Setbacks

Joshua 1:9, “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

Morning everyone! Whether the weather is stormy, cloudy, or maybe sunny, possibly cool because it is fall, take a moment and welcome the day with prayer, with thankfulness, and especially positivity! Every day is a gift, that’s why they call it the present! Don’t you love that quote? We all love gifts, so look at the day as the best gift to be able to begin with! As the title speaks, we want to look at how we can endure setbacks; how we can focus on the positive that dwells within them, even when we think we can’t. Everyone knows without a doubt that life will give us setbacks in some way or another. Biblically speaking, we also know that they will build character, resilience, and faith! Most of us will need to realize that with those setbacks, there will always be comebacks! With every one of them we will get spiritual growth that will keep us grounded in God’s promises. These setbacks can become an outreach to others by the sharing of them as greater testimonies to how trust in God can bring about opportunities, advancements, succession, in all things. They are showing the power of God as He uses trials, and disappointments to prove He is in control; how good comes to those who wait patiently for His timing. Proverbs 24:16, “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief”, explains how no matter how many setbacks the devil throws our way, God is watching and He already has a plan. God wants to help us see that though we may choose poorly, or pass on a decision, He offers repentance, and gives us the opportunity to realize, accept, then reroute our choice to the correct one! He even gives us a guidebook with everything that can teach us how to endure and then to push forward. God promised us that we are all conquerors through Him that loves us! This means that if we openly trust Him, we can accept and endure any setback that slips upon us. So today, let’s look at setbacks as just another stepping stone toward that heavenly home!

Scriptures:

Read: John 16:33, Isiah .41:10, Psalm 46:1, Proverb 3:5, II Timothy 3:16-17, Psalm 23:1-6, John 16:13, I John 2:3, Galatians 2:20, Matthew 7:1, Jeremiah 29:11-13, Galatians 6:9, Isaiah 59:1, Isaiah 42:6, Hebrews 10:35-36, Psalm 118:6, Isaiah 43:2

Prayer:

Dear Lord, today we want to thank you for the setbacks that allows us to improve our trust, our faith, our hope in all that you provide. Thank you, Lord, for the gift of salvation. Thank you, Lord, for the Bible that holds the teachings, the commandments, and how to choose the right armor to fight against the evils of this world. Amen.

Come Home

John 14:2, “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.”

Hello again friends! Welcome to another glorious day that will greet you with happiness, joy and complete positivity throughout it! So many times, each of us sit still and think of home; of where we come from; that place that led us to where we are now; the place that holds beginnings. Sure, there are plenty of people who would rather not remember the homes they originally came from, or the circumstances that led them away. For many, though, if we take a moment, we really should realize God was there all the time, in every moment, in every trial, in every loss. In retrospect, there is nothing wrong with knowing where home was, or where it still is; but in the knowledge that even if some of us have negative feelings about it, it is still there, and we are now better for having had one. I prefer to think on the people in the Bible that left home, traveled, lost their way, suffered, and then when all else failed around them, they returned to home. Everyone wants to know that they can go home, go to parents, grandparents and find welcoming feelings, emotions. Sometimes, we just need to go to that place to just reflect, to gain a perspective of how far we have come. If you know that you don’t have that, then find God! Though we may find ourselves lost to the world, there is a home we can truly rely on, that we can turn to at all times. God offers a home with Him; here in this world He can be your home, and He offers an eternal home too. Reality is, that there is an internal longing for home in heaven; a deep wanting that ensures us that hope is in God and a home with Him will be like no other. God is that quiet, continuous voice you hear when no other voice calls you; the one saying come home to Him! He is calling you home, no matter your circumstance, your pain, your sin, your addiction; He accepts you wholly, unconditionally. He is the one true God, the Father that can be depended on daily, in every moment. Today, even if you are a believer that slipped, or you want to be a new believer; if you feel you have failed, and have no hope; stop and pray; ask Him to let you come home! He is the home like no other; just trust, obey and COME HOME!

Scriptures:

Read: Jeremiah 29:11-14, Genesis 28:15, Matthew 25:35, Galatians 3:28, Hebrews 13:1-2, Psalm 121:7-8, Luke 15:11-32, Acts 2:28, Titus 3:5, Revelation 21:4, Psalm 40:1-17, Ephesians 4:31-32, Revelation 3:10-12, Philippians 3:20, John 14:1-4,6, Matthew 25:40, Luke 10:27-28, Revelation 3:19-20, Romans 15:7, Luke 19:5-6, Proverbs 24:3-4

Prayer:

Precious heavenly Father, we call on you now, please come and enter our hearts, souls and minds. Father, we thank you for your son who died on a cross and rose again so that we would not have to. Thank you, Father for the love, strength, grace and mercy you show each of us daily. Help us Father, today to seek you, to accept you now; to hear you when you speak, to understand that home is you. Father, take us now into your loving arms and teach us, guide us, protect us as we journey this world. Help us Father, to share that longing for home in heaven with others. Amen.

Reflections

II Corinthians 13:11, “When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”

Good morning! I see that we have been blessed with another day so that we can be thankful for everything and everyone! We do hope that you have already taken those few moments this morning to ask God to come into your presence that He could regenerate you with peace and strength to face this new day with optimism and favor. Sometimes, during those talks with God we find that reflecting on all the blessings that have already been given, we can find a renewed spirit that wants to continue to grow in our spiritual walk. Other times, we find solace in reflecting on the past, the times that seemed easier, less stressful; just carefree. I’m sure many of us also, find lying in bed at night our thoughts do go to some of the decisions, choices, regrets, as we look at how far we have ventured in this life. It is okay to take moments like that, to just visualize for a few minutes, but use them only as a reflection of what was, but not something you dwell on, that leads you to despair or depression. Reflection is to know that God had a better plan, a far better choice than we could ever make ourselves. Let your reflections be used as spiritual disciplines, a need to get into the scriptures to learn and study how God provides avenues to work through any difficulty the devil will try to throw in your path. Use that time of study to reflect or review your daily life, the words you use, the motives in which you do things, and whether your thoughts and actions are mimicking Christ life as a new believer. Open up to God and allow Him to guide you, teach you, protect you and show how His way can help you reflect the new and better way of living. Read and familiarize yourself on all the people of the Bible that trusted God’s guidance, then think on all the people in our world history, that also gained from believing God can and will transform each of us as we work toward that eternal home! Take a moment also to recognize other believers, friends, family, who have shown you the changes in their lives and how much more beautiful that life can be, no matter the good or bad circumstances; that reflection means moving forward to that ultimate goal of eternity with God, will always be the right choice.

Scriptures:

Read: II Corinthians 3:17-18, 1 Corinthians 13:11-13, Exodus 20:2-17, Lamentations 3:40-41, Ezekiel 36:26-27, Psalm 139:6-10, Proverbs 27:19, Deuteronomy 31:6, John 8:32, John 14:5-6, James 1:23-25, Psalm 23:1-6, I Thessalonians 5:16-23, Proverbs 3:1-6, 1 John3:23, Luke 12:24-26, Deuteronomy 4:39, I John 4:16, II Corinthians 5:7, Matthew 6:33-34, Galatians 5:22-23, Romans 8:38-39

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for every moment you allow each of us a new day that we can share the knowledge of how salvation is the ultimate choice. Thank you, God, for your word that we can have a guidebook that gives us every tool we need, that shows us what type of armor we need to fight this evil world. Thank you, God, for allowing us to reflect on the past but not to dwell there; but to only use it as a tool to remind us yesterday is gone, today is here and tomorrow is up to you. Amen.

Hope Can Be Found

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 good friends! Welcome to another day that has been given to each of us in the hopes that we can do good things for others and ourselves! This world can be so amazing in so many ways! One day it can be beautiful, sunny, breezy, and then the next the rains, winds and thunderstorms cloud out the sun! But, as believers, we are subject to the facts that every day is a gift, that every day therein lies hope of only positive things happening, or that we take the bad things and use them for the good as God sees fit! Hope; can we say that in every day we all have felt this, in every situation or in just that the day has been given and will go on if we just press forward? As we ponder on the meaning of hope, we find it encompasses so much! It is an anchor for the soul, an eternal perspective not temporary, it’s an active trust, a true focus on God’s promises, and sometimes a lamenting to God to share a need during fear, grief or just frustrations of this world. Hope also gives believers an empowerment for endurance because we have given our trust in God, knowing and believing He is our constant provider, and sustainer. As we make time to study His word we gain even more hope in the future, that eternal hope of being in His presence one day in heaven. The biblical perspective shows us “living hope”, the one that is planted then rooted in Jesus’ resurrection; the one that will send peace in troubled times; the one that promises that though this life here will not be easy, we can endure it, with God’s help. When we find true hope, it will be involving finding the character of God, rather than just predicting perfect outcomes, because we are not perfect and the answers may not be our answers, but the hope is God having the ultimate outcome. As you work through today, think on how many times your calling out to God brought hope to you, and then God brought you understanding, and finally it brought peace. Think on today and be thankful that every day is a gift no matter the circumstances and that good things come to those who wait; but most of all believe that hope can be found!

Scriptures:

Read: Jeremiah 29:11, Ephesians 4:22-24, Romans 8:28, II Timothy 1:9, II Corinthians 5:17, Philippians 3:13-14, James 1:2-4, Matthew 16:25, Isaiah 43:18-19, Psalm 139:14, Romans 12:2, Deuteronomy 31:8, Proverbs 3:5-6, Philippians 1:6, II Corinthians 1:20, John 16:33

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for all that you give, that you promise, and for placing hope within our hearts so that we can see you better. Thank you, Father, for your mercy and grace, your never-ending love, your ability to know when we need your presence the most. Remind us when we need to get into your word to see how you provide guidance through all things. Help us, Father, to keep hoping in your coming and the eternal peace we will have when we finally arrive in heaven with you. Amen.

Coming Undone

II Thessalonians 3:16, “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.”

Greetings to you all! Praying this is finding you already beginning this beautiful day with only happy positive thoughts. Also, hoping the title isn’t explaining the way some of us may be feeling today, but that we can be enlightened on how to adjust, if those feelings do slip into any of our days to come. There are so many times each of us has felt like our feelings could be described as being “undone’. It’s defined as a feeling of being exposed, broken or just emptied of self-sufficiency. Sometimes as new Christians these feelings, while experiencing God’s mercy and His restructuring of our lives, will be part of the process. As we are brought into the awareness of our sins, we realize it is actually God cleansing us and we are releasing those pent-up emotions, the emptying of oneself, allowing God to enter and start the rebuilding process. Even the seasoned born-again believers will have times while enduring this sinful world, will have moments of where they let their guard down and let the emotions of exasperation, and overwhelming frustration take over. These will be the times that our faith will need to take hold, our trust in God will need to be revitalized by prayer, studying God’s word, and reaching out to other believers to get encouragement. Our thoughts will need to refocus on the Master, on His grace and mercy, His presence within our souls, and His unconditional love. As we empty those uneasy feelings back into God’s hands, allowing Him to empower us again with His guidance, we will feel a peace come over us and our faith will be renewed. This day let’s remember that even in moments of frustration, we need to pause, to refocus on God, ask Him to come fill us with His presence, His strength; thus, releasing doubts and fears and placing those burdens in the hands that can work them for good. If in the future, you slip again into the thoughts of giving up or throwing up your hands; just remember who can dismantle those feelings of “coming undone”! You are not alone and He is the answer!

Scriptures:

Read: Matthew 19:26, Ephesians 3:20-21, Philippians 4:13, Acts 20:35, Psalm 24:1, Genesis 28:20-22, James 1:12, Psalm 91:14, Joshua 2:11, Isaiah 46:4, Colossians 1:17, Philippians 4:6-7, II Thessalonians 3:16, Romans 3:23-26, Jeremiah 29:11, Ephesians 2:10, II Corinthians 12:9, II Corinthians 5:17, II Corinthians 7:1, II Peter 2:9, 1 Peter 2:9, Hebrews 4:16

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we come now thanking you for your ever-present help in our times of need; in the times that we fail to remember who is in control. Thank you, Lord, for the guide book that can give us guidance out of any situation with words of wisdom and love. Thank you, Lord, for sending fellow believers to encourage and lend a hand. Please, Lord, continue to help us to seek you in times of despair, doubt, fear and longing, so that you Lord can bring the peace we need. Amen.

Breaking Through Boundaries

Psalms 16:5, “The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.”

Hello again friends! Today will be better than the ones before because we are waking up and looking at everything with new eyes, new thoughts, and positive vibes! Yes, I am sure there are a few doubting people, you naysayers, you grumpy “non” morning people, are already saying, stop being so happy! Joy comes to those who need it the most! If we stay gloomy or negative, we could ruin the whole day. We should put on a happy face because God allowed us to have this day; He is giving us another chance to do wonderful things and to share the good news! This brings us to how we can break through any boundary that may try hindering our goals, our path, our pleasing of God. When we break boundaries that are relational, traditional, or even rigid, we can then extend love, grace, our reaching of others with the gospel. As we recall, Jesus broke so many traditional boundaries so He could get the word of God spread far and wide! He broke social, cultural and religious boundaries; because He wanted to reach the foreigners, the unclean, the broken, the rich and the poor! We as Christians are encouraged o break boundaries of self-interest, fear, prejudice, to reconcile with others by showing unconditional love as Jesus did; working toward unity in churches and with each other. The boundaries we need to break away from are the ungodly influences so that the spiritual ones can grow stronger. While we begin to break boundaries, we need to remember that we must show Jesus’ character within our own lives by using our correct words; without malice or judgement, use only Godly conversations, show empathy and charity towards others. For a few of us, breaking boundaries may mean letting go of toxic people, friends, even family members. When we want to live a Godly life, many will dispute it; they will deny that God is the better way. As we choose Jesus, the devil will use the world and people to try and steal your joy, your new-found happiness, your relationship with God. By praying, studying, seeking others who have been where you are; you are breaking the boundaries of sin. As you look to today, ask yourself that one question; the one that says where would you want to spend eternity? End the boundaries that are keeping you from heaven, begin today on seeing your path with God leads to better outcomes. Let God begin breaking through boundaries!

Scriptures:

Read: Proverbs 15:1, I Timothy 4:12, Joshua 1:8-9, Romans 12:2, John 14:15, Philippians 4:8, Galatians 6:1-2, 7-8, Psalm 16:5-8, Psalm 19:7-11, Mark 9:42-50, Galatians 5:13, 22-23, Ephesians 4:15, Isaiah 41:10, I John 2:15-17

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we want to thank you for all that you are, all that you give. Thank you, Father, for allowing your son to die so that we might live. Thank you, Father, for showing us how to break the right boundaries that keep us from serving you, loving you, and showing the world how you are the right choice. Please, Father, continue to fill us with your presence, to guide us on this journey, and give us the strength to endure until you come again. Amen.

Diagnosis Averted

I Thessalonians 5:23, “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Morning friends! Welcome to this day the Lord has made! As you get up and begin this day, don’t forget to spend those precious few moments with God and ask for His blessings on the day! As we look at today’s title, we may wonder on just what it means to avert or redirect from some things. Many who have endured ailments, or disease will understand the title quicker than most! Everyone will have something medical that they will get through whether simple or major; whether to themselves or to a friend or love one. The first thing we must do, is to not define someone’s future by that diagnosis; looking only toward positive, Godly outcomes. We have seen miracle after miracle arrive when we depended on God to change the outcome, to bless that diagnosis. As we accept those diagnosis we must maintain spiritual, emotional and physical faith by stewarding with faith and community combining together to pray and seek God. Christians view the church as a vital support system as well as family because there is hope in suffering, peace in coming together as a whole to lift the need to God. Though some will receive diagnosis that feel gut wrenching; we must understand how to avert from it by searching the scriptures, reaching out to God, trusting and believing that all things can be understood and endured if He is placed at the front. We must avert from anything that is negative, evil or is trying to pull us down or away from God. Every diagnosis can be averted from the negative just by having faith, trust and obedience to God’s plans. Part of overcoming is to drown out fear. Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “Let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself – nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed effort to convert retreat into advance.” He faced being paralyzed with trusting God; he was right. In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul wrote, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” In other words, we must find how to push out negative and bring in only positive, so all diagnosis can be averted!

Scriptures:

Psalm 121, Isaiah 5:20, Psalm 34:11-19, I Thessalonians 5:22-23, John 3:16, Ephesians 6:11-12, Galatians 6:1-2, James 4:6-7, 14, Romans 12:9-15, John 1:3-5, Romans 13:12, Revelation 21:8, Psalm 97:10, I Corinthians 15:33, II Corinthians 6:14

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for the strength you provide when negative thoughts enter into our minds. Thank you, God for helping each of us in every moment to realize that if we take our focus off of you, we lose faith and hope in the plans you have for us. Please, God, continue to give us your presence in times of diagnosis that we will search your word and come to you in earnest thanksgiving that you already know the journey’s outcome. Amen.

Praising Anywhere

Psalms 103:22, “Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul.”

Good morning everyone! Are we all looking forward to today and all it has to offer? Have we already had our first conversation with God so that He might bring peace to anything that is negative? As you see in the title, we want to talk about praising God no matter where we are or what we are doing. Everyone should already be aware that praise is not restricted to just the church building, but should be anywhere that we are. Through every circumstance, each of us should show adoration, thankfulness. Just knowing that we can live another day should be a time of praise to the one and only God the Father! When we look at the Bible, we find detail after detail, from the very beginning of all that God can and will do. We read chapter after chapter of people enduring hardships, grief, poverty, yet because they believed, they still praised God. Then in those same scriptures, God showed His mercy and grace, His healing, His winnings of battles, His giving of lands, riches, and again people praised Him. Many of those people didn’t wait until they traveled to the temples, or the Passovers; they praised everywhere and anywhere they were located! They didn’t wait for the miracles to be seen, they chose to praise the God that was with them, inside their hearts, and have faith that good things would come. They chose to praise Him before the need as well as during the need and then as the need came to light! Have you not been driving listening to music and you feel God’s presence feel your soul? Have you not been watching a minister online and suddenly their words touched your soul and you had to lift your hands and start praising God for just being there with you? Maybe you were at a praise and worship meeting and the music just pulled you into a dance and shout, a thankfulness filled your soul so deep you had to join in the praise? Could be that you were at the hospital waiting on a loved one in surgery and when praying you felt God moving, His touch reaching out to you overwhelming you that you raised your hands, bowed your head and began praising for the healing that was coming? Have you ever been in a conversation about how God had touched someone else at a gathering and the excitement of that new brother or sister in Christ just made your skin tingle? Praise, again, is not limited to being in a building; it belongs everywhere and, in every moment, because it is God Himself touching our hearts! Stop holding your praise back and share it everywhere!

Scriptures:

Read: Psalm 34:1-4, Psalm 150, I Thessalonians 5:16-18, Psalm 103:1-2, 20-22, Isaiah 25:3-4, Psalm 23:3-4, Hebrews 13:15, Psalm 7:17, Psalm 18:3, Jeremiah 17:14, Psalm 9:1-2, II Corinthians 12:9-10, James 1:2-3, I Chronicles 16:23-25, Jeremiah 20:13

Prayer:

Jesus, we come now thanking you for everything you sacrificed so that we could be born again. Thank you, Jesus, for the teachings, the warnings, the Bible that holds all the things that will help us to be more like you. Thank you, Jesus, for showing us that praising is thanking you. Help us Jesus, to not hold back our praise for all you do, no matter where we are. Amen.

Just Reminding You

John14:26, “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”

Morning friends! I trust that today found you waking to another beautiful day and that you gave God your first conversation, thanking Him for every moment that will be coming today! Have you ever asked God to help you remember things; chores, appointments, dates, etc.? Do you find that writing a list of daily duties or routines helps you remember? Or do you ask your spouse, family, friends, co-workers to remind you of things? Sometimes it is good to have others help you do that and then you find that they may not remember either! As many say, “it takes a village”, to keep our lives running smoothly! Throughout the Bible God has had to keep reminding His people of His presence, His promises, of His love just to give us strength in our faithfulness. Through His Holy Spirit, through His scriptures, through seeing His creation and our surroundings, God has to constantly remind us of just why we are here. Jesus taught constantly that the Holy Spirit would help believers to remember His promises, His words; especially when we start easing away from Him. His promise of never leaving or forsaking us proves genuine love that offers protection, guidance and a future with Him. We as humans, naturally will be forgetful of God’s promises and His goodness; with that being said, He will send intentional reminders, though sometimes small, to help maintain our faith. Other believers will also help to remind you that trusting in God can be the best reminder! Many wonders are contained in this world to remind us who our creator and sustainer is; like the stars in the sky, the sun rising, the beauty of birth, the precious receipt of salvation. Everything around you should remind you that we are His creation, His children; that everything we have or that exist around us is proof He is God! So, maybe the next time someone reminds you of something, don’t take it as an insult to your memory, but as God sending a little reminder through someone else! Smile, look up, say thank you to God, then show gratitude to that person so they can feel good too! In all things show joy, and understanding; prove that you recognize that God, through even the smallest of details, is just reminding you!

Scriptures:

Read: Philippians 4:13, II Peter 1:12-13, John 14:26, Deuteronomy 8:18, Lamentations 3:22-23, Psalm 77:11, II Timothy 2:8, Hebrews 13:2-3, I John 3:1, Colossians 3:2, Isaiah 43:1, Psalm 34:17-20, Titus 3:5, Philippians 4:19, I Corinthians 6:19-20, II Timothy 2:19, Acts 20:35

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come today thanking you for all that you have created, all that you provide, for everything that shows how you remind us of you and your love. Father, thank you for those that are a part of our being reminded. Please, Father, continue to show us your presence within and without that we too can remind others of who you are and what you provide. Amen.

Partnerships

Ecclesiastes 4:10, “For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.”

Salutations to all! May you be ready and excited for this day and all it may bring! Take a moment and thank God for waking up, then ask for His blessings throughout the day. The post today is concerning partnerships; relationships that in many respects, we all need. Sometimes, maybe, we need to understand that partnerships are not just two people in relationships, but are also made up of close friends, family members, work/business partners. The biblical views stress that working together with someone is way better emotionally, physically, spiritually, than working alone. When someone is alone trying to work through life, they need others to lift them in prayer, to encourage them, to push them to keep going; a partnership that is quietly being a strong force hidden but needed. Even when people seem to be able to function or work alone, there will always be a hidden need within them to have a partnership; not only with God, but with another human, a like-minded, Christian person. All Godly partnerships are rooted in unity, shared values, spiritual beliefs, shared ministries; that reflect Godly lives. True partnerships come with honesty, trustworthiness, unselfish motives and shared goals. Have you ever thought about how many partnerships you actually have? Is there someone that encourages you, sends daily lifting words, or shows up no matter what? Maybe there are more than one person who is in your corner and you never really noticed just how much they have given you in prayers, kind words, uplifting character. Partnerships are built sometimes without you even realizing! The Bible speaks of not allowing “unequally yoked” friends or partners; something to ponder on, which means, negative people, ungodly people, should not be in a partnership with you. Their ultimate goal is not to help you but to hinder you. As Christians we are to minister to them, but not conform or join them! Be aware of those and don’t let them still your joy, or hinder your mission to partner with the right people! Though you can work on things alone, remember to keep partnerships with fellow encouragers, prayer warriors, positive people with God’s guidance! Sometimes the hidden partnerships are what keeps you succeeding!

Scriptures:

Read: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, I Corinthians 3:9-11, Ephesians 4:2-6,15-16, John 15:4-5, II Corinthians 6:14-18, I John 1:7, Galatians 2:20, I John 1:3, I Corinthians 12:13-14, Romans 15:5-7

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for the partnership we have been given with you. Thank you, Lord, for the daily conversations we can have with you, the guidance you can give and the unconditional love that comes with it. Help us, Lord, to seek you when we need to find partnerships with the right people; help us to discern the best ones by trusting in your choices. Lord, help us to be the right partners for others that they too can be encouraged, lifted. Amen.

Making It Possible

Hebrews 11:6, “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”

Hello friends! This is a day made for each of us and full of positive moments just waiting to be experienced! In every day, each of us works to make things possible, some in planned sequences, some in just everyday routines. There will always be times when we might use the wrong motives in making decisions or choices which the devil will use so that you are making it possible, but with the wrong priority. I know, as parents, or grandparents, we all want to make whatever better life we can for our children and grandchildren. Some will use the wrong methods which teaches a very bad way of working toward goals by means of deception instead of hard work and determination. There are so many better ways to help make things possible! Stop for a moment and think; am I setting a good example for my children, my family, for others around me, or even for myself? Did God save me to make things possible in His way or mine? Am I acting outside of God’s will by overstepping, by going against spiritual boundaries? We do know that all things are possible with God, but not all are beneficial to the life God gave us. When we stop and realize God provided us with knowledge, talents/gifts; we can begin the process of doing things better and in His way. Honesty, integrity, empathy, are true ways of making things possible! As we align with God’s divine calling, making things possible becomes easier. Using the tools and resources God provides in scriptures, you can surrender your challenges, trials, even your goals to God’s will and He begins the impossible. Don’t let the devil use your gifts, or knowledge to ruin possibilities in your journey. By fully accepting God as your only savior, protector; you will become fully grounded in how much He can make possible! Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” This is the true way to making it possible!

Scriptures:

Read: Matthew 19:26, Joshua 1:9, Isaiah 41:10, Zephaniah 3:17, Ephesians 6:10, Matthew 17:20, Proverbs 3:5-6, John 16:33, Exodus 15:2, Mark 10:27, James 1:17, Psalm 34:8, Hebrews 11:6, Romans 8:30-33

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for helping us see that with you everything is possible, that you are in control and all we need to do is ask. Father, thank you for providing the guide book that can teach us how to work toward our goals in your way so that better results are achieved. Father, continue to bring your presence into our hearts, souls and minds; so we can better serve you. Amen.

We Are Passing Through

Colossians 3: 2, “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”

Good morning everyone! I pray today is the day that you believe that good things come to those who wait! May you welcome this day with open eyes seeing the positive aspects in every moment you are given. I hope that everyone realizes that every moment here is not wasted and that when this world ends it will only be an awesome beginning to an eternity of joy. Rev. Billy Graham spoke frequently on how Christians are merely “passing through” and that their true citizenship is in heaven. Every minister, preacher, evangelist and pastor know that God gave us this world as a beginning and that the ending is far better than this! C.S. Lewis believed and argued that this world is not our final home, that innate human longings for joy or satisfaction would not be found on earth, but points to an existence in another world, heaven. In retrospect, born-again believers should not focus on temporary things of this earth but on the eternal, to the promise of heaven that awaits us. Even through challenges or trials, we must place our focus on what the ultimate gift will be, the permanent residence we will be given once Christ returns. As a true believer, when we place our faith in Jesus Christ, we are promised the hope of heaven and every day should be us preparing to get to that home. Everything that we endure while here on earth only serves as essential paths, not true destinations; they produce strengthened faith, provide purpose, build a lasting relationship with God. If we look positively at every moment as a next step to achieving the ultimate goal of residing in heaven with God, we will work diligently to be Christ-like in our daily lives. Every step we take will build spiritual growth and victory over the devil. Live life with God’s guidance and begin living it as if you are only a visitor, a journey you are passing through, looking for the ultimate destination in heaven!

Scriptures:

Read: Isaiah 41:10, Hebrews 13:14, Philippians 3:20, II Corinthians 5:7-10, Colossians 3:1-2, John 17:14-17, I John 2:14-17, Hebrews 11:14-16, John 15:19, I John 5:18-20, John 18:36, Romans 12:1-2

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come now accepting that this world is not our home, that our true destination is with you in heaven. Father, thank you, for every opportunity you have given each of us to be a part of that final destination. Thank you, Father, for your forgiveness, for salvation, for your unconditional love, mercy and grace. Help us Father, to keep looking toward you and our home in heaven. Amen.

Choose to Forgive

Matthew 6:14-15, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Morning friends! Welcome one and all to another blessed day that God has given for us to enjoy. As you start the day, have you had your alone time with God yet? Have you spent time conversing with Him and asking about how you choose to make decisions? In this post, we want to talk on the choice to forgive; whether to be openly, honest, heartfelt in action and the meaning of what forgiving actually entails. Even the bible tells us to let go of any vengeance or malice toward someone who has wronged us. It explains that Jesus was the ultimate forgiver of all sin and He forgave those who hurt Him, cursed Him, betrayed Him, and murdered Him. Jesus emphasized to His disciples that we should view forgiveness as limitless; not condoning the act of harm or the forgetting of it; but choosing to release that debt of sin. When we forgive the act, we will then make boundaries toward that person or persons, thus allowing it to not happen again. The truth of forgiveness is that because we forgive, it is not to help the person doing the act, it is to help us, to release any evil feelings that became placed in our inner hearts and souls. We must also not rely on feelings, but on the intentional and repetitive choice to remove unforgiveness from our own hearts. Evil lurks in all negative behaviors, negative thoughts; it will become bitter and cause you to forget God’s words, His promises, His calling for your life. As you voice that forgiveness, you will release every negative burden, every negative thought, until your heart blossoms, then grows in the joy and peace that God wants for you to have. In other words, you may give that offender who wronged you a small satisfaction, but the ultimate winner is you! You have now given your whole being back to God, allowing Him to direct everything you do and say. God’s power can now bring healing to all broken situations and mend them into something stronger and more resilient. So, today as you ponder on anything that may need forgiving, take a moment and acknowledge that if you release that burden, not matter how large or small, then peace will come quickly; so, choose to forgive!

Scriptures:

Read: Matthew 6:14-15, Matthew 18:21-22,35, Isaiah 43:25, I John 4:11, Ephesians 4:29-32, Colossians 3:13, Mark 11:25-6, Luke 6:27, 35-37, Proverbs 17:9, Psalm 32:2,5,11, II Corinthians 3:18, Luke 17:3-4, Romans 12:19, 1 Peter3:9

Prayer:

Lord, we come today thanking you for forgiving us, for giving us the book that can guide us to forgiveness. Lord, today and every day show us the way to honor you by seeing the good that comes from releasing anything that hinders us from doing what you called us to do. Help us, Lord, to see the good that can come from forgiveness, not only for the offender but for ourselves. Amen.

Hope Is Eternal

John 3:16-17, “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. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”

Greetings everyone! I do hope this finds you greeting the day with hope and positive expectations. There is something to say about just pushing aside anything, even thoughts, that might bring negativity to anyone’s day. Though we each may have circumstances in our lives that are not good; it just helps if we dwell on hope, on peace; giving it to God! As in the post from yesterday, we want to talk on hope, not just any hope, but the eternal hope. That deep inner assurance that if we do not conform to this evil world, but live in a confident, transformed, Christ-like behavior, we will never lose hope in an eternity in heaven! Though the world may direct obstacles in our paths, or the devil will use tactics that try to lead us away from God, we cannot lose what God has given us. All of us will falter, for no one is perfect; but by living with a hopeful disposition, we shouldn’t have any doubts, any negative thoughts; only the eternal hope in God and the plans He laid out for each of us. There are many who believe in the old saying, “it could have been or could be worse”, when obstacles get in the way of our journey. This is a sign of having hope; a true belief that even in the midst of trials, God is our hope, He is our refuge, our strength, and He will provide the means by which we can endure whatever the devil tries to throw our way! Eternal hope is the assurance of God’s promises, His comfort, His purpose, His offering of salvation; all of which gives more beyond physical death, but assured living hope for eternity in heaven. God’s Holy Spirit gives us the sustainable hope, the one that gives joy and peace to those who trust in Him. By receiving faith in Christ, we are given the eternal hope of life beyond the grave, through His grace. As you begin your day, ask God to refresh your memory of just what hope can deliver to your inner soul. If you have not yet given your heart to the one true God that controls your eternal hope, pause now and ask Him to forgive you, to have mercy on you, then plead for Him to enter in and give you everlasting salvation of hope! When you ponder on just how much hope has helped you many times, become joyful in the fact that, hope REALLY is eternal!

Scriptures:

Read: John 3:16-17, II Corinthians 4:16-18, John 14:6, Jeremiah 29:11, Titus 1:2-3, Romans 8:24-28, Jude 1:21, Philippians 1:20, I John5:13, Colossians 1:27, I Corinthians 13:13, Psalm 71:14, Hebrews 11:1, I Timothy 6:11-12, Ephesians 2:8-9, Isaiah 41:13, Deuteronomy 31:6, Isaiah 40:29-31

Prayer:

Dear God, we come now asking for you to save those who do not yet understand what eternal hope is. Dear God, we want to thank you for the sacrifice Jesus made that allows each of us to ask and receive salvation, knowing that our hope is in you always. God, we want to thank you for that heavenly home that waits for us to enter, for that promise of eternity with you. Amen.

We Have His Hope

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 to everyone! Today will be a new day in everything we encounter, so let’s bring positive thoughts and actions into every moment! When we take a moment to describe what we think “hope” means, which definition defines it the most? As we use it so often just in speaking, like “hope we can”, or “hope it doesn’t rain”, or any other conversational thoughts; what do we really mean, or are we truly hoping? Hope is; whether biblical or in a dictionary, similarly, means confident expectations; a trust in the outcome of what will be in the future. All hopes should be grounded in the Holy Spirit, the resurrection of Christ; it is the cornerstone during trials, tribulations; enables us to get through challenges, motivates us to anticipate favorable results pushing out negative ones. To have hope is to know that God is faithful in all His promises, in all His love and mercy. Hope with God is a fulfillment of joy and peace; an overflow of His love, protection, and guidance! We will find stability in knowing that God is working always and in all ways; whether in good or bad circumstances. Having true hope from God enables us to be assured, comforted, an anchor for our souls, a future worth fighting for. So, basically, everyone needs hope; a feeling of perseverance; the knowledge that having that positive outlook in every moment leads to a better life! Rev. Billy Graham defined hope as, “a fleeting emotion, but a firm certainty rooted exclusively in Jesus Christ and the resurrection, rather than human ability or strength”, and “For the believer there is hope beyond the grave, because Jesus Christ has opened the door to heaven for us by His death and resurrection.” Martin Luther King said, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope. Let your hopes, not your hurts, shape your future.” As you use the word “hope”, in whatever context, keep your belief in God’s promises and know that with His hope all things are good even when they seem bad.

Scriptures:

Read: Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 15:4,13, Isaiah 40:31, Hebrews 11:1, 11, Romans 8:24-25, Romans 5:3-5, I Corinthians 13:13, Romans 12: 9,12, I Peter 1:3, Isaiah 41:10, I Peter 5:7,10, I Thessalonians 1:3, Colossians 1:27, Ephesians 1:16-19, Psalm 150:1-6

Prayer:

Father, today we ask that you continue to bring us hope in all things and in all ways. Thank you, Father, for Jesus’ sacrifice, and His resurrection that gives us that real hope. Father, thank you, for your continued love, mercy and grace, your ever-present love. Help us Father, to daily live with the hope you give. Amen.

Redeemed and Restored

Colossians 1:13-14, “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” ESV

Greetings all! Welcome to another blessed day God has given! May you be waking to only positivity and pushing any negative thoughts right out the door! Let’s take a moment to talk on restoring and redemption. As born-again believers, our redemption comes when we accept Jesus and give Him power over our lives so that we no longer live in the devil’s clutches! We are now rescued from sin, Jesus paid the price for us, and our lives become new and improved. God then begins the restoration of our broken, sinful life, into a purposeful one; one with renewed characters, renewed minds, gaining a personal relationship with Him. Because we are all humans and we all are corrupted by sin; whether we live good lives, bad lives, whether we are renowned in society, rich or poor; all of us need redemption, in need of God’s saving grace! When we receive that forgiveness, that healing, His mercy and grace; we are redeemed in His favor; now ready to begin the restoration process! God will now begin to restore our ruined or broken lives that may include hurt souls, lost opportunities, or wasted years; thus, giving something so much better. As we restore that relationship with God, everything around us will begin to restore too. God then begins that relationship by stripping away all guilt, anger, bitterness, and even failures that we have experienced in life. This true restoration enables us to reclaim the purity, compassion, strength, and God’s purpose for each of our journeys. Our restoration is filled with giving God our confessions, asking for His cleansing, studying to create our new hearts, then accepting the calling to do His will. With God’s help, we are stable and not drifting; we are now able to get strength to work at becoming what we were destined to be; a fulfillment of the journey He has planned! Begin your new improved life by being redeemed and then restored!

Scriptures:

Read: Jeremiah 30:17, Psalm 51:12, Ephesians 1:7, Joel 2:25, Job 42:10, Zephaniah 3:20, Isaiah 43:1, Psalm 23:3, Romans 12:2, Galatians 6:1, Psalm 130:7, Ezekiel 36:26-27, Psalm 51:12, Romans 8:23, I Peter 5:6-11, I John 5:4, Mark 11:24, Jeremiah 29:11, Titus 2:13-14, Romans 6:23

Prayer:

Lord, we come today thanking you for offering us redemption so we can find our way back to you. Thank you, Lord, for your forgiveness, your mercy and your grace. Lord, we want to thank you for providing the knowledge that can restore us to what you have originally ordained our lives to be. Lord, please continue to show us how fulfilled we can be by giving our lives to you. Amen.

There Is No Goodbye

Ecclesiastes 3:14, “I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.”

Hello everyone! Say hello to another blessed day that we have been given to encounter, whether in positive or negative emotions. We know many times we systematically forget that positive thoughts even in negative circumstances can change the whole outlook. Today, let’s talk on goodbyes, the meaning, the reality, the truth of them. Though, at the time of saying them, they seem ordinary because we use the word whenever we leave the presence of someone, whenever we end a conversation on the phone, leave personal relationships, leave work at end of shifts, leaving home for a short time or longer; the list is endless. As a very caring and emotional person, I don’t like to say goodbye, I say, “see you later or just later”! It leaves no finality, no room for not seeing them again, whether here on earth or later on in heaven. Rev. Billy Graham had a view of death as not a final goodbye, but in his words, he told people that they shouldn’t believe it when they heard of his death, because he would only be getting a change of address! What a blessing that sentiment truly means; truly understanding that there are no goodbyes and that eternity will be in heaven. Dr. Seuss wrote, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened”, which means we should be filled with happy emotions, that we lived a life, and that now we can leave this world and live with God in heaven! As saved children of God our hope is in being in His presence the day we leave this old body and are received by Him into heaven! We then are assured of a new body, a new home that is devoid of death, grief or pain. God also encouraged us to not mourn for loss here, “For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning”; that they are not gone but have changed addresses! Many will say that death is only a temporary separation, as a simple “sleep”, not a finality or an end; a time of promises fulfilled; and it’s TRUE! The joy of eternal life with Jesus should remove all goodbyes. An unknown author wrote, “Goodbyes are not forever, are not the end; it simply means I’ll miss you until we meet again.” So, maybe from now on change the terms; use “see you later or later”, and realize, there really is no goodbye!

Scriptures:

Read: John 14:1-4,27, Matthew 5:4, Psalm 23:4, Ecclesiastes 3:1-15, Romans 15:13, Romans 8:17-18, John 11:25, John 3:16-17, Romans 8:28,35-39, I Thessalonians 5:18,23, II Thessalonians 3:16, Jeremiah 29:11, Psalm 37:5, John 16:16,20-23, Acts 20:32, I Thessalonians 4:12-17, I John 1:9

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we want to thank you for giving us the knowledge to accept, to understand, to believe in your promises of a heavenly home when we leave our earthly bodies. Lord, we want to thank you for everything, for every moment of grace and mercy you poured out to each of us. Help us, Lord, to find peace in times of sorrow, to rejoice in the fact that loved ones are no longer here in this sinful world but transformed into a new heavenly body, and are singing praises in your presence. Thank you, Lord, that there are no goodbyes, but that there are only, see you later. Amen.

Heaven Changes Everything

Matthew 13:44, “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.”

Morning friends! Let’s begin with only positive thoughts that will help us travel through today. When we place our faith and trust in God, we have ultimately agreed to have His presence within us. Because we did so, we really shouldn’t have anything negative lurking around in our thoughts, or our actions! When we get up in the mornings, our first thoughts should go to having a conversation with God, a need to bring Him into the thoughts that will carry us through the day. When we let Him enter, our thoughts should go remembering what we are working toward; the hope of an eternity in heaven! As we talk with Him, our relationship grows, it brings positive energy into us. We know that heaven is the ultimate reality, and knowing that changes how we view anything that becomes an obstacle. The hope of heaven can motivate us to live focusing on the eternal and not this temporary world. Scriptures tell us over and over again of what the new heaven and new earth will be like; how we will suffer no more, cry no more; only joy, worship, communion with God. There will no longer be any earthly limitations; our bodies will be immortal, restored to a new perfect one. This one thought of heaven should empower us as believers to make changes in our daily lives that will push us toward that ultimate prize of eternity in heaven. Though today may bring moments of negative experiences, thoughts, actions; pause, breathe, ask God to bring peace in those moments. Bring your focus back to what lies ahead in the future even as we endure the craziness of this world! Those images of seeing loved ones, walking the streets of gold, seeing all those people who were talked about in the Bible, feeling a joy unmeasured, and most of all, seeing Jesus; how can you not believe that heaven will change everything! Let thoughts of heaven push out the negative and bring in the positive today and every day!

Scriptures:

Read: I John 3:2, Philippians 1:21-23, Philippians 3:20-21, Revelation 21:4-5, I Corinthians 15:51-52, Revelation 21:1, John 14:1-3, Luke 13:29-30, Isaiah 25:8-9, Matthew 7:13-14, II Corinthians 5:1,8, Isaiah 65:17, I Corinthians 2:9, II Peter 3:13, John 5:24, Ephesians 4:22-25, Romans 12:2, II Corinthians 5:17

Prayer:

Father God, we come today thanking you for the promise of a heavenly home. Thank you, God, for all that you help us to endure in this world. Thank you, Father, for giving us the Bible that guides us, informs us, helps us to face this world with the armor that ensures the battles can be won. Thank you, God, for giving us the opportunity to live Christ-like so that our place in heaven will be secured. Amen.

Thank You Jesus

Zephaniah 3:17, “The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”

Good morning! Glad that you are here in this day. Praying also that anything you are involved in will cause you to give thanks for all things you have already experienced during your life. When we think on thankfulness, we have to make sure our thankfulness is not temporary, but have it filled with gratitude. Having a thankful gratitude means to be so, even when there are negative circumstances as well as good. In hind sight, the negative could have been much worse, just like the positive could have been less than it was. Our gratitude of thankfulness in any situation should always show that it comes from our deep inner feelings, our inner peace. As we bring request to God, we are aligning our focus on Him, relying on Him in all things. When we call on God with thanksgiving we are presenting praise to Him for all He can and will do for us. When our praise of thankfulness is lacking, we can become complacent and our spiritual relationship with God declines. But, if we are thinking on everything around us, everything we have endured, accomplished, battled through, we cannot help but be thankful! If you made it to work, to an appointment, to school, or any other destination, you should be very thankful! If you have food, clothes, electricity, vehicle, etc.; you should show thankfulness! Even if you don’t have luxuries, or even if you are living on the streets, living with someone else for now; you should be filled with thankfulness! In every situation, ponder on how much worse it could be; but it’s not; due to God’s mercy and grace! Putting on a positive gratitude no matter what, is the avenue to thanking Jesus. If you will, take this moment to just give yourself a little positivity to start your day by saying the first thing you can think of that you are thankful for. Then keep saying them while you get ready, then while driving, etc. I’m pretty sure you will be non-stop speaking until you reach your destination! Thank you, Jesus for this moment and every moment to come!

Scriptures:

Philippians 4:13, Psalm 100:4, Isaiah 41:10, Psalm 28:7, I Thessalonians 5:18, Ephesians 1:16, Colossians 3:17, Psalm 136:1-26, Isaiah 12:4, Colossians 2:6-7, Ephesians 5:18-20, Psalm 5:11, Hebrews 12:28-29, Philippians 4:6-7, I Corinthians 15:57, II Corinthians 2:14, Psalm 150:1-6, Ephesians 2:10, James 1:17, Psalm 9:1-2

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we want take this moment to thank you for everything, all things, every minute that you have allowed us to just be alive. Thank you, Father, for Jesus, your Son, the one that sacrificed His life for our sins, thus guaranteeing our place with you in eternity. Today, Father, fill us with the gratitude that we need to share our thankfulness with others; to show them how you are the reason for all things. Amen.

Raised High, to Be Pulled Down

Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Hello friends! How is this new day treating you so far? Have you awakened to bright beginnings, the usual routine, to knowing God has you no matter what? When we wake with good thoughts and keep pushing toward positivity, the day cannot become filled with gloom or despair! Sure, it may have a few obstacles, but if we look to the good in what can be, that negative will be taken away! If the title to this post seems confusing, think of it as a quote toward life’s ups and downs. Think of it as a reminder that even at the highest positive moment, someone or something, will try to put negative excuses, or obstacles, or doubts, just to keep you from feeling needed, wanted, appreciated. But, we want to acknowledge that God is in control, those negative things can’t last, they are but an empty way to defeat what cannot be defeated! Remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day, the great pyramids weren’t built in a day, every invention or discovery had to have days of thinking, planning, creating, before it came to be! When you became saved, you were on a natural high; a peace and joy filled you completely and you were ecstatic about what you were destined to do. But, as a born-again believer the devil starts his plan of working ways to pull you down, to stop your worship, to try and extinguish that flame inside you. This is where the real work needs to begin. Though we are destined to be God’s children, the devil wants to cut those numbers and he will keep you busy. As you begin your new transformation or for those already saved continuing that change; priorities will need to be established. Get in the Bible and study, learn, obey the will of God. Pray daily, then pray more! Look to other Christian believers for advice, encouragement. Take a moment and realize when God raises you there is no way the devil can pull you down.

Scriptures:

Read: Philippians 4:13, Isaiah 54:17, Deuteronomy 3:22, I Corinthians 3:16, Ephesians 6:10-20, James 4:7, I Peter 5:8, Psalm 34:17, Exodus 14:14, John 8:31-32, I Corinthians 15:57-58, Romans 8:28, Proverbs 18:24, Exodus 23:22

Prayer:

Lord, we come now asking for your presence to continue within us. Thank you, Lord, for lifting us when we feel we are not worthy; protecting us when the devil tries to pull us down. Thank you, Lord, for all the mercy and grace you give to us. Help us, Lord, to look to you in every need we have, help us to thank you for when you are present in good times and bad. Amen.