Glory to God

 “Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,  because he has come to his people and redeemed them. ~ Luke 1:68

According to the dictionary, to redeem something means to compensate for the faults or bad aspects of something.  Christ came to redeem me of my many faults and sins.  He came to redeem the world.  Glory to God for His mercy and grace,  Glory to God for His goodness.

As I think about Christmas I really want to focus on Christ.  Who He is and what His coming means to me.  I want to focus on the love that His light shines on the dark places.  HIs mercy as He takes me in as I am.  His Spirit that pushes me to go the right way when I would want to go wrong.  I want to focus on The miracle of His birth, life, and death., and resurrection.  I want to sing praises to My Redeemer whose banner of love is over me.  I want to say thank you and I want Him to be able to shine through me.

Lord, You know I am far from perfect, but You sent your Son anyway.  To save me and redeem.  I was bought with a price, a costly one, but You did it anyway.  So let me offer my praises to You this season and all throughout the year.  Keep my thoughts on You and not the hustle and bustle of life.  Let me love You with a sincere heart.  In Jesus name.  Amen.

Worship Him

 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi[a] from the east came to Jerusalem  and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”~ Matthew 2:1-2

Any night of the week I can catch a Christmas movie on either Lifetime or the Hallmark Channel.  They have similar themes about family, community, and love.  They talk a lot about Christmas magic.  But the magic of Christmas is not magic at all, but rather a miracle.  For unto us a child was born, Jesus, our Savior and He is to be worshipped.  He is to be worshipped year round for He is worthy.  

He is worthy of honor and praise.  He came to us to save us.  He came to reconcile us to the Father and forgive us of our sins.  Christmas is about this special gift from God, His one and only Son.  Born in a manger, but worshipped by angels, shepherds, and wise men.'

Lord may My heart be full of worship for You and towards You for all that You are and all that You have done.  Thank You for the precious gift of Jesus, the King.  I love You.  In Jesus name. Amen

Grateful

 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus, (I Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV).

All around me are reminders to give thanks. Thanks for things that God has done and thanks for those things that He did not allow.  Things that have kept me and my family safe.  I want my thanks to be an internal habit of gratitude no matter the circumstance because God is good.  He’s better than good.  He is awesome!

So as I take life challenges I look up to the One who saves and is always with me and I give thanks.  Thanks for your patience.  Thanks for your mercy and loving kindness. Thanks for your peace when the waters are troubled. Thanks for family and friends.  Thanks for my needs being met.  Thanks for being my Savior and my friend.  Thank You for being God.

Lord bless the families of this earth.  May we look to You and offer You praise.  May we thank You with humble and glad hearts no matter the circumstances.  We give you the glory and the honor.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Staying humble

 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” ~James 4:6

I had a work event to day and I don't know how it well.  I would like to say it went well, but doubts crowd my mind. like getting things right and doing things right. I take pride in my work.  Imperfections weigh heavy on me and cause me doubt myself.  However, God reminds me to stay humble and to let go of pride.  I am not always going to get everything just right.  I will make mistakes, but I have His grace.  His grace covers me and tells me that I am enough.  It disputes the lies of the enemy that would tell me I lack.  I don't lack because God supplies all of my needs ( Philippians 4:19) My worth is not based on my performance, but His love for me.  So I will stay humble, get up and shake the dust off.  I will remind myself that it is God who gives me the victory.  My validation comes from Him alone and I just need to remain humble and walk with God.

He loves me

 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. ~Galatians 2:20

To be crucified is to die to self and my old ways. It is to place His will over mine. It is to be devoted to Christ and to live to serve Him and love my fellow man.  It is a daily exercise as I walk in and by faith in the One who gave His life for me. What is essential to know is the truth of God's love that inspires me to live a life that holy and pleasing to Him.  No matter if I am in the valley or on the mountain top, God is real.  His love is real and He is with me.  So thank You Father.  All glory and honor belongs to You and You alone. Thank You for the beauty of your love. I thank You for new life.  I thank You for love; for your sacrifice.  You gave Yourself for me and I will never be able to thank you enough.  Thank You for being such a good Father, God, Lord and friend.

He sits on the throne

 God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne.~ Psalm 47:8

This morning I heard on the news that have "classified" a disorder dealing with the election.  It spoke of people having anxiety and insomnia due to the intensity or the national election.  People have lost friends and connections to family members over who should sit in the White House. However, what God spoke to me in the early morning hours is that we (I) should be more concerned about who sits on the throne of my heart.

I have a stake in the out come of this election, but what will not change is God's authority.  He reigns over the nations; and He is seated on his holy throne. (Psalm 47:8)  He is God and He is sovereign.  He reigns!  I do not have to be afraid and  when I am afraid, I will put my trust in Him  (Psalm 56:3) He is in control and whatever comes to past has gone through  or will go through His hands.  He loves us and His ways are higher than ours.(Isaiah 55:8-9)

The enemy wants us to divided.  He wants us to be in angst and untrusting of our neighbors.  But God desires unity and for love to abound.   I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. ~1 Corinthians 1:10 

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, ~Philipians 1:9

So regardless who is President, there is always One Lord and He has us.  He will see us through. So my prayer is that goodness and justice will prevail under the Lord's care and that He reigns in my heart.  That I love regardless of where there may be hate.  That I look to Him to bring true peace.  That I honor Him in my daily living.  I pray for those who have anxiety and ask that God comfort them.  I pray for the healing of this nation and this world.  And I pray that our elected officials would be men and women of God that look to Him to guide their decisions.  Lord thank You for reminding me that I don't have to fret and thank You for being God.  In Jesus name.  Amen

A Certain God

  For with God nothing shall be impossible.~ Luke 1:37

There is a song by CeCe Winans titled "Never Lost".  It speaks of God never failing.  This song reminds me of the certainty of God.  The certainty of His love and grace.  It encourages me to face trials and challenges with a can do attitude because I serve a can do God.  God is faithful, wise, and true and He has never let me down.  He has met me at every crossroad and shown me the way to go.  He been with me on the journey and never left or forsaken me.  He is a sure and true and I love Him.

Lord, thank You for being the God of the possible.  You alone deserve the glory honor and praise.  I thank You for being trustworthy and dependable.  I praise You for goodness, mercy, and grace.  Bless your people and help us to look to You.  In Jesus name. Amen

A celebration of God

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

2 Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

3 Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

5 For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. ~Psalm 100

God is so, so good.  His mercies are new every morning.  I am overcome with joy that my prayers has been answered.  He has breathed life into me and I exclaim His greatness.  Just yesterday, I was feeling all dried up and distant.  I asked Him to bring me close and He did just that.  His song penetrates my heart and and I am grateful.  Never doubt God or HIs faithfulness.  He never fails and he never falters.  Thank You Lord for your amazing grace, love, comfort, and joy.  Thank you for putting a new song in my mouth.  You are the wise Savior and all glory belongs to You.  In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

A dry season

 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? ~Psalm 85:6

Sometimes it feels like I am living in a wilderness period or a dry season.  I want to be close to God.  I want to rejoice in Him because I know that He is good and faithful and true.  My desire is to grow closer to Him each day and to live life in such a way that pleases Him, but sometimes I feel like I am auto pilot. The routines of the day have me missing the beauty of God.  So I ask God to revive my heart and to set it on fire.  I ask for a fresh anointing of His Spirit.  I beg for HIs living water to flow through me so that I can worship Him in Spirit and in truth.  

God breathed live into dry bones (Ezekiel 47) and I know that He can breathe life into me.  I don't want ordinary worship because God deserves nothing, but my best.  I want to live my best life with him and I know because he is always with me that I am not without hope. 

Father, I love You and adore You, please let your Spirit to fall fresh on me.  Remove the dry places and help me to see You beyond the routine of daily life.  Quench my thirst for You.  IN Jesus name I pray.  Amen

Have faith

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.~Hebrews11:1(NIV)

Today I was asked to choose a quote that speaks to me; something that is the driving for force behind what I do personally and professionally.  The first thought that came to mind was “ to whom much is given much is expected” from Luke 12:48.  I have been given talents and those talents are to be used to bless others and build up His Kingdom.  However, in this season of my life, faith has been the cornerstone because I can do nothing without faith.  

I have to have faith that I am raising my child in the admonition of the Lord; that I am steering him on the right path.  I have to have faith that my children’s hearts and minds are being guarded in Christ Jesus.  I have to have faith in the healing power of my Lord. 

I also have to have faith that I am enough because God is more than enough.  My job takes me having fairy n my abilities and trusting that God will give me wisdom to do it even when I do t see it.  So when I doubt myself I go back to the Source of my strength and have faith.

Lord, thank You for being the author and the finisher(Perfector) of my faith( Hebrews 12:2). Thank You that your promises are yes and Amen( 2 Corinthians 1:20).  Thank You for believing in me when I doubt myself and turning my face to One Who can do the impossible(Mathew 19:26).  Thank You for loving me. (John 3:16).

Because He says So

 When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because You say so, I will let down the nets” (Luke 5:4-5, NIV).

I can imagine that Simon is tired, but because Jesus tells him to go deeper and let down his nets for a catch he obeys.  That’s a disposition of faith that I want to have.  I want to obey because Jesus says so.  I want to look beyond what my human eyes see and see what He sees and hears what He says.  Sometimes I will be required to go deeper and to go against what I have known to trust God and all that He knows.  It will require me to have stamina and to persevere, but the reward will be worth it.   I just have to trust Jesus and do what He says because He said it.

I don’t know why He wants me to continue to write this blog, but He said to do it so I am doing it.  I have to dig deeper into Him and let down my net for a catch.

Father, I thank You for Your word that speaks to me.  Than you for convicting me and encouraging me.  Thank You for your word that speaks life.  Thank You for your love.  May I draw ever nearer to You.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Pray for your enemies

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

Today it was announced that our President has COVID.  My spirit told me to pray for him and his family, just as I would pray for others.  President Trump has not presented himself as a friend to me, but God says to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us.  It is not a tune to rejoice in his suffering because vengeance and judgement belong to God. It may seem counterintuitive, but we ( I) have to do things Gods way.  In Romans 14:12 he tells us to bless and not curse.  If we do God’s will we will be blessed.  So I pray for my enemies and those would seek to persecute me.  I pray that their hearts and minds works be turned towards Jesus just as I pray that mine will.  I pray for their health and well being.  I pray that love abound more.

Father, it’s not always easy to pray for those who have hurt us or sought our harm, but Your word tells us to so we trust You.  We trust You to give us victory over our enemies and the umpiring to bless them in spite of so that You will be glorified.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Am I doing enough?

 For it is by grace you have been saved,(through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works,(so that no one can boast.~ Ephesians 2:8-9

There are times when I feel like I’ m not doing enough and I begin to question my salvation.  But this is a lie from the enemy for salvation is not earned,  but rather received as a free gift of God.   The work that I have to do is believe and trust in His promises.  I have to stop thinking that my salvation is dependent upon me.  That’s pride talking.  If I could save myself I wouldn’t need Jesus.

The urgency to do should stem from a place of  love.  Not to earn, but rather to demonstrate my love and gratitude.i can’t prove myself.  I must cling to Jesus and know that He says that I am enough because I am His creation and His child.  There is no condemnation in Christ Jesus ( Romans 8:1),

Lord, help me to rest in Your finished work on the cross.  Help me to do out of love and not because I think I have to earn your free gift.  Grant me peace as I walk in your purpose.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Hallelujah!

 The Lord is my strength and my shield;my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. ~Psalm 28:7

It's near the end of the work day and my heart is full of gratitude for who the Lord is and What He does.  Each day I wake up and ask God to help me conquer this day and each day He gives me victory.  He is my strength and my shield.  I trust in Him and He helps me.  He helps me to accomplish the task of the day and to find joy in the work.  I will praise Him for He is worthy.

Sometimes we don't think about the day to day tasks of life, but if we paused we would see that even in the mundane God is sustaining us so I say thank You.  Thank You for loving me and providing for me.  Thank You for always being with me.  Thank You for bringing joy to my heart and a praise on my lips.  Thank You for being such a wonderful Savior, Lord, and King.  Thank You for being God.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Teach Me O Lord

 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.~Psalm 143:10

The thing I desire most is to do God's will.  I want to live a life that is pleasing to Him and one that brings honor and glory to His name.  I do not pretend to know that I always know what His will looks like.  So I ask the Father to teach me.  Teach me to talk right, think right, and do right according to His Word.  Teach me to love even where there is hate.  Teach me to forgive and forget.  Teach to do a fulls day work. Teach me do things Your  way and not go off on my own. 

 I want this because I have surrendered my life to Him. I want to hide myself in Him. He is my God and He is good.  He deserves the very best from me and of me.  So again, my prayer is that I be led by His Spirit.  That way my feet will be on level ground.  I won't trip over my feet or the rocks that the enemy tries to throw along my journey.I am comforted by the fact that He hears my plea and will answer the desire of my heart and I am grateful.  I can't do this journey without Him.  

 Thank You Father for teaching me and my brothers and sisters the way. Thank you for not leaving us out here on our own.  Thank You for Your Good Spirit and love.  May I be obedient and follow your instructions so that I can stay in the center of Your will.  In Jesus name. Amen

In the silence

  a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak,~Ecclesiastes 3:7

I have come to enjoy silence during this COVID-19 pandemic.  I don’t need to talk as much.  This season or time has given me an opportunity to be still and listen.  I’m listening for what God is speaking to me.  What does she desire of me?  How do I stay focused and in the center of His will?  What things do I need to tear up and what do I need to mend? It’s a time of reflection about where I stand with the Lord.  There is a song that says “ I don’t want to know your name and You not know mine.”  So in this season of silence I want to grow closer to God and as the songwriter says I want Him to hold me close.  No 6ft distancing required or wanted with Jesus.  I want to be right up under Him listening for His voice.  

Lord, in the silence may I clearly hear You and obey You.  May I draw closer to You and enter your presence.  In Jesus name. Amen

His Name

 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.~Psalm 9:10

A beautiful truth.  God never has and never will forsake those who know His name and trust in Him.  This verse caused me to reflect on the names of God.  Who do I know Him to be? So I did some research.

First,  He is Jehovah, Lord and master(Genesis 2:4)  He is the Lord of my life.  He is my Savior. He is Elohim OzerLi ( Psalm 54:4)   my helper, sustainer and peace.  He is my refuge, Elohim Machase Lanu (psalm 62:8).  He is Jehovah Jireh, my provider (Genesis 22:2) He is Elohim, strong creator (Genesis 1:1,2).  He is El Rai, the God who sees me (Genesis 16:13) He is El Sali, my Rock (2 Samuel 22:47).

He is all these and more.  I am know Him as my grace and my God of mercy-Elohim Chaseddi (Psalm 59:10).  I know Him as my lifeline.  I know Him as my friend.  I know Him as the One who is always there to hold me close when fear seeks to creep in.  I know Him as my ever present help.  I know Him as  El Elyon the Most High God(Daniel 3:26)  I know Him as the One I seek. I know Him as the one who never forsakes me.  The lover of my soul.

I could go on and on, but the key is to know Him and trust in Him. To believe and know that it is a blessing to be in relationship with Him.  To life each day with the truth that I am never alone or forgotten by God.

Father, You are complete.  There are countless ways to describe You and call on You.  Give us hearts that know You and serve you in spirit and in truth.  May we always seek You for we know that we will not be disappointed.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Thank You Lord

 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.  ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”~ Revelation 21:3-4

What a day and time will that be!  When all God's children get together with our Lord.  No more tears.  No more pain.  No more heartache, As  I listen to a gospel song that says "Thank You Lord", I can't help but think about how good its going to be.  When we are together worshiping on one accord, such jubilance and joy.

The cares of this world will be no more.  God will dwell with His people and be our God.  That a reason to shout thank you!  Thank You Lord for your many blessings.  For clothing me in my right mind.  Thank You for strength in my body. Thank You for the promise of You. Thank You for being God, the Alpha and Omega.  Thank You for your love and power. Thank You for removing the sting of death.  Thank You for making all things new. Thank You for allowing me to see and praise You,  Thank You Lord.

God you are good and your promises energize the soul.  Thank You for the promise of that day when all your children across every tribe and nation will get together and just worship You. Until then let's continue to fight the good fight until the end, knowing that better is coming.  Send your Spirit to fill us and refresh our hearts and minds.  We love you Lord.  In Jesus name. Amen

Great peace

 Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble. ~Psalm 119:165

Peace.  I looked up the biblical definition of peace and here are a few words that were used to describe it.  Completeness or wholeness.  To have harmony in relationship. Fulfillment. Victory over ones enemies.  So what type of peace am I looking for?  The one that fulfills them all and that is peace with God.  When you have peace with God everything else falls into place.  Right relationship, wholeness and completeness. I don’t have to worry about my enemies because the Lord is right there with me.

His word tells us that we will have great peace when we love His law.  His law is not just the do’s and fonts, but rather His word and His will.  When we love His way and choose it over our own great peace we will have.  We won’t stumble because His Word directs our path. It tells us where to place each footstep so that we may dwell in peace.  Obedience of His law brings peace as we surrender to His will and authority. Loving His law is loving Him.

Father, I thank You for the peace that your word brings.  Help us to love your law, your will and your ways so that we may walk in peace with thee.  In Jesus name.  Amen

He protects us

 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. ~2 Thessalonians 3:3

God is so good.  He is faithful and true. How awesome is it to know that God is protecting us from the evil one.  The enemy stays busy, but our God stays ready,  He strengthens us and gives us what we need to fight the battles. He gives us the victory in Jesus name.  That is a blessing.  Unmerited grace and a a display of His love for us.

I don'y know what battle you may be facing, but I encourage you to stay with God.  Trust His love for you and know that He stands ready to defend.  You are not alone.  Draw upon His strength and know that God has you.  

I pray, as Paul prayed,  that the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance ( 2 Thessalonians 3:5).  When our hearts are directed towards God's love, there is peace.  When we we think of his love we are able to endure and persevere no matter what our circumstances may look like.  We begin to see with our spiritual eyes and have some pep in our step because God protects us. The enemy does not stand a chance so hold on.  

Lord, thank You for your amazing love.  Thank You for faithfulness and protection.  Thank You for your strength and grace.  Help us to focus on these truths when the water seems to creep above our head.  Help us to claim the victory in You.  Forgive us for our doubts.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Reflections on work

 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,  since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. ~Colossians 3:23-24

Its's Friday and its been a long week.  I woke up tired and disjointed because I was going to be alone in my office today.  I figured the clock would move like a snail.  My supervisors would not be on site the entire day.  Temptation popping up everywhere.   "Go ahead a phone this day in."  "Its just gonna be you and silence."  I had a choice to make.

It would be easy for me to waste the day away day dreaming, but God commands us to work at whatever we are doing with all our heart.  We are to work as if we are working for Him, especially when the human eye is not on us to watch every move.  

So today has been an opportunity to work with fidelity and integrity.  It is an opportunity to do the right thing because its the right thing.  Its an opportunity to show God how grateful I am to have this job and to be in this position because there are so many who are hurting right now.  So many people hours have been cut or they have been displaced by the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Yet, God has saw fit to keep me employed.  The least I can do is to do the job he gave me to because ultimately He is the boss.  He sees what others cannot.  He sees my motives and my heart.  So I have spent this  Friday working on projects and doing it as unto the Lord.  No pats on the back, just a Hallelujah shout to the God who made it happen and the time fly by.

Keep Me Safe

 Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge. Psalm 16:1

Isn't it good to know that we have a place of safety. A place of refuge from the pursuit of danger trouble or harm.  We have that in Christ as we trust in Him.  I am glad to know, blessed, that I can cry out to God to keep me safe from the troubles of this world.

Yes, I know that I will have trials, but with God at my right hand I will not be shaken (Psalm 16:8). Reading this verse, I feel God's love for me.  I feel His protection and strength.  I feel His energy motivating me to conquer the day.

There are also a couple of things that stand out.  The author ask His God to keep him safe.  There is an acknowledgment of a personal relationship. I want my Father, my Lord, and my King to keep me safe.  There is also a belief that He can.  Faith is involved as we seek refuge in the One Who is able to save.  

My heart cries out to God today to keep me safe.  Keep me safe from the enemy that would seek to discourage me.  Keep my children safe. Guard our hearts and minds with your love and peace.  Keep me safe from distractions that would seek to take my eyes off of You.  Be my refuge and may I stay safe in your arms.   

Thank You for being a safe place Lord.  Thank You for allowing us to cry out to You knowing that we will be heard.  Thank You for being our Protector.  Thank You for being Sovereign and all powerful. May we keep our faith in You.  In Jesus name.  Amen

This is the Day!

 This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. ~Psalm 118:24 (NKJV)

This scripture was posted in a group I belong to in the First5 App and it got me thinking.  How often do I truly rejoice in the day that the Lord has made?  How often do I take great joy and delight in the day that He has created and allowed me to be a part of? 

If I am being transparent, I roll out of bed grumbling at the alarm clock and immediately start thinking about the task of the day,  I focus on the wrong thing.  I focus on stuff rather than the God who has given me such a great gift, another day.  A day that was not promised to me. What grace!

This is the day that the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.  There is not an option in this verse, rather an affirmation of what will be done.  It says we will rejoice.   Therefore, I must rejoice.  How do I do that?  I start  by giving Him praise and offering gratitude for all the things He has done. I focus on the Father and take great delight in Him and the Son and become full of joy and His Spirit that makes me glad.

I can rejoice in seeing God work in my life and the lives of those around me.  I can rejoice in seeing the beauty of creation.  I can be thankful that I can roll out of bed an open my eyes to another day. I can make this a good day because He has declared it so,

Lord, forgive me for the days that You have given me that I have taken for granted. Forgive me for not rejoicing in You and looking to You.  Thank You for this day and all the glimpses of You that I see.  I rejoice and I am glad.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Defeat fear with the Word

 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.~ 2 Timothy 1: 7 (NKJV)

When I am afraid or a task seems too much,, I quote this scripture.  I speak it out aloud because it is the truth and God's word dispels the lie and the removes the fear that would seek to creep in.  God has not given me a spirit of fear or as some translation say timidity.  No God gives me power and love and a sound mind. 

He gives me power to defeat the foe, for God's power renders the weapons of the enemy ineffective.  They shall not prosper ( Isaiah 54:17). So fear shall not prosper.  So when I am afraid , I trust in His word.  I trust in Him.

Why?  Because I also know that God gives me love.  Love that is full of grace.  Love, that tells me that I can face anything because God is loves me.  He is for me and He is with me.  When I think of His love and His promise that nothing could ever separate me from His love(Romans 8:38). I know that everything is going to be okay because He is working it all out. Whatever the outcome, it is for my good according to  His purpose, which is to make me more like Jesus ( Romans 8:28-29).

Last, but not least, He gives me a sound mind.  He gives me a mind that can make good choices.  Choices that align to His will.  Some translations use the term self-discipline.  I am disciplined enough to stand on His word and His truth and to cast down things that would rise up against the knowledge of God (2 Corinthians 10:5).  The knowledge that God is mighty and powerful to save.  the knowledge that nothing surprises Him and He has this whole world in His hand and He has me.  The knowledge that God is good and faithful.  So I kick out fear and replace it with His truth and His Spirit. 

Father, I thank You for making a way.  I thank You for power, love, and sound  mind.  I thank You for being You and loving me and all my brothers and sisters in Christ so much.  Thank You for being God and showing me how to deal with fear.  In Jesus name I pray.  Amen

Prepared in advance

 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.~Ephesians 2:10

I’m God’s handiwork.  His creation and God doesn’t make junk.   That makes me smile with confidence as I write this blog.  God created me in Christ Jesus to good works.  I have a  purpose.  I don’t have to be afraid of that purpose or think I can’t live up to the task because it says that this work was prepared in advance.  I can trust God to have prepared me to do it.

God has been telling me to write in my blog again.  The flow of words has not been as easy as before, but I trust God.  I trust that He has a work for me to do and a purpose.  He made me, so He qualifies me.

We all have good works to do.  Works to do for the Lord, bringing Him glory. 

Lord, help me to walk in the path that you have created just for me and to do the work that that You have prepared in advance with joy.  Help me to trust that You have equipped me to do it.  In Jesus name. Amen

How do we Triumph

They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb
and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. ~Revelation 12:11

How do we triumph over Satan, the enemy who is constantly attacking seeking whom he can devour?  We triumph by the blood of the Lamb.  We triumph because Jesus has already claimed the victory.  He shed His blood, died, rose again conquering death.  His blood that covers us sets us free from the condemnation of sin and the accusations that the enemy hurls.

We triumph with our testimony.  The testimony of our faith.  Our belief in Jesus, the Only One who can save.  We hold fast and hard to the truth even when death stares us down and we don’t shrink back.  We stand firm with the armor of God upon us.  This is how we triumph and rejoice.

Lord, thank You for your blood and thank You for the testimony of faith.  Thank You for your Word that causes us to triumph.  In Jesus name. Amen

Be a witness

 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”~Matthew 28:19-20

 

The great commission is to go and tell the world about the gospel of Jesus Christ.   As believers we are to beat witness to Jesus. How do we do this?  We do this in how we love each other and not just the ones that are easy to love.  We show patience in the midst of this pandemic and we actually open our mouths and tell someone about the goodness of Jesus.

There is an urgency in the land.  People must be warned that judgement is nigh, but Christ is present.   They don’t have to leave in fear because God loves them and wants all to be saved.  He wants us to repent and come into His loving arms.  He wants us to let go of the anger, pride, greed, and everything that would come between us and His love.  

Lord, give me courage to speak the truth to someone today.  May I be witness for You.  In Jesus name.  Amen

He fights for us

"Don’t be afraid,’ the prophet answered. ‘Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’” 2 Kings 6:16 

Sometimes it can feel as if we are surrounded by the enemy, but we only have to look to God’s word to know that we are not alone and that we are not out numbered.  We have a host of angels standing guard and we have Jesus who is ready to defend.  He is always at work( John 5:17).  

So we don’t have to be afraid.  We can move with confidence.  We can trust God with the outcome knowing He is working it out for our good according to His purpose ( Romans 8:28).  We can walk in peace.

Lord, help us to trust You when all seems lost.   Help us to believe and know that You care for us and that You fight for us.  Help us to be still and believe in your Word.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Stubborn hearts

The rest of mankind who were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone and wood—idols that cannot see or hear or walk. 21 Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts.~Revelation 9:20-21

A stubborn heart.  That’s what I see when I read these verses.  I also see pride. “ it didn’t happen to me so I’m good.”  It’s heartbreaking to know that so many still won’t turn to God even when He is speaking so clearly.  

Yet,  I just don’t want to look at others.  I want to examine my own heart.  What sin is God causing me to look at in my life that I am turning a blind eye to?  Am I letting pride blind me?  No, I am not murdering anyone, but to I harbor envy in my heart?  

I really feel like the trumpet’s are sounding.  He is still giving us time to repent and draw nigh to Him.  I pray that the eyes and ears of hearts are open to His plea.  In Jesus name.  Amen

The Word

While Jeremiah was still confined in the courtyard of the guard, the word of the Lord came to him a second time: ~Jeremiah 33:1

Jeremiah was confined, but God’s word was not.  As I read this verse I thought of the many leaders who have been confined, like Paul, yet the Word went out.  You can’t stop God and you can’t limit His word.  

This brings me joy, knowing that no circumstance is to big for God’s word to touch.  It can not enclose me where I can’t get a word from Him.  The pandemic has shut the physical doors of many churches.  Yet,  the word is still going forth with an even wider reach.  God is amazing and He is good.

Lord,  thank you for not letting our present situations keep us from getting a Word from You.  Keep the ears of heart tuned to You Lord so that we will have what we need during this time.  We thank You for your love and tender care.  Thank You for being God.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Lessons being learned

 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.~Romans 8:18

I’m reading the book of Revelation now.  The study is focusing on Christ revealing Himself to us, but all I can think about is the judgement.  It causes me to examine my heart and a few things stood out. 1.  I don’t want to go through the suffering.  But suffering has its purpose.   Trials strengthen my faith.  2.  Don’t have to worry about the judgement if I am right with God.  And this rightness is not based on me, but the righteousness of God imparted to me because I believe.
3. Christ is revealing that He was there in the beginning and He will be there in the end, I have nothing to fear.

Father, fear is not from You so I let it go.   Help me to see You as You reveal Yourself to me.  Help me to take heart and trust in You.  Help me to believe in the truth of your word and endure the sufffering so that your glory may be revealed in me.  In Jesus mane. Amen

The Good news: tell it

The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ).And he brought him to Jesus. ~1 John:41-42


When Andrew finds Jesus the first thing he did was to his find his brother Simeon Peter and bring him to Jesus.   What’s the first thing that we do when we find Jesus or learn something new about Him?  Do we go and find our brother or sister and bring them to Jesus?  Do we share the good news of the Father?  Do we share the gospel?

I don’t.  I tell others who already know, but God wants us ( me) to tell those who don’t know.   Our brothers and sisters out there in the world.  The good news is not meant to be kept to ourselves.  It is to be shared.  So who am I bringing to Jesus?

Lord, I thank You for those that brought me to you.  Forgive me for not being diligent in bringing my brother or sister to You.  May I be a bold witness as I share the goodness of who You are.   Help me to see the opportunities you set before me to do so.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Peacemakers

9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.~Matthew 5:9

The world is turbulent and loud.  Full of sounds of hate and me against you and us against them.  This is not how it should be.  God desires unity, love and peace.  God tells us the children of God are the peacemakers.  We can be them bridge of love and sanity by loving our enemies and blessing those who persecute us.  

We are not doormats, but rather those who stand in the gap praying that more love and understanding abounds.  We don’t have to respond the way the works does, but the way our Father commands with peace ( Romans 12:18).

Father there are a lot of sides, but may we stand on your side.  The side of truth, love, and peace.  Let us be reconciled to our neighbors and walk in unity.  May the mistrust dissipate.  Help us to be peacemakers.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Glory to God

Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.~1 Timothy 1:17


God is sovereign.  He is eternal.  He was, is, and will be forevermore God.  He can not be seen with the human eye.  He is the only God.  He is to be honored and receive glory forever and ever.

Sometimes I’m guilty of focusing so much on what God does for me that I forget to focus on Who He is and ascribe to Him the proper worship that is due to Him.  I am grateful for all His blessings, but what if God did nothing for me would I still praise Him?  He still is God.  He is still the one who sits on the throne.

The fact is He already has done so much by just allowing me to live and praise the Creator.  You can’t get around His goodness and faithfulness.  So I worship You Lord and give you all of the glory, honor, and praise.

Heavenly Father, I thank You for another opportunity to say thank You.  I thank You for being such a good God.  I praise You for your Holiness and overflowing grace and love.  You sit on the throne and You reign.  You are Alpha and Onega.  You are the risen King and I love You.  In Jesus name. Amen

Encouragement from Jesus

8 I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.~Revelation 3:8

There is nothing better than encouragement from Jesus Christ Himself. In the third chapter of Revelation he tells the church of Philadelphia that he sees their deeds an He is opening a door that no one can shut.  He knows that they have little strength, but they have kept His word and not denied His name.

These words of of encouragement to the church of Philadelphia speak to me and are for my fellow believers today.  It may not feel like You are doing much, but You are keeping the faith.  Faith pleases God(Hebrews 11:6).  He is not asking us to have a lot, but just a little strength knowing He will supply the rest.   I take comfort in knowing that He sees me.  He sees me putting one foot in front of the other every day; walking by faith.  I have not denied Him and I keep His word.  

A door to Him is open before me.  A door to grace, mercy, and forgiveness.  A door to provision and the blessings of God and this door the enemy can not shut.  What a blessing.  What love.  What encouragement to keep on walking with the Lord because He sees me.

Lord, I thank You for your rebukes and words of encouragement.  I thank You for your love and the door that You open.  May I fellowship with You and receive strength.  May I obey Your word and treasure it in my heart.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Wake up

Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. ~Revelation 3:2

I feel like God is speaking to me.  Wake up!  Don’t sleep through this life.  I have you days to use them for my glory.   You are falling asleep at the wheel as you ha e been lulled into complacency.  Wake up, before it’s too late.  

I have had several friends pass in the last two years.  Young people, gone too soon.  So it is a blessing that I am still here and I know that there is more that I should be doing.  There should be a greater intimacy between me and my Savior.  My work of knowing Him more each day is unfinished.  The fruit from abiding Him, His Spirit, is not coming forth.

What do I do?  I go to the only One who saves.  I seek His face.  I beg for a fresh anointing., I ask for an awakening of my spirit as His Spirit breathes life into me.  I don’t give up, but rather take heed of His message and I trust Him to complete the work that He started in me ( Philippians 1:6).  I breathe in His love, mercy and grace and I keep on running this race.

Lord, You know my heart.  Remove the dross.  Remove anything that would keep me from being vibrant for you.  Help me to strengthen what remains so that I may offer it unto you. In Jesus name.  Amen

Direct my steps

Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.~Psalm 119:133

This is my prayer and plea.  That God be the one who directs my steps and orders my day.  That I walk within His will.  That I walk humbly with my God and that no sin rule over me.  I don’t want to be a slave to sin, but to Christ alone.  My King is Jesus and I want to serve in His Kingdom.

So Lord I ask that Your Spirit fall fresh on me.  That You anoint my thoughts and steps.  May I stay true to Your Word that I might not sin against thee.  Write it on my heart and may meditate on it day and night.   May I not turn to the left or right, but only go as You direct me to go.  May I trust You with all of my heart and serve You with a willing spirit.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Hold on

Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan’s so-called deep secrets, ‘I will not impose any other burden on you,25 except to hold on to what you have until I come.’~Revelation 2:24-25

Verse 25 tells us to hold on to what we have until He comes.  Hold on to your faith.  Hold on to your hope and belief in the One who saves.  Hold on to God with everything you have.  This verse reminds me of an old song that says “hold on and pray on just a little while longer and everything will be alright.”

The world would have us compromise the truth for a lie.  But we must hold on to the truth of God.  We must not give in, but stand up and apart with integrity.  It’s not always easy, but He has told us to hold on to what we have.  We have Jesus and He is the difference.

When I think about this verse I sometimes think I don’t have much, but my little faith means a whole lot to God and He stretches it to go a long way.  So hold on.  Don’t loose hope.  God is with You and He is coming back.   It won’t always be this way.  A  better day is coming so i will keep holding on and cling to my faith.

Father, I don’t have much but I know You to be a multiplier.  So help me to hold on until your return.  Let me run this race until the end.  In Jesus name.  Amen