Speak A Word
Matthew 4:4, “But he answered and said, It is written, MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDETH OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD.”
Morning friends! Today is one more day God has added to our journey and we want to be thankful that He allowed us to go into it with Him! Have you started your day with earnest prayer that will ask for guidance in all you do today? As we head out to begin today, let’s focus on how we will use our words to speak to others. Thoughts come that we need to place certain expectations on how we not only receive the words of others but also to the words we choose in response to what we hear. Billy Graham once said, “In the morning, prayer is the key that opens to us the treasures of God’s mercies and blessings; in the evening, it is the key that shuts us up under His protection and safeguard.” Speaking prayer before our day begins and at nights closing, are words we need to use with God. Words, all words, are of use, all have several meanings, all are used to communicate; whether in good or bad ways. Scriptures are the words of God, emphasizing immense power; capable of bringing life, healing or even destruction. God’s word encouraged intentional grace filled speeches; they instruct, build others up, speak truth and declare faith that reflects the true power of God. Throughout the Bible, God pressed us to use words to strengthen, encourage, give wisdom, be gracious and kind, to share His promises. His words speak to us, proving that speaking softly with kindness would work much better than angry, conflicting responses. Wise words are also used in many scriptures, saying we need to always think before speaking; and it is so true! For reasons so in-depth; our words hurt, or heal even quicker than our actions. So today, and in every day, always stop, think, focus, on whether your response is going to help or hurt. Even when correcting your child, your spouse, your mate, your friend; pause, breathe then find the words that will heal and help! As you grow in your relationship with God, allow Him to teach you how to correctly speak a word!
Scriptures:
Read: Isaiah 40:8, II Timothy 3:16-17, Hebrews 4:12, Acts 2:38-40, I Thessalonians 2:13, Psalms 103:20, Psalms 33:4, Romans 10:9, Matthew 4:4, Psalms 119:105, John 17:17, Colossians 3:16, Luke 11:28, Matthew 28:19-20, I Corinthians 2:1-5
Prayer:
Precious Lord, we come today humbly asking for your continued guidance in our daily lives. Thank you for the gift of words Lord. Thank you for your words outlined in your scriptures that show us daily how to use words to help and heal and not to hurt. Lord, please help us also to learn how to pause, think, review, then speak. Amen.
Remaining Steadfast
Philippians 1:27, “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”
Salutations dear friends! Today let’s talk about finding the meaning of remaining steadfast in our daily routines, lives, prayer time and the needed relationship with God. Every day challenges us to accept the days as they come; but we need an unwavering faith. When we start our days with prayer, we allow God to step into the framework so He can guide our routines, our steps into decision making. Each of us should move with discipline, grace, and steadfast trust in the path God has planned for us. To be steadfast is to be firm, unwavering, and resolutely loyal in faith, purpose, and character; which means a commitment to God’s teaching and guidance. Despite the trials, the successes, we must remain firmly fixed, not moving away form God’s truth, or His promises. What if today is the only day you have? What if this day will be the only day you can tell others or show others how God can bless them as He has blessed you? Are you living your life steadfast in your faith? When you are going into a store, a business, does your presence send off vibes of spiritual goodness? Even at your job or at school, are you showing, through your outward appearance that God is guiding you, protecting you; shining through in all you do, or say? Do we as children of God forget that our journey may be the only Bible many will read; our lives preach to others that God gives us steadfast, continued love? If you haven’t heard the hymn “Let others see Jesus in you”, take a few minutes to google it! This author knew that we need to show our love and trust in God just as much as we need to tell others! As you head out today on whatever your routine is, why not ask yourself if you are being the best God has made you to be! Test yourself today and see if you are steadfast in your walk. Then, as you end the day reflect on how your walk may have affected someone who entered your path; then pray asking for strength to get back to remaining steadfast in your faith!
Scriptures:
Read: I Peter 1:5-8, Colossians 1:23, I Corinthians 15:58, Galatians 6:9, James 1:12,17, Psalms 61:3, John 16:33, Ephesians 2:8, Lamentations 3:22-26, I Chronicles 16:11, Colossians 4:2, Isaiah 40:31, Psalms 32:10-11, James 5:11-12, Hebrews 4:16, II Corinthians 5:14-15, II Peter 3:8-9, I Thessalonians 5:18, Psalms 86:15, II Timothy 2:15, Philippians 4:1
Prayer:
Father, we come today being thankful that you provide us with a way to become and stay steadfast in our faith. Father, go with us today and every day; guide us, teach us, help us to not only tell others but to show them in our daily walk. Remind us Father that through you all things can be done, acquired; but that without you they are nothing. Amen.
Proven True
I John 5:20, “And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.”
Good Morning! Greetings to you all on this blessed day! We want to first thank God for just waking us up; for just proving to us He loves and protects us. For years, scholars and scientist have worked tirelessly to find ways to entice people to turn their backs on the true God. I believe everyone has been cared for and blessed by God and His loving power! Most, sadly believe they were lucky; sad because nothing is luck; it’s the will of God! The true God is real because He has revealed Himself to us in creation, in His word and in sending His son to die for our sins. James Sire quoted it as “God does not love us because we are so valuable; we are valuable because God loves us; to glorify God is not just to do so in religious worship, singing praise and enacting the traditional rites of the church. To glorify God is to reveal his character by being who we were created to be- the embodiment of the image of God in human form.” Now that is a mouthful and totally feels correct! When we open our hearts and ask God to forgive and enter into our soul; we see Him everywhere and in everything. As a believer God has proven true to His word, true to His promises; thus, we cannot find any reason for Him to not exist! Our hearts are filled with His presence along with the true promise of an eternity in His heavenly home. We as humans, believe that life is more than meets the eye; thus, just because you can’t see the one true God, He IS HERE! Through every birth, death, success, loss of success, disease or good health; God is proven true every single time, in every single moment, for every human being He created. So, today as you move to enjoy the moments, open your mind, soul and heart to the knowledge that God is proven true always and in all ways.
Scriptures:
Read: Revelation 4:11, Ephesians 2:8, John 14:6,21, Romans 1:10,18-20, I Corinthians 8:6, Hebrews 11:3,6, I John 4:8, Jeremiah 29:11-13, John 20:29, John 3:8, John 3:16-17, James 1:17, Isaiah 40:26, Proverbs 3:5-6, John 1:3, Matthew 7:7-8, Isaiah 40:28, Psalms 19:1-2, John 3:5, Jeremiah 32:17, I Thessalonians 1:9, Ecclesiastes 3:11, I Timothy 1:17, Mark 16:15-16
Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for being the creator of all things. Thank you for giving every one of us life, and being the true one God. Help us God to see you with our whole being; see you with more than our eyes. Guide us daily to show others that you are the true proven God. Amen.
Faithful Promises
II Peter 1:4, “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is I the world through lust.”
Hello friends! Happy morning time! Today we are looking toward all positive feelings and becoming very thankful for all the faithful promises that have fulfilled our journeys. We know without doubt, that God began with a promise and kept that promise along with many others to the people He created and loved. Deuteronomy 31:6, “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee”, shows the promises began early. He established a promise of guarding each of us against the evil one. His promise of a steadfast love that will never end; giving us strength in times of trouble and in peace. He continually promises to fill our hearts with joy, peace, and a personable relationship and answers to our prayers. Throughout the Bible time and time again, not one promise was ever broken. And again, let us remember that every day of our lives is not going to be a bed of roses! He didn’t promise that life would be perfect, without any obstacles. He did promise that no matter what comes into our path during life’s journey, He would never leave us or forsake us! When we trust in His faithfulness we become unshakable, stronger, hopeful; giving Him the glory in all things. When we worship and thank Him in the good times we are admonishing to Him that we are His; full of trust and honor. Our true faith and trust come when we praise Him in the bad times, the down times; those times when we doubt and wonder if He hears us! When we praise Him in the storms of life we are showing our deep continued faith that He alone carries all our burdens and is willing to stay beside us, guiding us to the good times. When reading the Bible, we find story after story of real people who placed trust in His faithful promises. They endured the same troubles, the same heartaches, the same broken spirits; yet they believed in the promises. Their constant faith led them to a home in eternity with the one constant, Jesus. So today, take time to pray, to listen, to accept His unending love. Today and every day strive to trust Him more and know in your hearts that He is the one with all the faithful promises!
Scriptures:
Read: Deuteronomy 7:9, Isaiah 41:10, Isaiah 26:3-4, Deuteronomy 31:6, John 16:33, Psalms 32:8, Psalms 37:4,23-24, Matthew 11:28-30, II Corinthians 12:9-10, II Corinthians 1:20, Philippians 4:19, Jeremiah 29:11, II Peter 1:3-8, I John 1:9, Isaiah 43:2, Joshua 23:14, II Corinthians 7:1, Joshua 1:9, John 11:25-26, II Peter 3:13, I John 2:25, Matthew 6:33
Prayer:
Lord, today we come to you accepting your guidance, your understanding; but most of all your promises. Thank you, Lord, for your never-ending love and commitment to us, though we doubt and falter along the path you laid out. Help us today and always to trust in you, be faithful to you, accept your plans. Guide us to be more like you daily and to spread that same love to an evil world so that they too can find your promises. Amen.
Filling Up The Empty
Romans 15:13, “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.”
Salutations friends! Thankful for the opportunity to see another day. Today we want to look at the empty parts of our lives and how we can fill any voids with God’s never-ending love. So many people let negative thoughts and actions empty our lives of anything that feels positive. In today’s world, we are bombarded with false philosophies, false religions, false ministers; all of which create worldly, evil voids inside us. Even new believers and born-again Christians find themselves filling their thoughts and lives with doubts which lead to sad lives with unanswered questions. At this point, we all need to start to open up our hearts to humble consistent prayer; begin that personal relationship with God again. Our thoughts should cultivate with Bible reading and meditation; then worshiping. Stop listening to the negative and hear God speaking to you so you can get back to walking in obedience, recognizing how God has always been right there. We must empty our hearts, souls and minds of distractions, anxieties; anything that is worldly and evil. In doing this, we can again feel His presence, His love, His provisions; then be filled with positive, joyful, spiritual fullness! When we open back up to His promises we can allow Him to once again supply all our needs; thus, chasing away those feelings of emptiness. When we regain that relationship, we gain that faith and trust we have always had; emptying of the negative and replenishing with comfort, satisfaction, peace. Once we have pushed aside that evil we can surrender whole heartedly to His mercy, grace and guidance. At the moment we realize that the hunger and thirst we tried to fill with evil pleasures, fame, money, false teachings, false ministers, etc., wasn’t filling that void, our lives do a complete turnaround! Remembering why Christ came into this world is the breaking point! Knowing He is the only way back to a positive life will become a need you will constantly be working toward. So today, if you have doubts or feel you are losing your faith; stop, pray, then make the necessary changes to positive choices, actions, interactions. Become grounded in reading God’s word, talking with reliable Christians that will pray with you and for you! Start today and begin filling up that empty with God again!
Scriptures:
Read: Romans 15:13, Ephesians 3:16-19, Colossians 1:9, Psalms 16:5, Acts 4:31, John 6:35, Psalms 116:13, John 4:14, Ephesians 3:16-21, Psalms 119:47, Ephesians 6:18, Acts 13:52, Galatians 5:26, John 14:26, Romans 8:26
Prayer:
Precious Heavenly Father, we come to you empty today but more than willing to ask for forgiveness for letting the world pull us back into the void. Father, please provide us with the strength we need to realize that we need to come back to you, accept your mercy and grace; to willingly open our hearts again to letting you fill us again with your presence. Amen.
Let the Son Shine In
Ephesians 5:8, “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light.”
Good Morning! Hello to everyone that has realized God has blessed you with another day! My first question to you is, how is the sun shining in your life? Have you awoken to the light of the sun beaming through the windows, the trees; the light overtaking the dark slowly but surely all around? Are we really comprehending how the light is the only thing that can overcome the darkness? The writers in the Bible spoke of true light, being the light, and how the light of the world can be in us daily. God created light to overshadow any darkness. I believe that again, He placed the moon and stars into the night sky to show their brilliance and how even in the dark, we can find the light! My thoughts for you today is to see how God’s light can dwell with you at all times. When you let negative thoughts bring dark, sad, or gloomy feelings that begin to cloud over your day; we have forgotten who provides the light we need. Many times, we allow this world of negative evil to bring about dark, disorienting experiences in our daily lives. And without knowing or realizing those dark feelings pass on to anyone in our lives we come in contact with! Thus, now we have created a domino effect that starts pushing out positivity pushing us into darkness. My question now is, how can you not feel the light of God within you; telling and showing how His light can lead you through any darkness you will encounter? We were called to spread the great commission of reaching all people with the light so they can experience the true light! We were taught songs like “This little light of mine” or “Rise and Shine, give God the glory”, which all tell us to not hide the light! Jesus became the light that dawns within us all! So today, I would like you to find the true light you are given that will fill you, provide positivity, and push you to reflect a light that others will desire to have! Reach deep and stop being complacent, stop being insecure, and let your light shine! Your transformation with the positive light will give you strength to let the SON shine!
Scriptures:
Read: Genesis 1:3-4, I Peter 2:9, Daniel 12:3, Psalms 112:4, Philippians 2:15, Ephesians 5:8,14, II Corinthians 4:6, Matthew 13:43, I John 1:5-7, John 1:3-9, Psalms 56:13, Psalms 18:28, John 12:35-36, Psalms 57:5
Prayer:
Dear Lord, we want to thank you deeply for the gift of light, Jesus Christ. Thank you for your creation of the true light that illuminates everything and everyone. Thank you for the sun that lights the world around us, but most importantly, your Son that shines through all darkness. Amen.
Breathe In, Breathe Out
II Corinthians 4:16, “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.”
Hello again dear friends! Blessings to you and yours on this new day and all the opportunities that lay before each of us! Today we want to speak about the breathing in and out of Jesus. So many times, when we are in the midst of anxiety, fear, overexcitement; we are told to just breathe! Breathe in air slow and easy and to then breathe out slowly so your body may become more relaxed. Kind of ironic that God began human life breathing into Adam’s nostrils. Then God brought a vision to Ezekiel of how He could bring dry bones to life with His breath! (Ezekiel 37) That breathing of life into bones signified God’s power to revive and restore, no matter the situation. Then we move forward to when Jesus was with the disciples after He rose, John 20:21-23, He breathed the Holy Ghost upon each of them! This is the moment they received the job of taking the good news in all the world. So, our breath is vital in all aspects of living! From the moment we are formed, we are given breath to live. In daily life, again, we have to have breath to function and sustain being. Each day we are given a fresh, renewed breath of day to absorb God’s tender mercy and grace! From our inner being to our outer being; we breathe in God to ignite in us a clean spirit; the nourishment of His power of divine life. As we breathe in the Lord as the Holy breath, we are His, we cling to Him, we take in everything He offers; then we live because of Him! He provided the Bible just so we could refresh and renew daily; receiving encouragement, strength and guidance. The pages hold a breath of fresh air that with every word whether in parables or true-life situations, God showed how His power can change and provide through every moment. His words offer us spiritual comfort, encouragement, deep and peaceful breathing for healing. He becomes our presence of restoration, and trust to a great power which helps us let go of fear, control and resistance. Our breath becomes prayer in every spoken word. So, the next time the devil causes you to become filled with doubt, anxiety, even anger, remember to breathe in and breathe out, while asking God to fill you with His presence!
Scriptures:
Read: Philippians 4:13, Psalms 4:1, I John 5:19-20, Proverbs 3:5-6, Matthew 6:33-34, Isaiah 50:4,7, I John 1:5, Romans 8:18, Revelation 21:4, I Corinthians 10:13, I Peter 4:19, I Peter 5:7,10, II Corinthians 12:9, II Corinthians 4:16-18, James 1:2-3, Job 33:4
Prayer:
Dear God, we come now thanking you for the breath of life you provided us. We thank you for giving us the Bible that guides us and provides an avenue of peace and understanding. Dear God, please continue to breathe your presence into our souls. Please God, help us to trust you with all things along our journey. Help us God to share with others how blessed they can be also, so they too can breathe in your breath of life. Amen.
Across the Silence
I Peter 2:15, “For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.” ESV
Greetings friends! It is another day to be thankful and grateful that God allowed us to awake, to be alive in this moment. In today’s society Christians are told to be silent about God. So many evil things try to put the love of God under a cover like a lid! But God needs each of us to be that voice across the silence; to stand strong together to put an end to this negative world. In His word he had several writers tell the rules for bringing about goodness to a world lost. Peter spelled out how we are to follow laws and choose good leaders to bring about good things. He also told us that pursuing goodness would silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. God has a plan for all our good choices that will shut up those that are prejudiced against our spreading the good news of Christ. Our faith has lived throughout history and the devil has fought to stop the gospel by every means. God tells us that if we continue to do His will, those that seek to destroy by words or false narratives will eventually see the truth. When we continue doing good works, following Christ lead; those foolish people will be silenced. Peter also told us that when we live our lives showing integrity, kindness, while enduring evil treatment, people will see the goodness of God. This is why we must not listen to the platforms that bring negative issues, words, fake news. We need to be a united Christian family that shows the world God’s message. When we live, despite the harsh persecution, we send the message of resilience. When the evil naysayers see our courage they become silenced, speechless and see the visible goodness of God cannot be stopped. God has a plan, always had our journey created. He already knows the ending; His promises are being fulfilled; the end game is near. We as His body of believers need to keep being positive even in the negative; refuting the devil in every moment! Take today as your first, but never your last day, to keep doing His will and speak out across the silence!
Scriptures:
Read: Eph.6:19-20, Rom.1:16, Mark16:15, I Peter3:15-17, Isa.62:6-7, Acts18:9-11, Ecc.3:7, Ps.46:10, Prov.10:20-21, I Pet.2:15-16, Is.41:1,10-11, Prov31:8-9, Col.4:6, Rev.12:11, Ps.19:14, Jos1:9
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come now to thank you for giving us the means by which we can continue the journey in spreading the gospel. We, Father, ask for the courage, strength, that will give us the words to share that will change those that are fighting against salvation and the promises you gave. Help us Lord to speak your truths to a lost world so they will in turn have life eternal in heaven. Amen.
Say The Word
Hebrews 4:12, “For the word of God is quick and powerful, and sharper than a twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Morning. Let’s welcome the blessing of a new day. Have we already made a game plan on how our day is going to proceed? Have our minds found quiet time with God this morning to bring His presence within our hearts and thoughts? I believe that when we bring it to Him, and call on His name, our days will be better than expected! When we place all the worry, concern, doubts into His hands the day will be lighter and fuller with His blessings. This brings me to the title of our devotional today! Saying the word can have several different meanings. Truth is, our words can be used as a teaching tool, they can be used as a writing tool, some as a training tool, many as healing and comfort. Our minds should never bring negative words into any conversations, writing, or especially our thoughts. When we empower the devil by conforming to his tactics of negative hurtful words, we have discarded God’s guidance. Sure, you can find negative stories or lives in His word; but did you not read the positive outcomes? Did you not read the care, concern, grace, mercy, faith, love that was always present? Daily we are tasked with the choice of negative or positive thoughts and actions; a choice; that moment when we should pause, think, pray before we react. This reminds me of that youth pastor who created the WWJD bracelets, originally a quote from Charles Spurgeon’s book. The context of “what would Jesus do”, empowered young people to speak on faith using words to proclaim God’s words! So, when you are making decisions, talking with others; are you using the words that truly bring positivity to that moment? The most important moments are those that you will pause, think then react with the right words. It is easy to just speak words, but it is necessary to everyone that we say the right words. Remember that insignificant words can harm a person’s life in seconds, though you didn’t realize. Our tongue can be savage; harmful if not used correctly. Be consistent in your prayers to ask God to give you the right words, the true testimony to our faith. We must not let the heart give in to negative; our mouth speaks what we feel in our hearts! Work today toward learning how to control the heart and to not say the wrong words! Trust God to give you the right words!
Scriptures:
Read: John 1:1, Matthew 4:4, Psalms 119:105, Proverbs 18:10, II Timothy 3:16-17, Matthew 24:35, Colossians 3:16, Isaiah 40:8, I Thessalonians 2:13, Ephesians 6:17, James 1:19-26, Proverbs 18:6-7, Colossians 4:6, Ephesians 4:22-24, 29, Proverbs 15:1-2,4, Matthew 15:10-11, Proverbs 21:23, Psalms 141:3, Psalms 119:171-176
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, today we come to you asking first for forgiveness for any words we may have shared that could have caused harm to someone else. Father, please continue to guide us, teach us with your words. Help us Father to acknowledge that we can find positive words by pausing, praying and trusting in the strength you can provide. Amen.
Less Alone
Isaiah 41:10, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
Salutations my friends! This day has begun and as we begin, let us be thankful of all God has provided, whether family, jobs, education, food and water, etc. May we take today as a blessing and that whatever we experience in this day may we accept it and thrive positively. Though we cannot expect every single day to be joyful, full of promise or not have a few negatives thrown in; we must realize that we are never alone as we continue through it. As Noah heard the rain begin and that ark rise, he knew God was there. Moses went before Pharaoh to ask for his people, he knew God was beside him. Ruth knew the God of her mother-in-law was real so she followed Him, trusting His voice. When Daniel was tossed into that lion’s den, he believed God was with him and He was. When David was in that cave feeling depressed, God was there. As Esther helped to save her people, she trusted God to be there; He was. As Mary took on the task God gave her, she believed God would be with her; He was. When Jesus went to that garden and cried out; His father was with him. As we ponder on others we have read about, studied, watched in real life; did we not see that God was there? Though Thomas doubted until he touched the hands of Jesus; we can only believe that he knew God was everywhere, that Jesus’ death was for a purpose. Sometimes we allow doubt and negative thoughts to steal that heartfelt knowledge that God is always there! Taking time to admonish the words of God by searching His word, we can find truth and solace reminding us He never leaves us. Even when human failings come into our journey; we must not lose sight of the one constant; God. Though God designed humans to have relationships to avoid being alone; He also helps us to know that those relationships can falter. For our protection in those times; He provides the relationship that leaves you less alone! When others fail, He will not! So today, trust Him to help you feel less alone in whatever today brings so that you can be joyful throughout the day!
Scriptures:
Read: Deuteronomy 31:6, John 14:18,26-27, Proverbs 3:5-6, Romans 8:37-39, Psalms 23:4, Psalms 48:14, I Samuel 12:22, II Timothy 4:17-18, John 16:32-33, Hebrews 13:5, Psalms 73:23-28, Lamentations 3:22-25, Psalms 25:14-18
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come today realizing that we have faltered in the understanding of how much time you have given us. Please Father, continue to go with us each day showing us how we need only to call out your name in times when we become overwhelmed with the negative thoughts of being alone. Show us Father that you are only a prayer away. Father we ask that you also place within us a giving heart that we might show others that they too are not alone in any situation. Amen.
Feeling Unknown
Isaiah 43:7, “Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.”
Hello again. Praying that today you have already made the decision to look forward and have feelings of positivity in every moment. Today I would like to dive into the feelings of being unknown! In the age of electronics and social media, every person has one or more of the social apps that have lured them into “becoming” someone. But in reality, have you really touched on who you are? Are you sending a message of positivity, of Christ-like imagery, of wholesome goodness? When you display yourself in showing your abilities, are you also sharing how God gave you that talent, how He provided the means in which you are able to share, how by His grace you can do those things? Today, people of all ages feel unseen, misunderstood, and disconnected to everyone around them. They have a low self-worth not just because they are shy and timid, but because a more popular person plays off their weakness. My real reasoning for today’s post is to help yourself by helping others. Maybe today when you post try to acknowledge another’s feelings, maybe encourage someone outside your circle, for positive things they can do. Let us be more mindful of supporting someone who needs a little assistance with building self-trust. Allow God to be involved in your responses, your creative choices. Call out encouragement as you walk past someone, a stranger maybe! Try putting on the hat that the shy person wears and put yourself into their life! Look at others with respect and understanding. We are all God’s children and to follow His teachings, His laws, His direction; we can become seen in a better light! For those who are the “unknown”, I am praying for you to accept courage, strength; and that you allow God to help you to become seen in His way. With God all things are possible, and you are not unknown; He sees you, is with you and He can help you!
Scriptures:
Read: Ps.139:1-4, Joshua 1:9, Phil.4:6-7,13, Heb.10:35-36, Ps.46:1-3, Jer.29:11, I Sam.16:7, Ps.139:13-16, I John3:18-24, Jer.1:5, Is.43:1-2, Isa.41:10, Prov.3:5-6, I Peter 5:7, Rom. 8:28, John14:27, Matt.6:25-34
Prayer:
Dear God in heaven, we humbly come today asking you to allow your Holy Spirit to engulf our every word when we are broadcasting anything. God, we seek you in all things and when we stray and forget, please God come down into our hearts and remind us of where we once were and whom has given us all things. God, we ask that you please bring peace, understanding, courage, and strength into the hearts of those who are feeling unknown. God help them to know they are always known and loved by you. Help us God to bring you back to placing you into our words, actions and deeds as we share so that you are honored. Amen.
Rise Again
Micah 7:8, “Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise: when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me.”
Good morning! I am sending good vibes to you on this day; whether the weather is good or bad; the day can hold positivity if we only speak it! If you are finding yourself struggling; stop, take a deep breath, then find your prayer spot and call on the Father who is ready and willing to come meet you in your time of need. This is a day to work your way to happiness. Maybe you have let every day trials gain control and push in negative feelings and emotions. Now is the time to rise up against whatever the devil is throwing in your direction and claim your life back! God never promised that life would be a piece of cake; but He did say that He would always be there to get us through every obstacle the devil pushes into our path! Today I came to remember a song from my childhood that was a constant; one that I as well as friends would perform at church. The words spoke volumes as the writer talked as if he were Jesus telling the world that no matter what, He would rise again! Through every trial, obstacle; Jesus rose and continued speaking the gospel; He never gave in. When He was battered, mocked, hung on a cross, His message was the same. He knew that following God was the only true way to get to eternity and we needed to keep pushing to reach that same goal! He sacrificed so we might live! When we are troubled, seek God; then we rise. If the world pushes us to fail; seek God; then we rise again. No matter the situation; whether bullying, mocking intelligence, ridicule of our social class, (low, middle, upper monetary means) degrading our educational background; we can rise again. The true way to overcome is to put our trust in God at all times! By having faith in Him, and following His instruction, we can truly rise again! Take time today to pray for those who work to bring you down. Then let God have the authority over your life to help lead you on your positive journey to keep on rising!
Scriptures:
Read: John 14:1-3, Proverbs 24:16, Ephesians 5:14-15, II Corinthians 4:8-10, Psalms 34:4, Matthew 16:24-26, Luke 9:23-25, Philippians 1:6-7, Psalms 34:19, Hebrews 10:34-37, I Corinthians 16:13-14, Philippians 1:20-21, Isaiah 55:6-9, II Timothy 1:7-12, Hebrews 2:14-18, Micah 7:7-9
Prayer:
Father today we come to you asking that you continue your guidance in our lives. Father, please keep pushing us toward that heavenly home with you. Help us Father to know that even when we feel defeated we can know that calling on you will raise us up again.
You Will Be Found
John 4:23, “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.”
Salutations friends! How are we accepting this new day? Are we heading into the daily routines with gladness and positivity? Have we decided to carry joy and elation into the day so it rubs off onto anyone we come in contact with? Today as we walk through every moment can we start searching for God’s guidance. Many days we fail to believe God is in those moments when we simply lose sight of all that is right and just; all grace that God gave us. Suddenly we have let the bad and ugly over take the good in our day. This again, is where the devil sneaks in; crowding our thoughts and telling us we are too far away from God’s presence; that we cannot find our way back. Oh that the power of the Holy Ghost would just reach down in those moments to fill us with His presence; leaving no room inside for anything except Him! Open your eyes in those few moments and seek His peace; seek His strength; seek His mercy! Jesus said the shepherd will leave the ninety-nine and diligently search for that one lost sheep. (Matthew 18:12-14) God doesn’t forsake his followers; nor does He leave us alone. Within our minds, in times of troubles, uncertainty, fear; we feel alone and helpless. What we need to remember when those times come and the devil starts his tactics, is that God is already there; He has been there. He is waiting on us to call out, to reach out in prayer and supplication; with humility and sincere acceptance that He wants only for us to ask. When Adam and Eve sinned, they hid, ashamed, full of fear and regret. Yet, God knew what happened, He knew their hearts, but He searched the garden for them. Even in the midst of sin, going astray, or making wrong choices; God is there watching and waiting. To those who are unsaved, He is still there waiting and watching. He already knows your heart; He knows you can be found. So today let’s stop the hiding and reach an understanding that we are not alone and we can be found! All we have to do is open up our hearts and ask Him to come in! Will you take time to be found today?
Scriptures:
Read: I Chronicles 22:18-19, Psalms 14:2, Jeremiah 17:10, Psalms 139:23-24, Isaiah 55:6-7, II Chronicles 15:2, Luke 19:10, Jeremiah 29:11-13, Luke 15:4-7, Romans 8:18, Matthew 19:26, Ephesians 2:4-6, James 4:7-8, Proverbs 8:17
Prayer:
Dear God in heaven, we come today asking for reassurance of your grace and mercy. We want to be found when we get lost in the trials of this life. Please God, continue to lead us toward the right paths and daily give us the strength to put our total trust in you alone! Dear God, remind us that no matter how far away we feel, all we have to do is call on you and we can be found! Amen.
Crashing Through
Romans 8:18, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
Greetings friends! Are we ready to face this day and take positive vibes throughout every moment of it? Have we already called on God in prayer to carry us through even the smallest of details and guide us with each step we take? Today let’s look at ways God can provide strength within as well as on the outside. Some of us just have that negative spirit when we wake; you know the one that says, just stay in bed, just call in sick, just don’t show up. When life threw that negative obstacle in your path the day before, did you just let it sit and grow; fester inside; gain control? At this time, you gave that negative thought or action the ability to weaken your faith, and drain your vitality! You knew you shouldn’t yet you let satan take hold of that thing and cause it to grow! We all do it; but; we have to take the time to pray about it; sometimes call on Jesus right when it happens, asking Him to come now! As we pray about those obstacles we must not ask “why God”; but ask how can I, with your help, get through this? For every negative obstacle or thought, God has five to ten positive ones; and so do you! Our attitudes when we are faced with negative should be joyful even in the midst of controversy! Positive vibes encourage us to be kind, compassionate and especially forgiving. Our thoughts should go quickly to how God forgives us! When you draw from that inner state of happiness that God placed, you weaken the negative and allow God to enter with divine protection. You have now given satan a consequence he cannot overcome and pushed him to the curb! Try showing empathy and grace in those negative situations and watch God work! Inner happiness, joy acts like a medicine or energy booster; giving you strength from within to stop that crashing moment! By working at modeling Jesus’ behavior in negative situations you have allowed God to work! So get going! Take today accepting deliverance, and resilience when life appears to collapse and produce that cushion that comforts the crashing through!
Scriptures:
Read: Romans 8:28, Deuteronomy 31:8, Isaiah 43:2, Psalms 91:1-2, John 3:16, Proverbs 3:5-6, Psalms 43:5, Psalms 34:17, Isaiah 41:10, Psalms 46:1-3, I John 5:5, I John 1:9, John 14:27, Philippians 4:6-7, Psalms 18:28-30, II Corinthians 4:6-9
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come today asking for forgiveness for not relying on you completely; for not having enough faith again to know you are ever present in times of need. Father, we ask again for you to enter into our souls and place comfort, strength, and compassion. Father, we come not to ask why but to ask how may we solve the conflicts, the negativity. Please Father, continue to show us forgiveness and remind us to model after your son’s life. Help us to push out the devil and only seek your guidance! Amen.
Someone Will Come Running
Proverbs 18:10, “The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.”
Good Morning! I pray this is finding you in good spirits and that today you are finding positivity already in the hectic morning routines as your day begins! True, only morning people are exhilarated about rising and shining, but can we just pretend or join them today? During our lives we as Christians always look back at the stories we were taught in the Bible. When I am reminded of them, I keep asking myself how could they NOT believe? God showed them in person time and time again! The ones that stand out the most are the ones where someone was given a task/job and God said complete it; I’ll be right there with you. But every time, that chosen person chose to either reject, to run, to turn away, to just go another path. Each time God had to chastise, reprimand, scold; but teach them all that He knows what needs to be done. He gave instructions and simply ask you to continue so that His work would be done. In their eyes, I am sure they thought they were simply not the man/woman for the job; their experience wasn’t enough; or even, maybe they didn’t believe they could accomplish that task. A few believed they could do their own thing without consequences. Today many of us have those same feelings of inadequacy; that fear of failure; and the lack of faith that we cannot run to the one who is in control. As children, we find solace in the arms of parents, grandparents; we know their arms are open. As teens and young adults, we know who to come running to, but… we become afraid that there won’t be acceptance or understanding. We, many times, forget that a loving, giving, faithful God was always right beside us. Though we may not listen to earthly family, friends; God sees you, hears you. If we don’t ask if we can come to family, friends; how will we know? If we don’t ask God, how will our trust, faith and love grow for Him? The prodigal son came running back prepared to be scorned, rebuked and cast out; BUT by the grace of God; his father welcomed him! So today if you feel too far away, or you messed up the task, or you are letting fear control; stop, take a moment to pray! Someone is waiting for you to come running, just ask!
Scriptures:
Read: Exodus 14:14, I Corinthians 9:23-26, Psalms 121:1-8, Hebrews 12:1-2, Romans 5:1-5, Psalms 46:1, Isaiah 40:31, Matthew 24:13, II Timothy 4:7-8, Galatians 5:7,16, 25, Psalms 119:32-35, Romans 8:24-28, Philippians 3:12-15, Joel 2:7-8,12-13, Isaiah 41:10, Philippians 2:16
Prayer:
Precious Lord, we come to you, running to you, with open arms in need of your embrace to comfort our hearts. Lord, we ask that you help us to see that you are always right beside us, whether in good times or bad. Please Lord, choose us, then teach us to accept the task you lay before us knowing you have the instructions we need to accomplish all things. Lord please remind us daily that we can run to you with everything. Amen.
Reach Out Your Hand
Ephesians 1:4, “According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love.”
Hello again my friends! Are we basking in the fact that our God has given us a new and glorious morning in which we can be blessed? What if we just think positive and start our prayer this morning with just thank you Lord! My thoughts today are that we as a people seem to never reach out any more. There are many of us who are taught to do it yourself, find your own way, suck it up and press on. I am all for that, but in truth there are times that each one of us needs that hand to pull us back from adversity, push us out of the way of danger, snatch us awake to see that it is okay to accept help. Reaching out in acceptance of help is not making us seem needy or inferior or less than able. When we need God, all we have to do is call on Him. In the quiet of our prayer closet, in route to work/school, on our knees at the church altar, maybe sitting quietly on a park bench; the place doesn’t matter. God is already where you are and He is always ready and willing to give you support; even if He sends you another person at that moment; He has provided part of the answer! Every day we are asked to reach out to others, to deliver advice or opinions, to share the love of God. Those moments of just being there at the time someone else has a need; it may just be God sending you to be that person who accepts the hand that needs reaching. God uses you as a helping hand many times when you had no idea someone was asking. Our same God can help you to realize you may not can do a certain task without a little assistance. But also, do not take advantage of helping hands. This means be humble and grateful in the accepting, but don’t use that hand as an everyday “hand out”! When you are truly in need, God will provide that angel in disguise to show up just in time! He will also give you the strength to say okay, I do need to accept the help. While you are in need, try reaching out your hand to someone in need also; the benefits will bring an unexplainable joy to your heart!
Scriptures:
Read: John 15:16, Galatians 6:2, John 3:16-17, I Peter 2:9, Hebrews 13:16, Romans 5:8, I John 3:1, Proverbs 19:17, Acts 20:35, John 6:44, Jeremiah 1:5, Hebrews 11:6, Matthew 5:16, II Thessalonians 2:13, I Peter 5:5-11, John 14:1, Jeremiah 29:11-13, Ephesians 5:17, Jeremiah 31:3
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come today just in awe of how easy it is to just ask; to believe in the answers you provide. Thank you, Father for providing that bond of a heavenly relationship with you; to trust and have faith that all answers come from you. Father take this day to show us how reaching out to others can change how we reach out to you. Please Father continue to guide us through each day helping us to reach for you; then accept the helping hands here; then to extend our own hands to others. Amen.
The Lamb
Revelation 17:14, “These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.”
Greetings! Good morning to all and may today be blessed in every way! The Easter season is upon us and everywhere we see celebrations of colors, flowers, dresses, suits, shoes and bonnets! Though we have passed traditions down through the ages, their meanings have been lost within those symbols of Christ death and resurrection. The Old Testament had sacrifices of the first-born lamb, the symbol of the coming Christ who would eventually give his life as a sacrifice for the world’s sins. A pure, spotless, lamb; just like Christ. There is nothing typically wrong with celebrating traditions as long as you don’t forget the real reason behind the season. The message of the cross is the most powerful. In I Corinthians 1:18, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” The devil doesn’t want the unsaved to know that Jesus gave His life for them; to cleanse them of their sins and deliver them to heaven instead of hell! We must remember to celebrate the stone was rolled away, Jesus rose again; defeating death, the grave, the devil! He endured suffering just for each of us so we would one day join Him in heaven! So, this season as you and your family adorn yourselves, head to worship service; take time to show thanks to God for the greatest gift ever given! Show true appreciation for the resurrected Christ who gave that great gift just for you! The season truly is about the Lamb!
Scriptures:
Read: Isaiah 53:3-11, John 1:29,36, I Peter 1:18-19, Isaiah 53:7, Revelation 13:8, I Corinthians 5:7, Revelation 12:11, Revelation 5:12, Revelation 22:3, Revelation 21:23, Revelation 7:17, Acts 8:32, Revelation 21:27, Revelation 17:14, Isaiah 9:6
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come now humbly celebrating the death and resurrection of your son. Thank you, Father, for granting us grace and mercy. Thank you, Lord, for giving the greatest gift so that we would not have to suffer the same fate as your son. Lord please help us to celebrate you first and then traditions. Help us Lord to pass down the true meaning of Easter to our families so they too can celebrate you from now until forever. Amen.
Easter Expectations
Philippians 1:20, “According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.”
Morning dear friends! This season of Easter blessings must be placed in daily positive emotions and actions! Let us find inside ourselves a feeling of gratitude for all things we have acquired, accomplished and future blessings that God has in store for each one of us! What are our expectations about this season of Christ suffering, His death, and the ultimate gift of resurrection? Do we just pass the time living in denial of how His death gave way to victory for each and every one of us? Have we finally pushed ourselves to accept His offer for eternal life so we can now take our Christianity to higher levels? Challenging ourselves to a happier more abundant life doesn’t mean it happens overnight! Each day is another step on our journey to better lives. We must now take time to understand what a powerful gift has been given to us. Each of us must now expect a newness of life that was really never imagined! C.S. Lewis explained how it changed his life when he said, “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen, not only because I see it, but because by it, I see everything else!” Powerful words to describe how the light of the sun illuminates everything so we can see God’s creation; the good and the bad. Also, that though we may not see God, He is still there, guiding our paths. Our expectations should be that “seeing isn’t believing, believing is seeing”; for many saw Jesus, His ministry, His death and His resurrection, but still didn’t believe. His own disciples; though with Him daily, hid in fear, did not fully understand; until AFTER He appeared back in their presence! It’s sad that they were near Jesus, saw Him, experienced His miracles, yet their expectations were not of God. We must accept with the heart and soul that God is real and His love for us can transform our lives with great expectations. It truly means Easter is not about the bunny, but the Lamb of God! Today, let’s have expectations of the real meaning of Easter!
Scriptures:
Read: Isaiah 53:3-12, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 8:31, Isaiah 40:3-5, Malachi 3:1, John 11:25-26, II Corinthians 10:14-18, Philippians 1:20-21, Hebrews 3:14, Philippians 3:20-21, Psalms 62:5-8, Jeremiah 29:11, Proverbs 23:18, Philippians 4:6, Micah 6:8, II Corinthians 9:8
Prayer:
Father, we come to you accepting your offer to save our souls, and to provide us with great expectations of what our heavenly home will be like! Thank you, Lord for providing us with your son, who gave His life to save ours. Help us Lord today and daily to follow your guidelines to assure us of all your promises. Amen.
Life Without Futility-Uselessness
Ephesians 1: 18, “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people.” ESV
Good morning! How are we this fine new day? Are we putting one foot in front of the other and pushing toward the positive? Are we still hanging on to the precept that we are useless? Every person was created by God with individual abilities. Even as children, we all have the want of being needed. But there are people who cannot show outward emotion that will help that feeling to subside. And there are people who dole out hands on emotions that for some, are smothering! People with the advantage of having both these types of people in their lives are blessed. As we mature and grow physically, mentally; we need to acquire knowledge that will aid us in dealing with the feeling of being useless. Truth is, we are all needed, but we may never see the actual need through our eyes but only in our hearts. Learning to accept that people don’t always show they need us is definitely a trying endeavor! Your ability to give of your time simple as it may seem, is recognized often, yet not verbalized or shared. In God’s eyes, we are needed daily to fulfill His needs in being His called disciples. Whether we preach, teach, advise, volunteer; we need to share the love of God. We need to live our lives so that others see how happy and blessed one can be when needed by God! We must think positive about family who cannot and will not show their need for us! And yes, they will notice when you aren’t there! Though the world can’t see our worth, God can! God shows his need for you with grace, mercy, blessings and fulfilled promises. His word can help encourage your mind to see your worth! Moses thought he couldn’t lead, Noah thought he couldn’t build a boat, David thought he couldn’t be king, Mary thought she couldn’t birth a savior! The list is endless of those who only thought they were useless! Start today knowing that you are needed, by someone, somewhere; who just doesn’t know YET how you can be useful!
Scriptures:
Read: I Corinthians 12:8-14, Romans 8:28, Romans 3:22-24, Ephesians 2:8-10, Matthew 19:26, II Timothy 2:15, Ephesians 5:1-2, 8, Ephesians 1:5,11, 18, Genesis 1:26, Jeremiah 29:11, Luke 12:6-7, I Samuel 16:7, I Peter 3:3-4, Joshua 1:9, Ephesians 4:15, Psalms 139:13, II Corinthians 5:17, I Peter 2:9, Jeremiah 17:7, Isaiah 41:10
Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for accepting us, each with different abilities. Thank you, God, for allowing us to have your word to help us realize our value to you, so we can share your saving power with others. God, please continue to help us succeed without thoughts of others opinions; with only positive thoughts of how much you need us. Help us God each day to grow in our usefulness by learning of our worth! Amen.
Life, Death, Resurrection
John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Morning friends! Greetings to you this the day that the Lord made! May we know that above all else you are here with us in every moment. Jesus’ life was like no other; raised as a boy, taught to be a carpenter, yet he taught God’s word in the temple at age 12! He told his parents he needed to be about His father’s business; already on a path recognized only by himself and God. His parents knew He would become the man God called him to be, though painful it would also be. In only three years, He fulfilled the prophesy by going, teaching, preaching just as it was told. He lived a sinless life to lead by example; calling those few disciples from their regular lives into a journey of Godly knowledge. Though they followed and learned; they would then deny, hide and be filled with fear. Their fear led them to where Christ would appear to them again! They knew, yet they couldn’t fully understand until they saw with their own eyes! In the world, we find we cannot truly believe until we see it; but true believing is knowing faithfully that we can see, hear and understand with our hearts. We don’t have to see God to know He is there, but because we believe, He will provide our needs. Jesus told his disciple, the one that people say doubted, in John 20:29, “…Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” I don’t believe he doubted, I believe he grieved deeply and he actually didn’t want to hurt more if the Master didn’t show up again. He was passionate, understanding the true purpose of Jesus’ death, finally, wholeheartedly. Know that Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection serve a deep spiritual purpose; they give us hope in a hopeless world, faith in a faithless world, love in a loveless world, and an eternal home one day with God. Imagine a world where everyone loved everyone; a world of peace, tranquility. Live each day as if the next day, and the next, etc., leads you to a home in heaven.
Scriptures:
Read: Isaiah 53:3-11, Acts 1:11, John 11:25-26, Revelation 21:4, Lamentations 3:32, Psalms 147:3, I Corinthians 15:42-44, Psalms 49:15, John 14:1-3, I Corinthians 15:52-53, Philippians 1:20-21, Philippians 3:20-21, Hebrews 2:14-15, Isaiah 25:8-9, Ecclesiastes 3:11,14-15, I Thessalonians 4:16-18
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the life, death, and most assuredly the resurrection of your son Jesus! Thank you for the salvation we can receive by giving our lives to you. Please help us daily to live a life that is pleasing to you and will lead others to want the same life. Please Lord, continue to bless us with your presence though we might not see you physically, but that we may feel your loving presence in our hearts. Amen.