Thursday, June 30, 2011
Everybody Wants to be a Star
Everybody wants to be a star but nobody wants to do the work to polish it.
Scripture:
All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. Proverbs 14:23 (New International Version)
Recently I had a conversation with a friend regarding our writing journeys. We talked about how some people start on the journey with great zeal and talent, but after awhile if they have not received the recognition they believe they deserve, they will give up and quit. I find this to be true about quite a few things in life. We start our journeys with a desire to do well and achieve great things but over the course of time if we do not see the wanted outcome, we give up and quit. Having the desire to do something great is one thing, but actually having the tenacity to see it through is another.
If you look closely at successful people, you will see that contrary to popular belief, their successes did not come overnight. Recently, I watched the story of Jennifer Hudson and her climb to fame. She recognized at an early age that she had both the talent and the desire to become a great singer. She even made it to the pinnacle of reality television stardom on “American Idol.” However, after she was eliminated and the American Idol tour was over, she returned to a life of almost obscurity when she did not immediately obtain her dream. I’m sure it was enough to make her want to quit; but she didn’t. Instead, she dug her heals in and got right back out there trying to make her dreams a reality. And finally, she did.
I find this same reality to be true of so many wanna-be Christians as well. They accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and want to believe that suddenly they will become a superstar on their Christian walk. But then life continues to happen. The stress and strife that they thought would miraculous cease to exist remains and in most cases actually intensifies. Their faith is tested almost on a daily basis. And instead of staying on the battlefield to fight the good fight of faith, they throw down their spiritual weapons and return to the life they were most comfortable with.
What each of us must always keep in mind is that anything worth achieving will take hard work and perseverance, including a right relationship with God. Things will come against us that will try to turn us away from our chosen course. The key is remembering that there is no true success without trials and tribulations along the way and rather than give up and give in, we must stay the course so at the end of the journey we can hear these words:
“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.”
Be Blessed
Prayer:
I will Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto mine own understanding. In all our ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. Lord, we come before the throne of grace once again asking that You would forgive us in our unbelief. We come asking that You, who are rock and our salvation, would help us to starve our fears and doubts and feed our faith. Lord, I personally ask for forgiveness and direction for myself. I know that sometimes, we take You for granted and in doing so, leave ourselves open to attack. Lord, we stand before You again, putting on the whole armor of God. The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, wielding our shield of faith and the sword of the spirit, and placing upon our heads, the helmet of salvation. Lord, let us always be diligent against attacks from he who seeks to destroy us. Continue to bless our brothers and sisters in Christ. Continue to anoint our leaders. Help us always to be able to call upon the name of the Lord in our times of distress. Thank You Lord, for Your faithfulness. Thank You Lord, for Your covering. Thank You Lord that You pick us up, when we have been knocked down. We will praise the name of the Lord at all times, and His praises shall continuously be in our mouths. Praise His name saints of God. Glory hallelujah, thank You Jesus, in whose name we pray, Amen.
Scripture:
All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. Proverbs 14:23 (New International Version)
Recently I had a conversation with a friend regarding our writing journeys. We talked about how some people start on the journey with great zeal and talent, but after awhile if they have not received the recognition they believe they deserve, they will give up and quit. I find this to be true about quite a few things in life. We start our journeys with a desire to do well and achieve great things but over the course of time if we do not see the wanted outcome, we give up and quit. Having the desire to do something great is one thing, but actually having the tenacity to see it through is another.
If you look closely at successful people, you will see that contrary to popular belief, their successes did not come overnight. Recently, I watched the story of Jennifer Hudson and her climb to fame. She recognized at an early age that she had both the talent and the desire to become a great singer. She even made it to the pinnacle of reality television stardom on “American Idol.” However, after she was eliminated and the American Idol tour was over, she returned to a life of almost obscurity when she did not immediately obtain her dream. I’m sure it was enough to make her want to quit; but she didn’t. Instead, she dug her heals in and got right back out there trying to make her dreams a reality. And finally, she did.
I find this same reality to be true of so many wanna-be Christians as well. They accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and want to believe that suddenly they will become a superstar on their Christian walk. But then life continues to happen. The stress and strife that they thought would miraculous cease to exist remains and in most cases actually intensifies. Their faith is tested almost on a daily basis. And instead of staying on the battlefield to fight the good fight of faith, they throw down their spiritual weapons and return to the life they were most comfortable with.
What each of us must always keep in mind is that anything worth achieving will take hard work and perseverance, including a right relationship with God. Things will come against us that will try to turn us away from our chosen course. The key is remembering that there is no true success without trials and tribulations along the way and rather than give up and give in, we must stay the course so at the end of the journey we can hear these words:
“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.”
Be Blessed
Prayer:
I will Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto mine own understanding. In all our ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. Lord, we come before the throne of grace once again asking that You would forgive us in our unbelief. We come asking that You, who are rock and our salvation, would help us to starve our fears and doubts and feed our faith. Lord, I personally ask for forgiveness and direction for myself. I know that sometimes, we take You for granted and in doing so, leave ourselves open to attack. Lord, we stand before You again, putting on the whole armor of God. The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, wielding our shield of faith and the sword of the spirit, and placing upon our heads, the helmet of salvation. Lord, let us always be diligent against attacks from he who seeks to destroy us. Continue to bless our brothers and sisters in Christ. Continue to anoint our leaders. Help us always to be able to call upon the name of the Lord in our times of distress. Thank You Lord, for Your faithfulness. Thank You Lord, for Your covering. Thank You Lord that You pick us up, when we have been knocked down. We will praise the name of the Lord at all times, and His praises shall continuously be in our mouths. Praise His name saints of God. Glory hallelujah, thank You Jesus, in whose name we pray, Amen.
Monday, June 27, 2011
God Has Not Forgot
Remember, don’t put a question mark where God puts a period.
Scripture:
This is what the LORD says— he who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: Do not be afraid, O Jacob, my servant, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen. For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. They will spring up like grass in a meadow, like poplar trees by flowing streams. Isaiah 44:2-4 (New International Version)
Saints, I know that most of you are saved, sanctified and filled with the Holy Spirit. I know that most of you put God first in all that you do and say. I know that most of you don't get upset, flustered or anxious because God is always right next to you helping you to make it through your situation. I know that most of you have no complaints because you have already turned them over to God. Or do you?
Saints of God, each and every one of us has at some point in our lives felt hopelessness, despair, anxiety, scared and all alone. Every one of us has felt that we couldn't handle whatever our situation was at that time. Every one of us has felt so far away from God that we couldn't even remember who it was we were supposed to be calling on.
Periodically, I have to remind myself to stop worrying about a situation. Sometimes I have to remember that when I turn my problems over to God and LEAVE them at the alter, not to turn right around and pick them back up. Sometimes I have to reach deep down inside of myself and remember to call on the name of Jesus. Every now and then, I have to force myself to get down on my knees and pray; even when I don't feel like it. Every now and then I have to ask God to forgive me for not trusting him in the midst of my situation.
Every now and then I have to ask God to forgive me for forgetting about him, especially when I know that he has not forgotten about me.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, You are the creator of all things. You called forth the planets with a word, and established the stars with the sound of Your voice. You have authority over all the resources of the universe, and You have promised to meet all of our needs. We come before Your throne of provision right now. You know our needs, and the challenges that we are faced with. Lord, we ask that You would release a mighty blessing upon us and demonstrate Your enormous generosity, by providing above and beyond all that they could hope or imagine right now. Guard our hearts from anxiety and fear. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and cause faith to rise up within us. Enable us to stand firm in the midst of uncertainty, and bring forth a mighty victory. Help us to establish another testimony of Your goodness, that those who hear of it might glorify Your name. No weapon formed against us can prosper because not only have You given us our whole armor, we come pleading the blood of Jesus over our situations and into our circumstances. We rebuke satan and ask that You would not only give us a spirit of discernment but that You would help us to see things with our spiritual eyes. Continue to bless each family that is represented here. Prosper all who have come seeking Your face. Grant us fresh grace and mercy, as we pause to give You all praise, honor and glory. We pray in Jesus mighty name, Amen!
Scripture:
This is what the LORD says— he who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: Do not be afraid, O Jacob, my servant, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen. For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. They will spring up like grass in a meadow, like poplar trees by flowing streams. Isaiah 44:2-4 (New International Version)
Saints, I know that most of you are saved, sanctified and filled with the Holy Spirit. I know that most of you put God first in all that you do and say. I know that most of you don't get upset, flustered or anxious because God is always right next to you helping you to make it through your situation. I know that most of you have no complaints because you have already turned them over to God. Or do you?
Saints of God, each and every one of us has at some point in our lives felt hopelessness, despair, anxiety, scared and all alone. Every one of us has felt that we couldn't handle whatever our situation was at that time. Every one of us has felt so far away from God that we couldn't even remember who it was we were supposed to be calling on.
Periodically, I have to remind myself to stop worrying about a situation. Sometimes I have to remember that when I turn my problems over to God and LEAVE them at the alter, not to turn right around and pick them back up. Sometimes I have to reach deep down inside of myself and remember to call on the name of Jesus. Every now and then, I have to force myself to get down on my knees and pray; even when I don't feel like it. Every now and then I have to ask God to forgive me for not trusting him in the midst of my situation.
Every now and then I have to ask God to forgive me for forgetting about him, especially when I know that he has not forgotten about me.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father, You are the creator of all things. You called forth the planets with a word, and established the stars with the sound of Your voice. You have authority over all the resources of the universe, and You have promised to meet all of our needs. We come before Your throne of provision right now. You know our needs, and the challenges that we are faced with. Lord, we ask that You would release a mighty blessing upon us and demonstrate Your enormous generosity, by providing above and beyond all that they could hope or imagine right now. Guard our hearts from anxiety and fear. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and cause faith to rise up within us. Enable us to stand firm in the midst of uncertainty, and bring forth a mighty victory. Help us to establish another testimony of Your goodness, that those who hear of it might glorify Your name. No weapon formed against us can prosper because not only have You given us our whole armor, we come pleading the blood of Jesus over our situations and into our circumstances. We rebuke satan and ask that You would not only give us a spirit of discernment but that You would help us to see things with our spiritual eyes. Continue to bless each family that is represented here. Prosper all who have come seeking Your face. Grant us fresh grace and mercy, as we pause to give You all praise, honor and glory. We pray in Jesus mighty name, Amen!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
When You Don't fit In
Life's not about fitting in; it's about standing out.
Scripture:
If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. John 15:18-19 (New International Version)
Going along through life, I often find myself caught in places and/or situations where I just didn’t fit in. Sometimes it was the job I held or the friends I had made. Maybe it was the places I visited or the relationship I was in. Or maybe even the church I attended.
Eventually, I found that for whatever reason I no longer fit and found myself caught in the position of being uncomfortable. I often found it would become necessary for my well-being and comfort to move from a place of discomfort and find a better fitting position. This analogy holds true for our Christian walk.
We will become too big (symbolically speaking) and can longer move about as a result of developing an unhealthy lifestyle. Or maybe, we are starving to death, withering away from a lack of nourishment In either case, you no longer fit and for the betterment of your spiritual health, it will become necessary for you to move from this place of discomfort.
The word of God tells us to crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in our salvation. It tells us of the bread of God; For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."
The word of God tells us whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
Now that’s the kind of meal that I want!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple. And He who sits on the throne will dwell among them. They shall neither hunger anymore nor thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any heat; for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes." Lord, we come before the throne of Grace this day hungering and thirsting after Your word. Let us feast this day on the bread of life and drink from the fountain that never runs dry. Thank You Father for providing all of my needs. Lord, that You for blessing me even when I am ungrateful. Thank You for keeping me, my family, friends and loved ones safe from all hurt, harm and danger. But most of all; thank You for Your son, Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. John 15:18-19 (New International Version)
Going along through life, I often find myself caught in places and/or situations where I just didn’t fit in. Sometimes it was the job I held or the friends I had made. Maybe it was the places I visited or the relationship I was in. Or maybe even the church I attended.
Eventually, I found that for whatever reason I no longer fit and found myself caught in the position of being uncomfortable. I often found it would become necessary for my well-being and comfort to move from a place of discomfort and find a better fitting position. This analogy holds true for our Christian walk.
We will become too big (symbolically speaking) and can longer move about as a result of developing an unhealthy lifestyle. Or maybe, we are starving to death, withering away from a lack of nourishment In either case, you no longer fit and for the betterment of your spiritual health, it will become necessary for you to move from this place of discomfort.
The word of God tells us to crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in our salvation. It tells us of the bread of God; For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."
The word of God tells us whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
Now that’s the kind of meal that I want!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple. And He who sits on the throne will dwell among them. They shall neither hunger anymore nor thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any heat; for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes." Lord, we come before the throne of Grace this day hungering and thirsting after Your word. Let us feast this day on the bread of life and drink from the fountain that never runs dry. Thank You Father for providing all of my needs. Lord, that You for blessing me even when I am ungrateful. Thank You for keeping me, my family, friends and loved ones safe from all hurt, harm and danger. But most of all; thank You for Your son, Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Embracing God's Gift
Remember, Don't let other people tell you what you want. ~ Pat Riley
Scripture:
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 (New International Version)
Not long ago a very good friend who happens to be a teacher wrote me to say how distraught she was because one of her most promising students was being discouraged from cultivating her talents. The thing that was most disturbing to her was that the person who was discouraging this gifted student was her mother. The person who had given birth to this girl, couldn’t see just how talented and blessed this young lady truly was.
As we journey through this life, there will be times when others will try to discourage us, even those who profess to love us will try to discourage us from what it is we are supposed to do. Whether it’s to pursue a dream of being a writer, a musician, doctor, lawyer, or even a follower of Christ.
Sometimes, because of things that they may have encountered in their own past that snuffed out their dreams, or maybe because they didn’t have the strength or courage to follow their OWN chosen path, our loved ones will try to extinguish the fire that burns in all of us.
Even as I pursue my dream of being a Christian Author, there have been those who are closest to me who cannot see what I see in myself. I love the word of God. Most of all, I love sharing my talent of the written word with others.
Saints of God, don’t allow others to define who you are or what your talents are. If God has given you a gift, no matter what that gift may be, it is up to you to pursue your dreams. The world didn’t give you the gifts you posses, God did. It us up to you to cultivate that gift and follow your dreams.
In spite of!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come once again humbling ourselves before the throne of Grace. Lord, we know that we can do all things through Christ Jesus. It is because of Him, that we are who we are and do what we do. Abba, even when the world tries to define who I am, I recognize that I am a child of the Most High King. And because I belong to Him, I am set apart. Father, when others try to tell me that I can’t, help me always to be mindful of Your word that tells me I can. I can do all things through Christ Jesus; am more that a conqueror; I am the head and not the tail; I am above and not below. I am who I am, because God said I am. Glory Hallelujah, Praise God. Thank You Father for my gifts. Most of all thank You for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is in His name that we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 (New International Version)
Not long ago a very good friend who happens to be a teacher wrote me to say how distraught she was because one of her most promising students was being discouraged from cultivating her talents. The thing that was most disturbing to her was that the person who was discouraging this gifted student was her mother. The person who had given birth to this girl, couldn’t see just how talented and blessed this young lady truly was.
As we journey through this life, there will be times when others will try to discourage us, even those who profess to love us will try to discourage us from what it is we are supposed to do. Whether it’s to pursue a dream of being a writer, a musician, doctor, lawyer, or even a follower of Christ.
Sometimes, because of things that they may have encountered in their own past that snuffed out their dreams, or maybe because they didn’t have the strength or courage to follow their OWN chosen path, our loved ones will try to extinguish the fire that burns in all of us.
Even as I pursue my dream of being a Christian Author, there have been those who are closest to me who cannot see what I see in myself. I love the word of God. Most of all, I love sharing my talent of the written word with others.
Saints of God, don’t allow others to define who you are or what your talents are. If God has given you a gift, no matter what that gift may be, it is up to you to pursue your dreams. The world didn’t give you the gifts you posses, God did. It us up to you to cultivate that gift and follow your dreams.
In spite of!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, we come once again humbling ourselves before the throne of Grace. Lord, we know that we can do all things through Christ Jesus. It is because of Him, that we are who we are and do what we do. Abba, even when the world tries to define who I am, I recognize that I am a child of the Most High King. And because I belong to Him, I am set apart. Father, when others try to tell me that I can’t, help me always to be mindful of Your word that tells me I can. I can do all things through Christ Jesus; am more that a conqueror; I am the head and not the tail; I am above and not below. I am who I am, because God said I am. Glory Hallelujah, Praise God. Thank You Father for my gifts. Most of all thank You for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is in His name that we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Help Me to Hold Out
The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain. ~ Dolly Parton
Scripture:
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:29-30 (New International Version)
Recently, as I sat listening to songs on my MP3 player, a classic by “James Cleveland” came on. The song was “Lord Help me To Hold out.” For those of you who are not familiar with the song it says; Lord, help me to hold out until my change has come.
As I listened to the lyrics of this song, it dawned on me that so often we think that being a Christian is easy. We think that once we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior that our lives will miraculously get easier. Not true. Being a Christian is anything but easy.
I mean, we are challenged daily to change almost every aspect of our lives. We must give up our sinful ways, deny ourselves and transform ourselves into Christ like beings. These modifications in our lives are a lot harder than most of us could even begin to imagine.
I mean think about it, no more lying, lusting, cheating, fornicating, and coveting. Don’t think you do any of these things? Wrong! Ever want something that belongs to another? How about envying someone else? Ever have sex outside of marriage? Or called in to work sick and you weren’t? You just wanted the day off. Or, see someone of the opposite sex and began to have lustful (tending to arouse sexual desire or interest) thoughts.
As Christians, we must learn to change who we are while in the midst of temptations. We are confronted with the 7 deadly sins on a pretty regular basis. Those sins are;
Pride is excessive belief in one's own abilities that interferes with the individual's recognition of the grace of God. It has been called the sin from which all others arise. Pride is also known as Vanity. Envy is the desire for others' traits, status, abilities, or situation. Gluttony is an inordinate desire to consume more than that which one requires. Lust is an inordinate craving for the pleasures of the body. Anger is manifested in the individual who spurns love and opts instead for fury. It is also known as Wrath. Greed is the desire for material wealth or gain, ignoring the realm of the spiritual. It is also called Avarice or Covetousness. Sloth is the avoidance of physical or spiritual work.
It is for this reason that we must ask God daily to help us to resist or in this case, Hold out until our transformation or CHANGE has come.
Be Blessed
My way may not be easy, You did not say that it would be, When it gets dark, Can't find my way, You told me to put my trust in thee.
Prayer:
Father God, I come before the throne of grace professing my faith and my belief that Jesus Christ died and was raised from the dead. I profess that he is my Lord and Savior. Jesus is my great Intercessor. I believe that God made the great sacrifice of his only begotten Son so that I could be reconciled to His wonderful kingdom. Thank You Lord. Father God, it is because of my faith and beliefs that I can hold on to Your word and Your promises. Jesus said, "that He would never leave me nor forsake me". You said "that You would pour me out a blessing that I would not have room to receive. I believe that You are making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. I will sing a new song because You have done and or are about to do wonderful things in my life. Thank You Jesus. You have said "That former things have passed away and You have declared a new thing! Thank You Lord. You said, "Hold On!. Father, I am hold fast to Your unchanging hand. I am holding fast to Your word. I am developing patience in the midst of it all. Lord, I just want to praise You this day. I just want to thank You Father. I come thanking You not only for what You have done, but also for what You are about to do in my life and in the lives of my family, friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, but most of all; for what You are about to do in the lives of the Body of Christ. We bless Your Name Lord. We lift Your Name on High. Glory Hallelujah, Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Thank You Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in whose name we pray, Amen.
Scripture:
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:29-30 (New International Version)
Recently, as I sat listening to songs on my MP3 player, a classic by “James Cleveland” came on. The song was “Lord Help me To Hold out.” For those of you who are not familiar with the song it says; Lord, help me to hold out until my change has come.
As I listened to the lyrics of this song, it dawned on me that so often we think that being a Christian is easy. We think that once we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior that our lives will miraculously get easier. Not true. Being a Christian is anything but easy.
I mean, we are challenged daily to change almost every aspect of our lives. We must give up our sinful ways, deny ourselves and transform ourselves into Christ like beings. These modifications in our lives are a lot harder than most of us could even begin to imagine.
I mean think about it, no more lying, lusting, cheating, fornicating, and coveting. Don’t think you do any of these things? Wrong! Ever want something that belongs to another? How about envying someone else? Ever have sex outside of marriage? Or called in to work sick and you weren’t? You just wanted the day off. Or, see someone of the opposite sex and began to have lustful (tending to arouse sexual desire or interest) thoughts.
As Christians, we must learn to change who we are while in the midst of temptations. We are confronted with the 7 deadly sins on a pretty regular basis. Those sins are;
Pride is excessive belief in one's own abilities that interferes with the individual's recognition of the grace of God. It has been called the sin from which all others arise. Pride is also known as Vanity. Envy is the desire for others' traits, status, abilities, or situation. Gluttony is an inordinate desire to consume more than that which one requires. Lust is an inordinate craving for the pleasures of the body. Anger is manifested in the individual who spurns love and opts instead for fury. It is also known as Wrath. Greed is the desire for material wealth or gain, ignoring the realm of the spiritual. It is also called Avarice or Covetousness. Sloth is the avoidance of physical or spiritual work.
It is for this reason that we must ask God daily to help us to resist or in this case, Hold out until our transformation or CHANGE has come.
Be Blessed
My way may not be easy, You did not say that it would be, When it gets dark, Can't find my way, You told me to put my trust in thee.
Prayer:
Father God, I come before the throne of grace professing my faith and my belief that Jesus Christ died and was raised from the dead. I profess that he is my Lord and Savior. Jesus is my great Intercessor. I believe that God made the great sacrifice of his only begotten Son so that I could be reconciled to His wonderful kingdom. Thank You Lord. Father God, it is because of my faith and beliefs that I can hold on to Your word and Your promises. Jesus said, "that He would never leave me nor forsake me". You said "that You would pour me out a blessing that I would not have room to receive. I believe that You are making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. I will sing a new song because You have done and or are about to do wonderful things in my life. Thank You Jesus. You have said "That former things have passed away and You have declared a new thing! Thank You Lord. You said, "Hold On!. Father, I am hold fast to Your unchanging hand. I am holding fast to Your word. I am developing patience in the midst of it all. Lord, I just want to praise You this day. I just want to thank You Father. I come thanking You not only for what You have done, but also for what You are about to do in my life and in the lives of my family, friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, but most of all; for what You are about to do in the lives of the Body of Christ. We bless Your Name Lord. We lift Your Name on High. Glory Hallelujah, Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Thank You Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in whose name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
The Soul of a Man
There is a desire deep within the soul which drives man from the seen to the unseen, to philosophy and to the divine. ~ Kahil Gibran
Scripture(s):
The LORD God formed the man The Hebrew for man (Adam) sounds like and may be related to the Hebrew for ground (adamah) it is also the name Adam, from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. Genesis 2:7
The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him. Genesis 2:18
Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. The man said, "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called 'woman, for she was taken out of man. Genesis 2:22-23
One of the greatest mysteries that have plagued mankind since the beginning of time is man’s relationship to woman. Man was created to rule of the world and woman was created to be his helpmate. Over the course of time, somehow, the dynamics of the male female relationship have changed. What I mean by this is that somehow, we have become disconnected from this most divine plan.
The sanctity of the divine institution of marriage and family has been drastically altered. The number of single parent households led my woman has grown to epidemic proportions and the number of women trying to raise sons alone, myself included, is overwhelming. I myself, often find that I am at a loss when it comes to instilling in my sons what it really means to be a man.
Too many men have decided that raising their sons is not in their divine plans of life and this decision often leaves our young men to try to figure out this thing call “manhood” on their own. I love my sons dearly and unconditionally, but for reasons that escape me, I often find that their manhood is seriously undermined by their lack of a soul.
What I mean by this statement is that far too often, they are repeating the same mistakes of their fathers.
As a single Christian mother, I have tried to nurture their faith in God and teach them biblical principals. Unfortunately, when they start comparing the word of God to their everyday lives, they do not see this divine plan in action. I mean, how can they “honor their mother AND their father, when the father is often missing from the family dynamics. How can they see the man as the head of the family when the head has essentially cut himself off from the body it was meant to support?
I don’t profess to have the answers to this age old dilemma. However, I do know where I seek these answers, in the word of God. Ladies, I myself have chosen not to give up on my men in training. In spite of. I refuse to allow the world to define my sons’ vision of manhood. It is time that we tell the world, ENOUGH! I will continue to feed my sons’ the word of God. And who knows, they just might reveal to me the soul of a man.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Our Father, which art in heaven. Jehovah Jireh, my provider. Whatever name we choose to call You, we recognize that You are our most Heavenly Father. Lord, we come standing in the gap this evening for our sons who are trying to find their way in this world. So often they become confused by what thing both seen and unseen. Lord, we come asking that you would wrap your arms of protection securely around our sons and our daughters. Lord, we ask that You would place Your hedge of protection securely around them and guide them down this path called life. Bless all of the single mothers trying to raise their children alone. Speak to the hearts and minds of those fathers who are not involved in their children’s lives. Help us Lord, to raise our children in Your ways. Lord, bless us, keep us, and anoint us. We come glorifying and uplifting Your Holy name. Thank you Jesus, for the blood that cleanses us, protects us and sanctifies us. It is in Your name that we submit this prayer, Amen.
Scripture(s):
The LORD God formed the man The Hebrew for man (Adam) sounds like and may be related to the Hebrew for ground (adamah) it is also the name Adam, from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. Genesis 2:7
The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him. Genesis 2:18
Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. The man said, "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called 'woman, for she was taken out of man. Genesis 2:22-23
One of the greatest mysteries that have plagued mankind since the beginning of time is man’s relationship to woman. Man was created to rule of the world and woman was created to be his helpmate. Over the course of time, somehow, the dynamics of the male female relationship have changed. What I mean by this is that somehow, we have become disconnected from this most divine plan.
The sanctity of the divine institution of marriage and family has been drastically altered. The number of single parent households led my woman has grown to epidemic proportions and the number of women trying to raise sons alone, myself included, is overwhelming. I myself, often find that I am at a loss when it comes to instilling in my sons what it really means to be a man.
Too many men have decided that raising their sons is not in their divine plans of life and this decision often leaves our young men to try to figure out this thing call “manhood” on their own. I love my sons dearly and unconditionally, but for reasons that escape me, I often find that their manhood is seriously undermined by their lack of a soul.
What I mean by this statement is that far too often, they are repeating the same mistakes of their fathers.
As a single Christian mother, I have tried to nurture their faith in God and teach them biblical principals. Unfortunately, when they start comparing the word of God to their everyday lives, they do not see this divine plan in action. I mean, how can they “honor their mother AND their father, when the father is often missing from the family dynamics. How can they see the man as the head of the family when the head has essentially cut himself off from the body it was meant to support?
I don’t profess to have the answers to this age old dilemma. However, I do know where I seek these answers, in the word of God. Ladies, I myself have chosen not to give up on my men in training. In spite of. I refuse to allow the world to define my sons’ vision of manhood. It is time that we tell the world, ENOUGH! I will continue to feed my sons’ the word of God. And who knows, they just might reveal to me the soul of a man.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Our Father, which art in heaven. Jehovah Jireh, my provider. Whatever name we choose to call You, we recognize that You are our most Heavenly Father. Lord, we come standing in the gap this evening for our sons who are trying to find their way in this world. So often they become confused by what thing both seen and unseen. Lord, we come asking that you would wrap your arms of protection securely around our sons and our daughters. Lord, we ask that You would place Your hedge of protection securely around them and guide them down this path called life. Bless all of the single mothers trying to raise their children alone. Speak to the hearts and minds of those fathers who are not involved in their children’s lives. Help us Lord, to raise our children in Your ways. Lord, bless us, keep us, and anoint us. We come glorifying and uplifting Your Holy name. Thank you Jesus, for the blood that cleanses us, protects us and sanctifies us. It is in Your name that we submit this prayer, Amen.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
In The Fiery Furnace
The purest ore is produced from the hottest furnace, and the brightest thunderbolt is elicited from the darkest storm. ~ Charles Caleb Coltron
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. 1 Peter 1:6-7
Have you ever wondered why sometimes it seems that it's hard being a Christian? We accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior and then it seems like the more we love God and try to grow closer to him, life is constantly coming against you?
Well, I know I have. I look at my life and the lives of my saved brothers and sisters and see that each and every one of us is going through some rather difficult times. Situation after situation keeps happening. Jobs are being lost. Cars are being reposed, houses are being lost, marriages are being torn apart and the money just can't seem to stretch far enough.
But then, God gave me a revelation. Stop depending on the world, the people of this world, and the things of this world. Start looking at me instead! How many of you have noticed that the more you go through, the more you start to really study the word of God. You pray more and you look to him more. The more you go through, things and habits that you once had start falling away.
God says I put you in the furnace so that I can refine you like gold. I need to burn off all of those impurities. I know it's hot in there, but you are mine and those who are mine must be the best. Without spot or blemish. Free of sin, clean, A NEW CREATURE!
So I just want each of you to know, that it may get so hot and uncomfortable. Life will get hard and things may not always work the way we want them to, but in the end, we can praise God and rejoice at the new creature that he has created.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus for my fiery furnace. Thank You Lord, for the impurities that You are removing from me. Father, we just ask that You continue to be with us as we go through. We just ask that You would take our hand and lead us on. Lord, we ask that You would help us to see those things in our lives that we have need to get rid of and give them to You willingly. Continue to bless Your saints. Bless each and every family that is represented here. Thank You father for family and friends. Thank You Lord, for Your word. Thank You Lord, for Your son Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. 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. 1 Peter 1:6-7
Have you ever wondered why sometimes it seems that it's hard being a Christian? We accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior and then it seems like the more we love God and try to grow closer to him, life is constantly coming against you?
Well, I know I have. I look at my life and the lives of my saved brothers and sisters and see that each and every one of us is going through some rather difficult times. Situation after situation keeps happening. Jobs are being lost. Cars are being reposed, houses are being lost, marriages are being torn apart and the money just can't seem to stretch far enough.
But then, God gave me a revelation. Stop depending on the world, the people of this world, and the things of this world. Start looking at me instead! How many of you have noticed that the more you go through, the more you start to really study the word of God. You pray more and you look to him more. The more you go through, things and habits that you once had start falling away.
God says I put you in the furnace so that I can refine you like gold. I need to burn off all of those impurities. I know it's hot in there, but you are mine and those who are mine must be the best. Without spot or blemish. Free of sin, clean, A NEW CREATURE!
So I just want each of you to know, that it may get so hot and uncomfortable. Life will get hard and things may not always work the way we want them to, but in the end, we can praise God and rejoice at the new creature that he has created.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Thank You Jesus for my fiery furnace. Thank You Lord, for the impurities that You are removing from me. Father, we just ask that You continue to be with us as we go through. We just ask that You would take our hand and lead us on. Lord, we ask that You would help us to see those things in our lives that we have need to get rid of and give them to You willingly. Continue to bless Your saints. Bless each and every family that is represented here. Thank You father for family and friends. Thank You Lord, for Your word. Thank You Lord, for Your son Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Playing the Blame Game
If you blame others for your failures, do you credit them with your success? ~Unknown
Scripture:
When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all evil with his eyes. Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"? Proverbs 20:8-9 (New International Version)
How many of you know how to play the blame game? You know, it’s the one where you blame everybody else for your problems except yourself. Your teenage kids are out of control but you didn’t discipline them when they were younger. You have no friends yet you have never been a friend to someone else. The bills are due but you have no money because you went out to the casino last night. Your spouse is never home because you are always nagging them about never being at home.
We also like to blame other for what we haven’t done in our own lives. I could lose weight if I didn’t always have to cook fried foods all the time. I could have gotten that job instead of her if I had only stayed in school. If I had a job that paid good money I would'nt have to lie, cheat and steal to make ends meet. “Girl, he don’t want me to have his baby. He said I should have used protection.” Well, how about him using protection or better yet, why stop there. Stop having sex outside of marriage!
Too often it is easier for us to blame others for the messes in our lives instead of blaming ourselves. When we step outside of the will of God, bad things are bound to happen. When we point a finger at someone else, we forget that there are four more finger pointing right back at us.
So today, ask yourself; who is really to blame for your mess?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, far too often I want to blame others for my problems and situations. I forget that I play a major part in my own life. Help me lord to make better decisions and choices. Lord, I pray for a spirit of discernment so that I can clearly see when I am heading down the wrong path. Help me to not judge others for my actions or lack of action. Empower me to overcome those destruction behaviors that I sometimes find myself experiencing. Now Lord, as we begin a new week, help me to start anew. May I always be mindful that You see all and that You are only a prayer away. Keep us once again as we struggle through this journey called life. Empower me to take control and give the reigns of my love to the Holy Spirit that dwells within me. Thank You Lord for new revelations every day. I love You Lord and I bless Your Holy Name. Thank You for Your precious Son, Jesus Christ. It is in his name we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all evil with his eyes. Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"? Proverbs 20:8-9 (New International Version)
How many of you know how to play the blame game? You know, it’s the one where you blame everybody else for your problems except yourself. Your teenage kids are out of control but you didn’t discipline them when they were younger. You have no friends yet you have never been a friend to someone else. The bills are due but you have no money because you went out to the casino last night. Your spouse is never home because you are always nagging them about never being at home.
We also like to blame other for what we haven’t done in our own lives. I could lose weight if I didn’t always have to cook fried foods all the time. I could have gotten that job instead of her if I had only stayed in school. If I had a job that paid good money I would'nt have to lie, cheat and steal to make ends meet. “Girl, he don’t want me to have his baby. He said I should have used protection.” Well, how about him using protection or better yet, why stop there. Stop having sex outside of marriage!
Too often it is easier for us to blame others for the messes in our lives instead of blaming ourselves. When we step outside of the will of God, bad things are bound to happen. When we point a finger at someone else, we forget that there are four more finger pointing right back at us.
So today, ask yourself; who is really to blame for your mess?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Father God, far too often I want to blame others for my problems and situations. I forget that I play a major part in my own life. Help me lord to make better decisions and choices. Lord, I pray for a spirit of discernment so that I can clearly see when I am heading down the wrong path. Help me to not judge others for my actions or lack of action. Empower me to overcome those destruction behaviors that I sometimes find myself experiencing. Now Lord, as we begin a new week, help me to start anew. May I always be mindful that You see all and that You are only a prayer away. Keep us once again as we struggle through this journey called life. Empower me to take control and give the reigns of my love to the Holy Spirit that dwells within me. Thank You Lord for new revelations every day. I love You Lord and I bless Your Holy Name. Thank You for Your precious Son, Jesus Christ. It is in his name we pray. Amen.
Thursday, June 09, 2011
Look Up!
I try to avoid looking forward or backward, and try to keep looking upward. ~ Charlotte Bronte
Scripture:
I lift up my eyes to you, to you whose throne is in heaven. As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he shows us his mercy. Psalm 123:1-2 (New International Version)
We are often faced with situations where we cannot see a way out. We look to family and friends for help, but they too are unable to help. We go to the authorities, the church, and anyone else who might listen. Still, we can’t get out. It is not until we humble ourselves and seek our answers from the only one who can truly help, God.
When we try to find a way out of a hopeless situation, often times we only make that situation worse. We rob Peter to pay Paul. We borrow money we don’t have. Far too often we barter our very souls away.
Right now my family is going through a very difficult time. Our youngest sister is missing and we can’t find her. It seems as though no one wants to help. The authorities are playing a game of passing the buck and we are no closer to finding answers today then we were a month ago. The only thing that keeps us going right now is prayer.
In order for us to keep a semblance of sanity and courage, we must rely on our faith. In order to keep the devil at bay, we pray. In order for us to be able to go on when we arise in the morning we start the day in fellowship with God.
Now I know that some of you may be faced with your own difficult situations. I just want to say to you, be encouraged. No matter how hopeless your situation may be, God is still in control. When life knocks you flat on your back, look up.
Sometimes satan will knock you down, but God can pick you up!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Therefore I say unto You, What things soever ye desire when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Lord, we come before You believing that You are the one and only true God. Lord, we thank You for remaining faithful to us. Father we give thanks to You alone for loving us and watching over us. Father, help us always to put You first in all we do and say. Teach us Lord, how to remain faithful in spite of our circumstances. Help us Lord to remain prayerful and diligent in our service to You. Thank You Lord for blessing us. Thank You Lord for new grace and mercy. Thank You Lord, for the Blood, the blood that washes away my sins. The blood that protects, heals, and sanctifies. Thank You Lord, for loving a sinner like me. May the prayers of my brothers and sisters be heard by You alone. May You touch the hearts and minds of all who have come before the throne of grace today. May we always give thanks to You first. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Scripture:
I lift up my eyes to you, to you whose throne is in heaven. As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he shows us his mercy. Psalm 123:1-2 (New International Version)
We are often faced with situations where we cannot see a way out. We look to family and friends for help, but they too are unable to help. We go to the authorities, the church, and anyone else who might listen. Still, we can’t get out. It is not until we humble ourselves and seek our answers from the only one who can truly help, God.
When we try to find a way out of a hopeless situation, often times we only make that situation worse. We rob Peter to pay Paul. We borrow money we don’t have. Far too often we barter our very souls away.
Right now my family is going through a very difficult time. Our youngest sister is missing and we can’t find her. It seems as though no one wants to help. The authorities are playing a game of passing the buck and we are no closer to finding answers today then we were a month ago. The only thing that keeps us going right now is prayer.
In order for us to keep a semblance of sanity and courage, we must rely on our faith. In order to keep the devil at bay, we pray. In order for us to be able to go on when we arise in the morning we start the day in fellowship with God.
Now I know that some of you may be faced with your own difficult situations. I just want to say to you, be encouraged. No matter how hopeless your situation may be, God is still in control. When life knocks you flat on your back, look up.
Sometimes satan will knock you down, but God can pick you up!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Therefore I say unto You, What things soever ye desire when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Lord, we come before You believing that You are the one and only true God. Lord, we thank You for remaining faithful to us. Father we give thanks to You alone for loving us and watching over us. Father, help us always to put You first in all we do and say. Teach us Lord, how to remain faithful in spite of our circumstances. Help us Lord to remain prayerful and diligent in our service to You. Thank You Lord for blessing us. Thank You Lord for new grace and mercy. Thank You Lord, for the Blood, the blood that washes away my sins. The blood that protects, heals, and sanctifies. Thank You Lord, for loving a sinner like me. May the prayers of my brothers and sisters be heard by You alone. May You touch the hearts and minds of all who have come before the throne of grace today. May we always give thanks to You first. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Monday, June 06, 2011
Leave it in the Past
Scripture:
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14
Saints, how many of you are still mad about something that happened yesterday, last week, or even last year? How many of you are still upset with someone because of something that they did to you in the past? How many of you are afraid to do something or go somewhere because of something that happened to you in your past?
Saints of God, we must learn to let go of our past fears, our past hurts, and even past slights. We must learn that what happened in the past is just that, in the past. Each and every one of us has had something bad happen to us in the past but we must learn to let go and let God. We must learn to forgive and move on.
How can we expect forgiveness if we won't forgive. How can we expect a healing if we continue to let a sore fester. How can we walk into our future is we won't let go of our past?
How can we expect God's light to shine in us when we are still holding on to a dark past?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come once again seeking your face. Father God, we come this morning 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, 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.
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14
Saints, how many of you are still mad about something that happened yesterday, last week, or even last year? How many of you are still upset with someone because of something that they did to you in the past? How many of you are afraid to do something or go somewhere because of something that happened to you in your past?
Saints of God, we must learn to let go of our past fears, our past hurts, and even past slights. We must learn that what happened in the past is just that, in the past. Each and every one of us has had something bad happen to us in the past but we must learn to let go and let God. We must learn to forgive and move on.
How can we expect forgiveness if we won't forgive. How can we expect a healing if we continue to let a sore fester. How can we walk into our future is we won't let go of our past?
How can we expect God's light to shine in us when we are still holding on to a dark past?
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Lord, we come once again seeking your face. Father God, we come this morning 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, 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.
Sunday, June 05, 2011
Passing through Darkness
That which causes us trials shall yield us triumph: and that which make our hearts ache shall fill us with gladness. The only true happiness is to learn, to advance, and to improve: which could not happen unless we had commence with error, ignorance, and imperfection. We must pass through the darkness, to reach the light.
Scripture:
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9 (New International Version)
Darkness is described as a condition that is void of light. When darkness is all around you, it is hard to see where you came from and even harder to see in what direction you may be headed. Have you ever been out at night and there was no light anywhere around you; or, in a room that was void of light? But then, you saw a ray of light and started heading in the direction from which the light emanated? That’s how our Christian walk is sometimes.
We find ourselves lost in the night, surrounded by darkness. We can’t see where we came from or where we are headed. We may even begin to panic and start doing irrational things in our quest to find our way home and out of the darkness that threatens to envelop us.
We search for a ray of light in anything, everything and everywhere. Our search may even lead us to the wrong things. We make seek solace in all the wrong places; in sex, drugs or alcohol. Some people get so lost in these places that they may never find their way home. You may know or seen some of these people. I know I have. My youngest sister got lost one day in the world of drugs and never made it home. However, my prayer is that she found the light she so desperately needed. Jesus; the light of the world.
Jesus can lead you out of darkness and into the wonderful light.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Grant unto us, Almighty God, in all time of sore distress, the comfort of the forgiveness of our sins. In time of darkness give us blessed hope, in time of sickness of body give us quiet courage; and when the heart is bowed down, and the soul is very heavy, and life is a burden, and pleasure a weariness, and the sun is too bright, and life too overwhelming, then may that Spirit, the Spirit of the Comforter, come upon us, and after our darkness may there be the clear shining of the heavenly light; that so, being uplifted again by Thy mercy, we may pass on through this our mortal life with quiet courage, patient hope, and unshaken trust, hoping through Thy loving-kindness and tender mercy to be delivered from death into the large life of the eternal years. Continue to touch Your saints who have asked for our prayers. Grant us everlasting mercy, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Scripture:
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9 (New International Version)
Darkness is described as a condition that is void of light. When darkness is all around you, it is hard to see where you came from and even harder to see in what direction you may be headed. Have you ever been out at night and there was no light anywhere around you; or, in a room that was void of light? But then, you saw a ray of light and started heading in the direction from which the light emanated? That’s how our Christian walk is sometimes.
We find ourselves lost in the night, surrounded by darkness. We can’t see where we came from or where we are headed. We may even begin to panic and start doing irrational things in our quest to find our way home and out of the darkness that threatens to envelop us.
We search for a ray of light in anything, everything and everywhere. Our search may even lead us to the wrong things. We make seek solace in all the wrong places; in sex, drugs or alcohol. Some people get so lost in these places that they may never find their way home. You may know or seen some of these people. I know I have. My youngest sister got lost one day in the world of drugs and never made it home. However, my prayer is that she found the light she so desperately needed. Jesus; the light of the world.
Jesus can lead you out of darkness and into the wonderful light.
Be Blessed
Prayer:
Grant unto us, Almighty God, in all time of sore distress, the comfort of the forgiveness of our sins. In time of darkness give us blessed hope, in time of sickness of body give us quiet courage; and when the heart is bowed down, and the soul is very heavy, and life is a burden, and pleasure a weariness, and the sun is too bright, and life too overwhelming, then may that Spirit, the Spirit of the Comforter, come upon us, and after our darkness may there be the clear shining of the heavenly light; that so, being uplifted again by Thy mercy, we may pass on through this our mortal life with quiet courage, patient hope, and unshaken trust, hoping through Thy loving-kindness and tender mercy to be delivered from death into the large life of the eternal years. Continue to touch Your saints who have asked for our prayers. Grant us everlasting mercy, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Wednesday, June 01, 2011
Don't Take Your Blessings for Granted
Reflect on your present blessings of which every man has many, not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some." Charles Dickens
Scripture:
For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God. Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. 2 Corinthians 1:20-22
Saints, how often do you stop and think about how truly blessed you are? Or do you just take your blessings for granted. Now before you answer, I must tell you that yes, there are times when I know that I have taken my blessing for granted.
You see, when things are going right in your lives, it is so easy to give the credit for your blessing away. For example, when you are promoted do you thank God or do you think you did it by shear hard work and determination. When you marry that man/woman of your dreams do you think that it was your love alone that made them want to marry you, or is it possible that they may have seen the love of God in you?
In our times of prosperity let us always remember to Thank God!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
O God, early in the morning we cry to You. Help us to pray And to concentrate our thoughts on You. We cannot do this alone. In us there is darkness, But with You there is light. Some of us are lonely, but You do not leave us. Some are feeble in heart, but with You there is help. There is discord among us but with You there is peace. Lord, whatever this day may bring, Your name be praised. Lord, in every need let us come to You with humble trust saying, "Jesus, have mercy." In the time of troubles and temptations, Jesus, have mercy. In hours of loneliness, weariness, and trials, Jesus, have mercy. In the failure of our plans and hopes; in disappointments and sorrows, Jesus, have mercy. When others fail us and Your grace alone can assist us, have mercy. When our hearts are cast down by failure at seeing no good come from our efforts, Jesus, have mercy. When we feel impatient and our cross irritates us, Jesus, have mercy. When we are ill and our heads and hands cannot work and we are lonely, Jesus, have mercy. Always, always, in spite of weakness, failings, and shortcomings of every kind, Jesus, have mercy and never forsake us. Father, this day I will praise You at every turn. We will sing songs of praise to You despite whatever we may be going through, we will say hallelujah, anyhow. No matter what today may bring, we will love You, anyhow. Lord, we give all thanks, honor and glory to You alone. As we submit our prayers and petitions to You in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture:
For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God. Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. 2 Corinthians 1:20-22
Saints, how often do you stop and think about how truly blessed you are? Or do you just take your blessings for granted. Now before you answer, I must tell you that yes, there are times when I know that I have taken my blessing for granted.
You see, when things are going right in your lives, it is so easy to give the credit for your blessing away. For example, when you are promoted do you thank God or do you think you did it by shear hard work and determination. When you marry that man/woman of your dreams do you think that it was your love alone that made them want to marry you, or is it possible that they may have seen the love of God in you?
In our times of prosperity let us always remember to Thank God!
Be Blessed
Prayer:
O God, early in the morning we cry to You. Help us to pray And to concentrate our thoughts on You. We cannot do this alone. In us there is darkness, But with You there is light. Some of us are lonely, but You do not leave us. Some are feeble in heart, but with You there is help. There is discord among us but with You there is peace. Lord, whatever this day may bring, Your name be praised. Lord, in every need let us come to You with humble trust saying, "Jesus, have mercy." In the time of troubles and temptations, Jesus, have mercy. In hours of loneliness, weariness, and trials, Jesus, have mercy. In the failure of our plans and hopes; in disappointments and sorrows, Jesus, have mercy. When others fail us and Your grace alone can assist us, have mercy. When our hearts are cast down by failure at seeing no good come from our efforts, Jesus, have mercy. When we feel impatient and our cross irritates us, Jesus, have mercy. When we are ill and our heads and hands cannot work and we are lonely, Jesus, have mercy. Always, always, in spite of weakness, failings, and shortcomings of every kind, Jesus, have mercy and never forsake us. Father, this day I will praise You at every turn. We will sing songs of praise to You despite whatever we may be going through, we will say hallelujah, anyhow. No matter what today may bring, we will love You, anyhow. Lord, we give all thanks, honor and glory to You alone. As we submit our prayers and petitions to You in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
