Monday, May 30, 2011
The Right to Choose
Understand that the right to choose your own path is a sacred privilege. Use it. Dwell in possibility. ~ Oprah Winfrey
Scripture:
Whom did the LORD consult to enlighten him, and who taught him the right way? Who was it that taught him knowledge or showed him the path of understanding? Isaiah 40:14 (New International Version)
Our lives consist of a series of choices. Some of those choices, we make, while other choices are made for us. When we are young and unable to make our own decisions, our parents are there to make the right choices for us. However, as we grow in age and knowledge, we can begin to make our own informed choices.
There were times in my youth where I did not always make the right choice, or at the very least I made some pretty stupid choices. For example, I know that there were times in high school; I chose to do the wrong thing in an effort to be accepted by the “in crowd.” Many of my choices would later lead to a series of heartbreaks and disappointments for me later in life. I realize that even as an adult, many of my choices were still bad ones. There is one very important fact that I have come to realize though, it’s never too late to make the right choice.
When we choose good over bad, right over wrong, light over darkness; we are in fact making the right choice. Even when our lives seem to be out of sorts, the choices that we make can still bless us. You see, I prefer to praise God in the midst of my storms instead of singing the blues all of the time. Each morning when I rise, I choose to have a good day no matter how dismal the world around me appears to be. I want to be a writer so I make a conscience decision to work at my craft on a daily basis.
So often we take the privilege of choice for granted. We don’t realize that there are many people in this world who cannot make their own choices. Even in this great country of ours, the right to choose has been taken away for some who did not or could not make the right choice.
The right to choose is still yours to make. Will you make the right one?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, so often we feel that our lives are not our own. We believe that our destiny in life is chosen by others. Dear Lord, help us to remember that the choice is always ours. When we find ourselves caught up in wrong situations, help us to see our way out. When others see our failures, help us to realize our victories. Help us always to remember, that the right to choose is ours alone. Even You, give us the right to choose. May the choices and decisions I make in my life, be pleasing to You. May I always remember that many of the choices that I make will impact my life forever. Lord, I choose You. I am blessed, that You have also chosen me. I thank You Lord for loving me enough to choose me to serve You. Glory to God. Hallelujah. Thank You Father for the gift of life, Your Son and my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is in his name that we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Whom did the LORD consult to enlighten him, and who taught him the right way? Who was it that taught him knowledge or showed him the path of understanding? Isaiah 40:14 (New International Version)
Our lives consist of a series of choices. Some of those choices, we make, while other choices are made for us. When we are young and unable to make our own decisions, our parents are there to make the right choices for us. However, as we grow in age and knowledge, we can begin to make our own informed choices.
There were times in my youth where I did not always make the right choice, or at the very least I made some pretty stupid choices. For example, I know that there were times in high school; I chose to do the wrong thing in an effort to be accepted by the “in crowd.” Many of my choices would later lead to a series of heartbreaks and disappointments for me later in life. I realize that even as an adult, many of my choices were still bad ones. There is one very important fact that I have come to realize though, it’s never too late to make the right choice.
When we choose good over bad, right over wrong, light over darkness; we are in fact making the right choice. Even when our lives seem to be out of sorts, the choices that we make can still bless us. You see, I prefer to praise God in the midst of my storms instead of singing the blues all of the time. Each morning when I rise, I choose to have a good day no matter how dismal the world around me appears to be. I want to be a writer so I make a conscience decision to work at my craft on a daily basis.
So often we take the privilege of choice for granted. We don’t realize that there are many people in this world who cannot make their own choices. Even in this great country of ours, the right to choose has been taken away for some who did not or could not make the right choice.
The right to choose is still yours to make. Will you make the right one?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, so often we feel that our lives are not our own. We believe that our destiny in life is chosen by others. Dear Lord, help us to remember that the choice is always ours. When we find ourselves caught up in wrong situations, help us to see our way out. When others see our failures, help us to realize our victories. Help us always to remember, that the right to choose is ours alone. Even You, give us the right to choose. May the choices and decisions I make in my life, be pleasing to You. May I always remember that many of the choices that I make will impact my life forever. Lord, I choose You. I am blessed, that You have also chosen me. I thank You Lord for loving me enough to choose me to serve You. Glory to God. Hallelujah. Thank You Father for the gift of life, Your Son and my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is in his name that we pray. Amen.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Let it Go!
Some people think it's holding on that makes one strong; sometimes it's letting go. ~ Sylvia Robinson
Scripture:
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. Revelation 3:19-21
A few years ago I received a message from a very good friend of mine that was written by Bishop T.D. Jakes. I have read the message titled "Let it Go", several times. In this very inspiring message, Bishop Jakes talks about letting go of people who are not good for you, past pains and hurts that you may still carry, and a multitude of excess baggage that may be holding you back.
We as believers often times will prevent ourselves from receiving our blessings, our salvation, our deliverance, because we cannot "Let it Go.” We do not go before the mercy seat and ask God to forgive us for our past mistakes; we allow the world to tell us how we feel, how we should think, and what to believe. We allow the sins of our past to continue to be our sins of today.
God has given us the keys to the kingdom. He has given us a plan, a blueprint, a way out of the valley of the shadow of death. He is standing at your door right now. He is letting you know that he is only a prayer away. All you have to do is open up the door and let him in.
Won't you let him in today and let out those things that are preventing your from gaining entrance into his kingdom?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come kneeling before the mercy seat, asking that You would forgive us of our sins and transgressions. Father, we know that there is nothing that we could ever do on our own to deserve Your goodness and Your mercy, but we come asking anyhow. Help us to look at our lives through Your eyes. Give us the courage and the strength to let go of those people and those things that may be holding us back from You. Help us to realize that everything that we desire isn't always what You desire for us. Father, we hear You knocking at the doors of our hearts this day. We ask You to magnify Your presence and Your power within us. Help us Lord, to be submissive to Your will and Your word, not only today, but each and everyday. Continue to touch those who have come asking for intercessory prayer. Touch the lives and the families of everyone reading this message today. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. Revelation 3:19-21
A few years ago I received a message from a very good friend of mine that was written by Bishop T.D. Jakes. I have read the message titled "Let it Go", several times. In this very inspiring message, Bishop Jakes talks about letting go of people who are not good for you, past pains and hurts that you may still carry, and a multitude of excess baggage that may be holding you back.
We as believers often times will prevent ourselves from receiving our blessings, our salvation, our deliverance, because we cannot "Let it Go.” We do not go before the mercy seat and ask God to forgive us for our past mistakes; we allow the world to tell us how we feel, how we should think, and what to believe. We allow the sins of our past to continue to be our sins of today.
God has given us the keys to the kingdom. He has given us a plan, a blueprint, a way out of the valley of the shadow of death. He is standing at your door right now. He is letting you know that he is only a prayer away. All you have to do is open up the door and let him in.
Won't you let him in today and let out those things that are preventing your from gaining entrance into his kingdom?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come kneeling before the mercy seat, asking that You would forgive us of our sins and transgressions. Father, we know that there is nothing that we could ever do on our own to deserve Your goodness and Your mercy, but we come asking anyhow. Help us to look at our lives through Your eyes. Give us the courage and the strength to let go of those people and those things that may be holding us back from You. Help us to realize that everything that we desire isn't always what You desire for us. Father, we hear You knocking at the doors of our hearts this day. We ask You to magnify Your presence and Your power within us. Help us Lord, to be submissive to Your will and Your word, not only today, but each and everyday. Continue to touch those who have come asking for intercessory prayer. Touch the lives and the families of everyone reading this message today. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
The Blessings of the Lord
A good memory is one that can remember the day's blessings and forget the day's troubles. ~ Unknown
Scripture:
"And now, O Lord GOD, You are God, and Your words are true, and You have promised this goodness to Your servant. Now therefore, let it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue before You forever; for You, O Lord GOD, have spoken it, and with Your blessing let the house of Your servant be blessed forever." 2 Samuel 7:28-30
Saints, today I want to talk about remaining faithful to God. So many times during our lives we set off down the road we think God wants us to travel. As we begin our journey, we are faced with all types of obstacles, roadblocks and setbacks.
We start walking down Life’s Highway and run potholes. Some of the potholes are called economic downturn, sickness, disease, wayward husband/child(ren), job lay-offs, backbiters and there are a whole multitude of others. Satan will put up roadblocks called sin, temptation, discouragement, depression and a whole list of negative spirits.
So often we jut want to give up and quit. Well today I am going to use an old friend as an example. You see, when she decided to go back to school a couple of years ago to get her Masters, she thought it was a pretty simple decision to make. Go register for classes, take the classes and graduate. What she has learned along the way is far more than what she had learned from her teachers.
You see, my friend has faced all kinds of discouraging situations. We won't go into all of them, but I know there where times when maybe she just wanted to throw up her hands and say "I QUIT!" But you know what she did instead? She remained faithful to what she was supposed to do. You see, my friend made a vow to remain faithful to God and continue her course. She has run her race and stayed faithful to God.
Now God has rewarded her with what he has promised. His Blessings.
And so it is with all of us Saints of God. Sometimes when we take the road that has been predetermined by God; we will run into all sorts of roadblocks. However, God has already given us the tools and the perseverance to go around, over, above and under all the things that will hinder us.
All you need is your roadmap (the bible) and your tour guide. Jesus.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Thank You Father for blessing us in spite of us. Thank You Lord for keeping us staid on course. Thank You Lord for remaining faithful to us and watching over us even when we don't realize it. Lord, we ask that You help each and every one of us remain faithful to You. We ask that You would give us eyes to see and ears to hear the deception of he who seeks to destroy us. Lord, we just want to thank You. We ask for the continued healing, deliverance, breakthroughs and blessings for all of our saints who are represented here in the body of Christ. We love and adore You Lord. You are Omni present, on time, all knowing and all seeing. You are Jehovah Jira, Jehovah Nissi Jehovah Shalom. Thank You father for being our banner and remaining faithful to us. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
"And now, O Lord GOD, You are God, and Your words are true, and You have promised this goodness to Your servant. Now therefore, let it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue before You forever; for You, O Lord GOD, have spoken it, and with Your blessing let the house of Your servant be blessed forever." 2 Samuel 7:28-30
Saints, today I want to talk about remaining faithful to God. So many times during our lives we set off down the road we think God wants us to travel. As we begin our journey, we are faced with all types of obstacles, roadblocks and setbacks.
We start walking down Life’s Highway and run potholes. Some of the potholes are called economic downturn, sickness, disease, wayward husband/child(ren), job lay-offs, backbiters and there are a whole multitude of others. Satan will put up roadblocks called sin, temptation, discouragement, depression and a whole list of negative spirits.
So often we jut want to give up and quit. Well today I am going to use an old friend as an example. You see, when she decided to go back to school a couple of years ago to get her Masters, she thought it was a pretty simple decision to make. Go register for classes, take the classes and graduate. What she has learned along the way is far more than what she had learned from her teachers.
You see, my friend has faced all kinds of discouraging situations. We won't go into all of them, but I know there where times when maybe she just wanted to throw up her hands and say "I QUIT!" But you know what she did instead? She remained faithful to what she was supposed to do. You see, my friend made a vow to remain faithful to God and continue her course. She has run her race and stayed faithful to God.
Now God has rewarded her with what he has promised. His Blessings.
And so it is with all of us Saints of God. Sometimes when we take the road that has been predetermined by God; we will run into all sorts of roadblocks. However, God has already given us the tools and the perseverance to go around, over, above and under all the things that will hinder us.
All you need is your roadmap (the bible) and your tour guide. Jesus.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Thank You Father for blessing us in spite of us. Thank You Lord for keeping us staid on course. Thank You Lord for remaining faithful to us and watching over us even when we don't realize it. Lord, we ask that You help each and every one of us remain faithful to You. We ask that You would give us eyes to see and ears to hear the deception of he who seeks to destroy us. Lord, we just want to thank You. We ask for the continued healing, deliverance, breakthroughs and blessings for all of our saints who are represented here in the body of Christ. We love and adore You Lord. You are Omni present, on time, all knowing and all seeing. You are Jehovah Jira, Jehovah Nissi Jehovah Shalom. Thank You father for being our banner and remaining faithful to us. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Monday, May 23, 2011
God's Rare and Precious Jewel
Remember, the gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials. ~ Chinese Proverb
Scripture:
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 1 Peter 1:6-8 (New International Version)
Did you know that diamonds are made of carbon, one of the softest materials on earth? But when carbon is under extreme pressure buried deep below more than 75 miles of rock and is in temperatures more than 2, 192° F, it changes in to a diamond. What starts out as an inert object deep in the bowls of the earth, is transformed into a rare and precious jewel by pressure.
I often liken our lives to diamonds. We start out as; apathetic, asleep, closed down, dead, dormant, down, dull, idle, immobile, impassive, impotent, inactive, inanimate, indolent, languid, languorous, lazy, leaden, listless, motionless, numb, on ice, paralyzed, passive, phlegmatic, powerless, quiescent, quiet, slack, sleepy, slothful, sluggard, sluggish, slumberous, static, still, stolid, torpid, unmoving, unresponsive, (I’m using the thesaurus tonight), individuals who are usually full of themselves with selfish motivations and no real concept of who we are without God.
As things begin to happen in our lives that put us under pressure, we too begin to change. We start searching for that someone or that something that will be the catalyst for our transformation. Those of us, who are lucky, will soon discover that the something or someone who will be the motivating factor for our change will be God.
However, it won’t stop there. As we grow in faith, so will our situations. God isn’t content with us just being a Christian. God wants us to be the best Christian we can be. So in an effort to force out any impurities that may still remain in our lives, he keeps the pressure on.
The pressure is not to break us, but rather to make is into a flawless diamond; a rare and precious jewel.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes it seems as though I am fighting a never ending battle. Some days are filled with stress and strife. Sometimes, I become weary from the war that wages around me. I realized that sometimes it is I who has caused the war from within. Lord, help me to be strong and resist temptation. Help me to develop patience, perseverance and peace within. Father, as I pause to spend time with You, I ask that you would quiet the conflict that rages within me. When I am faced with trials and tribulations help me to be still and remain calm and turn control over to the Holy Spirit. It's Your spirit Lord, that dwells in me. It that same spirit that can give me rest if I would just succumb to it. It’s in that spirit I can find peace, joy and contentment. It's in that Spirit that I can find the answer to the questions that plague me. Father, sometimes it seems as though satan’s entire army has come against me. But Your word tells me that no army can defeat me with the Lord on my side. Thank You Father. I know that as long as I follow You, I am on the right path. I also realize that as long as I follow You, satan will be there trying to discourage me. I rebuke the devil in the name of Jesus. I call upon the name of the Lord, and I will surrender my will to his and allow the Lord to fight my battles. Thank You Father for the power and authority that has been given to me through Christ Jesus. Lord, bless my family, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep me nearer God to Thee. Glory to God, Praise the name of the Lord. Hallelujah, Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
Scripture:
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 1 Peter 1:6-8 (New International Version)
Did you know that diamonds are made of carbon, one of the softest materials on earth? But when carbon is under extreme pressure buried deep below more than 75 miles of rock and is in temperatures more than 2, 192° F, it changes in to a diamond. What starts out as an inert object deep in the bowls of the earth, is transformed into a rare and precious jewel by pressure.
I often liken our lives to diamonds. We start out as; apathetic, asleep, closed down, dead, dormant, down, dull, idle, immobile, impassive, impotent, inactive, inanimate, indolent, languid, languorous, lazy, leaden, listless, motionless, numb, on ice, paralyzed, passive, phlegmatic, powerless, quiescent, quiet, slack, sleepy, slothful, sluggard, sluggish, slumberous, static, still, stolid, torpid, unmoving, unresponsive, (I’m using the thesaurus tonight), individuals who are usually full of themselves with selfish motivations and no real concept of who we are without God.
As things begin to happen in our lives that put us under pressure, we too begin to change. We start searching for that someone or that something that will be the catalyst for our transformation. Those of us, who are lucky, will soon discover that the something or someone who will be the motivating factor for our change will be God.
However, it won’t stop there. As we grow in faith, so will our situations. God isn’t content with us just being a Christian. God wants us to be the best Christian we can be. So in an effort to force out any impurities that may still remain in our lives, he keeps the pressure on.
The pressure is not to break us, but rather to make is into a flawless diamond; a rare and precious jewel.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes it seems as though I am fighting a never ending battle. Some days are filled with stress and strife. Sometimes, I become weary from the war that wages around me. I realized that sometimes it is I who has caused the war from within. Lord, help me to be strong and resist temptation. Help me to develop patience, perseverance and peace within. Father, as I pause to spend time with You, I ask that you would quiet the conflict that rages within me. When I am faced with trials and tribulations help me to be still and remain calm and turn control over to the Holy Spirit. It's Your spirit Lord, that dwells in me. It that same spirit that can give me rest if I would just succumb to it. It’s in that spirit I can find peace, joy and contentment. It's in that Spirit that I can find the answer to the questions that plague me. Father, sometimes it seems as though satan’s entire army has come against me. But Your word tells me that no army can defeat me with the Lord on my side. Thank You Father. I know that as long as I follow You, I am on the right path. I also realize that as long as I follow You, satan will be there trying to discourage me. I rebuke the devil in the name of Jesus. I call upon the name of the Lord, and I will surrender my will to his and allow the Lord to fight my battles. Thank You Father for the power and authority that has been given to me through Christ Jesus. Lord, bless my family, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep me nearer God to Thee. Glory to God, Praise the name of the Lord. Hallelujah, Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
When You Don't Know Where You Are
The state of your life is nothing more than a reflection of your state of mind. ~ Dr. Wayne W. Dyer
Scripture:
Let me live that I may praise you, and may your laws sustain me. I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. Psalm 119:175-176 (New International Version)
Have you ever been in a place mentally where you didn’t understand your own state of mind? Your thoughts are confusing, you have a sense of loss, suddenly not knowing or understanding your purpose in this life. You just can’t seem to get it together.
I find that when I don’t spend time in the presence of God or at the very least, study the word of God, I will find myself at that place. Not understanding why I feel bad or why things aren’t going right in my life are but a few of the symptoms I might be experiencing. I become withdrawn, unable to communicate my thoughts and feelings because I’m not sure what they are.
Saints of God, partaking of the Word of God and spending time in his presence is a necessary part of life if we are to sustain our spiritual life and grow. The word of God says man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord.
Not feeding our faith causes us to feed those negative things in our lives.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
God, sometimes I lose my way and forget where I am. the burdens of life tend to get me down. I suffer in the late night hours, crying tears of anguish, beseeching you to take away my burdens.. I sometimes pray for a mate, not realizing that I must first develop a relationship with you. I want more for my family and don’t realize that we have more than most. Forgive me Lord, for my selfish spirit. Father, come asking for the patience of Job, the faithfulness of David, and the commitment of Paul. I pray that You would forgive me for feeding my fears instead of my faith. Help me Lord, to be still and listen for Your voice alone. Lord, I ask that You would answer the prayers of my brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, I don’t know all of their needs, but you do. Some have not the strength to endure. Strengthen them Heavenly Father, speak a word into their spirits so that they too would be encouraged. Thank You father for Your many blessings. Thank you Lord for the death and resurrection of Your son, Jesus Christ. It is in His name we pray, Amen.
Scripture:
Let me live that I may praise you, and may your laws sustain me. I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. Psalm 119:175-176 (New International Version)
Have you ever been in a place mentally where you didn’t understand your own state of mind? Your thoughts are confusing, you have a sense of loss, suddenly not knowing or understanding your purpose in this life. You just can’t seem to get it together.
I find that when I don’t spend time in the presence of God or at the very least, study the word of God, I will find myself at that place. Not understanding why I feel bad or why things aren’t going right in my life are but a few of the symptoms I might be experiencing. I become withdrawn, unable to communicate my thoughts and feelings because I’m not sure what they are.
Saints of God, partaking of the Word of God and spending time in his presence is a necessary part of life if we are to sustain our spiritual life and grow. The word of God says man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord.
Not feeding our faith causes us to feed those negative things in our lives.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
God, sometimes I lose my way and forget where I am. the burdens of life tend to get me down. I suffer in the late night hours, crying tears of anguish, beseeching you to take away my burdens.. I sometimes pray for a mate, not realizing that I must first develop a relationship with you. I want more for my family and don’t realize that we have more than most. Forgive me Lord, for my selfish spirit. Father, come asking for the patience of Job, the faithfulness of David, and the commitment of Paul. I pray that You would forgive me for feeding my fears instead of my faith. Help me Lord, to be still and listen for Your voice alone. Lord, I ask that You would answer the prayers of my brothers and sisters in Christ. Lord, I don’t know all of their needs, but you do. Some have not the strength to endure. Strengthen them Heavenly Father, speak a word into their spirits so that they too would be encouraged. Thank You father for Your many blessings. Thank you Lord for the death and resurrection of Your son, Jesus Christ. It is in His name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Chasing the Wind
People spend a lifetime searching for happiness; Looking for peace. They chase idle dreams, addictions, religions, even other people, hoping to fill the emptiness that plaques them. The irony is the only place they ever needed to search was within. ~ Unknown
Scripture:
I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men! I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 1:12-14 (New International Version)
The book of Ecclesiastes teaches that us a life not centered on God is purposeless and meaningless. Today’s lesson is about how some people can begin to put too much emphasis on “stuff.”
Sometimes we are so busy chasing after money, success and concern over what other people think about us, that we start looking for satisfaction in all the wrong places. The things that we begin to believe are the most important things in life, are the very things that we begin to chase after.
When we chase after fame, fortune and the opinions of others we are essentially saying that we have total control of our lives and that we don’t trust in the plans that God has for us. This is not to say that obtaining certain things in life is wrong or that we should feel guilty about it, but rather realizing that the collecting of things will not necessarily lead them to the road of happiness. Recognizing what is really important; God, family, and friends are more important than things.
Learning to embrace where you are in life, is sometimes more important than embracing the things that fill our lives. Recognizing where you are in your spiritual walk is often more important than the journey. Learning to enjoy who you are is more important than trying to impress others.
Saints of God, having things is not the most important thing in life. Having God and people who love you is far more important than any material thing that you could ever have. Having peace of mind, body and spirit is something that you will be able to keep with you always.
The most important lesson that any of us could ever learn, is to put God first in everything and He becomes our windbreaker.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come before the throne of grace with praise and thanksgiving on our tongues and in our hearts. We come asking Lord, for peace that passes all understanding. We come asking for strength to stand in the face of adversity. But most of all, we come asking with humbled hearts and minds, that You would hear our prayers and our petitions. Master, we need You to speak to the winds of adversity that are blowing against us, peace be still. We come asking that You hold on to our hands and the storms of life toss us about. We come asking that You would hide us under the wings of Your salvation as the roaring lions draws near in an effort to devour us. Lord, we ask that You would keep all of our families, friends, co-workers and brothers and sisters in perfect peace this and everyday. Bless us right now in the name of Jesus. Our prayers are not complete until we let You know just how much we love You. Our prayers on not complete until we sing songs of praise to You alone. Lord, we lift Your name on high, we give You all of our love, all of our praise and sing songs of praise all the day long. Thank You Lord for one more day. Bless You Lord. Hallelujah, Praise God thank You Jesus, Amen.
Scripture:
I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men! I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 1:12-14 (New International Version)
The book of Ecclesiastes teaches that us a life not centered on God is purposeless and meaningless. Today’s lesson is about how some people can begin to put too much emphasis on “stuff.”
Sometimes we are so busy chasing after money, success and concern over what other people think about us, that we start looking for satisfaction in all the wrong places. The things that we begin to believe are the most important things in life, are the very things that we begin to chase after.
When we chase after fame, fortune and the opinions of others we are essentially saying that we have total control of our lives and that we don’t trust in the plans that God has for us. This is not to say that obtaining certain things in life is wrong or that we should feel guilty about it, but rather realizing that the collecting of things will not necessarily lead them to the road of happiness. Recognizing what is really important; God, family, and friends are more important than things.
Learning to embrace where you are in life, is sometimes more important than embracing the things that fill our lives. Recognizing where you are in your spiritual walk is often more important than the journey. Learning to enjoy who you are is more important than trying to impress others.
Saints of God, having things is not the most important thing in life. Having God and people who love you is far more important than any material thing that you could ever have. Having peace of mind, body and spirit is something that you will be able to keep with you always.
The most important lesson that any of us could ever learn, is to put God first in everything and He becomes our windbreaker.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come before the throne of grace with praise and thanksgiving on our tongues and in our hearts. We come asking Lord, for peace that passes all understanding. We come asking for strength to stand in the face of adversity. But most of all, we come asking with humbled hearts and minds, that You would hear our prayers and our petitions. Master, we need You to speak to the winds of adversity that are blowing against us, peace be still. We come asking that You hold on to our hands and the storms of life toss us about. We come asking that You would hide us under the wings of Your salvation as the roaring lions draws near in an effort to devour us. Lord, we ask that You would keep all of our families, friends, co-workers and brothers and sisters in perfect peace this and everyday. Bless us right now in the name of Jesus. Our prayers are not complete until we let You know just how much we love You. Our prayers on not complete until we sing songs of praise to You alone. Lord, we lift Your name on high, we give You all of our love, all of our praise and sing songs of praise all the day long. Thank You Lord for one more day. Bless You Lord. Hallelujah, Praise God thank You Jesus, Amen.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Over Coming Bad Habits
Remember, Bad habits are like a comfortable bed, easy to get into, but hard to get out of. ~ Anonymous
Scripture:
Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge. Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to. 1 Timothy 5:12-14 (New International Version)
Recently, a friend forwarded to me an article entitled, “Things Women do to each Other.” It was an article that listed the most common offences that women perpetrated against one another. It talked about gossiping, fighting for men, joining cliques, undermining each other, competing against one another and a few more offences.
I found the article very interesting on many levels. As I sat there reading this piece, I could see women in my life that fit into these roles. You know them too. They are the office gossips, your girlfriends who want to confront the “other woman” for sleeping with her man, or even the usher board that you belong to has become cliquish. I can truthfully say that I may have fit into one or two of these categories myself.
Today I will pick on the gossiper since I too have been one of those who talked about others behind their backs. Gossiping is an easy habit to develop. Usually, our curiosity will get the best of us as soon as someone asks, “did you hear about….. Our ears perk up and we become overwhelmed with the desire to know someone else’s little secret.
Then one day it hit me. If I am listening to someone else talking about another’s little secret, whose to say that the office gossiper, isn’t repeating my little secret? Or, if I am a part of or member of any group that omits another because, well, they just don’t like them, I too am guilty of becoming cliquish.
Saints of God, far too often we fall into these traps of wrong behavior because we need to feel as though we belong, or our own lives are so mundane that we enjoy hearing about the misfortunes of others. We then develop the illusion of feeling better about ourselves. And before we know it, these things have developed into bad habits.
Today I would like to remind you that it takes a very strong person to overcome these bad habits and His name is Jesus. If you truly believe that He abides in you, then overcoming these bad habits ain’t so hard. All you have to do is ask for His help.
And remember, Watch your Thoughts, they become words.Watch your words, they become actions. Watch your actions, they become habits. Watch your Habits, they become character. Watch your Character, for it becomes your Destiny.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Father, we thank You for the light that was given unto us so that we may never walk in darkness. We come once again, seeking Your face and Your favor. Hear our prayers and lend ear to our petitions. Lord, today is a new day. May something that I say or do cause someone else to seek You first. Father God, help me to see the dark places of my life. To let go of those things that are not of You and to live a more Christ like existence. Continue to keep or family, friends and loved ones in perfect peace. Touch our brothers and sisters who have asked for prayer. Guide us once again through the valley, keeping us once again safe in Your Arms. Thank You Lord, for a new day full of new hope and promises. We love You Lord, because You loved us enough to sacrifice Your Son for our sake. Thank You Lord. In the name of Jesus we Pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge. Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to. 1 Timothy 5:12-14 (New International Version)
Recently, a friend forwarded to me an article entitled, “Things Women do to each Other.” It was an article that listed the most common offences that women perpetrated against one another. It talked about gossiping, fighting for men, joining cliques, undermining each other, competing against one another and a few more offences.
I found the article very interesting on many levels. As I sat there reading this piece, I could see women in my life that fit into these roles. You know them too. They are the office gossips, your girlfriends who want to confront the “other woman” for sleeping with her man, or even the usher board that you belong to has become cliquish. I can truthfully say that I may have fit into one or two of these categories myself.
Today I will pick on the gossiper since I too have been one of those who talked about others behind their backs. Gossiping is an easy habit to develop. Usually, our curiosity will get the best of us as soon as someone asks, “did you hear about….. Our ears perk up and we become overwhelmed with the desire to know someone else’s little secret.
Then one day it hit me. If I am listening to someone else talking about another’s little secret, whose to say that the office gossiper, isn’t repeating my little secret? Or, if I am a part of or member of any group that omits another because, well, they just don’t like them, I too am guilty of becoming cliquish.
Saints of God, far too often we fall into these traps of wrong behavior because we need to feel as though we belong, or our own lives are so mundane that we enjoy hearing about the misfortunes of others. We then develop the illusion of feeling better about ourselves. And before we know it, these things have developed into bad habits.
Today I would like to remind you that it takes a very strong person to overcome these bad habits and His name is Jesus. If you truly believe that He abides in you, then overcoming these bad habits ain’t so hard. All you have to do is ask for His help.
And remember, Watch your Thoughts, they become words.Watch your words, they become actions. Watch your actions, they become habits. Watch your Habits, they become character. Watch your Character, for it becomes your Destiny.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Father, we thank You for the light that was given unto us so that we may never walk in darkness. We come once again, seeking Your face and Your favor. Hear our prayers and lend ear to our petitions. Lord, today is a new day. May something that I say or do cause someone else to seek You first. Father God, help me to see the dark places of my life. To let go of those things that are not of You and to live a more Christ like existence. Continue to keep or family, friends and loved ones in perfect peace. Touch our brothers and sisters who have asked for prayer. Guide us once again through the valley, keeping us once again safe in Your Arms. Thank You Lord, for a new day full of new hope and promises. We love You Lord, because You loved us enough to sacrifice Your Son for our sake. Thank You Lord. In the name of Jesus we Pray. Amen.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Living Your Dream
Remember, to dream of the person you would like to be is to waste the person you are. ~ Anonymous
Scripture:
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 (New International Version)
Now that I am reaching the age of fifty-three, I often find myself wondering if I am at the place in my life where I should be. It’s no secret that I have a failed marriage, struggle financially and have made countless mistakes. Yes, I have done foolish things, made bad choices and done things that I regret.
However, I also realize that I have overcome a great many things. There are things in my life that have changed as I have grown in the body of Christ. I would love to say that I am more like Christ. Alas, all I can say is I am trying to become more like Him. I know that there He is still working on me and I accept that.
The point is that yes, we all will come to a point in our lives where we will question ourselves. We wonder if we could have been different. We may even have a few regrets about some of the choices that we have made.
However, each of must learn to celebrate who we are right now. Not what we shoulda, coulda been. But embrace who you are right now. If it had not been for many of the things that we had to go through, we would never learn to accept what we have become, Heirs to the King.
So I tell you embrace who you are and remember we are all living our dream. The dream of being one with Christ.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I come before the throne of grace, humbling myself and asking for forgiveness. Lord, I pray that you would forgive me for all the wrong I’ve done. Forgive me allowing negative thoughts and feelings to enter into my spirit. Help me always to rejoice in where I am and not where I think I should have been. For, I am right where I am supposed to be, safe in Your arms. Lord, I ask that Your word would continue to be a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Help me to remember to always to keep Your word hidden in my heart that I might not sin against you. Father, I pray for all of my brothers and sisters who are reading this prayer with me and who have asked for prayer. Lord, I don’t know their needs, but you do. I pray that You would grant them the desires of their hearts according to Your tender mercies in Christ Jesus. It is in His name that we submit our prayers and petitions. Glory to God. Amen.
Scripture:
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 (New International Version)
Now that I am reaching the age of fifty-three, I often find myself wondering if I am at the place in my life where I should be. It’s no secret that I have a failed marriage, struggle financially and have made countless mistakes. Yes, I have done foolish things, made bad choices and done things that I regret.
However, I also realize that I have overcome a great many things. There are things in my life that have changed as I have grown in the body of Christ. I would love to say that I am more like Christ. Alas, all I can say is I am trying to become more like Him. I know that there He is still working on me and I accept that.
The point is that yes, we all will come to a point in our lives where we will question ourselves. We wonder if we could have been different. We may even have a few regrets about some of the choices that we have made.
However, each of must learn to celebrate who we are right now. Not what we shoulda, coulda been. But embrace who you are right now. If it had not been for many of the things that we had to go through, we would never learn to accept what we have become, Heirs to the King.
So I tell you embrace who you are and remember we are all living our dream. The dream of being one with Christ.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, I come before the throne of grace, humbling myself and asking for forgiveness. Lord, I pray that you would forgive me for all the wrong I’ve done. Forgive me allowing negative thoughts and feelings to enter into my spirit. Help me always to rejoice in where I am and not where I think I should have been. For, I am right where I am supposed to be, safe in Your arms. Lord, I ask that Your word would continue to be a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Help me to remember to always to keep Your word hidden in my heart that I might not sin against you. Father, I pray for all of my brothers and sisters who are reading this prayer with me and who have asked for prayer. Lord, I don’t know their needs, but you do. I pray that You would grant them the desires of their hearts according to Your tender mercies in Christ Jesus. It is in His name that we submit our prayers and petitions. Glory to God. Amen.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Going The Extra Mile
Remember, it’s never crowded along the extra mile. ~ Wayne Dyer
Scripture:
God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them. Acts 19:10-12 (New International Version)
There was once a man named Saul who hunted and persecuted followers of Jesus Christ. While on the road to Damascus to annihilate the Christian community there, Saul was blinded by a brilliant light and heard the voice of Christ saying, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?”...And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid, but they heard not the voice.
Saul of Tarsus would journey into Damascus, where he was cured and attended by Ananias, being baptized into Christianity. He later took the name Paul and became one of the chief founding voices of Early Christianity. Here was a man who was zealous about his duty as a Hebrew, seeking and destroying the very foundation that had been laid by Jesus the Christ.
However, there was something that happened to him on that road that would change not only his life, but the very lives millions of Christians to follow. He heard the voice of Jesus. That voice not only convicted him but caused him to change his path in life and “Paul” would become the greatest Disciple of all. He would dedicate everything he had to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Many attribute the growth of Christianity to the work Paul would now do to win souls to Christ. Paul would choose to go against everything that he knew, to dedicate himself to spreading the Word of the Gospel, something that had become even more dangerous since the death and resurrection of Christ.
Paul, would choose to go the extra mile in the name of Jesus. Will you?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come once again seeking Your face. Father God, we come before the throne of grace to give thanks, honor and glory to You. Teach us Lord, to let go of those things that are behind us. Help us Lord, to walk into a new day that is filled with Your fresh grace and new mercies. Lord, I am a sinner who is in need of forgiveness. Forgive me Lord for yesterday. Lord, let my thoughts and my words be a reflection of Your word. Let my spirit be led by You alone. Father, search me Lord, remove those things in me that are not of You. Remove the anger, the hurt, and the mean spirits that bind me and prevent me from walking in right relation with You. Fill me Lord, with Your peace, Your joy, Your love and Your spirit. Bind those things that prevent me from moving forward into Your marvelous light. Have mercy on Your saints today. Heal our sick. Deliver us from evil. Strengthen those who are weak, encourage those who are without hope. Help us always to be mindful of that it is by Your word and Your spirit that we will be victorious in Christ Jesus. Thank You Lord. Bless Your name. Praise God from whom all our blessings flow. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them. Acts 19:10-12 (New International Version)
There was once a man named Saul who hunted and persecuted followers of Jesus Christ. While on the road to Damascus to annihilate the Christian community there, Saul was blinded by a brilliant light and heard the voice of Christ saying, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?”...And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid, but they heard not the voice.
Saul of Tarsus would journey into Damascus, where he was cured and attended by Ananias, being baptized into Christianity. He later took the name Paul and became one of the chief founding voices of Early Christianity. Here was a man who was zealous about his duty as a Hebrew, seeking and destroying the very foundation that had been laid by Jesus the Christ.
However, there was something that happened to him on that road that would change not only his life, but the very lives millions of Christians to follow. He heard the voice of Jesus. That voice not only convicted him but caused him to change his path in life and “Paul” would become the greatest Disciple of all. He would dedicate everything he had to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Many attribute the growth of Christianity to the work Paul would now do to win souls to Christ. Paul would choose to go against everything that he knew, to dedicate himself to spreading the Word of the Gospel, something that had become even more dangerous since the death and resurrection of Christ.
Paul, would choose to go the extra mile in the name of Jesus. Will you?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come once again seeking Your face. Father God, we come before the throne of grace to give thanks, honor and glory to You. Teach us Lord, to let go of those things that are behind us. Help us Lord, to walk into a new day that is filled with Your fresh grace and new mercies. Lord, I am a sinner who is in need of forgiveness. Forgive me Lord for yesterday. Lord, let my thoughts and my words be a reflection of Your word. Let my spirit be led by You alone. Father, search me Lord, remove those things in me that are not of You. Remove the anger, the hurt, and the mean spirits that bind me and prevent me from walking in right relation with You. Fill me Lord, with Your peace, Your joy, Your love and Your spirit. Bind those things that prevent me from moving forward into Your marvelous light. Have mercy on Your saints today. Heal our sick. Deliver us from evil. Strengthen those who are weak, encourage those who are without hope. Help us always to be mindful of that it is by Your word and Your spirit that we will be victorious in Christ Jesus. Thank You Lord. Bless Your name. Praise God from whom all our blessings flow. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Monday, May 09, 2011
When Hope Touches Your Hand
We must accept finite disappointment but we must never lose infinite hope.
Scripture:
Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
MY SOUL IS DOWNCAST WITHIN ME; THEREFORE I WILL REMEMBER YOU FROM THE LAND OF THE JORDAN, THE HEIGHTS OF HERMON—FROM MOUNT MIZAR. PSALM 42:5-6 (NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION)
2010 was a year full of disappointments for me and so many others around me. Plans that were put into motion in years past did not come to fruition or bear the fruits I had hoped for. Instead, I often found myself standing before closed doors. Now some of these doors I closed myself while others were closed in my face; causing me heartbreak. You see, friends whom I had always counted on being there for me suddenly disappeared leaving a gaping hole were loved and trust once resided.
On a recent trip out of state, I was reminded once again of what I had lost. I wanted to call one of these friends to say hello, but was sadly cognizant of the fact that the dynamics of what we once shared stood behind one of these closed doors. I went to bed that night with despair and a sense of hopelessness covering me and weighing me down like a wet blanket.
As I lay there caught between the world of sleep and lucidness, I felt the tiniest touch of a finger to my hand, startling me awake. As I abruptly sat up in bed, I realized that I alone occupied the room. Suddenly, a still small voice from within whispered “God never closes one door without opening a window.”
So often when we feel overwhelmed by how things are not going as planned, we have a tendency to want to give up on our dreams and goals and yes, they may even cause us to temporarily lose hope.
No matter how dismal things may sometimes seem, we must always be mindful to put our hope in God.
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:
Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
MY SOUL IS DOWNCAST WITHIN ME; THEREFORE I WILL REMEMBER YOU FROM THE LAND OF THE JORDAN, THE HEIGHTS OF HERMON—FROM MOUNT MIZAR. PSALM 42:5-6 (NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION)
2010 was a year full of disappointments for me and so many others around me. Plans that were put into motion in years past did not come to fruition or bear the fruits I had hoped for. Instead, I often found myself standing before closed doors. Now some of these doors I closed myself while others were closed in my face; causing me heartbreak. You see, friends whom I had always counted on being there for me suddenly disappeared leaving a gaping hole were loved and trust once resided.
On a recent trip out of state, I was reminded once again of what I had lost. I wanted to call one of these friends to say hello, but was sadly cognizant of the fact that the dynamics of what we once shared stood behind one of these closed doors. I went to bed that night with despair and a sense of hopelessness covering me and weighing me down like a wet blanket.
As I lay there caught between the world of sleep and lucidness, I felt the tiniest touch of a finger to my hand, startling me awake. As I abruptly sat up in bed, I realized that I alone occupied the room. Suddenly, a still small voice from within whispered “God never closes one door without opening a window.”
So often when we feel overwhelmed by how things are not going as planned, we have a tendency to want to give up on our dreams and goals and yes, they may even cause us to temporarily lose hope.
No matter how dismal things may sometimes seem, we must always be mindful to put our hope in God.
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.
Sunday, May 08, 2011
Developing Self-Discipline
Self-discipline is when your conscience tells you to do something and you don't talk back. ~ W.K. Hope
Scripture:
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 (New International Version)
Self-discipline refers to the training that one gives one's self to accomplish a certain task or to adopt a particular pattern of behaviour, even though one would really rather be doing something else. For example, denying oneself of an extravagant pleasure in order to accomplish a more demanding charitable deed. Thus, self-discipline is the assertion of willpower over more base desires, and is usually understood to be a synonym of 'self control'.
As a writer, I am often asked; how do you find time to write? My standard answer is that I make time. I have disciplined myself to make time to do what it is I need to do to accomplish my dreams. Writing is important to me and when we realize those things in our lives that matter most to us, we will do whatever is necessary to accomplish them.
I have also realized that being a Christian also takes self-discipline. It is so easy to take for granted our relationship with God. We can always find time to do everything else in our lives so why do we find it so hard to spend time with God?
When things are going well in our lives, we tend to want to put God on the back burner. Then we things start going awry, we panic because we have neglected to keep Him in the forefront of all that we do. When we make it a habit to do those things in our lives that are important, we learn to listen to our conscience and not talk back.
When we get in the habit of having a daily talk with God, He will become all the conscious you need.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, help us to guard our minds this and every day. When we grow weak and tired, allow a small wind, Your breath of life, to gently caress our faces, letting us know that You are right there with us. When we grow weary and almost faint, let the bread of life and the living waters, Your word, revitalize us. Father, even in our storms, we must always remember to stop and give You thanks. Even when life is assailing us, we must stop and praise Your name. Even when it seems like we don't have the strength to go a step further, we must muster the strength to uplift and exalt Your most holy name. My Lord, help us always to be mindful and protect our thoughts from the one who seeks to destroy us. Help us to remember to always guard our hearts and minds from those things that are not of You. Father, continue to be with those who are in the hospital, who are ill, who are grieving, who are faced with the challenges of the world. Father God I say a special prayer for my friends who are mothers. Strengthen them and give them what they need to protect their greatest gifts, their children. Lord, we realize that satan is out to destroy our families. We come standing in the gap and standing on Your word. We claim our children in the name of Jesus. We plead the blood of the Lamb over our babies and we refuse to give up on them. We ask and pray these things in the name of Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 (New International Version)
Self-discipline refers to the training that one gives one's self to accomplish a certain task or to adopt a particular pattern of behaviour, even though one would really rather be doing something else. For example, denying oneself of an extravagant pleasure in order to accomplish a more demanding charitable deed. Thus, self-discipline is the assertion of willpower over more base desires, and is usually understood to be a synonym of 'self control'.
As a writer, I am often asked; how do you find time to write? My standard answer is that I make time. I have disciplined myself to make time to do what it is I need to do to accomplish my dreams. Writing is important to me and when we realize those things in our lives that matter most to us, we will do whatever is necessary to accomplish them.
I have also realized that being a Christian also takes self-discipline. It is so easy to take for granted our relationship with God. We can always find time to do everything else in our lives so why do we find it so hard to spend time with God?
When things are going well in our lives, we tend to want to put God on the back burner. Then we things start going awry, we panic because we have neglected to keep Him in the forefront of all that we do. When we make it a habit to do those things in our lives that are important, we learn to listen to our conscience and not talk back.
When we get in the habit of having a daily talk with God, He will become all the conscious you need.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, help us to guard our minds this and every day. When we grow weak and tired, allow a small wind, Your breath of life, to gently caress our faces, letting us know that You are right there with us. When we grow weary and almost faint, let the bread of life and the living waters, Your word, revitalize us. Father, even in our storms, we must always remember to stop and give You thanks. Even when life is assailing us, we must stop and praise Your name. Even when it seems like we don't have the strength to go a step further, we must muster the strength to uplift and exalt Your most holy name. My Lord, help us always to be mindful and protect our thoughts from the one who seeks to destroy us. Help us to remember to always guard our hearts and minds from those things that are not of You. Father, continue to be with those who are in the hospital, who are ill, who are grieving, who are faced with the challenges of the world. Father God I say a special prayer for my friends who are mothers. Strengthen them and give them what they need to protect their greatest gifts, their children. Lord, we realize that satan is out to destroy our families. We come standing in the gap and standing on Your word. We claim our children in the name of Jesus. We plead the blood of the Lamb over our babies and we refuse to give up on them. We ask and pray these things in the name of Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sunday, May 01, 2011
Are You Setting the Right Example?
Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you. ~ Robert Fulghum
Scripture:
Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us. Titus 2:6-8
Recently, I visited with a younger cousin and as we talked and reminisced about growing up, she told me how she had always looked up to me. I was ashamed for a moment about the person I used to be.
You see, what she looked up to me for were all the wrong things. She told me how glamorous I always looked. The expensive clothes and shoes I used to wear. She told me how she wanted to date the kind of men I did, the ones who drove flashy cars, rode motorcycles and brought me gifts of jewelry and roses.
She told me how she wanted to go to the clubs with me and party and have as much fun as I seemed to be having. What she didn't know was the price I had to pay for that lifestyle. What I didn't realize was that she, my younger sisters and other younger female cousins were watching me.
Just as we read in the above scripture, we who are the elders, in our families and in our churches, must set the good example. Others are watching us. Others aspire to be like us. That goes for men and women alike.
When I was young, I was not setting a good example at all. You see ladies, not only must we be a good example for our blood sisters, we must set a good example for all of the young ladies coming up in the world. I know mothers are the one we should look up to, but guess what? Our sisters, cousins, neighbors, and other young ladies that are around you, may be looking at you as their role model.
Are you being good role model and leading by example?
Prayer:
Father, I come once again asking that You would forgive me of my sins. In my Youthful arrogance, I did not realize that others were watching and learning from me. Forgive me Lord, for leading others astray. Father, teach me to walk in Your word, to be a living testimony to You and not to the sins of this world. Father, may the things that I do and say be acceptable in Your sight. May others see You light shining in me. Teach me Lord to hide Your word in my heart. Father, we come asking that You would continue to bless Your saints. Breath on us Lord, cleansing us, renewing Your power and Your strength within us and healing us. Bless Your name Lord. We thank You Lord as we ask and submit our prayers in the Blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Scripture:
Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us. Titus 2:6-8
Recently, I visited with a younger cousin and as we talked and reminisced about growing up, she told me how she had always looked up to me. I was ashamed for a moment about the person I used to be.
You see, what she looked up to me for were all the wrong things. She told me how glamorous I always looked. The expensive clothes and shoes I used to wear. She told me how she wanted to date the kind of men I did, the ones who drove flashy cars, rode motorcycles and brought me gifts of jewelry and roses.
She told me how she wanted to go to the clubs with me and party and have as much fun as I seemed to be having. What she didn't know was the price I had to pay for that lifestyle. What I didn't realize was that she, my younger sisters and other younger female cousins were watching me.
Just as we read in the above scripture, we who are the elders, in our families and in our churches, must set the good example. Others are watching us. Others aspire to be like us. That goes for men and women alike.
When I was young, I was not setting a good example at all. You see ladies, not only must we be a good example for our blood sisters, we must set a good example for all of the young ladies coming up in the world. I know mothers are the one we should look up to, but guess what? Our sisters, cousins, neighbors, and other young ladies that are around you, may be looking at you as their role model.
Are you being good role model and leading by example?
Prayer:
Father, I come once again asking that You would forgive me of my sins. In my Youthful arrogance, I did not realize that others were watching and learning from me. Forgive me Lord, for leading others astray. Father, teach me to walk in Your word, to be a living testimony to You and not to the sins of this world. Father, may the things that I do and say be acceptable in Your sight. May others see You light shining in me. Teach me Lord to hide Your word in my heart. Father, we come asking that You would continue to bless Your saints. Breath on us Lord, cleansing us, renewing Your power and Your strength within us and healing us. Bless Your name Lord. We thank You Lord as we ask and submit our prayers in the Blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, Amen.
