Are You A Good Steward
"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Matthew 6:21
Having spent over 45 years in the financial world, I can appreciate the scripture above, and know that what you spend your money on, is a great indicator of where your heart really is. Each of us makes a choice each day, as to how we will spend the money that God gives us. We must never forget that all that we have is due to God giving it to us, and that He entrusts us to be good stewards over all our resources. How we manage and use these resources, is extremely important, as it indicates our ability to be good stewards of what God has entrusted to us, and clearly indicates where our heart is. A simple test that I have used for years when I counsel people on money, is first to determine their total annual income. This includes all the income from their jobs, and also any additional sources of income they may have. Then I ask them to break out their expenses into two categories, the first being basic living expenses, such as house payments, food, utilities, medical, clothing, etc., all the basic necessities of daily life. The second category, is all the other expenses, which are not necessary for daily life. This is the category that will tell you where your heart really is, and where your priorities really lie. Out of this category, you can determine quickly, what percentage is going to support God's work through your church, or other ministry you may have selected. Through this simple test, you will be able to determine if your heart, and priorities are where they need to be. You will find that a good portion of your treasure is being invested in God's work, if your heart is right with God.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
Let God Lead
Let God Lead
"If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand."
Psalm 37:23
So often during life we have disappointments, and only see the door that is closing in front of us, which is keeping us from what we think is best for us. Do you realize that when one door closes, it forces us to change our course, so that we can find the open door that God has destined for us. I would encourage you to thank God for closed doors, as much as you do for open doors. The reason that God closes doors is because this is not the path He wants you to follow. If He didn't close the door you would never find your way to the right door, and the blessings He has waiting for you. Even when you don't realize it, God is directing your paths, through the opening and closing of doors. So often when we see a door closing, we try to tear down the roadblocks, or push aside all the obstacles, and many times we do, but then the minute we get into trouble, we start crying "Lord why is this happening to me." The next time a door closes on you, consider if it may be God who is closing the door, as He has something better for you. It's so exciting to know that we have God watching over and guarding us, and leading us on the path He wants us to follow. We need to trust and allow God to take control of our lives, and let Him lead us where He wants us to go. I would encourage you the next time you have a door closed in front of you, to consider whether God is closing it on your behalf, and look around for an open door that God is leading you to. Don't blame God for closing a door, but thank Him for the open door, and watching over you.
"If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand."
Psalm 37:23
So often during life we have disappointments, and only see the door that is closing in front of us, which is keeping us from what we think is best for us. Do you realize that when one door closes, it forces us to change our course, so that we can find the open door that God has destined for us. I would encourage you to thank God for closed doors, as much as you do for open doors. The reason that God closes doors is because this is not the path He wants you to follow. If He didn't close the door you would never find your way to the right door, and the blessings He has waiting for you. Even when you don't realize it, God is directing your paths, through the opening and closing of doors. So often when we see a door closing, we try to tear down the roadblocks, or push aside all the obstacles, and many times we do, but then the minute we get into trouble, we start crying "Lord why is this happening to me." The next time a door closes on you, consider if it may be God who is closing the door, as He has something better for you. It's so exciting to know that we have God watching over and guarding us, and leading us on the path He wants us to follow. We need to trust and allow God to take control of our lives, and let Him lead us where He wants us to go. I would encourage you the next time you have a door closed in front of you, to consider whether God is closing it on your behalf, and look around for an open door that God is leading you to. Don't blame God for closing a door, but thank Him for the open door, and watching over you.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Ask Jesus For Your Salvation
Ask Jesus For Your Salvation
"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
Romans 10:13
We just returned home from the funeral of one of my cousins, who was only 59 years old, and was found dead in her bed. God had chosen this time for her to come home. This should remind us that none of us have the promise of tomorrow. It is so important to be prepared at any time, if God chooses to call us home. I have heard so many people tell me that they plan to start going to church next week, and will begin to read and study their Bibles, and become a better person. But so many of these people do not follow up on their plan to seek Jesus as their savior, and then find that it is too late. So often our plans are not God's plans, and putting off something as important as our salvation is the biggest mistake we will ever make. There is nothing more important, than to make sure that we have accepted Jesus as our savior, as when we make this simple choice, all our eternal future is assured. This present life can end at any time, as it did with my cousin, but our eternal life will last forever. All the struggles we have on earth can suddenly be over, and we can find ourselves standing before God, at His judgment throne. This kind of judgment can be frightening to anyone if they have not accepted Jesus, but can be something that we can look forward to with excitement, if we have asked Jesus into our hearts. It is such an easy decision to make, and yet so many people keep putting it off, "until it is too late". I would encourage anyone who is reading this devotional, to quietly ask Jesus to forgive you of your sins, and to be your Lord and Savior and guarantee your salvation and your eternal life.
"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
Romans 10:13
We just returned home from the funeral of one of my cousins, who was only 59 years old, and was found dead in her bed. God had chosen this time for her to come home. This should remind us that none of us have the promise of tomorrow. It is so important to be prepared at any time, if God chooses to call us home. I have heard so many people tell me that they plan to start going to church next week, and will begin to read and study their Bibles, and become a better person. But so many of these people do not follow up on their plan to seek Jesus as their savior, and then find that it is too late. So often our plans are not God's plans, and putting off something as important as our salvation is the biggest mistake we will ever make. There is nothing more important, than to make sure that we have accepted Jesus as our savior, as when we make this simple choice, all our eternal future is assured. This present life can end at any time, as it did with my cousin, but our eternal life will last forever. All the struggles we have on earth can suddenly be over, and we can find ourselves standing before God, at His judgment throne. This kind of judgment can be frightening to anyone if they have not accepted Jesus, but can be something that we can look forward to with excitement, if we have asked Jesus into our hearts. It is such an easy decision to make, and yet so many people keep putting it off, "until it is too late". I would encourage anyone who is reading this devotional, to quietly ask Jesus to forgive you of your sins, and to be your Lord and Savior and guarantee your salvation and your eternal life.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Worship God Every Day
Worship God Every Day
"I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart."
Psalm 138:1
Each week I receive responses from my daily devotionals, from people telling me they are too busy, and do not have any time to read and study their Bibles, and that they feel guilty, and want my advice. I know that telling anyone who has their days filled with their jobs, their families, and all their other activities, to take even a half hour each morning to pray and read their Bibles, will fall on deaf ears. If you are in this situation, I would suggest you try to start with one scripture, write it down on a piece of paper, and concentrate on it all during the day, and make it personal for you. This is the way I write my daily devotionals, as I apply each scripture to my own life, and make it personal just for me. Doing this little thing will let you begin to experience the word of God in your life. It is so easy in the busy world we live in, for people to forget about God, as most people seem to be so occupied with other things. God wants our life to be focused around Him, and tells us that nothing should be more important in our daily life, than our worship time. We do not have to spend hours reading our Bible each day to worship God, as we can worship Him throughout our day by prayer, and obeying His commands. We can continually look for God and see Him all around us every day, as we can witness the beauty of all His creations, such as the trees, the beautiful sky, the birds, the animals and all His other creations. We can worship God all throughout our day, just by silently thanking Him for all the beauty He surrounds us with. Make God personal in your life today, obey and personalize one of His scriptures and apply it to your life. It will make a difference.
"I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart."
Psalm 138:1
Each week I receive responses from my daily devotionals, from people telling me they are too busy, and do not have any time to read and study their Bibles, and that they feel guilty, and want my advice. I know that telling anyone who has their days filled with their jobs, their families, and all their other activities, to take even a half hour each morning to pray and read their Bibles, will fall on deaf ears. If you are in this situation, I would suggest you try to start with one scripture, write it down on a piece of paper, and concentrate on it all during the day, and make it personal for you. This is the way I write my daily devotionals, as I apply each scripture to my own life, and make it personal just for me. Doing this little thing will let you begin to experience the word of God in your life. It is so easy in the busy world we live in, for people to forget about God, as most people seem to be so occupied with other things. God wants our life to be focused around Him, and tells us that nothing should be more important in our daily life, than our worship time. We do not have to spend hours reading our Bible each day to worship God, as we can worship Him throughout our day by prayer, and obeying His commands. We can continually look for God and see Him all around us every day, as we can witness the beauty of all His creations, such as the trees, the beautiful sky, the birds, the animals and all His other creations. We can worship God all throughout our day, just by silently thanking Him for all the beauty He surrounds us with. Make God personal in your life today, obey and personalize one of His scriptures and apply it to your life. It will make a difference.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Wait For God
Wait For God
"You have rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you as King over Israel."
1st Samuel 15:26
Many of you are waiting for the breakthrough from the Lord in your lives. Many of you are holding on to a word, or promise that He has given you about your lives, families, and your callings. You are saying to yourselves, "I know He said He would show up, and make the way for me, but where is He"? God is giving you this time of waiting, so you can show Him how well you are yielding to situations, circumstances, and giving your life to His timing and leadership. This lesson of waiting for God is seen so well in the story of King Saul, who had been told to wait seven days so that the Prophet Samuel could make a sacrifice to the Lord, before they were to go into battle with the Philistines. When Samuel did not show up in the seven days, Saul became scared; asking, "where is the Man of God"? Saul, seeing that his troops were scattered, and that Samuel had not come within the appointed days, made the sacrifice himself. Saul "felt compelled" to do this because of the people, not God. Earlier in his life Saul had seen Samuel make a sacrifice in front of the Philistine army and the Lord destroyed them. Saul knew this, but he made his decision based on the desire to please man not to please God. God punished Saul by replacing him with the young King David. David was a man who lived to wait for the Lord, even when He put intentional delays in his path. The breakthrough you are waiting for in your life, may be this same kind of delay of the Lord, and may be the opportunity for Him to perform an even greater work, than you might have been thinking of and preparing for. Don't become impatient, wait for God.
"You have rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you as King over Israel."
1st Samuel 15:26
Many of you are waiting for the breakthrough from the Lord in your lives. Many of you are holding on to a word, or promise that He has given you about your lives, families, and your callings. You are saying to yourselves, "I know He said He would show up, and make the way for me, but where is He"? God is giving you this time of waiting, so you can show Him how well you are yielding to situations, circumstances, and giving your life to His timing and leadership. This lesson of waiting for God is seen so well in the story of King Saul, who had been told to wait seven days so that the Prophet Samuel could make a sacrifice to the Lord, before they were to go into battle with the Philistines. When Samuel did not show up in the seven days, Saul became scared; asking, "where is the Man of God"? Saul, seeing that his troops were scattered, and that Samuel had not come within the appointed days, made the sacrifice himself. Saul "felt compelled" to do this because of the people, not God. Earlier in his life Saul had seen Samuel make a sacrifice in front of the Philistine army and the Lord destroyed them. Saul knew this, but he made his decision based on the desire to please man not to please God. God punished Saul by replacing him with the young King David. David was a man who lived to wait for the Lord, even when He put intentional delays in his path. The breakthrough you are waiting for in your life, may be this same kind of delay of the Lord, and may be the opportunity for Him to perform an even greater work, than you might have been thinking of and preparing for. Don't become impatient, wait for God.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
It Is Not Too Late
It Is Not Too Late
"He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus."
2nd Thessalonians 1:8
This past week I attended a funeral of a relative, who we were not sure if she had been saved. This is a very frightening thought, as the above scripture tells us that God will punish anyone who does not know Him. To know that God's justice brings punishment on unrepentant sinners, should make everyone reading this devotional, take heed as to what awaits you, if you don't seek God's salvation. When someone dies without knowing Christ, it is too late, and none of us knows when our time will come. God only tells us to be ready, as our life is but for a season, and it could end today, as we are not promised tomorrow. We need to be ready now, and not put off until tomorrow as this may be too late. There is nothing more important than making sure that we are right with God, and have accepted Him into our hearts, and received His salvation. As I have counseled people throughout the years, many have said that they will think about their salvation, and let me know later. The thing that I would like to stress to you right now, is that there may not be a later, as none of us are promised another day. This is not something that can be put off and considered later, as if you die before accepting Christ as your Savior, it will be too late for you. Salvation is such an easy thing. Jesus only requires that you ask Him to forgive your sins, ask Him into your heart, and make Him your Lord and Savior. For anyone who is reading this devotional right now, it is not too late for you to ask Jesus for your salvation. He will welcome you with open arms and guarantee you an eternal life in Heaven. Don't put it off, do it now.
"He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus."
2nd Thessalonians 1:8
This past week I attended a funeral of a relative, who we were not sure if she had been saved. This is a very frightening thought, as the above scripture tells us that God will punish anyone who does not know Him. To know that God's justice brings punishment on unrepentant sinners, should make everyone reading this devotional, take heed as to what awaits you, if you don't seek God's salvation. When someone dies without knowing Christ, it is too late, and none of us knows when our time will come. God only tells us to be ready, as our life is but for a season, and it could end today, as we are not promised tomorrow. We need to be ready now, and not put off until tomorrow as this may be too late. There is nothing more important than making sure that we are right with God, and have accepted Him into our hearts, and received His salvation. As I have counseled people throughout the years, many have said that they will think about their salvation, and let me know later. The thing that I would like to stress to you right now, is that there may not be a later, as none of us are promised another day. This is not something that can be put off and considered later, as if you die before accepting Christ as your Savior, it will be too late for you. Salvation is such an easy thing. Jesus only requires that you ask Him to forgive your sins, ask Him into your heart, and make Him your Lord and Savior. For anyone who is reading this devotional right now, it is not too late for you to ask Jesus for your salvation. He will welcome you with open arms and guarantee you an eternal life in Heaven. Don't put it off, do it now.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Think Of Others
Think Of Others
"Do not say to your neighbor, Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow--when you now have it with you."
Proverbs 3:28
Each time I read this scripture, I always think of my mother and her giving spirit. She has always been the example for me with her kind heart and giving spirit. Although she has never had much to give, she will give anyone anything that she has, if she sees they are in need. This same trait was so evident in my grandfather as well, as he always was a giver throughout his life. I believe this is one of the most important gifts that God can give someone, to have your heart focused on how you can help others. Greed, which is thinking of yourself first, is one of the deadly sins that the Bible teaches us about, and prevents so many people from giving as God commands. The Bible tells us not to store up worldly possessions, which will not last and will rot and rust away, but to give with a free heart. In our society, many people spend all their lives trying to build up their nest eggs, and accumulate as much wealth as they possibly can, not thinking about others, who are less fortunate. It has been proven throughout history, that wealth does not provide happiness, as many of the wealthiest people have died in misery and depressed. It is perfectly all right to provide for our families, but not to store up riches, and let our wealth become our gods. Our minds and our hearts must not become consumed with material things, and become a distraction from our walk with God. When we see people in need, we must open our hearts to them and reach out to them. This is the way Jesus commands us to live, with thoughts about others, instead of fulfilling all the desires of our hearts. Don't let your wealth become your God.
"Do not say to your neighbor, Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow--when you now have it with you."
Proverbs 3:28
Each time I read this scripture, I always think of my mother and her giving spirit. She has always been the example for me with her kind heart and giving spirit. Although she has never had much to give, she will give anyone anything that she has, if she sees they are in need. This same trait was so evident in my grandfather as well, as he always was a giver throughout his life. I believe this is one of the most important gifts that God can give someone, to have your heart focused on how you can help others. Greed, which is thinking of yourself first, is one of the deadly sins that the Bible teaches us about, and prevents so many people from giving as God commands. The Bible tells us not to store up worldly possessions, which will not last and will rot and rust away, but to give with a free heart. In our society, many people spend all their lives trying to build up their nest eggs, and accumulate as much wealth as they possibly can, not thinking about others, who are less fortunate. It has been proven throughout history, that wealth does not provide happiness, as many of the wealthiest people have died in misery and depressed. It is perfectly all right to provide for our families, but not to store up riches, and let our wealth become our gods. Our minds and our hearts must not become consumed with material things, and become a distraction from our walk with God. When we see people in need, we must open our hearts to them and reach out to them. This is the way Jesus commands us to live, with thoughts about others, instead of fulfilling all the desires of our hearts. Don't let your wealth become your God.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Plant Your Seed
Plant Your Seed
"He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him."
Psalm 126:6
Having grown up on a farm, I enjoy sowing a seed and then watching it grow. Most Christians, I am sure, have watched seeds that they have sown, such as helping someone in need, and then possibly teaching them about Jesus, and finally leading them to Christ. God expects each of us to sow these kinds of seeds every day. But, what do we do when God asks us to sow those big seeds; ones that gets us out of our comfort zones? When I think about these times, I think about the story of Abraham, when God asked him to take his son Isaac up on the mountain, to be sacrificed. This was a really big request, and one that would test the faith of anyone. This kind of request would get almost anyone out of their comfort zone, but I believe that God asks many people to step outside their comfort zones, and plant those big seeds. Just yesterday, I heard the testimony of Joni Erickson, the champion diver that is now paralyzed, talking about what God has done in her life, and the ministry that God has given her, which has resulted in many souls being won for Christ. These kind of stories happen only when we step out of our comfort zones, and obey the call of God. Perhaps you are being called today by God to plant a seed, that is outside your comfort zone, and are holding back because of fear of the unknown. You can rest assured that if God is asking you to sow this seed, you will be rewarded many times over, and your harvest will be overflowing when you obey. Don't hesitate, answer God's call, and you will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves.
"He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him."
Psalm 126:6
Having grown up on a farm, I enjoy sowing a seed and then watching it grow. Most Christians, I am sure, have watched seeds that they have sown, such as helping someone in need, and then possibly teaching them about Jesus, and finally leading them to Christ. God expects each of us to sow these kinds of seeds every day. But, what do we do when God asks us to sow those big seeds; ones that gets us out of our comfort zones? When I think about these times, I think about the story of Abraham, when God asked him to take his son Isaac up on the mountain, to be sacrificed. This was a really big request, and one that would test the faith of anyone. This kind of request would get almost anyone out of their comfort zone, but I believe that God asks many people to step outside their comfort zones, and plant those big seeds. Just yesterday, I heard the testimony of Joni Erickson, the champion diver that is now paralyzed, talking about what God has done in her life, and the ministry that God has given her, which has resulted in many souls being won for Christ. These kind of stories happen only when we step out of our comfort zones, and obey the call of God. Perhaps you are being called today by God to plant a seed, that is outside your comfort zone, and are holding back because of fear of the unknown. You can rest assured that if God is asking you to sow this seed, you will be rewarded many times over, and your harvest will be overflowing when you obey. Don't hesitate, answer God's call, and you will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
God Is With You
God Is With You
"All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."
Psalm 139:16
Several months ago I got an e-mail from a friend, telling me that she had just lost her 34 year old son, and had set by his bedside for 6 weeks, before he went to be with God. Just 4 years earlier she had lost her husband of 34 years. It is difficult to deal with these kind of losses, but so many people that I deal with in my ministry, go through these kinds of difficulties every day. Many times these times can cause anyone to ask the question, "why are these things happening to me"? I know in my own experience, it was difficult for me to understand why God allowed my father to be killed in World War II, when I was only 2 years old. No one knows what God's plan is for our lives, but He tells us in the scripture above, that He knew us while we were still in our mother's womb, and knew all the days ordained for us before any of them came to be. We can never understand why tragedy's such as these happen, that can affect our lives so dramatically, but we must believe that this was all in God's great plan for us. We must have enough courage and faith to say "God, I don't understand it, but I trust you." We need to put our complete trust in God and give our hurts and pains over to Him. He tells us, "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3. I encourage each of you to continue to trust in God during your difficult times as He is always with you. "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me." Ask God to give you the perfect peace that He promises.
"All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."
Psalm 139:16
Several months ago I got an e-mail from a friend, telling me that she had just lost her 34 year old son, and had set by his bedside for 6 weeks, before he went to be with God. Just 4 years earlier she had lost her husband of 34 years. It is difficult to deal with these kind of losses, but so many people that I deal with in my ministry, go through these kinds of difficulties every day. Many times these times can cause anyone to ask the question, "why are these things happening to me"? I know in my own experience, it was difficult for me to understand why God allowed my father to be killed in World War II, when I was only 2 years old. No one knows what God's plan is for our lives, but He tells us in the scripture above, that He knew us while we were still in our mother's womb, and knew all the days ordained for us before any of them came to be. We can never understand why tragedy's such as these happen, that can affect our lives so dramatically, but we must believe that this was all in God's great plan for us. We must have enough courage and faith to say "God, I don't understand it, but I trust you." We need to put our complete trust in God and give our hurts and pains over to Him. He tells us, "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3. I encourage each of you to continue to trust in God during your difficult times as He is always with you. "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me." Ask God to give you the perfect peace that He promises.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
You Are Special
You Are Special
"In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
Luke 15:10
Do you know that Jesus loves you, and that you are special in His eyes? There has never been a person made just like you, as you are unique. You are unique and one of a kind, and Jesus has a special plan for you, one that no other will ever have. This is how special you are to Jesus, to have made and created only one of you. Many people go through life thinking that there is nothing special about them, that they are not worthy, that God does not care, that they are not going to amount to anything. This thinking is so wrong, as God values you just as much as He does any other person that has ever been created. You are valued just as much in God's eyes as any president, any wealthy millionaire, any physician, businessman and any other person ever created. God's love for you does not waver, because of your status in life. In return for this love, God only asks one thing, and that is that you love Him back. He gives us His number one commandment, which tells us that He only wants us to "love him with all our heart, mind and strength. He loved you enough to send His son to die for you. God only wants you to come to Him. "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." Luke 11:9-10 Why don't you take God at His word today, go to Him and ask Him into your heart. He is waiting for you, "His special creation", with open arms.
"In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
Luke 15:10
Do you know that Jesus loves you, and that you are special in His eyes? There has never been a person made just like you, as you are unique. You are unique and one of a kind, and Jesus has a special plan for you, one that no other will ever have. This is how special you are to Jesus, to have made and created only one of you. Many people go through life thinking that there is nothing special about them, that they are not worthy, that God does not care, that they are not going to amount to anything. This thinking is so wrong, as God values you just as much as He does any other person that has ever been created. You are valued just as much in God's eyes as any president, any wealthy millionaire, any physician, businessman and any other person ever created. God's love for you does not waver, because of your status in life. In return for this love, God only asks one thing, and that is that you love Him back. He gives us His number one commandment, which tells us that He only wants us to "love him with all our heart, mind and strength. He loved you enough to send His son to die for you. God only wants you to come to Him. "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." Luke 11:9-10 Why don't you take God at His word today, go to Him and ask Him into your heart. He is waiting for you, "His special creation", with open arms.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Let Your Light Shine
Let Your Light Shine
"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house."
Matthew 5:14-15
Are you a light to the world? When you accepted Jesus as your savior, you became the light of the world for others to see and follow. Each of us have the opportunity to be the light for others, all throughout our lives. When we go to our place of employment, we have the opportunity to influence others, because of the light that Jesus placed in our hearts. When we go shopping, we have the opportunity to witness for Jesus by our actions and behavior. When we talk with our friends and neighbors, we have the opportunity to demonstrate the love of Jesus to them. Throughout our lives we have hundreds of occasions to let our lights shine out, and make an impact on the people we come into contact with. Jesus expects us to always be a witness for Him in everything that we do. Do the people you meet know that you are a Christian, and that Jesus is your savior, or do you keep your light hidden from them? During this time in our broken and immoral society, there is not a more important time to demonstrate to others that there is more to life, than what we see around us. Our society needs to see the light of Jesus now, more than they have in the history of our nation. I would encourage each of you to become the light, that can bring someone to Christ, by letting your light shine each day. Let your behavior and actions speak for you, and show others that Jesus is the light that you follow, and He can also become their light. Don't hide Jesus in your heart, but let Him shine brightly.
"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house."
Matthew 5:14-15
Are you a light to the world? When you accepted Jesus as your savior, you became the light of the world for others to see and follow. Each of us have the opportunity to be the light for others, all throughout our lives. When we go to our place of employment, we have the opportunity to influence others, because of the light that Jesus placed in our hearts. When we go shopping, we have the opportunity to witness for Jesus by our actions and behavior. When we talk with our friends and neighbors, we have the opportunity to demonstrate the love of Jesus to them. Throughout our lives we have hundreds of occasions to let our lights shine out, and make an impact on the people we come into contact with. Jesus expects us to always be a witness for Him in everything that we do. Do the people you meet know that you are a Christian, and that Jesus is your savior, or do you keep your light hidden from them? During this time in our broken and immoral society, there is not a more important time to demonstrate to others that there is more to life, than what we see around us. Our society needs to see the light of Jesus now, more than they have in the history of our nation. I would encourage each of you to become the light, that can bring someone to Christ, by letting your light shine each day. Let your behavior and actions speak for you, and show others that Jesus is the light that you follow, and He can also become their light. Don't hide Jesus in your heart, but let Him shine brightly.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Are You Living For Jesus
Are You Living For Jesus
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kind of evil against you because of me."
Matthew 5:11
For those of us who have lived our lives in the United States, we have enjoyed tremendous freedoms to live and share our faith in virtual peace. However, we cannot comprehend and understand what many of our brothers and sisters in Christ, in other parts of the world, have to endure to simply be a follower of Jesus. In a way, all of this freedom has made us, "soft Christians." When we can't pray in public schools, we feel persecuted. When our city does not allow us to put up a manger scene at Christmas, we feel persecuted. When Wal Mart won't say, "Merry Christmas" to us, we feel persecuted. However, there is coming a time when this kind of persecution will seem tame, compared to what we think we are going through now. It is easy to say I would die for Jesus, but would you really? Let me challenge you today, that if you would die for Jesus, will you live for Jesus? If we really love the Lord as we claim, then He should be the top priority in our life. When you accepted Jesus into your heart and live by faith, you gave Him your life, not just for an hour on Sunday morning, but "all your life". You must live your life like it is no longer your own, but is His. You need to be totally and completely surrendered to Christ at all times. It cannot be about your desires any longer, it must be about His desires and the desires of others. Our purpose in this life is to serve and glorify God at all times, and that should be the only goal of those who follow Jesus. I ask each of you, are you really living your life for God?
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kind of evil against you because of me."
Matthew 5:11
For those of us who have lived our lives in the United States, we have enjoyed tremendous freedoms to live and share our faith in virtual peace. However, we cannot comprehend and understand what many of our brothers and sisters in Christ, in other parts of the world, have to endure to simply be a follower of Jesus. In a way, all of this freedom has made us, "soft Christians." When we can't pray in public schools, we feel persecuted. When our city does not allow us to put up a manger scene at Christmas, we feel persecuted. When Wal Mart won't say, "Merry Christmas" to us, we feel persecuted. However, there is coming a time when this kind of persecution will seem tame, compared to what we think we are going through now. It is easy to say I would die for Jesus, but would you really? Let me challenge you today, that if you would die for Jesus, will you live for Jesus? If we really love the Lord as we claim, then He should be the top priority in our life. When you accepted Jesus into your heart and live by faith, you gave Him your life, not just for an hour on Sunday morning, but "all your life". You must live your life like it is no longer your own, but is His. You need to be totally and completely surrendered to Christ at all times. It cannot be about your desires any longer, it must be about His desires and the desires of others. Our purpose in this life is to serve and glorify God at all times, and that should be the only goal of those who follow Jesus. I ask each of you, are you really living your life for God?
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Are You Ready
Are You Ready
"As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work."
John 9:4
The other day while I was doing our daily mail route, a car in front of me had a bumper sticker that said, "Look Busy", but underneath this there was a second line that said, "Jesus is Coming". This sign made me think, do people really think it will make a difference to Jesus if they look busy. Most people are busier than they have ever been, as life today moves at a seemingly insane pace. There is always more to do than most people will ever hope to accomplish, as almost everyone seems to have a "to do" list that they will never get done. Many times I rush to get my yard mowed before it begins to rain, or to get it mowed before it gets dark. Many times we have a limited time to do many of the things we must do, and we work hard to get them done. The question I would like to ask each of you to think about is exactly what you are busy doing, and are these the things that are going to make you ready for the return of Jesus? Have you opened your lives and hearts to Jesus, and recognized that He is the only one that you can look to for your salvation. Have you accepted Jesus as your Savior, or have you been too busy with other priorities on your list of things to do. If this is you, what are you waiting for? You need to ask Jesus into your heart now. There is no guarantee that you will have another day, or another chance to accept Jesus as your Savior. There are many that will wait too long, and do things that means nothing to Jesus. You need to realize that Jesus may be coming soon, so you need to be busy keeping your eyes on Him, and getting ready for His coming.
"As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work."
John 9:4
The other day while I was doing our daily mail route, a car in front of me had a bumper sticker that said, "Look Busy", but underneath this there was a second line that said, "Jesus is Coming". This sign made me think, do people really think it will make a difference to Jesus if they look busy. Most people are busier than they have ever been, as life today moves at a seemingly insane pace. There is always more to do than most people will ever hope to accomplish, as almost everyone seems to have a "to do" list that they will never get done. Many times I rush to get my yard mowed before it begins to rain, or to get it mowed before it gets dark. Many times we have a limited time to do many of the things we must do, and we work hard to get them done. The question I would like to ask each of you to think about is exactly what you are busy doing, and are these the things that are going to make you ready for the return of Jesus? Have you opened your lives and hearts to Jesus, and recognized that He is the only one that you can look to for your salvation. Have you accepted Jesus as your Savior, or have you been too busy with other priorities on your list of things to do. If this is you, what are you waiting for? You need to ask Jesus into your heart now. There is no guarantee that you will have another day, or another chance to accept Jesus as your Savior. There are many that will wait too long, and do things that means nothing to Jesus. You need to realize that Jesus may be coming soon, so you need to be busy keeping your eyes on Him, and getting ready for His coming.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Taming Your Tongue
Taming Your Tongue
"If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless."
James 1:26
Today, I want to talk to you about the tongue, which is so difficult to control, as anyone who controls it perfectly gains control of himself in all other areas of life as well. We must understand that what we say is born in our heart, then moves to our head, and then is manifested in our conversation. We can never talk about taming our tongue, until we talk about taming our heart. You don't commit the act of adultery until it starts in your heart, moves to your head, and finally is performed by your body. Having your heart right is the key to how you live your life, and the actions you perform day in and day out. We can accomplish so much with our conversation, while we can also destroy so much. I believe it is critical to use our conversation to build others up. We should always take the opportunity, when speaking to people, to lift them up, and be an encouragement to them. I also believe at the same time, that we have to use conversation to be honest with people. Even if it is uncomfortable and painful, it is better to get it out in the open, and deal with a problem before it becomes even a larger problem. I would encourage you to take inventory of your conversation. Be aware of the things you say, how you say it, and the impact it has on others. You can always use God's gift of communication to build someone up, and to encourage them. Be aware that if you are not happy with the things that come out of your mouth, then you need to pray for the Lord to show you what is really in your heart. What you say is not an accident, it starts in your heart.
"If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless."
James 1:26
Today, I want to talk to you about the tongue, which is so difficult to control, as anyone who controls it perfectly gains control of himself in all other areas of life as well. We must understand that what we say is born in our heart, then moves to our head, and then is manifested in our conversation. We can never talk about taming our tongue, until we talk about taming our heart. You don't commit the act of adultery until it starts in your heart, moves to your head, and finally is performed by your body. Having your heart right is the key to how you live your life, and the actions you perform day in and day out. We can accomplish so much with our conversation, while we can also destroy so much. I believe it is critical to use our conversation to build others up. We should always take the opportunity, when speaking to people, to lift them up, and be an encouragement to them. I also believe at the same time, that we have to use conversation to be honest with people. Even if it is uncomfortable and painful, it is better to get it out in the open, and deal with a problem before it becomes even a larger problem. I would encourage you to take inventory of your conversation. Be aware of the things you say, how you say it, and the impact it has on others. You can always use God's gift of communication to build someone up, and to encourage them. Be aware that if you are not happy with the things that come out of your mouth, then you need to pray for the Lord to show you what is really in your heart. What you say is not an accident, it starts in your heart.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Be Transformed
Be Transformed
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Romans 12:2
Today, I was reminded of this scripture, as I watched a caterpillar emerge from the ground, and attach itself to one of my peach tree leaves. A caterpillar is an ugly little creature, and is not the most pleasant thing to look at, but this is its sole function in life, as it is necessary in order to reach the next level, which is to hide itself inside a cocoon, and wait for its next transformation. A few weeks later the cocoon bursts open, and a beautiful butterfly springs forth. This beautiful example of the wonders of God’s nature, reminds me of what happens to us, when we ask Jesus into our hearts. Before we receive God in our hearts, we exist with very little function in our lives, as we live day to day with little direction. We are full of wickedness, ugly in our sin, but as we hear and accept God’s call, and begin to hide ourselves in God’s word, accepting His saving grace, a great transformation takes place in our lives. We suddenly are transformed, our mind is renewed, and our life has a new meaning. We turn away from the old things; things that were ugly, and go to the next level, one that now has meaning and purpose. Do you want to become a new person and accept Jesus into your heart, becoming a new being with joy on your face, and the peace of God in your heart, and experience your own transformation? Each one of you has this same opportunity to be transformed and renewed, as Jesus wants you to have the peace and joy that only He can bring to your life. Just ask Jesus into your heart today and experience this wonderful transformation.
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Romans 12:2
Today, I was reminded of this scripture, as I watched a caterpillar emerge from the ground, and attach itself to one of my peach tree leaves. A caterpillar is an ugly little creature, and is not the most pleasant thing to look at, but this is its sole function in life, as it is necessary in order to reach the next level, which is to hide itself inside a cocoon, and wait for its next transformation. A few weeks later the cocoon bursts open, and a beautiful butterfly springs forth. This beautiful example of the wonders of God’s nature, reminds me of what happens to us, when we ask Jesus into our hearts. Before we receive God in our hearts, we exist with very little function in our lives, as we live day to day with little direction. We are full of wickedness, ugly in our sin, but as we hear and accept God’s call, and begin to hide ourselves in God’s word, accepting His saving grace, a great transformation takes place in our lives. We suddenly are transformed, our mind is renewed, and our life has a new meaning. We turn away from the old things; things that were ugly, and go to the next level, one that now has meaning and purpose. Do you want to become a new person and accept Jesus into your heart, becoming a new being with joy on your face, and the peace of God in your heart, and experience your own transformation? Each one of you has this same opportunity to be transformed and renewed, as Jesus wants you to have the peace and joy that only He can bring to your life. Just ask Jesus into your heart today and experience this wonderful transformation.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Dealing With Difficulties
Dealing With Difficulties
"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast."
1st Peter 5:10
Today was a sad day in our family, as my daughter Pamela and her husband Tim, and their children, Brock and Elena lost their best friend, their buddy and their companion, as their dog Ghita passed away, due to complications from a minor surgery. I can remember going through the loss of my trusty companion, a black lab named Trajan, only last year, and the grief it can cause. Any time we lose something we love, it is difficult, as the memories of them linger with us, for months and years, after they are gone. The Bible tells us over and over, that during our lives, we are going to experience bad times, and that all of us will experience trials and troubles. There will be many times that will try us and test our faith. It is comforting to know, however, that this world is only temporary, and that one day it will pass away. When we have these kinds of situations arise in our lives, we can always look to God, to find comfort and solace. I believe God knows how we will suffer during these times, as He gives us many scriptures throughout the Bible. "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you." 1st Peter 4:12 It is difficult to lose someone that we love, and we need to thank God for giving us our pets for just a short while, as they can bring much joy to our lives, but these instances should remind us, that this life is uncertain, and temporary, and that we need to be thankful for our moments of joy and realize, that God is in control.
"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast."
1st Peter 5:10
Today was a sad day in our family, as my daughter Pamela and her husband Tim, and their children, Brock and Elena lost their best friend, their buddy and their companion, as their dog Ghita passed away, due to complications from a minor surgery. I can remember going through the loss of my trusty companion, a black lab named Trajan, only last year, and the grief it can cause. Any time we lose something we love, it is difficult, as the memories of them linger with us, for months and years, after they are gone. The Bible tells us over and over, that during our lives, we are going to experience bad times, and that all of us will experience trials and troubles. There will be many times that will try us and test our faith. It is comforting to know, however, that this world is only temporary, and that one day it will pass away. When we have these kinds of situations arise in our lives, we can always look to God, to find comfort and solace. I believe God knows how we will suffer during these times, as He gives us many scriptures throughout the Bible. "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you." 1st Peter 4:12 It is difficult to lose someone that we love, and we need to thank God for giving us our pets for just a short while, as they can bring much joy to our lives, but these instances should remind us, that this life is uncertain, and temporary, and that we need to be thankful for our moments of joy and realize, that God is in control.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
What Happens In Heaven
What Happens In Heaven
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:6-7
I dreamt that I went to Heaven and an angel was showing me around. We walked side-by-side inside a large workroom filled with angels. My angel guide stopped in front of the first section and said, 'This is the Receiving Section. Here, all petitions to God said in prayer are received. I looked around in this area, and it was terribly busy, with so many angels sorting out petitions written on voluminous sheets of paper, from people all over the world. Then we moved on down a long corridor until we reached the second section. The angel then said to me, This is the Packaging and Delivery Section. Here, the graces and blessings the people asked for are processed and delivered to the living persons who asked for them. 'I noticed again how busy it was there. There were many angels working hard at that station, since so many blessings had been requested and were being packaged for delivery to Earth. Finally at the farthest end of the long corridor, we stopped at the door of a very small station. To my great surprise, only one angel was seated there, idly doing nothing. 'This is the Acknowledgment Section,' my angel friend quietly admitted to me. He seemed embarrassed. 'How is it that there is no work going on here?' I asked. 'So sad,' the angel sighed. 'After people receive the blessings that they asked for, very few send back acknowledgments.' 'How does one acknowledge God's blessings? ' I asked. 'Simple,' the angel answered. Just say, ' Thank you, Lord. If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep you are richer than 75% of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish, you are among the top 8% of the world 's wealthy. If you woke up this morning with more health than illness, you are more blessed than the many who will not even survive this day. If you have never experienced the fear in battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation, you are ahead of 700 million people in the world. If you can attend a church without the fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death, you are envied by, and more blessed than, three billion people in the world. If you can hold your head up and smile, you are not the norm, you're unique to all those in doubt and despair. This is a story someone sent me several months ago, and it reminds me that so often, we do not thank God for all our blessings. We take so much for granted in today's society, and we forget just how fortunate we all are. How often do we thank Jesus for the little things, as it is not by our hands that these things are given to us, but it is by the Grace of God that we have them. The Bible tells us not to worry about what we will eat, or what we will wear, but that God knows what we need and that He will provide for all of them. It is easy to become accustomed to all the things that God provides us, such as food, clothes and shelter, and so often we do not thank him for even these necessities of life. Each of us need to make it a habit to go to God each day and thank Him, for all the little things. Thanking Jesus for all He provides, needs to become part of each of our lives, each and every day. The Acknowledgement Section in Heaven should be one of the busiest sections and overwhelmed with our "Thank You Lord."
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:6-7
I dreamt that I went to Heaven and an angel was showing me around. We walked side-by-side inside a large workroom filled with angels. My angel guide stopped in front of the first section and said, 'This is the Receiving Section. Here, all petitions to God said in prayer are received. I looked around in this area, and it was terribly busy, with so many angels sorting out petitions written on voluminous sheets of paper, from people all over the world. Then we moved on down a long corridor until we reached the second section. The angel then said to me, This is the Packaging and Delivery Section. Here, the graces and blessings the people asked for are processed and delivered to the living persons who asked for them. 'I noticed again how busy it was there. There were many angels working hard at that station, since so many blessings had been requested and were being packaged for delivery to Earth. Finally at the farthest end of the long corridor, we stopped at the door of a very small station. To my great surprise, only one angel was seated there, idly doing nothing. 'This is the Acknowledgment Section,' my angel friend quietly admitted to me. He seemed embarrassed. 'How is it that there is no work going on here?' I asked. 'So sad,' the angel sighed. 'After people receive the blessings that they asked for, very few send back acknowledgments.' 'How does one acknowledge God's blessings? ' I asked. 'Simple,' the angel answered. Just say, ' Thank you, Lord. If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep you are richer than 75% of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish, you are among the top 8% of the world 's wealthy. If you woke up this morning with more health than illness, you are more blessed than the many who will not even survive this day. If you have never experienced the fear in battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation, you are ahead of 700 million people in the world. If you can attend a church without the fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death, you are envied by, and more blessed than, three billion people in the world. If you can hold your head up and smile, you are not the norm, you're unique to all those in doubt and despair. This is a story someone sent me several months ago, and it reminds me that so often, we do not thank God for all our blessings. We take so much for granted in today's society, and we forget just how fortunate we all are. How often do we thank Jesus for the little things, as it is not by our hands that these things are given to us, but it is by the Grace of God that we have them. The Bible tells us not to worry about what we will eat, or what we will wear, but that God knows what we need and that He will provide for all of them. It is easy to become accustomed to all the things that God provides us, such as food, clothes and shelter, and so often we do not thank him for even these necessities of life. Each of us need to make it a habit to go to God each day and thank Him, for all the little things. Thanking Jesus for all He provides, needs to become part of each of our lives, each and every day. The Acknowledgement Section in Heaven should be one of the busiest sections and overwhelmed with our "Thank You Lord."
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Ask Jesus Into Your Heart
Ask Jesus Into Your Heart
"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
Romans 10:13
If you died right now, do you know for sure that you would go to Heaven? In one minute, I can explain to you how you can know for sure, if you died today you would go to Heaven. All you have to know are 3 things: 1. God says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23. If you're honest you know that you have lied,. That's a sin. I'm a sinner. You're a sinner. All mankind are sinners. 2. God says, "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned." Romans 5:12. This is the story of Adam and Eve. In the Garden of Eden, God told them they could eat of any tree, but the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. They disobeyed God, and ate from that tree. A sin was committed. That sin passed down to you and me. The price for sin, eternal death in Hell, also passed down to you and me. 3. God says, "But God commandeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners. Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him." Romans 5:8-9. God loves you very much. He doesn't want you to go to Hell. In fact, He loves you so much, that He sent His Son Jesus to die on the cross for you. Jesus actually lifted the sin from you, and placed it upon Himself. When they nailed Jesus to the cross, the blood that came from Him, cleansed your sin. When He died on the cross, He paid your price for sin and death. They buried Jesus, but He arose from the dead. He conquered death, and He conquered sin. He offers you life. "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23. Eternal life is a gift. You can't get baptized into Heaven; be good enough to get into Heaven; pay enough money to get into Heaven; in fact, there is nothing you can do to get into Heaven, except to receive the payment Jesus made for you on the Cross at Calvary. The only way to get to Heaven, is to receive Jesus in your heart as your personal Lord and Saviour.
Here is How You Receive Jesus as Your Savior
1. Admit that you are a sinner.
2. Believe Jesus is the Son of God, who was sent
to die on the Cross for your sin, and then He rose
from the grave, so that you will have eternal life.
3. Ask God to forgive you of your sins, and ask Him to
come into your heart, and be your Savior.
4. Then pray this simple prayer.
Dear Jesus, I am a sinner, and I pray to you and ask you to please forgive my sins and save my soul. I want you to come into my heart right now, and live in me. I know you died on the cross to save me from my sins. I want to live the rest of my life for you, obey your commands and turn away from sin. I need you Jesus to come into my heart right now, and make me anew, cleanse me and wash away my sins. I want you to be my Saviour.
Thank you. Amen.
If you prayed this prayer, and just as you were born to your parents, you are now born into the Kingdom of God, when you called on Jesus.
"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
Romans 10:13
If you died right now, do you know for sure that you would go to Heaven? In one minute, I can explain to you how you can know for sure, if you died today you would go to Heaven. All you have to know are 3 things: 1. God says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23. If you're honest you know that you have lied,. That's a sin. I'm a sinner. You're a sinner. All mankind are sinners. 2. God says, "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned." Romans 5:12. This is the story of Adam and Eve. In the Garden of Eden, God told them they could eat of any tree, but the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. They disobeyed God, and ate from that tree. A sin was committed. That sin passed down to you and me. The price for sin, eternal death in Hell, also passed down to you and me. 3. God says, "But God commandeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners. Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him." Romans 5:8-9. God loves you very much. He doesn't want you to go to Hell. In fact, He loves you so much, that He sent His Son Jesus to die on the cross for you. Jesus actually lifted the sin from you, and placed it upon Himself. When they nailed Jesus to the cross, the blood that came from Him, cleansed your sin. When He died on the cross, He paid your price for sin and death. They buried Jesus, but He arose from the dead. He conquered death, and He conquered sin. He offers you life. "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23. Eternal life is a gift. You can't get baptized into Heaven; be good enough to get into Heaven; pay enough money to get into Heaven; in fact, there is nothing you can do to get into Heaven, except to receive the payment Jesus made for you on the Cross at Calvary. The only way to get to Heaven, is to receive Jesus in your heart as your personal Lord and Saviour.
Here is How You Receive Jesus as Your Savior
1. Admit that you are a sinner.
2. Believe Jesus is the Son of God, who was sent
to die on the Cross for your sin, and then He rose
from the grave, so that you will have eternal life.
3. Ask God to forgive you of your sins, and ask Him to
come into your heart, and be your Savior.
4. Then pray this simple prayer.
Dear Jesus, I am a sinner, and I pray to you and ask you to please forgive my sins and save my soul. I want you to come into my heart right now, and live in me. I know you died on the cross to save me from my sins. I want to live the rest of my life for you, obey your commands and turn away from sin. I need you Jesus to come into my heart right now, and make me anew, cleanse me and wash away my sins. I want you to be my Saviour.
Thank you. Amen.
If you prayed this prayer, and just as you were born to your parents, you are now born into the Kingdom of God, when you called on Jesus.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Don't Compromise
Don't Compromise
"For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear."
2nd Timothy 4:3
I believe we are living in perilous times today, as I continue to hear so called pastors on television, preaching messages that go against Biblical teaching. As the scripture above states, we have to be careful and listen to what we hear from these preachers, as when their message goes against what the Bible tells us, we need to be able to discern what the truth really is. Our society today has gradually compromised their values, and many of our preachers are also compromising their values as well, and preaching "feel good" messages, that go along with our compromised values. The Bible, and God's word has not changed throughout the centuries, and still apply to today's society, as they did when they were written. I have heard many say that we live in a different time now, and that we need to be understanding of the culture of today. When we begin to compromise, and change right from wrong, to suit our own standards, we are on a slippery slope that will lead to our destruction. When we begin to compromise our values on issues such as marriage, abortion and our freedom of prayer, we are getting away from the Word of God. This is the time to stand firm on what the Bible teaches us about these issues, and not compromise our values and beliefs. The Word of God has not changed, and never will. The Bible must continue to be what we base our faith on, and continue to live by. God's real word is all that matters, and we must never compromise it in any way.
"For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear."
2nd Timothy 4:3
I believe we are living in perilous times today, as I continue to hear so called pastors on television, preaching messages that go against Biblical teaching. As the scripture above states, we have to be careful and listen to what we hear from these preachers, as when their message goes against what the Bible tells us, we need to be able to discern what the truth really is. Our society today has gradually compromised their values, and many of our preachers are also compromising their values as well, and preaching "feel good" messages, that go along with our compromised values. The Bible, and God's word has not changed throughout the centuries, and still apply to today's society, as they did when they were written. I have heard many say that we live in a different time now, and that we need to be understanding of the culture of today. When we begin to compromise, and change right from wrong, to suit our own standards, we are on a slippery slope that will lead to our destruction. When we begin to compromise our values on issues such as marriage, abortion and our freedom of prayer, we are getting away from the Word of God. This is the time to stand firm on what the Bible teaches us about these issues, and not compromise our values and beliefs. The Word of God has not changed, and never will. The Bible must continue to be what we base our faith on, and continue to live by. God's real word is all that matters, and we must never compromise it in any way.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Jesus Will Intercede
Jesus Will Intercede
“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”
Luke 22:31-32
Have you ever felt sifted like wheat? Sifted is not an expression that we use much today, but as I was growing up on our farm, it was a commonly used term, as the wheat we grew was sifted or separated, and pulled apart to make it usable. Sifted means to pull apart, to fragment, and even to separate violently. When the struggles of life tear you apart you feel sifted. As you face illness, financial pressure, loss of a loved one, marital problems, or a multitude of other circumstances, you can feel empty, frustrated, exhausted, angry and depressed. Life can be complex, and there are many ways and circumstances that we may be sifted, and our worlds torn apart, that may cause us to test our trust in Jesus, and attempt to separate us from Him. But just as Jesus said in the scripture above to Simon, “But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail.” When Jesus prays for something, God answers His prayers with a powerful yes. If Jesus prays that Simon’s faith won’t fail, then it won’t fail. So when you feel sifted by life’s struggles, look to Jesus, as He tells us in this scripture, He will intercede for us.“He is able for all time to save those who approach God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25. Jesus will not forsake you, as you must continue to trust and have faith in Him to deliver you from your trials and troubles. In His time He will hear and will answer you, because just as Jesus prayed for Simon, He will also pray for you.
“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”
Luke 22:31-32
Have you ever felt sifted like wheat? Sifted is not an expression that we use much today, but as I was growing up on our farm, it was a commonly used term, as the wheat we grew was sifted or separated, and pulled apart to make it usable. Sifted means to pull apart, to fragment, and even to separate violently. When the struggles of life tear you apart you feel sifted. As you face illness, financial pressure, loss of a loved one, marital problems, or a multitude of other circumstances, you can feel empty, frustrated, exhausted, angry and depressed. Life can be complex, and there are many ways and circumstances that we may be sifted, and our worlds torn apart, that may cause us to test our trust in Jesus, and attempt to separate us from Him. But just as Jesus said in the scripture above to Simon, “But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail.” When Jesus prays for something, God answers His prayers with a powerful yes. If Jesus prays that Simon’s faith won’t fail, then it won’t fail. So when you feel sifted by life’s struggles, look to Jesus, as He tells us in this scripture, He will intercede for us.“He is able for all time to save those who approach God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25. Jesus will not forsake you, as you must continue to trust and have faith in Him to deliver you from your trials and troubles. In His time He will hear and will answer you, because just as Jesus prayed for Simon, He will also pray for you.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Nothing Is Impossible
Nothing Is Impossible
“With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”
Mark 10:27
How many times in your life have you faced trials and troubles, that seem insurmountable, and you don't know what to do, or where to turn. The scripture above holds the answer to so many of the problems we face daily; the six simple words “all things are possible with God”, tells us that nothing is impossible with God. Many of you may be facing sickness, where you don't have an answer, but God can heal you. Some of you may have financial issues, where you see no way out, but God can provide all you need. Some of you may be in a marriage, that is in trouble, but God can restore it. Many of you may have lost a job, but God can open the doors for a better job. Some of you may be in bondage from drug addiction, sexual addiction, or other forms of bondage, but God can set you free. Some of you may have children, that are away from God, but God can bring them home. Some of you may have just lost a loved one, but God can ease the pain. No matter what your need is today, God is able to meet that need. I would like for each of you to focus, on the one thing that you need from God right now, and pray this simple prayer. “Dear God, I know your Word is true, and I believe today that all things are possible with you. I need you to answer my prayer, and take away my mountain and set me free. In Jesus name, Amen.” Just remember that there is nothing in your life that God can’t fix, so go to Jesus today, with whatever your need is, and ask Him for your answer. Now is the time to make your faith real, and believe God’s Word. Remember God’s promise for you now, “all things are possible with God.”
“With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”
Mark 10:27
How many times in your life have you faced trials and troubles, that seem insurmountable, and you don't know what to do, or where to turn. The scripture above holds the answer to so many of the problems we face daily; the six simple words “all things are possible with God”, tells us that nothing is impossible with God. Many of you may be facing sickness, where you don't have an answer, but God can heal you. Some of you may have financial issues, where you see no way out, but God can provide all you need. Some of you may be in a marriage, that is in trouble, but God can restore it. Many of you may have lost a job, but God can open the doors for a better job. Some of you may be in bondage from drug addiction, sexual addiction, or other forms of bondage, but God can set you free. Some of you may have children, that are away from God, but God can bring them home. Some of you may have just lost a loved one, but God can ease the pain. No matter what your need is today, God is able to meet that need. I would like for each of you to focus, on the one thing that you need from God right now, and pray this simple prayer. “Dear God, I know your Word is true, and I believe today that all things are possible with you. I need you to answer my prayer, and take away my mountain and set me free. In Jesus name, Amen.” Just remember that there is nothing in your life that God can’t fix, so go to Jesus today, with whatever your need is, and ask Him for your answer. Now is the time to make your faith real, and believe God’s Word. Remember God’s promise for you now, “all things are possible with God.”
Friday, April 8, 2011
God Cares About Little Things
God Cares About Little Things
"And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered."
Matthew 10:30
The other day I was talking to a man on our mail route about a problem he was having, and told him I would be praying for him, when he said, "God has much more important things to worry about than my little problems." I assured him that nothing was too small to present to God, as He wanted us to always come to Him with all our problems, not just the big ones. On the way back home, I thought about his response, and if others think that God is too busy, or doesn't want to hear about the little problems and issues we deal with each day. When we look at the Bible we find scriptures that tell us that God is interested in all the details of our lives, as He even knows the number of hairs on our heads. In the book of Psalm, God counts the stars and calls them all by name. In the book of Mark we see Jesus, in the midst of a huge crowd, interested in the woman who was bleeding, as she only "touched his cloak", and He noticed her. Scripture tells us that God cares about all things, and is not a God that loves us from afar. He is a God who cares about the details of our lives. Nothing is too small to present to Him, and nothing escapes His attention. I would encourage each of you to go to God with all the little things in your life, not just the big things. God is concerned with the details of your life, even the small issues that may be causing you problems. God is a personal God, and cares about you and loves you. He loves you so much that He gave His only son to suffer and die on the cross so that you can be saved and have an eternal life.
"And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered."
Matthew 10:30
The other day I was talking to a man on our mail route about a problem he was having, and told him I would be praying for him, when he said, "God has much more important things to worry about than my little problems." I assured him that nothing was too small to present to God, as He wanted us to always come to Him with all our problems, not just the big ones. On the way back home, I thought about his response, and if others think that God is too busy, or doesn't want to hear about the little problems and issues we deal with each day. When we look at the Bible we find scriptures that tell us that God is interested in all the details of our lives, as He even knows the number of hairs on our heads. In the book of Psalm, God counts the stars and calls them all by name. In the book of Mark we see Jesus, in the midst of a huge crowd, interested in the woman who was bleeding, as she only "touched his cloak", and He noticed her. Scripture tells us that God cares about all things, and is not a God that loves us from afar. He is a God who cares about the details of our lives. Nothing is too small to present to Him, and nothing escapes His attention. I would encourage each of you to go to God with all the little things in your life, not just the big things. God is concerned with the details of your life, even the small issues that may be causing you problems. God is a personal God, and cares about you and loves you. He loves you so much that He gave His only son to suffer and die on the cross so that you can be saved and have an eternal life.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Be God's Spokesman
Be God’s Spokesman
“If you repent, I will restore you that you may serve me; if you utter worthy, not worthless words, you will be my spokesman.”
Jeremiah 15:19
Could you imagine being God’s spokesman, and going in front of a host of television cameras, and telling the world what God told you to say. Just this morning, I saw the spokesman for our President give a news conference, which was so disorganized and confusing, that made me think about the scripture above. His words were worthless and not worthy of representing our president. When we look at the story of Moses, we see the scripture above coming to life. Moses was a man who had repented, and had been restored, and had given his life to serve God. He was God’s spokesman to the people of Israel, and even though he suffered from a speech problem, he represented God through his words, and got the message out clearly. God gives each of you this same opportunity, as if you repent of your sins, and ask forgiveness, God will also restore you, and you can then be His spokesman. Everywhere you go, and in all things that you do, you will, and can represent God. When you commit your life to follow God, and obey His commands, you can be the light to people you meet every day, and God will use you to further His kingdom. But the beginning to this journey starts with you being willing to repent of your sins, and ask for your forgiveness. When you make this easy step, and devote your life to serving God, just think of the wisdom and knowledge that God will then share with you, as then you will be His spokesman. Your life will never be the same, and you will be changed to become just as Moses was, a real spokesperson of God.
“If you repent, I will restore you that you may serve me; if you utter worthy, not worthless words, you will be my spokesman.”
Jeremiah 15:19
Could you imagine being God’s spokesman, and going in front of a host of television cameras, and telling the world what God told you to say. Just this morning, I saw the spokesman for our President give a news conference, which was so disorganized and confusing, that made me think about the scripture above. His words were worthless and not worthy of representing our president. When we look at the story of Moses, we see the scripture above coming to life. Moses was a man who had repented, and had been restored, and had given his life to serve God. He was God’s spokesman to the people of Israel, and even though he suffered from a speech problem, he represented God through his words, and got the message out clearly. God gives each of you this same opportunity, as if you repent of your sins, and ask forgiveness, God will also restore you, and you can then be His spokesman. Everywhere you go, and in all things that you do, you will, and can represent God. When you commit your life to follow God, and obey His commands, you can be the light to people you meet every day, and God will use you to further His kingdom. But the beginning to this journey starts with you being willing to repent of your sins, and ask for your forgiveness. When you make this easy step, and devote your life to serving God, just think of the wisdom and knowledge that God will then share with you, as then you will be His spokesman. Your life will never be the same, and you will be changed to become just as Moses was, a real spokesperson of God.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Avoid All Evil
Avoid All Evil
“The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life.”
Proverbs 16:17
Do you avoid temptations, and shy away from things that God commands you to flee from? It is easy in this evil world to give in to temptations, things that we know are not right, and then become victims of sin. It is important for all Christians to avoid temptations, and run from things that we know are not right, but so often people put themselves in positions and places they know they should not be in, and the result is that they commit sins. When we arise each morning, we should pray and ask God to help us in the hours ahead to avoid these situations. The forces of Satan are very much alive, and know that people are weak and prone to be tempted. Everywhere we look in today’s society we see evil; our newspapers, our televisions, our music are all filled with propaganda that is tempting and encouraging us to get our minds and our thoughts away from God. As the scripture above states, the highway of the upright should avoid all evil, as if we guard and avoid evil we also guard our life. I would encourage you today, to take this wisdom and put it to practice in your own life. Think about what you do the rest of your day and avoid temptations; keep your mind focused on things that are good, turn away when evil thoughts and temptations confront you. You have the power to take control of your thoughts, your actions and your behavior. Think about how God would perceive your thoughts and your actions, if He was walking beside you, and watching you, during these next 24 hours. Make a pledge to live your life today in such a way that you would not be ashamed, and ask God to help you guard your life.
“The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life.”
Proverbs 16:17
Do you avoid temptations, and shy away from things that God commands you to flee from? It is easy in this evil world to give in to temptations, things that we know are not right, and then become victims of sin. It is important for all Christians to avoid temptations, and run from things that we know are not right, but so often people put themselves in positions and places they know they should not be in, and the result is that they commit sins. When we arise each morning, we should pray and ask God to help us in the hours ahead to avoid these situations. The forces of Satan are very much alive, and know that people are weak and prone to be tempted. Everywhere we look in today’s society we see evil; our newspapers, our televisions, our music are all filled with propaganda that is tempting and encouraging us to get our minds and our thoughts away from God. As the scripture above states, the highway of the upright should avoid all evil, as if we guard and avoid evil we also guard our life. I would encourage you today, to take this wisdom and put it to practice in your own life. Think about what you do the rest of your day and avoid temptations; keep your mind focused on things that are good, turn away when evil thoughts and temptations confront you. You have the power to take control of your thoughts, your actions and your behavior. Think about how God would perceive your thoughts and your actions, if He was walking beside you, and watching you, during these next 24 hours. Make a pledge to live your life today in such a way that you would not be ashamed, and ask God to help you guard your life.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Confess Your Sins
Confess Your Sins
“Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.”
Psalm 51:2-3
Most people find it difficult to admit to themselves or especially others that they have blown it. How many times have you heard a fellow Christian admit to someone that they have sinned, but most people sin daily, and have a tendency to minimize what we have done and not fully confess it to God? Think back on your day as you prepare for bed and ask yourself, if you are going to confess your sin to God. If you don’t, you are hindering your spiritual growth and renewal. King David, in the scripture above, was a great example of someone who confessed his sins to God, as he was confessing his terrible transgression against Uriah and Bathsheba. He did not minimize it, as it was weighing heavy on his heart. He cried out for God’s cleansing and forgiveness. He asked God to forgive him, and renew a right spirit within him. In order for our spirit to be renewed, it must be forgiven and cleansed by the power of God, through our confession and repentance. How often have you heard Christians try to justify their sins, by saying things like “I’m only human”, or “it is just a habit of mine, it’s in my nature”, or even worse “God created me this way. "I can’t change, and God will just have to change me”. These types of confessions will destroy a right spirit within you, and hinder your spiritual growth. It is important that you begin to confess your sins to God each day, and ask Him for forgiveness, and to give you strength to not commit these sins again, as it is God’s command that you do not continue sinning, after you have accepted Him as your savior.
“Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.”
Psalm 51:2-3
Most people find it difficult to admit to themselves or especially others that they have blown it. How many times have you heard a fellow Christian admit to someone that they have sinned, but most people sin daily, and have a tendency to minimize what we have done and not fully confess it to God? Think back on your day as you prepare for bed and ask yourself, if you are going to confess your sin to God. If you don’t, you are hindering your spiritual growth and renewal. King David, in the scripture above, was a great example of someone who confessed his sins to God, as he was confessing his terrible transgression against Uriah and Bathsheba. He did not minimize it, as it was weighing heavy on his heart. He cried out for God’s cleansing and forgiveness. He asked God to forgive him, and renew a right spirit within him. In order for our spirit to be renewed, it must be forgiven and cleansed by the power of God, through our confession and repentance. How often have you heard Christians try to justify their sins, by saying things like “I’m only human”, or “it is just a habit of mine, it’s in my nature”, or even worse “God created me this way. "I can’t change, and God will just have to change me”. These types of confessions will destroy a right spirit within you, and hinder your spiritual growth. It is important that you begin to confess your sins to God each day, and ask Him for forgiveness, and to give you strength to not commit these sins again, as it is God’s command that you do not continue sinning, after you have accepted Him as your savior.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Are You Ready
Are You Ready
“I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.”
John 5:24
Having worked in health care all my life. I have had experiences that have remained with me over these many years. I can recall my first experience in visiting the morgue in my hospital with the attending physician who was signing a death certificate for a patient I had gotten to know, and had talked to many times before they died suddenly. This patient was a very wealthy man in our community, and was on my Board of Directors. He was a well liked and respected man, and had a very large family who were all grieving outside the morgue. But here lying naked under a sheet was this man, who in life seemed to have it all. He had great material wealth, a large luxurious home, several expensive cars, a large boat, and most any other luxury that one could have accumulated. His wife, his children, his grandchildren and all his other family members could do nothing in his behalf, or help him further in any way. His wealth, his bank accounts, his retirement plans, his insurance policies did not matter anymore. His membership at the local country club, his attorney, and any other of his influential friends could do nothing in his behalf. This man however did not go to church, and although no one can judge the heart of anyone else, had appeared to have not accepted Jesus as his Savior. Lying next to this man was another man who had just died. This man had not accumulated any wealth during his life, did not own a house or automobile, and had very few possessions, and was declared as an indigent patient having no assets. He had lived a very humble life, but was known in the community as being a devout Christian man, who had accepted Christ as his Savior. His wife, his children and grandchildren all were grieving outside in the hall as well over their loss. As I have come to know Christ as my Lord and Savior, and His plan of redemption for me this experience had become even more important in my life. Someday each of us is going to be lying on a table such as these two men. None of our money, wealth or worldly possessions is going to matter anymore, and none of our family, friends, pastor or anyone is going to be able to help. We will be all on our own. The only thing that will matter is whether or not we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. We will all stand before the throne of God at this time, and be judged on how we have lived our lives. All aspects of our life will have been recorded and brought to light in front of God. God will then judge us, and either let us spend all eternity with Him in Heaven, or send us to eternal damnation in Hell. Are you prepared for this day? It could come today, tomorrow, next week, or next month, but inevitably this day will come, and you will be in this same position as these two men, as no one will be able to escape this fate. I would encourage each of you to think about this day, and determine if you are ready to be judged by God. Have you accepted Christ and asked Him for forgiveness for your sins, or have you kept putting off thinking about this day, saying to yourself that I still have time; I will think about it tomorrow? None of us have the promise of tomorrow, and many will wait too long to make things right with God. There is nothing in your life more important than turning your life over to God today, not tomorrow, but right now, as none of us knows when our time will come. This is the most important decision you will ever make, and many of you may not have time to sleep on it and make a decision tomorrow.
“I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.”
John 5:24
Having worked in health care all my life. I have had experiences that have remained with me over these many years. I can recall my first experience in visiting the morgue in my hospital with the attending physician who was signing a death certificate for a patient I had gotten to know, and had talked to many times before they died suddenly. This patient was a very wealthy man in our community, and was on my Board of Directors. He was a well liked and respected man, and had a very large family who were all grieving outside the morgue. But here lying naked under a sheet was this man, who in life seemed to have it all. He had great material wealth, a large luxurious home, several expensive cars, a large boat, and most any other luxury that one could have accumulated. His wife, his children, his grandchildren and all his other family members could do nothing in his behalf, or help him further in any way. His wealth, his bank accounts, his retirement plans, his insurance policies did not matter anymore. His membership at the local country club, his attorney, and any other of his influential friends could do nothing in his behalf. This man however did not go to church, and although no one can judge the heart of anyone else, had appeared to have not accepted Jesus as his Savior. Lying next to this man was another man who had just died. This man had not accumulated any wealth during his life, did not own a house or automobile, and had very few possessions, and was declared as an indigent patient having no assets. He had lived a very humble life, but was known in the community as being a devout Christian man, who had accepted Christ as his Savior. His wife, his children and grandchildren all were grieving outside in the hall as well over their loss. As I have come to know Christ as my Lord and Savior, and His plan of redemption for me this experience had become even more important in my life. Someday each of us is going to be lying on a table such as these two men. None of our money, wealth or worldly possessions is going to matter anymore, and none of our family, friends, pastor or anyone is going to be able to help. We will be all on our own. The only thing that will matter is whether or not we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. We will all stand before the throne of God at this time, and be judged on how we have lived our lives. All aspects of our life will have been recorded and brought to light in front of God. God will then judge us, and either let us spend all eternity with Him in Heaven, or send us to eternal damnation in Hell. Are you prepared for this day? It could come today, tomorrow, next week, or next month, but inevitably this day will come, and you will be in this same position as these two men, as no one will be able to escape this fate. I would encourage each of you to think about this day, and determine if you are ready to be judged by God. Have you accepted Christ and asked Him for forgiveness for your sins, or have you kept putting off thinking about this day, saying to yourself that I still have time; I will think about it tomorrow? None of us have the promise of tomorrow, and many will wait too long to make things right with God. There is nothing in your life more important than turning your life over to God today, not tomorrow, but right now, as none of us knows when our time will come. This is the most important decision you will ever make, and many of you may not have time to sleep on it and make a decision tomorrow.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
There Is Strength In God
There Is Strength In God
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble.”
Psalm 46:1
In the troubled times we live in today, people are living in fear. Fear is invading families, as financial pressures, health issues, marital issues and a multitude of other issues is taking away the peace of so many people across our country. Our newspapers, news casts on our televisions, our government, and our economy all give us a cause to be fearful as to what lies ahead. Everywhere we look there is reason to be concerned, as we do not know what the future holds. The Bible tells us about these times that are now upon us, when people have turned their backs on God and His commandments. When we have allowed our nation to fall out of favor with God, by permitting the unborn to be slaughtered, when we have made a mockery of the marriage union between a man and a woman as God intended, when we have legalized homosexual activities, we have broken the heart of God, and all people are now living in fear of the unknown and what lies ahead. How does a Christian live in these uncertain times? For the answer to this question we must remain faithful to our belief in God and His commandments. We must continue to put our trust in God and obey His teachings. God will give us strength to overcome our fear of the unknown. He gives us encouragement by telling us that He will provide all our needs and care for us. But it is going to take more than our own strength to calm the storms, and the fear and doubt that we battle each day. It is going to take the strength of God walking with us, helping us fight our battles, and overcoming our fears of the unknown. None of us have the strength to fight the battles that lie ahead, as we need the strength of God beside us. We need to pray every day that God will provide us this strength to withstand the temptations and the fear that confront us, as without this strength, that only God can provide, we will stumble and fall. I have a wonderful cousin that wrote a beautiful poem that each of us needs to embrace in our daily prayer time, asking God to give us strength to overcome our shortcomings.
Lord Give me Strength
By Betty Sparrow
"Lord give me strength, that only comes from you. The kind of strength, that will get me through.
The kind of strength, that helps me face each day. The kind of strength, to carry on, come what may.
Lord, give me strength to stand Lord, give me strength alone. Give me strength Lord, to make it on my own.
The kind of strength, I need each day, to face anything that comes my way.
The kind of strength that comes from above. The kind of strength to help me love.
Lord, give me strength that I had before. The kind of strength, that I don’t have any more.
The kind of strength to keep me holding on. The kind of strength I’ve never known.
The kind of strength I never knew, is the kind of strength, that only comes from you.
Lord give me strength."
I would encourage each of you to go to God each day in your prayer time, and ask Him for the strength you need to battle any fear you may be having in your life. There is nothing that God cannot do in your life, no obstacle too large for Him to overcome, no burden too heavy for Him to carry. Ask God to come and walk beside you in your daily battles, and He will give you the strength you need.
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble.”
Psalm 46:1
In the troubled times we live in today, people are living in fear. Fear is invading families, as financial pressures, health issues, marital issues and a multitude of other issues is taking away the peace of so many people across our country. Our newspapers, news casts on our televisions, our government, and our economy all give us a cause to be fearful as to what lies ahead. Everywhere we look there is reason to be concerned, as we do not know what the future holds. The Bible tells us about these times that are now upon us, when people have turned their backs on God and His commandments. When we have allowed our nation to fall out of favor with God, by permitting the unborn to be slaughtered, when we have made a mockery of the marriage union between a man and a woman as God intended, when we have legalized homosexual activities, we have broken the heart of God, and all people are now living in fear of the unknown and what lies ahead. How does a Christian live in these uncertain times? For the answer to this question we must remain faithful to our belief in God and His commandments. We must continue to put our trust in God and obey His teachings. God will give us strength to overcome our fear of the unknown. He gives us encouragement by telling us that He will provide all our needs and care for us. But it is going to take more than our own strength to calm the storms, and the fear and doubt that we battle each day. It is going to take the strength of God walking with us, helping us fight our battles, and overcoming our fears of the unknown. None of us have the strength to fight the battles that lie ahead, as we need the strength of God beside us. We need to pray every day that God will provide us this strength to withstand the temptations and the fear that confront us, as without this strength, that only God can provide, we will stumble and fall. I have a wonderful cousin that wrote a beautiful poem that each of us needs to embrace in our daily prayer time, asking God to give us strength to overcome our shortcomings.
Lord Give me Strength
By Betty Sparrow
"Lord give me strength, that only comes from you. The kind of strength, that will get me through.
The kind of strength, that helps me face each day. The kind of strength, to carry on, come what may.
Lord, give me strength to stand Lord, give me strength alone. Give me strength Lord, to make it on my own.
The kind of strength, I need each day, to face anything that comes my way.
The kind of strength that comes from above. The kind of strength to help me love.
Lord, give me strength that I had before. The kind of strength, that I don’t have any more.
The kind of strength to keep me holding on. The kind of strength I’ve never known.
The kind of strength I never knew, is the kind of strength, that only comes from you.
Lord give me strength."
I would encourage each of you to go to God each day in your prayer time, and ask Him for the strength you need to battle any fear you may be having in your life. There is nothing that God cannot do in your life, no obstacle too large for Him to overcome, no burden too heavy for Him to carry. Ask God to come and walk beside you in your daily battles, and He will give you the strength you need.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
God Answers Our Prayers
God Answers Our Prayers
“Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer.”
Psalm 4:1
Are you waiting for God to answer your prayers? I would venture to guess that everyone reading this devotional today has some unanswered prayer that you are waiting for God to answer. Your prayer may be about your finances, about a health issue, about your relationship with your spouse, but no matter what your specific need is you need to continue to ask God for your answer. As I have counseled with people over the years, the biggest mistake I see people making is that they start drifting away from God when their prayers are not met immediately. You need to realize that God does not respond in our time frame, as His time is not our time. You need to be like the persistent widow in the Bible and not give up on God. God knows your situation, He knows that you are having financial problems; He knows that your health is bad, He knows the problems you may be having in your marriage. God knows all about these situations, as He even knows the number of the hairs on your head. When you have problems you need to get even closer to God and not pull away. You need to pray more, read the Bible more, go to church more, do anything that will bring you closer to God. This is the way to get God’s attention, and have your prayers answered. Don’t drift away from God, but get closer to Him, when you are having problems. The key to finding peace as you wait, is to know that God knows you and your needs better than you do. You will find that as you are obedient and faithful in your worship, you will wake up one day and realize that God has responded. It may not be in the exact way you wanted, but in God’s perfect timing He will respond.
“Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer.”
Psalm 4:1
Are you waiting for God to answer your prayers? I would venture to guess that everyone reading this devotional today has some unanswered prayer that you are waiting for God to answer. Your prayer may be about your finances, about a health issue, about your relationship with your spouse, but no matter what your specific need is you need to continue to ask God for your answer. As I have counseled with people over the years, the biggest mistake I see people making is that they start drifting away from God when their prayers are not met immediately. You need to realize that God does not respond in our time frame, as His time is not our time. You need to be like the persistent widow in the Bible and not give up on God. God knows your situation, He knows that you are having financial problems; He knows that your health is bad, He knows the problems you may be having in your marriage. God knows all about these situations, as He even knows the number of the hairs on your head. When you have problems you need to get even closer to God and not pull away. You need to pray more, read the Bible more, go to church more, do anything that will bring you closer to God. This is the way to get God’s attention, and have your prayers answered. Don’t drift away from God, but get closer to Him, when you are having problems. The key to finding peace as you wait, is to know that God knows you and your needs better than you do. You will find that as you are obedient and faithful in your worship, you will wake up one day and realize that God has responded. It may not be in the exact way you wanted, but in God’s perfect timing He will respond.
Friday, April 1, 2011
God Is Faithful
God Is Faithful
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 1:6
During the past several months I have had many of my readers begin to question why they are having so many difficulties in their lives. Many have lost their jobs due to the economic collapse, and others are struggling to make ends meet financially. Their dreams, plans and goals have been shattered due to their current situations. I strongly believe that God uses situations like these to bring us back to reality, as so often we are going our own ways instead of following the paths that God has designed for us to follow. When we are in periods of prosperity, I have observed that many people have the tendency to turn away from God, not obeying His commands, not reading their Bibles and worshiping Him, and begin to depend upon themselves and their own abilities more and more. It is important that we not forget that in our times of prosperity, it was not us that had allowed us to prosper, but it was God that made it all possible. I have discussed many times in my devotionals that our dreams and plans must be consistent with God’s plan for us, and if they are, God will lead us and guide us to fulfill these dreams and goals and make them become realities. However when we have dreams and goals that do not mesh with His plan for our lives, we will continually have doors being closed on us that will keep our dreams from coming to fruition. When we share a dream with God, it is a fragile thing we have been entrusted with, and we need to keep reminding ourselves that God is faithful and will open the doors we need to enter to make His dreams come true.
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 1:6
During the past several months I have had many of my readers begin to question why they are having so many difficulties in their lives. Many have lost their jobs due to the economic collapse, and others are struggling to make ends meet financially. Their dreams, plans and goals have been shattered due to their current situations. I strongly believe that God uses situations like these to bring us back to reality, as so often we are going our own ways instead of following the paths that God has designed for us to follow. When we are in periods of prosperity, I have observed that many people have the tendency to turn away from God, not obeying His commands, not reading their Bibles and worshiping Him, and begin to depend upon themselves and their own abilities more and more. It is important that we not forget that in our times of prosperity, it was not us that had allowed us to prosper, but it was God that made it all possible. I have discussed many times in my devotionals that our dreams and plans must be consistent with God’s plan for us, and if they are, God will lead us and guide us to fulfill these dreams and goals and make them become realities. However when we have dreams and goals that do not mesh with His plan for our lives, we will continually have doors being closed on us that will keep our dreams from coming to fruition. When we share a dream with God, it is a fragile thing we have been entrusted with, and we need to keep reminding ourselves that God is faithful and will open the doors we need to enter to make His dreams come true.
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