Wow! Christmas has come and gone, and people are gearing up for New Year's eve bashes and celebrations. Some have begun to set goals and write resolutions, but most thoughts of the priceless gift of the Messiah's birth, life and death are drifting in holiday returns, leftover dishes, and hours back in the work place. Jesus' birth is the greatest gift mankind has ever received, yet many people overlook what great price this gift cost. Imagine our sovereign and holy God had to release His only Son to be born to a world that was filled with hatred, evil, selfishness, and ingratitude so that we would have a chance to repent, be forgiven , and live a life that pleases our Father. Can you visualize the pain and agony our heavenly Father experienced as His darling Son, Jesus left heaven's holiness, love, safety, and glory to become tortured, ridiculed, and murdered by mankind. What parent would turn over one child's life so that the other children might choose to do the right thing and live?
It is a remarkable demonstration of love. God so loved a sinful and dying world that He would sacrifice Heaven's best so that we could choose to love and honor Him. God sure took a leap of faith in humanity. Since Jesus accepted our Father's task to die that we may live, what can we the other children offer in return? There is nothing we could buy, create, or give to pay the price for our blessed Savior. It would seem impossible for a mere human to match a holy God in giving. But God still has faith in you and me. He still takes leaps of faith in our favor.
Romans 12:1 says, I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. God has been merciful, loving, and given much grace for us. In return our Lord expects us to make sacrifices for Him. We must choose to use our bodies for God's honor and glory. That means we must watch how we use our tongues, hands, and where we allow our feet to travel so that we present ourselves as holy gifts that God can accept. The Bible tells us that God sees this as our reasonable service.
The devil tries to make us believe that it is hard to serve God or that the world just has to much fun to offer that we cannot possibly give it up. But God's priceless sacrifice requires us to give up our own worldly, fleshly desires and to long for a faithful and righteous life that pleases Jesus. In the upcoming days, you will be given many opportunities to present your body either to the world or unto God. Choose carefully because this may be your last chance to make a reasonable decision!!! Hint: Go with God, He won't fail you. The world will leave you tired, empty, spent, hurt, or maybe even dead. But in Christ is eternal life!!!
Be Blessed!
Monday, December 28, 2009
Monday, December 7, 2009
Unexpected Storms
If it weren't for the pictures, I still would be in disbelief. In the middle of a fairly normal December, South Louisiana was suddenly covered with snow. It isn't that I am among the many who get excited at the thought of the slightest snow flurry, but it is the fact that at the end of an airy, damp week out of nowhere arrives this season's snow storm.
The weather forecasters were preparing their viewing audiences for a sudden snow storm. In the broadcast, they stated that we didn't need rain, nor did we need the temperature to drop below freezing. We only needed the conditions to be right in order to get a snow storm. I started thinking about the magnitude of this forecast in our lives. What does it mean to have the right conditions for an unusual storm?
Things can be seemingly normal, life can be going well, or it could be the end of a season and out of nowhere an unexpected storm may arise. It may seem unusual that when you are doing well, praying and serving God with a pure heart, and obeying the scripture to the letter, the conditions may be just right for an unusual storm. These unexpected storms are allowed into our realms to shake up the atmosphere. They are not permitted to destroy you or to even disable you; they are under the watchful eye of God who knows the beginning and the end. Perhaps God has hand selected you, His beloved child, to encounter an unexpected storm.
The funny thing about this temporary condition is that it is powerless. It came in with a force and a measure of strength, but the storm did not have staying power. As quickly as it came in, the sun came out and sent that snow creeping back beneath the earth. Hallelujah! The storm that the enemy is huffing and puffing your way is powerless; it doesn't have staying power. It may come in feeling like a surge, but as soon as you look to the Son, Jesus, you will see the enemy defeated and that storm will disappear from your life!
Rejoice, and again I say rejoice! For there is no storm that can sustain the power of the Son, Jesus Christ. So as you face these temporary conditions began to declare the word of God over your family, your situation, and your territory because we serve a mighty God and He has all power over heaven and earth in His hands!
Be Blessed!
The weather forecasters were preparing their viewing audiences for a sudden snow storm. In the broadcast, they stated that we didn't need rain, nor did we need the temperature to drop below freezing. We only needed the conditions to be right in order to get a snow storm. I started thinking about the magnitude of this forecast in our lives. What does it mean to have the right conditions for an unusual storm?
Things can be seemingly normal, life can be going well, or it could be the end of a season and out of nowhere an unexpected storm may arise. It may seem unusual that when you are doing well, praying and serving God with a pure heart, and obeying the scripture to the letter, the conditions may be just right for an unusual storm. These unexpected storms are allowed into our realms to shake up the atmosphere. They are not permitted to destroy you or to even disable you; they are under the watchful eye of God who knows the beginning and the end. Perhaps God has hand selected you, His beloved child, to encounter an unexpected storm.
The funny thing about this temporary condition is that it is powerless. It came in with a force and a measure of strength, but the storm did not have staying power. As quickly as it came in, the sun came out and sent that snow creeping back beneath the earth. Hallelujah! The storm that the enemy is huffing and puffing your way is powerless; it doesn't have staying power. It may come in feeling like a surge, but as soon as you look to the Son, Jesus, you will see the enemy defeated and that storm will disappear from your life!
Rejoice, and again I say rejoice! For there is no storm that can sustain the power of the Son, Jesus Christ. So as you face these temporary conditions began to declare the word of God over your family, your situation, and your territory because we serve a mighty God and He has all power over heaven and earth in His hands!
Be Blessed!
Monday, November 30, 2009
Welcome December!
It is official, December is here and we have fully entered the holiday season. Innumerable countdowns begin, gifts are carefully selected, lists are being crossed off, and people are shuffling in and out of the hustle and bustle of life. Thanksgiving has become more of a pre-Christmas entity rather than a time of praise and worship to the almighty God for the wonderful things He has done.
As we enter stores, we spot holiday decor and displays to guide our thoughts toward purchasing the latest goods and gadgets, most of which we could probably do without. Many people dread each passing day because their to-do lists stretch beyond their ability or their means. The hype of the holiday season sometimes causes us to lose focus of the true meaning of the season. If we are choosing to celebrate Christmas as a commemorative memorial to recognize the birth of Jesus, then, I suggest a different approach. Why not slow down this month?
As we enter stores, we spot holiday decor and displays to guide our thoughts toward purchasing the latest goods and gadgets, most of which we could probably do without. Many people dread each passing day because their to-do lists stretch beyond their ability or their means. The hype of the holiday season sometimes causes us to lose focus of the true meaning of the season. If we are choosing to celebrate Christmas as a commemorative memorial to recognize the birth of Jesus, then, I suggest a different approach. Why not slow down this month?
- Take a few moments each day to reflect on your family's values for the holiday.
- Decide to keep Christ in the season by sharing the good news of Jesus with someone you meet while preparing for the holiday.
- Pray for someone whose resources are limited this time of year.
- Add "God bless you" to your Christmas cards.
- Hang a cross as an ornament on your Christmas tree.
- Write your favorite Bible story on pretty paper, wrap it as a gift, and give it to someone on your gift list.
- Praise God for the greatest gift of love ever given, Jesus!
Welcome every opportunity you have to worship God because not everyone has such a blessing!
Be Blessed!!!
Monday, October 5, 2009
Follow the Signs
Fall is definitely in the air. Even though the first leaves haven't turned golden, orange, red, or brown you can tell that autumn is here. The crisp morning air is slightly cooler than it was a month ago. Instead of flies buzzing happily by, spiders spin their wondrous webs in discreet corners. Without one glance at a calendar, you know that its fall. Once again God has woven his wonderful glory before our very eyes.
If we pay close attention, we can also observe the signs of the times in which we live. Many people are uncertain about their futures, and others are beginning to feel hopeless. But when you are a child of God, you don't let circumstances steal your faith. We know that we serve a good God, and that He has plans for your life. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, "I know the thoughts that I think toward you; thoughts of good and not evil to bring you an expected end." God is carefully constructing the events of your life. Jesus is never moved by the way things appear, but He moves by what He sees the Father do and say. We, too, must ignore the world's reports and walk on the word of God with full belief.
Right now we are entering a season of divine glory. God has pronounced this as an hour of separation. He is bringing promotion to his children, so that their gifts may be recognized in the market place and in the world, that our heavenly Father will be glorified. Look around you, have you noticed that certain people are no longer part of your crowd. Has the atmosphere on your job changed recently? It is time to discern the times. God may be calling you out of your comfort zone, like He did Abraham. God told Abraham he had a plan to bless him and all of his heirs. But that promise hinged on Abraham's willingness to separate from his homeland, his family, and his workplace. If Abraham had not followed God's voice out of Ur, Abraham's whole life would have been different.
God is pouring creative ideas, business plans, visions for ministry, and dreams bigger than the people who could imagine them. He has chosen to bless the gift that he has placed within you for this hour. Prepare to pack your bags and launch out into the deeper things of God. Now is the time to enter into your season!
If we pay close attention, we can also observe the signs of the times in which we live. Many people are uncertain about their futures, and others are beginning to feel hopeless. But when you are a child of God, you don't let circumstances steal your faith. We know that we serve a good God, and that He has plans for your life. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, "I know the thoughts that I think toward you; thoughts of good and not evil to bring you an expected end." God is carefully constructing the events of your life. Jesus is never moved by the way things appear, but He moves by what He sees the Father do and say. We, too, must ignore the world's reports and walk on the word of God with full belief.
Right now we are entering a season of divine glory. God has pronounced this as an hour of separation. He is bringing promotion to his children, so that their gifts may be recognized in the market place and in the world, that our heavenly Father will be glorified. Look around you, have you noticed that certain people are no longer part of your crowd. Has the atmosphere on your job changed recently? It is time to discern the times. God may be calling you out of your comfort zone, like He did Abraham. God told Abraham he had a plan to bless him and all of his heirs. But that promise hinged on Abraham's willingness to separate from his homeland, his family, and his workplace. If Abraham had not followed God's voice out of Ur, Abraham's whole life would have been different.
God is pouring creative ideas, business plans, visions for ministry, and dreams bigger than the people who could imagine them. He has chosen to bless the gift that he has placed within you for this hour. Prepare to pack your bags and launch out into the deeper things of God. Now is the time to enter into your season!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Back to the Basics
2 Chronicles 7:14 : "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
As a teacher, I look forward to the start of a new school year. I spend many days sometimes even weeks in preparation for the upcoming year. Part of my routine includes going back to school before it starts and cleaning up the debris left over from the end of the year and summer repairs. I carefully examine old files to identify which things I actually need or what is simply material that clutters my future progress. There are always huge stacks and piles of garbage that I must cast aside. While I clear out the physical material of the past, I also take mental inventory. I consider what worked, what didn't, how I handled my kids, what I could have done better, and what I must not ever do again. At the end of the two to three grueling weeks that I spend getting ready for the new year, I resolve that no matter what occurred the prior year, I must return to working on being a good teacher and get back to the basics, things that I know will work and will carry me through the trials of my new journey.
Just like in our natural lives, we are to take inventory of where we are spiritually. We must examine our spiritual lives, noticing times that we lapse in prayer, reading the scripture, praising and thanking God. Sometimes when we look at our lives we observe places that the enemy has crept in and wrecked havoc because we have failed to obey the word of God. The Bible says that if we, the children of the Lord, would humble ourselves, pray, seek God, and turn from our evil doings, then God will hear us, forgive us, and solve our problems. That is quite a process. How many times have we searched for areas in our lives that need to be humbled? It doesn't say that we are to prove whether we think we are right in situations or relationships, but we are supposed to be humble before God and submit all things to him in prayer. When we earnestly and diligently seek the face of God, we get more than we ever dreamed. But sometimes instead of seeking God's face, we seek God's blessings, healing, prosperity, and other things. As a child of the King, you are supposed to seek his face, and you are supposed to take great joy in being in God's presence. The more that we seek our Father's face, we are able to resist the tactics of the devil and refuse to let anything hinder our spirits from serving and pleasing God.
It is then that God hears us. As long as we are praying to God trying to show Him why we don't deserve the attacks that come our way. We keep God as a sounding board, rather than seeking his love and his presence. God is a God of his word, and when he commands us to live and operate in a certain way, He will not change his way of doing things. If there are areas of your life that are troubling you, if you are in need of a blessing or miracle, then obey the word of God. Get back to the basics. Quit throwing your own pity party, and seek God with your whole heart, expecting nothing more than to be with Him and to receive His love. Watch God move on your behalf. When we focus on what is on God's heart, Jesus focuses on what is on our hearts.
Be Blessed!
As a teacher, I look forward to the start of a new school year. I spend many days sometimes even weeks in preparation for the upcoming year. Part of my routine includes going back to school before it starts and cleaning up the debris left over from the end of the year and summer repairs. I carefully examine old files to identify which things I actually need or what is simply material that clutters my future progress. There are always huge stacks and piles of garbage that I must cast aside. While I clear out the physical material of the past, I also take mental inventory. I consider what worked, what didn't, how I handled my kids, what I could have done better, and what I must not ever do again. At the end of the two to three grueling weeks that I spend getting ready for the new year, I resolve that no matter what occurred the prior year, I must return to working on being a good teacher and get back to the basics, things that I know will work and will carry me through the trials of my new journey.
Just like in our natural lives, we are to take inventory of where we are spiritually. We must examine our spiritual lives, noticing times that we lapse in prayer, reading the scripture, praising and thanking God. Sometimes when we look at our lives we observe places that the enemy has crept in and wrecked havoc because we have failed to obey the word of God. The Bible says that if we, the children of the Lord, would humble ourselves, pray, seek God, and turn from our evil doings, then God will hear us, forgive us, and solve our problems. That is quite a process. How many times have we searched for areas in our lives that need to be humbled? It doesn't say that we are to prove whether we think we are right in situations or relationships, but we are supposed to be humble before God and submit all things to him in prayer. When we earnestly and diligently seek the face of God, we get more than we ever dreamed. But sometimes instead of seeking God's face, we seek God's blessings, healing, prosperity, and other things. As a child of the King, you are supposed to seek his face, and you are supposed to take great joy in being in God's presence. The more that we seek our Father's face, we are able to resist the tactics of the devil and refuse to let anything hinder our spirits from serving and pleasing God.
It is then that God hears us. As long as we are praying to God trying to show Him why we don't deserve the attacks that come our way. We keep God as a sounding board, rather than seeking his love and his presence. God is a God of his word, and when he commands us to live and operate in a certain way, He will not change his way of doing things. If there are areas of your life that are troubling you, if you are in need of a blessing or miracle, then obey the word of God. Get back to the basics. Quit throwing your own pity party, and seek God with your whole heart, expecting nothing more than to be with Him and to receive His love. Watch God move on your behalf. When we focus on what is on God's heart, Jesus focuses on what is on our hearts.
Be Blessed!
Friday, July 31, 2009
Day 30 - Prayer Journal: It's Your Time!
"Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee." - Isaiah 60:1
Well, it is finally here. Our 30th day of the prayer journal challenge. It has been an enlightening experience. God has given us plenty of revelation, blessings, times of testing, and finally the VICTORY! You are a prayer warrior; you have overcome the enemy with the power of your testimony. God is faithful, and He has a plan for your life.
This morning before the break of dawn, I needed something from my truck. I really wanted to go outside and get the bag that held my possession, but I did not want to face the darkness nor the vicious creatures that arise in the darkest hours. For a second, I opened the door. The sound of creepies and crawlies made me think twice about venturing into darkened territory because I know the enemy waits for our darkness to jump out of the bushes on us. Needless to say, I waited until the sun rose over the eastern sky before stepping outside. It was like a breath of fresh air. In the daylight I could clearly see the path that lie before me. I did not have to worry about being attacked unaware. Instead I had a clear view of where I needed to go, and I was able to go without any difficulty or obstacle. As the sun kissed my face, I smiled at the grace of God that comes with walking in the light.
Just like in our natural lives, we are far better off when we remain in the path of light, which is Jesus. The scripture says that you should arise and shine because your light is come. God has a purpose and a plan for your future. He wants you to stand up and head in the direction that His spirit leads you in and to allow your light to shine because Jesus has entered your life, filled you with His presence, and blessed you with His gifting and abundance. Once you have come to know Jesus and His goodness, you are on assignment to share Christ with those who need a supernatural encounter. The Bible says that the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. God has prepared you and prospered you so that He would be glorified. He has poured His holiness and righteousness into you so that you could be a vessel of honor. It is your season, like Peter, launch out into the deep. Pursue the destiny that God is calling you to. For who the Lord calls, He equips.
Focus
Thank God for the light of Jesus that has entered your life.
Praise God for His glory and His holiness.
Ask God to reveal His purpose and plan for you in this season.
Seek a word from the Lord for your purpose in the life of His people that have been placed on your path.
Give God glory for bringing you through the prayer journal challenge (even if you are behind or just starting day 1, praise Him in advance.)
Pray for God to give you revelation on how He has grown you or pruned you through this prayer journal experience.
Ask God to show you how He wants you to share this experience.
Go back and review the previous prayer journal entries, ask God to show you areas where you struggled and where you excelled. Pray for strength in your challenges, and praise for grace through your victories.
Remember
If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. God had a specific purpose for you through this experience. Know that He is calling you to spread the love of Christ, not to allow this word to lie dormant in you. Even though today is the last day of the 30 Days of Prayer (Journal),
continue to journey with the Lord, continue to pray, and if you are lead or were blessed continue to journal. You don't need an entry from me, it was God leading you through His word and He will continue to be faithful as you seek Him. Return to the blog, for daily encouragement and look for future spiritual encounters. We will plan a time to share our experiences in the near future. Please feel free to post a comment on your experience or pass the blog on to someone in need of a word.
Be Blessed!
Well, it is finally here. Our 30th day of the prayer journal challenge. It has been an enlightening experience. God has given us plenty of revelation, blessings, times of testing, and finally the VICTORY! You are a prayer warrior; you have overcome the enemy with the power of your testimony. God is faithful, and He has a plan for your life.
This morning before the break of dawn, I needed something from my truck. I really wanted to go outside and get the bag that held my possession, but I did not want to face the darkness nor the vicious creatures that arise in the darkest hours. For a second, I opened the door. The sound of creepies and crawlies made me think twice about venturing into darkened territory because I know the enemy waits for our darkness to jump out of the bushes on us. Needless to say, I waited until the sun rose over the eastern sky before stepping outside. It was like a breath of fresh air. In the daylight I could clearly see the path that lie before me. I did not have to worry about being attacked unaware. Instead I had a clear view of where I needed to go, and I was able to go without any difficulty or obstacle. As the sun kissed my face, I smiled at the grace of God that comes with walking in the light.
Just like in our natural lives, we are far better off when we remain in the path of light, which is Jesus. The scripture says that you should arise and shine because your light is come. God has a purpose and a plan for your future. He wants you to stand up and head in the direction that His spirit leads you in and to allow your light to shine because Jesus has entered your life, filled you with His presence, and blessed you with His gifting and abundance. Once you have come to know Jesus and His goodness, you are on assignment to share Christ with those who need a supernatural encounter. The Bible says that the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. God has prepared you and prospered you so that He would be glorified. He has poured His holiness and righteousness into you so that you could be a vessel of honor. It is your season, like Peter, launch out into the deep. Pursue the destiny that God is calling you to. For who the Lord calls, He equips.
Focus
Thank God for the light of Jesus that has entered your life.
Praise God for His glory and His holiness.
Ask God to reveal His purpose and plan for you in this season.
Seek a word from the Lord for your purpose in the life of His people that have been placed on your path.
Give God glory for bringing you through the prayer journal challenge (even if you are behind or just starting day 1, praise Him in advance.)
Pray for God to give you revelation on how He has grown you or pruned you through this prayer journal experience.
Ask God to show you how He wants you to share this experience.
Go back and review the previous prayer journal entries, ask God to show you areas where you struggled and where you excelled. Pray for strength in your challenges, and praise for grace through your victories.
Remember
If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. God had a specific purpose for you through this experience. Know that He is calling you to spread the love of Christ, not to allow this word to lie dormant in you. Even though today is the last day of the 30 Days of Prayer (Journal),
continue to journey with the Lord, continue to pray, and if you are lead or were blessed continue to journal. You don't need an entry from me, it was God leading you through His word and He will continue to be faithful as you seek Him. Return to the blog, for daily encouragement and look for future spiritual encounters. We will plan a time to share our experiences in the near future. Please feel free to post a comment on your experience or pass the blog on to someone in need of a word.
Be Blessed!
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Day 29 - Prayer Journal: His Delight
"For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people." - 1 Samuel 12:22
During the course of this week, I have had over ten people from my past resurrect from out of nowhere. It is amazing that different people from all walks of life have re-entered my life. I have experienced sheer joy from being reconnected to these precious people because I know nothing takes place by accident. These occurences have been God-incidents! To think, after two weeks of being assaulted by the devil, who hates my soul; God has sent a host of well-wishers, friends, and acquaintances to show me some love. The enemy tries to convince us that God has forsaken us or that God does not really love us. But Jesus is forever faithful; He loves you enough to reach down in your corner of the world and perform small miracle every day just to let you know He is present and loves you.
The scripture says that God is pleased to make you his. The Lord knows how to love you better than any family member or friend, but He shows you his love through the people he places in your life. For every negative word any one ever spoke over your life, for every deceitful lie ever told to you, for every act of betrayal or hurt, God has designed someone to show you His love, to speak His truth, to act with care because he takes pleasure in you, your life, your happiness.
No matter how much the enemy has tried to convince you that you are unworthy, God is in love with you.
Focus
Thank God for the people he has put in your life.
Ask God to reveal to you the way that He sees you so you don't fall prey to the enemy's lies.
Pray for God to show you the people He has put you here to love on.
Praise God for His supernatural love for you.
Ask God to help you forgive those who have not known Him and did not know how to love you.
Thank God for never leaving you nor forsaking you.
Do you a random act of love for someone who doesn't deserve it.
Ask God to see others the way He sees them.
Remember
God loves every one of his children. Even those who may have been used by the devil to hurt you. So don't let bitterness arise in you, instead show them the love of God; they just might end up saved through your gesture.
Be Blessed!
During the course of this week, I have had over ten people from my past resurrect from out of nowhere. It is amazing that different people from all walks of life have re-entered my life. I have experienced sheer joy from being reconnected to these precious people because I know nothing takes place by accident. These occurences have been God-incidents! To think, after two weeks of being assaulted by the devil, who hates my soul; God has sent a host of well-wishers, friends, and acquaintances to show me some love. The enemy tries to convince us that God has forsaken us or that God does not really love us. But Jesus is forever faithful; He loves you enough to reach down in your corner of the world and perform small miracle every day just to let you know He is present and loves you.
The scripture says that God is pleased to make you his. The Lord knows how to love you better than any family member or friend, but He shows you his love through the people he places in your life. For every negative word any one ever spoke over your life, for every deceitful lie ever told to you, for every act of betrayal or hurt, God has designed someone to show you His love, to speak His truth, to act with care because he takes pleasure in you, your life, your happiness.
No matter how much the enemy has tried to convince you that you are unworthy, God is in love with you.
Focus
Thank God for the people he has put in your life.
Ask God to reveal to you the way that He sees you so you don't fall prey to the enemy's lies.
Pray for God to show you the people He has put you here to love on.
Praise God for His supernatural love for you.
Ask God to help you forgive those who have not known Him and did not know how to love you.
Thank God for never leaving you nor forsaking you.
Do you a random act of love for someone who doesn't deserve it.
Ask God to see others the way He sees them.
Remember
God loves every one of his children. Even those who may have been used by the devil to hurt you. So don't let bitterness arise in you, instead show them the love of God; they just might end up saved through your gesture.
Be Blessed!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Day 28 - Prayer Journal: Determination!
"Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ" - 2 Corinthians 10:5
You would not believe that I have written this blog three times. Each time when I finished my computer crashed and lost the blog into the Internet abyss. If I wasn't so sure that this is a word from God, I probably would have given up. But I am determined to to share what God has placed on my heart.
I firmly believe that as we are ending the prayer journal challenge, God has been preparing each of us for a Divine Assignment, something that God has called and equipped you to do after a season of praying, studying the scripture, being tried by the enemy, and coming through the fire like pure gold. Your assignment may be to tell someone about Jesus, to pray with or for someone, or to start something new that will send the word of God into the lives of people who need it. You may have noticed that there has been an enormous amount of attacks against you by the enemy. Whether there have been thoughts, words, or people that have come against you, know that God has a plan for you.
This past weekend God told me that He wanted me to do something that He has been preparing me for right now. I have known for awhile that God was moving me toward this assignment, and I recognized His voice about this season. However, I have not begun to obey what God spoke to me. Why would someone who knows God's voice and hears Him saying "Go, now" not quickly obey? The answer is simple. Immediately after hearing God tell me to go forward, the enemy has sent words of discouragement, symptoms that seem contrary to what God said is true, and people who have attacked me either in words or actions. The Bible calls these vain imaginations. We are told to cast these thoughts down, that means refuse to listen or believe the lies and to stand firm on what God said no matter what it looks like. We are to begin to walk in faith and do what Jesus has called and equipped us to do as soon as we receive the command.
I want you to know that God is indeed calling you to a divine assignment; the enemy would not be attacking you if you were not being sent as a representative for the kingdom of God. But it doesn't matter what lies are coming to your mind, you are on a mission.
Focus
Thank God for His divine word and plan for your life.
Ask God to give you discernment so that you recognize His voice from the devil's lies about your life.
Pray for God to show you what He is calling you to do if you feel this is not clear.
Pray for the strength and grace to complete your assignment right away.
Pray against (bind/rebuke) any spirits that are sent to attack your mind or your assignment so that you can completely obey God.
Praise God for His omnipotence and His word of truth.
Read and write Jeremiah 29:11 somewhere you can see it daily and repeat this every morning until you complete your assignment.
Remember
If you were not a threat to the enemy losing territory then he would not bother sending assaults against your mind, your assignment, or your life. Even if you didn't obey God at the moment He spoke, it is not too late to repent and seek God for a divine opportunity to walk in obedience. Take a leap of faith and began to walk toward God's plan and watch God move!
Be blessed.
You would not believe that I have written this blog three times. Each time when I finished my computer crashed and lost the blog into the Internet abyss. If I wasn't so sure that this is a word from God, I probably would have given up. But I am determined to to share what God has placed on my heart.
I firmly believe that as we are ending the prayer journal challenge, God has been preparing each of us for a Divine Assignment, something that God has called and equipped you to do after a season of praying, studying the scripture, being tried by the enemy, and coming through the fire like pure gold. Your assignment may be to tell someone about Jesus, to pray with or for someone, or to start something new that will send the word of God into the lives of people who need it. You may have noticed that there has been an enormous amount of attacks against you by the enemy. Whether there have been thoughts, words, or people that have come against you, know that God has a plan for you.
This past weekend God told me that He wanted me to do something that He has been preparing me for right now. I have known for awhile that God was moving me toward this assignment, and I recognized His voice about this season. However, I have not begun to obey what God spoke to me. Why would someone who knows God's voice and hears Him saying "Go, now" not quickly obey? The answer is simple. Immediately after hearing God tell me to go forward, the enemy has sent words of discouragement, symptoms that seem contrary to what God said is true, and people who have attacked me either in words or actions. The Bible calls these vain imaginations. We are told to cast these thoughts down, that means refuse to listen or believe the lies and to stand firm on what God said no matter what it looks like. We are to begin to walk in faith and do what Jesus has called and equipped us to do as soon as we receive the command.
I want you to know that God is indeed calling you to a divine assignment; the enemy would not be attacking you if you were not being sent as a representative for the kingdom of God. But it doesn't matter what lies are coming to your mind, you are on a mission.
Focus
Thank God for His divine word and plan for your life.
Ask God to give you discernment so that you recognize His voice from the devil's lies about your life.
Pray for God to show you what He is calling you to do if you feel this is not clear.
Pray for the strength and grace to complete your assignment right away.
Pray against (bind/rebuke) any spirits that are sent to attack your mind or your assignment so that you can completely obey God.
Praise God for His omnipotence and His word of truth.
Read and write Jeremiah 29:11 somewhere you can see it daily and repeat this every morning until you complete your assignment.
Remember
If you were not a threat to the enemy losing territory then he would not bother sending assaults against your mind, your assignment, or your life. Even if you didn't obey God at the moment He spoke, it is not too late to repent and seek God for a divine opportunity to walk in obedience. Take a leap of faith and began to walk toward God's plan and watch God move!
Be blessed.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Day 27 - Prayer Journal: Fighting Temptation
"But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust has conceived, it brings forth sin; and sin, when it is finished brings forth death." - James 1:14-15
I have really been struggling with getting the blog done. I think it has something to do with the fact that we are nearly at the end of our 30 days of prayer, and the enemy knows God has something grand in store for us. Many of you have shared how difficult is has been to continue, especially in these last few days. All I can say is that we must persevere and fight to see this thing through. I don't know the complete work of God, or how He will choose to use this experience to bear fruit in our lives, but I know that God is faithful and sees beyond where we are right now and into our eternity.
For the past week, I have been throwing my own personal pity party, complete with invitations, party hats, and streamers. I have been complaining how life is so unfair, questioning God as to why is He allowing me to suffer, and pondering going ahead and making my own Ishmael since God's promise of Isaac is taking soooo long. It has been a daily battle, where my saved self is literally arguing with my flesh. My flesh is screaming for instant gratification, lying to me by saying I deserve a breakthrough, accusing God for being unfair for allowing people I know who don't serve Him to have their heart desires, while I must wait! The devil is busy, but he is still a liar. Talk about having to cast down my imagination! It is a constant battle, and I was starting to lose. I would pray, and five minutes later the enemy was encouraging me to take matters into my own hands and bring about a change in my life.
Yesterday, a darling heart sister, called me and shared how a spiritual work I had planted in the lives of several ladies have been changed. It was just the dose of reality I needed. I began to thank God for revealing to me how much my consecrated life is important to kingdom building. If I choose to quit waiting on God and make my own way, I will have a few moments of satisfaction but I will lose my effectiveness in being a Christian. The only power my life has right now is in the fact that I walk the talk completely without wavering. If I give in to disobedience, I won't be able to touch lives the way Christ wants me to and I will not reap the blessings of God the way that He has planned.
I began to ask God why was I struggling so with my own will and desires. God showed me that it began over two weeks ago when I began to think about the promise and the desires of my heart rather than to the one who Promises and the lover of my soul. Once I began to focus on what I wanted, my deceitful heart began to suggest to my mind that it should be my "season" of harvest. The more I played with the thought of what I want that God has promised to give me in His set time, the more I began to convince myself that I deserved the promise, and that I had worked hard at being saved so I probably deserved what God says he will give me anyway. So why not now, why should I have to wait, why wait when maybe God wants me to step out in faith. Do you see where this lie is headed? We begin to justify walking in disobedience by thinking God wants us to have what He said so we might need to get it ourselves, which we believe is a step of faith. I am sure that is what Abraham and Sarah said when they stepped out in faith and helped God give them their promise, except that wasn't God's plan and they ended up having to live with a false promise, Ishmael. They moved outside of God's plan and will because they felt He was taking too long. or Maybe they thought God had forgotten them. It could be that they thought they had to do something to receive what God said He was giving them.
I am sorry, refusing to wait on God to do the work in His way and in His time is too expensive for me. I really want my Isaac, but I refuse to live with a false promise that I bring upon myself. So I will continue to fight temptation, and wait on God until He brings me the promise! God is faithful.
Focus
- Ask God to show you areas where you are tempted to do things your own way.
- Pray that God gives you the strength to persevere in waiting on Him.
- Thank God for the promise that He will bring in His time and His way.
- Ask God to show you where your eyes got off track and looked away from Him, and repent.
- Praise God for His faithfulness.
- Ask God to show you where your spiritual life affects others.
- Pray for the people who don't know God but seem to be "blessed". (If they don't know God, they aren't blessed.)
- Seek God for spiritual eyes to see your situation the way He sees it.
Remember
God is faithful to His word. He will do what He said. Temptation usually comes just before the manifestation of the promise to abort your faith and obedience and to push you back to the starting line. It may seem hard, but that is a lie. God has not forgotten you, nor will He fail you. We must wait on God no matter what things look like. He sees what we cannot see. Don't become independent from God, that is what happened to Adam and Eve and they were denied their promise of the garden. It is also what happened to Abraham and Sarah, and their descendants are still at each other's throats in the Middle East. Disobedience and impatience are expensive. Wait again I say on the Lord!
Be Blessed!
I have really been struggling with getting the blog done. I think it has something to do with the fact that we are nearly at the end of our 30 days of prayer, and the enemy knows God has something grand in store for us. Many of you have shared how difficult is has been to continue, especially in these last few days. All I can say is that we must persevere and fight to see this thing through. I don't know the complete work of God, or how He will choose to use this experience to bear fruit in our lives, but I know that God is faithful and sees beyond where we are right now and into our eternity.
For the past week, I have been throwing my own personal pity party, complete with invitations, party hats, and streamers. I have been complaining how life is so unfair, questioning God as to why is He allowing me to suffer, and pondering going ahead and making my own Ishmael since God's promise of Isaac is taking soooo long. It has been a daily battle, where my saved self is literally arguing with my flesh. My flesh is screaming for instant gratification, lying to me by saying I deserve a breakthrough, accusing God for being unfair for allowing people I know who don't serve Him to have their heart desires, while I must wait! The devil is busy, but he is still a liar. Talk about having to cast down my imagination! It is a constant battle, and I was starting to lose. I would pray, and five minutes later the enemy was encouraging me to take matters into my own hands and bring about a change in my life.
Yesterday, a darling heart sister, called me and shared how a spiritual work I had planted in the lives of several ladies have been changed. It was just the dose of reality I needed. I began to thank God for revealing to me how much my consecrated life is important to kingdom building. If I choose to quit waiting on God and make my own way, I will have a few moments of satisfaction but I will lose my effectiveness in being a Christian. The only power my life has right now is in the fact that I walk the talk completely without wavering. If I give in to disobedience, I won't be able to touch lives the way Christ wants me to and I will not reap the blessings of God the way that He has planned.
I began to ask God why was I struggling so with my own will and desires. God showed me that it began over two weeks ago when I began to think about the promise and the desires of my heart rather than to the one who Promises and the lover of my soul. Once I began to focus on what I wanted, my deceitful heart began to suggest to my mind that it should be my "season" of harvest. The more I played with the thought of what I want that God has promised to give me in His set time, the more I began to convince myself that I deserved the promise, and that I had worked hard at being saved so I probably deserved what God says he will give me anyway. So why not now, why should I have to wait, why wait when maybe God wants me to step out in faith. Do you see where this lie is headed? We begin to justify walking in disobedience by thinking God wants us to have what He said so we might need to get it ourselves, which we believe is a step of faith. I am sure that is what Abraham and Sarah said when they stepped out in faith and helped God give them their promise, except that wasn't God's plan and they ended up having to live with a false promise, Ishmael. They moved outside of God's plan and will because they felt He was taking too long. or Maybe they thought God had forgotten them. It could be that they thought they had to do something to receive what God said He was giving them.
I am sorry, refusing to wait on God to do the work in His way and in His time is too expensive for me. I really want my Isaac, but I refuse to live with a false promise that I bring upon myself. So I will continue to fight temptation, and wait on God until He brings me the promise! God is faithful.
Focus
- Ask God to show you areas where you are tempted to do things your own way.
- Pray that God gives you the strength to persevere in waiting on Him.
- Thank God for the promise that He will bring in His time and His way.
- Ask God to show you where your eyes got off track and looked away from Him, and repent.
- Praise God for His faithfulness.
- Ask God to show you where your spiritual life affects others.
- Pray for the people who don't know God but seem to be "blessed". (If they don't know God, they aren't blessed.)
- Seek God for spiritual eyes to see your situation the way He sees it.
Remember
God is faithful to His word. He will do what He said. Temptation usually comes just before the manifestation of the promise to abort your faith and obedience and to push you back to the starting line. It may seem hard, but that is a lie. God has not forgotten you, nor will He fail you. We must wait on God no matter what things look like. He sees what we cannot see. Don't become independent from God, that is what happened to Adam and Eve and they were denied their promise of the garden. It is also what happened to Abraham and Sarah, and their descendants are still at each other's throats in the Middle East. Disobedience and impatience are expensive. Wait again I say on the Lord!
Be Blessed!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Day 26 - Prayer Journal: Dare to Be Dfiferent
Scripture
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." - Romans 12:2
I hate counterfeits! Everywhere I turn I see people who in an effort to be in style, sport a knock-off of an original brand. I am a Coach junkie. I love Coach bags, wallets, shoes, watches, scarves, you name it; I own it. It is my private obsession. I really like the product because of the quality of the brand, not its name nor its flowery price. That is why it appalls me to see people who carry the fake bags in an attempt to be stylish. Don't get me wrong, I am not bothered by the fact that they paid a low dime to appear to own what I pay a small fortune for. It is the fact that these people are purchasing falsies to appear to fit into a culture, to portray a certain image, or to look like everybody else. If they really valued the quality of the leather or fabric that would be a different story, but they want to be part of the in club. Some of these people are even deceived into paying high costs for fakes because they have been told they are the real thing. Others know they are carrying fakes but think other people will believe theirs are real. Trust me, true Coach addicts know the difference; those who have owned an original can spot a fake a mile away. Those who own originals know the value of being privileged with such a luxury.
We live in a society that encourages duplicity rather than individuality. Whether you look to fashion or to morals, there is a push for people to go with the flow. Whenever someone goes against the norm, they are looked at as being odd. Many people work at being like the crowd. As a Christian , God requires you to be like a Coach, be a designer's original. He doesn't want the spirit that He has placed within you to try to fit in with the world or the world's way of doing things. He doesn't want you to look or act like the world. Because you are not a fake, you must be different and think differently than the world. We must make up our minds to be like Jesus. Trust me true Christians can spot a lost person a mile away. It is impossible to present yourself as a born again believer to someone who really is living a life committed to Christ. Though temptations may come or you may see other people who seem to get away with sin, know that you are in the world but not of this world. You are a kingdom citizen and must abide by the law's of your government, the Kingdom of God. It is both an honor and a privilege to be saved, blessed, and highly favored. So don't compare yourself to the counterfeits of the enemy, pattern yourself after the original, our lord and saviour, Jesus Christ.
Focus
- Thank God for making you in His image and in His likeness.
- Ask God to reveal areas that your thinking needs to be changed.
- Pray for God to renew and transform your thinking to align with the word of God.
- Seek God for what the word says about you and how you should live.
- Praise God for His will being above all things.
- Ask God to keep you in areas where you tend to try to fit in with the world or where you try to keep from offending others with your Christianity.
- Thank God for using you to show others His light and His love.
Remember
You are called to be a witness for Christ. Some people may never enter your church, but they are watching you live out your testimony!
Be Blessed!
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." - Romans 12:2
I hate counterfeits! Everywhere I turn I see people who in an effort to be in style, sport a knock-off of an original brand. I am a Coach junkie. I love Coach bags, wallets, shoes, watches, scarves, you name it; I own it. It is my private obsession. I really like the product because of the quality of the brand, not its name nor its flowery price. That is why it appalls me to see people who carry the fake bags in an attempt to be stylish. Don't get me wrong, I am not bothered by the fact that they paid a low dime to appear to own what I pay a small fortune for. It is the fact that these people are purchasing falsies to appear to fit into a culture, to portray a certain image, or to look like everybody else. If they really valued the quality of the leather or fabric that would be a different story, but they want to be part of the in club. Some of these people are even deceived into paying high costs for fakes because they have been told they are the real thing. Others know they are carrying fakes but think other people will believe theirs are real. Trust me, true Coach addicts know the difference; those who have owned an original can spot a fake a mile away. Those who own originals know the value of being privileged with such a luxury.
We live in a society that encourages duplicity rather than individuality. Whether you look to fashion or to morals, there is a push for people to go with the flow. Whenever someone goes against the norm, they are looked at as being odd. Many people work at being like the crowd. As a Christian , God requires you to be like a Coach, be a designer's original. He doesn't want the spirit that He has placed within you to try to fit in with the world or the world's way of doing things. He doesn't want you to look or act like the world. Because you are not a fake, you must be different and think differently than the world. We must make up our minds to be like Jesus. Trust me true Christians can spot a lost person a mile away. It is impossible to present yourself as a born again believer to someone who really is living a life committed to Christ. Though temptations may come or you may see other people who seem to get away with sin, know that you are in the world but not of this world. You are a kingdom citizen and must abide by the law's of your government, the Kingdom of God. It is both an honor and a privilege to be saved, blessed, and highly favored. So don't compare yourself to the counterfeits of the enemy, pattern yourself after the original, our lord and saviour, Jesus Christ.
Focus
- Thank God for making you in His image and in His likeness.
- Ask God to reveal areas that your thinking needs to be changed.
- Pray for God to renew and transform your thinking to align with the word of God.
- Seek God for what the word says about you and how you should live.
- Praise God for His will being above all things.
- Ask God to keep you in areas where you tend to try to fit in with the world or where you try to keep from offending others with your Christianity.
- Thank God for using you to show others His light and His love.
Remember
You are called to be a witness for Christ. Some people may never enter your church, but they are watching you live out your testimony!
Be Blessed!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Day 25 - Prayer Journal: God Did It!
Scripture
" He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake." - Psalms 23:3
God is something else! Even though my week started out with plenty of trials and tribulations, I must say that once again God has shown himself mighty. In my prayer time, I began to cry out to the Lord confessing that no matter what, I will faithfully serve Him. I also began to ask God to relieve me from the constant attack of the enemy. God is faithful! He reassured me that He is in control of my life, that He has allowed these trials to enter my life, and He will see me through. God even said, "You can handle it because I AM performing this work in you." I wanted to stomp my feet and pout like a spoiled child who wasn't getting her way.
God would not have any of that. Instead of giving me the answer I wanted, Jesus gave me the answer I needed. He directed me to turn to the word and stand ( to believe and follow the word without doubting) . There is power in the word of God; the Bible says that the word is truth and life. In obedience I turned to the verses the Holy Spirit led me to and began to read. The more I read, I began to feel better. In an instant, my struggles seemed so light, and I began to get revelation of God's perspective of my trials. My problems didn't disappear, my attitude did!
God allows us to go through trials for a purpose. He doesn't always reveal his purpose to us while we are in the middle of it all. But He does lead His precious sheep in the way that we should go. God knew that these trials are necessary to grow me into the person He wants me to be and to bring about His divine, perfect will and plan for my life. Our Heavenly Father also knows that we can't handle life alone; He never meant for us to live without leaning on Him. I had been praying all week, both asking God questions and listening for His answers. But sometimes God just wants us to find comfort in the power of His living word.
As a result of following the Lord's lead to turn my heart and mind toward the power of His word, I see my situation from a different perspective. I don't know all the answers, but I know that God is working it out for my good. I trust His wisdom and love for me, and these trials are nothing compared to the suffering Jesus endured to restore me to the Kingdom of God. I found comfort in the word of God, and the Lord is leading me down His path which is right for me and I know that God is being glorified to someone who needs to experience the love of God walked out in my life! What an honor to be used by God in the kingdom building work!
Focus
" He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake." - Psalms 23:3
God is something else! Even though my week started out with plenty of trials and tribulations, I must say that once again God has shown himself mighty. In my prayer time, I began to cry out to the Lord confessing that no matter what, I will faithfully serve Him. I also began to ask God to relieve me from the constant attack of the enemy. God is faithful! He reassured me that He is in control of my life, that He has allowed these trials to enter my life, and He will see me through. God even said, "You can handle it because I AM performing this work in you." I wanted to stomp my feet and pout like a spoiled child who wasn't getting her way.
God would not have any of that. Instead of giving me the answer I wanted, Jesus gave me the answer I needed. He directed me to turn to the word and stand ( to believe and follow the word without doubting) . There is power in the word of God; the Bible says that the word is truth and life. In obedience I turned to the verses the Holy Spirit led me to and began to read. The more I read, I began to feel better. In an instant, my struggles seemed so light, and I began to get revelation of God's perspective of my trials. My problems didn't disappear, my attitude did!
God allows us to go through trials for a purpose. He doesn't always reveal his purpose to us while we are in the middle of it all. But He does lead His precious sheep in the way that we should go. God knew that these trials are necessary to grow me into the person He wants me to be and to bring about His divine, perfect will and plan for my life. Our Heavenly Father also knows that we can't handle life alone; He never meant for us to live without leaning on Him. I had been praying all week, both asking God questions and listening for His answers. But sometimes God just wants us to find comfort in the power of His living word.
As a result of following the Lord's lead to turn my heart and mind toward the power of His word, I see my situation from a different perspective. I don't know all the answers, but I know that God is working it out for my good. I trust His wisdom and love for me, and these trials are nothing compared to the suffering Jesus endured to restore me to the Kingdom of God. I found comfort in the word of God, and the Lord is leading me down His path which is right for me and I know that God is being glorified to someone who needs to experience the love of God walked out in my life! What an honor to be used by God in the kingdom building work!
Focus
- Thank God for the restoring power of His word.
- Ask God to lead you through areas of your life that you are struggling with.
- Ask God to show you His perspective.
- Praise God for His infinite wisdom.
- Thank God for protecting your spirit when your flesh wants to rebel.
- Ask God to reveal His righteousness and not your own will.
- Thank God for choosing to make you into a vessel of honor.
Remember
You have been chosen because God thinks highly of you. You qualify to carry the work of the kingdom as your Heavenly Father directs you. The Bible says count it all joy when you are hated and persecuted for God's sake. It is awesome that God loves and trusts us enough to use us even when we doubt that we can do what He requires!
Be Blessed!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Day 24 - Prayer Journal: In the Company of Angels
Scripture
" The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them." - Psalms 34:7
God is so good! This week has been a trying time for me both naturally and spiritually. I have been attacked in every aspect of my life, and praise God I am still standing. I must admit I had been under a long period of grace, the enemy was right where he belonged, under my feet. But we know he always raises his head seeking for an opportunity to deceive us.
My Trials
" The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them." - Psalms 34:7
God is so good! This week has been a trying time for me both naturally and spiritually. I have been attacked in every aspect of my life, and praise God I am still standing. I must admit I had been under a long period of grace, the enemy was right where he belonged, under my feet. But we know he always raises his head seeking for an opportunity to deceive us.
My Trials
- A close friend started an argument "out of the blue".
- My daughter had a minor concern with her "new" car.
- A recently "restored friend" has also become friends with my "thorn in the flesh".
- Work attempted to "rob my peace".
- God is silent.
This is not a vent session. I just know that as a Christian these things should not be. Even though God warned me a couple of weeks ago in a dream, I have to say that I didn't see these attacks coming. Perhaps I was too comfortable, too lax in my prayer life, ready for another level. I don't know but God has a purpose for allowing these trials in my life. The fact that He warned me let's me know that He is still in control and He has a plan for all of this. To be honest, I felt a little upset at first because I am living right, spreading the word, and looking for an opportunity to be a true witness. I guess that means I qualified to be used by God for today's lesson.
Even though the enemy has attacked me, I have the victory. God is on my side and He has not let my foot slip. Today, He even revealed two traps that the enemy set for me, I missed the revelation God sent me on Monday. But by day and trial 2 I began to see the attacks for what they were, the enemy's tactics to get me off course.
That is just how God moves. When He is ready to bless you, grow you, try you, show you off, He permits, that is right, He gives Satan permission to mess in your world so that God can remind Him that you are a child of the most High King and you are victorious. God sends His angels in your midst to protect you, to comfort you, to guide you, so the attacks don't destroy you but develop your faith and love in Jesus. The week is ending and I am confident that my God has delivered me from the snares of the enemy!
Focus
- Thank God for His mighty arm of protection around your life.
- Seek God for revelation for times He stands between you and the enemy.
- Ask God to show you the trick of the enemy before you do the wrong thing.
- Praise God for the host of angels that He sends into your life.
- Pray for someone else under attack.
- Ask God to show you His plan of deliverance.
Be Blessed!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Day 23 - Prayer Journal: Soul Survivor
Scripture
"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." - Isaiah 43:2
Let's face it, our country has seen some difficult times. We have been bombarded with news of rising unemployment, mounting debt, and turmoil within the families of our nation. It would be enough to discourage you. The world has no answers and people are running back and forth looking for a way of escape. But the word of God guarantees believers that we will survive every natural disaster, destruction, and difficulty because God is with us and He is our protection.
Jesus loves us, and every situation that we encounter He is there to face it before us. Trials and tribulations will come, but we come through the fire untouched, like gold, refined. There is a comfort in knowing that no matter what attacks we face or what fiery dart the enemy throws our way, we have a loving Savior who is with us all the way, even to the end of the earth.
Focus
"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." - Isaiah 43:2
Let's face it, our country has seen some difficult times. We have been bombarded with news of rising unemployment, mounting debt, and turmoil within the families of our nation. It would be enough to discourage you. The world has no answers and people are running back and forth looking for a way of escape. But the word of God guarantees believers that we will survive every natural disaster, destruction, and difficulty because God is with us and He is our protection.
Jesus loves us, and every situation that we encounter He is there to face it before us. Trials and tribulations will come, but we come through the fire untouched, like gold, refined. There is a comfort in knowing that no matter what attacks we face or what fiery dart the enemy throws our way, we have a loving Savior who is with us all the way, even to the end of the earth.
Focus
- Thank God for His constant presence in your life.
- Ask God to show you times that appear bleak but He is with you.
- Pray for grace and strength to walk through the trial full of faith and rejoicing.
- Pray for revelation for someone who is going through a tough trial and needs the comfort of knowing God is with them.
- Praise God for coming out the other side of the fire.
- Ask God to give you understanding and revelation about what you needed to learn from your trials.
Remember
God did not plan any defeat for you. Jesus said on the cross, "It is finished." With this testimony, He guaranteed that there would be nothing in this world that could stand against Him. As His child He stands before you leading, guiding, and protecting you. Count your self worthy to be used by God.
Amen!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Day 22 - Prayer Journal: Private Petitions
Scripture
"But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly." - Matthew 6:6
Every now and then I meet people who have been asked to pray and they say that they don't feel like they can pray like someone else or they tell me that they don't know how to pray. These people have been made to believe that prayer is hard or that there is a set way to pray. They are sometimes misguided in their prayers because their focus is on saying the "right" words rather than being intimate with God, who knows what is on their hearts anyway.
Other people have friends who share our journey as believers. These are the people who witness to us, who offer us a word of encouragement, and even pray with or for us. God sends them into our lives for a purpose and we feel close to them. We often share our challenges and successes in our walk with Christ. Sometimes these faithful friends become our prayer partners with whom we share our most intimate prayers and petitions.
But even with the closest of friends, there are things that we find difficult to share with even the people we often confide in. These are the times that we must go straight to the throne room. The scripture tells us that when we pray that we are to get into that private place just you and God. Prayer is an intimate experience between the prayer and God. When you shut the door, you close out the distractions of the world and you can tell your Heavenly Father your deepest secrets, desires, or concerns.
Focus
"But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly." - Matthew 6:6
Every now and then I meet people who have been asked to pray and they say that they don't feel like they can pray like someone else or they tell me that they don't know how to pray. These people have been made to believe that prayer is hard or that there is a set way to pray. They are sometimes misguided in their prayers because their focus is on saying the "right" words rather than being intimate with God, who knows what is on their hearts anyway.
Other people have friends who share our journey as believers. These are the people who witness to us, who offer us a word of encouragement, and even pray with or for us. God sends them into our lives for a purpose and we feel close to them. We often share our challenges and successes in our walk with Christ. Sometimes these faithful friends become our prayer partners with whom we share our most intimate prayers and petitions.
But even with the closest of friends, there are things that we find difficult to share with even the people we often confide in. These are the times that we must go straight to the throne room. The scripture tells us that when we pray that we are to get into that private place just you and God. Prayer is an intimate experience between the prayer and God. When you shut the door, you close out the distractions of the world and you can tell your Heavenly Father your deepest secrets, desires, or concerns.
Focus
- Thank God that you can come to Him openly without shame or fear.
- Seek God for that intimate place where you can close the door to fear, doubt, unforgiveness, and anything that would hinder you from shutting the door in prayer.
- Ask God for those secret intimate desires that are in your heart.
- Pray seeking revelation of how to go deeper into that special place with God where the world no longer distracts your prayer time.
- Thank God for the outward manifestation of that prayer before you see it arrive.
- Pray for someone who struggles in prayer to be able to find their secret closet.
Remember
Prayer is the most intimate conversation between the lover (God) and His beloved (you). You must find that special place where it is just you and God. Sometimes such prayer manifests as crying, wailing, or even laughing. It is a place of freedom to let everything go!
Be Blessed!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Day 21 - Prayer Journal: Follow Directions
Scripture
"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. " - Proverbs 3:6
There are times in my life when I feel like I am backed in a corner and don't know what to do. I don't mean wrong or right things, just life decisions. This week I was faced with some tough choices. My head told me one thing, but my spirit said to wait and do something else. I didn't understand why this was so difficult because the "logical" thing to do was to end my commitment, but God kept nudging me to be still and remain in His word because He has plans for that area of my life. It isn't that I don't trust God; it's just that there isn't any current activity in that area and I figured that God could always resurrect that relationship if necessary because staying in would require more work than I care to do.
But God...
The Lord sent an angel (in human form) to help me rectify some problems that had arisen in the situation because I had been hard-headed and lazy in the beginning and I had not heeded His directions. Anyway, I am glad to say that the help God sent to me fixed everything, and I am surer than ever that I am supposed to be still and remain faithful to that commitment even though it looks like its dormant or possibly dead. The Holy Spirit revealed that sometimes things that seem dead just need God to breathe on them and they become alive, fruitful, and produce in the lives of others. I still am not all sure what God is going to do with that part of my life. But I know that if I continue to seek His will and not try to figure Him or the circumstance out, then Jesus will lead me into all truth and I will be victorious.
Focus
"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. " - Proverbs 3:6
There are times in my life when I feel like I am backed in a corner and don't know what to do. I don't mean wrong or right things, just life decisions. This week I was faced with some tough choices. My head told me one thing, but my spirit said to wait and do something else. I didn't understand why this was so difficult because the "logical" thing to do was to end my commitment, but God kept nudging me to be still and remain in His word because He has plans for that area of my life. It isn't that I don't trust God; it's just that there isn't any current activity in that area and I figured that God could always resurrect that relationship if necessary because staying in would require more work than I care to do.
But God...
The Lord sent an angel (in human form) to help me rectify some problems that had arisen in the situation because I had been hard-headed and lazy in the beginning and I had not heeded His directions. Anyway, I am glad to say that the help God sent to me fixed everything, and I am surer than ever that I am supposed to be still and remain faithful to that commitment even though it looks like its dormant or possibly dead. The Holy Spirit revealed that sometimes things that seem dead just need God to breathe on them and they become alive, fruitful, and produce in the lives of others. I still am not all sure what God is going to do with that part of my life. But I know that if I continue to seek His will and not try to figure Him or the circumstance out, then Jesus will lead me into all truth and I will be victorious.
Focus
- Pray for God's direction in every area of your life (finances, relationships, career, health)
- Thank God for His perfect will and His instruction
- Ask God to show you times when He directed your path but you chose another route
- Praise Him for picking you up and putting you back on His path anyway
- Worship the Lord for being omnipotent and omnipresent
- Pray for God to reveal direction/instruction in the lives of your spouse, children, family, friends, and your enemies
Remember
God has a plan and a promise for your life, but you must follow His road map to arrive at the destination. When we don't know what to do, God knows exactly what we should do. We should not move out on our own thoughts but should wait until God speaks. Even our enemies need help in this area because it is obvious that they are following the devil's directions, or they wouldn't be against us or anyone else.
Be Blessed!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Day 20 - Prayer Journal: Lay It Down
Scripture
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us." - Hebrews 12:1
I must admit sometimes I am lazy. A couple of days ago I was in the mall shopping for a few necessities ( i know what do I need at the mall?) and I had quite a few packages in hand when I decided to trek to the other end of the mall. It was a foolish decision because I had made purchases from the initial store that I entered and parked outside. It was difficult and cumbersome to carry the load of packages and enjoy my excursion. I am hard-headed so I managed but I didn't get the full experience. There were several pairs of shoes that I would have admired up close, but the load in my hands would not allow. Too stubborn to relent and deliver those weighty objects to the car, I cut my shopping short. I probably missed out on sales, a few other necessities, or running into some fabulous people. I had to face it, my being in a rush cost me. Thank God it probably saved me a few bucks, but from a spiritual perspective sometimes we rush through life carrying heavy packages that weigh us down.
Whether your baggage is some sinful vice, hurt feelings, negative emotions, pride, stubbornness, or unforgiveness. It will weigh you down and definitely keep you from getting God's full experience for your life. Some of those bags just weren't meant for you to carry, let go and let God have them. Our lives are a course set before God that He intends for you to come out victorious. Just like an Olympic sprinter would never add weights to her running shoes, we must cast off everything that hinders us from going deeper, from having the ultimate relationship, from serving God with our whole hearts, and from living the life God planned for you. Just let go of the dead weight!
Focus
Remember: Here is a poem I wrote on my "other" blog. Be Blessed!
Journey for My Father
The road seems longer
than I remember
twisting and turning,
rocky even.
I look for you
in the distance
but you are not there;
I follow the map given me.
The journey is difficult
tedious, and I fear
I can't make it.
You nudge me on.
In the middle
of the trek
I kneel down,
crying because moving is hard work.
You pick me up
carry me
to the edge
of the river.
Now I can see
my way much clearer;
Nothing refuses me,
safely, I arrive back home.
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us." - Hebrews 12:1
I must admit sometimes I am lazy. A couple of days ago I was in the mall shopping for a few necessities ( i know what do I need at the mall?) and I had quite a few packages in hand when I decided to trek to the other end of the mall. It was a foolish decision because I had made purchases from the initial store that I entered and parked outside. It was difficult and cumbersome to carry the load of packages and enjoy my excursion. I am hard-headed so I managed but I didn't get the full experience. There were several pairs of shoes that I would have admired up close, but the load in my hands would not allow. Too stubborn to relent and deliver those weighty objects to the car, I cut my shopping short. I probably missed out on sales, a few other necessities, or running into some fabulous people. I had to face it, my being in a rush cost me. Thank God it probably saved me a few bucks, but from a spiritual perspective sometimes we rush through life carrying heavy packages that weigh us down.
Whether your baggage is some sinful vice, hurt feelings, negative emotions, pride, stubbornness, or unforgiveness. It will weigh you down and definitely keep you from getting God's full experience for your life. Some of those bags just weren't meant for you to carry, let go and let God have them. Our lives are a course set before God that He intends for you to come out victorious. Just like an Olympic sprinter would never add weights to her running shoes, we must cast off everything that hinders us from going deeper, from having the ultimate relationship, from serving God with our whole hearts, and from living the life God planned for you. Just let go of the dead weight!
Focus
- Thank God for the witnesses He has sent into your life. (you are not alone)
- Ask God to reveal areas that weigh you down in your walk with Him.
- Pray for God to give you strength to set aside weights that you hold onto.
- Record areas of your life that you find difficult to exercise patience.
- Pray for God to teach you from past experiences with Him that He will deliver right on time. Ask Him to show you how to prepare in this season for what is to come.
- Ask God to keep you focused on the lane your race is in and not on how easy you think someone else's lane is. (The lanes are all the same distance even though some appear closer because of their curves.)
- Praise God for carrying your burdens so you don't have to.
- Pray for someone who is carrying a heavy load other than yourself.
Remember: Here is a poem I wrote on my "other" blog. Be Blessed!
Journey for My Father
The road seems longer
than I remember
twisting and turning,
rocky even.
I look for you
in the distance
but you are not there;
I follow the map given me.
The journey is difficult
tedious, and I fear
I can't make it.
You nudge me on.
In the middle
of the trek
I kneel down,
crying because moving is hard work.
You pick me up
carry me
to the edge
of the river.
Now I can see
my way much clearer;
Nothing refuses me,
safely, I arrive back home.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Day 19 - Prayer Journal: An Overcomer
Scripture
"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." - 1 John 4:4
This morning I had a very disturbing dream. I usually know the interpretation of my dream right away or other times I know that the dream means exactly what was shown to me. But today was different. The dream was crystal clear, and God immediately gave me the revelation of that dream. The dream was a warning of an upcoming attack by the enemy. I sat quietly for over an hour just praying and meditating on what God had shown me. I even asked Him to repeat it so His words would be sealed into my spirit so that I would not easily forget the warning and to keep my spiritual eyes alert so I will recognize the attack for what it is and who it is from.
Not once did I worry or fret over what was shown to me. I simply rejoiced because I trust God, and every word He has ever spoken. To think that God began before I even woke up with me on His mind and He orchestrated my dream life to bring about His love and dominion in my life. God knows that sometimes He speaks with me but I am not attentive, but whenever He shows me something in a dream I pay attention. God showed me the dream to keep me from walking outside of His will and plan for My life. He gave me the revelation so that I would not fear but that I would know that I already have the victory secured through Jesus Christ. The Bible says that as children of God we have already defeated our enemies because God's spirit inside of us is more powerful than the spirit of the world /or the devil that enters people or situations which come against us. We are more than conquerors, and we have the victory!
Focus
"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." - 1 John 4:4
This morning I had a very disturbing dream. I usually know the interpretation of my dream right away or other times I know that the dream means exactly what was shown to me. But today was different. The dream was crystal clear, and God immediately gave me the revelation of that dream. The dream was a warning of an upcoming attack by the enemy. I sat quietly for over an hour just praying and meditating on what God had shown me. I even asked Him to repeat it so His words would be sealed into my spirit so that I would not easily forget the warning and to keep my spiritual eyes alert so I will recognize the attack for what it is and who it is from.
Not once did I worry or fret over what was shown to me. I simply rejoiced because I trust God, and every word He has ever spoken. To think that God began before I even woke up with me on His mind and He orchestrated my dream life to bring about His love and dominion in my life. God knows that sometimes He speaks with me but I am not attentive, but whenever He shows me something in a dream I pay attention. God showed me the dream to keep me from walking outside of His will and plan for My life. He gave me the revelation so that I would not fear but that I would know that I already have the victory secured through Jesus Christ. The Bible says that as children of God we have already defeated our enemies because God's spirit inside of us is more powerful than the spirit of the world /or the devil that enters people or situations which come against us. We are more than conquerors, and we have the victory!
Focus
- Praise God for being His child and the object of His affection.
- Thank God for the favor and victory that He has granted to you.
- Ask God to show you times that you were victorious because of His Holy spirit residing within you.
- Ask God to reveal to you the plan of your enemy before hand.
- Pray for God to direct your steps when you are attacked so that He is glorified.
- Praise God because your confidence is in Him and not in your ability or in a circumstance.
- Pray for God to show you how He reveals words of warning or victory to you so that you may discern His word for yourself.
Remember
The battle is not yours; it is the Lord's. This means that you don't have to fight or run. Just be still and see the salvation of the Lord. God is worthy of all honor and glory. You were born to be an overcomer.
Be Blessed!
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Day 18 - Prayer Journal - This Little Light of Mine
Scripture
"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid." - Matthew 5:14
Whenever you do something different to your appearance, people take notice. If you wax your eyebrows, people remark that something is different about your face. If you cut your hair, people say that you look much younger. Whenever you become a Christian, people watch you. They watch what you say; they watch what you do; and they watch where you go.
We become creatures under the microscope. But it doesn't matter that the world's eye is on you. It is your chance to shine. Since they are going to look and they are going to talk, we must ignore the enemy's whispers. And we must show the world the love of Christ. We must tell others about the miracle working power of Jesus, and how he has saved us. We must show the world what they are missing when they don't have the Lord leading and guiding their lives. The scripture says is that when you are shining the light of Christ, then you cannot be hidden. The world will sit up and take notice.
Focus
"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid." - Matthew 5:14
Whenever you do something different to your appearance, people take notice. If you wax your eyebrows, people remark that something is different about your face. If you cut your hair, people say that you look much younger. Whenever you become a Christian, people watch you. They watch what you say; they watch what you do; and they watch where you go.
We become creatures under the microscope. But it doesn't matter that the world's eye is on you. It is your chance to shine. Since they are going to look and they are going to talk, we must ignore the enemy's whispers. And we must show the world the love of Christ. We must tell others about the miracle working power of Jesus, and how he has saved us. We must show the world what they are missing when they don't have the Lord leading and guiding their lives. The scripture says is that when you are shining the light of Christ, then you cannot be hidden. The world will sit up and take notice.
Focus
- Ask God to shine His light into all areas of your life.
- Pray that the eyes of those on your path see past you and see the light of Jesus in your life.
- Thank God that the world may not reward you, but it will recognize His light in you.
- Pray for your family to receive the revelation of Jesus' light in you working on their behalf.
- Ask God to show you opportunities to "be a light" in dark places.
Remember
It isn't easy being the light because it requires you to do things differently than the world's way of doing things. Sometimes you may be the only one taking a stand or shining a light, but God will strengthen you and guide you. When you feel like shrinking back and blending in, ask God to direct your path and trust Him to know what is best. Even if you miss the mark, just ask Him to forgive you and to build you up for the next chance.
Be Blessed!
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Day 17 - Prayer Journal: Freedom
Scripture
"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty." - 2 Corinthians 3:17
Happy Independence Day! Happy 4th of July! Happy Birthday America!
No matter what you call it or no matter how you celebrate it. Today people all over our beloved country will bar-b-que, display fireworks, parade through the streets, and tons of other gestures in recognition that the United States is a free nation. The sad fact is that many of our neighboring countries, even continents, don't boast the freedom that we have come to expect here in America.
Sometimes we even take that freedom for granted because most of us have never known, imprisonment, persecution, or war-torn lands in our native country. But everyone can identify with the wonderful privilege of being free. We get to choose whether or not to celebrate, what we want to say or refrain from saying, and whom we choose to worship or not.
However, the greatest freedom of all is not found in the 4th of July. It is found in knowing and serving our lord, Jesus Christ. The scripture says that where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty or freedom. When your life is filled with the love of God, you automatically receive spiritual freedom or liberties. You are free to live without sin, free from guilt or shame, free from hatred or unforgiveness, free to love, free to praise, free to receive, and best of all free to choose to accept God at His word and to follow Him obediently. Isn't that the best liberty of all?
Focus
"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty." - 2 Corinthians 3:17
Happy Independence Day! Happy 4th of July! Happy Birthday America!
No matter what you call it or no matter how you celebrate it. Today people all over our beloved country will bar-b-que, display fireworks, parade through the streets, and tons of other gestures in recognition that the United States is a free nation. The sad fact is that many of our neighboring countries, even continents, don't boast the freedom that we have come to expect here in America.
Sometimes we even take that freedom for granted because most of us have never known, imprisonment, persecution, or war-torn lands in our native country. But everyone can identify with the wonderful privilege of being free. We get to choose whether or not to celebrate, what we want to say or refrain from saying, and whom we choose to worship or not.
However, the greatest freedom of all is not found in the 4th of July. It is found in knowing and serving our lord, Jesus Christ. The scripture says that where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty or freedom. When your life is filled with the love of God, you automatically receive spiritual freedom or liberties. You are free to live without sin, free from guilt or shame, free from hatred or unforgiveness, free to love, free to praise, free to receive, and best of all free to choose to accept God at His word and to follow Him obediently. Isn't that the best liberty of all?
Focus
- Thank God for the freedoms you experience every day in all areas of your life.
- Pray for people and nations who are persecuted.
- Intercede for someone in our nation who has fallen into the lies of the enemy and is living a life of bondage.
- Ask God to free your mind or faith in areas that are weak.
- Pray for guidance in how to share your "freedom of religion" with someone new.
Remember
It is a privilege to live in freedom, but it costs a price. America became a free nation as a result of war. You and I are free because Jesus warred and won over our adversary, the devil.
Be Blessed!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Day 16 - Prayer Journal: Think Twice
Scripture
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things." - Philippians 4:8
This morning while I was on my to class, a thousand thoughts flooded my mind. I thought about the never-ending to-do list, my children who are out of my reach, my pending reading, a missed entry in the blog, and the fact that my life is spiraling out of my control. I drove down the highway, numb to my surroundings because I was focused on too many things. All of a sudden I felt a warm ray of sunshine beaming down on my arm and across my face. It was as if God had tapped me on the shoulder. I instantly cleared my mind of its senseless worries and other garbage that tried to weigh me down. I began to praise God for my life, my loved ones, my job, my health, my mind, His strength, the Blood of Jesus, peace, His plan and purpose for my life, and the good news that He is bringing to pass in my life as I speak.
After my prayer time, I had to laugh. God had to stop me in my tracks because He didn't want the enemy to get a stronghold on my day. You see, the enemy creeps into our thoughts; we play around with these vain imaginations in our minds; if we are not careful to cast down those thoughts we end of acting and speaking contrary to the word and will of God. God wants us to be conscious of our thought life. Our thought life manifests into our spoken lives and our active lives.
Focus
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things." - Philippians 4:8
This morning while I was on my to class, a thousand thoughts flooded my mind. I thought about the never-ending to-do list, my children who are out of my reach, my pending reading, a missed entry in the blog, and the fact that my life is spiraling out of my control. I drove down the highway, numb to my surroundings because I was focused on too many things. All of a sudden I felt a warm ray of sunshine beaming down on my arm and across my face. It was as if God had tapped me on the shoulder. I instantly cleared my mind of its senseless worries and other garbage that tried to weigh me down. I began to praise God for my life, my loved ones, my job, my health, my mind, His strength, the Blood of Jesus, peace, His plan and purpose for my life, and the good news that He is bringing to pass in my life as I speak.
After my prayer time, I had to laugh. God had to stop me in my tracks because He didn't want the enemy to get a stronghold on my day. You see, the enemy creeps into our thoughts; we play around with these vain imaginations in our minds; if we are not careful to cast down those thoughts we end of acting and speaking contrary to the word and will of God. God wants us to be conscious of our thought life. Our thought life manifests into our spoken lives and our active lives.
Focus
- Ask God to place His words over your situations and relationships into your mouth.
- Pray for revelation to the kinds of stinking thinking that passes through your mind from a deceptive heart or the enemy's sly suggestions.
- Thank God for the truth of His word and not the lie or the appearance of circumstances.
- Seek God for the good in the midst of the storm.
- Ask God to help you speak thoughts of love, encouragement, prosperity, and salvation over the people under your tent of influence.
- Praise God for a sound mind and memorize one new scripture that addresses a situation you are facing or recently overcame.
Remember
The Bible tells us to have the mind of Christ. Jesus said He only spoke and did what He heard and saw the Father say and do. So we, too, should speak the word, think the word, and do the word.
Be Blessed.
Day 15 - Prayer Journal: Beyond Comrprehension
Scripture
"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7
Some things just don't make sense. For example, why do people ride around with their babies in the car but not secured in car seats and seat belts? Probably because they don't worry about being involved in an accident. This doesn't make sense to people who know better or to those who have had children involved in a car accident or worse to women who long to have a child that they wish they could secure and protect. There are plenty of natural things that just don't make any sense to the rational mind.
Similarly, when you come to know the Lord, Jesus, and you learn how much He loves and protects you; then, you cannot imagine trying to live your life without Him. I have always admired a spiritual mentor who despite attacks of the enemy, life's disappointments, and more than her share of heart breaks still smiles, still hopes, still loves, still forgives, and still trusts God. Once I asked her how she stayed so positive, so faithful. She told me that she wasn't always happy, but she always has peace. At the time I was not walking with the Lord and could not comprehend why she didn't kick some butt just once especially when her enemies deserved it. She laughed and told me that she had the peace of Christ and that she was confident that God knew her situation, knew how she felt, but more importantly, knew how He planned to deliver her. That awed me then and still does.
Now that I truly know the Lord and understand His faithfulness no matter how bleak things seem, I understand what was incomprehensible to my sinful mind. When you walk with God, you see things that others don't see. You understand that God is real, His word is true, and HE is faithful, end of story. When people are lost and under the bondage of sin, it doesn't make sense to them. They wonder how you can go through all that you have been through and not act like they would if they were in your shoes. Sometimes they think that you are weak or stupid or blind or other names they call you behind your back or if they are bold, to your face. But they can't figure out because the Bible says that some things are spiritually discerned. That means that they don't understand how you can be at peace because their flesh is tormented with worry or depression or fear.
Focus
"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7
Some things just don't make sense. For example, why do people ride around with their babies in the car but not secured in car seats and seat belts? Probably because they don't worry about being involved in an accident. This doesn't make sense to people who know better or to those who have had children involved in a car accident or worse to women who long to have a child that they wish they could secure and protect. There are plenty of natural things that just don't make any sense to the rational mind.
Similarly, when you come to know the Lord, Jesus, and you learn how much He loves and protects you; then, you cannot imagine trying to live your life without Him. I have always admired a spiritual mentor who despite attacks of the enemy, life's disappointments, and more than her share of heart breaks still smiles, still hopes, still loves, still forgives, and still trusts God. Once I asked her how she stayed so positive, so faithful. She told me that she wasn't always happy, but she always has peace. At the time I was not walking with the Lord and could not comprehend why she didn't kick some butt just once especially when her enemies deserved it. She laughed and told me that she had the peace of Christ and that she was confident that God knew her situation, knew how she felt, but more importantly, knew how He planned to deliver her. That awed me then and still does.
Now that I truly know the Lord and understand His faithfulness no matter how bleak things seem, I understand what was incomprehensible to my sinful mind. When you walk with God, you see things that others don't see. You understand that God is real, His word is true, and HE is faithful, end of story. When people are lost and under the bondage of sin, it doesn't make sense to them. They wonder how you can go through all that you have been through and not act like they would if they were in your shoes. Sometimes they think that you are weak or stupid or blind or other names they call you behind your back or if they are bold, to your face. But they can't figure out because the Bible says that some things are spiritually discerned. That means that they don't understand how you can be at peace because their flesh is tormented with worry or depression or fear.
Focus
- Pray for God to give you peace in the midst of your situation.
- Thank God for securing your heart and mind through your belief in Jesus.
- Ask Jesus to give peace to those you know that need some.
- Pray for revelation on times that you forget to rest in the peace of God and resort to worrying.
Remember
No matter how the enemy treats you, know that God is your peace and He will sustain your mind when the enemy attacks you trying to make you believe God has forsaken you.
Be Blessed!
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Day 14 - Prayer Journal: Share the Love
Scripture
"Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people." - 1 Chronicles 16:8
Many people have terrible habits; one I loathe is gossiping. It amazes me how people, even Christians, spread news of death and destruction. Some even say that they are just "sharing so you will know how to pray." Do they not realize that is the job of the Holy Spirit to give us what to pray for even when we don't know how or what? What they are really doing is spreading the enemy's lies. Instead of spreading the news of a loving Savior who is seeking a relationship, they enjoy telling you about broken relationships, divorce, abortions, addictions, and other heart breaking news. We are called to be a witness of the goodness of the Lord to people who feel like they have no hope.
I confess I have an unusual habit; I eavesdrop on other people's conversations, only in public places like restaurants. It's not that I am nosey, but I like to hear what other people are talking about because it makes for interesting things to write about. Sometimes, my eavesdropping, has led me into opportunities to witness to couples sitting at a neighboring table. But the thing I don't do enough is thank God. Yes, I thank Him every morning for just being God, for salvation, for blessings, for peace, for health, and for every little thing I misplace that He reveals to me before I get stressed out. But I don't always stop in the middle of work or school or eating or living, just to thank God for being God. The Bible tells us to give thanks, then call on the Lord, and then to tell somebody who God is and what He has done for you.
Often we get the part of the scripture that says "Call on God." We ask Him for way too much sometimes, but I need to work more on giving thanks and then telling somebody. Just today a dear sister called me to share how the Lord had confirmed the prayer journal entries with a message that she heard today. That is what God expects us to do. We shouldn't just pray or even give thanks, but we should stand up and be a witness. God wants to do the same thing for others that He does for us, but many of His children are lost and don't know His plan for them. That is why it is important for us to spread the love.
Focus
"Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people." - 1 Chronicles 16:8
Many people have terrible habits; one I loathe is gossiping. It amazes me how people, even Christians, spread news of death and destruction. Some even say that they are just "sharing so you will know how to pray." Do they not realize that is the job of the Holy Spirit to give us what to pray for even when we don't know how or what? What they are really doing is spreading the enemy's lies. Instead of spreading the news of a loving Savior who is seeking a relationship, they enjoy telling you about broken relationships, divorce, abortions, addictions, and other heart breaking news. We are called to be a witness of the goodness of the Lord to people who feel like they have no hope.
I confess I have an unusual habit; I eavesdrop on other people's conversations, only in public places like restaurants. It's not that I am nosey, but I like to hear what other people are talking about because it makes for interesting things to write about. Sometimes, my eavesdropping, has led me into opportunities to witness to couples sitting at a neighboring table. But the thing I don't do enough is thank God. Yes, I thank Him every morning for just being God, for salvation, for blessings, for peace, for health, and for every little thing I misplace that He reveals to me before I get stressed out. But I don't always stop in the middle of work or school or eating or living, just to thank God for being God. The Bible tells us to give thanks, then call on the Lord, and then to tell somebody who God is and what He has done for you.
Often we get the part of the scripture that says "Call on God." We ask Him for way too much sometimes, but I need to work more on giving thanks and then telling somebody. Just today a dear sister called me to share how the Lord had confirmed the prayer journal entries with a message that she heard today. That is what God expects us to do. We shouldn't just pray or even give thanks, but we should stand up and be a witness. God wants to do the same thing for others that He does for us, but many of His children are lost and don't know His plan for them. That is why it is important for us to spread the love.
Focus
- Pray a prayer of thanks to God just because He is God.
- Ask God to reveal to you people who you need to witness to.
- Seek God for the strength and courage to witness to a stranger or to someone who intimidates you or someone you may have assumed wouldn't receive a word from you.
- Ask God to give you more opportunities to tell someone your testimony or something God has done as a result of this prayer journal. (It is a good way to share the challenge.)
- Thank God for the person who stepped out in faith and began to tell you about what Jesus did for them. (You don't know how the enemy probably attacked them after reaching out to you.)
- Praise God for the word of God and His instructions for our lives.
Remember
God is worthy of all praise and honor. We give all glory to God for the things He has done in our lives and in the lives of our loved ones.
Be blessed!
Day 13 - Prayer Journal: Strength
Scripture
"The LORD [is] my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, [and] my high tower." - Psalm 18:2
Yesterday, I dropped my darling daughter off to college. It was indeed a bittersweet moment. As I drove onto campus, it seemed different than the Alma mater that I have come to love. GSU has fancy new housing, renovations galore, and innumerable opportunities. But those weren't the things that stood out to me. I looked for the emergency call boxes spread throughout the walk paths, the fire escape - just in case, the proximity of my daughter's dorm to the guy dorms, and the distance to campus security. Don't get me wrong I love Gram, but this is my first born that we are talking about and I just can't assume the university where everybody is somebody has built a safe haven for my kid. Funny how that didn't matter when I was a freshman!
After getting her settled in and giving her the "be careful" lecture, I had to laugh at my departing words. Simultaneously, my dad and I exclaimed, "Don't forget to go to church tomorrow." I know the lock on her door is secure; there are multiple exits just in case, she is half a block from the police station, and the guys that passed me on her sidewalk spoke and said, "Yes, ma'am." But Jesus is my strong tower. I know He has His hands on my child, and my confidence is in the Lord. Isn't it a blessing to know that no matter what the conditions, our trust is in God?
We can count on God and fully rely on Him in every situation. There may be times when you are tempted to worry or to wonder, but instead know God is your fortress. He is the only indestructable force that the pressures of life nor the gates of hell can penetrate.
Focus
"The LORD [is] my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, [and] my high tower." - Psalm 18:2
Yesterday, I dropped my darling daughter off to college. It was indeed a bittersweet moment. As I drove onto campus, it seemed different than the Alma mater that I have come to love. GSU has fancy new housing, renovations galore, and innumerable opportunities. But those weren't the things that stood out to me. I looked for the emergency call boxes spread throughout the walk paths, the fire escape - just in case, the proximity of my daughter's dorm to the guy dorms, and the distance to campus security. Don't get me wrong I love Gram, but this is my first born that we are talking about and I just can't assume the university where everybody is somebody has built a safe haven for my kid. Funny how that didn't matter when I was a freshman!
After getting her settled in and giving her the "be careful" lecture, I had to laugh at my departing words. Simultaneously, my dad and I exclaimed, "Don't forget to go to church tomorrow." I know the lock on her door is secure; there are multiple exits just in case, she is half a block from the police station, and the guys that passed me on her sidewalk spoke and said, "Yes, ma'am." But Jesus is my strong tower. I know He has His hands on my child, and my confidence is in the Lord. Isn't it a blessing to know that no matter what the conditions, our trust is in God?
We can count on God and fully rely on Him in every situation. There may be times when you are tempted to worry or to wonder, but instead know God is your fortress. He is the only indestructable force that the pressures of life nor the gates of hell can penetrate.
Focus
- Thank God for His dependability.
- Ask the Lord to show you areas where you "forget" to look to Him as your deliver.
- Pray for God's strength and deliverance for someone who needs it other than you.
- Place every situation and relation that seems out of your control in God's hands.
Remember
Look to God as your source and not at your resources!
Be blessed.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Day 12 - Prayer Journal: Excellence
Scripture
"Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit [was] in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm." - Daniel 6:3
This week in my writing group we discussed excellence; we shared things that we thought were excellent and we pointed out how you can tell if something or someone is excellent. It was inteteresting to hear different perspectives of what people see as excellence. We were then asked to write about our definitions of excellence. One of the definitions that came up was "something that is superior to everything around it"; even at our best description, what we think of as excellent pales in comparison to how God sees excellence.
The Bible tells us about Daniel, in whom was found an excellent spirit, and how he was elevated because "an excellent spirit" was found in him. I asked God what did that mean. The Lord revealed that Daniel was different from everyone else the king had come in contact with. Not only was he able to interpret the king's hard dreams like no one else throughout the region, but also this was the same Daniel that had refused to eat from the king's table because he knew that did not fit with the diet in God's plan for his life. Daniel found favor from the king because his life was marked by excellence. He did not conform to the world in which he lived, but instead he lived according to the spirit that was found within him. We know that Daniel sought the Lord and was continually led by the spirit of God, that was his secret weapon, He let the spirit of God lead and guide him, and others recognized that as excellence.
When you have a spirit of excellence, the world takes notice. A person who walks in excellence does not do the ordinary, but instead they go above and beyond what others are willing to do or what others feel like doing. When God first begin to reveal this to me, He showed me little areas that required that I operate with a spirit of excellence.
Once I was at work and asked by a co-worker to sign and pre-date a document that stated that I had done a particular job. I had not yet done the job because the date had not yet come. My co-worker asked me to sign and date the paper because she felt that I would do the job as required when the date came. Still I refused, in my spirit, I felt a slight nudge to not sign and date the paper because I had not done the job and would actually be lying by signing before hand because my signature and date indicated that the job had been done as asked. This would not have been true on an earlier date. When I shared that Christ would not want me to do this with my co-worker, who seemed a little agitated by my response, others who had already signed felt guilty. Some even asked for a new copy so that they could wait to do the right thing. My co-worker assured them that it was okay and said she understood how I felt. Now my co-worker proclaims to be a Christian, and I am not questioning her relationship nor am I judging her decision to operate in the manner she did. I just know that the spirit within me required me to work with excellence.
The mark of a Christian is supposed to be a life of excellence. God has put us in the valley of life so that others can experience Him through the excellence that dwells within us. Living with a spirit of integrity and excellence is evidence of holiness, which without no man will see God. Even when others don't do the right thing or things seem too trivial to matter, let the spirit of excellence rise out of you. Whether other Christians think it's okay or try to get away with lying, stealing, or other things that compromise the spirit of God, don't fall to the attack of the enemy. Others may be watching you to know the right thing to do. Be the Christian who is noticed and promoted because an excellent spirit is found within you.
"Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit [was] in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm." - Daniel 6:3
This week in my writing group we discussed excellence; we shared things that we thought were excellent and we pointed out how you can tell if something or someone is excellent. It was inteteresting to hear different perspectives of what people see as excellence. We were then asked to write about our definitions of excellence. One of the definitions that came up was "something that is superior to everything around it"; even at our best description, what we think of as excellent pales in comparison to how God sees excellence.
The Bible tells us about Daniel, in whom was found an excellent spirit, and how he was elevated because "an excellent spirit" was found in him. I asked God what did that mean. The Lord revealed that Daniel was different from everyone else the king had come in contact with. Not only was he able to interpret the king's hard dreams like no one else throughout the region, but also this was the same Daniel that had refused to eat from the king's table because he knew that did not fit with the diet in God's plan for his life. Daniel found favor from the king because his life was marked by excellence. He did not conform to the world in which he lived, but instead he lived according to the spirit that was found within him. We know that Daniel sought the Lord and was continually led by the spirit of God, that was his secret weapon, He let the spirit of God lead and guide him, and others recognized that as excellence.
When you have a spirit of excellence, the world takes notice. A person who walks in excellence does not do the ordinary, but instead they go above and beyond what others are willing to do or what others feel like doing. When God first begin to reveal this to me, He showed me little areas that required that I operate with a spirit of excellence.
Once I was at work and asked by a co-worker to sign and pre-date a document that stated that I had done a particular job. I had not yet done the job because the date had not yet come. My co-worker asked me to sign and date the paper because she felt that I would do the job as required when the date came. Still I refused, in my spirit, I felt a slight nudge to not sign and date the paper because I had not done the job and would actually be lying by signing before hand because my signature and date indicated that the job had been done as asked. This would not have been true on an earlier date. When I shared that Christ would not want me to do this with my co-worker, who seemed a little agitated by my response, others who had already signed felt guilty. Some even asked for a new copy so that they could wait to do the right thing. My co-worker assured them that it was okay and said she understood how I felt. Now my co-worker proclaims to be a Christian, and I am not questioning her relationship nor am I judging her decision to operate in the manner she did. I just know that the spirit within me required me to work with excellence.
The mark of a Christian is supposed to be a life of excellence. God has put us in the valley of life so that others can experience Him through the excellence that dwells within us. Living with a spirit of integrity and excellence is evidence of holiness, which without no man will see God. Even when others don't do the right thing or things seem too trivial to matter, let the spirit of excellence rise out of you. Whether other Christians think it's okay or try to get away with lying, stealing, or other things that compromise the spirit of God, don't fall to the attack of the enemy. Others may be watching you to know the right thing to do. Be the Christian who is noticed and promoted because an excellent spirit is found within you.
Focus
- Ask God to forgive you in areas where you have compromised to go along and get along.
- Pray for a spirit of excellence to be found in you.
- Seek God to reveal when you are being tempted or tested to permit sins that conflict with God's spirit. (Trust the Holy Spirit when you hear that little voice that says this is wrong.)
- Thank God for the favor that He has placed in your life because of the spirit of excellence.
- Trust God to reveal to others the spirit of excellence within you, and to promote you because of it.
Remember
Don't let the enemy lie to you and tell you that compromise is a "little" sin or "little lie"; God sees sin as sin. There are no sections in hell for the little sinners and the big sinners; the lake of fire is reserved for sinners, period.
Another tactic of the devil is to point out to you those who lie, steal, gamble, fornicate, commit adultery or any other sin and seem to be promoted sometimes ahead of you, especially when you begin to walk in total excellence. The scripture says that God is and He is a rewarder to them that diligently seek Him. If you do what God says exactly the way He says it without compromising or making excuses, He will reward you.
Promotion is from God, not man. Some people may go up, but God and man will notice the difference in the work because excellence always rises to the top. Even if man never sees you, God is right all the time. He rains on the just and the unjust and He is the judge of us all. I would rather go through this life unrewarded, than to face God in judgment and be found guilty of promotion in sin. No matter what it looks like, YOU do the right thing!
Be Blessed!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Day 11 - Prayer Journal: Free Choice
Scripture
"And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. " - Matthew 21:22
God once asked me what could I believe Him for. I answered almost instantly, anything Lord. This was the truth I have always believed that God could do anything. But God must not have been satisfied with my answer or He wanted to teach me something about how I saw His answers to prayer because He asked me again, what can you believe me for? I answered the same thing, wondering if this were a trick question (it wasn't, God doesn't play tricks). The Lord asked me a third time. This time before I answered I said Father I must not know the answer because you continue to ask so please give me the answer so I may respond in accordance to your will.
Immediately, the answer popped into my mind. "I can believe God for everything." I asked God what was the difference between my answer and His. God showed me that in my thinking He could do anything, I implied He could do anything He wanted to do. Although this was true, it was not scriptural. Jesus said, "I stand at the door knocking, if anyone lets me in..." God wants us to cooperate with His will in order to learn about His love.
His answer, God can do everything, guarantees that I understand that God can do everything I need Him to do. Talk about a big difference, I did not realize the limitations that I had mentally placed on God. I now understand that God can do anything, but HE loves me enough to do everything I need. This is true for all of God's children, because He doesn't play favorites.
There are so many privileges that come from loving and serving the King of Kings, Jesus. Sometimes I am amazed at how much God loves us and trusts us. God is the ultimate Father; even though He knows our weaknesses, He also knows our strengths. When God created man, He said, "Let us make man in our image." One of the things that included was the power to choose. God loves and trusts us and He expects us to love and trust Him. That is one of the reasons He gave us free will.
Focus
So today's prayer journal entry is "Free Choice". The Bible tells us that what you believe God for when you ask God for it in prayer (in line to His holiness, His word, and His will of course); then, He will grant it. This qualifies for whatever secret things are in your heart or obvious situations and relationships that need an immediate fix. If you can believe God for it, then ask Him to do it.
Remember
If you don't know what to pray or how to believe God for the impossible and unexpected, then ask Him to show you the way!
Be Blessed.
"And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. " - Matthew 21:22
God once asked me what could I believe Him for. I answered almost instantly, anything Lord. This was the truth I have always believed that God could do anything. But God must not have been satisfied with my answer or He wanted to teach me something about how I saw His answers to prayer because He asked me again, what can you believe me for? I answered the same thing, wondering if this were a trick question (it wasn't, God doesn't play tricks). The Lord asked me a third time. This time before I answered I said Father I must not know the answer because you continue to ask so please give me the answer so I may respond in accordance to your will.
Immediately, the answer popped into my mind. "I can believe God for everything." I asked God what was the difference between my answer and His. God showed me that in my thinking He could do anything, I implied He could do anything He wanted to do. Although this was true, it was not scriptural. Jesus said, "I stand at the door knocking, if anyone lets me in..." God wants us to cooperate with His will in order to learn about His love.
His answer, God can do everything, guarantees that I understand that God can do everything I need Him to do. Talk about a big difference, I did not realize the limitations that I had mentally placed on God. I now understand that God can do anything, but HE loves me enough to do everything I need. This is true for all of God's children, because He doesn't play favorites.
There are so many privileges that come from loving and serving the King of Kings, Jesus. Sometimes I am amazed at how much God loves us and trusts us. God is the ultimate Father; even though He knows our weaknesses, He also knows our strengths. When God created man, He said, "Let us make man in our image." One of the things that included was the power to choose. God loves and trusts us and He expects us to love and trust Him. That is one of the reasons He gave us free will.
Focus
So today's prayer journal entry is "Free Choice". The Bible tells us that what you believe God for when you ask God for it in prayer (in line to His holiness, His word, and His will of course); then, He will grant it. This qualifies for whatever secret things are in your heart or obvious situations and relationships that need an immediate fix. If you can believe God for it, then ask Him to do it.
Remember
If you don't know what to pray or how to believe God for the impossible and unexpected, then ask Him to show you the way!
Be Blessed.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Day 10 - Prayer Journal - Already Blessed
Scripture
"Blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the city, and blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the field." - Deuteronomy 28:3
About a month ago a friend made a commitment to give me something that I had asked for quite some time ago. I was ecstatic to put it mildly. I was getting what I wanted and all seemed right in my world. However, I found out this week that things did not go as planned and that my friend's promise would be altered but not denied. I didn't know whether to be disappointed or not. I really felt neutral because since I was getting a form of what I had requested, I didn't think I had any right to feel disappointed. Even though my wishes were being granted just not the way I had intended, I knew things could be better but still I should rejoice.
Focus
"Blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the city, and blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the field." - Deuteronomy 28:3
About a month ago a friend made a commitment to give me something that I had asked for quite some time ago. I was ecstatic to put it mildly. I was getting what I wanted and all seemed right in my world. However, I found out this week that things did not go as planned and that my friend's promise would be altered but not denied. I didn't know whether to be disappointed or not. I really felt neutral because since I was getting a form of what I had requested, I didn't think I had any right to feel disappointed. Even though my wishes were being granted just not the way I had intended, I knew things could be better but still I should rejoice.
Focus
- Are you obeying the voice of God in every area of your life?
- What areas do you find yourself struggling to hear or obey what God says about your life?
- Pray to ask God to show you how to hear from Him.
- Ask God for revelation to show you how you are blessed right in the situation you are in.
- Pray for God to strengthen and keep you while you are on your way to where He's taking you.
- Thank God for blessing you in your current circumstance or relationship, even if you don't feel or see it.
Remember
The Bible says all things work together for the good of them that love the Lord. You may not see the physical manifestation of the blessing but know that God has worked it out and it shall manifest before your very eyes. Jesus already declared, "It is finished!"
Be Blessed.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Day 9 - Prayer Journal: Power Words
Scripture
"Death and life [are] in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." - Proverbs 18:21
A friend and I were talking about how words are used have changed in the past ten years. For instance, we shared how kids use the word ghetto ( a place; noun) to describe things like an adjective. When something is bad to young people, they say, "That ________ is so ghetto."
Another word they use to describe something they dislike is "gay". Today I heard someone say rainbows are so "gay"; I asked her to explain. She told me how she hates rainbows and thinks they are so pointless. I was stunned; I think rainbows are fabulous, after all God said rainbows are a sign of His promises being fulfilled. How could someone think rainbows are "gay" / bad?
It is amazing how different people use the very words that we use but mean totally different ways. Often we take our words for granted. We say things without realizing their true meaning. I went to a celebration to honor a close friend. As people gave wishes of congratulations, many of them began their comment with how they loved the honoree to "death"; now I know they didn't mean ill wishes toward the person. They just didn't realize how powerful those words were. One after another repeated the same phrase, while they made these statements I began to pray against the spirit of death and rebuke the deceiving spirit that filled these people's lips.
Words have power. God created a whole word just by speaking it into existence. When God said, Let there be..., everything appeared exactly the way he said it. It happen by what God thought; it came to be by what He said. God gave us that same power. According to scripture, He said that our power to create life or death is through our words. When we tell our loved ones negative words, we begin to create that kind of life over them or we send death to the person God created them to be.
Focus
"Death and life [are] in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." - Proverbs 18:21
A friend and I were talking about how words are used have changed in the past ten years. For instance, we shared how kids use the word ghetto ( a place; noun) to describe things like an adjective. When something is bad to young people, they say, "That ________ is so ghetto."
Another word they use to describe something they dislike is "gay". Today I heard someone say rainbows are so "gay"; I asked her to explain. She told me how she hates rainbows and thinks they are so pointless. I was stunned; I think rainbows are fabulous, after all God said rainbows are a sign of His promises being fulfilled. How could someone think rainbows are "gay" / bad?
It is amazing how different people use the very words that we use but mean totally different ways. Often we take our words for granted. We say things without realizing their true meaning. I went to a celebration to honor a close friend. As people gave wishes of congratulations, many of them began their comment with how they loved the honoree to "death"; now I know they didn't mean ill wishes toward the person. They just didn't realize how powerful those words were. One after another repeated the same phrase, while they made these statements I began to pray against the spirit of death and rebuke the deceiving spirit that filled these people's lips.
Words have power. God created a whole word just by speaking it into existence. When God said, Let there be..., everything appeared exactly the way he said it. It happen by what God thought; it came to be by what He said. God gave us that same power. According to scripture, He said that our power to create life or death is through our words. When we tell our loved ones negative words, we begin to create that kind of life over them or we send death to the person God created them to be.
Focus
- What wrong words have you spoken over your life? into the lives of your loved ones?
- What phrases do you repeatedly say not meaning any harm, but they are contrary to what God says?
- The Bible tells us to speak those things which are not, as though they are. Find a scripture that speaks what God says about your situation, relationship, or circumstance.
- Ask God to put His words in your mouth and speak the word of God rather than praying the problem.
- Challenge - tomorrow, speak a word of encouragement or a word of praise into the life of (1) a loved one (2) a friend (3) a stranger
- Record what God reveals to you about the person and yourself as a result of the challenge.
Remember
You have the power to turn situations into how God sees them! Jesus said He came that we would have an abundant life! Speak life, not death. Sorry the post is so late; I had a lot of errands.
Be Blessed.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Day 8 - Prayer Journal: Intercession
Scripture
"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
When my kids were much younger, they often got a chance to hitch a ride to the store or to come along on errands. As we would make our way down the aisles of the store, one of my children would ask for a treat for herself. I most certainly obliged because this was my child and I love her. Seldom did she ever volunteer to make a purchase for anyone else nor did she ever suggest paying for something for me. Nevertheless, as a parent I enjoyed being able to meet her simple request on occasion.
Whenever it was my other child's turn to tag along, the most amazing thing any parent could witness occurred. He, too, would request some type of treat, but instead of selfishly seeking his own blessing he would ask for something for he and his sister. Not ever in our escapades would this child seek something from me without inquiring on his sister's behalf. Sometimes he even offered to pay for "their" treats and usually suggested that I get something for me too. This behavior was always peculiar to me because whenever I asked his sister why she never asked for anything for her brother she replied, "He should have come. I am getting something for me, besides I don't know what he wants!" (Sounds like what we say to God when he nudges us to pray for our enemies.) I must confess I was disappointed; I even suggested that my son get wiser by treating his sister the way she treated him. He refused; he told me that he didn't mind getting stuff for her even though she never did anything nice for him and he said, "Momma, it is the right thing to do!"
Imagine my embarrassment. My young child understood what many of us miss. We often go to God for ourselves; yes, we seek him for our needs, our spouses, our children, our family members, our jobs, our churches, our friends, and everything else that we see as part of us. But how often do we seek Him for someone else or more importantly for someone who has mistreated us, who would never pray on our behalf. Well, guess what? Jesus did; when we were terribly unfit Jesus asked the Father to forgive us for we didn't know what we were doing. That is some kind of love, mercy, and grace. that is one of the reasons God said Jesus was His beloved son, the one who He was well pleased with. The scripture says we get our healing / blessings when we pray for someone else. Wouldn't it be awesome for God to call you His beloved child because you are unselfish and He often found you caring for others who don't deserve it?
Focus
"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
When my kids were much younger, they often got a chance to hitch a ride to the store or to come along on errands. As we would make our way down the aisles of the store, one of my children would ask for a treat for herself. I most certainly obliged because this was my child and I love her. Seldom did she ever volunteer to make a purchase for anyone else nor did she ever suggest paying for something for me. Nevertheless, as a parent I enjoyed being able to meet her simple request on occasion.
Whenever it was my other child's turn to tag along, the most amazing thing any parent could witness occurred. He, too, would request some type of treat, but instead of selfishly seeking his own blessing he would ask for something for he and his sister. Not ever in our escapades would this child seek something from me without inquiring on his sister's behalf. Sometimes he even offered to pay for "their" treats and usually suggested that I get something for me too. This behavior was always peculiar to me because whenever I asked his sister why she never asked for anything for her brother she replied, "He should have come. I am getting something for me, besides I don't know what he wants!" (Sounds like what we say to God when he nudges us to pray for our enemies.) I must confess I was disappointed; I even suggested that my son get wiser by treating his sister the way she treated him. He refused; he told me that he didn't mind getting stuff for her even though she never did anything nice for him and he said, "Momma, it is the right thing to do!"
Imagine my embarrassment. My young child understood what many of us miss. We often go to God for ourselves; yes, we seek him for our needs, our spouses, our children, our family members, our jobs, our churches, our friends, and everything else that we see as part of us. But how often do we seek Him for someone else or more importantly for someone who has mistreated us, who would never pray on our behalf. Well, guess what? Jesus did; when we were terribly unfit Jesus asked the Father to forgive us for we didn't know what we were doing. That is some kind of love, mercy, and grace. that is one of the reasons God said Jesus was His beloved son, the one who He was well pleased with. The scripture says we get our healing / blessings when we pray for someone else. Wouldn't it be awesome for God to call you His beloved child because you are unselfish and He often found you caring for others who don't deserve it?
Focus
- Ask God to reveal people or situations you need to add to "your" prayer list.
- Intercede (pray for) some one who has mistreated or hurt you. Ask God to touch that person's heart and to save him or her. Don't pray a prayer of revenge because God said vengeance is His and He is a God of love (He pays them back by saving them which causes them to repent to Him every evil thing that they have done, including what they did to you.)
- Intercede for people you should be praying for but sometimes don't or those you have a difficult time consistently praying for.
- Ask God to show you how to pray for others before seeking your own needs.
- Reflect on people or situations in which other people may have interceded on your behalf.
- Thank God for using you as an intercessor. and ask Him to show you the power of intercession.
Remember
None of us deserved grace, but God gives us new mercies every day. Learn to focus on what is on God's heart and he will focus on what is on your heart.
Be Blessed!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Day 7 - Prayer Journal: Wisdom Keys
Scripture
"Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [therefore] get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." - Proverbs 4:7
For years, I have thought about my desire to achieve my "bucket" dreams, things I want to do before I kick the bucket. I have plenty of everyday dreams and goals, but some of my bucket dreams include my dream of publishing my book, opening a group home, and adopting a child. These may be simple things for some people. Many people in the world have already achieved these things, but they are my God-sized dreams, things I need God to breathe life into so that they happen and are a blessing to not only me but to the people whose lives will be forever changed by the desires God has put in my heart.
Life is full of many opportunities, and there are so many dreams and goals that we hope to fulfill. Some of our desires are simple things that are within our reach. Others are much bigger than us. These are the God-sized dreams that God has planted in our hearts so that we must lean on Him in order to fulfill them and succeed. Too often people leave their dreams on the shelves of their hearts because they believe that life has passed them by or they think that they don't have what it takes to achieve what they really want. But God wants us to dream, and dream big, much bigger than anything you can do. If we only believe in the things that we can do, we leave no room for God to do the miraculous in our lives.
Focus
"Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [therefore] get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." - Proverbs 4:7
For years, I have thought about my desire to achieve my "bucket" dreams, things I want to do before I kick the bucket. I have plenty of everyday dreams and goals, but some of my bucket dreams include my dream of publishing my book, opening a group home, and adopting a child. These may be simple things for some people. Many people in the world have already achieved these things, but they are my God-sized dreams, things I need God to breathe life into so that they happen and are a blessing to not only me but to the people whose lives will be forever changed by the desires God has put in my heart.
Life is full of many opportunities, and there are so many dreams and goals that we hope to fulfill. Some of our desires are simple things that are within our reach. Others are much bigger than us. These are the God-sized dreams that God has planted in our hearts so that we must lean on Him in order to fulfill them and succeed. Too often people leave their dreams on the shelves of their hearts because they believe that life has passed them by or they think that they don't have what it takes to achieve what they really want. But God wants us to dream, and dream big, much bigger than anything you can do. If we only believe in the things that we can do, we leave no room for God to do the miraculous in our lives.
Focus
- What dreams did you have when you were younger or when your situation seemed more feasible?
- What dreams have gone unfulfilled in your life? What things have you desired but believe it is too late to achieve?
- What are your God-given dreams? What things seem almost impossible for you to accomplish and would take God in order to do them?
- Seek God for the God-sized dreams that He has for you.
- Ask God to give you wisdom in every area of your life, especially in the area of life goals and dreams that are yet to be fulfilled.
- Record any ideas that God reveals to you about things that God has placed in your heart to do or to be.
- Pray for God to send the right people into your life who are connected to His plan for your life.
Remember
Today is Father's Day, don't forget to lift up the men in your life, whether they are fathers or not. Ask God to give you the wisdom in dealing with the men in your life, husbands, fathers, brothers, uncles, ex-whatevers. Watch God change things in that area !
Be Blessed!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Day 6 - Prayer Journal: Pardon Me
Scripture
"And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. " - Luke 11:4
"And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. " - Luke 11:4
A week ago, I spent the day at the lake with some friends. Three of them climbed into an empty boat and navigated the waters heading south. As they rowed the boat, seeking adventure, three fish jumped into the tiny boat, while water splashed along for the ride. My adventure seeking friends captured the fish and some of the water from the lake and put them in a ziploc bag. After they returned to the dock, one of the guys showed all of those who had stayed on land his catch for the day. When I asked him what he planned to do with the innocent creatures, Wes told me that he was going to release the fish back into the water. I was surprised; I had assumed that he would have kept them as a souvenir or added them to his daughter's fishbowl. Another friend asked him why he was letting them go. Wes shared that the tiny fish were helpless and defenseless against him; he reminded us that the fish had only done what they knew to do, but he had the power to choose to free them in spite of the fact that they had made a wrong choice by landing in the boat.
That made me think about how Jesus treats us. Even when we make the wrong choices, He has the power to free us by forgiving us. We, in turn, have the ability to be Christ-like when we act as Wes did. We must choose to free others who make the wrong choices and land in conflict or hurtful situations toward us. The scripture says that we are forgiven with the same measure we forgive others. It doesn't depend on whether or not people deserve forgiveness or not, whether they are sorry and ask for forgiveness or not, we must choose to forgive because Jesus loves and forgives us.
Focus
- In your journal, ask God to forgive you for any wrong actions or thoughts that you may have or had in the past that you may have forgotten to repent.
- After yesterday's journal, you may have discovered areas that your heart had deceived you. Things you once saw one way may be clearer to you today or you may have realized that you were wrong in thinking certain things. Either way, if God revealed beliefs that you once had that you realize now you were wrong, pray for forgiveness.
- Have you believed things about someone else because your heart led you to wicked thinking? Write a prayer of asking for forgiveness.
- Are there people who actually wronged or hurt you and are in need of your forgiveness? Write a prayer asking God to strengthen you to release them from wounded thinking /feelings and choose to forgive them, even if they don't really know or deserve it.
- Pray and ask God to deliver you from the temptation to treat people the way they may deserve to be treated and instead ask Him for the power to treat them the way He would.
You may not realize how empowering forgiveness really is. Most people that hurt you either don't remember or were not walking with Jesus so they only did what sinners know how to do - the wrong thing! People who have not accepted Jesus as their Lord and Saviour are blinded to the love of God. That means they don't know how to really love you the way God does. So you may have been placed in their path to show them how God loves people in spite of whether they deserve it or not. We know they need to be forgiven and loved because that is what each of us discovered we need from Jesus. Plus, the Bible says it is more of a blessing to give rather than to receive. So go ahead and get your blessing!
Remember
You can pray or write any way the Lord leads you. If you don't think there is anything that you need to forgive or be forgiven for, just ask God to reveal how He sees things and see what He answers.
I am so blessed to find out how many of you have shared the prayer journal challenge with others, that is love in action.
If any of you are confused about the prayer journal days, let me explain. One night when I attempted to post the website was down by the company so I was unable to post a journal. I simply choose to make it up the following day, and to not confuse you I did not post two. If you journaled on your own on that day, then today is your day 7. If you stayed with my format, today is your day 6. Either way is okay, God knows what we have need of and whatever He led you to do is fine with me.
Some one asked why I called it a challenge; I felt the Lord was leading us to challenge ourselves in prayer. I believe that these journal entries are stretching our prayer lives, our thinking, our fellowship or witness to others, and many blessings that God has yet to reveal. It is not a competition but a personal intimate prayer experience with you and God. I only ask that if you have praise reports please share them so others' faith may be stirred because some of our participants are new to waiting on God.
Be Blessed!
Friday, June 19, 2009
Day 5- Prayer Journal: Matters of the Heart
Scripture
"Create in me a clean heart, Oh God; and renew a right spirit within me." - Psalm 51:10
I absolutely love chocolate, Coke, mochas, and latte. Can we say I am obsessed with caffeine? I know that females should not have excess levels of caffeine because it is simply unhealthy. But that doesn't stop us from craving things we shouldn't. Why do we think that we must have things that we really shouldn't? It is a heart thing!
Many people believe that the heart is the most important organ in the human body. But it is the most dangerous, too. If your heart is not functioning properly, your life is in danger. It is central to your existence. Just like your physical heart is the central hub for life, and it must pump blood efficiently throughout the body in order for you to survive, our spiritual hearts are the control centers of our lives. In Jeremiah 17:9 says, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
Our hearts are deceivers. Our hearts hold on to things that it shouldn't and we don't even realize it. It seems strange that the scripture says we don't know our own hearts. But it is such a deceiver that often it fools even us. Isn't that amazing? But God is a discerner of the heart, only He knows what is in our hearts. I used to think that my mind was the playground for deception. But the Bible says that it is our hearts that deceive above all things; our hearts filter our experiences, feelings, and knowledge to devise a wicked scheme for us to carry out instead of God's plan. For example, when someone you trust or care about betrays you for the first time in that relationship, our hearts process the fact that we are in a loving or trusting relationship with that person, that something they did or said made us feel angry or sad, so the heart decides that we can no longer trust that person or it convinces our mind to not let ourselves love or get as close to that person or other people in order to protect us from experiencing that situation again. Makes sense doesn't it? Except God says that we should not let the sun go down on our angry reaction and Jesus tells us to forgive others so that our heavenly Father can forgive us in the same way. See what I mean, the heart wants you to respond with a behavior that disobeys God. Isn't that wicked?
Focus
"Create in me a clean heart, Oh God; and renew a right spirit within me." - Psalm 51:10
I absolutely love chocolate, Coke, mochas, and latte. Can we say I am obsessed with caffeine? I know that females should not have excess levels of caffeine because it is simply unhealthy. But that doesn't stop us from craving things we shouldn't. Why do we think that we must have things that we really shouldn't? It is a heart thing!
Many people believe that the heart is the most important organ in the human body. But it is the most dangerous, too. If your heart is not functioning properly, your life is in danger. It is central to your existence. Just like your physical heart is the central hub for life, and it must pump blood efficiently throughout the body in order for you to survive, our spiritual hearts are the control centers of our lives. In Jeremiah 17:9 says, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
Our hearts are deceivers. Our hearts hold on to things that it shouldn't and we don't even realize it. It seems strange that the scripture says we don't know our own hearts. But it is such a deceiver that often it fools even us. Isn't that amazing? But God is a discerner of the heart, only He knows what is in our hearts. I used to think that my mind was the playground for deception. But the Bible says that it is our hearts that deceive above all things; our hearts filter our experiences, feelings, and knowledge to devise a wicked scheme for us to carry out instead of God's plan. For example, when someone you trust or care about betrays you for the first time in that relationship, our hearts process the fact that we are in a loving or trusting relationship with that person, that something they did or said made us feel angry or sad, so the heart decides that we can no longer trust that person or it convinces our mind to not let ourselves love or get as close to that person or other people in order to protect us from experiencing that situation again. Makes sense doesn't it? Except God says that we should not let the sun go down on our angry reaction and Jesus tells us to forgive others so that our heavenly Father can forgive us in the same way. See what I mean, the heart wants you to respond with a behavior that disobeys God. Isn't that wicked?
Focus
- In your journal, ask God to show you areas where your heart deceived you and convinced you to act contrary to God's will. What lies have you believed because your heart (instincts) told you something was true? What assumptions have your heart formed about people you love and trust? (Your heart is a liar and cannot read someone else's heart.)
- Pray for God to create a clean heart in you and to show you every time your heart seeks to trick you into accepting anything contrary to the word of God.
- Ask God to give you His heart, so that what God loves you will begin to love (His priorities become your priorities). Record the revelation He gives you about what is on His heart!
Remember
Thank you God for my prayer journal challenge sisters. I love and adore you, Jesus. Thank you for the praise reports that keep coming our way. We honor and worship you for who you are. May you continue to be gloriried in our lives and throughout the earth. Amen.
Be Blessed!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
