Thursday, April 28, 2011
What Are You Planting In Your Garden?
The garden is a mirror of the heart. ~ Unknown
Scripture:
I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. John 15:1
Saints, whether you realize it or not, spring is here. As we turn our thoughts towards spring, we start thinking about our yards and our gardens. Many of you have probably already started thinking about what type of seeds you will be planting this year. Some may choose to plant only flowers. Others may choose to plant only vegetable and some still will plant both.
As I reflect back to biblical times, I have noticed that the garden was very important to all. You see the lands in which they resided where often barren and would sometimes lack water. So they had to be very diligent in what they grew because they knew their very lives depended on their crops. Unlike us, if their gardens failed, they couldn’t just run out to the corner store to get something for dinner.
The same holds true today in our own gardens. What you decide to plant has a distinct bearing on your well-being. You see, I am not talking about your flower garden or your vegetable garden. I am talking about your spiritual garden. Whatever a man soweth, so shall he reap. What seeds are being planted in your spiritual garden? I pray that you plant seeds of love, seeds of hope, seeds of forgiveness, but most of all, seeds of faith.
You see, when we start our gardens at just the right time, give them the love, care, nurturing, and attention that all gardens need, we can grow a bountiful crop that can and will last until our next planting season.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Oh kind and gracious and merciful Father, we come this day as humbly as we know how. We lift up our eyes unto the heavens from which all of our blessings flow. Father, we know that we are not worthy of fresh grace, but You give it to us anyway. We know that somewhere along the way we have sinned, but You forgave us anyway. We know that sometimes we disappoint You, but You love us anyway. Thank You Father that You love and forgive me despite me. Father we come standing in the gap for our fellow saints, for our family members, and for our friends. So many need so much, but we know that there is nothing too hard for God. Continue to touch, bless, anoint and heal those saints among us who are afflicted. Keep us all just a little closer to You this day and give us the wisdom to choose the right seeds for our gardens. Now Lord we pause to praise You. We give thanks to You this day, we magnify and uplift Your most holy name. We ask and pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. John 15:1
Saints, whether you realize it or not, spring is here. As we turn our thoughts towards spring, we start thinking about our yards and our gardens. Many of you have probably already started thinking about what type of seeds you will be planting this year. Some may choose to plant only flowers. Others may choose to plant only vegetable and some still will plant both.
As I reflect back to biblical times, I have noticed that the garden was very important to all. You see the lands in which they resided where often barren and would sometimes lack water. So they had to be very diligent in what they grew because they knew their very lives depended on their crops. Unlike us, if their gardens failed, they couldn’t just run out to the corner store to get something for dinner.
The same holds true today in our own gardens. What you decide to plant has a distinct bearing on your well-being. You see, I am not talking about your flower garden or your vegetable garden. I am talking about your spiritual garden. Whatever a man soweth, so shall he reap. What seeds are being planted in your spiritual garden? I pray that you plant seeds of love, seeds of hope, seeds of forgiveness, but most of all, seeds of faith.
You see, when we start our gardens at just the right time, give them the love, care, nurturing, and attention that all gardens need, we can grow a bountiful crop that can and will last until our next planting season.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Oh kind and gracious and merciful Father, we come this day as humbly as we know how. We lift up our eyes unto the heavens from which all of our blessings flow. Father, we know that we are not worthy of fresh grace, but You give it to us anyway. We know that somewhere along the way we have sinned, but You forgave us anyway. We know that sometimes we disappoint You, but You love us anyway. Thank You Father that You love and forgive me despite me. Father we come standing in the gap for our fellow saints, for our family members, and for our friends. So many need so much, but we know that there is nothing too hard for God. Continue to touch, bless, anoint and heal those saints among us who are afflicted. Keep us all just a little closer to You this day and give us the wisdom to choose the right seeds for our gardens. Now Lord we pause to praise You. We give thanks to You this day, we magnify and uplift Your most holy name. We ask and pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Learning to Pause
Remember, Learn to pause ... or nothing worthwhile will catch up to you. ~ Doug King
Scripture:
I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. Psalm 40:1-3 (New International Version)
So often we find ourselves running through life, going from one place to another in search of something or someone that will fulfill us and make us happy. We start as children sprinting into our teenaged years. Looking for our next milestone, thirteen, sixteen, eighteen and then finally, twenty-one; expecting something miraculous to happen that will change our lives. We can’t wait until we are grown and on our own.
Then we find ourselves in search of love; looking for that special someone who will fulfill all of our fairytale dreams in the hopes of living happily ever after. In the meantime, we run towards the right education, job, car, neighborhood, and the world around us continues to churn, as we search for the things that are supposed to make us content.
Somewhere down life’s road, we begin to realize that neither people nor things can truly fulfill us or make us happy. So we often find that we have been running around in circles, searching, waiting, wondering, when will it happen for us.
We find ourselves so busy running after things, that we forget to just pause and appreciate where we are right now. I often reflect back on “The good old days” when life seemed to be less complicated and realize that I am the one who complicated it looking for that “something” to complete me. It wasn’t until I realized that the only thing that could truly complete me was God that I learned to pause and live in the moment.
So my friends, today I urge you to pause and let something good catch up to you.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Father, too often I found myself looking for that something or someone that I thought would make me happy. I looked high and low but couldn’t find it anywhere. It wasn’t until You found me that my life began to change. Thank You Lord, for finding me in the slimy pits of life. Thank You father for placing my feet on a solid rock, giving me a firm place to stand. Thank You Lord for reaching down and reaching out Your hand to me. Lord, thank You for loving me enough by giving me the gift of eternal life through Christ Jesus. Now Lord, I ask that You would continue to bless those who come seeking a word of encouragement. Speak to our heart Holy Spirit. Helping us to always be mindful to pause, and enjoy the moment in Christ Jesus. We love You Lord, we bless Your name. We give thanks, glory, honor and praise; in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. Psalm 40:1-3 (New International Version)
So often we find ourselves running through life, going from one place to another in search of something or someone that will fulfill us and make us happy. We start as children sprinting into our teenaged years. Looking for our next milestone, thirteen, sixteen, eighteen and then finally, twenty-one; expecting something miraculous to happen that will change our lives. We can’t wait until we are grown and on our own.
Then we find ourselves in search of love; looking for that special someone who will fulfill all of our fairytale dreams in the hopes of living happily ever after. In the meantime, we run towards the right education, job, car, neighborhood, and the world around us continues to churn, as we search for the things that are supposed to make us content.
Somewhere down life’s road, we begin to realize that neither people nor things can truly fulfill us or make us happy. So we often find that we have been running around in circles, searching, waiting, wondering, when will it happen for us.
We find ourselves so busy running after things, that we forget to just pause and appreciate where we are right now. I often reflect back on “The good old days” when life seemed to be less complicated and realize that I am the one who complicated it looking for that “something” to complete me. It wasn’t until I realized that the only thing that could truly complete me was God that I learned to pause and live in the moment.
So my friends, today I urge you to pause and let something good catch up to you.
Be blessed
Prayer:
Father, too often I found myself looking for that something or someone that I thought would make me happy. I looked high and low but couldn’t find it anywhere. It wasn’t until You found me that my life began to change. Thank You Lord, for finding me in the slimy pits of life. Thank You father for placing my feet on a solid rock, giving me a firm place to stand. Thank You Lord for reaching down and reaching out Your hand to me. Lord, thank You for loving me enough by giving me the gift of eternal life through Christ Jesus. Now Lord, I ask that You would continue to bless those who come seeking a word of encouragement. Speak to our heart Holy Spirit. Helping us to always be mindful to pause, and enjoy the moment in Christ Jesus. We love You Lord, we bless Your name. We give thanks, glory, honor and praise; in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Temptation
Remember, 'Tis one thing to be tempted, another thing to fall.” ~ William Shakespeare
Scripture:
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. Matthew 6:13
Sometime ago, I received a daily devotionals entitled "A word with you". It is written by Ron Hutchcraft. The message was about temptation. He spoke about how temptation is just deception in disguise. He spoke about how we reach out for something based on what it was supposed to give us, only to be disappointed when we found out what was really inside. That deception is in fact, the very nature of sin, and it's why we end up with scars and messes we never knew we would become a part of.
Temptations look promising on the outside. But lead to heartache and hurt on the inside. Sin conceals its ugliness and it destruction until you've already bitten the apple.
Temptations that may look good to you right now may say "pleasure" on the container - do this because it will feel good. Or maybe the package says "love" - do this and you'll get some love. The promise may be "relief" - a chance to escape from some hurt ... or maybe it says "significance" - do this and you'll get ahead, you'll feel important. But in reality, sin takes us further and further away from God. We must always be mindful of temptation.
We must always remember to put on our armor each and every day. We must always remember that satan is like a roaring lion, out to destroy you, your family, and your life. Lift up your shield of faith this morning and shout "Get behind thee satan, you are a liar and a thief and you cannot have anything that belongs to me or my family!"
Good habits result from resisting temptation.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Our Father, which art in heaven, holy, holy, holy is thy name. Father we come this morning asking for an extra portion this day, that we may not be led into temptation. Help us Lord, to be mindful of those things that would destroy us. Father, when we are faced with temptation, strengthen us Lord, that we may turn away from it and seek Your face instead. Father God, we ask and pray for Your strength today. Your word that we hide in our hearts. Keep us lord, forgive us Lord, and protect us Lord. Father we ask that You continue to touch the people in our lives whom we diligently pray for and with. Touch those who may be sick and may have given up hope. Father we know what the doctors have said, we know what the family wants, but we also know that all things are in divine order. We pray Your will in all of our situations today. We love You and Bless Your holy name. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. Matthew 6:13
Sometime ago, I received a daily devotionals entitled "A word with you". It is written by Ron Hutchcraft. The message was about temptation. He spoke about how temptation is just deception in disguise. He spoke about how we reach out for something based on what it was supposed to give us, only to be disappointed when we found out what was really inside. That deception is in fact, the very nature of sin, and it's why we end up with scars and messes we never knew we would become a part of.
Temptations look promising on the outside. But lead to heartache and hurt on the inside. Sin conceals its ugliness and it destruction until you've already bitten the apple.
Temptations that may look good to you right now may say "pleasure" on the container - do this because it will feel good. Or maybe the package says "love" - do this and you'll get some love. The promise may be "relief" - a chance to escape from some hurt ... or maybe it says "significance" - do this and you'll get ahead, you'll feel important. But in reality, sin takes us further and further away from God. We must always be mindful of temptation.
We must always remember to put on our armor each and every day. We must always remember that satan is like a roaring lion, out to destroy you, your family, and your life. Lift up your shield of faith this morning and shout "Get behind thee satan, you are a liar and a thief and you cannot have anything that belongs to me or my family!"
Good habits result from resisting temptation.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Our Father, which art in heaven, holy, holy, holy is thy name. Father we come this morning asking for an extra portion this day, that we may not be led into temptation. Help us Lord, to be mindful of those things that would destroy us. Father, when we are faced with temptation, strengthen us Lord, that we may turn away from it and seek Your face instead. Father God, we ask and pray for Your strength today. Your word that we hide in our hearts. Keep us lord, forgive us Lord, and protect us Lord. Father we ask that You continue to touch the people in our lives whom we diligently pray for and with. Touch those who may be sick and may have given up hope. Father we know what the doctors have said, we know what the family wants, but we also know that all things are in divine order. We pray Your will in all of our situations today. We love You and Bless Your holy name. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Pick up Your Cross
I have always believed that God never gives a cross to bear larger than we can carry. No matter what, he wants us to be happy, not sad. Birds sing after a storm. Why shouldn't we? ~ Rose F. Kennedy
Scripture:
And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. Luke 14:27
Do you sometimes wonder why your life seems so hard? Do you ever wonder why it seems as though you go from one bad situation to the next? Do you ever wonder why it seems as though you are constantly under attack? Do you ever wonder why it seems as though you are living the word of God and going through, but you know people who know nothing about God's word and they seem to have everything?
Do you ever cry to out to God; "Why me Lord?" and he answers; "Why not you!"
One of the things that I like to share with new believers and share with those of you have been in the word for a very long time is this; When you were in the world and not in the word satan didn't care anything about you because he already had you. When you became a disciple of Christ, that's when he became concerned. That's when he started coming after you. That's when he started throwing everything he has at you.
Unfortunately, too many people think that once they accept Jesus Christ as their Personal Savior, life would get better. Too often we think that things aren't suppose to happen to us because we believe in the word of God. Too often we think that we aren't suppose to go through bad times, be sick, lose loved ones, suffer financially, have broken relationships and the list goes on and on.
If you look closely enough at the word of God it does tell you that each and every one of us will have our own cross to bear. Just like Jesus. Wait a minute, let me back up. Each and every Christian who has been charged with being one of his disciples, (and that is what every Christian should be, a disciple), will have their own cross to bear. Now while we are carrying our cross, satan will be throwing things, dropping bombs, creating chaos, troubling the waters and doing everything else to turn you away from God. He hates each and every one of us that much and wants to separate us from the love of God.
Satan knows that as long as we have God on our side, His Grace is sufficient. We can do all things through Christ Jesus. We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. No weapon formed against us can prosper. The Lord will provide.
I don't know about you, but I praise God for my cross because I'd rather carry my cross here on earth as one of his disciples and spend eternity with him, than to be fooled into believing that I can have it all here on earth and then spend eternity in hell with satan.
Be Blessed.
Prayer:
El-Elyon, Most High God , El-Shaddia, Almighty God, El-Olam, Everlasting God, Father, Abba, You who are my everything. Lord, sometimes we get weary and tired. There are days when life seems more than we can bear. There are nights that my pillow is covered in tears and it seems as though no one cares. Father, I have hidden Your word in my heart. I dwell and meditate on Your word night and day. I thank You Lord for Your word that strengthens me. Lord, You have said we can do all things through Christ Jesus. You have told us that You are with us always, even until the end of times. You are in the fiery furnace with us, on our ship that is caught in the storm, and in the valley of death. We don't ask that You come into our hearts and lives, only that You magnify Your presence. Touch us today, our minds, our hearts, our spirits, our very souls. Keep us in perfect peace. Strengthen us once again. Father, when I grow weary from the weight of my cross, empower me and order my steps so that I may continue down the path that You have chosen. Thank You Father. Thank You Lord. For the one who first carried my cross, Christ Jesus in his name we pray. Praise God, Hallelujah, Amen.
Scripture:
And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. Luke 14:27
Do you sometimes wonder why your life seems so hard? Do you ever wonder why it seems as though you go from one bad situation to the next? Do you ever wonder why it seems as though you are constantly under attack? Do you ever wonder why it seems as though you are living the word of God and going through, but you know people who know nothing about God's word and they seem to have everything?
Do you ever cry to out to God; "Why me Lord?" and he answers; "Why not you!"
One of the things that I like to share with new believers and share with those of you have been in the word for a very long time is this; When you were in the world and not in the word satan didn't care anything about you because he already had you. When you became a disciple of Christ, that's when he became concerned. That's when he started coming after you. That's when he started throwing everything he has at you.
Unfortunately, too many people think that once they accept Jesus Christ as their Personal Savior, life would get better. Too often we think that things aren't suppose to happen to us because we believe in the word of God. Too often we think that we aren't suppose to go through bad times, be sick, lose loved ones, suffer financially, have broken relationships and the list goes on and on.
If you look closely enough at the word of God it does tell you that each and every one of us will have our own cross to bear. Just like Jesus. Wait a minute, let me back up. Each and every Christian who has been charged with being one of his disciples, (and that is what every Christian should be, a disciple), will have their own cross to bear. Now while we are carrying our cross, satan will be throwing things, dropping bombs, creating chaos, troubling the waters and doing everything else to turn you away from God. He hates each and every one of us that much and wants to separate us from the love of God.
Satan knows that as long as we have God on our side, His Grace is sufficient. We can do all things through Christ Jesus. We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. No weapon formed against us can prosper. The Lord will provide.
I don't know about you, but I praise God for my cross because I'd rather carry my cross here on earth as one of his disciples and spend eternity with him, than to be fooled into believing that I can have it all here on earth and then spend eternity in hell with satan.
Be Blessed.
Prayer:
El-Elyon, Most High God , El-Shaddia, Almighty God, El-Olam, Everlasting God, Father, Abba, You who are my everything. Lord, sometimes we get weary and tired. There are days when life seems more than we can bear. There are nights that my pillow is covered in tears and it seems as though no one cares. Father, I have hidden Your word in my heart. I dwell and meditate on Your word night and day. I thank You Lord for Your word that strengthens me. Lord, You have said we can do all things through Christ Jesus. You have told us that You are with us always, even until the end of times. You are in the fiery furnace with us, on our ship that is caught in the storm, and in the valley of death. We don't ask that You come into our hearts and lives, only that You magnify Your presence. Touch us today, our minds, our hearts, our spirits, our very souls. Keep us in perfect peace. Strengthen us once again. Father, when I grow weary from the weight of my cross, empower me and order my steps so that I may continue down the path that You have chosen. Thank You Father. Thank You Lord. For the one who first carried my cross, Christ Jesus in his name we pray. Praise God, Hallelujah, Amen.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
That's Love!
The ultimate lesson all of us have to learn is unconditional love, which includes not only others but ourselves as well. ~ Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
Scripture:
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. John 3:16-18
A few years ago when my youngest son Joseph was seven years old, we went to see and illustrated sermon called “The Whip, The Hammer, and The Cross.” It was the story of Jesus Christ as presented by Greater Grace Temple, a local church here in Detroit. Now I have gone to see several gospel plays, but I must say this was not a play.
The dynamic Bishop Ellis brought a totally new dimension to the telling of this story by combining a theatrical production and church service! He not only told the story of the reason why Jesus came, to reconcile us sinners to God, but also how jealously and persecution that led to his death. It bought home the realization of what Jesus knowingly and willingly did; So that every sinner would have a chance to enter into the kingdom of Heaven.
He also very pointedly told how so many of us are willing to cast aside His works for popular opinion. He told of how the Jews praised and exalted Him one day and called for His crucifixion the next. How on that infamous Psalm’s Sunday, when They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" Blessed is the King of Israel!" Then a few days later condemned him to die on the cross as a blasphemer.
Without going into much more detail, my son Joseph, who has been in church since day one, left the service asking why, and wanting to be baptized! Praise God! (As Baptist, our children have to confess Jesus Christ for themselves. We do not believe in having them Baptized until they accept Jesus Christ as their own personal Savior).
Saints, my son as a mere babe in the word, recognized how much Jesus loved him. He wanted to join the Kingdom of God. What about you? Do you know how much he loves you?
Do you realize the price that Jesus paid so that you and I can have a chance to enter into His Kingdom?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Our heavenly Father, we come giving thanks that You loved us that much to sacrifice Your only begotten son. We thank You Lord, that You have given us the keys to the kingdom that was bought with the price of the blood of Your precious Son. Jesus, we thank You that You loved us enough to go to the cross to save a sinner such as me. Father, if we had ten thousand tongues, we could never offer up enough thanks and praise for what You have done, so that we might be saved. Oh, how precious is the Blood of the Lamb. Lord, in our living, let not the shedding of Your blood have been in vain. Father God, Holy Spirit, Precious Jesus, our love and gratitude to You can never be enough to pay the cost for Your gifts. Thank You Lord. Continue to be with those saints who need You today. Continue to be with our troops who are still far away from the safety of home. Thank You Lord, as we ask these things in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. John 3:16-18
A few years ago when my youngest son Joseph was seven years old, we went to see and illustrated sermon called “The Whip, The Hammer, and The Cross.” It was the story of Jesus Christ as presented by Greater Grace Temple, a local church here in Detroit. Now I have gone to see several gospel plays, but I must say this was not a play.
The dynamic Bishop Ellis brought a totally new dimension to the telling of this story by combining a theatrical production and church service! He not only told the story of the reason why Jesus came, to reconcile us sinners to God, but also how jealously and persecution that led to his death. It bought home the realization of what Jesus knowingly and willingly did; So that every sinner would have a chance to enter into the kingdom of Heaven.
He also very pointedly told how so many of us are willing to cast aside His works for popular opinion. He told of how the Jews praised and exalted Him one day and called for His crucifixion the next. How on that infamous Psalm’s Sunday, when They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" Blessed is the King of Israel!" Then a few days later condemned him to die on the cross as a blasphemer.
Without going into much more detail, my son Joseph, who has been in church since day one, left the service asking why, and wanting to be baptized! Praise God! (As Baptist, our children have to confess Jesus Christ for themselves. We do not believe in having them Baptized until they accept Jesus Christ as their own personal Savior).
Saints, my son as a mere babe in the word, recognized how much Jesus loved him. He wanted to join the Kingdom of God. What about you? Do you know how much he loves you?
Do you realize the price that Jesus paid so that you and I can have a chance to enter into His Kingdom?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Our heavenly Father, we come giving thanks that You loved us that much to sacrifice Your only begotten son. We thank You Lord, that You have given us the keys to the kingdom that was bought with the price of the blood of Your precious Son. Jesus, we thank You that You loved us enough to go to the cross to save a sinner such as me. Father, if we had ten thousand tongues, we could never offer up enough thanks and praise for what You have done, so that we might be saved. Oh, how precious is the Blood of the Lamb. Lord, in our living, let not the shedding of Your blood have been in vain. Father God, Holy Spirit, Precious Jesus, our love and gratitude to You can never be enough to pay the cost for Your gifts. Thank You Lord. Continue to be with those saints who need You today. Continue to be with our troops who are still far away from the safety of home. Thank You Lord, as we ask these things in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Do You Have Hope?
Man can live for about forty days without food, and about three days without water, about eight minutes without air ... but only for one second without hope. ~ Hal Lindsey
Scripture:
"My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle, and they come to an end without hope. Job 7:6 (New International Version) May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (New International Version)
So often during our lifetimes, things will happen that can cause you to lose hope. You lose your job, you lose hope. Your relationship falls apart, so does your hope. A goal that you have been working towards for years still seems out of reach. Is there still hope? I for one know what it feel like to lose hope.
When my mother died, I felt hopeless. When my marriage fell apart, so did my expectation in ever feeling whole again. As I have struggled to provide for my two sons and myself, there are times when I feel that there is not hope for our situation. But for some reason, something always happens to restore my hope.
My faith assures me that I will see my mother again. Even after experiencing months of unemployment, I was still able to provide for my family. I realized that my marriage didn’t define me, how I felt about myself did. And the goal that I have been working towards for years? I keep on plugging away, never giving up, never giving in.
The word of God tells us to Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. In other words, even when there appears to be no hope, hold on to your joy. When things come against you to tear down your hope, remain patient. And always remain feverent in prayer.
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.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him. I call out to the Lord. He is worthy of praise. He saves me from my enemies. The Lord lives! Give praise to my Rock! Give honor to God, the Rock! He is my Savior! Lord, we come once again singing songs of praise. Lord, we honor You because You are who You said You are. You are the rock of my salvation. You are my strength. You are my salvation. You are the one and only true God! Thank You Lord for saving me. Father, Abba, Great Jehovah, You are known by many names, but no matter which name we call on, You will answer. Thank You Lord, for answering prayer. No my Lord, we ask that You would continue to do great things in our lives. The world today is ruled by a spirit of darkness. Lord, we ask that we, Your saints, would become those lights that guide others home to You. Father, may something that we do this day, or something that we say this day, be a blessing unto someone else. May we always hide Your word in our hearts. But more importantly, may we always allow Your word and the Holy Spirit to guide us in all we do and say. Now Lord, Bless us, Keep us, Protect us, Strengthen us. Lord, we could never thank You enough for our blessings. But we say thank You anyhow. We could never express just how much we love You, but we say we love You anyhow. We could never be worthy of Your grace and mercy. But we thank You for giving us those gifts anyhow. Thank You Lord. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Glory to God. Amen.
Scripture:
"My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle, and they come to an end without hope. Job 7:6 (New International Version) May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (New International Version)
So often during our lifetimes, things will happen that can cause you to lose hope. You lose your job, you lose hope. Your relationship falls apart, so does your hope. A goal that you have been working towards for years still seems out of reach. Is there still hope? I for one know what it feel like to lose hope.
When my mother died, I felt hopeless. When my marriage fell apart, so did my expectation in ever feeling whole again. As I have struggled to provide for my two sons and myself, there are times when I feel that there is not hope for our situation. But for some reason, something always happens to restore my hope.
My faith assures me that I will see my mother again. Even after experiencing months of unemployment, I was still able to provide for my family. I realized that my marriage didn’t define me, how I felt about myself did. And the goal that I have been working towards for years? I keep on plugging away, never giving up, never giving in.
The word of God tells us to Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. In other words, even when there appears to be no hope, hold on to your joy. When things come against you to tear down your hope, remain patient. And always remain feverent in prayer.
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.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him. I call out to the Lord. He is worthy of praise. He saves me from my enemies. The Lord lives! Give praise to my Rock! Give honor to God, the Rock! He is my Savior! Lord, we come once again singing songs of praise. Lord, we honor You because You are who You said You are. You are the rock of my salvation. You are my strength. You are my salvation. You are the one and only true God! Thank You Lord for saving me. Father, Abba, Great Jehovah, You are known by many names, but no matter which name we call on, You will answer. Thank You Lord, for answering prayer. No my Lord, we ask that You would continue to do great things in our lives. The world today is ruled by a spirit of darkness. Lord, we ask that we, Your saints, would become those lights that guide others home to You. Father, may something that we do this day, or something that we say this day, be a blessing unto someone else. May we always hide Your word in our hearts. But more importantly, may we always allow Your word and the Holy Spirit to guide us in all we do and say. Now Lord, Bless us, Keep us, Protect us, Strengthen us. Lord, we could never thank You enough for our blessings. But we say thank You anyhow. We could never express just how much we love You, but we say we love You anyhow. We could never be worthy of Your grace and mercy. But we thank You for giving us those gifts anyhow. Thank You Lord. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Glory to God. Amen.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Going Through to Get To
Remember, Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it. ~Michael Jordan
Scripture:
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. Philippians 1:29-30 (New International Version)
Recently, I had a conversation with a friend who just discovered some life altering news. As we talked about this new revelation, through her tears she asked, Why am I always going through?
As I tried to comfort my friend, I tried to explain to her going through something, is just a journey. It is a journey of our souls from one place to the other.
Today I am here to tell you that even as you are going through, God is there with you. Even in your times of trouble, he still grants you peace. Even as we walk through the valleys of sickness, depression, financial difficulties, death, and disaster, God will never leave us nor forsake us.
Understand that each and every one of us will have to go through something. Sometimes it’s because of things that we have done, the choices that we have made, or even just because it's necessary.
Sometimes God allows us to go through some thing for our own good. Maybe it's to protect us. Maybe it's to help us see just how blessed we are. Maybe it's to help us grow. There is one very important thing that I have learned about going through the valley of trials and tribulations and that is, none of us will stay in the valley.
It's just a journey to the other side!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
God bless those of us who are battling those inner demons of depression, loneliness, unworthiness, and hopelessness. Shine Your warm Heavenly Light down upon all of us, Lord, guide us to find peace, happiness, and contentment in our lives and within ourselves. The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besieges me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary; but what is unseen is eternal. Heavenly Father, in my present need, help me to believe that You are aware of my anxiety and will do what is best for me. Give me the strength to trust You and put my present and my future in Your hands. We pray, O God of hope, for all families whose lives are torn and disrupted by drugs and alcohol. Enable them to identify the illness. Strengthen them to seek help. Bless them with the power of Your love, which imparts transformation and wholeness to those who trust in Your name. Grant that as they walk this tortured road, they may journey together and bound close in the bond of love. Lord, we thank You for this day. For life and one more day to love, for neighbors, family, and friends. For one more person to love and by whom be loved. For Your grace and one more experience of Your presence, and for Your promise to be with us, to be our God, and to give salvation. For these, and all blessings, we give You thanks, eternal, loving God, through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. Philippians 1:29-30 (New International Version)
Recently, I had a conversation with a friend who just discovered some life altering news. As we talked about this new revelation, through her tears she asked, Why am I always going through?
As I tried to comfort my friend, I tried to explain to her going through something, is just a journey. It is a journey of our souls from one place to the other.
Today I am here to tell you that even as you are going through, God is there with you. Even in your times of trouble, he still grants you peace. Even as we walk through the valleys of sickness, depression, financial difficulties, death, and disaster, God will never leave us nor forsake us.
Understand that each and every one of us will have to go through something. Sometimes it’s because of things that we have done, the choices that we have made, or even just because it's necessary.
Sometimes God allows us to go through some thing for our own good. Maybe it's to protect us. Maybe it's to help us see just how blessed we are. Maybe it's to help us grow. There is one very important thing that I have learned about going through the valley of trials and tribulations and that is, none of us will stay in the valley.
It's just a journey to the other side!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
God bless those of us who are battling those inner demons of depression, loneliness, unworthiness, and hopelessness. Shine Your warm Heavenly Light down upon all of us, Lord, guide us to find peace, happiness, and contentment in our lives and within ourselves. The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besieges me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary; but what is unseen is eternal. Heavenly Father, in my present need, help me to believe that You are aware of my anxiety and will do what is best for me. Give me the strength to trust You and put my present and my future in Your hands. We pray, O God of hope, for all families whose lives are torn and disrupted by drugs and alcohol. Enable them to identify the illness. Strengthen them to seek help. Bless them with the power of Your love, which imparts transformation and wholeness to those who trust in Your name. Grant that as they walk this tortured road, they may journey together and bound close in the bond of love. Lord, we thank You for this day. For life and one more day to love, for neighbors, family, and friends. For one more person to love and by whom be loved. For Your grace and one more experience of Your presence, and for Your promise to be with us, to be our God, and to give salvation. For these, and all blessings, we give You thanks, eternal, loving God, through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Monday, April 18, 2011
You Too Can be a Hero
Remember, a hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” ~ Christopher Reeves
Scripture:
O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:19-21 (New International Version)
Hero is from the Greek language and in mythology and folklore, a hero were characters that in the face of danger and adversity, from a position of weakness displayed courage and the will for self-sacrifice. That is, heroism, for some greater good, originally of martial courage or excellence but extended to more general moral excellence.
I am not much of a TV person but last year there was one program that captivated me. It was called “Heroes.” It was about a group of people who discovered that had extraordinary powers and overcame adversities to save the world.
Many of the “Heroes” had dark secrets, were unsure of the powers, had questionable pasts or were too afraid to reveal their “secret” fearing how others would judge them. Now if you took away their powers, they were just ordinary people just like you and me. It was the gifts that they discovered they had that made them “Heroes.”
Did you know that you have extraordinary gifts too? You might be a person who has the gift of compassion and are willing to help others around you. Maybe you have the gift of mentoring; reaching out to help a lost child find their way in life. Or maybe, you have the gift friendship. You are there to help a friend in need. Be it listening to them, helping them out in some way or just lending a shoulder to cry on. Maybe you have discovered your gift yet. Not because it doesn’t exist, but rather because you haven’t looked inside yourself to discover what it is.
A Hero isn’t defined simply as having supernatural powers, but rather having the strength to overcome, do and give in supernatural ways. You may not even realize that you are someone else’s hero, and just like the TV heroes, maybe you are unsure of your strength, your ability or your power.
There is a Hero inside of you. All you have to do is find him.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I declare and stand on Your word that says I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me. I have been commissioned to do great things in the name of the Lord. I claim my gifts today and pledge to use them for the furthering of the kingdom. Lord, I am weak, but You are strong. I can move mountains in your name. Help me to build a mountain of compassion, of friendship and of caring for those who are in need. May I pause today to help someone else besides myself and build roads that lead home to You. Father, help me to discover my inner power so that I can be an angel that helps someone else through this journey called life. May I always remember to share a portion of what has been given to me, even if its just the gift of time. Thank You Father for my blessings. Thank You Lord for Your word that guides me each and every day. I love You Lord, and I submit this prayer in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:19-21 (New International Version)
Hero is from the Greek language and in mythology and folklore, a hero were characters that in the face of danger and adversity, from a position of weakness displayed courage and the will for self-sacrifice. That is, heroism, for some greater good, originally of martial courage or excellence but extended to more general moral excellence.
I am not much of a TV person but last year there was one program that captivated me. It was called “Heroes.” It was about a group of people who discovered that had extraordinary powers and overcame adversities to save the world.
Many of the “Heroes” had dark secrets, were unsure of the powers, had questionable pasts or were too afraid to reveal their “secret” fearing how others would judge them. Now if you took away their powers, they were just ordinary people just like you and me. It was the gifts that they discovered they had that made them “Heroes.”
Did you know that you have extraordinary gifts too? You might be a person who has the gift of compassion and are willing to help others around you. Maybe you have the gift of mentoring; reaching out to help a lost child find their way in life. Or maybe, you have the gift friendship. You are there to help a friend in need. Be it listening to them, helping them out in some way or just lending a shoulder to cry on. Maybe you have discovered your gift yet. Not because it doesn’t exist, but rather because you haven’t looked inside yourself to discover what it is.
A Hero isn’t defined simply as having supernatural powers, but rather having the strength to overcome, do and give in supernatural ways. You may not even realize that you are someone else’s hero, and just like the TV heroes, maybe you are unsure of your strength, your ability or your power.
There is a Hero inside of you. All you have to do is find him.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I declare and stand on Your word that says I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me. I have been commissioned to do great things in the name of the Lord. I claim my gifts today and pledge to use them for the furthering of the kingdom. Lord, I am weak, but You are strong. I can move mountains in your name. Help me to build a mountain of compassion, of friendship and of caring for those who are in need. May I pause today to help someone else besides myself and build roads that lead home to You. Father, help me to discover my inner power so that I can be an angel that helps someone else through this journey called life. May I always remember to share a portion of what has been given to me, even if its just the gift of time. Thank You Father for my blessings. Thank You Lord for Your word that guides me each and every day. I love You Lord, and I submit this prayer in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
God's Treasure
Remember, Treasure your relationships, not your possessions. ~ Anthony J. DeAngelo
Scripture:
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. Matthew 6:20-22
Recently a friend, sent me a story about a little girl who treasured a strand of dime store pearls. This little girl thought the pearls were wonderful and they where her most prized possession.
Well the story goes on to tell how her father, knowing how much this little girl loved these pearls, asked her if she loved him too. Of course her response was yes. But when he asked if he could have the pearls, the little girl would response, oh no, but you can have one of my other treasures. This went on for awhile, until one day with tears in her eyes, the little girl gave her daddy the cheap pearls.
Her father who loved her very much reached into his pocket and pulled out a real set of pearls that he been waiting to give his daughter when she was ready to give up the cheap ones that she treasured so deeply.
The moral of the story is this; How often do we covet something that only looks good? How often do we hold on to a relationship that only looks good to the world, but we know in our hearts, that it is not all it appears to be? How often do we say we love our heavenly Father, but are unwilling to give up those things in our lives, that are cheap, gaudy, and superficial? How often must He ask us do we love him enough to give up what we treasure the most to follow him?
How long does he have to wait to give you the purest treasure of all? His love.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, forgive us for loving things more than You. Forgive us not listening to Your cries. Forgive us Lord for not seeing our own selfishness. Father, help us to develop a discerning spirit that would help us to recognize those things in our lives that You yearn for us to give up. Help us to be still, be quiet, listen for Your voice that tells us how much You love us, when the world around us tries to tell us otherwise. Father, may we always seek You face, Your wisdom, and Your mercy. For we are weak and need Your strength. Thank You Lord, for the new revelations we discover in Your word each day. Continue to touch, bless, and anoint all who come seeking Your word today. Help each of us find that path that You have chosen for us. Order our steps Holy Spirit, so that we may always walks in right relation with You. Keep each and every family that is represented here safe under the wings of Your salvation. As we as these and all things in the name of Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. Matthew 6:20-22
Recently a friend, sent me a story about a little girl who treasured a strand of dime store pearls. This little girl thought the pearls were wonderful and they where her most prized possession.
Well the story goes on to tell how her father, knowing how much this little girl loved these pearls, asked her if she loved him too. Of course her response was yes. But when he asked if he could have the pearls, the little girl would response, oh no, but you can have one of my other treasures. This went on for awhile, until one day with tears in her eyes, the little girl gave her daddy the cheap pearls.
Her father who loved her very much reached into his pocket and pulled out a real set of pearls that he been waiting to give his daughter when she was ready to give up the cheap ones that she treasured so deeply.
The moral of the story is this; How often do we covet something that only looks good? How often do we hold on to a relationship that only looks good to the world, but we know in our hearts, that it is not all it appears to be? How often do we say we love our heavenly Father, but are unwilling to give up those things in our lives, that are cheap, gaudy, and superficial? How often must He ask us do we love him enough to give up what we treasure the most to follow him?
How long does he have to wait to give you the purest treasure of all? His love.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, forgive us for loving things more than You. Forgive us not listening to Your cries. Forgive us Lord for not seeing our own selfishness. Father, help us to develop a discerning spirit that would help us to recognize those things in our lives that You yearn for us to give up. Help us to be still, be quiet, listen for Your voice that tells us how much You love us, when the world around us tries to tell us otherwise. Father, may we always seek You face, Your wisdom, and Your mercy. For we are weak and need Your strength. Thank You Lord, for the new revelations we discover in Your word each day. Continue to touch, bless, and anoint all who come seeking Your word today. Help each of us find that path that You have chosen for us. Order our steps Holy Spirit, so that we may always walks in right relation with You. Keep each and every family that is represented here safe under the wings of Your salvation. As we as these and all things in the name of Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Giving Your Soul A Rise
Each Warrior wants to leave the mark of his will, his signature, on important acts he touches. This is not the voice of ego but of the human spirit, rising up and declaring that it has something to contribute to the solution of the hardest problems, no matter how vexing! ~ Pat Riley
Scripture:
He shall say: "Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be terrified or give way to panic before them. For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory. Deuteronomy 20:3-5 (New International Version)
Today I want to talk about warriors. Warriors are those people who go out and confront situations that exist that will not be easy to overcome. They will be met opposition, naysayers and people just waiting for them to fail. Yes, even those who are closest to them will often try to sabotage their efforts by interjecting a spirit of doubt. Yet, these warriors will fight against the odds and continue into battle to fight the good fight of faith.
I happen to have been blessed with several friends who are warriors. Angela and Cynthia battled cancer. Rhonda went back to school to get her masters and is now an assistant principle. I know several warriors who are single parents whose children didn’t become statistics or fall through the cracks. I know several children who didn’t have their fathers in their lives who still have achieved great success. Elissa, started a publishing company and helped eleven other authors achieve their dreams. Saints of God, you too can be a warrior.
The word of God reminds us that no matter what giants may be against us, the Lord our God is with us. Just as David had mustard seed faith as he faced Goliath, so should we all. The giants of depression, fear, poverty, and loneliness don’t stand a chance when God is on your side. That mountainous goal you have before you can be achieved when you lift up the shield of faith and the sword of the spirit, the word of God.
The word of God can give your soul a rise, when you put on the whole armor of God and always remember, you too can be a warrior!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, as we face another day, we come kneeling before the throne of grace to say thank you Lord. Thank you for one more day. Father, many of your children are under a multitude of attacks during this holiest of seasons. Father, we ask that you would keep us safe and secure in your arms. Lord, someone cannot put into words the heaviness of the burdens they must carry. Have Mercy Lord. Some mother or father is grieving this morning because they cannot save their child. Have mercy Lord. Someone feels so overwhelmed that they cannot function right now. Have mercy. We come pleading the blood of Jesus over these situations. We come thanking you Lord, for loving us anyhow. Lord, give us eyes to see and ears to hear your word and the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Father, help us to be diligent and aware of the tricks of he who seeks to destroy us. Help us to remember to put on the whole armor of God as we enter into another day fought with he who wants our souls. Our souls that have been bought with a price. That price was Jesus. Wonderful Counselor. Jesus, Prince of Peace. Jesus, my Rock and my Strength. Jesus, who is my redeemer. Thank you Lord, for Jesus Christ, my intercessor. Jesus, who allows us to come to the throne of grace with our prayers and petitions. Thank you Jesus, Amen.
Scripture:
He shall say: "Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be terrified or give way to panic before them. For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory. Deuteronomy 20:3-5 (New International Version)
Today I want to talk about warriors. Warriors are those people who go out and confront situations that exist that will not be easy to overcome. They will be met opposition, naysayers and people just waiting for them to fail. Yes, even those who are closest to them will often try to sabotage their efforts by interjecting a spirit of doubt. Yet, these warriors will fight against the odds and continue into battle to fight the good fight of faith.
I happen to have been blessed with several friends who are warriors. Angela and Cynthia battled cancer. Rhonda went back to school to get her masters and is now an assistant principle. I know several warriors who are single parents whose children didn’t become statistics or fall through the cracks. I know several children who didn’t have their fathers in their lives who still have achieved great success. Elissa, started a publishing company and helped eleven other authors achieve their dreams. Saints of God, you too can be a warrior.
The word of God reminds us that no matter what giants may be against us, the Lord our God is with us. Just as David had mustard seed faith as he faced Goliath, so should we all. The giants of depression, fear, poverty, and loneliness don’t stand a chance when God is on your side. That mountainous goal you have before you can be achieved when you lift up the shield of faith and the sword of the spirit, the word of God.
The word of God can give your soul a rise, when you put on the whole armor of God and always remember, you too can be a warrior!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, as we face another day, we come kneeling before the throne of grace to say thank you Lord. Thank you for one more day. Father, many of your children are under a multitude of attacks during this holiest of seasons. Father, we ask that you would keep us safe and secure in your arms. Lord, someone cannot put into words the heaviness of the burdens they must carry. Have Mercy Lord. Some mother or father is grieving this morning because they cannot save their child. Have mercy Lord. Someone feels so overwhelmed that they cannot function right now. Have mercy. We come pleading the blood of Jesus over these situations. We come thanking you Lord, for loving us anyhow. Lord, give us eyes to see and ears to hear your word and the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Father, help us to be diligent and aware of the tricks of he who seeks to destroy us. Help us to remember to put on the whole armor of God as we enter into another day fought with he who wants our souls. Our souls that have been bought with a price. That price was Jesus. Wonderful Counselor. Jesus, Prince of Peace. Jesus, my Rock and my Strength. Jesus, who is my redeemer. Thank you Lord, for Jesus Christ, my intercessor. Jesus, who allows us to come to the throne of grace with our prayers and petitions. Thank you Jesus, Amen.
Thursday, April 07, 2011
Your Blessing Is on the Way
Remember, When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place. ~ C.S. Lewis
Scripture:
“Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments; Deuteronomy 7:9
Saints,
How many of you have been praying for something to happen and it hasn't happened yet? How many of you are wondering when your breakthrough will come? How many of you are wondering how long will you have to be in the valley?
The one thing that I have learned since becoming a Christian is this, no matter how bad we want something, how much we pray about it, how much we beg and ask God to change something, it's not going to happen unless and until God says it's time.
Sometimes the things that we have to go through are necessary before we can see the manifestation of God's blessings. You see saints, when we have to go through something sometimes that is the only way God can get our attention. Sometimes we have to go through to prepare us for what God has in store for us. Sometimes we have to go through so that God can show up and show out!
No matter what we have to go through always remember, the Lord is still blessing you right now!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, sometimes it seems like You don't hear our prayers. But we know Lord, that You hear our cries. Father, forgive us for our impatience. Father, we know that even when we aren't faithful to You, You are still faithful to us. Thank You Lord, that You see beyond our weaknesses and bless us anyhow. Lord, teach us patience. Father I come asking that You would touch, bless heal and anoint our prayer list. Many of our sick and afflicted have been going through for quite sometime. Help us to remain prayerful, even when we can't see You working in our lives. Father, we know our breakthroughs are at hand, because You have already given us the victory through Your son, Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
“Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments; Deuteronomy 7:9
Saints,
How many of you have been praying for something to happen and it hasn't happened yet? How many of you are wondering when your breakthrough will come? How many of you are wondering how long will you have to be in the valley?
The one thing that I have learned since becoming a Christian is this, no matter how bad we want something, how much we pray about it, how much we beg and ask God to change something, it's not going to happen unless and until God says it's time.
Sometimes the things that we have to go through are necessary before we can see the manifestation of God's blessings. You see saints, when we have to go through something sometimes that is the only way God can get our attention. Sometimes we have to go through to prepare us for what God has in store for us. Sometimes we have to go through so that God can show up and show out!
No matter what we have to go through always remember, the Lord is still blessing you right now!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, sometimes it seems like You don't hear our prayers. But we know Lord, that You hear our cries. Father, forgive us for our impatience. Father, we know that even when we aren't faithful to You, You are still faithful to us. Thank You Lord, that You see beyond our weaknesses and bless us anyhow. Lord, teach us patience. Father I come asking that You would touch, bless heal and anoint our prayer list. Many of our sick and afflicted have been going through for quite sometime. Help us to remain prayerful, even when we can't see You working in our lives. Father, we know our breakthroughs are at hand, because You have already given us the victory through Your son, Jesus Christ, in his name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
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.
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Which Self will You Serve?
Respect your efforts, respect yourself. Self-respect leads to self-discipline. When you have both firmly under your belt, that's real power. ~ Clint Eastwood
Scripture:
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:6-7 (New International Version)
As I often have the opportunity to talk to people who are successful in their chosen career or profession, I like to ask the question, what makes you good at what you do? More times than not their answers might surprise you. What I have discovered about many of those success stories is the willingness to constantly learn and improve upon their craft. They commit themselves to the task at hand which often times also include doing some tasks that they’d rather not do, but realize it is a necessary part of the process.
In my pursuit of being a writer I find one of the biggest obstacles I have to overcome is, me. You see, to put my thoughts down on paper and create a story actually takes a lot of self-discipline. I actually have to make a consorted effort to work at my craft. Trust me, if there was some way to just stick a tape-recorder inside my brain to capture the story, I would.
I am the first to admit that I am a procrastinator and can often find a myriad of others things to do when it’s time to write. However, what I have also discovered along the way is that if I want to be successful and be taken seriously in my pursuit of a writing career, I must establish some sort of self-discipline. And so it is with our Christian walk.
The world around us beckons to us to partake of a myriad of distracting things rather than developing into the disciples that God has called us all to be. We would rather partake of all the carnal pleasures that the world has to offer instead of committing ourselves to the task at hand and that is to make the effort to become more Christ-like.
Remember, self-discipline refers to the training that one gives one's self to accomplish our goals even though we would really rather be doing something else
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, so often we would rather choose the easy way out rather than commit to the task at hand, which includes serving You. So often our lives become so self-serving that we can no longer see Your vision for our lives. We tend to forget that it takes commitment and dedication to achieve our purpose and when we fail to do the right thing, we fail not only ourselves, but we also fail You. We oftentimes misuse free will as an excuse to not answer Your call. Forgive us Lord for failing You and for shortchanging ourselves. We sometimes forget that the world does not revolve around us and our needs. We fail to see that we have been ordained for a greater purpose and that purpose is You and Your Kingdom. Help me Lord, to learn to focus on You more and the world around me less. Help me Lord to all things in divine and proper order. But most of all Lord, help me to see the fallacies of my behavior and to recognize when my actions are not pleasing to You. I thank You Lord for divine revelations and for fresh grace and mercy. Thank You Father God for another chance to get in right. But thank You most of all for Your Son, Jesus Christ. It is in His name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:6-7 (New International Version)
As I often have the opportunity to talk to people who are successful in their chosen career or profession, I like to ask the question, what makes you good at what you do? More times than not their answers might surprise you. What I have discovered about many of those success stories is the willingness to constantly learn and improve upon their craft. They commit themselves to the task at hand which often times also include doing some tasks that they’d rather not do, but realize it is a necessary part of the process.
In my pursuit of being a writer I find one of the biggest obstacles I have to overcome is, me. You see, to put my thoughts down on paper and create a story actually takes a lot of self-discipline. I actually have to make a consorted effort to work at my craft. Trust me, if there was some way to just stick a tape-recorder inside my brain to capture the story, I would.
I am the first to admit that I am a procrastinator and can often find a myriad of others things to do when it’s time to write. However, what I have also discovered along the way is that if I want to be successful and be taken seriously in my pursuit of a writing career, I must establish some sort of self-discipline. And so it is with our Christian walk.
The world around us beckons to us to partake of a myriad of distracting things rather than developing into the disciples that God has called us all to be. We would rather partake of all the carnal pleasures that the world has to offer instead of committing ourselves to the task at hand and that is to make the effort to become more Christ-like.
Remember, self-discipline refers to the training that one gives one's self to accomplish our goals even though we would really rather be doing something else
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, so often we would rather choose the easy way out rather than commit to the task at hand, which includes serving You. So often our lives become so self-serving that we can no longer see Your vision for our lives. We tend to forget that it takes commitment and dedication to achieve our purpose and when we fail to do the right thing, we fail not only ourselves, but we also fail You. We oftentimes misuse free will as an excuse to not answer Your call. Forgive us Lord for failing You and for shortchanging ourselves. We sometimes forget that the world does not revolve around us and our needs. We fail to see that we have been ordained for a greater purpose and that purpose is You and Your Kingdom. Help me Lord, to learn to focus on You more and the world around me less. Help me Lord to all things in divine and proper order. But most of all Lord, help me to see the fallacies of my behavior and to recognize when my actions are not pleasing to You. I thank You Lord for divine revelations and for fresh grace and mercy. Thank You Father God for another chance to get in right. But thank You most of all for Your Son, Jesus Christ. It is in His name we pray. Amen.
Monday, April 04, 2011
That's Love!
Remember, the ultimate lesson all of us have to learn is unconditional love, which includes not only others but ourselves as well. ~ Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
Scripture:
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
Recently, a friend and I were talking about the first time we fell in love. We reminisced about how there was no other feeling like it. You couldn't stop thinking about the person you were in love with and you only wanted to be with that one person and no one else.
You trusted that person completely with everything, including your heart. There was nothing that you wouldn't do for that person. How many of you remember the first time you fell in love? Some of may be lucky enough to still be with your first love, but for those of us who aren't, do you remember what if felt like when you lost that love? If felt like your heart would never stop breaking. There was nothing that you or anyone could do or say to make it better.
That's how much God loves us and more! God loves us so much that He can't stop thinking about us. There is nothing that He won't do for us. He wants us to trust him completely. He wants to be with us all the time. God loves us so much that He gave His one and only son so that we wouldn't leave Him.
It breaks God's heart every time one of His children leaves him. But the difference is there is something that we can do and say to make it better. Father, forgive me. I want to come back home to You.
Daddy is waiting there with open arms and He wants to be our first love all over again. Now that's LOVE!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I know that I've done wrong through my thoughts, my actions, and the things that I've said, sometimes by mistake and at other times, on purpose. I have gone my own way and not put You at the center of my life. I am very sorry and ask that You please forgive me. I thank You that I can ask You this because I truly believe that Your Son, Jesus, died in my place and, through Him, I have access to You. Please help me to follow You more closely every day and live a life which gives glory back to You. Forgive us Lord, our sins and transgressions. Thank You Lord for loving us so much. Father, we want You to be our first love. We want You to welcome us with open arms. Father, today we kneel at the foot of the cross where Your son, our Lord and Savior gave His life so that a miserable and unworthy sinner such as me, could once again kneel before the throne of grace. Thank You. Father, let us always remember how much You loved us. I thank You that Your son stood in the gap for me. I thank You that Your son, loved us so much that He was willing to be beaten and was crucified for me. Just for me Lord. Thank You. May Your tears of grace and mercy rain down upon Your saints this and every day. Thank You Lord. Praise God. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
Recently, a friend and I were talking about the first time we fell in love. We reminisced about how there was no other feeling like it. You couldn't stop thinking about the person you were in love with and you only wanted to be with that one person and no one else.
You trusted that person completely with everything, including your heart. There was nothing that you wouldn't do for that person. How many of you remember the first time you fell in love? Some of may be lucky enough to still be with your first love, but for those of us who aren't, do you remember what if felt like when you lost that love? If felt like your heart would never stop breaking. There was nothing that you or anyone could do or say to make it better.
That's how much God loves us and more! God loves us so much that He can't stop thinking about us. There is nothing that He won't do for us. He wants us to trust him completely. He wants to be with us all the time. God loves us so much that He gave His one and only son so that we wouldn't leave Him.
It breaks God's heart every time one of His children leaves him. But the difference is there is something that we can do and say to make it better. Father, forgive me. I want to come back home to You.
Daddy is waiting there with open arms and He wants to be our first love all over again. Now that's LOVE!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I know that I've done wrong through my thoughts, my actions, and the things that I've said, sometimes by mistake and at other times, on purpose. I have gone my own way and not put You at the center of my life. I am very sorry and ask that You please forgive me. I thank You that I can ask You this because I truly believe that Your Son, Jesus, died in my place and, through Him, I have access to You. Please help me to follow You more closely every day and live a life which gives glory back to You. Forgive us Lord, our sins and transgressions. Thank You Lord for loving us so much. Father, we want You to be our first love. We want You to welcome us with open arms. Father, today we kneel at the foot of the cross where Your son, our Lord and Savior gave His life so that a miserable and unworthy sinner such as me, could once again kneel before the throne of grace. Thank You. Father, let us always remember how much You loved us. I thank You that Your son stood in the gap for me. I thank You that Your son, loved us so much that He was willing to be beaten and was crucified for me. Just for me Lord. Thank You. May Your tears of grace and mercy rain down upon Your saints this and every day. Thank You Lord. Praise God. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Sunday, April 03, 2011
Hold On and Don't Let Go!
Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal. ~ Pamela Vault Starr
Scripture:
"He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. 2 Samuel 22:17-18
I used to wonder why some people settle for mediocrity. As I look around me at people in this world, I often wonder what causes a person to lose their hopes and their dreams? I often ponder how and why would someone give up the spark within themselves that pushes them on to do great things.
Personally, I reflect back on the life of my maternal grandmother, Madea. Growing up, my grandmother was the epitome of the strong black woman. She was the center of my family’s world. She worked hard and loved even harder. She fought for the things she believed in, especially her family. Then one day, she just stopped fighting.
Now I don’t know what happened to cause this change. Maybe it was having to bury two daughters, one being my mother; and her own mother. All within a few years of each other. Maybe it was losing “Auntie, the woman who had taken my grandmother and great-grandmother in when they had no place else to go. Maybe it was the realization that her grandchildren, whom she cherished had grown up and moved on.
Whatever the reason(s), it was evident that my grandmother had just given up on life, put away her dreams and decided to die. Yes, it took three long years for it to happen, but happen it did.
I often wondered how this strong and powerful woman could just give up her life so easily. Then I grew up and saw first hand how the things that happen to us can throw us for a loop and just make you tired. Tired of fighting, tired of loving, tired of living.
Too often I see people who have lost hope and don’t have anything to hold on to, lose their grip on life and just let go. Too often the things of this world will beat you down, leaving you bruised and confused, unable to stand the blows of the evil one.
For those of you who may be going through something, I come to tell you; hold on and don’t let go. To those of you who are feeling beat down by life, I come to tell you; there is shelter from the rain. For those of you who feel like all hope is gone; I come to let you know that there is still hope for a dying world. There is comfort for your weary soul. It can be found in the loving arms of Jesus.
So Hold On, Be Strong, and Don’t Let Go!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come to You seeking strength, guidance and a little more patience. Father, forgive us when we feel weak in our faith. Forgive us when we seem to give up and give out. Lord, we know that You are not a God of confusion. You have told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Thank You Lord for that word. Father, hide us under Your wings of salvation. Cover us in the blood. Keep us nearer God to thee. Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless our brothers and sisters. Those who are saved and those who have yet to get to know You for themselves. Lord, we pray for financial breakthroughs today. So many need so much, have mercy Lord. Breath on us Lord, cover us Lord, Have mercy on us Lord. We love You Father God and we are thankful for what we do have. We praise, uplift and bless Your holy name. As we submit our prayers and petitions in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
Scripture:
"He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. 2 Samuel 22:17-18
I used to wonder why some people settle for mediocrity. As I look around me at people in this world, I often wonder what causes a person to lose their hopes and their dreams? I often ponder how and why would someone give up the spark within themselves that pushes them on to do great things.
Personally, I reflect back on the life of my maternal grandmother, Madea. Growing up, my grandmother was the epitome of the strong black woman. She was the center of my family’s world. She worked hard and loved even harder. She fought for the things she believed in, especially her family. Then one day, she just stopped fighting.
Now I don’t know what happened to cause this change. Maybe it was having to bury two daughters, one being my mother; and her own mother. All within a few years of each other. Maybe it was losing “Auntie, the woman who had taken my grandmother and great-grandmother in when they had no place else to go. Maybe it was the realization that her grandchildren, whom she cherished had grown up and moved on.
Whatever the reason(s), it was evident that my grandmother had just given up on life, put away her dreams and decided to die. Yes, it took three long years for it to happen, but happen it did.
I often wondered how this strong and powerful woman could just give up her life so easily. Then I grew up and saw first hand how the things that happen to us can throw us for a loop and just make you tired. Tired of fighting, tired of loving, tired of living.
Too often I see people who have lost hope and don’t have anything to hold on to, lose their grip on life and just let go. Too often the things of this world will beat you down, leaving you bruised and confused, unable to stand the blows of the evil one.
For those of you who may be going through something, I come to tell you; hold on and don’t let go. To those of you who are feeling beat down by life, I come to tell you; there is shelter from the rain. For those of you who feel like all hope is gone; I come to let you know that there is still hope for a dying world. There is comfort for your weary soul. It can be found in the loving arms of Jesus.
So Hold On, Be Strong, and Don’t Let Go!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come to You seeking strength, guidance and a little more patience. Father, forgive us when we feel weak in our faith. Forgive us when we seem to give up and give out. Lord, we know that You are not a God of confusion. You have told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Thank You Lord for that word. Father, hide us under Your wings of salvation. Cover us in the blood. Keep us nearer God to thee. Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless our brothers and sisters. Those who are saved and those who have yet to get to know You for themselves. Lord, we pray for financial breakthroughs today. So many need so much, have mercy Lord. Breath on us Lord, cover us Lord, Have mercy on us Lord. We love You Father God and we are thankful for what we do have. We praise, uplift and bless Your holy name. As we submit our prayers and petitions in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
Hold On and Don't Let Go!
Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal. ~ Pamela Vault Starr
Scripture:
"He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. 2 Samuel 22:17-18
I used to wonder why some people settle for mediocrity. As I look around me at people in this world, I often wonder what causes a person to lose their hopes and their dreams? I often ponder how and why would someone give up the spark within themselves that pushes them on to do great things.
Personally, I reflect back on the life of my maternal grandmother, Madea. Growing up, my grandmother was the epitome of the strong black woman. She was the center of my family’s world. She worked hard and loved even harder. She fought for the things she believed in, especially her family. Then one day, she just stopped fighting.
Now I don’t know what happened to cause this change. Maybe it was having to bury two daughters, one being my mother; and her own mother. All within a few years of each other. Maybe it was losing “Auntie, the woman who had taken my grandmother and great-grandmother in when they had no place else to go. Maybe it was the realization that her grandchildren, whom she cherished had grown up and moved on.
Whatever the reason(s), it was evident that my grandmother had just given up on life, put away her dreams and decided to die. Yes, it took three long years for it to happen, but happen it did.
I often wondered how this strong and powerful woman could just give up her life so easily. Then I grew up and saw first hand how the things that happen to us can throw us for a loop and just make you tired. Tired of fighting, tired of loving, tired of living.
Too often I see people who have lost hope and don’t have anything to hold on to, lose their grip on life and just let go. Too often the things of this world will beat you down, leaving you bruised and confused, unable to stand the blows of the evil one.
For those of you who may be going through something, I come to tell you; hold on and don’t let go. To those of you who are feeling beat down by life, I come to tell you; there is shelter from the rain. For those of you who feel like all hope is gone; I come to let you know that there is still hope for a dying world. There is comfort for your weary soul. It can be found in the loving arms of Jesus.
So Hold On, Be Strong, and Don’t Let Go!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come to You seeking strength, guidance and a little more patience. Father, forgive us when we feel weak in our faith. Forgive us when we seem to give up and give out. Lord, we know that You are not a God of confusion. You have told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Thank You Lord for that word. Father, hide us under Your wings of salvation. Cover us in the blood. Keep us nearer God to thee. Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless our brothers and sisters. Those who are saved and those who have yet to get to know You for themselves. Lord, we pray for financial breakthroughs today. So many need so much, have mercy Lord. Breath on us Lord, cover us Lord, Have mercy on us Lord. We love You Father God and we are thankful for what we do have. We praise, uplift and bless Your holy name. As we submit our prayers and petitions in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
Scripture:
"He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. 2 Samuel 22:17-18
I used to wonder why some people settle for mediocrity. As I look around me at people in this world, I often wonder what causes a person to lose their hopes and their dreams? I often ponder how and why would someone give up the spark within themselves that pushes them on to do great things.
Personally, I reflect back on the life of my maternal grandmother, Madea. Growing up, my grandmother was the epitome of the strong black woman. She was the center of my family’s world. She worked hard and loved even harder. She fought for the things she believed in, especially her family. Then one day, she just stopped fighting.
Now I don’t know what happened to cause this change. Maybe it was having to bury two daughters, one being my mother; and her own mother. All within a few years of each other. Maybe it was losing “Auntie, the woman who had taken my grandmother and great-grandmother in when they had no place else to go. Maybe it was the realization that her grandchildren, whom she cherished had grown up and moved on.
Whatever the reason(s), it was evident that my grandmother had just given up on life, put away her dreams and decided to die. Yes, it took three long years for it to happen, but happen it did.
I often wondered how this strong and powerful woman could just give up her life so easily. Then I grew up and saw first hand how the things that happen to us can throw us for a loop and just make you tired. Tired of fighting, tired of loving, tired of living.
Too often I see people who have lost hope and don’t have anything to hold on to, lose their grip on life and just let go. Too often the things of this world will beat you down, leaving you bruised and confused, unable to stand the blows of the evil one.
For those of you who may be going through something, I come to tell you; hold on and don’t let go. To those of you who are feeling beat down by life, I come to tell you; there is shelter from the rain. For those of you who feel like all hope is gone; I come to let you know that there is still hope for a dying world. There is comfort for your weary soul. It can be found in the loving arms of Jesus.
So Hold On, Be Strong, and Don’t Let Go!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come to You seeking strength, guidance and a little more patience. Father, forgive us when we feel weak in our faith. Forgive us when we seem to give up and give out. Lord, we know that You are not a God of confusion. You have told us that You would never leave us nor forsake us. Thank You Lord for that word. Father, hide us under Your wings of salvation. Cover us in the blood. Keep us nearer God to thee. Lord, we ask that You would continue to bless our brothers and sisters. Those who are saved and those who have yet to get to know You for themselves. Lord, we pray for financial breakthroughs today. So many need so much, have mercy Lord. Breath on us Lord, cover us Lord, Have mercy on us Lord. We love You Father God and we are thankful for what we do have. We praise, uplift and bless Your holy name. As we submit our prayers and petitions in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.
