Tuesday, December 30, 2014 "What Have You Done?"

As a Christian, we need to stand out not blend in. I heard Joyce Meyer say that, and it resonated in my heart. I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and I am happy to say all my friends know I am a believer and can say I have shared my faith with them. We must be bold, uncomfortable, and moving forward as a Christian in these days. What have you done for Christ?

And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. Matthew 24:14

Monday, December 29, 2014 "His Peace in my Heart"

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16

I thank the Lord for giving me His peace in my heart. I find myself at most peace when I am in His will and in total obedience. It makes all the difference in the world in my life. The moment I am out of balance, I can feel it. Therefore I choose the narrow path of righteousness. Know Jesus Know Peace. 

Sunday, December 28, 2014 "Shortest Prayer"

"Lord, save me". 

Matthew 14:30

Saturday, December 27, 2014 "He Will"

Faith is not believing that God can.

It is knowing that He will. 

He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. " Matthew 17:20

Friday, December 26, 2014 "God's Plan"

Nothing happens that God does not allow. When we live our lives according to His will and things happen, we can trust and know that it is part of our journey. When we are obedient in our walk and living right for Christ, then everything is part of God's plan. It is good when we self examine our selves when trials and tests come, but then we must be still and rejoice and know He has it in His hands. Don't worry today, God has it. 

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

Thursday, December 25, 2014 "Immanuel"

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14

Wednesday, December 24, 2014 "There Is No Other"

"I am the Lord, and there is no other, besides me there is no God; I equip you, though you do not know me." Isaiah 45:5

My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, gives me hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11) What does your god promise you?

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 

1 John 4:1

Tuesday, December 23, 2014 "Forgive Yourself"

The best gift you can give yourself is forgiveness. Forgive yourself as Jesus has. There is no room for guilt in the life of a believer. 

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. John 3:17

Monday, December 22, 2014 "What True Freedom Is"

True freedom comes when we surrender

 our whole life to Christ. 

And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. Luke 9:23-24

Sunday, December 21, 2014 "His Word Guides Me"

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. 

Psalm 119:105

God's timing is perfect. After having a rough couple days at my new job, I am grateful for my day of rest. My day to renew and refresh my spirit. I love Sundays! I love church. I love hearing the voice of God. I love taking notes during His message, His guiding words instructing me through the sermon. He is my everything, and I pray for His perfect timing in my life, today and everyday. 

Saturday, December 20, 2014 "My Life's Choice"

Take delight in the Lord,

    and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

I choose to delight myself in the Lord. In all situations, 

everyday. There is no other option for me. 

I made my choice and I choose a life in Jesus.

Friday, December 19, 2014 "No Jesus, No Peace, Know Jesus, Know Peace"

Be anxious for nothing. Look to the God and He will grant you peace today. 

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 

Philippians 4:6

Thursday, December 18, 2014 "The Real Meaning of Christmas"

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11

So many people get caught up in the hustle and bustle of Christmas rather than enjoying every moment of it. It is such a spiritual time of year and yet we are more focused on coupons and sales than the birth of our Savior. He is why we celebrate Christmas, it is not because of a man in a red suit nor an elf on a shelf. Next time you feel yourself getting overwhelmed with lists and baking and parties, stop....breathe....and think of Jesus and all He has done. For He is the real meaning of Christmas. Amen?! 

#keepChristinChristmas 

Wednesday, December 17, 2014 "A Psalm of Thanksgiving"

Psalm 100

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

Worship the Lord with gladness;

come before him with joyful songs.

Know that the Lord is God.

It is he who made us, and we are his ;

we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving

and his courts with praise;

give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;

his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Tuesday, December 16, 2014 "God is Not Mad at You"

“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.” 

John 16:33

I used to think when something bad happened God was mad at me. I would react in a child like way and automatically feel guilty or believe that I was in trouble and caused it. Do you get like that too? I have learned in my walk that the Lord is not mad at me. He loves me. What I have discovered is my past manifested this reaction. For over twenty years, I worked in a very hostile and abusive work environment. My best efforts were never good enough, and I was always told what I did wrong, never what I did right. This emotional roller coaster took a toll on me, and I became fearful of getting in trouble. As a child of God, we will never be perfect therefore we will fall short, we will sin. We need to stop beating our self up when something does not go according to plan. We must stop over analyzing every life detail. The Bible tells us we will face trials and tribulations and He will hold our peace. So let us trust in God and remain joyful. And may we truly grasp how much He loves us..through good times and through bad. 

Monday, December 15, 2014 "100%"

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. 

Romans 12:2

Spiritual maturity comes as you grow in your relationship with God. I have learned to accept His will on my life, even when I am extremely disappointed in His decisions. I have learned to trust His wisdom on my life. I know I may not always understand His reasons, but when I decided to surrender it all to Him, I had to choose all of His will as well. I cannot hold on to what I want to and give him just parts of my life. A true relationship is giving 100%. So I declare my total faith and trust in the Lord my Savior for He has full authority on my life. 

Sunday, December 14, 2014 "Reaping and Sowing"

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Galatians 6:7

I am so saddened by the Christian person who does not practice the biblical principle of sowing and reaping.  Jesus taught us that everything starts in seed form, in its very embryonic state. The spiritual law behind this principle is that if you sow sparingly, you reap sparingly and if you sow generously, you will reap an abundant harvest. "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." (2 Corinthians 9:6) Therefore if you are able to give back a blessing that was once bestowed upon you, make sure you don't miss that wonderful opportunity.

Saturday, December 13, 2014 "Surrender to His Will"

The Lord is with you everywhere you go. Do not fear. Do not be anxious. Allow His peace to transcend over you so you feel His love and warmth in your heart. Allow Him to lead you during these difficult times. Surrender to His will. Stop fighting it. What is the worst that could happen? John 10:10 tells us "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." You are in in good hands with the Lord. Trust Him today. 

Friday, December 12, 2014 "I Am"

God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you." Exodus 3:14

Thursday, December 11, 2014 "The Truth is in the Bible, not in the Pope"

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. 

2 Timothy 3:16

As Christians we are called to be bold in our faith. To stand on God's Word despite the persecution that may come. It is a scary time to witness the Pope water down his faith to gain followers for his church. Don't be fooled. We must never justify our sin. Read the Word of God for it is there you will find the truth. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. John 17:17

Wednesday, December 10, 2014 "How to Guard Your Testimony"

Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:12

The Lord God is with us, everywhere we go. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves of that when we go to places that may not be considered appropriate for the Christian man/woman. I always tell new believers that the Holy Spirit will guide them and convict them but it takes time. And a great way to know what to do is to simply picture Jesus as your friend on earth, in man form. Now picture taking him along to the place(s) you are going to. If it isn't appropriate for Jesus, than it is not appropriate for you. Use wisdom at all times. Guard your testimony!

Tuesday, December 9, 2014 "The One"

It is good to give thanks and praise to the One Who gave it all. Do not forget the true reason for this season. 

Worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness; tremble before him, all the earth! Psalm 96:6

Monday, December 8, 2014 "My Soul Rests in God"

 “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” Psalm 62:1-2

Be still and know He is God. We muss and fuss and worry ourselves sick. Instead let us train our minds to think of all things lovely and holy. Let us focus that if God is for us what or who could ever come against us? We are protected by the blood of the Lamb. My prayer is that all of God's children will learn to rest in this truth. 

Sunday, December 7, 2014 "Pray For One Another"

Pray for one another. It will do your heart good. 

"Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."

James 5:16

Saturday, December 6, 2013 "All it Takes to See a Miracle..."

Nothing is impossible for our Almighty God. (Luke 1:37) Don't listen to the naysayers, the pessimists, the non believers but instead listen to the Holy Spirit Who dwells within you. Our faith can be as small as a mustard seed and yet still move mountains so you believe in that! (Matthew 17:20) You focus on all God has done for you and all He will continue to do for you. Shut out the world and listen only to His voice. And always remember this during the hardest of days, "this too shall pass"

All it takes to see a miracle are eyes of faith. 

Friday, December 5, 2014 "Bearing Fruit"

Let us focus on bearing fruit for the Kingdom of God and not for our own gain. 

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine dresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:1-5

Thursday, December 4, 2014 "His Eye is on the Sparrow"

 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Matthew 10:29-31

Faith is believing in something we cannot see. (Hebrews 11:1)I know to the outside world how things may appear but in my spiritual mindset, I know the Lord has everything under control. He is the owner of my home, our attorney, doctor, veterinarian, accountant, carpenter, financial adviser, dentist and everything else people rely on the world for. I have learned to place all my faith and trust in Him and depend totally upon Him. My eyes stay fixed on Him and not my circumstances. I don't care what the bank book might say, all I know is His eye in on the sparrow and I know He watches over me. Amen!

Wednesday, December 3, 2014 "My Honor"

For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. Psalm 95: 3-5

Today I ask you Lord for your peace on my life. Wash over me with your precious blood and forgive me of my sins Father. I love and adore You, and it is my honor to worship You.

Tuesday, December 2, 2014 "We Must..."

We must ...

Worship God. 

Praise God. 

Exalt God. 

Serve God. 

Trust God. 

Simply....love God.

And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 

Matthew 22:37

Monday, December 1, 2014 "New Beginnings"

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” Lamentations 3:22-24

New beginnings can bring on a whirl wind of emotions from excitement to fear. New jobs, new homes, new relationships. The Lord's number of completion is seven and new beginnings is number eight. I used to fear change but now I embrace it. For I know the Lord never keeps His children still for too long. He is forever moving us, changing us, molding us, and it is pretty fantastic. As a Christian your mindset will no longer fixate on the negatives of new beginnings but instead anticipation and blessed assurance. 

Sunday, November 30, 2014 "The Great Exchange"

Jesus is the Son of God. A great exchange took place. Christ got all our sin and guilt; we got His perfect righteousness standing before God. Thank you Lord.  

"Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." 

2 Corinthians 5:21

Saturday, November 29, 2014 "The Will of God"

The Will of God will never lead you 

where the Grace of God cannot keep you. 

Be not afraid. 

Simply Trust.

Friday, November 28, 2014 "Our Greatest Source of Power"

I never understand why God/church/Bible study/reading the Word/prayer life are always the first things people cease when life gets too busy. Whether we are working long hours or have taken up a second shift, began taking classes, sport's practice, whatever the reasons, it seems as though God gets pushed down the list of priorities. I have said it repeatedly that people think work and their job is a noble excuse for missing church. People believe that family obligations trump the Lord. Friends, we are to love God more than anything or anyone on this planet. I have learned that anything we hold too tightly, we will lose. The truth is the Lord is our single most powerful source of strength. We mustn't turn our back on the One Who has given us it all. 

Thursday, November 27, 2014 "Thankful and Blessed"

On Thanksgiving, people like to reflect on what they are thankful for while others count their blessings. I am thankful for the Lord, for all my blessings come from Him. He is the reason I am so blessed and so happy. 

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17

Wednesday, November 26, 2014 "At All Times"

Hold your peace at all times. Keep your mind centered on Christ no matter what your circumstances may be. During difficult times, give all praise and  thanks to the Lord Almighty for all He has done and all He will continue to do. Keep the faith. He loves you and will see you through. Never give up!

"Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 5:1

Tuesday, November 25, 2014 "Bountiful and Endless"

Desire the Lord's will for your life, and He will grant all your heart's desires. When we live in His will, His blessings are bountiful and endless. 

Take delight in the Lord,

    and he will give you the desires of your heart. 

Commit your way to the Lord;

    trust in him and he will do this. Psalm 37:4-5

Monday, November 24, 2014 "Romans 10:9"

I believe in the power of Jesus Christ.

 If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 10:9

Sunday, November 23, 2014 "Simply Believe

Amazing things will happen if you simply believe in Him. 

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, 

the conviction of things not seen. 

Hebrews 11:1

Saturday, November 22, 2014 'Stop Blaming God"

"For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints" 

1 Corinthians 14:33

Why do we blame God when things go wrong in our life? Shouldn't we instead take accountability for our own life's choices? The Lord gives us free will to do as we choose. Only when we are in complete submission through full obedience are we under His will for our lives. Too often we miss this truth, and we end up blaming God like it is His fault. I really believe in my heart we would experience less heart ache and stress if we blamed less and examined ourselves more.Amen!  

Friday. November 21, 2014 "He Will Sustain You"

Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. 

Psalm 55:22

The Lord is faithful to those that call Him Father. Trust in His Word. Every day, no matter what certain days look like. I always say my worst day as a Christian far exceeds my best day as a sinner. He is worth it. 

Thursday, November 19, 2014 "Lesson I Learned"

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

One of the best ways to distract yourself from your own trials is to focus on someone else. Aside from the death of my parents, when I received the most devastating news of my life, my husband responded by taking me to a local church's car wash event. I volunteered with the kids trying to stir up business at the road and they were just being silly and goofy and having the best day. I actually was able to forget about myself and enjoy the day while trying to raise money for the church. I realized then and there that by taking the focus off of me, I was blessed with His peace. That September day seems so far ago but I remember the lesson learned like it was yesterday. If you want to feel better about things, bless someone else. Trust me on this one. Better yet trust God on it!

Wednesday, November 19, 2014 "My Old Life"

For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10

He is worth it all. It is not easy living a life of a Christian in today's world. What an easier life it would be to do what we wanted when we wanted. To say and act however we wanted without fear or consequence. The freedom in living for me and me alone. Sounds enticing? Sounds like my old life. And with all that great freedom living in the world came slavery, bondage, sorrow, sadness, betrayal, sin, and an emptiness that was unimaginable. Do I long for my old life? Not for a second. 

Tuesday, November 18, 2014 "Not an Option"

By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. 1 John 3:16

We are called to love people. We are commanded to pray for our enemies. We are to love our neighbors as ourselves. These are some of the toughest commands of the Lord. But they are not optional. We cannot hand select what works for us. John Hagee would call that being a "cafeteria Christian". Our walk with Christ must be consistent, obedient, bold, faithful, and true. Do not be a hypocrite. Examine your heart and rid it of all unholy feelings toward another. Love like God. 

Monday, November 17, 2014 "Not Up For Debate"

If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 1 Peter 4:14

It is hard to take criticism from others when trying to share the gospel. It takes God's grace to accept others for who they are. Like my husband has said for years, "don't hate me because I don't think like you and I won't hate you for not thinking like me." It is not up for debate. I believe in Jesus Christ. He is my Lord and Savior who died for my sins on the Cross, and there is victory in His blood. Put away your charts and maps. I am not interested. I am child of the Utmost High. Period. 

Sunday, November 16, 2014 "He Hears My Voice"

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16

Prayer is my life line. The amazing promise God gives believers is He hears the prayers of the righteous. That makes me cry when I know He hears my voice. Just to know that He hears me comforts me when I am weak. If you are struggling right now and you don't think God is listening, call upon the Lord. If you are not sure that you are saved (for the Bible tells us when we are saved, we become the righteousness of God, because we are in Christ), you can ask the Lord into your heart right where you are. And be assured you are one with Him and always know He will hear you.

Saturday, November 15, 2014 "Storms of Life: How Do You React?"

"and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me." Psalm 50:15

When a storm comes, how do you react? When someone you care about hurts you, how do you react? When a disappointment occurs, how do you react? When nothing seems to be going right, how do you react? The answer must always be "with grace and hope". As believers of Christ, we have no other option. When we are tested in our faith we do not want to discount our testimony by reacting poorly or out of the Spirit. We may go through storms, but He won't let us get destroyed completely; however, the destruction that does happen is for cleansing. Parts of us are being chipped away, parts that do not fit into the mold of His character. Therefore rejoice in adversity. Trust Him during the difficult times. And know He is for you. Faith relies on not relying on what you can see. Remember that!

Friday, November 14, 2014 "Hand the Pen to God"

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. 

Isaiah 55:8

As a child of God, we tend to grow impatient when waiting upon the Lord. We often times get in our own way making costly mistakes. My husband often says we don't "count the costs". We begin to make plans and plot our futures. The best advice I read was to write our plans in pencil and hand the pen to God. He can erase any mistakes we make and His mark is always permanent on our hearts. He is our King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Let us entrust our future only to Him. 

Thursday, November 13, 2014 "Hearing From God"

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. Romans 10:17

I have learned the importance of praying about everything. I call "birthing it by prayer." My husband and I now know not to make a move or any decision without first seeking the Lord and waiting upon the Spirit to move us. When you are evenly yoked with your spouse what will happen is the Lord will speak through both of you, sometimes to relay a message to the other. So my husband and I depend and rely on the voice of God for guidance and direction. Are you frustrated with God because you do not hear from Him? Maybe you need to quiet down, slow down, and not get ahead of Him. We often pray and pray and pray and we don't quietly wait for Him to speak. I have seen the change in my own relationship with the Lord and how it has deepened. You will also experience the blessed assurance in knowing you are living His will for your life when you wait upon His voice. It is very profound. So amazing. Trust in Him today. 

Wednesday, November 12, 2014 "What is God's Favor?"

"Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man." Proverbs 3:4

What Does Favor of the Lord mean? 

It is being treated much better than we could expect. Of course, every believer is favored to some degree. Therefore, we must understand God's favor in degrees. The more we please God, the more we will be favored by Him. Also, it is important not to think of this favor in material or worldly terms. God's favor most likely will be given in spiritual blessings more than in material blessings. Favor should not be looked upon as some sort of secret formula for getting everything we want. God sometimes takes those He loves through special trials. Job is the primary example but similar instances happen in the lives of many. However, if we continually draw closer to the Lord, we will come to dwell in His favor and in His favor is life. - Donald Reagan

Tuesday, November 11, 2014 "Lord, Save Me!"

When you begin to experience chaos around you, stop and pray. It does not have to be a long prayer. In fact three of the shortest prayers spoken in the Bible were simply. Short prayers are long enough!

“Lord, save me!”
-Matthew 14:30

“Increase our faith!”
-Luke 17:5

“Help my unbelief!”
-Mark 9:24

Monday, November 10, 2014 "Let us Rest"

 And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14 

Too often we are focused on what is wrong in our life. We obsess over the things we don't have, we grow impatient over unanswered prayers. We never just stop and rest in Him. We need to learn how to still in this hectic life and shut out the noise of the world. We need to remember that He is God and He is all sovereign. When our life is in His will there should be no need to worry, plot, or fear. We need to allow the Spirit to guide us and just live life according to His plan, not our own. I ask the Lord to give His children the strength to accept this simple truth and be able to rest in His Word today. Amen and amen. 

Sunday, November 9, 2014 "Let us Rejoice"

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! "

Philippians 4:4

The word of the day is "ever forward". Let us live in the present. Let us trust the Lord for our future. Let us give Him our past. And let us rejoice in the gift of today. Happy Sunday!

Saturday, November 8, 2014 "Chains of Bondage"

 "Stand fast therefore in the Liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." Galatians 5:1 

There is power in the name of Jesus. As the lyrics go on, "Break every chain, break every chain". The Lord can deliver you from your bondage. Whatever it may be. For me it is my worriment, for others it is anger or pride. Simply ask Him to break the chains of bondage of whatever holds you captive. In the name of Jesus we are delivered. 

Friday, November 7, 2014 "Faith Moves God"

He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. " Matthew 17:20

The Lord will uphold you in the palm of His righteous right hand. Do not fear not be dismayed. (Isaiah 41:10) These are the words of the Lord. It is easier said than done, but we must all set our minds to this promise. We are doing ourselves of no good when we fret and worry. When we fear the unknown we are limiting God's power in our lives. Faith  moves God. So let us hold on to Him and keep our faith going. No matter what! Amen and amen. 

Thursday, November 6, 2014 "Many Words"

Sometimes short prayers are long enough. 

“And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words." Matthew 6:7

Wednesday, November 5, 2014 "He is my Glue"

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. James 5:16

I think it is good to take inventory of your life and those in it. My circle is very small and very intimate. The truth is I have very few people I turn to for prayer. The reality is it can sadden my heart when I am in the midst of a need, but overall I choose to keep myself guarded and private. The Lord is my Shield and my Protector, and I trust in Him to see me through. Prayer is the bond that keeps my marriage on solid ground. The Lord is the bridge to my closest friends. He is the glue that keeps my life whole. I am beyond grateful for provisions in my life. He is my rock!

Tuesday, November 4, 2014 "The Rainbow Ahead"

"And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you." 1 Peter 5:10

No matter what it is you are facing, you will get through it and be stronger for it. The truth is we grow in faith because of the trials in our life. We learn to depend on the Lord for all things, and His love gets us through. Our endurance comes from the assurance in knowing He is allowing this in our life. Our attitudes must be of faith and hope, not doom and gloom. So trust Him and continue to pray yourself through all life's difficult situations. And remember the rainbow always follows the rain. 

Monday, November 3, 2014 "Thank You for the Cross"

We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them. 1 John 5:18

Blessed Redeemer. That is who God is. He restores us to wholeness. He is our shield and our protector. We pray every day that evil does not grieve us. We ask the Lord that our shield of faith  protect us against all evil, the enemy and its servants. Spiritual warfare is real. It is all around us. We must prepare for no one is exempt. Thank  you Lord for the cross. 

Sunday, November 2, 2014 "Be a Peacemaker not a Troublemaker"

We are called to be peacemakers. "Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God." (Matthew 5:9) So many people cause problems with their tongues. They repeat things they shouldn't. They gossip, they betray, they lie, they omit, they pretend, they create dissension. The truth is when someone comes to you and begins to speak unkind of someone, stop them. Tell them you prefer not to be a part of such an unholy conversation and walk away. I try to say to myself, "if they are talking about them to me, then surely they are speaking unkind of me to them" and it makes it real easy to stop the conversation. None of us are perfect but let us try to bring peace among our relationships (families,friends, co-workers) and not division. Let us try to praise and  uplift one another instead of tearing down and criticizing. Let us love like God does. Amen?!

"Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love." 1 John 4:8

Saturday, November 1, 2014 "Biblical Myth"

Why do we think that God will not give us more than what we can handle? If that were true than He would be suggesting that He is limited in what He can do in our lives. It would also suggest He expects us to do things on our own. The biblical truths are that He can do anything and/or all things, and that He wants us to totally depend on Him. Therefore there is nothing He cannot handle. 

"Jesus looked at them intently and said, "Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible." Matthew 19:26

Friday, October 31, 2014 "Celebrate Life and Light"

God is life not death. God is light not darkness. He rose from the dead and He is alive. Let us celebrate life today not the dead. 

"This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all." 1 John 1:5

Thursday, October 30, 2014 "Cast Your Cares"

Do you worry a lot? We all have our issues we are dealing with and worriment is certainly mine. I trust in the Lord with all my heart and soul but I definitely can get in my own way. I am thankful for a partner who prays over me and for me each and every day and it helps. It restores my peace and I am able to rest. The Word tells us to "be anxious for nothing" (Phil 4:6)  and we know it is easier said than done. But we must try and we must trust. Faith in the Lord moves His hands over our lives so let us keep the faith. 

Cast your cares on the Lord
    and he will sustain you;
he will never let    the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22

Wednesday, October 29, 2014 "Listen for God"

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. John 10:27-28

Often times we grow frustrated when we are waiting on answered prayers.  But the truth is prayer is speaking and also listening to God. Sometimes we just talk and talk and never listen. We must be still in His presence and He will speak to your heart. 

Tuesday, October 28, 2014 "Obey"

Obey the Word of the Lord. Any other 

choice will result in a wasted life. 

If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land. Isaiah 1:19

Monday. October 27, 2014 "My Rock Eternal"

I cannot do this life without God. I simply cannot. Life is too hard. I need Him every day. He is my shelter, my refuge, and my strength. He is my Rock Eternal. 

Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal. Isaiah 26:4

Sunday, October 26,2014 "Daily Prayer"

 Through daily prayer, I am blessed with happiness, 

abundance, peace, and love. 

Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God. 

Psalm 146:5

Saturday, October 25, 2014 "Contrary to the Spirit"

Our Spirit battles with the flesh every day. Therefore we must keep our eyes on God. Every day. At all times. Other wise we may sink into the traps of this world. It is very difficult to live among so many God haters in this dark world without strength. We draw that strength from our living God and His Word. To simply go to church for an hour on Sunday and not pick up your Bible the rest of the week will weaken you. To not attend church and just read some scriptures here and there during the week from a booklet will weaken you. Only when we combine the two, will we gain power. The super natural power needed to ward off the evilness of the world. It is very real. It is a very serious matter and the Lord wants you to be disciplined in your walk so you can face the battles of life. #victoryinChrist

For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. Galatians 5:17

Friday, October 24, 2014 "Love"

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:11

There should be zero tolerance in the Christian life and heart for hate, resentment, anger, and competition. We are called to love one another as Christ loves us. Period. No excuses.  No exceptions. If you are feeling this way please, do not fall into the trap of justification. The Lord hates when we justify sin. Simply love. 

Thursday, October 23, 2014 "Willing To"

If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land" Isaiah 1:19

When we give our lives to Christ, truly and completely, He will take responsibility for our lives. Meaning He will guide us, lead us, and keep us on His righteous path. I have set my mind to this promise, and I must say I no longer worry like I did. If there is a need, I know He will provide. I know He is at the head of our household and our marriage. We are willing to live to honor Him, glorify Him and edify Him. His Word tells us because of our willingness to obey, He will bless us. Surrendering everything to Him has saved my life. If you have never truly submitted everything to Him, you are missing out on an amazing gift. He wants you to trust Him with it all, not just some of it, all of it. He wants you bless you today.

Wednesday, October 22, 2014 "To Be Reunited"

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Today marks the day of profound loss in the lives of both my husband and me. He lost his dear Mom fifteen years ago today, and we both lost a very close friend, Carole, ten years ago today. So sad. Death is just so sad. For some it is also so final. But for believers in Christ, there is hope for we will see our loved ones again. We will be reunited with them in Heaven. That is comforting. That is merciful. That is God's love.  

Tuesday, October 21, 2014 "Do It All"

Amazing love, how can it be, that you my King, would die for me? My Lord and Savior is my everything. He died for my sins so that I could live. It is my honor to live my days serving Him. 

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17

Monday,October 20, 2014 "Stop Being Part Time"

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33

There is power in the name of Jesus. We are transformed by His love. How do we achieve that deep personal relationship with God? We must seek Him and we must read His Word daily. When we begin to read the Bible, we begin to grow in the Spirit. As we mature in the Spirit, our faith deepens as we learn more about Him. Church attendance is so vital for your faith as well. To hear the Word of God is essential to our soul as is fellow shipping with other believers. One without the other will make us weak. When we add both into our lives, on a consistent basis, we will receive the power of the Lord in our lives. We must stop being part time believers and become full time followers of Christ. God first. Everything else second. 

Sunday, October 19, 2014 "Carry Each Other"

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

I love when I can celebrate with my loved ones as well as mourn with them. I am not comfortable when those around me try to hide when things are not going well. It hurts me because I would love to pray with them, pray for them, and be there for them. To not confide in me makes me sad. I don't want to just know when things are going good because I can visibly see that. I want to know how you got there. I want to hear about the power of God and what He has done in your life. I want to hear your testimony. Our pride wants to hide the bad and only share the good but how is that helping anyone? We are called to carry each other's burdens so let us be there for one another, in love. Amen!

Saturday, October 18, 2014 "Good Living"

 "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws." 

Ezekiel 36:26-27

 I have learned through many painful trials that my life is worth nothing without Christ in it. The simplest of days are so much more meaningful with Him present in my life. I don't need fancy cars or shiny watches, nor elaborate trips or a fat wallet. Just the love of my Lord in my heart. I have learned to place all  my faith and trust in Him, and my life has completely changed. Ephesians 4:24 says "and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness". Peace beyond belief and grace beyond imagination. You don't know what good living is until you live for God!