Friday, August 31, 2012

Disappointments are just God's way of saying

 ..... "I've got something better" so..

Be patient........Live Life.......Gave Faith

Thursday, August 30, 2012

These are some of my most precious comforting promises from God. He is the source of my strength and I draw from Him. May these words bring you comfort as well. I don't know what you are facing today but God does and He wants you to know that He is with you and you are victorious in Him and this shall pass. Hold on, keep the faith and lean on Him. Be blessed, stay strong and pray pray pray!

Jeremiah 29:11-12 (NIV)

11 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. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)

 5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Matthew 7:7-8 KJV

 7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

 8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Wednesday, August 28, 2012

Watching all these conventions, news talk shows and various commentaries I grow more upset by the hour. I am far from a political historian but I know what is in my heart and I know the heart of my Lord and it is not hate. Why are these people all over the social media bashing Christians calling us gay haters,racists and hypocrites? I do recall that we all have a right to stand up for what we believe in and we as believers are called to hate the sin of men, not men. We are called to love all people...neighbors, friends and enemies alike. "Love thy neighbor" is a law and a commandment we all must follow. It teaches us to love each other despite our differences. I see on Facebook "Hate is not Holy" and I realize the cross was in the colors of the gay rights flag and it insinuated that we hate gay people and that is so not true. Yet they are the ones displaying such hateful actions and hurtful words. They are coming off as the bullies who are angry at anyone that does not condone or believe in their lifestyle and that seems to be okay. Freedom of speech seems to becoming a one way street and it is not headed towards the righteous path of heaven. I am saddened that we are made to look like we sit up on our soap boxes looking down on everyone else and yet if we all took the time to learn about the walk of Jesus we would all see that our belief is to be like Him and Jesus certainly did not walk with the righteous and holy, He walked with sinners like you and me. The bible instructs us in Matthew 7:1, "Judge not that ye be not judged." and I take that very seriously. So let's put down our stones and simply love one another and encourage one another and stop the mean words and instead love as God loves. Have wonderful peaceful Wednesday.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

I am free, now and forever I am free. Lyrics from a song we sing in my church and as a child of God, we truly have freedom thanks to the cross. No matter what we have done or will do, the Lord forgives us and grants us freedom. But as a believer we can still be caught up in our own mindsets of fear, anxiety, guilt...whatever it is we are feeling and this can paralyze us from experiencing the true depth of the Lord's gift of freedom. But when we are in obedience with Him and walking the path of His will for our life then we are exercising our complete trust in Him and that is when we experience this amazing gift.  When we rest in Him we allow Him to fully work through us to do amazing things that bring glory to Him. Spending time alone with the Lord in order to hear His voice and learn His ways for us. We cannot grow in our faith without watering the seeds of labor. We must pray, read His word, study and devote quiet time to Him. It is amazing how so many people make time for so many other things, so many other people and yet they will say they are too busy to read the bible or attend church or a class. This "time" must be carved out first each and every day and everything else must fall second, third, and so on. The Lord needs to be the center of our life and we need to value our relationship with Him and invest in Him. It is only then we will understand that anything else we invest all our time, money and energy in becomes our idol and this religion becomes a form of worship and thus robs us of the liberty that we have in Christ.  

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1

Monday, August 27, 2012

After losing my Mom, I have found myself even more dependent and in love with God if that is even possible. For He has given me the strength and trust to go on and not be afraid of being alone on this earth without a parent. He has kept me in total peace and although my grief is profound and beyond words, I trust in Him and I give each morning to Him. I am at peace knowing both my parents are dwelling in the most high of places and are the happiest they have ever been and I know they watch over me. The Lord has His hand on my heart and I am not troubled for I have faith and I believe in Him and all His ways. I tell Him everyday how grateful and thankful I am for all He has done and all He will continue to do but it is His love, promise to stay by my side and never ending grace that comforts me most. If you have never been in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, you can right where you are. The bible tells us to confess with our mouths that He is the Son of God and to believe in Him and we shall be saved by His stripes. So if you are hurting like me because of a loss of a loved one or because of life's difficult trials, turn to the cross and the One who was, is and always will be. Revelation 1:8 

God is faithful, for God is not a God of confusion but of peace.

Be strong and courageous. 

Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed;

Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God;                                                                 Waiting for our blessed hope;    Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord.You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you,I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Psalm 84:11

New International Version (NIV)

¹¹ For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
the Lord bestows favor and honor;
no good thing does he withhold
from those whose walk is blameless.

We walk in favor not because of who we are but because of whose we are!

Saturday, August 25, 2012

Until God opens the next door 

for you ...

PRAISE HIM IN THE HALLWAY!

Friday, August 24, 2012

Give thanks to God in all you do. He is worthy to be praised and He is good all the time.  I love Him more and more each day as I learn about Him and get to know Him. I marvel at His ways and the profound deep love He has for me is overwhelmingly special. I am at peace with assurance that no matter what I face, I am not alone. And when I am feeling sad now that both my parents have gone to glory, I know I have my Father in heaven guiding me, coaching me and teaching me the way and reminding me I will never be without His love.

"Lord, I come to you today so thankful and so grateful for all You are to me. Not just for my blessings but for my trials too, I thank you. I thank you for taking my Mom home to be with You and removing her from a life of hospitals and pain. I can smile now knowing how happy she is dwelling with you above. I humble myself at your feet for the love and mercy you have granted me and will continue to grant me each and very new morning and thank you for being the best friend I could ever want or need. You are my King of Kings, my Lord and Lords and I love You with all my heart. I lift up my family and my friends and my enemies too and I ask that You pour out Your Spirit and grace upon us and bless us with Your presence and truth. May this day be all about You, Lord and may my home always be open to those that need a refreshing touch. I love you and I thank you and I give you all of me. Use me Lord for all Your honor and glory. And may my ears and eyes be open to anyone that needs a helping hand. I ask all of these things in Your name. Amen and Amen". 

Thursday, August 23, 2012

If you have no peace you have no power over the enemy.  So many times the enemy tries to set us up to steal our peace and in doing that, we relinquish our power over the evil one. In order for us to enjoy the fruits of the Spirit, we must operate and act out of love. Everyday my husband prays this prayer:

 "Lord, allow my attitude to reflect Your goodness. Allow my motive to be pure in heart and allow my intention to be right and just. And allow all my responses to bring You glory. Give me a single mindedness for You; allow your Spirit to refresh my spirit; give me a fervor in heart to have a steadfastness for Your will to be done in my life". 

This prayer really helped him and I have seen his life transform and it is filled with such peace and joy and love. The biggest difference in his life has been the consistency of prayer and watching him set his mind in order for the Holy Spirit to fill him up to over flow. When we do this, we are at peace and we leave no room for the enemy to take a foot hold. And this is how we guard our hearts, our minds, our homes and our loved ones. 

John 16:33

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Let Christ dominate you.  Give your mind to Him and let Him transform you. Sin is the disease of the mind and it is destructive therefore give all of yourself to Him and allow Him to be the Lord of your mind, the Lord of your body and restorer of your soul. Everything else will come together. Seek His peace and joy in your life and you will be complete. Just ask the Lord right now to forgive you of your sins and thank Him for dying on the cross and paying your sin debt in full and believe in your heart that God the Father rose His Son from the dead to offer you eternal life in His Kingdom of heaven. And ask Jesus to come into your heart and be Lord of your life and make a real commitment to His ways. A lot of people want fire insurance; they want a Savior to save them from the burning flames of hell but the real relationship starts when you make Jesus the Lord of your life. It will be the most important decision of your life. How could I say that? Because it has eternal ramifications. The choice you are about to make right now will determine your eternal destination so choose wisely...choose Christ. 

John 3:16

John 14:6

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Matthew 7

New International Version (NIV)

Judging Others

1. “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.   ² For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

³ “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?   ⁴ How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?   ⁵ You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

I love this chapter for it is the teachings of the Lord and He is of all authority. It is so true when so many can easily see faults in others and shift blame yet never take accountability for their own short comings. Sort of like the parent that will take the credit for their child's successes yet blame someone else when they fail. Judging someone is sowing terrible seed into your own life. I call it the "boomer rang effect".  Anything you do unto another will come back to you and this verse confirms it. Like the saying goes, 'God treats you the way you treat others and He will treat others the way they treat you'. Be kind and let us reap nothing but love, compassion, and seeds of hope and faith. The Lord is pleased when we glorify Him in our daily walk. When we begin to look to one another through the eyes of God, we will see things differently so let us all challenge ourselves and practice this in the name of Jesus. Let us all bear good fruit so the world will know we are children of God.  

Monday, August 20, 2012

Christian people should not be gossiping nor should we be criticizing others. I am so uncomfortable when I speak with a believer who has a grievance with another and will voice it in a "catty way". I expect that in the workplace and other secular settings but not with my brothers and sisters in Christ. We all have been wronged and we all have been hurt and I certainly know that we all don't like one another but the Lord does expect us to bear proper witness for Him and we are to pray and love our enemies. Take those negative feelings to the Lord in your own private way and He will help you heal. I had to let go of so much anger and hurt and resentment in my life and when I released it to God I felt so free. He began to heal other relationships I had and began to bless me with peace and true joy. I don't like to tell others how to think or correct them when they speak but I will let them know I am uncomfortable with their conversation. I don't believe it is enough to simply walk away. I believe the Lord wants us to be bold and stand up for Him and share His Words and let the person/group know it is not of God to gossip or make fun or talk about another without them present. I had someone from church  make fun of someone else in our church to me and I was appalled and so taken aback. We are to be righteous and holy in our daily life. We are witnesses for the Lord and if someone knows you are a child of God and you are condoning or going along with such language and behavior you are representing Him in a very poor light. If we all could just slow down and remind ourselves each day that everything we say and everything we do now will be made accountable later when we stand before our Father in heaven and everything we do will reap consequences. I had to remove a child from my class yesterday morning because he would not say he was sorry to one of his fellow class mates for something he did. He was being disrespectful to me, the class and more than that Jesus, and I had to discipline him and show the young children that his behavior and treatment of his "brother" was not pleasing to God and he would suffer the consequence. As small children need to be reminded of this, so do we as adults. So my prayer today is for peace and harmony in the lives of others.  That relationships are restored and made whole again and that we all bear much fruit for the kingdom of God. May our actions, words and thoughts be reflective of God's goodness and may His grace shine upon us so that others will be drawn to Him. And it is in His name I ask these things. Amen.

"Whoever secretly slanders his neighbor, him I will destroy" - Psalm 101:5

"The words of a talebearer [a gossiper!] are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly"- Proverbs 18:8

Sunday, August 19, 2012

The Lord wants the best for our life but we have to cooperate. He will guide us, reveal Himself to us and show us the way but if we violate that, we will get into trouble. Changing course from God's guidance indicates we are doubting His promise. God will often times call us to do something extreme in order to get our attention. And He does it so that we will be totally dependent on Him and it will require our total trust. Whatever the circumstances are we cannot decide to re change the course because we don't like the direction He is showing us for the result will be disastrous. We must listen and obey no matter what. Often times people wonder how to stay on course without falling off the path of God. We do it by reading the Word of God daily and keeping our focus on Him and listening for His direction. When we read the Word it becomes our anchor and our divine compass. Once we are grounded in our studies, we must learn to combat our thoughts, actions and emotions with the Word. We then should pray everyday to allow God's Word to work through us, powered by the Holy Spirit, so it can be applied to our everyday life. This spiritual "plan" will change your life and The Lord will renew His promise to you as you live in His will. You will begin to walk in total obedience and your fears, anxieties and worriment will be gone and your life with be pure peace in knowing that God has got it all and whatever He decides it shall be. That is trust in God. 

So trust in the Lord (commit yourself to Him, lean on Him, hope confidently in Him) forever; for the Lord God is an everlasting Rock [the Rock of Ages]. Isaiah 26: 4

Saturday, August 18, 2012

We always need to pray first and then make plans instead of making plans and praying for God to make them work.  Listen for God's plan; follow it, and you will always succeed.- Joyce Meyer

I read this and thought about the saying..."we plan and God laughs".  The truth is we must stop placing the cart before the horse. We do things backwards whether it be lack of patience or because we are so about instant gratification yet our Lord's timing is no where near like ours. I read today how Abraham waited for years before he was given an heir. It was not about what he wanted but what God desired for him and at the appointed time. I believe there are many times God clearly shows us what to do but we don't do it because we don't like His plan. Our fleshy desires can hinder our acceptance of God's truth. For an example...How many people do you know that are unevenly yoked or are living in sin? They justify it and try to mold it into God's plan yet no matter how you dice and slice it, it is not part of God's will. I have done that in my own life and then watched how God slowly tore down the wall of life choices I made and rebuilt them His way. The sad reality is I wasted years of God's blessings on my own life out of pure selfishness and spiritual ignorance. Today I meditate on Proverbs 19:21 that tells me "Many plans are in man's mind, but it is the Lord's purpose for him that will stand."  And it is what I believe, practice and rely upon. And the good news is with our Lord there is confession and thanksgiving and forgiveness and we can all celebrate in that. Have a blessed weekend. 

Friday, August 17, 2012

We were created to be worshipers and God created us to worship and serve Him only. But because God has given us free will, we have a tendency to be fans and worship others instead of being followers of Christ.  This is called "idolatry"...anything that is placed before God in our life. So we are left with this truth...we are either going to worship and serve the One who created us or we are going to be idolaters, there is no in between. I had to face my own truth when the Lord showed me the things/people that I was idolizing.  He showed me how my job was enslaving me and causing me to slip further and further away from Him. Yet in mind I was still in love with Jesus, prayed and had faith. But as I look back I can clearly see how "foggy" things got for me and why things were beginning to fall apart-my finances, my marriage, my own self image, my relationships and the joy I once had for my job. Not until I obeyed God and laid down my office pen and rearranged my life for Him by placing Him in the center and walking purely on my faith in Him, did things turn around. I was freed from my job and although the financial security was gone I never gave it a second thought because my God is my source of blessing, not my previous employers-they were merely the vessel to which God used until the season was over. My husband renewed his own relationship with the Lord, was baptized in water, was delivered from his addictions, the relationships that I thought were real, disintegrated while others blossomed but more than anything my relationship with the Lord, attending church and serving in my local children's ministry became my priority. I no longer placed anything before my Savior and Lord.  I use myself as the example to show how destructive, distracting and dangerous any idols can be. Today technology and people's children are the 2 biggest idols. Yet people think having a cell phone is "wise" and providing for their children is "responsible"...and although that may be true, we must evaluate them all to assure that nothing is before the One and Only True God. So I urge you to review your own self and take inventory of your life, your priorities and make the necessary changes. You will never be disappointed when you place your faith and trust in Jesus Christ.

"You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below."-Exodus 20:3-4

Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only."-Matthew 4:10

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Pray with expectancy. I cannot begin to tell you how much my prayer life has changed since doing this. I would go the Lord humbly and passively out of the utmost respect. And although that was true in my intent, it was a lie from the enemy. The Lord wants us to come in boldness, faith and expectancy. He wants us to live as though it is done and given. To be bold and aggressive with Him, not with people of course, but with our prayer time with the Lord. He wants us to thank Him, repent of our sins, and expect Him to answer us in every prayer we recite. I come down my stairs each and every morning and I thank Him for His faithfulness and His tender mercies each day. I look at the plaque that is prominently displayed in my living room that reads TRUST GOD and I tell Him at that moment every day that I do. I thank Him for answering my prayers and I begin to go through what I am thankful for. The Lord wants us to walk in faith and believe. I shared before how I was hosting our ministry and their families over for a pool day and bbq this past summer. The problem was I did not have the money to even buy the food yet I went to the store and bought the food with my bill money and I said to my friend who accompanied me , "I don't even have the money to be doing this but I am doing it anyway because I am walking on faith and I know He will provide for this day." I was feeding His laborers and giving back to those that evangelize and witness each and every week without fail to total strangers out of love and obedience. And the Lord told me to "feed my people" so I knew He would provide. And by the end of that day, I was blessed with sales of my business (I sell jewelry and handbags) and a surprise "love offering" that was not expected and it covered the entire grocery bill and there was enough money to put back for my bills. That is the God we serve and that is who I place all my trust and heart into. He is the way, the truth and the life. And He is forever faithful.  The point I want to make is to exercise your faith and the power of your God. He loves when we approach Him with blessed assurance because we place all our hope and trust in Him. I feel so much more at peace now. And my circumstances are the exact same way they were before but He has me looking at it now through His eyes-eyes of FAITH. He wants you to trust Him in this too. And see what mighty things He does in your life. Be blessed today!

"Count your blessings, not your problems today". -Unknown

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.  Psalm 23 My heart is complete with His love.  I love Him more than anyone or anything and He is in the center of my life.  That is how much we are to love and adore our Father in Heaven.  How great thou are? My Mom's favorite song and with good reason.  I am in awe of the Lord and His work. Just visit the ocean or local beach and you will see first hand the power of His mighty hands. How the ocean knows where to stop and where to go. How the sand meets it at its end. Just amazing. How the sun rises and the moon appears at night just like clock work. I am so saddened and I admit a tad defensive when I hear people question the Lord or like Doubting Thomas who said he would only believe if he could see proof. Do you not realize faith is all about the trusting without the knowing. To believe in things we cannot see? How would salvation be such a gift of grace if we knew and saw the Lord before us and knew for sure He was the only one saving us from hell forever? I would pretty much guess everyone would follow and believe then. Faith is the amazing trust we hold in our Lord and amazing Savior by knowing Him in our hearts. He is the only way to the Father and eternal life. Trust in Him today and you will experience the power and favor in your life. Don't waste another day in the dark-for He is the light. 

"PRAYER is the KEY to heaven but FAITH unlocks the door". - Unknown

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Psalm 125

A song of ascents.

¹ Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, 
    which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
² As the mountains surround Jerusalem, 
    so the Lord surrounds his people
    both now and forevermore.

Our Lord is faithful and true. What comforting words to soothe us when we are weary and down.  What a promise to hold on to in our hearts when we feel as though the world has gotten the best of us. I pray for all who are hurting and who do not know the love of Jesus Christ. I pray they turn their ways to His and find the one true being that can complete their empty lives. I pray they answer the door to their heart and allow Him in to dwell within them. May they seek His face and counsel and may they gain wisdom and understanding in knowing Him. And my prayer for all of God's children is that we remain obedient to His word, faithful to His calling, and honorable in His sight. May our lives bear much fruit for Him and may we live each day glorifying Him. May we fulfill our purpose in what He intended for us, not what we desire for ourselves and may we share His story with everyone we meet. And may our lives be filled with favor, peace and joy in knowing Him. 

Monday, August 13, 2012

Have you ever felt such despair that you want to give up?  Our hearts must always be guarded for they can become bitter from resentment, disappointments and failure.  That is why we should place all our trust into Jesus for He tells us we are victors nor victims.  That He came to save us from all.  I claim and declare that my Lord will restore everything in my life and bring it to wholeness for that is who He is. He is God of restoration not depletion.  He does not come to rob us like a thief in the night but to comfort us and to protect us all of our days.  I know life can be difficult and very scary but you never need to feel alone for He is always with you.  Ask and you shall receive. Seek and you shall find.   Knock and it shall be opened to you. Draw closer to Him and He will draw closer to you.  He is right by your side.  Life wants to defeat us but the Lord wants to save us-all of us.  If you are struggling with bouts of depression or overwhelming sadness, go to the Father for strength and healing and it shall be done. There is peace in Him and promise.  I live my life to please Him and to glorify Him and tell others about His abounding love because He has been such an intricate part of my life, my marriage, my family.  I am forever thankful for my church, my brothers and sisters in Christ, my service with the children ministry, everything He has given me through the years.  He came to give us life, abundance, joy and love.  He can turn any mess of ours into a message for others. Lean on Him and pray yourself through for we are promised promotion and a breakthrough. The mountain in your life will move by your trust and faith. Exercise your power in Christ today-rejoice in Him for all things today-speak positive things today. TRUST HIM TODAY! 

Romans 12:12  Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Sunday, August 12, 2012

There is nothing impossible with God.  No matter what we need or what we face, the Lord can do great and mighty things on our behalf.  His power cannot be measured nor capped.  He can do anything in our lives.  I choose to set my mind to this promise and I claim the promise "I am a VICTOR in Christ".  We must have hope in our hearts for He is with us.  When we give our hearts to the Lord, heaven is our promise.  He promises eternal life, He promises peace that surpasses all understanding, He promises us  the fruits of the Spirit  and so much more.  He is the way, the truth and the life.  And He is our Almighty Father. Challenge yourself today and read His word...start with the Psalm and Proverb of the day. Meditate on His promises, on His comforting words. Exercise your faith today-the faith when we believe to receive. I don't know how I could ever be at such peace without Him in my life. And all I ever long to do is share His goodness with others. For God deserves all the glory. Share the good news with someone today.

John 20:29

²⁹ Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Jeremiah 29:11

New International Version (NIV)

¹¹ 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.

Friday, August 10, 2012

In today's world the best advice I could give anyone is to keep their eyes on God!  Never in my life have I seen such destruction, depression and deprived individuals. All it takes are five minutes of nightly  news to put your own mind in a tailspin, if you allow it.  Keep your mind on the One who came to save not destroy. Our future is bright with Jesus but you would never know it if you heard the media and their predicting outlook for our future.  My husband and I have made it a household rule where we do not usher in any of the world's garbage into our home and that is via people, television or any other social way.  It is quite easy when you set your mind to it and we are more at peace for it.  Of course the secular world tells us to remove our rose colored glasses and to come back into reality. Why? Because we have unshakable faith for our future despite what you say? Because we believe our Lord has us in the palm of His Hand and we believe His word that tells us the righteous shall not fall?  Because we choose not to fall into your trap of commercial and economic slavery by buying every last technology toy you invent?  Why does the world want me to follow them when I know the true way to the truth and the light? Why are believers deemed "radicals" when the socialists are deemed" realists"? There is more to the story of Peter walking on the water and not drowning by keeping His eyes on God and not his surroundings of deep ocean water . It is was a story told for us today to let us too know that we are to keep our eyes on the Lord for He will lead us to green pastures and not allow us to be put to shame. He is my future, He is my hope and He is who I put all my trust in. Why won't you?

Matthew 14:22-33

New International Version (NIV)

Jesus Walks on the Water

²² Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. ²³ After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, ²⁴ and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.

²⁵ Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. ²⁶ When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

²⁷ But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

²⁸ “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

²⁹ “Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. ³⁰ But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

³¹ Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

³² And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. ³³ Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Humility goes a long way.  I love people that are honest and real and don't portray themselves as perfect.  We are all under it at one point or another and I believe when we can share that with another, it helps both parties. As believers, many of our trials are to teach us compassion and mercy so when our "brother or sister" are in need and find themselves in the same situation as we were, we can be there to minister to them.  It really is a circle of life that the Lord created so we can help, teach and pray with and for one another. I am not saying that it is good to share all of our woes to anyone that wants to listen for we are to be discreet too so everything has a balance. But we should be honest. I cannot answer someone today with, "I am great", should they ask how I am feeling, because I am grieving my Mom so the truth is I am very very sad.  I feel alone but I have the hope and love of my Lord and my loving husband but I am still alone in my grief for I must go through it, no one else can do it for me. But there is joy in the knowing that I will one day be reunited with all my loved ones, especially my Mom and Dad so that brings me comfort. I take each day and pray for strength and I know that there will come a day when I will meet someone who has just suffered a loss and I will be able to truly now understand the magnitude of their pain. That is why it is good to share our ups and downs because we can inspire one another. If you are on a peak right now, we can all see that, so it is nice to  humbly tell us how you got there. We all have a story and we all can be there for another-stranger or foe even. Keep your eyes, ears but most of all your heart open and allow the Holy Spirit to use you in a mighty way for another. Through pain, comes healing and through battles come victories and we all know someone who could use a touch from God. Be that vessel for God today. And have a wonderful day. 

 Psalm 10:17 

LORD, you know the hopes of the helpless. Surely you will hear their cries and comfort them. (NLT)

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

We will reap what we sow and our life will bear much fruit...or not.  To everything we do, there will be a consequence.  I shutter at the thought of how I used to be with no regard of my actions. But that is why God came into my life to bless me with His free gift of grace that abounds all understanding. We are all work in progress but the true heart of a Christian is to love unselfishly. The bible says when we become born again we are a new creature in Christ and we are now able to live a life of giving generously. Whether it be our time, finances or a lending shoulder. The seeds we sow in others will result in a great harvest in our own lives. Did you know that our thoughts manipulate our emotions that eventually control our actions? Because of this truth, we should always ask the Lord to examine our hearts and He will reveal the truth behind our thoughts, words and actions. So today seek His counsel and change what can be changed so that all you do brings glory and honor to our Lord God Almighty.

Lord,  Allow my attitude to reflect your goodness so my responses bring your glory. May my motives be pure in heart as you guide my intentions to be just and right.  And it is in Your name I pray. Amen.

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

I will not allow anyone or anything to steal my joy.  I rebuke all negative talk, thinking or influences from my life and I choose to bask in the blessings of the Lord each day of my life. He gives all things to me and I am in awe of Him.  I have wasted too much time worrying and being anxious about this and that when He declares in His word 365 times, "fear not"....His Fatherly advice for us each day of the year. That is how incredible He is and His love for us. How can I stare at what I don't have when He has blessed me beyond measure? The miraculous work He has done in me, my husband and our lives are beyond comprehension and that alone should keep me in check. When we are feeling down or low, that is exactly what God wants us to do-reflect back on His wondrous works in our lives and it reminds us that He is the same yesterday therefore He will do today what He did then so why fear?  Instead trust, obey, live a righteous life, read and declare the Word of the Lord as truth and exercise super natural faith...every second of every minute of every hour of every day. Amen and amen!

John 14:27

New International Version (NIV)

²⁷ 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.

Monday, August 6, 2012

There is no condemnation in Christ.  When we ask the Lord to forgive us of our sins, it is done.  He washes us clean and we are holy in His sight.  Too many people ask the Lord over and over and over to forgive of the same sin because they cannot forgive themselves.  Self guilt is a mindset all of our own, nothing Godly based therefore we are to mentally set our minds to rebuke any self guilt.  If the Lord can forgive us, so can we.  He knows your heart and He knows your intention so allow yourself to heal and forgive as He has.  I say this because so many struggle with their own inequities and it actually is a form of disrespect. If we are taught that God forgives us of our sins upon our confession and yet we continue to struggle then we are setting our own self above Him.  Maybe if you look at it from that point of view you can see that you are hurting yourself and are being controlled by the enemy's lie.  He wants you to think you are not worthy and are to blame for all that is wrong but he wants you to give up and I am here to tell you as a child of God and who knows my Father....

 NEVER GIVE UP! STAND ON THE WORD OF THE LORD AND HE SHALL SUSTAIN YOU. HE KNOWS YOUR HURTS AND HE KNOWS YOUR STRUGGLES. HE WANTS YOU TO RELEASE THEM TODAY AND LAY DOWN THE BURDEN OF ALL SINS ON TO HIS FEET AND WALK AWAY. 

As Jesus said to the woman, "go now and leave your life of sin".  It was true then and it is true today!

John 8:11

Sunday, August 5, 2012

In a world of such uncertainty and the fickle minds of those surrounding us, God is the one true constant.  He is consistent and true to His word.  He does what He says He will do-every time. There is no doubt, there are no conditions. All we are to do is have faith and believe to receive.  Total trust that no matter what the result is, we win.  If we go to the Lord with a request and it goes unanswered, we win, for we will know it was not His will for us. And if He answers the prayer accordingly, we win, for it will be of His will.  I am searching His counsel now for some upcoming decisions and however it "shakes" out, I know I win.  There is nothing the Lord will not give us unless it is not the best for us. If He asks you to lay something down and walk away, it is to have you pick up something even greater.  We are not to think or analyze, just believe and when you know Jesus on an intimate and personal level, you will see He is always the same. So today let me challenge you and ask you if there is anything you are holding on to instead of leaving at the Lord's feet? Is there anything He is asking of you that you have yet to honor? Are you angry at God for unanswered prayers?  Do you know that He loves you and wants your total attention, your total life, your total you?  All of you, not an occasional you?  I don't know where you are in your life but I can promise you that if He is not allowing something in your life that you believe in your heart is "good", just trust Him. I could be angry that my Mom passed away when we prayed in earnest that she would be healed and be restored but I love my Lord so much in that I know He took my Mom home to be with Him out of mercy.  We don't know what could possibly have occurred down the road that He wanted to save us from. We as a family of faith have to place all of our trust in Him that He is sovereign and reigns over our lives, all of it. So let go and trust and try to set your mind to the positive and concentrate on the love of God and His grace and take your life one day at a time and it will change. You will see Him differently and your life's circumstances and you will begin to think differently.  Allow His light to shine upon you each and every day and bask in His love and promise. I promise you will not regret it. Have a wonderful Sunday in Him.

Romans 12:2

New International Version (NIV)

² Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Psalm 100

King James Version (KJV)

100 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.

² Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
³ Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
⁴ Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
⁵ For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

Friday, August 3, 2012

God does not want us to only reach out to Him in an emergency.  We are always in trouble without God but so many of us run to Him when things are going wrong.  I knew someone that tried to "make a deal" with God when he was lying in the hospital sick and scared to death. The Lord did heal him and years later this person forgot all about the Lord and fell back in to his sinful ways and sinful lifestyle. He only used God for convenience. I recall another conversation I had with a woman who was mad at God because He never sent her a man. She said "the bible said all people should be married therefore God  is a liar".  Naturally my defensive side came out and I quickly corrected her that no where in the bible does it say we are all going to get married-was Jesus ever married?  The point is she turned to God for a need and turned away when her needs were not met. Jesus is the answer, not an answer.  The Lord wants us to submit our entire being to Him. I talk to God everywhere I am, everywhere I go. I thank Him for a surprise sale at the store, a close parking spot, a peaceful day, a good meal....I acknowledge Him in all things.  He wants you to do the same.....he is the way, the truth and the life and He is all you will ever need. 

^{2 Peter 1:3
3} His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

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Thursday, August 2, 2012

Philippians 4

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! ⁵ Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. ⁶ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.⁷ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.




I lift my family, especially my brother Ken, up in prayer and I ask that you grant us your peace and mercy each day as we grieve the devastating loss of our Mother. 

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

I am always reflective when a new month arrives.  I try to be thankful for all God has done for us and simply stand in gratefulness.  There are times when it is important to simply thank Him for all He has done.  There is hope in Christ Jesus no matter who we are or where we have been or what we have done. He longs for all of His children and that includes you.  Never allow lies to seep into your mind that you are not worthy or not good enough. The truth is we are not good enough but Jesus did something about it by coming here and dying for you and me and He took all of our sins on to Himself on the cross to allow you and I hope for the future.  The bible tells us that for anyone who believes in the Son of the Lord shall enter the kingdom of heaven and live eternally with Him.  Trust me when you lose a loved one, this all becomes very "real" and you never want it to be too late for them....or for you.  So turn your eyes upon Jesus and allow Him into your life so He can right your wrongs and help navigate you through this life. Be not afraid, just trust and believe.  

Be born again

We must be born again: John 3:3, "Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

If you continue reading in John chapter 3 verses 14 through 21 tells you how you can become born again. Verse 16 pretty much tells you what you need to do: John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."