Acts 4:32
All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had.
Now if the first part of this statement could really be true. It is definately telling us how we should be, but how many people really strive to make sure that is what goes on? We get so caught up in being so selfish and wanting to make sure that it is our way or no way, that we don't even take the time to stop and really think about what God wants. Sure we are going to have problems sometimes in wanting our way done, but that is not the Godly way in going about it. Step back and look at the situation, have you sincerely prayed about what it going on? Have you prayed with the other believers? If not, now is the time to practice what is written. When you are praying together and for one another, you will all know what God wants, and it is His will and way that is most important! Remember, Satan is doing everything he can to steal the joy of the members, don't you be the one to let him steal yours and then you be the one to steal it from others. Keep your eyes on Christ, talk to Him, ask Him what is right, and listen to His words, even if they are not what you really want to see done, and be the peacemaker. Strive to be the one that is in harmony with all the other believers.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
March 30
After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.”
John 6:14
This brings the saying "you have to see it to believe it" to mind. We live in such a skeptical world that we want proof to believe. It is hard to understand faith but it is something that you just have to believe without seeing. It's not easy, because if it were then the whole world would be saved. For some, it's a gift, but for others it is hard to trust and understand. I am thankful that we have the Bible as our proof of the truth. We can't see it but we can read it and believe! Of course there are miracles every day, but still people can't see. Just waking up in the morning is a miracle; God has given us breath once again. Take time to see the miracles that God is sending our way and enjoy that
He is right here today with us, even though we can't see him.
John 6:14
This brings the saying "you have to see it to believe it" to mind. We live in such a skeptical world that we want proof to believe. It is hard to understand faith but it is something that you just have to believe without seeing. It's not easy, because if it were then the whole world would be saved. For some, it's a gift, but for others it is hard to trust and understand. I am thankful that we have the Bible as our proof of the truth. We can't see it but we can read it and believe! Of course there are miracles every day, but still people can't see. Just waking up in the morning is a miracle; God has given us breath once again. Take time to see the miracles that God is sending our way and enjoy that
He is right here today with us, even though we can't see him.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
March 29
As water reflects a face, so a man’s heart reflects the man.
Prov. 27:19
What is our refection? We should reflect Christ in all that we do, but we are human and we don’t. Aren’t we thankful that we have such a loving God that forgives us when we don’t always reflect Christ in our lives? We also should remember that it’s not only the people out in the world around us that are looking at us, but the very ones that we see each day that are seeing this reflection. Make it your prayer and your choice to reflect Christ in your daily walk, not just the trip to church or to go be with other church people. May the reflection that you give be a clear reflection that others can see and realize that your heart is caring, compassionate and kind, and one that loves the Lord.
Prov. 27:19
What is our refection? We should reflect Christ in all that we do, but we are human and we don’t. Aren’t we thankful that we have such a loving God that forgives us when we don’t always reflect Christ in our lives? We also should remember that it’s not only the people out in the world around us that are looking at us, but the very ones that we see each day that are seeing this reflection. Make it your prayer and your choice to reflect Christ in your daily walk, not just the trip to church or to go be with other church people. May the reflection that you give be a clear reflection that others can see and realize that your heart is caring, compassionate and kind, and one that loves the Lord.
March 28
A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped.
Mark 4:37
How may times do we feel like we are in this storm? More often that we care to imagine. We have that tendency to be like the disciples. We worry that the worst is to come, that our boat is sinking and we are not going to make it. We forget that Jesus is right there in the midst of it all, we have the fear of being overcome. When all in an instance we call out to Him and He calms the storm. We must always remember that God is with us during the storm, He never leaves us. When we feel as though He is not here with us we need to think about it, are we the ones who turned from Him and walked away.
Don't ever think that as a Christian that the storms aren't going to come, they are! We are either in a storm, coming out of a storm or going into a storm. But I do want you to remember that God is right there with you. He is the one that calms that storm. Maybe we have storms in our lives to see just how much we are going to trust Him to take care of us - ever thought about it that way? Don't let the Lord say to you as He did the disciples - "Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?" Stand firm with the Lord during the storm and believe that He is going to get you through it. He will do just what He says He will. You are one of His greatest treasures, He loves you, remember you were worth dying for.
March 30
above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
Eph. 6:16
Definitions:
Above: more than
Faith: Confident belief in the truth, value, or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing.
Quench: put out
So more than anything else take up the shied of believing that God our creator, protector, maker will be able to put out anything that the devil throws our way. We must believe and know that with God all things are possible. Faith is trusting that God is greater than all things, mightier than all things, and that He is the God of everything. Also know that the devil will try to attack us, that is his nature, he wants to bring us down, steal our joy, and defeat us. We do not have to live a defeated life because we know we serve a God that is greater than the devil. Do not give way to the devil when he comes after you to take you down. Tell him to get behind you, let him know that he cannot have your joy, call upon the name of the Almighty to fight this battle for you. Believe above all that God can handle this, and trust Him for His very promises that He has given you.
March 26
And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.
Gen. 28:15
God promises us that He will be with us. That should be such an encouragement to us, that no matter where we go, through the valley or on the mountaintop, He will be right with us. We are all going to go into the valley but we must remember that this is where the fruit grows the best! Let God walk with you, talk with you and carry your burdens for you. Don’t try to take on this valley by yourself! Let God guide you through, He wants to take you back to the mountaintop so you can see wonderful view from there. Learn to trust Him, he plainly tells us that He will be with us! It’s just that easy to hold on to.
March 25
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Tim 3:16-17
Now if anybody needs to know why they should read the Bible here is the proof. The key phrase would be "that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work". Everything we need is in the Bible. We must spend time in the Word to see what God has for us. As the Bible says, all scripture is inspired by God so it all applies to us, not just the words that we would like to pick and choose. Think of the word profitable - this means we need the word of God in our life to make us better in all things - when we are not spending time in the Bible we are the losers. So be a big winner this week and spend time with God in His word, He has something special that He wants to share with you.
2 Tim 3:16-17
Now if anybody needs to know why they should read the Bible here is the proof. The key phrase would be "that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work". Everything we need is in the Bible. We must spend time in the Word to see what God has for us. As the Bible says, all scripture is inspired by God so it all applies to us, not just the words that we would like to pick and choose. Think of the word profitable - this means we need the word of God in our life to make us better in all things - when we are not spending time in the Bible we are the losers. So be a big winner this week and spend time with God in His word, He has something special that He wants to share with you.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
March 24
Proverbs 8:8
"All the utterances of my mouth are in righteousness; There is nothing crooked or perverted in them.
I love the words of the Bible, how it instructs us on everything, especially when we come across words that you know are meant for you and me. My desire is this verse, that everything that comes out of my mouth could be postitive, uplifting, encouraging... but sometimes, they are not. I do believe that if we truly thought about what we said, we would think back to the verses that we have read and would apply them. I know that that Bible talks about our toungue, how wicked and hurtful we can be so often, but we must remember, each time we open our mouth, we make a choice to say something positive, or something negative. So today, remember this verse and let everything that comes out of your mouth (and mine) be righteousness - positive, enoucouraging, and uplifiting. Today may our mouthpiece reflect God in all that we do.
"All the utterances of my mouth are in righteousness; There is nothing crooked or perverted in them.
I love the words of the Bible, how it instructs us on everything, especially when we come across words that you know are meant for you and me. My desire is this verse, that everything that comes out of my mouth could be postitive, uplifting, encouraging... but sometimes, they are not. I do believe that if we truly thought about what we said, we would think back to the verses that we have read and would apply them. I know that that Bible talks about our toungue, how wicked and hurtful we can be so often, but we must remember, each time we open our mouth, we make a choice to say something positive, or something negative. So today, remember this verse and let everything that comes out of your mouth (and mine) be righteousness - positive, enoucouraging, and uplifiting. Today may our mouthpiece reflect God in all that we do.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
March 23
Hosea 13:6
As they had their pasture, they became satisfied, And being satisfied, their heart became proud; Therefore they forgot Me
We sit here and think "Well that won't happen to me", but we are not different that those who lived before us. Yes we know Jesus, yes we know He is to be our All in All, yes we know that every single day that we need Him more today than yesterday, but we too get complacient and become satisified and take our very eyes off of the Lord and forget Him. We must remember that we are human, and we must remember that we DO need Jesus each and every day. Sometimes we wonder why circumstances in our lives rise up and seems to creep over us, have we done just as those before us? Yes, we take our eyes off of God and get satisified, and God does have to do something in our lives to get our attention. Ask God to forgive you (and I will too) for taking our eyes off of Him, for not spending our time with Him, for not trusting that we do need Him each and every day. He wants to share the day with you, He wants you to welcome Him into your day each and every morning and be ready to take on the day with Him, so let Him do just that!
As they had their pasture, they became satisfied, And being satisfied, their heart became proud; Therefore they forgot Me
We sit here and think "Well that won't happen to me", but we are not different that those who lived before us. Yes we know Jesus, yes we know He is to be our All in All, yes we know that every single day that we need Him more today than yesterday, but we too get complacient and become satisified and take our very eyes off of the Lord and forget Him. We must remember that we are human, and we must remember that we DO need Jesus each and every day. Sometimes we wonder why circumstances in our lives rise up and seems to creep over us, have we done just as those before us? Yes, we take our eyes off of God and get satisified, and God does have to do something in our lives to get our attention. Ask God to forgive you (and I will too) for taking our eyes off of Him, for not spending our time with Him, for not trusting that we do need Him each and every day. He wants to share the day with you, He wants you to welcome Him into your day each and every morning and be ready to take on the day with Him, so let Him do just that!
Monday, March 22, 2010
March 22
Ephesian 4:14
As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming.
We have been studying what a disciple is and even going through the stages of a Christian. It is amazing to see how many Christians are still in the infant stage. So how do get to the next point of no longer being children? We get in His Word, we listen to Sermons, we join Small Groups or Sunday School classes - we get plugged in! When we are not in His Word or spending time with Him, we can easily get tossed her and there by the waves of life, and we have to be careful of what we hear on TV that may be coming across as the gospel - remember these people pay to get what they want on the airwaves -so always sit there with the Bible - read about what they are saying and make sure it lines up with the Word of God. We live in a wicked world - just ready the Bible, it tells us. We have people out there trying to decieve us all the time, and this craftiness in decietful scheming - striaght from Satan himself. Don't think that he is not after you because you are a Christian. You (and I) are the very ones he is after, he wants to bring us down, destroy us, steal our joy. Be aware! It's time to grow up - as a Christian, move to the next stage. Don't let God say, "You're acting like a child, you should know better by now!"
As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming.
We have been studying what a disciple is and even going through the stages of a Christian. It is amazing to see how many Christians are still in the infant stage. So how do get to the next point of no longer being children? We get in His Word, we listen to Sermons, we join Small Groups or Sunday School classes - we get plugged in! When we are not in His Word or spending time with Him, we can easily get tossed her and there by the waves of life, and we have to be careful of what we hear on TV that may be coming across as the gospel - remember these people pay to get what they want on the airwaves -so always sit there with the Bible - read about what they are saying and make sure it lines up with the Word of God. We live in a wicked world - just ready the Bible, it tells us. We have people out there trying to decieve us all the time, and this craftiness in decietful scheming - striaght from Satan himself. Don't think that he is not after you because you are a Christian. You (and I) are the very ones he is after, he wants to bring us down, destroy us, steal our joy. Be aware! It's time to grow up - as a Christian, move to the next stage. Don't let God say, "You're acting like a child, you should know better by now!"
Sunday, March 21, 2010
March 21
Song of Songs 4:7
All beautiful you are my darling, there is no flaw in you.
This is an oldie, but one that I feel is always worth repeating. Especially since some of us are getting a little older and we seem to start finding those flaws in us.
There is something God wants us to always remember. It's easy to look in the mirror and see "flaws", but we have none in God's eyes. God made each of us unique and remember His words, "how beautiful". So keep this in mind when you don't like what you see in the mirror. You were created just for His glory and He smiles when He sits back and looks at His creation (you). Know that you are beautiful, so start acting like it, you have no flaws - God said it!
All beautiful you are my darling, there is no flaw in you.
This is an oldie, but one that I feel is always worth repeating. Especially since some of us are getting a little older and we seem to start finding those flaws in us.
There is something God wants us to always remember. It's easy to look in the mirror and see "flaws", but we have none in God's eyes. God made each of us unique and remember His words, "how beautiful". So keep this in mind when you don't like what you see in the mirror. You were created just for His glory and He smiles when He sits back and looks at His creation (you). Know that you are beautiful, so start acting like it, you have no flaws - God said it!
March 20
Ezra 10:44
All these had married foreign women and some of them had children by these wives.
This weekend I had 6 teenagers at my house for our Discipleship Weekend. We had an awesome time and then came the time when they ask me "questions". My main goal is to always point them to Jesus and see how He would answer their questions. I was of course asked about interracial marriages. This was one of the scriptures that came to mind.
The concern for these women being foreign was not because of their color but because of them having false god and being an unholy race. They did not worship the one true God. This is what we must teach our children. The most important factor when looking for a mate is to make sure they are a Christian, not just somebody that is a member of a church, but one who professes Jesus as their Lord and Savior! I have seen many women who thought they could change the person they married, but lived many many years in misery. Let's help our children to learn not to start a marriage off that would not be pleasing to God. Pray now that God will place that special person in their life, and even beyond that, pray that our children will seek God to find that mate that He has in store for them.
All these had married foreign women and some of them had children by these wives.
This weekend I had 6 teenagers at my house for our Discipleship Weekend. We had an awesome time and then came the time when they ask me "questions". My main goal is to always point them to Jesus and see how He would answer their questions. I was of course asked about interracial marriages. This was one of the scriptures that came to mind.
The concern for these women being foreign was not because of their color but because of them having false god and being an unholy race. They did not worship the one true God. This is what we must teach our children. The most important factor when looking for a mate is to make sure they are a Christian, not just somebody that is a member of a church, but one who professes Jesus as their Lord and Savior! I have seen many women who thought they could change the person they married, but lived many many years in misery. Let's help our children to learn not to start a marriage off that would not be pleasing to God. Pray now that God will place that special person in their life, and even beyond that, pray that our children will seek God to find that mate that He has in store for them.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
March 19
Phil. 1:9-10
And this I pray , that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent ; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ;
God only wants His best for us. He wants us to grow closer to Him every day so that we may know the Truth. When we are in the Bible we learn God's ways, the best ways for us to live. Our discernment comes from Him, He lets us know what is healthy and unhealthy for our lives, but we must be willing to listen to His voice. If we never studied His word, we might not have the knowledge that He offers us. By staying in His word we grow in knowledge and strength. May we be able to stand before Him on judgment day and hear Him say, "well done, you really listened to what I had to say and I am proud of you."
And this I pray , that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent ; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ;
God only wants His best for us. He wants us to grow closer to Him every day so that we may know the Truth. When we are in the Bible we learn God's ways, the best ways for us to live. Our discernment comes from Him, He lets us know what is healthy and unhealthy for our lives, but we must be willing to listen to His voice. If we never studied His word, we might not have the knowledge that He offers us. By staying in His word we grow in knowledge and strength. May we be able to stand before Him on judgment day and hear Him say, "well done, you really listened to what I had to say and I am proud of you."
Thursday, March 18, 2010
March 18
Amos 7:8
And the Lord said to me, "Amos, what do you see?" I answered, "A plumb line." And the Lord replied, "I will test my people with this plumb line, I will no longer ignore all their sins."
Okay, after reading this I got to thinking, what is a plumb line? I thought it was something else and am glad that I looked it up. After seeing the definition "a line from which a weight is suspended to determine verticality or debth - this is where my thoughts went.
Why was the Lord holding up this line? He was holding this plumb line up next to a wall to see if it measured up and was built correctily. He found out that is was not, and He then compares His people to the wall. The people also do not line up to the "plumb line" that Jesus is holding up.
Lets think about this. Even today we are still His people - and so often we fail to measure up to this line that is held up. This line has an anchor - His name it Jesus. This line is straight and is a guide - Could be God or maybe the Bible. In our lives we have a tendancy to do our own thing, make our own decisions and not look at our "plumb line" to see if we are going in the right direction. We should really think about how we look standing next to the "plumb line" that Jesus is holding up. Do we see a bulging side or a dip in our wall where we have not taken time to smooth out and let God fix it for us? Sure we do. So take that time, ask God to reveal to you what areas need to be fixed in your life, and let Him be the master carpenter in your life and help get your wall straight again.
We also must remember His words "I will no longer ignore their sins". He didn't ignore them, He died for them. He died for them so that we can have eternal life with Him. Thank Him for being that "plumb line" in our life that we can hold up and compare to, and when we don't measure up, don't hesitate to let God know that we are sorry and we are in need of some standing in our lives to get the rough edges off!
March 17
Luke 5:13
And he stretched out His hand and said, "I am willing, be cleansed." And immediately the leprosy left him.
This lepor saw Jesus and deep inside he knew that Jesus could heal him. I think it is neat that he said, "if you are willing". Of course it was God's will, He cares so deeply for all of His children. I think so often we lose the sight of this and think, He won't do this for me and we go about our business and don't take that need to Him. We must remember that even in the simple things that all He wants us to do is ask for Him to do it for us. It's just that easy, but we make it so hard.
If you have something that you know you need to give to God and ask Him to help you, then today is your day. Ask Him for His help and guidance, to "deliver" you from whatever circumstance you may have, know that He is God and He is willing - the question is are you willing?
* Today one year ago I started this blog - I have admitted that I failed in days to keep it going, but as of the start of this year (and God's help) I have only missed 3 days. Thank you to each one of you that have left comments and become followers - I needed that accountability and you are exactly what I needed. May you be blessed as much as I have been blessed by you!
And he stretched out His hand and said, "I am willing, be cleansed." And immediately the leprosy left him.
This lepor saw Jesus and deep inside he knew that Jesus could heal him. I think it is neat that he said, "if you are willing". Of course it was God's will, He cares so deeply for all of His children. I think so often we lose the sight of this and think, He won't do this for me and we go about our business and don't take that need to Him. We must remember that even in the simple things that all He wants us to do is ask for Him to do it for us. It's just that easy, but we make it so hard.
If you have something that you know you need to give to God and ask Him to help you, then today is your day. Ask Him for His help and guidance, to "deliver" you from whatever circumstance you may have, know that He is God and He is willing - the question is are you willing?
* Today one year ago I started this blog - I have admitted that I failed in days to keep it going, but as of the start of this year (and God's help) I have only missed 3 days. Thank you to each one of you that have left comments and become followers - I needed that accountability and you are exactly what I needed. May you be blessed as much as I have been blessed by you!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
March 16
Mark 8:24
And he looked up and said, "I see men, for I see them like trees, walking around."
Now I had never really thought about this verse before and even wondered how you could see them like trees, but we had a missionary, Richard Schvweinseberg, at the church last week and he revealed something to me, so I thought I would share with you.
Have you thought about what trees are? They are wood. We too can be considered wood. How? We can also be used like wood; we can be building for the kingdom or we can be firewood in hell. This is our choice. When we give our lives to Christ, we will then be used for Him. We will help in building His kingdom, doing work for the Lord that is productive, making a difference, helping to make bridges to help others come to know Christ. When we don't give our lives to Christ, we know that we will spend eternity in hell, therefore our bodies will be just as wood used as firewood.
So the next time you come across this verse in the Bible, think about how you are begin used. As His child He will give you the reassurance that you are His and that He is using you. If not, then all I can suggest to you is that take this moment and place your faith and trust in Him and accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior. My prayer is that you are not used as firewood in hell. I would love to know that even though we may never meet, that I will get to see you again in Heaven!
Monday, March 15, 2010
March 15
Matthew 22:20
And He said to them, "Whose image and inscription is this?"
Now I know that this verse is talking about the denarius that was handed to Christ, but my thought goes to a person looking at us. Can they see the "image and inscription" that is on us? When others take a look at us what do they see before we even open our mouth? Can they see the seal of Jesus on us? Better yet, if a glass was between us and them and they could see us talking but couldn't hear it, can they see a difference there too? Our faces can give us away sometimes, our hand motions, just about everything does. Do we show peace and love on our face or are we looking angry and frustrated?
Now I know that I am asking a lot of questions, but this is one of those things to think about. I know that more often than I like to admit, my tone gives me away to when I am talking, and then they laugh and say that my face says another thing. That it can be all pleasant and smiling but the tone that I am using is telling a complete different story. So this is something too that I must work on. I don't want to come off as an angry and bitter person, I want others to be able to see kindness and compassion in me. And yes I know that I don't even have a thimble full of compassion in my but I really want to work at that! God has it and I know that He can flow through me and give it to me when I need it!
So today I say be an observer. First look in the mirror and take a look at yourself, what do you see? As your day goes on, look at others, see what the reflection is that you see someing off them. And if you know that somebody is a Christian and you see Jesus in them, let them know. Sometimes we do need to be reminded that others can see Christ in us. That should be our goal.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
March14
Ephesians 2:3All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath.
I didn't necessarlily think of myself as having a sinful nature before I got saved, of course I think we all thought of ourselves as pretty decent people, not being nearly as bad as others, but in reality - we were every bit as bad as everyone else. It was after I gave my life to Christ that I realized just how wicked I was, actually it was just a little bit before I have my life to Christ that I realized I was about to bust hell wide open! I was the "them" in the verse. I lived just like the nature that was in me - sinful. Satan wasn't after me, he had me and I did just what he wanted me to do. Now I have not been perfect since I have been saved, but my goal is to strive to be better today than I was yesterday and live so that others can see Jesus in me. I think that old nature inside tries to rear its ugly head along the way, but we must remember we are not that old person anymore. Old things are past away, we are a new creation in Christ! Our reflection should be Jesus and not the old ugly wick person that we use to be. Sometimes we need to be reminded of who we were before Christ, that we should be thankful that Christ died on the cross for our wicked ways, so that we can have that new life and even better have eternal life with him. Thank God today for showing you that without Him you and I were nothing, but with Him we are complete, whole and no longer wicked!
I didn't necessarlily think of myself as having a sinful nature before I got saved, of course I think we all thought of ourselves as pretty decent people, not being nearly as bad as others, but in reality - we were every bit as bad as everyone else. It was after I gave my life to Christ that I realized just how wicked I was, actually it was just a little bit before I have my life to Christ that I realized I was about to bust hell wide open! I was the "them" in the verse. I lived just like the nature that was in me - sinful. Satan wasn't after me, he had me and I did just what he wanted me to do. Now I have not been perfect since I have been saved, but my goal is to strive to be better today than I was yesterday and live so that others can see Jesus in me. I think that old nature inside tries to rear its ugly head along the way, but we must remember we are not that old person anymore. Old things are past away, we are a new creation in Christ! Our reflection should be Jesus and not the old ugly wick person that we use to be. Sometimes we need to be reminded of who we were before Christ, that we should be thankful that Christ died on the cross for our wicked ways, so that we can have that new life and even better have eternal life with him. Thank God today for showing you that without Him you and I were nothing, but with Him we are complete, whole and no longer wicked!
March 13
Psalm 125:2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem, So the Lord surrounds His people from this time forth and forever.
Do you realize what being surrounded does? It protects. So remember as His children we are protected by Him. What a comfort that should be to us. I know I talk about fear alot, but I think many of us are confronted by it and sometimes very often. So I just want to reassure you that you don't have to live in fear. You can have that peace knowing and trusting that God is with you, protecting you, surrounding you. Often we do feel alone but we must realize that we are not. My spiritual gift is Faith - so for me I just know that no matter what, and no matter how bad it is going to be, that God is with me, He is not going to leave me and He is going to get me through this. I also have to remember that not everybody has that kind of faith, but I can encourage them that it will be okay and let them know that when their faith is weak, His is strong! So be encouraged today and know that it will all be okay, you are surrounded and protected by God!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
March 12
Haggai 2:5
'As for the promise which I made you when you came out of Egypt, My Spirit is abiding in your midst; do not fear !'
What a comfort that we have! It's easy to get distracted and start to get overwhelmed by circumstances, but we must hold on to this verse. God is abiding in our midst, we must not fear. Know that no matter what goes on or what is happening that we are not alone, God is with us. We must not be afraid of what may lay ahead of us, we must also realize that God knows what is ahead, and He has even allowed it to happen to us, so take a hold of His hand and let Him walk you through it. Remember that God has promised that He is here. If you can't see Him, turn around, you are the one that has walked away. He hasn't left!
'As for the promise which I made you when you came out of Egypt, My Spirit is abiding in your midst; do not fear !'
What a comfort that we have! It's easy to get distracted and start to get overwhelmed by circumstances, but we must hold on to this verse. God is abiding in our midst, we must not fear. Know that no matter what goes on or what is happening that we are not alone, God is with us. We must not be afraid of what may lay ahead of us, we must also realize that God knows what is ahead, and He has even allowed it to happen to us, so take a hold of His hand and let Him walk you through it. Remember that God has promised that He is here. If you can't see Him, turn around, you are the one that has walked away. He hasn't left!
March 11
John 1:14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only from the Father, full of grace and truth.
This is one of those verses that makes me think of how much I would have loved to be one of the "us". They saw His glory, they knew Him, they walked with Him. But we also have to remember that we have these words for us to be able to relive what it was like. When you read a book you can picture yourself as one of the characters, even picture in your mind of just how the scenery was. Well the Bible does just that for us. There are many stories and details of exactly what went on when Jesus was alive. It is an incredible storybook, it is up to us read it and see the true story that is inside. Think of it also as a diary, it takes you into the mind of that person who writes the story and you get a personal glimpse of what they saw. How exciting it is to get to visit with Jesus, even if it is on paper. It's still a true visit with Him. So take time to find a story and read, and you will get to know Jesus better with each story that you read. Let the Bible become real to you!
This is one of those verses that makes me think of how much I would have loved to be one of the "us". They saw His glory, they knew Him, they walked with Him. But we also have to remember that we have these words for us to be able to relive what it was like. When you read a book you can picture yourself as one of the characters, even picture in your mind of just how the scenery was. Well the Bible does just that for us. There are many stories and details of exactly what went on when Jesus was alive. It is an incredible storybook, it is up to us read it and see the true story that is inside. Think of it also as a diary, it takes you into the mind of that person who writes the story and you get a personal glimpse of what they saw. How exciting it is to get to visit with Jesus, even if it is on paper. It's still a true visit with Him. So take time to find a story and read, and you will get to know Jesus better with each story that you read. Let the Bible become real to you!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
March 10
Matthew 5:47
And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
What we really need to remember is that simple conversations and greetings are not enough. We need to make sure that our brothers and sisters know Christ and that if today is the last day that we get to see them, that we will know one day we will meet again in Heaven! Do not put off what needs to be done. You are a mouthpiece for the Lord, you may be the only Jesus that anybody can see, and think about those pagans that will come in contact with them. If they are of another religion that they believe is true, they just may tell your brother or sister (which can be blood or friend) about their "god". How sad will it be to know that somebody else snatched them away from the beliefs that true! Be bold for Christ! Make sure that your friends and loved ones know Jesus!
And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?
What we really need to remember is that simple conversations and greetings are not enough. We need to make sure that our brothers and sisters know Christ and that if today is the last day that we get to see them, that we will know one day we will meet again in Heaven! Do not put off what needs to be done. You are a mouthpiece for the Lord, you may be the only Jesus that anybody can see, and think about those pagans that will come in contact with them. If they are of another religion that they believe is true, they just may tell your brother or sister (which can be blood or friend) about their "god". How sad will it be to know that somebody else snatched them away from the beliefs that true! Be bold for Christ! Make sure that your friends and loved ones know Jesus!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
March 9
Zechariah 10:1
Ask the Lord for rain in the springtime, it is the Lord who sends the storm clouds. He gives showers of rain to men, and plants of the field to everyone.
Do we really think about asking for rain? We do when there has not been any in a while, but what about rain in our spiritual lives? Do we ask God to send us rain and nurture the seeds that have been planeted by Him? We all need the rain for it to sprout and grow. We are not sure if it will be a soft gentle rain or a torrential downpour, but either way it will be rain and it will be needed. Remember when the storm comes that God is allowing it to happen. And as quick as it can come up and as fierce as it can get, it can also be calmed in an instant. Just trust God to get you through and look for the fruit that will come from the nourishment of the rain. It will be the type of fruit that we cannot grow on our own. Don't forget that when the Harvest comes, to give it back to God! Thank Him for the rain, and even the storm that may come your way.
March 8
Ezra 10:44
All these had married foreign women and some of them had children by these wives.
The concern for these women being foreign was not because of their color but because of them having false god and being an unholy race. They did not worship the one true God. This is what we must teach our children. The most important factor when looking for a mate is to make sure they are a Christian, not just somebody that is a member of a church, but one who professes Jesus as their Lord and Savior! I have seen many women who thought they could change the person they married, but lived many many years in misery. Let's help our children to learn not to start a marriage off that would not be pleasing to God. Pray now that God will place that special person in their life.
All these had married foreign women and some of them had children by these wives.
The concern for these women being foreign was not because of their color but because of them having false god and being an unholy race. They did not worship the one true God. This is what we must teach our children. The most important factor when looking for a mate is to make sure they are a Christian, not just somebody that is a member of a church, but one who professes Jesus as their Lord and Savior! I have seen many women who thought they could change the person they married, but lived many many years in misery. Let's help our children to learn not to start a marriage off that would not be pleasing to God. Pray now that God will place that special person in their life.
Monday, March 8, 2010
March 7
Ecc. 9:4
Anyone who is among the living has hope - even a live dog is better off than a dead lion!
We know that no matter how bad things may get here on earth that as Christians there is a better place for us. Our hope is in Christ! I can only imagine about the place Christ has prepared for us - it will be glorious. Think of the most beautiful sight you have ever seen, it will be simple compared to heaven. Now for that dog, living here on earth will be his greatest experience because when he is gone he just returns to dust. We are the only creatures that God has given a soul. We are the ones who get to choose our eternity. No wonder God instructs us to make wise choices!
This brings me back to a time when Amber was little and she proceeded to tell a little girl whose cat just died that it was not going to heaven. Well this started a converstaion between my husband and the mother. All Chris could finally tell her was that if this cat could claim John 3:16, then he would be in heaven. Life is fun explaining sometimes.
Anyone who is among the living has hope - even a live dog is better off than a dead lion!
We know that no matter how bad things may get here on earth that as Christians there is a better place for us. Our hope is in Christ! I can only imagine about the place Christ has prepared for us - it will be glorious. Think of the most beautiful sight you have ever seen, it will be simple compared to heaven. Now for that dog, living here on earth will be his greatest experience because when he is gone he just returns to dust. We are the only creatures that God has given a soul. We are the ones who get to choose our eternity. No wonder God instructs us to make wise choices!
This brings me back to a time when Amber was little and she proceeded to tell a little girl whose cat just died that it was not going to heaven. Well this started a converstaion between my husband and the mother. All Chris could finally tell her was that if this cat could claim John 3:16, then he would be in heaven. Life is fun explaining sometimes.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
March 6
2 Timothy 4:18
And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever Amen.
As His child we do not know what that evil work may be, it could be a sickness or even cancer, but we should know that one day we will be delivered. It may be that we have to suffer for a while, whether short or long, but God has a place prepared for us that we will never have to suffer again. What a comfort! We also must remember that Christ died on that Cross for us. He experienced more pain than we ever could suffer or imagine. - so that we can have a place that we can experience with no more pain or suffering again.
Well I wrote this in Feb. of 2006, and looking back today it is wild to think that this could be where that woman who was talking with my friend could have gotten her information from. I really have no clue but I am thinking this could by why. So here goes to why the woman was questioning. She believes that some peoples lives are cut short by evil, that they could possibly die before God was ready to take them home. I had never thought about cancer as being evil - I just know it invades the body so therefore I think it is evil. I also know that God allows cancer to happen in each life. I do believe we are chosen to go through the experiences that we go through and I guess to me if they are bad, the seem "evil". I believe that God knows that before we are even conceived when we are going to die and how we are going to die, even if it is at the hands of a terrorist, which we know is evil. So now I can think about that verse applying to Jeremiah, who was killed at the hands of a terrorist, but know that Shaw who we had a memorial service for this past Thursday who died of cancer are both standing in heaven with Jesus because they placed their faith in Jesus and trusted Him as their Lord and Savior.
And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever Amen.
As His child we do not know what that evil work may be, it could be a sickness or even cancer, but we should know that one day we will be delivered. It may be that we have to suffer for a while, whether short or long, but God has a place prepared for us that we will never have to suffer again. What a comfort! We also must remember that Christ died on that Cross for us. He experienced more pain than we ever could suffer or imagine. - so that we can have a place that we can experience with no more pain or suffering again.
Well I wrote this in Feb. of 2006, and looking back today it is wild to think that this could be where that woman who was talking with my friend could have gotten her information from. I really have no clue but I am thinking this could by why. So here goes to why the woman was questioning. She believes that some peoples lives are cut short by evil, that they could possibly die before God was ready to take them home. I had never thought about cancer as being evil - I just know it invades the body so therefore I think it is evil. I also know that God allows cancer to happen in each life. I do believe we are chosen to go through the experiences that we go through and I guess to me if they are bad, the seem "evil". I believe that God knows that before we are even conceived when we are going to die and how we are going to die, even if it is at the hands of a terrorist, which we know is evil. So now I can think about that verse applying to Jeremiah, who was killed at the hands of a terrorist, but know that Shaw who we had a memorial service for this past Thursday who died of cancer are both standing in heaven with Jesus because they placed their faith in Jesus and trusted Him as their Lord and Savior.
Friday, March 5, 2010
March 5
Romans 14:1
Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters.
Wow, this hits me hard. I had a conversation with somebody who was sharing with another Christian even to the point of arguing with her and the other women even went as far as telling her she was just a young Christian, she just didn't understand. My "young Christian" friend has been saved for 8 years and has an extremely strong faith!
Where this verse hits me, is about passing judgment. Yes I picked up my heavy stone and was ready to hurl it at the woman. But what I shared with my friend was that we just have to remember we do not all believe things the same way, sometimes even when we are Christians, but we must lay back and not argue when we know that neither of us are going to change our minds. I told her to stand firm in what she believes, and until God changes her mind about it, stick with it. I guess you can tell that I believe the same way about the subject that she does. I have even asked God to help me in this matter. That if I am wrong about what I was sharing that He would let me know.
Today, lets think about how others feel and try not to pick up those stones and throw, when we think that we really have the right to, because we don't! Pray for them and ask God to reveal himself to them, let Him handle it, He wants us to pray for them, guide them, and leave the rest to Him!
Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters.
Wow, this hits me hard. I had a conversation with somebody who was sharing with another Christian even to the point of arguing with her and the other women even went as far as telling her she was just a young Christian, she just didn't understand. My "young Christian" friend has been saved for 8 years and has an extremely strong faith!
Where this verse hits me, is about passing judgment. Yes I picked up my heavy stone and was ready to hurl it at the woman. But what I shared with my friend was that we just have to remember we do not all believe things the same way, sometimes even when we are Christians, but we must lay back and not argue when we know that neither of us are going to change our minds. I told her to stand firm in what she believes, and until God changes her mind about it, stick with it. I guess you can tell that I believe the same way about the subject that she does. I have even asked God to help me in this matter. That if I am wrong about what I was sharing that He would let me know.
Today, lets think about how others feel and try not to pick up those stones and throw, when we think that we really have the right to, because we don't! Pray for them and ask God to reveal himself to them, let Him handle it, He wants us to pray for them, guide them, and leave the rest to Him!
March 4
1 Peter 1:14
As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.
When we think about our lives before Christ, I don't think ignorant is what first comes to mind. Can you imagine telling a lost person how ignorant they are? It truly makes sense thought, we were completely stupid. Scripture tells us not to be stupid again! How will we make sure to make wise choices? Stay in the Word, hold true to what it says. Not that He would, but don't give God the opportunity to say "Hey Stupid" to you. Seek to be pleasing to Him in all you do. Focus on Him when making decisions, ask Him what you should do, we wise!
As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.
When we think about our lives before Christ, I don't think ignorant is what first comes to mind. Can you imagine telling a lost person how ignorant they are? It truly makes sense thought, we were completely stupid. Scripture tells us not to be stupid again! How will we make sure to make wise choices? Stay in the Word, hold true to what it says. Not that He would, but don't give God the opportunity to say "Hey Stupid" to you. Seek to be pleasing to Him in all you do. Focus on Him when making decisions, ask Him what you should do, we wise!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
March 3
Nahum 2:1
An attacker advance against you, Ninevah, Guard the fortress, watch the road, brace yourselves, marshal all your strength!
This is very important for us to remember as Christians. We seem to forget that there is a battle going on against us. We must always be prepared for the attack against us and know that it is coming so it doesn't take us by surprise. Satan will do all that he can to destroy us and take our joy. We must stay focused on God! Not only do we watch for ourselves but we must pray that hedge of protection around the ones that we love, because if Satan can't get to us, he will go after the ones that we love. Don't forget that in the end we win! God is the greatest warrior that we have to fight with us in our battles. Don't forget to call upon His name; Satan cannot stand in the presence of God.
Now if you remember I told you that Tuesday is very important for us to pray, and here is why:
One of my former pastors got on a plane one day. Bro. Tim said the man beside him looked at him and ask, "Are you a preacher?". Bro. Tim said "Yes". The man said "I am too but we don't serve the same one". He then proceeded to tell him that he was Satanist. That on Tuesdays, they pray for the destruction of all Christians. And on Halloween they come together go all out in prayer against Christians and families.
So as Christians we should really be on guard and really be in prayer on Tuesday! We now know that somebody is praying against us! Oh and do you remember what day Sept. 11 was on - yes Tuesday. This was told to me years before Sept. 11.
An attacker advance against you, Ninevah, Guard the fortress, watch the road, brace yourselves, marshal all your strength!
This is very important for us to remember as Christians. We seem to forget that there is a battle going on against us. We must always be prepared for the attack against us and know that it is coming so it doesn't take us by surprise. Satan will do all that he can to destroy us and take our joy. We must stay focused on God! Not only do we watch for ourselves but we must pray that hedge of protection around the ones that we love, because if Satan can't get to us, he will go after the ones that we love. Don't forget that in the end we win! God is the greatest warrior that we have to fight with us in our battles. Don't forget to call upon His name; Satan cannot stand in the presence of God.
Now if you remember I told you that Tuesday is very important for us to pray, and here is why:
One of my former pastors got on a plane one day. Bro. Tim said the man beside him looked at him and ask, "Are you a preacher?". Bro. Tim said "Yes". The man said "I am too but we don't serve the same one". He then proceeded to tell him that he was Satanist. That on Tuesdays, they pray for the destruction of all Christians. And on Halloween they come together go all out in prayer against Christians and families.
So as Christians we should really be on guard and really be in prayer on Tuesday! We now know that somebody is praying against us! Oh and do you remember what day Sept. 11 was on - yes Tuesday. This was told to me years before Sept. 11.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
March 2
Jude 1:22
And have mercy on some, who are doubting:
Not everybody has the gift of mercy so this is something that need to be noted for those of us that don't have it. When others can't see God in the way that we do, we need to love them and pray for them instead of condemning them for not believing as we do. Even for those Christians who don't have the gift of faith, they too need love and compassion as they go through their storms. Whether somebody is a Christian or not, we need to love them where they are and encourage them, pray for them and just be a friend to them that they may see our faith, our Hope!
And have mercy on some, who are doubting:
Not everybody has the gift of mercy so this is something that need to be noted for those of us that don't have it. When others can't see God in the way that we do, we need to love them and pray for them instead of condemning them for not believing as we do. Even for those Christians who don't have the gift of faith, they too need love and compassion as they go through their storms. Whether somebody is a Christian or not, we need to love them where they are and encourage them, pray for them and just be a friend to them that they may see our faith, our Hope!
Monday, March 1, 2010
March 1
Psalm 12:6
And the words of the Lord are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times.
How wonderful to know that everything in the Bible is perfect for us. Now it may not be what we want to hear sometimes, but it is the truth. Have you seen the saying: "BIBLE - Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth"? Makes sense doesn't it. We do have instructions for living here but we must be willing to read them. Remember too that it is not pick and choose the ones that we like best. God has so many great things to share with us; take time to see what He wants to show you today. Listen for His voice in all that you do.
And the words of the Lord are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times.
How wonderful to know that everything in the Bible is perfect for us. Now it may not be what we want to hear sometimes, but it is the truth. Have you seen the saying: "BIBLE - Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth"? Makes sense doesn't it. We do have instructions for living here but we must be willing to read them. Remember too that it is not pick and choose the ones that we like best. God has so many great things to share with us; take time to see what He wants to show you today. Listen for His voice in all that you do.
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