Women of Praise!

A Prayer Answering God!

2011-03-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all your prayers! Little Lara is doing well and has completely recovered from the pain and discomfort she was in. In fact the Dr. decided against any steroids and took her off all her pain meds while in the hospital because of the miraculous recovery that happened overnight! Lara is back to walking, playing, laughing and being the little ray of sunshine and hope she was meant to be for all of us! They do seem to think she may have had a severe reaction to Rheumatoid Arthritis. They believe she has this and I believe the Lord can still heal her! Just remember her and her family in your prayers! Although this is something Lara can live with, the Lord would not have us bound by afflictions. He performed the miraculous in Biblical times just as He is still doing the same TODAY! If we ask anything in His name it shall be done, by our faith in Christ we are healed! I know that the Lord has great plans for our little Lara, she warms the hearts of all who meet her! God has made her a living testimony of what God can do in the test of trials and adversities! Aren't you glad we serve a great and mighty God who is much more powerful than anything we can endure here on this earth!

Prayer Request

2011-02-26T15:56:00.000-08:00

Calling all saints of God! Let's bind together in Jesus name for a little girl named Lara who is 2 yrs. old. As of last night she was complaining with her head and tummy hurting. Her mother took her to Scottish Rite, since being there she has lost her ability to move or be touched without excruciating pain. The Dr.'s are keeping her heavily medicated in hopes to relieve some of the pain until they can better diagnose what the cause of these symptoms may be. The God we serve is a healer and there is nothing our God can't do! Let's bind together in Jesus name and pray for complete healing and renewed strength! Yes God understands our needs before we ask, but His desire is to be asked in times of these needs. "If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do [it]." John 14:14 Another scripture of encouragement that also reminds us of this is "Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." John 16:24 (NIV)
There is much power in the prayers of the saints of God, that is why it is written in the word to "Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5:16 The Lord will use this little girl to be a walking testimony of what the Lord can do in the most trying times. Thank you so much for your prayers and support!
Love in Christ,
Jennifer

A Powerless Roar!

2010-11-10T19:37:00.000-08:00

1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” Over the many years that I have served the Lord, I can't tell you how many times I've heard and quoted this scripture. Yet until this year have I truly understood the fullness of it's meaning. Have you ever wondered why the devil is "roaring", I started thinking about this and how angry the enemy is with the children of God. We are progressively tearing down the devils kingdom all in the name of Jesus, and yet there is absolutely nothing he can do to stop us! All but is left to do is to wastefully spend his time "roaring"!! Over a year ago a friend from church and I had been praying about starting a home Bible Study group. After a while of prayer the Lord led us into a direction that would give us the opportunity to start such a ministry that would later also become a ladies Bible Study group. I remember one night after Bible Study, we had a really great turn out and I was so encouraged and on fire about what the Lord was doing! Later that night after I went to bed I found myself face to face with Satan in my sleep, literally. I woke up and immediately felt the presence of anger in my midst. Yes, the devil was roaring mad in my bedroom that night walking around me, wishing he could get his grips on me but yet roaring even more that he couldn't. Even though I identified with this spirit, I was not afraid because I knew I was covered! I am covered by the blood of Jesus and while the devil can look at me face to face he still has no power to cause harm to me! I rebuked Satan and told him he was wasting his time. I had a job to do and I would let nothing stop me, so I told Satan to get thee behind me in Jesus name and immediately he was gone! The next morning I called my friend up that I did the bible study with and said nothing about the dream or prayer meeting I had the night before. She proceeded to tell me she had a dream of her own the night before, and Satan came to her in her dream. He was looking at her through the window of her bedroom. She told me she wasn't sure why she had this dream or exactly what it meant. She told me she woke up and begin rebuking and praying for the spirit to leave and immediately it did! The Lord spoke to me confirming our dreams and what they meant. I told her that I had a similar encounter the night before and the Lord wanted us to know that although the devil was looking at us in our dreams and watching us, he NEVER touched us because we are covered and protected by His blood! Aren't you glad you serve a God that gives us dominion and power over our adversary! We do not have to be afraid of Satan, or his crafty lies and tactics to distract us from the Lord. Through Christ Jesus we are more than conquerors! We must continue doing what the Lord has called us to do, fearing nothing because the Lord is spiritually defending us along the way! After all......What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31

POWER IN THE WORD!

2010-07-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

Let's Praise the Lord Today!

2010-07-07T13:53:00.000-07:00

Psalm 150:1-6 Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD
Just as David fell upon his face many times, humbled and full of adoration for the Lord so should we. We should bow down before the Lord, surrendering our hearts and lives to Him completely. Making our mouths sing out as an instrument of praise to our Savior, Jesus Christ. "I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will show forth all thy marvelous works, I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High." (Psalm 9:1-2) Moses had a song of thankfulness in His heart for the Lord, "The Lord is my strength and song," Moses and the children sang, "and he is become my salvation... he is my God... and I will exalt him." Scripture tells us how David once cried out to God when he was delivered from his enemies and from the hand of Saul,"The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; the God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence. I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised." Psalm 100 explains that there is a God, who is real and who must be praised, we do this by making a joyful noise unto Him and serving Him throughout our days with gladness. "Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. 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. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations." There are many blessings given to each of us from the Lord. His word tells us all good things come to those who love and serve the Lord. Let's thank Him for His goodness, and mercy. All our blessings come from Him, so let's sing a song of thankful praise to our Lord!

Living Fearless!

2010-06-23T18:17:00.000-07:00

2 Timothy 1:7: "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."
The Lord never promised that our time spent here on earth would be trouble free. In fact the Bible warnes us of perilous times near the coming of the Lord. I think we would all agree according to scripture that we are living in the last days. 2 Timothy 3:1 says, "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come." In Matthew 3 Jesus describes His return to the disciples. Matthew 24: 3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.
5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.
9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.
10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.
Yet though these times are promised to come, the Lord is very direct in His word that we should fear nothing and pray about everything. The Lord promises time and time again to never leave us, that He will be our refuge and strength. He is our shield, our strong tower, our loving Father. These times may test our faith, but we are promised power, and authority over our circumstances and adversaries if we put our trust in Him. We are more than conqueror's through Christ Jesus! The Lord reminds us to let not our hearts be troubled with things of the world, but to keep our eyes and hearts on Him. "He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord'' (Psalm 112:7) So what really do we have to fear with the Lord on our side? "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind'' (2Timothy 1:7). The world may be filled with trouble and uncertainty, however... God is our only certain hope in time of trouble, our ever present help, His love is endless and never fails! We must live each day praising God and giving thanks for His grace and mercy. Keeping His word hidden in our hearts, and our minds focused on Him and His very soon coming!

TAMING THE TOUNGE THROUGH PRAYER

2010-05-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had someone approach you with a comment that you felt was a deliberate attack? Most everyone has been in this situation at one time or another. Do you remember how you felt when that person walked away? Maybe angry, belittled, or possibly broken hearted. We know this is not of God, the Bible tells us the most controlling and powerful part of our body is the tongue. We are taught through the word to be humble and meek in our speech and in the way we treat others. With the tongue we use to sing praises and lift prayers to the Lord, that instrument can also be used to tear down, and disappoint. Now, let's not get the term "meek" confused with "weak". In fact.....it takes great strength and self control to say nothing rather than to rattle off hurtful words that I promise you will regret afterwards. It also means keeping composure in some of the most grueling and provoking circumstances. This is not always easy, in fact it can be quite difficult! Retaliate with love and understanding, think against what the enemy would have you to believe. I myself have been in situations in which I became angry and used my words to hurt back the person who hurt me. The counter reaction made me feel worse because I reacted in a way that was less than what the Lord had expected of me. Through years of experience with others and through my own mistakes and struggles, the Lord is steadily teaching me to be less and less quick to speak and more and more meek! James 1:19-21 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.26If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. The dictionary defines the term bridle as a means to control or hold back; restrain; curb. The Greek terminology defines "meek" as mild mannered, gently and kind in attitude, opposite of anger or wrath. This is how the Lord expects us to bridle our tongues. Through the help of the Lord and strength through Him, He will help us do this successfully, leaving us with a right spirit and a clear conscience. 1 Timothy 1:5 But the aim of our instruction is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith. We will be held accountable and judged for the words we speak, and we must work out our own salvation. Back biters, whispers, accusers, liers, evil doers, they too will answer and be judged. Their works will not go unnoticed or unaccounted for either. Matthew 12:36But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 37For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. It is not our place to judge them while here on earth, it is our place to love them with a godly love to the best of our ability. Through scripture I have found it is best to separate yourselves from those who cause affliction and use evil ways to provoke you. It is possible to set yourself apart while still loving their souls enough to earnestly pray for them with a godly love.
Luke 21:36Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. Sometimes if we have been deeply hurt in the past we can become over sensitive to the motives of others. This too is a trick from the enemy, causing us to put up a guard between us and others from fear of being hurt again. The enemy would like nothing more than to make us feel isolated, unloved, worthless, and discouraged. How can we go about the Lord's business, building His kingdom or obtaining a healthy spiritual walk with that mind set? Prayer changes minds that are set to believe on things that aren't reality. Prayer is our weapon against the enemy, prayer protects our families, prayer changes perspective, prayer gives you joy and peace, prayer makes you a friend to many, prayer gives hope to the hopeless! Prayer tames the attitudes of others and the attitude we carry within. Remember David, even though he had commited such terrible sins, he was never to good to fall on his face before God and be accountable for his sins. David desired and knew he needed the Lord's help. Through his prayer to God he asked for change! Psalm 51:1Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. 2Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.3For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. 4Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. 10Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. We must see a need for change within us! THERE IS NOTHING THAT CAN'T BE OVERCOME OR CHANGED THROUGH PRAYER, PRAYER CHANGES EVERYTHING!

WALKING WITH GOD!

2010-05-04T17:15:00.000-07:00

In Romans 8 Paul illustrates the difference between walking in the spirit opposed to walking in the flesh. The term "walk" had a much more significant meaning than a person just walking. The term was used to describe a lifestyle. Walking in the flesh is merely identifying one living a sinful or worldly lifestyle. When we walk in the Spirit, we are than living a lifestyle that is centered around God and His infinite will. Galatians 5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the SpiritRomans 8:6-8 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.What makes us a child of God? Through scripture I have come to believe that we must have a converted mind and spirit to become a child of God. Converting our sinful nature to a life of holiness and a Christ like manner. Now this does in no way apply that Christians are infallible or without fault. If this were the case there would be no need for a Savior. The truth is we do need a Savior, God alone can save us from ourselves. We are born with a fleshly or worldly nature, only through Christ can we resist the temptation on sin and live a righteous life. Romans 8:16-17 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.We are protected heirs of Christ, and we must know how to sustain or keep such an inheritance. The "Once saved, always saved" method of believing is not biblical. However, repenting daily and praying in the Spirit will help eliminate distractions that pollute our minds and spirits. Staying focused on God and our walk with Him will only bring peace and happiness to our lives. Remember, the mind is Satan's playground. 1Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. John 8:32, Jesus said, "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." The way you think widely depends upon your level of happiness, peace, freedom, victory and strength. Now there are times when God will allow certain obstacles to take place in our lives. These obstacles are not allowed to destroy us but to build us up in faith, confidence and wisdom. Proverbs 3:26 For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken. Even Paul prayed for the removal of a hindrance from his life, but God did not take away that burden away immediately. God wanted Paul to learn a valuable lesson first. Our walk with God should be a progressive process. There will be ups and downs, days when you feel you have taken a faithful leap of progression and other days when you feel you may have taken a few steps or even a mile backwards. The most important lesson to be obtained.....be determined to never give up, never quit the path you've been allowed to walk! Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

POWER & STRENGTH IN THE LORD!

2010-04-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

"I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me." Philippians 4:13 What is the true meaning of this verse and what benefits can it bring to us if we remind ourselves of Gods' strength daily? The word of God is filled with encouragement that gives strength and power to all who believe and receive it! Satan fights against us by attacking our mind, but if one fills their mind with scriptures of God given hope, strength and power the devil is powerless in his efforts to make us feel inadequate and defeated. These thoughts and feelings are directly from the enemy to keep us bound and unable to be a productive vessel for the Lord. Paul was explaining in this passage that he knew God could change his circumstances. Often though, it is us that God desires to change rather than the circumstance. God wants to remove all doubt and fear from us, he does this by changing the way we think and react to situations in our lives. Molding us into His likeness, giving us confidence and teaching us to depend on Him for answers. Once we acknowledge Him all we do and through every circumstance we can have assured peace that the Lord will give us strength to see us through! We are totally inadequate by ourselves, but through the Lord we are made adequate enough to conquer and accomplish what we set out to do. John 15:4-5 “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me." 5 “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing." The Lord empowers us to do His will and what ever purpose and plan He has for us to fulfill! I am so thankful for a life filled with victory, He is limitless and we are more than conquerors through Him! "No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us." Romans 8:37 NLT

HE IS RISEN AND ALIVE!

2010-04-02T20:52:00.000-07:00

A man was walking down a street when he noticed in a store window a beautiful
painting of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. He stood there gazing at the picture for the longest than
realized that a little boy was standing beside him. He patted the little boy on the head and said, "Son, what
does that mean?" The little boy said, "Doncha know? That there man is Jesus, an' the woman that's crying
is His mother, an' them others is Roman soldiers. They killed Him." The man smiled and then started walking
away. In a few moments he heard someone running, turned and saw that it was the little boy. He came
running up to the man, out of breath, and said, "Mister, mister, I forgot to tell you that he didn't
stay dead."
2 Timothy 2:8, "Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according
to my gospel."

Isn't it awesome to know that our God is ALIVE! Death couldn't even conquer our Savior!

The Resurrection:

Mark 16
1When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. 2Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” 4But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6“Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’” 8Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid. 9When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. 10She went and told those who had been with him and who were mourning and weeping. 11When they heard that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it. 12Afterward Jesus appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking in the country. 13These returned and reported it to the rest; but they did not believe them either. 14Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen. 15He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. 16Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” 19After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. 20Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.
God's word makes it very clear the certainty of Jesus' resurrection. The angel was given a mission to roll the stone from the tomb not to let Christ out but this act was done to allow His followers in to see He was risen and alive. Jesus had told His desciples that He would die on the cross but would surely rise again. Even though the Lord had prepared them for this, they still didn't totally understand it until they witnessed this awesome confirmation. Remember they fled the tomb quickly, trembling and amazed! 1Timothy 4:10 "and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe." Jeremiah 10:10 But the LORD is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting king: at his wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide his indignation. Praise the Lord, aren't you too thankful to know the Lord, and know He is real and alive today! What a blessing it is to feel His prescence within us, leading and guiding us through our lives. His loving kindness never fails us and without Him we surely would be lost forever. But we shall inherit the most outstanding reward in the end, we will spend an eternity with Him in Heaven. Such greatness our future's hold in Him!

REMEMBERED AS A LIFE DEVOTED TO CHRIST!

2010-03-20T21:59:00.000-07:00

A Woman Anoints Jesus with Perfume

MATTHEW 26:6-13 (NLT)
Meanwhile, Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon, a man who had leprosy. During supper, a woman came in with a beautiful jar of expensive perfume, and poured it over his head. The disciples were indignant when they saw this. "What a waste of money," they said. "She could have sold it for a fortune and given the money to the poor."
But Jesus replied, "Why berate her for doing such a good thing to me? You will always have the poor among you, but I will not be here with you much longer. She has poured this perfume on me to prepare my body for burial. I assure you, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman's deed will be talked about in her memory."
Mary of Bethany demonstrated her understanding of what was about to take place with Jesus. She probably understood this better than the disciples themselves at that moment, after all they were offended by this wasteful act. In reality she was giving to him her most precious earthy valuable as her gift fit only for a King! In those days expensive perfume would cost approximately one years earnings. Jesus excepted her gift, her gift was set apart from others, distinguished, and done out of honor and love. Our good works towards others do not go unnoticed by Christ. In fact the good works we do through the love of Christ should set us apart in a way that exemplifies Christ like character and glorifies Him. Just as Jesus assuredly wanted this woman remembered for her good deed, so will we also be remembered for our deeds or works and the love and compassion we've shown to those around us! Titus 3:8-11 "This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profetable to men. But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
Titus 2:11-14

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

THE HOUSE I'VE BUILT THROUGH HIM!

2010-03-11T20:42:00.000-08:00

The home should provide more than a safe haven for the ones who reside with in it. It should provide living examples of true Christianity. The dwellers within our home are not perfect but we are blessed and striving daily to be more and more like Christ! It is a parents responsibility and honor to raise their children up in the will of the Lord! "Train a child up in the way he should go; and even when he is old he shall not depart from it."(Proverbs 22:6) Teaching them from an early age to talk to God about everything. One example of this I have incorporated into our daily routine, my older daughters are now driving and before either of them leave home we hold hands and pray God keeps them safe by placing a hedge of protection over them and gives them the strength to do His will in all they do. One of the difficulties of parenting is the reality that you can't protect your children from every harmful circumstance they may encounter. We have to put our trust in the one who controls all and know that He is our Provider and Protector, and He desires for us to put our trust in Him. He has never failed us nor forgotten us, scripture reminds us of this in Joshua 1:5 "There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." It's important that we teach children to rely on Christ and to put their trust in Him. The most effective way for them to grasp the true importance and meaning of this is to lead by example. Praying and reading the word together as a family is very beneficial because it strengthens the family and creates a supernatural bond given by the Lord!
Psalm 127:1 "Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain."
For I have chosen him, that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice, so that the Lord may bring to Abraham what he has promised him.”(Genesis 18:19)
"Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”(Matthew 18:19-20)
As a wife and mother, over the years I have worked fervently, taking on the holy task to build a house that would honor the Lord. Laying a foundation that I have built within my children based on the solid truth of God's word. So my children will also become builders of their own homes, sowing seeds for generations to come! God bless!

THE DIFFERENCE IN ME!

2010-03-06T19:37:00.000-08:00

Just what privelages have we inherited as children of the most high, the king of kings, our Christ in majesty and ruler over our universe? The Bible teaches that the wisdom of the Lord is far better than fine rubies or all the riches of this earth. We have a uniqueness in Him, for we are called to be a peculiar people. I want others to see and know the difference the Lord has made in me!
"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;" (1 Peter 2:9).
We must embrace the difference Jesus has made in each of our lives, because of this difference we are changed and made new. Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." I want to tell the world all that the Lord has done for me, His mercy and goodness is greater than anything I could ever hope for or imagine for myself. I am not worthy but am eternally grateful for the Lord, He has given me attributes that represent Him, and I desire more than anything to spend my life pleasing and representing Him well. "And that ye may put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean;" (Leviticus 10:10). This difference was in no way intended to give us a haughty attitude but a difference in spirit that shows characteristics and likeness of God. Sharing God's love to everyone in hope that they too will find the same truth and mercy in Him that we have found. "And of some have compassion, making a difference: (Jude 1:22). "But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth." Psalm 86:15 Forever be blessed and remember the One who is the provider of such blessings! To Him we give all our praise and we worship Him with our whole heart all the days of our lives! Psalm 30:12 "To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever."

KEEPING THE FAITH TO FINISH THE RACE!

2010-03-03T22:59:00.000-08:00

"I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all." Ecclesiastes 9:11
Ok....I have to admit when I seen this picture all I could think was "racers start you engines"! It reminded me of how energized and driven with excitement we all are when we first become saved. Don't you remember the excitement you felt when you first were baptised in His name, or the first time you received the holy ghost? It's an overwhelming feeling of joy and peace that only comes from the Lord, and once you've received His spirit you want nothing more than to share it with the world. Where once doubt and confusion layed you are filled with new hope, certainty and enlightened with a new planned path! You feel as though the only way to exclaim such fulfillment would be to shout it from a mountain top! It is imparative to our spiritual walk that we keep that momentum and drive along with a steady pace as the Lord directs us along our path!
Well as I layed in bed tonight my mind kept pondering how and when the Lord inspired me to create "Women of Praise", and the many topics and devotions that we've endeavored over the past year. At first I had created a blog where I could journal life with my kids and share photos with all my family and friends, great idea right! Well the Lord spoke to me after creating this family photo blog, and told me I was to use my blog for Him! My first response was there had to be a mistake, "me Lord"??? Surely I misinterpreted what the Lord had asked of me, who would want to read anything I wrote? Quickly the Lord reminded me this was not my blog but His, and my place in this was to be a willing and obedient vessel! "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." Proverbs 16:3 The success has been completely dependant on the Lord, I have prayed much through this year for His guidance and annointing. He has faithfully revealed to me in scripture and in spirit what was to be written in this blog, and I am thankful to be used by Him. I had planned to blog again on the 27th of this month which will mark the one year anniversary of "Women of Praise", but the Lord lovingly impressed me to get out of bed and write tonight! Over the course of a year we have induldged in a list of topics such as: grace, faith, hope, unfailing love, unmeasurable mercy, godly character and spiritual warfare to name a few. This spiritual race is not ending but continuing on until we reach that finish line that lies ahead! I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 2 Timothy 4:7 It is so important that we finish the race the Lord has set before us, this race against time. This is not a time to give up, this is a time to encourage and be encouraged! "So remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent. Therefore if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you." Revelations 3:3 God never promised us our time here on earth would be easy, but He did promise an escape from our troubles through Him. "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present your faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy" (Jude v 24). "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures" (I Corinthians 15:3,4). He will always deliver, and His promises are never broken. He has promised a life of eternity and blessings for His people, so hold on, be strong and keep the faith until we finish this race! "Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand"(Revelation 1:3).

GREAT HOPE!

2010-02-24T17:53:00.000-08:00

"My God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all I can ask or think."
Ephesians 3:20
When I was pregnant with my son I spent nearly three months of my pregnancy on complete bed rest. In fact I had already went into premature labor once and the hope was to delay the delivery of my baby until I was at least 36 weeks. Even though my time spent in bed seemed as though it would never end, I knew deep down that eventually this time would pass. Soon I would endeavor into the new welcoming of my beautiful and much prayed for son! The Bible tells us "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." Ecclesiastes 3:1
Many times we are faced with struggles in life that teaches us how to be more patient and understanding. God helps us to work through these situations with hope that there is an end to our circumstance or trial. For He is the only one who can change circumstances and deliver us from trials anyway! These times teach us to depend less on ourselves and more on Him. We learn the meaning of faith and what it means to be faithful. He is always faithful and on time, He is the way the truth and the light. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 14:6
There is great hope in Him!

Just a little LOVE testimony!

2010-02-14T20:00:00.000-08:00

Well it's Valentines Day, so I thought I would take time to testify about what the Lord's done for me! The Lord has been so faithful, and I can honestly say He has given me everything I prayed for in a husband! He is the man I plan to spend the rest of my life with, he is my best friend. He is a God fearing man, a man that respects, and prays with me. My husband loves me whole heartily, and I am very thankful for him. We have spent a little over ten years together, and I can honestly say I love him more and more with each passing day! God has truly given me my hearts desire, and the love we share together is greater than anything I could have ever imagined or hoped for. There is no doubt in my mind how much he loves me, my happiness is so important to him, he is considerate and sincere. He works incredibly hard for his family, he is such an awesome father to his children and would do anything to protect his family. Our four beautiful children complete our God given family! I do not deserve the goodness of the Lord or His blessings, but I am eternally grateful. I know that all my blessings come from Him, I pray we never stray from His will. With the Lord guiding our love and lives, we will conquer all! Although our marriage is not perfect, every relationship has it's issues that must be worked through. But if I were to lead my marriage by my own standards and expectations, our marriage and family would be destined for failure. The word clearly reveals great promise and rewards to those who diligently seek and serve Him. If we hold on to His promises and continue to acknowledge Him in all we do, the Lord will continue to bless the life we have built together! I am so thankful for the commitment, love and unity in our marriage!

I WILL SING OF YOUR MERCY FOREVER!

2010-02-14T19:10:00.000-08:00

"I will sing of the mercies of the LORD forever; With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations." PSALM 89:1
His love is everlasting, unchanging, and endures all things! In adversity He is our strength, our rock, He is our unshakable strong tower to cling to. His goodness does not waver, He does not favor one above another. He is just in all his glory and majesty! He is the giver of our hearts desires! Just as the blood was applied to the lintel of the doorposts, His protection still today leaves us completely covered! There is solid truth in His word that we can claim and surrender to. He will openly reward us with guaranteed promise and blessings! Renew yourself in Him today, for He is the light in the midst of darkness.
Lord, we pray you open our eyes so we may see more clearly your ways, open our ears so we can hear you speak more clearly. Give us the strength to endure, the faith to trust you, and peace that passes all understanding. Help us to work diligently, keeping busy with work that edifies and builds your kingdom, help us to worry for nothing, and praise you for everything! In Jesus name, Amen!

LORD, HELP ME TO ENCOURAGE RATHER THAN ENABLE!

2010-02-04T10:16:00.000-08:00

Whatever God asks you to be, He enables you to be! ~Ann Ortlund
The dictionary defines the term enable as :to make able; give power, means, competence, or ability to; authorize. Through the will and power of God, He makes the impossible.......possible! Mark 10:27 But Jesus looked at them and said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible." If we are not careful we can become enablers to those around us. Too often we approach a person and their problem as a "problem solver", some thrive on this seemingly need of codependency for a feeling of self worth. The "I can save them if I fix their problem" approach will never work, this mentality will only make things worse. We are not saviors, Jesus Christ is the one and only Savior, He alone saves! It's hard sometimes drawing a line between being there for someone who is going through a difficult time or being the type of person who is enabling someone from taking responsibility for their own actions and behavior. The way we handle our relationships with others shows much about our walk with God. So how does God expect His people to help others with their problems? Romans 14:12-13 "So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause of fall in our brothers way." So back to the question, God expects His people to give truth to our brother and allow him to make his own decision. Whether or not one chooses to act on the truth he has been given is up to the individual! Sometimes we fear our loved one is incapable to work our their problems in the right way, so it is especially hard to let go. We must know our place with God, understanding that our value does not depend on what we attempt to do for others, but we are valued because of who He is and we are in Him! Ephesians 1:17-19 "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know that is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of His glory His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power." WE SHOULD NEVER GIVE ANYONE A FALSE SENSE OF HOPE OR SECURITY THROUGH OUR OWN WORDS OR VAIN SOLUTIONS TO THEIR PROBLEMS. WE SHOULD GUIDE THEM THROUGH SCRIPTURES SO THEY MAY FIND THE ANSWERS THEY ARE SEEKING THROUGH THE TRUTH IN HIS HOLY WORD! We should pray for spiritual wisdom so we can lend help through Scripture, we must spend time in intercessory prayer for our friend or loved one, fasting during a time of need gives added strength and encouragement as well! Being a loving friend who listens and encourages is far more beneficial than one who enables one to change on their own. We can be such a great witness for the Lord by exemplifying our dependence on Him. God comes to those and works miracles for all who seek Him!

HONESTY AND AN ATTITUDE OF PEACE WILL BE OF GREAT REWARD IN THE END!

2010-01-26T17:30:00.000-08:00

“Integrity is telling myself the truth. And honesty is telling the truth to other people.”~Spenser Johnson
The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines the term honesty as; a : fairness and straightforwardness of conduct b : adherence to the facts : sincerity
So what keeps a person from revealing their conduct or character honestly? Many times it's the humiliation of sin that causes a person to disclose certain aspects of their character, perhaps it is from fear of condemnation or rejection from others. The Bible speaks of humility as an humbling experience; "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves "(Philippians 2:3). God knows our faults and there is nothing we can do to hide ourselves from Him, He also reminds us in scripture whatsoever we do in secret He will bring out into the open. When there is contention caused by someone wronging us through their words or actions, one can be more accepting of that person and maintain an amount of respect for a person that was willing to admit their faults and level with you honestly. Being a christian is not a road occupied by people who walk in perfection without mistakes, this is a skewed mentality. Hopefully as Christians we can honestly and boldly go before the Lord with an open heart and mind and privately confess our sins before God asking for His forgiveness. The Bible tells us repentance is necessary for forgiveness, but it is imperative that we also seek the Lord's help in the area's we fail. We must be honest with ourselves and those around us. If we have done wrong toward our brother or sister in the Lord, we have a responsibility to go to that person and honestly level with them your feelings. Sometimes we sweep our issues under the rug per say to avoid confrontation, this only causes the issues to build and inevitable there will be an explosion. That was why the Lord instructed us to go to whom ever we have offended and confess our wrong and ask them to forgive us. One of the hardest things to except from a person is dishonesty. Dishonesty destroys credibility, respect, trust, which destroys relationships and places a wall between us and God! Making deceitful vein excuses out of selfish or conceited ambition when wrong only causes war instead of peace! "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you"(Ephesians 4:31-32). HONESTY AND AN ATTITUDE OF PEACE WILL BE OF GREAT REWARD IN THE END! "Although I am less than the least of all of God’s people, this grace was given to me: to preach to the gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ "(Ephesians 3:8). "I am not in the least inferior to the "super-apostles," even though I am nothing "(2 Corinthians 12:11). My Pastor tells us when we mess up we should fess up, we must take responsibility for our own actions and discontinue the blame game on circumstances or other people. When we are wrong we should admit it. The mistakes we make do not necessarily define us, what defines us is how we handle ourselves when we make our mistakes. This show of character is what we will be remembered for. Showing godly attributes of our character that involves, humility, honesty, and a repented heart will only strengthen our relationship with God and the relationships we have with others. This creates mutual peace and understanding between God's people! I am a christian- one who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ! Although, I am not perfect nor will I ever be, I will always strife to do my best and to be like Christ!
Always keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked. – 1 Timothy 1:19 NLT
Good people are guided by their honesty; treacherous people are destroyed by their dishonesty. – Proverbs 11:3 NLT

LET'S MAKE THE DEVIL MAD!

2010-01-22T08:56:00.000-08:00

"Be sober, be watchful: your adversary, the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (I Pet. 5:8)
We should never compromise our time with the devil. Our time is valuable and should be used wisely. James 4:14 "Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away." We make the devil angry when we spend our time fulfilling the Lord's purpose for us, we do this by building the Lord's heavenly kingdom! When we build God's kingdom we are in return tearing down the enemy's. We read in 2 Tim. 4:18 "At the end of our earthly sojourn, we will have cause for great joy if Satan loses in his quest for our soul and heaven becomes our eternal abode." We defeat the devil every time we take authority over our lives through the power of the Holy Ghost! "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life . . . And they overcame him because of the blood of the lamb . . . Blessed are they that wash their robes, that they may have the right to come to the tree of life, and may enter in by the gates into the city" (Rev. 2:10; 12:11; 22:14) This is a promise from the Lord giving to His children!
Our lives and households should be built upon the commandments and principles of God! Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it" (Psa. 127:1) We will be blessed with the fruit of our labor! My children are the fruit of my labor, and the Lord has been faithful! One of my greatest blessings from the Lord, has been my ability to raise my children in His will. Putting God first and all else behind me has produced holy God fearing children who love the Lord with all their hearts, not to mention protection from anything wicked that seeked out to devour them! Praise the Lord, there are great benefits that come from serving the Lord! I know as long as they never stray from the Lord, the devil can't seize and opportunity to destroy them. Although I am not perfect, I will never quit striving for perfection in my walk with God! It is imperative we take authority over our house holds and refuse the devil an inch of room to dwell within it. Worldly views and standards will never measure up to the Lord's. A life with out God will only produce confusion, troubled hearts and minds, spirits of wickedness, and contention. No one finds comfort nor a resting place from trouble while not serving the Lord."O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together" (Psa. 34:3).
The more we do for the Lord, the more the devil will rage against us, doing what ever he can to hinder, discourage or tear us down, and yes he will use anyone who will allow him to carry out his empty, and powerless plans against a child of God. Again comes promise from the Lord; Job 5:12 "He disappointeth the devices of the crafty, so that their hands cannot perform their enterprise." The devil is powerless to a saint of God, His word sheds light in darkness, and gives us divine direction and descernment. If satan is really coming at you from every end, you should rejoice, because you are filling your days with ways that acknowledge and please the Lord!"Walking Worthily of the Lord to Please Him in all Respects"(Col. 1:10a) There is no greater accomplishment than witnessing a soul being saved! What a blessing to know you encouraged that soul and contributed to them knowing the Lord so they may reap an abundance of grace and an eternity with the Lord!

BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT!

2010-01-10T21:11:00.000-08:00

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4

As Christians we have a duty to encourage the saints of God,in many ways we are responsible one for another. While being and encouragement and lifting one another up we are giving glory and honor to God. We are more likely to leave an impact on someones life by showing them compassion, acceptance and love rather than belitteling them or making them feel unworthy of His prescence. This is a dangerous place to be in. The Bible tells us to "let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen".(Ephesians 4:29) As quickly as you can encourage, you can discourage someone in their walk with God. It is important that we not take this lightly. I believe God wants us to use wisdom when we speak, meaning your opinion is not always necessary to state. "Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification" (Romans 14:19). If an opinion is offensive or causes a spirit of strife of conflict them we should hold our tongue. Some times if we have an out spoken personality and we are known for voicing our opinions, we can use this as an excuse to disregard sensitivity of others feelings. Remember the Bible tells us if we offend a child of His, He would rather we have a mill stone tied around our necks and be cast into the sea! Well I think we are all aware of the size of a mill stone. This scripture reaffirms to me how strongly the Lord feels when a child of His is offended by another. One of the greatest attributes of a Christian is knowing when to speak and when not to speak! This takes constant prayer and binding of the tongue. "The tongue has the power of life and death" (Proverbs 18:21). I want to go before the Lord knowing that I have not knowingly set out to offend my brother with my words, but to lift and encourage my brother in their time of need. Our words are a testimony of the change God has made within us! Showing all the difference the Lord has made within us and being thankful for that great change; "be conformed to the likeness of his Son" (Romans 8:29). We should surround ourselves with godly company, because this could only benefit us and our walk with God! Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:25). We should be encouraged by those that serve the Lord, and live by His ways. We should avoid those who stir up strife and who live a life of rebellion seeking after their own ways instead of the ways of God. I have learned this can be very dangerous for a Christan, we must separate ourselves from the world. We should love the lost with the love of Christ, we should not conform to their ways but encourage them to conform to His ways! There is a saying that I live by and have found to be very true, "you are as good as the company you keep". Most people tend to develop relationships based on their common interest. If you spend the majority of your time with a person who likes to gossip and is known for their gossiping nature, more than likely people will assume you must have the same gossiping spirit as the friend you spend so much time associating with. We must be careful that we surround ourselves with loving friends who bring out the best in us and in return we should seek to bring out the best in them! We must preserve a reputation of godliness, because we will be judged according to how we represent the Lord. The Lord has called us out amoung the world to give light through His word to all who are lost and in darkness! Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if any-thing is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things (Philippians 4:8).

Let us pray throughout our days for an attitude that is pleasing to God and a blessing to those around us!

THANK YOU LORD FOR BEING A FAITHFUL HEALER!

2010-01-03T20:27:00.000-08:00

Hebrews 11:6 "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."
I am so thankful for the Lord and all his goodness and mercy. My son has been sick for the past few days with fever and a severe cough. He has been using an inhaler or ventilator to help him breath because the smallest cold seems to cause him severe wheezing and bronchial trouble. So like most Christian mom's I have spent the last few days in constant prayer over my little one. Well, tonight has been extremely difficult and as I was giving him the breathing treatment, Tylenol, saline for the nose, Baby Vapor Rub on the chest, I found myself in desperate need for reinforcement! I know who to call on when I'm in trouble or in need! As I started praying over my baby I was reminded of Mark 10:16 when Jesus took the little children in His arms and laid His hands on them and blessed them. So I did like Jesus did and laid my hand upon my baby and asked Jesus to wrap my baby in His arms and touch Him with His hand and heal my baby tonight! After just a few minutes into prayer I felt sickness lift from him, as I was praying I could actually envision it as if my eyes were open and I was seeing if lift off his little body and leave him. The presence of God filled the room and His spirit fell upon me and my child. “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you” (Acts 1:8). “...Like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). When I opened my eyes and looked down at my beautiful baby and there he is just sleeping peacefully! God gave my inconsolable baby who was in a great deal of pain and discomfort rest and healed him instantly while his mother prayed for him. Not because of who his mother is, but because of what HE is! Jesus is my healer, comforter, peace in a storm, my refuge and strength, He is my love, my everything!
Lord,
I am so thankful to know you, and of your goodness and mercy! I love you because you first loved me! I am so thankful for the gift you've given me in my little William, and I am thankful you took him tonight in your loving arms and laid your hand upon him. Thank you in advance for the continued healing you are doing throughout his little body! I love you and please Lord help me to never forget tonight and what can be accomplished through you, hallelujah! In Jesus name, Amen!

GOD'S UNLIMITED PROTECTION!

2009-12-27T20:37:00.000-08:00

In Genesis 32 we read of Jacob's experience with God's angels. Genesis 32:1 "And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him. 2 And when Jacob saw them, he said, This is God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim." Mahanaim translated means "God's camp"! God had sent a host of angels to protect Jacob throughout his journey. The Lord so graciously allowed these Angels to visibly appear before Jacob so he would be encouraged by the assurance of God's presence and protection! From Laban to Canaan, God's protection over Jacob never ceased! That same presence and protection given to Jacob we inhabit to day. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. God's love and word never changes or fails. His word is the only sure substance given to man that is infallible. He places hosts of angels around us to protect us, comfort us, and encourage us! God's people are sent through trials, but their is never a trial greater than the comfort that comes from our Comforter! He always brings us through our trials safely, stronger and wiser. Psalm 61:7 "May he be enthroned in God's presence forever; appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him." There is nothing or no one we should ever fear, because scripture plainly reveals the truth of His word. Romans 8:28-31 "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He alos justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" Those that come against God's chosen people shall not prosper. All we have to do is call on His name and He will come to us. He promises that you will find Him... if you seek after Him with your whole heart (Jer. 29:11-13).
Remember He hears our faintest cries, and answers the prayers of the righteous! God has authority, power and dominion over our circumstance! God's grace, mercy, love and goodness is limitless!

LET ALL WITHIN US PRAISE HIS HOLY NAME!

2009-12-21T12:31:00.000-08:00

The Birth of Jesus
(Matthew 1:18-19) The birth of Jesus took place like this. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. Before they came to the marriage bed, Joseph discovered she was pregnant. (It was by the Holy Spirit, but he didn't know that.) Joseph, chagrined but noble, determined to take care of things quietly so Mary would not be disgraced.
20-23 While he was trying to figure a way out, he had a dream. God's angel spoke in the dream: "Joseph, son of David, don't hesitate to get married. Mary's pregnancy is Spirit-conceived. God's Holy Spirit has made her pregnant. She will bring a son to birth, and when she does, you, Joseph, will name him Jesus—'God saves'—because he will save his people from their sins." This would bring the prophet's embryonic sermon to full term:

Watch for this—a virgin will get pregnant and bear a son;
They will name him Immanuel (Hebrew for "God is with us")

A group of scholars asking about Jerusalem, "where can they find the newborn king?" They had observed a star in the eastern sky that signaled his birth, while in search for Him. (10)Instructed by the king, they set off. Then the star appeared again, the same star they had seen in the eastern skies. It led them on until it hovered over the place of the child. They could hardly contain themselves: They were in the right place! They had arrived at the right time!

(11)They entered the house and saw the child in the arms of Mary, his mother. Overcome, they kneeled and worshiped him. Then they opened their luggage and presented gifts: gold, frankincense, myrrh.

Christ/Messiah as "the Word made Flesh"

LET ALL WITHIN US PRAISE HIS HOLY NAME!

Church Choir Wins National Ttile | FOX 5 Atlanta | myfoxatlanta.com

2009-12-14T08:23:00.000-08:00

Church Choir Wins National Ttile | FOX 5 Atlanta | myfoxatlanta.com visit link!!
So proud of our Church Choir! They represent the Lord well!!!
John 8:12
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

John 14:17
Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

Deuteronomy 14:2
For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.

GOD PLANS WITH PURPOSE!

2009-12-09T11:52:00.000-08:00

Ecclesiastes 3:1
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
Christmas is the time of year that God reminds me of His goodness and mercy. All that He has prepared me for in my life. You know, it is quite remarkable to think of the way the Lord orders our steps throughout our lives. He plans our future in a way that will glorify Him. When I think about what the Lord has done for me and spared me from, I am eternally grateful and can't help but to feel the overwhelming love of Jesus. He loved me that much!!! This is how my past unfolded to my present and I know God is not through yet! I am anxiously anticipating my future with Him!

When I was twelve years old I seeked God for the Holy Ghost...God delivered and filled me with His spirit! I was also baptized soon after in the one and only name of our Savior, Jesus Christ! Just two years later, after an awesome district youth camp meeting that to this day I'll never forget, God spoke to me and told me He wanted me to start a children's choir at my church. I later spoke to my Mom about what the Lord had laid on my heart to do but told her I was embarrassed to ask my pastor for such a position considering I was only fourteen years old at the time. My Mother lovingly told me to pray and seek God and if it was God's will, doors would open and it would come to pass. Later after much prayer I spoke with my pastor and he gave me a couple of weeks to organize a group of children at the church to sing during a Sunday morning service. He told me we would see then if this is something we would continue. Well....I ended up leading that children's choir for seven years. During those years God blessed me and taught me so much about perseverance and prayer. God allowed me to pray with many children over the years while He filled them with the Holy Ghost. Those memories are some of the most precious gifts God has ever given to me, just allowing me to witness Him moving in their little lives was an awesome experience I'll never forget. What I did not know was all though in my mind I was leading children in song and worship, God was preparing me for another ministry that would soon unfold in my life. Soon after the age of twenty I began visiting the church I currently belong to now where I also met my husband. My husband was a single father of two little girls when we met. God knew my future before I did, we tend to think we are in control of our own lives but there is one much greater than us who is in control of all. My faith in God grew, along with my love for Him. My husband and I were married just a couple years after we dated I then became a wife and instant Mother! This was incredibly terrifying for me being so young and not knowing how to mother two children. I became overwhelmed with thoughts that flooded my mind, "did I do the right thing", "what if I fail", etc,etc. The Lord in His on time way always intervened and lovingly guided me through every step of the way. One day the girls and I were driving home from my Moms house and one of the girls looked up at me and said, "Mom are you glad you married Dad even though you now have us?" At first I remember thinking, Lord how do I respond in a way you would have me to? I was so thankful for them but God has always showed me that my children are not my husbands, they are not mine they are His. I want to teach my children in a way that is pleasing to the Lord, not my way but His. Then God revealed Himself to me right there in that car, He reminded me of all those years I taught those children in that choir. And how they were the same ages of the little girls in my backseat that I was now a mother too. God took over my mouth at that very moment, and I told her that God has a purpose and plan for everything in our lives. I told them about that children's choir, and how God had taught me to pray with those children, and how to love, lead and guide them in His ways. He taught me that I was a huge influence in their lives and that I would be accountable for the the way I represented Him. I told her that God had taught me and prepared me all those years for her and her sister. He knew that one day I would be praying for them and leading them in His ways. My time with those children in my choir was part of His plan but her and her sister were His purpose for that plan! To this day I will never forget how God revealed Himself to me and explained His purpose to each of us in that very moment! He revealed the truth of His miracle!
Our third child my husband and I prayed for and once again God delivered. He gave us a beautiful, healthy baby girl. I know God has great things in store for her life, he filled her with the Holy Ghost at the early age of four years old, she was baptized soon after! After our daughter I became pregnant again just two and a half years later, but had complications and our son was still born. God used that time to minister to me greater than He ever had before. He gave me so much strength, and the experience taught me to lean on Him for understanding. I believe I prayed like Job possibly prayed to the Lord, I prayed with desperation, but my love for God never wavered. Not because I am something great but because I knew God was the only comforter I needed to get me through! My pastor said once in a sermon that God knows whats best for you and only wants the best for you. Those words I clung to through that time in my life and God proved His unfailing love through it all. I delivered my baby on December 30th of 2005 and almost two years later I delivered our very healthy son Will on December 31st of 2007. He is our miracle and testimony of what God can do! I have felt from the moment I conceived my son Will that He was going to be born not just for my own pleasure but that God had big plans for Him with great purpose! I know Jesus is the reason for all things good, and pray that all my four children continually draw close to Him all the days of their lives. I pray that they listen and are obedient to the Lord, I pray they put their trust in Him and depend on Him for answers and understanding! I love them more than words can express and am thankful for the benefits that come with serving the Lord fervently! God has a plan and purpose for each of them, it doesn't stop with me and I am so thankful for the miracles and blessings to come! Jesus was sent here on earth to fulfill a purpose! He was born on earth for the purpose of dying on the cross so that we could be forgiven for our sins. There was a plan for Jesus that He had to fulfill, more importantly was the purpose for that plan. I am so thankful for the love of Christ in my life, for His guidance, and His plan for my present and future! Jesus is the miracle in my life, without Him the blessings in my life would not exist! !

LOVE GOD FIRST, THEN LOVE YOU!

2009-12-02T11:32:00.000-08:00

God desires for us to love Him first but to also love ourselves. I do not believe one can model their behavior after Christ if they do not love his most prized possession, you! God loves you and wants you to love yourself. Not with a spirit of vanity or haughtiness, but loving and respecting yourself the way God intends for you to. If you feel guilt ridden and bound by feelings of worthlessness, what can you accomplish for the Lord in that mind set? Very little!!! When we first come to God we do so with a spirit of acceptance. We must first accept the fact that we need God in our lives. Without this vital step we surely would be lost for ever. What good would repentance be without the acknowledgement that one needs to be forgiven? Leviticus 19:18 “Never seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone, but love your neighbor as yourself." Holding a grudge against someone only allows a spirit of grudge to take hold of you! If your angry with yourself, you will be angry toward others! If your unwilling to forgive yourself, you will be unwilling to forgive others. One who is critical of others normally is quite critical of them self. If you love God first, then yourself, you will transition that same love towards others. Satan is a liar...he wants to feel our minds with thoughts of worthlessness, shame, and guilt. Holding to something in your past that makes you feel condemned. God did not come to condemn the world but to save it. It has been said that 75% of people who are mentally disturbed would be diagnosed as mentally stable if they could only be convinced that they are forgiven. When God forgives us, He really does just that...HE FORGIVES! Why is that so hard for us to sometimes grasp? Repentance is a changed heart and mind that in return changes us entirely! While praising God, He gives confidence. Through faith in God we become strong. Through Him we gain patience, through Him we obtain wisdom and understanding. Through His love and acceptance we are able to love and accept ourselves and others around us as well!
"I trust in God's unfailing love forever and ever" Psalm 52:8
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" Romans 8:38-39
"But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Him even when we were dead in transgressions and sins-it is by grace and mercy you have been saved" Ephesians 5:4-5
"This is love: not that we love God, but that He first love us, and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins" 1 John 4:10
"God is love" 1 John 4:16
These are God given attributes that make you a better you!Let's thank Him and praise Him for who we are through Him!

BUILT ON ROCK OR SAND?

2009-11-17T09:19:00.000-08:00

Mat 7:24-27 (NIV) "Therefore everyone who hears these words of
mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his
house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the
winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because
it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these
words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish
man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams
rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with
a great crash."
God has expectations for all of us! Those expectations are not defined by a particular organization we belong to but by faithfully serving Him through obedience to His word. If the word says it, I believe God expects for us to put His word into action, through faith and obedience. Romans 2:13(For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.) We should all pray for a spirit of acceptance! Proverbs 15:32 "He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding."
In order to obtain a walk with God that contains any amount of substance we must become grounded first. We do this by planting our foundation on a firm ground and not on sinking sand. If our foundation is not built on the unshakable truth found in the word of God we can not withstand the storms that prevail against us.
Psalm 33:4 "For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth." Jesus is the "Rock" in which our foundation is built upon. Deepening our relationship with Him will strengthen us and make our relationship solid and unshakable. Psalm 62:7 In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.
Not only do we seek salvation through baptism in Jesus name and the infilling of the spirit of the holy ghost, we also must seek a closeness with our Father that comes from a committed relationship with Him. Really connecting with Him in all we do and passionately serving Him and applying His will in your daily lives. Serving Him through moments of peace and through times of storms. We serve God by choice, God desires for us all to follow Him, but He will not force us. We must make a choice to allow God to transform us into who He would have us to be. We are not defined by who we know, how much money we have in our bank accounts or even our careers. We are defined by God, we are His children. There is no greater love that one can experience than the love of our heavenly Father. We shouldn't harbor the truth but share it with others as often as possible. Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
Worldly possessions mean very little in the scheme of things. We certainly can't take these treasures with us to Heaven. Our eternity with Jesus Christ is what matters most. Let's make everyday and experience with Him deeper and better than the one before. Let's stand firm and committed to His word and trust Him. Following after His ways steadfastly and assuredly. Nothing or no one can bring us the joy and riches He brings, He holds our future!
Lord,
Help me to draw closer to you each day I live. Help me to be what you would have me to be. You have a purpose for my life, please allow me to fulfill your purpose. I love you and desire to be more like you. I know with your help all things are possible! Help me to keep my trust in you and to never resist your direction for my life. Allow my walk with you to be infallible, please keep me in your perfect will always.
In Jesus Name, Amen!

LET'S GIVE THANKS!

2009-11-12T08:04:00.000-08:00

Let's Give Thanks
You can't help but to think about the goodness of God, it literally surrounds us! This is a time of year when many take time to be thankful for the blessings in their lives. They are just that, blessings! We have so much to be thankful for, our families, health, friendships, etc.... Truthfully each of us could think of many things we can be grateful for! Psalm 106:47 Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise. We know that the good things in our lives are blessings because the Lord reminds us of that in scripture. In Proverbs 28 scripture tells us "A faithful man shall abound with blessings". The most wonderful blessing any of us can obtain is a close relationship with the Lord. I am very thankful for my family, Pastor and church, but mostly I am thankful for the desire God placed in my heart years ago when I was a child to serve Him. Even more so I am thankful for the seed that was planted in my Mother when she was young by her Aunt, if her Aunt had not been faithful and planted the seed of the Lord, perhaps I would have not ever known the Lord today! It is so vital that we plant a seed of truth among whom ever we come in contact with so they also can reep blessings and salvation through Him. Giving thanks to the Father, Who has qualified and made us fit to share the portion which is the inheritance of the saints (God's holy people) in the Light.(Colossians1:12) Job, in the most trying of times, still gave thanks to God. Scripture time and time reveals that before a breakthrough there was thanks. Meaning people praised God and thanked Him in advance even in the midst of their adversity. When we praise God for the blessings in our lives we are acknowledging that He is the reason for them, and we give all are honor and glory to Him. "But you are holy, O you that inhabit the praises of Israel."(Psalm 22:3) God will manifest His power through praise and thanks. He demonstrated this many times in the Bible. Especially in Acts 10:46 "For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God." God then gave them powerful gifts; 1Corinthians 12:7-11 7Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,[a] and to still another the interpretation of tongues.[b] 11All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines. Gifts of power are given to each of us through the Spirit of the Holy Ghost! His power saves, delivers and heals!Acts 10:46 He is our Comforter, our Consolation, our Father, our Friend. We have so much to be thankful for, where would we be without Him?

HELP ME TO BE LIKE YOU!

2009-11-11T15:00:00.000-08:00

Like You

Lord help me to be in Your holy will;
Tell me what to do today;
Lead me in Your righteousness;
Make me more like You, I pray.

Guard me against this corrupting world,
Its perverted priorities, temptations, too.
Direct my mind toward Your commands,
So I can focus my life on You.

Fill my heart with Your light and love,
So I can assist those I see in need;
With You as my role model, let me be
Like You in thought and word and deed.

By Joanna Fuchs

SPIRITUAL WARFARE IN MARRIAGE!

2009-11-04T13:05:00.000-08:00

For days I have felt impressed in my spirit to write on the spiritual warfare's that are occurring in marriages. It seems that no matter which way you turn you hear of someone you know either having problems in their marriage or ending their marriage. This has become an epidemic in our society today. Now before I go any further I want to make clear I am in no way claiming to be an expert on marriage or to have a perfect marriage. I am however very thankful to the Lord for my marriage and family, I am blessed but am aware that Satan would love to destroy my family as much as any other godly home! What I have obtained is a marriage of nearly nine years through a series of many many lessons, with many more to come! Yet what ever devil that has came against my marriage I have always felt an enormous urgency to pray! Psalm 61:3 "For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy." Satan is raging against the unity in marriages. We must not allow ourselves to be caught off guard. 1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. Marriage is a blessing from God. Satan has been out to rob and steal our blessings from the beginning of man kind, this started with Adam and Eve. John 10:10 "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it more abundantly. Marriage is a holy and sacred gift from God, it brings a God given unity between man and woman. Genesis 2:24 "For this reason shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they shall be one flesh."
I recently read an article about a couple who's marital struggles were inevitably leading them straight for divorce. Spouts of uncompromising arguments were a daily affair. Still yet the two of them felt compelled to attend a church that they felt certain they were being led to. They went to the church and started attending Bible Studies there. The woman who helped lead Bible Studies at the church came to this young wife and told her that she had been praying for the couple and as she was praying God gave her a vision of a lion's head in their living room, roaring. Again remember this verse; 1 Peter 5:8 "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." She then told her Satan was trying to destroy her marriage. Instantly the young wife knew it was a message from God, and she called her husband to tell him what happened. The couple joined hands and took authority over their marriage and rebuked the spirit of Satan from their home. They continued to pray together daily for strength and protection over their marriage from that day forward. You see, Satan knew the plans for that young couple long before even they knew. The husband later on became Pastor of that church and the couple have done mighty things in their church and community with the help of the Lord. What better way to eliminate the sheep.....eliminate the Shepard!
We must be wise, prayerful and determined to love our spouses unconditionally without contention. This can be at times very difficult. The State Of Unions report projected that divorce is a growing trend. Even though we have had a slight decline in divorces since 2005, it is not at all due to divorce. In fact the decline has been due to more and more couples cohabiting instead of marrying. It is seemingly becoming more popular in today's society than to marry. Cohabiting couples are said to have twice the break up rate opposed to a married couple. God intended for couples who share intimacy to be married. Proverbs 18:22 Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD. 1Corinthians 7:8-9 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, it is good for them if they abide even as I, if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. As Christians we have to model our lives after the will of God. We do this through obedience to His word.
If we know of someone who is struggling in their marriage and family, our duty is to pray fervently for them. So often people are so quickly ready to give up or throw in the towel per say. Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. As Christians we must guard our precious gifts given to us by God. The accomplishments of a strong, holy marriage include filling Heaven with our children, and their children and whom ever they spread the word of God to and become saved. Our children will be living witnesses for Christ who are willing and ready to do a work for Him that will build the Kingdom of Heaven. Generations can be brought to God through the unity of a godly marriage and family. Their is much work to be done for the Lord, and God is coming back for His people soon. That is why the fight is greater now than ever before, Satan realizes he is running out of time! But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions... what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:10-17 NKJV)
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore,
◦having girded your waist with truth,
◦having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and
◦having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
◦above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
◦And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;
praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints — and for me... (Ephesians 6:10-20 NKJV)

HE LOVES US THIS MUCH!

2009-11-02T22:54:00.000-08:00

I found this poem online and it was so inspiring I had to share. It really describes the unfailing love Christ has for each of us!

I Love You This Much
by Tanya Staggs

You said, I love you this much, arms stretched out wide, with nails in Your hands and a wound in Your side.

Stripes of blood on Your body, thorns into Your head, You cried out to Your Father, and then you were dead.

I can scarce imagine the horrible suffering that loving me that much would to Your life bring.

You made the sacrifice so that I might be free, because of Your amazing unconditional love for me.

A love that flows freely, as Your blood did that day. And even when I falter, Your love is here to stay.

If only I could repay You for all that You went thru.

I guess the only way to do that is to live my life for You.

To live each day the best I can, be all I know I can be, and to show the love to others that You have shown to me.

SHED YOUR FEARS!

2009-10-22T17:21:00.001-07:00

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. ~ 2 Timothy 1:7

Fear is anxiously consuming! Most often we fear what we can't control such as rejection, sickness or disease and even death to name a few. We know scripture tells us to fear not! We tend to mishandle our lives when we rely on ourselves to control the direction of our future. We have to allow God take full control without resisting His will for us. Too many times God desires for us to move in one direction and we are determined to go in a direction that we have set for ourselves. This choice causes us to be lost and confused. God is not the author of confusion, and fear is not of God. Why....because fear is a trick that Satan uses to torment the mind, and if he can do this, we lose all joy and peace. Statistics have shown that in most cases fear never becomes reality. Fear gives us a false sense of hopelessness. Fear is a spirit that is from Satan, the author of lies. Satan uses that to rob us from the blessings and miracles that God intends for us to reap. The Bible says that "we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world...and against evil spirits in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 6:12 NLT). God says that Satan only comes to "steal, and to kill, and to destroy" (John 10:10). And that is the agenda for the Spirit of Fear!
The Bible tells us God is our Comforter, Our Resting Place, Our Peace Maker! God can not use us if we are bound by a spirit of fear. When faced with fear we must seek Him through prayer and God will come to us and deliver us."I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears."Psalm 34:4 I have always reminded my children when ever they had an unpleasant dream "to fear not for God is with them". Instilling in them that no matter what they face their is nothing that they have to fear, knowing God is with them. Through prayer we gain power and confidence to face and conquer our fears through the Spirit of God! Fear keeps us bound and unable to move forward, this is crippling for our spiritual walk with God. We need to cast out all spirits of fear and doubt and loose the spirit of faith, confidence and obedience upon each of our lives!
Fear Not, for I am with thee, and will bless thee, Ge 26:24
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world John 16:33 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and, going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase. Acts 9:31
Remember, Jesus performed a miracle with Peter! Peter was given the ability to walk on water with Jesus. And he did walk on water but as soon as Peter started recognizing his circumstances, and all that was against him, his heart filled with fear and he surely began to sink. "Come, he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus." Matthew 14:9 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Peter's miracle was cut short because he yielded to the spirit of fear instead of keeping his trust and faith on Jesus. Regardless how hopeless and grave the circumstances may present themselves in our lives, we can totally trust God to see us through and protect us against anything that wars or rages against us. I wonder how often we cut our miracles short by spending our time worrying over our circumstances instead of spending our time in prayer and reading the word. God will bless prayer and supplication but God will never bless fear and doubt. Shed your fears through the power of the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is your protection, strength and power to overcome!

2009-10-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 18:1-6 This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: 2“Go down to the potter’s house, and there I will give you my message.” 3So I went down to the potter’s house, and I saw him working at the wheel. 4But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him. 5Then the word of the Lord came to me: 6“O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does?” declares the Lord. “Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel.
People can make life very difficult at times. How often we who are marred by our imperfections must be made new. Just like the potter who made the pot of marred clay seen it unfit or unmanageable. So he started over and made a new and improved pot. But keep in mind he still used the same clay that was being used for the other pot. Same clay.....different pot! My point is this....God is our potter and we are His clay. And although at times we can become unmanageable of ourselves, if we give ourselves to Him, He can reform us and our lives into something quite beautiful! He doesn't throw us out as unusable, He molds us into an image that resembles Him! The potter had complete control over the clay and His uses for it. God has complete control over us and our lives. God has the ability and skill to change who we are and give us the capability to follow out His will for our lives. He gives us power and wisdom to carry out His plan for us. By faith and obedience God will preserve our lovely new creation, this is the keeping power of God. If we break, He will mend us, if we are lost, He will find us, if we seek Him, He rewards us, He is hope for the hopeless, and if you ask anything in His name, it will be given to you....
Isa 26: 3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isa 55: 6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

THE UNMEASURABLE MERCY AND LOVE OF GOD!

2009-10-09T07:27:00.000-07:00

Psalm 69:32 "The humble will see their God at work and be glad.Let all who seek God’s help be encouraged."
Being a christian does not eliminate you from making mistakes. Being a christian is recognizing your mistakes, going to God with a repented heart and turning away from the wrong you did. Being a christian is serving the Lord faithfully and whole heartily even though you've made mistakes. Sometimes we think that if we don't do everything perfectly that God will not hear, bless or love us. Or we feel we haven't quite measured up on the holy scale! None of this is true. We can never be holy enough in comparison to our Lord. Please show me a perfect person!! We are all unworthy of His grace and love. Romans 12:3 "For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith."
God knows we are flawed with imperfections, yet He loves us anyway! We all fall short of the glory of God, that is why we die daily(repenting daily). We expect our own children to fail from time to time, and when they fail our love for them never changes. How must our heavenly Father feel when we fail Him? I believe much the same. Scripture reminds us that His love is everlasting and unfailing! Now this does not at all excuse sin, God is unhappy when we sin and desires for us to live a righteous life. His love never changes even if our love for Him does. A sinful life will lead us to death and destruction, the Bible clearly warns us of that. But I believe one of the biggest tricks of Satan is to place spirits of guilt, shame and the "I will never be holy enough or ever quite measure up" thoughts driven into the minds of Christians! These thoughts will kill your spiritual walk with God if you allow it. Thoughts like those are spiritually unhealthy and will slowly but surely get you to a place of spiritual hopelessness. How often do your mistakes surface to your mind when you are about to do something great for the Lord? Right before you walk in the church, hand out a church track, do a Bible Study, or witness to someone you meet! The enemy is crafty, he is there to steal, kill and destroy. We must remember that! If he discourages us before we get started we are then unable to minister the gospel of Jesus Christ to others. He does not want us to do the work of the Lord because we are tearing down his kingdom in the process! "I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance." Luke 15:7 ALL TRUTH, LOVE AND GOODNESS COMES FROM THE LORD! We are children of God, that in return makes us children of promise! 156.Romans 9:8 "That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed." Galatians 3:26 "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus."

Dear Lord,
Please forgive all the mistakes that we have made. These mistakes do not define us but can hinder or limit our growth in you. Help us to be wise to things that come against us to tear us down. Help us to know that we are of little worth to this world in which we live, but we are of great worth to you. Help us to never forget your love for us and direct our lives so that we may live our lives in a way that is pleasing to you. Give us strength and power to continuously serve you all the days of our lives.In Jesus name.
Amen

GOD ALWAYS TAKES NOTICE!

2009-09-30T11:58:00.000-07:00

One day Jesus was in the synagogue, while He was there He saw a woman who was there also. This woman had a spirit of infirmity upon her that had lasted eighteen years. This was a crippling disorder that had been caused by an evil spirit. The bones of this woman's spine were rigidly fused together, this left her bent double, and unable to look up. In all this woman's pain and suffering while knowing she was in the presence of God, she still did not ask Him for help. We don't know why she didn't ask, but what we do know is God came to her. He seen her, His child that was in pain and He so graciously and mercifully called out to her. Luke 13:12 "And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity." Loosed meaning the spirit had been cast out, and the woman was free and no longer bound by Satan or from her affliction. Jesus then laid His hands upon her and IMMEDIATELYshe stood straight and praised Him!
Notice the woman was not murmuring and complaining about her illness. She wasn't at home, she was in the house of the Lord(church). This is another good example why we should come to church through our adversities. This will help sustain us in our times of trouble. It just so happened the church was where God, our deliver came to her and healed her. Much like the crippled woman many of us have been afflicted at one time or another. Whether it be disease or sickness, betrayal, broken hearted, etc. My point is this, life does not always go as we plan. Things happen in life that sometimes slow us down or even bring us to an incredible halt! There are times when we feel our burdens have us so weighed down that we too find it hard to look up or even face others around us! But my question is this....How can we defeat Satan and be loosed from His bondage if we can't center ourselves in the presence of God? God never said this walk would be easy, He does however promise to never leave us nor forsake us! He is our help and our strength, through Him we can do all things! God takes notice of His children! God came to that crippled woman because she was His child, He loved her and wanted to help her. We are also His children and He loves us the same, and receives the same fulfillment of joy when healing one of us! He notices everything about us, we are covered by His mercy and grace. God desires for us to come to Him and ask Him for deliverance from our afflictions. By doing this we are placing our faith in Him and acknowledging that we need Him. Some of us have been so wounded and hurt that we can't even bring ourselves to ask for help. The spirit of discouragement alone makes it difficult at times to pray. We need to go to Him when we need Him. I have to wonder how often we suffer through an affliction longer than we have to, because we chose to wait rather than ask! How quickly would God fix our problems if we came to Him immediately? Remember the woman who was afflicted was healed immediately! This is an act of faith and obedience. James 4:2 tells us "ye have not because ye ask not." Matthew 17:20 "And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you."

THE WORD OF TRUTH!

2009-09-18T12:01:00.000-07:00

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15
Life is a course that contains many important lessons. Hopefully, through this course set before us we will become wiser than we were when we first began our journey. Proverbs 1:7 tells us,"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." The way of life directed by man will lead to destruction, see (Proverbs 14:12). Seeking truth in the word along with obedience will bring much stability and peace in our lives. (Proverbs 3:1-2) "My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee." This book of knowledge is just full of great Biblical principles that will only enhance our lives, but secure our eternity. The same miracles and wonderful works that were done by Jesus throughout the old testament are being done still today. God is the same yesterday, today and forever, we can be sure that God never changes nor does His word! Nothing in life is a sure guarantee. In fact the only sure and solid trust we can place our hope and faith in is Jesus Christ. He promises He will never leave us or forsake us and promises His word is unfallable! Even during our worst times, God never leaves us. Many things we endure on earth such as death, sickness, pain, and sorrow are very hard for us to understand. Why must at times we endure so much? No one has all the answers, only God can give us those answers and there will come a day when we will meet Him face to face and be able to talk to the Lord. (Psa 118:4-8 NIV) Let those who fear the LORD say: "His love endures forever." {5} In my anguish I cried to the LORD, and he answered by setting me free. {6} The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? {7} The LORD is with me; he is my helper. I will look in triumph on my enemies. {8} It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man. There is a saying that God will never bring you to anything that we won't bring you through! Even through life's obstacles we can be certain God loves endures all! He is there for us and is anticipating every moment we spend talking with Him. He is right by our side giving us strength and encouragement to endure until the end. Psalms 147:3 "He heals the broken heartened, binding up their wounds." God speaks to us through His word!

LOVE ONE ANOTHER!

2009-09-01T16:00:00.000-07:00

Jesus told His disciples before he died on the cross, "Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another" John 13:34. If Christ is dwelling within us, how is it possible to show anything other than love to those around us? Paul said in Romans 12:10, "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love." Peter says, "Be all of one mind, having compassion one of another; love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous." Again, "Above all things have fervent love among yourselves." 1 Peter 3:8, and 4:8. John says, "This is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another." 1 John 3:11. The same is taught in many other places.
Now that we have established that God certainly commands us to be loving and kind toward one another, He also wants us to love with sincerity. After all if it's not sincere than it's not real love, right! The definition of sincere- being without hypocrisy or pretense; true: a sincere friend. John said in 1 John 3:18, "My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and in truth." Now this can at times feel nearly impossible, God never said serving loving the person next to you, whole heartily would be easy. It takes constant renewing of the Spirit, and often times failing a few times before getting it right. Everyone has had someone at some point in their life hurt them, or even attack them! It's hard to get past the pain when someone hurts you or your family, especially when it's from someone in the church. Truth is we hold other Christians at a higher standard than a lost sinner who is not living according to the word. The Bible tells us we all fall short of the glory of God! My pastor tells us if we mess up, we should fess up. You can hold a person at a higher regard or respect if they level with you sincerely and truly show the compassion toward you the way God would find pleasing. Truth is we have to except that man will fail us every time, but the trust we put in God will never fail us. "Jesus is the same yesterday, and today and forever."Hebrews 13:8. He will never fail us, His love is endless. I have learned through my years serving the Lord that forgiveness is not always just for the person you feel has wronged you. Forgiveness sets your soul free from the bondage of Satan. Yes, even people who love the Lord can be bound by a spiritual stronghold. We must totally give the pain and hurt feelings we harbor to God, by doing so, we are no longer weighed down or discouraged by the problem but renewed with hope, strength and peace that passes all understand. 1 Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
Now in conclusion, I realize you can't always reason with an unreasonable person. Some are bound with determination to hate you and rage against you no matter what you say or do. Again our forgiveness toward them is what we will be judge on, not their forgiveness toward us. We are all given choices in life, we are judged based on the choices we make. We have a choice to serve God or to not serve Him, to hate or love, to forgive or resent. We are blessed according to our obedience to the word. But remember, they hated Christ without cause also, John 15:25 "But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause." Luke 6:22 "Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake." Psalm 5:5 "The foolish shall not stand in thy sight: thou hatest all workers of iniquity." Psalm 41:7 "All that hate me whisper together against me: against me do they devise my hurt." Psalm 44:7 "But thou hast saved us from our enemies, and hast put them to shame that hated us."
Proverbs 4:15 "Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away."
Romans 16:17 "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them."
Fervent forgiveness, is necessary and required to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. Love is a commandment that we must all follow,"Let brotherly love continue."Heb.13:1

JOURNEY OF WISDOM AND STRENGTH!

2009-09-01T09:11:00.000-07:00

God knew the journey He set before us would be hard. In Luke, Jesus sent seventy-two followers out before him. Sending them by two's into every town and place where He was about to go. "Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves"(Luke 10:3). They were afraid of what lay ahead, yet they were obedient and faithful, putting their trust in He who had sent them! They were secure knowing they had the peace of God with them. Luke 10:16-18 "He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me." The seventy-two returned with joy and said, "Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name." He replied, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven."
Even today, we are sent out on a journey that contains the same message. A journey set before us by the Lord. Situations and circumstances sometimes bombard us and threaten to still every ounce of our peace. Through Christ these circumstances will strengthen us and empower us to continue our journey. Then the seventy-two returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name" (Luke 10:17). Luke 10:20 "However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."
What ever demon or situation we are faced with, we can overcome through the wisdom, faith and peace we have in Jesus. James 4:7 "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Nothing we encounter here on earth is wiser than God, our job is to trust and obey Him. He is in control and in command of everything! We must keep our minds and hearts on the message God has planted within us. We have a Christian duty to spread the gospel to all who will hear! Sure we expect Satan to triumph against us, but he is powerless against us while God is within us! "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God." Isaiah 43:2-3

Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."
2 Corinthians 9:8 "And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:"
"For I will give you words of wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. Luke 21:15

LIVING WORD

2009-08-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

God's word is used to teach us the difference between right and wrong! God's word is all powerful and alive, it is there for us to go to when in need of strength, encouragement and answers. Life brings multiple challenges and problems in our lives, but we can see our way through these obstacles if we go to the word of God!
Anxiety
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
Brokenhearted
The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Psalm 34:18
Confusion
For God is not the author of confusion but of peace ...
1 Corinthians 14:33
Defeat
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair ...
2 Corinthians 4:8 (NIV)
Disappointment
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 8:28
Doubt
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
Failure
The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again.
Proverbs 24:16ew 17:20
Fear
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7
Grief
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4
Hunger
Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Matthew 4:4
Impatience
Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.
Psalm 27:14
Impossibilities
Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God."
Luke 18:27
Inability
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
2 Corinthians 9:8
Inadequadequecy
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
Lacking Direction
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Lacking Intelligence
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
James 1:5
Lacking Wisdom
It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.
1 Corinthians 1:30
Loneliness
... the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6
Mourning
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Matthew 5:4
Poverty
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Rejection
No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:39
Sorrow
I will turn their mourning into joy and will comfort them and give them joy for their sorrow.
Jeremiah 31:13
Temptation
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Tiredness
... but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
Unforgiveness
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
Unloved
See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are!
1 John 3:1
Weakness
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.
2 Corinthians 12:9
Weariness
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:28-30
Worry
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
1 Peter 5:7

BOLDNESS IN PRAYER!

2009-08-11T17:34:00.000-07:00

"In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him." (Ephesians 3:12)

"Have mercy on me, Lord, son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon" (Matthew 15:21). A Canaanite woman who seen Jesus and had heard that He was the Messiah asked Him to deliver her daughter who was possessed. The woman shouted BOLDLY and was crying to Jesus asking Him to heal her daughter. Jesus did not answer her immediately. She continued to follow Him and again boldly called out unto Him for help. She knew she needed God and His help! This woman was not a follower of God, she lived a life of a heathen. But even the heathen knows at what time to cry out to God. The disciples that were walking along with Him begged Him to send her away. The Bible tells us in Matthew 15:24-28, "He answered, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." 25But she came and knelt before him, saying, "Lord, help me." 26And he answered, "It is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs." 27She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table." 28Then Jesus answered her, "O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire." And her daughter was healed instantly."
So often today we are hindered when going to God boldly in prayer! Why is that so hard to do? If the Canaanite woman had not been so bold in asking for God's help, her daughter may have never been healed! How different would our lives be if we boldly went to God in prayer with our problems. Believing with confidence that God would boldly and even instantly answer in return for boldness and faith in prayer. The Greek word for boldness is confidence. 1 John 5:14-15 "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him." If we boldly cry out to Him, pouring our heart out to Christ, talking to Him and seeking Him for answers, we will see great things happen in our lives. We WILL develop a closer walk with God, gaining strength and understanding along the way. Her boldness did not make her a weak woman in His eyes. God viewed the woman as a woman of great faith because she wasn't afraid of what others would think of her for boldly protesting her need for God. She was desperate and needed God's help and wouldn't let anything stop her from talking to Him. We should not be ashamed to go to God about anything, He knows all and sees all. Let's boldly seek Him and praise Him in advance for our blessings to come! We are children of God who should be seen and heard!

SING UNTO THE LORD!

2009-08-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD. Psalm 27:6

The Bible tells us to sing unto the Lord a new song! Doesn't serving the Lord make you feel like singing. It's the joy of His presence that gives us a song in our hearts. When we think of His grace and goodness it makes us want to lift up our heads and sing praises to Him. Psalm 27:6 "And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD." The Bible also tells us to acknowledge Him in all our ways! What a great way to acknowledge the Lord throughout our day! We must not forget we are children of the most high, the king of kings! We are a blessed people because of who we serve. He is our deliverer, strength, joy, and peace. He is our heavenly Father who we love with all our heart, soul and mind. As much as we love Him, His love for us is far greater than any other love we've ever known. He loves us in spite of our imperfections, His love is endless and unfailing. Praise and bless the Lord with a song, giving thanks for all He has saved you from and brought you through. Praise Him for His mercy and praise Him in advance for what blessings are to come!

"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:6

"My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee; and my soul, which thou hast redeemed." Psalm 71:23

"Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day." Psalm 96:2

"O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory." Psalm 98:1

"Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise."
Psalm 98:4

"Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness." Psalm 30:4

"To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever." Psalm 30:12

JESUS CHRIST, THE LIGHT FOUND IN DARKNESS

2009-07-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

Close your eyes for a brief moment and imagine you are lost in a place of darkness. You try as hard as you can but you can not see your way out. Then imagine you are also hungry, lonely, desperate, ashamed, hopeless, and confused. This is how sin makes us feel. When we sin against God, those sins bring all these feelings rushing back to us and leaving us in a state of hopelessness. God is our one true hope and in order to obtain a life of precious promises given by Him, we must give our lives completely to Him. Living as He would have us to live, building godly characteristics that will give us a personality that reflects God instead of the world. The Bible tells us in 2 Peter 1:3-10; "Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, 3According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 4Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
8For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. 10Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:". Sin has brought people to places in their lives that have brought them much heartache, pain and shame.
Jesus Christ can mend the broken hearted and heal ALL pain. He will bring comfort to the comfortless and a light into their darkness so they can find their way! Salvation comes through the truth and the truth is found in the word of God. The Bible tells us in Matthew 18:11,"For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost." 2 Corinthians 4:3 "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:" 2Peter 1:19-21 "We have also a more sure word of prophecy; where unto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:" 20"Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation." 21"For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost."
Acts 26:18
"To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me."
2 Peter 2:4
"For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;"
Now lets imagine ourselves finding a distant glimpse of light in the darkness. As we draw nearer to it the brighter the light becomes and the more clear our surroundings become. We are able to find our way out of the darkness. We feel the awesome presence of God and He is lighting our path as we walk closer to Him. We feel unspeakable joy and hope they we never felt while in darkness. There is peace that passes over us giving us a huge sense of relief. We are no longer afraid but we feel comforted and loved because we know we are no longer alone!
This is what the power of God can do for all of us! As long as we put Him first and live our lives according to His unfailing word, He will give us direction and strength. He will never let us fall!

LIVING LIFE THROUGH PRAYER AND PURPOSE!

2009-07-20T07:18:00.000-07:00

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1

Psalm 91:3-5 "Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day's journey into the desert. He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, Lord," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."
1 Kings 1:5 "Then he lay down under the tree and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, "Get up and eat."
1 Kings 19:6-8 "He looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again. The angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you. So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God."

Jesus knew that Elijah would need strength in order to fulfill the plan and purpose He had for him. Without that God given strength, Elijah could have died in that desert. There was still work that needed to be done by Elijah. God sent an angel to Elijah in one of his weakest and most hopeless moments. Why did God come to him under that broom tree? God came to him because Elijah first came to God. Elijah prayed intensely for God to take him, he was in such a state of hopelessness that he felt the only way he could escape was if God would take him. Even in that state of mind, Elijah found hope in God and the way he reached God was through prayer. There is power in prayer! Elijah had a deep relationship with God. He talked with God and knew God was with him. Many have not prayed a prayer of desperation like Elijah prayed. God loved Elijah the same way He loves us and He desires for us to pray and talk to Him throughout our days as well. He took Elijah in a unique and awesome way, 2 Kings 2:1 "When the Lord was about to take Elijah up to heaven in a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal." "the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective"(James 5:16). Through all the trials Elijah faced while standing against the wickedness of Israel, he prayed! He earnestly, whole heartily, intensely prayed with purpose! That is exactly how we should go to the Lord! He is anxiously waiting for us to come to Him. It is His up most desire! We should pray expecting God to deliver us, and answer our prayers. We need to know He is with us every step we take throughout our lives. He never leaves us or forsakes us. He longs to draw closer to us and us to Him. He desires for us to think on Him when we awake in the morning and when we lay down to rest at night. We can have absolute trust and confidence in Him, knowing that He works according to what is best for us in our lives. We can't for tell the future, but we know who holds the future! The Bible tells us "all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."(Romans 8:28)

Psalm 91:11-16 "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands,so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble,I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation.”

LET'S TAKE A WALK

2009-07-15T12:55:00.000-07:00

"Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee." Psalm 143:8
The word of the Lord tells us to not fear storms and trials that come up in our lives. To trust in His infinite wisdom and power through whatever comes our way. "If we live in the Spirit let us walk in the Spirit." Galatians 5:25
We can securely and boldly go where ever the Lord leads us knowing God's faithfulness will never fail us. He is our own personal GPS system, directing us and keeping us headed in the right direction. I am so thankful for His unfailing love and guidance in my life.
"And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6:8
God is merciful and faithful. His Spirit lives within us, and together we can go where ever He leads us on this endless walk with Him!
"I have called you by your name; you are Mine." Isaiah 43:1

LET EVERYTHING BUILD ON FAITH!

2009-07-11T06:53:00.000-07:00

What is faith? The Bible tells us in Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Our relationship with God builds on the foundation of our faith in Him. "One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all"(Ephesians 4:5-6). This verse again confirms baptism should be under no other name expect JESUS CHRIST. Every time an instance or circumstance arises, we depend on Him for the answers and Him for change. We ask Him and believe with confidence, knowing that He will never fail us and He delights in answering our prayers. Believing with absoluteness that God is in control of all and we are powerless without Him. There is nothing He can not do or change. He is the only hope for change with any of us! As soon as we are faced with a problem, we should be prayerful over that problem, asking God for help to sustain, lift, and even carry us through it! HE WILL! "We cannot please God without faith (Hebrews 11:6), and whatever is not of faith is sin" (Romans 14:23). With faith comes miraculous power, the Bible says if we have as much faith as a mustard seed than we can move mountains! That is powerful! Our problems can sometimes seem like mountains. Immovable, unshakable and to BIG to get over or around! Praise God, with a little faith and His power, those mountains will move and we will make it through any obstacle that comes our way. Because WE ARE IMMOVABLE, UNSHAKABLE, AND TOO POWERFUL THROUGH THE SPIRIT OF THE HOLY GHOST! There is no satan ridden hindrance that can come against us and prevail. We are children of the most High and even satan himself fears God and His children. He recognizes the power of God and trembles with fear because of it. After all, even satan knows where he came from. Satan was once a man made by God, but he turned against God and thought He could take the place of God. At that moment he was thrown into the pit of hell where he belongs. It was power that motivated satan then and power motivates him today. He can only gain power over the soul through the mind. If he can convince one to have a made up mind to sin he can posses their soul. Satan is out to kill, steal and destroy lives. The enemy does not want us to prosper or experience love, joy or peace in our lives. When we are at our weakest moment is when we feel the most threatened by satan, but if we keep our eyes, and minds and hearts on God, He will protect us! HE will give us the power to be conquerors and He will sustain us. We don't have to fear what the future holds because we know who holds our future! There is no sickness, physical or emotional hurt that can keep us bound. Through the God given power of our faith in Him, we can cast out or move these afflictions out of our lives! (Mark 16:16) "He who believed and was baptised shall be saved;"
(Acts 15:11) ) "for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.(Philippians 2:12) "Who are being kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
(1 Peter 1:9) "Receiving at the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls."
God gives us "a measure of faith". (Romans 12:3)
If we don't use it, we will loose it!

LET'S GET READY!

2009-07-08T15:41:00.000-07:00

1 Corinthians 15:52-54 "In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory."

1Thessalonians 4:16-18 "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words."

Time To Be Ready
by Bernice Ward

Oh its time, yes its time
Jesus will return for His Church,
He has prepared a mansion for us in the sky,
Just be ready for He will return by and by.

He promised, He would come again
And take us home with Him,
How we long for Him and feel His embrace,
But most of all to look upon His lovely face.

We don't know when He is coming,
The time is getting nearer,
Do keep pressing on and trust in Jesus,
So we'll be ready when He appears.

He wants all His children ready
When the trumpet call will sound,
Just a little longer, "My children"
Hold on, we will soon be glory bound!

THE SAMARITAN WOMAN

2009-07-06T07:32:00.001-07:00

The Samaritan woman was more than just a woman from Samaria. The Bible tells her story as a woman who was drawing water from her village well. Usually the young and strong did this chore. It was a heavy chore but because this was their only means for water, they carried their heavy vessels full of water to their home many times a day. When Jesus came to the well He was tired and thirsty from the heat. He asked the Samaritan woman who was there at the well drawing water to give Him a drink. The Samaritans had developed a reputation for having questionable beliefs and the Jewish people usually avoided contact with Samaritans all together. She knew the man (Jesus) was a jew and was suprised that He spoke to her, a woman from Samaria. She asked Him "Why do you ask me for a drink, a Samaritan woman? Jesus responded by saying, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you 'Give me a drink' you would have asked Him and He would have given you living water"(John4:1-10). Jesus began talking with the woman and explained to her that when one drinks of ordinary water they will surely thirst again, but one who thirsts after the Father would never thirst again and He would give one eternal life. He then spoke to her about her past five husbands and of the man whom she was living with and yet not married to. The woman was amazed that He knew so much about her. She knew this man was different and she thought He must be the Messiah. Jesus told her the Messiah was coming and had arrived, and it was He. Now the woman felt her feelings about Jesus were confirmed and she went throughout the town to tell the people what had happened and to come see Jesus. Once the people came and heard Jesus they believed in Him and accepted Him as the one and only true Savior. The Samaritan woman acted much like an apostle. She left her vessel behind at the well and went to tell others about Jesus. Her testimony caused others to believe. "He told me everything I have ever done. So when the Samaritans came to Him, they asked Him to stay with them, and He stayed for two days." (John 4:39-42)
In order to experience eternal life we must draw from Him. Nothing on earth will satisfy us for long. These things are only temporary or for a season. God is the only one who can satisfy the soul indefinitely. We must act as the Samaritan woman, telling others our own personal testimonys of what the Lord has done in our lives. Spreading the "Good News", and persuading others to believe in Jesus. We have a responsability to tell as many as we can so others can draw everlasting living water and inherit eternal life! We all need Jesus in our lives and it is important that we all trust Him and obey Him. "Love the Lord with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and,'Love your neighbor as yourself,'" Luke 10:27. How can we truley claim to love our neighbor as ourselves if we can't share the gospel of Jesus with them. Just as the women filled their vessels full of fresh water from the well, we must fill every living vessel we meet with the word of God!

UNAWARE

2009-06-30T13:12:00.000-07:00

I read this today and thought it was so well put and inspiring that I had to share! I pray this will be as encouraging to you as it was for me!
~Jennifer Puckett

“And then he told them, ’Go into all the world and preach the
Good News to everyone.’” Mark 16:15 (NLT)

Scripture tells us that everyone will be accountable to God (Romans 14:12), even if they have not heard of Him, which is the basis for global missions work. But what about the mission field right in our own back yards? Are we really reaching out to those who are reachable? As Christians, it is our duty to make sure that people become aware of Jesus, including teens that seem to need nobody but themselves. The people we encounter can be a divine appointment…even an unaware soul, longing to be rescued.

I heard a statistic once that stated that 80% of people who accept Christ do so by age 18. We have a window of opportunity to reach young people, and God is calling us now, to make an impact on the future generations of our world, one heart at a time.

Dear Lord, give me passion and courage to reach out to those who are unaware of Your sovereignty. Impart Your wisdom to me, so that I can be equipped to witness in such a way that peaks their interest and makes them aware of their need for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
AUTHOR~Tracie Miles

So many people have no real knowledge of Jesus Christ. It is important that we reach out to the young and old alike. I want God to use me in what ever way He sees fit. I pray He directs me to someone who is hungry for a change in their life and someone who wants to know the truth about God! I am so thankful for the Lord, He has blessed me abundantly and I would love for others to have the same experiences I have had while serving the Lord! My life has not been perfect, no life is here on earth. Although while life is not always perfect, through adversities God will give us strength and we will grow spiritually and have a deeper walk with the Lord. We learn through hard times how to really depend on the Lord, because we know only He can change our situation and bring hope to it. Through the Lord we are over comers of adversity, we are given joy, peace, and a spirit of love. I am a firm believer that the only hope for change is through the Lord. With Him leading and guiding our hearts and lives we become better wives, mothers, daughters, and friends. A change within our soul has taken place once we have the spirit of God dwelling within us. The Bible tells us we are made a "NEW CREATURE" after being baptised in His name and filled with the Spirit of the Holy Ghost! All things old are washed away, we are given a clean slate, full of new beginnings, and a more positive way of life. We can do anything in His name, through Him there is hope for the hopeless, through Him there is salvation and eternal life! I am so thankful for the one and only Saviour our Lord, Jesus Christ!

BATTLE OF THE MIND

2009-06-26T14:09:00.000-07:00

We are in a spiritual battle of the mind on a daily basis. Satan tries to trick, demean, confuse, fill us with doubt and fear. He antagonizes us with lies as often as we allow, in order to gain power over us. The way he does this is through our minds. We must be prayerful and obedient to the Lord. Keeping our eyes and minds on Him and things that pertain to His will. Staying busy with the work of the Lord. We gain power and strength through the Spirit of the Lord, we are able to resist the devil and he will flee from us. We have power over satan because of who lives within us is Jesus Christ. Before we can have victory and peace in our lives we must solely depend on God. We need to allow Him to take control of our lives and our minds. Then our outlook will become more positive and we will have hope for our future and peace knowing God is in control. When we try to control our lives without the help of God, we are under great pressure, stress and confusion. When we depend on God, He lifts our burdens from us and we gain a spirit of freedom. The Word tells us "the truth will set us free". We are free from mental strongholds, are minds are at rest with things that would ordinarily hinder us. "The Lord will never leave us nor forsake us" Hebrews 13:5. I am thankful for a God that controls not only my present but my future! Through Him all things are possible,and we can do all things through Him! As children of God we do NOT have to be controlled by the lies of satan. We are conquers, and redeemed through Him! I am so thankful for the God we serve, the one and only Savior, Jesus Christ!

FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

2009-06-23T09:10:00.000-07:00

Children are called the "fruit of the womb." A man's words are "the fruit of his mouth."
"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven"(Matthew 7:21). To produce the best fruit requires work, time, patience and perseverance (James 5:7-11).
There are nine character building attributes that create in us a right spirit and godly attitude. If applied, these characteristics will make changes within us and transform us into true godly examples for Jesus Christ. We will find that we'll become better mothers, friends, sisters, daughters, wives, Christians and all around better people. We will make others around us desire the spirit we carry. All we must do is love the Lord with all our hearts, mind and spirit. God will bless our efforts and help us to successfully create renewed spirits and bodies for Him!
Love - "And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him" (1 John 4:16). Through Jesus Christ, our greatest goal is to do all things in love. "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails" (1 Corinthians 13:4-8).

Joy - "The joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" (Hebrews 12:2).

Peace - "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 5:1). "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" (Romans 15:13).

Longsuffering (patience) -- We are "strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness" (Colossians 1:11). "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love" (Ephesians 4:2).

Gentleness (kindness) -- We should live "in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left" (2 Corinthians 6:6-7).

Goodness - "Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power" (2 Thessalonians 1:11). "For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth" (Ephesians 5:9).

Faith (faithfulness) - "O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth" (Isaiah 25:1). "I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith" (Ephesians 3:16-17).

Meekness - "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted" (Galatians 6:1). "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love" (Ephesians 4:2).

Temperance (self-control) - "But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love" (2 Peter 1:5-7).

Let's obey the Lord by keeping His commandments and taking on a new identy through the Lord Jesus Christ! "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last" (John 15:16, NIV).

DO YOU BELIEVE?

2009-06-18T06:09:00.000-07:00

Do you believe the Bible is true? We will be judged by His word. Jesus Christ is the only one true living God. He is our Lord and Savior. Through repentance and baptism all sins will be washed away. We are no longer bound by feelings of guilt and shame from a sinful past, we are set free from those aweful feelings and made a new creature in the eyes of the Lord! The Lord told Nicodemus that anyone who wanted to enter the kingdom of God must be born again of water and of the spirit. The Bible tells us in John 17:17 "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." This confirms that the Bible is the living WORD of God and is the absolute TRUTH! In Luke 24:45 we read "Then opened he their understanding , that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name, among all nations, beginning in Jerusalem." God desires for us to understand the scriptures we read and apply them to our lives so that we will be saved and spend an eternity with Him. Faith without works is dead, right! Once a person has confessed their sins to the Lord and asked forgiveness with a sincere heart, they are then forgiven. The word goes on to tell us that once we have repented for our sins the Lord wipes them away and no longer remembers them. How awesome it is to have complete assurance in knowing we can and will be forgiven for our sins if we ask Him. In Acts 2:38 "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Acts chapter two tells us when the apostles were at Jerusalem, they along with many others were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues. At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. Acts 2:5-12; "When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. 7 They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed. “These people are all from Galilee, 8 and yet we hear them speaking in our own native languages! 9 Here we are—Parthians, Medes, Elamites, people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, the province of Asia, 10 Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, and the areas of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans, and Arabs. And we all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things God has done!” 12 They stood there amazed and perplexed. “What can this mean?” they asked each other. Peter, an apostle explained that the Holy Ghost was promised to everyone who was baptised in the name of Jesus Christ. Speaking in tongues is the evidence of baptism of the Holy Spirit. Luke 11:13 "So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.” What great joy, peace, love and understanding we can all obtain through obeying the word. Remember John 3:1-8, "we must be born again of water and of spirit to enter unto the kingdom of God." Our God is so powerful and we need His Spirit living within us. Seek Him, "he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).

A TIME FOR EVERYTHING

2009-06-15T15:58:00.001-07:00

Ecclesiastes 3
1 For everything there is a season,
a time for every activity under heaven.
2 A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
3 A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
4 A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
5 A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
6 A time to search and a time to quit searching.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
7 A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak.
8 A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.

9 What do people really get for all their hard work? 10 I have seen the burden God has placed on us all. 11 Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end. 12 So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. 13 And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.

14 And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God’s purpose is that people should fear him. 15 What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before, because God makes the same things happen over and over again.

BURDENED?

2009-06-09T19:37:00.000-07:00

Feeling burdened? Hearing the word "burden" makes me think of something very heavy and hard to carry. Burdens can slow down our lives because they make us feel overwhelmed and weighed down with the heaviness of the load we are trying to carry. Thankfully, the God we serve never expected us to carry any load alone. In fact if we come to Him asking for help with our burdens He will carry them for us; "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest"(Matt 11:28). When we get too caught up in the heaviness of our burdens we loose sight on the things that are most important in our spiritual walk. We find ourselves doubting instead of believing. We look at how hopeless the situation may be instead of how hopeful the outcome could be if we allow God to handle it for us. We worry with great anxiety over situations that we can not control. God is in control of all, He loves us and understands us. He knows what we need when we need it and He wants us to experience joy and peace while living for Him. We can't experience those blessings if we are filled with anxiety and worry, bad memories, bitterness, fear, uncertainty, stress, overwhelmed, tired, unappreciated, feeling's of worthlessness, and a heart and mind filled with doubt. God knows we need Him and He wants us to surrender our burdens unto Him. Realizing that the heaviness of the problem's we face our bigger than we are and only He can control what that outcome will be. We must put our COMPLETE trust in Him, and have confidence in His word. The Lord will carry our load for us and deliver us from it as well. Sure it may not be on your time, or mine, but it will be on God's time and He is always ON TIME! We tend to keep up our guard and maintain control over a given situation as long as we possibly can before we hand it over to the Lord. Well this contradicts with what the word of God advises us to do. He tells us to come to Him and He will carry our loads for us and He WILL give us rest! What makes us think we don't need God in even the least of our problems. Many times we make a small problem much bigger by choosing to handle it on our own instead of going to God in prayer and willfully giving it to Him. WE NEED GOD IN EVERY SITUATION! Leaving Him out will destroy our walk with Him. Our only hope is through Jesus Christ. We must let nothing stand in the way of our walk with Him. He loves us and we must trust that when we give it to Jesus, there will be: memories of grace and mercy, love, forgiveness, security, certainty, peace, contentment, and a lightened spirit, body and mind. Above all we will find rest and be burden free! Let go and watch what the Lord will do, this is what is required from us. We are to go to Him in prayer and expect result's because we know He will never fail us! We can't allow satan to keep us bound. Through Jesus Christ, we can move mountains in His name, we can conquer all and be over comers, we can do all things through Him which gives us strength!

HYPROCRISY OR HONESTY!

2009-06-04T14:04:00.000-07:00

WHEN WE ARE TRUE WITH OURSELVES WE EXCEPT THE HUMILITY OF OUR OWN SINS, NOT LAYING BLAME ON OTHERS, BUT RIGHTFULLY OWNING UP AND TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR WHAT WE HAVE DONE WRONG. ONLY THEN WILL REPENTANCE BE TRULY SINCERE. ALONG WITH TRUE REPENTANCE COMES A LIFE FILLED WITH GREAT JOY, PEACE, LOVE AND HAPPINESS. ONE IS NO LONGER ABLE TO BE BOUND BY SPIRITS OF ANGER, JEALOUSY, MANIPULATION, OPPRESSION, HATRED AND SELF DESTRUCTION. THROUGH JESUS CHRIST YOU CAN BE SET FREE!

Truthfulness; sincerity: in all honesty!

How often does a non-believer lash out at a believer by calling them a hypocrite? The real answer behind the insult, is a feeling of less self worth, and a feeling of being exposed! Because this person may feel that they are not measuring up to God's standards their automatic response is to criticize and judge others who are making the effort. Christians are not perfected mortal beings who never sin or make mistakes. The reality is....we all fall short of the glory of God. My Pastor tells us as Christians we should fess up when we mess up! We first need to take responsibility for the sin we committed, not excusing our actions and denying what wrong we've done but completely owning up to our mistakes. Going to God sincerely in prayer, not only to ask for His forgiveness but for His loving help. If we ask Him and trust in Him, He will help us to not continue to make the same mistakes over and over again. The gift He so graciously gave by giving His life on the cross at Calvary was done so that we would all be given the wonderful privilege of forgiveness for our sins. He gave it all, but the choice is ours! He will not make you serve Him or acknowledge Him. Our relationship with Him is based on the absolute necessity of earnestly seeking Him and His guidance. The Bible tells us in John 14:14"And this is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us". We have blessed with the assurance of knowing that God will never leave us nor forsake His children. He is eager to help us, just as we are eager to be there for our own children when they need our help or guidance. As a Mom I know I have a God given gift to love, nurture, protect, teach, encourage, and defend my children with every ounce of my being. How must God almighty feel towards me and His other children? Scripture tells us His love is incomprehensible to man. God desires for all mankind to be saved and reap an eternity with Him. Truth is, more will not benefit than that will. We are living in a spiritually dying world that is filled with the wickedness of people who have turned away from God in order to live a life pleasing to themselves. We must live according to scripture, according to how God desires for us to live. We should "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? Corinthians 13:5. We must not be like the carnal reprobate! Being men of corrupt minds concerning the faith of God; "They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate"(Titus 1:16). We need to be careful with our approach with others even if we do not agree with them. Reaching out through love and compassion will go miles further than reaching out through a judgemental and haughty spirit. The Bible tells us that if we offend a child of His we have made offense unto Him as well. Mark 9:42 tells us "And whosoever shall offend one of these that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.
God is love and we are to always remember that love and compassion that he so graciously shows us all on a daily basis. We are to show love and compassion even to our enemies. God never states we only have to show love to the people we like. Yes it's hard and sometimes it may feel impossible, but remember through Him all things are possible. We are to try to live our lives in the way the Lord would see fit. We should never deny the truth, or the truth that dwells within another, regardless of how we feel about that person. If we are able to deny the truth then the truth is not in us!

ALL IN THE NAME

2009-05-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

What a blessed people we are to be able to call upon His name. What ever our need may be, we have assurance that once we've called upon His name God WILL make a way!There is so much power in the wonderful name of Jesus! He is the Almighty, Blessed Redeemer, Christ, Precious Corner Stone, Counselor, My Deliverer, Everlasting Father, My Fortress, My Rock, The Good Shepard, The Annointed One, He is....

God - Jesus is called God in several passages in the Bible. Along with His sinless life, miracles, and resurrection from the dead, His claims to be God stand firm (John 20:28).

Lord - In the New Testament, this term is used as a salutation to honor a man of distinction. The disciples used this term to salute Jesus as their teacher and master (Matthew 22:43-44).

Word - This title was used by the apostle John to describe the mission of Jesus. The title states Jesus' Godhead and eternal and absolute deity (John 1:1, 14).

Messiah - The long awaited "anointed one" who would deliver Israel. Jesus came to deliver mankind from sin and death (John 4:25-26).

Alpha and Omega - These two characters were the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. This descriptive title expresses the eternal nature of God - the beginning and the end (Revelation 1:8; 22:13).

Savior - Jesus is the person who rescues mankind from an eternity in hell.

Redeemer - "One who frees or delivers another from difficulty, danger, or bondage, usually by the payment of a ransom price."1 In the New Testament, Jesus is viewed as the ultimate Redeemer who gave His life as a ransom (Mark 10:45, Titus 2:14).

Light of the World - Jesus is the Person who brings true knowledge of God. Those who reject this light bring judgment upon themselves (John 8:12; 3:19-21).

Lamb of God - This title refers to the Old Testament sacrificial system where God accepted the blood of animals as atonement for sin (John 1:29, 36). Jesus' blood made atonement for sin!

Ruler of Creation - Christ existed before the creation of the world and He is sovereign over it (Revelation 3:14).

Mediator - Because Jesus is fully God, He can represent God to man. Because He is fully man, Jesus can represent man to God. Reconciliation is possible (1 Timothy 2:5).

Bread of Life - Jesus is the one and only supplier of true spiritual nourishment (John 6:35). Way, Truth, and Life - Jesus is the only way to heaven, the only source of truth, and the foundation of all life (John 14:6)!

John 3:16-17 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

As Colossians 1:15 says, "He [Christ] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation." Jesus provides eternal hope, through God's grace, for everyone who believes He is Lord.

WHAT SIGNIFICANCE IS HIS NAME TO YOU? HOW AWESOME IT IS TO KNOW HIM! HE IS EVERYTHING THAT WE NEED, AND HE IS ANXIOUSLY WAITING TO HEAR OUR PRAYERS AND BLESS OUR LIVES! IF WE CALL UPON HIS NAME THROUGHOUT OUR DAYS, HE WILL PROTECT US THROUGH THE COVERING OF HIS PRECIOUS BLOOD. HE WILL UPLIFT US WHEN WE ARE DISCOURAGED AND HE WILL GIVE US UNSPEAKABLE JOY AND THAT PASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING! HE LOVES US MORE THAN WE COULD POSSIBLY IMAGINE AND I AM SO THANKFUL FOR HIM!

UPLIFTMENT THROUGH THE WORD!

2009-05-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
Isaiah 30:18

Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
Proverbs 16:3

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.
Jeremiah 29:11

LORD GIVE ME A GODLY ATTITUDE!

2009-05-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

According to the Webster dictionary, the meaning of the term "attitude" is an internal position or feeling with regard to something else. Your attitude shows your inward disposition towards people or circumstances. What's on the inside shows through to the outside. As a christian, we are made a new creature and part of being made new is developing new attitudes. "Your attitude should be the same as Christ Jesus." (Philippians 2:5). The Bible tells us in Ephesians 4:22-24 "that ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness."
Most of us can identify immediately when someone has a bad attitude. They are often critical in their words, discouraging, negative, presumptuous, arrogant, self-centered, rude, and rebellious. These are all signs of a bad attitude and we should reject these attitudes. When we invite people into our lives with these bad attitudes we allow their spirit to become our own. No one knows your thoughts but God and only He can give you a right spirit and attitude. We should persevere in faith and draw close to God. All things work for good according to His perfect will for those who love Him. Also, we should have a humble, submissive attitude toward our pastor's loving correction of sin. His correction is based on God's word(2Tim.4:2,1Cor.5:11-13,Gal.5:19-21, Gal.6:1). People who have a bad attitude towards authority generally have a problem with God.
Good attitudes are demonstrated through being positive, encouraging, loving, humble, teachable, cooperative, considerate, selfless, loyal, persevering and so forth(Gal5:22-23).
Conclusion; TO DEVELOP GOOD ATTITUDES WE MUST:
1. Realize and Repent
Acts 8:22 "Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought in your heart may be forgiven you."
2. Give Your Attitude to God
2 Corinthians 10:5 "casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ..."
3. Dwell on the Positive NOT the Negative
Keep your mind on things that are good and virtuous. If you dwell on the negative your attitude will reflect negatively.
Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy; mediate on these things."
GOD BLESS!

ASPIRING TO BE A VIRTUOUS WOMAN!

2009-05-13T08:51:00.000-07:00

The hebrew definition for the term virtue is; strength, might, efficiency, wealth and army.

STEP 1. Proverbs 31:10 "A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life."
The virtuous woman in Proverbs was a wife of an elder in the city she resided in. She had a good reputation and because of that she brought a good reputation for her family as well. She only desires good things for her husband and does not cause him problems or cause him to stumble.

STEP 2. Proverbs 31:13-16 "She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard."
She is a self confident and capable. She does not lay blame on her circumstances or others around her. She is not lazy and works hard to fulfill the needs of her family. She is a good buisness woman, she makes her own money and provides nice clothes and food for her family. She is eager to take care of her loved ones, even her servants that work for her. She is wise and makes good investments.

STEP 3. Proverbs 31:17-19 "She sets about her work vigoruously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her mind she holds the distaff and grasps and spindle with her fingers."
Again she is not lazy, she works tirelessly to fulfill her responsabilities. She maintains a healthy and strong body.

STEP 4. Proverbs 31:20-25 "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come."
She is a caring and considerate woman who cares for those who have less than her. She is respected as a buisness woman and is taken seriously. She has inner strength from the Lord and is confident in her future.

STEP 5. Proverbs 31:26 "She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of the idleness. Her children arise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Giver her the reward she earned, and let her works bring her praise at the gate."
She is wise and considers the affairs of her own house, making that her buisness and not the affairs of another house. In other words she is not a busy body. She gains her strength from the LORD and she seeks after Him continuously. She is encouraged by her children and her husband.

* The virtouse woman spoken of in Proverbs is a woman we should all strive to model after. She was a blessing to her family and to all around her. She was respected and loved. She was a blessed woman who knew that she could only gain the strength she needed from the LORD! We all need to aspire to be VIRTUOUS WOMEN!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY MOM!

2009-05-10T20:01:00.001-07:00

How blessed I am to have such a wonderful Mom! I am so thankful for my mother! Many many years ago my mom made a faithful decision to serve the Lord whole heartly and promised to raise her children in the will of God. That decision changed the course of not only her life but the lives of her children and grandchildren! It was a life change that brought promise from that moment forward. My mother always stayed faithful to church, I remember mom always bringing us no matter what, we were going to be at church. My mother has served the Lord for nearly thirty years without my Dad beside her, but she knew if she was faithful to Him, He would also be faithful to her. It must have been hard raising three children in church by herself, but she did it and I have the up most respect for her. I know God gave her courage and the perseverance to continue on in the will of God with her children, even when times were at there hardest. I pray that I follow after the ways of my mother and that I pass along to my children the things she spent so much time teaching me along the years. There were many times during my teenage years especially that I would hear my precious mother in her room calling out my name while in prayer. She would plead the blood of Jesus over my life, she would pray for protection and that God would always keep me close to Him and that I would never stray. There is no telling of what my life would be like if it weren't for those fervent prayers of a God fearing prayerful mother. Words can not express the gratitude I feel for her and how those prayers have impacted my life. There is something special about a mother's love expressed through prayer. She loved me whole heartily and made it very clear that us girls were not hers but the Lord's and that we were only on loan to her. God was trusting her to care for us and raise us according to His will. She always gave glory to God for us, and has always been obedient to the Lord. My mother has been involved with various ministries over the years from Mother's Memorial Leader, Sunday School teacher, Choir director, etc. etc. etc. The greatest ministry my mother ever took part in was through raising us girls. God kept His hand on my mother and ministered through her while she taught us so much about the Lord. My mother instilled the power of prayer in me at a very early age and it has been with me ever since. If there is anything that I rest assure in knowing is that I can go to my heavenly father about anything and He will be there to give me the answers and strength that I need. She taught me how to lead a godly lifestyle and to always put the Lord first. The Bible tells us in Proverbs 31:28 "her children will rise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her". My mother is such a blessing to me, she is not only my mother but my very best friend. I hope I am always a blessing to my mother because she has never failed me with her love and support, without her I would not be the woman I am today. My children would not be in the will of God either. God had a plan for my mother and that plan did not end with her. She is an inspiration and a true example of a godly woman. I hope to be just like her. Mom, I love you, and I am so thankful for you! You are one of a kind and I am so thankful God chose you to be my mother!

A MOTHER'S PRAYER

2009-05-09T19:02:00.000-07:00

If there is power in a mother's prayer,
Dear Lord, protect this child of mine.
Shelter and defend him
Until the end of time.

If there is power in a mother's prayer,
Dear Lord, connect this child of mine
To a source of love and hope
Until the end of time.

If there is power in a mother's prayer,
Instill wisdom in this child of mine.
Guide him in your ways, dear Lord,
Until the end of time.

I KNOW THE POWER OF MY PRAYER
WILL SURROUND YOU, CHILD OF MINE.
AND GOD WILL BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU
UNTIL THE END OF TIME.
~Author-Dorothy Schuler

THROUGH ALL THINGS TRUST THE LORD!

2009-05-08T08:53:00.000-07:00

"Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." Psalm 55:22 (NIV)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6).
When we do what His Word tells us to do, we can then experience peace and comfort (Philippians 4:7).
Some of you already know that my son Will had an accident at the park two weeks ago today. He came down the slide with his older sister and some how his foot got twisted underneath her. He immediately was unable to walk, which was quite scary for me as a Mom. We rushed over to his pediatric office and the doctor looked over him and determined that his foot was not broken but seemed to be a very bad sprang. The doctor told me that if Will was not walking on his foot or showing some improvement within the next couple of days he recommended we have a few x-rays done. Well a couple of days passed by and still no improvement what so ever. We had the x-rays done and again we found no broken bones. A week and a half later Will started showing some improvements, he applied pressure to his foot and would try to walk but with a very noticeable limp. This was starting to concern me and the doctor. we both felt that Will should have been over this by now. We were concerned with ligament damage. The doctor still insisted it was probably just a severe sprang but if he was still not walking well with in a few days we probably should get the advice of an Orthopedic doctor.
Well this is the thing, I had spent much time prevailing in prayer over Will and his foot, but I must admit I was filled with more anxiety and doubt than faith and hope. Faith is believing along with that comes miraculous healing! "Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 We know God is capable of healing, we've read and even witnessed these miracles ourselves. Yet some how we look past just how powerful the God we serve is! I never doubted that God could, I only doubted if God would for me. Sunday Will went back into the nursery and not long after I was called back to get him because he was crying and not wanting to walk on his foot again. Then later in the service he tried walking again and did walk some but still with the limp and within just a few minutes he was ready to sit back down. After church I had my pastor pray for my son, and Monday morning my little boy ran through my house. You heard right, HE RAN!!! No limp, no pain, no tiring he just ran, played and ran some more! He has been running ever since. You see I finally decided on Sunday to give it to God completely. This matter was no longer between the doctors, me and God. My problem was for God and Him alone. He is "The Great Physician", with God there is nothing He can't fix even for me! By the touch of His hand we are healed. Sometimes we are faced with circumstances as a test of our faith.
We must realize that our problems and circumstances are too big to handle on our own. We need the help of our father to get us through our days here on earth. He is "The Great Physician", always anticipating our calls and anxious to HEAL our problems. How often we revert back to thinking to ourselves, "if I had just asked and trusted God with my problem instead of handling it myself I wouldn't be in such a mess!" We tend to make our problems bigger and even last longer by leaning on our own understanding and trusting ourselves. Through Him all things are possible!

Dear Lord, in our lives there will be times of trial and fear. Remind us to cast our cares and present our requests to You, and leave them there. Thank You for the peace only You can give. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

THE POWER OF PRAYER!

2009-05-04T20:52:00.000-07:00

"If God be for us, who can be against us " Romans 8:31

"No weapon formed against you will prosper... " Isaiah 54:17

There is a article written by a couple who told there story of waring against satan and winning their battle. It was such and inspiring testimony of the Lords faithfulness! It was about a woman who wrestled with fear and dreams that brought thoughts and visions of destruction to her marriage. She came from generations of unfaithful men had many insecurities for her own marriage. Fearful her marriage too would be ripped apart from these same sinful acts. She was afraid her husband would be unfaithful and leave her. She wrestled against this fear while the devil continually tormented her mind night after night until she decided to wake her husband and tell him the fears she had been having. The Bible speaks of satan as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Her husband sat up and started praying with great authority over her. He told the enemy he had to leave and that he had no place in their home. He reminded satan that NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST THEM SHALL PROSPER! He proclaimed their rightful place was before God and that he would never leave his wife. The power of the holy ghost took over through her husband's prayer and because of that power satan indeed had to flee! She never had another tormenting dream like that again and it has been over twenty-four years.
We too at times must take that same authority in prayer when the enemy rages against us. He is on the war path, he seeks to destroy our families. His mission is our souls. Through prayer the devil can gain NO power over us. We have power and authority over him through the blood of Jesus Christ. We have nothing to fear as children of God. He dwells within us and does not give us the spirit of fear but of a sound mind. Through prayer and the power of the holy ghost, we can bind the devil in Jesus name and throwing him back into the pit of hell where he belongs. These prayers make the enemy tremble and flee from us! One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is teaching them how to pray. Through prayer and faith God will shield them in any situation that may cause them harm. We should teach them to go to God about all things in their lives. We should be prayerful examples for them, going to the Lord in prayer while in their presence. Teaching them to cry out to God and to know God will never leave them or forsake them. Teaching them to always acknowledge God's goodness and to be thankful for all His many blessings. The Bible tells us to "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you..." James 4:8. We are equipping our children with knowledge so that they may gain spiritual strength and wisdom. This will give them the ability to be wise to the tricks of satan. By placing their trust in the Lord, no weapon formed against them shall prosper. Secure in them the truth of knowing that God is always listening, even to their faintest cries. He is our rescuer in times of trouble. He is the absolute power and authority! We can do all things through Him which strengthens us! With the Lord on our side the enemy can gain NO victory over us. We will defeat him and gain victory over him time and time again through the power of the Lord. Though Jesus Christ we have nothing to fear! What a great security and peace of mind we obtain through serving such an awesome God!

LAUGHTER FILLED DAYS!

2009-05-03T14:55:00.000-07:00

"The most wasted of all days is a day without laughter."~E.E.Cummings

A little laughter goes a long way! Laughter bonds people together, and brings joy to the heart and soul. Many will tell you that laughter is the shortest distance between two people, especially in marriage. It is a healthy habit to take hold of for all loving couples. "Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them." Psalm 126:2
"Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart." Psalm 32:11
God desires for us all to be full of joy, He wants us to live our lives with happiness and contentment. The Bible has a total of 187 references for the term joy. What does that say about God and His desire for joy in our lives? The definition of joy tells us, Joy- the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation: a source or cause of keen pleasure or delight; something or someone greatly valued or appreciated. Well there is nothing more satisfying or that will give more keen pleasure to our lives than God. He is the SOURCE and CAUSE for unspeakable JOY! Sure there are occasions and events in life that cause a measurable amount of joy to ones life but the joy that comes from above is unmeasurable and flows abundantly. It is endless, it does not dry up but continually flows from above to all that serve Him and seek after His righteousness. What a blessing and pleasure we would be to those around us if we shared the joy of the Lord with all we come in contact with. We would make better wives, mothers, daughters and friends if we expressed more often the God given joy that is given to each of us who serve Him! I pray that I show as often as possible the goodness of the Lord and allow all who know me to see the difference the Lord has made in my life! I pray that I will always be a living testimony of what the Lord can do. So others will want to model after His ways so they to can experience true joy, peace, and contentment through serving Him. Christians too experience bad days, we live in a world full of evil and destruction. In which the devil is lurking around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. We must continually keep ourselves guarded under the blood of Jesus. So that we may be able to overcome and have the power to conquer any evil thing that may try to war against us. Always knowing that God is with us and will protect and shield us from any harm. There is unspeakable joy knowing that what ever we may face we will triumphantly be victorious through the power of the Lord! What greater joy is there than knowing that He is always watching and keeping His children safe and protected. Continually uplifting each of us and encouraging us to press forward, and to continue in faith through all things. What a difference it makes in our lives to know Him and have a life full of blessings!

THANK YOU JESUS FOR TIMES OF REST

2009-04-27T18:05:00.000-07:00

I found this daily prayer and thought it was awesome and had to share! What a difference it could make in our prayer life to pray this little prayer on a daily basis. Teaching us to acknowledge the good times and many blessings that the Lord has given each of us. We seem to get desperate and prayerful when things are going wrong in life. How close our relationship with Jesus would be if we gave Him that same attention, dedication and prayerful attitude of thankfulness during our days of rest. Rest from trials or troubles of this life that affect us all from time to time. Our loving father gives us this rest to not be forgotten but in remembrance of all His goodness and mercy. To show each of us how much He loves us and wants to bless us!

LORD, IN YOUR STRENGTH, I find rest for my soul, a retreat where I'm safe and secure. Please help me to appreciate the times of rest in my life and to learn of Your strengths of character, purpose, and truth. Then after my rest, I will know more about WHO YOU ARE as I claim the strength of Your faithfulness to remain. Amen
Author-Karon Phillips Goodman

THE DESIRES OF MY HEART!

2009-04-23T04:16:00.001-07:00

We all have dreams and plans. Once the dreams or desires are given to God we become excited with anticipation of what the future will soon hold. The God we serve is a prayer answering God and the Bible does tell us He finds delight in answering our prayers.
"Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4
Every desire we have may not be Christlike or uplifting to the Lord. Obviously the Lord will not find delight in answering prayers that are not for good. We need to be mindful that any desire that we may intend for our self that is not God's desire for us is a desire not worth fulfilling! David desired to build a royal house in the capitol city of his kingdom. God did not give him his desire and we know God loved David very much. God's desire for David was for him to fight the Lord's battle until the Israelites were safe and secure in the promise land. Following the Lord through His Divine direction will help us distinguish the difference between a God given desire or a desire we have chosen right for ourselves. What are God's desires for you? What is he tugging at your heart with? Maybe a ministry that God has pricked your heart over, or someone in need of a special friend. Our greatest ministry is how we affect the heart of someone that we are near. There are desires that God is anxious to give! I am thankful for those. Just because a desire we pray for isn't given to us overnight doesn't necessarily mean that it will never come to pass either. The cross became a symbol of torture and death but Jesus wanted it to symbolize much more for us. Jesus told the disciples to deny themselves and take up his cross daily, and follow Him. Meaning to continually or daily serve the Lord with self-denial, obedience and complete dedication. Trusting in God through all circumstances, believing that He knows all and only desires what is best for us will only add many blessings to our lives. How many times do we pray God will answer something in our life and He answers it in a way that we completely did not expect Him to. Yet the answer was far greater than anything you or I could have possibly imagined. What do we gain if all our prayers are answered in an instant? Through patience and small progressive steps we gain character and spiritual skills. God proved to Lazarus's sisters when their brother had died that He was not finished. Even though after Lazarus's death they stopped praying for him led alone expected him to be healed. Remember he WAS dead! Never would they have imagined that once their beloved brother had died God would raise him from his grave! Just a reminder that nothing is impossible for God. God was not finished with Lazarus and God is not finished with us! Even after God gives us our desires we must remember they are not given to us for ultimate fulfillment, but as a added bonus from the Lord. Our heavenly father who loves us more than we can comprehend. Even while being blessed we must keep our eyes and hearts upon Him. For He is the reason for all things and only through Him can we find everlasting joy, peace and contentment!

THE ROSE WITHIN!

2009-04-22T14:59:00.000-07:00

A certain man planted a rose and watered it faithfully. Before it blossomed, he examined it.
He saw a bud that would soon blossom. He also saw the thorns, and he thought,
"How can any beautiful flower come from a plant burdened with so many sharp thorns?"
Saddened by this thought, he neglected to water the rose, and before it was ready to bloom, it died.
So it is with many people.
Within every soul, there is a rose.
The "God-like" qualities planted in us at birth, growing amidst the thorns of our faults.
Many of us look at ourselves and see only the thorns, the defects.
We despair, thinking nothing good can possibly come from us. We neglect to water the good within us, and eventually it dies. We never realize our potential.
Some don't see the rose within themselves. It takes someone else to show it to them.
One of the greatest gifts a person can possess is to be able to reach past the thorns and find the rose within others.
~~ Author Unknown ~~

WALK IN THE LIGHT!

2009-04-21T08:59:00.000-07:00

"God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with Him yet walk in darkness, we lie and do not live by truth...Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble."
1 John 1:5-6;2:10
There is nothing to fear with the Lord. Once you give your past and future to the Lord, there is nothing to fear! He has uncompromising loyalty and love for us. The types of changes that God chooses to take place in our lives is nothing to fear, but a lesson to learn. We know all lessons learned from the Lord bring us closer to Him. We spiritual grow stronger through His loving discipline and guidance. The trials that we go through are not placed before us to tear us down but to teach us to put our total trust in Him. We are to walk with victory, knowing that God is leading us with every step we take. He is all powerful and His protection covers us and keeps us from stumbling. All while proving that we are a victorious people, we are children of the King! The ruler of everything, His power is limitless. There is nothing He desires more than to walk along side of His children! By taking His hand through life's journeys, we are allowing God to move us closer to the light of His path. His path that He alone has chosen for each of us! The path He has chosen for the righteous that will lead us into eternity forever with our loving father!

EVERLASTING LOVE!

2009-04-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

"Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, and the strength of Salvation." Isaiah 33:6
God's love is never changing, there is stability in His love! His love for us is deep and consistent. We should not wait for a moment of opportunity to pray to the Lord. We should stop what ever we are doing and thank Him for all He has done. God's word tells us to pray without ceasing! Being prayerful throughout our day, and including God in all we do even throughout our daily tasks will only bring incomprehensible joy to our lives. We know according to scripture that nothing will suffer due to momentarily taking time away from our duties in order to spend more time in prayer with God. We will have a rejoicing spirit and a heart full of gladness if we spend more time praising Him. His love dispels all fear and cures all sickness. Prayer will give strength that will sustain us and give us a spiritual insight that will direct us throughout our lives! He paid the ultimate price for our sins and he longs to carry our burdens. The Bible tells us we will experience resurrection life and peace; the joy of the Lord will become your strength; and wells of salvation will be opened within you. Song of Solomon 2:9-13.

HIS PEOPLE WILL STAND!

2009-04-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you." Isaiah 43:2
God's people will know the protection of their almighty God, because they kept their heart stayed upon Him! He will keep them in a pavilion of shelter until troubles pass. If he removes us from the scene of our trials then we would have no testimony of His great and mighty power of deliverence! If we stay beneath His wing He will make us a strong tower! He will make His people unmovable, unshakable, and give them a firm foundation. He will protect them and strengthen them and like a strong tower what ever srorms weather against them "His People Will Still Stand"! Praise the Lord!

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

2009-04-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

WE NEED LOOK NO FURTHER THAN CHRIST FOR AN EXAMPLE OF THE JOY OF SACRIFICE.

"Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

ANYONE IN NEED OF A FRIEND?

2009-04-06T22:21:00.000-07:00

"FRIENDSHIP IS WHEN PEOPLE KNOW ALL ABOUT YOU, BUT LIKE YOU ANYWAY."

The most important aspect of a friendship is the ability to speak the truth along with love and wisdom. The Bible tells us in Proverbs 28:25 that a proud heart stirreth up strife. God is not pleased with a haughty or arrogant spirit but a spirit that shows love and kindness at all times. This is the attitude that is pleasing and exceptable to the Lord. We should all have a desire to get along with others, we should humble ourselves and not think of ourselves as a little better or smarter than another. God loves us and never belittles us. He is our uplifter and constant encouragment. He gives us hope and confidence to do great and mighty things and allows us to accomplish what ever we set out to do! If we are to follow after His ways than we should be potraying these same acts to everyone around us. Without Him we are worthless but with Him we are worth more than if we were to gain the whole world! As children of God we should always strive to act in a way that is good and suitable to Him. This is not to say that we always do, just that we always should. Going to a person in love and in truth is better than trying to avoid a confrontation. If we approach situations in this manner nothing but good can come from it. Praying for our enemies or people who have wronged us is not always easy to do. We may find ourselves thinking why should they be blessed? They have done so much wrong to me! With out compassion and sensitivity towards others we enable ourselves to truly be set free from the pain or hurt that they may have caused us. It is about overcoming evil with good. Proverbs 13:26 tells us to lean not on our own understanding or ability but to lean on God. After all, He has all the answers! Part of growing in Christ is realizing that we don't have all the answers and may never while here on earth. Trusting in the Lord is what will sustain us and nothing else. His word will give us continual upliftment and strength. There are no limits with Christ, the possibilities are endless! We just have to TRUST and OBEY! Even if we don't fully understand. I was thinking earlier before writing this and thinking about how hard it is to give certain situations in life to God and to not pick them up again. I feel God gave me a thought, if we were to tell our child to do something, what would our expectation for that child be? We would expect the child to do as he or she was told. We are the authority over them as parents and we know what is best for our children. We would not compromise with them about why they should or should not do as they were told. Would you except them rebuteling you with questions of why and oppinions to a way they may feel is better. No, we expect them to obey and trust us. We continually confirm to them that we love them and are doing what is best for them. Knowing that one day they will fully understand the reasons behind our descisions. God is our father and loves us more than we can comprehend. He wants us to trust and obey Him. He has no desire for us to sift through his word looking for loop holes that will give us the answers that we feel are right or ease our own consciences. We trust that there are reasons for His word and He will reveal to us all the answers and give us complete understanding of all things when we fully depend on Him!
REMEMBER: PRIDE+DOUBT=FALL
LOVE+TRUST=VICTORY
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
John 15:13

THE BEAUTY OF A GODLY WOMAN!

2009-04-02T19:33:00.000-07:00

"Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman
that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised." Proverbs 31:30

Have you ever noticed how much time and money we spend on things that should improve our outward appearances? Whether it be new clothing, various wrinkle creams or anti-aging moisturizers! I mean seriously, these products are suppose to transform our appearance into younger, more vibrant and remotely flawless women, right!!! Far too often though we tend to put SO much attention on the outside that I have wondered what spiritual break through's we could have had if we had put that same attention on perfecting the inside. Is our spirit filled with wrinkles and in need of a serious lift? Our walk with God is a daily devotion of our love for Him. We are flawed, and God knows that and loves us despite our imperfections. He also knows that if not maintained and consistently groomed our spiritual walk will wilt away and surly die. Now don't get me wrong there is nothing wrong with trying to look our best and as children of God we should try to look our best. After all we represent "the king of the most high, Jesus Christ! The Bible tells us that "a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised" Proverbs 31:30. There is nothing more beautiful in the site of God and to others around than a spirit filled holy woman who is giving God awesome praise! The beauty of the spirit transcends outwardly making that woman evermore appealing and beautiful! It is important that we keep ourselves up spiritually, you know the saying "use it or lose it"! Putting diligent work and attention on our spiritual needs will only strengthen and add beauty to our walk with the Lord. I read an article by Julia Bettencourt that described several things we should do daily to improve our beauty in Christ! It was so inspiring I had to share a few of them!

1. Cleanser.
In order to make ourselves beautiful, we have to first cleanse ourselves of all unwanted impurities. Our cleansing agent works through our confession and God's forgiveness.

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)

2. Moisturizer.
Having compassion can be a good moisturizer. When we start seeing others and their needs instead of our own it can really soften us up!

"Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference." (Jude 21,22)

3. Wrinkle Cream.
If we want to smooth out those wrinkles how about applying a meek and quiet spirit?

"But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price." (1 Pet 3:4)

4. Hand Lotion.
We don't want our hands to become dry and brittle so we need to apply some generosity and good deeds.

"Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates." (Prov 31:31)

5. Foot Therapy.
Sometimes when we overlook our feet they can get callused and rough so we need to get them going in the right direction. Take your feet only to the places that Christ would approve.

"Abstain from all appearance of evil." (1 Th 5:22)

BREAK LOOSE!!!

2009-03-31T17:42:00.000-07:00

"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me...to the end of the earth." Acts 1:8
With a strong and mighty hand, the Lord will bring his people out of bondage! We must be careful to not allow fear or past experiences hinder us or become a stumbling block for us. Anxiety and fear is a tool used by Satan to detour us. Let's focus on what God is and all He will do in any situation life brings. God is our absolute defense! God is our fortress and strength! He is a healer and protector in sickness and in health! With Him by our side, fear cannot reside! He does not work only in cases where there are no obstacles; but takes pleasure in overruling and prevailing against circumstances and bringing victory to His children. He loves us more than we can comprehend and just as you and I can't bear the thought of our children being in a state of fear and worry, how must the Lord feel for us when we are in this mind set? Scripture reminds us time and again to resist the temptation to fear and doubt.
"When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul."
Ps. 94:19
"So then, banish anxiety from your heart and cast off the troubles of your body, for youth and vigor are meaningless. Ec. 11:10
"Therefore I am all the eager to see him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety." Php. 2:28
" Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." 1 Pe. 5:7
Scripture points out the importance of putting our faith in Him and giving the worries of this life to Him. There is a little saying written by Mary Crowley that I absolutely love; "Every evening I turn up worries over to God. He's going to be up all night anyway!" Don't worry about tomorrow, live one day at a time. In Matthew 6:34 the Bible gives us a specific prayer to pray during our times of worry. "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things that I can not change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference."
Everyone worries from time to time but remember that at these moments Satan will try to convince you of all sorts of lies to discourage you and keep you in a state of hopelessness and confusion. We must remember God is in control of all, He loves us and wants the very best for us. He is not against us but for us, and there is nothing the Lord can not handle. There is nothing hopeless with God, He is the only real hope we have!

DAILY DEVOTION

2009-03-30T10:30:00.001-07:00

Daily Devotion - Monday, March 30, 2009

Forgiven Much
Gwen Smith

Today’s Truth
“Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him.” Psalm 32:2

Woman to woman!
Luke 7 introduces us to a woman who endured her shame publicly. She was guilty of something, though we are never told what. She is simply described as a woman “who had lived a sinful life.” Though she is nameless to you and me, the people of her town surely knew her name. The Pharisees knew enough to condemn her with judgmental thoughts.

Her sin was public, not private. Yet, the public disgrace of this broken, sinful woman became the perfect canvas for Jesus Christ to paint a beautiful picture of extravagant grace.

REMEMBER WHAT YOU LEARN TO GROW,GROW,GROW!!!

2009-03-28T19:58:00.000-07:00

Asking God daily to help us remember the things He has taught us will better prepare us for future tests. Let's for a moment say you are a student who has spent much time preparing for a test. Now the time has come to take the test, you complete the test and it is now behind you. What have you gained or profited from that test if you remember nothing that you were just tested on. If you have ever taken any Algebra classes in your life, you know that one test is a fundamental building block for the next upcoming test. It is imperative that you remember the material you just learned in order to build on that and grasp greater algebraic equations. It is a steady growth process, much like our walk with God. We must build on what we learn from the tests we pass through in our lives. Although God is always faithful and never changes, we are changing continually. Hopefully for the better! Learning to trust in the Lord at all times seems to be one of the hardest things to do even as Christian's. We tend to want to take control of the matters in our life, and fix our problems instead of waiting upon the Lord. We know God doesn't need our help, yet we have this incredibly strong urge to give the creator of the universe a helping hand! It's only then do the matters in our life only worsen, while God quietly sits back letting us learn yet another lesson. Trust the Lord with your life and only good will come from it! Every moment and trial leads to a deeper and greater relationship with God. With each lesson learned you are wiser and better equipped to succeed the next test. God is already perfected, we on the other hand are a constant work of art! God is slowly but surely molding us into the image he would like for us to be. Each moment with God comes a new moment of spiritual growth. Step by step we are building under our feet an unshakable foundation. With every step we become a little wiser, stronger, and all the more powerful. Able to withstand anything that may come our way through the power of His spirit and through his loving guidance. Even when you feel you can not take another step, lean on Him, trust Him, and know He will not bring you to anything that His spirit won't lift you and carry you through!
"Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me." Philippians 3:12

AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE WE WILL SERVE THE LORD!

2009-03-27T21:11:00.000-07:00

"I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever; With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations." Psalm 89:1

We serve a God who's love is everlasting. He is our refuge and strength, through Him we have power to conquer any battle or situation that may come our way! He has promised us our households would be saved through Him. After all, the blood was applied to the lintel and doorposts for the salvation of the entire house! In Exodus 12:22-23 the bible explains the day of the pass over, where God would "pass over" the houses and not destroy the occupants of the houses that were under the sign of the blood. Even today we are spared by the blood of Jesus Christ!
"Is not my house right with God? Has he not made with me an everlasting covenant, arranged and secured in every part? Will he not bring to fruition my salvation and grant me my every desire? In 2 Samuel 23:5

Jesus sacrificed His life on the cross so that we could be saved. Will he not do now for you what he did then? Yes, He is God, He is hope, He will never leave us or forsake us. He doesn't tire, he welcomes our every cry. Cast your cares upon Him and His mercies are endless. His grace and mercy is extended to all generations who seek Him!