Saturday, December 31, 2011 New Year's Eve

2011 is coming to an end. I am titling 2012 as the "Year of God's Promises" so I pray that it is filled with joy and peace, triumph and victory. I have learned a lot through my journey and I can see how trying to please man also known as being a "people pleaser", that it took my focus off trying to please God. I compromised my faith without even knowing it so my vow was to keep Him center of my life and in all things, acknowledge and consult Him. I must say it is a powerful thing to do and I have marveled at His work. He methodically began to right my wrongs, decisions I made without asking first, and it has been fascinating. In some areas it was instantaneous and in others, slower than honey dripping from a spoon. But waiting is part of our walk and I have learned to get used to it for when one chapter closes, another one opens and so we always will be waiting upon Him. Once we understand that we will never reach completeness because He wants us forever dependent on Him, we can grasp and understand how deep His love is for us. This is a lifelong relationship and journey with our Father. So for the times we reach our patience level or worry about our future, STOP and recite...."For You have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling that I may walk before God in the light of life".

Psalm 1:6

Friday, December 30, 2011

Dear Lord,

I just want to come to you today to say thank you for loving me and setting me free. Thank you for giving your life up for me. Thank you giving people that believe in you and trust in your Son life in abundance. I trust you today. I place my life into your hands and I ask that you lead me each and every day with your voice. I lift up my family and my husband and may your face shine upon them this upcoming year and may you continue to bestow them with your favor and blessings in 2012. I lift up my enemies to you and I ask that You reveal yourself to them by opening up their eyes and their ears, softening their hearts, and drawing your Son near to them. I am believing in your promises for our lives and I know that my obedience has pleased you and I ask that you protect me from what is not of you and help me stay in your will. I pray for good health, peace, prosperity and harmony in the life of my loved ones and myself. I am believing that 2012 will be a spiritual awakening and healing in my physical being, emotional being and mental being. I ask for life in abundance and that I may be used for your purpose and Honor. I love you and I worship you and I give this day to you.

It is in Jesus' Name I Pray. Amen.

Philippians 4: 4-7

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Thanking the Lord is so important for our relationship with Him. To be able to reflect back on all His work and moving in our lives this past year can be overwhelming and I sometimes tear up because I am overcome with gratitude. I see how much He is moving in the lives of those I love and how the power of His hand is at work. I am forever grateful and in awe of Him. I truly am blessed by the promise that He is in control of my life and to know that I do not need to be anxious for anything. I can get carried away looking at my circumstances and some uncertainties in my life and I worry. That is why my home is "armed" with scriptures and plaques of His very promises. Yesterday I felt alittle nervous and in my kitchen is a beautiful hand carved wooden block that reads Be still and know that I am God and it immediately soothed my soul. I have God is in Control in several areas of my home and they always meet my eye at the very moment I need to know He is. He speaks to me through His words in my home and it calms me. I feel He is near me and it creates a sense of wellness and calmness. I strongly encourage you to visit a local Christian bookstore or web store and purchase spiritual reinforcements and arm your house like I do. And know that He loves us and promises us joy and peace even in the scary times. Today I choose to concentrate on His love, His favor and His glory. I want to thank Him and praise Him for all that He is. He is my Father and my Best Friend and I want for nothing more. So join me today in thanking Him for all He has done and all He is going to do.

Deuteronomy 31:6

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

We must be careful not to establish a "substitute God". Food, drink, career, children, technology, etc. When we turn to people or things that take our focus off of our personal relationship with Jesus Christ, it becomes a substitute. Be mindful and aware. Ask the Lord every morning to guide you every day and ask that He lead you by His spirit in everything you do. This will seal you up but it is still not enough. He must be first and center of our being. This cannot waver, nor can it be altered. We need to line up our thinking with God and His word. It is through the power of the Holy Spirit working through the Word of God that will bring victory in to our lives.

Romans 12:2

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Do not let anyone steal your joy. Do not allow anyone to make you feel uncomfortable or guilty for your blessings. There is no condemnation in Christ and that means when you feel guilt for something or someone, it is not of God. I had to end a very important friendship years ago because I felt as though I could not share my joys with her. She would appear jealous and uncomfortable and was void of any emotion and I was always a loyal friend to her but when her life was not going well, she did not want mine too nor did she want to hear about any joys in my life. I had to do something very painful and break up with her. I refuse to have anyone in my life that will not allow me to express myself, share my blessings and want good things for me. There is enough evil in the world and enough spiritual warfare going on that I have the desire to be surrounded by solid and loyal people. It is so nice to be able to have other believers in your circle because it becomes such a deeper level of trust and I love to pray for others and others to pray for me. Jesus was very alone in His life and counted very few men in his most inner circle and I feel like that. My husband and I guard ourselves and that can even mean from family. We choose to surround ourselves with others that love us and are happy for us. All we live to do is glorify God and I made a personal vow that I would live my life exemplifying God and that means sharing all He has done for us. When someone takes it on a secular level as bragging or they mock me, then I know the presence of the Lord is not amongst us and I guard myself spiritually. We must have spiritual awakening and a discerning heart that allows our faith to take action. Do not stand by and allow people into your life that are speaking negative, offering non biblical advice and not sharing in your triumphs and peaks of joy. I pray that the Lord give you all today the eyes to see, the ears to hear and the heart to accept His truths in all aspects of your life today. I pray your life be filled with His glory and honor and that your blessings be in abundance. Have a blessed day in Him.

1 Corinthians 16:13

Monday, December 26, 2011

Love the Lord with all your heart. Trust the Lord with all your heart. Holidays are not always the best of days for some families and it cannot be said that everyone has a blessed and joyful time. Families that are divided, filled with discord and strife. Do you feel you are outcast because of your faith and beliefs? We must hold our families up to the Lord and ask that He heal, restore, renew them for we cannot do it alone. He has already prepared a way for you on this unknown journey you are taking. He knows you feel alone, scared and even abandoned by your own family members. But we serve the Lord first and foremost and when family does not understand your relationship with the Lord, we are to give it to God. Serve the Light, serve the Lord and leave the rest to Him.

Matthew 19:29

Sunday, December 25, 2011

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Price of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas to you all and let us all chant together Happy Birthday Jesus!

Saturday, December 24, 2011 Christmas Eve

The birth of Jesus is a beautiful story of faith and trust. Joseph exemplified it when Mary was with child and they were not married yet. Joseph was a righteous man and wanted to protect Mary from the town scrutiny for her condition was scandalous. But the angel of the Lord told him the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit and the baby would be born a son and they were to call him Jesus and he would save people from their sins. Joseph listened to the commandment of the Lord and took Mary as his wife and indeed named Him Jesus. So as we celebrate this precious life that was given to us, I pray we all know the true meaning of Christmas and what a gift this baby's birth truly was. Happy Birthday Jesus!

Matthew 1: 18-25

Friday, December 23, 2011

My prayer today is for all the people who are searching for answers and feel lost and alone. Those that are trying to do it on their own and instead of choosing the narrow path of life, they are choosing the broad path of destruction. The way to life is Jesus. He will renew your mind and spirit and restore your thoughts. He will heal you, make you whole. Our bad choices eventually catch up to us and it leads to sad, negative and often bitter lives. Our sin separates us from the life God desires us to have. It is our own self that is standing in the way. If you were in a burning building and the only way to save your life was through a doorway and someone was standing in your way, you would grab that person with all your might and make him move out of your way so your life could be saved. Well it is no different now. If you do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ or if you do know Him but have since chosen a path away from His truths, than grab a hold of yourself and move yourself out of your own way. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you, right your wrongs but more importantly, allow Him to love you. That is all He wants and it is all you need. So if you are wondering what life is all about, how you got to where you are, if you are questioning your future...let go and let God. What a wonderful time to do it. Be blessed today and everyday in Him.

Romans 10:9

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Do not get caught up in the "paralysis of analysis", but instead keep up your daily routine while your spiritual eyes and ears are alert to God's promises. I shared this with my friend this morning that God does not want us all distracted trying to figure it all out. Waiting on God is not always easy but we must go about our daily lives knowing that God is orchestrating all for our good. His timing is perfect and I am claiming that for my own life right now. My faith involves me being constantly dependent on God therefore He has me right where He wants me. I battle with my own secular thoughts and natural desires to want to "plan and prepare." It is a daily spiritual choice to trust God and take each day in Him as one day at a time. I do not depend on my own feelings of peace rather I strive to be principle centered which is my circumstances do NOT dictate my joy, for peace comes from the Lord. I choose to believe in what God says about me in His word. If you are struggling like I am today, just trust in Him with me and know, know, KNOW that He has us in the palm of His hand and choose to look upon Him and honor Him this holy weekend. Do not be distracted by the world and its ways. I pray that you have a blessed and favored holiday season in all that you do.

Philippians 1: 27-30

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

What do you believe? Who do you believe in? Did you know the only way to eternal life in Heaven is through God's Son Jesus Christ? Has anyone ever shared the story of Jesus with you? The gospel itself? This time of year brings out a lot of emotion, compassion and empathy for the less fortunate and people feel led to help. I think it is wonderful to cook a meal for someone, feed the homeless, write an offering check for a poor family, but what good is any of it without building the foundation with them so that the Lord can restore their lives in every way? I pose the question do you know Jesus because I would be making the same assumption right now if all I spoke of was lending a hand to another if you did not know the life of The Savior. It is a personal relationship with the Only One that gave up His life so that we could have ours. There are so many "religions" out there that are simply man's interpretation and exaggeration of the Truth. There are no other spiritual leaders that sacrificed their life for you that is because Jesus is not a spiritual leader....He is 100% God and 100% Man. He died on the cross and paid for our sin debt. He rose from the dead and offers us eternal life. He goes and prepares a place for us and is coming back to take us to His Kingdom of Glory, which is Heaven. To receive this free gift of eternal life, you must accept Jesus as your Savior and make Him Lord of your life and commit to His ways. It is through faith and repentance that establishes the right relationship that God longs to have with all of us through His Son Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit. I pray that you make the decision for Jesus today and please remember that it does not cost anything to believe, but it costs everything not to.

John 14:6

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

I watch and I hear about the fascination over the football player Tim Tebow and I wonder why there is such an uproar over him getting on one knee? Banning children in school from doing it. Making fun of Jesus on late night satire television. In today's world where you have to be mindful of everyone else's race, gender, age, or sexual preference, is it allowed for Christianity to be prejudiced against? Here is a young man giving glory and honor to His Lord God Almighty and pop culture has to label it "tebowing" like it is a fad. Idolatry has taken over this country and yet Jesus made it crystal clear when he said, "You shall have no other gods before Me." Exodus 20:3 I pray for this country as we grow closer and closer to the return of Jesus. I pray for the children who have yet to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. I shutter at the thought that praising God now has been renamed after a football player and it is causing controversy. It is in these sad precious times that I ask for the Lord to touch this very nation with His kind and gentle Spirit and I ask Him to forgive those that do not know what they are saying. May He reign in our hearts and minds and I personally ask the Lord to grant this special young man with His loving favor and honor for He is exemplifying the One and giving glory to His life in bold and mighty way.

Monday, December 19, 2011

Worship the Creator. Do not allow yourself to love the gift more than the Giver. All blessings bestowed upon us are from our Holy Father. This time of year many get caught up in the gift giving and receiving and it is a wonderful tradition when kept in perspective. The Lord loves His children, especially when we bless one another. Nothing pleases Him more than to see people charitable and giving to others. I am the youngest of five and I love Christmas, always have. I love the decorating, shopping, entertaining, cooking...all of it. But I honestly must say my favorite part is to get someone everything they asked for. To bless them. It is the greatest joy to me. Yes, I love a gift too but I truly am blessed beyond measure and want for nothing. I am blessed with favor and honor, which can never be bought. The Lord has allowed me time off from work so that I can rest in Him and enjoy my home. He has delivered my husband and renewed His life and heart and I have watched a changed life now live only to honor and serve God. He continues to work in my life changing me into the person He created me to be, for His purpose, not man. Therefore I do have a deeper gratitude spiritually than I have ever before. I understand that Christmas is much more than sparkly bows, tinseled trees and mistletoe. It is to celebrate the birth of Jesus and all that He has given us. I pray that everyone reading this knows the true meaning of Christmas and keeps the focus on the One who it is all for. And enjoy all the tidings and joy He has given. Have a wonderful Spirit filled holiday season.

Psalm 84:11

Sunday, December 18, 2011

The Lord heals us, blesses us, restores us and seals us up....our job is to respond! Allow your life to be led by the Spirit. I was hearing a sermon speak on how society tries to fill their voids with alcohol, drugs, pills, food, people, lust. Yet if you are a believer, we are empowered by the presence of the Holy Ghost and if we allow ourselves to be led by Him, then we will see there is no need for any substitute. Our inner most being will be filled with joy, peace and assurance and not led by anxiety, fear or circumstance. My prayer today is for deliverance over any addiction, habit, or thinking that distracts me from the true Healer and Restorer. May I instead be One with Him and His Light and Truth.

Romans 8:14

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Do you know someone who has back slidden in their faith? I do and it is very hard for me to watch. I saw the abandonment of their faith slowly begin because of what they viewed as unanswered prayers and a lack of true growth. No one explained to them that our Christian faith starts as a seed that must be watered through prayer, then it grows through knowledge and then it becomes fruitful through faithful pruning. Our spiritual life is a changing and growing relationship with God. It is no different than any friendship or relationship you have with a person now. It must be nourished, catered to and managed through time, attention and care. The Lord wants to be our friend and wants to be a part of our every day life. I have seen so many come to the Lord and say the prayer of salvation and they think that is it. They think they have done their part in accepting the Lord as their Savior and now it is easy street. Their naive mindset that the Lord simply answers all prayers regardless of His will, because they asked. And because of their lack of knowledge, they see the Lord's "no's" as denials, instead of a possible delay. This behavior is childlike because their faith never grew. He is no longer the "fun genie" that just gave them whatever it is they desired. He was not the bank machine they thought he would be. In order to grow in spirit and in maturity, we must keep Him first in our lives and never compromise our faith for anyone or anything. We must understand that Christianity is to be maintained through daily communication with Him, seeking His voice and obeying His Word. Loving others and giving of yourself for the sake of Christ. I don't think everyone knows nor understands that when they confess the Lord as their Savior, that it means a mind changing, spirit changing, action changing life. That a new life is born in Him as we die to our self. Please be mindful of new believers and encourage them to get into a solid scriptual based church. Hold them accountable when they begin to stray. I have not done enough for this person and I know I need to. The Lord takes us to conversations that will be uncomfortable for us and we must trust in Him to be the intercessor on our behalf. Therefore I pray today that He gives me the boldness to do this and if you are in my same position, I ask that he grant you the same. In Jesus name.

Romans 10: 9-11

Friday, December 16, 2011

The greatest thing we can do for ourselves is be passionate about life. Bear fruitful testimony for our brothers and sisters so that they can come to know the Lord our God. Encourage one another with a kind word rather than a critical sneer. Pray often. Spend time worshiping the Lord, praising Him and resting in Him. Stay in the Word learning about Him. This is life and how He wants us to live it. I truly believe that if we all chose this path, whatever we faced, it would be with spiritual matureness and awareness. Our blessed assurance would be in abundance and anxiousness would have no place. Learn to be bold in your Faith and secure in your walk. Live for God, put Him in the center and everything will come together.

1 Peter: Chapter 4

Thursday, December 15, 2011

This time of year brings with it a lot of hustle and bustle to many. I see the houses decorated, lit porches, packed stores and parties but are they celebrating the birth of Jesus or just celebrating to celebrate? Do they know the true meaning of Christmas? The same people who reject the gospel will buy presents and bake cookies and participate in the office Pollyanna yet shun your sharing of the Word. A small local town where I live is being crucified because they have a banner up that reads, "Keep CHRIST in CHRISTmas" and the freedom from religion foundation argues that it promotes the Christian Faith and is demanding it be removed. This saddens my heart that a man in a red suit who flies across the sky to deliver presents to the entire world is believable yet the One Solitary Man who came to deliver the greatest gift of all and give us all life is denied. I can only pray that we believers unite together and pray that the lost be found and that the seeds of salvation you plant be watered and nourished in His time. It is in His name I pray, Amen.

Matthew 1: 20-21

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

God desires to pour out His Mercy on those that confess and then give those strength to live a changed life. To be successful in God's eyes is to be strong and courageous and have a Faith that acts in boldness. To obey in His two love commands which are to love God and love others. To actively seek a relationship with Him. To pray and read His word daily and to know that God's opinion of us is all that matters. We can spend a lifetime of accumulating human wisdom and yet never learn how to have a personal relationship with our Lord. We must come to the crucified and risen Christ in order to receive eternal life and enjoy a intimacy with our Savior. How we respond to God's grace is the testimony of our lives. Always remembr greatness is measured by your Faith in God.

Acts 15:11

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

The Lord will test you but He will never tempt you. The enemy is the one that will use temptation to make you sin and cause you to stumble. We really need to pray for discernment to know the difference. I personally believe people give the enemy way too much credit and "stage time" when in reality not every bump in your road is caused by him. And I believe other times we are too nonchalant to the power of the principalities. We create our own issues at times and other times the Lord is allowing events to take place to test our strength, faith and heart. It is up to us to learn more and study the Word in order to decipher. I was sharing with someone recently that I believe we all need to study about spiritual warfare and how to pray when we feel the enemy is pressing down on our spirits. We have power over the fallen angel therefore if you tell it to flee in the name of Jesus, it must. Satan is dirt on the bottom of your shoes and you need to tell him so. Some people think he has powers over us and he has none for we are covered with the blood of the Lamb and he knows it and it is up to you to know it. Arm yourself with prayer and speak it out loud often. Do not speak fears and negative things out loud for it will be used as his tools later. He usually tempts you at your weakest moments....when we are tired and when we are hungry. Did you know that? He will use whatever crumb you leave for him against you later. If you have anger issues, he is going to tempt you through your own anger. If you suffer from lust, then expect it to be through that angle. It is not hard to figure out and the Lord will never use the devil's leftovers in your life so be wise and spiritually aware at all times. I say this to share what I have learned, not to scare. But the more we know and the stronger we get and the more temptations we conquer, the less he will try. Just stay strong in your faith and in your walk and let no weapon ever formed against you to prosper. I pray that the Holy Spirit place a hedge of protection around you today, your family and your home and that the armor of God intended for your good be worn from head to toe today. I ask that the Lord keep you safe in His care at this very moment and whatever it is you are facing, may you lean on the blessed Father to help you through. It is in Jesus name I pray. Amen.

James 1: 13-15

Monday, December 12, 2011

Tell someone today what a blessing they are to you! Open up your heart and allow someone in. Do not withhold an encouraging word to another that is hurting today. Display the light of our Savior in your actions today. This time of year brings out a lot of emotions in people. Some become very melancholy, blue, more seriously some become very depressed at the holidays. We must be extremely sensitive to others. Allow our actions to be led by the Spirit and when we do that, I believe we will be more apt to discern another person's pain. We must remember not all of us have homes, relationships, children, friends, family or even a place to go at Christmas time. I believe because we know the truth of this holiday season, that the best gift we can give another is the prayer of salvation and the story of Grace. Grace which is unmerited favor. SO many people don't know they can receive the wondrous gift of Grace and that it is free to those that love and receive the Lord. So I challenge you all this Christmas season to share the gospel with a friend, a co-worker, a family member...the Lord will lead you directly to the very person so simply pray and ask Him to arrange that divine appointment for you and He will. Jesus is the reason for more than just a season, He is the reason for Life. Go share the good news today!

Ephesians 2: 1-10

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Forgive one another no matter what the cost. As I learned in church this morning, it is better to ask someone for forgiveness and have it not be reciprocated than hold on to it in your own heart. The Lord forgave us when He died on the cross and continues to forgive us and wipe the slate clean every time we ask. This is the foundation of our relationship with Christ therefore forgiving others is not an option. I cringe when I hear people say, "I will never forgive you"...we have no choice but to forgive. Sometimes forgiving is part of the healing process and it frees people to move on. It does not always mean relationships will withstand the matter that caused the pain in the first place. I have had to let people go in my life that were very important to me but I learned that I had to also let go of the past and forgive all the pain and hurt that was once caused. I have also had to swallow my own pride and ask for forgiveness even when it was hard for me. I am a grown woman and yet I still would regress to a young little girl when someone would not accept my apology for I knew that they had to. I heard people say, " I will forget but will never forgive you." Do yourself a mighty favor in your life and let your anger, pain, hurt, bitterness, strife, discord, distrust....let it all go! Ask the Lord to help you move forward and walk the path of righteous and He will. Allow the Holy Spirit to dwell within you and guide your heart and mouth and mind to these things that bind you. Refresh your spirit and renew your mind and move on. Do not allow anything to come between your Lord and your relationship with Him. Staying in His will should be what we all strive for and long for. I agree with my Pastor, if we all practiced this art of harmony, we would live in a kinder world. Do right and give the consequences to God.

Colossians 3:13

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Have you ever wondered why the Lord instructs us to pray for our enemies? Why it is so important to guard our minds against jealous, hate or envy? It is all to protect us! I always use the slang term "spiritual boomerang" to describe the ill effect it has on a person that "wishes" or "hopes" ill will on another human being. A worldly way to describe these people are "haters". Those that do not wish good things for others. I have been on the receiving end of those daggers both in my personal and professional life. The competition in the workplace was palpable and resentfulness and jealousy ran rapid there. But somehow you expected it but when it occurred with those I trusted and counted as part of my inner circle, that hurt. I always try to correct people when they say something negative about another or wish something negative, not because I am so wonderful and perfect, but to protect that person against bad seeds. The Lord is extremely protective over His own and when someone thinks bad thoughts or hopes for bad things to happen to you, they will end up happening to them. Don't ever envy some one's marriage or relationship. Don't ever be jealous of another's financial success or accomplishments. Don't "hope" to yourself that someone doesn't get married or succeed in their promotion or performance because the opposite will happen. The Lord will bless that person in abundance with the very thing you are hoping against and those bad seeds will be dropped back on you. I warn you as a Christian sister to guard your heart and mind! Align them with the Lord and get on your knees before Him and release yourself of any bad thoughts you have. The bible says never to gloat over someone else's misfortune. I know it is hard to pray for your enemies. That is why God commanded us to. I know it is difficult sometimes to ask the Lord to bless the very person that is causing you pain or harm. That is why the Lord tells us to. Therefore we must listen to Him and obey. Let no weapon formed against you prosper and only allow good prayers to go out for that is what you will reap. So I encourage you all to sow good solid Godly seeds and may your harvest be plenty in return. Have a blessed Saturday in Him.

1 John 2: 3-11

Friday, December 9, 2011

The Lord is my shepherd and I shall not want. People get so caught up this time of year with buying and receiving presents and it saddens me. I love to give even more than receive but I see so many people with lists down to their knees of things they want. People visiting Santa Claus and talking reindeers and Christmas "wishes". Saying Happy Holidays as to not offend. Huh? I was so happy last night when my UPS man said cheerfully as could be, "Merry Christmas" and I did the same. CHRIST is CHRISTmas! Let the lights at Christmas remind us who is the true Light. And my prayer is that we celebrate Jesus all year round and not just on December 25Th. That would be my Christmas present!

Psalm 23

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Count it all joy. Everyday, in everything. The enemy wants to steal our joy and he will go to any lengths to do just that. Circumstances that occur are just his way of getting us to be sad, distracted, negative, discouraged and angry. But you have overcome him and his evil ways so declare your power and victory in Christ Jesus. Let no one or nothing steal your joy. Joy brings that innermost peace that cannot be shaken. I am joyful and at peace with a lot or a little, in good times and in bad and I allow nothing to speak in to my life nor do I allow any entity into my life. So be joyful today in Christ no matter what you are facing. No matter what the bankbook says. No matter what the circumstances are. No matter what your marital status is. No matter what! Look to Him for strength, renewal, restoration and rejuvenation and He shall give it in abundance. Be blessed and stay warm!

James 1:12

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Over 6000 views have been noted on this daily blog. The message about Jesus is being read all over the world. More people from Russia have read this daily bread in a month than the previous 14 months combined. God is amazing and His truth is universal. His love is boundless and His ways are perfect. I thank you all for coming each and every day as we learn together and share together the power of our Lord God Almighty. I pray with you in agreement that He will heal our nations and unite us in His peace and glory. And in this holiday season may more come to know Him as we spotlight our Savior, who is our Light every day not just on December 25th.

Luke 2: 1-20

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

God's no's are not punishment but protection. It is hard to know that when you are amidst something but we learn as we grow more mature in Him that we must trust His will for our lives more than we trust ourselves. His desires for us must become ours. That is the path to peace and joy and living in abundance. When we learn to accept His answers and become submissive to His final word, then we are strengthening our faith for faith is believing in the unknown. Just always keep your eyes on Him and meditate on His promises and know that He has plans to prosper us and not to harm us; to give us hope and a future. Amen to that!

Jeremiah 29:11

Monday, December 5, 2011

God's delays are not God's denials. His timing is perfect. We hear this often but do we truly understand how profound that statement is? I have heard stories of people waiting ten years plus for the Lord to move in an area in their lives. Imagine their faith? How strong they must be? This is what He desires for all of us...to have faith so strong that we trust Him no matter what . He wants us to speak honestly about our feelings and thoughts of frustrations. If we express our feelings to God we can deal with the season of waiting. And in turn this will strengthen our Faith. Always go to God in prayer so that you will gain eternal perspective through His truth in order to deal with waiting on Him constructively. I pray for those that are in their season of waiting and I ask that this message is received so that your Faith can go grow stronger in Him as you wait upon the Lord.

Isaiah 40:31

Sunday, December 4, 2011

We must be acutely aware to not let life get in the way of our time with Christ. I am talking prayer time, church time, worship time and serving time. We must never compromise our faith no matter what the reason. It is not worth the cost. I was speaking with someone recently that said she has missed church a few weeks in a row and I gently told her just to be careful because my "couple missed weeks" turned in to 8 years. It happens without you even realizing you are doing it. We place so many things before ourselves that it becomes second nature but it is never an excuse to do it with our God. So keep an eye out on yourself and remember that self examination is good. It is like taking inventory on your life. Just be on guard and be alert. And I pray for anyone that is feeling out of sorts or off track...to simply go to Him and give it to Him and He will light your path back, beautifully and with it ease. No condemnation in Christ, always remember that! And always know He loves you more than you will ever know. Happy Sunday!

Matthew 6:33

Saturday, December 3, 2011

With the knowledge of God's truth comes great responsibility. When we learn more about the Lord and His ways and truths, we become more accountable. People are no longer able to blame ignorance or lack of information. I minister to people and try to show them that the more God reveals to them through His words, the more He will hold them accountable. He will test us with what we have learned and we must always be honest and upfront with Him. If I hear something through a preacher on the television, or my Pastor at church or through the bible or someone else, the Lord is speaking to me and wants me hear Him. He views us as children but we cannot act like children. Our Christian walk cannot be fueled by fear or naiveness. Newer Christians may not know as much as you do but when you teach them or speak with them, they become more and more responsible. And we as the vessels will be blessed for honoring Him and obeying Him when we do speak those uncomfortable words to someone that may not want to hear or learn. I feel deeply driven in my spirit sometimes to tell someone something and I say it with such passion and my sister will ask me why do I care so much or bother and I tell her I cannot help but share what I know when I am called upon to. Every conversation is a divine appointment and an opportunity for us to share something we know about God's principles. I used to talk about tithing to the salespeople that I used to work with. They were highly successful and making upwards of $2500 a week and more and I would urge them to tithe 10% and give back to the Kingdom for it was God's portion and it was showing God honor and respect for their blessings. I never was scared of being mocked nor did I fear ridicule. If anything, the Holy Spirit allowed them to receive His message with grace and humbleness. I will never know who listened and obeyed His word but I know that they can no longer live nor say they never knew. And I know God will be pleased with me for speaking His truths. Stop hiding and start living for God. Stop fearing you are overstepping your boundaries or becoming involved where you have no place. If you love God and love others as yourself, then share with them. You may be the only person that ever tells someone the way to heaven is through God's Son Jesus Christ. You may the only one that ever shares with them the reason for tithing or how the Lord provided for 5000 people with a few loaves and fishes. Stop assuming and start sharing you knowledge! And do it today for we also will be accountable to the Lord someday. Be blessed!

Friday, December 2, 2011

We should only seek the approval of Jesus Christ, not man. I have met so many people that I would call "people pleasers" from trying to woo their boss or employees to the latest guy they are dating. Moms who are consumed with children at the expense of their faith. We get so caught up in the blessings and gifts we have received that we lose sight of the Giver. I speak from personal experience that when you begin to lose focus through all of life's distractions, you run the risk of compromising your faith. Too often people are committing idolatry and they don't even know it. I recently spoke with someone whose grown teenager was praying to God for an Ipad and they happened to receive a check in the mail that covered the cost plus some. The teen bought the Ipad and then gave the leftover money to his mom and said, "tithe this". I was not impressed and expressed so. I verbalized my concern that the child gave God the leftover money, not the first 10% as commanded and even prayed to God for this "gift". I was saddened by the whole thing and could not even feel joy for this child mocked the Lord's existence a week earlier and now was praying for this expensive item. The Lord wants to be first in our life, not second, third, fourth, fifth. He certainly will not continue to bless anyone that continues to turn to Him only when they wants "things". I believe the Lord shines mercy and will come down to our level in order to get our attention but He won't continue to give if the gifts outshine the Giver. Just keep an eye on yourself and your loved ones and "call them" out on their actions if you worry they are straying or losing focus. Just keep God first this holiday season. He is the One that blesses us all, not Santa, and certainly nor luck or karma. Just remember to keep CHRIST in your life everyday, not just at CHRISTMAS. Amen?!

Isaiah 42:8

Exodus 20:3

Thursday, December 1, 2011

I Praise God for always being so faithful and for being so good to me. He never stops blessing me with His love and I am forever grateful. I find in this life that is it rare to find someone that you can truly trust and count on and it can be very disheartening. I honestly do not have many people in my inner circle. And those that are, share my biblical views and faith. It is important that we watch who we confide in and who we ask to pray for us. I do not allow people to speak in to my life nor do I allow their sins to come into my life. Therefore, I am very guarded with my home, my heart and my mind. I am mindful of who I keep my company with. The Lord wants us to exemplify Him and glorify Him in all that we do and that can lead to a lonely life. But I choose to live for God and I love Him more than my old lifestyle and my old relationships/friendships. I lean on Him and I am totally dependent on Him for He is my One and True Friend that will never leave me, never forsake, nor ever betray me. And for those of you who feel alone and this time of year definitely brings out those otherwise suppressed thoughts, lean on God. Be dependent on God and I promise you, His friendship and His love with fulfill your every desire and your every need. Memorize His promises to you and claim them for your own. And most of all, live for God and the rest will all come to pass. Have a blessed Thursday!

John 15:5

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

6 years ago today I said goodbye to my Dad. He was 86 years old and lived a full life as husband and father of 5. He provided for us and afforded us the blessing of having a stay at home mom who was there for me everyday after school. I have nothing but soothing and happy memories and I know I am very blessed to be able to say that. My childhood was healthy and balanced and it was satisfying, especially being the baby of 5. I had 2 older sisters and brothers so I did not lack attention. We were raised in the Catholic church and attended prayer meetings with my mom regularly. We grew up watching my mom pray with the rosaries as she recited her novena books. She was and still is a faithful woman of God and she never wavered. She believed in Jesus and lived her life with Him in the center. I recently had to take my mom, who is now 85, to a doctor to perform tests and one of her tests was to write something down and she wrote, "I love Jesus". I mean come on? Gotta love her. And she raised us the best way she could with principles, morals and manners. We as adults all made our own decision to leave the Catholic church and attend a bible teaching grounded church. But we always remained respectful of my mom, who remains to this day a practicing Catholic. But I prayed the prayer of salvation with her so I know she will be with us all in heaven someday so I am thankful. I am grateful in knowing my Dad is dwelling in the Most High because He believed in Jesus and asked Him in to His heart in his 70's. Better late than never. I pray for those that have unsaved loved ones. I pray with you in agreement that they come to know the Lord and His truths and confess Him as their Lord and Savior. There is no greater thing to know than your family and loved ones are saved and sealed up. It is never too late so don't ever give up no matter how many years you have praying or no matter how old someone is. We must pray with fervor for the lost. For they do not know the eternal life of damnation and darkness and despair that lies ahead. Hell is real and it is their future if we do not pray for them NOW. Salvation is the number one thing we must have on our hearts, souls and minds. Believe me, we are not guaranteed tomorrow so please be earnest in your prayers and may the light of the Lord shine upon you. Be blessed!

John 3:16

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

"Be strong and of good courage, and do it". Words of instruction taken right out of the bible. I have always believed in my Lord and His endless power. His bountifulness and faithfulness. I don't use the word dream, I use the word pray....for I have always prayed for enlarged territory, to be used by God and to live in abundance. And when you pray boldly like that, expect God to respond. When I was first saved, there was no fanfare or rock bottom story to claim. I simply knew the Lord was real and I believed in Him and His sacrifice for my life therefore I gave my life to Him. My life as a believer was thriving until I began to stray slowly in my mind, then in my actions. It was a downward spiral of sin beyond comprehension. How could a nice girl like me end up in a place of shame that I was in? I was not listening to God therefore I certainly was not living in His will and He gave me enough rope to hang myself. It was what I needed to experience in order to truly understand the depth of His love for me and my love for Him. I was too naive and too uneducated to overcome the enemy's attacks on my life. I am so grateful the Lord kept His eye on me and when I looked upon Him to help me, He heard my cries. I remember the day like it was yesterday and I was in the 2ND row in church standing next to my youngest niece. I asked the Lord to forgive me of my sins and transgressions and to heal me of all my wrongs and it was then my body began to tremble, convulse, shake out of control as if something was running through my body from the top of my head to the soles of my feet. My niece had both arms around my waist holding on to me for dear life as if I was going to be blown away. It was intense and it was cleansing and when it was over I felt like I had climbed a mountain. It was that day I rededicated my life to Him and I am sooo thankful to say that was in 15 years ago this week and He has been the center of my universe ever since. I am so grateful to the power of that scripture for He gave me the strength and the courage to do it and He forever changed my life. I pray the same for all of you today. Be blessed in Him.

1 Chronicles 28:20

Monday, November 28, 2011

Disappointment in ourselves is inevitable but discouragement is a choice. We all fall short of the Glory of God. Romans 3:23 But His word says nothing will separate us from His love. Don't ever think there is anything you have done that is not forgivable by God. He loves us so much that He gave up His life for us so that we can live eternally with His Father in Heaven. And that sacrifice of life IS our assurance that although we will fail God, He will forgive always. Confess your sins to Him and they will be washed away. It is that simple. The devil will use anything in your past or present to paralyze you where you are. He will attack your mind, your dreams, your actions if you do not guard yourself. He comes when we are tired, hungry and anxious. And then what happens is we sin, then we wallow in our guilt, then we become distracted and we begin to think we are not worthy so why bother trying to be perfect? If God is never going to be pleased then why waste our time? And there it is....our discouragement becomes stunted spiritual growth. That is where we make the choice that hurts us. And that is what the enemy wants you to do...feel you are not good enough, strong enough, worthy enough. It is a lie and it is lethal. Therefore I encourage you to look up scriptures on falling short in God's eyes, sinning and condemnation. It is part of our journey and it is inevitable to be disappointed but we must never give up on ourselves or in the power of our Almighty God for it is He that called us. Just know none of us are worthy of His love and that is why He gave us His gift of Grace. It is that free gift that explains it all. So ease up on yourself and remember the Lord is faithful and forgiving. Just go to Him and He will be there waiting. Have a blessed Monday!

Proverbs 28:13

Psalm 32: 1-6

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Make your petitions known to God. He is listening and wants you to go to Him. Prayer is so important to our relationship with the Lord for it truly is how we communicate with Him. I love to sit with my morning coffee in the dimmest of light and just talk with Him. I know He is with me. Whatever you need or are feeling, pray about it. Never take the stance that God is too busy or your request is too much for nothing is too much for God. Sometimes when we pray, it is good to simply give Him praise and thanks for all He has done. For me, I just want to be near Him and live my life for Him and I feel His presence more than ever when I am praying with Him. When I hear Christians tell me they don't pray much or touch their bible outside of church I am saddened for we need to be learning, listening and loving Him each and every day. So my prayer for all of us is that we increase our time with Him and that we make Him the center of our lives. May nothing else matter next to the love we have for Him. And may your upcoming week be blessed with an abundance of joy, peace and love.

Philippians 4: 6

Matthew 7: 7-8

Isaiah 55:6

Saturday, November 26, 2011

It is imperative that we listen to the Lord when He asks us to step out in faith. There are so many people that are paralyzed in fear, that it causes them to disobey. Fear of the unknown or fear of any radical change. But what we must realize is we need to be radical for Jesus and sometimes that means taking such leaps of faith that to the secular eye, it may make no sense. I tell the story of how the Lord told me it was time to leave my job of 20+ years to follow Him. I heard the whisper in my heart, "it is time" and right then and there on a Monday afternoon at 1:45pm, I resigned from my job that earned me upwards of $100,000 a year. No warning, no plan, just faith.....radical faith. And through my journey of the last year and a half, the Lord has provided every single thing my family and I have needed. I look at every need as a daily bread and I no longer plan out months and years ahead. We are blessed with our home, vehicle and savings and it causes many to scratch their heads as to how we did not lose our shirts. But that is because God gets the glory for His instruction to me was to obey His word and trust in Him for all of my needs and live my life for Him and not anyone else. I have honored Him and His word ever since and I made a vow no man, job, nothing will ever be worth compromising my faith for. But it is through my faith that I was able to take the steps ahead with Him. Just listen to His voice and know know know that anything He asks of you, He will give you the ability to do it. All it takes to see the miracle are the eyes of faith. Have a blessed weekend!

2 Corinthians 5:7

Friday, November 25, 2011

Keep your eyes fixed on God and not man. Have a heart for Jesus in all you do and He will protect you from anyone that tries to manipulate you or harm you. Allow Him to guide you through your days without angst or fear. I try to give my thoughts of suspicion to the Lord when I am feeling a certain way. I will often ask that He reveal to me a person's heart of intent to prevent me from judging which is not an action pleasing to God. But it is natural to be disappointed by man's actions. We will all disappoint each other in one way or another whether it be our words or our actions. It is only God our Father that will never let us down, no matter what. So give Him all the praise and exemplify Him in all of your days and protect your Faith for it is the most important relationship we have. Cherish it and honor it. As for those people that have hurt you, disappointed you, burdened you? Give them to the Lord and ask that He forgive them for what they do not know, forgive them yourself and then leave it where it needs to be....the past. For the Lord uses our future to mold our present, not our past. Amen to that!

Hebrews 12:2

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Give thanks to the Lord for all He is and all He given us. May your holiday be filled with peace, love, joy and gratefulness. I love you Lord and I worship and honor you.


1 Chronicles 29:13

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Today is the day before Thanksgiving and so much to do, right? I am stressing and I am alittle behind schedule but I must stop and breathe. How blessed are we? We have freedom in our country and we are free to declare our faith in our God Almighty. So why am I fussing and carrying on? I was blessed financially this year to be able to host Thanksgiving and I am home safe and sound cooking in my kitchen. So why am I down? I think a lot of people get "blue" during the holidays and it is up to us to recognize it and then through confessing it to the Lord, surrender it to Him and let it go. It is what I chose to do so I can feel grateful and happy. The Lord gave us life so we can enjoy Him and others in abundance. I just pray that whether you are spending your holiday home or at another's house with alot of people or just yourself, you find the love, the joy and the blessing of the Lord in it all. And I ask the Lord to grant you joy today in all that you are planning and may this day be filled with mercy, gratitude and lots and lots of grace. Amen? Amen!

Exodus 15:2

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

In all we do, we should be exemplifying God. I tell people if you are unsure if something would be pleasing to God then you can either a) ask yourself if Jesus was here on earth and was your friend, would you take Him where you are going? or b) ask yourself as you are doing something, where is God being glorified in this act? Are my actions pleasing and sharing the gospel? These visual questions really can help you. I remember when a new brother in Christ came to me and asked if it was still okay to go to a bar on a weekend night and I told him to simply picture Jesus accompanying him and sitting at the next bar stool drinking a beer. I asked him "would that be something Jesus would want to do?" The old classic WWJD? really is an excellent barometer for us, whether we have known Jesus for 20 years or 20 minutes. It can help us make certain life decisions as a child of God. Just be aware you are a living testimony and some people hold you up to a higher standard of living and will look to you for the way to live as a believer. It comes with much responsibility so if the next time you are not caring too much for what people think, stop and see that YOU may be the only light they see and it matters VERY MUCH for what you say and do. There is never a day off in the life of Christ.

Matthew 5:13-16

Monday, November 21, 2011

This is definitely the time of year for thoughts of thanks. With a holiday called Thanksgiving, it seems natural to reflect of what we are grateful for. I truly believe that no matter what our circumstances are or what we are personally facing, we can all find something in our lives that was a true blessing. I am thankful for so much God has done in my life this past year. What a transition my life has taken and I have witnessed the miraculous works of the Lord. It is awe inspiring and very difficult to even articulate but He knows how thankful and grateful I am. And I believe that is all He asks of us. To find love, joy and true peace in all that we have and all of our days. Share your story, share your faith and share the good news this week and always. Give all the glory and honor to Him and may your testimony be a wondrous witness to the lost.

Psalm 107:1

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Criticizing others does not please God. We are not to judge, look down on, or compete with another person. We are called to encourage, lift up and praise one another. Jesus certainly did not hang with the righteous when he walked this planet; instead he hung with the sinners and defended them to others. That is what we are called to do. Be the light where you are. Walk away from gossip or foul talk. Be the example. Be a living and walking testimony for God. Your attitude should display gratitude and joy, not anger and strife. Just love today. Be kind today. Do unto others as you would have done to you. And remember this...."the tongue has the power of life and death." Proverbs 18:21

Ephesians 4:29

Saturday, November 19, 2011

We must forgive those that have hurt us. And it is as vitally important that we ask the Lord to break the bondage's of unforgiving for those that are holding on to it against us. I worked in an industry where I must have met thousands of people and personalities over the years and in my position of authority, I also employed hundreds and I look back and see it came with a heavy price. But I pray that I no longer live in the past of that life. I must strive to look ever forward and put my hand on the plow and never look back. Luke 9:62 I want to live my life for Christ and glorify Him. I cannot control anyone's actions or thoughts other than my own therefore I give them to the Lord. I pray my household remain in God's will, favor and glory. I know it is hard when something comes up and it stirs emotions in us and our minds begin to wonder, but when you feel it happening, just ask the Lord to help you with it and ask that He remove you from the mental rut of it. I am grateful that I am a quick study and don't dwell but I know some have a harder time so I want to let you know that everyone has their own process and God knows our hearts so just acknowledge it, submit it to Him and let your forgiveness be known to Him and it shall be done.

"I thank you Lord for allowing us to come to you broken and wounded. I thank you for making me whole and anew and for your healing touch on my life and for those around me. May I give you this day of tender mercies and claim them for my own and may this day be nothing but a reflection of your love. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen."

Lamentations 3:23

Friday, November 18, 2011

God is good all the time. During the storm of our trials and during the joy of our triumphs. He is faithful and is always with us. I know some get discouraged and feel He has abandoned them but never ever think that. We must persevere for He is your Father and loves you. His grace and mercy are immeasurable and is all forgiving so matter what you or I ever do, He forgives and loves. I truly believe the reason why so many people question God or simply get upset with Him is because they cannot grasp how wide and deep His love for us is. The journey He took on this earth ALL for us so that we would have eternal life with all sins forgiven. His grace and love is insurmountable therefore do not forget it! If you are one of those that does doubt or fear, it is okay and very natural and God understands. I encourage you to read up on His life as a man and see all he endured for you and me. Read up on His gift of Grace for which we cannot earn and yet we receive through Christ Jesus freely. Whatever you are facing today, you are not alone. He is working behind the scenes even when things seem quiet and dim. Never give up on His love for you because He will alway be with you.....amen and amen!

James 1:12

Thursday, November 17, 2011

No matter what else we do as children of God, the most important thing of all is to make sure we are always in His will. The Grace of God will always keep us where ever His will leads us so I am never afraid. I know that God knows what is best for me and even when the path He takes me on seems long and unclear, I trust the end will be for my good. I used to make my petitions known to God and never even think to myself if what I wanted was even what He wanted for me until I read the scripture that He will place His desires for us onto our hearts. I know that whatever I ask in His name and if its according to His will, it shall be done. For my Lord is faithful and worthy to be praised. If you are struggling with thoughts of... what should I do?... where is God leading me? ... Why is God allowing this to happen to my family? Stop, be still and know that He is God. Psalm 36:10 Ask the Lord to show you His will for your situation and He will. Stay in His Word as He leads you. I pray today for those that are hurting and for those who are fearful of the unknown to know that God is in control and nothing will happen that He does not allow. I pray that as you draw near to Him, He comfort you in your time of need. He loves you and hears your cries and has you in the palm of His hand. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Just stay in His will and know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Our faith should move us to want to do good deeds. Just remember that good deeds do not earn us a place in eternity. Only confessing with our mouths that Jesus Christ is Lord and that He died on the cross for us in order to have eternal life is the way to Heaven. And we must ask Him into our hearts. That is the ONLY way to heaven. When someone is asked if they believe they will enter the gates of heaven and why, the common response is usually, "yes because I am a good person". Being a good person, helping one another and showing love are all wonderful attributes and so pleasing to the Lord but just be aware that He wants your life to be His and to reflect His love and goodness. You then must commit your life and heart to Him. A repented heart becomes a changed heart. So many believe in God and know the story of Jesus but they lack the spiritual knowledge and the spiritual truths of why He was sent here on Earth. His life was to be crucified for our sins in order for us to live eternally with His Father. He sacrificed His life for yours and for mine. If you know God sent His Son but are not sure you are saved and are not sure if your name is written in the Book of Life, won't you right where you are quietly and to yourself confess your sins to Him and thank Him for dying on the cross for you and paying your sin debt and being your Savior. Ask Him to come in to your heart and be the Lord of your life and commit your ways to Him so that you can be with Him in His Kingdom of Glory. He is the only way. I pray you receive this word today. Be blessed!

John 3:16

John 14:6

Tuesday, November 13, 2011

Guard your heart, guard your tongue. And know the Lord will bless you and protect your family. Betrayal lurks amongst us and some people are out to harm you, not help you. Years ago I adopted the line, "I will no longer break bread with the associates I work with" after it was discovered they were very disloyal people. I never realized that the Lord placed that on my heart and even though I was using secular language, it was backed up biblical in Proverbs 15:17. When I open my home up to someone, I am welcoming them in. I am opening my arms, my heart, my trust. I value the sharing of a meal as a symbolic gesture of trust. Don't miss it. Be aware of who is in your inner circle and outer circle. Be wise, be aware. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you and lead you. Be sensitive to the Spirit and to what the Lord may have you do or say. Align your thoughts, motives and actions with His today. Let no weapon that may be formed against you, prosper. Pray that the blood of the Lamb be upon you and that the power of God be in you, today and always. Then trust God in all you do; never seek revenge for vengeance in His. Seek His counsel before you act. Allow Him to speak for you. And just know that He will never leave, forsake or betray you for He is our God and His love endures forever.

Ephesians 6: 10-18

Genesis 12: 3

James 1: 1-27

Monday, November 14, 2011

God loves you no matter what. He does! He knows you are hurting and He knows you are suffering from guilt. Your sins will be forgiven if you ask Him. He does not want you to hold on to that mentality that you deserve your suffering because you are a sinner and not worthy. It is not true. If you take that stance than His death was for nothing. When Jesus died on the cross, He took all of our sins unto Himself, therefore allowing us to live eternally in Heaven with His Father in glory. He did not die so we could live on earth wallowing in our own condemnation and doom. He is called our Savior because He came to save us. Let Him! So many grew up in certain churches that preached this guilt/sin language that as adults they still believe it. I grew up in the Catholic church and I am grateful I never bought in to that rigid thinking but many have in backgrounds similar to mine and others. Take your focus off of religion, church and man and focus on your relationship with God. That is it. It is you and it is He, together. Lean on Him, pray to Him, cry to Him, make your hearts pure and request of Him. I meet people that are hurting everyday and they search for the "solutions" in self help books, therapy, other people, etc. and the answer is right in front of them.....the cross! Go to Him today, right where you are and He will come right to where you are. And enjoy the freedom of living with Him.

Romans 8:1

God could not have made it more plain and more simple. Be blessed!

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Rejoice in the Lord for the bible tells us that He is our hiding place, protecting us from trouble. He surrounds us with songs of deliverance. He will teach and instruct us in the ways we should go and I know that He watches over us. That beautiful promise is an excerpt from Psalm 37, which happens to be my favorite. I encourage all who are weary of life's circumstances and those who are just tired and down to take yourself on a warm cozy sofa and grab your cup of java and read the book of Psalms for no one feels the same after. The Lord will lift you up right where you are and meet your daily need. He does not promise a smooth road but He tells us He will never leave us alone on such path. So I know my Lord is with me... protecting me, providing for me and loving me through it all. I cannot ask for more than that. He is my Father and my Counsel and actually......He is my everything.

Psalm 37: 7-11

Saturday, November 12, 2011

The conception of most is to place God first, your family 2nd and yourself 3rd. But people forget about "others" which includes neighbors, strangers, enemies". It is a vital part of God's expectations for us. We must not exclude "others" in our walk of obedience. Sometimes it can simply be the way you carry yourself as a believer when you are in a public place. I try to hold doors, make eye contact, smile to others, instead of thanking them I like to say, "have a blessed day". Simple simple. A lot of people get so overwhelmed in their own lives that they just conclude there is no time or place for it. Everyone is always in a hurry to get in and out. But if we are too busy for small gestures then how are we when someone needs our words of encouragement or even more? Do you have the mindset, "I have my own problems to worry about"? If you do, than that is all the more reason the Lord will continue to place people of need and situations in your path for He wants you to remove the focus off of yourself and your own needs and wants. It is true! We as Christians have an obligation to our Lord to bear proper witness by our actions and words and thoughts. Have you ever just left church and then in the parking lot shortly thereafter no one lets you out in order to leave the parking lot? Someone cuts you off or keeps driving before letting you ahead of them? I watch my husband leave and hold the door for each and every single person as they exit. And I do mean every single person. Be inspired today to think more of others than of yourself. Lift them up in prayer and ask the Lord to bring people in your path today as you run errands to share the light with....it can be with a simple smile or kind word. Just be aware and be prepared! Have a fab weekend!

Ephesians 4:32

Friday, November 11, 2011

The Lord will reveal things to you if you ask Him. I must tell you it can be very heart breaking and at other times it will anger you. But I began to ask the Lord to unmask His truths to me about people and He has been for over 10 years and I describe it as a punch in the stomach and startling but once the initial emotions subside, you are left with the pure wholesome truth of the Lord. Pray for wisdom and the Lord's revelation in your life and you will grow spiritually astute. Be prepared for it is not for the faint of heart. But I rejoice in the Lord's love for me therefore I know He will honor my prayer request when needed. Have you ever been in a situation where confusion is setting in over what or who to believe? It is at these times, simply ask the Lord to reveal to you what the truth is and who is who and He will. He longs to be close to us in everything we do so let Him in.

Luke 11:9

Isaiah 11:2-3

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Jesus will provide just what you need. These times are very scary for many with jobs being unsteady, past due mortgages, and the percentage of the unemployed in this country. But I feel it is in these times that we hold the key....our trust and faith in Jesus Christ. He knows every hair on your head surely he knows what you need. He knows you are scared of the unknown, but just remember this...."As you walk through the valley of the unknown, you will find the footprints of Jesus both in front of you and beside you." When you have done all else, stand. Be still and allow Him to guide you through the uncharted waters. Do not panic for He is with you. I know how hard it is but it your spiritual exercise to stay calm and focus on the power of our Almighty God. I choose to believe that if He is going to supply the food to the birds, He is going to provide for my family and I. Continue to tithe your seeds for they will assure your future. Do everything you can do to cut back if need be. Look at your monthly budget. I changed both auto and home owner's and saved over $1000 annually. I went on budget billing in my utilities so I am not faced with high heat and cooling bill in their dominate seasons and from the very beginning God taught me how to food shop. Just budget and be a good steward and He will honor you. I stand with you all in prayer who are faced with uncertainty and I will continue to pray you through it for He can anything!

Matthew 6:26

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Ask the Lord to protect you against your enemies and He will. The spiritual warfare between the principalities is very real. You either serve the light or the dark for you cannot serve two masters. The enemy will come against you whenever you share the gospel with a non believer. He does not want you to share the truth with them about the Lord Jesus Christ. He gets furious whenever someone comes to Jesus. The bible says all the angels rejoice at the sound of each and every saved soul declaring their salvation in Jesus. Picture your worst enemy or rival who would go to any lengths to discredit you at work in order to better advance themselves. Or the person that always has to criticize you in order to lift themselves up. That is the work of the enemy for he despises us. I know it sounds scary but it is true. You need to know that the stronger you grow in your Faith, the more resistance you may experience. I urge you to seal yourself up in prayer and ask that the Lord place a hedge of protection around, your loved ones and home and He will. This world is not a place for us to dwell in comfort for the Lord uses it as His footstool. Just keep your Faith and keep going strong and do nor fear when the attacks come. Instead rejoice and praise the Lord all the more and ask that the angels in Heaven defend you here on earth and they will. The enemy is a coward that hides behind anyone or anything so be on guard at all times. And never let it disuade you from doing your work for God. Be blessed and protected today in Jesus' name.

1 Peter 5: 8-9

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Fear not in these difficult financial times for our Lord God provides for His children in the famine. He will provide our daily bread and as my husband likes to call His surprising blessings "pennies from heaven". I told my friend it never ceases to amaze me that whenever we open our home to someone and we feed them, the Lord blesses us. Of course we never do it for that reward but it happens nonetheless and it just is so amazing how faithful He is. We never hold on to our own money or things for fear of drought because we know that we love Him more than any possession or material thing. I pray for those that hoard their wealth and for those that only help "certain kinds of people with certain kinds of situations". Those Christians in my opinion are the judgemental righteous ones that displease God for all of our blessings are in the hope that we would bless others. So do not fear for your future. Do not worry about tomorrow. Just trust in the Lord, sew your seeds of faith and never give up on the blessings He can bestow. For nothing is impossible with Jesus.

Matthew 6: 31-34

Monday, November 7, 2011

God is amazing in how He works. I have been praying for a loved one for awhile and really held him up in prayer and the Lord is answering my prayers. Just to see how though is so interesting and amazing. I shared with this person that God has His hands in the current circumstance and he replied, "I know how God operates" so I am so happy he is at peace. But that is the anointing on his life and his own blessed assurance comforting him. This person knows that because he has been obedient to the word of God and has sealed up his life with prayer, obedience, church attendance, faithful tithing and helping others that His almighty God will provide. Anyone else would be panicking or distraught but the power of God offers peace and joy amidst all things. I thank you Lord for answering my prayers and taking such care of my loved one. Your love never ceases to amaze me and I am forever in awe of you. Lift up your prayers to the Father in Heaven who loves you and wants to bless you and your loved ones in all ways this day and everyday. His word is true, His love endures and never wavers and His promises are sound and His timing is perfect. I pray that my testimony helps you to remember to pray for someone today and know that God answers prayers! He will honor you as you honor Him. Praise to the One who deserves all praise! Have a blessed day in Him.

Ephesians 3: 14-21

Sunday, November 6, 2011

God is so good to us isn't He? I am saddened when His own children disobey Him or avoid Him when He asks something of them. He is so available to us and so faithful and selfless yet some use Him when it is convenient. Convenient Christians. I am appalled by them. I know someone that got so mad at God because they never met a mate and they said what good is He? Shameful. Obedience is not a choice. One of our pastors said this morning and I loved it that our delayed obedience is actually disobedience. When the Lord calls us to do something, change something or stop something, it isn't when we are ready to do so or at our convenience. It is when He says to. Why would we be rewarded for doing the right thing when it was according to our timetable and not God's? I am so grateful that I heeded His call to me last year and listened and obeyed. Who knows where I would be today or the state of my marriage and faith if I ignored God but I know how much He has blessed me for my immediate obedience. How frustrating is it for you as parents when you ask your child to do something and they say, "in a minute Mom" rather than "OK" . Aw the words, "okay". How refreshing is that? Well God is the parent and we are the child and in the very way you expect your child to obey you , we must in turn trust the Lord and obey the Lord. Not when we think the time is right but when He calls us to ... no matter what the cost. If there is anything you have put off or anything God has asked you to do and up until this very moment you haven't done it, I encourage you to do so right now where you are and ask the Lord to speak and vow to listen then obey. Amen? Amen!

Psalm 119: 57

Saturday, November 5, 2011

God will meet you wherever you are to get your attention. Someone close to me would pray to the Lord and every time the prayer would end, the Lord would say, "stop drinking" and the person would ignore Him. This went on for over a year until one day at the end of the prayer instead the Lord said, "stop drinking for 30 days, and I will grant your heart's desires". I told the person how honored they should be that the Lord God Almighty loved them that much to make such an offering. The Lord knew this person was not responding to the "all or nothing deal" nor the ultimatum, therefore he came down to the level they were currently at . That is the amazing God we serve. He is so awesome to have done that. I am happy to give the praise report that the person obeyed the Lord and the Lord honored His word and the person has not touched a drink in over 19 months! God is faithful. Another story was of a young man who was planning on doing something that was not of God and his mother happen to find out, now putting her faith in a compromising position. She cried out to the Lord in despair for help in blocking the situation from happening. He immediately laid on her heart to give the child money to shop in exchange for his promise not to do what he was planning on doing. Because he was a young adult that had very little money but had a liking for things, he agreed to the cash and made the vow to his mother that he would abort his plans. God was not rewarding the child through money or bribery but was speaking to the child on his level-he came down to the young man's level knowing that money would be the very thing that would deter his plans and it was,much to the relief of the mom. God is so wonderful to love us so much that He will use anyone or anything to draw us closer to Him. He wants what is best for our lives so that we may glorify Him always. So if you struggle with anything that you think is impossible to overcome, bring it to God and know that He can do anything, anywhere, any time. Amen!

John 14:21

Friday, November 4, 2011

Allow the Holy Spirit to help you leave your past exactly there, in the past. I see so many people crippled by their past, whether it be of guilt or shame, or pure denial of their present. A dear person of mine lives in the past...refers to it often, prestine recollection of every one's actions including their own and dwells on it. I tried to help him rely on God to remove the thoughts but he chose to live the way he was living. We must continue to make sure our thoughts are aligned with the Lord's so He can move in our lives. He uses our future to work on our present, not our past. If my Lord Jesus Christ who is the Risen Lamb of God tells me that my sins are washed away and I am forgiven, then I am claiming the miracle and believing His word. Isn't that what we as children of God are to do? Then why is it so hard for some to let go? I urge you to pray to the Lord for deliverance and He will grant it. Condemnation is such a lie of satan to make you think you are not good enough to receive God's grace for your life. He wants to keep your mindset right where it is...on the negatives of your past transgressions, sins and mistakes so you do not cross into the present which is God's light and thrive as a soldier for Him. So you are not serving God in the dark. Remove your thoughts, actions and motives from the darken past to the purity of the lighted present and live your life to the fullest as God intended for you. I will pray with you to do it today. Amen and amen!

Romans 8:1

Thursday, November 3, 2011

The Lord is faithful and His timing is so amazing. I truly felt He laid something on my heart over a year ago and I wrote it down on a notepad and shared it with my husband and family at the time. I honestly was overwhelmed by it and the more I gave it thought, the more fearful I became at the idea so I brushed it aside. Here we are almost 18 months later, and the very thing the Lord placed on my heart is coming back up to the surface from where I pushed it down. I now see I was no where near ready for what He perhaps had in store for me/us then as I could be now. For the time I spent this last year has been about healing, forgiving, restoring and renewing. A lot of damage had been done to me where I used to work so I needed time to regroup and truly learn how to trust people again. I see how strong I am, and can now see the vision the Lord shared with me then. I believe in praying big and praying bold. I believe like the story in the book of Joshua, I can ask the Lord to make the sun stand still for me and He will. So today we are praying for the Lord's guidance in our lives and in our future and I know that if the Lord makes a way for me, I need to trust Him for what I do not know. I need to know that if He asks me step out in faith, He will provide just as He did on July 5Th, 2010. I love you Lord and I trust you. May all who is reading, truly know too the power of our almighty God and may you all lift up your most audacious prayer to He who can do anything in His name. Amen.

Joshua 10:13

Tuesday, November 2, 2011

Are you ever frustrated by someone else? I know I have some "controlling" issues when it comes to solving problems and one of the greatest gifts God gave me was the ability for me to let go and let Him in my own. But I find I still long to help others with theirs. I get frustrated when I see the situation and offer my wisdom and guidance, earned from experience, and the person does not listen. I remember a conversation I had with a friend years back who was dissatisfied with his accomplishments in life and had worked on Wall Street and got the taste of the good life and yearned for it again. I saw how distraught he was and I talked to him about the power of Jesus and His love for us can help us accomplish anything in Him and how He can help him. I shared Psalm 37:4-5 with him to let him see that God loves us and wants us to live in abundance. He knew my life was full and would often comment he wished he had my money and I knew that God would use any subject to open the doors to share the gospel and when I shared my success story of believing in Him, committing my life to Him and tithing my income to Him, he began to debate and argue and I just was like, "Huh?"...you cry you want success, you cry you want money, you cry you want contentment and peace and I offer you the way to it all and you say, "Nah. I don't believe in all that." That is frustrating. It is often we as believers will be denied,debated and/or ignored when we try to share the good news of the Lord. Others will simply change the subject or offer up an excuse as to why they have to get going. It is comical in a sense because it is so predictable yet sooooo sad. I never saw such an adverse effect to a subject in my life than the one of Jesus Christ. But it simply fuels my husband and I to trek on. It gives us the spiritual motivation to see that we need to share it all the more. So when you feel like your testimony is falling on deaf ears, don't give up. Sometimes we need to lift the person up the the Lord, keep them in our prayers and continue to allow our lives to be our living testimony. Sometimes it is all we can do and all God asks of us. But always remember that our God does not return void. Amen!

Isaiah 55:11.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Live with integrity. Be the example for someone. Take the road of grace, not of easy street. Stay strong in faith and do not waiver. Be loyal today. Give of yourself to someone of need. Lend an ear to someone hurting or struggling. And above all, exemplify God today for He is the One who gives us life. Rejoice in Him, spread the good news and live a life of gratitude, not attitude. The life as a Christian is not of convenience or self, it is of stepping out in faith, being uncomfortable and giving of one's self to others. We will truly grow in our own walk and life as we learn these biblical principles. I pray each day for my Lord to help show me how to be and what to do, for my life is in His hands. It is He we should live for, no one else. And when we live a life of pureness and of holiness, all else will follow. So no worries today. Be anxious for nothing but instead show the strength and power of your God to someone who needs Him. For He is worthy to be praised and shared. Amen and amen.

Psalm 1

Monday, October 31, 2011

Not only do we believe in Jesus, but He believes in us. He is our biggest supporter and indeed our biggest fan. It is safe to say that He is the only One that will never let us down. Our own emotions may cause us to think that God has disappointed us, but the truth is He always provides for our best interest. I tell my husband all the time the greatest falls he and I have had, have in fact been God's greatest displays of love. He has allowed us to fall enough so that we would turn back to Him with humble hearts. Someone may view it as God letting us down but we see it as God's never ending love. His love is consistent, fair, loyal, everlasting and pure in heart. Don't allow people or your feelings to lie to you. Don't ever doubt the power of your Almighty God. For it is He that gives you life. Live it for Him and share the free gift of Grace that He offers to us for simply believing in Him. And He will carry you to the ends of the earth.

John 12:44-50

Sunday, October 30, 2011

We must all do whatever we can to help other people see the light of God. I am bothered by those that say that ignorance is bliss and I think, "and you are a child of God?" My husband tells me all the time when he speaks with new Christians the one thread in common is they tell him how many people they knew in their lives that reveal afterwards that they too are Christians. The unsaved had no idea and were never once talked to about Jesus. That makes me sad and also reflective. I try to self exam to make sure I always profess my Lord and Savior. The place we spend most of our time is in the workplace therefore it is a barometer for you to see if they do indeed know you are a believer. I used to be subtle....asking someone not to take the Lord's name in vain but I would phrase it as such..."it's not Jesus' fault you are having a bad day, don't take it out on Him" and there would be no defensive comeback. It actually would make them feel sheepish. The point is our faith and testimony can be a sweet aroma of perfume, not a suffocating perfume that overwhelms. People will listen to you and actually converse with you if you approach the subject of salvation in the right way. Don't be afraid of rejection..look at the life of Jesus here on earth? Did the man deserve one ounce of anything He endured? No, but He did it anyway and when we commit our lives to Him, we make the same commitment. So today...be bold with your faith and share the gospel of the Lord. And I pray you will be blessed as well!

Psalm 30: 4-5

Saturday, October 29, 2011

We must pray with boldness, assurance and expectancy. I am never shy when talking with God and claiming His promises to me. I tell Him all the time I know He can and He will. I always align my prayers and desires with His and I make sure my heart is right with His and when I know I am being obedient, I ask of Him. My husband recently read a book where the Lord wants us to be audacious in our prayers...to expect answers in other words. I look at my circumstances now that may be similar to others but I tell the Lord I am set apart and I know He will save me and do great things. I declare my obedience in Him for He tells me my obedience will unlock His power. Be strong in your Faith. Know who your God is and know nothing is bigger than He. In these days, there is no place for feeling like a martyr. The Lord wants us to live big and pray big, according to His will. Please understand if we are sitting on our butts all day eating candy and are asking Him to give us a million dollars, you got the wrong "guy". Our Lord is a loving and caring Father and He wants us to be blessed beyond measure or even comprehension. That is the God we serve. So today I encourage you to go to Him with the desires of your heart. Ask that they be His will for your life and watch the power of God unfold in your life. Stop praying safe and move yourself into a new realm of Faith. Trust Him today!

Luke 17:6

Friday, October 28, 2011

It feels so good to give back. I can not say it enough that when the Lord moves your spirit to help someone, please make sure you do. Even when what He is asking you to do appears to be too much. If He proclaims it, He provides it. Just let go of what your head tells you and listen to the Holy Spirit and you will be blessed beyond measure. Your soul will feel great and more importantly your giving will be such a testimony for God and such a blessing to the receiver. The world is so full of selfish people that I lift up that spirit to God and I ask that He replace it with a spirit of selflessness. Imagine if we all paid it forward? We must understand that the blessings bestowed upon us are so we can in turn bless others. Too often we get caught up in the fact that God blessed us because WE are so favored and although He does honor our faithfulness, it also comes with much responsibility and expectancy. The Lord may test you with a little to see if you are indeed a good steward of your money and when He sees you are, He very often blesses you with more. This showering has very little to do with you and everything to do with others....it is so you take those blessings and glorify God with them and spread His love. THAT IS WHAT IT IS ABOUT. So I encourage you to remind yourself of this next time you are unexpectedly blessed, that you in turn bless someone else.

Proverbs 11:25

Thursday, October 27, 2011

We will finally be made free when we come to the truth that Jesus justifies us. He is the evidence that God is real and that He loves us. By shedding His blood for our sins, He made us right with His Father, who in turn justifies man through His Son, Jesus Christ the Lord. Do you see it? Do not let your intellect, culture, tradition, religion, lifestyle, and/or agenda block you from God. Too many times we allow these substitute symbols to replace the reality that we need to establish a relationship with God. Pray for those you know that resemble this mindset. Pray that they come to know God's love through the ultimate sacrifice of His Son. And may they come to see God's light so that they too can live in an eternal house in Heaven. Amen and Amen.

2 Corinthians 5:1