A "Not Fragile" Peace

by Jim Grams

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

John 14:27

A few years back, my wife and I were preparing to move and we were carefully packing some of her "precious" things.  She was wrapping each item with bubble paper and filling the empty spaces with that popcorn stuff.  I was sealing the boxes and placing red fragile stickers on them.  But my wife wanted more.  She wanted me to write "fragile" in big letters on all four sides.  I'm sure the movers ignored the "fragile" signs, but my wife was happy!

Not long ago, I was reading the above verse in the Living Bible paraphrase and was thrilled with this line..."And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives."  We live in a world full of fear and trouble, but we serve a Lord who tells us not to let our hearts be troubled or afraid.  The package of peace Christ gives us is stamped "not fragile."  What a gift.

People go through life searching for peace, and so many are looking in the wrong places.  Peace of heart is never found in things.  We can't buy it with wealth or through entertainment, and not even with love.

The "Not Fragile Peace" Jesus is offering comes only through a relationship with Him.

It's a peace that is unbreakable...we can beat on it, throw it around and take it anywhere we go.  There are no circumstances that can destroy the peace of God in our lives.  None!

Since Jesus tells us this is a gift, it's up to us to receive it.  Let's allow the gift of peace to settle into our hearts and minds.  His peace will replace our fears with confidence.

God wants us to live our lives with His unbreakable peace.

GOING DEEPER:

1. Do you remember a day when a phone call or an event brought bad news that filled your heart with anxiety?

2. Take a moment right now and think about how you will be able to rest in God's peace the next time you receive bad news.

FURTHER READING:

Psalm 29:11; John 16:55; Romans 14:17-19

Brokenness

This devotional was written by Jim Burns

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." .

. . Matthew 5:3

We have to see our brokenness as a sign of strength, not of weakness.

When a person is truly broken of ego and can look at personal issues with a healthy perspective, he or she is ready to become the transitional generation from one of dysfunction to one of health.

A man e-mailed me after hearing me talk about this idea of brokenness on my radio program.  He wrote, "Life in my family is miserable. I grew up in a horribly dysfunctional home, and now I realize I am imitating my family. When my mom got desperate to get our attention, she yelled. Now I find myself doing the same thing with my kids and my wife. I took your advice and went to a counselor. After two sessions, I can honestly say I feel like I am on the way to a better relationship with my kids and my wife. The counselor asked me to look at my own hurts and deal with them before I tried to fix my family's problems."

This man's life may not necessarily get easier immediately.  In fact, it may get harder.  Sometimes before freedom comes pain.  But by facing his brokenness, he has a chance to bring a brighter future to his family.

Someone once said, "If you aren't growing, you're dying."  The most genuine, authentic people are those who admit their struggles and seek God's unfailing love and forgiveness.

If you've yet to face your brokenness head-on, take the time to get the help you need to make a difference in your life and in your family.

The first three steps in the twelve-step program for recovering addicts apply to everyone.  Here is my personal paraphrase of those three steps:

1.  I can't do it on my own. I am broken.

2.  Christ can and will help me as I call upon Him.

3.  I must relinquish my will to the will of God.

By acknowledging these truths, we will be on our way to facing our brokenness and onto the pathway to recovery and health.

GOING DEEPER:

1. What areas of your life do you struggle to face your brokenness?

2. What steps are you willing to make today to deal with these areas?

FURTHER READING:

Hebrews 12:1, 2 Corinthians 5:17

"If we spread the gospel, Jesus will spread the salvation."

Juha Rδihδ

My Words

by Shari Braendel

"The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.". . . Proverbs 15:2 (NIV)

My eyes filled with tears when I heard the news.  I found out I offended someone.  I mean, really offended her.  My words hurt her so deeply, she cried all night.  A few weeks earlier, I had met this woman and in our brief conversation, I said something she could not forget or get over.  I thought it was innocent conversation -- I never meant to hurt her -- but she was upset.

For several days, I thought about what I had said and how I had spoken to this woman.  I wrestled with what I should have or could have done differently.  I replayed the conversation over and over.  I couldn't undo what I had said or how I said it.  I couldn't explain it away or give a dozen excuses.  I couldn't cover it over with my own tears, guilt or shame. 

It was "out there" and there wasn't much I could do to take it back. After a time of prayer and reflection, I was able to locate the woman's address. I wrote her a note of apology and mailed it.

I wonder how many times my words offend?  How many times during a day do my words hurt someone?  I am called to edify others, lift others up, and encourage others in all things.  I try to encourage my husband, my children and my friends.  I try to encourage women in their daily walk with Him.  And then an "oops."  A big "oops" happens that rocks my world and someone else's.  A misspoken phrase or an inappropriate tone, and in an instant, someone feels struck down by my words.

I felt truly awful about hurting this person and I knew I needed to go to God.  I shared all my thoughts, feelings, inadequacies, words, and regrets with the Lord.  I gave it all to Him.  I prayed for the woman and her pain. 

I prayed for forgiveness.  I prayed for guidance and healing in this situation.  I let God know I wanted my words to be wise and full of knowledge, rather than gush folly as today's verse says.

God heard my prayers, forgave me, and even encouraged me a few days later as I stood in the foyer of my church.  Someone I didn't know approached me and asked me my name.  She said, "I've been wanting to find you because a few months ago I contacted the church prayer team and requested a prayer for my husband's job.  You wrote me the most beautiful e-mail and included a prayer.  It meant so much to me.  I copied it word for word into my journal.

I just wanted to thank you.  Your prayer for me and my husband really touched me."  After she had gone, I whispered, "Thank you, God."  How awesome He is to remind me that my words have been messages of His hope and love, and not all folly.

What are your words saying to others?

Dear Lord, thank You for bringing us sweet reminders about Your care for us in every detail of our lives.  I pray my words today will encourage others and spur them on in their quest to know You.  Please help me to think before I speak.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Application Steps:

How have you been speaking to others? Are you lifting others up by encouraging them? Pay attention to your words today and the response of others. Ask God to help you think before you speak.

Reflections:

Recall a time when you were wounded with words. Have you asked God to heal it for you?

Have you wounded someone recently with your words, or your tone of voice?

Write them a note of apology today and ask their forgiveness.

Power Verses:

Psalm 19:14, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer." (NIV)

2 Samuel 19:7, "Now go out and encourage your men." (NIV)

Have A Blessed Day!!!!!!!!!!

Handling Criticism

This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." . . . Colossians

3:23-24

I was watching the movie The Incredibles and was amused by a scene where his boss criticized Mr. Incredible.  In the scene, he then throws his boss through several walls and, of course, ends up being fired.  The scene reminds me that both criticism and our dislike for being criticized are common. In fact, I don’t know anyone who likes being criticized.  While it is true that a positive type of criticism exists – one that we refer to as “constructive-criticism” – most of us are much better acquainted with the negative version of criticism.  This is the type of criticism that is meant to hurt, damage, belittle or tear down another person.  When delivered, it is often accompanied by negative tone and attitude.  Perhaps this is the type of criticism with which you are all too familiar.  The question I want you to consider today is, how should a Christ-follower handle criticism?

While thinking over this issue, I came across a poem that was reportedly found hanging on the wall in the orphanage founded by Mother Theresa.  I think it captures idea of handling criticism with graceful balance.

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self-centered; Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies; Succeed anyway.

People may cheat you;

Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight; Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous; Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow; Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough; Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God; It is never between you and them anyway.

I love the line in the poem “it’s between you and God” because, in the end, so much of life boils down to that truth.  Sure, we can desire to get along with everyone and have everyone like us in return.  We know by our own experiences, however, that life just doesn’t work that way.  For any number of reasons, people can react to us negatively with criticism.

When people are critical of us, we need to remember the truth of the Scripture that we belong to the Lord – and our responses to life’s situations boil down to living life to please the Lord.  So, when someone criticizes you, see if there is some nugget of truth in the criticism.  If there is, own up to it and address it in your life and with the person who brought it to light.  If not, move on, continuing to do the best you can to live your life in a way that honors God.

Ultimately, this is the most important measurement of our lives and the means by which we can handle and survive the criticisms that come our way.

GOING DEEPER:

1. How do you normally react to criticism?

2. Recognize that so much of living life boils down to “it is between you and God.” How can that make a difference in how you handle criticism?

FURTHER READING:

Romans 14:7-8; 1 Peter 3:13-17

A Beautiful Balance

by Zoe Elmore

"I no longer live, but Christ lives in me" Galatians 2:20a (NIV)

One morning I was looking in the mirror in order to "put on my face" before leaving for work and I heard the Lord whisper to my heart, "Baby girl, why do you spend more time 'putting on your face' than you spend on your face before me each morning?"  Oh my goodness; what a powerful question!  My heart sank as I put the cosmetics away.  The Lord was right; I was spending more time gazing in the mirror instead of gazing into His word and at His face.  Once again I was living like the old person I was before receiving Christ and not the new person I had been transformed into.  Once again, I had allowed myself to consider outer beauty more important that inner beauty.

Now don't misunderstand me, I'm not suggesting that it become necessary to put away my cosmetics forever and go through life looking less than presentable.  Honey, that is not going to happen!  I haven't left the house without a little lip gloss and mascara since I was fourteen.  What I am suggesting is returning to the delicate balance of spending time "on my face" before the Lord each morning before spending time "putting on my face."  It's remembering that as a believer, Christ has moved in and taken up residence within my heart and within my life.

As I allow this relationship to grow, my life will demonstrate His presence and others will see past my carefully applied make-up to the make up of my heart.  Proverbs 31:30 is the perfect reminder of this fact, "Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting: but the woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." (NIV)

I want to encourage you who share my struggle with balancing inner and outer beauty.  While the temptation to consider outer beauty more important than inner beauty is present; that temptation has no more power over those who believe in Christ.  Because Christ lives in every believer there is hope and power available to live life in proper balance.  When our desire for outer beauty is balanced with our desire for inner beauty, our lives demonstrate Paul's words in Galatians 2:20a, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." (NIV)

If we will spend more time "on our face" instead of "putting on our face,"

God will change us from the inside out and we will experience beautiful balance!

Dear Lord, forgive me for putting more importance on my outer beauty.  Thank you for calling me into your presence and reminding me that while outer beauty fades, Your presence never fades.  Empower my life to demonstrate Galatians 2:20.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Application Steps:

Begin each day "on your face" before the Lord.  Allow Him to guide your thoughts and actions and you will experience a life of balance.

When you fail, quickly confess it and surrender again.  Soon others will see past your make-up to the make up of your heart.

Reflections:

What can you do to ensure a beautiful balance in your life?

Are there other areas of your life that need balance?

Power Verses:

I Corinthians 15:57, "But thanks be to God!  He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (NIV)

Romans 12:1-2, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world; but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the acceptable and perfect will of God." (NKJ)

Have A Blessed Day!!!!!!!!!!

Forgiveness

This devotional was written by Dan Johnson

For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. —Matthew 6:14-15

Elizabeth Barrett Browning was one of the most widely read and respected poets of the Victorian period.  In 1846, a romance between her and fellow poet Robert Browning led to their marriage and a move from England to the Italian Peninsula.  Elizabeth’s father was not in favor of the marriage of his eldest child or any of the siblings.  He never spoke to her again.

Although a recluse who had spent five years writing in the bedroom of her father’s house, Browning was a prolific letter writer.  She and Robert exchanged 574 letters during their courtship and she continued to write her father regularly throughout her married life.  Upon his death a box arrived at her home.  When she opened it, she found all the letters she had written him – unopened.

The story that weaves through Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s relationship with her father is a story to which so many can relate.  It’s a human story of disappointment, control and lack of forgiveness.  When Jesus taught about forgiveness, he did so with utter clarity.  He taught that if we don’t forgive someone from our heart – releasing him or her from the resentment and judgment of our minds – we can’t be forgiven ourselves.  Perhaps a better way to look at it would be that if we don’t let go of the grudge we hold so tightly in our closed hands, our hands aren’t open to receive anything from God.

Forgiveness has a theological component:  God’s forgiveness saves us from sin.

Forgiveness also has an immediate practical component:  When we give it, we release others from our wrath, but we really release ourselves.  And letting go of anger makes way for the joy of God, which is our daily strength.

The real tragedy of this story is not only that Mr. Barrett missed out on having a relationship with his daughter.  He also missed out on the poetry of Elizabeth Barrett Browning.  Don’t miss out on the great relationships that grow in the lives of those who forgive much.  And don’t miss out on God who has forgiven us for things far greater than what we have forgiven others.

GOING DEEPER:

1. Is there anyone in your life who you have not completely forgiven?

2. How does your life demonstrate thankfulness for being forgiven by God and others?

FURTHER READING:

Matthew 18; Mark 11:25

Matthew 12:36(NASB)

"But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment.

Have you ever had a day, full of tasks, questions, challenges, issues, a day where a plethora of things begged your full attention?  Yet, it seemed full attention to anything seemed impossible as everything else was still on your mind?  Once I am taken off of my list or taken of the order I believe things should go ... that is not good!  However, the above portion of scripture comes after Jesus has walked, taught, and dealt for what seems all day long, He is hungry and it just seems every little thing He runs into requires and explanation or some kind of personalized attention.  Yet, He is much better than you and me, He didn't give up, He stayed focused, reminded people of being compassionate, He shared the Gospel. Be encouraged that the enemy will try to take us off task in our weakest moments, remember that our relationship with God is 1st, regardless of busyness share about what God has done for you whenever you can.  What a blessing it will be to NOT give an account for praise filled productive words that glorify God!

Be encouraged today as we press to speak (and think) words that glorify God!

Matthew 11:28(NKJV)

28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

This is just one of His impactful, powerful, one liners.  This is an invitation like no other! I have RSVP'd, have you?

In my spiritual imagination, this is what I see: This is the Lord saying if you come and be in My presence, everybody who is stressing, working and worrying and don't know what to do with your situation, bring all that stuff to me, I will take it from you, help you with your problems, I will free your mind be cause I will direct you and love you, you can lean on Me, and when you fully lean of Me, you will rest.

Be encouraged today that as we RSVP to the Holy invitation that promises

rest!

1 Peter 1:18

Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

Yesterday, the Lord woke me up thinking about the sacrifice Jesus made for us.  My mind went over and over the judgment, crucifixion, the seven sayings and all that Jesus endured to pay for our sins.

People of God.  We are redeemed by the precious and pure blood of Jesus Christ that was shed for the remission of our sin.  This blood is incorruptible.  The this that we sin for are corruptible.  Think about it ... pride, money, popularity, acceptance, possessions, people and whatever else one can think of ... it all boils down to corruptible.  Let us decide to be present and active in our redemptive state of mind and being.  Jesus paid for it, don't waste it.  Let us be mindful of the price Jesus paid for us.  Be encouraged that no greater love has ever been displayed than this!

John 3:30

Good morning! Let's take a closer look at the context in which John 3:30 is said.  John s explaining to some disciples his position with Jesus.  John is reiterating that he is happy to stand near Jesus, rather than be Jesus.  If one goes back to the verses right before, John uses the analogy of the bride and bridegroom that basically says the one with the bride is the one with the bridegroom.  People of God, as we celebrate the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and other persons of African decent next month, let us remember that all of our victories, all of the glory, all of the praise goes to God.  You see, as we give God glory for all He has brought us through, we are given opportunity to lift up Jesus, thus decreasing ourselves!  He must increase, but I must decrease!

We must decrease our fleshly pride, our ungodly motives, and our decisions that are not in line with God.  As we decrease, glorifying God, sharing with others about Jesus, becomes so much easier.  Let not our living be in vain, decrease that the Lord may be increased in your life and someone else's.  BEHOLD what God has for YOU in 2008 and be encouraged!!

Isaiah 43:17-23 (NKJ)

19 Behold, I will do a new thing,

    Now it shall spring forth;

    Shall you not know it?

    I will even make a road in the wilderness

    And rivers in the desert.

Happy New Year ... To behold means to see with attention, look intensely without judgment, observe with faith and acceptance.  God is always doing something new, it is up to us to observe, embrace and accept what He shows us with faith and without judgment.  In this newness, the enemy will try to create fear, deception and disruption.  Those distractions can be the wilderness.  As a child, I spent a lot of time with my elders  as an only child (Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma and Great-Aunt).  The time I spent with them, allowed me to have a very discerning, observing part of myself very developed. Some might say, I grew older than my age really young.  So as a child, I always came off a bit parental and have always heard the question "How did you know that?" or statements similar like "she knows everything".

Well, hindsight is 20x20.  God did a new thing, He raised me mature and discerning for a reason, there is a reason I appreciate my elders so much and love learning so much, but the enemy wanted to make it seem like it was bad or wrong.  Ok, so had I looked at myself intensely without judgment with faith that God was in control, I would have missed some hurt feelings! 

BEHOLD what God has for YOU in 2008 and be encouraged!!

2 Kings 2:1-5,9-11 (NKJ)

1 And it came to pass, when the LORD was about to take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. 2 Then Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here, please, for the LORD has sent me on to Bethel.” But Elisha said, “As the LORD lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!” So they went down to Bethel. 3 Now the sons of the prophets who were at Bethel came out to Elisha, and said to him, “Do you know that the LORD will take away your master from over you today?” And he said, “Yes, I know; keep silent!” 4 Then Elijah said to him, “Elisha, stay here, please, for the LORD has sent me on to Jericho.” But he said, “As the LORD lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!” So they came to Jericho. 5 Now the sons of the prophets who were at Jericho came to Elisha and said to him, “Do you know that the LORD will take away your master from over you today?” So he answered, “Yes, I know; keep silent!”

9 And so it was, when they had crossed over, that Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask! What may I do for you, before I am taken away from you?” Elisha said, “Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me.” 10 So he said, “You have asked a hard thing. Nevertheless, if you see me when I am taken from you, it shall be so for you; but if not, it shall not be so.” 11 Then it happened, as they continued on and talked, that suddenly a chariot of fire appeared with horses of fire, and separated the two of them; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.

People of God, God gives us such clear warning about change and transition.  He speaks to us directly, dreams, through mentors, other people, His word, circumstance, and our experiences. So often we ask God to keep silent.  We don't know how to change, deal with transition, or even accept the adjustment, but we have it on good report that God is a prepatory God who has already made a way, He has already set aside a double dose of Holy Ghost for you, seek God, trust God, hold on to God, His word is true and His Spirit is a witness with us leading us into all truth... keep pressing and be encouraged!!

**mustard seed: have faith in God's ability to manage your life.

Philippians 2:6-8 (NASB)

who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Obedient to the point of death can be viewed a few ways.  In the literal sense: Jesus was obedient to and beyond the cross, is one way, and was pivotal to our salvation!  Have you ever said "I love _____ to death"? 

Today, be encouraged that as we submit and are obedient to God's voice, in whatever way He speaks to us, our flesh being brought under submission is "dying to self"(2 Tim. 2:11).  This is saying that because of our intentional obedience, God's spirit in us, is rising up more and more thus we are no longer being controlled by our old sin nature. Be encouraged that as we submit to God, being empty before Him, He is filling us all the more with His goodness.  Mother Theresa prayed "Self-knowledge  puts us on our knees."  We truly know ourselves better when we humble ourselves to learn from our Maker.  He must increase, but I must decrease (John 3:30), this is my prayer for myself and you ... keep pressing and be encouraged!!

Mark 1:35-38(NASB)

In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there. Simon and his companions searched for Him; they found Him, and said to Him, "Everyone is looking for You." He said to them, "Let us go somewhere else to the towns nearby, so that I may preach there also; for that is what I came for."

Let us remember the blessing of solitude with the Lord in this last part of the year.  Some get caught up in the hustle of gift search and social preparations.  Just remember to get a way with the Lord, there is nothing like getting away, with God's word, talking to God and hearing from Him. 

Just as Jesus did in the scripture referenced, when folks find you, your focus will be on Kingdom building and all about God's business.  Be encouraged!

Matthew 5:48 (Amplified Bible)

You, therefore, must be perfect [growing into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity], as your heavenly Father is perfect.

During this time of the Thanksgiving and Christmas Season most find themselves doing something out of tradition or training.  Think about it, the way we clean our produce and poultry, they way we season and cook our food, the way we decorate our homes, the way we play our music, who says the prayer or carves the turkey?  Well, most of us do what we do because someone special to us, did it that way, taught us that way or we heard they did it that way, so that is what we do, right?  Sisters and Brothers, let us recall daily the sacrifice of Jesus and the love that is ever-present from God.  It is this tradition and training that grants us the indescribable peace we all long for.  Family and friends are such a blessing, let us remember the basics, treating others how we want to be treated, loving how we want to be loved, God does not permit what He hasn't prepped you for ... Be encouraged!

Psalm 37:34

Hope in the LORD and keep his way.  He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are destroyed, you will see it.

Amos 3:3

Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?

People of God, when our hope is in God we are comforted in who God has proved Himself to be in our own lives.  We are or strive to be secure in His promises.  The difference between "being secure"  or "trying to be secure" is determined in how we "keep HIS way"!  God is so clear, wickedness is to be destroyed and when His way is kept exaltation is the benefit.  How can we walk with God, unless we agree with Him?  Agreeing with God is owning up to intentional and unintentional wrongs, turning from it and asking His forgiveness.  God is faithful and just to forgive our sins, but we must agree with Him that we have sinned.  Folks, while we are hoping that God will work it out, let us keep His way while we wait, Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Isaiah 46:10 Contemporary English Version 10

From the very beginning, I told what would happen long before it took place.

I kept my word

Isaiah 46:10 New International Version

10 I make known the end from the beginning,

       from ancient times, what is still to come.

       I say: My purpose will stand,

       and I will do all that I please.

Isaiah 46:10 King James Version

10Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:

People of God, this is the day that the Lord has made!  Today I am happy that God allowed me to witness His wonderful presence one more time.  In reflecting this morning, I am reminded by the scripture above that every promise God has made to us, He has put it in writing!  We didn't have to ask, and even if we haven't read or understood it, He won't forget! 

Wherever you find yourself sitting at this moment be it in joy, sorrow, pain, confusion, loneliness, anger, tiredness, worship or even devoid of feeling ... plug in to God's word, allow His Spirit to click on your light of understanding, and receive the answer God has for you today, His counsel is trustworthy and He keeps His word!  As we mature in God, His word takes on a completely different value to our survival.  Be encouraged!

Revelation 1:5

And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 

Colossians 1:20

And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

JOHN 1:7

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Why is forgiveness so hard?  Is it because of the depth of hurt, the type of hurt, pride, ignorance, lack of faith?  Is it sin?  Forgiveness is hard because of all of this things and perhaps more, but the bottom line is sin. 

We are born in sin, reborn of the Spirit of God.  So our flesh is sin and comes with the tendency not to forgive.  When Jesus died He paid the price for all of our sin.  Before Jesus died He prayed for God to forgive.  Then He went even further and paid our price.  Then He got up on the third day, and allowed some to see and walk with Him and then here comes the Holy Ghost.  Folks, I am trying to keep this short, but it is hard, so saints bear with me and know that I know there are some details left out.

People of God, unforgivness began in the blood and ends with The Blood! Because of Jesus we are saved from the penalty of sin, washed by His blood, we are reconciled to Him, and when we are walking with Him, we can truly forgive.  Holding a grudge - we are not walking.  The bible says that "we have fellowship one with another" that is not possible without forgiveness extended from our very core!  Folks, I know what it is like to need to forgive, but I also know what it is like to forgive and by the grace of God to be forgiven by God!  There is nothing like it!  Be encouraged that God through Jesus has given us the tools and the ability to do so.  Your hurt may not disappear right away, but in remembering how God has paid OUR price, forgiven OUR sin ... if we stop and consider each thing God has forgiven us for, our compassion and appreciation will enable us to forgive from our heart.  Be encouraged!

Job 3:25-26

"For what I fear comes upon me,

         And what I dread befalls me.

    26"I am not at ease, nor am I quiet,

         And I am not at rest, but turmoil comes."

Job 42:10-12

The LORD restored the fortunes of Job when he prayed for his friends, and the LORD increased all that Job had twofold. 11Then all his brothers and all his sisters and all who had known him before came to him, and they ate bread with him in his house; and they consoled him and comforted him for all the adversities that the LORD had brought on him. And each one gave him one piece of money, and each a ring of gold. 12The LORD blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning; and he had 14,000 sheep and 6,000 camels and 1,000 yoke of oxen and 1,000 female donkeys.

Job went through some major situations.  He lost all of his children, property, he was afflicted in his body, his wife questioned his faith, his friends fronted him, he pitied himself, he questioned God ... the list goes on and on.

When we are going through, and it seems we are being jolted with drama daily or perhaps spiritually God is teaching you through some trying situations and submission and obedience is hard.  I liken these things to a washing machine.  Ok, we are the soiled garments, Jesus is the Tide, the Holy Ghost is the Bleach, God is the Machine, the agitator portion is sometimes us, the enemy, or perhaps even God. Well, the agitating process is helping shake out the soil, yet without the machine, Tide or Bleach we wouldn't be really clean, right?  Well, be encouraged that if you are in the agitating process, the cycle will end and when it does we are better positioned to be available for God's use.  After job went through all of that, God had him to pray for his friends and then he restored everything plus more to Job.  Be encouraged ... God's word is true.

*** Thank you to all who attended Sisters for Christ this past Friday, themed "We Are More Than Conquerors, Body, Mind & Soul".  We have CD's ready and DVD's will be available by Sunday, October 7. 2007, you can order them at the sound booth at AMBC.

Jonah 2:9

But I will sacrifice to You

         With the voice of thanksgiving

         That which I have vowed I will pay

         Salvation is from the LORD."

This scripture comes after Jonah has been in the big fish for 3 days, down at his lowest point.  Jonah was down there because of disobedience.  Jonah was disobedient due to fear of where God was sending him.

Well folks, something like this happened to me last week.  God made it very clear that there was something for me to do.  The funny thing is one person told me last year that I should do it, then the same person told me about 2 weeks ago "be ready" you may have to step in.  Well, each time this was brought to me I said no.  God put me in a big fish, and when I say He put me in a big fish, oh my goodness!  If there was a picture of my "comfort zone", it was as if the Lord evicted me from it and put all "my stuff" out side on the road and bolted the door to "my comfort zone".  It even seemed as if every knew that I was evicted and all of my friends were also blocking me from every entry into my comfort zone!

Sometimes we are fearful and hesitant because of feeling unworthy and/or unprepared, that is exactly how I felt.  Yet, at the same time I would have encouraged any one else to trust God.  Well, through this eviction from my comfort zone, I had to trust God.  Keep the vow I made to Him and recognize that my Salvation in every way is from Him and that I had to trust Him even though I had all types of excuses as to why I was right.

When these times happen, it is when we humble ourselves, seek God and turn from our wicked ways (like disobedience) God will use us, He is glorified and we are stronger in Him.  See, the enemy is so subtle, we have to hear God and do what He says no matter what.  God's word is life and truth that never returns void, read God's word, study God's word, consume God's word ... be encouraged that even when you think you can't or are not qualified, God says that our fear is not a factor to His perfect will for our lives. 

1 John 4:20

If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21 And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.

Our thoughts can be captivated by the unknown or misunderstood.  Many times it is a lack of understanding, on all sides, that begins the wedge of confusion in a less than positive relationship.  Brothers and Sisters, if we spend our energies on mentally breaking down and fixing a person, assigning prescriptions that they will probably never take, mentally "shaming on them" because they won't change into what we think they should be.  Surely we are playing God and posing as the Great Physician.  Our job is to love God and His people.  The word is MUST.  The only way we can do that is to pray that we love God more than anybody and anything.  How can we do that?  We must intentionally forgive.  Forgive Forgive Forgive Forgive, some of us are holding the knife in our own backs in with our own hands!  Pull it out and allow the wound to heal by forgiving, then we can begin to love as commanded.  This is a war between principalities and powers, not you and another individual, illness, job, or anything else.

Deuteronomy 6:4-9

“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart.

You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

To God be the glory for the things He has done.  Thank you Lord for waking me up this morning, thank for the person who is reading this right now.  Anoint every step that my sister or brother reading this takes, in Jesus name.

Love God with all your HEART, with all your SOUL, and with all your STRENGTH.  Scripture supports many times that our heart is one that we control by what we put in it, allow in it, etc. (Proverbs 16:9 ...A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps. AND Proverbs 19:21 There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.).  People of God, what Holy Ghost power we could walk in if we consistently chose to love God with everything we GOT!  That would mean our environment would not affect our praise.  Our praise would be 110% all the time.  Our devotion to God would be 110% at all times.  Here me people of God, while we are in this state of imperfection, we have an opportunity to press towards this high calling and be blessed with peace and joy that surpasses all understanding.  Be encouraged today, praise everywhere, readily testify of God's goodness, be clear where your help comes from, for it truly comes from the Lord!

Thank you Jesus!  Be encouraged and help someone else today ...

Hebrews 6:10-12

10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. 11We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. 12We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.

Greetings to you sistren and brethren.  It is 87 degrees in parts of the West Coast, right now! This is some folks 1st day back to work after a long weekend.  This is the 1st or 2nd week of school for some who are students or have children in school.  We are on the cusp of the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays!  Whew that can be a lot when factored in with the rest of life happenings.

Whatever your right now is, be it wonderful, tense, or non eventful be encouraged.  The scripture above reminds us that we demonstrate our love for God as we help others.  God wants us to continue in our strive to please Him and demonstrate our love to Him.  Though the tasks that we currently have or situations that are coming appear larger than life, God doesn't want us to become lazy.  God would have us to practice good faith and patience.  Let us imitate Jesus, for it is His love, endurance and perseverance to please God that paid the eternal price for our salvation.  Thank you Jesus!  Be encouraged and help someone else today

Jeremiah 10:23

I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps.

Psalm 37:23-24

23 If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.

Hebrews 13:6

6So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.

What can man do to me?"

Greetings to you, this has been an extraordinary season of introspection and change for me.  Like many people, my schedule is so incredibly full, everyday, all of the time with something.  Helping, sharing, working, education, etc.  God has given me my priority list and I try to keep that in order.  However saying no, is difficult.  Praying and asking God to order our steps and following through with His instruction can be challenging, to say the least.  Saying no to people we want to help and support is hard. 

Sometimes we take on the right tasks for the wrong reason.  We commit to do stuff out of duty, to be seen and acknowledged, or perhaps from fear of rejection.  Well, have you considered that God will remove things in your life for you?  God will sling obstacles way out of your way.  God will take the enemies desire and maybe success at making you feel unworthy and flip it for your good by making your load lighter (Genesis 50:20), did you know?

We have to be more sensitive to God's voice when He is speaking still and small (with ALL power), and the enemy is hollering and screaming (with NO power)!  When I have wanted to do things my way, God said no.  When I didn't want to adhere to His leading, God protected me from myself.  When I fear the attack of people, the misunderstanding, the shunning, God reminds me that He is my helper.  People of God, don't get me wrong, the responses that are not so nice will come, when you least expect it and through the least expected source.  Love anyhow, Pray all the time, allow God to order your every step, remember that our lives belong to Him, He is our help, and even in this unperfected state and time of growth, God upholds and loves us.

Keep Pressing ... Be encouraged.

Ephesians 3:17-18

That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height

Greetings to you, Jesus is only in our hearts when we believe the report of Him in God's word and we invite Him in.  When we invite Him in, our Christ like love roots begin to grow.  As we grow in our relationship with the Lord and are strengthened through His word.  It is in the "grounding" process that we begin to be more understand and accepting of the imperfections of fellow believers.  It is in this grounding process that we begin to respond to those who we know may hate our very essence and make it 1000% obvious, that we can pray blessings for them and mean it.  It is in this grounding that were are able to authentically show love, in spite of it's acceptance or reciprocation from others.  This is our earthly photo of the hugeness of God's love, this is how we truly represent who God is to us, this is how we duplicate for others what God has done, is doing and will do until the return of Jesus!  Keep Pressing ... Be encouraged.

HOW CAN A WOMAN NOT LOVE THE LORD?

• He's a gentleman,

• He is confident

• He is a provider and protector

• He is rich and powerful

• He owns everything, there is nothing He wouldn't do for me

• He perfects all things concerning me

• He anticipates my wants and needs

• Every day He tells me and shows me how much He loves me

• I don't have to perform in order to earn His love

• He keeps all of his promises

• No one can influence His opinion of me

• He is the ultimate intimate partner

• He can't "disown" me because I am a part of Him

• He prepares a table before me (Selah)

• He covers me and doesn't expose me

• He wrote His loving words down so that I'll never forget how He feels about me!
  
  NOW THAT'S LOVE!!!
  
  Any man, who wants pointers on how to love a woman, should study GOD!
  
  Wake up every day and thank God for being the best "man" in your life!
  
  Each and everyone one of us is going through tough times right now, but God is getting ready to bless you in a way that only He can.
  
  Keep the faith!

Job 13:15

Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.

Job makes this statement at a time when the enemy gets permission from God to attack him to see if he can get Job to curse God.  The enemy actually thinks that if God were to remove areas of protection from Job, that Job will curse God and deny Him.

Ok, the enemy thinks that if you and I are not being "protected" in a certain area of our lives that he can get us to turn away from our relationship with God.  There are times when it seems God would shield us from certain things, especially when we know that we were doing it for His Glory! Slay means to kill intentionally, God was not going to let the enemy kill Job.  Job was going through and sometimes we think the situation will kill us!  However, God desires that we respond in His Spirit and not in flesh or in a carnal way.  It is the response that isn't directed by His spirit that is to be slain.  God may allow things in your environment, or even your body to be attacked even when you are right in the middle of serving Him with gladness ... DON'T FRET, TRUST GOD, He will never leave you and guess what ... when you endure, and respond in love, God is glorified all the more!  Be encouraged ... your tests, trials and or tribulations are not in vain.

1 Corinthians 13:1-7

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.



God is so good!  I have been trying to figure out how do we love our neighbors as we love ourselves and how is it that our obedience represents our love for the Lord and how is that in 1 Corinthians 3:17 it says, "If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."

It seems that our love should be so much for God that it just overflows onto others and then over flows onto us.  When our love is in abundance for God, it is an unending well springing forth allowing that love to be more than enough.  People of God, love in spite of, love no matter what, let there be no height nor depth between you and your love for the Lord.  This wonderful love will empower you to love your enemies, love those who spitefully use you, love those who misunderstand, love yourself when you intentionally or unintentionally do something unGodly, love people when you know they hate you, love even when it seems it will never be reciprocated.  God continues to love us through all of this and more and He blesses us with unmerited favor, meaning things we don't deserve.  It is with this God inspired kind of love that we are able to keep our temples holy, undefiled and strengthened to glorify God who is worthy of the best we have to give.  Be encouraged that as we align ourselves with God's way, we have more fruitful lives.

Leviticus 25:53-55 (NIV)

53 He is to be treated as a man hired from year to year; you must see to it that his owner does not rule over him ruthlessly.  54 " 'Even if he is not redeemed in any of these ways, he and his children are to be released in the Year of Jubilee, 55 for the Israelites belong to me as servants. They are my servants, whom I brought out of Egypt. I am the LORD your God.

John 8:36
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.



The Levitical scripture above is a brief reference to the process of repaying debts for different reasons, and this is how the "owner, slave master, or foreigner" should treat those in service, enslaved or in debt to them and when they are to be released.

Christians, you may be in a season or know someone who is in a season of service that appears to be hard or as if they are repaying some type of debt.  It feels like that sometimes, it seems as if a season is never going to change and like the bad is getting worse or perhaps that one may never get free.

The scripture above shows us that as God spoke to those in power over the Israelites, He speaks to us today.  The situations you are dealing with may seem to be unending, but God said we are His servants, who He brought out of Egypt, He is our Lord and our God.  We are His.  Your time of "Jubilee" is coming, your friends day of Jubilee is coming.  There is so much more I want to say, but for now be encouraged and walk in the freedom of knowing Who's you are!



*** This God given ministry is growing, you may receive some test emails as I  look for ways to accommodate the increased recipients because msn will only allow so many emails to be sent in one day.  This is a blessing and God will work it out. ***

Philippians 1:20-21 (Contemporary English Version)

I honestly expect and hope that I will never do anything to be ashamed of. Whether I live or die, I always want to be as brave as I am now and bring honor to Christ. If I live, it will be for Christ, and if I die, I will gain even more.



Have you ever asked the questions, "What did I say, I just told the truth?"  This can be embarrassing because everyone is looking at you with a strange expression.

People of God, be brave, speak the truth, honor Christ.  How can that be done?  We must do all of the above, with love.  When our source is love, folks may still not receive it, but God is pleased with obedience and in being obedient to Him, we display our love and please Him.  That is really all that matters, is that we are pressing to please God.  We must be brave and honor Christ.  Lord help us to allow our words to not manipulate or beguile, but to edify, correct, and to show truth and love from God.  As God is molding us as He is the potter and we are the clay, He continues to spin (allow us to go through life) and add water (The Lliving Water) until we look like Him .. be encouraged in the process God loves you!

Romans 8:35-37

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written: “ For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” 37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.



It is not a coincidence that the Bible says "Who", this indicates to that these attacks that are designed to shake our faith, are carried out by demonic spirits sent by the enemy, who will use people and or situations.  There is no other that would desire to separate us from the love of Christ.  These spirits of tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, and sword manifest themselves like multilevel marketing.  You know, it's like the tire commercials have one commercial for one population that usually has more base and rhythms, then there is another that might appeal to another population that may be classical in origin, while yet another has vivid colors or spinners perhaps to appeal to another generation, these marketing techniques go much deeper than this and are very well thought out and intentional.  The corporations and the enemy have every intention of getting you to "partake". These same marketing strategies are utilized by the enemy.  Think about the last time you said, "If ______ happens one more time" or "If I hear _____ one more time" or "Did everyone get the memo to dog me, but me?"  This is because when things are happening the enemy desires to sift you, therefore he will come after you in any and every area.  Put on the whole armor of God, and know that there is nothing that will separate you from the love of Christ, we are more than conquerors, not just conquerors, more than conquerors, now you know it's not just you... no you are not crazy, just perhaps you've been considered just like Job, be encouraged ... God has truly got your back!

1 John 3:1-3

Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!  Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be  Him, for we shall see Him as He is.  And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.

Paraphrase 101 ... Look at how awesome God is that He would claim us with all of our stuff, sin, and baggage!  Now that God claims me, my friends and family barely recognize me.  They are looking for the old me and can't see me standing right in front of them.  One day God is going to reveal the me that He intended me to be, and one day they will see God for who He is.

People of God, continue to place your everything in God's hands, your hope is in God, in placing your everything in God He is purifying you!  Be encouraged that the process is not in vain.

Mark 10:24-30

The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!  It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, "Who then can be saved?" Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God." Peter said to him, "We have left everything to follow you!" "I tell you the truth," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel 30will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life.

People of God, when God allows us to see things that just seem too much to take in, He tells us that us that with Him, even the stuff that seems so much larger than life at the moment ... He can fix that too!  What I see is that God won't even tell us or show us if he wasn't prepping us to trust Him through it!  Not only that but after that Peter (like some of us) said ok but we left everything to follow you, God comes right back and says ... and I am going to bless you right now (in the present age) and i am going to bless you beyond the temporal things you left behind but folks ... God is going to bless us with Eternal blessings!  Hallelujah!

Be encouraged and encourage someone else.

Galatians 5:6

For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.

My friends are all very different in personality, culture, interests, talents etc.  They range from reserved & religious to the  ridiculous & the radical! Sometimes they are religious & ridiculous to the reserved & radical or any combination thereof !  These friends are usually outside of the "main focus groups" in social settings, only these people don't care or realize most of the time.  I think that our faith is silently being expressed through love, but we just don't say that.

Yes, there are very theological explanations for this scripture relating to he Jewish laws and practices, but today we are looking at this ... if you are in the mainstream or not, feeling a part of the popular group or not, it doesn't matter because all that counts is the "expression of your faith through love".  Perhaps you are not married, or you don't have a car, perhaps you don't have a degree, maybe you long to have a child, you think you look too different, do you feel separated because you feel overweight or underweight?  Whatever it is that makes you feel the way you feel, please be encouraged today... keep expressing your faith through love ... God loves you and He says that nothing can separate you from His love.  Keep expressing and watch that line of separation disappear, either it goes away or it just won't matter anymore!

Luke 23:34a

Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.

It seems to me that it as at this moment Jesus said in His human side … Father I have been teaching, preaching, working, serving, praying, giving, healing, filling, anointing, appointing, sending, mending, protecting, leading, defending, growing, showing, loving, embracing, rebuking, convicting, exalting, empowering, welcoming, and embracing these your people … the very same people who have given me vinegar to drink, the very same people who received food when they were hungry, water when they thirst not by might but by your power Father … Father forgive them, later they will see … Father forgive them, later they will be used … Father forgive them, they will work for You one day… Father forgive them, they will be on their own cross one day … Father forgive them they will one day will thirst … Father forgive them one day they will too serve and not be welcome in their own home … Father forgive them one day they shall suffer for the cross … Father forgive them because one day they will be bearing their own cross saying Father forgive them…  They too will be questioned mocked and hard pressed on every side to prove who sent them, do they belong and if they are authentic … so Father with one of my lasts breaths I beseech you... Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing!

John 13:12-19, 37-38

12 So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. 18 “I do not speak concerning all of you. I know whom I have chosen; but that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘He who eats bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me.’ 19 Now I tell you before it comes, that when it does come to pass, you may believe that I am He.

37 Peter said to Him, “Lord, why can I not follow You now? I will lay down my life for Your sake.”

38 Jesus answered him, “Will you lay down your life for My sake? Most assuredly, I say to you, the rooster shall not crow till you have denied Me three times.

Greetings People of God!  May your Holy Week be filled with all that God has prepared for you, if you don't know what that is, ask Him!  Jesus washed the feet of Judas after he had already made the deal to betray Him, and Jesus knew it.  Jesus washed Peters feet although He knew Peter was due to deny Him 3 times.  Jesus gave up glory and came to earth taught, preached, served, walked, bleed and died for you and me ... even though he knew we would ________ (fill in the blank).  Folks, sometimes we must serve between the wicked and the weak.  Sometimes we have to be in a stooped down position, facing the ground, washing the feet of those who will turn their back on you (weak) or intentionally throw you under the bus (wicked)!  The wicked may be the enemy working on the outside or the inside of us.  The weak may be the lack of trust we have in God working from the inside out in us ... or someone we are around.  Never the less, be encouraged that you keep on serving.  If you are the source of the weakness or the the nesting ground for the wicked, call on the name of the Lord and ask for His strength to resist and submit to Him.  Be encouraged today and encourage somebody else!

Acts 16:4-10

Now while they were passing through the cities, they were delivering the decrees which had been decided upon by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem, for them to observe. So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily. They passed through the Phrygian and Galatian region, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia; and after they came to Mysia, they were trying to go into Bithynia, and the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them; and passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. A vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing and appealing to him, and saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." When he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.

Greetings in the Name of Jesus!  Folks God has given everyone an assignment and a gift.  Your gift is for the right time and place.  Don't be discouraged because God hasn't given you that place yet.  He may come to you in a dream like He did with Paul, or maybe some other way, but He will come!

Be encouraged and encourage someone else today!

Acts 10:34 KJV

Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

Galatians 5:19-23 NASB

Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Let us remember that as we observe others that we are "present" in the fact that God eyes our issues equally.  We are all challenged by the same deeds of the flesh and all have the opportunity to receive salvation and deliverance from those very deeds.  Let us look to each other with an eye of compassion and unity.  We may not have the same issue(s), but to God, the language we use to make us feel better, doesn't change His facts.  The encouraging part is that God gives us the same chance(s) that He gave Peter, Saul (Paul), Noah, Moses, Esther, Job, Deborah, Mary, Martha, the Woman with the issue of blood, and David.  Because God isn't a respecter of persons, sin is sin, and forgiveness is forgiveness!

Esther 9:22-24

22 as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor.

23 So the Jews agreed to continue the celebration they had begun, doing what Mordecai had written to them. 24 For Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, the enemy of all the Jews, had plotted against the Jews to destroy them and had cast the pur (that is, the lot) for their ruin and destruction.

People of God, we have got to know today that the enemy plots against you at the time of your blessing.  Know that the enemy will put on a mask that looks like someone you know, convince them that something is wrong with you and have them be so blatant with it that they will begin to look crazy!  This is what I am saying, that person the enemy is working with can be us or someone else, the problem is that anytime we allow the enemy to trick us, he ends up making us look like a fool.  That's what happened to Haman, the enemy had him convinced that the Jews were bad, he plotted, planned, spread the rumor and even got back up for his mess, and in the end he looked like a complete fool.  Have you ever seen someone who tried so hard to support a lie and show other people it is true by their actions?  It's like they are constantly trying to make people believe the illusion that pumps up their pride?  This is not personal this is just God's illumination of scripture.  That is what happened to Haman.  Now, the enemy is exposed, today we walk in newness and aware of yet another trick.  Recognize what is really going on and be encouraged!  Not only will the enemy NOT stop my blessings, but he won't use me to try and stop anyone else's!

Psalm 8:3-6

When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers,  The moon and the stars, which You have ordained; What is man that You take thought of him and the son of man that You care for him?

Yet You have made him a little lower than God, And You crown him with glory and majesty! 

You make him to rule over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet,

Let's take time this morning to consider God..... If we take a moment to consider God and the works we have witnessed, it is impossible not to be humbled by His "Too much for me to take in Self!"  Now once we begin to consider Him ... take a deep breath and take in the fact that He has already considered you and every need you have and is doing so right now!  Not only is He considering you, but He has already given you some "Happy March 12th" gifts like breath, sight, touch, smell ... the list does continue, but you get it.  He has also put some things under your feet today ... everything that should be below you is, stomp hard and stay focused today!

2 Corinthians 12:9-10

And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness " Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.

Folks, don't let the enemy discourage you when friends, fans or foes want to continuously put you down, ignore what God has done in you, or refuse to celebrate the press in your praise!  It is ok.  Everyone is just not able or willing.  Many times we are more comfortable with the past, what's familiar, so everyone isn't going to move forward with you, it's ok.  Yes, we have all made poor decisions, said something wrong, made a wrong turn, but God is so much bigger than that!  Our job is to continue to keep a press in our praise.  Someone looks at us crazy, Hallelujah.  Someone makes public, distasteful comments about us, Praise God.  Feeling like things just are not happening yesterday and next week isn't coming fast enough, PRESS ON towards what God has vested in you, He loves you and won't let you go .... He allows the other stuff to strengthen us, we must keep pressing past the enemy and his distractions, God has already won the battle!  God's grace is sufficient and we are being perfected!

Colossians 3:5 (New International Version)

Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.

Greetings people of God!

Today, we must begin to walk in our "more than conqueror" self.  We must all things that work against this Holy walk, completely away.  Today is the first day of the best days of our lives.  Let's allow God to be the controller of our words and deeds.  Let us keep Him in First Place rather than after some less important thing.  God is good all by Himself, He doesn't need those things that are temporal.  Remember: Ephesians 17-21 says: So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.

20You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.

Please know that this does not only relate to the physical sexuality aspect of sin, but to our physical desires that are not in line with what God wants for us.  We must lay aside those things that work against the Fruit of the Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-23

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Philippians 2:1-4

Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, 2 fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4 Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

Greetings people of God!

God is showing us in His word that, if you find comfort in any of His good things like His love, His Spirit, His affection, His mercy, He just wants one thing from us ... be like Him .... demonstrate a pure authentic love towards one another with affection, mercy, show love because we ought not because we expect something back, caring about each others interests and being humble.  While we are in a season of love.  Let us look for opportunities to be love found rather than love lost.  There are many people who could use a simple act of kindness and be remembered, let's be like-minded with Christ.  Be encouraged and encourage someone else today!

James 4:10

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. 

The Lord is often described as omniscient, which means having complete or unlimited knowledge, awareness, or understanding; perceiving all things.  Humble is defined as someone who does not think that he or she is better or more important than others.  When our pride is puffed up, we can't see those things that are below whatever place we have put ourselves in.  When we are in a humble state, we recognize our need for salvation, grace and mercy and are more ready to consider other people and be compassionate rather than the complete opposite.  Right now you may feel like you are constantly giving, serving, maybe low on the totem pole at work, always the last to know what's going on, not included in the "core group" somewhere, perhaps you have noticed that people seem to merely want to use you but don't really care about you, maybe your family requires so much from you and never sees to it that you get a break.  The aforementioned are all very humble positions.  Be encouraged, when we humble ourselves in in the sight of the Lord, He will lift us up.

John 19:4-6

Pilate came out again and said to them, "Behold, I am bringing Him out to you so that you may know that I find no guilt in Him." Jesus then came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, "Behold, the Man!" So when the chief priests and the officers saw Him, they cried out saying, "Crucify, crucify!" Pilate said to them, "Take Him yourselves and crucify Him, for I find no guilt in Him."

Pilate found himself between a Pillar and a post.  The Pillar named Jesus and the post were the men pressing him to judge Jesus and crucify Him.  Pilate was in a position where He could recognize the tugging in his heart, and the encouragement from his wife and the truth emanating from Jesus.  Pilate could have embraced the truth and not been pressed by haters.  Pilate had a choice to try and please everybody so that he could have an illusion of "peace" or go against the grain and come forth as pure gold.  Yes, this was all apart of God's will for our salvation, there is no doubt about that!

How strange it is that there was never a true accusation that warranted crucifixion for Jesus as there was for Barabas, but Barabas received and did exactly what he wanted to do, how he wanted to do it, without correction or repentance he was released back into the community.

When we look at our own lives today, we have to make the same type of decisions, release the enemy into our ministries, jobs, homes, families or stand up rebuke the enemy and tell the truth.  It may not be popular, but it is a blessing from the Lord to chose Him over being a silent supporter of sin.  Be encouraged!  Be peculiar, we must chose daily and sometimes moment by moment whom we will serve.

Leviticus 26:3-10 (The Message)

"If you live by my decrees and obediently keep my commandments, I will send the rains in their seasons, the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit. You will thresh until the grape harvest and the grape harvest will continue until planting time; you'll have more than enough to eat and will live safe and secure in your land.

"I'll make the country a place of peace—you'll be able to go to sleep at night without fear; I'll get rid of the wild beasts; I'll eliminate war. You'll chase out your enemies and defeat them: Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand and do away with them. I'll give you my full attention: I'll make sure you prosper, make sure you grow in numbers, and keep my covenant with you in good working order. You'll still be eating from last year's harvest when you have to clean out the barns to make room for the new crops.

This is a test of the life according to the Bible system ... Live by God's decrees, obey his commandments ... He will keep you full of the Holy Ghost, in peace and prosperity of good, necessary things, start now ... Be encouraged!

Psalm 138:8

The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands. 

It would be great to tell you that we will never be worried about our purposes in life again.  The fact is that everyone at some point questions the purpose of their birth.  That is a valid question, that only God can answer for you.  However, once we receive that answer, we still aren't satisfied because some of us want to know, "How in the world am I going to do that?"  Well, this scripture is an affirmation+ for those times.  It says that the Lord will fulfill His purpose, He loves you for all time, then the scripture turns into a prayer (that's the +) ... God please don't leave me, you made me.  This prayer asks the Lord to stay in our heart and acknowledges that He is our maker.  Sometimes all we need to do is be encouraged and remember whose we are! God bless you and be encouraged!

Jude 1:24-25

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy. To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. 

We serve a God who is the only one wise and gracious enough to not only realize we need a Savior, but that only His Son could do it, and that we wouldn't all or always appreciate Him for His many many gifts.  So after doing ALL of that, He went another dozen miles on our behalf.  It is great to have friends and family willing to listen.  It is a blessing to know that church family is willing to be there for the hard times.  How humbling it is to know that folks are willing to weep and rejoice with us over the triumphs and trials of life.  Those are all such awesome, wonderful blessings to have so many people who are willing to be a blessing in our lives.  But God is ABLE to do all of that and more, my God is an ABLE God, who's will is bigger than our willing!  Not only will He do all of that, but He will keep you from falling into traps that friends and family don't know about, He will present you faultless in front of folks that remember and probably participated in some of your transgressions, but most importantly because of a repentive heart, God will present you faultless before the accuser.  Rest in who God is today and be encouraged!

John 13:18,26,37-38

18"I do not speak of all of you I know the ones I have chosen; but it is that the Scripture may be fulfilled, 'HE WHO EATS MY BREAD HAS LIFTED UP HIS HEEL AGAINST ME.'

26 Jesus then answered, "That is the one for whom I shall dip the morsel and give it to him." So when He had dipped the morsel, He took and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot.

37 Peter said to Him, "Lord, why can I not follow You right now? I will lay down my life for You." Jesus answered, "Will you lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly, I say to you, a rooster will not crow until you deny Me three times.  

There is a difference between weak and wicked.  The wicked plot and plan to distort, change and diminish the apparent power of God in you, around you, in worship service, work, school, life in general.  The wicked have a complete disregard for God's will in order to satisfy the cravings of the flesh, in order to satisfy what the world has deemed "esteem".  It is not a one item or topic kind of satisfaction, it is a desire to completely satisfy the flesh that has not been crucified with Christ.  Juxtaposed against this wicked one, is the weak one.  The weak one for no reason other than lack of strength in the Lord not for lack of love, resorts to fear, reclusion, denial of the of Lord, shrinking from responsibility, running away from knowledge, shirking responsibility and taking the easy way out because the other way seems impossible and hard.  This weak one is different though.  The weak one makes it back in this story.  Judas, the wicked one, doesn't make it back.  You see, he dug a ditch and forgot the hole was there.  Peter on the other hand, loved the Lord and the Lord knew it and welcomed Him back, Peter was sorry for what he did and Jesus knew that.  People of God, know that when you are weak, God is strong and even if in your weakness you deny Him, He will forgive you when your heart is sorry, be encouraged that we all can come back to Him.

Galatians 6:9

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Philippians 3:13-14

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

John 12:9-10

The large crowd of the Jews then learned that He was there; and they came, not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He raised from the dead. But the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death also;

There is a song that says "Back in the day when I was young, i'm not a kid anymore, but some days I sit an wish I was a kid again".  I think that if Lazarus knew that song, he would have been singing it.  Lazarus was the brother of Mary & Martha, who fell ill and died.  Jesus loved him but had to allow his deliverance to be a clear credit to God.  So, when he died, He let him stay dead a few days so there would be no question.

So, now Lazarus is all healed and delivered, back from the dead.  He came back with his clothes a bit worn, kinda smelly and dazed ... but delivered all the same (somebody is gonna catch that later).  Anyhow, Lazarus didn't ask to be sick nor did he ask to be healed and used as an example, but he was all three just the same.  But as we look closer, the chief priest wanted to take Lazarus out just because he was used by God and delivered from his ailment.

Folks, you may have been damaged in the process of deliverance, that's ok, the fact is that you are here.  God wants to use you in a certain way to glorify Himself.  Don't be surprised that enemy still comes at you, just know that the God in you is greater than the enemy after you! ... Be encouraged!

For those who don't know, I only send these when God gives me words to send.  So when they are irregularly sent, that is why.

2 Timothy 2:23-24 (New American Standard Bible)

But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. The Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged,

***

Sunday morning God lead me to this scripture and it really blew my mind.  It blew my mind because, I had made an assumption that this was "common sense", rather than God inspired wisdom from the Word.  So as I read this over and over in amazement, so many situations flashed through my head.  The conversation with the Lord went like this:

So, You mean to tell me that when I am being picky and extremely observant there is no need for me to express it verbally or physically, if it is going to cause an argument or upset?  So, that means when my sistah or brotha from church says something sarcastic, rude and unnecessary, my response should only be kind thoughts and words?  So, You are telling me that I am in a better position for your use when I don't cause or participate in quarrels?  Well, God answered yes to each of my questions.

God has told us this in many ways, to reach all of the different people, this scripture is the one that helped me.  This freedom that we have, the world surely didn't give it, let us not give the world permission to take it away!  Resist the enemy and he will flee ... Be encouraged!

James 1:6 (Amplified Bible)

Only it must be in faith that he asks with no wavering (no hesitating, no doubting). For the one who wavers (hesitates, doubts) is like the billowing surge out at sea that is blown hither and thither and tossed by the wind.

***

Recently my daughter received an invitation to a birthday party.  This was no regular party, this was the 1st "cool" party of the year and "everyone" was going to be there and there was going to be a DJ and all of this excitement was built up around this party.  The problem was that Marc had to work and I was to go out of town and would be unable to transport.  When the ask was made, there was an apparent thought of defeat in her demeanor, so when she found out that God had worked it out, she was sooo happy!  How many times has God done the very same for us?  What an example of our faith would be if we would ask, without wavering, without doubting, without hesitating, without fear (false evidence appearing real)?  Jesus is the only person that the closer we get to Him, the better He looks, get close, line up with Gods will, then you will ask without wavering!  Be encouraged!

John 6:15-21

Therefore when Jesus perceived that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He departed again to the mountain by Himself alone. Now when evening came, His disciples went down to the sea, got into the boat, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was already dark, and Jesus had not come to them. Then the sea arose because a great wind was blowing. So when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid. But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” Then they willingly received Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land where they were going.

*** The disciples are in the boat, I still don't know when Jesus told them to take a boat out, but anyway.  They row for 3 - 4 miles, in the dark, wind blowing, they already had a full day being tested by Jesus and passing out food to a great multitude (5000+) and here come Jesus strolling on the water!  The thought of that was hilarious, somebody had to say something wrong before Jesus identified Himself!  The thing that really stood out for me was that once the disciples received Jesus into the boat, immediately, the Bible says, the were at there destination!

What an example of Salvation and Forgiveness folks!  If you are in a situation that you have been in for a while, it's dark, it's cold, you are tired, the wind is blowing and stinging you, allow Jesus to step in, He will get you through.  Be encouraged!

Exodus 14:15

15 And the LORD said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward.

 *** Are you  in a place where you are faced with difficult decisions, a choice must be made and you are pressed?  This passage of scripture is when Moses and the children of Israel needed to cross the Red Sea.  They had harm behind them and a sea in front of them.  The Pharoah was coming to get them and the Sea of unknown was ahead. Doesn't always seem that way?  God and Moses listened to the people as they complained and talked about how they should have stayed slaves and God just made it plain.  Why are you whining, go forward.  People of God, just because your vision is blurry right now, when God has given you the clearance, trust that He has already planned on parting the Sea for you.  When a Sea of unknown is ahead and God has moved us from our past, we must know that God will either move it or strengthen us to swim, but no matter what His promise will come true!  Be encouraged ... go forward!

Exodus 20:3

You shall have no other gods before or besides Me.

*** This familiar scripture tells us Gods proper place, it is the second portion of the #1 Commandment.  The 1st part says "I am the Lord your God." However, when I re-read the scripture, and look at it with fresh eyes, God is telling us something.  This is also a bit of a bio, you know like a "catch phrase" that we better catch quickly.  God is saying "there is no God badder than Me, so you can't put another god above me, because no one can out do Me"  He is saying I am the One for you!  He is not only commanding us, He is warning us to avoid danger, protecting us from disappointment, advising us to keep all of our everything on Him!  This is some serious "preventive maintenance".  Be encouraged that way back when God sought to protect you, as He is doing now, take head and hasten to Him for all that you need!

*** Reminder for women near my area tomorrow is the Sister's for Christ at AMBC from 7pm to 9pm, we are anticipating what God is going to do, hope to see you there. ***

Colossians 2:6-7 (The Message)

My counsel for you is simple and straightforward: Just go ahead with what you've been given. You received Christ Jesus, the Master; now live him. You're deeply rooted in him. You're well constructed upon him. You know your way around the faith. Now do what you've been taught. School's out; quit studying the subject and start living it! And let your living spill over into thanksgiving.

*** We have received the tools we need to progress in our relationship with the Lord.  Sometimes we hear the weather report, the report says "rain today", we say "it doesn't look like it", we don't believe it, we dress wrong, without an umbrella, and we get rained on!  Some of us play this faith roulette with our relationship with the Lord as well.  Let's not play roulette, let's walk in Him, and there is no doubt that our faith walk will transform into worship and thanksgiving.  Be encouraged today!

Psalm 55:18

He rescues me and keeps me safe from the battle waged against me, even though many still oppose me.

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine oh what a foretaste of glory divine ... Be assured today that the wars will come, but there is a "Guarantee for Victory"!  Wouldn't it be something if everything we viewed as an issue, trial, negative circumstance, difficult or mean persons, all of those things that come up... imagine that there is a huge stamp right on it that said "Victory Guaranteed", that is what God has done for us through His Son, that is what God tells us over and over in His word.  Walk in your guaranteed victory today, like you know it beyond a shadow of a doubt!  Be encouraged!

John 12:9-10

The large crowd of the Jews then learned that He was there; and they came, not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He raised from the dead. But the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death also;

There is a song that says "Back in the day when I was young, I'm not a kid anymore, but some days I sit an wish I was a kid again".  I think that if Lazarus knew that song, he would have been singing it.  Lazarus was the brother of Mary & Martha, who fell ill and died.  Jesus loved him but had to allow his deliverance to be a clear credit to God.  So, when he died, He let him stay dead a few days so there would be no question.

So, now Lazarus is all healed and delivered, back from the dead.  He came back with his clothes a bit worn, kinda smelly and dazed ... but delivered all the same (somebody is gonna catch that later).  Anyhow, Lazarus didn't ask to be sick nor did he ask to be healed and used as an example, but he was all three just the same.  But as we look closer, the chief priest wanted to take Lazarus out just because he was used by God and delivered from his ailment.

Folks, you may have been damaged in the process of deliverance, that's ok, the fact is that you are here.  God wants to use you in a certain way to glorify Himself.  Don't be surprised that enemy still comes at you, just know that the God in you is greater than the enemy after you! ... Be encouraged!

John 6:15-21

Therefore when Jesus perceived that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He departed again to the mountain by Himself alone.  Now when evening came, His disciples went down to the sea, got into the boat, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was already dark, and Jesus had not come to them. Then the sea arose because a great wind was blowing. So when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid. But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.”

Then they willingly received Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land where they were going.

*** The disciples are in the boat, I still don't know when Jesus told them to take a boat out, but anyway.  They row for 3 - 4 miles, in the dark, wind blowing, they already had a full day being tested by Jesus and passing out food to a great multitude (5000+) and here come Jesus strolling on the water!  The thought of that was hilarious, somebody had to say something wrong before Jesus identified Himself!  The thing that really stood out for me was that once the disciples received Jesus into the boat, immediately, the Bible says, the were at there destination!

What an example of Salvation and Forgiveness folks!  If you are in a situation that you have been in for a while, it's dark, it's cold, you are tired, the wind is blowing and stinging you, allow Jesus to step in, He will get you through.  Be encouraged!

I Corinthians 1:8

He will keep you strong right up to the end, and he will keep you free from all blame on the great day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns.

How wonderful it is to know that God is a finisher of projects, not a half doer, not a "i call you baker", not an ingredients skipper, or a "I forgotter"!  Hallelujah!  Yes, the grammar is not perfect, but God is and right now His perfection is what the press in my praise is all about!  be encouraged that God won't leave you half done, he is going to work out your inside, keep you strong, and safe from the accuser of the brethren and "sisteren" until His Son comes back!  

Greetings everyone,

This past week brought me to a point of meditating on  God's view of our external relationships.  You know, the people we interact with at work, school, church, the grocery store, etc.  In that meditation/prayer time a light came on!  God took me back to Jesus' relationship with the disciples.  Jesus was all God and all man at  the same time, yet He walked with persons who were all man all of the time.  That  tells me that though anointed, blessed and favored....they fell everyday.  They did stuff that did not make Jesus smile, and everything they thought they got away with, Jesus was looking at them and listening to them from the inside, yet He still used them for mighty works in the Kingdom and He still walked with them.

Yes, we see a glimpse of something that doesn't ring true, hear something that isn't received well, are shocked at statements and behaviors of people we interact with.  Guess what, they, we...are still usable.

Job 42:10 says "When Job prayed for his friends, the LORD restored his fortunes. In fact, the LORD gave him twice as much as before!"

Those we encounter, are made by God, they may or may not have a relationship with Him, but if we show them love and pray for them, God's reward of peace is enough, but on top of that, He can do even more.  Pray for those persons, pray for yourself...  Be encouraged!

Listening Love

Listening love is one the greatest gifts we can give our mates, our families, and our friends.  Too often we settle for surface talk or icy silences, for monologues or cutoffs, for defenses.  What a difference when we follow the principles of listening love!
 

Listening love is courteous.  It says . . .
 

I will strive not to interrupt or outguess you.  I will not finish your sentences or break into your thoughts.

Listening love is attentive.  It says . . .

I will give you my undivided attention.  I will not turn you off or leave you isolated.

Listening love is patient.  It says . . .

I will not rush you or insist on a right-now conclusion.

Listening love is kind.  It says . . .

I will not shame you with sarcastic retorts.  I will not belittle you.

Listening love is objective.  It says . . .

I will try to be informative rather than opinionated.  I will not attempt to think for you.

Listening love is unselfish.  It says . . .

I will guard against overconfidence and trite "spiritual" answers.

Listening love is prayerful.  It says . . .

I will pray for insight, for wisdom, and for gentle reactions.

"May the words of my mouth and meditations of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer." 

Psalm 19:14 

Cast Out The Net

Very early in life (almost from birth) we are trained to be successful according to the world's definition of success. We are driven by goals and accomplishments from the day we take our first steps and ride our first bike. As we grow older, we are pressured to accumulate knowledge and "things" in order to prove our success.

In our Christian walk, Jesus calls us to a new definition of success - one determined not by what we accomplish, but by our obedience. The disciples walked and talked with Jesus, but they still faced many challenges with faith and obedience. One morning after fishing all night without a catch, Jesus called from the shore. John 21:6 "He said, 'Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some {fish}.' When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish."

The disciples were successful that morning. But we must understand that the large number of fish did not define their success. They would have been successful even if the nets remained empty. They were successful the moment they were obedient and threw out the net. One thousands years earlier, King Saul was told to "attack the Amalekites and totally destroy everything that belongs to them," (1 Samuel 15:3). But Saul allowed the Amalekite king and the best livestock to survive. He tried to cover His disobedience by saying the calves and lambs were for a sacrifice to God. "But Samuel replied: 'Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.'" (1 Samuel 15:22).

In any task we undertake for God, it's easy to become discouraged by our apparent lack of success. We often feel inadequate - and those feelings increase when our goals seem to be elusive. But we must remember, the outcome of the task is secondary to our obedience. God doesn't need our "fish" - He wants our devotion and trust. He desires that we love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Let's take our eyes off the accomplishment of the "catch" and what we can produce. Rather, let's focus on walking each step according to His leading. Let's concentrate all our effort on obeying His call to cast out the net. Amen!
Have a Great Day in the LORD!

-- Author Unknown  

Acts 20:22-24 (NASB)

22"And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23"except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. 24"But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God. Life happens, but we have to keep on giving, pressing and doing what God has told us to do, our feelings can't define God's future, God has given us the tools to finish this course, we can do it....Be encouraged today.

Psalm 138:8 (Amplified Bible)

The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy and loving-kindness, O Lord, endure forever--forsake not the works of Your own hands.  Perfect your life, Perfect your mind, Perfect your spouse or the one to come, Perfect your children, Perfect your finances, Perfect your relationship with Him, Perfect your journey, Perfect your friends, Perfect your Home, Perfect your peace, Perfect your enemies, Perfect your life, Perfect your walk, Perfect your goals, Perfect your health, Perfect your family, Perfect your babies mama, Perfect your storm, Perfect your talk, Perfect your babies daddy, Perfect ALL that concerns you....hold on my brothers and sisters....Be encouraged today.

Psalm 23 (For the Workplace)

The Lord is my boss, and I shall not want.

He gives me peace, when chaos is all around me.

He reminds me to pray, before I speak in anger.

He restores my sanity.

He guides my decisions that I might honor Him in all I do.

Even though I face absurd amounts of e-mail, system failures, copier

   jams, back-ordered supplies, unrealistic deadlines, staff shortages,

   budget cutbacks, red tape, downsizing, gossiping co-workers and

   whining customers, I won't give up, for You are with me.

Your presence, peace and power will see me through.

You raise me up, even when the boss fails to promote me.

You claim me as your own, even when the

company threatens to let me go.

Your loyalty and love are better than a bonus check.

Your retirement plan beats any 401K, and

when it's all said and done,

I'll be working for you a whole lot longer!

Thanks be to God!

-- Author Unknown

Prints of Elbows on My Bed

I was but a youth and thoughtless,

As all youths are apt to be;

Though I had a Christian mother

Who had taught me carefully.

There came a time when pleasure

Of the world came to allure,

And I no more sought the guidance

Of her love so good and pure.

Her tender admonitions fell

But lightly on my ear,

And for the gentle warnings

I felt an inward sneer.

But Mother would not yield her boy

To Satan's sinful sway,

And though I spurned her counsel

She knew a better way.

She made my room an altar,

A place of secret prayer,

And there she took her burden

And left it in His care.

And morning, noon and evening

By that humble bedside low,

She sought the aid of Him who

Understands a mother's woe.

And I went my way unheeding,

Careless of the life I led,

Until one day I noticed

Prints of elbows on my bed.

Then I saw that she had been there

Praying for her wayward boy,

Who for love of worldly pleasure

Would her peace of mind destroy.

Long the conflict raged within me,

Sin against my Mother's prayers,

Sin must yield - for Mother never

While she daily met Him there.

And her constant love and patience

Were like coals upon my head,

Together with the imprints

Of her elbows on my bed.

And so at last the fight was won,

And I to Christ was led,

And Mother's prayers were answered

By her elbows on my bed.

-- Author Unknown

SPECIAL BEATITUDES for those who work with special people

BLESSED ARE YOU who take time to listen to difficult speech FOR YOU help us know that if we persevere, we can be understood.

BLESSED ARE YOU who walk with us in public places and ignore the stares of strangers,

FOR in your companionship, we find havens of relaxation.

BLESSED ARE YOU who never bid us "hurry up" and more blessed,  you who do not snatch our tasks from our hands to do them for us FOR often we need time rather than help.

BLESSED ARE YOU who stand beside us as we enter new and untried ventures,

FOR our failures will be outweighed by times when we surprise ourselves and you.

BLESSED ARE YOU who ask for our help FOR our greatest need is to be needed.

BLESSED ARE YOU who help us with the graciousness of Christ.  FOR oftentimes we need the help we cannot ask for.

BLESSED ARE YOU when, by all these things you assure us that the thing that makes us individuals is not in our peculiar muscles, not in our wounded nervous systems, nor in our difficulties in learning BUT in the God-given self which no infirmity can confine.

REJOICE AND BE EXCEEDINGLY GLAD, and know that you give us reassurances that could never be spoken in words, FOR you deal with us as Christ dealt with all His children.

-- Author Unknown

Isaiah 41:10

Do not fear, for I am with you;

Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God

I will strengthen you, surely I will help you,

Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'

Know that God has got you in everything that you

do on this day!  There is no need to be anxious,

God will help you.  Think of whatever situation has you a bit

anxious, and meditate on this scripture has you imagine

literally handing that situation over to God.

Enjoy the freedom of relaxing in Him.

ATTITUDE

The 92-year-old, petite, well-poised and proud lady, who is fully dressed each morning by eight o'clock, with her hair fashionably coifed and makeup perfectly applied, even though she is legally blind, moved to a nursing home today. Her husband of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary.

After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, she smiled sweetly when told her room was ready.

As she maneuvered her walker to the elevator, I provided a visual description of her tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been hung on her window. "I love it," she stated with the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just been presented with a new puppy.

"Mrs. Jones, you haven't seen the room .... just wait." "That doesn't have anything to do with it," she replied. "Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged ... it's how I arrange my mind.

I already decided to love it ... "It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up. I have a choice; I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do. Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open I'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories I've stored away ... just for this time in my life.

Old age is like a bank account ... you withdraw from what you've put in .. So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank account of memories.

Thank you for your part in filling my Memory bank. I am still
depositing.

Remember the five simple rules to be happy:

1. Free your heart from hatred.
2. Free your mind from worries.
3. Live simply.
4. Give more.
5. Expect less.

No one can go back and make a brand new start. Anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.

God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way.

Disappointments are like road bumps, they slow you down a bit but you enjoy the smooth road afterwards.

Don't stay on the bumps too long. Move on!

When you feel down because you didn't get what you want, just sit tight and be happy, because God has thought of something better to give you. 

When something happens to you, good or bad, consider what it means.  There's a purpose to life's events, to teach you how to laugh more or not to cry too hard.

You can't make someone love you, all you can do is be someone who can be loved, the rest is up to the person to realize your worth.

It's better to lose your pride to the one you love, than to lose the one you love because of pride.

We spend too much time looking for the right person to love or finding fault with those we already love, when instead we should be perfecting the love we give.

Never abandon an old friend. You will never find one who can take his place. Friendship is like wine, it gets better as it grows older.

May today there be peace within you. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. "I believe that friends are quiet angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly."

-- Author Unknown

10 Rules for A Blessed Day

1. TODAY I WILL NOT STRIKE BACK . . .
If someone is rude, if someone is impatient, if someone is unkind, I will not respond in a like manner.

2. TODAY I WILL ASK GOD TO BLESS MY 'ENEMY'
If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask God to bless that individual. I understand "enemy" could be a family member, neighbor, co-worker or stranger.

3. TODAY I WILL BE CAREFUL ABOUT WHAT I SAY . . .
I will carefully choose and guard my words being certain that I do not spread gossip.

4. TODAY I WILL GO THE EXTRA MILE . . .
I will find ways to help share the burden of another person.

5. TODAY I WILL FORGIVE . . .
I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way.

6. TODAY I WILL DO SOMETHING KIND FOR SOMEONE, (BUT I WILL DO IT IN SECRET . . . )
I will reach out anonymously and bless the life of another.

7. TODAY I WILL TREAT OTHERS THE WAY I WISH TO BE TREATED . . .
I will practice the golden rule. "Do Unto others as I would have them do unto me"- with EVERYONE I encounter.

8. TODAY I WILL RAISE THE SPIRITS OF SOMEONE

WHO IS DISCOURAGED . . .
My smile, my words, my expression of support, can make the difference to someone who is wrestling with life.

9. TODAY I WILL NURTURE MY BODY . . .
I will eat less . . . I will eat only healthy foods. I will thank God for my body.

10. TODAY I WILL GROW SPIRITUALLY . . .
I will spend a little more time in prayer today. I will begin reading something spiritual or inspirational; I will find a quiet place (at some point during this day) and listen to God's voice.

Luke 10:27

He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all
your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love
your neighbor as yourself.'"

Luke 10:27

We learn three principles about loving our neighbor:

(1) lack of love is often easy to justify, even though it is never right;

(2) our neighbor is anyone of any race, creed, or social background who is in need; and

(3) love means acting to meet the person's needs.

Wherever you live, there are needy people close by. There is no good reason for refusing to help.

Remember, today is a gift from God so treat it preciously

-- Author Unknown