Fresh as a Daisy Devotionals & More

"Roamin' Through Romans"... Part 5

2012-01-09T13:40:00.000-05:00

"Nothing but the blood of Jesus..." As I write this devo' thought I am listening to the newest JESUSCULTURE CD 'Awakening'... and the song 'Nothing but the Blood of Jesus' is on it, and it was just playing. A great reminder that NOTHING but the BLOOD of JESUS can wash away our sin. We can turn to those 'sins' mentioned in our last Devo', but they only give a temporary fulfillment. JESUS fills every void!!

Well today's journey begins in Chapter 2... and it's basically a continuation of our last chapter.

New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
Romans 2
God’s Righteous Judgment

1 You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. 2 Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. 3 So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? 4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance? 5 But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. 6 God “will give to each person according to what he has done.” [a] 7 To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. 8 But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. 9 There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; 10 but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. 11 For God does not show favoritism. 12 All who sin apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who sin under the law will be judged by the law. 13 For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous. 14 (Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law, 15 since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them.) 16 This will take place on the day when God will judge men’s secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.

WOW! How many times a day can we catch ourselves in judgement against others... it goes along with the verses found in Matthew 7. “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye." God is the only true righteous judge. For He is the only perfect one, that can be compared to. We need to gain our righteousness through Him, and Him alone, not through things we do. In some cases we are doing the same thing (which makes us hypocritical), or we are sinning in other ways, making it look/seem like our sin is less than theirs.

Verse 6, which I have underlined above, is the 'kicker'... the answer to those questions we hear, and even ask ourselves. What about the 'bad' people who get off, who aren't getting charged or blamed? Why do the 'bad' seem to prosper? etc... "God will give to each person according to what he has done.” God is in charge, and He will see that we are judged fairly as to what we have done. If we have unrepented sin in our lives, He knows that already! We don't need to 'tattle-tale'. :)

...to be continued!! :)

GOD BLESS YOU!
check out this video from one of the songs on JESUS CULTURE Awakening...

"Roamin' Through Romans"... Part 4

2012-01-08T22:54:00.000-05:00

Welcome back... let's get back into the Word and see what God's message is for us today! :) We are continuing in Chapter 1 with verses 26-32; The words ring true of much of the world today. We have certainly exchanged the truth of God for lies... lies that our lusts will give us what we need & desire. Parts of our Scripture today are a bit 'touchy' subject, but they are all sins against God, and need to be dealt with accordingly. ALL of them need to be repented for, even the ones we do/did when we thought we were doing 'right'.

26 Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. 27 In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion. 28 Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. 29 They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, 30 slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; 31 they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. 32 Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.

EEK... doesn't that sound like much of the worldliness that is going on now in the 21st Century? That list of characteristics is certainly not one I would like to hold on to, nor would I want a spouse, best friend, family member, or co-worker to be. But, verse 32 hits it on the head... "Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them." Some people are in the thought process that 'God can save me, so it doesn't matter what I do. I can do all of these things mentioned above, and then ask for forgiveness and God has to forgive me.' They think that they can call on God in the 11th hour, and then all will be well. What happens if God came at 10:30?? Eek! (That line is from a Christian T-shirt I have - 'Many who plan to seek God at the 11th hour, die at 10:30'.) It certainly does get you thinking... and it certainly does answer the questions we all ask like, 'why does God let this bad stuff happen?' He will allow you to be ruled by your depraved mind... He would much rather love and rule your hearts and minds, but he allows you to make the choices to be involved in things like sexual immorality (which is unfortunately rampant in the world, and some stars think it's funny to 'come out of the closet'). But there are also those that gossip, slander, murder, and those that are arrogant and boastful. These are definitely not characteristics that I would be proud of, yet that is what is happening in the world. They see the power in tearing down others, in boasting & being arrogant and rude. We as CHRISTIANS (true believers/followers/disciples of Christ) need to step above this darkness, and SHINE the light of TRUTH, the Light of God for the world to see. When they see the blessings that we receive for obedience, honesty, integrity, encouragement, humility and more, they will want what we have. They will desire the truth. Too often the world sees the 'so-called' blessings that last a moment, yet they don't realize they are missing the ones that last for eternity. Let's read verse 32 again, "Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them." Do you see the words 'they know' (this answers the question regarding the people who have never heard the Good News or the Gospel or the truth of God... although they know... therefore, the ones who 'don't know' will not be judged as harshly. God will look at their hearts... well that is what I believe anyway.) They know that what they are doing will bring them 'death', now most of them think, 'well we're all going to die'... but this is more of an eternal death... and we have been set free from death. Jesus took our place ONCE and FOR ALL... did you read those words, 'FOR ALL'. People do have a chance to turn their lives around, they do have a choice because Jesus still died for them, whether they take up the option, or believe it, it still has been done. Are you reading between the lines for the last sentence... 'they not only continue to do these very things, but approve of those who practice them', meaning they are involved in the sins, and now approve and are trying to make the behaviour seem right. THIS IS A LIE... it is an ABSOLUTE TRUTH that God does not like these sins mentioned above. HE does however love the sinner themselves. Now what about those who may not be 'involved' or 'continuing' to sin... if they still APPROVE of the practice they are doing wrong, and basically sinning themselves. EEK!! Are you getting this?? YOU MUST LOVE THE SINNERS... but HATE the SIN! We cannot approve of that which we 'know' is a sin, trying to make it right. Even a little white lie, is still in fact a lie. And a liar is just as much a sinner as a murderer. All sins are the same size in God's eyes, and all sins no matter how big or small you think they are, are able to be forgiven... (well technically except one, 'blasphemy against Holy Spirit'-- but if you are repenting of that one, then you certainly haven't done it!) You just need to TURN AROUND. God never went anywhere, He is always with us and will never ever leave us or forsake us... even when we leave or forsake Him.

check out this song by Matt Maher, 'Turn Around'... it's actually pretty cool and goes exactly with this devotional (AND IT'S JUST FOR YOU -- or someone who is reading this -- SOMEONE right now will make that decision to TURN AROUND -- GOD BLESS YOU! We will be praying for YOU!!) <3

Here's the lyrics...

Young man on the side of the road
Lost and beat up with no where to go

Smells like a hangover from days ago
He does what he can to survive

Single mom with a dead end job
Ninety hour week just to keep what she's got
With the bills that add up and down she's caught
She does what she can to survive

Well, let me say

That love won't take away the pain

But don't be afraid

'Cause it will never walk away

(Chorus)

If you're scared that you don't matter

If you're lost and need to be found

If you're looking for a Savior
All you gotta do is turn around

Some turn to a bottle
Some turn to a drug
Some turn to another's arms

But it seems like it's never enough
Well I won't say, that you will ever fail again

But there is grace

To wash away your every sin

Chorus
No one listens to you anymore
And your heart has broken down
You don't need to move
Love has come to you
All you gotta do is turn around
All you gotta do is turn around
Turn around
You don't have to take the broken road
You can turn around and come back home
(X3)
Chorus

No one listens to you anymore
And your heart has broken down
You don't need to move
Love has come to you
All you gotta do is turn around
All you gotta do is turn around

May you be blessed TODAY...

"Roamin' Through Romans"... Part 3

2012-01-05T23:04:00.000-05:00

Hey guys...

WOW! Here goes PART 3 of our adventure together... hopefully tomorrow I will be able to post 'DAILY' instead of what I started out the year doing... EEK!! :) I am so excited to be doing a ROMANS devotional here, and a 1 Corinthians devotional with my Jr High's... so I just might share some of that adventure here too! :)
Today we are looking at ROMANS 1:18-25
The subtitle in THE MESSAGE version says, "Ignoring God Leads to a Downward Spiral"...

18-23But God's angry displeasure erupts as acts of human mistrust and wrongdoing and lying accumulate, as people try to put a shroud over truth. But the basic reality of God is plain enough. Open your eyes and there it is! By taking a long and thoughtful look at what God has created, people have always been able to see what their eyes as such can't see: eternal power, for instance, and the mystery of his divine being. So nobody has a good excuse. What happened was this: People knew God perfectly well, but when they didn't treat him like God, refusing to worship him, they trivialized themselves into silliness and confusion so that there was neither sense nor direction left in their lives. They pretended to know it all, but were illiterate regarding life. They traded the glory of God who holds the whole world in his hands for cheap figurines you can buy at any roadside stand.

24-25So God said, in effect, "If that's what you want, that's what you get." It wasn't long before they were living in a pigpen, smeared with filth, filthy inside and out. And all this because they traded the true God for a fake god, and worshiped the god they made instead of the God who made them—the God we bless, the God who blesses us. Oh, yes!

WOW! Sounds like the world today for sure... which is going in a downward spiral. Even Christians sometimes are ignoring God at some points in their life. "People knew God perfectly well, but when they didn't treat him like God, refusing to worship him, they trivialized themselves into silliness and confusion so that there was neither sense nor direction left in their lives. They pretended to know it all, but were illiterate regarding life. They traded the glory of God who holds the whole world in his hands for cheap figurines you can buy at any roadside stand." This certainly speaks of our world... it wants everything cheap and fast, they are addicted to 'fast food', 'high speed internet', etc... and want to buy God like you can buy a Big Mac. They certainly have trivialized Him, and made Him seem like nothing in their lives, but infact He should be everything, as He is the One who gave them everything, including their lives. The world refuses to worship God and now live in a state of confusion for sure. They have heard the truths and choose not to believe. The stories in the Bible are just like FairyTales to them, and Jesus has become just like Santa. You believe in Him until you are older, and then decide not to anymore. There are alot of people who went to church and were 'Christians' as children, and now that they have 'grown up', they choose not to be a part of all that... they see it as foolishness. Our Jr. Youth 'Ablaze' were just speaking of this last night, as we started our 1 Corinthians study. In 1 Corinthians, it speaks of the cross being foolishness to those who do not believe. They came to the conclusion that its easy for the world to see it all as foolish, and we discussed how they are really the foolish ones. It says in Psalms that 'The fool says in his heart there is no God'. Therefore unbelievers are the fools.

There should be NO compromise in how we think or feel about God. He is the Creator, and we were made to worship Him alone. When I was in Youth Group, we were involved in dramas, and one of them was called 'The Statue', where a bunch of us were rocks, and then one of us (me)was picked out by 'the artist'. He formed me and chipped away at me to form a 'beautiful statue', he then brought it to his 'city' and told the people how great it was and that they were to worship it. But while they were worshipping it (me), I would fall down. They would then pick me up and put me back up and bow to worship. Again I would fall, and again they would pick me up... and then I fell one last time, and I think they kicked me and walked off... (I actually forget the ending. I should look it up, and have our Jr Youth perform it at our church.) But then I stood and read the following verse, from the NIV (1984) Version which is actually v. 25 from above -- "They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen."

My prayer is that the world once again comes back to the TRUTH, and that they will indeed worship our Creator who is forever praised, and that they will worship Him in Spirit and in Truth! :)

God bless you!

Roamin Through Romans... Part 2

2012-01-05T00:00:00.003-05:00

Hi Readers!!

Today we are looking at Romans 1:13-17 in our Romans Adventure...

New International Version 1984 (NIV1984)
13 I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now) in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles.
14 I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. 15 That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are at Rome.
16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last,[a] just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

Using a short section of Chapter 1, we are looking at why Paul has come. He has wanted to come to them many times, but it was not the appointed time of God for him to come until the time he did. Too often in our lives, we want to do things and we step out thinking we are doing it through faith, and sometimes we are doing it in our own strength instead of in the strength and wisdom of God. Even good things like ministry or things that are of God, can still be wrong if it's in the wrong timing. Esther was a perfect example of this... there is a scripture verse that Esther quotes, 'for such a time as this'. God desires us to do His will but that also includes doing it in His timing. Sometimes we try to rush God, or sometimes we even lag behind Him. Jonah is another example of this, I remember a lesson that I once heard on Jonah, and in his story (found coincidentally in the book of Jonah) he runs away from God, runs ahead of God, and runs with God. That always stuck with me, and I think of it when I have different ideas (even in church/ministry things) where I think it would be a great idea, but it may not be the right timing for it to happen. However, there is also a catch if you wait too long to do it. He may just call someone else to do it, and then you are left standing dumb-founded, thinking that God has left you alone. Our main goal in anything we do, should be for it to bring GLORY to the Father, and to Him alone. It is alright for us to get praise or glory, encouragement or a 'wehoo' or pat on the back when we complete a task, or do something that is great... but all the praise and glory should then go back to God. A humble heart is a happy heart... "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5) Paul did a lot of things for the glory of God, and in the verse he says 'that I might have a harvest' but really it is God who receives the harvest, we are just His hands and feet obediently doing what He asked us to.

Paul is obligated both to Greeks and Non-Greeks, the wise and the foolish. He comes preaching to EVERYONE... because when Jesus came He made a way for the Jew, and the Gentile. He is letting them know where he stands officially. For once he was a persecuter of God's Holy people, and now he is a leader for God, doing the will of Him who sent him. He is letting them know that he is NOT ashamed of the gospel, nor anything that goes along with it. The Gospel is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. He is letting the Gentiles know that they are no longer lost, that they can believe and be made righteous too, just as he was. When one believes in God and the Gospel, a new life is given, and through the gospel a righteousness from God can and will be revealed. It can only be believed and revealed through FAITH though. One has to have the FAITH to believe, and then all things can be revealed to you. The righteous SHALL live by faith. Paul is a prime example, as his life before Christ was going in a 'DOWNWARD SPIRAL', but now that he has chosen to believe, and has had an encounter and EXPERIENCED the REAL GOD for himself, he now has the FAITH to believe and to go forth gathering a harvest of souls for the Kingdom.

Where does your FAITH lie? Do you think it's all a FAIRYTALE? Do you yourself persecute or make fun of Christians or believers? Are you a Christian who has 'worshipped and served created things rather than the Creator'? Are you RUNNING AWAY from God, RUNNING TO God, RUNNING AHEAD of God, or RUNNING WITH God? Or are you like Paul, trying to LISTEN for the voice of God, trying to do His Will, and seeking the harvest of souls for the Kingdom? Ask the LORD to show you where you are, and to help you get to where you NEED to be with Him! He's always there, and He will NEVER EVER leave us or forsake us. We may turn our backs on Him, but we just need to turn around again, and HE will run to us with open arms, as the father did in the Prodigal Son story. (See Luke 15:11-32) If you are a RUNAWAY son or daughter, read the story, and then RUN BACK to Him.

Check out this video, a song by Klaus (featuring Kari Jobe) - let the words sink in and let Holy Spirit minister to you as you listen and hear the music and words.

May the LORD bless you today and always!
See ya tomorrow... Click HERE to take you to the NEXT message...

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"Roamin' Through Romans"... Part 1

2012-01-02T15:02:00.003-05:00

Hey 'followers'...

Join me as I follow Paul, who is following Christ...

~~ ROMANS 1 ~~
We will start out looking at verses 1-12 today... (verses quoted below are taken from THE MESSAGE version found online at http://www.biblegateway.com.) I always use BibleGateway.Com for my online Bible.
"1 I, Paul, am a devoted slave of Jesus Christ on assignment, authorized as an apostle to proclaim God's words and acts. I write this letter to all the believers in Rome, God's friends. 2-7 The sacred writings contain preliminary reports by the prophets on God's Son. His descent from David roots him in history; his unique identity as Son of God was shown by the Spirit when Jesus was raised from the dead, setting him apart as the Messiah, our Master. Through him we received both the generous gift of his life and the urgent task of passing it on to others who receive it by entering into obedient trust in Jesus. You are who you are through this gift and call of Jesus Christ!
8-12 I thank God through Jesus for every one of you. That's first. People everywhere keep telling me about your lives of faith, and every time I hear them, I thank him. And God, whom I so love to worship and serve by spreading the good news of his Son—the Message!—knows that every time I think of you in my prayers, which is practically all the time, I ask him to clear the way for me to come and see you. The longer this waiting goes on, the deeper the ache. I so want to be there to deliver God's gift in person and watch you grow stronger right before my eyes! But don't think I'm not expecting to get something out of this, too! You have as much to give me as I do to you."

Verses 1-7 ~~ These verses are kind of an introduction made by Paul, explaining who he is, and what he is called to do. Do WE know who we are in Christ, and what He has called us to do? That is a great way to start out the New Year - finding out who you are in Christ! Paul is called to be an APOSTLE. This office is one of the Five-Fold Ministry positions held in the church body. (found in Ephesians 4 - Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Teacher & Preacher) All of these are important in the body, but NOT all believers are called to the Office of the specific ministry. Yet all of us have been given gifts to use in these areas of ministry within the body. (See 1 Corinthians 12) Which one(s) do you see yourself as having? Which one(s) do you see as the one God has called you to? Do they match up? You may have the opportunity to be used in one or all areas, but you should have one main calling (not always the OFFICE of the specific ministry above). I myself am more of a TEACHER. I enjoy teaching, training, discipling, equipping the younger generations. But the evangelism characteristics can come out in me when I desire to share the Good News, as on mission trips, or missions in our own city.

Paul himself, is an Apostle, which by definition is; one who pioneers an important movement, cause or belief, as in a church or a ministry. He was called to go around the world sharing the Good News of Jesus, and 'starting' new churches for His (Jesus') Name's sake.

A little background on Paul, for those that may not know, is that he was a persecutor of Christians. He would kill those who believed in the God of the Jews. God took him, and changed him, giving him 'new vision' into the truth found in God. (read an important part of his story here, in Acts 9.) So he can truly speak from example, using his own important testimony to the Jews & Gentiles in Rome. The people he once 'roamed' with can actually see the 'change' and witness it for themselves. As he was once one who 'breathed out murderous threats', and is now one who is 'proclaiming God's words and acts'.

Do you share YOUR testimony, do you think it's important? I used to think my 'testimony' of coming to know Christ wasn't as important as those who have had the major turn-around like Paul for example; those that were drunkards, sexually immoral, murderers, thieves, etc... that found Christ and turned their lives around for the good. I came to know Jesus as a little child, through Sunday School and my family at a Pentecostal church, and have been in several different churches/denominations since my young beginnings. Coming to know God as a young child has great benefits, as when I went to a United church & later a Baptist church as a child & tween I learned the historical true Bible stories that helped to form who I am today. However, I did not truly experience God until I once again was a part of the Pentecostal church (where I had my beginnings). There I found God Himself, I learned who He was, who Holy Spirit was, and became water baptized and baptized in the Spirit. These changes made a BIG difference... it was like my 'mini road to Damascus'... God gave me 'new vision' (not as physical as Paul's changes but spiritually). I learned who I could become through GOD, His Son, and Holy Spirit. I knew ALL the stories, and could quote Scripture after Scripture, but until I truly 'experienced' who He was, I wasn't complete! (I am not totally complete yet of course, as we all grow day by day.) I have been through minor ups and downs, and although I haven't physically murdered anyone, I know I have 'murdered' with my words. I was once 'blind' to the things of Christ, which are now able to be seen through revelation, wisdom and knowledge of the Bible and the truths found within. I have been involved in situations that have taken me out of the 'obedience' of the Commandments, however I also overcame many temptations & possibly immoral predicaments. Through Christ's blood and the grace & mercy of God, and the consuming power of Holy Spirit, I can be made a 'NEW' creation. (2 Corinthians 5:17) I continue to grow day by day, and am very excited to see where God will lead me, and what He can and will do for me, in me, and most importantly through me. I am an example of God's faithfulness through the years... and that is a GREAT testimony! What about YOU? Everyone has a 'story'... share yours with someone today!

Paul introduces the TRUTH of God's Word, in which Jesus is the Son of God and our Messiah. He then explains why he is doing what he is doing. "Through him we received both the generous gift of his life and the urgent task of passing it on to others who receive it by entering into obedient trust in Jesus. You are who you are through this gift and call of Jesus Christ!" It is our job as well to receive the gift, yet then pass it on to others. We are who we are through JESUS. Several years ago, in my old church we did a Children's Program during March Break, 'Go M.A.D.' (Make a Difference), and the first theme lesson always sticks in my head and my heart, and I use it in my teaching lessons today. It was 'IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHO YOU ARE, YOU MUST FIRST KNOW JESUS!' I can't remember much else from that week of lessons or activities, but this always stuck in my head.

Verses 8-12 ~~ "I thank God through Jesus for every one of you. That's first."
How often do we greet our Christian (or non-christian) friends like this? What would they do or say if we did? What would their reaction be? How would they then respond to us? How often do we TRULY thank God through Jesus for those that are our family, friends, co-workers, or just those that we come in contact with? Paul was direct in saying this statement, to ALL that he was speaking to. The 'first' thing he did was to thank God for those He had sent into Paul's path. So right now, I do thank the Lord for those of you who are reading this, whom God has sent in my path. Whether you got here through my Facebook link, or through a search... whether you know me, or you don't... whether you like me or you don't... I thank God through Jesus for each and everyone of you. May you be blessed in your comings and your goings!

"...knows that every time I think of you in my prayers, which is practically all the time..."
WOW! What a powerful statement to make... how often do we tell someone we are praying for them, and really we may only pray once, or just every so often when we think of them? 'Practically all the time'... WOW! Sometimes when I am thinking of someone, I 'talk to God' in my spirit for them, I ask God to bless them. Just by thinking of them, means that God has put them into my head & heart for a reason. But I do need to remember to be in SINCERE prayer for certain requests that have come forth. (We ALL need to work on this I am sure.)

"I so want to be there to deliver God's gift in person and watch you grow stronger right before my eyes! But don't think I'm not expecting to get something out of this, too! You have as much to give me as I do to you." This totally works for my devotional message to you... although I may not even know you, or know that you are reading this, it would be cool to see your spiritual development and growth right before my eyes as well. There are times when as a TEACHER, I have been able to see the growth and development in my 'students' as I was there physically to see them grow and develop physically as well as spiritually... and that is a major blessing to watch the positive changes unfold before your eyes, and see a living example of the faithfulness of God knowing that I had a small part to play in their growth (whether it be through planting the seed, watering it, or even harvesting it). But then you also see the ones whom have sat under your teaching, who have chosen to go the opposite way, and your heart breaks for them. PRAY! I also think of the ones whom I have had a small part in teaching (whether through church or babysitting, or daycare situations) and wonder sometimes how far they have come. It's the times when you don't get to see how people have turned out, and you MUST REMEMBER to pray for those as well. Pray that someone will come along to 'water' or even 'harvest' that seed that was planted. Sometimes we are called just to 'plant' into someones' lives... but we shouldn't just stop there, we should be continually praying that someone will come along to 'weed' (if necessary), 'water', 'harvest' and 'keep' them. Once they have been harvested, they need someone to keep up with the 'upkeep'... encouragement and such so that they then may be 'reproduced', in turn planting more GOOD seeds.

So in closing... I pray that the GOOD seeds that have been planted in this message today (and in the past) will come forth to fruition. Someone will be there to 'water', (or this was a little bit of water), weed, harvest and keep YOU until the coming again of our Lord! :)

GOD BLESS YOU as you go forth this NEW YEAR in the blessings of God!

Click HERE to continue the journey... to Part 2! (opens in new window)

Roamin' Through Romans... Intro. :)

2012-01-02T13:44:00.003-05:00

Well, I believe that I am to continue sharing these 'fresh as a daisy devotional messages & thoughts' although I didn't complete the task of doing them EACH day for 2011 as I had previously hoped! :( This past year the words of Romans 12 rang true to my heart, as I am trying to live according to His Word. I pray that as we go through the book of Romans together, we will grow and learn and come closer to God through the meditation on His Word. His Word is TRUE, He is ALIVE! "Our God's not dead, He's surely alive. He's living on the inside, roaring like a Lion." ('Like a Lion' worship song written by Daniel Bashta -

I received an amazing Worship CD for Christmas from my wonderful husband, of the NEWSBOYS, and their album is entitled 'God's Not Dead'. The song lyrics above are from a song they have re-done on their album, and it has hit me this year! The world needs to know the TRUTH... things are getting watered down, or even taken out and GOD has to remain a BIG part of our legacy we leave behind.

So sit back, relax, grab a tea, and join me EACH day as we seek out the TRUTH, HOPE, LIFE and more found in the WORD of GOD as we go "ROAMIN' THROUGH ROMANS" together... click here to read PART 1 (opens in New Window).

... and the YOUTUBE video of Daniel Bashta's song sung by the NEWSBOYS... :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR~!

2012-01-02T13:20:00.000-05:00

(forgot to post this YESTERDAY - oops!)

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

WOW! It's been that long...

2011-10-12T13:31:00.000-04:00

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

"Actions & Beliefs"

2011-06-04T11:44:00.000-04:00

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!

"Abundance not Anxiety"

2011-06-04T09:31:00.000-04:00

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!

"Acceptance Now"

2011-05-31T07:03:00.000-04:00

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!

"Who Deserves the Credit?"

2011-05-31T06:57:00.000-04:00

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!

"The Peace That Passes All Understanding"

2011-05-29T10:00:00.000-04:00

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!

"The Futility of Worry"

2011-05-28T13:30:00.001-04:00

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!

"Walking With God"

2011-05-28T12:46:00.000-04:00

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!

"BE TRANSFORMED"

2011-05-28T12:41:00.000-04:00

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!

"A World Filled With Temptations"

2011-05-28T12:36:00.000-04:00

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!

"Spiritual Gifts"

2011-05-28T12:33:00.000-04:00

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!

"If He Returned Today"

2011-05-27T07:09:00.000-04:00

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!

"Getting Past the Regret"

2011-05-27T07:07:00.000-04:00

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!

"Pray Without Ceasing"

2011-05-27T07:04:00.000-04:00

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

"Worship Every Day"

2011-05-21T16:29:00.002-04:00

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!

"Wait for Him"

2011-05-21T16:28:00.002-04:00

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!

"Unchanging Laws"

2011-05-21T16:27:00.000-04:00

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!

"Life Triumphant"

2011-05-21T16:25:00.002-04:00

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

"Honouring God"

2011-05-21T16:24:00.000-04:00

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

"God's Armour"

2011-05-16T07:07:00.000-04:00

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!

"His Grace is not Earned"

2011-05-14T15:00:00.000-04:00

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!

"His Perfection"

2011-05-14T14:26:00.000-04:00

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!

"The Commandment to Forgive"

2011-05-14T14:23:00.002-04:00

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!

"Mountain-Moving Faith"

2011-05-14T14:22:00.000-04:00

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!

"He Doesn't Fail"

2011-05-10T07:19:00.000-04:00

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!

"Living Courageously"

2011-05-10T07:15:00.000-04:00

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!

"Making Quality Choices"

2011-05-08T08:42:00.000-04:00

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.)

"His Compassion"

2011-05-08T08:32:00.000-04:00

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!

"Asking Him for Strength"

2011-05-08T08:30:00.000-04:00

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!

"Acceptance & Peace"

2011-05-08T08:28:00.002-04:00

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!

"Focusing on His Blessings"

2011-05-08T08:27:00.000-04:00

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!

"The Source of Strength"

2011-05-08T08:24:00.000-04:00

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!

"Service & Love"

2011-05-08T08:21:00.002-04:00

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!

"Repentance & Peace"

2011-05-08T08:20:00.001-04:00

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!

"Your Bible & His Purpose"

2011-04-30T09:22:00.000-04:00

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!

"Prayer Changes Things & You"

2011-04-29T07:24:00.000-04:00

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

"Real Prosperity"

2011-04-29T06:52:00.000-04:00

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!

"Pleasing God"

2011-04-29T06:49:00.000-04:00

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!

"Passion for Life"

2011-04-27T00:46:00.000-04:00

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!

"Looking For Miracles"

2011-04-27T00:44:00.000-04:00

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!

"Look for the Joy"

2011-04-24T23:41:00.000-04:00

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!

"Beyond Guilt"

2011-04-23T11:43:00.000-04:00

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

"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, "it is best to forgive and forget then to live with regret so I'll forgive you and forget you so I won"t have to regret falling for your bs..." and it got me thinking regarding this 'Beyond Guilt' devotional. We are not meant to live with regret, nor with guilt. Forgiveness is forgiveness... what we forgive, who we forgive, how many times we forgive, all affect the Father's forgiveness for us. He is a God of love and forgiveness, mercy and grace -- yet if we choose to leave others with regret, guilt and shame, it's hard for the Father to show His grace, mercy, love and forgiveness towards us. Sin cannot be in the same presence as the Father -- Feelings of guilt and shame cause us to 'miss the mark', so they infact cause us to sin. Sin is not just 'doing or being involved in the bad things', it is also 'not doing the good things' that He has called us to do.

If you have feelings of guilt or shame (or other sinful thoughts & feelings), lay them down at the foot of the cross this Easter weekend. God sent His Son Jesus to die for those 'sinful' feelings & more -- Just allow the power of God the Father to work through you, through the precious blood of His Son Jesus, and the overwhelming presence, power and love of Holy Spirit. Let Him overtake your body, mind, soul and spirit cleansing you throughout, so that you may RISE AGAIN (just as Jesus did) in the newness of life.

"One of satan's most effective ploys is to make us believe that we are small, insignificant and worthless" (Susan Lenzkes) -- But remember God's best gift (His Son Jesus) proves that we are indeed worth more than that, and that he himself (satan) is under our feet, which makes him small, insignificant and worthless. We need to stop giving satan more power and strength than he has.

Enjoy this blessed EASTER weekend, remembering ALL that God has done for you, and think of all the great things that He can and will continue to do for you!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"His Will Be Done"

2011-04-23T11:07:00.000-04:00

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!

"He Is Love"

2011-04-21T07:39:00.000-04:00

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!

"His Comforting Hand"

2011-04-20T07:16:00.000-04:00

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!

"Freely Give"

2011-04-19T13:26:00.000-04:00

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!

"God Protects"

2011-04-18T23:17:00.002-04:00

Day #108 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day." 2 Timothy 1:12 NIV

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Meeting the Obligations"

2011-04-18T23:16:00.002-04:00

Day #107 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people." Colossians 3:23 NCV

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Making the Right Choices"

2011-04-17T00:46:00.000-04:00

DAY #106 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
VERSE: "The Lord says, 'I will make you wise and show you where to go. I will guide you and watch over you'." Psalm 32:8 NCV

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"A Clear Conscience"

2011-04-15T10:07:00.000-04:00

Day #105 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "I will maintain my righteousness and never let go of it; my conscience will not reproach me as long as I live." Job 27:6 NIV

Whenever I hear the word 'conscience', my first thought is of the movie Pinocchio, where lil' Jiminy Cricket is Pinocchio's conscience. When Pinocchio chose to do wrong, Jiminy was upset, but had to let Pinocchio undergo the consequences because of his choice. Jiminy Cricket was there for Pinocchio, yet the temptations of the characters Lampwick and Honest John led him to follow evil desires, which led him to captivity with Stromboli, and life as a 'donkey boy' at Pleasure Island, instead of freedom and great living with his creator Geppetto.

WOW! It isn't until you think about things, and allow 'revelation from the Spirit' to become part of your thinking. Obviously your first thought is Pinocchio is like Jonah, who gets swallowed by a fish and lives to tell about it... but really it pertains to every person today. Pinocchio of course is the easiest to compare with, as he is just like us. Every man, woman, boy and girl has been created, and has choices to make. Geppetto of course is like God, he is the creator and loves his little Pinocchio no matter what. Jiminy Cricket & the Blue Fairy are a bit of the Holy Spirit, and the Son. Holy Spirit has been given to us to keep us making the correct choices in life, when we follow the will of the Father, we are making correct choices -- however when we make wrong choices and follow evil desires, we then have a guilty conscience, as Jiminy felt guilty for leaving him in his time of need. (Holy Spirit never leaves us -- same as Jiminy tried to search everywhere for him, and stuck beside him in the end) Stromboli is similar in sorts to the devil, and of course 'Pleasure Island' is like hell. Lampy and Honest John and the sort are just evil temptations that come our way from the devil himself. We will be held captive in our sin, and eventually fall into life in 'Pleasure Island' -- what seems pleasureable to the world, yet is a place of gnashing teeth and no pleasure at all.

Super cool thoughts eh? Obviously I do believe that Disney put alliterations into his movies, and one can pull different spiritual ideas into even things that are not so nice. Disney movies are a great 'fight' for the Christian and Non-Christian alike. People are always heard complaining about the 'evil' and the 'darkness', etc in the movies -- but its the truth of what is in the world, shown in a way to get even a young child to understand. Watching the movie Pinocchio for example, would make a young child today say, 'Well duh don't talk to strangers!', but our teens & adults today are led by evil desires that drag them away and entice them, and they laugh at movies like Pinocchio, 'well that wouldn't happen in real life'... but in fact it is!

There's a Scripture in the Bible that says, "When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." (James 1:13-15)

When your conscience/righteousness/integrity is questioned because of choices you have made, you need to try to make it right. We need to try to maintain our conscience/righteousness/integrity throughout whatever circumstances may befall us. Even when in cases where we are 'disciplined' for our actions, thoughts or words, we need to maintain our thoughts, words and actions and do not continue to choose 'wrong' thoughts, words or deeds. We need to walk in forgiveness and repentance, not bitterness. In everything we do, we need to choose to be 'better', not 'bitter'. (A saying that has come and gone and come around again in the Christian sphere, so I don't know who to give credit to, except I know it was 'Holy Spirit inspired' -- how come we don't write that, why do we always have to give credit to 'man'? ~~ another thought, another devotional.)

To keep a clear conscience we need to study the Word of God, and keep right relationship with the Creator, our Father in Heaven. Pinocchio had a great relationship with his father, but because of the relationships he had with Lampwick, Honest John, and Stromboli the feelings of guilt and unworthiness come up -- his integrity and character is now in question. He thinks his father won't love him anymore -- he lies to make himself feel better, and that makes his nose grow, and others can see that one lie leads to another, which leads further into sin. But one touch of the truth changes the circumstances, which leads him back into his father's loving arms, and then the Blue Fairy comes to make him a 'real boy'. When we allow God to love us for who we are and not what we've done, we become 'real' with God -- He clothes us in His robes of salvation and righteousness, and we again can have a truly unique relationship with the Father. Which brings us into another parable from the Bible - the Prodigal Son. No matter what the one son chose to do, or what kind of trouble he was in, he returned to the father, and the father ran to him with open arms accepting him back into the relationship that was once (and always will be) his. In the case of Pinocchio, I guess 'Figaro' could be seen as the other brother. LOL!

So no matter what we've done, or what we are tempted by - sin is sin and we have to figure out what our own temptations are, or where our own 'boiling points' are, what 'buttons' can be pushed to make us choose the wrong choices our of frustration. "Whatever weakens your reason, impairs the tenderness of your conscience, obscures your sense of God, or removes your relish for spiritual things -- that is sin to you." ~ Susanna Wesley

So allow God to cleanse and restore you, if you are on the road to 'Pleasure Island', or in the captivity of 'Stromboli'... and even if you are just walking with 'Lampy' or 'Honest John'... or tempted to walk with them -- Let God and His Holy Spirit lead, guide, direct and comfort you. Sometimes we feel discouraged in times of discipline or correction, but in the end we know it is done out of love, and that God our Father has BIG plans for us, and He can't wait until we choose His way and walk those out!

"God desires that we become spiritually healthy enough through faith to have a conscience that rightly interprets the work of the Holy Spirit." ~ Beth Moore

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Integrity: It's Always the Right Way"

2011-04-15T09:14:00.001-04:00

Day #104 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "People with integrity have firm footing, but those who follow crooked paths will slip and fall." Proverbs 10:9 NLT

People with integrity have firm footing, yet others who walk on crooked paths, may slip and fall... God will lead, guide and direct us through the power of His Holy Spirit. God always promises in His Word, and to us as Christians that He will protect and not allow us to slip or fall even on a stone... but when we choose to sin, God cannot live in the face of sin, so his hands are basically tied until we make the repentance call, and acknowledge His Name once again. He does give us a choice -- although He would like us to walk in His paths. His paths are straight and narrow, and because He is there with us, He will not allow us to slip, and we can rest in the shadow of His wings.

To maintain our integrity, we need to walk in uprightness of character. But sometimes our integrity is questioned, because of our thoughts, words or actions. Sometimes we may choose to think, say or do thingsout of character & in question because we are frustrated or already not in the right state of mind. But sometimes it may seem like we are doing something, which we really aren't, but can be 'perceived' by others as not right. The perceptions of men... they can lead to disappointment and feelings of guilt, especially if because of them, we need be disciplined for our so-called thoughts, words or actions. Because then it seems as if your 'accusers' are praised for their views, and your 'discipliners' also have a new perception of you. In watching 'America's Next Top Model' the last couple weeks (not sure if it was just last week's, because we watch it 'on demand') one of the 'models/contestants' chose to speak some words out of frustration, because in her eyes this other person was not 'worthy' of being a spokesperson (because of her 'stinky' attitude). Her words, which were then used against her, because she said them in the presence of the photographer (who is a judge) and also the client (whom they were taking the pictures for) changed the view of her judges and the client, and even the other photographer sitting in as a guest judge. Her character and integrity was just lessened in the eyes of those around her. She was now being judged... and her 'stinky' words and actions made her just as bad as the one with the 'stinky' attitude. But the one with the 'stinky' attitude was in fact praised for her handling of the situation.

Now you may be saying, well that's a silly reality show, and a little drama makes the show more popular, it doesn't happen in real life. Well welcome to the real world... that happens to all of us. Perceptions and views of others can be used against you, even if you are a Christian trying to live by honesty, integrity and discipline. Now agreeably, we do slip up sometimes... but there are times when what we say or do are perceived wrongly, and we must be corrected or disciplined for it. However, in reality the perception of men are nothing in comparison to the perception of God. God knows our thoughts, words, actions, and the motives behind them. Thankfully He sees and knows everything, and because He is everywhere can also touch the hearts, minds and spirits of those around us too. (God knows your accusers heart, spirit, mind, and motives too, and will take complete control of the situation.) We need to walk out the discipline/correction with integrity, and we need to show the love of God to those who have accused us in forgiveness. We need to rise above the 'accusations' and show that we have the integrity and a clear conscience to move on. As Christians we truly need to be 'set apart', and through Him we will overcome, and our integrity and character can be raised back up to the standard in the eyes of God and man.

In the case of 'America's Next Top Model', the one model doesn't realize her bad attitude affects the others (which is the funny part, but we do know its in there for the 'drama' of it all) -- the others have stepped up to talk to her, and she attacks them with words like, well why did you ask how I'm feeling if you don't really like me, if you don't care. (Paraphrased of course) -- well it is because of their 'character' and integrity. Each of us have a heart, and we still can and will care about others, even when they are 'stinky' in their thoughts, words, attitudes, or actions. However, the one model, now has to 'rise above' and show the judges her true character and try to 'get back in Tyra's good books'. She mentioned in the show that she was frustrated because the 'stinky' model was making her feel this way. Sometimes others will make us want to make wrong choices, but we need to release those all at Jesus' feet, and He will help us and make us new. (Obviously as a Christian I would want ALL those Top Model contestants, judges, photographers & clients to reach out to God in times of need -- as Hollywood glamour is not what it's all about.)

So step out and live a life of integrity... it's not always the easiest, but it's the best choice! Perceptions of others will always be there, and attacks from the devil will always be there, but with the help of the Lord we will have the victory! Remember, "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse." Romans 12:14 NIV

When you 'dwell in the shelter of the Most High' He will send his angels concerning you so that you will not even trip on a stone. READ PSALM 91, and start CLAIMING IT over YOUR life today...

"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.' Surely He will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. If you say, 'The LORD is my refuge,' and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. 'Because he loves me,' says the LORD, 'I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation'." AMEN & AMEN! Thank You Lord!!

"God never called us to naivete. He called us to integrity... The Biblical concept of integrity emphasizes mature innocence not childlike ignorance." ~ Beth Moore

Step out and say, "I will have the moral courage to make my actions consistent with my knowledge of right and wrong." (Taken from a picture on the world wide web.)

Check out this continuing devotional, "A Clear Conscience"... and let God help you live a life of integrity!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"A Book Unlike Any Other"

2011-04-13T23:51:00.001-04:00

DAY #103 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Your Word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path." Psalm 119:105 HCSB

Out of all the books in the libraries around the world, and even just my own home library, or even just the books that I have read, there is no other book like the Bible. Each time you read it, God can and will give you new revelation into the words. It is alive and the living word of God. Every other story book in the library is the same. There may be some parts that you never caught in reading it the first time, but the words will always remain with the same meaning. The same beginning and end. The Bible's words have the same beginning and same ending... yet the words in between can take on a whole new meaning each time you read them. Sometimes the Words of the Lord are just what we need, and someone else can read the same scripture, and receive a different revelation of the word of God, through the power of Holy Spirit. God's Word is truly a lamp for my feet and a light for my path. In His word is the answer to every problem, circumstance, trial or discouragement, etc... that we may face. We just have to 'look for it'. Problem is for most of us, we don't want to 'do the work', we want God to just give the answer, or tell us ASAP.

His Word is our 'Sword of the Spirit' in battling the enemy and his lil' demonic powers. We must have the Word hidden in our hearts as well as having it in our hands. (Psalm 119:11 -"I have hidden Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.) God's Word however can be used in 'good' and in 'bad' times in our journey of faith. There are words of affirmation, yet also of love & discipline. There are words of encouragement reminding us that God will never leave us or forsake us, or that God gives. Yet there are also those words reminding us that He also takes away. There is a time for everything. (See Ecclesiastes)

His Word gives us direction and instruction in the path we are to take. If we TRUST in Him, He will lead, guide and direct us, and we will grow and learn according to His Word. He doesn't light our WHOLE path, He shows us where to go one step at a time. We need to step forward in faith.

As we were reminded tonight, the 'red' words are the MOST important as they are the words of Christ. We need to have a 'red-letter day'... check out the song by Newsong.

So get into the word, and let it get into you!"The balance of affirmation and discipline, freedom & restraint, encouragement and warning is different for each child and season and generation, yet the absolutes of God's Word are necessary and trustworthy no matter how mercuric the time." ~ Gloria Gaither

Deep Cries Out... Bethel Worship!

2011-04-13T12:14:00.000-04:00

"DEEP CRIES OUT" -- A GREAT song that I am playing over and over again... Thank GOD for what you desire... stop asking and pleading! Thank you Lord for Your open heavens, where we will never be denied (the things we need according to Your will)!!

ENJOY!

C'mon & JUMP in the RIVER with me!
"If it goes to the left, then we'll go to the left. If it goes to the right, then we'll go to the right. We're gonna jump, jump... dance, dance... shout, shout in the river!!"

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"The Tapestry of Life"

2011-04-13T12:07:00.000-04:00

Day #102 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Let not your hearts be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also." John 14:1-3 NKJV

Here is a picture I found online (click here to read more about the site) and it shows a beautiful tapestry with many colours of wool, and formed together in many little pieces, make a beautiful final product. Just like our lives, each piece is important, and makes us who we are. God is the weaver, same as he is the potter.

Here is a picture of the 'backside' of the same tapestry. From that angle, it looks like a bunch of strings, not forming anything. A story that has be told over and over in different settings, using our lives as a tapestry. From this angle, it looks like a big mess, but God takes the messes in our lives and makes a message to share with the world about His Son and the gospel.

Life is a woven tapestry, full of the beautiful and the not-so-beautiful... the good and the bad, the encouraging days and the discouraging days. But knowing that we are in the hands of the great Creator helps us face those not-so-beautiful days, and we are reminded that in the end, we will have the victory, and we will be a beautiful bride wearing the robes of righteousness with our Brother Jesus!

Sometimes during the 'good days' we tend to overlook the many blessings that God has given to us, and we start to take God for granted. But during the 'bad days', we find out what we are truly made of. Eleanor Roosevelt (& later Nancy Reagan) made a statement, "A woman is like a teabag. You never know how strong she is until she gets into hot water" & a quote by an unknown, "You don't know how strong you are, until being strong is the only choice you have."

As I write and share my viewpoint (& more Holy Spirit inspired words) on the devotionals found in the book I am reading, 'A Woman of Faith Devotional' I pray that the words spoken/written are touching the hearts of those who read them. However, I do realize that my life is actually going in ways which Holy Spirit knows I need these words as well. This devotional for example was just for me, today (actually yesterday when I am writing this, as I didn't get to write yesterday). I thank God for the 'times of testing', for each 'test' turns into a 'testimony' and He turns our 'mess' into a 'message'. (Thanks Brother Miller for those two statements). Same as the tapestry above, the backside is a 'mess', but the front side is a beautiful tapestry with a 'message'. We need to share the 'message' of God's love with the world.

In reading "Little Keys Open Big Doors" by Rachel Hickson (©2007 by Rachel Hickson, Published by Chosen Books, Grand Rapids MI) she writes, "In the famous Bayeaux tapestry, there is a section entitled 'King Harold comforted his troops.' When you look more closely at the picture in this section, you see King Harold on his horse with a strong lance in his hand, and he is driving this lance into the backside of one of his soldiers! Over this picture hangs the phrase, 'King Harold comforts his men'. This is more like the picture of biblical comfort! We need to take courage from the Word of God and use it to inspire one another to press in and keep walking through difficult times."

Funny thing is most of us haven't reached the 'darkest days', or difficult trials & tragedies where our faith will be truly tested... but when those days come, we know that God will prove faithful and give us the strength we need, if we trust in Him. We can rest assured in His peace, that passes all understanding!

...so get out there and let God weave your masterpiece, turning your 'mess' into a 'message'!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"The Abundant Life"

2011-04-13T11:18:00.000-04:00

Day #101 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "A thief comes to steal, and kill and destroy, but I came to give life -- life in all it's fullness." John 10:10 NCV

"It would be wrong to have a 'poverty complex', for to think ourselves paupers is to deny either the King's riches or to deny our being His children." ~ Catherine Marshall

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"When We Lose Hope"

2011-04-13T11:08:00.000-04:00

DAY #100 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional **WEHOO!**
Verse: "Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord." Psalm 31:24 NKJV

"Are you a Christian? If you are, how can you be hopeless? Are you depressed by the greatness of your problems that you have given up all hope? Instead of giving up, would you patiently endure? Would you focus on Christ until you are so preoccupied with Him alone that you fall prostrate before Him?" ~ Anne Graham Lotz

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Peace & His Word"

2011-04-13T11:04:00.000-04:00

DAY #99 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Great peace have they which love thy law." Psalm 119:165 KJV

"God has revealed to us a new reality that the world does not understand: In His eternal kingdom, what matters is being like our Father. That is the way to success and peace." ~ Mary Morrison Suggs

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"The Treasure Hunt"

2011-04-13T11:01:00.000-04:00

DAY #98 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "For where you treasure is, there will your heart be also." Luke 12:34 KJV

"I have a divided heart, trying to love God and the world at the same time. God says, 'You can't love me as you should if you love this world too'." ~ Mary Morrison Suggs

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Bearing Witness to the Truth"

2011-04-10T17:51:00.000-04:00

Day #97 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "But the natural man does not welcome what comes from God's Spirit, because it is foolishness to him; he is not able to know it since it is evaluated spiritually. The spiritual person, however can evaluate everything, yet he himself cannot be evaluated by anyone." 1 Corinthians 2:14-15 HCSB

"When you don't witness, you just did." ~ Anonymous

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"This Is The Day"

2011-04-10T17:44:00.000-04:00

Day #96 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24 NIV

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"What We Become"

2011-04-10T17:40:00.000-04:00

Day #95 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "For it is God who is working among you both the willing and the working for His good purpose." Philippians 2:13 HCSB

"Faith Tip: Today, take time to think about ways you can convert talent into results."

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Helpful Words"

2011-04-10T17:34:00.000-04:00

Day #94 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Careful words make for a careful life; careless talk may ruin everything." Proverbs 13:3 MSG

"When you talk, choose the very same words that you would use if Jesus were looking over your shoulder, because He is." ~ Marie T. Freeman

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"His Plan for You"

2011-04-03T08:44:00.000-04:00

DAY #93 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes." Romans 1:16 NLT

God has BIG plans for you... whether you believe in Him or not. He was, He is, and He always will be! We have the choice to follow His plans, or to follow the desires of our own heart and will. If we choose to go our own way, we will miss out on some pretty GREAT things... yet, if we surrender and choose to live according to His will and His plans for our lives we can be GREAT for Him! In the Bible it says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'." Jeremiah 29:11

'Plans to give [us] hope an a future' -- what a PROMISE that is. How many of us are/were searching for HOPE and to know our FUTURE... how many of us are just seeking to have a FUTURE? God can be the HOPE, and He can and will lead us into a future of greatness. Not in our own self-righteousness, but greatness through Him, the blood of His Son & the power of His Spirit.

We can be thankful that "[God's] love never fails, never gives up, never runs out on [us]..." (JesusCulture - 'One Thing Remains' by Brian Johnson, Jeremy Riddle, Christa Black Gifford)

"...But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. BUT AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSEHOLD, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD!" Joshua 24:15 NIV

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Renewal & Celebration"

2011-04-03T08:12:00.001-04:00

DAY #92 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "And He who sits on the throne said, 'Behold, I am making all things new'." Revelation 21:5

New days bring new beginnings, and new beginnings bring renewal. Repenting and returning to Christ so that He can renew and restore us is a part of our daily routine. I love NEW... new beginnings, new changes, newness of life, new HOME...! It's all in the works I know -- God has BIG plans for us, and we just need to step out in faith! :)

My husband & I are coming into our 8th year of marriage, and 8 signifies NEW BEGINNINGS, so we are pretty excited to see what will transpire this year. There are alot of 'new' things on our wishes, hopes & dreams list... and we know that God can and will do MORE than we can think or imagine, so that makes it a time for excitement, yet also making sure we are in right relationship with God. When these things, and/por the things that God has in His plans for us come to fruition it's time for a CELEBRATION!! :) Yet we can also CELEBRATE before the fact, because of FAITH! Knowing that we are in God's hands, when we have a relationship with Him makes life worth celebrating!

We had a great reminder today of the importance of our relationship with the KING of KINGS. We need to first and foremost have a relationship with the FATHER. Yet we also have to have a relationship with the SON and SPIRIT! Salvation is a gift from the Father - Water baptism gives us new life through the Son - and we should be baptized by the Spirit to receive the power to go through each day & to share the gospel & make disciples of the world. (Paraphrased from 'The Power of Your Words' by Robert Morris. --bibliography info to come, I don't have the book with me.)

NEW Life, and RENEWAL should always be a celebration. In the Word, it says that the angels in Heaven rejoice, so we should too! (Luke 15:7 -- "I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent." and Luke 15:10 -- "In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.")

We need to make our whole lives a 'celebration' -- people love parties and celebrations, and worldly people are attracted to it. If we show the world that following Christ is a boring day to day ritual who wants to be a part of that? But if we live our lives as a daily 'celebration' then they will see the JOY and we will reflect the image of JESUS wearing our 'garments of salvation' and they will want to be a part of what we have too! :)

So get out there and START CELEBRATING... If you do not know about, or do not have the relationship I am speaking of with the Father, Son and/or Holy Spirit (as we all are and can be in different stages of our relationships) JUST ASK... Ask the FATHER in Jesus' name, and by the power of Holy Spirit you can and WILL receive!! :) -- I would love to hear your 'testimonies' of God's faithfulness --!

Check out this great song by Steven Curtis Chapman... and celebrate all things that are made new, including YOU!!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Trusting His Answers"

2011-04-01T07:44:00.000-04:00

DAY # 91 - "A Woman of Faith" Devotional
VERSE: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5 NLT

Well, it is the first day of another new month this year, I can't believe it's Day #91 already. A new month, with new beginnings and new challenges. Thankfully God is there with us all the way. We are not supposed to be focused on circumstances, or the things that we think we understand, we are supposed to trust God fully with ALL of our life, if we are true followers of Christ. We find ourselves, and I included petitioning God through the day, especially in the rough times in our lives -- God is definitely not a vending machine, and should not be treated as such. He is a giver, but we must thank Him and pray to Him in all circumstances - happy, sad, angry, bitter, resentment, peace, strife, etc... We just need to call on Him because He promises to answer our requests, yet His answer may not always be the one that we are looking for... and sometimes it's hard to trust in that answer. We must however accept the answer, and go forth in our journey-- even if we do not understand. We must not depend on our own understanding -- for God's ways & thoughts are higher than ours. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:9

God doesn't just give us what we desire, He gives us what He desires to give us in His great plan -- and sometimes yes, it does end up being what we desired in the first place, and usually it's better than anything we could have dreamed or imagined! YAY GOD! Sometimes God says 'No' because He has something much better in store -- and we definitely do not want to 'settle'! Remember HOPE floats, but SETTLING sinks (& stinks!). (Check out my devotional on Hope vs. Settle here.) We must always trust and hope in His faithfulness, for He will also sometimes desire us to wait, before we can receive the full benefit and thing we are desiring. Now, once we align ourselves with God more, His desires become our desires, so the thing we are desiring should always be more of Him.

Trusting in God is also hard when you are praying for the life of a friend or family member-- when we ask for 'healing' for example, we see 'death' as God not answering our prayers, yet He has healed them completely and they are worshipping at His throneroom. (If they are a follower of Christ) We need to pray accordingly, we cannot pray selfishly - either with our own requests or petitions for others. Sometimes God does grant us (through His grace and mercy) a few more years with our friends or family, and thankfully we can accept them as a gracious gift.

Trust is a BIG word --- we think of 'trust' here on earth, and most of us prove to be untrustworthy at some times in our lives. We find it hard to trust others when we have been hurt again and again... yet God remains FAITHFUL, and we can TRUST Him at His word.

... possibly to be continued...

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Peace & Prayer"

2011-04-01T07:24:00.000-04:00

DAY # 90 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
VERSE: "Be cheerful no matter what: pray all the time; thank God now matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 MSG

...to be continued...

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"His Path"

2011-04-01T07:22:00.000-04:00

DAY # 89 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
VERSE: "The Lord says, 'I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you." Psalm 32:8 NLT

...to be continued...

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Faith-Filled Christianity"

2011-03-29T07:30:00.000-04:00

DAY #88 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional

VERSE: "Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established." Proverbs 16:3 NKJV
...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"The Glorious Gift of Life"

2011-03-29T07:27:00.002-04:00

DAY #87 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional

VERSE: "Seek the Lord and ye shall live..." Amos 5:6 KJV
...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Filled By The Spirit"

2011-03-29T07:26:00.000-04:00

DAY #86 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional

VERSE: Ezekiel 37:14 NIV

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"He Cares for You"

2011-03-29T07:25:00.000-04:00

DAY #85- 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional

VERSE: 2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"How Much Does God Love You?"

2011-03-29T07:24:00.000-04:00

DAY #84 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional

VERSE: John 3:16 HCSB

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Who Rules?"

2011-03-29T07:23:00.000-04:00

DAY #83 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional

VERSE: "You shall have no other gods before Me." Exodus 20:3 NKJV

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Follow Him"

2011-03-29T07:21:00.000-04:00

DAY #82 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional

VERSE: John 12:26 NKJV

Who are YOU following??
...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Eternal Life: God's Priceless Gift"

2011-03-29T07:19:00.000-04:00

DAY #81 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
John 4:13-14 HCSB

...to be continued!

"Your choice to either receive or reject the Lord Jesus Christ will determine where you spend eternity. ~ Anne Graham Lotz

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Beyond Doubt"

2011-03-21T23:59:00.000-04:00

DAY # 80 -- Phew, around the 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional in 80 days... and more to come!
VERSE: "Now if any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith without doubting. For the doubter is like the surging sea, driven and tossed by the wind." James 1:5-6 HCSB

If you've never had any doubts about your faith, or anything, then you might as well just skip over this devotional -- but somehow, I DOUBT IT! LOL!

Doubt - by definition;
–verb (used with object)

1. to be uncertain about; consider questionable or unlikely; hesitate to believe.
2. to distrust.
3. Archaic . to fear; be apprehensive about.
–verb (used without object)
4. to be uncertain about something; be undecided in opinion or belief.

God can and will take us beyond all our doubts and fears. We need not worry or doubt that God will do what He says He will do. Sometimes when we pray, we do look at circumstances more than the truth of the Word of God. We are uncertain, or consider the option to be questionable or unlikely, or we hesitate (if even for just a moment), and we find it hard to believe that a GREAT BIG God cares about little ol' me. Well He does. We just need to seek His presence, and spend time with Him, and having a more meaningful relationship with His Son Jesus, and be led by Holy Spirit.

Sometimes we feel that we are far away from God... but remember it's not God who moved, it's us. God was, God is, and God always will be! He promises many things to those who believe and are His followers and disciples.

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!!

"Courtesy Matters"

2011-03-21T00:44:00.000-04:00

DAY #79 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
VERSE: "Be hospitable to one another without grumbling." 1 Peter 4:9 NKJV

Such a funny devotional message for me to be reading right now, because this weekend we were just commenting how the people in my city have lost all their manners and courtesy means really nothing now a days. I have been brought up, and taught to respect others, no matter how old or young they are, no matter what sex, race or any other discriminating factor. I, being a major people-watcher, am quite shocked sometimes to other's behaviour. The saying is certainly true (the GOLDEN rule) -- 'treat people the way you want them to treat you' (Actually found in the Bible in Matthew 7:12) -- so many people if they are living their life by this 'rule' really want to be treated not so nice. Drivers, pedestrians, even relatives treat each other with no dignity or respect at some times.

... to be continued!!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Real Christianity"

2011-03-21T00:38:00.001-04:00

DAY # 78 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional

VERSE: "But now in Christ Jesus you who foremerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace." Ephesians 2:13-14

'Real' by definition is;

–adjective

1. true; not merely ostensible, nominal, or apparent: the real reason for an act.

2. existing or occurring as fact; actual rather than imaginary, ideal, or fictitious: a story taken from real life.

3. being an actual thing; having objective existence; not imaginary: The events you will see in the film are real and not just made up.

4. being actually such; not merely so-called: a real victory.

5. genuine; not counterfeit, artificial, or imitation; authentic: a real antique; a real diamond; real silk.

6. unfeigned or sincere: real sympathy; a real friend.
7. Informal . absolute; complete; utter: She's a real brain.
8. Philosophy .
a. existent or pertaining to the existent as opposed to the nonexistent.
b. actual as opposed to possible or potential.
c. independent of experience as opposed to phenomenal or apparent.
9. (of money, income, or the like) measured in purchasing power rather than in nominal value: Inflation has driven income down in real terms, though nominal income appears to be higher.
10. Optics . (of an image) formed by the actual convergence of rays, as the image produced in a camera (opposed to virtual).
11. Mathematics .
a. of, pertaining to, or having the value of a real number.
b. using real numbers: real analysis; real vector space.
–adverb
12. Informal . very or extremely: You did a real nice job painting the house.
–noun
13. real number.
14. the real,
a. something that actually exists, as a particular quantity.
b. reality in general.
—Idiom
15. for real, Informal .
a. in reality; actually: You mean she dyed her hair green for real?
b. real; actual: The company's plans to relocate are for real.
c. genuine; sincere: I don't believe his friendly attitude is for real.

A 'real' Christian is a 'genuine; not counterfeit, artificial, or imitation; authentic; sincere' Christian - one who sincerely follows Christ and is not just an imitation or artificial. Authentic means if held against a 'fake', one would know that you are 'real' -- as in diamonds. There are many superficial or zircon Christians out there, who are looking good on the outside, but not have the real value inside. We live in a world that tells you it's more fun to be say a 'ruby' than a 'diamond', and some are happy just being a 'zircon' -- one who looks like a real diamond on the outside, but is a 'fake'. A 'ruby' for example is a jewel that is still valuable (as we are all valuable to God), but it is in fact not the 'jewel' that God has called us to be. We all have a purpose in life, and the first step to finding out that purpose is to seek after God and a relationship with Him.
With a 'diamond' there are four classifications to know the 'realness' of it. The Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat-Weight.

The Cut - Each diamond is still a diamond, whether it is an 'emerald', 'heart', 'marquis', 'oval', 'pear', 'princess', 'radiant' or 'round'. Each of us are 'cut' differently, we are still diamonds at heart, but our bodies, characteristics are all unique to being 'us'. The way a 'real' diamond is cut allows the light that enters to be reflected back up through the face of the diamond. If a diamond is cut too shallow or too deep the light exits through the bottom of the diamond, and does not allow the maximum beauty of the diamond to be known. Each of us as ' Real Christians' should allow the light of Jesus to be reflected back into the world.

The Colour - Diamonds come naturally in every colour of the rainbow, but most people are just excited about the ones in the white range. Sounds like the world of today, but no matter what colour we are, red or yellow, black or white, we are all precious in God's sight. The best color for a diamond to be is infact no color at all. A totally colorless diamond allows light to pass through it easily, resulting in the light being dispersed as the color of the rainbow. When we come to God, he cleanses us, and become pure & 'colourless' only reflecting what He is made of, which infact can be seen as the colours of the rainbow, which is His promise to us!

The Clarity - Each diamond's clarity is determined by the amount of flaws, or blemishes. To see these to the fullness, you must view a diamond under 10X magnification. Most diamonds contain little 'inclusions' which are kind of like birthmarks. The 'inclusions' interfere with the light passing through, and therefore the fewer the inclusions, the more reflective and beautiful the diamond is or can be. Each of us are born with 'inclusions' or a sinful nature, and the more sin that we contain, the less that God can be seen, but when we allow God to remove our sin, the more beautiful we become. Diamonds, unlike any other gemstone can produce more brilliance because of the light reflected. A diamond that has no 'inclusions' or surface scars is very rare, and very valuable. Thankfully, we are all valuable to our Creator, but of course we are made the most brilliant and beautiful when we arrive in the presence of God when He once and for all cleanses us and makes us white with the glow of His glory in Heaven.

The Carat-Weight - Diamonds are all in different weights, and these weights are measured in carats. As the weight increases, so does the price, which also makes the weightier (higher carat) ones more rare. Two diamonds can be of equal carat-weight, but their value differs due to the other 3 classifications (Cut, Colour & Clarity). Now, first thinking would be our body weights, which we do vary in... but my thought is to the weight or the amount of the Spirit that lives inside of us. The one with the Holy Spirit in his life, just from salvation needs to be empowered by the same Spirit with the water baptism, and the baptism of the Spirit. Each of us are in different areas of our journey with God. "The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out. Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find? The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them." Proverbs 20:5-7 NIV

So a real and true Christian will have the cut, colour, clarity and carat of the Father. God is not leading us into the impossible (for all things are possible for and with God), and we can become the 'rare' righteous ones whom chase God with all our hearts faithfully, and according to Proverbs 20:7, so may our children (or the next generations) behind us!

(My church just celebrated it's 'Diamond [60th] Anniversary', so I pray that we all may become 'real' diamonds in the rough -- reflecting and shining the light of God in this dark world.)

AMEN and AMEN!

*Diamond information found online at http://www.4diamond.com/4Cs/ -- Information comparing diamonds to Christians inspired by Holy Spirit! :)*

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Sharing Your Burdens"

2011-03-18T10:23:00.000-04:00

DAY # 77 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
VERSE: "The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

The words to the Donut Man's song come to mind -- 'Cast your burdens on Jesus for He cares for you... Higher, higher, higher, higher, higher, higher, higher, higher lift Jesus higher higher.... Lower, lower, lower, lower, lower, lower, lower, lower stomp satan lower lower...' The verse itself is found in 1 Peter 5:7, "Give all your worries to him, because he cares about you." When troublesome times or disheartening times come our way, we need to remember not to mull them about in our mind (thinking the worst), but we need to immediately give them to God, and place them in His hands. Our God will always be with us, wheras our friends or family won't. Sometimes we will be alone (in the physical), and we will feel that all is against us -- but really when we feel the walls closing in, like your are surrounded -- that's really God's love surrounding you. There's a song by Geoff Moore called 'Surrounded' that have these words...

Do you ever feel
Like you want to run and hide
Take all the ones you love
And drop right out of sight
Do you wish you had a shield
That could push the pain away
Or a mighty sword to wield
To keep the wolves at bay

When the walls are closing in
The enemy is back again
Heat coming from all sides
Like you are surrounded
You can’t believe everything you feel
Treasure what you know is real
Cause, if you could see from up above
What’s got you surrounded is love

Do you ever dream
Dream of days to come
When battles will not rage
For the souls of little ones
Do you still believe
In love that’s strong and true
And no matter where you wander
His love’s surrounding you

Do you still believe
In love that’s strong and true
And no matter where you wander
His love’s surrounding you

So whatever the size of your 'trouble' remember that OUR GOD is greater, bigger, stronger, higher, awesome in power and when the evil demons come at you with lies -- tell them the truth (just like when you were a kid) -'My Daddy is BIGGER than your daddy!' Remember satan is the father of lies, and God is the Father of ALL Truth!

Put your hope, faith and trust in the Lord, and He will hear your prayers and answer them!
(Check out yesterday's devotional 'Restoring Your Hope' if you need to regain the hope

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Restoring Your Hope"

2011-03-18T10:02:00.000-04:00

DAY # 76 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Until now you have not asked for anything in My Name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy will be the fullest possible joy." John 16:24 NCV

Where (or who) do you place your HOPE in? The worldly circumstances, the doctor's diagnosis', the words of friends & family or the Word of God and God Himself? Do you have FAITH in God, that He will do and say all that He promises? Do you have a sincere HOPE for tomorrow? Have you 'asked' God for those desires, sincerely asked in the name of Jesus? We should be continually seeking the face of God, and the plans that He has for us. Our desires and wants, wishes and dreams can be fulfilled if we live according to God's plan, and if they are in His will and desire for us as well. "Genuine heartfelt prayer produces powerful changes in us and in our world." ('A Woman of Faith' Devotional. Day 76. ©2007 Freeman-Smith, LLC. Nashville, TN. 37202)

When we truly believe with faith, which is truly believing without seeing, than God can and will do a GREAT work in our lives, and in our world.

This 'asking' is just not petitioning for your own self, but for those around you. Think of the world around you, your home, your family, your work/co-workers, your church family, your community, your city, your province, your country, and countries around the world. Are there questions about your future (or theirs) that you cannot answer alone -- needs that you cannot meet (such as the turmoil going on in Japan) -- do you really know what your purpose is? Do you just have simple questions about life? God can and will meet those needs, and answer those questions, if you SEEK Him. "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then all these things shall be added unto you." (Matthew 6:33)

Whatever your desire, need, prayer request may be, keep on praying. Pray continuously -- never lose HOPE! Not just saying 'hope' frivolously, as in 'I hope God answers my prayer' or 'I hope I can go to Africa' -- but a true and sincere that is stronger than desire. According to dictionary.com, 'hope' is defined as;

–verb (used with object)

6. to look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence.

7. to believe, desire, or trust: I hope that my work will be satisfactory.

–verb (used without object)

8. to feel that something desired may happen: We hope for an early spring.

9. Archaic . to place trust; rely (usually followed by in ).

—Idiom

10. hope against hope, to continue to hope, although the outlook does not warrant it: We are hoping against hope for a change in her condition.

The worldly view of 'hope' is just looking forward to with desire & 'reasonable confidence', meaning don't wish too hard, don't believe too much just incase it doesn't happen. A Christian's view of 'hope' should be a totally different outlook. We can look forward to with the confidence and assurance that God will do what He says He will do. We don't put our 'hope', 'trust' and 'faith' in the circumstance or the desire, we put our 'hope, trust and faith' in the God that provides. I've said it before, and I will say it again and again (& I've heard others mention it -and too many mention the opposite, which is why I will write it again), we need to STOP seeking the healing, the provisions, the desires, the revivals, the signs & wonders/moves of the Spirit and we need to START seeking the Healer, the Provider, the Miracle worker, the Reviver, the Spirit himself who is above all, who is GOD. We need to SEEK HIM, and Him alone... don't just seek for the Spirit, or for more of Jesus -- we need GOD as a whole, Father, Son & Spirit. God gives us the Spirit here on earth, so yes we can desire moves of the Spirit, but we have to seek GOD Himself to receive the Spirit, and we need to believe that God sent His Son Jesus and it is His BLOOD that cleanses us and makes us new. We are protected by that blood. We need to stop looking at the circumstances around us because we are basing our faith, hope and trust around them too much. We need to place our faith in the BLOOD of JESUS, the POWER of the SPIRIT and the GREATNESS of GOD! Our God is greater, stronger, higher, awesome in power and He is the Healer, the Provider, the Giver of Life and more. (See 'When I Speak Your Name' devotional here for more.) For more information you can check out, http://www.learnthebible.org/praying-in-the-name-of-jesus.html or just Google "in Jesus' name" or "power in the name of Jesus" or "names of God".

So if you feel as if you have the worldly form of hope, faith and trust -- then SEEK the Lord and ask Him to fill you with His Faith, Hope and Trust -- but then you need to have the faith, hope and trust to believe that He will do what you asked. God is able, actually more than able to answer our requests (if they align with His will) - we just need to ASK! 'A.S.K.' -- Ask, Seek & Knock.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Actions Speak Louder"

2011-03-16T19:21:00.001-04:00

DAY # 75 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Are there those among you who are truly wise and understanding? Then they should show it by living right and doing good things with a gentleness that comes from wisdom." James 3:13 NCV

"Focusing on Your Hopes"

2011-03-16T19:19:00.002-04:00

DAY # 74 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "This hope we have as an anchor of the sould, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil." Hebrews 6:19 NKJV

"Searching for Strength"

2011-03-14T18:54:00.000-04:00

DAY #73 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1 NKJV

Searching for strength? I think we all can fit into that category. Where do we go to find that strength? In ourselves, in a protein drink, to the gym, or to the source of strength which is the Lord? God is the ultimate source of all that we need. He does give us certain talents, gifts and characteristics that help us get through each day, but we are to seek Him, so that we know we can do all things through Him who gives us strength. (Philippians 4:13) He gives us strength physically as well as spiritually, mentally and emotionally.

Nothing we can do that will be fulfilling will ever be done in our own strength. Each day we need to seek the Lord while He is here, call on Him while He is near. The quality of our lives here on earth depend on where our foundation and our source is. God is always there for us, because He is faithful. We on the other hand are not faithful. We stray, we sin and we try to do things on our own and in our own strength. By choice we are making bad decisions in our lives, and God cannot bless us as He desires. We need to tap into the STRENGTH of the King, and He can help us to do the impossible. Nothing is impossible with God, or to those that believe!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"The Heart of a Servant"

2011-03-14T18:45:00.000-04:00

Day #72 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped." Proverbs 11:25 MSG

The old saying goes, 'Find a need and fill it'... whatever talent or gift you have, each of us is called to serve. Serving is giving of one's self in order to fulfill a need of another. Jesus showed us a great example of servant-hood when he washed his disciples feet. Such a small menial task, but it meant the world to the disciples, and to Jesus. We need to be the 'hands and feet' of Jesus to this world, and when we serve, others will bless us in return. God will bless us as well. When we serve others, someone will serve us; when we help others, someone else will help us as well. We do not give to receive, yet in some cases we do. Sometimes it's great to help, or serve or bless anonymously, so that you can watch the joy of another grow, and all the glory goes to God.

Thinking of the people in Japan, and other parts of this world who are in turmoil, due to the 'groaning of the earth' -- I also think of the COMPASSSION & WORLD VISION children all around the world (and those children who do not have sponsors). We don't have to be a missionary across the world, but it's good to give towards the mission trips of those who can go. They are our hands and feet, as well as Jesus'!

C'mon, let's be the 'hands and feet' of Jesus!

Audio Adrenaline - 'Hands & Feet' ENJOY this lil' song... one of my fav's;

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!!

"Real Repentance"

2011-03-14T18:33:00.000-04:00

Day #71 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Come back to the Lord and live!" Amos 5:6 NLT

Full repentance is turning away from the 'sin' that is trying to control us. It's not just repeated apologies over and over for the same sin, again and again. It's good to repent, yet why are we re-doing the sin in the first place. Our sin distances us from God, plain and simple. When we want to remain close to God, we need to remove the sin from our lives. God and sin cannot be in the same place. If we want the manifest presence of God in our lives, our homes, our churches, our cities then we need to get rid of the sin. One thing to remember is that we ALL have sinned, and we all fall short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)

We need to walk in obedience to God's Word, so that we can fully wrap ourselves in the protection and the blessings of the King. We need to allow the rain, the fire and the wind of God to cleanse, burn and blow over our spirits and bodies. Our natural man desires temporary fixes, which seem good at the moment. However, our spiritual man desires much more of the Father and His ways. We need to walk in repentance and forgiveness.

To REPENT directly means;
–verb (used without object)

1. to feel sorry, self-reproachful, or contrite for past conduct; regret or be conscience-stricken about a past action, attitude, etc. (often followed by of ): He repented after his thoughtless act.
2. to feel such sorrow for sin or fault as to be disposed to change one's life for the better; be penitent.
–verb (used with object)
3. to remember or regard with self-reproach or contrition: to repent one's injustice to another.
4. to feel sorry for; regret: to repent an imprudent act.

We need to walk in repentance to 'change one's life for the better'. God desires to change us inside and out, we just need to let Him have control instead of our natural man.

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"What Now, Lord?"

2011-03-12T00:27:00.002-05:00

DAY # 70 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "For we are His making, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10 HSCB

"Pray Always"

2011-03-10T07:38:00.000-05:00

DAY #69 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy..." Luke 21:36 NKJV

"Your Primary Obligation"

2011-03-10T07:37:00.000-05:00

DAY #68 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Everything that goes into a life of pleasing God has been miraculously given to us by getting to know, personally and intimately, the One who invited us to God. The best invitation we ever received!" 2 Peter 1:3 MSG

"A Marathon"

2011-03-08T07:38:00.000-05:00

DAY #67 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Therefore since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us." Hebrews 12:1 HCSB

Life is said to be like a journey - and it all begins with one step. If our lives are to be considered as a marathon, then we certainly do need to go into each step prepared and determined to finish wtrong and well. We need to persevere through the tough times. Jesus is a perfect example for us to look to. His life was lived well, as a marathon -- although it was short-lived here on earth, those 33 years He persevered and finished the race well, once and for all. He didn't just finish, He won! He came and did what He was called to do -- the work of the Father.

Just as Jesus did, we must remain faithful to our calling -- even when thoughts of discouragement or quitting come in, we need to persevere and remain dedicated to our calling. Jesus did ask "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me? Yet not as I will, but as you will." He told the Father of his true thoughts and feelings, yet He still wanted to follow the Father's will, not his own.

When we face times of trial, doubt, fear, discouragement, etc... we need to be honest with God and tell Him how we are truly feeling, and He will reach down and touch our hearts and spirits, and heal us. We always want to be in the will of the Father, not our own plans and desires. Remember anything that comes against you, no matter how big is always smaller than our Father God in Heaven. He can handle ANYTHING! NOTHING is IMPOSSIBLE for Him~ and nothing is impossible for him that believes! So prepare, persevere and stay determined to finish the race set before you.

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"A Heart Aflame?"

2011-03-08T07:25:00.000-05:00

DAY #66 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Whatever work you do, do you best, because you are going to the grave, where there is no working..." Ecclesiastes 9:10 NCV

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Swamped by Your Possessions"

2011-03-06T09:06:00.000-05:00

DAY #65 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: "Don't be obsessed with getting more material things. Be relaxed with what you have." Hebrews 13:5 MSG

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!

"Sharing the Joy"

2011-03-06T09:05:00.001-05:00

DAY #64 - 'A Woman of Faith' Devotional
Verse: 1 Chronicles 16:10

...to be continued!

BE BLESSED & BE A BLESSING!