L. I. G. (LET IT GO)

Good Morning!! God loves us,...but we will still experience events that cause fear and pain. The loss of a job, the death of a loved one, or abandonment by one we love, may produce, or magnify these feelings of fear and pain. But harboring these emotions, rather than God's Love, can negatively impact our lives, to the point of making us emotionally crippled.

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. We love because he first loved us.—1 John 4:18-19 (NRSV)

As we begin to give the fear and pain over to God, we start experience God's peace. Then, we become free, to show love to others, by acts as simple as smiling at a stranger,...or practicing understanding and self-control in a lasting and loving relationship.

Put simply; Letting go of old hurts and fears, frees us to embrace life.

Sweet Spirit of God, help us to keep the greatest of all commandments; LOVE. Help us to let go of our hurts and fears,...so that we may more fully accept and share the love our Father has so readily given to us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."

(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll

Love Rather Than Judge

Good Morning!! Jesus was teaching in the Temple, when some local religious leaders brought in a woman. They sternly condemned the woman's adulterous behavior,...which was punishable by death. They intended to use her transgression to trap Jesus, in a response that might counter the law of Moses. Instead, Jesus began writing in the dust. He did not excuse the woman's actions,...but He told her not to do it again. Jesus understood that the real need in the woman's life was for love,...not judgment.

Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again."—John 8:11 (NRSV)

How frequently do we judge our others without knowing the facts,...or more importantly, without compassion? Like those religious leaders in the text, we sometimes have 20/20 vision regarding the errors of others,...while we remain blind to our own transgressions. During this Christmas season, let us open our hearts to God's grace, so we can be channels of the Gift the world needs most,...God's redeeming love.

Be more ready and willing to love others,
...rather than judge them.
Father God, bestow on us more compassion, for all Your people. Help us to better reflect Your love, every day. Amen.

"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."

(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll

Practice Makes Perfect

Good Morning!! Don't become discouraged when love, peace, and patience don't seem to come naturally,...we all make mistakes, and stumble. But as we continue to turn our attention to all that is "true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable",...we are assured that God is with us, and will give us His peace. If you've never failed, it's only because you've never tried.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.—Philippians 4:8-9 (NIV)

Paul tells us to practice what is noble, right, pure, honorable, and so on. Because when we repeatedly choose to turn our hearts and minds to these things,...we mature. Christian character becomes a natural part of our lives. There is no aspect of our living, that can not benifit from more practice.

Grace is God working with us, as we work to grow in our faith.
Thank You, Father, for our lessons in faith, and life. Now we just need Your help to put them into practice. Amen.

"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."

(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll

Seeing Value

Good Morning!! One of the ways that I found to save, is by setting my change aside. I have one container with nothing but pennies. Many were picked from the ground, thrown away, because people fail to see their value. Often, by the time I'm ready to turn my change in, I have several hundred dollars. Sure it takes awhile, but even pennies add up.

Keeping God's commands is what counts.—1 Corinthians 7:19 (NIV)

Like those who toss pennies aside, we sometimes throw important things away, thinking they are trivial. We forget to offer a kind word, or a smile to those who walk by,...a simple word of encouragement can mean a lot. People with little or no family around can appreciate a phone call, now and then, just to say hello. Do a chore for someone, or take someone someplace they need to go,...just because you can. Maybe we could just let someone know we're thinking of them, and they haven't been forgotten. That might not seem like a lot either, but to someone in need, it means the world.

Sometimes doing great things for God,
...means doing little things for others.

Sweet Spirit of God, may we learn to be keepers,...keepers of Your Words, and keepers of Christ's example in good works and deeds. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."

(Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll

Only One Way

Good Morning!! What's The Truth,...Is There More Than One Way To Get To Heaven? We've all been bombarded with philosophies and ideas that are often diametrically opposed to one another. I have friends that look for spiritual growth or awakening,...they read self-help books, watch tapes and listen to charismatic speakers. All to discover a purpose for this life or how to enter a better after-life. They just want to know the truth.

Jesus said to [Thomas], "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."—John 14:6 (NRSV)

The center of faith and life is not found in a philosophy but a person. Jesus Christ is the Son of God, Lord of Creation, and Savior of the world. By God's grace, he is our Lord and Savior. Allow that truth to move from the top of your head to the bottom of your heart, and you'll never be the same. That is the real Truth.

For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell." (Col. 1:19)
Jesus and only Jesus, is the way, the truth, and the life.

"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."

(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives)

God Comes To Us

Good Morning!! Where do we find God? I used to think that the best time and place to find God was in church. But the shepherds were watching over their sheep. Like so many others, we meet God, while we're working.

There were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them.—Luke 2:8-9 (KJV)

The angel of the Lord came to the shepherds during the course of an evening's work, and they saw the glory of the Lord shining around them and lighting up the sky. The angel told them that the Savior had been born and was lying in a manger in the City of David. As the shepherds looked after their sheep, "a multitude of the heavenly host" appeared and sang the heavenly anthem: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace" (Luke 2:13-14). What they saw moved them to look for Jesus.

We too can encounter God in the humdrum tasks of every day,
...if we look, we will see God coming to us.

God, make us diligent in our daily tasks, and reveal to us your glory. Through Jesus Christ. Amen.

"GOD is LOVE."

It's Never Too Heavey For God

Good Morning!! Carrying the weight of too many concerns makes our heart ache,...inwardly, we double over with the pain. Just as we tend to carry too much of a physical load,...we have a tendency of toting too many problems, for too long.

Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."—Matthew 11:28 (NRSV)

The loads of life weigh too much for us to carry alone. We all know people can carry much heavier loads by sharing the burden with another. In a similar way, God offers to take the other handle of our baggage,...and If we allow Him, we'll find that He will willingly carry whatever weighs us down.

God's advice was, "You're carrying too many cares,
...stop and give them to me."

Father in Heaven, thank You for helping us with our problems. Remind us to bring our burdens to You instead of trying to carry them alone. Amen.

"GOD is LOVE."

Be Sure It's God

Good Morning!! Sometimes even though we believe we are "tuned in" to God, we may not hear God clearly. God's voice can be masked, or filtered out by the noise of the world,...if we are too close to the signals the world is sending. These opposing signals can come from many sources,...and they are anything that disagrees with what God's Word teaches.

Paul said, "Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me."—2 Timothy 4:10 (NRSV)

The passage of scripture above references us to the fact, that we must love the Lord our God with all our heart, all our soul, and all our mind. But as we spend more time listening to God's voice, we can better filter out all those other, conflicting voices that interrupt our communication with God.

Don't simply adjust to mixed or crossed signals,
...filter them out, with God's Word.

Sweet Spirit of God, help us to better hear You. Show us the areas where we've become too comfortable with the messages of the world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"GOD is LOVE."

God Hears Us

Good Morning!! A call came late one night, from a friend who was struggling with his life, and his job. He needed someone to just listen to him. I was tired, grumpy, and I didn't want to hear about someone else's problems,...but I listened. Before I knew it, an hour had passed.

Blessed be the LORD, for he has heard the sound of my pleadings.—Psalm 28:6 (NRSV)

I didn't say all that much,...I asked a few questions and affirmed the direction he was already leaning in. Before we said goodnight, he confidently, and gratefully said; "Thanks for listening. You've helped me so much. I can't believe that I hesitated to call you!" I felt as though, I was God's ram in the bush,...just what my friend needed,...when he needed it. I can't believe how close I came, to missing a chance, to reflect Christ.

Though we may often hesitate to call out,...God is our first source of comfort, the one who always hears, understands, and responds.

Loving God, hear our prayers and hear our cries. Let us know again and again that you are God and that you hold all things in your hands. Amen.

"GOD is LOVE."

UNCONDITIONAL

Good Morning!! God loves us, just as we are. When I was younger, I had a list of rules that other people had to follow to earn, or keep my love. I was so self-righteous, and expected a lot from others,...often more than I was able to give. Each day, I am learning more about how to love,...no matter what. Learning to love this way, is key, to making our lives fuller and brighter.

Now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.—1 Corinthians 13:13 (NRSV)

God's love is unconditional,...it's love with no barriers, no boundaries, and no conditions. Put simply, God just loves us. I now want to love others, that freely and fully. When we realized that God sees all our faults and sins,...and still loves us dearly.

We can not continue to put conditions on the love we give.

Dear God, help us to love as you love us. In Jesus' name. Amen.

"GOD is LOVE."

Live Thankful

Good Morning!! Paul wrote to the Ephesians, reminding them that living under God's love means giving God thanks in all that life brings,...even in times of distress. Learning to do so will changed the way you both see and live. Old problems, and long-held grievances, yield to the power of thankful living.

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, always give thanks for everything to God the Father.—Ephesians 5:20 (TEV)

Instead of being filled with regret or anger about what has not gone our way, we must learn to give thanks for the many blessing we receive daily. Instead of approaching adverse work situations and difficult people as a cross to be endured, look at them as opportunities to practice patience, and show compassion.

When we look for reasons to give thanks, we find them.
Thanks be to God!

My Lord, My God, You make all things new in Jesus Christ. Give us thankful hearts so that all things are transformed in Your love. Amen.

"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid"

God Won't Forget You

Good Morning!! I'm not sure if there is a hidden meaning, for precise number 153, in today's scripture. I do know that it was a great catch. The fishermen were disciples of Jesus and had returned to their trade after a three-year absence. After an unsuccessful night of fishing,...a suggestion from someone standing on the shore, resulted in a net full of fish.

Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn.—John 21:11 (NIV)

Peter and the others later discovered; that not only was the Master Fisherman alive, but he had a fire built,...and breakfast waiting for them. I see the specifics of 153 large fish, as reassuring. Not one was overlooked,...each was important and was counted. This passage should reassure us all, that not one of us, is ever overlooked by God.

Just as promised,...
God is always waiting to welcome, and feed us.

Father God, we thank You for Your word, which speaks to us the blessed assurance of Your love forever, in Jesus Christ. Amen.

"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".

Be Strong Enough To Give It To GOD

Good Morning!! Even today, I still find myself attempting to rely on my own strength, to make it through this world. I like to think of myself as a competent, self-reliant, independent person. Whether handling problems and crises as a husband and grand-father or as a maintenance electrician,...I tend to rely on my own resources to manage my life. Sometimes, I'm almost convinced, that there isn't any circumstance that my reasoning and willpower can't overcome.

Paul said, "I am convinced that neither death nor life . . . nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."—Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)

However, I do realized that we have to trust God to take care of our situations, circumstances and yes even take care of us. There will be times when we're lost,...unable fix the situation,...unable to undo it,...just helpless, and filled with fear and panic. Times when our own resources are useless to help us,....when we can't do anything more than pray, and release things into God's care.

We can entrust all things that we're concerned about, into the loving care of God.

Father in Heaven, we thank You for the promise that nothing can separate us from Your love,...not even our foolishness. Amen.

"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".

God Is With Us

Good Morning, My Friend!! Even though there are times when we have to move ahead with uneasiness or dread, we thank God because we do not travel the road alone. Just as God has been with us, all along the way we've already come,...God also goes with us on our journey, guiding us through what ever may come.

You will show me the path that leads to life; your presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever.—Psalm 16:11 (TEV)

On those occasions or at times when we feel as though we can't go on,...it is good to stop, rest, and reflect on how far we have come already. But our comfortable places aren't meant as stopping points. Remember that in all we do, and wherever we go,...God is with us. JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH meaning "The Lord who is present".......Ezekiel 48:35

On each day's journey, God is our constant companion.

Loving God, You have traveled with us on our journey through life. Continue to lead us into the future and help us to be aware of Your presence every step of the way. Amen.

"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".

Know God

Good Morning!! A true relationship with God, through Jesus, brings better self-esteem, and an inner peace that few can begin to imagine. We will trade a materialistic attitude and obsession with money, for the satisfaction of helping others.

Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.—Colossians 3:12 (NRSV)

So why do so many settle for empty religion, when they can have personal spirituality. We have only to repent, and draw closer to God, through prayer and meditation. In return, we receive all that we need to endure this life,...as well as a greater experience of peace, love, and joy in the next.

Christ came to set us free, from all, that would separate us from the Love of God.

Thank you, Lord, for listening to all our prayers and requests. Help us to trust your promises to us and to rely on your word. Amen.

"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".

Perspective

Good Morning!! Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, we can't tell why a particular thing happens in our life. It is only when we gain a different perspective, that we see God's hand at work. It's our time with God that gives us that new perspective.

Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.—Colossians 3:12 (NIV)

Sometimes all it takes is a walk in the woods,...a phone call to, or from a friend,...or reading scripture and the daily devotions to help us see the world around us, from a different viewpoint,...and to realize that God is acting on our behalf.

God's gracious action is woven into all the events and relationships in our lives.

O God, to You belongs all the praise for the majesty and glory of creation. We thank You for Your everlasting presence in our lives. May we remember we walk with Your protection, and in Your Light daily. Amen.

"If we can hope,...we can cope".

Christ-Like

Good Morning!! The hassles of everyday living can take their toll on love, peace, and joy. Like a pop quiz, we get opportunities to show the love of God, thrust upon us. But too often, we are simply unprepared. Leaving us, and others to wonder how or why, we call ourselves Christians,...when we don't act like Christ.

Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.—Colossians 3:12 (NIV)

As we submit to Christ, His character is formed in us. As we reflect this character in our daily lives, we give the world and ourselves, fewer reasons to wonder what happened to love, peace, and joy. It's our own words and actions, in ordinary situations, that can either block, or promote what God wants for us.

Be ready to reflect Christ in daily choices,...there will always be a test.

Dear God, in every situation, help us to reflect the character of Jesus Christ. Let You light forever shine in us. Amen.

"If we can hope,...we can cope".

For God

Good Morning!! In a mobile world, random acts of kindness extended even to strangers, can be the beginning of ministry. How open are you to those in need? Will they be able to see the love of God in your enteractions?

The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these . . . you did for me."—Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

The gift of hospitality is often neglected in our hurried and sometimes impersonal world. The words of Jesus remind us to care for strangers.

Reach out with love,...when we welcome strangers, we welcome Jesus.

Dear God, make us receptive to the needs of others, especially those whom we do not know,...and may even fear. Amen.

"If we can hope,...we can cope".

First Things First

Good Morning!! When I seem to have too many things on my plate, and I begin to feel distressed and disconnected,...I'm called back to the habits and teachings my grandmother put to work in her own life. First things, came first; eat vegetables before dessert,...do homework before play,...complete chores before going anywhere,...and tithe your money to God's work through the church before you start spending.

Seek first [God's] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.—Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

Ordering our priorities, sets our affairs in place. Jesus taught that the kingdom of God, and God's righteousness, are to be given top priority. Our lives will be less stressful and more whole when we establish the priority of God's kingdom in the habits of our lives.

As Christians, all else should be secondary to living our faith.

Our Father in Heaven, help us to understand how You desire us to order our lives. Amen.

"If we can hope,...we can cope".

Look Ahead

Good Morning!! The angel said to Lot's wife: "Don't look back." But Lot's wife looked at the burning city of Sodom,...and became a pillar of salt. If she had chosen to look ahead, she would have begun the process of leaving the past behind her, and moving to the future that God promised.

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.—Isaiah 43:18 (NIV)

Most of the time, the only thing holding us to our past is us. God has forgiven us. Those that would hold us in the past, do so,...only because we allow them to. Learn to; Let It Go. Stop living in the past, stop looking back. Look ahead,...and see the past only through the lens of God's forgiveness. Because of God, we have a future that's so much better than our past.

Let you past be your past,...forgive yourself, and forgive others.

Father, thank You for forgiving and forgetting our past. And thank You for enabling us, by the power of your Holy Spirit,...to do the same thing for ourselves and others. Amen.

"If we can hope,...we can cope".

Line Of Sight

Good Morning, Great Friday!! God watches over us as we move through life. God puts out a steadying hand, we have only to grasp it in prayer,...and we shall be helped. Our road may be steep and winding, our terrain rough, and our path slippery. But whether easy to follow, or hard,...God is there, all along the way, guiding and protecting us.

I cling to you, and your hand keeps me safe.—Psalm 63:8 (TEV)

Know that God has a full view of the paths we travel through life, even though we sometimes cannot see the way very well, from our vantage point. He is leading us to great things,...trust Him, praise Him!

The more we trust God,...the more we'll want to.

O God, help us to trust you and keep close to you. Amen.

"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."

Pray

Good Morning!! In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul illustrated the bond of community by comparing us to the human body. He said we are different parts but still belong to the same body; we are interrelated and need one another. No one person has all the gifts of the Spirit,...we have different but related gifts. And that makes community necessary for wholeness.

Jesus prayed, "The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one."—Psalm 73:24 (NRSV)

God has called us together through Jesus into one family. It is a bond created in heaven and strengthened on earth as we work together in serving God. This is the pattern of personal relationships that's to be our model.

Each time the Holy Spirit prompts, pray for others,...even if you don't know why.

Blessed Holy Spirit, help us to love, respect, and care for one another. Teach us to live in community. In Jesus' name. Amen.

"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."

Gain from Lost

Good Morning!! We are told in the Bible that Job lost almost all that mattered,...his possessions, his children, and his health. He cried out to God,...not only because he was suffering,...but because he couldn't understand why he had to suffer, so much.

Job said, "Don't condemn me, God. Tell me! What is the charge against me?"—Job 10:2 (TEV)

In the end, Job received many blessings from God. His losses were offset by later blessings. During times of hardship, we can look beyond the tragedy and be grateful for the gifts God has bestowed upon us, knowing that God's goodness will continue in the future. Our families, our health, our neighbors and friends - these may not count when we are asking for a loan at the bank, but they are life's greatest riches.

Suffering helps us to not take our blessings for granted,...and better appreciate God's good gifts.

God of goodness, uphold us in hard times, and help us to trust You for our future. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."

Forgiveness, Renewal, and Love

Good Morning!! For my church, the forth Sunday is Communion Sunday. Once everyone has been served, the Pastor says; "let's eat together, and lets drink together." And the entire church body joins in this practice of rememberence. All I can feel during this sacred time is love. It's a feeling of complete acceptance of each person as a child of God,...someone who have come to the table for the forgiveness and renewal. Which we all receive when we celebrate Holy Communion.

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body." Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.—Matthew 26:26-28 (NIV)

"Jesus' body broken for you,...Jesus' blood, shed for you," Jesus' unconditional love flowing to, and through, the people who were there seeking that love,...by way of Holy Communion. I often wonder why we don't have it every Sunday,...after all, it is said that as often as we do this, it is in rememberence of Him.

At the table of the Lord, we will always find forgiveness, renewal, and love.

Dear Lord, help us to feel unconditional love for others every day, and help me to receive the love that others offer. In Jesus' name. Amen.

"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."

God Is Our Guide

Good Morning!! Who guides us,...and to whom do we entrust our safety, in our daily lives? For most, the temptation is to trust the security that we believe money, health, jobs, and family can bring. But faith place in anything other than God, is faith miss-placed.

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.—John 16:13 (NRSV)

Each of us wants, and has the right to live with dignity, and seek happiness,...but as we seek these things, money and stuff should not guide our lives or form the basis of our security. If the kingdom of God and its justice guide us, everything else will be added.

Through out the day, we should seek the Holy Spirit to guide and sustain us.
O God, thank you for being our beacon. Guide our lives and those of our loved ones. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"You make a living by what we get,
...but you make a life by what we give."

The Jesus In Us

Good Morning,...Praying That You And Yours, Had A Happy Thanksgiving!! How do we enter into the muck of this world without having it cling to us and drag us down? How do we light up the world without being attracted to the less than holy enticements we may find there? Set apart to be holy, but also sent into fallen creation to be used by God in His process of redeeming others. That’s the plan.

They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth. —John 17:16,17 (NIV)

Jesus allows us to go into the world as holy people who can reach into the darkness without being covered by it. Here’s how: His Indwelling. Jesus prayed, “I in them and You in Me” (v.23). Profound words. The Son could do His work because the Father was in Him—loving and leading Him. Jesus indwells us by the Holy Spirit.

Because of Jesus, we now have the ability to walk among sinners, as He did,
...without having to enter into sin.

To go into the world is God’s plan for us.
We are called to a “holy worldliness.” Go in Jesus’ power! —Tom Felten

"Your past, is not your future,...Let It Go"

We Are Un-finished Works

Good Morning!! Viewing everyone through the eyes of God, would change our response, as well as our hearts and attitudes. It's a choice we could make,...to either look at what can be through Christ, or what we see with our human eyes. We are not expected to turn a blind eye to sin, but to seek what is good, and demonstrate love and compassion towards others, as they face the struggles and challenges along the way.

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.—Philippians 4:5 (TNIV)

Everyone is a work in progress. Wouldn't it be great, if we could all grasp this simple truth,...and view others as an un-finished work of God's hand. Unfortunately, most of the time we only see the negative, when we should be in seeing the areas, that have been completed. What joy and peace of mind we would experience, if we could let go of our contempt of what someone else should be, or do.

Each and every life is priceless, and the possibilities endless, in the hands of Almighty God.

And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)

"Your past, is not your future,...Let It Go"

Two Things

Good Morning, My Friend!! Most prescriptions for change involve doing two things. If we want to lose weight, we must eat less and exercise more. Financial freedom involves cutting what we spend while increasing the amount we save. Good relationships develop when we listen to others, instead of simply talking about ourselves. One essential of change is negative while the other is positive. It takes both to transform us from who we are into the people we hope to be.

The time has come,” He said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!”—Mark 1:15 (NIV)

In the Gospels, it’s interesting how often the call of Jesus required people to do two things.To repent means to turn away from our self-serving lives in which we, not God, are in charge. But if all we do is repent, then we’ve lost something without gaining anything in exchange. We need to do the second thing,...believe the good news. Negative and positive. Stop and start. Decrease and increase. That’s how we change as we abandon the self-life and embrace the Christ-life. That’s the beauty of following Jesus and learning how much we can change when we’re willing to do the two things.

Through repentance I turn away from sin, and by faith I embrace God’s forgiveness, acknowledging Jesus as Master of my life.

To ask, “Should I repent or should I believe the good news?” is like asking, “Which is more important, the left wing or right wing on an airplane?” We all know it takes both to fly.—Dave McCasland

"Your past, is not your future,...Let It Go"

L.I.G. Let It Go

Good Morning!! Today's Bible reading is about how Joseph forgave his brothers, but it is also clear that Joseph had not forgotten what the brothers had done. Although the command to forgive and forget is not found specifically in the Bible,...I wish we could forget. We can forgive smaller transgressions and even forget most of them,...but the more hurtful memories seem to remain.

God says, "I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more."—Jeremiah 31:34 (NRSV)

We cannot remove hurtful memories,...they are a part of us. Nevertheless, we can continually wrap them in layers of prayer so that though a part of us,...they no longer have the power to harm us.

Even though Joseph did not forget,...he was free from anguish over the past.
God of grace, help us to forgive until we are free to Let It Go, and move on. Amen.

"Your past, is not your future,...Let It Go"

We All Doubt

Good Morning!! Doubts are a normal part of spiritual growth. When we encounter them, we don't have to give up, or give in. We should talking to those who are solid in their faith,...we must keep studying, and praying.

Immediately the father of the [ailing] child cried out, "I believe; help my unbelief!"—Mark 9:24 (NRSV)

As we search, ask more questions, and look for new answers,...God leads us to discover for ourselves more than facts,...but the Truth. As we continue serving the Lord during our spiritual struggles, our answers will come.

First admitting, then facing our doubts, helps us to grow in faith.
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for Your patience with us in our doubting,...and for Your help in finding deeper faith. Amen.

"Grace is the overflowing, immeasurable favor of God."

Strength Comes From Worship

Good Morning!! When we are grieving, worried, or feeling overwhelmed, it may seem easy not to attend worship. However, in times like these we most need to be there. When we are in company with the faithful, God has a way of reaching out to us that we don't often experience, in any other setting,...our fears and worries are calmed, our spirits renewed, and our faith strengthened.

Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together.—Hebrews 10:24-25 (NRSV)

Know the importance of congregational worship,...not only to witness to our faith, but to receive the strength that comes only from worshiping with others. Public worship is important,...seek to make it a rule of life. We need to understand and believe God is always with us, but He touches us through others.

We experience God's presence best, in company with God's people.
Gracious God, help us to be faithful to worship you in company with our brothers and sisters in Christ. You are the source of our strength, which you bring to us in a powerful way when we worship together. Amen.
"Grace is the overflowing, immeasurable faver of God."

Don't Hide Your Weakness

Good Morning, It's Another Wonderful, Worshipful Wednesday!! So many people respond to feelings of inadequacy by throwing up a shield of pride and arrogance,...so others wont see the weak, fearful child that's inside of them. Being strong, independent, and having control is their goal. They live this lie for as long as they can.

[The Lord] said to [Paul], "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."—2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)

But It's not until we allowed Jesus into our life and admitted our weaknesses that real peace and contentment can come to us. We as Christians, must learn from Paul that when we humble ourselves and admit we are too weak to handle all of life's difficulties on our own,...when we do, we open the door to Christ's power. Help is just a prayer away.

By God's grace, the power of Christ dwells in all of us.
Dear Lord, when we feel powerless and do not know how to handle life, You provide the strength we need. Help us to see, and truly believe, that our weakness opens the door for Your power to come into, and change our circumstances. Amen.
"Grace is the overflowing, immeasurable favor of God."

Free from Sin

Good Morning, Friend!! When Paul talks about being set free from sin that controls us,...he's telling us that release from sin means; a new life through faith in Jesus. Others may have known us when we were in the clutches of sin,...and still today, refuse to see us any other way.

You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.—Romans 6:18 (NIV)

But through prayer, repentance, and trust we have grown, and are still growing into a new way of life,...being transformed into something better. Scars may remain, but our new life in Christ promises continual growth and change.

None of us are perfect, and though our faults are different,
...we all need Grace and Mercy.

Holy Spirit, help us to stay encouraged to walk in the ways that lead to life. Help us to see the beauty in others, and to accept them as we want to be accepted,...as You accept us all. Amen.

"Grace is the overflowing, immeasurable faver of God."

Complaining

Good Morning!! God led Moses and the Israelites away from slavery in Egypt, and into the desert. Almost immediately, the Israelites began to complain. First they complained about food, and God gave them quail and manna. Later they complained about the lack of water, and God gave them water.

Moses prayed to God, "Forgive . . . the sin of these people, just as you have forgiven them ever since they left Egypt."—Numbers 14:19 (TEV)

We are a lot like the Israelites with our complaining. We don't take our needs and fears to God, right away,...in the faith that He will hear and deliver. Instead we whine, "Why me?" God has saved us for all eternity,...and yet, our thanks is a daily litany of petty complaints.

If we'd stop to express thanks for all the good things in our lives, we wouldn't have so much time to complain.

Father God, in repentance, we thank You for the freedom from a complaining spirit, and for the peace and joy that come with quiet trust and a thankful heart. Amen.

"Grace is the overflowing, immeasurable faver of God."

Restoration

Good Morning!! Think you've hit rock bottom? We can't fall so low that God can not, or will not, restore us. David was full of guilt, remorse, and penitence. The prophet Nathan had reminded David about sending Uriah where he would be killed in the heat of battle so that David could take Bathsheba, Uriah's wife. King David had looked at his life, and acknowledged that he had sinned.

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.—Psalm 51:17 (KJV)

But David also had hope,...he realized that if he came to God with a penitent spirit, a broken and a contrite heart, he could receive forgiveness. God does not despise true repentance, which includes sorrow for sin and a desire to forsake sin.

God can restore our broken lives and make us whole, no matter how sinful we are.
Lord, restore us to the joy of Your salvation. Make us whole again. Amen.

"As Christians, we must give our lives to,
...what Jesus gave His life, for."

To Forgive

Good Morning!! If you have ever suffered an injustice at the hands of another, you know how difficult it is to forgive. The first reaction to injustice is shock, followed by anger that can increase in intensity until it encompasses our entire being. Forgiveness is often the farthest thing from our mind when we have been hurt.

Forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors.—Matthew 6:12 (NRSV)

Being able to forgive our offenders, allows the suffocating burden of hatred to be lifted from our shoulders. Jesus knows the therapeutic value of forgiveness. The importance of forgiveness is reflected in the prayer Jesus taught us: We are to "forgive our debtors," those who have wronged us, in order to fully experience forgiveness ourselves.

Rage and obsessive thoughts of vengeance can and will begin to affect your health.



Dear Lord, give us the strength to forgive without reservation all those who have harmed us,...and all those still to come. Amen.

"As Christians, we must give our lives to,
...what Jesus gave His life, for."

In Christ God

Good Morning!! The Bible teaches that God and Christ are the same yesterday, today, and forever. Christ is everywhere doing the same,...reconciling all living things to God, and each other. This includes us,...our enemies,...and ultimately the whole of creation.

In Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them.—2 Corinthians 5:19 (NRSV)

The God of all creation, is the same God is in each of us,...for we are created in the image and likeness of God. God reconciles us in an amazing, stunning way,...transforming our lives, so that through the Holy Spirit in us, we are given the freedom to love others and to forgive their trespasses against us.

We are reconciled to Christ,...and today we can be reconcilers for Christ.
Thank you, God, for Jesus, who on the cross took all the blame for all of us. When Your Son sets us free,...we are free indeed. Amen.

"As Christians, we must give our lives to,
...what Jesus gave His life, for."

You Can't Stand Alone

Good Morning, My Friend!! In the Spiritual realm, as in nature, there strength in numbers. Those that stand alone make easy targets,...for even the weakest of predators. Studying by yourself, or praying for yourself is not enough. God means for us to include others. Alone we will grow weary, we will lose our edge,...and we will be picked off.

If one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.—Ecclesiastes 4:12 (KJV)

As we couple together, within the Body of Christ, we share faith and love. We form a wall high and long,...where even the weakest have strength, power and security,...and the enemy can find no way in. In times when powerful forces attack us, we need one another's encouragement.

Where we stand together, there is strength.
Dear God, when adversity comes, help us to take our place on the line of defense, so that we all may find strength and safety,...in fellowship with one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"As Christians, we must give our lives to,
...what Jesus gave His life, for."

Christian Life Challenges

Good Morning!! Can we, as Christians, find life frustrating, aggravating, or discouraging? Yes, but we don't have to be overwhelmed by those feelings. I know it can be easy to beleive the feelings of uselessness, worthlessness, and self-pity. But, instead of becoming frustrated, we can ask for God's help and strength,...knowing we'll receive it.

We take every thought captive and make it obey Christ.—2 Corinthians 10:5 (TEV)

When we remember that God loves us just because we're His children,...not for what we do, the negative feelings go away. I am convinced that it is not the limitations themselves, but the thoughts we entertain about them, that are most likely to cause us trouble.

When we rest in God's love,...we're filled again with hope.
Dear God, when we feel overwhelmed, help us remember that You love us, and are always ready and willing to help. Amen.

"As Christians, we must give our lives to,
...what Jesus gave His life, for."

TGIF

Good Morning,...And T.G.I.F.(Thank God I'm Forgiven)!! While ironing, I slowly became aware that the iron wasn't getting the wrinkles out, as efficiently as it should have been. Then I discovered that the cord had come unplugged from the outlet. Cut off from the source of electrical power, the iron lost its heat and effectiveness.

God's divine power has given us everything we need to live a truly religious life through our knowledge of the one who called us to share in his own glory and goodness.—2 Peter 1:3 (TEV)

We can sometimes become just as ineffective, in living our faith. We don't mean to, but sometimes we cut ourselves off from God's power,...because we lose our focus. We can allow ourselves to get disconnect,...without even noticing, right away.

Ask me how to connect, or re-connect to God's power,
...and I'll tell you that for me, getting and staying connected, comes through praying,
...reading the Bible, and talking with others, who have a love for God.
Sustaining God, thank You for being the source of all life. Remind us to turn to You for power. Allow Your energy and sustenance to recharge our spiritual life, and bring us strength to do Your will. Amen.

"The Spirit of the Lord is here!"

Glorify God

Good Morning!! A friend was complaining that even though she and her husband constantly work at their relationship and seek help from a counselor, they are still plagued with problems. "It feels like we'll be working at this forever," she sighed. I suggested that maybe we glorify God, as much in the struggle, as in the solution. "Your children are learning that you don't give up on a relationship."

We do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day.—2 Corinthians 4:16-17 (NIV)

We love quick and neat resolutions, like we love happy endings. But it is often in clinging to God, when we don't see answers, that we witness most convincingly. A watching world is inspired and moved by a faith that just won't quit!

Continuing to fight, is evidence of hope, faith, and trust in God,...Who can.
O God, we pray for faith that never gives up. Amen.

"The Spirit of the Lord is here!"

Affirmation

Good Morning!! Affirmation is a fundamental human need. My grand kids love to hear that they've done a good job,...but more importantly, they love to hear that they are good. I am often reminded of how necessary this affirmation is to all people. God does not love all the things we do, but He never lets what we do, keep Him from loving us.

God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good.—Genesis 1:31 (NRSV)

When we think of people only as sinners, and not as bearers of God's image, it seems impossible that they will be able to move on to do better,...or be better. However, when we show them respect in spite of their sin, we open the door to allowing them to become all that they or we dare hope for them, and so much more.

Discovering the good in others, which may be like searching for hidden treasure,
...is a needed ministry.
Just remember, people are more than their deeds.
Seeker and Savior of souls, You find us and count us worthy of Your life. Guide us to seek the good in others. Amen.

"The Spirit of the Lord is here!"

Growing Season

Good Morning!! First Corinthians 3 tells us that the Lord assigned tasks to each one. The seeds were planted and watered, but verse seven says, "Neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow." Farmers sow their seeds in faith that they will grow. Sometimes that seed rots in the ground and there is no yield. Yet the farmer plants again.

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.—Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)

Christians are much like farmers, planting seeds of love and truth in the world. Some seeds will sprout and bear fruit, resulting in new Christians. Both farmers and believers experience droughts, times when we plant seeds but see few results. We may become discouraged. But to be successful we must put our trust in God and sow more seed.

God gives the harvest,...it's up to us to be faithful.
Eternal God, our Father, help us to have the faith we need to continue planting seeds of hope and love,...even when we don't see the desired results. Amen.

"The Spirit of the Lord is here!"

Make time to VOTE,
...It a right you have to use, to keep.

Abba Father

Good Morning!! Scripture tells us that we are children of God,...calling to our Abba Father is our right, and our privilege. When our spirit cries out to God, "Abba! Father," our heavenly Father hears us and makes time for us.

When we cry, "Abba! Father!" it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God.—Romans 8:15-16 (NRSV)

God is never to busy for us,...even in the throne room of heaven, God may be conducting important business with the greatest powers in all creation. But when we call out in prayer, God responds and comes to us in love, because we are God's children.

We always have God's attention,
...and help is only a prayer away.
Loving God, help us to understand that you delight in hearing from us, teaching us, correcting us, and giving us what we need. Amen.

"The Spirit of the Lord is here!"

Baggage

Good Morning!! When we carry useless bits of our past, into our future, that's called baggage,...and it will wreck a relationship, fast. We all have some baggage, but when what we carry gets in the way, or takes up so much room, that we can't gather up or keep, anything better,...we have a problem,...we become weighed down.

Let us lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.—Hebrews 12:1 (NRSV)

As we make the Christian journey, we may find baggage filling our life, here too. But allotting room for God's Word during our journey is essential. If we can't make room for the scripture in our day,...then we are simply carrying too much.

Excess baggage can be detrimental,
...but God's Word is always an asset!
O God, help us recognize the extra baggage that weighs us down in our Christian journey. Give us the courage to leave behind all that keeps us from healthy relationships,...and from following you. Amen.

"Our trusting in God's care, should never be based on our understanding of His plan."

Wait Quietly

Good Morning!! We can be seeking God,...or we can be surprised by God. Often we pursue a quiet time to draw nearer to God,...but, it's much more likely that God will break into our inattentive busyness, with a moment that causes us to realize His presence.

The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.—Lamentations 3:25, 26 (NIV)

I believe that learning to wait quietly, is at the heart of our growing faith. Throughout the Bible, the words of this passage from Lamentations are illustrated by the struggling faithful: Noah, Hannah, Elijah, Daniel, Peter, Paul, Mary, and so many others. They challenge us to "wait quietly" in our relationship with God.

God's presence quietly brings sustenance to our soul,
...and that's always worth waiting for!



Dear God, thank you for your invitation to meet quietly with You in this must-do-more-faster world. And thank You for breaking in, went we can't seem to find the time on our own. Amen.

"Our trusting in God's care, should never be based on our understanding of His plan."

Spiritual Lives

Good Morning!! In our spiritual lives it can be both easy and tempting to sit back, waiting for some momentous push into deeper relationship with God. However, in reading Paul's instructions to Timothy, we notice that Paul told Timothy to focus on building a pattern of faithfulness rather than relying on a single event to bring instant change.

Continue in what you have learned and firmly believed.—2 Timothy 3:14 (NRSV)

Paul instructed Timothy to continue in what he had learned. In essence Paul was telling him to develop his own life pattern by obeying God in everyday things. We can draw great encouragement from that counsel. It tells us to look at everyday choices and actions,...like loving those close to us, being honest at work, helping someone who is hurting, trusting God for things,...as this is the path to spiritual development.

Learn to see the importance of everyday choices.
God, keep our hearts focused on obedience and service in the daily events of life. Help us to honor You and serve You well in them. Amen.

"Our trusting in God's care, should never be based on our understanding of His plan."

Thinking Of Us

Good Morning!! It would hurt most of us deeply to consider that no one misses us, or thinks about us when we're gone. Often Sheila and I will call one another without any specific reason, other than to check in. It's a pleasant assurance that you matter,...even if it's not said as often as it should be.

"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message,...—John 17:20 (NIV)

As believers in Christ, we are also assured that someone is thinking of us. Before we were born and before our parents were born, Jesus cared about us,...and thought about each one of us, as if we were the only ones he had to care about.

Before our first breath, and long after our last,
...God cared for us.
Thank You, Jesus, for for loving us. Thank You for accepting the cross to save us, and giving us eternal life. Amen.

"Our trusting in God's care, should never be based on our understanding of His plan."

A Great New Beginning

Good Morning, It's A Marvelous Monday,...And A Great New Beginning!! There are times, when we all have a need for some vision correction. Like, when we see only what others can do for us, and not what we can do for them,...or when we overlook signs of pain and suffering, all around us,...or when we fail to see opportunities to tell people the good news. These are indications of a problem with our spiritual vision.

Then Jesus laid His hands on his eyes again; and he looked intently and his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly.—Mark 8:25 (NRSV)

As we realize that our spiritual vision has gotten blurred,...we need to run back to Jesus, to be touched again, by his healing grace,...so that we can see the world as He wants us to. When we focus on Christ, we see the world around us with new eyes.

Lasik, may help with your physical sight,
...but only Jesus can restore your spiritual sight.
Thank You, Jesus, for the gift of clear sight. Touch us,...and touch us again and again,...so that we may see clearly the way to follow You. In the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. Amen.

"Our trusting in God's care, should never be based on our understanding of His plan."

Forgiveness

Good Morning!! We all know that Christians should forgive,...but, when we've really been hurt or when someone we love has been mistreated,...how do we get to the point of forgiveness? L.I.G. let it go. If you are like me, at times, it can be struggle to forgive, but we start by leting go of the pain and anger.

If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him."—Luke 17:4 (NIV)

I've learned that, for me, forgiveness is never a single act, but an ongoing process. I have to forgive the same wrong, again and again, until my hurt and anger are finally subdued. My hope is to be able to forgive more freely,...more completely,...and more quickly. It is an achievable goal.

Just keep practicing forgiveness,...until you get it right.
God, forgive us when we just cannot seem to let it go. Help us to forgive without keeping score. Help us to forgive until it becomes part of our very nature. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

"Ignoring problems instead of fixing them is tempting and easy,
...but easy never gets the job done."

Do Others Have To Notice

Good Morning!! Is what we do for God?...or man? A fault of some religious leaders today, as in Jesus' day,...is their desire for recognition and glory. They do acts of charity, in order to have others notice. They make an effort to stand out, and pray loudly. They proudly give, if and when, other are looking. Their clothes, robes and elaborate decorations signify that they are religious.

Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them.—Matthew 6:1 (NRSV)

In all honesty, we like to get credit for the good things we do,...even to the point that we sometimes need to tell others about them. Many of our everyday acts reflect the desire for self-glorification. Are we after others' acknowledgment when we volunteer for a task? Does the world really need to know who and how, we've helped?

The truth is; if we're doing good for God,
...the only one we'd need to tell,
...already knows.
Dear God, forgive our selfish desire for recognition. Let us do good simply because You ask us to,...and it pleases You. Amen.

"Ignoring problems instead of fixing them is tempting and easy,
...but easy never gets the job done."

Family

Good Morning All!! Most of the times family issues get messy,...and families in the Bible were no exception. But in spite of people's selfishness, scheming, and jealousies, God continues to work with, and through them. Reading the Bible gives us all hope, that God can and will, work through and within, even our messy families, as well.

If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.—Romans 12:18 (NRSV)

The Bible tells us to be peacemakers, to stop slander (Col. 3), to control our anger (Rom. 12:19), to pay back evil with good (Rom. 12:17, 21). Working for peace, especially in our families,...is a key to allowing God to work through us.

God calls us to be peacemakers,
...especially with those closest to us,
...like family.
Thank You, God, for the gift of family. Help us see them through Your eyes, seeking and moving towards peace. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

"Ignoring problems instead of fixing them is tempting and easy,
...but easy never gets the job done."

Help

Good Morning!! When our grand-daughter, Jakylie, was four-years-old, and was having trouble with the zipper on her jacket, she asked me to help. When I tried, she kept her hands on the zipper so that I couldn't really see, or do anything with it. I'm not sure if she thought I would think less of her, or maybe she was afraid that I would think she had broken the zipper,...and that she'd be in trouble. Maybe she didn't want me to do it for her,...just to help, so she could feel that she was still in control.

When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears, and rescues them from all their troubles.—Psalm 34:17 (NRSV)

"If you want me to help you," I said, "you've got to let go of it." As the words left my mouth, I realized that we often treat God the same way the grand baby was treating me. We ask for help but then refuse to let go of the situation. Maybe we're afraid that God will blame us and be angry, especially if we have made poor decisions that got us into the situation. Or maybe we're just afraid to not be in control.

Sometimes we just need to get our hands off, and out of things,
...and allow God to do what He does.
Dear God, help us to trust You with all our problems. Amen.

"Ignoring problems instead of fixing them is tempting and easy,
...but easy never gets the job done."

Effectiveness Of Giving

Good Morning!! Sometimes I doubt the effectiveness of my giving. Often the gifts seem small in relation to the need,...the church, the community, and politicians require support regularly. In addition to established charities, and needs, new ones pop up needing donations almost daily through mail and other media. Most have worthy aims to help the poor, the victimized, or the traumatized.

Taking the five loaves and the two fish, [Jesus] looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd.—Luke 9:16 (NRSV)

Most times we don't even see the result of our generosity,...but just as Jesus looked up to heaven,...so should we pray, before giving. Then, giving with God's blessing and guidance, we can trust that God will multiply our gifts, along with those of others, to be more than enough.

In God's hands our little becomes much.
Heavenly Father, increase our faith and free us from doubt. Make us willing, trusting sharers of Your gifts to us. Allow us to be more mindful of the fact; that we are blessed, to be a blessing. Amen.

"Ignoring problems instead of fixing them is tempting and easy,
...but easy never gets the job done."

Speaking The Truth In Love

Good Morning!! My wife, and I married late in life. The amount of baggage you bring into a marriage after fifty, can be mind-blowing. Shortly after our marriage, we moved away from each other emotionally, and spent days in silence,...all the while fuming over the other's stubborn, uncaring behavior.

Speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.—Ephesians 4:15 (NIV)

It is by the grace of God that we stayed together. A concerned councelor, carring friends, loving family, and a flate out refusal to get devorced, has pointed us back in the right direction. Whereas anger creates division, the truth in Christ gives birth to unity,...a valuable commodity in our broken, angry world. As a result, relationships are strengthened, and people learn to see grace, instead of anger.

As we mature, we discover that most disagreements evolve from either poor communication, or selfishness.
Holy and reconciling Spirit, help us to resist all that divides us. Help us instead to build each other up, encouraging one another in love,...as God intended. Amen.

"The fact that God makes good out of our wrong does not make our wrong right."

God Offers Us A Place In Heaven

Good Morning!! God offers us a place in heaven for all eternity, and this gift is for everyone who takes the step of accepting Christ Jesus as savior. And when Jesus is a part of our lives, we'll want to do good.

By grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God -- not the result of works, so that no one may boast.—Ephesians 2:8-9 (NRSV)

As Christians, we really should feel confident of our place in heaven,...but good deeds isn't what makes this possible. Jesus eliminated the need for good deeds, when he took upon Himself the punishment for all our sins, on Calvary.

We have an eternal home in heaven awaiting us.
Nothing we did got it,...and nothing we do can mess it up.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love that brings us joy in this life,...and assurance of spending eternity with You in heaven. In the name of Jesus, our savior and friend. Amen.

"The fact that God makes good out of our wrong does not make our wrong right."

Prayer Time Table

Good Morning!! For so many of us, even when we pray, we want what we want, when we want it,...on our timetable, not in God's time. Many of the things we hope and pray for aren't that selfish, or unreasonable,...but we just fail to consider God's larger plan.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.—
Matthew 6:10 (KJV)

As parents, spouses, friends, and colleagues, we can place so much emphasis on the issues of today, that too often, we fail to see the bigger picture. God knows that what we pray for today, may not be what's best for us in the long run. Let Go and Let GOD.

We want success and prosperity all the time, but sometimes God's work can best be accomplished through disappointment and setbacks, in our lives.



Dear God, thank You for our families and friends. Please bless each one today. Help each of us to work to fulfill Your ultimate plan for us, and to focus on how we live our lives, not just on what benefits we reap. Amen.

"The fact that God makes good out of our wrong does not make our wrong right."

Trading Places

Good Morning!! No matter how bad you think you have,...there are people that would gladly trade places with you. The best way to move beyond your own issues is to help someone with theirs. When work problems get me down, praying for others lifts me up and out of my funk. So many people are struggling with addictions, diseases, financial problems, and troubled relationships,...some have several at once.

"Join me in my struggle by praying to God for me."—
Romans 15:30 (NIV)

God hears our prayers and understands that we want what is best for those for whom we are praying. Our prayers form a circle of blessing around us and the people for whom we pray,...and we can more easily put our own problems in perspective.

When we pray for others, two people are blessed,
...the person being prayed for, and the person doing praying.



Sweet Spirit of God, help us as we seek to intercede on someone's behafe today. Help them to find resolution to today's problems. Give them appreciation for the natural beauty of your creation around them. Surround them with your healing presence and fill them with joy. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"The fact that God makes good out of our wrong does not make our wrong right."

Does Mourning Have a Positive Value?

Good Morning!! FOR most people, mourning is a strongly negative word, with no blessing attached to it. Yet Jesus said, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Do Jesus' words sound like an insult when grief is overwhelming? Does mourning have any positive value? I now think so.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. —
Matthew 5:4 (NRSV)

Mourning can enrich life and give new dimension to our emotions. Mourning includes elements of missing, longing, and anger. It widens our minds and enlarges our ability to feel and to feel with others.

Mourning and comfort can lead us closer to one another and closer to God,...and that is a blessing.
Thank you, God, for being ready always to take us in Your arms and to comfort us. Holy Spirit, prepare us to give, and to receive comfort. Amen.

"The fact that God makes good out of our wrong does not make our wrong right

A Heart of Peace

Good Morning!! "I'm sorry." Most of us, have no real idea of the healing and restorative powers of that simple phrase,...when uttered in sincerity. Acknowledge and apologize, rather than suffered another anxiety-filled day or restless night, because of refusing to acknowledge any wrongdoing to others,...and to God.

"A heart at peace gives life to the body"—Proverbs 14:30 (NIV)

Though there are consequences for sin,...the physical and psychological pain that comes from silently hiding it is unnecessary. The solution? We can always go to God, confess,...and know the blessing of a forgiven and peaceful heart.

Forgiveness is not automatic,...but we have only to ask.
O God, help us to acknowledge our sins, and teach us to promptly confess them so that we may know the joy of Your forgiveness. Amen.

"Fellowship and Intimacy with the Lord are essential to spiritual transformation."

Believers Are Children of God

Good Morning!! Scripture reminds us that all believers are children of God, heirs together according to the promise that we are fellow citizens in God's realm and members of God's household. Jesus was not ashamed to call us brothers and sisters.

Jesus said, "Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother."—Matthew 12:50 (NRSV)

I know we're all made in the image of God. But we gain new insight to that fact, as we identify with each other's struggles like; spiritual hunger, concerns about family and jobs, or in new found joys. And as we witnes God speaking to us and meeting our needs,...we can rest assured we are truly one family in God.

In all our uniqueness,...we are still one family.
God of all, thank You for Your love and grace and salvation that you offer to all who believe in Your Son, Christ Jesus. Amen.

"Fellowship and Intimacy with the Lord are essential to spiritual transformation."

Reflect Christ

Good Morning, My Friend!! As Christians we are meant to reflect Christ in our lives. When people see us, do they see the love of Christ? When they hear us, do they hear the love of Jesus? Can they tell that we know Him as our Lord and Savior? Because of knowing us,...have they come to believe that they can have their sins washed away and live a new life,...by trusting in God?

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.—Matthew 5:16 (NRSV)

When others see the light of God's love and righteousness shining in our words and deeds, they will know we are truly followers of Jesus Christ. They should,...because we were called to let our light shine in a world filled with darkness.

Let's be sure our words and actions reflect the love of Jesus Christ.
Lord, show us how to let your light shine in our lives so we may be witnesses for you. Let our lives draw people to You,...and not push them away. Amen.

"Fellowship and Intimacy with the Lord are essential to spiritual transformation

God is the Source of Comfort

Good Morning!! God wants you to know that He understood your pain, your grief, and your anger,...and He listens to you in your distress. The Bible assures us that God is the source of comfort in all of our struggles. I have come to know that although we're not promised an easy life,...God intends the best for us.

We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.—Romans 8:28 (NIV)

We may never truly understand why we experience the hurts, we do, but I do know that God will use it to work good in our life. And I still believe that; our tests can and will become our testimony.

Know this; even when we cannot see it,
...God is working for good in our lives.
Dear God, You listen to our doubts. You understand our anger and pain. Give us grace to endure struggles and to allow You to use them for Your good and glory. Father our faith is in You. Amen.

"Fellowship and Intimacy with the Lord are essential to spiritual transformation."

Just Have Faith

Good Morning!! When all of life feels like a never ending storm, we need to look beyond our problems, and even beyond our unquestioning "God is good " or "just have faith " thoughts. We honestly agonize, and wrestle with God, over our messed-up circumstances.

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.—Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)

After we pour out our feelings, our pain, and even our doubts,...and choose to trust God anyway,..our faith grows deeper than it ever could otherwise.

Deeper faith will lead us to a place of deeper peace.
Lord, help us look beyond the storms of life to the peaceful calm we can have, when we deeply trust in You. Amen.

Peace and Quiet

Good Morning!! Too often we lose sight of our need to seek peace and quiet. The world's noises drown out the voice of the Holy Spirit, leaving us restless and on edge. It's no wonder we feel so alone. It's our quiet time with God, that allows us to Re-connect, and Re-charge.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful.—Colossians 3:15 (NRSV)

Even though I know that the quiet life I want doesn't just mean inactivity, I still find myself, at first, feeling guilty when I take time to calm my soul. Meditating and talking with God brings us back into inner peace,...that enables us to work, share, love and serve more productively.

Take time to allow God to calm your soul.
Lord, help us as we move daily to spend more time with You, seeking and finding that quiet life You promise. As Jesus taught us, we pray, "Father, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive our sins, as we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." Amen.

"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."

Behavior

Good Morning, My Friend!! From the other room, I heard my grand babies yelling mean things at each other,...surprised, I wondered; "where did they get that from?" They are learned patterns of destructive behavior, that exist in all families, continuing from generation to generation,...most of them are centered around the sin of verbal abuse.

Your lips have been anointed with grace, since God has blessed you forever.—Psalm 45:2 (NIV)

See this harmful behavior in your life, for what it really is, sinful! And know; God is bigger than our sins. Destructive patterns of behavior do not have to continue forever. We can change,...help is only a prayer away.

Whatever cycles of sin we have perpetuated,
...we can also break.
Holy Spirit of God, pour out Your grace on us. Help us to use words that overflow with love to others. Teach us to use our lips as instruments of life and healing. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."

Get Right

Good Morning!! If you believe that you have to get your self " right " in order to be used by God, then you are fighting an unwinnable battle. No matter how good we try to be, on our own we can never be good enough. Yet, we can be righteous,...because righteousness doesn't come from us. Righteousness is being pure and upright in God's eyes; and our righteousness comes from Christ,...who died for us and who lives in us.

It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.—1 Corinthians 1:30 (NIV)

Though God has radically transformed my life, I am not perfect. I still struggle with sin. But now I am reassured, knowing that when I don't measure up, God still loves, forgives, and continues to lead me,...not because of my actions, but because of Jesus' sacrifice.

Righteousness, solely the result of Jesus' sacrifice, is freely given by God.
We can do no more than accept God's gift.
Father God, as we strive to be more like Christ, remind us that only Your grace makes us righteous. Amen.

"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."

Truth

Good Morning!! God sees not only the beautiful exterior we try to present to the world, but also the dark and dingy parts of our lives,...all those things we'd like to hide from other people. Yet a wonderful truth remains. Even seeing us through and through, God still loves us,...and yearns for us to be closer to Him.

As he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct; for it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy."—1 Peter 1:15 (NIV)

As we learn to allow God into even those secret parts of our lives, the dark and dingy places will be cleaned. When we arrive at that place, by God's grace and guidance, we'll be fully at peace.

We are God's own children, and our company,
...just as we are,...makes God happy.
Dear God, help us to let you into the whole of our lives. May we learn to freely open every corner to Your cleansing, and life-giving presence. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."

Solid Foundation

Good Morning!! Everything that stands needs a solid foundation. A foundation gives assurance,...a basis for confidence. The basis for most peoples’ confidence
in life, is “the flesh”. Life that is eternal, needs a foundation that is eternal,...and that is exactly what Paul has,...and what he wants for every Christian.

For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh.—Philippians 3:3 (NIV)

People are proud of their class, or ethnicity, or education, or accomplishments. That’s all “flesh”. But Christian faith is founded on Jesus Christ: his life, death, resurrection, ascension, and coming again. Paul’s confidence is entirely in Jesus.

Confidence in Christ always leads to rejoicing in Christ.
Not in our money,...or our family,...or our education,...or even our church.
Spirit of God, make us joyful Christians as we grow into Jesus-filled Christians. Amen.

"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."

The Word

Good Morning, And A Great Friday!! Has your heart ever burned within you as if Jesus were speaking to you personally? Jesus left us His Word and His Holy Spirit,...and because the Holy Spirit lives within our hearts, we have the ablity to discern spiritual things.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.—John 1:14 (NIV)

If we have accepted Jesus into our hearts as our Savior, then we have His Spirit living within us. Through reading and studying the Bible,...we can understand His ways and grow in the knowledge of Him. Our lives will change,...not over night, but day by day. The more we eat from Him,...the more we look like Him.

Only through the Holy Spirit, are we able to comprehend, the true Word of God.
Sweet Spirit of God, we ask that You open our minds to understand the Scriptures, better. Set our hearts to burning for more of You, to the point that others can see, and want some too. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, and priorities ."

God Leads

Good Morning!! I love todays' verse, because so often, God really does lead us from behind at times, and we do feel as though we've lost Him. Remember to keep seeking Him, and desiring to be with Him,...even if He seems to be missing. We have not lost Him, because He won't ever leave us.

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."—Isaiah 30:21 (NIV)

Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life,...and He is always with us,...leading us in every step. He conquered death on a cross and rose again,...just to be with us.

When Jesus calls our name,
...even from behind, we should recognize His voice.
Thank You Jesus, that we don't worship a dead god but a living Lord. We worship a God who has placed all the burdens on Himself. Father in Heaven, You have promised that if we seek You, we will find You,...as You comes to us. We are never lost from Your sight. We may not see You,...but we can be assured that You are always there, even when You guide us, from behind. Amen.

"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, and priorities ."

Awareness

Good Morning!! Jesus prayed for us to be in the world but not of the world. God has a purpose for us in how we live,...and also in the activities of which we participate. Can people who do not know you, tell your a Christian? In other words do you stand out, among the unsaved,...or do you fit right in?? As Christians, we must be aware of the danger of mingling in the world's activities.

Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.—1 Peter 5:8 (NIV)

Our mission is to evangelize the lost, and awaken the saved, to live empowered lives by the Word of God,...and His Holy Spirit. There are times to witness and to shine the Light of Jesus into the world, but we need wisdom to know when to be careful of dangerous places. We must train ourselves to be aware of the enemy's schemes to lure us into trouble, which often happens because we have moved far outside our hedge of protection, and into a place where we simply should not be.

There must be a distinction between us and the world.
Holy Spirit, we know,...but so often forget, that what can seem harm-less, could just as easily turn out to be harm-ful. Help us to get into the habit of bringing every decision to the Lord first, and then asking for the wisdom and guidance in what to do next. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, and priorities ."

Jesus Wants Your Life

Good Morning!! Jesus wants your life,...but maybe not the way you think or are ready to give it. Sometimes we get so focused on our dreams, abilities, and future plans that we forget what Jesus really wants from us,...we forget about the love. We make all the promises in the world just like Peter. He said he was ready to die for Jesus. But he would end up doing exactly what Jesus predicted,...deny his Lord three times before daybreak.

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:34, 35a (NIV)

We want to stand out front and sing solos for Him, lead groups and other so called big things for Him. But the reality is, that He wants us to show His love to the people He brings into our path. So instead of telling Jesus what you can do for Him, ask Him to teach you how you can better love the people around you. It's not as glamorous and certainly not as easy as some other jobs we might choose,...but it is what He as asked.

" People do not usually reject the Bible because it contradicts itself,...but because it contradicts them."
(Heavenly Humor, p. 54)
" The essence of love is meeting needs,...and our most important assignment from God
is to meet the needs of those who are closest to us."
(1 Tim. 5:8)
(Neil Anderson's Daily in Christ, December 23, 2004)

"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, , and priorities ."

Women In The Church

Good Morning!! Even today, modern churches of every denomination, still limit or exclude women's involvement in some sectors of operation. There has always been fear about women playing a visible role in the church. Such involvement was, and is however, inevitable,...and even more importantly it's God.

One of those listening was a woman named Lydia,... who was a worshiper of God. "If you consider me a believer in the Lord," she said, "come and stay at my house." And she persuaded us.—Acts 16:14-15 (NIV)

God uses whom ever He will,...from the very beginning, women have played every role in church history, from spy to ruler, and profits to disciples. Women are God's ram in the bush. We men did not believe, a woman did. When men would not speak up, a woman did. When men hid, a woman stood up and out. To shove them in a box, and limit their roles, because of our fear or insecurities, is wrong and not of God.

The church as we know it would not be, if not for the vital involvement of women.
Ours' is a God of inclusion,...not exclusion.
Lord, thank you for the great things you have in store for us,...but even more, we thank you, Lord, for Your constant care and care-givers. Amen.

"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, , and priorities ."

Good Times

Good Morning!! We take the " good " times for granted, as if that is, and should be, the norm,...never really questioning the why. " Bad " times one the other hand, we struggle to accept, and understand " why us? ".

Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits —Psalm 103:2 (NIV)

We believe one of the reasons for bad times is, that tough times often precedes growth. But the purpose of the good times is to to give us something to hold on to,...when the bad times come,...and they will come!

We are able to make it through bad times by remembering the good times.
This builds our confidence in God, for every situation.
Father, we thank You, that everything in our lives can be turned to Your purposes,...and our good. Help us to cling to Your faithfulness nomatter what we face. Amen.

"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."

Good Times

Good Morning!! We take the " good " times for granted, as if that is, and should be, the norm,...never really questioning the why. " Bad " times one the other hand, we struggle to accept, and understand " why us? ".

Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits —Psalm 103:2 (NIV)

We believe one of the reasons for bad times is, that tough times often precedes growth. But the purpose of the good times is to to give us something to hold on to,...when the bad times come,...and they will come!

We are able to make it through bad times by remembering the good times.
This builds our confidence in God, for every situation.
Father, we thank You, that everything in our lives can be turned to Your purposes,...and our good. Help us to cling to Your faithfulness nomatter what we face. Amen.

"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."

Patient and Steadfast

Good Morning!! As Christians, we serve a God who is never in a rush,...the Lord is patient and steadfast. If we treat our prayers like a slot machine, or a 9-1-1 call, we will most likely be disappointed. The Lord spends a lot of time waiting. Most often, He is waiting on us to come to Him,...or to come back to Him. HE does not respond according to the world’s pace. HE wants us to follow His ways,...not the ways of the world.

And he said to the elders, "Wait here for us until we come back to you. Indeed Aaron and Hur are with you. If any man has a difficulty, let him go to them."—Exodus 24:14 (NIV)

As His child, we should be seizing every opportunity to diffuse the hostility with love. There is no better time to be a witness for Jesus than when we are tempted, or being pressured to act, like everybody else. Think about this message today. If you find yourself in a line, in traffic or anywhere that you are asked to "wait,"pray for the person standing before or after you in line,...or the Cashier.

Waiting on the Lord brings strength to our character.
Holy Spirit of God, we pray that when given an opportunity, we are able to glorify Our Heavenly Father, that we make good witnesses, In Jesus' name, Amen.

"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."

One

Good Morning!! Race separates. National origin divides. Religious denominations splinter,...and political persuasion polarizes. We have schools that enroll only one gender and associations that admit only a selected vocation. There are groups for only seniors, or only singles, and only parents of teens,...only people who have chronic illnesses, or lose of limb. Meetings take place regularly for hunters, writers, and people with addictions.

There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.—Ephesians 4: 4-6 (NIV)

Often Paul urges us to move from doctrine to practice. The pattern of New Testament teaching says, "What you believe must shape what you do." "Therefore," Paul writes,...because of who God is and what he has done for us,...we are now to "lead a life worthy of [our] calling" (v. 1). The true key to a life that is worthy of the Christian calling, is one of unity,...not dividsion.

God’s truth is still available to everyone who counts it precious.
Lord, help us to live in Your love,...leaving no one out, In Jesus' name, Amen.

"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."

God's Will For My Life

Good Morning!! "God's will for my life",...how often have we pondered this notion? Studied it? Read book after book about it? And we all know people who seem to torture themselves trying to find it. Well, here in todays' scripture, we have an obvious chunk of it,...even compact and useful just as we like things to be, tucked away at the close of Paul's first letter to the church at Thessalonica. "This is God's will for you...," Yes, it says just that.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.—1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 (NIV)

It's pretty,...almost poetic,...but is it deep enough? Now let's go Old Testament. Micah 6:8 says, "He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" It's still simple, still bunched in a group of three, still indicating that there's no big mystery, far out there, which must be solved before we know how to act or decide,...or how God wants us to act or decide. So why do we keep looking for more?

"The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting.
It has been found difficult and left untried."
(G.K. Chesterton)



No, God's will for my life isn't difficult to know. It's just frustratingly hard to do if self is at the center. And that's the crux of the very question itself, "What is God's will for MY life?"
Maybe when we get out of the way,...we will see better.

"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."

From The Inside Out

Good Morning!! One of the key aspects of Jesus' earthly ministry was His focus on that which is unseen,...our hearts. Many of the people of His day were expecting an earthly king to save them from external problems. Yet Christ made it clear He came to elevate the old law beyond its legal purposes,...and to transform us from the inside out, to prepare us for a kingdom,...not of this world.

You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.—Matthew 5: 43-45 (NIV)

Forgiveness doesn't usually come easily,...people are capable of tremendous evil, depending on the wrong they feel has been done to them. But with God's grace, forgiveness on our end is not only possible,...but necessary.

Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us…
We are asking that God give us the same measure of forgiveness, that we give to others.



Father in Heaven, we are entrusting our hurts to You, as we hope to develop a heart of forgiveness. Holy Spirit, help us make peace with all those we have harmed, and all those who've hurt us. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."

Be Devoted

Good Morning, and T.G.I.F. (Thank God I'm Forgiven)!!! I wish I could be the poster child for "right" living,...that many may think,...but I struggle a lot, just ask my wife. My father use to tell me; "don't do as I do,...do as I say". Only now, do I know what he meant,...now that I'm a parent and grand-parent. Knowing right and doing right are not always the same thing.

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.—Romans 12:10-13 (NIV)

We all want to do right, but because of our human nature, we fall short,...a lot. People are always watching us, even if we don't realize it,...especially those closest to us. And often, after the fact, I see how my actions did not point anyone to Christ. The Lord knows that without Him, without the power of His Holy Spirit,...we just cannot do this with consistency. And so we can take comfort in reading Philippians 2:1-2, below.

"Preach the gospel at all times. If necessary, use words."
(Saint Francis of Assisi)

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. (Philippians 2:1-2)

"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."

(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)

Psalm 46

Good Morning!! How many times have you heard todays' verse? A hundred? A thousand? This snippet of the psalm is a favorite of mine. It constantly pops into my head when I start getting too busy or stressed out. It's often taken out of context,...and ironically, I hadn’t taken time to read the whole psalm in months until the other night,...and found that I had no recollection of the verses surrounding my favorite one-liner.

"Be still, and know that I am God..."—Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

Here’s a sampling of the other verses in Psalm 46:
"Though the earth gives way…" (vs. 2)
"Though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea…" (vs. 2)
"The nations rage, the kingdoms totter…" (vs. 6)
"Be still and know that I am God… I will be exalted in the earth!" (vs. 10)
"The God of Jacob is our fortress." (vs. 11)

In a setting of uncertainty, war, and all-around "trouble" (vs. 1), the psalmist focuses on the peace that comes from being the presence of God,...even though the earth around him threatens to fall apart. The verse holds even more power in the right context, than in our imagined setting.

This psalm is actually the meditation of a man holding back fear with faith.



Sweet Spirit of God, thank You for the reminder; we are the elect of God, being held in His hand,...what need have we to fear? Amen.

"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."

(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)

Clean of Sin

Good Morning, My Friend!! As the perfect sacrifice, Christ only had to die once to atone for all sin,...not daily like all the sheep and goats of Israel. The price of salvation isn’t constantly before our eyes like it was for them. Ironically, that tempts us to be complacent about the cost,...letting the little sins and idols creep into our hearts,...God’s temple.

What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."—2 Corinthians 6:16 (NIV)

If God gave such specific instructions to keep His earthly home clean of sin, why do we think we're somehow exempt? Our salvation wasn’t purchased buy a lamb that we brought ourself,...it’s the Lamb of God, who came to be slaughtered for us, even before we were born.

As Christians, we are the new tabernacle.
We live in the constant presence of God,...because He lives with us.
We have a direct access, that the Israelites couldn’t have dreamed of.
Because our bodies are the temple for the Holy Spirit, Lord Jesus, we ask that You come into our temple, and overthrow all corruption at work there. We know God simply can not tolerate uncleanness in a holy place. Help us to confess all hidden sins, and wicked desires. The Word says as believers, we are called to be set apart for You, holy before God. Help us today, Lord. Amen.

"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."

(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)

Receiving Christ

Good Morning!! Receiving Christ is not like picking up the mail, or downloading a song,...it's more of a posture of the heart. A person comes to God with queries, discontents, and bewilderments, but mostly with a heart open to God. "Teach me, Lord, your deep truth, and let me walk with you today."

Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.—John 1:12, 13 (NIV)

For most, it breaks down like this: a person who has rarely if ever, submited to anyone realizes that God’s love draws them to yield. There is resistance, sometimes postponements,...but at last, relief and assurance, that God can be trusted,...and received as "Lord of our life." They come to believe that Jesus died for them,...and now confess that their loyalty, love, and life belong to Him.

Receiving Christ is the gateway to understanding all that God wants to teach us,
...and experiencing all that he has to give us.
We receive You, Jesus, and we know You to be the risen Lord,...our Saviorour,...and our Leader. Amen.

"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."

(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34

Change and Habits

Good Morning!! Change is hard. We all make goals we don’t meet,...exercise more, eat less, have a quiet time, turn off the TV. Sinful habits are especially hard to change: viewing pornography, for example, or spreading gossip. Repentance is hard work. It means more than regret or embarrassment for our mistakes. Repentance means sorrow for sin, confession of sin, and turning from sin.

And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea.—Chronicles 33:13 (NIV)

Previous wickedness, or the pain it caused, won't just simply be undone. There are some consequences we'll have to live with. But don’t miss these two points; first, all people and most situations can change,...once we turn from sin. And second, God forgives,...come to Jesus and keep coming back. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

Repentance is always an option,...as long as you're alive, It’s never too late.



Thank You,
Lord Jesus, thank you that Your yoke is easy and Your burden is light. Amen.

"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."

(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)