God is with us-tell your story

Joshua 1:9 NIV

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

We are heading into a new year and no one but God knows what the future holds.  Yet, we don’t have to be afraid because God has promised to be with us wherever we go( Joshua 1:9).  I can’t believe another year is upon us. An opportunity for a fresh start.  I read a couple of things today in a devotional that touched me.  It states below….

“Be who you needed when you were younger. There’s probably a college student who needs to hear your testimony, a young mom who needs to hear she’s doing a good job, or a middle-school girl who needs to hear love isn’t how her dad treated her mom. Someone needs your story, your presence and your discipleship.”

This is not the first time I have been urged to tell or share my story.  It reminded me of the kindness of two strangers who gave me a moment of calm as I broke down in the middle of the post office with my toddler in tow.  They shared a story of love.  That was God wrapping His arms around me that day and this year I want to be His arms for someone else.  I want to share my story. I want to use by God.  I don’t know how, but I am trusting God to be with me as I become vulnerable for someone who needs a kiss from Christ.  Each day is a new opportunity just as each year is a new start.  Let’s make the most of it.  

Father I thank You for being with us as we head into a new year.  Let us be bold and courageous for You as we share our stories with others.  Let us lift You up that You may draw all men unto You.  We thank You for this year and God willing the next one.  Thank You for possibilities and hope.  Thank You for You.  In Jesus name we pray. Amen

Celebrating Jesus

 

Isaiah 9:6 NIV

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

It’s Christmas time. A time that we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  As I write that statement, I can’t help but think we should celebrate this truth all year round for His birth birthed hope in our soul.  Our Redeemer came.  Our Counselor came. Our Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of peace came that the world might be saved.  

Love was birthed in a big way, for He came to die for our sins that we might live in right standing with the Father.  Jesus is God’s gift to You and I; to all of humanity.  He came humble and granted us access to Him.  The One who hears our prayers and intercedes for us ( Hebrews 7:25). The One who wipes away tears and garners us with peace so that our hearts won’t be troubled(John 14:27).

Christmas is a special time.  All gets still.  Time with loved ones. Memories of those who have gone before us.  Christ is center stage.  May He and His love be centered in our lives all year long.  Merry Christmas!

Jesus thank You for coming to this earth to save humanity.  Thank You for being every thing we need.  Bless our families and keep the love for You burning bright.  In Jesus name.  Amen

The Power of His Word

 

Luke 1:37 NIV

For no word from God will ever fail.”

Our God is awesome.  He is amazing, faithful, and true.  He is all powerful and He holds the whole world in His hands.  We can trust what He says to us.  We can trust Him at His word because no word from God will ever fail.  The Amplified translation says "For with God nothing [is or ever] shall be impossible.”  This means that nothing is too hard for our God.  No situation or circumstance is too much for Him.  He is ( with emphasis) working it out for our good according to His purpose ( Romans 8:28).

I just listened to a song by Tasha Cobbs Leonard,  You Know My Name and I was just overcome with love and gratitude for a God who calls me His child.  His word says that we are sons and daughters in 2 Corinthians 6:18.  Thankfulness for a God who will never leave nor forsake me (Deuteronomy 31:8).  His word says this and His word WILL NOT AND CANNOT FAIL.  Hallelujah!

His word is refreshing.  His word is peace.  His word is life.  It does not fail.  This is motivation to continue each day seeking to serve Him; seeking to love others. This fact is courage to face the mountains and the valleys of life.  His word never fails, thus His love does not.  He sent His Son to die on the cross and to raise again on the third day to fulfill His word granting forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with the Father. (John 3:16) His word says I am redeemed (Ephesians 1:7) and His word does not fail.

It's Christmas season. The time we celebrate the birth of Christ.  It's also a time to celebrate the Word because the Word became flesh and dwelt among us( John 1:14).  We celebrate a victorious Lord and Savior.  We can celebrate a victorious life in Christ because no word of God will ever fail.  Thank You Jesus.

Father, I thank You for Your Word.  I thank You for the power of Your word and that it cannot fail.  I thank You for the anointing of  Your Spirit that breathes on us. I thank You for You.  May I be bold for You in the knowledge of Your truth.  May I walk in victory.  In Jesus name. Amen

Clearing the fog

 

James 1:2-3 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

This weather has been mixture of fog, cloudy days, and rain in my neck of the woods.  The meteorologist explain that the fog persists because we have stable weather, there is no wind of breeze to clear the fog.  They have said this several times as they discussed the reasons for fog warnings and the visibility on the road.  As I listened to the report and the weatherman's explanation of stable weather I could not help but be drawn to thinking about trials and tribulations.

You see sometimes we need a little instability to make things clear, to bring clarity to who we are and Whose we are.  Sometimes our lives or vision can be decreased by our thinking.  Like maybe we are thinking we are doing this life thing on our own.  We can be blinded by blessings that we think we are self dependent, but trials remind us where our help comes.  Trials and tribulations strengthen our faith and help us to persevere.  They can give us a clear vision of God and in His goodness in the midst of it all.  He becomes our breeze and sunshine. No one likes instability, but when we stand on the Rock we are safe and the breeze just clears the way. So we consider the trials with joy because they serve a purpose and He is working all things out for our good.

Father, I thank You for Your creation and the way You use it to speak to Your people.  Let us be steadfast when trials and tribulations come because we know that You are using all things for our good and Your purpose.  Help us to be a comfort to those who are experiencing hard times as You are a comfort to us.  In this season and every season help us to love.  In Jesus name. Amen

He holds our hand

 

Isaiah 41:13 NIV

For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

What a might God we serve.  What a loving Father.  When I read this verse I think of my husband holding my hand when he knows I am battling anxiety.  The grip and the touch comfort me.  God is greater than any man so as I go through life's trials it is comforting to know that He hold my right hand.  He is giving me His strength and telling me to not be afraid  for He will help me.

Just let that soak in.  God is holding your hand and He is helping you.  You can not be defeated with God on your side.  No circumstance can overtake you.  You are the overcomer because He has overcome. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John16:33

We can be of good cheer because we have God.

How much love has He lavished on us that we should be called the children of God( 1 John 3:1).  And as His child he holds our hand.  He walks with us and talks with us.  He let's us know that it's going to be okay because He's got us.  We are in His beautiful hands.

Thank you Jesus for always being here for me and for us.  Thank You for telling us not to be afraid.  Thank You for helping us through the twist and turns of life.  Let us stand tall with the assurance from You.  And thank You for your grace and mercy; for taking the time to let us know that You are with us.  We love You Lord. In Jesus name.  Amen

Knowing Jesus

Jeremiah 9:23-24 NIV

This is what the LORD says: “Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,” declares the LORD.

Knowing Jesus, that’s the goal.  Knowing His goodness, mercy, faithfulness and love.  Human strength weakens and fades and riches come and go, but God remains the same.  Oh, for the joy of knowing Him and His righteousness.  What peace to be in relationship with the One who saves.  The more time we spend with Him the more we become like Him as He transforms us into His image( 2 Corinthians 3:18). Our hearts are circumcised and our lives are change.  Oh what a gift to walk with Jesus.  What a reason to be so ever grateful and thankful.

Jesus, You are the prize.  The aim is to know You better each and every day.  May we seek Your face in all that we do and see Your hand move in our lives.  Let us boast in You.  Forgive us for those time we falter and put lesser things in the forefront.  Bring us back to You and keep us humble.  May those who don’t know You learn of You through us as we lift You up.  In Jesus name we pray.  Amen

The other side?

 

Luke 6:28 NIV

bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

One day this week I heard myself say to my students, "you guys are about to see the other side of me come out."  Perhaps you have said something similar.  We all desire to meek and humble, but we seem to have to let others know that we are not to be trifled with.  We don't want to appear weak.

Well as I made the statement, the Holy Spirit spoke to me and convicted me.  The other side they see should be the one they are seeing - Jesus.  I am not to respond to insults and persecutions the way the world does. I am to respond as Christ would.  My conversations should always be full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that I may know how to  answer everyone (Colossians 4:6).  I should be able to give a response that enables the person I am speaking to grow. My response should reflect that I know Jesus and have spent time with Him.  I should respond in love.

This does not mean I am weak. This does not mean that I do not set healthy boundaries.  It means that my boundaries are God's and I respond with grace. Think about how confused that person will be when you respond with a knock out punch of the Holy Spirit. They will be expecting blow of insult or tat for at which resolves nothing, but they would never expect for you to continue to walk in peace.  Knowing your worth in Christ, walking regally as a part of His royal priesthood.

So I closed my mouth, disciplined with re-direction and oozed grace.  The other side should always be Christ.  Family holidays are approaching and some tough situations may arise with others because relationships can be tricky.  This is true for family and strangers alike.  May we be quick to hide behind Jesus so that is the side that they see.

Jesus, I thank You for You.  I thank You for your love.  I thank You for answered prayers.  I thank You for grace. May I extend that grace even to those who seek to hurt me or mistreat me.  May I know how to set healthy boundaries and walk in peace.  Forgive  me for the times that I come up short and continue to direct my steps.  In Jesus name.  Amen

A Pure Heart

 

Psalms 51:10-12 NIV

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

God is a good God and loving Father.  When I mess up He offers me forgiveness of my sins(John 1:9). In Psalm 51 David has been confronted with his sin with Bathsheba and he humbled himself and prays to the Lord.  He knows that it is God whom he has sinned against( Psalm 51:4).  He ask God to blot out His transgressions (Psalm 51:1).  He wants to be restored. 

Like David  I desire is a pure heart.  A heart that acknowledges and serves the Lord.  I want a steadfast spirit, one that won’t compromise, but stands firm on the word of God. I want to live a faithful life and be a doer of His Word ( James 1:22).

But I can do nothing without His Spirit.  I am nothing without Him.  In His presence is where I find peace, joy, and strength.  In His presence is where I find love and comfort. Weights of this world are lifted.  

I desire for God to restore the joy of His salvation.  The joy of oneness with Him.  I want our relationship tight for I gain strength from Him.  Strength to do right rather than be right.  Strength to extend grace and mercy as I have received it. A sustained spirit that won’t waiver when challenges arise.  I want God.

Lord, I love You and adore You.  Thank You for forgiveness of sins and strength for the journey.  Thank You for Your Spirit and love.  May we, as your people, have clean hearts so that we might worship You in spirit and truth.  So that we may live godly lives pointing others to Christ.  We will be careful to give You all the glory, honor, and praise.  In Jesus name. Amen

Provider

 

Philippians 4:19 NIV

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

I stand firm on this promise because my God is faithful to His word and He is faithful to perform it. Whatever your need, physical, mental, or spiritual you can trust that God's got it and He has you.  We just to have faith and believe.

The enemy doesn't want us to believe.  The enemy doesn't want us to pray and he doesn't want us to praise.  But we can overcome because Jesus already has. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)  Problems and trials may come, but God has promised us peace.  He has promised to meet our needs.  Our Father is rich, rich in His mercy and kindness towards us.

So look beyond your circumstances because God already has.  He clothes the lilies of the field and feeds the sparrows.  (Matthew 6:28; 26)  We are worth more than that.  So do not fret.  Lean into God.  Trust God.

Lord, we thank You for your provision.  We thank You for meeting every need.  Help us to stand on your word and not waiver.  Help us to praise You in advance.  We love You Lord and thank You for all that You do and have already done.  In Jesus name. Amen

Time

 

Luke 4:18-21 KJV

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, Because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, And recovering of sight to the blind, To set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

Today as I was driving, I thought about the ministry of Jesus.  It was just three years, but it saved the world.  In three years, He healed the sick, raised the dead, gave sight to the blind, set the captives free, and saved my life and the life of all those who believe.  He was thorough and effective.  He shared loved to the outcast (Mathew 8:3) and unseen (John 4:1-42).  He was God and He shared his love with all humanity.  He is complete and everything can be found in Him.

Makes me think about what I am doing with the time God has graced me with on this earth.  How am I serving? Who am I reaching out to?  How am I being light on a hill (Mathew 5:14-16) or salt to the earth (Matthew 5:13).  Each day is a gift to whatever gift or talent God has given me to serve Him and share the gospel message.  Ministry in my home, on my job, out in the streets.  I can follow His example.  

Lord, teach me to number my days that I main gain a heart of wisdom.  Let me use them wisely to bring honor to your name.  When I think of You, I am in awe.  Thank You for coming to this earth to save me.  Thank You for showing me how to live.  Thank You for teaching me and leaving me with Your Spirit.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Love lifted me

 

Psalms 40:2 NIV

He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.

I was a mess in my thirties.  Stuck in the mud and mire of sin.  My life was not going according to plan.  Two divorces by the age of 30.  My plan was to have a life like my parents and family, committed love.  Love that lasted.  I felt ashamed and like the odd woman out.  I was angry with God for letting my life turn out this way.  I wasn't bold enough to tell Him I was angry, but I showed it.  I turned my back.  I figured if doing the right way got me these results, I would do it the world's way.  I ended up in a pit of depression as I believed the lies of the enemy.

I chased after the wrong type of love and ended up deeper and deeper in the mud.  BUT God!  I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry (Psalm 40:1).  I will not say that I waited patiently, but He heard my cry all the same.  He heard the cry of my heart and soul. He knew that I was miserable and that the love I needed was only provided by Him.  He literally and spiritually picked me up and gave me a firm place to stand.

I often refer to that season as my wilderness seasons as I went in circles until I realized the truth.  Until I surrendered and came back home.  Home to His open arms.  I want to note that during my wilderness period, God never forsook me.  He provided for me and kept me.  He had people praying with me and for me.  He sent people to love on me unconditionally and showed me what real love looks like. He showed me what it looks like to love myself, the woman He created.

I stand on solid ground now.  He has blessed me richly and cast my sins into the sea of forgetfulness.  He cleaned me up.  He has given me the tools (armor of God) to stand.  To rebuke the lies of the enemy and love God with my whole heart.  He has blessed me with a spouse who loves the Lord and loves me as the Lord commands him to.  I have family and dear friends.  I have Jesus! I am restored.  My forties are a hallelujah season. :)

Whatever you are going through know what God did for me, He can do for you.

Lord thank You for hearing my cry.  Thank You Holy Spirit for interceding for me when I didn't know how to pray or what to say.  Thank You Lord for the lessons learned in my wilderness season.  Thank You for bringing me into the promise.  Thank You for lifting me up.  I pray that my testimony helps draw someone else closer to Thee.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Loving God in the routines of life

 

Deuteronomy 10:12 NIV

And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul

My days are pretty routine.  Wake up, get dressed, prepare medicine, pray, respond to text message from son (our morning routine) go to work, teach, pray again, do devotions, pick up dinner pray some more.  Yes, I'll admit I do not cook. Just keeping it transparent. I know I should cook, but I am so drained at the end of the day. Working goal is to get in the kitchen more. Pray for me, but I digress.  

Thinking about my daily routine I wonder how I am serving God with all of my heart and with all of my soul in the midst of what could be considered the mundane?  But God is a part of everything so how I do my daily routines should honor Him.  For example, walking in obedience when I see trash on the floor in the hallway of my school and pick it up as the Spirit urges me. Or when I respond to my son via text message with encouragement for his day, I am showing him love and God is all about love.  When I pray and give my cares over to the One who is in control of all I am reverencing Him and trusting in Him. I commune with Him.

When I smile at the kid who is late, again, welcoming them into my classroom rather than tightening up my face.  When I do this, I am extending grace, just as God extends grace to me.  When I do my job with all fidelity, I am serving the Lord because I am seeking to be an example of Christ to my students and co-workers every day. When I pick up dinner for my family, I am showing the Lord's provision and care.

We serve the Lord in the everyday things of life when we trust and rely on Him.  We do life and remember Who is the source of our life. We reverence Him.  When we walk by faith and not by sight.  When we love our fellow man.  Exhibiting patience and walking in peace.  We serve God when we are obedient to Him.  When we listen for His voice and yield.  Each day brings brand new mercies and therefore opportunities to show our love to God. So maybe it's not so mundane when we look at life through a different lens.

Lord, I thank You for the routines and ways that You allow me love and honor You throughout my day.  May I always put You first and obey Your word.  May I respect and honor You for who You are.  May I see the beauty in my days.  Thank You for Your provision and love.  In Jesus name.  Amen

A Faithful God

 

• 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV)

  But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

• In Numbers Chapter 22-24 we find Balak the ruler of the Moabites trying to get Balaam to curse Israel.  Each time God told Balaam no and every time he tried to curse, blessings came out his mouth. Three times was Israel blessed.  Israel had no knowledge of what was going on behind the scenes.  There were camped and going about their daily lives, but God was protecting them from evil.  God was faithful even when time after time Israel had not been.  He was working behind the scenes.

• Studying this passage of scripture brought tears to my eyes as I thought of the faithfulness of God.  As I thought of His love.  He is Lord and He is faithful. It's not based on anything that I have done, but His grace covers me.  He strengthens me and protects me.  He truly works all things out for my good (Romans 8:28).  Every day He gives me a testimony or praise. He is protecting me from dangers that I do not see. He is blessing me.  He wants what's best for me.

• How should I respond to His faithfulness?  I should respond with gratitude, faithfulness, and obedience.  I should respond to God with a surrender heart. Each Friday I have committed to writing in this blog and I have to pray on what He wants me to say.  Its not me, but His faithfulness that brings it about.  

• I don't know what you may be going through today, but I pray that you remember just how much God loves you and how unchangeable HIs loves for you is.  I pray that you remember that He is faithful to perform His word (Jeremiah 1:12).  I pray you remember that His promises are yes and amen (2 Corinthians 1:20).  I pray peace and joy for you today.

• Father You are a faithful Lord, father and redeemer.   You strengthen us where we are weak and you protect us from those who would seek to do us harm. You are a good, good Father and we love You.  We bless Your Holy name.  May we live with confidence in the knowledge of your faithfulness and love towards us.  May we respond with willing obedience and gratitude for Your grace and mercy.  In Jesus name,  Amen

Without conplaint

• Philippians 2:14 (NIV)

  Do everything without grumbling or arguing,

  
  

  In one of the studies I participate in we are studying the book of Numbers.  The Israelites are in the wilderness and there is a pattern of grumbling.  Every time they appear to reach an obstacle they speak against Moses and God.  Saying ridiculous  stuff like they would have been better off in Egypt.  Better off in slavery? In bondage? They forget their harsh conditions.  They forget what the Lord has done for them.  How he removes every obstacle and cares for them.  They forget the consequences of grumbling and complaining.  

  
  

  Each time I read a passage where they are whining I am shocked, but I have to look at my own life and ask if I do the same?  Do I get stuck in the problem rather than looking to the solution of all my problems- trusting in God.  Do I grumble or complain when I take care of my family?  Do I get aggravated when my student asks me question after question just because they want to be sure?  Or do I meet each situation with grace and thanksgiving.  Grateful to have God on my side.  Grateful to have to take care of and the means to do it.  Thankful to have a student that cares and is persistent so that they can learn and do their best.It can be easy to judge the Hebrew children, but I’d rather learn from them instead.

  
  

  Lord teach me not to grumble or complain.  Teach me to trust You in all circumstances.  Teach me to be joyful and grateful.  Forgive me when I’m not.  In Jesus name. Amen 

New

 

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

There’s a song by Tye Tribbet called “New”.  It’s an upbeat song that reminds its listeners that everything is new.  New with Christ.  New heart.  New start.  I love hearing this song because it reminds me of God’s truth.  Because of His grace I am a new creation.  My past is gone; the old is gone.

Everyday He breathes breath into my body is a new day with a new start.  The chance to do it His way.  The chance to offer a new praise.  Just knowing that my past is erased and forgotten ( Micah 7:19)brings tears to my eyes.  Jesus loves me just that much.

All of this begs the question of what will I do with my new start? Will I seek God first?  Will I be a living sacrifice?  Will I look to His word and apply it to my life?  Will I surrender to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit letting Him change me from the inside out?  Will I put my will under the will of God?  Or will I keep wearing those old worn out garments?

God has made me a new creation so I will clothe myself in Him and put on garments of obedience and praise.  I will live life to the fullest and love my fellow man. I will love God with all of my heart and remember that I’m new in Christ.

Lord, I thank You for your grace.  I thank You for making me new.  Thank You for allowing me to shed my old man and get new skin.  Thank You for You.  Help me not to waste the opportunities You give me each day.  Bless thine people.  In Jesus name. Amen

At the core

 

John 3:16 NIV

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

The core message and the reason why we live is because God gave His only Son so that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish.  Rather they shall have eternal life.  God loved us and loves that much.  He did not spare His own Son for mere humans.  

I think sometimes we, or at least I, can get caught up in trying to do so much that I forget the foundation.  The foundation is Christ.  The foundation is His free gift to me.  Eternal life did not cost me anything, but Christ everything.  And He did it anyway.  Knowing that such grace was lavished on me spurs me to lavish grace on others.

To excuse and forgive that student who is having an attitude about having to take responsibility.  To forgive that driver who zips through the the lanes of the highway, possibly cutting you off. To make time for people when there are other things you want to do or need to be doing. Its pausing and being a servant knowing it will get done.

The message of the gospel impels you to have a heart of gratitude and posture of humility.  Its living life daily acknowledging the One is in control.  Trusting in Him and living for Him.  Its giving love back know we could never repay God for what He has done.  Its walking in freedom because Christ sacrifice has set you free.  Its breathing and having our being.  Its the pulse of the Christians heart.

Lord, I thank You for Your love.  You loved me enough to for me and this world. Let me not lose sight of that by focusing on things and task.  Let me focus on You and live my life with the core message at the forefront so it will guide my thoughts and actions.  Bless your people.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Prayer

 

1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 KJV

Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Someone stated that 'prayer is the powerful connection between our needs and our God and He is always more than enough."  I am at teacher and I pray everyday and throughout the day.  I pray for strength and clarity of thought. I pray that students will learn and be obedient.  I pray for peace.  

I pray for my children, both adult and young adult.  I pray for my husband and I intercede on the behalf of others. I pray for traveling mercies. I pray for those on the highways and byways. I pray because I know God hears me,  He answers every call.  He is good like that.  He is gracious and loving and He meets every need and even some wants.

His word tells us to pray without ceasing.  Give it all to Him and  in everything give thanks. I thank God in advance for what He will do and for what He has already done.  Its having a heart posture of humility as we depend on God for everything and one of gratitude as we thank God for everything.

Prayer does not have to be fancy or hard.  It is just a conversation between You and the Lord. Its a rhythm of connection between You and the Father. Just call on Jesus. He will be there.

Lord, I thank You for prayer.  For a way to communicate and commune with You.  Let me pray without ceasing and always give You praise so that Your peace may be ushered in.  Bless your people. Bless those whose eyes have yet to be opened to You. May they find their way.  In Jesus name.  Amen 

A Time to Praise

 

Psalms 107:1 NIV

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Father, You are good a righteous.  You are merciful and kind.  You are good and your love is like no other.  When I am weak, It is You that makes me strong.  You go with me throughout my day.  You give me wisdom.  You tell me what battles to pick and You lead me on the right path.  It is You that directs my steps and orders my way.  I love You Lord and praise You for all that You are: Counselor, Prince of Peace, Savior, Lord of my life .I can't thank You enough for all that You have done.  Thank You sweet Jesus.  I

I thank You for Your love that covers me. That opens Your arms to me when I go astray.  Love that tells me that I am yours no matter what.  Thank You for a love that endures through all circumstances.  Thank You for dying on the cross for me and rising from the grave that I might have eternal life.  Thank You for the confidence that Your love brings.  Thank You for You.

There are times when You just need to praise the Lord for who He is.  So often, I can get caught up in the asking for God to be with me and do this and that for me that I don't make the time to simply praise Him for His marvelous works. We serve a good God and He deserve a heart posture of gratitude and praise from our lips.  God is a good God.  The only God and He deserves it all.

Thank You Lord for an opportunity to just say thank You.  Help me to pause and reflect on Your goodness and offer the praise that is due to You.  May your people praise You.  In Jesus name. Amen

Who do they see?

 

Acts 4:13 NIV

When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus

They took note that these men had been with Jesus.  I love this and this scripture provoked me to ask myself would others know that I had been with Jesus? Does my life reflect time in His presence and in His Word? For the goal, at least my goal,  is that people see Jesus when they see me.  My life should be a reflection of Him and it should point others to Christ.

Do the words that I speak point to Jesus? Do the things I do and choose not to do reflect a life with Jesus? Am I loving and bold for Christ? Is Jesus pleased with me?

I think it begins with a posture of humility. Realizing that salvation is just the beginning and there is more to learn of His character and way.  Abiding in Him and Him in me because apart from Him I can do nothing.  I can bear no fruit unless I am abiding in Him (John 15:4-5).

Spending time in His Word and prayer.  Taking the time to not only talk to Jesus, but listen and obey.  Going to the quiet place where it’s just You and Him and sitting at His feet.  The joy alone that brings. Letting Him transform me into His image daily.  That’s how others will know.  

Father,  I want others to see You when they cross my path so hide me behind You.  May I spend time with You.  Not just being busy, but being still in your presence.  May others see You and want to know You for themselves.  May they take note.  Lord, I thank You for Your healing and the prayers of the saints.  In Jesus name.  Amen