Thursday, July 29, 2010
Don't be a Bag Lady
Remember, a chip on the shoulder is too heavy a piece of baggage to carry through life. ~ John Hancock
Scripture:
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24
Saints, how many of you are following Christ? If you are a follower of Christ, are you keeping up? What I mean by that is, are there other things in your life that are preventing you from truly following the word of God.
It has been said that each of us has our OWN cross to carry. But how many of you are trying to carry your cross and a whole lot of other baggage along with it? Do you realize that the excess baggage may be weighing you down?
What many of us often fail to realize is that so often we allow our past hurts, our sins, negative relationships, negative situations, and negative people to climb into the bags that we carry with us each and everyday.
We allow circumstance and situations to become a weight that we put in the bags that we call our lives. We allow fear and doubt to become like a rock around our necks. We allow our lack of faith to become a heavy object that we place in the bags of our lives that we continue to carry.
I believe that Erykah Badu, who wrote the song “Bag Lady”, knew what Jesus meant he said : Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come to You this day in humble submission. We ask Lord, that You would help us to realize and recognize to put down those things that are weighing us down and preventing us from truly following Your word. Lord, we come this day placing our all on the altar. We come sacrificing ourselves as in the days of old. We have nothing to truly give You, but ourselves. Help us to become a living sacrifice. Allow something that we may do or say this day to encourage someone to seek Your face and Your word. Help us Lord to walk just a little closer to thee. Father, we come thanking You that You have given us this new day with new opportunities to draw nearer to thee. We give You praise, honor, and glory. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24
Saints, how many of you are following Christ? If you are a follower of Christ, are you keeping up? What I mean by that is, are there other things in your life that are preventing you from truly following the word of God.
It has been said that each of us has our OWN cross to carry. But how many of you are trying to carry your cross and a whole lot of other baggage along with it? Do you realize that the excess baggage may be weighing you down?
What many of us often fail to realize is that so often we allow our past hurts, our sins, negative relationships, negative situations, and negative people to climb into the bags that we carry with us each and everyday.
We allow circumstance and situations to become a weight that we put in the bags that we call our lives. We allow fear and doubt to become like a rock around our necks. We allow our lack of faith to become a heavy object that we place in the bags of our lives that we continue to carry.
I believe that Erykah Badu, who wrote the song “Bag Lady”, knew what Jesus meant he said : Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, we come to You this day in humble submission. We ask Lord, that You would help us to realize and recognize to put down those things that are weighing us down and preventing us from truly following Your word. Lord, we come this day placing our all on the altar. We come sacrificing ourselves as in the days of old. We have nothing to truly give You, but ourselves. Help us to become a living sacrifice. Allow something that we may do or say this day to encourage someone to seek Your face and Your word. Help us Lord to walk just a little closer to thee. Father, we come thanking You that You have given us this new day with new opportunities to draw nearer to thee. We give You praise, honor, and glory. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
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.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Doing What God wants me to Do
The time is always right to do what is right. ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.
Scripture:
I will provide grass in the fields for your cattle, and you will eat and be satisfied. Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods and bow down to them. Then the LORD's anger will burn against you, and he will shut the heavens so that it will not rain and the ground will yield no produce, and you will soon perish from the good land the LORD is giving you. Deuteronomy 11:15-17 (New International Version)
So often we are influenced by things other than God. What I mean by this statement is that there will be times in your lives that we will go against the very things that God does or does not want us to do. For example, as I arose this past Sunday and prepared to go somewhere other than the house of the Lord, I found that I couldn't do it.
As I jumped in my car and headed to a breakfast that could possibly further my career as a writer, I found myself headed off to church instead. At that moment I couldn't tell you why, but during service the reason became clear. God had a word for me that morning that was just for me. It was time to come home.
You see, for the past couple of years my commitment to church had begun to wane. I found myself going to church less often. At first, my excuse was that Sundays were the only day I could devote to study for school. The irony in this statement is that I was pursuing a degree in religion. However, this year I have been unable to return to my studies and I began to come up with a new set of excuses; none of them really valid.
As I sat in my seat listening to the man of God, I realized that I have not been doing what God wanted me to do. And that is, worshiping Him and fellowshipping with my brothers and sisters in Christ. I realized that even though I thought I had been doing what I was supposed to do, in reality, I wasn't. I have been trying to live my life around Him and He was no longer at the center of all that I do.
Yes, I have made some strides in my life without attending church, but I also realized that I have begun doing things that are outside of His will. In my pursuit to do what I wanted, I found myself doing things that I shouldn't. And that ain't right. I was no longer doing God's will. I realized in order to maintain God's blessings, I must return and do His will, not mine.
So brothers and sisters always remember, the will of God will never take where the grace of God cannot keep you, where the arms of God cannot support you, where the riches of God cannot supply your needs, where the power of God cannot endow you.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory. forever and ever. Amen.
Scripture:
I will provide grass in the fields for your cattle, and you will eat and be satisfied. Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods and bow down to them. Then the LORD's anger will burn against you, and he will shut the heavens so that it will not rain and the ground will yield no produce, and you will soon perish from the good land the LORD is giving you. Deuteronomy 11:15-17 (New International Version)
So often we are influenced by things other than God. What I mean by this statement is that there will be times in your lives that we will go against the very things that God does or does not want us to do. For example, as I arose this past Sunday and prepared to go somewhere other than the house of the Lord, I found that I couldn't do it.
As I jumped in my car and headed to a breakfast that could possibly further my career as a writer, I found myself headed off to church instead. At that moment I couldn't tell you why, but during service the reason became clear. God had a word for me that morning that was just for me. It was time to come home.
You see, for the past couple of years my commitment to church had begun to wane. I found myself going to church less often. At first, my excuse was that Sundays were the only day I could devote to study for school. The irony in this statement is that I was pursuing a degree in religion. However, this year I have been unable to return to my studies and I began to come up with a new set of excuses; none of them really valid.
As I sat in my seat listening to the man of God, I realized that I have not been doing what God wanted me to do. And that is, worshiping Him and fellowshipping with my brothers and sisters in Christ. I realized that even though I thought I had been doing what I was supposed to do, in reality, I wasn't. I have been trying to live my life around Him and He was no longer at the center of all that I do.
Yes, I have made some strides in my life without attending church, but I also realized that I have begun doing things that are outside of His will. In my pursuit to do what I wanted, I found myself doing things that I shouldn't. And that ain't right. I was no longer doing God's will. I realized in order to maintain God's blessings, I must return and do His will, not mine.
So brothers and sisters always remember, the will of God will never take where the grace of God cannot keep you, where the arms of God cannot support you, where the riches of God cannot supply your needs, where the power of God cannot endow you.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory. forever and ever. Amen.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Let God Work it Out!
Remember, Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God. ~ Corine Ten Boom
Scripture:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Saints,Are there days when it seems that life is so overwhelming that you just can't take it? Are there times when no matter what you do things just won't go the way you want them to? You’ve prayed about it, cried about it, tried to do something about it, and nothing happens?
Well today I want you to recognize and realize that God can't do anything about your situation until you take your hands off of it! You ask, what do you mean, take my hands off it, I told you I already prayed about it!
Well, to truly say that you have turned your situations, your problems, your challenges over to God means just that! You have gone before God, told Him about it, and left it there. You are trusting God to handle the situation. You stop worrying about it. You stop trying to change it. You stop praying about it every time as though it's a brand new problem. Stop giving it to Him and then taking it back by trying to make it work on your own!
When you talk to God about those situations, let Him know that you know He is working it out. He already knows about it. Calm your spirit and wait on the Lord. Do those things that you must that are within your power, but let God take the lead and direct you.
Trust Him, he will work it out!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come before the throne of Grace knowing that You are still there. We come before You this day with a renewed spirit knowing that in Your time, You will work it out. Father, we know that so often we give our problems to You and take them back before You have had a chance to answer them the way we want them answered. Forgive us Lord. Teach us Lord, the patience of Job. Give us the peace that passes all understanding as we wait. Guide and direct us so that we do things in order, according to Your word. Father, Father, help each of us to know that know matter what we may be going through, You are still on the throne. Thank You Father. Now Lord, continue to touch Your saints. We know You know all about our troubles. We leave it all on the altar. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Saints,Are there days when it seems that life is so overwhelming that you just can't take it? Are there times when no matter what you do things just won't go the way you want them to? You’ve prayed about it, cried about it, tried to do something about it, and nothing happens?
Well today I want you to recognize and realize that God can't do anything about your situation until you take your hands off of it! You ask, what do you mean, take my hands off it, I told you I already prayed about it!
Well, to truly say that you have turned your situations, your problems, your challenges over to God means just that! You have gone before God, told Him about it, and left it there. You are trusting God to handle the situation. You stop worrying about it. You stop trying to change it. You stop praying about it every time as though it's a brand new problem. Stop giving it to Him and then taking it back by trying to make it work on your own!
When you talk to God about those situations, let Him know that you know He is working it out. He already knows about it. Calm your spirit and wait on the Lord. Do those things that you must that are within your power, but let God take the lead and direct you.
Trust Him, he will work it out!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come before the throne of Grace knowing that You are still there. We come before You this day with a renewed spirit knowing that in Your time, You will work it out. Father, we know that so often we give our problems to You and take them back before You have had a chance to answer them the way we want them answered. Forgive us Lord. Teach us Lord, the patience of Job. Give us the peace that passes all understanding as we wait. Guide and direct us so that we do things in order, according to Your word. Father, Father, help each of us to know that know matter what we may be going through, You are still on the throne. Thank You Father. Now Lord, continue to touch Your saints. We know You know all about our troubles. We leave it all on the altar. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Praise Your Way through
Most of the verses written about praise in God's Word were voiced by people faced with crushing heartaches, injustice, treachery, slander, and scores of other difficult situations. ~ Joni Eareckson Tada
Scripture:
I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; The humble shall hear of it and be glad.
Oh, magnify the LORD with me, And let us exalt His name together. Psalm 34:1-3 (New King James Version)
Sometimes the crushing weight of the world is almost too much to bear. We get angry about our situations and often times throw up our hands in despair. But instead of raising fists of anger, why not trying lifting your hands in praise? Believe it or not, it works.
So often we are faced with situations that make us just want to give up and throw in the towel. But what we will eventually realize is that is exactly what satan wants us to do. He wants us to turn away from God instead of turning towards Him.
King David often found himself in the pit of despair, but he managed to write some of the most beautiful God inspired Psalms and continued sang songs of praise during some of his darkest hours. Job lost everything and still found the strength and the fortitude to sing God’s praises. And Paul who is considered by some as the greatest Christian who ever lived continued to worship and praise God even as he spent many years imprisoned.
What can be learned from each of these individuals is not to hang our heads in hopelessness and despair but rather to lift up Holy hands and turn our faces towards the hills. I will lift up my eyes to the hills— From whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel Shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, Nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.
When praises go up, Blessings come down.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes I try to pray and the words won't come. I toss and turn and feel nothing. My mind is dry, my heart is dull, my soul longs for life. Hear my silent cry, my God, hear me. Breathe on us Lord renewing a right spirit within us. Even in our times of sorrow, we praise Your holy name. Lord, open our eyes and give us a discerning spirit, so that we may recognize the tricks of the evil one. Lord, we come before the throne of grace once again asking that You would forgive us for not depending on You. We come asking that You who are rock and our salvation, would help us to starve our fears and doubts and feed our faith. Lord, I personally ask for forgiveness and direction for myself. I know that sometimes, we take You for granted and in doing so, leave ourselves open to attack. Lord, we stand before You again, putting on the whole armor of God. The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, wielding our shield of faith and the sword of the spirit, and placing upon our heads, the helmet of salvation. Lord, let us always be diligent against attack from he who seeks to destroy us. Continue to bless our brothers and sisters in Christ. Continue to anoint our leaders. Help us always to be able to call upon the name of the Lord in our times of distress. Thank You Lord, for Your faithfulness. Thank You Lord, for Your covering. Thank You Lord, that You pick us up, when we have been knocked down. We will the name of the Lord at all times, and His praises shall continuously be in our mouths. Praise his name saints of God. Glory Hallelujah, thank You Jesus, in His name we pray, Amen.
Scripture:
I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; The humble shall hear of it and be glad.
Oh, magnify the LORD with me, And let us exalt His name together. Psalm 34:1-3 (New King James Version)
Sometimes the crushing weight of the world is almost too much to bear. We get angry about our situations and often times throw up our hands in despair. But instead of raising fists of anger, why not trying lifting your hands in praise? Believe it or not, it works.
So often we are faced with situations that make us just want to give up and throw in the towel. But what we will eventually realize is that is exactly what satan wants us to do. He wants us to turn away from God instead of turning towards Him.
King David often found himself in the pit of despair, but he managed to write some of the most beautiful God inspired Psalms and continued sang songs of praise during some of his darkest hours. Job lost everything and still found the strength and the fortitude to sing God’s praises. And Paul who is considered by some as the greatest Christian who ever lived continued to worship and praise God even as he spent many years imprisoned.
What can be learned from each of these individuals is not to hang our heads in hopelessness and despair but rather to lift up Holy hands and turn our faces towards the hills. I will lift up my eyes to the hills— From whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel Shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, Nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.
When praises go up, Blessings come down.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes I try to pray and the words won't come. I toss and turn and feel nothing. My mind is dry, my heart is dull, my soul longs for life. Hear my silent cry, my God, hear me. Breathe on us Lord renewing a right spirit within us. Even in our times of sorrow, we praise Your holy name. Lord, open our eyes and give us a discerning spirit, so that we may recognize the tricks of the evil one. Lord, we come before the throne of grace once again asking that You would forgive us for not depending on You. We come asking that You who are rock and our salvation, would help us to starve our fears and doubts and feed our faith. Lord, I personally ask for forgiveness and direction for myself. I know that sometimes, we take You for granted and in doing so, leave ourselves open to attack. Lord, we stand before You again, putting on the whole armor of God. The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, wielding our shield of faith and the sword of the spirit, and placing upon our heads, the helmet of salvation. Lord, let us always be diligent against attack from he who seeks to destroy us. Continue to bless our brothers and sisters in Christ. Continue to anoint our leaders. Help us always to be able to call upon the name of the Lord in our times of distress. Thank You Lord, for Your faithfulness. Thank You Lord, for Your covering. Thank You Lord, that You pick us up, when we have been knocked down. We will the name of the Lord at all times, and His praises shall continuously be in our mouths. Praise his name saints of God. Glory Hallelujah, thank You Jesus, in His name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
There is more to the Story
It’s so important for people who are hurting to know that the story hasn’t been finished. Things are terrible now, but there’s more to the story. ~ Dr. Richard Goodling
Scripture:
But Christ is faithful as a Son over God's house. And we are His house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast. Hebrews 3:6
Periodically, I go through serious bouts of depression. There have been times when it seems as though my world is crumbling all around me and nothing seems to be going right. People I depended on let me down and are critical of my efforts. Words meant to comfort only rub more salt into my festering wounds. Even my writings which usually bring me great joy and comfort are lifeless and meaningless.
It is at times like this I feel as though my story has come to an end. And then today’s quote reminded me, that it’s not. Things may seem terrible right now, but there is still more of my story to be written.
Sometimes life with throw you a series of curve balls and each time we come up to bat, we strike out. We become angry and frustrated which only seems to exacerbate our situations. Instead of focusing on the ball, or what is going right in our lives, we focus on how many times we have struck out.
We forget to focus on that one thing that can help us see the ball more clearly, the word of God.
When we focus on the promise and the victory that God has already given us through the death and resurrection of His Son, Christ Jesus, we realize there is more to each of our individual stories than meets the human eye. The word of God gives us the courage to step up to the plate, focus on the ball and try again.
Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is a little voice at the end of the day that says “I’ll try again tomorrow.”
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:
But Christ is faithful as a Son over God's house. And we are His house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast. Hebrews 3:6
Periodically, I go through serious bouts of depression. There have been times when it seems as though my world is crumbling all around me and nothing seems to be going right. People I depended on let me down and are critical of my efforts. Words meant to comfort only rub more salt into my festering wounds. Even my writings which usually bring me great joy and comfort are lifeless and meaningless.
It is at times like this I feel as though my story has come to an end. And then today’s quote reminded me, that it’s not. Things may seem terrible right now, but there is still more of my story to be written.
Sometimes life with throw you a series of curve balls and each time we come up to bat, we strike out. We become angry and frustrated which only seems to exacerbate our situations. Instead of focusing on the ball, or what is going right in our lives, we focus on how many times we have struck out.
We forget to focus on that one thing that can help us see the ball more clearly, the word of God.
When we focus on the promise and the victory that God has already given us through the death and resurrection of His Son, Christ Jesus, we realize there is more to each of our individual stories than meets the human eye. The word of God gives us the courage to step up to the plate, focus on the ball and try again.
Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is a little voice at the end of the day that says “I’ll try again tomorrow.”
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.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Character Does Matter
Remember, When wealth is lost, nothing is lost. When health is lost, something is lost. When character is lost, everything is lost. ~ Billy Graham.
Scripture:
And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3-5 (New King James Version)
What is character? Webster defines it as, one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an individual. As a writer, one of the things that I have learned to do is define the traits of my characters. I do this by examining various things about them and establishing what roles they will play in the telling of my stories.
It takes all kinds of characters to create a story. There will be good and bad characters and even the good characters will have what is known as character flaws; you know the things that make them human. Some of those character flaws might include; arrogance, dishonesty, short-temperedness, or the need to always be right.
They might be a perfectionist, nit-picky or maybe they always need to play the victim and blame the other guy. They might be selfish, miserly, stubborn, rigid or inflexible, narrow-minded, vain, prideful, or simply humorless; unable to laugh at themselves.
When you study ethics, you learn that there are six pillars of character. The Six Pillars of Character are ethical values to guide our choices. They are; Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship. The standards of conduct that arise out of those values constitute the ground rules of ethics, and therefore of ethical decision-making.
In the above scripture we learn that as Christians, we will have trials and tribulations that will help us to develop our characters. So often the lessons learned will be painful. Albeit, necessary. It is in the development of our character that we realize that there is hope and that hope, does not disappoint.
So my friends rejoice in your trials and tribulations because character does matter.
Be blessed.
Prayer:
Father God, so often the lessons of life can be painful. They will often cause us heartache and pain. However, we realize that in everything that we go through, it is for our benefit. Without character development, we might never know the love of God. We realize that sometimes it is necessary for life to squeeze out those character flaws. We sometimes look around us at the world and wonder, why are things so wrong? How can people do some of the things that they do? We realize that there is no hope and people will do strange things out of desperation. Lord, we thank You for the hope that has been given to us through Christ Jesus. We thank You for Your word that constantly encourages us and gives is the wisdom and the strength we need to change our ways. Lord, so many are going through so much and we just want to ask that Your grace and mercy would rain down into the lives of Your Saints who need just a drop to refresh them and give them strength. Continue to bless all of Yours this day. In the mighty Name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3-5 (New King James Version)
What is character? Webster defines it as, one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an individual. As a writer, one of the things that I have learned to do is define the traits of my characters. I do this by examining various things about them and establishing what roles they will play in the telling of my stories.
It takes all kinds of characters to create a story. There will be good and bad characters and even the good characters will have what is known as character flaws; you know the things that make them human. Some of those character flaws might include; arrogance, dishonesty, short-temperedness, or the need to always be right.
They might be a perfectionist, nit-picky or maybe they always need to play the victim and blame the other guy. They might be selfish, miserly, stubborn, rigid or inflexible, narrow-minded, vain, prideful, or simply humorless; unable to laugh at themselves.
When you study ethics, you learn that there are six pillars of character. The Six Pillars of Character are ethical values to guide our choices. They are; Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship. The standards of conduct that arise out of those values constitute the ground rules of ethics, and therefore of ethical decision-making.
In the above scripture we learn that as Christians, we will have trials and tribulations that will help us to develop our characters. So often the lessons learned will be painful. Albeit, necessary. It is in the development of our character that we realize that there is hope and that hope, does not disappoint.
So my friends rejoice in your trials and tribulations because character does matter.
Be blessed.
Prayer:
Father God, so often the lessons of life can be painful. They will often cause us heartache and pain. However, we realize that in everything that we go through, it is for our benefit. Without character development, we might never know the love of God. We realize that sometimes it is necessary for life to squeeze out those character flaws. We sometimes look around us at the world and wonder, why are things so wrong? How can people do some of the things that they do? We realize that there is no hope and people will do strange things out of desperation. Lord, we thank You for the hope that has been given to us through Christ Jesus. We thank You for Your word that constantly encourages us and gives is the wisdom and the strength we need to change our ways. Lord, so many are going through so much and we just want to ask that Your grace and mercy would rain down into the lives of Your Saints who need just a drop to refresh them and give them strength. Continue to bless all of Yours this day. In the mighty Name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Pray for Me
Remember, Intercessory prayer might be defined as loving our neighbor on our knees. ~ Charles Bent
Scripture:
Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16
Not long ago, I received an urgent message from one of my Christian brothers. The message simply said, "Pray for me". There was no specific prayer request, no explanation, and no reason given. Just these three words. "Pray for Me."
Saints of God, how often have your burdens been so heavy that you couldn't even put them into words? How often has life become so overwhelming that you couldn't even tell anyone what was going on or how you felt? How often have you gotten down on your knees to pray and could only cry tears of sorrow and plead for mercy?
I know that I have. You see, so often things in our lives become overwhelming to us. It seems that so much in our lives is going wrong. So often we feel that there is no one we can turn to. Not even God. At least not for ourselves. So we do the next best thing.
We go to our brothers and sisters in Christ and ask them to intercede on our behalf. You see, sometimes we become so distracted with our problems we can't see our way out. We become blinded by our circumstances and can't see our way to the alter. We are so bombarded by our afflictions that we don't know what to do. But even when we can't pray for ourselves, we can call on one another for prayer.
So today, pray for one another. Stand in the gap for your loved ones. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
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:
Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16
Not long ago, I received an urgent message from one of my Christian brothers. The message simply said, "Pray for me". There was no specific prayer request, no explanation, and no reason given. Just these three words. "Pray for Me."
Saints of God, how often have your burdens been so heavy that you couldn't even put them into words? How often has life become so overwhelming that you couldn't even tell anyone what was going on or how you felt? How often have you gotten down on your knees to pray and could only cry tears of sorrow and plead for mercy?
I know that I have. You see, so often things in our lives become overwhelming to us. It seems that so much in our lives is going wrong. So often we feel that there is no one we can turn to. Not even God. At least not for ourselves. So we do the next best thing.
We go to our brothers and sisters in Christ and ask them to intercede on our behalf. You see, sometimes we become so distracted with our problems we can't see our way out. We become blinded by our circumstances and can't see our way to the alter. We are so bombarded by our afflictions that we don't know what to do. But even when we can't pray for ourselves, we can call on one another for prayer.
So today, pray for one another. Stand in the gap for your loved ones. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
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.
Monday, July 19, 2010
He is Speaking to Your Storm
I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship. ~ Louisa May Alcott
Scripture:
He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him." Luke 8:25 (New International Version)
So often we find ourselves caught in the storms of life. The winds of adversity, the rains of afflictions and sorrow. Tossed about like a rag doll from one situation to the next. Unable to find our footing on stable ground. Be still and listen.
God is still in control. He will calm the storms in our lives if we let Him. He has the power to speak peace, into our valley situations. He can quiet the raging winds that threaten to tear down our house, our homes, our very lives. He tells the raging waves to be still and He silences the deafening thunder.
Each of us must learn that no matter what situations life has put us in, God has the power to take us out. Out of our loneliness. Out of our bad relationships. Out of our pain and agony. We just have to learn to trust Him and listen.
Listen to the word that has already told us; I will never leave you nor forsake you. The word that says; I am more than a conqueror. The word that has already told you; you are the head and not the tail, above and not below.
Won’t you follow His voice? All you have to do, is be still and listen.
Be Blessed
Prayers:
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Lord, I asked that You would hide Your word in my heart each and everyday. I turn to Your word in times of discouragement. I turn to Your word when I need guidance. I turn to Your word to seek the answers to my questions. Thank You Lord, for Your Word. Father, I come asking that my brothers and sisters in Christ would be encouraged this day. When things come against them, give them power through Your word. You have said in Your word, that we can do all things through Christ Jesus. You would never leave us nor forsake us. You are with us even until the end of time. Your grace and mercy are sufficient. Thank You Father. Now Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless us this day. Heal our afflicted, encourage our down heartened. Trust in the Lord with all Your heart and lean not to Your own understanding. In all Your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct Your paths. And my God shall supply all Your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him." Luke 8:25 (New International Version)
So often we find ourselves caught in the storms of life. The winds of adversity, the rains of afflictions and sorrow. Tossed about like a rag doll from one situation to the next. Unable to find our footing on stable ground. Be still and listen.
God is still in control. He will calm the storms in our lives if we let Him. He has the power to speak peace, into our valley situations. He can quiet the raging winds that threaten to tear down our house, our homes, our very lives. He tells the raging waves to be still and He silences the deafening thunder.
Each of us must learn that no matter what situations life has put us in, God has the power to take us out. Out of our loneliness. Out of our bad relationships. Out of our pain and agony. We just have to learn to trust Him and listen.
Listen to the word that has already told us; I will never leave you nor forsake you. The word that says; I am more than a conqueror. The word that has already told you; you are the head and not the tail, above and not below.
Won’t you follow His voice? All you have to do, is be still and listen.
Be Blessed
Prayers:
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Lord, I asked that You would hide Your word in my heart each and everyday. I turn to Your word in times of discouragement. I turn to Your word when I need guidance. I turn to Your word to seek the answers to my questions. Thank You Lord, for Your Word. Father, I come asking that my brothers and sisters in Christ would be encouraged this day. When things come against them, give them power through Your word. You have said in Your word, that we can do all things through Christ Jesus. You would never leave us nor forsake us. You are with us even until the end of time. Your grace and mercy are sufficient. Thank You Father. Now Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless us this day. Heal our afflicted, encourage our down heartened. Trust in the Lord with all Your heart and lean not to Your own understanding. In all Your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct Your paths. And my God shall supply all Your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Let Your Inner Light Shine
Remember, People are like stained glass windows: they sparkle and shine when the sun's out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is light within. ~ Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
Scripture:
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:15-16 (New International Version)
When things in our lives are going along smoothly, it’s very easy for us to put on a happy face. The bills are paid, the children are doing well, and our spouses are everything that we ever dreamed they could be. We smile, are nice to everyone and all is right with the world.
However, when things aren’t going along as planned, it’s much harder for us to put on a happy front. I mean, how can I smile when the bills are due and I don’t have the money to pay them? How can I be happy when my children are being disobedient and unruly? How can I stop the tears from flowing when my relationship is in trouble?
Now I don’t know about you, but rarely is everything in my life going in the same direction at the same time. In other words, I am faced with some sort of adversity almost on a daily basis. When I wake up in the morning, trust me, I can find something to become upset about. I just choose not too.
You see, I realized sometime ago we make choices in this world that will determine our moods and our mindset for the day. If I get up with an attitude instead of gratitude, and say I am going to have a bad day, then I will. Have a bad day that is.
When I awaken with gratitude in my heart, on my mind and on my tongue, even the negative things in my world won’t keep me down. I choose a spirit of happiness each day and live my life accordingly. Some of my friends even jokingly call me their Job because I continue to praise God even in the midst of my storms.
The quote I used for today essentially says that anyone can be pretty and full of life if the right light is shining in their lives, but what happens when the outer light is no longer present? Do you have the inner light of the Holy Spirit in you that still shines even when the clouds come out?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, in the name of Jesus, we come before the throne of grace, humbling ourselves before You Lord, giving You all honor, praise and glory. Father God, as we draw closer to the end of another week, we come to give thanks for all that You have done in our lives, but also for the things that You are about to do. Father, Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Your word have I hidden in my heart so that I may not sin against thee. Lord, I come lifting my shield of faith and my sword of the spirit, which is the word of God. I believe that I can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens me. I believe that You are doing a new thing in my life. I believe that my breakthrough, my miracle, my healing is at hand. I believe that I am and can do everything that Your word tells me because You Lord, are God alone and You cannot lie. My shield of faith reminds me that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. My faith and hope comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Lord, we know and realize that You are still sovereign and that all things work for the good of those who love You and who have been called according to Your purpose. Thank You Lord, for my faith. Thank You Lord, for my blessings. Thank You Lord, for my Redeemer, Christ Jesus, it is in His name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:15-16 (New International Version)
When things in our lives are going along smoothly, it’s very easy for us to put on a happy face. The bills are paid, the children are doing well, and our spouses are everything that we ever dreamed they could be. We smile, are nice to everyone and all is right with the world.
However, when things aren’t going along as planned, it’s much harder for us to put on a happy front. I mean, how can I smile when the bills are due and I don’t have the money to pay them? How can I be happy when my children are being disobedient and unruly? How can I stop the tears from flowing when my relationship is in trouble?
Now I don’t know about you, but rarely is everything in my life going in the same direction at the same time. In other words, I am faced with some sort of adversity almost on a daily basis. When I wake up in the morning, trust me, I can find something to become upset about. I just choose not too.
You see, I realized sometime ago we make choices in this world that will determine our moods and our mindset for the day. If I get up with an attitude instead of gratitude, and say I am going to have a bad day, then I will. Have a bad day that is.
When I awaken with gratitude in my heart, on my mind and on my tongue, even the negative things in my world won’t keep me down. I choose a spirit of happiness each day and live my life accordingly. Some of my friends even jokingly call me their Job because I continue to praise God even in the midst of my storms.
The quote I used for today essentially says that anyone can be pretty and full of life if the right light is shining in their lives, but what happens when the outer light is no longer present? Do you have the inner light of the Holy Spirit in you that still shines even when the clouds come out?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, in the name of Jesus, we come before the throne of grace, humbling ourselves before You Lord, giving You all honor, praise and glory. Father God, as we draw closer to the end of another week, we come to give thanks for all that You have done in our lives, but also for the things that You are about to do. Father, Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Your word have I hidden in my heart so that I may not sin against thee. Lord, I come lifting my shield of faith and my sword of the spirit, which is the word of God. I believe that I can do all things through Christ Jesus, who strengthens me. I believe that You are doing a new thing in my life. I believe that my breakthrough, my miracle, my healing is at hand. I believe that I am and can do everything that Your word tells me because You Lord, are God alone and You cannot lie. My shield of faith reminds me that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. My faith and hope comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Lord, we know and realize that You are still sovereign and that all things work for the good of those who love You and who have been called according to Your purpose. Thank You Lord, for my faith. Thank You Lord, for my blessings. Thank You Lord, for my Redeemer, Christ Jesus, it is in His name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
God's Promise
Remember, the only difference between stumbling blocks and steppingstones is the way in which we use them. ~ Unknown
Scripture:
So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done. Matthew 21:21 (New King James Version)
Saints, I don’t know if you are anything like me, but periodically, I will begin to doubt my purpose and abilities. You see, I have gone through some things that cause me to question if I have “the right stuff”. Do I have the right job skills, parenting skills and life skills?
When I lost my job, I began to doubt in my abilities to do the work. When my children do things that are contrary to how I have attempted to raise them, I will doubt whether or not I am a good parent. And sometimes when it comes to making the right decisions on how to live, I begin to question whether or not I am making right choices.
As I lay in bed late one night, doubting and questioning everything I have ever done since High School, I heard a voice say, “I have not given you a spirit of fear and you doubt you have fear. You fear because you are listening to the lies of the devil and the devil is a liar”.
You see Saints of God; my God reminded me that he has already given me everything that I need to make it in this world. He reminded me that he has given me all power and authority in Christ Jesus. He has given me access to the throne of grace.
Brothers and sisters, each of us will have doubts about our lives, but the word of God has already assured us that if we just trust in the Lord, this too shall pass.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, with Your blood, You wiped away my sins leaving me promises to enjoy in faith until You come back to claim me as Your own. It takes patience to live in faith, and I confess that sometimes my patience runs thin. I wonder why You don’t act in ways that I can see and understand. Why is there so much evil and suffering in this world that discourage both the faithful and the unfaithful? I don’t understand. Help me to realize that my understanding is not necessary for the completion of Your plan. You understand everything; all I need to do is have faith. In the meantime, keep me free from wavering, Lord. Your faithfulness is perfect, and Your will be done. Lord, I thank you for Your word that speaks to my soul when I am weary. I thank You father, for I now and realize that there is no testimony without a test. I thank You Lord, for even when I am weak, You are still strong. Lord, we bless Your name and submit our prayer in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done. Matthew 21:21 (New King James Version)
Saints, I don’t know if you are anything like me, but periodically, I will begin to doubt my purpose and abilities. You see, I have gone through some things that cause me to question if I have “the right stuff”. Do I have the right job skills, parenting skills and life skills?
When I lost my job, I began to doubt in my abilities to do the work. When my children do things that are contrary to how I have attempted to raise them, I will doubt whether or not I am a good parent. And sometimes when it comes to making the right decisions on how to live, I begin to question whether or not I am making right choices.
As I lay in bed late one night, doubting and questioning everything I have ever done since High School, I heard a voice say, “I have not given you a spirit of fear and you doubt you have fear. You fear because you are listening to the lies of the devil and the devil is a liar”.
You see Saints of God; my God reminded me that he has already given me everything that I need to make it in this world. He reminded me that he has given me all power and authority in Christ Jesus. He has given me access to the throne of grace.
Brothers and sisters, each of us will have doubts about our lives, but the word of God has already assured us that if we just trust in the Lord, this too shall pass.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, with Your blood, You wiped away my sins leaving me promises to enjoy in faith until You come back to claim me as Your own. It takes patience to live in faith, and I confess that sometimes my patience runs thin. I wonder why You don’t act in ways that I can see and understand. Why is there so much evil and suffering in this world that discourage both the faithful and the unfaithful? I don’t understand. Help me to realize that my understanding is not necessary for the completion of Your plan. You understand everything; all I need to do is have faith. In the meantime, keep me free from wavering, Lord. Your faithfulness is perfect, and Your will be done. Lord, I thank you for Your word that speaks to my soul when I am weary. I thank You father, for I now and realize that there is no testimony without a test. I thank You Lord, for even when I am weak, You are still strong. Lord, we bless Your name and submit our prayer in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
It Ain't over Yet!
Remember, Everything works out in the end. If it hasn't worked out, it's not the end. ~Unknown
Scripture:
David also said to Solomon his son, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the LORD is finished. 1 Chronicles 28:20 (New International Version)
The one constant that I have learned about life is, that there will always be challenges. Whether it be in relationships, on your job, in your ministry and in your home, there will always be something that isn’t going quite the way you may want it to.
As a mother, I often find that both of my sons can be very challenging. Our relationship has gone through some pretty rocky situations. However, I often find that the things that I worry the most about, somehow seem to work themselves out.
As a friend, I sometimes find myself at odds with those whom I love like sisters. We often disagree about things and then will realize that our disagreements are a natural part of the friendship process. We are each our own individual persons with our own individual way of seeing things. It’s only natural that we will not always see things eye to eye.
As a writer, I sometimes suffer from writers block. I sit down to work on something but just can’t seem to get the right words down on paper. And once I do, the daunting tasks of editing, rewriting and getting my work out there, never seems to end.
As a Christian, I have found that the idealistic utopist existence hasn’t quite manifested itself yet. Some days it’s downright hard being a Christian. It seems that everything that I believe in is ridiculed by the world and I often feel that I am on the Roman Road all by myself.
However, in each of the above situations I have come to realize that it ain’t over yet! My sons are still growing into the fine young men that I know they will be someday. Yes, I will lose some friendships along the way but the ones that endure, will be priceless. As a writer, I keep on writing because as long as I can touch someone’s life through the written word, then I am doing what I am supposed to be doing.
As a Christian, God never said it would be easy. As a matter of fact, He warned me that if I followed Jesus, that I too would have my own cross to carry. He told me that I would be ridiculed and made to feel like an outsider because in reality, I am. His Kingdom is not of this world. So if my goal is to make it into the kingdom then I must accept that I am not a part of this world either. I am set apart from the world and sometimes I will be made to feel alone because of it.
So my brothers and sisters I remind you; in this life there will always be challenges. But it ain’t over Yet!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Lord, I asked that You would hide Your word in my heart each and everyday. I turn to Your word in times of discouragement. I turn to Your word when I need guidance. I turn to Your word to seek the answers to my questions. Thank You Lord, for Your Word. Father, I come asking that my brothers and sisters in Christ would be encouraged this day. When things come against them, give them power through Your word. You have said in Your word, that we can do all things through Christ Jesus. You would never leave us nor forsake us. You are with us even until the end of time. Your grace and mercy are sufficient. Thank You Father. Now Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless us this day. Heal our afflicted, encourage our down heartened. Trust in the Lord with all Your heart and lean not to Your own understanding. In all Your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct Your paths. And my God shall supply all Your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
David also said to Solomon his son, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the LORD is finished. 1 Chronicles 28:20 (New International Version)
The one constant that I have learned about life is, that there will always be challenges. Whether it be in relationships, on your job, in your ministry and in your home, there will always be something that isn’t going quite the way you may want it to.
As a mother, I often find that both of my sons can be very challenging. Our relationship has gone through some pretty rocky situations. However, I often find that the things that I worry the most about, somehow seem to work themselves out.
As a friend, I sometimes find myself at odds with those whom I love like sisters. We often disagree about things and then will realize that our disagreements are a natural part of the friendship process. We are each our own individual persons with our own individual way of seeing things. It’s only natural that we will not always see things eye to eye.
As a writer, I sometimes suffer from writers block. I sit down to work on something but just can’t seem to get the right words down on paper. And once I do, the daunting tasks of editing, rewriting and getting my work out there, never seems to end.
As a Christian, I have found that the idealistic utopist existence hasn’t quite manifested itself yet. Some days it’s downright hard being a Christian. It seems that everything that I believe in is ridiculed by the world and I often feel that I am on the Roman Road all by myself.
However, in each of the above situations I have come to realize that it ain’t over yet! My sons are still growing into the fine young men that I know they will be someday. Yes, I will lose some friendships along the way but the ones that endure, will be priceless. As a writer, I keep on writing because as long as I can touch someone’s life through the written word, then I am doing what I am supposed to be doing.
As a Christian, God never said it would be easy. As a matter of fact, He warned me that if I followed Jesus, that I too would have my own cross to carry. He told me that I would be ridiculed and made to feel like an outsider because in reality, I am. His Kingdom is not of this world. So if my goal is to make it into the kingdom then I must accept that I am not a part of this world either. I am set apart from the world and sometimes I will be made to feel alone because of it.
So my brothers and sisters I remind you; in this life there will always be challenges. But it ain’t over Yet!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Lord, I asked that You would hide Your word in my heart each and everyday. I turn to Your word in times of discouragement. I turn to Your word when I need guidance. I turn to Your word to seek the answers to my questions. Thank You Lord, for Your Word. Father, I come asking that my brothers and sisters in Christ would be encouraged this day. When things come against them, give them power through Your word. You have said in Your word, that we can do all things through Christ Jesus. You would never leave us nor forsake us. You are with us even until the end of time. Your grace and mercy are sufficient. Thank You Father. Now Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless us this day. Heal our afflicted, encourage our down heartened. Trust in the Lord with all Your heart and lean not to Your own understanding. In all Your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct Your paths. And my God shall supply all Your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Amen.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Praise Him for the Closed Door
When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us. ~Helen Keller
Scriptures:
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6, For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake, lead me, and guide me. Psalm 31:3, Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee I will wait all day. Psalm 25:5, Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face. Psalm 5:8.
A few years ago, a friend shared a story called “Praise him for the Closed Door.” It spoke about how we need to learn to praise God for closed doors.
One reason God closes doors is because he hasn't prepared anything over there for us. Another reason may be because what's behind door number one may cause us harm. And yet still, behind door number two may be a trap that satan has prepared for us.
The story went on to further state, that God directs our paths through the closing and opening of doors. When one door closes, it forces you to change your path. The closing of yet another will cause you to change your path again. Then finally, you open the door and you walk right into your blessing.
So Saints of God, instead of trying to beat down the door, praise him for the detour he is sending you on. Praise him for your blessings that are on the way.
But most of all, praise him because we serve an awesome God!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, many of us are standing before a closed door. Lord, some of us have been trying to beat that door down. Father, You have already told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. You have already told us that You would open the windows of heaven and pour us out a blessing. A blessing that would overflow with Your love, Your grace, and Your mercy. Lord, we come thanking You for closing that door. Lord, we come thanking You and praising You because we know that our blessings are on the way. We praise You this day, because You are the Lord, my God. Praise His name. Hallelujah,. We worship and exalt You this day. Bless Your Holy Name Lord. Lord, some of us were ready to give up. But Lord, we realize that You haven't failed us yet. Praise God! Some of us have cried until we have no more tears to cry. But today my eyes are filled with tears of joy. Thank You Jesus. Father, we will Bless Your name all the day long. Hallelujah,Praise God. Amen. Amen.
Scriptures:
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6, For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake, lead me, and guide me. Psalm 31:3, Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee I will wait all day. Psalm 25:5, Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face. Psalm 5:8.
A few years ago, a friend shared a story called “Praise him for the Closed Door.” It spoke about how we need to learn to praise God for closed doors.
One reason God closes doors is because he hasn't prepared anything over there for us. Another reason may be because what's behind door number one may cause us harm. And yet still, behind door number two may be a trap that satan has prepared for us.
The story went on to further state, that God directs our paths through the closing and opening of doors. When one door closes, it forces you to change your path. The closing of yet another will cause you to change your path again. Then finally, you open the door and you walk right into your blessing.
So Saints of God, instead of trying to beat down the door, praise him for the detour he is sending you on. Praise him for your blessings that are on the way.
But most of all, praise him because we serve an awesome God!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, many of us are standing before a closed door. Lord, some of us have been trying to beat that door down. Father, You have already told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. You have already told us that You would open the windows of heaven and pour us out a blessing. A blessing that would overflow with Your love, Your grace, and Your mercy. Lord, we come thanking You for closing that door. Lord, we come thanking You and praising You because we know that our blessings are on the way. We praise You this day, because You are the Lord, my God. Praise His name. Hallelujah,. We worship and exalt You this day. Bless Your Holy Name Lord. Lord, some of us were ready to give up. But Lord, we realize that You haven't failed us yet. Praise God! Some of us have cried until we have no more tears to cry. But today my eyes are filled with tears of joy. Thank You Jesus. Father, we will Bless Your name all the day long. Hallelujah,Praise God. Amen. Amen.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
How Hungry are You?
Hunger is the handmaid of genius. ~ Mark Twain
Scripture:
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy. Matthew 5:5-7 (New International Version)
Have you ever been hungry and unable to eat? Maybe your cabinets were bare and you didn’t have the money to buy anything. You sat back and thought about ways to get some food. As a young woman living in my first apartment, I would simply go home to my parents and eat with them. Now that my parents are gone, that option no longer exists so I have to come up with other options.
I now have a family of my own and I am responsible for making sure that I provide for them. That’s one of the reasons I have a job. You know, so I can provide food shelter and clothing to those under my care. However, there have been times during my adult when I either didn’t have a job or it just didn’t provide enough for my needs. So I had to come up with new ways to provide for mine.
Hunger is defined as craving or urgent need for food or a specific nutrient. Now for me and mine, food is usually pretty prevalent in our home and we often times have more then we can eat. However, there are times when I may crave something, even when I am not hungry. I may have an urgent desire for something that’s not in my refrigerator and sometimes, I can’t even define what it is I crave. It’s at times like these that I find myself eating, not out of hunger but out of a need to satisfy a craving I can’t quite put my finger on.
This hunger or craving exists in other areas of my life as well. Sometimes, I will have a need for something but can’t quite put my finger on it. In the past when this craving reared its ugly head I would go out into the world seeking and trying different things trying to fulfill a craving I couldn’t identify.
Then I one day, I met Jesus and He satisfied all of my cravings.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, often times we look to the world to fulfill an emptiness inside of us we have no name for. We search high and low for that thing that will make us feel whole. We turn to drugs, sex and alcohol for a momentary escape and to satisfy a need if only for a moment. Lord, it was not until I met You on my life’s journey that my worldly cravings were quieted. It was You who made me feel whole, happy and content. It was You who fed me when no one else could. Thank You Lord, for Your Word. Your word that completes me. Your word that nourishes me. Father God, I thank You for finding me and blessing me and my household. May my words and actions be guided by Your word. We bless You Lord, and submit this prayer, in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy. Matthew 5:5-7 (New International Version)
Have you ever been hungry and unable to eat? Maybe your cabinets were bare and you didn’t have the money to buy anything. You sat back and thought about ways to get some food. As a young woman living in my first apartment, I would simply go home to my parents and eat with them. Now that my parents are gone, that option no longer exists so I have to come up with other options.
I now have a family of my own and I am responsible for making sure that I provide for them. That’s one of the reasons I have a job. You know, so I can provide food shelter and clothing to those under my care. However, there have been times during my adult when I either didn’t have a job or it just didn’t provide enough for my needs. So I had to come up with new ways to provide for mine.
Hunger is defined as craving or urgent need for food or a specific nutrient. Now for me and mine, food is usually pretty prevalent in our home and we often times have more then we can eat. However, there are times when I may crave something, even when I am not hungry. I may have an urgent desire for something that’s not in my refrigerator and sometimes, I can’t even define what it is I crave. It’s at times like these that I find myself eating, not out of hunger but out of a need to satisfy a craving I can’t quite put my finger on.
This hunger or craving exists in other areas of my life as well. Sometimes, I will have a need for something but can’t quite put my finger on it. In the past when this craving reared its ugly head I would go out into the world seeking and trying different things trying to fulfill a craving I couldn’t identify.
Then I one day, I met Jesus and He satisfied all of my cravings.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, often times we look to the world to fulfill an emptiness inside of us we have no name for. We search high and low for that thing that will make us feel whole. We turn to drugs, sex and alcohol for a momentary escape and to satisfy a need if only for a moment. Lord, it was not until I met You on my life’s journey that my worldly cravings were quieted. It was You who made me feel whole, happy and content. It was You who fed me when no one else could. Thank You Lord, for Your Word. Your word that completes me. Your word that nourishes me. Father God, I thank You for finding me and blessing me and my household. May my words and actions be guided by Your word. We bless You Lord, and submit this prayer, in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Beat Up and Blessed all in the Same Day
Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don’t unravel. ~ Unknown
Scripture:
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31 (New International Version)
This week has been one of those weeks. You know the kind I’m speaking of. The kind of week when nothing seems to be going right and it seems as if you are being hit with everything in sight, including the kitchen sink. It seems as though everything that I touch lately, falls apart.
It seems as if I am at odds with everyone, including my loved ones. It’s as if they are purposely trying to get on my nerves and under my skin. I am having trouble focusing on the postive because of all the negatives swirling around. Enough! I just want to jump in the tub and say; Calgon, take me away.
Then three very important things manifested in my life before I sat down to write this message. The first one was an email that was titled, when the day is rough and it contained a link to a Kim Burrell video entitled; “The Lord will Make a Way somehow. The second item was the above quote which simply said’ Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don’t unravel.” Finally, I had a conversation with a very good friend who also happens to be a minister. He has somewhat of an idea of the many obstacles that have been put in my way this past month. After I filled him in on my evening phone call, he reminded me of a conversation we had just last week.
“Jackie, you have already said you are on the very edge of a huge breakthrough and as a result, satan IS throwing everything at you, including the kitchen sink. Instead of focusing on those things in your life that are going on right now, focus on the blessings and the doors of opportunity that God has opened up for you. You have told me about so many great things that are already taking place in your life as well as some major opportunities that God has already been working out on your behalf. So even in the midst of your failures and fights, he continues to bless you and you are allowing satan to block your view."
I was humbled and convicted because instead of looking at my blessings, I was complaining about my failures. So saints of God I just want to remind you, instead of feeling sorry about the things that are going wrong in your life, remember all of the things that are going right.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, I once was blind but now I see. We come before You as the blind did in days of old. Asking Lord, that You would restore our sight. Help us Lord to find the path that You have chosen for us. Help us Lord, to develop greater faith. Help us Lord, to see the world through the eyes of Jesus. Father, we come surrendering our lives to You. Help us to learn to lean on You. Help us Lord to learn that its not always, about what we see but truly, about what You are teaching us. Teach us Lord to lean upon You; to depend upon You and not the things of this world. Lord, help us to realize that our circumstances do not define us, You do. You have already told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Bless us Lord. Keep us Lord. Restore our sight once again. So that we may lift our eyes towards heaven and see Your divine vision for us. Father, we come praising and uplifting Your name once again. As we ask and pray this and all things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Scripture:
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31 (New International Version)
This week has been one of those weeks. You know the kind I’m speaking of. The kind of week when nothing seems to be going right and it seems as if you are being hit with everything in sight, including the kitchen sink. It seems as though everything that I touch lately, falls apart.
It seems as if I am at odds with everyone, including my loved ones. It’s as if they are purposely trying to get on my nerves and under my skin. I am having trouble focusing on the postive because of all the negatives swirling around. Enough! I just want to jump in the tub and say; Calgon, take me away.
Then three very important things manifested in my life before I sat down to write this message. The first one was an email that was titled, when the day is rough and it contained a link to a Kim Burrell video entitled; “The Lord will Make a Way somehow. The second item was the above quote which simply said’ Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don’t unravel.” Finally, I had a conversation with a very good friend who also happens to be a minister. He has somewhat of an idea of the many obstacles that have been put in my way this past month. After I filled him in on my evening phone call, he reminded me of a conversation we had just last week.
“Jackie, you have already said you are on the very edge of a huge breakthrough and as a result, satan IS throwing everything at you, including the kitchen sink. Instead of focusing on those things in your life that are going on right now, focus on the blessings and the doors of opportunity that God has opened up for you. You have told me about so many great things that are already taking place in your life as well as some major opportunities that God has already been working out on your behalf. So even in the midst of your failures and fights, he continues to bless you and you are allowing satan to block your view."
I was humbled and convicted because instead of looking at my blessings, I was complaining about my failures. So saints of God I just want to remind you, instead of feeling sorry about the things that are going wrong in your life, remember all of the things that are going right.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, I once was blind but now I see. We come before You as the blind did in days of old. Asking Lord, that You would restore our sight. Help us Lord to find the path that You have chosen for us. Help us Lord, to develop greater faith. Help us Lord, to see the world through the eyes of Jesus. Father, we come surrendering our lives to You. Help us to learn to lean on You. Help us Lord to learn that its not always, about what we see but truly, about what You are teaching us. Teach us Lord to lean upon You; to depend upon You and not the things of this world. Lord, help us to realize that our circumstances do not define us, You do. You have already told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Bless us Lord. Keep us Lord. Restore our sight once again. So that we may lift our eyes towards heaven and see Your divine vision for us. Father, we come praising and uplifting Your name once again. As we ask and pray this and all things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
The Victory Can be Yours!
Remember, there are victories of the soul and spirit. Sometimes, even if you lose, you win. ~ Elie Weisel
Scripture:
For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory." Deuteronomy 20:4 (New International Version)
There are times when we feel as though we are fighting a battle that can’t be won. We become punch drunk from all the blows that life sends our way. We arise each and everyday to fight the good fight of faith. At the end of the day, we are delirious from all the hits that we have taken. We often ask ourselves, why. It would be easier to just give up and let the chips fall where they may.
Personally, I have a number of issues in my life that I often become frustrated about. There are certain aspects of my life that I want to change, but no matter how much I try, they don’t seem to be changing. I set certain goals, only for those goals to fall by the wayside. I become angry and depressed when the things I strive for never seem to manifest. I try and I try, praying along the way, all to no avail.
Yet, I refuse to give up. You see, I had an epiphany this morning. Life isn’t always about what I want. It’s more about what God wants for me. The things that I want for myself aren’t necessarily what’s best for me. I can’t always see it at the time, but God sees and knows all.
I found the above quote very interesting for a number of reasons. One, even when it appears that I have lost a battle, what I see isn’t necessarily what God sees. Sometimes we fight so hard to hang to a person or situation that we fail to see just how toxic it can be to us. Sometimes we strive to arrive at a place without realizing that God is not in that place. Sometimes by achieving what we think we want, we may be causing ourselves and the ones we love irrevocable harm.
So my brothers and sisters remember this; even when it appears we have lost the battle, the victory can still be ours.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes it seems as though I am fighting a never ending battle. Some days are filled with stress and strife. Sometimes, I become weary from the war that wages around me. I realize that sometimes it is I who has caused the war from within. Lord, help me to be strong and resist temptation. Help me to develop patience, perseverance and peace within. Father, as I pause to spend time with You, I ask that you would quiet the conflict that rages within me. When I am faced with trials and tribulations help me to be still and remain calm and turn control over to the Holy Spirit. It's Your spirit Lord, that dwells in me. It that same spirit that can give me rest if I would just succumb to it. 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:
For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory." Deuteronomy 20:4 (New International Version)
There are times when we feel as though we are fighting a battle that can’t be won. We become punch drunk from all the blows that life sends our way. We arise each and everyday to fight the good fight of faith. At the end of the day, we are delirious from all the hits that we have taken. We often ask ourselves, why. It would be easier to just give up and let the chips fall where they may.
Personally, I have a number of issues in my life that I often become frustrated about. There are certain aspects of my life that I want to change, but no matter how much I try, they don’t seem to be changing. I set certain goals, only for those goals to fall by the wayside. I become angry and depressed when the things I strive for never seem to manifest. I try and I try, praying along the way, all to no avail.
Yet, I refuse to give up. You see, I had an epiphany this morning. Life isn’t always about what I want. It’s more about what God wants for me. The things that I want for myself aren’t necessarily what’s best for me. I can’t always see it at the time, but God sees and knows all.
I found the above quote very interesting for a number of reasons. One, even when it appears that I have lost a battle, what I see isn’t necessarily what God sees. Sometimes we fight so hard to hang to a person or situation that we fail to see just how toxic it can be to us. Sometimes we strive to arrive at a place without realizing that God is not in that place. Sometimes by achieving what we think we want, we may be causing ourselves and the ones we love irrevocable harm.
So my brothers and sisters remember this; even when it appears we have lost the battle, the victory can still be ours.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes it seems as though I am fighting a never ending battle. Some days are filled with stress and strife. Sometimes, I become weary from the war that wages around me. I realize that sometimes it is I who has caused the war from within. Lord, help me to be strong and resist temptation. Help me to develop patience, perseverance and peace within. Father, as I pause to spend time with You, I ask that you would quiet the conflict that rages within me. When I am faced with trials and tribulations help me to be still and remain calm and turn control over to the Holy Spirit. It's Your spirit Lord, that dwells in me. It that same spirit that can give me rest if I would just succumb to it. 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.
Monday, July 05, 2010
Yes, He Understsands!
Remember, Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air, but only for one second without hope” ~ Unknown
Scripture:
I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. Psalm 27:13-15
Saints, Do you sometimes feel like giving up? Every once in a while do you feel that your best just ain't good enough? Do you sometimes cry out to the Lord and ask him does he see, does he care what you're going through?
Sometimes it seems that you are doing everything that you are supposed to as a child of God. You pray, you fast, your serve and you tithe but life keeps coming against you. You take one step forward and get knocked two steps back. You get one problem resolved then three more problems pop up?
Well there is something that I have come to realize in these past couple of years. It’s not always about you! When you decide to commit your life to God and truly live and serve him, he will mold and shape your life to suit him, not you!
So often we don't realize how much we have conformed to the world until we see our lives through God's eyes. We are bombarded with sin and evil almost each and every moment of each and every day. Almost everything that we see and hear is contrary to God's word. That’s why we must constantly study and stay in the word of God.
So often denying yourselves, denying your flesh, denying what you want and doing what God wants can be painful. But remember, He knows how much we can bear. In the time of trouble he promised He'd always be there.
He understands, he is the Lord he sees and yes he understands.
Be Blessed.
Prayer:
My forever faithful Father, my Rock, my Strength, my redeemer, Lord, we come blessing and praising You for all that You have done. Father God, sometimes life gets hard. When we think that one storm is about to end, another one begins. Lord, we realize that being a Christian is not always easy. We understand that weeping may endure for a night, but Lord, sometimes it feels like it's night all the time. Father God, I thank You for understanding me. I thank You for preparing me. Lord, I thank You for the desire in my heart to follow after Christ Jesus. Lord, sometimes my flesh is weak and I just want to give up, but I thank You for not giving up on me. I thank You for preparing me for whatever path You have chosen me to follow as long as I know that the path leads home to You and to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. Psalm 27:13-15
Saints, Do you sometimes feel like giving up? Every once in a while do you feel that your best just ain't good enough? Do you sometimes cry out to the Lord and ask him does he see, does he care what you're going through?
Sometimes it seems that you are doing everything that you are supposed to as a child of God. You pray, you fast, your serve and you tithe but life keeps coming against you. You take one step forward and get knocked two steps back. You get one problem resolved then three more problems pop up?
Well there is something that I have come to realize in these past couple of years. It’s not always about you! When you decide to commit your life to God and truly live and serve him, he will mold and shape your life to suit him, not you!
So often we don't realize how much we have conformed to the world until we see our lives through God's eyes. We are bombarded with sin and evil almost each and every moment of each and every day. Almost everything that we see and hear is contrary to God's word. That’s why we must constantly study and stay in the word of God.
So often denying yourselves, denying your flesh, denying what you want and doing what God wants can be painful. But remember, He knows how much we can bear. In the time of trouble he promised He'd always be there.
He understands, he is the Lord he sees and yes he understands.
Be Blessed.
Prayer:
My forever faithful Father, my Rock, my Strength, my redeemer, Lord, we come blessing and praising You for all that You have done. Father God, sometimes life gets hard. When we think that one storm is about to end, another one begins. Lord, we realize that being a Christian is not always easy. We understand that weeping may endure for a night, but Lord, sometimes it feels like it's night all the time. Father God, I thank You for understanding me. I thank You for preparing me. Lord, I thank You for the desire in my heart to follow after Christ Jesus. Lord, sometimes my flesh is weak and I just want to give up, but I thank You for not giving up on me. I thank You for preparing me for whatever path You have chosen me to follow as long as I know that the path leads home to You and to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Blocking Your Blessings
We can only learn to know ourselves and do what we can / namely, surrender our will and fulfill God's will in us. ~ St. Teresa of Avila
Scripture:
Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men. Matthew 16:23 (New International Version)
As we go through life, there are many things we may want or desire. We see someone and want to make them our mate. We desire big cars, fancy houses and a multitude of other riches. We want fame, fortune and success. However, I ask; how many of us seek God first before we go after the desires of our hearts?
Personally, I know there were a lot of things that I went after in my life without consulting God about it first. For example, when I met my ex-husband, I decided after our first date that he would be the man I married. Sadly, my marriage didn’t work out. I had made a life altering decision without going to God and seeking His guidance first.
Now this doesn’t mean that my ex was a bad man or even a bad husband. He just wasn’t meant to be my husband and if I had truly listened to what God was trying to tell me about that particular relationship, we never would have gotten married. I wanted what I wanted and I wanted to marry him. However, we didn’t want the same things in a marriage and that’s what led to the demise of my family.
I share this story with you today as a reminder that when we are seeking certain things in a relationship, in order for anything that we do to succeed, we must first take it to God and He will direct our paths.
God cannot bless our unions, our jobs, and our prosperity if those things are outside of His will. He cannot bless us as only He can when He sees us making wrong choices. God has given each and every one of us, free will. And as a result, we must learn to live our lives with His will for us in mind.
Satan is always trying to make our lives difficult by filling our hearts with lust for the wrong things. He is constantly putting up road blocks and distractions in our lives in his effort to keep us from the kingdom of God. Far too often we fall into his traps and as a result, will block our own blessings.
Remember, God cannot bless you if there is something else in the way.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, there are times when I realize that I have a selfish spirit. I want what I want. Sometimes, I will do whatever it takes to get what I want. Lord, I come asking that You would help me to overcome my spirit of selfishness. Help me to develop a more Christ like spirit. Father help me to see my life through Your eyes. Help me to recognize my sins and faults and to work on my negative attitudes. Lord, help me to see when I am blocking my own blessings. Father, if there is something that I can do or something that I can to say to help someone else, help me to see it. When I am doing or saying something that is not pleasing to You, help me to know it. Father, I ask that You would order my steps this day as I surrender my will to Yours. Lead me, guide me, bless me. Use me Lord, for Your edification. Continue to bless my brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, I give You all of my heart, All the praise, All the honor and glory, in the name of Jesus.
Scripture:
Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men. Matthew 16:23 (New International Version)
As we go through life, there are many things we may want or desire. We see someone and want to make them our mate. We desire big cars, fancy houses and a multitude of other riches. We want fame, fortune and success. However, I ask; how many of us seek God first before we go after the desires of our hearts?
Personally, I know there were a lot of things that I went after in my life without consulting God about it first. For example, when I met my ex-husband, I decided after our first date that he would be the man I married. Sadly, my marriage didn’t work out. I had made a life altering decision without going to God and seeking His guidance first.
Now this doesn’t mean that my ex was a bad man or even a bad husband. He just wasn’t meant to be my husband and if I had truly listened to what God was trying to tell me about that particular relationship, we never would have gotten married. I wanted what I wanted and I wanted to marry him. However, we didn’t want the same things in a marriage and that’s what led to the demise of my family.
I share this story with you today as a reminder that when we are seeking certain things in a relationship, in order for anything that we do to succeed, we must first take it to God and He will direct our paths.
God cannot bless our unions, our jobs, and our prosperity if those things are outside of His will. He cannot bless us as only He can when He sees us making wrong choices. God has given each and every one of us, free will. And as a result, we must learn to live our lives with His will for us in mind.
Satan is always trying to make our lives difficult by filling our hearts with lust for the wrong things. He is constantly putting up road blocks and distractions in our lives in his effort to keep us from the kingdom of God. Far too often we fall into his traps and as a result, will block our own blessings.
Remember, God cannot bless you if there is something else in the way.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, there are times when I realize that I have a selfish spirit. I want what I want. Sometimes, I will do whatever it takes to get what I want. Lord, I come asking that You would help me to overcome my spirit of selfishness. Help me to develop a more Christ like spirit. Father help me to see my life through Your eyes. Help me to recognize my sins and faults and to work on my negative attitudes. Lord, help me to see when I am blocking my own blessings. Father, if there is something that I can do or something that I can to say to help someone else, help me to see it. When I am doing or saying something that is not pleasing to You, help me to know it. Father, I ask that You would order my steps this day as I surrender my will to Yours. Lead me, guide me, bless me. Use me Lord, for Your edification. Continue to bless my brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, I give You all of my heart, All the praise, All the honor and glory, in the name of Jesus.
