Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Our Savior, Our Friend

Jesus, You are our greatest, truest friend. You laid down Your life for us and spilled Your Precious Blood, so we could come to know You.

You are the Counselor on High and The True Physician. You are our Advocate, Shepherd, Savior, Bridegroom, Rock, Salvation, Strong Tower of Strength…

And, LORD Jesus, we run to you!

John 10:11
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.

Proverbs 18:10
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe.

Isaiah 9:6
For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Mark 2:17
On hearing this, Jesus told them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."

John 14:16
And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever--

Psalm 18:2
The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold

Isaiah 61:10
I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, My soul will exult in my God; For He has clothed me with garments of salvation, He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with a garland, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

Revelation 3:20
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.

John 15:15
No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not understand what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because everything I have learned from My Father I have made known to yo

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

In His Strength

Does The Bible Say That God Won't Give You More Than You Can Handle?

James 10:13 says that God will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can handle and that He will provide a way of escape. But nowhere in the Bible does it say that God will not give us more than we can handle. But many Christians erroneously believe that it's in the word of God due to misquoting James 10:13.

The truth of the matter is that our God in His infinite wisdom knows that we, His children cannot overcome trials and difficulties in our on strength. Jesus exhorts us, "Come to me all who are weary and heavy-laden and I will give you rest. (Mathew 11:28) He also warns us, "In this world, you will have tribulation but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

It is evident through just these two scriptures alone that God knows that we cannot handle our darkest trials alone....but He can! Therefore, the more correct statement is that God won't give us more than He can handle.

It is in those pain wracked moments of our lives when we feel that we just can’t take it anymore and cry out to Him, fall at His feet in sweet surrender clinging to Him in desperation that we are filled His supernatural peace, strength, and comfort.

In the process, we encounter His very heart. He fills us with His love and grace causing us to bow down in praise and adoration giving God all the glory for meeting us in the depth of our pain and despair and carrying us through it giving us victory in Jesus.

"And He said unto me, My Grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Monday, October 29, 2018

His Kingdom Come

His Kingdom Come

All the present troubles, temptations and tears will be removed as The New Jerusalem will replace the former things, according to His timing and in fulfillment of His Word.

Our faithful Father has promised there will be no more sorrow, sin, affliction or idolatry...no more ill effects of the enemy and this sin-stained world.

The LORD will dwell with His people in harmony and righteousness. His Kingdom will come and every knee will bow to His Majesty...

And He shall reign forever and ever!

Hallelujah!

2 Peter 3:13
But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.

Isaiah 65:17
See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.

Jeremiah 1:12
The LORD said to me, "You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled."

Revelation 21:2
I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.

Romans 14:11
It is written: "As surely as I live," says the Lord, "every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God."

Isaiah 40:31
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.

Revelation 22:14
Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.

Friday, October 26, 2018

The Bond of Perfection

Our greatest need is for love. In order to love we must be carriers of it. Oswald Chambers said “No love of the natural heart is safe unless the human heart has been satisfied by God first.”

Only the love of God satisfies. If you are desperately trying to get your need for love met in anyone or anything outside of God, then you will live in constant disappointment. But, the love of God never disappoints. Run to Jesus and let Him fill you with His love - perfect, satisfying, unfailing - the bond of perfection.

1 John 4:8
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

1 John 4:16
And we have come to know and believe the love that God has for us. God is love; whoever abides in love abides in God, and God in him.

Psalm 107:9
For He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.

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

Psalm 63:1
O God, You are my God, earnestly I seek You; my soul thirsts for You; my body yearns for You in a dry and weary land without water.

1 Corinthians 13:8(a)
Love never fails.

Thursday, October 25, 2018

Authentic Identity

The only relationship that truly determines one’s identity is a relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Spouses, families, service, church, friends, and careers all contribute to our enrichment and maturation. However, only the One who created us determines who we truly are...and the only way to The Father is through the One who shed His blood at Calvary.

Salvation through Jesus Christ is the indicator of authentic identity - an everlasting identity that fills every void, offers an abundant and fruitful life, and promises an eternal inheritance.

Galatians 3:26
You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:14
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.

Romans 8:16
The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.

Romans 8:19
The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God.

Romans 9:8
So it is not the children of the flesh who are God's children, but it is the children of the promise who are regarded as offspring.

2 Corinthians 6:18
And: "I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty."

Galatians 3:26
You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 1:5
He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will,

1 John 3:1
Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.

1 John 4:13
By this we know that we remain in Him, and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit.

1 John 4:15
If anyone confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.

Revelation 21:7
The one who is victorious will inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he will be My son.

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

God's Gift To You

No matter where you are today in your life, take a moment to reflect on what God has done for you...

Take time to meditate on the complexity of God's Perfection in His Divine Plan and how He lovingly and deliberately included you in His purpose...

That long ago before the heavens and earth were created, He formed you in His mind and intricately planned your identity and eternal inheritance.

No matter what your circumstances are today...thank Him for what He has carefully constructed, revealed and promised to you...the greatest Gift ever unwrapped...The Mystery of Christ.

"To them, God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which[a] is Christ in you, the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:27)

Tuesday, October 23, 2018

The Lord Cares for You

Pour out your heart to Him...for He will reveal to you His unblemished and unparalleled love.

Cling to Him and resist the schemes of the evil one...for He is your tower of strength and will uphold you with His righteous hand.

Find rest and protection under His wing...for He is your salvation and refuge.

Trust Him at all times and in all circumstances...for He works on your behalf and promises you comfort, peace and joy.

Drink from His living waters...for He will overflow your cup with a fountain of everlasting refreshment.

Run to Him and seek Him above all things...for The LORD chose you before the foundation of the world, sacrificed His Son to present you holy and blameless in His sight, and He longs to spend eternity with you.

Isaiah 26:4
Trust in the LORD forever, because GOD the LORD is the Rock eternal.

Psalm 55:22
Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.

Jeremiah 29:13
“And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”

John 4:14
"...but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

John 3:16
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Ephesians 1:4
For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love

Colossians 1:22
But now He has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy, unblemished, and blameless in His presence--

1 Peter 5:7
casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

Monday, October 22, 2018

Count Your Words

Have you ever blurted out the wrong words at the wrong time? Horrified, you wish you could push the rewind button and start again – but, unfortunately, the words are irretrievable.

Scripture tells us to keep watch over our tongue, and for good reason. Words have the power to create strife or peace; to build up or destroy; to bless or curse.

The old adage claims ‘words never hurt me.” That, however, couldn’t be farther from the truth. Words do hurt and can wound a heart for a lifetime. But the right words spoken at the right time have the power to heal and comfort.

Words count – so count your word!

"Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
Psalm 141:3

"There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."
James 3:2

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
Proverbs 15:1

"A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, and a word spoken in due season, how good it is!"
Proverbs 15:23

Friday, October 19, 2018

The fear of being rejected is a terrible bondage on many people. Often negative life experiences can cause us to fear rejection, resulting in living a life shackled with false ideas built on lies, leading us to live in an emotional and spiritual prison.

As a precious child of the living God you do not need to live in fear of rejection because if Christ is for you, who can be against you?

Certainly, we all live in a real world. We want others to like us and accept us. However, we must understand Christ gives us a mighty armor of love shielding us from the rejection of the world. Besides, if the world, in all its sin and degradation does not want you and Christ does want you, how could you feel so bad about that? All of us must remember no matter how much the world comes against us or rejects us, Jesus is always for us.

Psalm ‪9:10‬
And those who know Your name will put their trust in You, For You, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You.

Psalm 34:4
I sought the LORD, and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears.

Romans 8:31
What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Psalm 118:6
The LORD is for me; I will not fear; What can man do to me?

Thursday, October 18, 2018

Endurance

Perseverance and patience are virtues that we may not willingly welcome into our spiritual transformation. In order for our character to be honed with these, it means we must face difficulties and hardships. These often occur in clusters, sometimes resulting in whole seasons of despair. We grow weary and worn from the battle, and sometimes feel as though we cannot possibly proceed another day in this way. We feel frustrated, even angry, and may begin to believe that God is far away and doesn't hear our pleas for mercy.

While these seasons can be tremendously difficult to endure, we must not lose hope. Perhaps the outcome is irrelevant, because the lesson lies in the process of moving through the mountain. Thus, we can pray for God to remove our obsession with the problem and expel our own expectations of acceptable solutions; acknowledge that He alone is on The Throne, has the absolute answers and is equipped for the battle. We can ask the Teacher to reveal what He would have us learn in these trials; pray for Him to strengthen our resolve while we wait upon Him. We can carelessly continue to claw forward, or we can allow Him to carry us; pray for His comfort and strength of endurance, rest in His embrace, and ask that He pour His refreshment into us. We should reconcile the situation in ourselves; accept His portion, provision, help and healing. We must pray persistently for the fulfillment of His promises over our lives; claim the victory with confidence and in Christ's Name.

But most of all, we must persist in our trust and faith in The LORD. We must pray for patience and perseverance, regardless of how we "feel" and get real with ourselves and God in our prayers. He already knows about yesterday, today and tomorrow. He is intimately acquainted with our weaknesses and the struggles we face. He knows the best possible outcome for every problem. He has already designed all the ways He intends to shape us. Regardless of the cause of the issue, He can tailor it to a useful and beautiful benefit for His purpose. And always remember, our faith is tested under pressure; if faith is never stretched and forced into action, we simply do not grow. He knows exactly what we need to become the authentic being He designed, and what it takes to bend and form us according to His purpose!

And when He deems it time to prevail and we have our blessed breakthrough, we can reflect on all of the marvelous miracles we are able to see in our hindsight. We must praise Him for sustaining us with His righteous hand...for increasing our faith...for fulfilling His promises...and for maturating our character with spiritual patience and perseverance.

Hebrews 10:36
You need to persevere, so that after you have done God's will, you will receive what He has promised.

Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer.

Luke 21:19
By your patient endurance, you will gain your souls.

Romans 2:7
To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life.

Hebrews 12:1
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us.

Romans 5:3-4
Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Romans 8:37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

1 Corinthians 15:57
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

Perfect Peace


Let us make known to our Abba Father the yearnings of our hearts, leaning into Him and taking His yoke of love and perfect peace.

Let us find eternal rest in our salvation, surrendering fully to Him all the worries of today and tomorrow.

And may our Shepherd lead us by the still waters of everlasting tranquility...as we trust steadfastly in His will for us in Christ Jesus, the full manifestation of His love.

Matthew 6:27
Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

Matthew 6:34
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own.

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Isaiah 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

Psalm 23:2
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters...

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

Walk In Love

As humans in a fallen world, it is inevitable that we will all face some form of rejection, abandonment, temptation and persecution in our lives.

But, we can take heart that God took human form as Jesus Christ and was also rejected, abandoned and persecuted. He suffered in ways far beyond what any of us will ever face or can possibly comprehend. He completely knows and understands our pain and suffering. After all, the burden of sin...OF ALL MANKIND...rested on our unblemished Christ Jesus...alone.

Yet, He loved and sacrificed...He showed mercy, grace, forgiveness and compassion, regardless of the tumultuous circumstances He faced.

To put on the attitude of Christ is to respond in love to those who persecute and spitefully use us...to forgive and pray for them, in spite of the struggle.

A Godly response...one rooted in His Truth and Grace casts Light into the darkness...soothes the sting...removes the strongholds...binds up our wounds...and heals us with His Truth and Eternal Love.

Ephesians 5:1-2
Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.

Luke 23:34
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.

Matthew 5:44
But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

John 13:34
A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so also you must love one another.

Romans 12:14
Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse.

Acts 7:60
Falling on his knees, he cried out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Monday, October 15, 2018

A Prayer for Those Struggling With Forgiveness

Holy and Heavenly Father God,

You promise if we confess our sins, You are faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. LORD, I realize unconfessed sin keeps me in torment and bondage, a heavy load of shame and guilt that You do not desire for me to bear. I hereby confess these sins and surrender this burden to You, LORD; and I take Your yoke instead.

Jesus, YOU ALONE carried on The Cross the weight of every sin, of all mankind! You alone are the atoning sacrifice! You alone are the way to reconciliation with The Father! You alone rescued me from the domain of darkness and transferred me to Your Kingdom of Heaven! Jesus, I thank You and praise You for what You have done for me; that I am forgiven, set free, and a new creation purposed to spend Eternity with You. I claim this victory today and every day, in the Holy and Righteous Name of Jesus!

LORD, I pray for Your sweet and cleansing gift of forgiveness. I surrender my will to You and ask for Your presence and guidance in my life. I am dependent upon You alone to meet my needs, and I will not look for a substitute in anyone or anything else. I pray You will set my mind on things above and show me how to see myself and others as You see us, as precious children of The Living God. Show me how to be transparent before You; remind me that Your love is pure, and Your arms are open wide.

LORD, I praise You and thank You for the ways you have forgiven me. Teach me how to forgive myself and others, as many times as it takes, that I may receive the precious freedom You so graciously promise. For, those You set free, are free indeed!

In the Name of Jesus, I pray for You to demolish any strongholds, any barriers, that prevent me from accessing Your free gifts of love, mercy, grace, and forgiveness. Show me more every day how to yield to You, Precious Savior; how to receive and to be a carrier of Your grace, according to Your will. Give me a clean heart, filled with the full measure of Your mercy and love, that I may extend the same to others. Set me free, LORD. Sanctify me. Wash me whiter than snow and cover me with Your Grace.

In the Name of my Precious Savior, Jesus Christ,
Amen!

Ephesians 1:7
In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace,

Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and tender-hearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.

Matthew 18:21-22
Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.”

Matthew 5:44
But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive any complaint you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Luke 23:34
Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up His garments by casting lots.

Psalm 103:12
As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.

Matthew 6:12
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

Friday, October 12, 2018

Eternal Perspective


Have you ever felt rejected, abandoned and unloved? Jesus will never leave you. He is incapable of suddenly deciding that He doesn't want you.

Nothing you can do will cause Him to reject you. Believe what God's word says about Him and about you. You are defined by the love and acceptance of the One who formed your inward parts - the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. He thinks you are worth loving, cherishing, and keeping.

Find your identity in Him. Apply His love to your wounded heart and let His word renew your mind and penetrate deep in your heart.

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; "He will never leave you nor forsake you."

Joshua 1:5
No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you."

Psalms 94:14
“For the LORD will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance."

Isaiah 42:16
“I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them."

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Counseling That Heals

There are a plethora of self-help books available offering various theories and approaches to dealing with the rooted issues of negative emotions and behaviors. Modern day psychology is valuable in understanding the soul (mind, emotions, and will). This is the area that gets sick. The rooted systems in our life can make our souls extremely sick. A psychology approach can diagnose the problem and offer solution. However, since the solution offered is rooted in humanism and, therefore, manmade, there is no true long-term healing that can occur. At best it can help change behavior, and give you tools for self-discipline, or positive thinking. That is not freedom.

There is no lasting victory because it does not deal with sin. It does not allow for the blood of Christ to cleanse us and change us. It merely puts a band-aid over symptoms. It may address anxiety, depression, outward manifestations and symptoms of deeper issues – but often the first solution offered is medication and never gets to the root. So people are not getting the true healing they are seeking.

As Christians, we know that only God has the power to heal us from the inside out and set us free. That is true victory. He doesn’t just change behaviors; He transforms, renews, restores, redeems and breaks the chains of bondage.

Psalm 147:3 says “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Isaiah also tells us that God is the “Wonderful Counselor.” John 14:6 says “the Holy Spirit is the Counselor.” Therefore, true freedom is found only by applying biblical truths to the wounds of our heart. Jesus is the balm of Gilead. He is the ointment that heals the wounds of God’s hurting children.

Wednesday, October 10, 2018

A Contrite Heart

Blessed are those who mourn with Godly sorrow...who have a contrite, humble heart and revere The Word of The Lord...for, to them comes repentance that leads to salvation.

The Lord looks to them; they receive forgiveness and and are promised comfort and cleansing through the indwelling of The Holy Spirit.

They know Jesus Christ as their Redeemer and Savior, and confidently approach The Throne of Grace without shame, fear or regret. They are reconciled unto God The Father, and their heart is filled with joy and peace; they have a personal relationship with Jesus and receive rest.

Blessed are those indeed who mourn and have repented...they are forgiven and hidden in Christ...for them there is no condemnation and they will dwell in The House of The Lord forever.

2 Corinthians 7:10
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

Isaiah 66:2
For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the Lord: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.

Romans 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

2 Corinthians 5:21
For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

Insisting Resisting Temptation

Our Father will not allow us to be tried, tested, or tempted beyond what He knows we can endure without compromising our faith. He is loving, compassionate, and true to His promises!

Regardless of whether it is a test from God or a temptation rooted in darkness, if we turn to Jesus and move through it in faith, we will find deliverance.

Wait upon The LORD, stand firmly on His promises, stay armored up in Light...and His purpose will be perfected in His timing.

1 Corinthians 10:13
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold resolutely to the hope we confess, for He who promised is faithful.

2 Peter 2:9
...if all this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials...

Isaiah 40:31
Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.

2 Timothy 4:18
And the Lord will rescue me from every evil action and bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom. To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen

Monday, October 8, 2018

The Great I Am



He IS The Alpha and The Omega, Who is, was and is to come!

He IS the same yesterday, today, tomorrow and forevermore!

Praise The Lord, for there is none beside or before Him...

And His unconditional love, unmerited favor, marvelous mercy, omniscient sovereignty, rescue and redemption are unchangeable...and endure forever!

Revelation 1:8
"I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, who is and was and is to come--the Almighty.

Isaiah 44:6
Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: "I am the first and I am the last, And there is no God besides Me."

Exodus 3:14
God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM"; and He said, "Thus you shall say to the sons of Israel, "'I AM has sent me to you.'"

John 8:58
"Truly, truly, I tell you," Jesus declared, "before Abraham was born, I am!"

Jude 1:25
to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all time, and now, and for all eternity. Amen.

Friday, October 5, 2018

From Faith to Faith

Faith is not a feeling or emotion and often defies all human logic or reasoning. But, through faith, we gain understanding and Everlasting Truth.

Faith is choosing to take God at His Word....though unseen, the evidence of God and what He accomplishes through His command is all around us.

When we chose to take Him at His Word, we need to get into The Word...bring God into the situation, and align our emotions with His Truth.

Having faith in Him and trusting His Truth brings an unchanging, unwavering, unlimited resource and reality into our circumstances.

When we choose to walk in faith and are obedient to The Will of God, we have created a partnership with an unmatched Leader and LORD over all, who loves us and longs for our good...who created us in His image...desires to transform us and bring us from faith to faith...from glory to glory.

Let us walk in obedient faith and be blessed by His reward for our devotion...for our Father is faithful...and a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

John 11:40
Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?”

Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Hebrews 11:3
By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.

Hebrews 11:8
By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.

Isaiah 40:8
The grass withers, the flower fades,
But the word of our God stands forever.

1 Peter 1:25
But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

Psalm 33:4
For the word of the Lord is right; and all his works are done in truth.

1 Corinthians 1:9
God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5:24
The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.

Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold resolutely to the hope we confess, for He who promised is faithful.

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Fortress of Hope

Regardless of what you may be facing today, place your trust in the Fortress of hope, and you will not be shaken.

God is the giver and foundation of your faith. He is the author of salvation and eternal life. He commands all things seen and unseen. He provides the promise of an abundant life and desires to fulfill that for you. He has the omniscient ability to untangle the snares of adversity and part the stormy sea. He alone knows the path to peace.

He has a plan for your life, including all the seemingly impossible predicaments. Trust God. Surrender it to Him with unwavering faith. Pray without ceasing. Open your heart to receive how He may want to heal and instruct you, hone your character and strengthen your faith. God is certainly able to bring you through it with an awesome testimony of His greatness, all for His glory.

Just let your soul rest in Him, for He is the unlimited source of your help, hope, peace, comfort and strength.

And remember...at the end of the day, come what may, you have been promised eternity with Jesus.

Psalm 33:20
We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.

Hebrews 10:36
You need to persevere, so that after you have done God's will, you will receive what He has promised.

Psalm 37:39
The salvation of the righteous comes from the LORD; he is their stronghold in time of trouble.

Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer.

Psalm 25:5
Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; For You I wait all the day.

Psalm 27:4
Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.

Psalm 62:5
Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.

Psalm 130:5
I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.

Wednesday, October 3, 2018

Called & Equipped

God does not make empty promises. If He brings you to it, He is faithful to empower and equip you to accomplish His will. His gifts are irrevocable. His Word and His promises are immutable. He equips the called and gives strength to the weary. When we lose our footing and are faithless, He is constant and always faithful. Nothing can stand against what He ordains!

LORD, we praise You and claim the victory of what You are doing in and through us, equipping us for every good work. Father, we come to You with a surrendered and willing heart...and pray for Your wisdom, guidance, and discernment. Anoint and strengthen us; bend and refine us according to Your perfect and pleasing will. We praise You that You are always our faithful Father, and that Your mercy and love is unchanging and never ending. LORD, we petition You with confidence because of Who You are, and pray You will increase our faith, as we hold resolutely to Your promises. Thank You, Father, for including us in Your plan, and for blessing us with a servant’s heart. And, let us never forget the power of The Name in which we pray!

In the Name of Jesus, our mighty and beautiful Savior...Amen.

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Philippians 2:13
For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure.

Isaiah 40:29
He gives strength to the weary, And to him who lacks might He increases power.

2 Timothy 3:17
so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.

Romans 8:31
What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Romans 11:29
For God's gifts and His call are irrevocable.

1 Corinthians 1:9
God, who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.

2 Timothy 2:13
if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.

1 Thessalonians 5:24
The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.

Hebrews 13:20-21
Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with every good thing to do His will. And may He accomplish in us what is pleasing in His sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Tuesday, October 2, 2018

In The Power of Christ

Others may have done things in the past that leaves us feeling angry, victimized, unappreciated, and used. Indeed, you may have a valid reason to feel anger.

You may have been taken advantage of and victimized by others. You may have been unappreciated by others. You may have been used by others. These are common life experiences many people go through at some point.

However, when these kinds of occurrences happen in life, we have a choice to make. We can choose to be drawn into the darkness put upon us by others, or we can choose to remain in the light and love of Christ.

If you are truly a child of God, others may try to do things to make you angry but you do not have to respond or feel angry.

In Christ, others may try to victimize you but you do not have to be a victim.

In Christ, others may not appreciate you but you do not need the appreciation of others.

In Christ, others may use you to their advantage but you do not need to feel used because you have given over all of who you are to Him who died for you.

The power we live under in Christ is an insulating power for our hearts. This insulating power keeps us from feeling angry, victimized, unappreciated, and used by others.

Proverbs 4:23
Above all guard your hearts, for out it flows the issues of life.

Luke 10:42
“But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her."

Lamentations 3:24
"The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in Him."

Colossians 1:13
He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son.

Luke 6:28
bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

Monday, October 1, 2018

A Prayer of Restoration

Holy and Heavenly Father God,

You are El Roi, The God Who Sees every hurt, loss, and unmet need. Jesus, I praise You that You have always been with me, but it grieves my heart that you have also seen all the wrong ways I have been trying to fill the void in my heart. I have constantly tried to prove my worth by measuring myself against the faulty standards of others. But, Your Word and Truth is the righteous and holy standard by which I now desire to live! You are the Good Portion Who meets every need! Jesus, You alone determine my value!

Father, I come before You in complete surrender, and as one who is emotionally crippled and spiritually depleted. I cannot carry this burden or navigate through this alone. Every attempt I have made to direct my life has resulted in chaos, confusion, bitterness, and despair. By not inviting You in, I have only given the enemy power in my life. You, LORD, are seated on The Throne and You are in control! Father, I pray in the Name of Jesus, that You will bind up and cast out all things that have prevented me from living as the authentic being You formed long ago; that You will remove the shackles of loss, grief, anger, false beliefs, false standards, control, perfectionism, unmet needs, disillusionment, shame, and a hardened heart. I release this all to You, and I chose today to walk with You in freedom, forgiveness, mercy and truth!

LORD, I pray You will enable me to experience the cleansing power that You provide through our tears and remind me that You are never far away. My Father, I thank You for comforting me as I grieve and mourn the losses; for gently wiping away every tear; and for nurturing every sorrow, as only a Daddy can do.

Thank You, Jesus, for removing the stain of sin and shame on my life, and for applying Your Balm to my wounds. I pray You will always reveal to me when I am trying to “fix” things through my own efforts or dependent upon others for my happiness, that I may bring it all to Your Throne of Grace for exchange. I choose to release these chains to You and to be God-dependent. Remind me, LORD, that You decided my worth when You shed Your Precious Blood for me, that I am worthy, I am loved, and that Your Grace always fills in the gap where I fall short. Never let me forget the magnitude of Your flawless, unfailing love. I praise You, my LORD, my God, my King, and I give You all the Glory!

In the Precious and Holy Name of Jesus, I pray,
Amen!

Psalm 147:3
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Psalm 139:14
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are Your works, and I know this very well.

Psalm 73:26
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Psalm 56:8
You have taken account of my wanderings; You have put my tears in Your bottle. Are they not in Your book?