Sorry to my followers, as I haven't been online on this blog since June... phew! 4 months... WOW! I must get back to this... I apologize!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME... yesterday was my birthday, and it was full of celebration, family & fun... I enjoy the Thanksgiving weekend, because my birthday is usually a part of the festivities!! Here in CANADA it was the Thanksgiving weekend, and we have soooo much to be thankful for!
THANKFULNESS is a part of your heart, but you need to set you mind on being thankful, especially in all circumstances. Thankfulness is a way of life, we should be thankful each and every day not just on Thanksgiving, or special days through the year. I have read a 'special' quote on Thanksgiving/Thankfulness that says something like, "What if God only gave you today, what you thanked Him for yesterday?" WOW! Such an eye-opener, that we do need to thank God on all occasions for all kinds of things (good and bad). Thanking Him for the train that stopped us on the road, that may have irritated us, but could have saved us from getting into an accident. Thanking Him for the little things in life that we take for granted, (they may not infact be so 'little') like the right amount of oxygen, having the air to breathe, waking up each morning on this side of Heaven, our family, our homes, our food, our clothing, our technology(computers/cellphones/IPads, etc), our jobs, our country, our churches, and on and on. Do we truly thank Him each day for these things, or do we just take advantage of Him like a 'vending machine'? He is our 'Father' who desires to give good gifts to His children... but are YOU one of those children? We were all created by our 'Father', but we are not called His children until we accept His Son Jesus, and have a relationship with Him.
Being a Christian is not 'RELIGIOUS'... it's based on a relationship rather than a religious point of view. God is God, and always has been, and always will be. When we take the step to have that relationship with Him, that we were created for -- GREAT things can and will happen!! I'm excited to see where God is leading us the rest of this year, and into the next. We should not fear what the world is doing, or thinking, we should only fear and hold God in high reverance!
Have a blessed day, and be THANKFUL!
~Mitzi
Oct 12, 2011
Jun 4, 2011
"Actions & Beliefs"
Day # 153 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "If the way you live isn't consistent with what you believe, then it's wrong." Romans 14:23 MSG
"Cultivate your own relationship with God, but don't impose it on others. You're fortunate if your behavior and your belief are coherent. But if you're not sure, if you notice that you are acting in ways inconsistent with what you believe—some days trying to impose your opinions on others, other days just trying to please them—then you know that you're out of line. If the way you live isn't consistent with what you believe, then it's wrong." (verses 22 & 23)
Just saying to let your faith and belief match your actions isn't anything, if they aren't really aligned or matching. We have all heard the old saying, 'Talk the talk, and walk the walk', because some Christians are good at speaking the truth from the Word, but don't live it out in their own lives. I find that I am a strong believer of this fact, not only because it's written in the Word, but because I have the 'little eyes' watching me, and the 'little ears' listening to me, so I do no want to lead them astray by my actions. I believe this is a part of why teachers are judged harder. ("Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." James 3:1) The ones we teach (whether they are little eyes or not -- but technically I think I have heard that your eyes stay the same size as you grow up) are always watching us, observing us, and seeing that what we say lines up with what we do ourselves. I have taught all my 'kids' to come up and keep me accountable, if they see me doing or saying something that I taught them not to do or say, then they have the right to come and tell me. So far I haven't had many complaints thankfully (all praise to God)... but I know that there are those others who are just waiting for the 'fall'. Somehow we have to turn things into a 'competition' whether we want it to be one or not. Others are competing to be a 'better Christian' sometimes it feels like, and you can get caught up in being the better teacher, the better Christian, the better friend, etc... but we need to be the best ME that we can be. We do not have to strive to be like others. God created us to be like HIM and Him alone. God created us to be used to our MAXIMUM EFFECTIVENESS (our M.E.) so that we can impact the world with His love, and share the good news/gospel of His love, mercy, forgiveness, salvation & His kingdom. Our actions should be matching that of what we believe, according to the Word of God, and the above message of the gospel, etc.
We cannot walk around as a 'Woman of Faith' (as my devotional book title states) or 'men of Faith' if we do not walk by faith ourselves. We can say we have all the faith in the world, but if we don't stand strong in the tough times and the good times trusting God completely, then we are not truly full of faith. The Bible says we are to have 'unwavering faith'-- "...To prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ." Ephesians 4:12-15 NIV We can say that we believe in God, but when it comes down to it, will God be seeing us as a 'good & faithful servant' or one that He 'does not know'. If we don't match our actions to our passions, then people will see us as a wave being tossed to & fro (as the verse in Ephesians above stated). They won't know where we stand, or what we believe, and they certainly won't want what we have.
So go out there today look past the 'competitions' of this world, and the deceivers, stand tall and strong of faith, and just as Paul said to the Ephesians, I say to you, "I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." (Ephesians 4:1-6)
Today's verse and thoughts of this theme bring me back to the song we sang in VBS a few years ago, 'Gonna Let My Actions Match My Passion'. It is from 'Outrigger Island' VBS - one of my FAVOURITE VBS programs. Check it out...
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "If the way you live isn't consistent with what you believe, then it's wrong." Romans 14:23 MSG
"Cultivate your own relationship with God, but don't impose it on others. You're fortunate if your behavior and your belief are coherent. But if you're not sure, if you notice that you are acting in ways inconsistent with what you believe—some days trying to impose your opinions on others, other days just trying to please them—then you know that you're out of line. If the way you live isn't consistent with what you believe, then it's wrong." (verses 22 & 23)
Just saying to let your faith and belief match your actions isn't anything, if they aren't really aligned or matching. We have all heard the old saying, 'Talk the talk, and walk the walk', because some Christians are good at speaking the truth from the Word, but don't live it out in their own lives. I find that I am a strong believer of this fact, not only because it's written in the Word, but because I have the 'little eyes' watching me, and the 'little ears' listening to me, so I do no want to lead them astray by my actions. I believe this is a part of why teachers are judged harder. ("Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." James 3:1) The ones we teach (whether they are little eyes or not -- but technically I think I have heard that your eyes stay the same size as you grow up) are always watching us, observing us, and seeing that what we say lines up with what we do ourselves. I have taught all my 'kids' to come up and keep me accountable, if they see me doing or saying something that I taught them not to do or say, then they have the right to come and tell me. So far I haven't had many complaints thankfully (all praise to God)... but I know that there are those others who are just waiting for the 'fall'. Somehow we have to turn things into a 'competition' whether we want it to be one or not. Others are competing to be a 'better Christian' sometimes it feels like, and you can get caught up in being the better teacher, the better Christian, the better friend, etc... but we need to be the best ME that we can be. We do not have to strive to be like others. God created us to be like HIM and Him alone. God created us to be used to our MAXIMUM EFFECTIVENESS (our M.E.) so that we can impact the world with His love, and share the good news/gospel of His love, mercy, forgiveness, salvation & His kingdom. Our actions should be matching that of what we believe, according to the Word of God, and the above message of the gospel, etc.
We cannot walk around as a 'Woman of Faith' (as my devotional book title states) or 'men of Faith' if we do not walk by faith ourselves. We can say we have all the faith in the world, but if we don't stand strong in the tough times and the good times trusting God completely, then we are not truly full of faith. The Bible says we are to have 'unwavering faith'-- "...To prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ." Ephesians 4:12-15 NIV We can say that we believe in God, but when it comes down to it, will God be seeing us as a 'good & faithful servant' or one that He 'does not know'. If we don't match our actions to our passions, then people will see us as a wave being tossed to & fro (as the verse in Ephesians above stated). They won't know where we stand, or what we believe, and they certainly won't want what we have.
So go out there today look past the 'competitions' of this world, and the deceivers, stand tall and strong of faith, and just as Paul said to the Ephesians, I say to you, "I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." (Ephesians 4:1-6)
Today's verse and thoughts of this theme bring me back to the song we sang in VBS a few years ago, 'Gonna Let My Actions Match My Passion'. It is from 'Outrigger Island' VBS - one of my FAVOURITE VBS programs. Check it out...
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Abundance not Anxiety"
Day #152 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional -(We are almost halfway through the year... WOW!)
Verse: "Therefore don't worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34
"Worry is a cycle of innefficient thoughts whirling around a center of fear." ~ Corrie Ten Boom
...to be continued!
'Today is the D-ay-ay ay ay...I won't worry 'bout tomorrow...' Check out this video by Lincoln Brewster.
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Therefore don't worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34
"Worry is a cycle of innefficient thoughts whirling around a center of fear." ~ Corrie Ten Boom
...to be continued!
'Today is the D-ay-ay ay ay...I won't worry 'bout tomorrow...' Check out this video by Lincoln Brewster.
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
May 31, 2011
"Acceptance Now"
Day # 151 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "People may make plans in their minds, but the Lord decides what they will do." Proverbs 16:9 NCV
TO BE CONTINUED...
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "People may make plans in their minds, but the Lord decides what they will do." Proverbs 16:9 NCV
TO BE CONTINUED...
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Who Deserves the Credit?"
Day # 150 - (WEHOO!) 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "But God, who comforts the humble, comforted us..." 2 Corinthians 7:6 HCSB
I love it whenever it says 'but God...', it shows we were, for examplein this case, lost in sin and conflict, and there was no way out... BUT GOD... Wow! Thank you Lord, for You do deserve the credit. BUT God, He always intervenes, as He doesn't want to see us lost. He is the God of 2nd chances for sure, BUT we don't always take them unfortunately!
'Give credit where credit is due.' An old saying, that proves true for Papa God. Everything I do (to be praised for) is from the Father, so I try to continually give the praise back to Him. When asked where I got my talent, my Mom always used to say 'from her father', and then she would say 'her heavenly Father'. I have kept that 'slogan' and have been quick to thank the Lord for the MANY talents He has give to me. For sure I know that God comforts the humble, but in another verse it says that God gives grace to the humble. "God opposes the proud but favors the humble. So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:6-7 NLT He gives grace to those who are humble enough to receive it!
...to be continued! <3
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "But God, who comforts the humble, comforted us..." 2 Corinthians 7:6 HCSB
I love it whenever it says 'but God...', it shows we were, for examplein this case, lost in sin and conflict, and there was no way out... BUT GOD... Wow! Thank you Lord, for You do deserve the credit. BUT God, He always intervenes, as He doesn't want to see us lost. He is the God of 2nd chances for sure, BUT we don't always take them unfortunately!
'Give credit where credit is due.' An old saying, that proves true for Papa God. Everything I do (to be praised for) is from the Father, so I try to continually give the praise back to Him. When asked where I got my talent, my Mom always used to say 'from her father', and then she would say 'her heavenly Father'. I have kept that 'slogan' and have been quick to thank the Lord for the MANY talents He has give to me. For sure I know that God comforts the humble, but in another verse it says that God gives grace to the humble. "God opposes the proud but favors the humble. So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:6-7 NLT He gives grace to those who are humble enough to receive it!
...to be continued! <3
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
May 29, 2011
"The Peace That Passes All Understanding"
Day #149 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Peace, peace to you, and peace to Him who helps you, for your God helps you." 1 Chronicles 12:18 HCSB
A peace that passes all understanding... a peace that comes amidst a storm. Jesus can offer us that peace. It's not just the happiness and flight peace that the world offers but a true rich peace that comes from inside of us through the power of God, through His Son and Holy Spirit. When all around us is in turmoil or terror, war or raging battles we can remain at peace because of our trust in the Lord.
Did you know that PEACE is one of the Fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23. "But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!" (NLT) Peace is a gift given freely by God, but of course being a gift we have to accept it, open it, and utilize it! It is our birthright!
What can we do with this PEACE we have been given? If we accept it & live out our lives with it, others will see and observe us, and they will want it too... and we can show them how to receive it through Jesus. We can share the peace that we have (same as the other gifts we receive from the Father). If we set our minds on things above, and not on earthly things (Colossians 3:1-4 "If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.")
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Peace, peace to you, and peace to Him who helps you, for your God helps you." 1 Chronicles 12:18 HCSB
A peace that passes all understanding... a peace that comes amidst a storm. Jesus can offer us that peace. It's not just the happiness and flight peace that the world offers but a true rich peace that comes from inside of us through the power of God, through His Son and Holy Spirit. When all around us is in turmoil or terror, war or raging battles we can remain at peace because of our trust in the Lord.
Did you know that PEACE is one of the Fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23. "But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!" (NLT) Peace is a gift given freely by God, but of course being a gift we have to accept it, open it, and utilize it! It is our birthright!
What can we do with this PEACE we have been given? If we accept it & live out our lives with it, others will see and observe us, and they will want it too... and we can show them how to receive it through Jesus. We can share the peace that we have (same as the other gifts we receive from the Father). If we set our minds on things above, and not on earthly things (Colossians 3:1-4 "If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.")
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
May 28, 2011
"The Futility of Worry"
Day #148 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Worry is a heavy load..." Proverbs 12:25 NCV
"Worry doesn't empty tomorrow of it's sorrow, it empties today of it's strength." (Corrie Ten Boom)
This is so true... worry is a futile thing. There really is no reason to be anxious or worry in the true sense of the word. Now don't get me wrong, we can get a little anxious for example, while watching Game #7 in an NHL playoff series that allows the winner to advance to the Stanley Cup Playoffs... as my husband and I did last night during the game against Boston & Tampa Bay. I wasn't so much as anxious as my husband (who is a strong Bruins fan)... but I did want the Bruins to win as well for him. As you watch the game, you allow your emotions to take over, and you get worried or anxious regarding the players, the defense, the refs calls, the offense and the possibility of goals, the injury of players (on either team) (such as what happened to Stamkos getting a puck in the nose - I can still feel the pain for him, which certainly isn't the same amount of pain he felt). This is the same with life, each experience that comes our way, we can allow our feelings of worry to overcome us, and get us anxious about every little thing that comes our way during and after the first surge of worry.
Worrying is actually just silly, once you look back and see how God brought you through, but obviously in the middle of it, we don't see the 'silver lining'. With the hockey game, my husband was a little less anxious and allowed feelings of happiness to come in when his team scored the goal --- however, because there was still time left in the game, feelings of anxiousness were still there because the other team could have scored. We worry ourselves too much with the 'if only's' and the 'could happen's', and we don't focus on the 'now'. As Corrie Ten Boom commented, we spend too much time wasting today's strength, and not fully receiving what God has for us. God is in control, and we need to trust Him fully with our lives (and those around us as well). Trust Him and have the faith to believe that He is and will always be what He says He is; That He will do what He says He will do.
There will always be things to 'worry' about, but we need to cast those cares and worries at the feet of the Jesus. (1 Peter 5:7) He took ALL those to Calvary with Him for us, and we don't have to be bothered by them anymore. We do have the victory through Him! We just need to walk in the freeness, and the fullness of that truth! The enemy likes to lie to us and decieve us into thinking that we have to bear all those burdens, but we don't! JESUS IS the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE (John 14:6) and through Him we can receive that life to the fullest! Don't let the enemy deceive you or trick you any longer -- it says in His Word, that 'even the elect will be deceived'. (Matthew 24:24)
"Jesus answered: 'Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains... At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come... Pray that your flight will not take place in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled again. “If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you ahead of time'-'So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the wilderness,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it." (Matthew 24:4-26)
"At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone." Titus 3:3-8 NIV
Another example of this kind of 'worry' placed on us by the enemy, is the 'END OF THE WORLD' comments made by certain religious groups. May 21st was supposed to be the 'end of the world-judgement day' according to one man (& his religious group). They put up posters, billboards, and had slogan after slogan on the internet telling people the end of the world would be May 21, 2011. They quoted a bunch of Scriptures, so that people would believe them, but they failed to mention one very important Scripture found in Matthew 24:36 - that no one will know the time when He returns. "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." If only the Father knows, and the only way we as humans can get to the Father is through the Son, then there is NO way that we as humans would know when that day is... especially if JESUS himself doesn't know. There were I'm sure people that were very worried, and were very anxious until 12:01 AM on May 22nd... same as there were people worried about the Y2K scare on December 31, 1999 to January 1, 2000. When they & we look back now, it was futile to get as worried as they/we did or may have done, and we see that we need to trust God more for sure, and not fall into traps laid out by humans through the work of the enemy. The group now claims that they were indeed wrong in their calculations, and that the end of the world is now in October 2011. So do not be deceived or tricked by them again. Place your life into the hands of the Father, and allow Him to control the future.
"Submit each day to God, knowing that He is God over all your tomorrows." ~ Kay Arthur
W.O.R.R.Y -- Whatever Oppresses, Restrains & Restricts You
J.E.S.U.S -- Just Everything Supernaturally U (& I need) Sufficiently
Cast your 'Worries' to 'Jesus' today and see what happens to them... and to you! Be RELEASED in JESUS' NAME!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Worry is a heavy load..." Proverbs 12:25 NCV
This is so true... worry is a futile thing. There really is no reason to be anxious or worry in the true sense of the word. Now don't get me wrong, we can get a little anxious for example, while watching Game #7 in an NHL playoff series that allows the winner to advance to the Stanley Cup Playoffs... as my husband and I did last night during the game against Boston & Tampa Bay. I wasn't so much as anxious as my husband (who is a strong Bruins fan)... but I did want the Bruins to win as well for him. As you watch the game, you allow your emotions to take over, and you get worried or anxious regarding the players, the defense, the refs calls, the offense and the possibility of goals, the injury of players (on either team) (such as what happened to Stamkos getting a puck in the nose - I can still feel the pain for him, which certainly isn't the same amount of pain he felt). This is the same with life, each experience that comes our way, we can allow our feelings of worry to overcome us, and get us anxious about every little thing that comes our way during and after the first surge of worry.
Worrying is actually just silly, once you look back and see how God brought you through, but obviously in the middle of it, we don't see the 'silver lining'. With the hockey game, my husband was a little less anxious and allowed feelings of happiness to come in when his team scored the goal --- however, because there was still time left in the game, feelings of anxiousness were still there because the other team could have scored. We worry ourselves too much with the 'if only's' and the 'could happen's', and we don't focus on the 'now'. As Corrie Ten Boom commented, we spend too much time wasting today's strength, and not fully receiving what God has for us. God is in control, and we need to trust Him fully with our lives (and those around us as well). Trust Him and have the faith to believe that He is and will always be what He says He is; That He will do what He says He will do.
There will always be things to 'worry' about, but we need to cast those cares and worries at the feet of the Jesus. (1 Peter 5:7) He took ALL those to Calvary with Him for us, and we don't have to be bothered by them anymore. We do have the victory through Him! We just need to walk in the freeness, and the fullness of that truth! The enemy likes to lie to us and decieve us into thinking that we have to bear all those burdens, but we don't! JESUS IS the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE (John 14:6) and through Him we can receive that life to the fullest! Don't let the enemy deceive you or trick you any longer -- it says in His Word, that 'even the elect will be deceived'. (Matthew 24:24)
"Jesus answered: 'Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains... At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come... Pray that your flight will not take place in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled again. “If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you ahead of time'-'So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the wilderness,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it." (Matthew 24:4-26)
"At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone." Titus 3:3-8 NIV
Another example of this kind of 'worry' placed on us by the enemy, is the 'END OF THE WORLD' comments made by certain religious groups. May 21st was supposed to be the 'end of the world-judgement day' according to one man (& his religious group). They put up posters, billboards, and had slogan after slogan on the internet telling people the end of the world would be May 21, 2011. They quoted a bunch of Scriptures, so that people would believe them, but they failed to mention one very important Scripture found in Matthew 24:36 - that no one will know the time when He returns. "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." If only the Father knows, and the only way we as humans can get to the Father is through the Son, then there is NO way that we as humans would know when that day is... especially if JESUS himself doesn't know. There were I'm sure people that were very worried, and were very anxious until 12:01 AM on May 22nd... same as there were people worried about the Y2K scare on December 31, 1999 to January 1, 2000. When they & we look back now, it was futile to get as worried as they/we did or may have done, and we see that we need to trust God more for sure, and not fall into traps laid out by humans through the work of the enemy. The group now claims that they were indeed wrong in their calculations, and that the end of the world is now in October 2011. So do not be deceived or tricked by them again. Place your life into the hands of the Father, and allow Him to control the future.
"Submit each day to God, knowing that He is God over all your tomorrows." ~ Kay Arthur
W.O.R.R.Y -- Whatever Oppresses, Restrains & Restricts You
J.E.S.U.S -- Just Everything Supernaturally U (& I need) Sufficiently
Cast your 'Worries' to 'Jesus' today and see what happens to them... and to you! Be RELEASED in JESUS' NAME!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Walking With God"
Day # 147 - "A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "How happy is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways!" Psalm 128:1 HCSB
"You can't walk with God and hold hands with satan at the same time." ~ Anonymous
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "How happy is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways!" Psalm 128:1 HCSB
"You can't walk with God and hold hands with satan at the same time." ~ Anonymous
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"BE TRANSFORMED"
Day # 146 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
(and May 26th is my husband's Birthday - happy 40th babe and may you always walk a transformed life in & through Him.)
Verse: "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove that what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 12:2 NKJV
"In the midst of pressure and the heat, I am confident His hand is on my life, developing my faith until I display His glory, transforming me into a vessel of honour that pleases Him!" ~ Anne Graham Lotz
... to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
(and May 26th is my husband's Birthday - happy 40th babe and may you always walk a transformed life in & through Him.)
Verse: "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove that what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 12:2 NKJV
"In the midst of pressure and the heat, I am confident His hand is on my life, developing my faith until I display His glory, transforming me into a vessel of honour that pleases Him!" ~ Anne Graham Lotz
... to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"A World Filled With Temptations"
Day # 145 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; then stick to the path and stay safe. Don't get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil." Proverbs 4:25-27 NLT
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; then stick to the path and stay safe. Don't get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil." Proverbs 4:25-27 NLT
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Spiritual Gifts"
Day # 144 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Pursue love and desire spiritual gifts." 1 Corinthians 14:1 HCSB
"Faith Tip: Each person possesses special abilities that can be nurtured carefully or ignored totally. The challenge, of course, is to do the former and to avoid the latter."
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Pursue love and desire spiritual gifts." 1 Corinthians 14:1 HCSB
"Faith Tip: Each person possesses special abilities that can be nurtured carefully or ignored totally. The challenge, of course, is to do the former and to avoid the latter."
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
May 27, 2011
"If He Returned Today"
Day # 143 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief; on that day the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, the elements will burn and be dissolved, and the earth and the works on it will be disclosed.... Therefore, dear friends, while you wait for these things, make every effort to be found in peace without spot or blemish before Him." 2 Peter 3:10,14 HCSB
...to be continued!
Verse: "But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief; on that day the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, the elements will burn and be dissolved, and the earth and the works on it will be disclosed.... Therefore, dear friends, while you wait for these things, make every effort to be found in peace without spot or blemish before Him." 2 Peter 3:10,14 HCSB
...to be continued!
"Getting Past the Regret"
Day # 142 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "And don't be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. Where you are right now is God's place for you. Live and obey and love and believe right there." 1 Corinthians 7:17 MSG
"We will always experience regret when we live for the moment and do not weigh our words and deeds before we give them life." ~ Lisa Bevere
...to be continued!
Verse: "And don't be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. Where you are right now is God's place for you. Live and obey and love and believe right there." 1 Corinthians 7:17 MSG
"We will always experience regret when we live for the moment and do not weigh our words and deeds before we give them life." ~ Lisa Bevere
...to be continued!
"Pray Without Ceasing"
Day # 141 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Anyone who is having troubles should pray." James 5:13 NCV
The choice of verse today is unusual for the title/topic for today -- pray without ceasing, means pray ALL the time, in good times or in troubles. Anyone who is having troubles is not the only ones who should be praying... even when things may seem to be going well, you should still pray prayers of thanksgiving. I have been teaching my Children & Tween's (and those t'ween them) about the 'Armour of God', and we have just spoken on 'prayer' being an important part of the armour we use when we wage battles against the enemy.
Prayer is the key to heaven, yet it is our faith that unlocks the door. We need to have faith and believe that God will do what He says He will do when we pray. We need to consult God on a 'more than hourly' base... without ceasing, means never coming to an end. Meaning we can 'talk to God' all day long, every moment of the day. It doesn't have to be a long, drawn out prayer including all of the children in Africa and Russia every time... just a simple 'thanks God' for the beautiful sunrise, for the lack of rain/or for the giving of rain, etc... will do. God just wants to be in 'communion' with us -- 'communication' by definition according to the Online Etymology Dictionary is;
late 14c., from O.Fr. comunicacion (14c., Mod.Fr. communication), from L. communicationem (nom. communicatio), noun of action from communicare "to share, divide out; communicate, impart, inform; join, unite, participate in," lit. "to make common," from communis
Communion - late 14c., from O.Fr. comunion "community, communion" (12c.), from L. communionem (nom. communio) "fellowship, mutual participation, a sharing," used in L.L. ecclesiastical language for "participation in the sacrament," from communis (see common). Used by Augustine, in belief that the word was derived from com- "with, together" + unus "oneness, union."
Prayer - (according to Dictionary.com)
–noun
1. a devout petition to god or an object of worship.
2. a spiritual communion with God or an object of worship, as in supplication, thanksgiving, adoration, or confession.
3. the act or practice of praying to God or an object of worship.
God just wants to share a spiritual communion with us, He wants us to share with Him and He desires to share things with us. We need not be afraid of talking to Him, and every prayer doesn't have to include ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication).
"The best reason to pray is that God is really there. In praying, our unbelief gradually starts to melt as God moves smack into the middle of even an ordinary day." ~ Emilie Griffin
Verse: "Anyone who is having troubles should pray." James 5:13 NCV
The choice of verse today is unusual for the title/topic for today -- pray without ceasing, means pray ALL the time, in good times or in troubles. Anyone who is having troubles is not the only ones who should be praying... even when things may seem to be going well, you should still pray prayers of thanksgiving. I have been teaching my Children & Tween's (and those t'ween them) about the 'Armour of God', and we have just spoken on 'prayer' being an important part of the armour we use when we wage battles against the enemy.
Prayer is the key to heaven, yet it is our faith that unlocks the door. We need to have faith and believe that God will do what He says He will do when we pray. We need to consult God on a 'more than hourly' base... without ceasing, means never coming to an end. Meaning we can 'talk to God' all day long, every moment of the day. It doesn't have to be a long, drawn out prayer including all of the children in Africa and Russia every time... just a simple 'thanks God' for the beautiful sunrise, for the lack of rain/or for the giving of rain, etc... will do. God just wants to be in 'communion' with us -- 'communication' by definition according to the Online Etymology Dictionary is;
late 14c., from O.Fr. comunicacion (14c., Mod.Fr. communication), from L. communicationem (nom. communicatio), noun of action from communicare "to share, divide out; communicate, impart, inform; join, unite, participate in," lit. "to make common," from communis
Communion - late 14c., from O.Fr. comunion "community, communion" (12c.), from L. communionem (nom. communio) "fellowship, mutual participation, a sharing," used in L.L. ecclesiastical language for "participation in the sacrament," from communis (see common). Used by Augustine, in belief that the word was derived from com- "with, together" + unus "oneness, union."
Prayer - (according to Dictionary.com)
–noun
1. a devout petition to god or an object of worship.
2. a spiritual communion with God or an object of worship, as in supplication, thanksgiving, adoration, or confession.
3. the act or practice of praying to God or an object of worship.
God just wants to share a spiritual communion with us, He wants us to share with Him and He desires to share things with us. We need not be afraid of talking to Him, and every prayer doesn't have to include ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication).
"The best reason to pray is that God is really there. In praying, our unbelief gradually starts to melt as God moves smack into the middle of even an ordinary day." ~ Emilie Griffin
May 21, 2011
"Worship Every Day"
Day #140 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Everyday I will bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever." Psalm 145:2 KJV
...to be continued!
Verse: "Everyday I will bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever." Psalm 145:2 KJV
...to be continued!
"Wait for Him"
Day #139 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for Him and seek Him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord." Lamentations 3:25-26 NLT
...to be continued!
Verse: "The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for Him and seek Him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord." Lamentations 3:25-26 NLT
...to be continued!
"Unchanging Laws"
Day #138 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "God's law is more real and lasting than the stars in the sky and the ground at your feet. Long after stars burn out and earth wears out, God's law will be alive and working." Matthew 5:18 MSG
...to be continued!
Verse: "God's law is more real and lasting than the stars in the sky and the ground at your feet. Long after stars burn out and earth wears out, God's law will be alive and working." Matthew 5:18 MSG
...to be continued!
"Life Triumphant"
Day # 137 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Shout triumphantly to the Lord, all the earth. SErve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs." Psalm 100:1-2 HCSB
Verse: "Shout triumphantly to the Lord, all the earth. SErve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs." Psalm 100:1-2 HCSB
"Honouring God"
Day # 136 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Honour the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty." Proverbs 3:9-10 NKJV
Verse: "Honour the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty." Proverbs 3:9-10 NKJV
May 16, 2011
"God's Armour"
Day # 135 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes." Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV
Wehoo! What a timely verse... today (the 15th - am writing on the 16th) is indeed a Sunday, and for the past few Sundays we have been studying 'The Armour of God' (yes added 'u' being Canadian). Today was technically the end of our 'armour' lesson, because it was ending at verse 18, with prayer. One of the most important parts of our armour. Most people stop at the sword of the spirit for the last part of the armour. I taught the children/tweens in my class that prayer is the most important (after their salvation of course).
In this crazy world, there are a lot of 'schemes' of the devil, and I wanted our 'kids' to be ready for battle. They do not wait until they are older, God wants them to be a part of His mission now. I (as their leader) want to see them become 'mighty boys/young men & mighty girls/young ladies of God'. The more truth we instill in them now, can and will stay with them as they grow and are faced with many more temptations and obstacles. With the armour, God is also with us all the way. HE never ever leaves us alone to fight our battles -- unless it is our choice, and we walk away from Him. His Spirit lives and dwells inside of us, and with the power of the Spirit, and the power of the Armour through God we can battle the wiles of the devil.
We must remember that WE ALREADY HAVE THE VICTORY through JESUS. Jesus is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE, which means He is the ONLY way to get to God. Through the precious BLOOD of Jesus, God has made provision for us to have the SAME authority here on earth. Jesus took the keys back from the devil, and the devil only has the power that we give to him. Stop empowering the devil with his lies, and start empowering yourself with the TRUTH.
So put on the ARMOUR of God today, and get out there... maybe not on the frontline right now... but at least TAKE A STAND. The frontline is actually worshippers & fighters -- intercessors & warriors! Take your stand as a SOLDIER of the KING!
"He is within and without. His Spirit dwells within me. His armour protects me. He goes before me and is behind me." ~ Mary Morrison Suggs
Here's a song I've always enjoyed, 'The Warrior is a Child':
HALLELUJAH! BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes." Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV
Wehoo! What a timely verse... today (the 15th - am writing on the 16th) is indeed a Sunday, and for the past few Sundays we have been studying 'The Armour of God' (yes added 'u' being Canadian). Today was technically the end of our 'armour' lesson, because it was ending at verse 18, with prayer. One of the most important parts of our armour. Most people stop at the sword of the spirit for the last part of the armour. I taught the children/tweens in my class that prayer is the most important (after their salvation of course).
In this crazy world, there are a lot of 'schemes' of the devil, and I wanted our 'kids' to be ready for battle. They do not wait until they are older, God wants them to be a part of His mission now. I (as their leader) want to see them become 'mighty boys/young men & mighty girls/young ladies of God'. The more truth we instill in them now, can and will stay with them as they grow and are faced with many more temptations and obstacles. With the armour, God is also with us all the way. HE never ever leaves us alone to fight our battles -- unless it is our choice, and we walk away from Him. His Spirit lives and dwells inside of us, and with the power of the Spirit, and the power of the Armour through God we can battle the wiles of the devil.
We must remember that WE ALREADY HAVE THE VICTORY through JESUS. Jesus is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE, which means He is the ONLY way to get to God. Through the precious BLOOD of Jesus, God has made provision for us to have the SAME authority here on earth. Jesus took the keys back from the devil, and the devil only has the power that we give to him. Stop empowering the devil with his lies, and start empowering yourself with the TRUTH.
So put on the ARMOUR of God today, and get out there... maybe not on the frontline right now... but at least TAKE A STAND. The frontline is actually worshippers & fighters -- intercessors & warriors! Take your stand as a SOLDIER of the KING!
"He is within and without. His Spirit dwells within me. His armour protects me. He goes before me and is behind me." ~ Mary Morrison Suggs
Here's a song I've always enjoyed, 'The Warrior is a Child':
HALLELUJAH! BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
May 14, 2011
"His Grace is not Earned"
Day # 134 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift -- not from works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8-9 HCSB
*warning - the following clip contains pics from 'The Passion of the Christ' which may be a little graphic for some viewers under 18 (& of course over as well). It is put to the song 'Grace Like Rain' by Todd Agnew. Sad part is, is that it is probably not as graphic as what really happened to Jesus that day on Calvary. Think of what He has done for you, and that is why you can receive the grace of God -- it is not through anything that we can do, but what His Son has done for YOU.*
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift -- not from works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8-9 HCSB
*warning - the following clip contains pics from 'The Passion of the Christ' which may be a little graphic for some viewers under 18 (& of course over as well). It is put to the song 'Grace Like Rain' by Todd Agnew. Sad part is, is that it is probably not as graphic as what really happened to Jesus that day on Calvary. Think of what He has done for you, and that is why you can receive the grace of God -- it is not through anything that we can do, but what His Son has done for YOU.*
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"His Perfection"
Day # 133 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "For I will proclaim the Lord's name. Declare the greatness of our God! The Rock -- His work is perfect; all his ways are entirely just. A faithful God, without prejudice, He is righteous and true." Deuteronomy 32:3-4 HCSB
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "For I will proclaim the Lord's name. Declare the greatness of our God! The Rock -- His work is perfect; all his ways are entirely just. A faithful God, without prejudice, He is righteous and true." Deuteronomy 32:3-4 HCSB
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"The Commandment to Forgive"
Day #132 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful." Luke 6:36 HCSB
"Don't put a question mark where God has put a period." ~ Anonymous
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful." Luke 6:36 HCSB
"Don't put a question mark where God has put a period." ~ Anonymous
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Mountain-Moving Faith"
Day # 131 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "I assure you: If anyone says to this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea', and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him." Mark 11:23 HCSB
Mountain-moving faith indeed... making the impossible possible... seeing that which is not as though it were. WOW~
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "I assure you: If anyone says to this mountain, 'Be lifted up and thrown into the sea', and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him." Mark 11:23 HCSB
Mountain-moving faith indeed... making the impossible possible... seeing that which is not as though it were. WOW~
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
May 10, 2011
"He Doesn't Fail"
DAY # 130 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my victory. He is my God, and I will praise Him." Exodus 15:2 NLT
~Meeting expectations
~Isaiah 40:31
"Never yield to gloomy anticipation. Place your hope and confidence in God. He has not record of failure." ~ Mrs. Charles E. Cowman
"The truth is that even in the midst of trouble, happy moments swim by us every day, like shining fish waiting to be caught." ~ Barbara Johnson
... to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my victory. He is my God, and I will praise Him." Exodus 15:2 NLT
~Meeting expectations
~Isaiah 40:31
"Never yield to gloomy anticipation. Place your hope and confidence in God. He has not record of failure." ~ Mrs. Charles E. Cowman
"The truth is that even in the midst of trouble, happy moments swim by us every day, like shining fish waiting to be caught." ~ Barbara Johnson
... to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Living Courageously"
Day # 129 - "A Woman of Faith" Devotional
Verse: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10 NIV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10 NIV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
May 8, 2011
"Making Quality Choices"
Day #128 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "I am offering you life or death, blessings or curses. Now, choose life!... To choose life is to love the Lord your God, obey Him, and stay close to Him." Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NCV
'To be or not to be, that is the question!' (Shakespeare) Decisions... Decisions... some of them are easy, yet some of them are more difficult, as the case where you may make the wrong decision and have to suffer some uncomfortable consequences. But really, Shakespeare's quote from Hamlet 'to be or not to be' is really the question. God is giving us choices, He desires that we choose life, that we 'be'. If we choose to 'not be' a part of His family & His eternal kingdom, then we must suffer (and I mean suffer) eternal damnation & separation from God.
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
(PS Today is May 8th, 2011 and it is MOTHER'S DAY around the world, so Happy Mommy's Day to you and may you be blessed beyond belief! If you are not a physical Mommy to anyone, you just might be a Spiritual Mom to others -- they are always watching! Be the example to follow - the example of the LOVE of Jesus! Make the right choices, as there are younger generations behind you following your lead.)
Verse: "I am offering you life or death, blessings or curses. Now, choose life!... To choose life is to love the Lord your God, obey Him, and stay close to Him." Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NCV
'To be or not to be, that is the question!' (Shakespeare) Decisions... Decisions... some of them are easy, yet some of them are more difficult, as the case where you may make the wrong decision and have to suffer some uncomfortable consequences. But really, Shakespeare's quote from Hamlet 'to be or not to be' is really the question. God is giving us choices, He desires that we choose life, that we 'be'. If we choose to 'not be' a part of His family & His eternal kingdom, then we must suffer (and I mean suffer) eternal damnation & separation from God.
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
(PS Today is May 8th, 2011 and it is MOTHER'S DAY around the world, so Happy Mommy's Day to you and may you be blessed beyond belief! If you are not a physical Mommy to anyone, you just might be a Spiritual Mom to others -- they are always watching! Be the example to follow - the example of the LOVE of Jesus! Make the right choices, as there are younger generations behind you following your lead.)
"His Compassion"
Day #127 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous..." Psalm 5:12 KJV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous..." Psalm 5:12 KJV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Asking Him for Strength"
Day #126 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching and you will find. Keep knocking and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who searches finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." Matthew 7:7-8 HCSB
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching and you will find. Keep knocking and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who searches finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." Matthew 7:7-8 HCSB
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Acceptance & Peace"
Day #125 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Come to terms with God and be at peace; in this way good will come to you." Job 22:21 HCSB
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Come to terms with God and be at peace; in this way good will come to you." Job 22:21 HCSB
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Focusing on His Blessings"
Day # 124 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them -- the Lord, who remains faithful forever." Psalm 146:5-6 NIV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them -- the Lord, who remains faithful forever." Psalm 146:5-6 NIV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"The Source of Strength"
Day #123 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Have you not know? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength." Isaiah 40:28-29
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Have you not know? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength." Isaiah 40:28-29
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Service & Love"
Day #122 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "We know we love God's children if we love God and obey His commandments." 1 John 5:2 NLT
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "We know we love God's children if we love God and obey His commandments." 1 John 5:2 NLT
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Repentance & Peace"
Day #121 - ' A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "They should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance." Acts 26:20
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "They should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance." Acts 26:20
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Apr 30, 2011
"Your Bible & His Purpose"
DAY #120 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
VERSE: "The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver tried in a furnace..." Psalm 12:6
In yesterday's devotion found HERE, we spoke of 'Give us this day our daily bread', 'bread' being that which we need to go through each day, not just the actual food itself. In Matthew 4:4, it says, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God", meaning that we are not to live on just 'bread', but also by the 'bread of life' which is God's Word. God's Word as in the Bible is important for us, but just as in yesterday's devotional, 'Prayer Changes Things & You', God's words in prayer are just as important. When we pray to Him, He may come and speak to us. Now it is not audible everytime, but I guess for some it could be. I usually feel His voice in my spirit or my heart. He reveals things to me like that. If He has spoken audibly, I have obviously missed out because I haven't heard & listened to it. There are times when I think I hear an 'audible' voice, but I'm not sure it's not just someone around me. I know that we all, but I myself have to pray and get deeper into the Word more so that I can discern better, so that I may grow more intimate with Him.
In my teaching classes, I always tell the children/youth how important God's Word is to them, for we are soooooo blessed to be able to have more than one in our homes, where people around the world may only have one page of it, or not be able to have it at all or they will be killed. We need to treat it as a rare treasure, not just another book on our shelf or coffee table... or in our hotel room bedside drawer. His Word reveals His purposes, but His Word becomes 'my' Bible, that brings life, truth and hope to me. Do you want to know what to do with your life? He can reveal that to you through His Word. Are you struggling with pain of the past, or health issues? God can minister to you through His Word. Are you seeking Him for more blessings, whether it be spiritual, financial, physical, emotional, social, mental... for you and/or your family, your friends, your co-workers, your clientelle & their families, or even just those around you who are hurting? It's all in the Word, God can and will do great & mighty things for us, but there are also some things that we need to be doing here on earth for Him to move in great power. He doesn't need us, but He wants us. Sometimes we think we don't want Him, but we always do truly need Him. We need to fulfill our mission or calling here on the earth, and be the hands and feet of Jesus, completing His mission of bringing everyone into the kingdom. But we cannot find out our mission, if we do not humble ourselves & pray, and submit to Him and read his Word daily.
"Finding one's mission, and then fulfilling it, is perhaps the most vital activity in which a person can engage." ~ Laurie Beth Jones
Maybe you have never heard the GOSPEL MESSAGE, or you don't have that 'relationship' with Christ. That's what it's all about it's not religion, it's a relationship. Here is the GOSPEL MESSAGE simplicity - -
We are ALL sinners - Sin results in Death - God loved the world so much, He sent us His Son Jesus - Jesus came to earth to teach, train, equip, and mentor - Jesus did the work of the Father, praying, healing, performing miracles, teaching of His Father's love - Jesus died ONCE & FOR ALL for our sins, so that we didn't have to die - He rose again, to live with His Father in Heaven - Jesus intercedes for us to the Father - We are commissioned to do the work of the Father, trainging, teaching, equipping, praying, healing, performing miracles, but most importantly sharing His story, 'History' not fiction (the gospel) - Jesus will come back for believers - We as believers get to live eternally in Heaven with Him. (If we do not believe, then we will have eternal death, as we haven't accepted the FREE gift of Salvation).
**If you have never prayed the 'salvation prayer' before (or maybe you did long ago and have drifted away)& haven't experienced the joy of the relationship that is spoken of above, then here's your chance today. The only thing you are giving up is things that aren't going to last long anyway -- which if you don't give up, will only make your own life not last as long as it could (which is eternally). --- You've already made the first step known - admit to God that you are a sinner, because after all - all of us are sinners. (Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God") After that you need to believe that God is God, and that Jesus is His Son. He sent His Son to die for us, so that we as sinners didn't need to be condemned to death. (Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death, bu the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus.") Then do something a little difficult, and Confess your sins to Him and ask for forgiveness -- and then confess aloud that JESUS IS LORD. (Romans 10:9-10 "If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.") We need to daily ask for forgiveness (sometimes more than once a day), because we are human and we will always mess up in some way or another. God is willing and able to forgive us, and welcome YOU into His family. I don't like to write out a prayer anymore to say word for word, as this important step is something that you need to tell God in your own words. (But if you need someone to help you or to chat with, just comment below.) Just tell Him what's in your heart - you're a sinner, you want to believe in Him but it may be hard, you want Him to forgive you of what you've done, and you want to choose life with Him through His Son Jesus. Then find a local SPIRIT-FILLED, Bible believing, covered by the BLOOD church to be a part of, to encourage you along the way. It's as simple as that. ** GOD BLESS YOU!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
VERSE: "The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver tried in a furnace..." Psalm 12:6
In my teaching classes, I always tell the children/youth how important God's Word is to them, for we are soooooo blessed to be able to have more than one in our homes, where people around the world may only have one page of it, or not be able to have it at all or they will be killed. We need to treat it as a rare treasure, not just another book on our shelf or coffee table... or in our hotel room bedside drawer. His Word reveals His purposes, but His Word becomes 'my' Bible, that brings life, truth and hope to me. Do you want to know what to do with your life? He can reveal that to you through His Word. Are you struggling with pain of the past, or health issues? God can minister to you through His Word. Are you seeking Him for more blessings, whether it be spiritual, financial, physical, emotional, social, mental... for you and/or your family, your friends, your co-workers, your clientelle & their families, or even just those around you who are hurting? It's all in the Word, God can and will do great & mighty things for us, but there are also some things that we need to be doing here on earth for Him to move in great power. He doesn't need us, but He wants us. Sometimes we think we don't want Him, but we always do truly need Him. We need to fulfill our mission or calling here on the earth, and be the hands and feet of Jesus, completing His mission of bringing everyone into the kingdom. But we cannot find out our mission, if we do not humble ourselves & pray, and submit to Him and read his Word daily.
"Finding one's mission, and then fulfilling it, is perhaps the most vital activity in which a person can engage." ~ Laurie Beth Jones
Maybe you have never heard the GOSPEL MESSAGE, or you don't have that 'relationship' with Christ. That's what it's all about it's not religion, it's a relationship. Here is the GOSPEL MESSAGE simplicity - -
We are ALL sinners - Sin results in Death - God loved the world so much, He sent us His Son Jesus - Jesus came to earth to teach, train, equip, and mentor - Jesus did the work of the Father, praying, healing, performing miracles, teaching of His Father's love - Jesus died ONCE & FOR ALL for our sins, so that we didn't have to die - He rose again, to live with His Father in Heaven - Jesus intercedes for us to the Father - We are commissioned to do the work of the Father, trainging, teaching, equipping, praying, healing, performing miracles, but most importantly sharing His story, 'History' not fiction (the gospel) - Jesus will come back for believers - We as believers get to live eternally in Heaven with Him. (If we do not believe, then we will have eternal death, as we haven't accepted the FREE gift of Salvation).
**If you have never prayed the 'salvation prayer' before (or maybe you did long ago and have drifted away)& haven't experienced the joy of the relationship that is spoken of above, then here's your chance today. The only thing you are giving up is things that aren't going to last long anyway -- which if you don't give up, will only make your own life not last as long as it could (which is eternally). --- You've already made the first step known - admit to God that you are a sinner, because after all - all of us are sinners. (Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God") After that you need to believe that God is God, and that Jesus is His Son. He sent His Son to die for us, so that we as sinners didn't need to be condemned to death. (Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death, bu the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus.") Then do something a little difficult, and Confess your sins to Him and ask for forgiveness -- and then confess aloud that JESUS IS LORD. (Romans 10:9-10 "If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.") We need to daily ask for forgiveness (sometimes more than once a day), because we are human and we will always mess up in some way or another. God is willing and able to forgive us, and welcome YOU into His family. I don't like to write out a prayer anymore to say word for word, as this important step is something that you need to tell God in your own words. (But if you need someone to help you or to chat with, just comment below.) Just tell Him what's in your heart - you're a sinner, you want to believe in Him but it may be hard, you want Him to forgive you of what you've done, and you want to choose life with Him through His Son Jesus. Then find a local SPIRIT-FILLED, Bible believing, covered by the BLOOD church to be a part of, to encourage you along the way. It's as simple as that. ** GOD BLESS YOU!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Apr 29, 2011
"Prayer Changes Things & You"
DAY #119 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
VERSE: "And everything -- whatever you ask in prayer, believing -- you will receive." Matthew 21:22 HCSB
'Could you not tarry one hour?' is a question Jesus asked of his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. He asked them to pray with Him and for Him, and the disciples fell asleep. Jesus was in the most deepest prayer, and darkest time of His life, and He desired that His disciples intercede, and maybe they did for a short time, yet they fell asleep waiting for Him to return to them. God desires us to pray, as this is our main form of communication with Him. Sometimes we tend to make 'prayer' something bigger than it really is. Prayer is just simply talking to God. Somehow, we also tend to 'scare' other Christians (and maybe non-believers) by using the terms 'prayer meeting' or 'intercessory team'. Some Christians may not have the FULL gift of 'Intercession', but we are all called to intercede for someone, and of course for ourselves. Jesus then intercedes for all of us at the throne of God. Praying daily, and even throughout the day (not just at dinner, or at bedtime prayers) is what God desires of us. When we pray to Him (even just our 'Give me, Give me' prayers), He desires to speak back to us. Sometimes we just rush in to prayer, tell Him our wants & needs, and then rush out... He desires us to worship & praise Him; confess our sins so He may clothe us with righteousness & He may manifest his presence; thank Him for the many things that He has done, because He wants to pour out more and more; and, then we may ask Him for things that we NEED and desire according to His will.
It's been said that the quality of our spiritual life can be compared to the quality of our prayer life. When we are in prayer, God can communicate with us as well as through His word. Prayer CHANGES the atmosphere & things around you, same as worship, yet it also changes YOU, and what is going on in the Heavens -- there is an old hymn/song that the Gaither's have on their videos, 'Prayer is the Key to Heaven', and in that song it says 'Prayer is the key to Heaven, but FAITH unlocks the door'. We want to pray, but we also want to pray believing in faith that God will show up #1, but also that He will do what He says He will do.
The verse today says, '...whatever you ask for in prayer, BELIEVING -- you will receive.' This is not saying that 'whatever' we ask for we get, it is according to the will of the Father. Most times we think of the blessing side of this verse, and that we get what we want if we just believe we should have it. But there is also the flip-side to this... what about those prayers we pray in frustration or even just a simple prayer that we really didn't mean-- God can and will answer those too. I have learned that we need to be 'specific' in what we are asking for.
I have also learned through revelation of Holy Spirit, that we really should get back to 'The Lord's Prayer'. We shouldn't have to ask for money for example, or a new home, or money for a new home... or a new job, or a new car, or a new... whatever. 'Give us this day our daily bread' is what Jesus prayed. Yes God does like to hear us ask for things specifically, but He also does know our heart. Our problem is that we don't always know His heart. Saying 'Give us this day our daily bread', is basically saying, 'Hey God, you know that I would like _______, but give me what You know that I need today.'
...to be continued!
"Our prayers must not be efforts to bend God to our will but to yield ourselves to His." ~ Catherine Marshall
VERSE: "And everything -- whatever you ask in prayer, believing -- you will receive." Matthew 21:22 HCSB
'Could you not tarry one hour?' is a question Jesus asked of his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. He asked them to pray with Him and for Him, and the disciples fell asleep. Jesus was in the most deepest prayer, and darkest time of His life, and He desired that His disciples intercede, and maybe they did for a short time, yet they fell asleep waiting for Him to return to them. God desires us to pray, as this is our main form of communication with Him. Sometimes we tend to make 'prayer' something bigger than it really is. Prayer is just simply talking to God. Somehow, we also tend to 'scare' other Christians (and maybe non-believers) by using the terms 'prayer meeting' or 'intercessory team'. Some Christians may not have the FULL gift of 'Intercession', but we are all called to intercede for someone, and of course for ourselves. Jesus then intercedes for all of us at the throne of God. Praying daily, and even throughout the day (not just at dinner, or at bedtime prayers) is what God desires of us. When we pray to Him (even just our 'Give me, Give me' prayers), He desires to speak back to us. Sometimes we just rush in to prayer, tell Him our wants & needs, and then rush out... He desires us to worship & praise Him; confess our sins so He may clothe us with righteousness & He may manifest his presence; thank Him for the many things that He has done, because He wants to pour out more and more; and, then we may ask Him for things that we NEED and desire according to His will.
It's been said that the quality of our spiritual life can be compared to the quality of our prayer life. When we are in prayer, God can communicate with us as well as through His word. Prayer CHANGES the atmosphere & things around you, same as worship, yet it also changes YOU, and what is going on in the Heavens -- there is an old hymn/song that the Gaither's have on their videos, 'Prayer is the Key to Heaven', and in that song it says 'Prayer is the key to Heaven, but FAITH unlocks the door'. We want to pray, but we also want to pray believing in faith that God will show up #1, but also that He will do what He says He will do.
The verse today says, '...whatever you ask for in prayer, BELIEVING -- you will receive.' This is not saying that 'whatever' we ask for we get, it is according to the will of the Father. Most times we think of the blessing side of this verse, and that we get what we want if we just believe we should have it. But there is also the flip-side to this... what about those prayers we pray in frustration or even just a simple prayer that we really didn't mean-- God can and will answer those too. I have learned that we need to be 'specific' in what we are asking for.
I have also learned through revelation of Holy Spirit, that we really should get back to 'The Lord's Prayer'. We shouldn't have to ask for money for example, or a new home, or money for a new home... or a new job, or a new car, or a new... whatever. 'Give us this day our daily bread' is what Jesus prayed. Yes God does like to hear us ask for things specifically, but He also does know our heart. Our problem is that we don't always know His heart. Saying 'Give us this day our daily bread', is basically saying, 'Hey God, you know that I would like _______, but give me what You know that I need today.'
...to be continued!
"Our prayers must not be efforts to bend God to our will but to yield ourselves to His." ~ Catherine Marshall
"Real Prosperity"
DAY #118 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
VERSE: "Serving God does make us very rich, if we are satisfied with what we have. We brought nothing into the world, so we can take nothing out. But, if we have food and clothes we will be satisfied with that." 1 Timothy 6:6-8 NCV
"Our ultimate aim in life is not to be healthy, wealthy, prosperous, or problem free. Our ultimate aim in life is to bring glory to God." ~ Anne Graham Lotz
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
VERSE: "Serving God does make us very rich, if we are satisfied with what we have. We brought nothing into the world, so we can take nothing out. But, if we have food and clothes we will be satisfied with that." 1 Timothy 6:6-8 NCV
"Our ultimate aim in life is not to be healthy, wealthy, prosperous, or problem free. Our ultimate aim in life is to bring glory to God." ~ Anne Graham Lotz
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Pleasing God"
DAY #117 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
VERSE: "But neither exile nor homecoming is the main thing. Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, and that's what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions." 2 Corinthians 5:9 MSG
"Get ready for God to show you not only His pleasure but His approval." ~Joni Eareckson Tada
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
VERSE: "But neither exile nor homecoming is the main thing. Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, and that's what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions." 2 Corinthians 5:9 MSG
"Get ready for God to show you not only His pleasure but His approval." ~Joni Eareckson Tada
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Apr 27, 2011
"Passion for Life"
Day #116 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord." Romans 12:11 NIV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord." Romans 12:11 NIV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
"Looking For Miracles"
Day # 115 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Depend on the Lord and His strength; always go to Him for help. Remember the miracles he has done; remember His wonders and His decisions." Psalm 105:4-5 NCV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Depend on the Lord and His strength; always go to Him for help. Remember the miracles he has done; remember His wonders and His decisions." Psalm 105:4-5 NCV
...to be continued!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Apr 24, 2011
"Look for the Joy"
Day #114 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of Your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever." Psalm 16:11 NLT
"Among the most joyful people I have know have been some who seem to have had no human reason for joy. The sweet fragrance of Christ has shown through their lives." ~ Elisabeth Elliot
... to be continued!
Have a blessed EASTER weekend! Remember that EASTER is the reason for CHRISTMAS!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of Your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever." Psalm 16:11 NLT
"Among the most joyful people I have know have been some who seem to have had no human reason for joy. The sweet fragrance of Christ has shown through their lives." ~ Elisabeth Elliot
... to be continued!
Have a blessed EASTER weekend! Remember that EASTER is the reason for CHRISTMAS!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Apr 23, 2011
"Beyond Guilt"
Day #113 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Your beliefs about these things should be kept secret between you and God. People are happy if they can do what they think is right, without feeling guilty." Romans 14:22 NCV
"You may believe there’s nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are those who don’t feel guilty for doing something they have decided is right. But if you have doubts about whether or not you should eat something, you are sinning if you go ahead and do it. For you are not following your convictions. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning." (Romans 14:22-23 NLT)
Checking out the same verse in different translations is always a good thing... because sometimes translations change word meanings around, or the intent of what is being said is changed as well. Judging others is a huge topic of discussion in the world and in the church unfortunately. There are absolute truths about 'sin', yet there are also those things which we may deem 'bad' or 'sinful' for our own selves, or our family. We cannot force those beliefs onto others. We should not make ourselves feel guilty, nor should we make others feel guilty about their choices. Guilt is not of the Father. We do need to follow our own convictions regarding the absolute truth given from the Father through His Word -- but we still cannot judge nor apply guilt to those who aren't following the truths from His Word. God's answer to sin and guilt is FORGIVENESS. We need to apply the same forgiveness to those around us. But our worldly forgiveness is not at all like the forgiveness of the Father. He loves and forgives us unconditionally, without reservation and totally completely -- we in the world hold grudges and our natural carnal self enjoys throwing 'guilt' in people's faces. We don't truly 'forgive and forget'. Being a part of the 'Facebook' social thing allows you to see the status' and comments from others, which include those that wish to imply guilt and the likes. A status line from one of my 'friends' says this today, "
Verse: "Your beliefs about these things should be kept secret between you and God. People are happy if they can do what they think is right, without feeling guilty." Romans 14:22 NCV
"Cultivate your own relationship with God, but don't impose it on others. You're fortunate if your behavior and your belief are coherent. But if you're not sure, if you notice that you are acting in ways inconsistent with what you believe—some days trying to impose your opinions on others, other days just trying to please them—then you know that you're out of line. If the way you live isn't consistent with what you believe, then it's wrong." (Romans 14:22-23 MSG)
"You may believe there’s nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are those who don’t feel guilty for doing something they have decided is right. But if you have doubts about whether or not you should eat something, you are sinning if you go ahead and do it. For you are not following your convictions. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning." (Romans 14:22-23 NLT)
Checking out the same verse in different translations is always a good thing... because sometimes translations change word meanings around, or the intent of what is being said is changed as well. Judging others is a huge topic of discussion in the world and in the church unfortunately. There are absolute truths about 'sin', yet there are also those things which we may deem 'bad' or 'sinful' for our own selves, or our family. We cannot force those beliefs onto others. We should not make ourselves feel guilty, nor should we make others feel guilty about their choices. Guilt is not of the Father. We do need to follow our own convictions regarding the absolute truth given from the Father through His Word -- but we still cannot judge nor apply guilt to those who aren't following the truths from His Word. God's answer to sin and guilt is FORGIVENESS. We need to apply the same forgiveness to those around us. But our worldly forgiveness is not at all like the forgiveness of the Father. He loves and forgives us unconditionally, without reservation and totally completely -- we in the world hold grudges and our natural carnal self enjoys throwing 'guilt' in people's faces. We don't truly 'forgive and forget'. Being a part of the 'Facebook' social thing allows you to see the status' and comments from others, which include those that wish to imply guilt and the likes. A status line from one of my 'friends' says this today, "
"His Will Be Done"
Day #112 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Our Father which art in Heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven." Matthew 6:9-10 KJV
A piece of the most familiar prayer in the Bible, the Lord's prayer, where He is teaching His disciples how to pray. Prayer is important, but also what you pray for is important. We want the Will of the Father to come forth on earth, so we need to pray that His will be done. Prayer itself isn't just selfishly asking for things you want from the Father. He desires prayer to be a daily, even moment by moment conversation with Him... where we can intimately share our hearts with Him.
God does indeed have BIG plans for our lives, but if we continue to choose our own desires and ways ahead of His, then His plans are altered a little bit... sometimes a lot. He makes His plans clear to those who diligently and intimately seek Him, and His ways. We need to humble ourselves, pray and seek His face, which means we need to turn from our wicked ways. (2 Chronicles 7:14 -- "if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.") When we can do these things, God will hear us, and will answer our requests according to His will. He desires us to be free of sin, and to walk in COMPLETE healing. He does indeed have BIG plans, as it says in Jeremiah 29:11-14, "I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. When you call on me, when you come and pray to me, I'll listen. When you come looking for me, you'll find me. Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed. God's Decree. I'll turn things around for you. I'll bring you back from all the countries into which I drove you— God's Decree — bring you home to the place from which I sent you off into exile. You can count on it." (The MESSAGE)
So seek Him today, and find out what BIG plans He has for you!!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "Our Father which art in Heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven." Matthew 6:9-10 KJV
A piece of the most familiar prayer in the Bible, the Lord's prayer, where He is teaching His disciples how to pray. Prayer is important, but also what you pray for is important. We want the Will of the Father to come forth on earth, so we need to pray that His will be done. Prayer itself isn't just selfishly asking for things you want from the Father. He desires prayer to be a daily, even moment by moment conversation with Him... where we can intimately share our hearts with Him.
God does indeed have BIG plans for our lives, but if we continue to choose our own desires and ways ahead of His, then His plans are altered a little bit... sometimes a lot. He makes His plans clear to those who diligently and intimately seek Him, and His ways. We need to humble ourselves, pray and seek His face, which means we need to turn from our wicked ways. (2 Chronicles 7:14 -- "if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.") When we can do these things, God will hear us, and will answer our requests according to His will. He desires us to be free of sin, and to walk in COMPLETE healing. He does indeed have BIG plans, as it says in Jeremiah 29:11-14, "I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. When you call on me, when you come and pray to me, I'll listen. When you come looking for me, you'll find me. Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed. God's Decree. I'll turn things around for you. I'll bring you back from all the countries into which I drove you— God's Decree — bring you home to the place from which I sent you off into exile. You can count on it." (The MESSAGE)
So seek Him today, and find out what BIG plans He has for you!!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Apr 21, 2011
"He Is Love"
DAY #111 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him." 1 John 4:16 HCSB
God is indeed love -- He has loved us so much, and we don't even deserve that which He has given. We all know or at least have heard, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." John 3:16-17 NKJV Because of God's love for us, He sent His one and only Son Jesus, so that through His death, we may live. All because he is a compassionate and merciful God. "But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." Ephesians 2:4-7
God's love is not like our worldly love -- it is unconditional. No matter who we are, what we've done, how we treat Him... He still loves us beyond all measure! No one knows or can measure how deep, how wide, how great the love the Father has for us. Check out this song, AMAZED. Each day, each moment, we should not take the love of God for granted, we should stand, bow, kneel, work, play, pray, dance, worship, praise, go through trials, AMAZED. Never let it get boring, or just another tradition or thing to you. God's love is amazing, and He is amazing! Let him amaze you today!
'AMAZED' sung by Lincoln Brewster
Why does He & How does He love us so much? He is love -- that's all that He is made up of, so that is what overflows to us. We should be so full of the love of God that we overflow to the world too. Check out HOW HE LOVES US, because even He is jealous for you... and it's a sweet, sweet love. Let him embrace you today!
'HOW HE LOVES US' sung by Kim Walker & JesusCulture
After all is said and done, one thing remains, the love of God. It is never-failing, never giving up, never-ending, it never runs out, it goes on and on and on and on and on... much longer than even the Energizer bunny. :) Check out ONE THING REMAINS, and remind yourself that His love never fails! Let Him love you, and love Him back today!
'ONE THING REMAINS' sung by Chris Quilala & JesusCulture
"We cannot protect ourselves from trouble, but we can dance through the puddles of life with a rainbow smile, twirling the only umbrella we need -- the umbrella of God's love." ~Barbara Johnson
Now once you have experienced the love of God, pass it on to a friend! Continue the love circle, and it will always come back to you!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him." 1 John 4:16 HCSB
God is indeed love -- He has loved us so much, and we don't even deserve that which He has given. We all know or at least have heard, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." John 3:16-17 NKJV Because of God's love for us, He sent His one and only Son Jesus, so that through His death, we may live. All because he is a compassionate and merciful God. "But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." Ephesians 2:4-7
God's love is not like our worldly love -- it is unconditional. No matter who we are, what we've done, how we treat Him... He still loves us beyond all measure! No one knows or can measure how deep, how wide, how great the love the Father has for us. Check out this song, AMAZED. Each day, each moment, we should not take the love of God for granted, we should stand, bow, kneel, work, play, pray, dance, worship, praise, go through trials, AMAZED. Never let it get boring, or just another tradition or thing to you. God's love is amazing, and He is amazing! Let him amaze you today!
'AMAZED' sung by Lincoln Brewster
Why does He & How does He love us so much? He is love -- that's all that He is made up of, so that is what overflows to us. We should be so full of the love of God that we overflow to the world too. Check out HOW HE LOVES US, because even He is jealous for you... and it's a sweet, sweet love. Let him embrace you today!
'HOW HE LOVES US' sung by Kim Walker & JesusCulture
After all is said and done, one thing remains, the love of God. It is never-failing, never giving up, never-ending, it never runs out, it goes on and on and on and on and on... much longer than even the Energizer bunny. :) Check out ONE THING REMAINS, and remind yourself that His love never fails! Let Him love you, and love Him back today!
'ONE THING REMAINS' sung by Chris Quilala & JesusCulture
"We cannot protect ourselves from trouble, but we can dance through the puddles of life with a rainbow smile, twirling the only umbrella we need -- the umbrella of God's love." ~Barbara Johnson
Now once you have experienced the love of God, pass it on to a friend! Continue the love circle, and it will always come back to you!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Apr 20, 2011
"His Comforting Hand"
Day #110 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "When I am filled with cares, Your comfort brings me joy." Psalm 94:19 HCSB
Well today is a day of NEW BEGINNINGS, and I am excited, yet anxious about entering into the joys & challenges of the day. But knowing that God is on my side, and His comforting hand is upon my life I can take on any challenges the world has to offer. For I do remember that "...we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age,[c] against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places" and "therefore [I will] take up the whole armor of God, that [I] may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (Ephesians 6:12-13 NKJV)
Looking at the whole chapter of Psalm 94, and not just the 19th verse, God is reminding us that He is there. He sees what the evil of the world are doing, those who are led astray by the wiles of the enemy. They brag and boast because it seems as they are not receiving the punishment so deserved, but God sees & hears the truth. Even in cases where we are tested or challenged, and in times of discipline or correction, trouble or misruled. He is there to comfort us amidst our storm, 'providing a circle of quiet within the clamor of evil' for us. He will see that justice is brought forth, He protects His innocent & precious people. 'Can Troublemaker pretend to be on [His] side'?? The truth will be made known, and the truth will set us free! “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31b & 32) Jesus is the TRUTH, and He shall be made known to the world through the gospel and our lives as an example.
Here's Psalm 94 (below)... read and remember that the Lord is on your side if you are a true believer and 'real' follower of Christ. Be blessed & thank Him today as you walk through the clamor of evil, and remember that He will place you in a circle of quiet, as He gives peace that passes all understanding. "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
"Psalm 94 - God, put an end to evil; avenging God, show your colors! Judge of the earth, take your stand; throw the book at the arrogant. God, the wicked get away with murder— how long will you let this go on? They brag and boast and crow about their crimes! They walk all over your people, God, exploit and abuse your precious people. They take out anyone who gets in their way; if they can't use them, they kill them. They think, 'God isn't looking, Jacob's God is out to lunch.' Well, think again, you idiots, fools—how long before you get smart? Do you think Ear-Maker doesn't hear, Eye-Shaper doesn't see? Do you think the trainer of nations doesn't correct, the teacher of Adam doesn't know? God knows, all right— knows your stupidity, sees your shallowness. How blessed the man you train, God, the woman you instruct in your Word, Providing a circle of quiet within the clamor of evil, while a jail is being built for the wicked. God will never walk away from his people, never desert his precious people.
Rest assured that justice is on its way and every good heart put right. Who stood up for me against the wicked? Who took my side against evil workers? If God hadn't been there for me, I never would have made it. The minute I said, "I'm slipping, I'm falling,"
your love, God, took hold and held me fast. When I was upset and beside myself,
you calmed me down and cheered me up. Can Misrule have anything in common with you? Can Troublemaker pretend to be on your side? They ganged up on good people,
plotted behind the backs of the innocent. But God became my hideout, God was my high mountain retreat, Then boomeranged their evil back on them: for their evil ways he wiped them out, our God cleaned them out for good. "
The Message (MSG)
Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "When I am filled with cares, Your comfort brings me joy." Psalm 94:19 HCSB
Well today is a day of NEW BEGINNINGS, and I am excited, yet anxious about entering into the joys & challenges of the day. But knowing that God is on my side, and His comforting hand is upon my life I can take on any challenges the world has to offer. For I do remember that "...we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age,[c] against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places" and "therefore [I will] take up the whole armor of God, that [I] may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (Ephesians 6:12-13 NKJV)
Looking at the whole chapter of Psalm 94, and not just the 19th verse, God is reminding us that He is there. He sees what the evil of the world are doing, those who are led astray by the wiles of the enemy. They brag and boast because it seems as they are not receiving the punishment so deserved, but God sees & hears the truth. Even in cases where we are tested or challenged, and in times of discipline or correction, trouble or misruled. He is there to comfort us amidst our storm, 'providing a circle of quiet within the clamor of evil' for us. He will see that justice is brought forth, He protects His innocent & precious people. 'Can Troublemaker pretend to be on [His] side'?? The truth will be made known, and the truth will set us free! “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31b & 32) Jesus is the TRUTH, and He shall be made known to the world through the gospel and our lives as an example.
Here's Psalm 94 (below)... read and remember that the Lord is on your side if you are a true believer and 'real' follower of Christ. Be blessed & thank Him today as you walk through the clamor of evil, and remember that He will place you in a circle of quiet, as He gives peace that passes all understanding. "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
"Psalm 94 - God, put an end to evil; avenging God, show your colors! Judge of the earth, take your stand; throw the book at the arrogant. God, the wicked get away with murder— how long will you let this go on? They brag and boast and crow about their crimes! They walk all over your people, God, exploit and abuse your precious people. They take out anyone who gets in their way; if they can't use them, they kill them. They think, 'God isn't looking, Jacob's God is out to lunch.' Well, think again, you idiots, fools—how long before you get smart? Do you think Ear-Maker doesn't hear, Eye-Shaper doesn't see? Do you think the trainer of nations doesn't correct, the teacher of Adam doesn't know? God knows, all right— knows your stupidity, sees your shallowness. How blessed the man you train, God, the woman you instruct in your Word, Providing a circle of quiet within the clamor of evil, while a jail is being built for the wicked. God will never walk away from his people, never desert his precious people.
Rest assured that justice is on its way and every good heart put right. Who stood up for me against the wicked? Who took my side against evil workers? If God hadn't been there for me, I never would have made it. The minute I said, "I'm slipping, I'm falling,"
your love, God, took hold and held me fast. When I was upset and beside myself,
you calmed me down and cheered me up. Can Misrule have anything in common with you? Can Troublemaker pretend to be on your side? They ganged up on good people,
plotted behind the backs of the innocent. But God became my hideout, God was my high mountain retreat, Then boomeranged their evil back on them: for their evil ways he wiped them out, our God cleaned them out for good. "
The Message (MSG)
Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Apr 19, 2011
"Freely Give"
Day #109 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "If you give, you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, and running over. Whatever measure you use in giving -- large or small -- it will be used to measure what is given back to you." Luke 6:38 NLT
Matthew 10:8 also says, '...Give as freely as you have received!'(NLT) or 'You have been treated generously, so live generously' (Message) --and as Christians or followers of Christ we need to exhibit the art of stewardship and giving. (Not just in finances either!)
When you say 'giving' to anyone... the first thing they think of has to do with money, or finances. But God is also calling us to be good stewards of our giftings & talents, and of our time -- not just with our finances. But obviously our giving financially is giving us great blessings in return as well. We are to be 'cheerful' givers, not just giving because we have to, or because we are told to -- we should be seeking to give from the depths of our heart. Giving should be a natural response when we hear about situations or circumstances that others are going through. We may not all have the $100 bills in our pockets to donate, but even $5 is $5 more than the person had. (Even a loonie or a toonie given in faith can and will be blessed in return.)
We may not all be prophets, evangelists, missionaries, teachers and/or preachers, but each of us has the ability inside to do parts of all those ministries. Only a small percentage of people in the church body as a unit (your own church), or even the universal church body as a whole (world) are actually moving and flowing in their giftings. Some things can be taught, but other things must be caught. We need to be living by example, sharing the gospel and our testimony of how God has moved in our lives through the simple act of giving. If there is an 'easy' way to receive something, people want to take hold. (If you are Canadian) Think of 'Roll up the Rim to Win' promotions at Tim Horton's -- obviously Tim Horton's is using it so that more people will buy their 'hot drinks' than usual, as they have a chance of winning great prizes. They are spending close to $2 for one drink (which will soon be gone -perishable), to TRY TO WIN a grand prize. Most of the cups say 'Please play again' (which of course is a temptation to continue to buy more.) Some 'few' have actually won some of the prizes ranging from a donut or a coffee, to Tim Horton's Gift Cards, all the way to bigger prizes like BBQ's, TV's or even cars (which are still in a sense perishable). Now most people (even Christians who go to Timmy's after service or even on the way to service) get excited for Spring, and the 'Roll Up the Rim' contest == but why can't we be as excited for the 'grand prizes' from God?? A small cost (actually it is small in comparison to the benefits) of using our time, talents or finances can reward us with great non-perishable benefits from the KING OF KINGS and the LORD OF LORDS. He calls us to 'please play again', but sometimes we allow ourselves to settle into frustration or a rut of unanswered prayers, or unseen blessings and we think 'what's the point?'... But unfortunately our physical body can keep going out for another 'cup' time and time again with even just a hint of a chance to win a perishable prize at Timmy's. God wants to bless us... He wants to give to us time and time again, but we just don't receive the blessings for showing up -- we actually need to sacrifice something, or it needs to cost us something, so that we may receive the FULL benefits of the Father.
*Please don't think I am putting down Tim Horton's in any way, it was just a prime example of the thoughts & frivolous contests of the world today. I like Tim Horton's and participated in the Roll Up the Rim contest - not for the sole purpose of trying to win, but because that's where we went for coffee (or tea for me, as I don't like coffee), or parents gifted us with coffee/hot chocolate at work. I'm told that McDonald's coffee is much better anyway, and there you can get a coffee & a muffin for $1.39 (plus tax) -- way better deal!!*
So step out today, and start 'giving freely', so that you can 'receive freely' as well... but the point of us receiving, is so that we may freely give & receive again and again!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
Verse: "If you give, you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, and running over. Whatever measure you use in giving -- large or small -- it will be used to measure what is given back to you." Luke 6:38 NLT
Matthew 10:8 also says, '...Give as freely as you have received!'(NLT) or 'You have been treated generously, so live generously' (Message) --and as Christians or followers of Christ we need to exhibit the art of stewardship and giving. (Not just in finances either!)
When you say 'giving' to anyone... the first thing they think of has to do with money, or finances. But God is also calling us to be good stewards of our giftings & talents, and of our time -- not just with our finances. But obviously our giving financially is giving us great blessings in return as well. We are to be 'cheerful' givers, not just giving because we have to, or because we are told to -- we should be seeking to give from the depths of our heart. Giving should be a natural response when we hear about situations or circumstances that others are going through. We may not all have the $100 bills in our pockets to donate, but even $5 is $5 more than the person had. (Even a loonie or a toonie given in faith can and will be blessed in return.)
We may not all be prophets, evangelists, missionaries, teachers and/or preachers, but each of us has the ability inside to do parts of all those ministries. Only a small percentage of people in the church body as a unit (your own church), or even the universal church body as a whole (world) are actually moving and flowing in their giftings. Some things can be taught, but other things must be caught. We need to be living by example, sharing the gospel and our testimony of how God has moved in our lives through the simple act of giving. If there is an 'easy' way to receive something, people want to take hold. (If you are Canadian) Think of 'Roll up the Rim to Win' promotions at Tim Horton's -- obviously Tim Horton's is using it so that more people will buy their 'hot drinks' than usual, as they have a chance of winning great prizes. They are spending close to $2 for one drink (which will soon be gone -perishable), to TRY TO WIN a grand prize. Most of the cups say 'Please play again' (which of course is a temptation to continue to buy more.) Some 'few' have actually won some of the prizes ranging from a donut or a coffee, to Tim Horton's Gift Cards, all the way to bigger prizes like BBQ's, TV's or even cars (which are still in a sense perishable). Now most people (even Christians who go to Timmy's after service or even on the way to service) get excited for Spring, and the 'Roll Up the Rim' contest == but why can't we be as excited for the 'grand prizes' from God?? A small cost (actually it is small in comparison to the benefits) of using our time, talents or finances can reward us with great non-perishable benefits from the KING OF KINGS and the LORD OF LORDS. He calls us to 'please play again', but sometimes we allow ourselves to settle into frustration or a rut of unanswered prayers, or unseen blessings and we think 'what's the point?'... But unfortunately our physical body can keep going out for another 'cup' time and time again with even just a hint of a chance to win a perishable prize at Timmy's. God wants to bless us... He wants to give to us time and time again, but we just don't receive the blessings for showing up -- we actually need to sacrifice something, or it needs to cost us something, so that we may receive the FULL benefits of the Father.
*Please don't think I am putting down Tim Horton's in any way, it was just a prime example of the thoughts & frivolous contests of the world today. I like Tim Horton's and participated in the Roll Up the Rim contest - not for the sole purpose of trying to win, but because that's where we went for coffee (or tea for me, as I don't like coffee), or parents gifted us with coffee/hot chocolate at work. I'm told that McDonald's coffee is much better anyway, and there you can get a coffee & a muffin for $1.39 (plus tax) -- way better deal!!*
So step out today, and start 'giving freely', so that you can 'receive freely' as well... but the point of us receiving, is so that we may freely give & receive again and again!
BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!
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