s why you got that raise.

Well my friends, I will not discount how wonderful it is to have all of these things going for you. However, I want you to know, all of these things mean nothing without God's grace.

You see, no matter how smart you are, you still need God to wake you up in the morning. You still need God to give you your right mind. You still need God to provide the opportunities for you to convey your intelligence. And you still need God to help you along the way because we are all human and we will mess up!

“Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now I'm found. Was blind but now I see.”

Open your eyes and recognize that you are only who you are, where you are, and have what you have, because of his amazing grace.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
El-Elyon, Most High God , El-Shaddai, Almighty God, El-Olam, Everlasting God, Father, Abba, You who are my everything. Lord, sometimes we get weary and tired. There are days when life seems more than we can bear. There are nights that my pillow is covered in tears and it seems as though no one cares. Father, I have hidden Your word in my heart. I dwell and meditate on Your word night and day. I thank You Lord for Your word that strengthens me. Lord, You have said we can do all things through Christ Jesus. You have told us that You are with us always, even until the end of times. You are in the fiery furnace with, on our ship that is caught in the storm, and in the valley of death. We don't ask that You come into our hearts and lives, only that You magnify Your presence. Touch us today, our minds, our hearts, our spirits, our very souls. Keep us in perfect peace. Strengthen us once again. Father, when I grow weary from the weight of my cross, empower me and order my steps so that I may continue down the path that You have chosen. Thank You Father. Thank You Lord. For the one who first carried my cross, Christ Jesus in whose name we pray. Praise God, Hallelujah, Amen.

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. Our youngest sister is missing and we can’t find her. It seems as though no one wants to help. The authorities are playing a game of passing the buck and we are no closer to finding answers today then we were a month ago. The only thing that keeps us going right now 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.

The garden is a mirror of the heart. ~ Unknown

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

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

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

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

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

Be blessed

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

Remember, Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy. ~ Thich Nhat Hanh

Scripture:
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Psalm 126:3

Saints, how many times have you Said, I was in a good mood until he/she said. Or how often have you said or thought; I was in a good mood until I came into this place or he/she got here. Saints, I want to talk to you today about allowing others to steal your joy, or worst yet, giving your joy away.

So often, we who profess to be Christians, allow the things around us to impact our state of mind. We wake up, get dressed, and travel to our destinations, full of the joy of the Lord. Once we arrive at our destinations, we forget to whom we belong and allow outside influences to change us on the inside. We allow those negative people we come into contact with, or our surroundings to steal from us a gift from the Lord, the gift of Joy.

Joy is not only a state of mind. It is a place. It is a place that we find ourselves in when we listen to the voice of God. It is a place that we find ourselves in when we reflect on how good God has been to us. It is a place where we find ourselves when we stop to praise the Lord for his goodness and mercy.

My challenge to you today is to keep your joy. As situations arise, rebuke that thief or situation that is trying to steal your joy. Tell satan and the world,

THIS JOY THAT I HAVE DEEP DOWN IN MY SOUL, THE WORLD DIDN’T GIVE IT TO ME AND THE WORLD CAN’T TAKE IT AWAY!

Be Blessed

Prayer:
Father, forgive us for forgetting just how awesome You are. Forgive us Lord that we sometime allow the world to steal from us Your magnificent gifts. Father, my heart is filled with Joy and gladness. Joy at the mere thought of just how blessed I am to be a child of the most High King. As we prepare to start another day, another week, and another month, we recognize that we are not of this world, but just here for a time. We recognize that as long as we serve You and not this world, that we recognize that we will be faced with challenges and adversity, but we also recognize that our strength, our hope, our salvation, our victories, and most of all, our joy comes from You and not from those temporary things here on earth. Lord we ask that You will continue to touch and heal our prayer list. That You continue to watch over us, guide us, and protect us as well as our family and friends. Keep us all safe and secure under Your wings of protection. Until we meet again. Amen. Praise God. Amen.

Remember, The only people to get even with are those who have helped you. ~ Anonymous

Scripture:
Two people are better than one. They can help each other in everything they do. Suppose someone falls down. Then his friend can help him up. But suppose the man who falls down doesn't have anyone to help him up. Then feel sorry for him! Or suppose two people lie down together. Then they'll keep warm. But how can one person keep warm alone? Ecclesiastes 4:9-11 (New International Reader's Version)

Every so often I am asked, how is it that I am willing to share what little I have. As a writer, I am always passing along advice, tips, and information about “calls for submissions“, or marketing ideas. As someone who has worked in sales, I will pass up a sale to help someone else. As a Christian, I am always encouraging others even when I myself, may need to be encouraged. There is something I discovered a long time ago about life and that is whatever you are willing to give away will be returned to you tenfold.

Now, don’t take this the wrong way, but in reality, when I give something away, I don’t give it away expecting that is will even be given back. More importantly, the person to whom I may give something to, may not necessarily be the person from whom I will receive my blessings from.

As I grow nearer to another milestone in my life, I realize that I have could not have made it this far without the help of others. I could have been homeless, car-less, without food for myself or my children, if it had not been for the kind generosity of others. Even the current job that I have, is because someone else helped me. I was hired based on the recommendation from someone else.

Saints of God, no one person has ever achieved anything in life without the help and support of others. Many might claim that they have, but if they truly took a long hard look at those unseen hands that have touched them along the way, they would have to admit, that they too have been helped.

I just want to remind each of you that you cannot receive a gift with a closed fist.

Be Blessed

Prayer:
If I can help somebody as I pass along, If I can cheer somebody with a word or song, If I can show somebody he's traveling wrong, Then my living will not be in vain. If I can do my duty as a Christian ought, If I can bring salvation to a world once wrought, If I can spread the message as the master taught, Then my living will not be in vain. Lord, help me to always be mindful of the hands that have touched me as I have journeyed through this life. The hands that have held mine, caressed me and wiped away my tears when it seemed that all hope was lost. The hands that supported me when I couldn’t stand by myself. The hands that have gently guided me along my chosen path. Thank You Lord, for those helping hands. Father God, in recognizing that without the help of others, I couldn’t have made it this far, may I always be willing to share and give of myself, never expecting anything in return. Father God, I ask that each of us would lend a hand to those in need, even if it’s just a gentle hand of comfort or support. Now Lord, I ask that You would continue to bless each family that is represented in the reading of this message, as we lift Your name on high. Praise God. Glory Hallelujah, in the mighty name of Jesus we pray. Amen.